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(New Britain, Conn., March 22, 2017)– New Britain Bees team officials today announced that the team has signed pitcher Joe Beimel for the 2017 season. Beimel becomes the first pitcher with Major League experience to sign in New Britain this season and joins the roster with the most MLB service time of any player in Bees franchise history. The 39-year old Beimel was drafted in the 26th round of the 1996 MLB Amateur Draft by the Texas Rangers, and began his professional career after being drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 18th round of the 1998 MLB Amateur Draft out of Duquesne University. The 6-foot 3 left hander made his major league debut on April 8th, 2001 for the Pirates against the Houston Astros. Since his debut, Beimel has suited up for the Pirates (2001-03, 2011), Minnesota Twins (2004), Tampa Bay Devil Rays (2005), Los Angeles Dodgers (2006-08), Washington Nationals (2009), Colorado Rockies (2009-10), and Seattle Mariners (2014-15), appearing in 676 Major League games. Beimel was the first player to wear the number 97 in Major League history. Beimel has twice played in the MLB postseason, in 2008 for the Dodgers and in 2009 for the Rockies. During the 2008 postseason, Beimel made three scoreless appearances for Los Angeles during the National League Championship Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Last season, Beimel suited up for the Omaha Storm Chasers (AAA – Kansas City Royals), appearing in 12 games. Over his 18 year professional career, Beimel has appeared in 916 games, including 85 starts, and has struck out 763 batters over 1233 innings pitched. This will be Beimel’s first season in New Britain, and first in the Atlantic League. “It’s not every day where a pitcher of Joe’s experience and caliber is available at this level,” said Bees Manager Stan Cliburn. “We’re incredibly excited to have him in New Britain this season. His time in the Majors and experience in professional baseball are both incredibly valuable assets, and I’m looking forward to having him on our pitching staff this year.” About the New Britain Bees The New Britain Bees are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, playing all home games at New Britain Stadium. Tickets for the 2017 season, including Season Tickets and Mini-Plans, are available by calling 860-826-BEES (2337), online at NBBees.com, or by visiting the New Britain Bees’ Front Office. About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB) The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 36 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 800 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment to metropolitan markets serving nearly 15% of the US population. For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com ### |
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