MINERS ADD FORMER JOHN A. LOGAN HITTER

The Southern Illinois Miners have acquired the rights to former John A. Logan College first baseman/designated hitter Eric Allen from the Edinberg (Texas) Coyotes of the United Baseball League (UBL) in exchange for a player to be named later. The acquisition of Allen will add another left-handed bat to the roster.

“Eric gives us some pop and a great eye from the left side,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He played in a very difficult park for lefties to hit homers last season, and Eric plays a very good first base.”

Allen hit .313 in 2007 with three home runs and 31 RBI and a .406 on base percentage in 66 games split between the Coyotes and the San Angelo Colts, both of the UBL.

He was originally signed by the Miners following the team’s first free agent tryout in 2007. However, with the Miners overabundance of first basemen in spring training last season, Pinto helped Allen catch on with San Angelo thanks to his friendship with Manager Doc Edwards.

“From our experience with him in spring training last year,” Pinto said, “our coaches found him to be a great clubhouse guy and a pleasure to have on the club. I am glad we were able to get him back.”

Allen played at JALC during the 2001 and 2002 seasons and was part of the team that made it to the 2002 Junior College World Series. Over two seasons, Allen hit a combined .395 with 27 doubles, 2 triples, 20 home runs and 96 RBI.

The Miners home opener is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 7:05 p.m. For the latest Miners news and updates, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.