All-Star INF Joins East Division Champions
The Wild Things announced today the signing of INF Kevin Rivera for the 2019 season.
The Puerto Rico native joins Washington after being selected in the 14th round by the San Francisco Giants out of the Carlos Beltran Baseball Academy. He spent 5 seasons with The Bay Bombers between Class A-, A and A+.
Rivera's best season came in 2016 when he was selected as a Northwest League All-Star. Playing for the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes he hit .320 with 14 doubles, scoring 41 runs and driving in 31 himself. For his career, Rivera is a .266 hitter with 40 doubles and 88 RBI in 244 games played. The switch-hitting INF also played multiple seasons in the respected Puerto Rican Winter League for the Cangrejeros de Santurce, playing against recent signing JJ Fernandez.
"Rivera has yet to be given the opportunity to play a full professional season. We have had a lot of recent success with these experienced, young prospects and letting them unleash their game", said General Manager Tony Buccilli. "Kevin has the makings of being a staple in the middle infield. He has shown the extra base hit production we look for, bringing a style that blends run production and run creation. This is an important season for Kevin and his preparedness will dictate the results", Buccilli stated.
The East Division Champions return to the field as they open the season Thursday, May 9 at River City, with the home opener slated for Friday, May 17 at Wild Things Park.
