Frontier League MVP, Harris, Finds Opportunity in Winnipeg for Goldeyes
WASHINGTON, Pa. (Oct. 23) -The Wild Things announced today that 2019 Frontier League MVP James Harris has been moved to the Winnipeg Goldeyes for INF Jordan Ebert.
In 2018, Harris saw action in 94 games and was a driving force for the Thing's East Division title. He was named a 2018 All Star, 2018 Postseason award winner and the second MVP in franchise history.
The former 1st round pick of the Tampa Bay Rays drove in 64 runs and stole 26 bases, while hitting .305. Doing all his work in the leadoff spot, the atypical Harris smashed 22 doubles, 8 triples and 16 homeruns.
“First and foremost I want to thank James for investing so much in our organization. He was a leader in our clubhouse and delivered on the field time and time again" said Assistant General Manager Tony Buccilli. "James and I had a conversation about his future and after doing much in this league it was in our best interest to help him open the next chapter of his career. James will go down as one of the most dominant players in Wild Things' history despite only playing for Washington for a year and a half”
Harris had nothing but fond memories and admiration when talking about his tenure.
"It's been a lot of fun playing in Washington. From ownership, the front office and the fans, this has been the most fun I have had playing baseball in my career," said Harris. "I wish the organization nothing but good luck in the future! Thank you all for the love and support at the ballpark and I look forward to what the next chapter of my career holds"
The Winnipeg Goldeyes send Washington INF Jordan Ebert, who spent affiliated time with both the Kansas City Royals and Colorado Rockies.
Over two seasons in the American Association Ebert has hit a combined .295 with 24 doubles and 33 runs batted in. The Alabama native has been touted for the consistency of his offensive game and using versatility to round out his defensive value. After completing his college career with Auburn University he made an impact with the Royals and hit at a near .300 clip. Ebert is not new to the Wild Things, and the team believes they have an instant All-Star with his addition.
"We heavily pursued Jordan back in '17 and thought very highly of his offensive traits. He has been overly productive as a Goldeye in all three aspects of the game", stated Buccilli. "Jordan should be a staple at the top of our lineup as a creator. Like Jordan, we have high expectations for the 2019 season and we are going to do our best to put him in position to be among the league's best."
The Wild Things open the season Thursday, May 9 at River City, with the home opener slated for Friday, May 17 at Wild Things Park.
