With the Pensacola Pelicans Opening Day on May 8 only 107 days away, the team has announced they have signed former Major League third baseman Wilton Veras to a contract for the 2008 season. The Pelicans received Veras in a trade from the New Jersey Jackals of the Can-Am League for a player to be named later.
Veras played parts of the 1999 and 2000 seasons in the Major Leagues with the Boston Red Sox. While in the Majors, Veras posted a .262 batting average with 12 doubles, 2 triples, 2 home runs, and 27 RBI in 85 games.
“Wilton is the reason why we were able to trade Trino Aguilar,” said Pelicans Manager Mac Seibert. “Anytime a team is able to get a player of Wilton's stature, you’ve got to find a way to make it happen.”
The Santo Domingo, D.R. resident brings 12 years of professional baseball experience to the Pelicans. He played the majority of his career in the Red Sox organization including three years in triple-A and three in double-A. In 2003, he played with the Milwaukee Brewers triple-A team and part of the 2004 season in the triple-A Mexican League before signing with New Jersey.
“We like what he can bring to our team,” added Seibert. “Both his ability on the field and his presence and leadership in the club house will make him an excellent model for our younger players this coming season.”
His career minor league numbers include a .272 batting average, 527 runs, 235 doubles, 17 triples, and 68 home runs in 1,199 games. In 2004 with the Jackals, Veras hit a league best .369 with one triple, five home runs, and 59 RBI in 82 games. He also led the league in hits (118) and doubles (29).