Patterson was not drafted out of West Virginia State University, but was given his shot in independent ball in 2002 by the Grizzlies. More and more independent players continue to make it to the big stage, and Patterson's story will give Frontier League players hope to continue to pursue their dream despite the odds.
In other news, the Rockford Riverhawks resigned closer Mark Marksbury for the 2008 season. Marksbury got signed by the Milwaukee Brewers midway through the 2007 Frontier League season, but struggled at class high-A Brevard County before being released this off-season. Marksbury joins outfielder Phil Laurent of River City as the 2nd Frontier League player who was signed by an affiliated team just to get released in the off-season. Personally, I think neither of these two guys got a fair shake - it doesn't cost these teams much to invite them into spring training to see if they can make a roster.
Here at the Traverse City Beach Bums, we've come to terms with a significant outfield prospect, but we will have to refrain from commenting until the contract goes out and comes back signed. We are also waiting on four contracts that will close two separate trades and another that will give a nice boost to our pitching staff in 2008. Details for all these moves will be made available as soon as we are able to make the announcements. Suffice it to say that we are shaking things up in 2008 - not rebuilding, not transitioning - but making moves that will help us bring a championship to Traverse City THIS SEASON.
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