SONOMA, Calif- In early September the Sonoma Stompers completed their sixth season in the Pacific Association of Professional Baseball Clubs. After falling short in the championship game, there was still many accomplishments to reflect on during the 2019 season.
Pitcher Cole Watts signing with the Kansas City Royals
In early June, Stompers reliever Cole Watts was signed by the Idaho Falls Chukars, Kansas City Royals Rookie Ball affiliate. Watts, who was fourth on the team in strikeouts would later win the 2019 Pioneer League championship with the Chukars. Among Watts, a total of eight Sonoma Stompers were promoted throughout the season, setting a Pacific Association record. The team didn’t miss a beat, going 45-19 including another regular season title.
Manager Zack Pace posing with a few fans during a community event this past Summer.
Over the Stompers six year tenure, the team now has a career record of 287-168 with a win % of .630. Reigning Pacific Association Manager of the Year Zack Pace collected his 100th professional managerial win this season, now having a career record of 102-42.
For the first time in team history, the Sonoma Stompers broadcasted 40 home games on local channel 27 and Sonoma Stompers YouTube. Partnering with KSVY Sonoma TV gave players from all teams within the league the opportunity to capture live game film for their playing resume. Team Broadcaster Forrest Hunt also spent his first season with the Sonoma Stompers, a Senior at Dominican College.
Sluggers Jacob Barfield and Dondrei Hubbard taking a photo with a fan
The Stompers also hosted their annual youth kids camp where over 30 participants were in attendance. The three day camp focused on leadership, fundamentals, and teamwork. The camp was led by Stompers players and coaches.
This season the Stompers hosted interns from all across the country. Including Washington, Nebraska, Michigan, Ohio, Arizona, and California. “That’s what the Sonoma Stompers is all about. We present the opportunity for students and people from all across the county to gain experience first hand in the sports management and business field,” said General Manager Brett Creamer.
Former player and current Assistant General Manager Eddie Mora-Loera completed his first season in the Front Office. “2019 was a great success on and off the field. I’m looking forward to going into my second season with Brett and the rest of the team,” said Mora-Loera. Eddie led the organization in sales, community affairs, marketing and more.
In the fall of 2019, the team will be on the lookout for Pacific Association end of season awards which will be announced in the following months.
The Sonoma Stompers will now focusing on their fundraising efforts for the 2020 season while the league looks to put a schedule out by the end of the year.