Midland, MI
With the start of the 2010 season approaching the Midland Explorers are pleased to announce their roster and schedule for the upcoming season. This will mark the 1st time the team will have the privilege of being a host team for the ISC World Tournament.
2010 will be the Explorers 25th consecutive year playing Major-level competition, and it’s 23rd consecutive ISC World Tournament – the support of the Midland community and the history of softball in Michigan are two of the main reasons for this longevity.
The team will be playing the following schedule this summer:
June 11 – Boulevard Lounge Tournament, Midland, Michigan
June 25 – Legends of Fastball Tournament, Kitchener, Ontario
July 16 – Tavistock Fastball Invitational, Tavistock, Ontario
July 23 – Doubleheader Weekend Series, Midland, Michigan
July 30 – Erie Tournament, Erie, Pennsylvania
August 5 – ASA Major National, South Bend, Indiana
August 13 – ISC World Tournament, Midland, Michigan
Frank Cox. One of the undisputed top pitchers of his generation, this will be Frank’s first year as an Explorer after storied stints in Owen Sound, Broken Bow, New York, and Kitchener. With championships at the ISC, ASA, Canadians, and prominent roles with Team Canada, Frank’s resume is second to none.
Mike Joseph. Beginning his 4th year as an Explorer, Mike fills a vastly important role on the staff with his versatility as a pitcher. Able to start or relieve on a moment’s notice, Mike has proven to be an ISC-level pitcher after success at the ISC II level prior to joining the team.
Brian Urquhart. Capping the 2009 season with his best stretch on the mound as an Explorer, Brian earned 2nd-team All-World at the ISC. Acknowledged as one of the hardest throwers in the sport, Brian put it together to help lead the team to a 9th place finish in Quad Cities. This is his 3rd year as an Explorer.
Craig Crawford. Another player who, without question, is one of the top performers at his position, the Explorers are welcoming back Craig for his 3rd stint with the team. Craig’s list of All-American, All-World, National Team selections and championship trophies has put him in line with the all-time greats. His leadership and skill behind the plate provides the team with a solid foundation on defense and offense.
Steve Roberts. An Explorer since 1999, and an ASA All-American in 2002, ‘Sarge’ is a team leader, power hitter and RBI source in the middle of the order. Having some of his best success against the elite pitching, he also brings a great eye to the batters box. He’ll spend time behind the plate, at 1B, and in the DH spot.
Kyle Beane. An Explorer since 1996, Kyle will be at 1B and the DH spot in 2010.. He’s been named ASA All-American, ISC All-World and was on the U.S. National Team in 2003 and 2008.
Steve Horning. Team Captain and the longest running Explorer (1993), Steve leads the team on and off the field. A top defensive 2nd baseman, he has the ability to hit anywhere in the lineup. A multiple-time ASA All-American, Steve is one of the best players at his position in the sport.
Chad Ferguson. With the ability to play any position on the field, Chad adds an important dimension to the team with his versatility. An All-World player with Planggers in 2004, Chad brings great energy and enthusiasm to the field. This is Chad’s 3rd year with the team.
Eddy Ketelhut. Moving to SS in 2010, Eddy has held down the 3rd base spot since 2003 for the Explorers. One of the best defensive players in the game, regardless of the position he plays, Eddy was a member of the U..S. National Team in 2008.
Calvin Miller. The Explorers best hitter – both for average and power – in 2009, Calvin begins his 3rd season with the team. Possessing one of the strongest arms in the game, he will be counted on as a long-ball and RBI threat in the middle of the order.
Ryan Thompson. An Explorer rookie, Ryan brings ISC experience (and an All-World selection in 1996) and success to the team after years of being an opponent with teams like Owen Sound and Jarvis. Ryan’s consistent offensive and veteran leadership to the team will be an asset to the team.
Shea Bryant. One of the Midland league’s best young players, Shea will be in his first full season with the team. Shea did a great job in the outfield with the team late last year and was named to the All-Tournament team at the NAFA AA-Major.
Dan Loney. Moving into the leadoff spot for the team in 2010, Dan will be making his Explorers debut this season. A key contributor to the past 2 ISC champions Kitchener Rivershark Twins, Dan brings his speed, offense, defense, and success to the squad.
Todd Moore. Todd made the transition from infield to the outfield a couple years ago, and has grown into that role to become one of the key players on the team. Great speed from the left side and the ability to reach the fences make him a threat every time up. Todd has been an Explorer since 2006.
Dan Skillings. After missing the 2009 season, Dan returns to the team in 2010. An All-World performer in 2004 and 2007 with Innerkip, and one of the most underrated players in the game, Dan has the ability to carry a team at any given time.
Clint Beane. Beginning his 9th year as the manager of the Explorers, ‘Chet’ brings almost 40 years of fastpitch experience to the bench. A Michigan ASA Hall of Famer as a player, he legendary pitchers Guy Manke, Jimmy Doyle and Kevin Herlihy during his playing days.
Gregg Sauve. Returning as a base coach in 2010, Gregg was with the Explorers from 1996 to 1998 as a coach. Gregg is still an active player in Midland (making his debut in 1982 with Mart Moderne) and will continue to manage his Communiquest team in the Midland league.
Hope to see everyone out at the park in Midland this August for the ISC – the Booster Club and Host Committee is committed to making 2010 one of the best ever!
Kyle Beane
