Scarborough Thunder
THUNDER ROLLS INTO 1999 SEASON

In 1998 the Scarborough Thunder surprised the fastpitch world with an eighth place finish in Kimberly, Wisconsin. Not only were they the highest finishing Canadian team, but they also placed two of their players on the 1st All-World team, catcher Paul Papulkas and pitcher Michael Crawford.

After resigning both Crawford and Papulkas, the 1999 season looks like it might be the Thunder's best yet. Along with those two significant signings, the Thunder have also resigned 6' 7" right handed pitcher Grant Patterson. Grant is a very imposing figure on the mound and is getting better and better every year. The Thunder are hoping this will be his breakout year and he will be given every opportunity to prove it. Also added to their pitching staff is veteran Glen Moreland. Glen has pitched on the Canadian National Team and has made nine I.S.C. World appearances and six Canadian National appearances.

Also back this year is Stephen Paul, an outstanding 2nd baseman and one of their best players at last year's worlds; infielder Peter Cane, a solid, smooth all-round player; shortstop Paulo Freitas, outstanding arm and great speed; Dan Loney, who will bat in the leadoff spot and patrol centre field; and Colin Newell, who is one of their most consistent hitters and will hit in one of the power slots.

New additions for 1999 include one of the most feared hitters in the game, Don Burnett; 1997 2nd team all-world DH Frank Forgrave; 1st baseman/outfielder Jim Haslip; veteran catcher Bob Blamauer; utility player Graham Caise, one of the top junior prospects out of Oshawa; last year's league all-star 1st baseman/pitcher Pat Graham; and rounding out the team, 1996 1st team all world outfielder Neil Johns.

At this time the Thunder are still finalizing their schedule, but it will include stops in Erie, Orillia, Baltimore, Cobourg, Trenton, Owen Sound and finally they will host some of the best teams in North America at Dieppe Park in Toronto at the very popular Jeff Shaw Memorial Tournament.

Last year's 8th place finish in Kimberly was an outstanding accomplishment for this young team. With the additions to their roster, they hope to improve on last year's finish.

As they finalize their roster, there may be more surprises to come!
Bob Simms
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