1st-round draft picks highlight Miracle roster
The opening-day roster of the Fort Myers Miracle features four first-round draft picks and 12 players who contributed to the team’s Western Division Championship in 2008.
The roster includes 12 pitchers, two catchers, seven infielders and four outfielders. Minnesota Twins pitcher Scott Baker, currently on the 15-day disabled list, will begin the season in Fort Myers and make a major league rehab start in Friday night’s home opener at Hammond Stadium.
Outfielder Ben Revere will make his Miracle debut in ’09 along with other first-round selections, including pitcher Carlos Gutierrez of Miami. Outfielder Chris Parmelee (2006) and pitcher Kyle Waldrop (2004) complete the quartet of top Twins’ picks who will begin the year in Miracle uniforms.
Jeff Smith returns for his second season as Miracle manager after leading the club to a 77-59 record and advancing to the Florida State League Championship Series in 2008.
The gates open at 5:30 p.m. Friday with first pitch at 7:05 p.m.