Somerset Patriots Re-Sign Utilityman Justin Trapp

Bridgewater, NJ- The Somerset Patriots have re-signed utilityman Justin Trapp for the 2018 season.

“I’m real excited to be back,” said Trapp. “It is awesome to be back with such a great group of guys and a great organization. We’ve got some unfinished business to take care of from last year. That is what I am all about this year.”

Trapp enters his second season with the Somerset Patriots and second in the Atlantic League. He played 45 games with the Sussex County Miners to begin his 2017 season before he signed with the Patriots in late July. Trapp proceeded to hit .327 with a home run, 21 RBI, 10 stolen bases and a .379 on-base percentage over 46 regular season games in Somerset.

The Columbia, South Carolina native ended the 2017 regular season with an impressive stretch. Trapp earned a hit in 13 of his last 15 games, over which he went 27-for-61 (.443) from the plate. Additionally, the right-handed hitting infielder/outfielder reached base safely in 28 of his final 32 games, over which he hit .392 with 18 runs scored and 18 RBI.

Trapp also split his time in Somerset between five different positions. Of his 46 games in a Patriots uniform, he spent 24 games at second base, 10 in right field, five in left field, four at shortstop and three in center field.

“Trapp really came at a time of need last year and we are grateful to have him again this year,” said Somerset Patriots manager Brett Jodie. “Trapp brings so much athleticism to our squad. He can truly play almost any position on the field and play them well. He also has a good plan at the plate and can create havoc for opposing teams when he gets on base. We look for Justin to play both outfield and infield for us this year so we can show everyone his versatility and just how truly special he is.”

Trapp began his career in the Kansas City Royals organization as an 18-year old draft pick. He spent the first six seasons with the Royals, including a full season with Double-A Northwest Arkansas in 2014. He then played 54 games with the New Jersey Jackals in 2015.

The former 34^th-round draft pick has stolen at least 12 bases in each of his eight professional seasons, including a career-high 31 steals over 63 games in 2011. He owns a .264 career batting average with 38 home runs, 271 RBI and 172 stolen bases in his professional career.

The Somerset Patriots led the Atlantic League in attendance and made their 14th appearance in the playoffs last season. The Somerset Patriots will welcome their 7,000,000th fan in their 20th season at TD Bank Ballpark in 2018.  Tickets are now on sale for the 2018 Season presented by Ford beginning at home on Friday, April 27^th. For more information, please visit www.somersetpatriots.com.

About The Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)

The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 38 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment.

For more information, please visit www.atlanticleague.com.