Somerset Patriots Sign INF Alfredo Rodriguez

Bridgewater, NJ – The Somerset Patriots have announced the signing of infielder Alfredo Rodriguez for the 2017 season.

“I am extremely excited to come to the Patriots. I have heard nothing but great things about everything over here,” said Rodriguez. “The Atlantic League will be a challenge, but that is what I am really looking forward to.”

Rodriguez enters his first season with the Somerset Patriots and first in the Atlantic League. The 6’0” natural shortstop previously spent the last two seasons with the Joliet Slammers of the Frontier League. Rodriguez never missed a start in his two seasons with the Slammers, both years leading the league in games played (96).

Last year, the Oak Hill, Virginia native hit .281 with a career-high 21 stolen bases over 96 games played. In 2015, Rodriguez batted a career-high .287 over 96 games with 18 stolen bases.

In each of his five professional seasons, Rodriguez has always held an on-base percentage of .341 or higher. That includes a career-high .385 OBP last year in Joliet. His career on-base percentage stands at .368.

“Alfredo is one of those guys you just can’t wait to see in camp,” said Somerset Patriots manager Brett Jodie. “I have heard great things about his defensive ability in the infield and that he shows a lot of maturity for his age at the plate. Alfredo does a great job getting on base and pressures opposing teams with his speed. He has the potential to be a complete player for us this year and we are thrilled to have him.”

The University of Maryland alumnus was originally drafted in the 17^th round of the 2012 draft by the Milwaukee Brewers. He spent the first three years of his career in the Brewers organization, including a season with High-A Brevard County in 2014. Rodriguez owns a career .276 average with 12 home runs, 165 RBI and 72 stolen bases over five professional seasons.
Tickets to the 2017 Somerset Patriots Season presented by Ford, which includes the team’s 20th Anniversary and the Atlantic League All-Star Game at TD Bank Ballpark, are on sale now. For more information, stop by TD Bank Ballpark, call (908) 252-0700, or 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 36 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 800 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 to metropolitan markets serving nearly 15% of the US population.

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