Brian Hernandez, Jon Karcich and Dakota Robinson Added for Opening Round
San Bernardino, CA – The Inland Empire 66ers are ready to begin post season action tonight, Wednesday, September 7th at 7:05, after confirming their post season roster this morning. Infielders Brian Hernandez and Jon Karcich have returned to Inland Empire while relief pitcher Dakota Robinson was promoted to the California League for the first time in his career.
Brian Hernandez appeared in seven games for Inland Empire at the beginning of August. The Angels 11th round pick out of UC Irvine this year was a Rawlings Division I Gold Glove Winner, All Big West 1st Team selection and the Big West Defensive Player of the Year. He adds depth to the 66ers infield core at both second and third base.
Jon Karcich played in the majority of the 66ers games this season, and was rewarded for his efforts with a brief assignment to AAA Salt Lake. Karcich hit .208 with two home runs and 21 RBI in 75 games for Inland Empire. He was an especially strong performer versus Lake Elsinore, hitting .310 with five runs batted in versus the Storm.
Dakota Robinson will make his California League debut in the post season. The lefthander was a Midwest League All Star for 2011 going 10-3 with eight saves and registering a 2.86 ERA in 43 relief appearances. The Angels 2010 26th round selection gives the 66ers a second left handed reliever for the playoff run.
The countermoves to allow for the three new additions are infielder Jesus Campos being transferred to AAA Salt Lake City, infielder Michael Wing being placed on the 7-day disabled list with a right shoulder strain, and pitcher Kyle Hurst being placed on the 7-day disabled list with right shoulder impingement.
Inland Empire will not be allowed to juggle its roster again until after the first round of the playoffs is complete.
Inland Empire ended the season with an overall record of 69-71, identical to that of the Storm. Lake Elsinore did get home field advantage on the series due to a 13-12 record against the 66ers in 2011. That means Wednesday, September 7th is the only guaranteed home game for Inland Empire this post season.
Playoff tickets are on sale now both at the 66ers box office and online at www.66ers.com. For more information on the Inland Empire 66ers please contact Sam Farber, Director of Broadcasting, at 909-495-7632.