57’s preparing to open WCBL season

The Swift Current 57’s will open another season in the Western Canadian Baseball League this weekend.

The 57’s open the regular season on Saturday in Weyburn. They will make their Mitchell Field debut on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. against the visiting Beavers. The 57’s will also host the Fort McMurray Giants on Wednesday and Thursday.

The 57’s roster includes players from New York, Texas, Australia, Curacao, Mexico, Panama, Dominican Republic, and Germany. They are led by head coach Jason Veyna in his first season in Swift Current. Veyna will be joined by assistants Ruddy Estrella and Shawn Lee.

The roster features two locals this season, including veteran infielder Brody Alexandre. Alexandre played for Trinidad State College this past season. Alexandre hit .268 with three home runs, 23 runs batted in, and 20 runs scored in 36 games with the Trojans this season.

Freshman Rydell Adair is one of four catchers on the roster. The Swift Current product was a rookie at Bismark State this season.

The league is now comprised of 12 teams with six teams in the East Division, including the 57’s and the expansion Saskatoon Berries, coached by former 57’s coach Joe Carnahan.

The 57’s are hosting an Open House on Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Mitchell Field. The evening will feature a home run derby, player and coach autographs, and prizes available to be won. Admission is a non-perishable item for the food bank.