TURNING OVER NEW MAPLE LEAF: STAR PITCHER WIDEMAN RETURNS

Little Falls, NJ – The New Jersey Jackals have announced the signing of pitcher A.J. Wideman for the 2010 season.

Wideman had a career year with the Jackals in 2009. Wideman finished the season 10-1 with a 2.51 ERA. In 114.2 innings pitched, Wideman fanned 81 batters. In July, Wideman won the Can-Am League Pitcher of the Month award for his 4-0 record with a microscopic 1.06 ERA. He allowed just four earned runs on 17 hits, while striking out 41 batters and walking just four in 34 innings of work. Opponents batted just .145 against the Mississauga, Ontario native. Incredibly enough, Wideman’s ERA, walks and hits totals all decreased from June when he won his first pitcher of the month award.

“We are extremely excited to have A.J. back for the 2010 season.” Commented manager Joe Calfapietra. “A.J. was our Ace last season and one of, if not, the best pitcher in the Can-Am League. We can only hope to get another amazing year from A.J. in 2010.”

Wideman, who was selected by the Montreal Expos in 11th round of 2003 draft, started his professional career in 2003 with the Expos of the Gulf Coast League. Widewan would spend two seasons in the Montreal Expos organization and four seasons in the Toronto Blue Jays system before joining the Jackals in 2009.

The New Jersey Jackals, proud members of the Canadian-American Association of Professional Baseball, play their home games at Yogi Berra Stadium located on the campus of Montclair State University in Little Falls, NJ. 2010 season tickets, mini-plans and group outings are available by calling 973-746-7434. Visit the Jackals online at www.jackals.com.