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Two 66ers Named Angels Players of the Month

November 16, 2012

San Bernardino, CA- - The Inland Empire 66ers team had the best April of any Angels affiliate, and two of their stars were honored individually for their contributions in the season's first month. Mark Sappington was named the Angels farm organization pitcher of the month, and Eric Stamets the defensive player of the month for April.

Sappington went 4-0 in April with a 1.82 ERA, while holding opposing hitters to a .202 batting average against. Most importantly to Sappington, the team was 6-0 in his six starts over the month.

"It's a testament to my teammates and all the hard work they put in every day," said Sappington about winning the award. "It's easy to throw strikes when you have the best defense in the California League picking you up."

Sappington pitched well to his defense, but was also able to dominate hitters, recording 34 strikeouts in 34.2 innings.

Inland Empire 66ers pitching coach Brandon Emanuel said the award was, "well deserved for the work he puts in and the dedication he has to his profession."

Also honored as an Angels farm system player of the month was Inland Empire infielder Eric Stamets. Inland Empire's shortstop was named the Angels farm system's defensive player of the month for April.

"It's an honor," said Stamets, who recorded 83 assists in the month and a .976 fielding percentage in April. "I love it that the stuff that doesn't normally show up in the stat sheet is getting recognized."

The award was no surprise to Stamets' manager Bill Haselman, who said simply, "He might win it every month."

Sappington and Stamets will lead the southern division leading Inland Empire 66ers back on the field at San Manuel Stadium again Sunday, May 19th when they take on northern division leading San Jose. For more information on the Inland Empire 66ers please contact Sam Farber at 909-888-9922 and for ticket package and group ticketing information contact the Inland Empire 66ers by phone at 909-888-9922 or online through www.66ers.com.