Catcher called up to AA

Viera Fl. - The dream of most is to make it under the bright lights and the roaring crowd on the expansive field of the big leagues. Manatees catcher Carlos Corporan became one step closer to that dream Monday night as he was called up to AA-Huntsville. "This is what I was looking for," said Corporan of the call-up.

Corporan, second in the Florida State League in batting with a .360 average, 29 hits, 11 runs, and 19 RBI's, had a career performance in a 13-6 win at Vero Beach Monday. The catcher hit the team's first grand slam of the year and went 2-for-5 with two runs and five RBI's. The game was just one of many stellar nights on the season for the 23-year-old. "Carlos' clutch hitting has been outstanding. He has provided us with at least eight go-ahead runs this year," said hitting coach Ken Berry. "His instincts in catching, throwing, hitting and base-running have been above and beyond. He will do a great job in Huntsville and his promotion is well deserved."

Corporan spent the better part of last season with the Manatees until a September 1st call-up to Nashville. This season the Manatees have made great strides as they are first in the Florida State League and coming off a seven game winning streak. "I've had a great time, and had fun," said Corporan. "This is probably the best team I've been with in my life."

Corporan has a lot to look forward to in Huntsville as the team is tied for first in the Southern League North division. "I expect the same in AA [as single A]," said Corporan, "I will have to work hard."

Tony Diggs, Assistant Director of Farm Development, said "His play thus far has been outstanding, it is refreshing to see Carlos play with enthusiasm and pep in his step. He has been a pleasure to watch and his promotion is well deserved."

The move of Corporan to Huntsville will bring catcher Angel Salome of the West Virginia Power to Brevard County.