KMets Finish Regular Season

The Kingsport Mets finished their regular season with a 34-32 record, the 3rd consecutive season that the team posted a winning record. The franchise also had a successful season off the field, finishing 3rd in the league in attendance, as over 38,000 people visited Hunter Wright Stadium this summer. Included in that were 4 different nights where over 2,000 people were at a game. In addition the team made their presence known in the community visiting local schools and businesses.

The team was led offensively by All Appalachain league shortstop Wilmer Flores (.310/8/41) who played most of the season as a 16 year old. His double-play partner, Kyle Suire (.297/9/36), was a crowd favorite due to his hard, aggressive style of play. The infield received power at the corner positions in Stefan Welch (.281/4/34) and Doug McNulty (.201/6/26). Catchers Dock Doyle (.308, 20 RBI's), Michael Moras (.338), and Jean Luc Blaquiere (.278/3/18) all hit well splitting time behind the plate and at desinated hitter. The outfield was led by Rafeal Fernandez (.259/4/31) and Pedro Zapata who showed flashes of potential.

The pitching staff lost their 1-2 punch of John Holdzkom (3-1, 3.66) and Eric Beaulac (1-0, 1.89) to promotions after the first half of the season. They were replaced capably by Robert Carson (2-3, 1.76) and Michael Olmsted (1-1, 1.86) who joined the team from the Gulf Coast Mets. Phillips Orta (4-4, 2.95), Raul Batis (2-4, 4.15) and Colin McHugh (0-0, 4.17) were all steady as both starters and relievers. Closer Michael Powers (2-1, 3.00, 7 saves) was a consistent performer the entire season.

The KMets will remain active in the community over the fall and winter months appearing at local sporting events and parades. For any club or team information call the front office at (423) 378-3744 or email [email protected].