Manatees Take Aim at 1,000th Win during Upcoming Homestand

(Viera, FL) The Brevard County Manatees have had a great 2009 season, winning the FSL North Division first half title and clinching a playoff spot. Their 62-38 record is the best in the Florida State League, and has the Manatees on pace for their best season in the franchise's 16-year history. Now, the Manatees are closing in on what might be the biggest milestone of the season, their 1,000th win. Entering Thursday's action, the Manatees are just four wins away from 1,000 regular season victories.

The Manatees face Daytona on Thursday and Friday, with Friday's game back in Space Coast Stadium for the opener of a seven-game homestand. Brevard County is 29-21 at home this season, including an outstanding 14-7 record in the second half, so it appears they will have a great opportunity to pick up their 1,000th win during this homestand.

Brevard County is also making a run toward the most wins and best winning percentage in franchise history. The 2001 Manatees racked up an 80-55 record, good for a .593 winning percentage. That team went on to share the FSL Championship with the Tampa Yankees after the championship series was cancelled. The 2009 Manatees' 62-38 record gives them a .620 winning percentage. Because of rainouts, the Manatees will not play a complete 140-game schedule this season, so they only have 32 games remaining on the schedule. Assuming all games are played, the Manatees would need to win 19 of their final 32 games to reach 81 wins and break the franchise record.

Friday's home game against Daytona is followed by a pair of three-game series against division rivals Lakeland and Dunedin. The Manatees have had success against both teams this season, as they are 7-4 against Lakeland, and 9-3 against Dunedin. Make sure to check out Space Coast Stadium during this homestand to see the Manatees make a run at a milestone!