Binford Named to MLB Futures Game Roster

Frederick, MD - Wilmington Blue Rocks pitcher Christian Binford was named to the U.S. roster for the 15th annual All-Star Futures Game, which will kick off the MLB All-Star festivities in Minnesota on Sunday, July 14. Binford is the lone representative from the Blue Rocks and the Kansas City Royals system, and will take his place among the game's most prominent prospects in the showcase event of the season for Minor League Baseball.

"This is beyond my comprehension," Binford said. "To take this stage and represent our organization is an incredible honor. I cannot tell you how humbled I am to receive this opportunity. It was completely unexpected. I learned about it at the same time everybody else did [Tuesday afternoon] and I haven't stopped smiling since."

Binford has put together a dominant season with Wilmington. The 21-year-old is 5-3 with a 2.35 ERA in 13 Advanced-A starts this year. He ranks top-five in the Carolina League in ERA, WHIP (1.02), batting average against (.231), strikeouts per nine innings pitched (9.98) and fewest baserunners per nine innings pitched (9.39). He was named a C.L. All-Star earlier in the month and has thrice been named the eight-team league's Pitcher of the Week.

"I think this is a tremendous honor and Christian certainly deserves it," said Blue Rocks manager Darryl Kennedy. "He should enjoy this, because he's worked hard to earn it and pitching on that kind of stage will be an incredible experience."

The rosters for both the United States team and the World team were announced Tuesday by Major League Baseball. They were selected with input from the Major League Baseball Scouting Bureau, MLB.com, Baseball America, and the 30 Major League clubs.

Wilmington returns to action Tuesday at Harry Grove Stadium in Frederick. First pitch is slated for 7 p.m. and fans can listen to the broadcast on 89.7 WGLS-FM. The Rocks return home on Wednesday, June 25, to open a three-game homestand against the Lynchburg Hillcats. For tickets, call 302-888-BLUE or visit BlueRocks.com. 

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