(Waldorf, Md., March 21, 2018) - The Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have announced the return of right-handed pitcher Sam Runion and the signings of right-handed pitcher Sean O’Sullivan and left-handed pitcher Drake Britton.
Runion rejoins the Blue Crabs after appearing in 52 games during the 2017 season. During his first campaign with the team, the right-hander reliever went 3-2 on the year, picking up a save as well. Runion came on strong late in the season, allowing just one run over his final 20 outings, including a 1.23 ERA in the month of September.
The Asheville, North Carolina native was a 2007 second round draft pick by the Kansas City Royals. After seven seasons in the Royals organization, Runion signed with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2014. After nine games with the Rays AA affiliate, Runion joined the Washington Nationals organization, where he spent the next three seasons.
The 30-year-old O’Sullivan comes to Southern Maryland with seven years of MLB experience under his belt. The right-hander was originally a third-round pick of the Los Angeles Angels in 2006 out of Grossmont College. O’Sullivan made an impact right away, going 4-0 with a 2.14 ERA in his first professional season, being named a Post-Season All-Star for the Orem Owlz.
The starter quickly worked his way up the ranks of the Angels organization, making his MLB debut in 2009 as a member of the Angels. His debut came on the road against the San Francisco Giants, where he fittingly picked up the win on Irish Heritage Night.
Britton joins the Blue Crabs by way of the Bridgeport Bluefish Disposal Draft. The 28-year-old made his Atlantic League debut in 2017 with the Bluefish, going 4-1 with a 3.68 ERA. Britton made 34 appearances out of the bullpen last season, the highest total for a left-hander on his team.
The southpaw was drafted out of high school by the Boston Red Sox in 2007. Working as a starter at the time, Britton climbed the Red Sox ranks, being named an All-Star at the AA level in 2013. This led to the Red Sox bringing Britton up to the majors later that season, working 18 games in relief for the eventual World Series champions that season.
“Experience on the mound is a vital part to any team’s success, and these three bring plenty of that to our roster,” said Manager James Frisbie. “Runion and Britton both put up solid campaigns in the league last season, while O’Sullivan is a proven winner at every level to this point.”
The team opens the 2018 season on April 27th at home against the Long Island Ducks. To save your seat at the ballpark for the upcoming season and other team news, visit www.somdbluecrabs.com or call 301-638-9788.
About the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs
The Blue Crabs play 126 regular season games in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Clubs. The Blue Crabs play at Regency Furniture Stadium in Waldorf, Maryland with affordable family fun. The franchise will begin its 11th season in April 2018. Please call 301-638-9788 or visit http://www.somdbluecrabs.com for more information.
About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)
The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 38 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment.
For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.
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