The Southern Illinois Miners have added yet another Frontier League all-star with the signing of second baseman Javier Brown. He hit .296 with a pair of home runs, 19 RBIs and a .396 on-base percentage in 65 games with the Evansville Otters in 2009.
The former Minnesota Twins draft pick hit .330 in the first half of the season with the Otters and was voted to the all-star team. In early August he was traded to Rockford, but after suffering an injury, only appeared in five games in the final month of the season. When Rockford moved from the Frontier League to the Northern League this offseason, Brown became a free agent, and Southern Illinois was at the top of his list of suitors.
“Basically, I wanted to get with a team that has a chance to win a championship and gives me a chance to learn,” Brown said. “I’m just looking for an opportunity for me to showcase my skills, and I want a place where I can work hard. I played here as a visitor last year, and I like the fans and the atmosphere in Southern Illinois.”
With the addition of Brown, the Miners now have eight current or former Frontier League all-stars on the roster. He is only 22 years old, and Miners Manager Mike Pinto is looking forward to seeing him get even better.
“Whenever you have a chance to add an all-star player to your lineup, it gives your offense a boost,” Miners Manager Mike Pinto said. “He not only hits for average and on-base percentage but also has great speed. I will have Ralph work with him to take advantage of that tool. Javie plays a solid defensive infield, and we are looking forward to seeing him thrive in our environment this summer.”
The Miners open the season on May 20 at home against River City.