Mister Baseball

We already had reported that Fortitudo Bologna would be interested to bring in Martin VARGAS if Jesus MATOS signs in Mexico. However now they have both on their roster. They also confirmed that first baseman Lino CONNELL and pitcher Alfredo DELGADO indeed would play for the club from the Emilia Romagna.

VARGAS is a well-travelled man, who has pitched in the Minor Leagues, Japan and Mexico in his career. The 31-year-old with a fastball up to 94 miles per hour has spent three seasons on the Double and Triple A level for the Cleveland Indians organization. He had an overall record of 14-18 with an ERA of 4.50, striking out 133 (81 BB) in 184 innings pitched.

In combination with the returning MATOS, Fortitudo will feature an impressive 1-2-punch on their pitching staff. MATOS dominated the Italian Baseball League the past years. His forty wins since 2004 with a combined ERA of 1.30 and 516 strikeouts in 451.1 innings pitched are not matched by anyone.

They also welcome back their CONNELL, who hit .318 (OBP .422/ SLG .394) with 27 runs scored and 24 RBI. It was the first season in Italy for the former California Angels minor leaguer.

The 36-year-old DELGADO is coming from the Serie A2 club Marina Ravenna.