The promoted Berlin Sluggers have announced their first big addition this winter, as they are bringing in right-handed pitcher Ales Keprta. The 29-year-old, who also has pitched for the Czech National Team in the past, is coming from the relegated Saarlouis Hornets. He played there in the past four seasons. In 56 appearances on the mound for the Hornets, 46 of them as starting pitcher, he went 19-27 with an ERA of 4.00. He has struck out 223 batters in 341 2/3 innings, walking 124.