Shortly after the Christmas festivities the German Baseball-Bundesliga club Haar Disciples announced a series of changes for the 2013 season. Chris Dresel returns after one year hiatus to take over as head coach of the team. He succeeds Dirk Fries, who had to move to Frankfurt due to work-related reasons. Dresel already was at the helm from 2009 and 2011. He also serves as assistant coach for the German Junior national team and as manager of the Bavarian youth selection.
Additionally the club announced some roster changes. The biggest news is the signing of right-handed pitcher Brian Fields. One of the most dominant pitchers in the northern division in the last two seasons, he is coming from the Untouchables Paderborn to Munich. The 26-year-old went 11-1 with an ERA of 1.67 in 14 games. He struck out 141 in 97 innings, while walking 45. With his acquisition the Disciples make sure to have a strong option as starting pitcher in game two each week.
On the offensive side of the game, former Triple-A minor leaguer (New York Mets organization) Josh Petersen is coming back for a second season in Haar. He batted .382/.455/.532 with two homeruns, eight doubles, 18 runs and 11 RBI in 24 games during the regular season this year. He can be used in infield and outfield. Meanwhile Ty Eriksen won’t be back in blue and yellow. The 28-year-old American outfielder batted.291/.400/.419 in 23 games in 2012. Afterwards he was helping the Therwil Flyers to reach the Swiss Finals.