In preparation for the upcoming season, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs have announced significant roster enhancements by re-signing Michael Wielansky and welcoming new talents Derek Casey and Juan Kelly.
Michael Wielansky, a seasoned infielder with the Blue Crabs, is set to return for his third season. Last year, Wielansky showcased his skills by batting .320 with eight home runs and 21 RBIs before joining the San Francisco Giants organization on May 31st. Over his tenure with the Crabs, the St. Louis native and former 18th-round pick for the Houston Astros in 2018, boasts a .299 career average with 16 home runs and 62 RBIs.
Joining Wielansky is pitcher Derek Casey, a 28-year-old from Richmond, Virginia. This marks Casey’s fifth professional season, having previously spent four years within the Chicago Cubs organization. Drafted twice, initially by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2014 and later by the Cubs in 2018, Casey has demonstrated his prowess on the mound. Last season, across 23 innings with two Cubs affiliates, he recorded a 2-1 record with a 3.13 ERA and notched 34 strikeouts. His collegiate career at the University of Virginia was similarly impressive, culminating in a 16-7 record and 191 strikeouts over 193 innings.
The Blue Crabs have also added Juan Kelly, a versatile 29-year-old player from the Dominican Republic. Kelly brings a wealth of experience from his seven years in the minor leagues with the Toronto Blue Jays and three years in the Frontier League. Throughout his professional career, Kelly has achieved a .257 batting average, hitting 41 home runs and driving in 254 runs with 111 doubles. His performance in independent leagues has been notable as well, with a .299 average and an .881 OPS, including 35 home runs and 204 RBIs. While primarily known for his capabilities in the outfield, Kelly is also proficient at first and third base.
With these strategic signings, the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs are looking to build a competitive team that combines proven experience and fresh talent.
