DANS NEWS FLASH!!!!!!

Under the radar! 2007 Danville Dan, Chris McGuiness (The Citadel), has been named the Arizona Fall League’s Joe Black MVP (Rangers-Surprise Saguaros) leading the fall league with 27 RBI. He authored 6 three-RBI games and seven multi-hit games. On Oct. 10, he went 4 for 5 with a double, home run, and three RBI. In the 13 Saguaro home games, he hit .340 with 18 RBI and six of his nine extra-base hits. In his 4 year minor-league career, McGuiness hit for a .260 batting average with 51 homes and 212 RBI. The 24 year old lefty from Charleston, SC is known for his strong left handed swing, his ability to get on-base, and his good approach at the place. Now the Big News! Chris McGuiness has been selected in the Major League phase of the Rule 5 Draft by the Cleveland Indians, which places him on their 40 man roster, making the 1st baseman the 21st Danville Dan to appear on a major league roster. Under the Rule 5 draft, he must remain on Cleveland’s major league roster for this coming season or be sent back to the original club for $25,000. McGuiness was coached in Danville by Pete Paciorek.

Congratulations Coach McNickle!

The Dans have worked with Coach Russ McNickle, who was to start his fifth season at the helm of the Saint Leo University baseball team in February, since his days as an assistant to the legendary Ron Polk at Mississippi State. He is also the father of 2012/2013 Danville Dan, Trey McNickle. This week, he submitted his letter of resignation to take a position in Major League Baseball within the San Diego Padres organization. "A few times throughout my career I have been approached about working on the professional side of the game," McNickle said. "I was honored about those discussions and very humbled to have even been asked. This fall, I was approached again about the opportunity of working with Major League Baseball. I have been offered and just accepted a position with the San Diego Padres organization." In addressing his players, McNickle stated, "I am very excited about the development of the Saint Leo University baseball program and the strides we have made since our arrival on campus in July 2008. I strongly believe in this team, the experience of this team, the senior leadership of this team, and the successes that are waiting for them." Congratulations Russ! Go Padres!