by Roy Reiss
While we didn’t have any Cape Cod Baseball League action to fill our hardball appetite this summer, we satisfied our baseball hunger by following some of the former Kettleers in the major leagues. There’s fan favorite Mike Yastrzemski (2010-2011) who finally got his chance this summer with the San Francisco Giants. Heading into the final week of the regular season Yaz is hitting .285 and solidified his status as a major leaguer. Everyone remembers Tony Kemp (2012) the youngster with that electric smile. TK is now a member of the Oakland Athletics and was nominated this year for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award. Remember Mike Ford (2012-2013) who fulfilled his boyhood dream by making the roster of his hometown New York Yankees. Then there’s the Zimmer brothers. Kyle (2011) finally made it to the Kansas City Royals major league roster this summer after many injuries and has a sparkling 1.29 era in 14 appearances. Unfortunately, brother Bradley (2013 Playoff MVP) continues to be hampered by injuries as he tries to establish himself with the Cleveland Indians. Out in Seattle pitcher Justin Dunn (2015) continues to shine with a 3-1 record while striking out 30 in 35 innings pitched. And in Arizona, Kevin Ginkel (2015) has been utilized in the closer’s role. These are just a few of the many former Kettleers making headlines in Major League Baseball.