The 2010 Northwoods League season starts this week for the Thunder Bay Border Cats. After a disappointing season both on and off the field, the Cats have made some big changes this season. Most notably, they are much more Canadian than in the past, with eight players from this side of the border on the roster.
Last season the Cats endured, as we all did, a rainy and cool start to the summer. Hopefully, that won't be the case this spring. It's essential as the hope is to increase attendance this season.
As well, we may see the first former Border Cat to make a major-league debut sometime this summer. Two of the most prominent are having good seasons in AAA ball in the Pacific Coast League. Matt Mangini pays for Tacoma, a farm team of Seattle, and pitcher Matt Camp is with the Cubs' affiliate in Iowa.
The majors are sprinkled with former Northwoods League players. Andre Ethier of the Dodgers, Juan Pierre of the White Sox, Ben Zobrist of Tampa are the ones who spring quickly to mind.
But all it means is when you plunk down your cash to see the Border Cats, you may just be seeing some future major league players.
Play Ball! And I'll see you at the Port Arthur Stadium.
