Infielder is first Duck signed by MLB in 2013

(Central Islip, N.Y., July 4, 2013) – The Long Island Ducks today announced that infielder Ben Broussard has been signed by the Kansas City Royals. He becomes the first Duck to be signed by a Major League organization in 2013 and second Duck overall to be signed by an outside league (Danny Perales, Mexican League).

“Ben has been a great addition to our roster this season,” says Ducks President/General Manger Michael Pfaff. “We wish him the best of luck with the Royals organization and in his quest to return to the Major Leagues.”

Broussard, who will join the Triple-A Omaha Storm Chasers, hit .302 in 44 games this season with eight home runs, 20 RBI and 24 runs and 11 doubles. The first baseman posted a .344 on-base percentage and a .509 slugging percentage as well. He holds the single game high for a Ducks batter this year with five hits (May 31 at York) and is one of two Ducks to have a multi-homer game this season (Bryant Nelson). On Wednesday, Broussard was announced as an Atlantic League All-Star.

The Texas native spent seven seasons in the Major Leagues with the Cleveland Indians, Seattle Mariners and Texas Rangers. He hit .263 with 87 home runs, 314 runs batted in, and 114 doubles in 705 games. Prior to joining the Ducks, the 36-year-old began 2013 with Diablos Rojos of the Mexican League and hit .304 with two home runs, 11 runs batted in, and 11 runs in 19 games. Broussard was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the second round of the 1999 amateur draft.

The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and play their home games at Bethpage Ballpark. For further information, call (631) 940-DUCK or visit www.liducks.com.

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