Shortstop becomes first Duck added to 2015 roster

(Central Islip, N.Y., Jan. 12, 2015) – The Long Island Ducks today announced the signing of infielder Dan Lyons for the 2015 season. The shortstop returns to Long Island for his fifth consecutive season with the Flock.

“Dan has provided us with strong defense, clutch hitting and a deep passion for the game in each of his four years on Long Island,” says Ducks president/general manager Michael Pfaff. “We are happy to have him back this season and look forward to him taking the field in April.”

Lyons has appeared in 440 regular season games with the Ducks since joining the team in 2011. In that span, he has compiled a .249 batting average, 160 RBI, 205 runs, 55 doubles, 21 triples and 44 stolen bases. The Minnesota native has also played in 22 postseason games, helping the Ducks to Atlantic League championships in 2012 and 2013 and three consecutive Liberty Division championships (2011-13). He was named the 2012 Championship Series Most Valuable Player after collecting game-winning hits in Game Two and the decisive Game Five. Prior to the 2014 season, he was chosen by fans as the shortstop on the Ducks’ 15th Anniversary Team.

In 2014, the 30-year-old posted a .256 batting average in 120 games. He finished with four home runs and seven triples, his highest totals since joining the Ducks. He was also successful on 14 of his 15 stolen base attempts, posting the third-best stolen base percentage in the Atlantic League (.933). Two years prior, the University of Minnesota alum was previously selected to play in the Atlantic League All-Star Game and earned year-end First Team All-Star honors. Lyons was originally drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 14th round of the 2007 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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