Pacifics Receive Early Holiday Gift

2015 Rookie of the Year Candidate Jake Taylor First to Re-Sign for Defending Champs

San Rafael, CA --

Not content to sit on their 2015 Pacific Association championship, the San Rafael Pacifics began their title defense by announcing the signing of their first player for the 2016 season, third baseman Jake Taylor. Taylor provided solid defense and a power bat after joining the club late in the 2015 season,�and played a large part in helping the Pacifics claim their second straight championship

"Jake was incredibly important to our team last year, so were excited to be able to bring him back to help form the core of our 2016 lineup," said Pacifics Manager Matt Kavanaugh. "Hes the kind of player that can be the keystone of an offense and a solid presence on defense, but is also a great contributor to the clubhouse atmosphere and the San Rafael community at the same time. As a manager, I want that player on my team."

Taylor split his time between the Pacifics and the Las Cruces Vaqueros of the Pecos League in 2016. Playing just 36 games for San Rafael after joining the club in late July, he blasted 12 home runs and drove in 34 runs while batting .364, clubbing 10 doubles, and amassing two hitting streaks of ten games or more. His consistent production at the plate was matched by his strong defensive effort, earning him a spot as the clubs starting third baseman.

"When we first sat down and thought about who we wanted to build the 2016 team around, Jakes name was one of the first that came up," said Pacifics President and General Manager Mike Shapiro. "He was one of the catalysts that turned our season around last year, and he does so much for the team off the field that he was one of our top priorities. We look forward to having him back as a key contributor this season."

The Pacifics will look to defend their title when the Pacific Association regular season begins next June.