The University of Hawaii’s top hitter along with a lefty arm are the latest additions to the AppleSox roster. Infielder Stephen Ventimilia and left-handed pitcher Lawrence Chew will spend their summer in the Pacific Northwest with the AppleSox.

“We have had a long relationship with the University of Hawaii and every year it is exciting to receive the high caliber players that they send us,” said AppleSox head coach Ed Knaggs.

Ventimilia has started every game for the Warriors and leads the team with a .313 batting average as only a freshman. The Monterey, Calif., product also leads the team with 19 runs scored and has 26 hits, which is tied for the team high.

“It’s really impressive what he has been able to accomplish up at the plate in his first season,” said Knaggs. “He is an excellent runner and could be at the top of the batting order for us this summer.”

Chew has made seven appearances this season, including one start with a 1-1 record and a 3.26 ERA. The freshman from Mililani, Oahu earned all-state honors from the Honolulu Advertiser in high school.

“He is a strike-thrower who also has very good off-speed stuff,” said Knaggs.

The AppleSox open the 2012 season on the road against the Bellingham Bells on June 1^st. The team will return to Paul Thomas Sr. Field to start a six-game homestand beginning with the home opener on June 5^th against the Bend Elks.

Pictures:

Attached photographs of Stephen Ventimilia and Lawrence Chew are courtesy of the University of Hawaii Sports Information Department.