Jackfish Bolster Roster with Minor League Signings

WELLAND – The Welland Jackfish, members of the Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) today announced the signing of pitcher Jared Mortensen and infielder Chris Shaw for the 2020 season.

Mortensen, 31, a former member of the Tampa Bay Rays and Houston Astros minor league system, spent five years in Minor League Baseball. The Abbotsford, BC native recorded a 4.33 ERA with 288 strikeouts and 146 walks over five seasons. Reaching as high as AAA with the Durham Bulls and Frezno Grizzlies, Jared also suited up for Team Canada during the 2015 PanAm Games in Toronto.

“Jared has over 450 professional innings on the mound in the past 3 seasons, this man defines durability and go deep into games” said Jackfish General Manager Jason McKay. “Bringing that kind of experience onto an already experienced pitching staff can only bring good results.”

Shaw, 25, a former draft pick of the Baltimore Orioles in the 2015 MLB June Amateur Draft, Chris spent four seasons in the Orioles minor league system. During his minor league career, Chris would record 20 doubles, 1 triple, 7 home runs and 38 RBI. The Winnipeg, MB native spent his College career with the Oklahoma Sooners (NCAA Division I) before turning pro.

“Dynamic defensively superior catcher with a rocket of an arm, Chris will be a tremendous asset as we look to bring in the best ball players available to us” said Jackfish GM Jason Mckay. “Chris can be an absolute horse behind the dish as well as play corner infield and outfield if called upon.”

The Jackfish open the season at Welland Stadium on Saturday, May 16 with a 1:05 p.m. game vs. London. Memberships for 2020 are on sale now by calling the Welland Stadium Ticket Office at 905-736-1346. For more information, visit wellandjackfish.com/2020.