(New Britain, Conn., Apr. 21, 2018) – The New Britain Bees today announced the signing of infielder Reid Brignac.

“This is a big addition for the Bees,” says Bees General Manager Brad Smith. “It’s great to sign a player of Reid’s caliber, who will bring immense Major League experience to our club both on the field and in the clubhouse. We look forward to seeing his contributions this season.”

Reid Brignac comes to New Britain for his Atlantic League debut during his 14^th season of professional baseball. Last year the former Major Leaguer spent time with Triple-A Fresno (Houston Astros) of the Pacific Coast League, appearing in 110 games and posting a .251 batting average with 33 extra-base hits, 13 home runs, 52 RBI, 53 runs scored, and a .973 fielding percentage at shortstop.

The 32-year-old began his professional career when he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the second round of the 2004 MLB amateur draft. After five successful campaigns in the Rays organization, he made his big league debut in 2008. Brignac spent five seasons in the Majors with Tampa Bay, including a year as their starting shortstop in 2011, where he appeared in 113 games and posted a .256 batting average with 13 doubles, eight home runs, 45 RBI, and 39 runs scored. Following his stint with the Rays he also played in the big leagues for the Colorado Rockies, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, Miami Marlins, and Atlanta Braves. In 369 Major League games across nine seasons, the switch-hitter has collected a .219 batting average with 52 extra-base hits, 84 RBI, and 83 runs scored.

Over the course of 1,111 minor league games, Reid has comprised a .269 batting average with 116 home runs, 572 RBI, 628 runs scored, and 68 stolen bases.

In a corresponding roster move, the Bees have placed infielder Luis Hernandez on the Reserve/Retired list as he will now purse a coaching career with the Kansas City Royals organization.

All New Britain Bees transactions are presented by ACES. ACES is dedicated to enhancing and transforming lives through education, innovations, and leadership. Visit https://www.aces.org/ for more information.

About the New Britain Bees
The New Britain Bees are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, and play their home games at New Britain Stadium. For information on tickets packages, group outings and sponsorships call 860-826-BEES (2337) or visit NBBees.com.

About the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB)
The Atlantic League has been a leader in professional baseball and a gateway to Major League Baseball since 1998. Over 38 million fans have attended Atlantic League games and more than 900 players and 50 managers and coaches have joined MLB organizations directly from the ALPB. The Atlantic League emphasizes winning baseball games, showcasing the talent of top-caliber players and offering affordable family entertainment. For more information, please visit www.AtlanticLeague.com.

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