T-Bones manager Andy McCauley announced today Rob Watson had re-signed for the 2008 season.  Watson, 27, was named a postseason Northern League All-Star as well as named a second-team all independent leagues second baseman by Baseball America in 2007.

“We’re really excited to have Watson back this year, it’s amazing he didn’t get a shot in affiliated ball after the year he had last season and being named the second best second baseman in all of independent baseball,” said McCauley. “He’s a great character guy in the clubhouse and a real leader offensively and defensively on the field.”  

Watson led the team and all other Northern League second basemen with a .343 average, which was also good for fourth best in the league.  He also drove in 72 runs and connected for eight home runs.  Watson also led the team with a .438 on-base percentage.

McCauley also used Watson on the mound on four separate occasions in 2007.  He allowed just three hits in five innings without allowing a run.

Watson was originally a 17th round draft pick of the Detroit Tigers in 2002.  He spent two seasons in the Tigers system before getting traded to the San Diego Padres in 2004.

The T-Bones open the 2008 season on the road May 15 in Winnipeg, before the home-opener at CommunityAmerica Ballpark on May 23 against Schaumburg.  First pitch is scheduled for 7:05.  Season tickets and mini plans are available now by calling the T-Bones box office at (913) 328-5618.

– Kansas City T-Bones –