Latin Flavor News > News Article

From the Caribbean Rockies to Latin Flavor: Amadoernesto Guzman, Brian Padilla, and Richard Gomez have agreed to sign with the new and improved 2009 Latin Flavor ballclub. Amado will add some power to an already feared lineup that includes reigning 2008 NYCMBL MVP Matthew Ortiz and all-stars; George Collazo, Jonathan Cosme and his brother Xavier Cosme who was a 2008 MVP Candidate. Amado (currently playing for Lehman College) finished his NYCMBL 2008 campaign with a .348 average launching 2 homeruns and driving in 12. While he is not known to steal he also drew 12 base on balls which helped keep his on base percentage at .524. Flavor 2B Matthew Ortiz who is good friends with Amado stated, "He is one of the best hitters I've ever played with and I can't wait to see him in a Flavor uniform."

Brian Padilla will help the Flavor on both the offensive and defensive side of the field as he is known for his stellar play behind the plate and "cannon" for an arm. After coming off of a bad year in his eyes in which he batted .256 with 2 doubles, 1 triple and only 6 RBI's, he still plans on helping the Flavor make it back to the Championship. Brian states, "I know I am a better player than my 2008 stats show and I thank Coach Galan for believing in me and allowing me to showcase my talent to him and the rest of the Flavor family". According to Coach Galan, "I'm not concerned with his 2008 season stats. It is a pleasure to finally have Brian aboard, as I've admired his game for years and I've been trying to get him to play for me and the Flavor for years. I admire his knowledge of the game, along with the passion and intensity he plays with. Characteristics that can do nothing but make the players around him better, and vice versa. With protection in the lineup and skilled players all around him I expect big things from Brian.

Richard Gomez needs no introduction as he is remembered by many for the amazing night he put together at the plate in 2008 vs the Flavor at Roberto Clemente State Park on May 11, in which he went 3-4 with 2 doubles and a Grand Slam Homerun off of 2007 NYCMBL CY Young winner, Adam "A-Train" Barrick. Coach Galan says, "Richard will help out our lineup tremendously. He can flat out hit. Opposing pitchers better beware because he just might end your career". Richard was also a 2008 All-American while attending Bronx Community College and 2008 CUNY Player Of The Year.

Coach Galan and his Latin Flavor Baseball team have a new look this year, and with the moves they've made I believe they are serving notice to all opposing teams that they fully expect to compete for their 3rd straight run at the title.

MLB Network