News release from the TinCaps:
Josh VanMeter returns to the TinCaps
Ossian Indiana Native Activated off Disabled List after Broken Leg(August 11, 2015) – Already in first place in the Midwest League Eastern Division, the TinCaps received an extra boost on Tuesday. Less than four months after breaking his left leg, infielder Josh VanMeter is back with the team. The San Diego Padres have activated the Ossian, Ind., native off Fort Wayne’s disabled list.
“It feels great to be back,” said VanMeter, who was selected by the Padres in the 5th round of the 2013 MLB Draft. “Thanks to everyone who has supported me along the way.”
VanMeter, 20, fractured his left fibula while turning a double play at second base in the TinCaps’ second game of the season on April 13 at Parkview Field against Lansing. He was initially taken to Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne and had surgery performed the next day by doctors at Ortho NorthEast (ONE).
The Norwell High School alum has been rehabbing since the end of April at the Padres’ player development center in Peoria, Ariz. VanMeter returned to game action Friday for San Diego’s rookie-level team in the Arizona League. In three games in the AZL, he went 8-for-11 (.727 AVG) with two doubles and a triple.
“We’re ecstatic to have Josh home,” said TinCaps President Mike Nutter. “Not only is Josh our first ever local everyday player, but he’s a first-class young man. His work ethic is incredible, as evidenced by the amazing fact that he’s back here already. Hopefully he can help lead the team into the playoffs again like he did last year.”
After debuting for the Padres in the AZL in 2013, VanMeter was a starting middle infielder for the TinCaps in 2014. Last year he was a key contributor in leading the TinCaps to the Midwest League Eastern Division Championship Series.
Also on Tuesday, the Padres transferred left-handed pitcher Travis Radke from Fort Wayne to Advanced-A Lake Elsinore and outfielder Henry Charles from Fort Wayne to Short-Season A Tri-City. Right-handed pitcher Pete Kelich joins VanMeter as a new addition for the TinCaps. The team’s roster still stands at 24 active players.
The TinCaps, who have won 10 of their last 12 games and seven in a row at home, begin a three-game series with the Quad Cities River Bandits (Astros) tonight at 7:05.
VanMeter is back just in time for his bobblehead day on Sunday. The first 2,000 fans at Parkview Field for a 1:05 game against the Cedar Rapids Kernels (Twins) will receive a Josh VanMeter Bobblehead presented by Source One Solutions. Tickets for the homestand are available online at TinCapsTickets.com, by calling 260-482-6400, or in person at the Parkview Field Ticket Office.
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