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After a record-setting 1989 season where the Virginia Colonial won their first Stout Division Championship of the Modern Era and came within a single game of claiming the IL Pennant, a who’s who of the best and brightest in the organization gathered at the Williamsburg Marriot to hand out their first ever annual awards. The Colonial Awards, each named for a famous Colonial Virginian, will be handed out each season to the organization’s Superstars, Role Players and Prospects for their contributions to the team.
<o:p> </o:p>
Patrick Henry Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for the Orator, Patriot and first ever post-Colonial Governor of <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state>. Considered one of the Founding Fathers of our country, his Leadership and passion was unquestioned and unwavering. His 1775 speech at the House of Burgess brought the rallying cry of the American Revolution – “Give me liberty, or give me death!” The award is presented annually to the player in the Colonial organization that best exemplifies the leadership of Patrick Henry
<o:p> </o:p>
Danny Nelson (OF)
.261/.293/.473/.766
30 HR – 90 RBI
<o:p> </o:p>
The first player most fans think of when they think of the Virginia Colonials it’s likely Danny Nelson. Arguably one of the most polarizing figures in the organization over the last 10 seasons, the Danny Nelson Fan Club is likely the exact same size as the Anti-Nelson group. The 1979 IL Refreshing New Brew has been the subject of so many “is it time to part ways” articles in the <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state> media that most beat writers have simply created a template. After a bounce back All-Star season in 1985, the club resigned him to a three year extension at a fraction of his former salary to keep him on the team in a supporting role. Before the 1989 campaign, Nelson was thought to be a platoon power bat that would share time with Artie Rhodes and Florian Toselli, instead, he took the starting CF job and never gave it back. Though rumors circulated in the off-season that Nelson may be moved to IL rival <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state>, Nelson rediscovered his power stroke in ’89 and, more importantly, rediscovered health. Nelson played in 153 games, more than any other season of his career and became the veteran leader that the Colonials needed on their Division title run.
<o:p> </o:p>
Henry “Lighthorse Harry” Lee Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for the famed Cavalry officer in the Continental Army who would later go on to be the Governor of Virginia, Henry Lee III became one of the most respected horsemen in Colonial America despite being just 17 during the outbreak of the Revolution. His military acumen far exceeded his age and his Son, Robert E. Lee, would go on to be one of <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>’s greatest military leaders. The award is presented annually to the Colonial prospect deemed to have had the most impactful season.
<o:p> </o:p>
Lonnie Scott (CF)
<st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city> <st1:place w:st="on">Union</st1:place> (AAA)
.333/.418/.554/.972
23 HR - 76 RBI
60.7 VORP
<o:p> </o:p>
Taken in the 6<sup>th</sup> round of the 1985 Amateur Draft, Lonnie Scott was drafted more for his speed and defense in the minors and always thought of more as a borderline prospect. After significant injuries in his first full season in the minors, he was still thought of more as a defensive player with a good set of wheels. In 1989, Scott started the season in AA before getting the call to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Detroit</st1:place></st1:city> in the Horizon League. The 26 year old from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Stone Mountain</st1:city>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Georgia</st1:country-region></st1:place> caught fire in AAA turning in fantastic power numbers and compiling eye-popping stats considering his previous resume. He was rewarded with a late season move to “the show” though he proved to not be quite ready for everyday play. Scott will likely start 1990 in <st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city>, but a 4<sup>th</sup> or 5<sup>th</sup> outfielder role in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state> could be coming shortly.
<o:p> </o:p>
George Wythe Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">Virginia</st1:state></st1:place>’s first signer of the Declaration of Independence and one of the most respected scholars of his time. A man of integrity and virtue, and respected by all, he was considered one of the most important framers of the Constitution. The award is presented annually to the Colonial player who is judged to have had his “breakout season” in the BLB.
<o:p> </o:p>
Florian Toselli (OF)
.307/.369/.442/.811
174 Hits - 48 2B - 95 Runs
<o:p> </o:p>
When the Colonials used their second of two 1<sup>st</sup> Round picks in 1984 on an unknown 22 year old Italian player with little league power, many scoffed at his potential to ever compete in the BLB. Management loved Toselli and felt that his game would make him a great table-setter and corner outfielder in the expansive confines of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Colonial</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> and, after this season, they may be right. “Little <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Italy</st1:place></st1:country-region>” as his teammates call him had a breakout season in ’89 where he began to show his propensity for finding the expansive gaps in the IL to the tune of 48 two-baggers and 5 triples. He scored 95 runs despite spending most of the season batting near the bottom of the lineup. Toselli looks to be a prototypical #2 hitter and should get that chance in the coming years.
<o:p> </o:p>
Thomas Jefferson Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence and the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom, third president of the <st1:country-region w:st="on">United States</st1:country-region>, and founder of the <st1:placetype w:st="on">University</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Virginia</st1:placename> -- voiced the aspirations of a new <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region> The award is presented annually to the player in the Colonial organization deemed to have the brightest future. as no other individual of his era.
<o:p> </o:p>
Hector Chavez (2B)
<st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Battle Creek</st1:place></st1:city> Flakes (AA)
.309/.365/.404/.769
1989 AA WORT Glove Wizard Award at 2B
<o:p> </o:p>
When Colonial President Clay T. Shaver took control of the team after 1979, it quickly became clear that he put a lot of weight in speed and defense on the infield. He made an early move for Dale O’Hegarty and made him the offensive cornerstone of the Colonials. With O’Hegarty reaching his prime years, many fans are already starting to ask who his heir apparent is. The answer to that question may be Hector Chavez. Chavez, the Colonials #1 pick in ’86, is a lanky 22 year old from Sugar Land, Texas who Baseball America sees as the #17 prospect in America. In 1989, after a week in the Bush League, quickly got the bump to the Lautering Union where his glove, his wheels and his stick began to blossom. With some whispers around dressing rooms that Colonial second baseman Joshua Poling may not be able to be counted on for 150+ games per season; many people are wondering how long Chavez will be able to stay in the minors. Chavez should start 1990 in the Horizon League (<st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Detroit</st1:place></st1:city>) and could see the big show by the end of next season. The future looks bright for the kid if he can stay patient.
<o:p> </o:p>
George Washington Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for George Washington - the first President of the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">United States</st1:place></st1:country-region> and a commander of the Continental Army in the American Revolutionary War. For his significant role in the revolution and in the formation of the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">United States</st1:place></st1:country-region>, he is often revered by Americans as the "Father of Our Country". The award is presented annually to the player deemed to have been the Most Valuable Player in the Colonial organization.
<o:p> </o:p>
Pancho “Ironfist” Herrera (SP)
18-5 (31 Starts)
2.24 ERA – 0.86 WHIP – 227 K/27 BB
<o:p> </o:p>
We’re not sure who first used the term bittersweet, but there may be no better application than to describe the 1989 season for Pancho “Ironfist” Herrera. The Colonials traded up to #2 in the 1985 draft to (in their opinion) steal Herrera on that day. At 19 he made his BLB debut after just 33 minor league starts. At 20, he became the team’s Ace and won 17 games. In 1989, at just 21, he took the BLB by storm bringing home the IL Pale Ale Pitcher award and piloting arguably the league’s best Pitching Staff. He led the league in ERA, WHIP, and numerous other categories in route to an 18-5 record and the team’s first modern era playoff berth. He’d make his Postseason debut against <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Davenport</st1:place></st1:city> and that’s when things got bitter. Herrera tore his rotar cuff and conservative estimates have him out of action till Spring Training of 1991 at the earliest. Crushed by the injury, Herrera has returned to his native <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">San Salvador</st1:place></st1:city> to begin rehab. Though the future may sit in question, his 1989 season will be one for the team record books.
After a record-setting 1989 season where the Virginia Colonial won their first Stout Division Championship of the Modern Era and came within a single game of claiming the IL Pennant, a who’s who of the best and brightest in the organization gathered at the Williamsburg Marriot to hand out their first ever annual awards. The Colonial Awards, each named for a famous Colonial Virginian, will be handed out each season to the organization’s Superstars, Role Players and Prospects for their contributions to the team.
<o:p> </o:p>
Patrick Henry Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for the Orator, Patriot and first ever post-Colonial Governor of <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state>. Considered one of the Founding Fathers of our country, his Leadership and passion was unquestioned and unwavering. His 1775 speech at the House of Burgess brought the rallying cry of the American Revolution – “Give me liberty, or give me death!” The award is presented annually to the player in the Colonial organization that best exemplifies the leadership of Patrick Henry
<o:p> </o:p>
Danny Nelson (OF)
.261/.293/.473/.766
30 HR – 90 RBI
<o:p> </o:p>
The first player most fans think of when they think of the Virginia Colonials it’s likely Danny Nelson. Arguably one of the most polarizing figures in the organization over the last 10 seasons, the Danny Nelson Fan Club is likely the exact same size as the Anti-Nelson group. The 1979 IL Refreshing New Brew has been the subject of so many “is it time to part ways” articles in the <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state> media that most beat writers have simply created a template. After a bounce back All-Star season in 1985, the club resigned him to a three year extension at a fraction of his former salary to keep him on the team in a supporting role. Before the 1989 campaign, Nelson was thought to be a platoon power bat that would share time with Artie Rhodes and Florian Toselli, instead, he took the starting CF job and never gave it back. Though rumors circulated in the off-season that Nelson may be moved to IL rival <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place></st1:state>, Nelson rediscovered his power stroke in ’89 and, more importantly, rediscovered health. Nelson played in 153 games, more than any other season of his career and became the veteran leader that the Colonials needed on their Division title run.
<o:p> </o:p>
Henry “Lighthorse Harry” Lee Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for the famed Cavalry officer in the Continental Army who would later go on to be the Governor of Virginia, Henry Lee III became one of the most respected horsemen in Colonial America despite being just 17 during the outbreak of the Revolution. His military acumen far exceeded his age and his Son, Robert E. Lee, would go on to be one of <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>’s greatest military leaders. The award is presented annually to the Colonial prospect deemed to have had the most impactful season.
<o:p> </o:p>
Lonnie Scott (CF)
<st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city> <st1:place w:st="on">Union</st1:place> (AAA)
.333/.418/.554/.972
23 HR - 76 RBI
60.7 VORP
<o:p> </o:p>
Taken in the 6<sup>th</sup> round of the 1985 Amateur Draft, Lonnie Scott was drafted more for his speed and defense in the minors and always thought of more as a borderline prospect. After significant injuries in his first full season in the minors, he was still thought of more as a defensive player with a good set of wheels. In 1989, Scott started the season in AA before getting the call to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Detroit</st1:place></st1:city> in the Horizon League. The 26 year old from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Stone Mountain</st1:city>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Georgia</st1:country-region></st1:place> caught fire in AAA turning in fantastic power numbers and compiling eye-popping stats considering his previous resume. He was rewarded with a late season move to “the show” though he proved to not be quite ready for everyday play. Scott will likely start 1990 in <st1:city w:st="on">Detroit</st1:city>, but a 4<sup>th</sup> or 5<sup>th</sup> outfielder role in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Virginia</st1:place></st1:state> could be coming shortly.
<o:p> </o:p>
George Wythe Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">Virginia</st1:state></st1:place>’s first signer of the Declaration of Independence and one of the most respected scholars of his time. A man of integrity and virtue, and respected by all, he was considered one of the most important framers of the Constitution. The award is presented annually to the Colonial player who is judged to have had his “breakout season” in the BLB.
<o:p> </o:p>
Florian Toselli (OF)
.307/.369/.442/.811
174 Hits - 48 2B - 95 Runs
<o:p> </o:p>
When the Colonials used their second of two 1<sup>st</sup> Round picks in 1984 on an unknown 22 year old Italian player with little league power, many scoffed at his potential to ever compete in the BLB. Management loved Toselli and felt that his game would make him a great table-setter and corner outfielder in the expansive confines of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Colonial</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> and, after this season, they may be right. “Little <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Italy</st1:place></st1:country-region>” as his teammates call him had a breakout season in ’89 where he began to show his propensity for finding the expansive gaps in the IL to the tune of 48 two-baggers and 5 triples. He scored 95 runs despite spending most of the season batting near the bottom of the lineup. Toselli looks to be a prototypical #2 hitter and should get that chance in the coming years.
<o:p> </o:p>
Thomas Jefferson Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence and the Statute of Virginia for Religious Freedom, third president of the <st1:country-region w:st="on">United States</st1:country-region>, and founder of the <st1:placetype w:st="on">University</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Virginia</st1:placename> -- voiced the aspirations of a new <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region> The award is presented annually to the player in the Colonial organization deemed to have the brightest future. as no other individual of his era.
<o:p> </o:p>
Hector Chavez (2B)
<st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Battle Creek</st1:place></st1:city> Flakes (AA)
.309/.365/.404/.769
1989 AA WORT Glove Wizard Award at 2B
<o:p> </o:p>
When Colonial President Clay T. Shaver took control of the team after 1979, it quickly became clear that he put a lot of weight in speed and defense on the infield. He made an early move for Dale O’Hegarty and made him the offensive cornerstone of the Colonials. With O’Hegarty reaching his prime years, many fans are already starting to ask who his heir apparent is. The answer to that question may be Hector Chavez. Chavez, the Colonials #1 pick in ’86, is a lanky 22 year old from Sugar Land, Texas who Baseball America sees as the #17 prospect in America. In 1989, after a week in the Bush League, quickly got the bump to the Lautering Union where his glove, his wheels and his stick began to blossom. With some whispers around dressing rooms that Colonial second baseman Joshua Poling may not be able to be counted on for 150+ games per season; many people are wondering how long Chavez will be able to stay in the minors. Chavez should start 1990 in the Horizon League (<st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Detroit</st1:place></st1:city>) and could see the big show by the end of next season. The future looks bright for the kid if he can stay patient.
<o:p> </o:p>
George Washington Award
<o:p> </o:p>
Named for George Washington - the first President of the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">United States</st1:place></st1:country-region> and a commander of the Continental Army in the American Revolutionary War. For his significant role in the revolution and in the formation of the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">United States</st1:place></st1:country-region>, he is often revered by Americans as the "Father of Our Country". The award is presented annually to the player deemed to have been the Most Valuable Player in the Colonial organization.
<o:p> </o:p>
Pancho “Ironfist” Herrera (SP)
18-5 (31 Starts)
2.24 ERA – 0.86 WHIP – 227 K/27 BB
<o:p> </o:p>
We’re not sure who first used the term bittersweet, but there may be no better application than to describe the 1989 season for Pancho “Ironfist” Herrera. The Colonials traded up to #2 in the 1985 draft to (in their opinion) steal Herrera on that day. At 19 he made his BLB debut after just 33 minor league starts. At 20, he became the team’s Ace and won 17 games. In 1989, at just 21, he took the BLB by storm bringing home the IL Pale Ale Pitcher award and piloting arguably the league’s best Pitching Staff. He led the league in ERA, WHIP, and numerous other categories in route to an 18-5 record and the team’s first modern era playoff berth. He’d make his Postseason debut against <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Davenport</st1:place></st1:city> and that’s when things got bitter. Herrera tore his rotar cuff and conservative estimates have him out of action till Spring Training of 1991 at the earliest. Crushed by the injury, Herrera has returned to his native <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">San Salvador</st1:place></st1:city> to begin rehab. Though the future may sit in question, his 1989 season will be one for the team record books.
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