Following in the footsteps of two of the Pioneers All Stars from 2010, the Pioneers announced the signing of catcher Patrick Hyde (Northern Kentucky University) and OF/1B Aaron Hopper (Marietta College).

Hyde follows last year's Pioneers catcher Brian Erie from NKU to Elmira. For the Norsemen of NKU Hyde is hitting .239 and leads the team in HR's with 4 in only 46 at bats. "We knew with Erie finishing his senior year, Pat would not be the everyday catcher at NKU. But, he has tremendous power and he will bring that strong bat to Dunn Field." stated Head Coach Dan Shwam.

Hopper is hitting.337 with 2 HR's and 34 RBI's for nationally ranked #2 (D3) Marietta College. "John Snyder was a great pickup from Marietta and with Cody Castle (last year's Pioneers Pitching Coach) on the staff of the Marietta club, we knew we would get someone with great potential. Aaron looks like he fits the bill." said GM Jeff Kunion.

The Pioneers Opening Weekend starts June 9 versus the Cooperstown Hawkeyes. The first Thirsty Thursday of the year, all drinks are $1.00. Enjoy the pregame concert and the postgame Fireworks Show, presented by the City of Elmira. "Lucky Fan" giveaways include an HD TV, a DVD player, an interactive game system, jewelry and more.

Friday, June 10 is Buffalo Wild Wings Night. The first 500 fans receive a coupon for six free wings at Buffalo Wild Wings. Saturday, June 11 is Home Necessities Water Bottle Night, the first 500 fans receive a free water bottle courtesy of Home Necessities.

Both Friday and Saturday "Lucky Fan" giveaways include an HD TV, a DVD player, a digital camcorder and more.

Tickets can be purchased in advance from the Pioneers exclusive retail ticket outlet, Jubilee Foods at 2898 Westinghouse Road, Horseheads.
For more information visit www.elmirapioneers.com or call the Pioneers office at either 607-734-2690 or 516-521-0206

This summer, Have Even More Fun at the Dunn.