What a Team

Cam has been blessed to play on a baseball team where winning isn't everything. His team wins most of their games, they are really good. But, winning isn't everything. Cam joined the Mustangs at the beginning of last season. I can't begin to tell you how much he has learned about hitting and fielding. More importantly, however, he's learned what it means to play hard, but fair; play with a good attitude, win or lose; encourage your teammates; listen to your coaches (sorry, but he still looks over his shoulder occasionally on those drop 3rd strikes while running hard to 1st :) ); and how you can be a great coach and not yell at your players and argue outrageously with the umpires. The Mustang coaches are excellent role models and we are thankful that Cam has been able to be with the team for the past 2 seasons. Head Coach Jeff authors the post-game write-ups which we look forward to every night (or early morning)! Here is the latest -- it's worth the read (Thanks Mustang coaches, players and families, you ARE the best! God Bless):


HAND TO RETIRE FROM THE MUSTANGS
6/26/2008
HAZELWOOD, MO – Citing a desire to be closer to his family, Cam Hand recently tendered his resignation to the Mustangs ownership group. Team officials reluctantly agreed to Hand’s termination effective 11:59PM, June 27. At that time, Hand becomes an unrestricted free agent and will likely seek a team in the Atlanta, GA, area.

“We really hate to see him go,” said a clearly saddened Coach Shultz. “He’s been a great part of the team for the past two years.”

Hand joined the Mustangs via free agency for the 2007 season. In the 2008 season, Hand is one of only three players to play in all 12 games. He scored or drove in a run in all but two of the games.

Cam has the third highest walk total for the Mustangs and is fifth in runs scored. His season on base percentage is an even .500.

“Cam did a good job of getting on base so the guys behind him could bring him home,” noted Coach Shultz.

Hand’s best offensive game of the season came on May 29 against the Red Hawks. He was 2‑for‑2 with a walk and scored three times.

Although willing and able to play just about any position, Hand’s favorite spot was second base where he turned in several fine plays during the season. Hand was also one the Mustangs pitchers. He appeared in four games where he struck out four and threw 48% strikes.

“While we all appreciate Cam’s contributions at the plate and on the field,” concluded Coach Shultz, “what I will miss most is his positive attitude and fun personality. Cam was always eager to play and ready to do whatever we asked. He seemed to always be smiling. I like that.”

“We all wish him the very best. It was a joy to have him on the team.”

Despite still having two games remaining in the regular season and as many as three games in the playoffs, salary cap restrictions prevent the Mustangs from replacing Hand in 2008.