While his playing days are not over, the highly-decorated tenure of catcher Mike Valadez has concluded in Schaumburg as the Boomers have announced his unconditional release.

A member of the inaugural Boomers team in 2012 and a vital part of Jamie Bennett’s back-to-back Frontier League championship teams in 2013 and 2014, Valadez departs Schaumburg as the Boomers all-time leader in hits (262) and games played (311). 

“Vally has been a huge part of the success we have had here in Schaumburg,” said Bennett. “I couldn't be happier with the job he did behind the plate for us over the last four years...... as well as his commitment and love for this organization.  We all wish him the best.”

The veteran catcher appeared in 78 games for the Boomers in 2015, batting .232 with three home runs and 23 RBI’s, securing his third consecutive Frontier League all-star nod.  The former Cleveland Indians farmhand enjoyed his best season in 2014 batting .255 with nine doubles and 49 RBI’s.  Prior to joining the Boomers in 2012, Valadez spent the 2010 and 2011 seasons with Boomers owners Pat and Lindy Salvi’s other minor league baseball club, the Gary SouthShore RailCats of the American Association.

Valadez, 30, batted .127 (8 for 63) in 17 games for the Boomers in 2016.