Jackalopes Sign Kelly Dugan as Franchise Player

The Grand Junction Jackalopes Baseball Club announced today that they have signed 33- year old Kelly Dugan as their "Franchise Player".

Under the Pioneer Baseball League rules, a club may name one player whose service time exceeds the league's 3-year maximum eligibility requirement if that player represents a benefit to the local community, to the PBL and to the game of baseball.

Dugan, out of Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, has 14 years of minor league experience spanning affiliated ball with the Phillies, Cubs and Diamondbacks and independent ball in the American Association and Atlantic League.

"To get this opportunity is a huge honor, I'm very excited to get to play in my 15th season with the Jackalopes", said Dugan. "So far I love the community, the sights are beautiful and my wife, myself and my son, Rigley, are very excited to make this our home for the next few months. The team seems like a great group of guys and the coaches are very welcoming. I'm looking forward to winning a championship".

Over his career, Dugan, a power-hitting outfielder/first baseman, carries a lifetime .285 batting average, with 130 homeruns and 564 RBI. He reached the AAA level in 2015 with the Phillies.

"We are thrilled to have someone of Kelly's integrity, experience, and talent as our 'Franchise Player'", said Jackalopes manager Chris Knabenshue. "We believe he will be a terrific asset to the Jackalope organization both on and off the field."

Dugan is the son of famed Hollywood actor/director, Dennis Dugan, who directed such films as Happy Gilmore, The Benchwarmers, National Security, Big Daddy and Grown Ups.