The Chicago Dogs announced today that star outfielder Victor Roache has re-signed with the team.

In 2019, Roache’s first season in Chicago, he clubbed the second-most home runs (24) in the American Association, trailing just MVP teammate Keon Barnum. The former MLB first-round draft pick also tallied the second-most total bases (211), second-best slugging percentage (.583) and third-most RBI (79) in the league.

Roache grew up in Ypsilanti, Michigan and attended Georgia Southern University, where he broke through as a junior in 2011. His 30 home runs led the NCAA and smashed the previous Southern Conference record. That prompted the Milwaukee Brewers to select Roache 28th overall in the 2012 MLB Draft.

Roache ascended up the Brewers farm system, reaching Double-A with the Biloxi Shuckers in 2015. Two seasons later, he was dealt to the Dodgers, for whom he played 35 games in Rancho Cucamonga (Single-A Advanced).

Roache then pivoted to the Cardinals organization in 2018, spending most of his time with the Springfield Cardinals (Double-A). There, he smashed 18 home runs and racked up 58 RBI.

In his debut season with the Dogs, Roache served as the primary right fielder, proving himself as a steady bat with a .309 batting average. Over the final five weeks of the season, he recorded three multi-home run games, including a two-homer, six-RBI spree on August 3 against the St. Paul Saints, a 15-2 Dogs bludgeoning.

2020 will be Roache’s eighth season in professional baseball.

After a 59-win campaign in 2019, the Chicago Dogs open the franchise’s third season on May 22, with a 7:05 game against the Sioux Falls Canaries. Legendary Chicago Bears head coach Mike Ditka will sign a one-day contract to co-manage the team. Every fan in attendance will receive a custom Ditka Dogs-themed bobblehead.

Ticket packages are available by calling 847-636-5450 or by visiting www.TheChicago Dogs.com. Fans can follow the team on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok by using the handle @TheChicagoDogs.

by Sam Brief, Chicago Dogs