Worcester, MA, May 17, 2009, The Worcester Tornadoes began spring training today at Hanover Insurance Park at Fitton Field by welcoming 26 players to camp. Spring training, which will last until May 27, will determine the 21 man roster the Tornadoes will play with in their 2009 Fifth Anniversary Season.

Among those returning from the 2008 Tornadoes team are standout veteran catcher Alex Trezza and perennial record setter, first baseman Chris Colabello. In total, eight members of the, 58-36, 2008 Tornadoes returned for camp this year. Field Manager Rich Gedman and Coaches Roger LaFrancois and Ed Gallagher will put eight rookies to the test this spring, including UMASS-Boston standout Nick Conway, and Spencer, MA native Vinny Pennell.

The Tornadoes will split practice time between Hanover Insurance Park and the Extra Innings Auburn training facility. The team will also travel to the Dan Duquette Sports Academy in Pittsfield, MA for scrimmages before playing the American Defenders of New Hampshire in an exhibition game open to the general public for free at Hanover Insurance Park at Fitton Field, Monday, May 25th at 6:00 pm.

The Worcester Tornadoes home opener is scheduled for June 4th at 7:05 pm and will feature the Tornadoes and the American Defenders in their first regular season series. With three sellouts already on the books the Worcester Tornadoes are looking forward to making their 5th anniversary season another championship season. For more information visit www.worcestertornadoes.com or call the Tornadoes Front Office at 508-792-2288.