MANCHESTER – Ever since Kevin Nolan signed with the Toronto Blue Jays four years ago after an outstanding college career at Winthrop University, it seemed inevitable that the former Nashua South standout would return to New Hampshire as a member of the Fisher Cats.

The wait is over. Nolan will be on the Fisher Cats roster when they open the season at home Thursday night at 6:30 at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium against the Reading Phillies.

This is the first time in the Fisher Cats’ 10-year history that a New Hampshire native has been on the roster. A number of New Hampshire natives have played for Fisher Cat opponents over the years, including Litchfield’s Kyle Jackson during his minor league career with the Red Sox.

“What an exciting announcement for baseball
fans across New Hampshire,’’ Fisher Cats
President Rick Brenner said. “Not only do we get to see a player from our own state, but the Blue Jays have once again provided us with a talented bunch of prospects who will help us create a magical summer for our fans.’’

Nolan, who turned 25 in December, has been a shortstop for most of his high school, college and minor league career, but has also spent time at first base, second base, third base and in the outfield in the Blue Jays system.

He was back at short last summer when he had his best minor league season, hitting .316 for Class A Dunedin of the Florida State League. Selected a Florida State League All-Star, Nolan stole 12 bases in 77 games and knocked in 40 runs with 23 doubles and 54 runs scored.

Signed by Toronto in 2009, Nolan’s climb through the Blue Jays system has included stops in Auburn, N.Y., and Lansing, Mich. He was promoted to Dunedin early in the 2011 seasons and hit a solid .281 in 72 games.

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