The tragic news came in today that former Express infielder Mike Coolbaugh was killed Sunday night after being struck in the head while standing in the first base coach’s box of a AA game between the Tulsa Drillers and the Arkansas Travelers. Coolbaugh leaves behind two sons with another child due in October. A collection for his family will be taken before tonight’s game at the Dell Diamond. A memorial fund has been set up for the family at the Spirit Bank in Tulsa (send checks to: Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund c/o Spirit Bank, 1800 S. Baltimore Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119). Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones.
Troy Patton had another stellar start at the Dell on Saturday (following a poor outing on the road) and picked up his second W in three attempts for the Express. He threw seven innings giving up two hits, one walk, and zero earnies while striking out six. Not bad. This brings his AAA record to 2-1 with a 4.74 ERA.
For more on tonight’s game …
It’s Christmas in July tonight for the Express’ 7:05pm game versus the Oklahoma Redhawks. There will dollar hot dogs and sodas and the Express players will wear special Christams-themed red-and-green uniforms that will be auctioned off later on eBay. Fans can bring a new, unwrapped toy to the homeplate entrance and receive a free general admission ticket to tonight’s game. All toys will be donated to the Round Rock Police Department’s Operation Blue Santa.
For tickets and more on the Express click here.
This article appears in July 20 • 2007.