Indians set roster for opener

The Spokane Indians have finalized their starting roster for the 2008 season, which starts today at Avista Stadium.

The team has added three pitchers and an infielder since last week, bringing its total number of players to 28. Included is lefty pitcher Michael Kirkman, who played in Spokane last season.

Two high picks from the 2007 draft highlight the roster. Neil Ramirez, drafted by the Texas Rangers in the first round, will pitch for the Indians, and second-round pick Matt West is one of the Indians’ five infielders.

Tonight’s opener against the Everett AquaSox, at 6:30 p.m., kicks off a 76-game schedule the Indians will play over the next 79 days. The Indians are led by manager Tim Hulett, who is in his second year with Spokane.

Hulett has said he is dead-set on winning the Northwest League pennant, up for grabs among eight teams.

Before this Saturday’s game, the Indians will celebrate their 50th anniversary at Avista Stadium. Tony Roig, who played for the Indians from 1958 to 1960, will throw out the first pitch.

Nick Eaton