(ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY) – The Rockland Boulders of the Canadian-American Association of Professional Baseball (Can-Am League) announced today the signing of former New York Yankees firstround draft pick Cito Culver for the 2019 season.

Culver, 26, was selected by the Yankees with the 32nd pick in the first round of the 2010 Major League Baseball Draft and becomes the highest-drafted player in the Boulders’ nine-year history.

A native of Irondequoit, New York, the shortstop was drafted out of high school and made his professional debut at age 18 for the Gulf Coast Yankees. His pro stops included affiliates in Staten Island, Trenton, and Scranton-Wilkes Barre, where he hit 12 homers in 2017, his last season in the pinstripes’ organization. He appeared at the AAA level as recently as last year, which he spent with the New Orleans Baby Cakes in the Miami Marlins’ system, before opting for free agency at the conclusion of the season.

Aside from his slick fielding at shortstop, Cito brings important versatility to the Rockland roster as he is adept at each infield position, and his drive to reach the Majors is not lost on Team President Shawn Reilly. “This is a great opportunity for both Cito and the Boulders,” Reilly stated. “He’s still young and motivated, and our organization and our fans will be excited to see him in action and continue his quest for the big leagues.”

Rockland’s new manager and former New York Met Kevin Baez was equally enthusiastic about the acquisition. “He has great talent and still a major upside,” the veteran manager stated. “His mix of youth and experience will have a positive influence on the entire team.”

It is believed that Culver is the fourth first-round draft pick in the Can-Am League history. He joins Josh Vitters, Quebec 2018 (Cubs 2007); Phillippe Aumont, Ottawa 2017 (Seattle 2007); and Mike Conroy, Brockton 2010 (Cleveland 2001).

The Boulders begin their 2019 All-Star Season on Thursday, May 16, hosting the defending Can-Am Champion Sussex County Miners at Palisades Credit Union Park. For tickets or more information, contact our office at 845-364-0009.