BELLINGHAM, WA — On Monday, February 5, 2024, it was revealed that three more 2023 Bells players would be returning for the 2024 season. Colton Bower, Nate Kirkpatrick and Anthony Kodama were announced now bringing the roster up to 11 returning players.

Colton Bower, a catcher from the University of Washington (UW), returns. Bower played in 20 games, recorded 16 runs and had 143 PO’s during the 2023 season.

“Colton is an impressive defensive catcher, and he proved that with the Bells during the 2023 season. He blocks and throws well, and is no doubt continuing to improve as a young player. Colton is a competitor with a second to none work ethic, and an excellent teammate. Colton has had an impressive career thus far and we are really looking forward to the contributions he can make as part of the Bells roster,” Bells General Manager, Stephanie Morrell said.

Nate Kirkpatrick, currently an infielder for the Aguadilla Tiburones, is returning this May. Kirkpatrick appeared in 40 games, had 26 hits and 11 RBI. 

“Nate is an extremely athletic infielder who has always been known for his fantastic defense,” Morrell said. “Nate was extremely reliable at third base last year, and we expect him to be an important part of this year’s infield as well. Nate continues to develop at the plate and is a player we believe will be a consistent offensive spark for the Bells this summer. Beyond that, he’s also a competitor who leads by example, and we’re excited to have him as part of our 2024 squad.”

Anthony Kodama, an infielder from Southern Illinois appeared in 17 games, had 17 hits and 9 RBI.

“Anthony was an offensive spark for the 2024 Bells, and a versatile player known for consistent play. We were extremely excited to be able to welcome him back for the 2024 season. Anthony is an incredible teammate, a hard worker and a talented athlete. We know he’ll help the Bells win games this summer and look forward to having him back in Bellingham.”

Each week we will be announcing more players, continuing with returners.