The circuit features new and established teams in Humboldt, Redding and Folsom (Cal.), Medford (Ore.) and Carson City (Nev.).
The WCL Tri-State, a summer collegiate wood-bat league with teams in California, Oregon and Nevada, will begin play in June 2009, announced West Coast League president Ken Wilson.
The 65-year-old Humboldt (Cal.) Crabs, a legendary summer college team, is one of the five WCL Tri-State franchises. Joining the Crabs will be the Southern Oregon RiverDawgs (Medford, Oregon), Redding (CA) Colt .45s, Folsom (CA) Pioneers and Nevada (Carson City, NV) Bighorns.
"These five emerging markets have a bright future and we see great growth potential in these and other California markets," said Wilson. "We’re obviously thrilled to have the guidance and sophistication of the Humboldt Crabs in the WCL Tri-State."
All five teams have operated as independent clubs. "We’re excited to be in a league and associated with the West Coast League," said Greg Cadaret, former major league pitcher and Redding General manager and coach. "It gives us a chance to measure our teams and look at the standings every day."
In 2009 the WCL Tri-State will play a 24-game league schedule, starting in June and concluding in August.