Dillon Thomas, Orlando Rodriguez re-sign with RedHawks

FARGO – Two familiar faces are set to return to Newman Outdoor Field in 2025 after the RedHawks re-signed outfielder Dillon Thomas and pitcher Orlando Rodriguez on Monday. 

A former major leaguer with the Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Angels, Thomas, 32, appeared in 37 games last summer for the RedHawks before dealing with an injury that kept him off the field. He hit 288/.358/.447 with five home runs and 28 RBIs in 2024. During his time on the injured list, Thomas continued to help the team by serving as a first base coach. 

In 56 games for Fargo-Moorhead in 2023, Thomas hit .344/.434/.566 with eight home runs and 35 RBIs. He also played in all four Baseball Champions League Americas games to help lead the RedHawks to the inaugural title. The Houston, Texas, native is entering his 14th season of professional baseball. 

Rodriguez returns to the RedHawks for his second season after making 15 starts in 2024. The 29-year-old Cuban right-hander went 4-4 with a 4.29 ERA and 1.42 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 79.2 innings pitched.  

Prior to joining the RedHawks, Rodriguez spent time in the Cincinnati Reds and Minnesota Twins organizations. He is entering his seventh season of pro ball after most recently appearing in four games for Gigantes de Carolina in the Puerto Rican Winter League. 

Fargo-Moorhead will open its 30th season of play on Friday, May 9, with the 2025 home opener against the Sioux Falls Canaries at Newman Outdoor Field.