Former Knights Paul Ylda and Dennis Pelfrey Leading Start-Up Select Baseball Organization

The Dallas D'backs organization was created in 2008 with the purpose of aiding young men in their personal and athletic development as they pursue college and professional baseball opportunities. "The Dallas D'backs Baseball club was created to provide a successful environment for baseball players to excel in the sport beyond high school, by competing at the highest level. Our mission is to create an environment where student athletes can succeed on and off of the field by building strong character and self-discipline," said Ylda.

In their inaugural season, the D'backs have one 16u team and two 18u teams. The second 18u team is also lead by a former Knight, Joe Beck. Beck was a standout shortstop for the Knights from 2003-2006.

Both 18u teams will competed in the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier in Tempe, AZ. All games are played at the spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in Tempe. This tournament features teams from some of the best organizations in the country including: Arizona Firebirds, Dallas Tigers, Cheery Creek, DBAT, Houston Raiders, Trombly Braves, Utah Baseball Academy, Arizona Angels, and more.

Already enjoying success, 15 of the D'back players have committed to a school for the upcoming fall including NU signee Adam Humes.

Ylda, a Knights infielder from 2000-2004 helped lead the Knights to their first RRAC title in 2003. Paul graduated from South Grand Prairie High school where he now serves as an assistant baseball coach for the Warriors.

Pelfrey enjoyed stints as a player and coach at NU. Dennis played from 1995-1999, then served as an assistant coach from 2000-2004. After his playing career at NU he signed and played in the independent ranks for six years. In 2007 Pelfrey was honored by the Knights when he had his number 12 retired at a ceremony during the annual Knights Allumni Baseball Game.

Check out the D'backs website: http://www.dallasdbacks.com/