J.S. Carras/The Record

The Tri-City ValleyCats kicked off the 2013 season with a 9-3 victory over New York-Penn League rival Vermont on Monday.

The offense really got going, with 15 hits, four from Jon Kemmer (left), who also hit his first pro home run.

Here is a link to my story on the offensive cranking it up on opening night.

Here is a link to a fan story I wrote for news on the season-opener at Joe Bruno Stadium.

Here is a link to a preview story I wrote about the franchise, which has quotes from both president Bill Gladstone and general manager Rick Murphy.

Below is video of first baseman Conrad Gregor, a fourth round selection in the 2013 draft.

The Tri-City ValleyCats could get the benefit of having the No. 1 pick from the 2013 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft in Mark Appel.

The Houston Astros make Appel, a right-handed pitcher from Stanford, the No. 1 pick on Thursday evening.

Here is a link to my story, where I talk to Tri-City general manager Rick Murphy about the possibility of having Appel in Troy to start the 2013 season.

AP