Both Thon and Jones have played their entire professional careers in minor league systems, however family relations are quite impressive on the major league level.

Thon returns for his second tour with the Ducks and his second season in the Atlantic League. The first baseman is the nephew of former Major League All-Star infielder Dickie Thon.

The Puerto Rico native is entering his eight year in professional baseball finishing up last season with the Joilet JackHammers of the Northern League.

Thon, 26, batter .298 for the JackHammers with 11 home runs and a career high 76 RBI’s in 99 games. In his minor league career, Thon has compiled a .295 batting average hitting 70 home runs and driving in 424 runs in 634 total games.

“Freddie added tremendous presence both with his bat and his glove two seasons ago,” said Ducks President & GM Michael Pfaff. “We’re thrilled to have him back.”

Jones enters his tenth season in professional ball splitting time in 2010 with the York Revolution and the Newark Bears of the Atlantic League.

The 30-year-old outfielder is the son-in-law of Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn, and was originally selected in the amateur entry draft by the San Diego Padres back in 2002 and remained in their organization for five seasons. 

“We’re happy to have Kennard aboard,” said Pfaff. “His speed and discipline at the plate make the top of our order very dangerous.”

Last season, the Ohio native hit .296 with 26 doubles, five triples, 80 runs and 40 stolen bases with the Bears.

“It’s exciting to see our team start to take shape for 2011,” added Pfaff.