Whalers Pick Up Right Where They Left Off April 8, 1998
The World Champion Hartford Whalers picked up right where they left off last
season, defeating division rival Edmonton, 3-2, on the road. All-Star and EL Cy
Young Award winner, Greg Maddux (1-0) took his first decision. Maddux pitched
7 strong innings, allowing only 1 earned run on 5 hits while striking out 6.
Hipolito Pichardo picked up his 1st save of the new season after claiming 28
saves last season. Newcomer Tim Wakefield and RHP Jack Broskie helped hold the
lead in middle relief. The Oil Kings sent former Hartford pitcher, Jose
Rosado (0-1), to the mound and he pitched very well in a losing effort.
Whalers first baseman, Rafael Palmiero, hit a towering 3-run homerun in the
first inning. The World Champions hung on for the win. Manager Chrabascz
simply stated, "Winning on the road and getting the first one under your belt
is a comforting way to open the season."
Chrabascz declined further comment on the recent trades and current rumors,
only to say, "Our phone lines are close at the moment. We feel we're ready to
go and will be successful with what we have."
