The Lynx picked up where the left off at the end of the 1997 season,
dropping two of three in a season opening series at Laurel Park. Laurel
manager Floyd Hoerst indicated that the teamâs major problem was an overall
lack of hitting, citing the 1-0 loss in the season opener and a 4-2 loss
yesterday. Hoerst said ãWhen Erickson goes out and gives up one run
especially at home, it is a game that we obviously have to win. Heck, Avery
threw a decent game yesterday, but when you get no offensive support it is
tough to get the W.
Hoerst along the teamâs GM believe that the teamâs woes stem from an overall
lack of balance in the line-up. Addressing the issue Hoerst stated ãWe know
the defense in the middle infield is not our strong point, and we really
need to add some speed to the line-up. If we could improve in these areas,
maybe we could stop some runs or even manufacture some runs that might make
a difference in the closer games.ä Hoerst indicated that despite the
concerns with the defense he wasnât considering moving SS Mike Bordick into
the starting line-up yet. ãWe stll want to see if Chris Snopek can be a
productive offensive player at this level, even if it means he is playing
out of positionä said Hoerst.
Team Notes:
- Rookie pitcher Marc Pisciotta allowed a run in his first appearance of 1
1/3 innings, but the team rallied to get him his first major league victory.
- 18 year-old rookie pitcher Todd Noel, originally slated for long relief
has instead been moved to the 5th spot in the rotation.
- The team sent veteran P Frank Castillo to AAA and called up two pitchers
to add numbers to the bullpen.
Trade Winds:
GM Sean Dawson stated that the team is still looking to add quality young
players. He said ãWe still have some veterans that we would like to package
for prospects or draft choices in the upcoming amateur draft. In addition
LHP Steve Avery, 1B Jeff Bagwell, and CF Rich Becker have been added to the
list of players that are available. Obviously there would have to be
quality received in return for either of those players, and we would really
like to add a quality prospect in the middle infield among our other needs.ä
The Lynx GM acknowledged that offers have been received for these players,
but the team would like to see if better offers would come in before making
decisions at the end of the week.
