Laurel split its last two games leaving the team's record at 2-3 after 5
games played. The team lost a start by Julio Santana who lasted only three
innings and was moved to the closers role immediately after the game.
Manager Floyd Hoerst stated that given his limited number of pitches maybe
he is better suited to trying to work through one inning. Frank Castillo
who didn't exactly please his new manager followed Santana. Hoerst said "Castillo just couldn't suck enough today, he frankly hasn't been able to
put anything together since he put on a major league uniform. Look at his
record and ERA last season it speaks for itself ". Immediately after the
game Castillo was sent to AAA, it appears unlikely he will return to the
Lynx anytime soon.
The major league debut of 18 year old Todd Noel was also less than
impressive, with Noel getting no decision and leaving the game with a hefty
7+ ERA. Hoerst said after the game "I am sure he felt some pressure in his
first appearance, but we are just interested in seeing what he can do. We
are hopeful that adding him to the rotation with guys like Erickson, Karsay,
Avery, and Reynoso will give us a good starting five for several years to
come."
TEAM NOTES
The Lynx have three players with two home runs after five games, one of
those is veteran 3B Gary Gaetti who the team tried without success to deal
way in the off season.
The team‰s lack of speed is showing, through five games the Lynx have
attempted only two steals (both were successful).
Scott Erickson who lost a 1-0 decision his first time out gets the start
tomorrow followed by Armando Reynoso.
TRADE WINDS
Laurel is still fielding for offers for LHP Steve Avery and 1B Jeff Bagwell.
In addition, some lesser veterans such as OFs Danny Tartabull and Jacob
Brumfield are available. The Lynx are also looking to trade OF prospects
for IF prospects if any teams are interested.
