MONTREAL (CP)--Almost a year ago, pitcher Mark Portugal was picked up as a free agent. Yesterday, he was released along with thirdbaseman Gil Velarde and shortstop Red Adamson.
Portugal appeared in 14 games for the Royals, but failed to keep runners from scoring at almost every outing. He posted a 10.58 ERA and a 1-2 record over 24 2/3 innings. He gave up 11 runs last season, almost one every two innings. The 33-year old pitcher is considering retirement if he cannot find a contract with a PVBL team this year.
Gil Velarde and Red Adamson were released after spending two years in the Royals organization. Adamson never made it to the majors, while Velarde played 9 games in 1997, posting a .286 batting average.
Big Unit Wins Cy Young
Randy Johnson did not reach the 20-win mark, but his league leading 2.05 ERA and 176 strikeouts earned him the Cy Young award. Johnson was traded midway through the season in exchange for star secondbaseman Roberto Alomar, but his performance peaked in September when he earned Player-of-the-Month honours. His record in September was 6-0. Randy Johnson's record in 1998 was 17-6.
Greer May Make Move to Cleanup
Greer missed 22 games due to an injury, but despite that he lead the team in batting average, walks, on-base percentage and steals. The Montreal sports writters association voted Greer the Montreal Royals franchise Player-of-the-Year for 1998. Greer edged out Randy Johnson and Bobby Bonilla in the voting.
Rusty Greer has been touted by Royals coaching as one of the best leadoff batters in the game. Greer himself believes he can improve. "I know I can do better because I batted well in September. If I can get in that mindset year round, I could probably bat .350 or .360."
Manager Gary Carter has no doubt the young outfielder can achieve his goals. "Rusty is the hardest worker I've ever seen. Not the most talented hitter, but every time he's up to the plate he learns a bit more."
Carter has been saying he wants to put Greer at leadoff. "Hal Morris was a legitimate cleanup man for us this year, but we need more than just a legitimate power hitter."
