Anchorage Defeats Ann Arbor, Huge Setback June 19, 1999
Juneau AK (AP) - In their first game in Juneau, Anchorage was able to stave
off a late rally and hold on for a vistory against rival Ann Arbor in the
opening game of the three game series. Despite the win, Anchorage suffered
a huge setback when thirdbaseman Jeff Cirillo, the team's only legitmate star,
tripped on his way into the dugout and broke his toe.
Anchorage manager Nick Tulach said "These are the kinds of flukes that have
been killing us all year. Its tough to stay positive when you have let down
after let down." Anchorage has now suffered through injuries to all of its
major players at one point or another in the season.
The Abominations made the move to bring in newly acquired third baseman
Fernando Tatis after the injury. Tulach left the dugout and immediately called
Tatis' agent instead of 9-1-1. "Fernando was sad to hear about Jeff, as we all
are, but he's excited to get an opportunity to play." said Tatis' agent.
"We really were hoping that he could have a chance to develop a bit in the
minors. If we had Grudz and Cairo available, then we could throw DiSarcina
there. But with all the infield injuries, we need [Tatis] right now." said
Tulach.
Mark Lemke is starting in place of the injured Cairo and Gary DiSarcina is
playing for Grudzielanek at shortstop. "We all know our roles here. We need
to contribute to keep this team competitive. We're out there giving 110%."
said Lemke, who Anchorage picked up off the waiver wire.
The injury to Cirillo comes on the day that both Lieberthal and Vaughn
returned to the lineup from the DL. They went a combined 2-for-7 in their
first game back.
