Whalers Trade Away Future for Gallarraga April 18, 1999
The Hartford Whalers have found the added punch and run production they were
searching for in Thunder Bay 1B Andres Gallarraga. Gallarraga passed his
physical and will report to Hartford immediately tomorrow. Here's the deal:
To Hartford: 1B Andres Gallarraga 63-98-64
To Thunder Bay: 1st Round Amateur Draft Pick (#5 overall)
RHP Brian Rose 59-87-91 (Age 22)
SS Rod Lewis 52-37-52 (Age 23)
Reached for comment in Montreal, GM Peter Gammons stated, "We're delighted to
welcome a player of Andres' caliber to Hartford. He should provide the added
punch that we needed along with tremendous leadership. It's unfortunate to see
such bright young prospects go but we needed to think of the now, not the
later."
Gallarraga could not be reached for comment today, although sources close to
Andres claim he saw it coming and is just glad to be going to "a contender."
Meanwhile, Brian Rose was left in shock. "I can't believe it," he replied,
"They told me I was their future. They drafted me, they signed me, they were
building around me and bringing me along slow. I just can't believe it."
Conversely, Lewis seemed anxious to depart, "Being stuck behind Kurt Abbott
wasn't going to get me anywhere. I need to showcase my skills somewhere and
Thunder Bay needs my speed. Well, they're going to get all I can give."
No word yet on how Hartford is going to juggle the batting order or roster but,
undoubtedly, a pitcher will be recalled to replace Rose in long relief. Brian
Boehringer is rumored to be their top choice.
