Washington Deals Salmon, Players Shocked August 31, 1999
(AP) WASHINGTON--In light of the Barry Larkin injury, it was almost
impossible for anyone to think that Washington would possibly trade a
hitter.
But Washington defied practical logic, sending powerhitting right fielder
Tim Salmon to Deadwood for four draft picks and Hank Gill.
"Well, Mr. Raisor had sent out the offer to the whole league, four picks
for one powerhitter and a minor-leaguer, and I'd have felt pretty silly
not at least making an offer," Washington GM Aaron Weiner said.
After attacks on outfielder Eric Davis and first baseman Cecil Fielder,
Deadwood found themselves in need of both powerhitting and outfield help.
Washington had already dealt the Outlaws backup outfielder Chris James,
but it was certain that it would not be enough for the Outlaws.
"We have a glut of outfielders, but we had no draft picks left this
year after all the trades we made," Weiner said. "Now we have both a
first round amateur and a first round free-agent pick."
Besides the draft picks, Washington also wanted to re-acquire swingman
Hank Gill, an original Sea Dog.
"I missed the kid," reliever Fred Smith said. "He was one of the only
people who laughed at my jokes."
Washington is unlikely to make any more deals this year.
