Anchorage AK (AP) - The Abominations made a serious statement last week that
they are going to commit to making a run at the playoffs this season. Anchorage
traded outfielder Brian McRae and prospect Al Ake to Atlanta for veteran
outfielder Marquis Grissom as well as moving moinor league prospect Scott
Pierce to Washington in exchange for veteran reliever Bubba Veres. Both moves
add flexibility to the Abominations this year, while somewhat sacrificing
the team's farm system. "Both Marquis and Bubba will help us to solidify
what we had felt was a rather fragile team. Marquis adds veteran leadership
and superb defense to our outfield. Bubba gives us more depth in the bullpen
and a crafty veteran to help out the younger guys." said owner/manager Nick
Tulach.
Grissom has struggled this season with Atlanta and is batting just .251 thus
far. Anchorage will look for him to compete and possibly platoon with
Cliff Floyd, who is currently starting in right field and playing very well.
"Its hard to bench someone who is playing as well as Cliff, so we'll continue
to ride him for now. Once Marquis gets a feel for our team, his playing time
will increase." said Tulach. Grissom was somewhat disappointed to hear that
he will not be a starter with the Abominations. "They give up two quality
guys for me to sit the bench? I don't think it makes sense. I don't think
it'll last long." said Grissom.
Veres will pitch in AAA New Iberia for now, but Anchorage fully expects to
use him at the major league level soon. "Bubba is a great veteran, real
crafty. Once we get a feel for what he can offer us, he'll be placed on
our (major league) staff." said pitching coach Chuck Crim.
