Abominations Bolster Lineup, Strap In For Playoff Run August 31, 2000
Anchorage AK (AP) - In an attempt to jump start their offense and add a little
insurance defensively, the Abominations pulled off a deal that seems to
again sacrifice the future for the now. Anchorage sent youngster Cliff Floyd
and two draft picks to Vero Beach in exchange for veteran outfielder Brian
Jordan and righty Skel Pierce.
"We wanted to bring in a guy who is a gold glove-type in the field and can
hit with consistency. Brian is going to fill that role nicely." said owner
Nick Tulach. "With Skel, we get the solid, veteran leader in the bullpen
that we've been looking for, as well as another right handed pitcher."
Anchorage seems to be gambling on this season, but Tulach assured us that
the move also brought stability to the team for next season. "This gives us
a lot of options as to who to protect during the off-season. It gives us
flexibility in the outfield in case we lose anyone out there." said Tulach.
It is unclear where Jordan will fit into the current Anchorage lineup,
but there is a possibility that first baseman Mark Grace may be reduced to
a bench player and Jaha moved to the field. "We're not sure yet, but he will
get signifigant playing time for us." said Tulach, who is also the team's
manager.
Skel Pierce is likely to replace recently acquired free agent Jerry Crawford
for the Abominations. Crawford has not appeared in any games for Anchorage
this season. "Skel is a veteran. He knows what it takes to win." said Tulach.
Both Jordan and Pierce were happy to join a contender. "I hope that I can
be the catalyst for this team, to help them make the playoffs. I don't care
if I come off the bench or start, I just want to win a championship." said
Jordan. "They have the nucleus and good chemistry. I hope I can add to that
a little experience and help out those young guys in the pen." said Pierce.
