(AP) Coos Bay, Oregon -- In a move reminiscent of the NFL Colts leaving
Baltimore and relocating in Indianapolis, fans of the PVBL Richmond
Panthers awoke this morning to find that their franchise was no more.
There had been rumors circulating the last few days that new owner Greg
Fidler was not happy with the situation in Richmond, but this move came
as quite a surprise to everyone.
In a press confrence held earlier today with legendary guru Peter
Gammons, Fidler had this to say about the move.
Gammons: "Sneaking out of town in the middle of the night, come on Greg.
Don't you think that you owe something to the loyal Panther fans who
have stuck with this team?"
Fidler: "I owe nothing to that town (Richmond), the stadium is a
disgrace, the fans are disgrace, and the players on this team are a
disgrace. Everyone has grown complacent. They (the fans and players)
might be happy with 62-100, but I most certinaly am not. Changes are
needed and this is the start".
Gammons: "Changes? From the tone of your voice it sounds like perhaps
there are more in the near future?"
Fidler: "You betcha. You can take it to the bank, or in your case ESPN.
Everybody and I repeat everybody better not unpack their bags when they
get to Coos Bay. The stay may be short."
Gammons: "So if I understand correctly, all members of the Chameleons
can be acquired?"
Fidler: "You understand correctly."
Gammons: "Surely not someone like crafty lefthanded pitcher Jimmy Key or
newly acquired Wilson Alverez?"
Fidler: "I mean everyone. Those players you just mentioned are a perfect
example of why this franchise was moved. I have more arm strength and a
better fastball than Key. A second round pick for a pitcher that has a
career era of 4.21? You have to be kiddding me. What was the previous
management thinking. Please someone make an offer."
Gammons: "Well what about Michael Tucker? There are some that say he has
the potential to be a franchise type player."
Fidler: "He may turn into a franchise player, but I doubt it is going to
be here."
Gammons: "What one statement would you give to the new fans in Coos Bay
about the Chameleons"
Fidler: "Make sure to but a program, you are going to need it".
