There are two relatively new faces in Moncton this season. Starting
pitchers Hal Cruz(22) and Mark Mulder(20) are both in their second year
with the big league club, and both have earned a spot in the rotation to
start the season. Both pitchers are very similar, neither of them has a
dominating pitch, but rather they both possess an arsenal of effective
pitches. And like most young pitchers, both of them have some work to
do on their control. "That's to be expected, they've been working hard
with the coaching staff, but they really just need to get some innings
under their belts" said manager Brooks Robinson about the two
youngsters.
Hal Cruz grew up in Sheveport, Louisianna. He spent a good part of
last season in the bullpen, but started a few games in the minors. He
was recalled to take over the fifth spot in the rotation when Mulder
went down with a season ending injury. Cruz faired well in the few
games he started, and got the chance to try out for the starting five in
spring training.
Mark Mulder was born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Nova Scotians
have always had a hatred for New Brunswickers(Moncton is in New
Brunswick). As a kid, he was never allowed to play with Newfy kids.
"My parent joked about it, but I have no problems playing in Moncton.
I'm just happy to be getting my fair shot" claims Mulder. Mulder was
drafted 2nd overall in the 1999 amateur draft by the Moose. Even though
he was only 20 years old, He was called up to the Big league team to
gain experience. Near the end of the 1999 season, Mulder suffered a
season ending injury, which in it's own way was a blessing, because it
allowed Hal Cruz to take Mulder's spot in the rotation.
"I feel fine, and the doctors said I should be as good as new this
season." said Mulder about returning from a serious injury. The 2000
season seems to be a promising one for Mulder and Cruz. They have both
been giving the chance of a lifetime, and now it is up to them to prove
that the Moose organisation did not make a mistake by giving them the
starting job at such a young age. Only time will tell.
