New Orleans, LA (AP)- The New Orleans Vampires Dream Season came to an abrupt end today as they were swept out of the postseason in the opening round by the New Diggens Budweiser Frogs.
"It's an odd feeling," said catcher Jason Kendall, "We're both satisfied and disappointed all at the same time. We're proud that we overacheived but disappointed we didn't give the Frogs a run for their money, especially having home field advantage. Personally, I think we just ran out of gas."
Kendall may very well speak the truth as the Vampires limped to the finish line at the end of the season, edging out second-place Edmonton in the McCoy by a mere game advantage for the division crown. A team with a suspect offense all season, carried by its pitching staff, once again failed to score the runs necessary to compete at the highest levels of competition in the PVBL.
"We're just not there yet," answered GM Peter Gammons, "Although we're excited that we're young and division champs already, the fact remains that we're just not a great, well-rounded club yet. We'll see how the kids develop this offseason and we'll have a much better idea of what we've got next season." Next season. That's what New Orleans must focus on.
No longer can they ride the wave of the dream season they acheived nor can they dwell on the disappointing postseason they endured. As outfielder Socks Byrne put it, "It was fun while it lasted but it's over. Time to move on and work harder."
New Orleans also released its controversial Free Agent Plan Protected Players List today: Jason Kendall, Catcher Michael Barrett, Third Baseman Doug Glanville, Outfielder Socks Byrne, Outfielder Justin Thompson, Pitcher Matt Clement, Pitcher Jackson Pride, Pitcher Ben Hamlin, Pitcher
Restricted Free Agent: Paul Quantrill, Pitcher
There was quite a stir around town when Paul Quantrill was dangled out in the wind as a restricted free agent instead of earning a spot on the protected players list.
"I don't get it. I just don't. I know there are only so many spots available but I carried this staff all (expletive) season. I'm worth more than a (expletive) draft pick," responded Quantrill angrily. Neither GM Peter Gammons nor Owner Jeremy Chrabascz could be reached for immediate comment on the matter.
Meanwhile, Quantrill clearly has a point to make after having the following season, statistically, clearly the best of his PVBL career.
