We Got Wood - 47.28 - Ngo Signs. Reports to Quincy.

[7teen]

General Manager Chris Wilson didn't let the rumors swirl too long. Just moments after announcing the team has reached a contract agreement with 1st round draft pick Xuan Ngo, Wilson stated Ngo will report to Triple-A Quincy, where he will likely stay for the remainder of the 2047 season. There was some speculation that the 4th overall draft pick in this year's draft may report straight to Portland, but Wilson laid out the reasons why during the signing press conference.

"We've drafted a handful of 'almost ready' guys the last few years and we have rushed them to the big leagues either" commented Wilson. "Steve Warren and Ken Sparks both come to mind. Both of those guys could have jumped right into our rotation after we drafted them, but we felt it was only right to give them a half season to get acclimated with how things go in the professional ranks. And it's hard to argue it hurt them any. That duo is doing just fine now after having spent their post-draft time in the minor leagues. We think it will serve Ngo well also."

Of course Wilson's decision to leave Ngo down could have also been a impacted by the team's performance in a few areas. Sitting 3 games under .500 and 7 games out of the post-season, the team doesn't exactly have the urgency to bring up what many feel will be a top level relief arm in the BBA. Then there is also the fact the Lumberjacks currently have the #2 ranked bullpen in the Frick League, sporting a 2.74 ERA which is well behind the current 1.58 ERA being marched out by the Yellow Springs Nine.

"Both are valid points" added Wilson. "We aren't in a dire need at the moment for Ngo's services. So rather pay him now to help what is already a top bullpen would only be wasted money and a roster spot at this point. We do expect to see a few guys depart this off-season, at which point, Ngo's pitching ability becomes more of a priority in 2048."

Assistant General Manager Kate Fiscus has flown out to Quincy to greet Ngo and make sure his time in Quincy is spent well. Rumors are also swirling that Kate has been rushed to Quincy to try and figure out why Portland second round pick Bui Thuy has yet to sign with the team. "She can be persuasive, that Kate" concluded Wilson.