Bears Extend Standout Hitter Aglietti - 63.02

[neugey]

In the midst of a dismal season, RF Isacco Aglietti has been a rare bright spot for Moscow and its fans. The veteran slugger, a key piece of last year’s championship squad, has been scorching hot in 2063. He currently leads the GBC EurAsia in both batting average (.383) and OPS (1.058). A left-handed hitter in a park that clearly favors them, he’s also held his own against lefty pitching, batting .348 without the platoon advantage. With a cannon for an arm, he’s a fixture in right field and a defensive asset every night.

So, it was no surprise that the vodka was flowing and cheers filled the air when the team announced that Aglietti, an upcoming free agent, had agreed to a two-year extension with Moscow. He’ll earn a generous $6.3 million salary in 2064—akin to a belated bonus—and then a more modest, team-friendly $4.9 million in 2065.

Aglietti began his GBC journey as the first overall pick by Buenos Aires a decade ago. He broke into the majors with the Brisas in 2056 and quickly established himself as a dependable everyday player, hitting around .290 and compiling 7.4 WAR over four seasons. His performance drew attention from the BBA, and in 2060 he played AAA ball for Vancouver on a majors/minors deal. But with no room on the Mounties’ big-league roster, he signed a one-year, $4.1 million contract with Moscow to fill a gap in their outfield. Since then, the Swiss-born outfielder has extended his stay in the Russian capital and demonstrated remarkable loyalty to his comrades and fans.

“We're overjoyed that Isacco agreed to terms with us,” said new GM Mike Bauer. “What a thrill for this to be my first major move as GM of this franchise. You’d expect a player hitting close to .400 to chase a big payday in free agency. But Isacco was genuinely excited to wear the Bears uniform for two more seasons and entertain our fans. For that, we’re very grateful.”

Sources suggest Bauer is unhappy with the lack of lineup protection around Aglietti and has been in talks with several veteran free agent hitters to help bolster the Bears’ offense. The current Moscow roster features just 11 position players. It's a number considered unusually low, and a likely factor in the team's offensive struggles.

When asked how he plans to turn things around for the Thunder Bears in 2063 and beyond, Bauer remained guarded. “We’re exploring a number of ways to improve the club. Our top goal is to climb out of last place and avoid a humiliating first-to-worst collapse. From there, we’ll see what’s possible. Getting above .500 and into playoff contention isn’t out of the question, but we know it won’t be easy.”

A daunting nine-game road trip through Jerusalem, London, and Athens looms before the All-Star break, adding to Moscow’s challenges. One thing seems nearly certain, though: Isacco Aglietti will be starting in the All-Star Game, proudly representing the Thunder Bears with renewed pride.

[Graham]

Nice extension.

Still trying to figure out the baselines for contracts given the lower cap/budget, but I’ll also be making a few offers to retain some of our better veterans.