Putin In the Work - 63.03

[neugey]

It’s been a busy first few weeks for new Thunder Bears GM Mike Bauer. After being delayed at Soviet customs for several days, the executive's official start date came a bit later than expected. So when the former Edmonton GM finally arrived at his new office, he was more determined than ever to make moves that could help turn around a disappointing 2063 campaign.

The Thunder Bears took advantage of the GBC waiver wire, acquiring left-hander Eric Green from Jerusalem. The southpaw brings a live arm and should be a solid addition to a bullpen that has struggled to hold leads this season. Green remains under team control with arbitration years remaining, so if he can steady his command, he could become a long-term fixture in Moscow.

But the most notable move came with the signing of veteran outfielder Dane Licht to a one-year deal. The two-time BBA All-Star, best known for his time with Jacksonville and Twin Cities, is expected to play a key role the rest of the season.

“We felt protecting Aglietti in the lineup with another proven left-handed bat was a major need,” Bauer explained. “Dane has a wealth of experience to draw from and will enhance our offensive attack. He’s in a good position to contribute and keep his solid career going.” To make room for Licht, the team placed Kam Fiscus—son of popular BBA cougar GM Kate Fiscus—on waivers.

The Thunder Bears also extended lefty reliever Gil 'Big Fish' Phillips to a one-year, $590K deal for 2064. “Phillips doesn’t walk many batters and gives us a steady presence in the bullpen,” said Bauer. “He’s had some bad luck—his BABIP has been horrific this year—but we’ll ride it out and trust he’ll bounce back soon.”

Changes extended into the minor league system as well. Super-utility switch-hitter Doug Kindle was assigned to AAA to provide added versatility. Journeyman starter Leo 'Free Bird' Hill—who has made 44 BBA starts in his career—was also added to bolster the AAA rotation. Another BBA veteran, first baseman Joe Bailey, was brought in to strengthen the AAA lineup and provide a proven left-handed bat. He also serves as insurance should anything happen to Licht or Aglietti. Meanwhile, reliever Lloyd Burbank, another Jerusalem castoff, signed a minor league contract and will begin working out of the AA bullpen.

All in all, Bauer expressed satisfaction with the team’s activity so far.

“The only thing we haven’t done is pull off a trade—but that could still come. I’m in no rush. I’ve always been more of an off-season dealer anyway,” he said with a grin. “I guess all the other wheeling-and-dealing BBA and GBC teams can take the headlines for now. We’ll stay under the radar and improve in stealth mode.”

[Graham]

Never too late to make changes.