Blowing in the Wind 2056.3: Jacksonville Lets Guzman, England Walk

[aaronweiner]

https://statspl.us/brewster/reports/new ... eam_3.html

It appears that the Jacksonville Hurricanes are going to roll the dice on free agency. Last year's starting DH Pedro Guzman and starting second baseman Mike England were let go this week, leaving two holes in the Jacksonville lineup.

"We're really sad to see both men go, but we remain hopeful that we can replace them in the lineup," said GM Aaron Weiner. "It's a bit of a tough thing to watch them go."

Much has already been made of Guzman's departure, but England is a significant loss, too. The lefty second baseman was a platoon starter for the team this year, and posted solid numbers both offensively and defensively for the Hurricanes. England turns 40 in 2056, but showed no serious signs of age last year and might be someone Jacksonville is targeting for a return, depending on the ask.

"He and Ka'im Muntasir made up a highly functioning platoon last year," said bench coach Paul Kratzer. "If it's not going to be Mike, we really want to get that dynamic back on the field."

Some team insiders believe that Muntasir might have played his way into the starting job last season, especially with his outstanding playoff run. However, the numbers tell a different tale: the righty second baseman was an All-Star against lefties last year and barely a starter against righties, and has struggled in full-time action.

"We're very proud of the way Ka'im took a step forward this year, and he liked his role this season," said Weiner. "He played really well."

There are significant concerns about the Jacksonville offense, but the team hopes it's nothing that $25 million in free agency can't solve. That might be enough to get two impact players, or be enough space to trade for one.

"We're going to pursue every avenue to get us back to the playoffs," said Weiner. "We want to stay contenders."