Slugger Shavings 2053.3 - Not The Ricardo Riviera

[RT60]

"Sometimes you roll the dice and it doesn't work out," counseled Sluggers owner Millard Dovale in his weekly meeting with GM BP. "I asked you to sign a nationally popular player and you got me two. Jeff is so far earning his money, but Ricky...well, let's just say I'm glad you had the sense to give us an out at the end of the season. I think the fans will understand if we cut him loose then."

Millard was of course taking about Ricardo Rivera, one of the best pitchers in the league before losing almost all of the last two seasons to injury. GM BP was hoping Rivera would be the difference in getting the Sluggers back to the playoffs after a disastrous season for the club. He signed Rivera to a three year deal at almost 8M/year, but wisely inserted a team option for the second and third years. It looks like the team is already considering exercising its first option at the end of the season with Rivera sitting at 3-5 with a 5.22 ERA and giving no indication there will be improvement.

When asked about the potential of being cut loose at the end of the year, Rivera shrugged and said, "This is baseball man, it ain't the Riviera. I just throw the ball and see what happens. Ouch, I just tweaked something saying that. Can you carry me to the team doc?"

[recte44]

I really wanted to go after him this past offseason.

[Trebro]

I really wanted to go after him this past offseason.

Same. Still think he has potential but I've also come to conclusion I can't evaluate pitching here to save my life.

[Dington]

I really wanted to go after him this past offseason.

Same. Still think he has potential but I've also come to conclusion I can't evaluate pitching here to save my life.

It’s been different since we switched to ‘23 for sure.

[Trebro]

I really wanted to go after him this past offseason.

Same. Still think he has potential but I've also come to conclusion I can't evaluate pitching here to save my life.

It’s been different since we switched to ‘23 for sure.

Can't say I'm a fan of whatever they did. The pitching feels more random than ever.

[Dington]

Same. Still think he has potential but I've also come to conclusion I can't evaluate pitching here to save my life.

It’s been different since we switched to ‘23 for sure.

Can't say I'm a fan of whatever they did. The pitching feels more random than ever.

Bluebirds are feeling the wrath of the changes this year. Can’t even explain what’s going on.