Slugger Shavings 2055.5 - Fountain Now Working

[RT60]

Last winter the Slugger's reluctantly dipped their toe in the free agency pool in need of a replacement for Luis Mendoza and his 8.1 WAR. They thought they had found a somewhat suitable replacement in Mal Fountain and quickly signed him to a 5-year/58M contract.

Fountain was drafted in the first round in 2039 by New Orleans and had spent his entire career with the team, helping them win the championship in 2051 to go with four all-star nods. The third baseman had a desirable combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess. Hopes were therefore high for Fountain as he made the move north to Louisville.

Unfortunately for Sluggers fans, most of the team appeared off to start the season, including Fountain, and the team was virtually out of playoff contention early. "I got a lot of stares from players and even trash-talk from fans," said Fountain. "I get it, I was filling some big shoes and had no margin for error. I am making 16M this season and people made sure to remind me."

"Do we wish he played better to start?" asked GM BP. "Of course. But that can be said for everyone. Well, except that stud Jeffrey Smith. What a guy."

Sluggers fans have reason for hope next season as it appears someone has switched on the Fountain. He has hit .435/5/17 with a 1.197 OPS in September with a player of the week award. "Yeah, water is now flowing, haha. Getting the player of the week award last week was nice. This sounds bad to say, but right now we are out of it, and there is no pressure. That is helping me find my groove with the bat."

[BaseClogger]

I pursued Fountain as my top target for a while but boy am I glad I went with Kobayashi for 1/$5.5M instead.

[RT60]

I pursued Fountain as my top target for a while but boy am I glad I went with Kobayashi for 1/$5.5M instead.

definitely. Though I still hold out hope that Fountain will be a difference maker especially these next three seasons where his salary comes down to reasonable levels.

[BaseClogger]

I pursued Fountain as my top target for a while but boy am I glad I went with Kobayashi for 1/$5.5M instead.

definitely. Though I still hold out hope that Fountain will be a difference maker especially these next three seasons where his salary comes down to reasonable levels.

For sure, still a player I’d like to have on my team.

[RonCo]

Time seems to be coming for his defense a bit, but should still be solid enough for awhile.

[Trebro]

I hope he rebounds but not when we're playing each other!