August 18, 2053
by Banjo Jackson
Nashville, TN
On New Year Day 2044, the Bluebirds acquired 3B Phil Logan, SS Reynante Alvero, SP Scott Bugbie and SP Adrian Custello from the Las Vegas Hustlers in exchange for SP Elliot Buckland, 2B Jesús Yan, SS Mike England. They would later swap Logan and Yan in what looked like an incredible trade by the front office. Bugbie’s career started off promising, but never really took off and is now pitching for the Orlando Oranges’ bullpen. Yan bounced in and out of Nashville half a dozen times throughout his career and played well at times, however, Custello turned into one of the league’s highest rated pitchers. Scouts rated him as high as the #9 prospect in 2047 before making his debut later that season. With Custello headed for free agency at the end of 2053, the Bluebirds had to make a decision to extend him or let him walk.
Despite having a career worst season, the Bluebirds inked a four year extension with Custello that will pay him $7 million per season, which Custello can opt out of the final two years. Scouts rate him a 12/8/8 SP with great offspeed stuff, yet his stats don’t nearly support those ratings. This season the right-hander has a 5.66 ERA with a measly 5.7 K/9.
RHP Adrian Custello
“I feel like I didn’t get stretched out enough this spring,” said Custello. “But I feel loose now and I’m determined to start picking up wins for this team. I’m honored the brass has faith in me and I know I’ll be headed to the bullpen if I keep pitching like this. I’m really excited to be here for another four years and hope to retire a Bluebird.”
The bullpen is certainly a possibility for Custello and he may see himself there soon if he doesn’t pitch to his ability. Elvin Hilliard has been itching to earn a spot in the rotation and will keep Custello on his heels, but $28 million extensions aren’t often handed out to relievers, so the front office must still believe he will recover his form. If he does, the extension may wind up being a bargain, though Custello’s injury history will also be a factor. Two very big questions loom over the Bluebirds – will Custello remain in starting rotation if the Bluebirds make the playoffs and will he pitch to his ability over the next four seasons.
