Bobby Beat 2004 v3: 1st Round Pick, 1st Base Controversy!

[jiminyhopkins]

Washington, DC

Opening Day is hours away, but the 2004 Draft Pool has been released and selections have already begun. After spending a total of $4.2 million in signing bonuses and major league contracts in last year's draft, the focus this year was mainly governed by budgetary reasons. Washington has already contacted the league office regarding its selection, the 6th overall:

LF Danny Orr
Pegged as "the fastest man in the draft", Orr is a superb baserunner and a gifted outfield defender. Oh yeah, he can hit, too, with above average marks for plate discipline. "The Doctor" projects to be an elite leadoff man with 25HR/50SB ability. Washington bypassed some good arms in this pitching heavy draft, preferring Orr's reputed signability. The club plans to get him qualified at CF as well, further increasing his value to the organization.

Who's On First?? Wait, What??
As the next phenom's career begins, a veteran's may be starting to come to an end. One look at Washington's Opening Day lineup reveals a name that is shocking only in it's absence. Neil McKinney will be on the bench when the Bobs open at home versus division champ Baltimore.

"It's tough to admit, especially for him," manager Joe Rudi said. "But Neil simply doesn't have the same skills he had even 2, 3 seasons ago. He's lost more than a step or two over at first base, and the bat speed just isn't there anymore. Yeah he had 30 homers and 100 RBI last season, sure. But in this league, that is barely average anymore. Plus, we have this kid, Darius Campbell, Jr., who has been waiting to prove himself full time. Right now all I can say is that Campbell will get about two thirds of the playing time over at first base to start off the year. I know the club still owes Big Mac millions of dollars, but its my job to put the best team on the field."



Stay Tuned for further updates!

[nverhoev]

I remember back in the 2001 season when I started it seemed every game we played Washington McKinney would hit a HR. As good of slugger as anyone back then. Hopefully he finds his stroke again.