As Hawaii continues to attempt a rebuild, they went out and used the Rule 5 draft to snag a couple cheap bullpen arms for 2034 and beyond. Eric Trujillo was taken with the 9th pick in the first round from the Las Vegas Hustlers. Tullio Brunelleschi was taken in the 2nd round, also the 9th pick (37th overall), from the Brooklyn Robins. "Oh yeah, without a doubt", GM Mike Bieschke recently said when asked if they figure into the teams plans for 2034. "They both can pitch and deserve a chance. It's no secret we have to get creative while we go through some financial troubles and wait for a few more of our prospects to develop. We'll make it work".
Trujillo is just a few years removed from a few seasons of sub 3.00 ERA with 70+ games pitched. He also has a Landis ring. While back problems have limited him at this stage in his career, he can still be a reliable arm in a pen that won't have a whole lot of pressure to win. As for Brunelleschi, this is his second time being snagged in the Rule 5, as Louisville took him in 2031 from the Las Vegas Hustlers. He didn't latch on there and was sent back to Las Vegas, so he still has his rookie status. He figures to settle in as a long reliever and emergency starter for the Tropics. A role that should suit him well. Stay on the lookout for more as we progress through the offseason.
Trujillo
Brunelleschi
