58.10 Blazers Lose Four to Rule 5 Draft

[Bob Breum]

Montreal’s big league roster is pretty well set, but depth is always critical for the long 162-game season. Unfortunately, some of that depth was lost in the recent Rule 5 Draft.

The club lost two corner outfielders, which was a position of need even before this. Jeff Sawyers, a 24-year-old left-handed first baseman/outfielder who was originally a 6th round pick by Des Moines in 2054, was selected by Calgary. After his release last June, the Blazers signed him to a minor league deal in August. He has prodigious power, especially against right-handed pitching, and a very good eye. This will be his first time in the big leagues.

Jeff Sawyers
Left-handed catcher Hiba Majaliwa was selected by Charlotte. This will be his first BBA experience. Left-handed catchers are relatively scarce. The 28-year-old Majaliwa hits well for a catcher and is ideal for a catcher platoon. His defense is solid, if unspectacular.
Hiba Majaliwa
Left fielder Bill Cole also departed, having been selected by New Orleans. His story is covered elsewhere, as is the story of starting pitcher Benno Steeneveld, who was taken by Des Moines.

[Krathan]

I’m trying to keep Lawrence Stewart in AAA this year so I was hoping Majaliwa would be there for me in the Rule 5. I agree with your take on him and he should help me bridge the gap as part of a platoon like you said.

[trmmilwwi]

Calgary sure has a type don't they!

[bcslouck]

I can't remember if I had Sawyers on my list or not and where he was ranked. Seems like a guy I would of liked. Either way, taken a pick before me. I'm sure he'll hit 50 HR's for Calgary.

[indiansfan]

Calgary sure has a type don't they!

Who, me? He gives me some insurance if one of my guys goes down like Dempsey did last year.

[BaseClogger]

If you missed out on Sawyer can I interest any of you in Vio Gal?

[ae37jr]

Sawyer looks like HGH lite

[indiansfan]

Sawyer looks like HGH lite

Yep, weighs 50 lb. less than Hugh.