59.15 Don Moore Enjoying His New Home

[Bob Breum]

In a little noticed transaction, the Blazers cemented their waiver claim of San Fernando's Don Moore by turning it into a trade before waivers expired on Moore. The Blazers sent Rookie league first baseman Calvino 'Hangman' Vanni to San Fernando to secure the rights to Moore.


Don Moore
Moore had scuffled with the Bears this season, hitting only .162 in 134 plate appearances, after two consecutive seasons of recording an OPS+ of over 120. Montreal saw an opportunity to bring in a left-handed hitter who conformed to their template of speed, contact, and gap power. The Blazers hoped that a change of scenery would benefit Moore.

Their gamble has paid off beyond their wildest expectations. Moore is hitting .345/.423/.750 in 97 plate appearances, with eight stolen bases and more walks than strikeouts. He is being used as the Blazers' DH versus right-handed pitching. He is batting cleanup for Montreal.

Vanni is only 18 years old and has been assigned to San Fernando's rookie league club, the Kingston Kodiaks.

[BaseClogger]

I nearly non-tendered Moore before the season. His 120 OPS+ was a drop from prior seasons and only worth 1 WAR as a full time DH.

He’s going to be good for you guys.