Andre Ly surprises an entire state by opting out.(57.02)

[niles08]

It was the news that nobody was expecting to wake up to.

The news that Andre Ly who has been with Omaha now for the past 17 years, the only team in his career, was opting out of the remainder of his contract. The 37-year-old outfielder still managed a 2.0 WAR last season over 499 plate appearances.

Based on the statement made by Omaha GM Justin Niles, any future WAR will likely be in another uniform.

“Andre notified us of his intention to test free agency, and we completely respect that. We wish Andre the best of luck the rest of his career, knowing that Omaha will always be home to him.” Said Omaha GM Justin Niles.

The 70.3 Career WAR for Ly is second all time only to Orlando Ordonez in team history. Ly is the career leader by over 500 walks in his career with 1,318 in an Omaha uniform, with Ordonez at 805.

Of course, the biggest complaint with Ly is that he simply cannot hit left-handed pitching. He has a career 129 OPS+ thanks in large part to his 148 against right-handed pitching. Against lefties, he actually sits at 63 OPS+ and has a -3.1 WAR for his career! His glove is simply what kept him in the field against south paws, winning 5 Diamond Gloves in right field for the Cyclones, and taking place in 5 all-star games. In 2047, he took him the Sawyer Silk, being named the league MVP.

If this is the end, which it sure seems like it may be, thank you, Andre, for your dedication to the club. It has been an honor to cover you for the past 17 years in an Omaha uniform.

[Dington]

Was definitely surprised to see him opt out.