Bandit Post, Vol 2.1, 1996

[aaronweiner]

It's starting to get dire in the Yellowhammer State.

The Birmingham Bandits, projected by most prognosticators and their owner to finish with a winning record at least, can at this point only be described as a mess. The offense is last in the Frick League in runs. The supposedly fixed bullpen is last in the Frick in bullpen ERA, a startling 7.53 mark. The starting pitching must be okay, right? No, they're 7th in starter ERA also.

The team is in shambles, and their record, a despicable 9-17 thus far this year, reflects that horror. Lem Galarraga has spent no time waiting and has demanded a trade, which, according to team sources, he can have if anyone wants him. Kevin Saucier is making waves about joining the starting rotation, since his one start this year (4 IP, 3 H, 3 ER, 7 BB, 1 K) obviously deserves greater consideration. What words of wisdom will manager Lou Brown have for us to tell us what's happening to fix this problem?

"There's very little to be done right now," said Brown. "I don't even know which way to turn in the bullpen and nobody's hitting in the lineup. We've got to have some guys step up and play better."

Birmingham management insists that Brown's job is safe and that the collapse cannot be blamed on his leadership and, more importantly, that it's too early to panic on May 1. That said, it appears the trade block for Birmingham has been expanded and word has it that the Bandits are looking to offload salary.

Through the filth and wreckage and ruin, a few positive stories have emerged, but they're few and far between. Recently extended starting pitcher Alex Khodorkovsky has pitched very nicely after receiving his extension. The Russian Rocket is now 2-1 with a 3.41 ERA and 1.24 ratio. Pluvius Avis-Albus is just barely unqualified for third in the Frick in batting average. Trade acquisition Jack Dark is hitting .299 this year. Newcomer Angel Miranda, signed off the waiver wire, has been solid in three appearances.

Oh, yes, and Birmingham's AAA and A ball teams are leading their league...

Yes, that's all for the major league level, and there isn't really anything much else to do except wait and hope that the team can somehow bring it back to life - or else it'll be a long, long year in Birmingham waiting for next year.


Transactions:

Birmingham sent top prospect Roberto Hernandez from AA-level Luverne to A-level Vernonburg after watching him hit .184 in 22 games without any of his characteristic patience or power. Said Luverne manager Amadeo Hernandez, "He was obviously overmatched and needs to get some confidence back at the plate." Veteran outfielder Christopher Rosser was called up to take his place.

[7teen]

Lem spent most of last season injured, thus I never had to worry about his trade demands.

the best demands will be when some of your relievers start demanding they want to be the closer and get all pissed when you don't move them!