Bandit Post, Vol 2.11, 1997

[aaronweiner]

News and Notes:


Reda, Miranda Claimed

In a surprise, both Buddy Reda and Angel Miranda were claimed off of waivers, and the team is reportedly willing to part ways with both pitchers. Reda and Miranda are two of the more popular Bandits, but Birmingham isn't satisfied with their production and is happy to receive the savings for their departures.

"We're sorry that it didn't work out with either Buddy or Angel, but sometimes you just have to part ways," said GM Aaron Weiner. "We wish them all the best of luck at their new locations.

As for their new destinations, Reda was claimed by Montreal, and Miranda was plucked by Hawaii. In response to the moves, Birmingham promoted Angelo Hidalgo and Norm Charlton from AAA Monroe. Both pitchers had matching 9.00 ERAs and 2.0 WHIPs this year.


Angelo Hidalgo Promoted

Angelo Hidalgo had been bucking for a callup ever since the season started, but Buddy Reda blocked his way to the majors. Hidalgo was given the call right after a complete game, nine-hit, no walk, seven strikeout performance against the Saint Louis Blues.

"This is the greatest day of my life!" said Hidalgo, when he got off the plane from Monroe. "I'm so excited to be a part of the team!"

Hidalgo is projected to be part of the Birmingham rotation for a long time to come. The righty has a career 3.60 ERA in AAA and won 12 games for the Gigolos last year.


Pat Larkin Tearing Up AAA

Pat Larkin was a RHML All-Star in 1996 who last year hit .330 with a .849 OPS. Not to be outdone, this year, Larkin is hitting .461 with a 1.099 OPS and is nearly certain of being the starting catcher on the AAA All-Star team again. The switch-hitting catcher wants to be at the major league level, but is blocked by Pluvius Avis-Albus for the short-term and will almost certainly be stuck in AAA barring an injury.

"I'm just going to do my best until I get the call," said Larkin. "Everyone wants to play in the show, but I know that Pluvius is the man up there for now and I wouldn't wish him ill for anything."

Larkin still needs to work on his defense, but there's no question that the youngster is the future of Birmingham backstops.



Luverne, Vernonburg leading divisions

Finally, a shout out to Birmingham's AA and A affiliates, both of whom are leading their divisions. Vernonburg made the playoffs last year in A ball, and Luverne would be very excited to join them.

"We are just happy to be contending this year," said AA manager Amadeo Hernandez. "We hope that we make the big club proud."

[lynchy34]

The time was definitely now for Hidalgo. He should end up being a solid middle to back of the rotation type of arm.

[aaronweiner]

I certainly can't see him being worse than Buddy Reda. There's a fair chance that Hidalgo might get sent back down when Damian's back but I suppose it'll depend on how he does. I figure he's kind of like the guy I got from you last year, McGrevey, at this stage of his career.

[lchronister]

I figure he's kind of like the guy I got from you last year, McGrevey, at this stage of his career.

McGrevey's been killing it for me up until last sim (the first time he's allowed earned runs all year), so if you're right this could work out well for you

[aaronweiner]

Well, he was great and then awful in two starts, so he's either great or he's awful. We shall see.