Switch-hitting second baseman 2B Rich Dares has been pronounced 100% yet he has 10 days left on the IL. Asked if he would like to accompany fellow Kernel Raúl Castanelda on the latter's vacation to Faroe Islands, Denmark, Dares said he didn't speak Spanish or Denmarkian and remarked rather that he preferred something a little closer to home, such as Newfoundland, CA.
Off Topic
Newfoundland's perfect: Towering sea stacks, iceberg-laced bays and fishing hamlets with candy-coloured houses—this is serenity in technicolor. Paddle kayaks in Gulf of St. Lawrence, listen for humpback whales, and grill fresh cod by starlight. Best visited in June–September, when the midnight sun lets you squeeze every sunset out of the day.
Given the logistics of removing someone from the IL, it's likely Dares will not see the Kernels active roster for two weeks, against San Fernando, when the Des Moines infield will hopefully feature Dares and former Bear SS Qutuz Mahdi in what could be the most popular double-play combination in BBA history. It's unknown how long this duo might last at Des Moines given Mahdi will fall short of vesting requirements and Dares has a contract opt-out at the end of this season. "At least the fans will get half a season of watching the pair of stars," Mgr Mel Jenkins said. "And we'll do everything we can to retain both guys."