2056-4 Ashford, Calgary's Unsung Hero

[indiansfan]

Ashford, Calgary’s Unsung Hero

While several Pioneers may be closing out this season with awards and accolades, left fielder Jim Ashford won’t be among them. The 35 year old hadn’t played in the BBA since 2052, spending the past 3 years in the GBC, so he was happy just to sign again with a big league team. After making as much as $13 million per year, he signed for less than $4 million with Calgary.

“We brought in Jim because we have a lot of young guys and we needed some veteran leadership on this team,” said manager Tony Franco. “To start the season we weren’t sure how many games he would start for us, but we knew we needed a player like him. The guy won 3 championships with Las Vegas, we needed that kind of attitude here.”

Originally it was thought that Ashford would be a seat warmer for Michael Little, who was expected to come up to Calgary after about a month more of seasoning in AAA. Then a series of injuries cost Little half his season and he didn’t make it to the show until late August. As a result, Ashford became the everyday starter in left field for the Pioneers.

“Hey, I was just glad to get back into the league. Anything after that was gravy,” Ashford said.

Ashford ended up starting 134 games, most in the lead off position in the lineup. He hit .268, with 15 HR. 84 runs, 42 doubles and 64 RBIs. While he didn’t get the headlines that some of his teammates got, his steady play helped keep Calgary in the playoff hunt.

“He was great with Ollie and Brody. The kind of guy that those kids can really learn from,” Franco added, referring to rookie 3B Ollie Long and second year RF Brodie Dempsey. “He is just a team player and I think someday will make a great coach.”

Ashford must have enjoyed his time in Calgary. He signed a 1 year extension for next season for the paltry sum of $1.5 million.

[recte44]

I frickin love Jim Ashford

[indiansfan]

When he played for you I always though you inflated his importance. Now that I had him for one season I understand. When he retires, you get dibs on making him a coach.

[Knucklehead254]

Man had him for my half year in Sydney and wish I knew he was available in FA last year.

[trmmilwwi]

Ashford is the type of player that makes this league's history so fun to study. Good stuff!