WHIV 2002 Vol 8- Blockbuster trade with Washington

[recte44]

In assessing the Las Vegas Hustlers needs heading into the trade deadline, GM Matt Rectenwald realized two things:
1) They needed a power hitter
2) They needed another top line starting pitcher

And, in the end, they were able to knock both needs off the list in one fell swoop:

Washington sends:

SP Ken Howell
LF/CF Pio Vallejo

Las Vegas sends:

SP Shane Christen
LF Daniel Kerber
SP Robert Bernard
SP Antonio Jimenez

1. Ken Howell is simply a legend. 223 career wins and a clear future MBBA Hall of Famer. The 41 year old Howell is aging well and should give the Hustlers a third ace that will be important as they defend their Landis title. Post deal, the Hustlers were able to re-sign Howell to a one year extension at $10M. He was asking for a FOUR YEAR DEAL that would have taken him to 45 years of age.

2. Vallejo was important with the continued injury problems of Benjamin Rivero. He has thrived in the #6 slot in the Hustlers order, giving the Hustlers a big time power threat deep in the lineup past Jake Urban. "We've always been a speed team, but with the additions of Benjamin, then Jake, then Pio, we're embracing multi-tool players with some big power as our offensive blueprint for the future," said Rectenwald.

3. Christen has been fading badly and has a big time extension in place. By moving him, they free some future finances that will come in handy when it comes to their talented youngsters and arby awards.

4. Kerber had a great start as a Hustler, but in time, it was clear that he was a complimentary player and not a cornerstone.

5. Bernard and Jimenez are two top tier pitching prospects, and we hope they'll have successful careers.