They did, however, let some guys go and extend some guys.
The club said goodbye to OF Jimmy "Super" Slizz, OF Gerardo Cutitta, and RP Ernest Nilson when the three files for free agency. Slizz signed on with the Montreal Blazers, Cuttita went back to the EBA and signed with the Amsterdam Neptunes, while Nilson also went to the EBA and signed with London.
Rodas emerged as one of the top starting pitchers in the league last year, and Acheson was already established as such. Adding them long term to 2007 Nebraska Award winner Christopher Stoller means the Hustlers "Big 3" will be together through the 2013 season.Tuesday, December 5th, 2006
Signed SP Kim Rodas to a 6-year contract extension worth a total of $48,000,000.
Signed MR Jonathan Salott to a 2-year contract extension worth a total of $2,000,000.
Signed SP Davey Acheson to a 6-year contract extension worth a total of $57,000,000.
Salott went up and down between Las Vegas and AAA Milwaukee last season, posting a 3.21 ERA in 23 appearances with Vegas. He figures to be in the bullpen again this season.
While the Hustlers toyed with offers to Resurrection Santos (signed with Marquette) and Simon Caesar (signed with Baltimore), they ultimately decided to have faith in their young players. This created not only a roster spot (which was guaranteed), but some playing time for rookie outfielder William Brownlee. The jury is still out if Brownlee will be able to hit for a high enough average to ever become a full timer, at age 26 time is running out on his development clock. He'll get a chance to face lefties in center field to start the year.
The Hustlers also said goodbye to veteran outfielder Jay Burns. Las Vegas tried to work a trade for him, waived him (he went unclaimed) and finally released him to make way for young players such as Brownlee (who is out of options). Burns spent the last five seasons with the Hustlers and was a regular contributor. He signed with the Phoenix Talons and should continue to be a solid player for them.