2037.05 - The Long Beach Independent - "Passable" Farm Produces Another Big Leaguer

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SANCHEZ EXPECTED TO JOIN SURFERS

April 13, 2037
Minneapolis, MN

Ira Sanchez, 2036 supplemental 1st round pick was notified yesterday that he would be joining the Surfers for the two remaining games against the Twin Cities River Monsters in Minneapolis. The twenty-three year old righty is known for his superb glove at the hot corner, and has been cross training at shortstop since joining the organization. OSA rates him 6/8(9)/3/5/6(8) with the bat overall, and notes that he will hit lefties a bit better than righties.

Sources close to Manager Callum Hopkins indicate that he plans to insert Sanchez into the lineup vs LHP, with regular third baseman, and hottest hitter on the planet Michael Best slotting into the DH spot. In a corresponding move, relief pitcher Hector Gallegos was optioned to AAA Santa Fe.

Gallegos is off to a fine start in 2037 following his success as a Rule 5 selection in the 2036 season. Unfortunately for him, he is the only Long Beach reliever with minor league options remaining, so this looks to be just the first move in an up and down season for the young righty.

Injury Updates

Rule 5 pick Mario Gonzalez is progressing as expected in his rehab from Tommy John surgery to repair his ulnar collateral ligament. He has begun a light throwing program and is on track to begin a minor league rehab assignment in mid-June.

Starter Kevin Graham reports no change in his shoulder inflammation and will likely remain on the DL for at least one more week before returning to action.

Top prospect Carl von Meister is resting his strained oblique while still traveling with the AAA Santa Fe Young Guns. The presence of free agent signee Roy Lynn and the desire of the organization to cross-train von Meister at second base necessitated his return to AAA to start the season. Many in the organization believed him to be ready to take over the starting CF job on opening day, but this injury has further delayed his progress, and he may not see time with the Surfers until mid or late summer.