George Washington VIIIThe 23-year old Washington, a direct descendant the more famous George, is now starting for the Jackrabbits in spring training so that coaches can get a good look at him. And what they see so far, they like. Washington in 14 games is hitting .304 and looks quite comfortable at the plate.
Washington was a first round draft pick, and the third pick overall, by the Jacksonville Hurricanes in 2044. Two years later the Hurricanes traded him to Edmonton along with other prospects for SP Jose Martinez. Edmonton GM Mike Dunn added Washington to the 40-man roster a few months ago, to protect him during the Rule 5 draft, and subsequently the youngster was invited to spring training. "I was thrilled," said George. "It's an honor to serve."
George spent time in the off-season chopping down cherry trees, which seems to have helped with his swing. "We like a lot about George, and we're pleased to see his unique winter regimen has paid off," said Jackrabbits manager Juan Carlos Gonzalez.
Washington stands no chance of staying with the club when the season opens, since Edmonton signed not one but two high priced free agent first basemen, Cesar Feliciana and Antonio Gonzalez, who will share duties at the corner as well as DH.
Instead, George is likely to start the season at AAA, where coaches are hoping he will work on his defense at first. "That area needs a lot of improvement," Manager Gonzalez added.
Not everyone was excited about Washington's spring training showing thus far. When reached for comment, his great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandfather, the original George, simply passed the buck:
