Fresh Fur, Part 3: Cruz and Suker (Hoppy Endings, post IFA sim) [PP:2054.04]

[neugey]

The Jackrabbits agreed on their first trade in quite some time, dealing AAA 1B Randy Hargrove to San Fernando for two pitchers: AAA SP Antonio Cruz and prospect SP Ilhan Suker.

General Manager Mike Bauer addressed the trade during a short interview this weekend.

"We like the power-hitting potential of Hargrove, but he was blocked and we needed to move him to a team where is likely to get more opportunity. The Bears offered us Cruz, who has been pitching quite well in AAA in the past few years. He may get a chance to make the major league rotation this year, or maybe next year, depending on how things shake out. We also like the upside of Suker, who already has a wicked changeup and a nice arsenal of pitches. But he will need some time to work on his mechanics. He'll need to put better spin on the ball and needs to improve his control. This trade allowed to us to improve the pitching depth of our organization, and we're happy about that."

Cruz originated in Puerto Rico and pitched well in his youth. He signed as an international free agent with Louisville for $5.2 million. In 2050 he was obtained Jacksonville via the Rule V draft, but then waived at the start of the 2051 season and claimed by San Fernando. As a 21-year old, he worked out of the bullpen that year with mixed results. He was then demoted to AAA where he started to find his footing with two solid seasons.

Suker hails from Turkey and was a product of Phoenix's international complex. After being cut by the Talons he signed as a free agent with San Fernando. He started 15 games with Short A St. Kitts Selects, posting an impressive 2.47 ERA and 1.00 WHIP.

[BaseClogger]

Cruz had a pretty good FIP for a 21 year old rule 5 guy in 2051. Hope this trade is a win-win!