Fresh Fur: Ubaid bin Saleh (Hoppy Endings, post Sim 3) [PP:2056.07]

[neugey]

One of the surprises in Edmonton of the offseason was the signing and promotion of minor league catcher Ubaid bin Saleh. The 26-year-old now serves as a platoon catcher in the majors, but the results thus far are very suspect, and it remains to be seen how much patience the Jackrabbits will exhibit with the rookie.

Bin Saleh hails from Baghdad, Iraq and drew some attention in International Free Agency in 2048. Las Vegas added him at age 18 to their rookie ball system for just under 3 million. Ubaid struggled at time, but eventually began to learn the ropes, especially with the bat. From 2053-2055 he proved himself quite proficient at hitting for average, with batting averages ranging from .298 to .425 on Las Vegas’ AA and AAA teams over that span.

But the Iraqi came out on the short end of a numbers game in the Hustler’s farm system and was allowed to leave in minor league free agency. That’s when Edmonton, with a need for a second catcher, took notice of bin Saleh’s recent success and decided to sign him to a minor league contract with a $30,000 bonus. With no other good options presenting themselves for the major league role – at least at the league minimum salary price point – Edmonton GM Mike Bauer decided to advance bin Saleh to spring training and then to the majors for the 2056 season.

It hasn’t gone very well so far. Bin Saleh has hit a cold .152/.222/.182 in 9 starts. But Bauer remains confident in Ubaid’s abilities. “We hope the average will pick up,” explained Bauer. “He will get more than just April to prove himself. The BABIP is currently at .172 so we think his luck will pick up here soon.”

Meanwhile, the agents for several free agent catchers, such as Reggie Leeper and Dave Butler have made overtures to Edmonton which have so far been rebuffed. That may not continue to be the case if bin Saleh stays below .200 much longer.