Luis Rubio Makes His Big League Debut; Hitting the High Notes TN 60.04

[Chuck V]

AUSTIN, TX -

Rubio Makes His Debut Fans in Austin were abuzz with anticipation as they awaited the arrival of last years 1st round and #5 overall pick, Luis Rubio. Rubio, just about a year from being the organizations first round pick had quickly worked his way up through the system with successful stops in Charlesbourg (A), Winnipeg (AA) and Tucson (AAA). At each level Rubio managed good numbers and played all three outfield positions. His work with the Hitting Coach at AAA Tucson really stood out. "Rubio is almost Tony Gwynn like in his preparation. He dissects film on opposing pitchers like nobody I have ever seen. If he keeps this up and maintains his physical tools, he could be something special."

Rubio's debut came on May 31st in Jacksonville and it was there he collected his first hit, an infield single to Zombies SS and former Jackrabbit, Billy McKay. McKay ranged wide to his right to back hand the ball in the hole but could not put enough on the throw to retire Rubio and the big league career of the Manhattan native was underway. First Base Coach Robbie de Cock requested and received the ball from the Zombies and tossed it into the Shredders dugout where the trainer secured it for Rubio's collection. His first big league hit.

Rubio did not slow down as he collected hits in his first five games, including two homers in one game in Jacksonville and did not put up an 0-fer until June 6th when he went 0-for-3 with a walk. Rubio is currently batting .455 with 2 HR and 7 RBI. Welcome to the big leagues Luis!

The Call Came a Little Early The original plan was for Rubio to make his debut sometime in the 2nd half of the year. However, an injury to left fielder Antonio Roman meant the call came a little quicker than anticipated. Said Rubio, "I knew what the basic plan was, I know they wanted me to get some more at bats in AAA, but at that level you are always just an injury away from a call and when Antonio got hurt I got the call. When asked about the call up Rubio recalled, "We had just landed in Lincoln Nebraska to start a 4 game series and when I was waiting at baggage claim for my bag, Skip walked up to me and asked me if I was ready for the game tonight and I told him that I had watched some film on the Lincoln starter and he told me "Wrong game, you are heading to Jacksonville to play against the Zombies for the Shredders." Luckily, since we were all at the airport I got a chance to say goodbye to all my teammates and of course they all told me, "Don't come back." and congratulated me. I called my mom and let her know and then our trainer got me on the next flight to Jacksonville."

Roman and Birstall head to the IL LF Antonio Roman and reliever Max Birstall both made a trip to the Injured List this week. Birstall, who has battled injuries the last two years, suffered an oblique strain while Roman suffered an elbow strain. Roman is expected back in just a few days and it will be interesting to see what the Shredders do with their crowded outfield.