2038-01: Talons Let VODAK Walk

[jiminyhopkins]

Phoenix, AZ--

Timofei Bakitski, also known as VODAK for his defunct brand of premium vodka, has been the Talons closer for just over seven seasons. In that time, he has saved 218 games, recorded a 3.24 career ERA, and racked up 14.0 WAR.

The Talons had been talking to him throughout the year, wondering about an extension. His demands came back at just north of $11 million per season, and that was outside of Phoenix's budget. Bakitski was granted free agency, where he later signed a 4 year deal with Calgary. "We have had many great times with VODAK here in Phoenix," a team source said. "But all organizations evolve, and we have Julio Cuevas ready to step into the closer's role. Cuevas, in fact, reminds many of Bakitski all those years ago, so the cycle begins anew. We wish Timofei and Calgary the best going forward."

In addition, another 30 year old Talons veteran also became a free agent. Al Gordon, a former 2nd round pick by Phoenix in the 2030 draft, developed very quickly and was the big club's starting first baseman two years later. Over the next four seasons, Gordon hit 115 home runs and recorded 12.0 WAR. Then, in 2036, he was injured in July, and former DH Mario Deortez was pressed into service at 1B. Mario took to the position so well that Gordon was relegated to backup duty for the remainder of that season as well as all of 2037. Through it all, Gordon kept his head up and continued to be a leader in the clubhouse.

Gordon has since become a free agent, and was able to sign a quick 1 year, $1.5 million deal with Long Beach. He still has good power from the left side, and his leadership qualities should serve the Surfers well.

[Ted]

When did Vodak go out of business?

[jiminyhopkins]

In a Media Guide a couple years back, it was revealed that VODAK was a cynical marketing ploy from the ADM corporation to get rid of their unsold corn based ethanol that was originally made as a motor fuel (E85). After that story broke, VODAK never recovered and Bakitski ended up hating the fact he was associated with it. I think thats why he wanted to be a free agent and move to Canada, to put the whole fiasco behind him and move on.

[RonCo]

Some mistakes are hard to recover from.