WHIV 2001 Vol 2.- Free Agency Recap

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Las Vegas GM Matt Rectenwald went into the offseason looking to upgrade their infield depth, add a backup outfielder capable of playing centerfield, and possibly add another pitcher to the mix.

They hit on two out of three, and added an unexpected bonus for the fans and the club as well.

First, the infield depth.

Wednesday, December 20th, 2000
Signed free agent 3B Ossian Fallon to a 1-year contract worth a total of $1,700,000.

Fallon, 32 years old, is a big upgrade to the Hustlers infield depth. He spent the last six years with the Atlantic City Gamblers. Fallon won the 1995 FL Joe Gillstrom Award as the top newcomer in the Frick League. Fallon made the FL All-Star team in 1996 and 1997, and in 1998 won the Zimmer Glove Award at 3B. The 2000 season was a disaster for Fallon as he batted just .229 with 9 HR and ultimately lost his starting job and became a free agent. $1.7M is a far cry from the $8.5 million he once won in arbitration. Fallon now comes to Las Vegas looking to redeem himself. Though he still views himself as a starter, the Hustlers look at him as a solid reserve. "We hope that Ossian will come in with a good attitude and embrace his new role as a reserve, but we're prepared for the possibility that he won't," Rectenwald said.

Now, the reserve outfielder...a familiar face:

Tuesday, December 12th, 2000
Signed free agent RF Daron McNair to a 1-year contract worth a total of $800,000.

The 38 year old McNair begins his second tour of duty with the Hustlers after a renassiance of sorts with the Chicago Black Sox last season. His range has been steadily decreasing, and it's not going to be a good thing if he has to spend any extended time in center field but he can fill in for "Super" Slizz in a pinch.

Finally, a nostalgic flair.

Friday, December 8th, 2000
Signed free agent C Riley Hinson to a 1-year contract worth a total of $690,000.

When Hawaii announced they were releasing Hinson, thereby nullifying his enormous contract originally signed with the Hustlers, Rectenwald immediately set out to acquire the wily 34 year old. Despite the fact that his abilities are eroded, he was signed immediately to a three year extensiion that will ensure he finishes his career with the Hustlers. "He is here for his leadership abilities and popularity," Rectenwald explained.