But, we are talking about Louisville. Soon after, Martin began his career with two semi-decent seasons and only got worse. His career in the BBA was prolonged only because the team had no better options. Eventually it did, and he ended up in the minor leagues of the GBC. He is currently out of work.
Burns started even better with a solid rookie year in 2057 earning him Newcomer-of-the-Year. But he quickly degraded, hitting rock bottom in 2060 with 20 losses and 40 home runs allowed. Since the team had few alternatives, the next season saw him moved to the bullpen instead of being released. After a slight better season, the team told Burns he needed to embrace his new role and to work on being more of a power pitcher to help close games. He got the message. In 2062, Burns almost led the league with 33 saves and earned a trip to the all-star game. Not bad for someone who was likely otherwise headed to the GBC.
Prefect just can't shake the injury bug. It has prevented him from playing a full season, and even when he was able to start 29 games in 2059, he led the league in walks. He just could not be relied upon as a starter and seemed destined to suffer a career-ender at any moment. Because of his cool name, the team was not ready to give up on him, and in a final attempt to rehabilitate, sent him to the bullpen for 2062. What resulted was 66 innings of dominance with an ERA+ of 326. Yes, he did finish the season on the IL, but getting that type of performance from someone otherwise destined for the recycle bin was a nice surprise for the pitching-weak Sluggers.
Burns and Prefect will return next season, having previously signed extensions through 2064. Prefect will likely have his arm amputated before the contract expires, but at least it will make for a good story.
