Minor Leagues Beat Writer
Chicago Sports Online
Monclova, Mexico – In a season that saw the Monclova Aqua Sox rank at or near the bottom of their league in most offensive categories, 1B Carlo Sproule was an island of competence in a sea of batting ineptitude.
Carlo Sproule
“Well, this is … nice … I guess … right?” Sproule said as he accepted the unframed certificate fresh from the team’s aged dot matrix printer. “Is there a frame or anything?”
Sproule joined the Sox organization in 2042, signing a minor league free agent contract after he went undrafted.
He split time between Monclova and the franchise’s Short Season Class A team in San Pedro de Macoris that season, putting up solid numbers in Rookie ball (.276/.399/.351) but struggled a bit with the Green Sox (.235/.381/.235).
“As a franchise, given Carlo’s age, we decided he would benefit from another full year in Rookie League ball, and it appears that decision has paid off,” said Aqua Sox manager Luis Perez. “At least it did for us!”
Sproule responded with an extremely solid year, slashing .297/.459/.427 with 5 homers and 50 RBIs in 232 AB. He was at or near the top in most of Monclova’s offensive statistics, one of the very few bright spots in the Aqua Sox lineup.
“We were impressed by Mr. Sproule’s dedication and his fine season of work for the Aqua Sox,” said Chicago General Manager Bennie Vitale. “We look forward to watching his progress next season.”
Coaches are still undecided, yet, on whether to move him to Class A Grand Junction or back to San Pedro for a little more seasoning, but a decision could rest on how he performs in the Fall Prospect League next month.
“I don’t really care where I play,” Sproule said, “just so long as I play!”