You would think that after winning it all in the first ABL season, that the GM would relax and be an observer during the offseason. This was far from being true. Encourage by his owner, who want to create a legacy, the Montreal GM was very active during this off-season.
First, the GM took the expensive Eric Ware off waiver from San Francisco. The 33 years old switch hitter will be the perfect DH in Montreal. He hit 30HR and 111RBI in a pitcher-friendly park, last year. Imagine now what he can do in Montreal.
Second, they will get back their all-star Center field, Gordon Thornthon, who spend most of last season on the disable list. Even thought, Forrest and Moyer were great in replacing Thornthon last season, we are happy to have him back. Our speedy Center-field, is a respected leader and perfect lead-off man.
Finally, today the GM have decided to trade three prospects and a veteran: Martin Merritt (SP) AAA, Jeffrey Hall 3B (AAA), Robert Price (SP) AA and Jeff Johnson (3B) ML, in order to get Emilio Guerrero, 37 years old 3B, who have a very familiar name in Montreal. Guerrero 35 HR last season and his good glove at 3B will be a great addition to our ball club. This move will make Millard Shafer a luxury utility man, who will come to rest Guerrero, Collins or Izyurov when needed.
With Guerrero, the Bandits also acquire 26 years old Ray Clay (SP). Last year Clay was 10-8 in KC. Clay comes in Montreal with the #3 SP spot ready for him, just behind Raul Perez and Austin Brown. Montreal also got 5 Millions Dollars to help pay for Guerrero salary.
We gave 3 good prospects of our organisation, but we do have few more arms in our minor league. Plus we have drafted two 3B in the last draft so Hall become available.
Competitive time is now in Montreal. We enjoy our first ABL title, and we want to send a message to our player and our fan that we want to repeat.
