Rocker: "I have ..."

Admits His Usage

In a statement that was required by ownership and the front office, Brooklyn Moabs' reporter, John Rocker admits he used steriods. Rocker's statement included where, when and how he acquired the illegal substances.

"I acquired the steriods from Jason [Grimsley] on two occasions. The first was when I finished my rookie season. The second was before an interview, now infamous, with Sports Illustrated in New York. I apologize to my teammates and fans. It is a bad decision for any youngster to take performance enhancers. Again, the decision effected more than just me, which I apologize for."

There is no decision from the Brooklyn ownership as to what is the proper course is for the organization. Rocker and Andy Pettitte were named in the Mitchell Report. Pettitte announced yesterday that he used HGH in 2002 to rehabilitate his surgically repaired elbow.

Bob Eucker
The Aftermath

What A Mitch-ell...

Report

ON the day the Mitchell Report was released, General Manager Eric J. Caskey and Principle Owner Shawn Carter spoke to reporters outside the "Bunker." Caskey displayed his dismay for the comments made about lefty ace, Andrew Pettitte. The dismay though, was about Pettitte. The Brooklyn Moabs have been the most vocal team against the use of performance enhancing drugs. Caskey, for one, stated that no player that is found guilty of such usage will play for the Moabs. He continued his stance today: "I feel bad, really bad. Andy's one of the good guys in the league and one of my heroes in the game. If he is innocent, then shame on the trainers and media, because he is going to go through hell for a year or more. If he is guilty, shame on him. He will be suspended upon any guilty knowledge, and the team will explore options." Caskey cleverly meant that he will be traded if there are any suitors, or released if not. Shawn Carter, a hip-hop artist, has been one of the few business rappers. He has built Roc-A-Fella empire on integrity and smarts: "The Moabs and myself will have nothing to do with cheaters. I grew up on a block of cheaters, now look where I am."
Regardless, the Mitchell Report is a good thing for baseball. As a man that had trouble throwing strikes, it really angers me that people could be cheating to get ahead. Regardless of who did what, it's not fair. The players, including Andy, could complain that they were indicted without fair objection to the evidence before George Mitchell, but the matter of fact that will only be a few players actually acquitted; therefore, this is fair for those who lost roster positions to those on juice!

John Rocker
The Aftermath

New Ownership

Mo-Roca Boys

After nearly a year of negotiations with several different groups, including ExxonMobil and Heineken, the Brooklyn Moabs have been bought by Shawn Carter. Carter, a local Brooklynite, has been seeking to purchase a Barb team for some time. As the last offer, Carter coupled nearly $500 million dollars to purchase the organization and Mother Of All Ballparks. Heineken's offer would not have included the purchase of MOAB due to its desire to move the team across the pond. Exxon's offer was tremendous, but felt that the team was not located in a financially secure area of New York, or the US, so a move was probably.

Carter, on the other hand, stepped in late and defended his city: "How could this franchise leave Brooklyn? It's our boys." The group, known as Roc-A-Fellas Records Inc., is headed by the rapper. Jay-Z sees the Moabs as a team that can compete with any team. Noting the allstars around the lineup, and their record number of runs, the Moabs focus will be the pitching staff. Having said that, the Moabs could potentially have four or five aces: "Any of them could win the CY." Carter's outlook is one of realistic optimism.

As for changes in the front office, Carter backs Eric J. Caskey as the team's General Manager: "I cannot see the organization without it headed by the wiz kid. I, unfortunately, do not know enough about the people within the organization, I will be meeting with Caskey to discuss changes in philosophy and personnel. I will re-organize the marketing department. It's likely that Hype Williams and I will take over the organization's propoganda." Regardless of the changes on the horizon, the Moabs look to be moving in a more youthful direction with a young GM and the league's youngest owner.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

A Look to the Off-Season

What Will the New-Look Moabs Do?

The Moabs will look to improve the team's veteran leadership. As stated by the commissioner, S Hatfield, the Moabs have a plethora of prospects. Although GM Caskey has been reluctant to deal his youthful prospects for veterans, there is no indication that he will not go out and sign some free agents. Essentially the Moabs wasted $30 million last season, after a few seasons bordering the salary cap. This season, it is my belief, that Caskey will push the Moab salary to the limit in order to gain a middle of the lineup run producer or a high profile closer.

The Moabs, more than any team, has sought to acquire prospects over established players. This season look for him to bolster the bullpen and starting rotation. Aces Roy Oswalt and Fausto Carmona are sure to be protected. If the Moabs can bring back Chien-Meng Wang, Jeremy Bonderman, Mark Beurhle and Andy Petitte, the Moabs could have one of the most dangerous rotations. The bullpen, ravaged by injuries, was actually pretty deep coming into the year. Who knew the Moabs would experience the sleuth of injuries. Assuming those injuries do not hamper the next season, the Moabs could have one of the deepest pens in BARB.

Due to the overwhelming injuries that cost the Moabs a shot at the postseason, still finished fourth overall thanks to the top producing offense and seventh pitching staff, the Moabs look to to be one of the favorites coming into next season. Up next on the Look to the Off-Season, the Aftermath will rate the farmhands from big 6'7" Chris Volstad to the 19 year old phenom, Elvis Andrus.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

A Switch From the Swoosh

Today, the Brooklyn Moabs Team President and General Manager, Eric J. Caskey, announced the Moabs will be wearing BARB's first Underarmour uniforms. Inspired by Click-Clack movement and the new dedication of Underarmour to baseball, the switch was announced today. Like in Major League Baseball, BARB teams wear Nike.

But like the New York Yankees, who wear Adidas, the Moabs sport the fashionable UA. Not only does Caskey own stock in UA, but the weather specific uniforms will give his team an advantage. In the late month or two of the season, Brooklyn is a cold place to be. Wearing UA's heatgear will keep us warm.

The Moabs will also have a wide variety uniform combinations. Inspired by the University of Oregon's football combinations, the Moabs will unveil red, blue, black, white, grey, and purple uniforms. The caps will be blue, black, white, grey, purple and red. All can be interchanged. Also the shirts are cut-sleeves so the Underarmour compression shirts will be interchangeable as well.

John Rocker
The Aftermath

Update Time

After his second rehap start at Flint Stones AA affliate of the Brooklyn Moabs, Joel Zumaya feels confident that he can return to the Moab bullpen, which has been sorely overworked lately. Zumaya pitched three innings giving up one homerun and two hits. He struck out four and walked one. Manager Mark Lemke said that the most important thing was his location. "He hit the mit and hit the 100 mark, so you can't argue too much with the jack he gave up," said Lemke.

Also, the Moabs GM has been on the record of saying that if the team does not meet playoff expectations, expect to have some changes. Now no word if that means coaching staff or players, but Caskey has kept his teams intact over the years avoiding temptation to move the players. On the other hand, he has also kept his coaching staff intact. Regardless, the team must step it up and take control of their actions. "The team is built to win, they are getting healthy, I need results now!" said Caskey.

Major Moves

Reeling Means Change

It's not just the events unfolding in the fourth inning of a blowout at Frostbite, but manager Bobby Cox has spoken. He has decided to put unheralded rookie Fausto Carmona into the rotation. He will take Andy Pettitte's spot in the rotation. This means that Pettitte will be the teams spot starter and long reliever. The thoughts behind the move are stated in the General Manager's comments, "We need to add a power arm into the rotation. We cannot afford to let Pujols, Bonds and many other sluggers take aim. Carmona and Chien Meng Wang give us two of the most successful young groundball pitchers that win games. Paired with ace Roy Oswalt and staples Jeremy Bonderman and Mark Buehrle, this is the MOST formidable rotations in Barb."

Brooklyn should be concerned about their late inning arms now. The Aftermath believes the team has too many starters and not enough relievers in their bullpen. On another important note, super setup man Joel Zumaya made a Double-A rehab start in Flint for the Stones. He pitched two innings with two strikeouts and one walk.

John Rocker
The Aftermath

Time to Shut Up

Righthanded pitcher Chien-Meng Wang, 5-4 with a 3.67 earned run average has been placed on the trading block by GM Eric J. Caskey. On Gameday 94, Wang tossed deep into the game. Needing to move closer to the division leading rivals, Worcester, Wang was brilliant. Closer Francisco Rodriguez finished the tight 4-3 game with his 18th save. After the game, Wang had some choice words for Brooklyn's young GM.

"How can he place three fifths of the Moab rotation on the trading block? We are the strength of the team. Does this guy know what he's doing after shipping mega prospect Stephen [Drew] for that lefty reliever that's much better as a starter, but that's a stretch? If ownership is not close to the situation, this GM of ours could trade away our chance to win," said Wang.

Caskey was concerned over the righties words, "It's my fault. None of the rumors should have been released, that's the media's fault. My fault was trying to improve our team. It's not a knock on our starters or our lineup, but as the deepest rotation and lineup, we need to look to address our needs, primarily in the bullpen."

The return of Joel Zumaya is just over the horizon. He will be making his first rehab start in Triple-A Syracuse. Caskey announced that he would only be pitching two innings or thirty five throws. His addition to the bullpen will stabilize the middle innings along with Damaso Marte, Bob Wickman and Fausto Carmona before reaching slinger K-Rod.

One thing is for certain, the final months will be exciting. Caskey has been interested in boosting his bullpen, but at what costs. We will see.

What League?

Is the league still functioning? No response to emails, no league updates, and NO trades. What has happened? We might have some owners who claim to be participating, but there is no participation, WE need decisive action!

GM Eric J. Caskey
Brooklyn Moabs

Its Embarrassing

Its Embarrassing... especially considering division foes just made a Tad Iguchi for Brad Fricken Penny deal. I talk with same owner about a hole sluigh of players and he will not negotiate without having Utley involved, what gives. Talk to RyneSandberg, I mean OConner, simply will not talk to me. Our only deal was Blake for Guitterez. A fair deal with the Moabs getting an utility player that does a lot but is definitely on the decline, but he gets Franklyn Guttierez, a player that is showing off and should be starting in rightfield. But he will not talk to me about a trade granted that I was reaching. I still view the upside of those players offered as something a struggling team should consider. I must have burned some bridges somewhere but I do not understand how some people do not even glance at my prospects and take a Penny-Iguchi deal or a Granderson for Joe Schmo Deal.

Taken to the Streets by the Ballers...

Moabs Acquire Lefty for Big Prospect

Today, GM Eric J. Caskey traded highly touted prospect Stephen Drew for veteran lefty reliever Joe Kennedy. Kennedy was recentyl released by the D-Backs. In the estimation of this journalist, Caskey missed a bit outside on this one. Oakeyland Baller not only gets a player that has one of the highest ceiling shortstops, but clears 3.30 in salary. Although Kennedy is only 2.10, Caskey did do one thing well, he got a player to be named later as a decision of the Brooklyn Moabs. I cannot even look up the numbers of Kennedy because cbssportsline.com does not have his profile, now that he is without a team.

Understanding the depleted nature of the Oakeyland Ballers, God only knows what the Moabs are getting as a player to be named later. Its embarrasing. I do not even know how the team can use a player that does not have a current MLB team. Its embarrasing.

Bob Uecker

The Aftermath

Congratulations to Brooklyn's 2007 Allstars

The All-Stars include starters Brian McCann (C), Miguel Cabrera (LF), and Ichiro Suzuki (CF). Also flying to AT&T ballpark was closer Francisco (K-Rod) Rodriguez, DH Ryan Howard, and starters Jeremy Bonderman and ace Roy Oswalt. The leagues most potent offense supplied four regulars including reigning MVP Ryan Howard. Although Howard spend some time on the DL, he posted great numbers, with a .262, 14 HR, 40 RBI. Big Mac's efforts behind the plate were rewarded as well, .274, 6 HR, 26 RBI. Studs Miguel Cabrera and Ichiro posted MVP numbers. "Ichiro posted tremendous numbers as he set the table for the rest of the lineup. He allowed Miggie, Ryan, and the boys drive them in. K-Rod closed the big games that Bonderman and Oswalt. These guys have kept us in the race while closing the deficit," noted by Scouting Director Dayton Moore. We have also noted the youth of the MOAB all-stars, meaning the league should take notice.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

Special Special: Heard TOO Much About It

Firing One Up: Barry's 756

For all of those that say Bonds is completely clean or is NOW! How does his foot, and head size increase in his LATE 30s and early 40s? It is not a normal activity. Also, its a matter of psyche. If a player hits 73 (or whatever the record for a year is now) then pitchers are going to pitch him differently in the next year. Yes anyone can make the argument that contact and recognition cannot be gained from the use of HGH or annabolic steriods, but that contact and recognition translates into balls flying over fences is insane.

Take Brady Anderson. There should be little argument that Anderson's 50 HR year of 1996 was suspicious. He hit only 11 HR in his first four seasons, although he averaged about 250 ABs a season. THen in 1993, he hit 21 in 650 ABs. That was easily his finest season until 1996. Two years after the strike shorted season of 1994, he hit 50 HR in 570 ABs. WHY? HOW? For a deadpull hitter to yank so many out only once in his career, while being around 20 for the rest of his career. In 1992, Camden Yards did open and Anderson's HR totals jumped from 2 the previous year to 21. Jim Palmer has been quoted in ESPN TV shows that Brady was juicing. Although he struck out around 100 times annually, he also walked nearly 85 times too. Although Barry never has K'd 100 times, numbers closer to 80, he always had same if not more walk numbers. But Bonds walked intentionally nearly ten -fifteen times more than Brady.
My point is that yes Bonds is a great hitter with recognition speed, defense, and contact, but he increased his annual HR average of 40 to 73 in 2001. Does that increase the echo of Brady Anderson? Pac Bell Ballpark opened in 2000, receiving rave reviews, but concerns about the RF porch. It should have been harder for Bonds or any lefty to hit homers to RF. Yet, Bonds HRs increased with the new ballpark.

My philosophy is once you CHEAT, then you are out. You do not get to keep records, you do not get to take your team to the post-season and nearly win the World's Series in 2002. Pete Rose cheated by gambling and it tarnishes the game in the same way the strike did in '94. He was kicked out. Why does Bonds get more chances? Is it because he is from California, largest state in population? Is it because he plays in San Francisco, neighboring Nancy Pelosi's district, which also legalized MARIJUANA? There is something seriously wrong with Americans that want to ignore when someone cheats, steals, and tarnishes one of our nation's most herald pastimes. Is Barry's situation a more larger problem that the morales of our nation have become so easy that cheaters are still revered as heroes?

John Rocker
The Aftermath

On the Rise

Brooklyn is Moving On Up:

At 48-40, Brooklyn is within 3 1/2 games of first place Darwin. This time on GameDay 88, it was a team effort lead by slugger Miguel Cabrera. The left fielder drove in seven runs and hit two long balls. The big offensive effort was capped by the gem tossed of starter Jeremy Bonderman. ALthough Bonderman struggled in April and May, he has turned it on completely moving closer to an All-Star bid. A stellar 2.94 Earned Run Average covers a modest 7-4 record. The ERA is good for third in the league, strikeouts (fourth) and batting average against (sixth) making Bonderman the dark horse CY Young candidate. He may have had the biggest impact giving the Moabs bullpen the night off.
Rumor has it, the Moabs have been searching for relief help but have hit a wall due to the lack of participation of cellar dwellers. So, the front office has turned to its minor league ball club, Syracuse. The Moabs called on right-handed phenom, Fausto Carmona. He will be inserted into the bullpen to stabilize middle relief. If he is not getting enough innings, then he will get a few spot starts.

John Rocker
The Aftermath

Wow, Game Day 87

Moabs Destroy Arch-Rival Darwin Finches

After the statistics were updated for the league following the halfway point, Brooklyn put up some big numbers. GM Eric J. Caskey has been the team's biggest champion saying the second half, Brooklyn would give Worcester a run for its money. Ichiro, who is on pace for his seventh 200 hit season, had four hits along with Bobby Abreu. Manager Bobby Cox took some heat from the local press by inserting Chase Utley at the bottom of the lineup. With a bat that could be the most useful in BARB, why bat him eighth? The Moab second baseman hit a grandslam apart of a five run seventh. Brooklyn will see a competitive campaign for the playoffs here in the second half, lead by the offensive barrage of the Brooklyn Bombers.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

Front Office Moves: Scouting Director

The Brooklyn Moabs have announced the hiring of Dayton Moore as Scouting Director for the ball club. His duties include assembling a team of scouts, draft preparation, and team reports. Traditionally the Moabs have been one of the most prepared Barb teams when it comes to the draft. The Yuma Times in 2005, declared the Moabs had the best draft with players to help now, in a year or two, and down the line.

Moore has been assistant to general managers and advanced scout. Now its up to him. Moore immediately phoned fellow scout, Jim Fleming. Fleming will be the director of North America. He has developed one of the most dynamic organizations in MLB, especially considering the Florida Marlins' budget. As Scouting Director of North America, he must pursue five tool prospects and cannon armed pitchers. Moore also insisted the promotion of Keith Lieppman to Farm Director. Lieppman has done such a good job with the chemistry and tools of MLB's Oakland Athletics

Moab GM Eric J. Caskey was completely thrilled with the new staff. " Dayton has already done a nice job. I mean he went out, less than twenty four hours since being named, and negotiated contracts with great scouts. The organization took one large step forward."

Vote for YOUR All-Stars

Brian McCann, Brooklyn (.274, 6 HR, 26 RBI)
Ryan Howard, Brooklyn (.262, 14 HR, 40 RBI)
Chase Utley, Brooklyn (.252, 6 HR, 34 RBI)
Miguel Cabrera, Brooklyn (.297, 8 HR, 52 RBI)
Ichiro Suzuki, Brooklyn (.298, 38 runs, 14 SB)
Casey Blake, Brooklyn (.336, 7 HR, 31 runs/140 AB)
Jeremy Bonderman, Brooklyn (5-4, 2.92, 79 K)
Mark Buehrle, Brooklyn (8-4, 4.48 in 15 starts)
Roy Oswalt, Brooklyn (9-2, 2.72, 5 CG, 1 shutout)
Andy Pettite, Brooklyn (4-4, 3.06 in 14 G)
Francisco Rodriguez, Brooklyn (1-2, 2.93, 16 saves, 25 GF*)

Send our MOABS to the 2007 Barb All-Star Game

Rankings

On Gameday 70, The Brooklyn Moabs finally reached its first goal, to get out of last place. The cellar dweller finally surpassed .500 with a 36-34 record. In the competitive East, Worcester leads the pack with a 6 game lead on Brooklyn at 41-26. In second is the unnusual happenings of the Finches from Darwin, who lead the world in homeruns and are second in scoring, behind only the Moabs. Lastly, the perennially successful Frostbite Falls Flying Squirrels fell into the lonely spot of last place. In addition to the cellar, they fell below .500. The Moabs' GM Eric J. Caskey has repeated in the Aftermath that the Moabs were a team on the move. The team has taken to a hot streak after recent acquisitions of Andy Pettitte and RF/3B Michael Cuddyer.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

Gearing Up: Trade

Moabs Acquire Arm: Andy Pettitte

Brooklyn GM Eric J. Caskey has made a much anticipated deal, landing veteran left handed starter. Andy Pettitte, for the second time in his career, will compete in BARB in Moab pinstripes. Fans are eager to see a star studded rotation of Roy Oswalt, Mark Buehrle, Chien-Meng Wang, Jeremy Bonderman and, now, Pettitte.

Caskey has obviously not given up on the 2007 season: "Pettitte's $8.75 million salary scared teams away, but makes Brooklyn so much better. No offense to Duke or Davies, but having Pettitte in the fifth spot will help my desires to contend. Besides the price was right. Montero was a good player in the organization but didn't really find his spot. " Caskey insisted,"Yeah, we are worried about being 9 games back. Who wouldn't be? Hopefully, Pettitte will stabilize my rotation and Davies and Duke can assist my team through long relief and the occasional spot start."

Many journalists speculate that the Moabs are not done wheeling and dealing. As in previous posts, it is believed Caskey will deal some of the organization's young talent for some veteran help.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

Down on the Farm: Daric Barton

Daric Barton, first baseman:

When the Moabs selected Daric Barton in the 2004 draft, following its World Championship, the selection was received with jealousy. Many believed that the Moabs had selected one of the best hitting prospects around. At the time, his power had not developed, but the catcher turned first baseman had a tremendous eye. Commissioner Scott Hatfield exclaimed, "He has the best strike zone judgement in the minors." Oh and Barton was only 19 at the time.

After two years of lacking power, Barton really struggled last seasons. Early in the campaign, Barton hurt he arm and wrist. The injury lingered the entire season and it effected his numbers. In Triple AAA-Syracuse, Barton batted just .257 with 11 homers, subpar numbers by any means. This year, however, Barton is healthy.

He is batting .329 with six homers. Although six homers are not Howard-like from a first baseman, he does have 26 doubles. In addition to the 26 doubles, Barton has solidified himself as a tremendous run producer with 48 runs batted in. The organization is proud to have Barton in Syracuse, but Bobby Cox is utterly impressed with his strike zone judgement. This season, Barton has compiled 42 walks. Although a high number, he has struck out only 32 times. Cox proposes, "This kid can win a batting title. Any time he puts the ball in play, knows how to take a walk, and approaches the plate waiting for the pitcher to come to him, the kid can hit. I can't wait to be forced to find a place to play him."

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

MAILBAG: Do the Moabs Have a Chance?

Sam Jackson, 45: Do the Moabs have a chance in the competitive East?
for John Rocker

Absolutely, if they get some luck on their side. As of now, the injuries the Moabs have encountered have explained the struggle: Hank Blalock infected rib? Joel Zumaya's torn finger tendon? Mike Gonzalez's Tommy John surgery? MVP Ryan Howard's injured forearm? To say the least, the Moab's have had their share of injuries, especially the freak ones.

Having said that the cellar dwellers are just 9 games back approaching the All-Star Break. Can they come back, absolutely, it is rumored that GM Eric J. Caskey has been racking up the cell phone minutes discussing numerous trades to strengthen the staff and bullpen. Its rumored a big name is on his way to Brooklyn.

Peach Snapple, 80: Are their any deals in the works? And if so, could prospects be moved?
for Ned Yost

Obviously the team cannot comment on any deals that are being discussed or the status of any organization's players except those wearing Brooklyn's pinstripes. Again, Caskey has been on his cell the entire week. Two trades are rumored to have been completed and another two are in the works.

Any time a team is trying to improve its standing, the organization must face the reality of dealing young talent for veteran experience. I think the no deal rule only applies to Chris Volstad, Colin Balester, Andrew McCutchen, Jose Tabata, and Cameron Maybin. Having said that, if Caskey can get a big time prospect in return for one of these talents, I think he would have to pull the trigger. This is where Caskey makes his money!

The Aftermath

Featured Spotlight

Week 8: Utilityman Casey Blake

Deemed "super-sub" by the league's office, Casey Blake has made a huge splash in his Brooklyn debut. This season, Blake has played third and right field. He has provided right handed pop and consistency to a team lacking it. The Moabs seem to be playing much better of late and the work of Blake cannot be overlooked. He has three homers and a current twelve game hitting streak. He lit up the Eliminators in the Moab's two game home sweep and continued to get on base at the bottom of the order while the team has won five of six.

GM Eric J. Caskey has continued to show patience to a struggling lineup. In an interview with colleague John Rocker two weeks ago, Caskey insisted, "See, eventually the banner will be hanging in Brooklyn again! Beware, my lineup is having an excellent first half led by my leadoff stud's .358 avg and 20 game hit streak. Rotation has been solid with Buehrle twirling a no-no. K-ROD, not F-Rod, is leading the world in saves with the hot Angels. Just do not count me out."

Caskey has praised his manager's ability to utilize Blake and Blake's ability to accept his role. On a team studded with stars, Blake might be the most overlooked player on any team.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

Down on the Farm: Jeff Niemann

Jeff Niemann, starter:

If you haven't noticed, Triple-A Syracuse has been playing quite well in the International Barb Association. And since you probably haven't noticed due to the first article nearly three months into the season, starter Jeff Niemann has been playing tall. The 6'9" hurler struck out 85 batters in only 88.2 innings. One batter in the league, who shall remain nameless, says Jeff's fastball is on top of you immediately. He's so tall that his arm nearly reaches the plate.

Opponents are batting .235 and he is one of the best in the IBA in groundout ratio. At 1.07, he would compliment Moab starters Chien Meng Wang and Fausto Carmona as one of baseball's best. His stats result in a strong 3.65 era.

As for being called up, GM Eric J. Caskey has been quoted saying, "He's a fine pitcher and WILL be a great addition to the lineup when he's ready." Most scouts speculate that he is ready for the big league challenge. However, due to the depth of the Moab rotation, Niemann will likely fill a bullpen spot. With Mike Gonzalez, Joel Zumaya, Tony Sipp, Duaner Sanchez, JB Cox and Ryan Wagner all injured for lengthy period, the pen is thin on experience and bodies. Niemann's fastball would fill in for the loss of Zumaya's power. Syracuse will miss the former Rice ace and Brooklyn will welcome his arrival with open arms.

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

Renteria's Heroics

Needing a sweep of a twin bill, Brooklyn came through in the clutch. Specifically, Edgar Renteria lit up the Eliminator's staff. The last addition to the Moabs roster came through. Renteria recorded two singles and a doubling, driving in Casey Blake, twice, and Chase Utley. Renteria gave ace Roy Oswalt all the support he needed in dueling Elim's lefty Jeremy Sowers. Oswalt completed his five hit shutout with six strikeouts of the last seven Elim's.

Renteria has been a nice addition to the Moab's roster. As noted, he was the last player signed to the Moabs in the off-season. Utley praised his double play mate, " He is a nice compliment in the lineup, but also in the field. Renty simply is a winner."

Renteria has endured a poor season in Visalia under GM JC Rodriguez. He was acquired from Yuma, a team that lost in the first round to Brooklyn in 20o4 playoffs. To say he was disgruntled in Visalia, who wouldn't be, is an understatement. Being released was seen more of a blessing: " I do not have to play on a bad team. Although we are struggling here, we have a talented team and are looking toward the All-Star break and the second half."

Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

MAILBAG: Are changes on the horizon?

Question from Dave Jenkins,12:
Is Bobby Cox's job on the line with the poor record?

Answer from Bob Uecker:
Well, let's just say, if a coach is not winning, then why is he here. Having said that, I do not believe there is a coach in baseball that has more job security than Bobby. [GM Eric] Caskey has said that he idolizes Cox and his history. No manager in the modern era has created such chemistry and chance to win with or without talent. The Moabs are a team with an abundance of talent that is finding unlucky decisions.

Question from George W. Bush 43:
Are the Moabs up for sale?

Answer from John Rocker:
Yes, there have been rumors that the Moabs are up for sale. Some speculate that Halliburton, Shell, Exxon Mobil, and a few others are interested. Caskey commented, "We could be the richest team if the oil companies are interested." Caskey stopped joking and said it might be best if the family stepped aside from payments and contributed its services. I have never liked the way those Caskey's ran the organization. Those nerds! ExxonMobil seem to be the most involved in the Brooklyn community as local signs tout, "We are the Mother Of All Fans!!!"

June 20, 2007
The Aftermath

Featured Spotlight

Week 7: Second Baseman Chase Utley


Chase Utley has been playing tremendously. The vital part of any offense, the lefty second bagger has supplied power and high on-base average. He leads the NL in hits by pitch. The man just knows how to get on-base: "Absolutely, I mean I just need to get on base for the monster bats behind me. So if that means taking one for the team, I guess I have no choice."

As the league has witnessed, the known offensive weapon is also a solid, hardworking defender. When he takes ground balls before games, you know that by game time his jersey will be dirty. Skipper Bobby Cox has mentioned, "its players like Chase and his work ethic that keep me at the game."

Looking to the second half of the season, the lefty is batting .320 with 54 RBIs. Obviously the best offensive second baseman in the game today, he has 54 RBIs, adding tremendous balance to the Moab lineup. The UCLA grad looks to be in contention for league MVP as BARB rumors begin to swirl as the All-Star game approaches.



Bob Uecker
The Aftermath

Brooklyn has joined Barbblogspot

GM Eric J. Caskey has decided to move the Moabs into the internet era. He has joined Barb's page

http://barbbaseball.blogspot.com/

Players, coaches, GM, and the press will add relevant, and some irrelevant articles to the new official blog.