EXPOS - 3/11/02
March 11, 2002
LATEST TEAM INFO:
Andres Galarraga was signed to a minor league deal by the club on March 7. At 41 the Expos are hoping he an return to the form he showed a couple of seasons ago.
Javier Vazquez has looked strong in his first two starts this spring. He was beaned in the head in a game on September 17 by Florida's Ryan Dempster and there was fear that he would have some trouble returning from the broken left eye socket he suffered.
RUMOR MILL:
Fans are more excited about this team than they've been since 1994. With returning stars like Vladimir Guerrero, Jose Vidro, and Javier Vazquez there is a lot f optimism about the Expos this season. That being said, the Expos will most likely be riddled with the same attendance problems they've been facing since deciding to disband their great team of the mid 90's.
LOCAL PERSPECTIVE:
Most of the rumours involving the Expos pertain to what will happen to them once this season is over. Most people agree that the team will probably end up folding, unless revenues dramatically increase between now and September. There are also rumours about the team possibly moving to Washington DC. This makes a lot more sense, since a dispersal draft would turn into quite the mess, with everyone wanting Guerrero. Another crazy rumour, although I'm sure it is just a rumour, has Vladimir Guerrero being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, who are owned by MLB commisioner Bud Selig, for a minor leaguer. Expos' GM Omar Minaya has denied these rumours, however, saying that none of his top end guys will be traded.
INJURIES:
No injuries to report.
ON THE FARM:
The Expos farm system is constantly producing gems and this year is no different. Brandon Philips is a young shortstop who hit very well in Double A last season before getting his late season call up.
The best young player in the system is left fielder Brad Wilkerson. He has a chance of making the team this year and will share that position with Jose Canseco.
QUICK VIEW:
Add: Carl Pavano (new)- A very good young pitcher who could put up some surprising numbers.
Scott Strickland (new)- The Expos' closer could be useful for teams who really need some saves.
Drop: None
