MINERS INTRODUCE GARVEY, HINT MORE ON THE WAY

At a press conference at the MLB Radio Fans.com Field of Dreams, the Gold River Miners formally introduced their new first baseman, Steve Garvey. “We found a good fit with Old Mill,” GM Mitch Watnik explained.
“While the price we paid was dear in Willie Mays Aikens and Joe Niekro, we felt that Garvey is going to be our first baseman for a while. That made the loss Aikens more bearable. Niekro was serving as our fifth starter and long man and we felt we had a surplus there, too.
We know that Niekro has a long future and we wish him success with Old Mill.”

Miners’ manager Jasper Nelson said that Garvey most likely will hit fifth in the order, but might hit third against certain lefties.
“Garvey is also a big defensive upgrade,” Nelson said, “and he allows Hebner to play a utility role in the infield.” When asked about how the roles on the team would change, Nelson said that Sanguillen would likely be a pinch-hitter and he hinted either Stennett or Ontiveros might be sent down in the short term in favor of Mac Scarce, who was also acquired in the deal. Nelson was pressed about the bullpen and said “Guys are still finding their roles. I think we have a solid pen, but would like to see someone step up- or perhaps acquired- who would be closer to ‘spectacular.’ With the glut of infielders, including a couple on the farm, and 5 guys who could be in the outfield everyday, I would not be surprised if there was another move.”

When asked if the Miners were working on another deal, Watnik grinned and said “next question.”

The Miners return from the road and Garvey will wear the Miners’ colors for the first time. “I am looking forward to being in the playoffs for the Gold River fans,” the charismatic first baseman said..