It’s that time of year again. No, not preparing for the holidays (well that too!), but to start putting the club together for the upcoming season. I’ve often said the best time to be a manager in Indy baseball is from the middle of September to the end of November. There’s really not much to do except send out option letters. I must admit my first two years as manager, I made myself crazy feeling like I had to have 12 to 15 players signed by January 1. I’ve become much more relaxed and patient when it comes to getting names on contracts this time of year. In fact, I prefer to wait until February and March to do the bulk of my roster building. With that being said, I think at times I drive Andrew crazy with my preference to wait.
The 2010 roster building is off to a pretty good start. I’m very excited about the Eggleston trade. As much as I didn’t want to move Andrew Cruse, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to bring in a guy like Aharon Eggleston. In my opinion, he has gotten better each year both offensively and defensively. As everyone knows, he covers a lot of ground in the outfield, which should help our pitching. Offensively, I think he will be a great addition as well. I like the fact that he hits with men in scoring position and walks more than he strikes out, two areas we weren’t very good in last year. Aharon also gives the team a very good at-bat against left-handed pitching, which will make for some interesting decisions to be made by opposing managers late in games.
We have re-signed Zach and Ian, who were two of the best left-handed relievers in the league at the end of last year. We have also agreed to terms with four position players (can’t say who) from last year’s squad that were “BIG” (get it?) contributors to last year’s success. My plan is to have three-quarters of my infield, my DH and three outfielders signed by Christmas.
On a personal note, basketball season has started for the Forney family. David is on the 7th grade team and they won their first game last night 47-40. David had his best game ever, scoring 14 points and grabbing 16 rebounds. Can you tell I’m a proud papa? I coach Christopher’s 10U team. We have our first game this Saturday and we are looking forward to it.
Andrew and I are signed up for the Winnipeg Police Service Half Marathon to run the relay on Sunday, May 2. I will run the first leg and the BOSS will close it out. Sounds like a solid strategy for a last place finish. Come join us to support a great cause. Look at it as an opportunity to chase me around the streets of Winnipeg for six miles to discuss the roster, possible trades and the upcoming season. Click here
if you would like to support the Canadian Cancer Society by pledging our run.
Well, I'm off to get Erik ready for school before venturing on to the roof to hang some Christmas lights. Wish me luck!
Happy Holidays!
-- Rick Forney
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