Looking At the Changes

(click on chart for larger view)

First, here’s an updated chart on the pitching with additions (Abreu) and deletions (Julio and DeSalvo). Nelson really jumped up, but that is surely for the short term.

The Rays acquired a catcher (Gregg Zaun from the Orioles) and Michel Hernandez has been designated for assignment. That means that if no one claims him he could come to Durham. I sure hope so, because I really like Hernandez and I think our pitchers could use an experienced catcher. By the way, catcher Shawn Riggans is on the 15-day disabled list.

Marc Lancaster of the Tampa Tribune reports that the Rays have claimed a left hand relief pitcher from Milwaukee named R. J. Swindle. Terrific season in Nashville (AAA, Pacific Coast League), but not good (terrible) numbers when he went up to Milwaukee in July (appeared in 3 games, 4 innings, gave up 8 runs). Swindle could be coming to Durham, which would complicate our pitching situation a bit.