Chows add Another Pick

Illinois Times -- 01/17/08

Illinois Adds Pick Subtracts Thomas

Illinois was able to add another draft pick to their Inventory today by dealing DH Frank Thomas. For Thomas, Illinois aquired the VFS 4th round pick. Illinois now has 7 picks in the first four rounds including 3 in the 1st.

GM Brad Sherlag explained the move as follows, "We really had too many guys that don't play defense well on our team. Using a roster spot for someone without a position really limits Morandini's ability to sub in defensive replacements late in the game. We appreciate the season Frank had for us last year and know he will do well in Vermont. I am confident that whoever we choose with the 4th will get more playing time than Frank would have." As you probably already know, the Chows intentions are to DH Ramirez this year and obtain a better fielding everyday shortstop.

17-Man Roster Date Approaches Quickly

With today's Thomas trade, the Chows will be able to keep one more player who is on the bubble or enter the Supplemental Draft. There are 14 players solidly on the roster leaving 3 spots for Vidro, Iguchi, Kearns, Gagne and Teahen to fight for. Assuming Sherlag makes no more deals, he will have some tough decisions over the next couple of days. The smart money is on Teahen and Kearns to make it and Iguchi to be cut. Apparently the font office is split on Gagne and Vidro.

No Update on Draft Location

The Chows are still waiting to hear back from the NASBL offices to see if Seventies Stadium will host the upcoming draft. The Times will announce ticket information if the Chows win their bid. The lack of amenties (think folding tables and plastic lawn furniture chairs) is making their bid difficult. The Chows maintain that ratings will increase on ESPN 2 if the hometown team goes to the podium three times in the first round. "Chow fans have not ahd a lot to get excited about -- this draft is likely to be the highlight of the franchises existence so far. We plan on distirbuting free tickets to our season ticket holders if we win the bid." After two dismal seasons, the Chows have less than 2,000 season tickets sold for next season.

Of course if the first two drafts are any indication -- it could be a lowlight. From the draft two years ago, Illinois will only still have Glavine (a supplemental pick) and possibly Teahen or Iguchi. First pick Capuano is almost sure to be cut. Not a lot to show for their first effort.