Devil Rays Stock Orlando with Hot Prospects
April 1, 2003 - Southern League (SL1)
Orlando Rays News Release
Orlando, FL â Pitching prospects Jon Switzer, Brian Stokes and Doug Waetcher and hitting prospects Jonny Gomes and Antonio Perez highlight the Orlando Rays 2003 Opening Day roster. In all the O-Rays opening day roster will feature five of the parent club's top 30 prospects (as ranked by Baseball America).
The O-Rays are relying on strong performances from their starting rotation and bullpen, as several of the D-Rays top pitching prospects will take the hill for Orlando. Highlights of the O-Rays hurlers include (2002 season stats in parentheses):
- RHP Brian Stokes (10-7, 3.26 at Class A Bakersfield); has fanned 349 hitters in 401.2 innings during his four-year minor league career
- LHP Jon Switzer (7-5, 4.27 at Bakersfield); struck out 129 hitters in 103.1 innings
- RHP Evan Rust (1-4, 2.83, 31 saves at Bakersfield); led entire Tampa organization in saves
In contrast to the new-look pitching staff, seven of the Rays' 12 position players spent all or part of the 2002 season in Orlando. Among those returning to Orlando are infielders Jace Brewer and Dan Grummitt, as well as outfielders Matt Diaz and Amado German. Notable position player additions include:
- OF Jonny Gomes (.278-30-72 at Bakersfield), who led the Rays' minors in several offensive categories, including runs, total bases, homeruns and walks
- INF Antonio Perez (.258-2-24 with Mariners Class AA club), who has battled injuries the last two seasons but is rated the Devil Rays' no. 5 position prospect and no.8 overall
Members of the media can meet new O-Rays' skipper Charlie Montoyo and all the newest O-Rays at the 2003 Orlando Rays Media Day on Friday April 11. Media Day is scheduled from 2-4 p.m. with the O-Rays 2003 home opener against the Tennessee Smokies to follow at 7:05. Please contact O-Rays' Media Relations Coordinator Bill Mayville for further details.
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Southern League Stories from April 1, 2003
- Devil Rays Stock Orlando with Hot Prospects - Orlando Rays
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