Ducks and Rocker part ways
June 27, 2005 - Atlantic League (AtL)
Long Island Ducks News Release
(Central Islip, N.Y., June 27, 2005) - The Long Island Ducks, members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, today announced they have released relief pitcher John Rocker after the lefty reliever decided to take a step back from baseball.
Rocker came to the decision and informed club officials on Monday, two days after his last outing with the Ducks. "After pitching for two months with the Long Island Ducks, the consistency required to pitch at the Major League level, and the consistency I demand from myself, are not where they should be," said Rocker. "As a result, I have elected to take a step back and reevaluate the options available to me."
Prior to departing Long Island, Rocker had this to say about the fans of Long Island and the support he has received since signing in April. "I would like to like to offer a heartfelt thanks to the Long Island fans for being so supportive and accepting," said Rocker. "The warm welcome I received here on Long Island went beyond all my expectations."
In 23 appearances with Long Island, Rocker went 0-2 with a 6.50 ERA. The former Atlanta Brave allowed 18 hits and 28 walks while striking out 19 batters in 18 innings of work.
"We respect John's decision," said Ducks principal owner Frank Boulton. "Obviously, we're disappointed we didn't return him to the majors. We know the talent is there and I'm sure we haven't heard the last from John in baseball. We wish him the best in all of his future endeavors."
The Long Island Ducks, 2004 Atlantic League champions, play their home games at Citibank Park and are in their sixth season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. They have filled their ballpark to over 100 percent capacity in each of their first five seasons and are one of the most successful minor league franchises in the country. For further information, please contact the public relations department at 631-940-3825 or visit www.liducks.com.
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