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MWL1 Cedar Rapids Kernels

Espinoza set to join Cedar Rapids rotation

August 31, 2005 - Midwest League (MWL1)
Cedar Rapids Kernels News Release


August 31, 2005 - One day after starting pitcher Ronnie Ray was traded to the San Francisco Giants, the Kernels learned hard throwing left-handed pitcher Gustavo Espinoza will join the team today from Rookie Level Orem of the Pioneer League.

Espinoza, who signed with the Angels as a Free Agent in February of 2004, began the season with the Mesa Angels in the Arizona League. The Venezuelan born hurler dominated AZL hitters in 12 starts and 1 relief appearance. Over the course of 70 1/3 innings Espinoza struck out 78 and walked just 12. He posted a 5-3 record with a 3.84 ERA in Mesa and struck out a season-high 10 batters in his last outing against the AZL Mariners before joining the Owlz.

While with the Angels' Pioneer League entry Espinoza made just one appearance, a two inning stint on Sunday at home against Idaho Falls. His lone outing for Orem wasn't a memorable one as he surrendered two runs on three hits over just two innings out of the bullpen.

Espinoza will most likely take the spot in the starting rotation that was vacated by Ray when the righty was sent to the Giants along with former Kernel Dusty Bergman for major league left-hander Jason Christiansen on Tuesday afternoon. He'll make his first and only regular season start for the Kernels on Friday when Cedar Rapids opens a crucial season-ending four-game series at Kane County. The Cougars - along with Beloit - currently hold a one game edge over the Kernels for the second and final Western Division playoff spot.

With the addition of Espinoza, who will arrive in Cedar Rapids just prior to tonight's 7 p.m. game with the first place Swing of the Quad Cities, the Kernels' roster returns to the Midwest League maximum of 25 active players.

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