Flyers announce blockbuster trade
July 27, 2009 - Northern League (NL)
Schaumburg Flyers News Release
SCHAUMBURG, IL - The Schaumburg Flyers sent Northern League All-Star 3B Vince Harrison to the Joliet JackHammers in exchange for Northern League All-Star 3B Andrew Pinckney and RHP Jason Richardson. Adding Pinckney to the middle of the lineup will give manager Mike Busch another left-handed power bat. Pinckney has had an extensive career in affiliated ball, ascending as high as AA in the Red Sox system. He is hitting .268 on the season, with 12 home runs and 32 RBI. Pinckney will be playing third base for the Flyers. "Andrew is another power threat from the left side of the plate that makes us more versatile," said Busch.
The addition of Richardson promises to provide a great boost to the Flyers bullpen. Richardson boasts a 10-year professional career that includes a stint in AAA. He will bring one of the more powerful arms in the league to the back end of the Flyers bullpen or as a starter. Richardson has 4 saves with 55 strikeouts and 2 wins on the season. Busch thinks highly of Richardson as well. "Acquiring Jason gives us a veteran pitcher that will really help out our staff. We're getting a bona fide starter/closer who throws 94-95."
Flyers opening day closer Craig James has been placed on irrevocable waivers following news that he'd require Tommy John surgery. Cephas Howard has filled in well, and could move to the setup role with the acquisition of Richardson, should Busch decide to insert him as the club's closer.
Pinckney and Richardson will make their Flyers debut in a double-header at Alexian Field on Tuesday night against Fargo-Moorhead, with game one beginning at 5:15.
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