[mikev]

Bradford Acquired From Paris

It was big news, and it was a last second deal.

Jeff Bradford is now a California Crusader.

The 29 year old infielder who has spent all but one of his 9(!) seasons with Paris was dealt for a package of Jorge Vazquez, a first round draft pick in 2022, and Donegal Wise, the 22 year old infielder just drafted by the Crusaders.

In Bradford, the Crusaders fill a void at third base created by the underperforming Jason Pope and the lumped to **** Salvador Bernal. A career .314/.366/.450 hitter, Bradford has gotten off to a slow start, hitting only .253 over his first 50 games. He'll be slotted into the #2 spot in the lineup, where his solid contact, good on base skills, and above average baserunning will be utilized in front of Aucoin and Forest.

The team has reportedly contacted Bradford about a long term extension, and hope to have a deal in place before the end of the season, as Bradford is in the final year of his current contract.

There are also rumors that the team is still looking for another pitcher to replace the injured Luigi Kennelly in the rotation, but nothing substantial has surfaced yet.