MAY 21, 2011
GBL opening day was a few days away, but Ken was feeling worried. The day before, he met with his manager, and got some bad news. There wasn't room for him on the active roster currently, so it was looking like he'd be stuck on the reserve roster for the time being. He had a few options: he could wait it out on the reserve roster and hope for a call-up, he could try for a trade with another team in the league, or he could ask for his release and try his luck elsewhere. He said he'd sleep on it, and have a decision by today.
"I think I've made my decision", Ken said. "I appreciate the opportunity you guys have given me, but I don't wanna wait around...I wanna play. I'd like to be released from my contract if I could."
"Well I'm sorry to hear that Ken, you know we love having you here. You're great in the clubhouse. But I understand."
"Thanks, skip. I've had a lot of fun here, but if there's no spot for me I'd prefer to find a team that needs me now."
"OK then. I'll make a few phone calls and see what I can do. Best of luck to you. You've got a lot of heart kid, and you don't give up easy. I'm sure you'll do just fine."
So Ken's time with Calgary has come to an end. Hopefully he gets picked up by somebody soon.
MAY 23, 2011
Ken couldn't believe it...already he had gotten an offer. And not just any offer, it was from the Texas Rangers! Apparently some scouts had been watching him for quite some time, and jumped at the chance to sign him now that he was a free agent. His old GM and manager both raved about him, so Texas decided to offer him a minor league contract. It was a great way to end a tough week.
JUNE 24, 2011
More good news for Ken. He has been assigned to the short-season-A Spokane Indians and named opening day starter! Here's a picture of him in his new uniform:
He gained 5 pounds over the offseason, and here's his new ratings:
STU: 45
MOV: 50
CON: 30
STA: 70
VEL: 90-92
GB%: 58%
FB: 45
SL: 50
CH: 40
So he's improved his stuff and control. His slider and changeup have also showed signs of improvement. Still a long way to go, but he appears to be getting there. Slowly but surely.