Trade: River Cities and Hickory pull the trigger

Dateline Marietta 6/24/09: Last night the owners of River Cities and Hickory worked out a classic mid-season deal designed to fill both teams needs.

River Cities acquires from Hickory Center Fielder Alan Callahan, Middle Infielder Eduardo Diaz, and Twenty-year-old Second Base Prospect Robert Quinones in return for sending to Hickory Starting Pitching prospects Alberto Carballo (AAA) and Morris Spellman (AA). In addition, Hickory acquires Center Fielder Gary Giles and Utility Man John Spalding, both at the major league level.

"It's a clear case of dealing from strength regarding our depth of starting pitching." said Paddlewheelers owner Nate Wooley. "Much as I personally like Carballo and Spellman our rotation is largely locked up for the next few years. Barring series of catastrophic injuries those two are better off going someplace they can play and grow into their adult roles."

"For our part being able to upgrade our back up Center Field position and strengthen our outfield is too good to pass up. And Diaz will be a more than adequate replacement for Spalding. I mean, look at the guy: Spalding's hitting .183/.281/.207. I think my grandmother could do that. And with Glatt up to back up Fout we didn't have a strong need for a utility man at all three positions."

Diaz, reached at the Hickory airport said "I've been with the River Cities organization before and I'll be glad to see those guys again. I realize I won't be able to move Tim or Sabertooth out of their starting positions but an opportunity to work with the River Cities coaching staff I think I'll have a real opportunity to learn, grow and someday get back to starting for a major league team. Plus, hey, I just gained 21 games in the standings and I'm in the thick of a race. Should be an exciting time down the stretch."

The players going to Hickory weren't quite so excited. "I know Anton'd been smacking the hell out of the ball this season but I didn't think I deserved a ticket out of town. Who do they think TAUGHT him to hit like that? Me, that's who! Now I've got to go to Hickory and start all over. Well, at least I'll be starting. That'll be good to do again. I don't think they'd have started me no matter what happened."

Spalding was more resigned. "Whatever happens, happens. I'm not going to get a great chance to shine no matter what. I'm just glad to have the opportunity to put on the uniform everyday and maybe angle myself a minor league managing gig in the next few years like that guy in the movie. You think they really have chicks like that Savoy girl in A ball? That would be hot. I'm just glad I've been able to contribute and I did get a Cecil Cup ring out of the deal. It's really shiny."

When reached Callahan refused comment just muttered something about being conflicted over getting into a race but going from starting to being a back up. To this reporter he sounded drunk.