September Call-Ups in Seattle

AP (SEATTLE) -- The Seattle Monarchs released their list of September call-ups today. While the list included three of the usual suspects, there was one big name: Seattle's top prospect, infielder George "Terminator" Labarre.

Manager John Willer stated that Labarre was not coming up just to soak in the major league atmosphere, but to play. "We're going to be starting him all over the infield, at second, short, and third. We expect him to get six starts in his first week alone, as we rest Gerhardt, 'Gimp' Deleon, and Alustiza for the playoffs."

Joining Labarre as call-ups are catcher Alvin Medina, infielder George Wilde, and oufielder Raymond Rosato. All three spent time on the major league roster earlier this year. No pitchers were promoted, but the Monarchs were already carrying a 12-man staff.

"In addition to playing Labarre a lot, we're going back to using 'Nitro' Granado as our usual starting catcher. That will give Alberto more experience while letting us rest Blassingame and use him as a spot starter and pinch hitter extraordinaire. I'd also expect our starting outfielders and first baseman to start getting some more rest."

These moves follow Seattle's decision a few weeks ago to go to a rigid five-man starting rotation and to stop skipping starts by fifth starter Joseph Macaluso. In addition to resting the Big Three of Placencia, Nelligan, and Hester, the move rewarded Macaluso for his stellar season. The youngster's 2.55 ERA is currently fourth in the league and he paces all of the majors with six complete games and four shutouts.

"We've had a great campaign," said Willer. "Now we're just looking to finish it out playing well, keeping everyone healthy, and peaking for the Cecil Cup series."