End of an Era

by Hitmen

Thomas Kamien |Trenton, New Jersey | Jan. 11, 2023:

A sad day in New Jersey; the team crushed after going 70-92 and a 5th straight season of no playoffs, our players being driven away before our eyes in trades and free agency, and the lamentations of our fans.

The “Mad Hatter”, a two time All-Leather Award winner at 2B and two time All-Star, Tessier owns or is at the top of almost every Hitmen batting record 10 seasons after becoming the 3rd round pick for the Hitmen in 2011. Although on his final year of a 7 year, $66.6 million contract, and the team being on a long decline now and focused fully on rebuilding again, it makes sense to get what you can for the veteran.

At 33 years old, Tessier is by no means done and will go to a very competitive Rio Grande Valley Ocelots who are primed for a deeper playoff run after a flurry of moves this winter. Early reports are that Tessier will be used in a variety of spots in the line-up and field. The Ocelots could use his bat and his ability to get on base, but won’t be expecting Mario to be in contention for the All-Leather Award.

In return the Hitmen receive 2B Leslie McDonald, MR Martin Cantin, RP Sang-hyuk Pak, and Rio Grande’s picks from the 10-12 round.

McDonald appears to be set to either platoon for the Hitmen this coming year or he will battle for a more significant role in the starting lineup, although this might be tough with the Hitmen going young this year. Cantin looks to be the de facto closer with the trades of both CL Michael Hill and CL Adrik Glindzich this offseason. Pak holds the most promise as another potential piece of the future puzzle at only 18 years only. Pak hails from South Korea and came over after signing a minor league contract with the Ocelots. In SS-A last year Pak went 3-3-1 in 16 games with a 4.31 ERA and a 1.61 WHIP. Pak won’t be rushed through the system and will look to either to start the year in Hi-A Hoboken or SS-A Hilo.

Tessier the class act that he is was quick to take out a full page spread in the Trentonian to thank all his fans. You will be missed Mario.

Releated

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