This Team Bites: Blog of the Crystal Lake Sandgnats
Gnats Extend Contracts and Avoid Arbitration with Four Players (30/8)
By: Stephanie Dole
October 23, 2030 at 09:30 PM CST
With the off-season unfortunately in full swing for the Gnats earlier than we would like; GM RJ Ermola met with the press today to announce another round of contact extensions to avoid arbitration with a core unit of players. Still reeling from the divisional loss against Aurora, he read from a script and then walked out avoiding any questions from the press. As he exited the room, he could be heard muddling under his breath, "shutup Howard," in response to (@HowardHeskin1) yelling at a question about current negotiations with Catcher Tony Parker, who is entering his last year of team control.
LF Gabe Moran agreed to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $8,978,000 to avoid arbitration. Moran who will be free agent eligible next season has contributed with stellar offensive production since joining the Gnats mid-season in 2029. With 632 at bats this season, Moran batted with an average of .311; on base percentage of .320 and chipped in with 32 home runs, besting his mark of 31 last season. At 28 years of age he has been solid at left field with a +3.6ZR and a .976 fielding percentage.
2B Gareth Bugler agreed to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $625,000 to avoid arbitration. The defensive specialist and utility option is able to play all infield positions and added center-field back up to his abilities last season. The 25-year old Bugler is known as the young leader and popular in the club house; the glue that holds the bench together.
2B Wynn Berry agreed to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $3,620,000 to avoid arbitration. Berry who filled in for the half the season on behalf of 2B Choe, was stellar as a particular left handed pitching specialist while batting with an over all OPS plus of 106; slightly above league average. Berry was able to successfully play 3rd base upon Choe's return from injury and put up better numbers verse right handed pitching than 3B Ed Brown.
C Allen Wells agreed to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $903,000 to avoid arbitration. Wells has continued his steady presence on C Tony Parker's off days with particular strength pinch hitting verses left handed pitching. His presence over the last 2.5 seasons after being acquired from West Virginia has helped the Gnats win percentage verses left handed pitching significantly during that period.
RP Kyle Weaver agreed to a 1-year contract extension worth a total of $1,650,000 to avoid arbitration. Setup-man Weaver, who was stellar during the Aurora series has proven himself to be an invaluable member of the bullpen since signing a minor league deal in 2027; where he quickly developed after earning a September call up that same season.