Post by steve on Oct 3, 2013 21:32:07 GMT -5
Braves call up ‘Pork Chops’ Amidst High Expectations
Milwaukee - Baseball has finally returned. For the first time since 1901, Milwaukee fans will have something to cheer about. That excitement brings high expectations for a team that finished a disappointing 64-89 last season. Perhaps that's why a 6-6 start has prompted the team to call up young Henry Aaron, affectionately dubbed ‘Pork Chops’ by his teammates.
Despite only playing one year in Eau Claire, Hank has already made a big impression on the fans. Last year, he batted .336 for the Bears with 9 home runs and 61 RBI en route to winning the Northern League Rookie of the Year. His experience extends beyond that, however, as he won the Negro League World Series with the Indianapolis Clowns at the age of 18.
“We’re really excited to have Henry up so early in the season,” manager Charlie Grimm told reporters before the game. “We had a pretty big hole in the lineup, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he’ll do hitting behind Eddie.”
There’s no denying the potential of this Braves lineup. Third baseman Eddie Mathews was called up last season and had an immediate impact, hitting 25 home runs over 145 games. With Mathews off to a quick start this season and now the addition of Aaron, fans are looking ahead to a run for the pennant. “Sure, it’s pretty early to start talking about that kind of thing,” said GM Steve Wyche. “But, we really liked what we saw out of Hank down in Toledo these first few weeks, and we think he gives us the extra edge we need to overtake Brooklyn and St. Louis. Warren Spahn, Eddie Mathews, Hank Aaron…get ready Milwaukee.” Wyche went on to admit that the team certainly had a few weaknesses, but would only hint about the possibility of a trade.
When asked about the lofty expectations, Aaron only smiled. “I can’t speak to any of that. I’m just here to play baseball and help this team win.”
Aaron and Mathews showing off their bats
Milwaukee - Baseball has finally returned. For the first time since 1901, Milwaukee fans will have something to cheer about. That excitement brings high expectations for a team that finished a disappointing 64-89 last season. Perhaps that's why a 6-6 start has prompted the team to call up young Henry Aaron, affectionately dubbed ‘Pork Chops’ by his teammates.
Despite only playing one year in Eau Claire, Hank has already made a big impression on the fans. Last year, he batted .336 for the Bears with 9 home runs and 61 RBI en route to winning the Northern League Rookie of the Year. His experience extends beyond that, however, as he won the Negro League World Series with the Indianapolis Clowns at the age of 18.
“We’re really excited to have Henry up so early in the season,” manager Charlie Grimm told reporters before the game. “We had a pretty big hole in the lineup, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he’ll do hitting behind Eddie.”
There’s no denying the potential of this Braves lineup. Third baseman Eddie Mathews was called up last season and had an immediate impact, hitting 25 home runs over 145 games. With Mathews off to a quick start this season and now the addition of Aaron, fans are looking ahead to a run for the pennant. “Sure, it’s pretty early to start talking about that kind of thing,” said GM Steve Wyche. “But, we really liked what we saw out of Hank down in Toledo these first few weeks, and we think he gives us the extra edge we need to overtake Brooklyn and St. Louis. Warren Spahn, Eddie Mathews, Hank Aaron…get ready Milwaukee.” Wyche went on to admit that the team certainly had a few weaknesses, but would only hint about the possibility of a trade.
When asked about the lofty expectations, Aaron only smiled. “I can’t speak to any of that. I’m just here to play baseball and help this team win.”
Aaron and Mathews showing off their bats
