CyberSox end season by avoiding 100 losses, cellar

San Jose (AP) - September 29, 2004

With a 5-3 loss to the Sylmar Padawans Tuesday night, the 2004 BDBL campaign is finally over for the Silicon Valley CyberSox.

The CyberSox finished the season at 61-99 and Monday's 5-3 win over the Padawan secured 3rd place in the Griffin Division and ensured that the 'Sox would not lose 100 games.

"It's a moral victory in a season chocked full of plenty of moral victories, but much fewer actual victories," GM Greg Newgard said Wednesday morning is his office.

"We've got a lot of work to do in the offseason, but we're pleased with the way the rebuilding has gone. We've turned over the roster completely and feel we have some great pieces to the puzzle already in place."

The CyberSox finished September by going 12-16, which was just good enough to land them the third-worst record, meaning the third spot in the draft order.

"Nashville going 3-25 in the final month was a huge surprise. Sylmar going 7-21 was a bit of a surprise too. But we're not going to complain. We'd much rather be drafting last than first if we had our way."

But with the third pick of the draft, the CyberSox should be able to address their most pressing needs early.

"Looking ahead, we probably want to bring in a veteran shortstop or third basemen to help mentor Jose Lopez and Dallas McPherson as they prepare for their shot in the infield in 2005 or 2006.

"We also are targeting a front of the rotation pitcher as well as another outfielder, probably a right fielder to help add some depth to those areas."

The CyberSox also named their team MVPs today.

Carlos Lee set several offensive records for the current ownership. Carlos hit .300 but mashed 30 home runs and drove in 101 runs, which were team records and career highs.

He also scored 95 runs and slugged .512, also team records and career highs. His 25-game hitting streak was tops in the Ozzie League.

"This was a rough season to go through personally, but I went out and gave my all every day and tried to help lead this team," Lee said as he cleaned out his locker for the offseason.

"This is my fifth team in five seasons and I've really enjoyed it here. I'm looking forward to 2005 and beyond."

CyberSox closer Keith Foulke was named the pitching staff's MVP. His 33 saves were the second-highest total in the BDBL and was one save short of his career high set back in 2003.

His ERA stood at 2.38 and he struck out 95 batters in 94 2/3 innings.

Virdon fired, 'Sox clean house

San Jose (AP) - September 29, 2004

With two seasons of narrowly avoiding the 100-loss plateau, CyberSox manager Bill Virdon was fired today.

"This move was geared to try and shake up the organization and we switch gears from rebuilding to contending," GM Greg Newgard said in a press conference from EA Sports Stadium late Wednesday. "A change needed to be made and we felt the most obvious position was at manager. The hiring process is currently underway."

Virdon had a career record of 123-197 with the organization.

There was no word of how soon the hiring process for Virdon's opening would start. The remainder of the staff was told that they were free to pursue other openings as the new manager would evaluate the staff and make moves accordingly.

Silicon Valley adds arm, releases Reyes

San Jose (AP) - August 29, 2004

For the final free agent deadline of the season, the Silicon Valley CyberSox made one final move to help bolster the rotation for next season.

Noah Lowry, who was released by the Allentown Ridgebacks in June, was signed for the remainder of the season.

To make room, the 'Sox released Rene Reyes, who was acquired from the Ravenswood Infidels in a somewhat controversial move earlier in the season in exchange for reliever Scott Williamson.

"Given our outfield situation, we didn't really see a spot for Reyes," GM Greg Newgard announced. "Lowry will come in and finish the season in the minors, and will compete for a spot in the rotation during spring training.

Reyes batted a dismal .222 with one home run, 7 RBI and 12 runs scored in just 90 ABs this season, mainly as a pinch hitter.

"The outfield will be short and we aren't getting any reinforcements from the September callups, but the guys that are still here should be able to get the job done," Newgard added.

Several pitchers, including highly touted pitching prospect Chin-Hui Tsao, expect to see some action over the final month.

"We're going to gives some guys a look as starters as well as give us some more options in the bullpen so that we can spread the work around and make sure we don't have any injuries"

Short-handed CyberSox continue to surprise

San Jose (AP) - August 28, 2004

For most teams, playing two games below .500 would not be mark to be proud of. But for the CyberSox, who were a team that went 13-46 in the first two months of the season, going 36-40 is something near miraculous.

"I can't explain how we are winning ballgames, but we're not complaining," GM Greg Newgard said.

"I mean we've traded away a starting SS, two starting OF, a starting C, 4 relievers and two starters. That's 10 players off of our opening day 25-man roster and we're playing better now that we were with all of those guys."

August started off well as the CyberSox went to Slymar and took 3 of 4 from the Padawans, including huge 13-2 and 10-4 wins. But a trip to Los Altos sure stripped the 'Sox of that momentum as the Undertakers continued to  own the CyberSox by taking all four and so far all 12 this season.

"Los Altos is just a beast right now," Newgard added. "I mean it always seems our offense disappears, but that's a credit to their pitching staff as much as anything."

After 8 on the road, the 'Sox returned home to take on the Bear Country Jamboree and took 3 of 4. Then the Stamford Zoots came to town and promptly took 3 of 4.

The highlight of the season was a four-game sweep of the Gillette Swamp Rats in home-and-home split series.

"That was just a case of this team playing well and clicking on all cylinders. We got big hits, timely pitching and good relief work," Newgard said.

Two more split series against Salem and Marlboro resulted in only one win against each that put the CyberSox at 13-15 for the month.

Big highlights from the month included:

• Robin Ventura's 3-homer game against Bear Country on August 9th.

• Two thrilling 9th inning comebacks against the Jamboree.

• The lone win of the Salem series was a 13-0 shutout, the biggest shutout in team history.

The hitting star of August was new addition Rondell White. The OF split time between CF and RF and managed to hit 6 HRs and drive in 18 RBIs, slugging 1.025 in 25 games.

From a pitching standpoint, Freddy Garcia finally started showing what a #1 pitcher is supposed to do as he went 4-1 with a 3.43 ERA, easily his best month of the season. His .722 ERA allowed and 1.17 WHIP were also tops for the campaign.

Silicon Valley trades all-time hit leader

San Jose (AP) - July 26, 2004

In a season that has seen the CyberSox trade eight players in six deals, the 'Sox have made two more deals before the trading deadline.

The biggest deal involved sending career hit leader and SS Orlando Cabrera to the Allentown Ridgeback for OF Rondell White and P Brett Prinz.

"This was a tough deal to make," GM Greg Newgard said. "Along with Freddy Garcia, Orlando has been a cornerstone of this franchise and has turned in some big years here. We just felt the time was right to move him even though we traded a hole in the OF for a hole at SS."

Cabrera was the all-time team leader in plate appearances (2279), at-bats (2102), hits (563), runs (284) and doubles (144) and was only five games behind former 'Sox catcher for games played (537).

The other deal sends relief pitcher Chris Hammond to the Gillette Swamp Rats for minor league prospect J.D. Durbin.

"That's a simple now for later deal, but we've got to cut a minor league prospect," Newgard said. "We can only carry 15, so we have to decide what we are going to do."

Silicon Valley continues to play spoiler

San Jose (AP) - July 25, 2004

Despite a full-blown rebuilding effort, the Silicon Valley CyberSox kept building on their momentum from the last chapter to go 12-12 in July as they try to break out of the BDBL cellar.

"I still don't know how we are doing this," CyberSox GM Greg Newgard said. "The more players we deal, the more wins we get. This is a crazy game sometimes."

With a month facing five Ozzie League teams with playoff aspirations, the 'Sox acquitted themselves well.

After getting swept in the opening series of the month to the New Milford Blazers, the 'Sox hosted the defending champion Stamford Zoots.

But the 'Sox were not intimidated by the OL Wild Card leaders, they took into the Zoots and put up 7 or more runs in all four games, including rallying from a six-run deficit in the series finale to win in extra innings, 9-7. The CyberSox took the series from the Zoots, 3-1.

When the Marlboro Hammerheads came to San Jose, the 'Sox kept the momentum rolling by taking the opener, but then succumbed to a feeding frenzy as Marlboro took the final three.

But then the 'Sox got really hot by going to Salem and splitting with the Butler Division leaders. Then the 'Sox took the next two series, 3-1, hosting Manchester and traveling to Gillette.

"We're going into a lot of series outmatched," manager Bill Virdon said, "but I admire this team for going out and not rolling over. We've got some big series within our division and we hope to be able to keep this up."

The players of the month for the 'Sox were Keith Foulke and Orlando Cabrera. Foulke compiled a 0.45 ERA with 7 saves in 20 innings over 13 games. Foulke was called on for several multiple inning saves. Cabrera hit .343 with 10 doubles, 18 runs scored and 6 stolen bases. 

Lee's streak ends at 25

San Jose (AP) - July 3, 2004

Vicente Padilla managed to get Carlos Lee to fly out three times and although Lee reached base in the 3rd inning, the official scorer ruled the ball an error on Blazer first basemen Todd Helton, ending Lee's hitting streak at 25 games.

"I had some good swings today, but I just couldn't get anything to fall in," Lee said afterward. "It's been a pretty exciting month. I'm just glad that I'm swinging the bat well."

The team record of 31 games was set by Todd Walker in the inaugural 1999 season for the Virginia Cavaliers.

The streak started on June 2nd with a 2-for-4 effort against the South Carolina Sea Cats. During the streak, Lee has been red hot with a .396 batting average with 8 HR and 39 RBIs. His OPS was 1.135.

CyberSox sign three to bolster minors

San Jose (AP) - June 27, 2004

Having the worst record in the league is only good for a few things and they all revolve around rebuilding a team.

The CyberSox today took another step by taking advantage of their place to select three minor league prospects to help the rebuilding process along.

Silicon Valley selected college closer Huston Street with the first overall pick. In the 2nd round, the 'Sox nabbed J.P. Howell, a teammate of Street at the University of Texas and a lefty starter.

"Grabbing those Longhorns was not something I was found of," CyberSox general manager Greg Newgard said. "I grew up in Texas and it's drilled into your head about how good Texas Longhorn baseball is. But, we felt these two young men would be the best move to add some depth and youth to our minor league rosters."

In the 3rd round, the 'Sox grabbed OF Willy Tavares.

"We feel Tavares is one of those prototypical leadoff hitters that everyone covets," Newgard explained. "We know the stolen base is pretty devalued, but we think Tavares has the tools to play a fine CF in the bigs someday and be a good leadoff hitter and will put pressure on opposing defenses."

The 'Sox also grabbed utility player Jose Macias to help fill in the holes at 2B and in the OF with loss of Jay Payton.

"Macias will come in a give us some at bats in the OF to help out since most of our trades have left us very thin out there."

CyberSox shine in All-Star Game

Cleveland (AP) - June 26, 2004

A 7-run 2nd inning propelled the Eck League to an 8-5 victory at Cleveland's Rocks Park.

The Eck League got 3-run HR's by Cliff Floyd and Barry Bonds to erase an early 3-1 deficit and the Eck League bullpen was able to make it stand up.

The reason that the Eck League was behind 3-1 in the second inning was because of the CyberSox All-Star OF Carlos Lee who hit his own 3-run jack in the second inning.

Todd Helton and Bret Boone had both singled off of Eck League starter Roy Halladay when Lee came to the plate. On a 1-1 fastball, Lee pulled one to deep left to put the Ozzie team up.

Lee would also ground out to shortstop in the 4th and 6th innings.

'Sox CF Jay Payton played the whole game in center and went 1-for-5 when he lead off the 3rd inning with a single off of Pedro Martinez.

Reliever Keith Foulke pitched a scoreless 1 1/3 innings allowing only a double to Albert Pujols.

The 'Sox representation and results were far better than last year's performance by former catcher Dan Wilson who went 0-for-4 for the Eck side back when the then Hosuton Heatwave were part of the Eck League.

Three CyberSox named to All-Star Team

San Jose (AP) - June 25, 2004

Even though the Silicon Valley CyberSox are dead last in the BDBL standings at 24-56, three CyberSox players were named to today's All-Star Game.

Jay Payton, who was recently traded to the Kansas Law Dogs but will play in the CyberSox uniform for the game, was named the starter in center field and will hit in the leadoff spot.

Carlos Lee, who was signed in the 2004 Auction, will start in left field and will hit 8th.

In addition to the two player who were voted in, Keith Foulke was named to the Ozzie League pitching staff as a reliever.

The only other position player who made the ballot was shortstop Orlando Cabrera, but the Ozzie team only took one true shortstop and Alex Rodriqeuz of Bear Country was named to the team.

Payton finished his half of the season with the CyberSox with a .328 average with 18 home runs and 59 RBI. Lee started slowly, but picked up the last two months to hit .320 with 13 HR and 53 RBI.

Foulke, the CyberSox closer, has a 2.08 ERA in 34 2/3 innings and is 2-3 with 16 saves and has struck out 41 batters.

Cabrera had .306 and has scored 56 runs and stolen 13 bases.

CyberSox continue overhaul with two more deals

San Jose (AP) - June 25, 2004

The Silicon Valley CyberSox continue their pattern of shipping off their most productive players for help next season. In one deal, the CyberSox agreed to send CF Jay Payton and RP Mike Stanton to the Kansas Law Dogs in return for RP Salomon Torres and SP Eric Milton. In another, the 'Sox sent P Ron Villone to the Salem Cowtippers in exchange for P Ryan Drese.

During the press conference to announce the deal with Kansas, CyberSox GM Greg Newgard said "This move is a little of a gamble for us in taking on Milton who is currently rehabbing from knee surgery. But our scouts report that his rehab progress is good and while he won't suit up for this season, we get a chance to sign him long-term if we want for 2005 and beyond."

"We hate to ship off Payton as he is our biggest run producers, but we didn't feel we could re-sign him in '05, especially not at 5M, so instead of letting him walk, we get a shot to get a young lefty to add to our rotation next season."

"Of course, if Milton can't make it back, then we feel the deal would end up a wash in '05 and we'd only be hurt this season, but with our record, we're trying to focus on next year."

Payton led the team with 18 home runs, 59 runs batted in and a .328 batting average. Torres will come in during the final year of his contract and add some innings to a bullpen who has been a little thin with other deals.

The loss of Payton will leave the 'Sox somewhat short in the OF as Lanyce Nix will move to CF, Brady Clark will be the primary RF and names like Rene Reyes, Ben Petrick and Migeul Cairo will try to fill in where needed.

"Right field will be an area for us to look to upgrade in '05, but we felt it would be easier to get a RF that another starter in the auction and draft and we'll have a little more money now to do it with," Newgard added

When asked about the Villone-Drese deal, Newgard simply stated "This was a case of this season versus next. Villone fills a need for Salem this year, while Drese will come in a compete for a spot in the rotation for us next year."

Silicon Valley rebounds with 11-13 month

San Jose (AP) - June 25, 2004

After going two months with 13 wins and despite trading away two-thirds of their starting outfield, three starting pitchers, two relievers and a catcher, the Silicon Valley CyberSox broke out in a big way during June to post an 11-win chapter and were one game from being .500.

"We always knew this team would come around," manager Bill Virdon said. "It's just a shame we had to wait for June to do it."

The rag-tag group of players that are looking ahead to 2005 while playing out the string of games left this season, they managed to win series from Wapakoneta and Litchfield and split with Southern California and kept from getting swept in the other three series.

The main reason for the improvement was the hitting. The 'Sox had struggle to hit .250 in the first two months, but the team amassed a .288 average in June and while the top four hitters in their order each hit over .300 with the exception of Orlando Hudson who hit .298.

Carlos Lee was named hitter of the month as he led the team with a .388 average, 8 home runs and 21 RBI while posting a 1.125 OPS.

The pitching was slightly improved as the 'Sox had a 5.13 ERA for the month, a run lower than the 6.13 ERA they posted through the first two months.

Jeroime Robertson posted the biggest improvement as he went 2-1 in 6 starts with a 4.63 ERA.

Silicon Valley posts dismal 5-23 month

San Jose (AP) - May 30, 2004

When you post an 8-20 opening chapter and are effectively out of the division race, you'd like to see a little better effort than the one put forth by the Silicon Valley CyberSox as they were swept three times and only managed one series split.

The 'Sox started off by dropping the first eight games to New Milford and Manchester. The team tried to rebound by splitting the next six games after taking one from Ravenswood and the first two from Litchfield, but they'd go 2-12 the rest of the way dropping the final two with the Lightning, and losing 3 of 4 from Bear Country and Sylmar while being swept by Los Altos.

"When you post a 6.81 ERA in a month, you're not going to win very many games," GM Greg Newgard said.

Keith Foulke was the hottest pitcher for the 'Sox as he saved all five CyberSox victories and allowed only 1 earned run in 12 innings of work. Jarrod Washburn posted a 2-2 record with a 4.50 ERA before being shipped out to the Bear Country Jamboree.

Jay Payton continued to pace the offense as he hit .358 with 6 HR and 21 RBI. Payton now stands at 14 HR and 41 RBI, marks that are tied for 6th and 8th respectively in the Ozzie League.

Carlos Lee and Wes Helms rebounded from dismal starts to both hit over .300 for May and Helms tied Payton with 6 HR and fell one RBI short.

CyberSox move another starting pitcher

San Jose (AP) - May 30, 2004

The rebuilding process continues as the CyberSox continue to send expiring contract to playoff contenders for younger players. Today, the 'Sox shipped pitcher Kirk Rueter off to the Gillette Swamp Rats for catcher Gerald Laird.

""We're excited about the direction the club is taking," CyberSox GM Greg Newgard. "With Laird, we've added another fine catching prospect and expect him to be in a position to help the ballclub next year. We think the moves we've made this chapter will go a long way toward our success in 2005.

"Kirk's performance here wasn't indicative of the type of pitcher he is. Hopefully he can turn in around in Gillette."

Rueter was signed after the 2003 auction to a 2-year 13M contract, but did not live up to expectations going 8-21 in 47 starts and compiling a 5.39 ERA over two season for the CyberSox. His 10.04 ERA and 0-7 record this season was the worst numbers on a bad pitching staff.

"With the addition of Mr. Rueter to our rotation, already consisting of Radke, Lowe and Wells, we feel that the Gillette ball club is now primed to make a run at the postseason. The recent losses of Blanton and Laird will set back our farm team some, but after 2 months of play, we find ourselves within striking distance and had to make these sacrifices." Gillette GM Johnny Bo continued, "Make no doubt about it, our hat's in the ring."

CyberSox continue to trim roster

San Jose (AP) - May 29, 2004

As the CyberSox continue to struggle with another dismal chapter of baseball, the team announced today that staff 'ace' Jarrod Washburn had been traded to Griffin Division rivals, the Bear Country Jamboree.

In return for Washburn, the CyberSox received outfield Laynce Nix, brother of CyberSox farmhand Jayson Nix, and pitcher Chris Reitsma and farm catcher Koyie Hill.

"We are pleased to get some quality players for Jarrod," GM Greg Newgard said in a press conference today. "We weren't actively shopping him this soon, but [Bear Country General Manager] Matt Clemm gave us a great offer out of the blue."

"We were doubly surprised when Nix's name was mentioned as we were under the impression that Nix was untouchable. Jarrod's contract was up and we knew we'd have a hard time getting this kind of deal down the road."

Washburn will join Hideo Nomo and Randy Wolf to help solidify the Jamboree rotation.

Nix will be moved to the 35-man roster and will probably platoon in right field with Brady Clark to help offset the at bats lost when Larry Walker was traded. Reitsma will join the pitching staff, but it is unclear whether he will start or relieve.

Hill should join the AAA Yosemite Kodiak as the starting catcher. It's unclear which two players will be released to make room, but initial indication points to farmhand Brian Sanches and OF Jeffrey Hammonds. That could change if other trades are completed this chapter.

CyberSox start dumping roster early

San Jose (AP) - April 28, 2004

The Silicon Valley CyberSox announced two trades today as Larry Walker and Greg Myers were sent to the defending champ Stamford Zoots while Scott Williamson was sent to the Ravenswood Infidels.

"It's only been one month, but it's clear we need to start looking at 2005," GM Greg Newgard said. "The slow start is only part of it. We've got a good salary situation and we were able to get some cheap quality youth that will help going into next season."

Silicon Valley received 1B Hee-Seop Choi and C/OF Ben Petrick from the Zoots while netting OF Rene Reyes from the Infidels.

"Reyes will go in and platoon with Piatt and Clark in RF while Choi will naturally fit in at first with Ben Broussard. Petrick will catch, but we will be looking for an long-term solution down the road.

Losing streak mars opening chapter

San Jose (AP) - April 28, 2004

A 10-game losing streak in the middle of April has cast a pall over the Silicon Valley CyberSox.

"That was a tough stretch when it seemed nothing went right," manager Bill Virdon said. "We'd either get good pitching and no offense or we'd get blown away."

The main culprit is the offense and the quality of the opponents as the team was 1-17 when behind after 7 innings.

"The ratio of wins to losses in that situation isn't that far out of line," general manager Greg Newgard said, "but it's the fact that we were behind 18 times in the 28 games. You can't win consistently like that."

On offense, it's not hard to find the culprits.

Wes Helms finished the month of April with a .180 batting average with 1 HR, 3 RBI and 28 strikeouts. Ben Broussard hit .216 and Orlando Hudson hit .191. Charles Johnson posted a .175 average.

"Four starters around .200 or below? That's a recipe for disaster," Newgard said.

The pitching wasn't much better. Jarrod Washburn and Freddy Garcia were an average 1-2 punch in the rotation, the back end was horrible. Kirk Ruter, who is scheduled to make 6.5M this season, had a 9.21 ERA and allowed eight HRs in six starts and 28 1/3 innings of work.

The bullpen was shaky at times, but pitched a lot of innings due to starters not going long enough.

There were some good performances that stood out. Jay Payton hit 8 HR putting him near the top of the Ozzie League standings. Orlando Cabrera earned Player Of the Month honors by hitting .347 over 118 ABs with 18 runs scored and six stolen bases in the leadoff position.

Keith Foulke also managed to post five saves in the 'Sox eight wins and went 2-1 with a 3.38 ERA in just under 11 innings pitched.

Experts predict woeful 2004 for 'Sox

San Jose (AP) - March 27, 2004

Today, the BDBL league office released simultaneous polls for the upcoming season and in both polls, the Silicon Valley CyberSox are not expected to fare well in 2004.

The annual BDBL season preview was published and in it, the CyberSox were slated to be last in the Griffin Division. Additional, the new BDBL Power Rankings were released in which the 'Sox were placed 18th out of 24 teams.

"The polls don't hit fastballs," 3B Wes Helms said during one of the final preseason workouts as EA Sports Stadium Wednesday. "No one expects us to do well, but we have faith and we're going to go out and surprise some people this season."

After compiling 62 wins in 2003, the Rankings predict a 10 game improvement at 72-88, which would be 3rd in the Griffin.

"72 wins?" manager Bill Virdon asked. "I think this team has more than 72 in them. I think this offense alone can power us to 80. I really do."

The season will kick off in a few days as the CyberSox travel to take on the consensus preseason favorite in the Griffin Division, the Los Altos Undertakers.

"It'd be nice to go up them and give them a little punch in the mouth to let them know that we're gunning for them," Helms added.

CyberSox ready for 2004

San Jose (AP) - March 26, 2004

The Silicon Valley CyberSox have finished their draft, gone through the March workouts and are now prepared to start the 2004 BDBL season in a new new city, a new stadium and a new league.

"We're looking forward to the season and are ready to take this team out on the road and see how she handles," CyberSox GM Greg Newgard said during final workouts at EA Sports Stadium. "We're eager to see what the Ozzie League has in store for us."

If the 2004 CyberSox are going to enjoy a successful season, they are going to need to get out of the gate quickly. In the month of April, the Sox face all three Griffin Division rivals, and three of the strongest Ozzie teams that are outside of the division, the defending champion Stamford Zoots, the Salem Cowtippers and the Marlboro Hammerheads.

"We know that we're got a long climb in front of us, but we have to get out strong and hold our own," CyberSox pitcher Jarrod Washburn said. "We're the new kid in town and we can afford to take some lumps with this schedule."

"The pitching staff is not the deepest we've had," manager Bill Virdon said, "but we're going to have to make do. We'll put our best effort and let the chips fall."

The CyberSox offense looks to be in good shape with the moves made in the offseason. The starting outfield is all new as Larry Walker and Carlos Lee came to the club in pre-season trades and Jay Payton was added in the draft.

"We've definitely upgrade out there," Newgard said. "That could be an 100-homer trio in this new park."

The infield returns three CyberSox in 1B Ben Broussard, SS Orlando Cabrera and 3B Wes Helms. Orlando Hudson also came over in a trade and will anchor second.

"The infield defense is going to be very strong and we've got power on the corners, exactly what you'd want in an infield," Virdon said.

Catching duties will be split between veterans Greg Myers and Charles Johnson.

The rotation may be the weak link on the squad as the team wasn't able to upgrade anywhere significantly. Jarrod Washburn, Freddy Garcia, Kirk Reuter and Jeroime Robertson all return and Ron Villone was added as the team's 5th starter.

"We weren't able to overhaul the entire team, but we felt offense was our top priority after the horrible effort in '03," Newgard said. "We also addressed the bullpen, so we have the flexibility to add the starters during the season, if we think it would be a good move."

Keith Foulke was picked up in the auction and will close for the squad. Bullpen additions Scott Williamson, Chris Hammond and Mike Stanton we join returnees Carlos Silva and Al Levine.

Washburn was announced as the Opening Day starters when the CyberSox travel to Los Altos to take on the Undertakers. Last season, Jamie Moyer of the Undertakes threw a no-hitter against the then Houston Heatwave. Garcia will fit in the second slot while Villone will spot start in the third slot. Reuter will anchor the four-man rotation.

"Washburn and Garcia will make their starts, but the last two spots will see some fluctuation as we try out some other guys in there," Virdon said. "We've got 7 starters on the 35-man roster, so everyone will get to start at some point. Danny Graves will even spot even though we've got him slated to be our long reliever."

After Los Altos, the CyberSox will travel to Bear Country to take on the Jamboree. Then the Sox return home to face the last Griffin opponent, the Sylmar Padawans.

After the Padawans, the CyberSox continue the 12-game homestand as Salem and the Gillette Swamp Rats come to the Valley. Then the Sox hit the road to close out Chapter 1 by visiting Marlboro and Stamford.

"We're going to see the best of the best on the road," Virdon said. "If we can hold out and play .500 ball, we'll have a chance."

Draft Recap

San Jose (AP) - January 25, 2004

CyberSox start draft with OF Payton

San Jose (AP) - January 12, 2004

After making no more noise in the 2004 BDBL Auction, the Silicon Valley CyberSox Free Agent Draft started in late Monday evening with the selection of Jay Payton to fill their centerfield spot for 5M.

"We've had two centerfielders targeted in the opening round," GM Greg Newgard said. "We figured under all of the scenarios we could think of, we would get one of them, so this was no real big surprise. We've kept our budget in such a way that we'd have enough finances to make this pick.

"We chose Payton over Preston Wilson, because we feel Jay is a more versatile OF capable of playing on the corners and is better defensively too. He also has a little better strike zone command than Preston. He'll fit nicely between Walker and Lee in the outfield."

The 5M pick did have ramifications on the rest of the CyberSox budget. They came into the free agent portion with only 10.9M and needing 15 players, so they spent nearly half of their available money on this one pick.

"We targeted several outfielders in the auction, but couldn't really find one that would fit our needs that would be in our price range. Knowing we could get one if the opening round was a safety net we had that allowed us to go out and get someone like Keith Foulke.

"We're spending money to address our key needs and we'll go bargain shopping for the rest. We feel there is enough production out their that we should be able to fill out the squad with little problems."

CyberSox land closer Foulke

San Jose (AP) - January 10, 2004

Looks like Silicon Valley was able to grab a player at auction after all. Late Saturday night, the CyberSox were informed that they were able to land Keith Foulke for 6M.

"We've gone after every good closer in the auction, but were only budgeting 5.5M early due to our bad tie-breaker," GM Greg Newgard said. "We decided to go to 6M for most of them once we saw that the market was high in demand of closers. We even upped our bid to 6.5 at the last minute, but were very please to land Keith for 6M.

"Keith will come in as the closer. We were going to let Randy Levine and Scott Williamson compete in Spring Training for the position, but this move makes that decision moot. Now, they'll be used in a setup role and could earn a few save chances when Keith can't go.

Silicon Valley will pick third in the draft each round they choose to, but with only 10.9M left for 15 players, it's unclear in which rounds they'll choose.

"We had tons of scenarios set up before this acquisition, so naturally, we'll have to go back to the drawing board and figure out how best to spend the remaining budget."

Silicon Valley all quiet on Auction front

San Jose (AP) - January 8, 2004

After 30 of the top 50 free agents have signed contracts, the Silicon Valley CyberSox have acquired none of them and don't look to be major players for the last 20 either.

"We're in there bidding with the rest of the teams, we're just bidding very conservatively," GM Greg Newgard said. "We just don't have the money, this year."

When asked about some of the last 20 players still available, Newgard would give no hints to any further bidding, but just indicated the team had a plan and was trying to stick to it.

"Durazo was our big target and we bid higher than we planned to try and secure him, but Manchester was able to wrangle him away from us. No one else has really been a serious target to this point although we are still trying to catch a break or two."

While the CyberSox were busy looking for bargains, the rest of the Griffin Division has been spending money like crazy, acquiring 7 of the top prizes so far.

"The rest of the division had more money to deal, so we're big underdogs right now. But we recognize that and are trying to maximize our position the best we can."

Los Altos acquired uber-closer Eric Gagne to bolster their outstanding bullpen and added young Shawn Chacon to their rotation while Sylmar have added two starting pitchers in Tim Wakefield and Jeremi Gonzalez as well as 3B Aaron Boone. Bear Country also acquired a 3B in Joe Randa and a top starter in Hideo Nomo.

"Those were all good pickups for those teams. You've always had to beat the Undertakers in the first five or six innings to have a chance and Eric just solidifies that. Bear Country got a strong arm to lead their rotation and Sylmar just has tons of money and little roster spots to fill, so their making out like gang-busters.

They've all got holes still, but we've got third spot in each draft round, so we like where we are."

CyberSox draft OF Hermida

San Jose (AP) - December 31, 2003

The BDBL 2004 Farm Free Agent Draft wasn't supposed to start until Thursday morning, but the Silicon CyberSox are already appear finished.

The CyberSox were slated to pick third in the opening round, but both teams ahead of them announced their signings, so Silicon Valley followed suit.

They will choose outfield Jeremy Hermida from the Florida Marlins organization. Hermida was recently raved in Baseball America and the team's #1 prospect.

"We were very please to land this youngster," GM Greg Newgard said. "He was the first name on our list and we figured he'd go earlier, leaving us to select someone else."

Hermida joins a talent group of minor league OF core with John Ford-Griffin and David Murphy. Jeremy was drafted in the first round of 2002 out of Clemson. He hit .284 last year in 133 games of High A ball. He struck out 100 times, but also drew 80 walks. He only had 6 HR and drove in 49 runs, but racked 23 doubles and figures to add more power as he adds bulk to his frame.

CyberSox prepare for auction, draft

San Jose (AP) - December 28, 2003

For the past two months, BDBL owners have been hiding away.

They weren't out shopping for Christmas presents or preparing for the holiday feasts, they were preparing for the new year. Particularly, the auction and drafts that will start in the new year.

January 1st marks the opening of the BDBL Auction. The top 50 free agents are available to any team and it will be a 12 day free-for-all to get those players auctioned and signed.

"Last year was the first time this was done and by all accounts, it went smoothly and added a ton of intrigue," Silicon Valley CyberSox GM said during a recent CyberSox charity food drive.

"We've got some glaring holes to fix, namely in CF, but we're not sure we will have the money to get something done. But you never know, a bargain or two could slip our way."

The CyberSox have 16.9M under the cap, but have 16 roster spots to fill. If no auction lots are won, the team will have that money to select players in the 2004 Free Agent Draft, where they will pick third.

"With the talent in the auction and in the draft, we don't feel that we have to make a move in the auction. We have targeted a few players and have developed our bidding limits and strategy, but we know that if we fall short, we have a very strong back up plan that starts on the 13th. We just have to practice restraint and keep focused on this season and beyond."

Last season, then Houston, the team outbid the league on five players, but only two remain, pitchers Jarrod Washburn and Kirk Reuter.

"We may have gone a little crazy in the auction last year, but we did feel we got some quality help. We were able to deal two of those players in other deals that help strengthened the club down the line in getting players like Ben Broussard and John VanBenschoten."

In addition, the 2004 Farm Free Agent Draft will start on the 1st as well. Silicon Valley has only one spot open and picks third, but an extensive draft plan was still in order.

"Even though we basically have a three man list, we still have to put a full effort into finding and ranking the players for that list. The scouts and my staff feel we have done a thorough job of doing that. We feel that either one of the three players on the final list will do a good job ."

CyberSox sign Hudson, Lee long-term

San Jose (AP) - December 18, 2003

Today, the Silicon Valley CyberSox released information about several contract decisions that affect the 2004 roster.

"We had a lot a salary tied up into the 2004 team, but we have some flexibility in 2005 numbers and beyond," GM Greg Newgard said. "We're happy with what we have going into the draft with just a few holes to fill."

The biggest news was that recently acquired LF Carlos Lee was signed to a contract extension into 2006, when he will turn 30. "We thought it was a no-brainer on our end. Carlos was happy to play out the 2004 season and test the market, but he was impressed with the organization and the direction we are headed and expressed his interest in becoming a fixture out in left."

The CyberSox also decided to show a long-term commitment to another new player, 2B Orlando Hudson, by signing him for four years.

"Orlando was very pleased with the way things turned out. He knew that whoever kept him would probably sign him long term, but he had no idea that he would be dealt twice this offseason. I told him that I almost shipped him to Kansas and his jaw hit the ground, probably from thinking about that park, but he was happy to be able to have some stability and start looking for a home here in the valley."

3B Wes Helms and P Carlos Silva agreed to three-year deals while C Charles Johnson and RP Al Levine each signed two-year contracts.

The club declined to offer extensions to Jarrod Washburn, Kirk Rueter and Larry Walker, ensuring they will become free agents in 2004.

"From a financial sense, we didn't think we could continue to keep those salaries beyond this season. They combined for nearly half of our salary. By letting them go, we'll have a lot of flexibility in 2005 to add to the core of talent we are gathering."

CyberSox acquire Walker, Johnson

San Jose (AP) - December 10, 2003

Silicon Valley completed a trade with the Eck League champions and former Higueria division rival, the Allentown Ridgebacks, Wednesday that landed the CyberSox RF Larry Walker and C Charles Johnson.

"This team is starting to fill out now and Walker fills a need for the team," GM Greg Newgard said at a press conference announcing the deal. Larry will come in an anchor the outfield and provide an excellent cannon out in right field. "

In addition, the CyberSox added minor league 2B Jayson Nix. In return, Allentown received OFs J.D. Drew and Matt Stairs, IF Ramon Martinez and C Dan Wilson.

"Drew and Wilson were going to be salary causalities, so the fact that we could turn around and trade their salary for Larry Walker, we were thrilled.

We weren't going to be major players in the auction considering the number of teams with huge amounts of money to spend. We were able to address two needs, but we lose some valuable players that should benefit Allentown."

Stairs is projected to fill in at 1B for the R'Backs while Drew will fill in at CF or RF.

"We've got a few holes to fill, but with the moves we've made this offseason we think we have a good shot at competing in our division. We feel we can address our few holes in the draft while still looking forward to 2005."

CyberSox to play at EA Sports Stadium

San Jose (AP) - November 24, 2003

The Silicon Valley CyberSox announced today that the renovations to the San Jose baseball facility are on track and that a naming rights deal had been finalized.

The park will now be known as EA Sports Stadium as Electronic Arts signed a 10-year deal worth an unspecified amount, but rumors have it in the 2-3 million dollar per year range.

"We are very excited to have come to terms with Electronic Arts," CyberSox GM Greg Newgard said. "EA has earned a name for quality sports products and we hope their tag on our park will do the same for us."

EA, based in Redwood City just 20 miles north of San Jose, will have signage inside the stadium in place for the season opener. Getting the large signs in place will take effort to be ready in time, but officials are hopeful to get a majority ready by first pitch.

Sox trade arms, not feet

San Jose (AP) - November 21, 2003

In what caps off a busy week for the CyberSox front office, Silicon Valley completed their third trade of the week, this time to the Chicago Black Sox, to acquire some depth in their pitching staff.

Brad Penny, one of Silicon Valley's top starting pitchers was sacrificed to obtain starter Ron Villone and reliever Scott Williamson.

"Our other moves were about improving the team in the long term, this one was about economics," GM Greg Newgard said at the team's temporary headquarters in downtown San Jose.

"Brad was scheduled to make 3.1 million and the two players we got in return will only cost us 2.1 million next year, if we renew Villone, which all signs point to. That frees up some money and fills an extra roster spot going into the auction. At this point, it seems minor, but everything we can do to trim salary now, can add up to big moves in the auction and free agent draft."

Penny was a mid-season acquisition from Salem in the Barry Zito trade and posted similar numbers to Zito for the season, going 3-5 in 13 starts with a 6.47 ERA.

"We had a good feeling about Brad for next year, but Villone should be able to come in and give us good production as a #5 starter and Williamson will help shore up the bullpen. We don't project to have a lot of relievers this season, so this adds a quality arm to the mix."

Villone pitched for Chicago and Akron last season and compiled a 4.58 ERA in 37.3 innings between the two squads. Williamson was Chicago's closer last season racking up 32 saves, tied for 5th in the Eck League, and posted a 2.74 ERA in 47 appearances.

CyberSox acquire Lee to shore up the OF

San Jose (AP) - November 19, 2003

Wednesday, the Silicon Valley CyberSox continued to wheel and deal and landed Carlos Lee to help patrol left field in the CyberSox new digs next season.

The CyberSox also received minor-league pitcher Jeremy Guthrie in return for P Matt Kinney, OF Jack Cust and prize minor-league 1B prospect Casey Kotchman, who were dealt to the Villanova Mustangs.

"We didn't go into this offseason looking to add salary before the auction and draft, but our need to land qualify outfielders was very strong," CyberSox GM Greg Newgard said at the press conference to announce the deal.

Lee will earn 5.5 million in 2004, but the club has the option to extend the contract in December. Lee hit 27 home runs and had 93 RBI last season in Villanova.

"We are in early discussion with Carlos and his agent to decide how we are going to pursue his contract extension, but he will definitely suit up for the club in 2004."

Lee was obtained by Villanova in the 2003 BDBL Auction.

In addition to Lee, the CyberSox received Jeremy Guthrie, a highly regarding right-handed starting pitcher.

Silicon Valley paid a high cost by giving up one of the top minor league players in Casey Kotchman. "Having to give us Kotch to get Lee was a very tough decision for us," Newgard added. "We were looking forward to seeing him in our uniform since we acquired him last season. But with the addition of Ben Broussard, we felt we had enough youth at the position to address another need on the ball club."

Also gone are Kinney and Cust. Kinney was 0-3 last season in 3 starts and gave up 6 homers in the process. He was slated to compete for some starting duty with the club in spring training. Jack Cust saw very little duty with the big club and disappointed with an .036 average in 28 ABs.

"[Kinney and Cust's] performance last season had nothing to do with this trade," Newgard said. "All three are younger players that should have the opportunity to show they can play with the Villanova organization, who wanted youth to help replenish their ranks going into next season."

Salem and Silicon Valley swap infielders

San Jose (AP) - November 17, 2003

The Silicon Valley CyberSox pulled off a trade designed to help bring long term stability in the middle of the diamond.

Monday, Silicon Valley sent IF Keith Ginter and P John Patterson to the Salem Cowtippers for 2B Orlando Hudson.

Ginter hit .292 in Houston last season in limited duty at 3B, but was penciled to move over to 2B with Wes Helms manning 3B full-time next season.

"We feel with Orlando Cabrera signed long term for us at shortstop, we needed another good defender named Orlando to man second base," CyberSox GM Greg Newgard said shortly before teeing off at the 1st ever CyberSox Charity Golf Tournament. "Hudson is a good fielder and his bat should come around and show more power as he gets more experience under his belt.

"That's nothing against Ginter. He was showing developing some power and could have been a nice stop-gap at 2B, but Hudson gives us a full-fledged player that has the whole package at the position."

Hudson, who was just acquired by Salem from the Marlboro Hammerheads just days before and will be 26 when next season starts, was solid for is old employer hitting .293 over 188 AB. More importantly, he had a .365 OBP and a 3-to-2 strikeout to walk ratio which impressed the CyberSox brass. He also only committed two errors for the Hammerheads and compiled a .992 fielding percentages.

"We’re looking forward to seeing those two in the middle for a long time. I'll be interest to see what the marketing department dreams up to promote these two. They've got an opportunity to build a solid relationship and have the ability to become the best combination in the league."

Patterson was a promising young pitcher in the organization who Salem had coveted for quite some time. He compiled a 4.94 ERA last season in just over 27 innings but struck out 26 while only walking 8.

Houston Trades In Heat For High-Tech

San Jose (AP) - November 1, 2003

In an historic announcement, the Bring Baseball to Silicon Valley Committee (BBSVC) and the Houston Heatwave held a press conference to state the Heatwave would be moving to San Jose for the 2004 BDBL Season.

Houston was awarded the franchise in November of 2002 after the Phoenix Predators went belly-up. Plans for renovating San Jose's baseball stadium were also unveiled and work has started to get the field ready for the 2004 season. Naming rights for the new stadium have been discussed, but no decision has yet been made by the new owner group.

In addition, the team with switch to the Ozzie League and will be placed in the Griffin Division with three other California teams, the Bear Country Jamboree, the Oakland Homicide and the Los Altos Undertakers.

Houston had a dismal showing in 2003 finishing third in the Higuera Division of the Eck League behind only the Southern California Slyme who had the worst record in the BDBL.

New Uniforms Unveiled

San Jose (AP) - November 1, 2003

During the historic announcement that the Houston Heatwave were moving to California, the team unveiled their new uniforms to be used for the 2004 BDBL season. The team chose four styles including a home and road alternate jersey. Click <here> to view the uniforms.

Houston 2003 Season Recap

Houston (AP) - October 31, 2003

The Houston Heatwave finished the 2003 BDBL campaign with a dismal 7-21 chapter and finished the season at 62-98. That effort tied for the worst in the league with division-mate Southern California.

The 2003 season marked by a disappointing performance by the pitching staff and defense in particular. Houston's ERA (4.83) ranked 12th in the Eck League. Combine that with the 13th-ranked team fielding percentage (.978) and the recipe for disaster was complete.

The Houston offense was average at best posting a 8th-ranking batting average (.258), on-base percentage (.326) and slugging percentage (.411) but was not nearly good enough to pull out many wins.

Houston was two games better on the road than home (32-48 vs. 30-50). They went 23-25 against their division and went 8-8 against EL Wild Card winner Allentown, but it was the rest of the league that made Houston pay.

One bright spot was the bullpen. When leading after 7 innings, Houston was 54-3 (.930) and was only bested by Akron (.957) and Cleveland (.945). But that mean they only 8 games when either tied or losing after 7, a testament to the fact that the offense was just not good enough to bail the team out.

Jermaine Dye and Kirk Reuter were named team MVPs. Dye hit .273 with a team-high 23 HRs and 88 RBI to pace the Heatwave offense. Reuter was only 8-14 in 36 starts, but posted a 4.30 ERA.