23 SIDEARM REVIEW: #24 WICHITA THUNDER

                                            WICHITA THUNDER'S FUTURE IS BRIGHT 

 

FRONT OFFICE 

Frank Albert has 13 years at the head of the Thunder organization, resulting in 3 playoff appearances.  Albert has alot to look forward to with his recent draft acquisitions.


ROTATION

Marquez  793
B. Keller  771
Kremer    708
Steele       660
K. Thompson 731
I. Anderson 753
D. German  714


BULLPEN

Marinaccio  525
Wesneski     580
K. Crawford 794
W. Vest   691
Festa   717


LINEUP

Hedges c 489
L. Gurriel  1b 743
Chisholm 2b 860
Velasquez  ss 537
France 3b  777
El. Jiminez of 858
M. Gonzalez of 609
Grichuk of 724
Mancini dh  710

BENCH

Heineman c 544
C. Carroll  of 830
V. Grissom if 792
Haniger of 736
D. Waters of  803


ANALYSIS

It is always interesting to see how a franchise rebuilds.  In this case the Thunder has populated its roster with a fantastic infusion of talent at several positions.  Corbin Carroll is the latest addition and he should roam CF and set the table for many years.  He joins a cast that includes Chisholm, France, Eloy Jiminez, Vaughn Grissom and Drew Waters.  Now Albert needs to deal with the pitching side of the equation. Ian Anderson is capable of rebounding, Marquez needs to learn how to pitch in the Rockies, and Justin Steele and Bill Keller do have the potential to provide quality innings.  Marinaccio is a pleasant surprise for the bullpen.

Although the future looks bright, the present needs to be endured quietly. Ty France and Eloy Jiminez should provide temporary relief but look for the Thunder to finish in the basement of the NL Central.