August was another great month for the Expos, pushing them even further into playoff contention.
The month started with the Expos winning 2 of 3 versus the Rays and 2 of 3 versus the Red Sox. At this time, SP Newcomb started his rehab assignment. The Expos proceeded to win 1 of 3 versus the Dodgers, 2 of 3 versus the Marlins, and 1 of 4 versus the Pirates. After the Pittsburgh series, I activated RF Kirilloff from his short rehab assignment. I demoted CF Lawrence back to AAA.
The Expos then won 2 of 3 versus the Mets and 2 of 3 versus the Indians. After this series, I activated SP Newcomb and promoted SP Bob Caballero, my top pitching prospect who was tearing it up at AAA. To accommodate them, I placed RP Mejia and RP Burke on waivers. Unfortunately Mejia did not pass through and was claimed. This was perhaps an unnecessary risk as it was only a week away from roster expansion, but Mejia had a salary of about $1.5 million and had an ERA above 5.00.
The Expos concluded the month by sweeping the Reds in three games and splitting a four game series with the Giants.
The Expos finished the month with a 17-12 record. They are six games back of the NL East leading Mets and hold the first wildcard spot with a five game lead.
Batting performances for the month were as follows:
C Dillard had another fantastic month, tied for the team lead with 7 HR. LF Bossiere turned in his best month yet. If he continues to perform near this level, he will be a steal as he is still under team control for several more years. 1B Franco, 2B Massey, and CF Williams also had great months. Whether Williams stays in center or moves to a corner eventually, he looks to also be a potential steal.
And the pitching performances:
SP Richards and SP McCormick had great months out of the rotation, as did SP Kaprielian, who had a bit of luck. SP Newcomb also pitched well in his return appearance. There is much to note positive or negative in the bullpen.
Next up is the September/October recap of the final month plus of the regular season...