[Mr. Baseball]

Extension Talks Silent -- Decisions Still To Be Made
August 1st, 1987

Heading into the final stretch of the 1987 campaign, a trio of talented players on the Danger's 25-man roster remain unsigned with just a few short months remaining until players will file for free agency. Among an extensive list of minor leaguers with expiring contracts, Duluth outfielder Palmer Cooper, shortstop Mike Young, and recently acquired reliever Larry Stanley, are the only HBL players who may not be returning next season.



OF Palmer Cooper

Palmer Cooper has been a member of the Danger since 1982, and is perhaps the most unlikely candidate of the three to receive an extension, despite very stellar numbers thus far in 87'. Now that outfield prospects Emilio Cruz, Michael Sanders, Danny Koch, and Buck Kleeman are all ready for the show, the soon to be 35 year-old Cooper could be deemed unnecessary financial baggage. Nevertheless, Cooper should not be ruled out for an extension entirely, having already posted a 17.4 VORP in 1987.



CL Larry Stanley

You could essentially flip a coin with Larry Stanley. The Danger already have a spectacular but aging bullpen and a payroll hovering around the leagues five-million dollar salary cap for the next two years. Don't expect to see Stanley back in a Danger uniform unless he can agree to a one-year deal with less money than he's accustomed to. I wouldn't rule him out entirely, but don't cross your fingers on this one!



SS Mike Young

Finally, we have Mike Young. Young is going to be resigned, it's just a matter of time. Danger GM Gavin Giles has been very high on Young throughout his career, having praised him as one of the most underrated players in the Heartland League. Young is a speedy infielder with a great glove and the ability to hit for average. Furthermore, it should also be noted that the Danger have a very thin degree of depth at the shortstop position, and Mike Young still only 26 years-old.