March 14, 2013

Rumors are swirling that the ESOX may be close to signing free agents, Chris Paradise (OF) and Brady Sand (P/IF), for the 2013 season. Reports from an anonymous source close to the team says both players have been in negotiations with the ESOX, but did not elaborate on any details. Such acquisitions would bolster what is an already improved lineup from 2012.

Paradise, a junior at St. Olaf, has also been spotted looking for real estate in the metro area, raising speculation that the two sides are close to a deal. The speedy outfielder has bounced around teams in recent seasons, playing both in Northfield and Kasson (Kapital K, Kapital M). ESOX manager Andy Bartz commented on the recent acquisition saying "from what we have seen he is a good ball player, he obviously has speed and can track them down in the gaps, I'm all fired up to have him." Paradise hit a respectable .339/.382/.431 in 109 AB's and had a team leading 13 SB for the Knights in 2012.

Sand, a senior also at St. Olaf,  would be a much needed addidtion to the ESOX pitching staff, which, was overworked on the shoulders of Erik Olson and Mark Schroeder in 2012. The 6'1" righty is a native of Eau Claire, Wisc., and has played for the Cavs for the past 3 seasons, posting a 5-3 record (4.29 ERA) in 42.0 IP in 2012. When asked if it would be difficult to leave Eau Claire, Sand responded "you know I obviously have a lot of history with those guys, but I'm looking forwrad to winning a championship in Minnesota." The one time hockey goalie could also see time behind the plate as well as at third base. "He's a guy that can throw a lot of diffeent pitches in any count," said Bartz "and he throws it just about as hard as Kenny Powers himself, yeah, we believe he can make a difference."

Signing these big name free agents will make Edina a contender in the ever powerful Riverview League.