2000 – THE YEAR OF EATON?
Many things have been said about Year two of the Stalker Franchise. It’s a year that looks much different upon review. Historically, an organizations second draft is used as a stockpiling draft. The fruits of the first draft are hopefully developing, and there is a clearer picture of strengths and shortcomings. It’s not uncommon for teams to make quite a big jump in the standings at the end of year two. This brings up a very good question. What happened?
The Stalkers had positioned themselves with an abundance of early picks (as they like to do) prior to the 2000 draft. After the draft, and fourteen (14) selections later (including three (3) first rounders and two (2) second rounders), the results were shocking.
First round, # 10 – Travis Dawkins
Also known as “Gookie”. Where a bout’s unknown.
First round, # 12 – John Patterson
Has since been dealt to TIJ
First round, # 24 – Tim Bogar
Yes, THAT – Tim Bogar. Has since been released.
Second round, # 25 – Eric Owens
He still litters the YSS Career Record Books, but has since been dealt to HOL.
Second round, # 27 – Henry Blanco
2002 gold glove winner. Released.
Fourth round, # 73 – Adam Eaton
The sole remaining member of a sad, sad, draft.
Fourth round, # 92 – Doug Mirabelli
At best, a backup. Traded to CHI.
Fifth round, # 97 – Calvin Murray
Defensive specialist? Victim of trade.
Fifth round, # 108 – Luis Rivera
Minor league bust. Was included as a “throw-in”.
Fifth round # 110 – Charlie Hayes
PH extraordinaire. Released.
Sixth round, # 121 – Micah Bowie
Released – Thank God.
Sixth round, # 134 – Wes Anderson
Not the director. Was included as a “throw-in”.
Eighth round, # 169 – Alvin Morman
I think he was a lefty. Released.
Eighth round, # 179 – Mike Judd
Another lefthander, maybe? Released.
The Stalkers will head into the 2004 season with exactly ONE player selected in that fateful draft of 2000. That player was not one of the multiple early round picks. He was the first selection of the fourth round, and is the reason the 2000 draft conjures but one name in Yonge Street: Adam Eaton.