Watching the Southern Arms Race

A few key movements down south this week with the St. Paul Saints and the Sioux City Explorers. These two teams were big rivals for the 2015 schedule and are looking for another battle in 2016. The Saints lose their third player to the MLB system with the signing of Anthony Phillips to the California Angels of Anaheim, while the Explorers have signed 2015 All-Star Ryan Court for 2016. So far the Saints appear to be losing troops for all the right reasons (Vinny DiFazio, Noah Perio Jr. and Phillips all deserve another shot), but the way players like Court and Michael Lang have been playing for the Xs, they could be getting another look from the majors as well.

Digital Gum Wave 5: St. Paul Saints

They had a heck of an inaugural season at CHS Field...and here in all of their retro ball card glory are the 2015 St. Paul Saints. These shots reflect the roster no later than July 12, 2015. Missing a few pitchers, as with the usual luck of the draw on just catching a few road games. So alas, no Kramer Sneed. This team was a lot of fun to photograph--the Saints are not only a formidable ball club, they also have more than their share of characters on their roster. It will be interesting to see what their 2016 line-up looks like, with the Dodgers buying up the contracts of DiFazio and Songco.

Anthony Phillips, St. Paul Saints

Anthony Phillips makes the play at second, July 12, Shaw Park. Final score: Goldeyes 3, Saints 2. Photo by Dan LeMoal.

Anthony Phillips, St. Paul Saints

Anthony Phillips bunts July 10 at Shaw Park, Winnipeg. Photo by Dan LeMoal