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Rocker has landed Braves closer finally reports for minor league assignment
Posted: Friday June 09, 2000 01:12 PM
MAUMEE, Ohio (AP) -- John Rocker arrived for his minor league assignment Thursday, deciding to show the Atlanta Braves organization he was ready to work on his control. Rocker had to report by Thursday night's Richmond Braves game with the Toledo Mud Hens or face possible fines and a suspension. It was considered unlikely Rocker would pitch in the game. He spent 20 minutes throwing in the bullpen before the game. He worked on smoothing out his delivery and at times appeared frustrated with his command of pitches. Besides working on his pitching, the Braves hope Rocker will work out his off-the-field problems. Assistant Atlanta general manager Frank Wren said some of the pitcher's problems come from stress. "Physically, he's throwing the ball better than ever," Wren said, "but this has taken a real toll on him." Rocker entered the visitors' clubhouse through a side door away from the media. None of his new teammates would answer questions as they went to batting practice. Club officials said Rocker wouldn't speak with reporters, either. Wren was at the ballpark to oversee Rocker's arrival. The reliever signed a few autographs at the Toledo airport for passengers on his flight before he and Wren drove away, avoiding reporters. Unlike major leaguers, Rocker had to carry his own bag off the plane. But it was obvious he was not just another player going down to the minors. Rocker arrived at Ned Skeldon Stadium in this Toledo suburb in a rental car instead of on the team bus. When Rocker walked onto the field, several Toledo players taking batting practice stopped to watch. Wren said he was not disappointed that Rocker waited until the last minute to show. "Most players take their time when they're sent down," Wren said. Rocker, who had 38 saves last season, was banished to the minor leagues Monday for control problems. He also was $5,000 fined for a confrontation before Sunday's home game with Sports Illustrated reporter Jeff Pearlman, who wrote a story on Rocker's comments about gays, minorities, and foreigners. Rocker had 10 saves in 11 opportunities and a 3.93 ERA this season, but had walked 25 batters in 18 1-3 innings. Rocker on Wednesday had said he was thinking about getting out of the game, returning to college and becoming a stockbroker. He stopped by Turner Field in Atlanta later Wednesday to pick up his gear, but took another day to get to Toledo. Braves manager Bobby Cox, who didn't get a chance to speak with Rocker on Wednesday, played down Rocker's comments about quitting, saying he was just frustrated. Security was tight in Toledo for Rocker's first appearance. Temporary fences kept fans away from a walkway both teams use on the way to the field. Major League baseball security officials also were at the game, assisting with the crush of media members and fans. Reporters and photographers were limited to where they could stand. Both clubhouses were closed. Life certainly will be different for Rocker in the minors. Instead of post-game steaks in the clubhouse, he can look forward to hot dogs and pizza. On the road, he'll be staying in Holiday Inns instead of Hiltons. The ballparks are smaller too and should allow fans to get closer to Rocker.
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