Washington Makes Roster Move After Apicella's Retirement

WASHINGTON, Pa. – The Washington Wild Things announced today the activation of a pitcher as well as the retirement of one.

Prior to Thursday’s game (June 29) against Traverse City, left-handed pitcher Vince Apicella retired, leaving two open spots on Washington’s active roster after the release of left-hander Matt Sabel yesterday. The Wild Things have filled one of those spots by activating lefty Brandon Bixler from the suspended list.

Apicella was in his first season with the Wild Things and had appeared in eight games, accumulating 10 innings of work. The southpaw struck out 10 in those innings and walked two while giving up six earned runs. He was placed on the retired list today, Friday, June 30.

As for Bixler, he returns to Washington after playing for the team last year in 2016. Bixler was with the Lancaster Barnstormers of the Atlantic League before suffering an injury that forced his release. Bixler came to the Wild Things and pitched in three games (two starts), and tossed 13.1 innings. The left-hander gave up five runs in total, four of which were earned, and struck out seven. Bixler will be activated and available immediately for the Washington pitching staff.

The Wild Things open a three-game, weekend series with the Joliet Slammers tonight, Friday, June 30 at 7:05. It’s a Free Shirt Friday at Wild Things Park as well as a Fireworks Friday.