04.05.12
Mike Rizzo Was Never Crazy About John Lannon…
…but at least he never drowned to death in his own puke (sorry). Washington demoted their 2011 opening day starter to Syracuse the other day, essentially saying that despite a $5 million guaranteed salary, John Lannon isn’t qualified to be the Nationals’ fifth man in the rotation. In an open letter to the media, Lannon argues, “I am a proven major-league starting pitcher, with a track record of success.”
I am certainly disappointed in the Nationals’ decision. I met with Mike Rizzo for the second time since I received the news to tell him exactly how I feel, and my agent has also spoken to Mike. I know what my rights and the team’s rights are, and while I am still a member of the Washington Nationals organization, I let Mike know that I believe a trade would be the best solution for everyone in both the short and long term.
I appreciate all the opportunities the Nationals organization has given me throughout the years. I’ve done a lot for this organization through some tough times. I anticipated on being part of the team’s next exciting chapter. If the Nationals feel they don’t need me or want me with the current make-up of the team, I can respect their decision. However, I’m very confident that I am capable of making a meaningful contribution to a major-league team.
This transaction will not change who I am or how I approach my business. I will continue to prepare myself for the season and look forward to the opportunity to pitch for a major-league team in the near future. I appreciate the space that you have given me over the past 24 hours. This will be the last time that I make any public comments on yesterday’s transaction or my future with the Nationals’ organization. My focus from here on out will be on playing the game that I love and demonstrating the professionalism that I have exhibited throughout my career.
