EDMONTON (AP): With the approach of the trading deadline, Edmonton Orcas' GM Wurz has had a flurry of activity that could rival winter weather in Alberta, Canada. In the last two weeks, nine players and three draft picks have moved through Edmonton. "It might have been because of what I said," commented second baseman Todd Walker. "I know management wasn't too pleased with that interview I gave to the Weaver Times a while back. Although, I think they wanted to bring more talent in to make this ball club a winner and not just to prove me wrong."

The first deal unfolded with the Berlin Brewmasters. As the Brewmasters were dumping salaries for youth, the deep pocketed Orcas wasted no time in shipping three highly talented minor league pitchers, Eric Bitker, Charlie Bradford, and Patrick Burke to Berlin for legendary catcher Yogi Berra. Pitcher Lee Valdes, a former number one draft choice, made this observation, "I've seen this team's process for a few years now. They take great pitching in the college draft, give us the run down of what has to be learned to make it in the majors, then suddenly send them to the majors. Guys like Don (Brett), Gene (Aspormonte), and I had learned quickly, but now we need some bats to win." Expect the "Killer B's" of Berlin to be following a similar pattern, as the Brewmasters look at some years of rebuilding.

The next deal confused many as free agent pitcher Tim Adkinson, signed in the off season for a hefty contract, was packed with veteran right fielder/third baseman Trot Nixon and a minor league prospect to playoff contending Hong Kong Dragons for outfielder Jermaine Dye. "Dye is the same age as Walker and faster," said four year manager Robin Yount. "This team needed a leadoff hitter and center fielder. This guy solves both issues. It's sad to see someone of Tim's (Adkinson) talent go away, but he deserves to be pitching in October. Hong Kong should give him that chance."

The last deal came via another team looking for youth and trading veterans. The Port Louis Dodos veteran shortstop/third baseman Russ Johnson was sent to Edmonton for the Orca's first, second, and third round Amateur Draft picks in 2012. On hearing the news, Johnson asked, "Edmonton? Aren't they in last place? Kind of late to make a playoff run? I'm only joking. It sounds like they are gearing up for next season."

This sudden influx of veteran talent makes the Orcas a much stronger hitting and defensive squad. However, much of Edmonton's hopes lie in their developing youth. If outfielders Chuck Isbell and Rick Randolph continue their slow progess, or first basemen Terry Berry and Lew Drucke don't show signs of improvement, it could all be for naught.