WAKEFIELD, MA (June 5, 2007) -- In the first trade of a tenured veteran in 95 League history, the Bricklayers today acquired Josh Asquith from the Violators in exchange for future considerations, then added rookie free agent Pat Leighton in a day they hope will solidify their lineup for the fast-approaching Season 3.

The Violators, meanwhile, also signed a pair of first-year players. Steve Gorynski and Mike Strout were placed on the active roster after clearing the intercounty bidding process, and filing the proper paperwork with the players' union. Gorynski projects as an infield prospect, a self-professed "Wade Boggs-type," while Strout is a converted pitcher who is partial to first base, but has long legs capable of covering much outfield ground.

Asquith, an established third baseman, is expected to remain in his familiar position with his new team, while also helping to anchor a lineup left reeling by the retirements of middle-of-the-order types Jeff Peterson and J.P. Mancuso. As a rookie in 2005, the man-child they call "Quieffy Moose" ranked second in the league with 6 home runs, and last year he proved his all-around abilities by leading the Violators with a .521 average. For his career, he is a .474 hitter, has 45 runs batted in, and owns a .725 slugging percentage. Each of those ranks among the top six in league history, and has drawn comparisons between himself and Miguel Cabrera.

"I feel the acquisition of Quieffy-Mo Asquith makes the Bricklayers an immediate playoff contender," said Peterson, who moved from the field to the front office this winter, and is now the Bricklayers' general manager. "He is truly a four-tool player, and as the league's youngest player, we feel his ceiling is higher -- and more beautiful -- than that of the Sistine Chapel."

Leighton gives the Bricklayers both versatility and athleticism, with the ability to play anywhere and pound the gaps as a line-drive hitter. He was coveted by the Violators for his versatility, but because they were in dire need of a utilityman the Bricklayers made the bigger bid for his services, and the Blue happily accepted Gorynski and Strout.

"The Blue braintrust feel we had an excellent draft and look forward to the '07 campaign with great enthusiasm," said Violators' co-manager Chris Mathison. "Steve threatens to be a 40-40 guy right away, and Mike's sheer power brings a presence to the four-spot that will give (all-time home run champ Matt) Hodges some protection. It's a murderer's row of 2-4 hitters, with (Dave) Forster, Hodges, Mike and Steve. We're looking for immediate contributions from both guys."

The only other trade in 95 League history was made prior to the 2006 season, when Jason Brooks -- who'd yet to play a full season -- was shipped to the Bricklayers for a small cash sum. The three rookies also represent the largest rookie class in the league since 2005, when the Violators became the first team in 95 League history to win a title with a club entirely comprised of rookies.