Bummer: Hacker sent to minor league camp

Well, he opened a few eyes during his stay so far, but our FOTB Eric Hacker has been sent to the minor league camp. We will continue to watch him as closely as we can and welcome him to send us updates anytime he wishes.

Meanwhile Eric Hacker and Wilkin De La Rosa were sent to the minor league camp.

Bummer. Keep in touch, Eric. We mean it.

From Scranton-Wilkes Barre, Chad Jennings has this summary of Hacker's spring thus far and his 2009 outlook:

Spring numbers: Counting his rough outing against Team USA, Hacker had an 18.00 ERA through three games. Not counting that exhibition game, he allowed one run, two walks and three hits through two innings.
Destination: Slowed by injuries throughout his career, Hacker turns 26 later this month and has yet to spend a full season above Class A. He could open back in Trenton this year, but he had a 2.70 ERA through 17 starts there last season and his age might make it worth while to push him quickly. He and George Kontos both seem to be on the Double-A/Triple-A bubble.
Expectation: When he's been healthy, Hacker has pitched well with a 2.70 career ERA in the minors. Injuries, though, cost him all of 2004 and all of 2006. If he's healthy, the expectations seem to be pretty high. The fact he's had two healthy years in a row -- both with good numbers -- seems like a good sign.