The Austrian vice champion Schwaz Tigers has suffered a big loss for the 2010 season before even an official pitch was thrown. Starting pitcher Paul Astl needs surgery after an undisclosed injury and will be sidelined for the next six months according to the team website.
The 25-year-old right-hander had a 9-6 record with an ERA of 4.11 in 15 games last season. He struck out 114 batters in 105 innings, walking 62. He had a fine season at the plate too, batting .263 (OBP .380/SLG .465) with five homeruns, 18 runs and 16 RBI. Astl will help out the team as a coach.
It was also confirmed that Nick Zambrotta is not coming back for another season in Austria.