The ALB Orkas, the lone European winter league club, already had announced a roster for the upcoming season in the Venezuelan Liga Paralela one month ago and nearly were on the plane, when the administration at the top of the league became a new one.
It was not a positive change for the Orkas. The new leadership has decided to modify the statutes and will only allow teams in the league, which are affiliated with Major League Baseball organizations or the Liga Venezolana de Beisbol Profesional (LVBP).
With this decision the Orkas cannot play in the Liga Paralela this winter. They now look to find a partner for 2010 hoping to realize a return to Venezuela and the winter league circuit. Kenny Berkenbosch and Vince Rooi would have led the team this winter. Mister-Baseball will keep you updated on the Orkas.