[MIJB#19]

Gossip News: Raul Marshall Up For Trading
The Merchantmen keep it unconfirmed, but the news is that league wide teams are looking for a good #3 wide receiver and it is no secret that the Merchantmen management have been keen on Gregory Monti and Bryce Ewald from day one. Earlier victims have been Amos Collins (traded to Rochester Lake Monsters for All IHOF Second Team Tackle Harold Hurtado) and Frederic Vargas (the speedy Vargas was essentially traded to North Plainfield Plague for the #14 pick in the 2004 draft). Marshall is inked in as the backup to Gregory Monti and with Devin Henson and return specialist Lonnie O'Reilley. Additionally, the Merchantmen are expected to go into the season with ten defensive backs signed, meaning they need to open up roster spots at other positions. Also the names of backup tight ends Ethan Winfield and rookie longsnapper specialist Charlie Martins have been called out to be up for trade at the end of preseason. Marshall seems to keep it cool so far, yet we expect some struggling when the season is underway, with Marshall widely scouted as the better receiver then Monti. Problem is that Monti has taken a leadership role in the receivers corpse after the departure of Vargas and Arnulfo Arnett. This preseason, Marshall had 4 receptions for 73 yards against San Luis Obispo and 1 reception for no gain against Minnesota. In the 2004 season, Marshall had just 11 receptions for 141 yards and 1 touchdown.