Early retirements

Matt Cotellese's second stint with the Wild Things didn't last much longer than his first.

The former NCAA Division II All-American was placed on the retired list Monday because of recurring elbow discomfort. The outfielder from Boyertown and West Chester University played in only one game last summer before being released because of a strained elbow ligament.

Maybe it was the curse of the O-R that sidelined Cotellese. He was the subject of a feature story in today's edition.

Cotellese was one of two players retired by the Wild Things. The other was first baseman Paul Chmiel. During Thursday's intrasquad game, Chmiel probably did more to help his case for making the team than any other player. Chmiel went 2-for-3 including a home run off Zach Groh. Chmiel, who played in the Baltimore Orioles' system, told the Wild Things that he is getting married in October and no longer had the fire to play baseball.

Chmiel's retirement comes less than a week after the Wild Things traded first baseman Robbie Wine to another league. Washington has gone from having three first baseman a week ago to one (Adam Amar). Jacob Dempsey was playing first base during practice Monday.

The moves leave Washington with 34 players in camp.