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Barkley Bound for Battle Creek
Rooster's indy phenom signed by NY Yankees.

07.21.04 - Independent leaguer Richard Barkley was full of mixed feelings Monday night.

Although his start against the Evansville Otters was nothing spectacular [he only lasted 3 innings, giving up five runs and seven hits], Barkley's trudge back to the Richmond Rooster's pen would soon be highlighted with some very good news.

Barkley learned that Steinbrenner and the New York Yankees organization had purchased his contract.

The announcement came as no surprise to Roosters Manager Chris Mongiardo.

"He's a great guy and works hard all the time," said Mongiardo. "He deserves this opportunity."

Before getting roughed-up on Monday, Barkley had the third lowest ERA in the Frontier League.

He currently has a 4-3 record and a low 2.97 ERA. Combine that with his 64 Ks and just 16 walks and it becomes obvious why the Yankees picked him out of the Independent Leagues.

The Sumter, SC native's best outing came in late May in a complete game shutout of Washington. Barkley allowed just five hits in the 4-0 Richmond victory.

He was also named to the 2004 Frontier League All-Star team, pitching one scoreless inning during a 10-2 win for the East Division.

New York has assigned Barkley to the Battle Creek Yankees of the Midwest League. The team is currently competing for a division championship in the second half of the season.

Barkley is expected to be an immediate asset to the staff, as he shall join the rotation right away.