Francisco Nieves

New York Bombers (2000-2002)
In the 2000 Inaugural Draft, Nieves was drafted in the tenth round by New York. He picked up 13 saves in 23 outings, posting a 2-1 record. His 13 saves were the most by any pitcher that year and he led the league in pitching appearances with 23. His phenomenal year saw him win a Pitcher of the Month Award. However, Nieves remains a source of concern in New York, after his elbow inflammation problems over the winter.

It looks like Nieves' shoulder problem got the better of him as the closing pitcher was never the same during the 2001 season. His fastball lost a lot of speed and he relies on his slider only. He posted a 0-2 record with 10 saves, but his ERA jumped significantly. He reportedly asked for a lot of money in contract negotiation and he was let go by the Bombers.

Nieves didn't manage to sign with a team in free agency. He contemplated retirement as the season started, but New York offered him a one-year contract in June. He appeared in 13 games, earned 7 saves, no wins and 2 losses. He was way better than he was before, but his season was cut short due to elbow inflammation problems. New York let him go at the end of the year for the second consecutive year.

Miami Sunbirds (2003-
Again, it took a long time for Nieves to attract a team after his great season that was unfortunately cut short. He signed with Miami in late May, a two-year deal.

Awards
1X ABA Champion (2000)