Week 5: May 14th-May 20th
 

Weekly Record: 4-4
Seasonal Record: 18-15 (3rd, 2 GB)
Stars of the Week
Billy Riley : 2 Wins, 17.0 IP, 4 BB, 8 K, 2.65 ERA
Harry Mead : 25 AB, 8 H, 0 HR, 3 RBI, .320 AVG, .770 OPS
Skipper Schneider : 27 AB, 7 H, 0 HR, 2 RBI, .259 AVG, .819 OPS

Schedule
5-14: Win vs Sailors (3-6)
5-15: Win vs Sailors (1-6)
5-16: Loss vs Sailors (5-3): 12 innings
5-17: Win vs Sailors (3-4): 10 innings
5-18: Loss vs Cannons (0-6)
5-19: Win vs Cannons (2-7)
5-20: Loss vs Cannons (9-4)
5-20: Loss vs Cannons (1-0)

Recap
Our time in first place was short lived, as a 4-4 week dropped us back to our usual position, third. The week did go as I expected, as we did well against the Sailors before struggling against the Cannons. We took three of four from Philly, but the Cannons pulled the reverse on us. Most of our runs came in the single win, as we got shutout by both Dan Adams and Rufus Barrell. Can't win if you can't score, and while we allow the fewest runs in the league, only the 13-20 Foresters have scored less. To make up for some of our offensive struggles, Don Lee and Ken Mayhugh will now start pretty much every day, as Steve Jones has somehow managed a -5 WRC+ and Lee's 220 is far too high to keep on the bench, regardless of how better Yates' defense is. Someone needs to support Cliff Moss, and Lee may be the guy to do it. Mayhugh hasn't hit too well himself, with a .260/.304/.342 (82 OPS+) line, so in games where run prevention is crucial, I might have to bite the bullet and use a more talented defender to soak up groundballs.

Cliff Moss had his first poor week, going just 6-for-28 with a double, homer, walk, 4 runs, and 6 RBIs. Lee made up for the drop in production, as the talented youngster went 6-for-16 with a triple, 2 steals, 3 walks, and 5 runs. Lee has even invaded the top 20 batters list and ranks as the #1 center fielder in the entire FABL. With a bit more range he could be a star, but it's hard to not love the bat. Skipper had a good week with the bat, going 7-for-27 with with 3 doubles, a triple, steals, 2 RBIs, 4 runs, and 5 walks. Same for Harry Mead, who was 8-for-25 with a walk, triple, 2 runs, and 3 RBIs. Mike Taylor did well in limited time too, 4-for-10 with an RBI and a pair of walks. There was a lot of bad, however, with the trio of Steve Jones, Ken Mayhugh, and Tip Harrison combining to go 7-for-56, with all hits singles. I'm not too sure about what I'm going to do with the second and third base positions, as George Sutterfield hasn't been great in AAA, and the trade market is very slim. A Hank Barnett sized hole is almost impossible to fill, especially when you can't stash Billy Hunter there either...

Rusty Petrick had a crazy unlucky week, as we could just not support him with runs. He lost both his starts, starting with our 12 inning loss against the Sailors. After nine it was tied at three, but Petrick kept on pitching. He ended up throwing all 12, allowing 8 hits, 5 runs, and 2 walks with 5 strikeouts. He was then unluckily paired up with the elite Rufus Barrell, as the single run he allowed still handed him the loss. He went 8, allowing 5 hits and 2 walks with 5 strikeouts. Petrick is now 2-3 with 2 saves, a 1.26 ERA (298 ERA+), 1.04 WHIP, 20 walks, and 29 strikeouts. He still leads all qualified pitchers in ERA, and his strikeouts are fourth, one behind Billy Riley for the team lead. Speaking of Riley, he won both his starts, improving his CA best win total to 6. He was the only Cougar to beat the Cannons, picking up a complete game win with 4 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. He outdueled Doc Newell as well, tossing 8 solid frames with 8 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 2 strikeouts. At one point Riley will stop being as dominant as he is, but for now I'll enjoy the 2.48 ERA (151 ERA+), 0.98 WHIP, and 30 strikeouts.

Art White also made two starts, but they couldn't have been any further apart. He was brilliant against the Sailors, allowing 7 hits, a run, and 2 walks with 2 strikeouts in a complete game win. Things fell apart in Cincinnati, as he couldn't even get out of the second. He recorded just five outs while allowing 9 hits and 7 runs with a walk and a strikeout. Dick Lyons pitched admirably mopping up for Art, allowing 5 hits, 2 runs, and a walk with a strikeout in 6.1 innings pitched. Harry Parker also was hit hard by the Cannons, allowing 9 hits, 5 runs, and 2 walks with 4 strikeouts. Parker has scuffled a bit this season, dropping to 3-4 with a just above average 3.57 ERA (105 ERA+) and just below average 3.94 FIP (102 FIP-). We relied on Ken Matson for a start this week, and while he did walk 6, he pitched well enough for us to win. He got a no decision in our 10 inning win over Philly, going 7.2 innings with 8 hits, 3 runs, and a strikeout. Ben Curtin made three scoreless appearances, picking up a save with 2 hits, a walk, and a strikeout in 3.1 scoreless innings. Angel Lopez made a pair of appearances, charged with 2 hits, 4 walks, and a run with 2 strikeouts in 3 innings. Merritt Thomas got the win in extras, allowing a hit and walk in a scoreless tenth. The staff continues to keep runs off the board, but until we can score, we're going to be stuck in a holding pattern.

Looking Ahead
Two off days to start the week, and these are very important as we're starting a very tough road trip. It starts with four in Toronto with the first place Wolves, who are 18-11 and a game and a half over our next opponent, the Cincinnati Cannons. The three of us are the class of the CA, and not only are we the only teams above .500, but we each have 18 wins. The Wolves have played the fewest games in the FABL, allowing a large amount of their starts to go to the elite George Garrison. He's 4-2 in his 7 starts with a beautiful 2.38 ERA (164 ERA+) and 2.43 FIP (62 FIP-) to go with a 1.09 WHIP, 10 walks, and 25 strikeouts. The rest of the rotation can't match him, but both Chick Wirtz (2-1, 3.47, 15) and Jim Laurita (2-3, 3.54, 14) give them quality starts. With a four game set, we'll also get Bob Walls (2-0, 5.05, 9) who's 3.39 FIP (86 FIP-) is far better then the ERA implies. Rookie stopper Cookie Myers (3-0, 2, 2.79, 7) has been a pleasant surprise, and the Wolves staff is tough to pile runs on. Their offense has been solid this season too, as they rank 3rd in both runs scored and allowed. Walt Pack's bat has come to life, slashing a robust .333/.379/.590 (160 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 7 homers, and 25 RBIs. Charlie Artuso is hitting a comparable .359/.414/.531 (154 OPS+) with 8 doubles, 4 homers, and 15 RBIs while Wayne Henderson (.316, 15, 1) and Juan Pomales (.311, 10, 2; 2-0, 1, 0.00, 2) have been productive at the plate. I'm very worried about this series, and week as a whole, as the Wolves are very good, and I'm not sure we can match them in Toronto.

The week ends with a double header in Cincinnati, for the first half of a four game series. They leaped over us after taking three of four in Chicago, so it would be hard to expect a better result here. The Cannons rank second in both runs scored and runs allowed, with no obvious weakness. You know you're set when Tom Bird (.275, 1, 14) ranks last in batting average, and it comes with a 135 WRC+. Denny Andrews is slashing an absurd .310/.438/.560 (174 OPS+) with 11 doubles, 6 homers, 19 RBIs, and 26 walks. Almost 38-year-old Jack Cleaves (.389, 1, 12) has somehow produced a 218 WRC+ and 22-to-6 walk-to-strikeout ratio and Jim Hensley's (.276, 16) 101 WRC+ is the lowest in the lineup. Then when you also have to score on Rufus Barrell (2-0, 0.98, 13), Sam Sheppard (3-0, 2.82, 10), and Dan Adams (3-1, 1, 2.20, 10), and it's only a matter of time before Butch Smith (0-6, 5.01, 23) pitches like an Allen Award winner. I'm definitely worried about this double header, and when we have the inevitable rough week, we may be pushed too far down to recover.

Minor League Report
RHP George Oddo (AAA Milwaukee Blues): If you are a prospect and are recently given a line in the fine news print of This Week in Figment Baseball, you must be doing something right. And let me tell, you George Oddo is doing plenty of things right. Oddo was brilliant against the Indianapolis Hoosiers this week, keeping the Cannons AAA team in check twice this week. He was brilliant in Milwaukee, tossing a 4-hit shutout with a walk and 3 strikeouts. He was impressive in a no decision later this week, going 7.1 innings with a hit, run, 5 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Oddo has been brilliant in six starts this season, allowing two or fewer in each outing. He's a perfect 4-0 with a 1.42 ERA (279 ERA+), 0.83 WHIP, 15 walks, and 26 strikeouts. This was enough to prove to the Cougars management he's ready for the big leagues, as the revolving fifth spot of Ken Matson, Angel Lopez, and Dick Lyons has left plenty to be desired. Since Lopez has a pair of options to Matson's one, he'll be the odd one out, as Oddo will claim his spot. A potential front of the rotation starter, Oddo will currently hold the 5th spot in the Cougar rotation, and is set to debut in Cincinnati. A talented three pitch pitcher, Oddo has explosive stuff despite his fastball sitting in the 89-91 range. His change is off the charts, and locates it effortlessly, and his curve cuts through the zone like a warm knife through butter. Expect huge strikeout numbers and very few homers, as all of his pitches have tremendous movement. The Cougars are flush with talented pitchers, but Oddo may end up standing above most, as Tom Weinstock ranks him fourth behind just the FABL's #1 and 2 ranked Pete Papenfus and Donnie Jones, and current #4 prospect Duke Bybee. He's not there yet, but with his upside and minor league success, it's hard to believe he could do any worse then Matson (1-2, 5.06, 8), Lyons (0-1, 7.15, 2), or Lopez (0-1, 6.55, 3).

CF Don Jeppsen (B San Jose Cougars): As a 19-year-old in Class B Don Jeppsen had some struggles, but the former 9th Round is off to an excellent start to the season. The center fielder is slashing .393/.460/.607 (202 OPS+) with 3 doubles, 3 homers, 4 steals, and 11 RBIs. This is a marked improvement from last season, where he hit just .253/.287/.343 (81 OPS+) in 115 games. It is more then just the experience, as this season Jeppsen has got to play at his primary position. While I do think he's best suited for a corner, Jeppsen started just 13 games in Center last season, trailing his tally at first (20) and in right (74). He's an athletic kid with good speed, so he may develop the range for center, but more of his value comes from his bat. He's shown a good knack for barreling the ball, as he has a quick swing that allows him to hit to all fields. He's gotten more chances with plenty of prospects overseas, but his young age should work in his favor. Jeppsen doesn't have the highest ceiling as a big league player, but he has plenty of room to grow and can function as a passable bench bat.

Week 7: May 21st-May 27th
 

Weekly Record: 5-1
Seasonal Record: 23-16 (t-1st, 1.5 GA)
Stars of the Week
Cliff Moss : 29 AB, 17 H, 0 HR, 5 RBI, .586 AVG, 1.303 OPS
Merritt Thomas : 2 Wins, 4.0 IP, 0 BB, 0 K, 0.00 ERA
Ken Matson : 1 Win, 2 Saves, 7.0 IP, 0 BB, 6 K, 0.00 ERA

Schedule
5-23: Win at Wolves (5-2)
5-24: Win at Wolves (12-6)
5-25: Win at Wolves (4-3): 14 innings
5-26: Loss at Wolves (6-7)
5-27: Win at Cannons (7-5)
5-27: Win at Cannons (7-4)

Recap
Well now! What do we have here? Is this a 5-1 week against the top two teams? You betcha! I really thought we would get pushed down to the second division, but it couldn't have been any different, as the offense surprisingly came alive. We scored five or more runs in five of our six contests (although the one was almost two), and our only loss was a walk-off in game four of our almost sweep of the Wolves. As you might expect, Cliff Moss led the offense once again, and captured his second Player of the Week. The graying vet was an outstanding 17-for-29 with with 3 doubles, 5 runs, and 5 RBIs. The former #1 pick's triple slash is in the stratosphere, an elite .378/.428/.662 (206 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 3 triples, 10 homers, and 39 RBIs. With no homers this week, Al Wheeler tied him for the CA lead, but he still paces hitters with his RBIs and his batting average is two points behind Charlie Artuso for the lead. Moss has been our saving grace, but we'll need even more help from the rest of the lineup, as the Cannons are getting Fred Galloway back and the Wolves are getting Fred McCormick. It's not like we needed things to get tougher on us, but now our two biggest competitors added two elite hitters to their lineup and we just have to pitch to them.

With all the run scoring, Moss had plenty of support, including his new #2 Don Lee. "Rap" appeared in all six games, going 6-for-18 with a double, steal, 2 runs, 5 walks, and 5 RBIs. Jimmie James earned himself some more playing time, going 7-for-20 with 3 doubles, a walk, 2 RBIs, and 4 runs scored. Rich Langton got into the fun, 10-for-29 with a steal, 2 doubles, 3 walks, 4 RBIs, and 6 runs scored. Skipper Schneider went 8-for-27 with a steal, double, 3 RBIs, 5 walks, and 7 runs scored. Ken Mayhugh was 6-for-23 with a double, homer, walk, 2 runs, and 8 RBIs. Despite all the scoring, vets Dick Walker and Harry Mead didn't really separate from the pack, combining to go 15-for-54 with 2 doubles, a triple, 4 walks, 9 runs, 2 steals, and 10 RBIs. Walker has continued his slump from last season, with just an 87 WRC+ in 39 games, but Mead has a more respectable 103. It's a significant drop off for both, but if we're going to score runs, it doesn't really matter who it comes from.

Harry Parker was our lone two start starter, beating the Wolves while taking a no decision in game two of our double header. In Toronto, Parker went 8, allowing 8 hits and 2 runs with 3 strikeouts. The Cannons got to him with the longball, hitting two in 7 as Parker left with 7 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts. His HR/9 is doubled this season, which likely contributed to his higher ERA (3.58) and FIP (3.79), but at least his 2.8 K/BB is in line with his league best metric from last year. The double header also saw an impressive debut from George Oddo, who cruised through the first five innings before the Cannons got to him in the 6th. They scored four runs, including a pair of solo homers, finishing 7 innings with 8 hits, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. He picked up the win, beating the now 0-7 Butch Smith. Oddo will continue to get starts if he can hold his own, but in weeks with less games, he may get a few innings out of the pen. Art White gave us a good start as well, picking up a patented complete game win with 8 hits, 2 runs, 4 walks, and not a single strikeout.

Rusty Petrick got the lone loss, doubling his earned run total in just one game. He allowed 7 of them with 9 hits, 6 walks, and 4 strikeouts in 8.2 innings pitched. His ERA jumped from 1.26 to 2.15 (172 ERA+), which now ranks second behind the Cannons Dan Adams (2.01). Billy Riley got rather unlucky, as a Dick Walker error cost him what could have been a seventh consecutive win, as five of his six runs allowed were unearned. He left after just three innings, allowing 8 hits with a pair of punchouts. Ken Matson then came in to earn the victory, tossing five scoreless frames with 3 hits and strikeouts. He then picked up a pair of saves, allowing just one hit with three strikeouts in an inning against the Wolves and Cannons. Matson has been far better out of the pen then the rotation, With two double headers this week and the one on Sunday, we need a sixth starter, so Matson will get another start. Matson wasn't the only pen arm to find success either, however, as Merritt Thomas won two of his four appearances, tossing four scoreless with five hits. Ben Curtin picked up a save in two appearances, pitching 5 innings with 7 hits, a walk, 2 strikeouts, and 2 unearned runs. Thomas and Curtin have yet to allow an earned run in 23.2 innings pitched, which has made the last couple of innings feel very secure.

Looking Ahead
No rest for the wicked, as we get nine games in seven days this week. We'll finish the series in Cincinnati with two more against the Cannons. At 21-17, they sit in third and a game and a half behind us and the Wolves. We lucked out and missed Rufus Barrell (3-0, 1.23, 20), instead tasked to beat grizzled vets Tom Barrell (4-1, 3.60, 20) and Sam Sheppard (4-0, 2.87, 11). That's not an easy task either, but avoiding Rufus at home is huge. We'll also avoid Fred Galloway, who can return at the earliest on the 1st, but we all know how good this offense is. They hit plenty of homers, with their 28 tops in the CA, led by Al Wheeler (.322, 10, 36) and Denny Andrews (.270, 6, 19) who own WRC+ of 179 and 150. Gail Gifford (.343, 3, 17, 5) has caught fire, with three 3+ hit games in his past four, but he'll be relegated to the bench once Galloway is fit. Their offense is tough, but they'll have to best Billy Riley (6-1, 2.50, 32) and Art White (5-3, 3.09, 11), at least giving us a fighting chance to keep pace with their run totals. The Cannons are notoriously a second half team, so I like our chances to at least split the remaining two games, but we're red hot and have a shot for a 20 win May.

The road trip then continues to Philadelphia for three games in two days with the Sailors. We finish May with a double header, and with all the congestion the pitching matchups will be rather unknown. We're likely to face talented 24-year-olds Win Lewis (4-2, 2.18, 29) and John Thomas Johnson (5-1, 1, 3.33, 17), who are responsible for almost half of the teams 19 wins. We'll miss vet Doc Newell (5-4, 4.61, 27), who is projected to pitch against the Saints to start the week, but I'd rather face him then either of the youngsters. The Sailors also feature a decent lineup, with a nice front four to produce runs. Frank Covarrubias (.340, 3, 17) and Ed Reyes (.372, 1, 22, 1) may spend their seasons competing for a batting title while Chick Wilhelm (.270, 2, 16, 1) and Joseph Mills (.303, 2, 20) have done a great job reaching base. If they want to compete, however, they'll need Bill Watson (.265, 2, 14) and Alex Juris (.261, 1, 11, 1) to maintain their production throughout the season, but there are plenty of room for upgrades in the order.

Our road trip doesn't end this week, but our aggressive stretch of games finally does. We finish off 15 games in 12 days in Cleveland, with four games in three days. It ends in a double header, which is our third in eight days. Cleveland shouldn't give us too much trouble, as they're likely ticketed for last and are already 15-24 and 8 games out of first. The pitching has been terrible, as Ducky Davis (3-5, 5.37, 27) has now allowed 9 runs in each of his last two starts, so the now 32-year-old George Rotondi (3-3, 4.76, 18) leads the team in ERA despite an 81 ERA+. Jimmy Collins (1-2, 8.36, 11) and Clarence Linden (0-4, 7.76, 3) have really been hit hard, so no matter who toes the rubber, even our offense should be able to produce runs. The Foresters also don't score much, ranked last there as well, but they do have some solid bats in the lineup. Jim Adams Jr. (.291, 1, 19, 2) still hasn't quite mastered shortstop, but his bat has looked good, and with Cal Howe (.321, 1, 23, 3) and Hank Stratton (.336, 2, 18) around him, they can produce runs at the top. Elmer Lockwood (.400, 1, 10) has earned more starts due to some timely pinch hitting, but after him and Bob Mullins (.254, 5, 16) you have four automatic outs. Former Cougar prospect Adolph Jacobson (.244, 2, 2) may get himself a few more starts, but they only have two players younger then 28 in AAA Rochester. It'll be another slow season for Forester fans, but with the war nearing its conclusion, their highly touted youngsters will finally make their grand arrivals.

Minor League Report
RHP Joe Swank (AAA Milwaukee Blues): Before settling on the Oddo promotion, I debated giving Joe Swank the call instead. Also 22, Swank had a tremendous spring, and was off to a hot start before stumbling against the Titans. He bounced back in the biggest of ways, tossing a 6-hit, 1-walk shutout with 5 strikeouts in a 3-0 win in Indianapolis. It was the first of two starts for Swank, who then tossed 7.1 effective innings in St. Paul, charged with 5 hits, a run, and 2 walks with 5 strikeouts. That improved Swank to 5-2 on the season with a 2.83 ERA (135 ERA+), 1.04 WHIP, 13 walks, and 33 strikeouts in 54 innings pitched. These are very impressive numbers for the righty taken a round earlier then Oddo back in 1941, who now ranks 8th in our system and 141st overall. A skinny right, Swank isn't the hardest thrower, featuring a high 80s fastball that pairs well with an outstanding circle change and viable curve. Swank's stuff is very effective, but what's better is his command of the strike zone. He should be able to keep walks down which can help him hold down a rotation spot. OSA thinks he'll be a #2, I think that's a bit too optimistic, but Swank seems like a dependable option for a long term rotation spot.

RHP Angel Lopez (AAA Milwaukee Blues): Lopez didn't take the demotion poorly, as he quickly went back to dominate AAA hitters. Things were working for the 26-year-old, tossing a 2-hit, 2-walk shutout with 4 strikeouts. If he could do this in the majors, perhaps we wouldn't need Oddo, but there seems to be a large disconnect between his success against big leaguers and minor leaguers. Last season he was outstanding, 17-6 with a 2.38 ERA (150 ERA+), 1.20 WHIP, 58 walks, and 72 strikeouts in 27 starts. I expect many more starts like this from Lopez for the Blues, but we may never see this level of production in Chicago.

Week 8: May 28th-June 3rd
 

Weekly Record: 5-4
Seasonal Record: 28-20 (3rd, 2.5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Rich Langton : 41 AB, 13 H, 1 HR, 11 RBI, .317 AVG, .870 OPS
Dick Walker : 34 AB, 12 H, 0 HR, 2 RBI, .353 AVG, .959 OPS
Skipper Schneider : 39 AB, 12 H, 0 HR, 8 RBI, .308 AVG, .808 OPS

Schedule
5-28: Loss at Cannons (2-3)
5-29: Loss at Cannons (5-9)
5-30: Win at Sailors (5-3)
5-30: Loss at Sailors (1-3)
5-31: Win at Sailors (4-0)
6-1: Win at Foresters (8-1)
6-2: Loss at Foresters (3-8)
6-3: Win at Foresters (9-3)
6-3: Win at Foresters (7-3)

Recap
As expected, the Cannons had no trouble securing the final two games, and they rode the victories all the way up to first place. We did well the rest of the way, taking two of three in Philly and three of four in Cleveland. Still, the tough start to the week set us back, and we dropped back to third and 2.5 games out of first. May was a great month for us nonetheless, as the Cougars finished 21-11 after a rough 4-8 start to the season. We did well in the monthly award voting, as we swept the awards we could win, as we didn't have any qualifying rookie. As expected, Cliff Moss took home Batter of the Month, slashing .380/.442/.603 (194 OPS+) with 5 doubles, 2 triples, 6 homers, and 29 RBIs in 139 trips to the plate. It's been a great season for the almost 39-year-old, who's hit .341/.399/.580 (175 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 3 triples, 10 homers, and 42 RBIs. His defense has been very poor, so he's been worth less then a win above replacement, but with our offensive struggles, he more then makes up for it at the plate. On the mound, Billy Riley earned Pitcher of the Month, going a perfect 5-0 with a 1.50 ERA (246 ERA+), 1.02 WHIP, 9 walks, and 24 strikeouts. Funny enough, Riley's first June start was awful, as the 30-year-old vet allowed 5 hits, 7 runs, and 4 walks in 1.2 innings pitched. This dropped him to 6-2 on the season with a 3.12 ERA (119 ERA+), 1.19 WHIP, 24 walks, and 34 strikeouts. I expect him to quickly recover, as he's allowed three or fewer runs in 8 of his 11 starts.

We had a ton of games, so our hitters piled on plenty of plate appearances. Dick Walker looked like his old self, going 12-for-34 with 3 steals, 4 doubles, 2 RBIs, 9 runs, and 9 walks. Rich Langton went 13-for-41 with 2 doubles, 2 triples, a homer, walk, 6 runs, and 11 RBIs. Skipper went 12-for-39 with 3 doubles, a triple, 4 walks, 6 runs, and 8 RBIs. Mike Taylor started three games with the congestion, going 6-for-15 with 4 runs scored. Ken Mayhugh was 8-for-26 with a steal, double, homer, 2 runs, and 4 RBIs. I wasn't quite sure what I could expect from him, but he's hit a decent enough .270/.302/.385 (93 OPS+) with 5 doubles, 3 homers, and 21 RBIs, and his defense (2.4, 1.046) has been better then expected. He's not Hank Barnett, but Mayhugh has looked better with regular playing time. We keep rising in runs scored, now up to 5th, and after the slow start we're looking much better.

Speaking of much better, George Oddo dominated in start two, tossing a 4-hit shutout with 4 walks and 2 strikeouts against the Sailors. Oddo has been amped since his promotion, adding an extra mile to his fastball, as he now consistently lands in the low 90s. We have more off days coming up, but with a double header on Sunday, he'll get a third start. Three of our starters got two this week, and while his second start was bad, Riley did well in the loss to the Cannons, going 8 with 10 hits, and 2 runs (1 earned), walks, and strikeouts. Rusty Petrick split his decisions, losing a tight one to the Sailors and beating the Foresters. He was arguably better in the loss, going 8 with 5 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks, and 7 strikeouts. In the win, he left with two outs in the ninth, allowing 6 hits, 3 runs, and 5 walks with 2 strikeouts. It improved him to an unlucky 3-5 despite his 2.40 ERA (154 ERA+) and 1.16 WHIP. The final two start starter was Art White, and despite lesser outings then Petrick, he also split his decisions. White was hit hard by the Cannons, allowing 13 hits, 8 runs (5 earned), and 2 walks in 5 innings. He did look good against the Foresters, picking up a complete game victory with 9 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and a strikeout.

Harry Parker won his lone start, going 8 with 4 hits, a run, 4 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Ken Matson made a start and relief outing, starting with a victory against the Sailors. He tossed a complete game victory with 7 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. He relieved in the lone loss against the Foresters, tossing two perfect innings with a strikeout. The rest of the pen was worked hard, with Dick Lyons, Merritt Thomas, and Ben Curtin each made a pair of appearances. Thomas finally allowed an earned run, with 2 hits, 2 walks, and a strikeout in 2.1 innings pitched. The run also proved to be the difference maker in our 3-2 loss to the Cannons. Curtin stayed perfect, with an inning and two thirds of perfect baseball. Curtin struck out 1 and picked up his CA leading 6th save while finishing off Petrick's start against the Foresters. Lyons got more work then the both of them, going 5.1 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs, and a walk. The pen has been as lockdown as it gets, as our 1.00 bullpen ERA is easily best in the game.

Looking Ahead
The week starts off much nicer then the last, as we're off to start the week. We'll finish the road trip with a game against the Saints, another off day, and then a second game. Montreal is a bit below .500, sitting at 24-26 and 7.5 games out of first. They have a really strong offense, scoring the third most runs in the lead while featuring a pretty strong lineup. Bill Greene (.255, 7, 31, 7) has the lowest average in the lineup, but it comes with a 121 WRC+ and 1.4 WAR. They are getting production from unlikely sources like 27-year-old Ted Brown (.329, 1, 23) and former Cougar draftee Ben Richardson (.290, 2, 8). Vic Crawford (.344, 2, 36) has been outstanding and former 3rd Pick Gordie Perkins (.323, 16) is off to a great start to his big league career. With him at short, Jake Hughes (.296, 1, 24, 11) has thrived at third, The pitching, however, leaves plenty to be desired, but Karl Weiss (6-1, 3.59, 23) is off to a strong start, and it may be getting even better. The now 31-year-old has an impressive 2.91 FIP (75 FIP-) in 72.2 innings, and he's been a stabilizing piece of the rotation. The star of the rotation, however, is Mr. Right Pat Weakly, who is 6-3 with a 3.23 ERA (119 ERA+), 1.21 WHIP, 22 walks, and 50 strikeouts. With two games, the odds of facing both are slim, but with the off days they may move things around to make it happen. We have yet to beat the Saints this season, so even a sweep here doesn't bring us close in the season series.

We finish the week at home, for four games in three days with the Stars. Very little has gone right for New York, as they've dropped to 20-30 and already 11.5 games out of first. The top part of their rotation has been excellent, with Dixie Lee's return to the FABL going very well. The now 32-year-old is 6-3 with a 2.55 ERA (148 ERA+), 1.20 WHIP, 18 walks, and 31 strikeouts in 11 starts. Eli Panneton (7-4, 2.67, 36) has been just as good, and Ed Cornett (3-5, 3.46, 27) has been a solid three. Veterans Eddie Hite (2-5, 6.67, 12) and Hank Mittan (0-5, 6.59, 19) have been nothing more then BP, but they don't have any other options. The offense doesn't support them enough either, but Howie Smith has been a revelation. The 31-year-old is hitting an impressive .327/.379/.477 (136 OPS+) with 20 doubles, 2 triples, 2 homers, and 38 RBIs. He hasn't got much support beyond Chubby Hall (.278, 4, 32) and Jim Honeywood (.282, 2, 14), but utility man Mike Roberson (.288, 2, 8) recently entered the lineup and has hit well. On paper, this should be an easy series for us, and the return home should help improve our chances.

Minor League Report
LHP Ed Fisler (AA Mobile Commodores): No Dixie League pitcher had a better month then Ed Fisler, who took home the Pitcher of the Month award. His seven starts were impressive, going 5-2 with a 2.57 ERA (157 ERA+), 1.44 WHIP, 38 walks, and 24 strikeouts. The WHIP was rather high, but Fisler has done a good job keeping runs off the board. The 23-year-old is doing well in his 9 starts, 5-3 with a 2.99 ERA (135 ERA+), 1.40 WHIP, 42 walks, and 36 strikeouts. We have a logjam of starting pitchers in AAA, so him and Harry MacRae (3-4, 5.20, 22) are stuck here, but as a member of the 40 Fisler has a chance to join the big leagues later in the season. A three pitch pitcher, Fisler features a mid 90s fastball, solid slider, and solid change, but his lack of control can get him into trouble sometimes. Because of this, Fisler profiles more as a spot starter then a rotation stalwart, but the lefty has nice stuff, and would function well in a pen role.

RHP Stan Flanders (AA Mobile Commodores): Fisler may have been Pitcher of May, but Stan Flanders is already campaigning for Pitcher of June. The 22-year-old was brilliant against the Nashville Chieftains, tossing a 4-hit shutout with a pair of walks and strikeouts. It's been a weird season for Flanders, who's allowed two or fewer runs in five of his eight starts, but the other three saw 4, 6, and 7. Overall, the results have been good, 5-2 with a 3.47 ERA (117 ERA+), 1.32 WHIP, 16 walks, and 13 strikeouts in 59.2 innings pitched. A former 10th Rounder, Flanders currently ranks as our 15th best prospect, making up for poor stuff with impressive command. He doesn't have a reliable out pitch, which will make it tough for him to strike out many batters, but guys like Art White and Dick Lyons have shown that you can get by on producing week contact alone. He's young and has a lot of room still left to grow, but he's already exceeded most expectations as a 10th Rounder.

RF Bob Harris (A Lincoln Legislators): The Legislators piled the runs up on the Steelman to start June, and no hitter produced more then Bob Harris. The 23-year-old outfielder went cycling, 4-for-6 with 4 runs scored as Lincoln crushed Gary 18-6. It's been a season full of impressive performances like this for Bob Harris, who has slashed .351/.393/.536 (147 OPS+) with 8 doubles, a triple, 6 homers, 5 steals, and 24 RBIs. This is a noticeable improvement from last season, where he hit .276/.344/.415 (98 OPS+) in 73 games. A bat first prospect, Harris has decent pop in his bat and a strong hit tool. He looks like a .300+ hitter with at least double digit home run power, but his plate discipline isn't great and he'll likely strike out far more then he walks. Strikeouts won't be too big of a problem, as he does make decent contact, but out pitches can give him trouble. He's a low floor, high ceiling type bench bat, but with some more work at the plate he can turn into a dangerous hitter.

CF Don Jeppsen (B San Jose Cougars): Hard to have a better week then Don Jeppsen, who started the week with a huge 4-for-5 against Spokane. He launched three homers and drove in eight, and then finished the week with a very unique .542/.538/.958 (314 OPS+). Jeppsen took home the Player of the Week award as well, in what has been a remarkable season for the 20-year-old. This upped his season line to .418/.477/.643 (213 OPS+) with 4 doubles, 6 homers, 6 steals, and 23 RBIs. I don't want to send anyone in A ball down or to the bench, so Jeppsen is stuck in San Jose until an injury happens.

It already feels like a three-team race. I believe in the Cougs! 1945 is the year!

Let's hope! Always feel like its our year but as long as we can avoid a double digit collapse I'm happy. Should be a fun three team race the rest of the way. Counting the week that'll come out tonight, I think it's been four (if not five) straight weeks with a different team leading the way. Games played are different, but all three have 32 (us) or 33 (them) wins. I'm really looking forward to next season as most (if not all) of our stars should be back.

Week 9: June 4th-June 10th
 

Weekly Record: 4-2
Seasonal Record: 32-22 (3rd, 2.5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Ken Mayhugh : 28 AB, 10 H, 0 HR, 6 RBI, .357 AVG, .795 OPS
Skipper Schneider : 29 AB, 8 H, 0 HR, 2 RBI, .276 AVG, .736 OPS
Dick Lyons : 1 Win, 6.0 IP, 1 BB, 1 K, 0.00 ERA

Schedule
6-5: Win at Saints (4-3): 21 Innings
6-7: Win at Saints (3-1)
6-8: Loss vs Stars (6-2)
6-9: Win vs Stars (2-6)
6-10: Win vs Stars (3-5)
6-10: Loss at Stars (0-8)

Recap
We finally beat the Saints! And let me tell you, it was a real doozy! Up 3-1 in the 8th and with Ben Curtin replacing Harry Parker after an excellent start, it looked like we'd be winning rather easily. Curtin hadn't gave up a single earned run all season, and is as reliable as it gets in the late innings. Of course, that's not how it played out, as Del Bruce led off the inning with a single before Art McMahon tripled him home. McMahon then scored on a Jake Hughes single, and just like that the game was tied back up. It got really scary when Vic Crawford singled Hughes to third, and the go ahead run was 90 feet away with zero out. Luckily Curtin settled in, getting the next three out with the speedy Hughes stuck at third due to the infield in and a pair of liners. From then on, it became a pitcher's duel, as the Cougars and Saints traded zeros for the next 12 innings. Finally in the 21st, Don Lee's sac-fly gave the Cougars a one run lead, and the 44-year-old vet Dick Lyons finished off his 6th scoreless inning to secure the 4-3 win in a game that lasted over six hours. It's a tough outcome for Saints' reliever Billy Stall, who almost threw a shutout in relief. He allowed just 3 hits and 2 walks in 8.1 scoreless innings. All 25 outs were on balls put in play, and there was only a strikeout per team in the last 10 innings of the contest. Ken Mayhugh was the most unlucky bat of the game, as he went 0-for-10 as all ten of his at bats ended with the ball in the glove of a Saint.

After that crazy marathon there was plenty of time for rest, as we were off before the finale. We won that too, getting revenge for the first two sweeps at the hands of Montreal. It was a good road trip for the Cougars, as we went 12-5 with all but four of the games coming against the four teams within single digits of first. The homestand didn't start as great, as we split with the struggling Stars, but the opener saw Dick Walker record his 2,500th career hit on a solo shot off Eddie Bloom. Even at 38, the longtime Sailor can make an impact at the plate, and he's hit a productive .248/.357/.355 (103 OPS+) at the top of the order. He's added 9 doubles, a triple, 4 homers, 16 RBIs, and 11 steals with an impressive 37-to-18 walk-to-strikeout ratio. One of this eras top first basemen, Walker owns a .275/.380/.428 (123 OPS+) in 2,467 FABL games, and the Iron Man has yet to miss a game due to injury. Discounting his rookie campaign, Walker has posted an average or better OPS+ and WRC+ in each subsequent season while tallying 398 doubles, 244 triples, 171 homers, 1,161 RBIs, and 705 steals. His 1,572 walks are third all time and he's been worth an impressive 70.4 wins above replacement since his debut in 1928. Walker currently leads the Cougars in runs scored (39), steals, and walks, with the walks also leading the CA. With Ray Ford's return from the Air Force next season, this may be Walker's last season as an every day player, but he's got plenty of gas left in the tank and will continue to add to his impressive career tallies.

Despite his 0-for-10 in the 21 inning game, Ken Mayhugh actually had a great week. Including that, he went 10-for-28 with a walk, steal, 2 doubles, 2 runs, and 6 RBIs. Without the 0'fer, he would have had a .556 average, and he's been a welcomed addition to the lineup. The rest of the lineup had some issues, and him and Skipper Schneider were the only hitters with 7 or more PAs who had an above average week. Skipper went 8-for-29 with 4 doubles, 2 walks, 2 RBIs, 3 runs, and a steal. Our normally strong outfield of Rich Langton, Don Lee, and Cliff Moss weren't quite themselves, just 18-for-72 . Langton did swipe two bases and him and Moss both walked four times, but the trio has been outstanding this season. Langton has a 124 OPS+ while Moss and Lee's are both in the 160s. Our 3-4-5 against righty pitchers, we need them at their best to keep up with higher scoring teams, and since none of them are better the average defensively, them producing at the plate is a must.

The pitching was pretty solid, but Art White had his third rough outing in five starts. White left with one out in the third, charged with 7 hits, 6 runs, and 4 walks with 3 strikeouts. This upped his season ERA to 3.92 (93 ERA+) and his WHIP to 1.58, with both the WHIP and ERA+ set to be career worsts. The only other start was #2 for Harry Parker, who allowed 8 hits, 6 runs, and 2 walks with 2 strikeouts in 6 innings against the Stars. He was much better against Montreal, going 7 with 4 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Billy Riley quickly bounced back after getting hit hard in Cleveland, tossing a complete game victory with 7 hits, a run, and 2 strikeouts. George Oddo continues to pitch like a vet, improving to 3-0 with 8 innings, 5 hits, 2 runs, 5 walks, and 3 strikeouts. His 4.1 BB/9 is a bit concerning, as is his 1.1 HR/9, but he's allowed just 17 hits in 24 innings and his 2.25 ERA (162 ERA+) is very impressive. The last start went to Rusty Petrick, who was two outs away from a complete game win over the Stars. He left after 148 pitches with 8 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks, and 4 strikeouts.

The pen was used very frequently, with three relievers making three appearances. The one who didn't was Lyons, who had his epic 6 inning relief win. Ken Matson was impressive, throwing 7.2 hitless innings with just one walk and four strikeouts. As a reliever he's been elite, throwing 23 innings in 9 appearances with just 8 hits and 4 walks with 13 strikeouts. Ben Curtin finally allowed earned runs, but he finished with 4.2 innings, 5 hits, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Merritt Thomas threw 6 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, and 3 strikeouts. The veteran righties have looked very good this season, as even after this week they have a combined 1.17 ERA and 1.10 WHIP in 38.1 innings pitched. Our pen has been one of the best this season, as the 1.12 ERA is over a full point higher then the next closest CA team (2.22; Foresters).

Looking Ahead
Off to start the week, but before games get started, the draft pool is officially released. No picks will be made manually, as the first 8 rounds have already been completed. No players will be added either, but we will get full stats for high school and college players. With the weekend coming, I'll cover how our previous picks performed in an Amateur Report. The draft itself doesn't officially occur until the end of June, with all picks being signed automatically. I'll cover the AI picks separately from the weekly report.

We'll have to deal with the Saints again, as they come to Chicago for a three game set. Montreal has started to cool off, down to 26-30 and 9.5 games outside of first. Montreal has plenty of offense, ranked 3rd in runs scored, but they allow more runs then everyone except the Foresters. Veteran Ed Baker (5-4, 4.46, 10) looks like someone approaching 40 and youngster Jackie James (3-6, 4.12, 29) hasn't taken a step forward after his mediocre rookie year. Karl Weiss (6-2, 4.01, 26) was just hit hard by the Kings, so just stopper Danny Clark (2-2, 2, 2.96, 11) and ace Pat Weakley (6-4, 3.24, 56) have an above average ERA+. To win, they have to outscore their opponent, and having a guy like Vic Crawford anchoring the lineup definitely helps. The 37-year-old recorded his 2,000th career hit off Billy Riley on the 7th, and the talented vet is hitting .342/.420/.437 (134 OPS+) with 15 doubles, 2 homers, and 40 RBIs. A completely different type of player then Dick Walker, Crwaford has also been one of the most consistent first basemen, with an OPS+ above 100 in each season since he became a full time starter back in 1933. He has plenty of support, but Art McMahon (.303, 2, 25, 4) will hit the IL with an intercostal strain. This will open a spot up for Bernie Green (.339, 10, 7), who has done well in a platoon with Hank Dunn (.284, 1, 10, 1). Cougars Park is a very power friendly location, so what could help us is just Bill Greene (.254, 8, 36, 7) has hit more then two homers. It will be tough for us to keep them off the board, but good pitching tends to top good hitting, and our 7-3 June is the reverse of their monthly record.

We'll face the Saints again in Chicago to start next week, but it is interrupted by four games in three days in Brooklyn. The Kings had a rough May, going 11-20, and dropped to 11 games out of first. The Kings rotation isn't much better then the Saints, with just Bill McGraw (5-3, 3.56, 39) featuring an ERA+ (106) above 100. Jim Kenney's replacement ace Dick Farmer (5-5, 5.67, 49) hasn't done well in the rotation, and the only other member of the staff producing much is former Cougar draftee Pinch Lenhart (0-5, 5, 2.06, 19), but he's been extremely unlucky in terms of decision. The Kings could decide to move him, or fellow top 200 prospect, Charlie Leist to the rotation, but most of their big league ready pitchers are serving in the war. Their lineup could use some new faces on the mound, as they score more frequently then we do. 27-year-old outfielder Ben Brazel (.378, 17, 5) has been a pleasant surprise, while vets Vernon Ruch (.305, 4, 34) and Jake Shadoan (.303, 2, 28, 5) have been effective. If Orie Martinez (.260, 2, 22) can shake off his sophomore slump, the Kings could move back up the standings, but it will be tough for them to compete with the Cannons, Wolves, and Cougars without a pitching staff to keep runs off the board.

Minor League Report
3B Israel Holmes (AA Mobile Commodores): It was an offensive explosion for Israel Holmes, who was a perfect 5-for-5 in a 14-2 beatdown of the Chattanooga Reliables. Holmes homered, scored twice, and drove in four to support Jimmy Ballard in his complete game victory. A former 14th Round Pick, Holmes has taken advantage of the war, as he's gotten to start games when he would have likely been sitting on the bench. We are really thin on infielders, so Holmes hasn't had to worry about competition. Due to that, the 22-year-old is all the way up in AA, and hitting a solid .290/.400/.387 (109 OPS+) with 4 doubles, 4 triples, a homer, and 15 RBIs while starting all but one of the Commodores games this year. His plate discipline does him well, as he's walked (26) more then he's struck out (17), something he's done in each season of his minor league career. Holmes will always be able to get on base, but he may not put the ball in play consistently enough to earn a job as a regular. Unless Holmes has a big season, he's likely get to get passed up for a starting position, and potentially sent down to come off the bench as we'll have plenty of older prospects and not enough spots to place them.

SS Al Clement (B San Jose Cougars): Clement was expectedly overmatched as a teen last year, but since he had to play there based on need, letting him repeat the level makes a lot of sense. I knew he would show some improvement, but after 34 games he looks like a completely different hitter. Riding a 20-game hit streak, Clement is slashing .358/.416/.537 (165 OPS+) with 3 doubles, 7 homers, 15 steals, and 21 RBIs. He's already worth more this season (1.8) then in 120 games last year (1.6) and is line for a promotion once all the new draftees fill in. A former 2nd Rounder, Clement ranks 10th in our system and 150th overall. Clement has great speed that translates into steals and range on the dirt. He puts the ball in play consistently and is always a threat to take advantage of poor defense. He does show swing and miss potential that will limit his power, and he tends to strike out a bit less then every game. Strikeouts aren't a detriment to a hitter, just ask back-to-back batting title leader Leo Mitchell, but to do that Clement has to stay out of slumps. He's on an obvious hot streak now, but there were a lot of times last season where he couldn't buy a hit. This kid's got a lot of talent, and while I don't think he'll stick at short, I think he can be a suitable long term piece at either third or second with George Sutterfield at the other spot. Clement still has a few seasons of development left, but I think he'll be well worth the wait.

Week 10: June 11th-June 17th
 

Weekly Record: 4-3
Seasonal Record: 36-25 (3rd, 2.5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Dick Walker : 29 AB, 11 H, 2 HR, 4 RBI, .379 AVG, 1.075 OPS
Art White : 2 Wins, 17.2 IP, 6 BB, 6 K, 2.04 ERA
Skipper Schneider : 31 AB, 9 H, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .290 AVG, .796 OPS

Schedule
6-12: Loss vs Saints (8-2)
6-13: Win vs Saints (2-3)
6-14: Loss vs Saints (8-5)
6-15: Win at Kings (5-2)
6-16: Win at Kings (8-5)
6-17: Loss at Kings (2-10)
6-17: Win at Kings (3-2)

Recap
No news this week is bigger then the sale of the Cougars, as textile mogul from Peoria Mackenzie "Mack" Dalmer purchased the team from Ben Hunter, who's health has started to fail him. The 82-year-old has been living in Phoenix, and decided it was time to let go of the team he's owned since 1901. Dalmer stated that "[he's] not particularly knowledgeable about baseball," and that he will "let the baseball folks hired by Mr. Hunter [to] continue to do their jobs without my butting in." I wouldn't by that, as it's hard o get an owner worse then Dalmer. Sure, Hunter was very frugal, but hands off, understanding, and liked to win. Dalmer, on the other hand, is both demanding and controlling, and only cares about profit. Hunter already decimated our budget, dropping from $1.2 million in 1943 to the $750,000 this year, and I imagine it's only going to get lower. This couldn't have come at a worse time, as we're going to have to pay Papenfus, Brown, the Jones Brothers, Montes, Ford, and Car, which is going to push us way past our current budget.

We just can't beat the Saints... Sure, we had the two game sweep last week, but guess what? Another series loss! The only win was of the one run variety, as the piled on 8 runs in both of their wins. We had much more success in Brooklyn, taking three of four from the Kings. The Wolves and Cannons didn't fair any better then we did, so we remained 2.5 games out and in third. We also sustained our first real injury, as Jimmie James will hit the IL with a bone bruise on his knee. He's expected to miss 7 to 8 weeks, making it even harder to find someone to pay second base. The almost 27-year-old hasn't produced much with the bat, hitting .269/.291/.327 (76 OPS+) with 6 doubles and 7 RBIs. I really didn't know who I wanted to call up to replace him. I debated on bringing up another top 25 prospect, George Sutterfield, but I want to at least work him out at second first. Ranked #24, our 4th Rounder from last season was hitting .275/.330/.400 (106 OPS+) with 13 doubles, 3 triples, 2 homers, 30 RBIs, and 4 steals. I later settled on Steve Rosko, our 7th Rounder from 1940. Rosko has manned second for Milwaukee, slashing .242/.343/.376 (103 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 3 triples, 3 homers, and 23 RBIs. Rosko isn't the greatest hitter, but he's a versatile defender with a great eye at the plate. He'll fill in off the bench, but will get a few starts while James is hurt.

He'll join a lineup that has continued to struggle, as our formerly excellent outfield of Don Lee, Cliff Moss, and Rich Langton didn't hit much at all. The trio went 12-for-64, with Langton and Lee adding a double and steal. Dick Walker tried to make up for it, as he didn't stop after 2,500, going 11-for-29 with a double, 2 steals, 2 homers, 4 runs, 4 walks, and 4 RBIs. Backup catcher Mike Taylor hit his first homer of the season and went 3-for-10 with 3 RBIs. Ollie Page had to fill in for Jimmie James, and managed to go 4-for-11 with a double, run, 3 walks, and 3 RBIs. It is limited time, but he's hit a strong .333/.438/.444 (151 OPS+) with 3 doubles and 6 RBIs in 32 trips to the plate. He'll start at second at least for next week, but the position will continue to be a revolving door. Shortstop, is always locked down, as Skipper hit well again this week. He went 9-for-31 with a double, triple, homer, walk, 2 RBIs, and 5 runs scored. He's now on an 11 WAR pace, hitting .265/.343/.387 (107 OPS+) with 17 doubles, 3 triples, 2 homers, 7 steals, and 25 RBIs with an outstanding 29-to-7 walk-to-strikeout ratio. He's accumulated an absurd 22.6 zone rating in just 61 games, and his 1.214 efficiency is almost 100 points higher then his career high 1.132 from last season. We still can't hit with any consistency, but the bigger worry is our 3-8 record against Montreal, that doesn't seem likely to improve any time soon.

Art White and Billy Riley both started two games this week, but they couldn't have gone much different. White was effective, allowing 2 runs and 3 walks with 3 strikeouts in each of the starts. He went all nine with 10 hits against the Saints, but left an out before a second complete game in Brooklyn. He allowed 14 hits and threw 142 pitches, before Ben Curtin got the final out for his 8th save. Riley completely fell apart, as both the Saints and Kings had no trouble with him. He allowed 8 hits, 6 runs, and 2 walks with a strikeout in 6 innings against the Saints, before the Kings piled on 9 hits, 8 runs, and 3 walks with another strikeout in 5.1 innings pitched. Riley's ERA jumped from 2.90 to 3.84 (95 ERA+) as he dropped to 7-4 on the season. George Oddo had a rough start too, as the Saints piled on 10 hits, 6 runs, and 2 walks with 2 strikeouts in 6 innings pitched. Rusty Petrick was a little unlucky, as four of his five runs were unearned, but he still managed to finish off a complete game victory. He recorded 8 hits, 5 walks, and 7 strikeouts to even his record at 5-5. Harry Parker dominated the Kings, two outs away from a complete game win with 5 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Parker hasn't been his Allen Award winning self this season, but his 3.43 ERA (106 ERA+) and 1.13 WHIP aren't too bad. The pen was roughed up a bit, as Ken Matson allowed 9 hits, 2 runs, and a walk with 2 strikeouts in 5.2 innings pitched. Merritt Thomas faired worse, charged with 5 hits, 4 runs, and 2 walks in just 3 innings pitched. We didn't pitch nearly as well as we have lately, but if we can keep winning, a few high scoring games aren't all that bad.

The draft pool was officially released as well, and if the mock is to believed, we captured three first round talents in Carl Clark (1.4), Johnny Peters (1.5), and Alex O'Dailey (1.13). Pat Todd (2.15) checks in on the 2nd Round, Jim Mako (4.1) in the 4th, and both Clyde Parker (5.14) and Jim Smith (5.16) in the 5th. The absence of Dutch Yoak is a little concerning, but just the mock contains just six pitchers and none in the first round. He was perfect yet again this season, and Yoak will go down as one of the most dominant prep pitchers the game has seen.

Looking Ahead
Yay, more Saints! Lucky it is just one game in Chicago, that will give the Saints either there 32nd win (most likely) or loss. While the top three teams are withing 3 games of each other, the Saints sit 8 behind the Wolves and leading the second division. We'll get Ed Baker (5-5, 4.24, 10), who we beat on the 13th. He allowed 9 hits, 3 runs (2 earned), and 4 walks in 7.2 innings pitched. This is a must win for us, but chances are Baker will outduel Oddo, and we'll drop yet another game to Montreal.

We quickly hit the road and return to the Big Apple for three with the Stars. New York was expected by many to be a potential first division team by many, but very little has gone right for New York. At 25-38, they are just a game above the Foresters for the bottom spot in the association. They've actually pitched well despite poor defense, as their staff 3.43 FIP is best in the CA. Eli Panneton (8-5, 2.82, 41) and Dixie Lee (6-5, 2.93, 37) have been nothing short of elite, but they haven't gotten many quality starts after Ed Cornett (3-7, 3.64, 35). Johnny Cook (2-2, 3.16, 13) and Eddie Bloom (2-1, 2.09, 7) have both gotten starts after pitching well in the pen, but Cook has sandwiched a shutout with 6-run outings. They can hit a bit, with Howie Smith (.331, 4, 50) and Chick MacKnight (.274, 2, 13) putting together excellent seasons. Rookie Bill Grove (.353, 3) had a nice debut week and they're hoping he can develop into a long term piece at the hot corner. He ranks 4th in their system and 47th overall, and at 22 he has loads of potential. We've done well against the Stars so far, so even if we slip up against the Saints, we can use this series to right the ship.

We finish the week back at home, hosting the Kings for three before an of day to start the next week. Brooklyn is in 6th and a game and a half above the Stars, now 27-37 after we took three of four from them at Kings County Park. Former Cougar Pinch Lenhart (1-5, 5, 1.88, 24) finally picked up his first win as his ERA dropped below 2 in 43 innings pitched, but he pitched in two losses against us. We lost to Bill McGraw (6-3, 3.25, 44), who I'd love to avoid this time instead of Ike O'Donnell (3-6, 4.54, 36), who the Stars bested before we came to town. Their lineup is tough to match, as the only hitters who aren't all that scary are Bill Phelps (.259, 2, 26, 4) and Otto Deal (.189, 12), though even the 31-year-old career minor leaguer Phelps has a respectable 94 WRC+ in his first season as a big leaguer. This has the makings of a huge week for us, as we might be able to leap frog the Cannons and/or Wolves who play a four game series in Cincinnati.

Minor League Report
RHP Harry MacRae (AA Mobile Commodores): MacRae was off to a slow start this season, entering the week with a very high 5.49 ERA. He got two starts against the Memphis Excelsiors, and the former 7th Rounder had no trouble with their lineup. He started the week with a 3-hit shutout with a walk and strikeout, and then followed that up with a second complete game win. He allowed 8 hits, 3 runs (1 earned), and a walk with 3 strikeouts. This improved MacRae to 5-5 in 10 starts with a 4.35 ERA (95 ERA+), 1.42 WHIP, 17 walks, and 29 strikeouts. This season hasn't gone anything like last year, where he was 15-9 with a 2.84 ERA (140 ERA+), 1.25 WHIP, 60 walks, and 72 strikeouts in 24 starts for the Commodores. The two pitch pitcher is throwing a bit harder this season, up to 91-93 with his fastball. His curve is the better pitch, and he locates it very well, and his 1.9 BB/9 is the best of his young career. This may be the last season MacRae gets regular starts, as we have plenty of more exciting pitchers coming back, but this could open up a spot for him in the big league bullpen. I don't think Merritt Thomas will be back next year, and Ben Curtin doesn't have too many seasons left in him. He's got the stuff to be a stopper, and the endurance to pitch frequently, and he could end up challenging Bill Mendine's save record.

LHP Howie Sharp (A Lincoln Legislators): With a lack of pitching depth in A ball, Howie Sharp made a few starts there last season (which didn't go well) and returned after a trio of starts in San Jose. Those three went great, as Sharp was 2-1 with a 0.87 ERA (433 ERA+), 1.02 WHIP, 4 walks, and 20 strikeouts in 20.2 innings pitched. Three of his first four starts with the Legislators went well, but the fifth was tremendous. Last year's 11th Rounder dominated the Springfield Hustlers, tossing a 4-hit, 2-walk shutout with 3 punchouts to improve to 2-1 with Lincoln. His 2.37 ERA (171 ERA+) is superb, and while he's walked (13) the same amount of hitters as he's struck out in 38 innings at this stop, he's looked pretty good. Sharp is throwing a bit harder this season, as his fastball is up to 86-88, but his stuff as a whole isn't that great. He does use the zone well, and should end up with average control, but without an out pitch he'll have to rely a lot on his defense. Sharp isn't one of our higher rated prospects, but he's right outside the top 500 and has earned a shot to start regularly for one of our farm clubs.

Amateur Report
 

1st Round, 3rd Overall: CF Johnny Peters
School: Liberty College Bells
1945: .307/.425/.581, 219 PA, 11 2B, 4 3B, 10 HR, 35 RBI, 35 SB
Career: .309/.429/.567, 779 PA, 36 2B, 16 3B, 32 HR, 129 RBI, 105 SB

Johnny Peters was named a First Team All-American for his third consecutive season, becoming one of just seven players to accomplish this feat. Peters put up a third elite season, hitting 10 homers while setting career bests in slugging and OPS (1.006) with a career low in strikeouts (19). Most outlets are very high on the young center fielder, and he checks in on #5 on our mock draft and 3rd on Tom Weinstock's list, behind only the two players picked before him. A potentially elite hitter, Peters hit 32 homers in 154 games at the prestigious Liberty College to go with a scary .309/.429/.567 triple slash. Peters has the highest ceiling imaginable as an elite center fielder, and if it wasn't for Don Lee's production he'd be penciled into the center field job in Chicago. That's not to say he won't get it soon, but the need for a center fielder isn't as dire as it once was. There's plenty to be excited about when it comes to Peters, as he has both plus contact and power potential that pairs well with his excellent plate discipline. At the plate, there really isn't a flaw yet, as he walks (130) more then he strikes out (66) and is an excellent base runner and stealer. The only unknown in Peters' game is his glove, as Tom Weinstock hasn't mentioned much about it yet. OSA has been pretty quiet too, but with his speed I have to imagine his range is at least average. If he can hit and play defense, Lee may be relegated to more of a part time role, but we have a few weeks before Peters will sign so plenty could happen between now and then.

2nd Round, 18th Overall: CF Carl Clark
School: Springfield Panthers
1945: .469/.561/.771, 125 PA, 15 2B, 4 3B, 2 HR, 29 RBI, 22 SB
Career: .462/.553/.751, 485 PA, 51 2B, 16 3B, 10 HR, 114 RBI, 89 SB

After flirting with .500 last year, I was hoping "Fish" would be able to surpass that this season, but his average dropped to .469. That was still the second best mark in four seasons at Springfield, but he apparently showed enough to be ranked a spot higher then Peters on the mock draft. 17 until August, Clark is younger then the average high school draftee, but he was an advanced hitter for his age and walked (79) almost four times as often as he struck out (21). Clark's command of the strike zone may be his best tool, and he could develop into an elite hitter if his contact and eye potential reach their ceiling. He doesn't project to be more then an average power hitter, but if he can play dependable defense in center it won't matter all that much. He's cool under pressure and relishes at bats in close games, and loves to bat when it matters most. He's got a lot of development ahead of them, but Clark has legit All-Star potential. It may take him time to get there, but he could debut at 21. There's always risk with high school picks, but he's on the safer side due to his natural hitting abilities, and the reward far outweighs the risk.

2nd Round, 19th Overall: LHP Dutch Yoak
School: La Porte Renegades
1945: 12-0, 127.2 IP, 0.70 ERA, 0.72 WHIP, 18 BB, 205 K
Career: 43-2, 472.1 IP, 1.18 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, 104 BB, 729 K

Throughout the past three seasons, it's tough to find anyone who's been as dominant as Dutch Yoak. The now 18-year-old lefty put together his third consecutive perfect season, finishing his high school career 43-2 with a 12-0 season. Yoak set personal bets in ERA, WHIP, and K/BB (11.4) and was worth 8.6 WAR in 127.2 innings. A four year starter at La Porte, Yoak finished his career with 729 strikeouts which was more then every other draft eligible player. As were his 43 wins, while his 1.18 ERA ranks 3rd. The 6'4'' lefty was one of the toughest prep pitchers to face, and I may be able to push him up to San Jose. A three pitch pitcher, Yoak has a reliable high 80s fastball and potentially outstanding curve. His change needs a lot of work, and he'll need it to develop into at least an average pitch if he wants to start regularly in the big leagues. What works in his favor is his outstanding work ethic, and I expect the Houston native will continue to improve once he joins our system. Tom and OSA aren't overly high on his potential, but I think he's far from a finished product, and will make large strides after draft day. There's work to be done, but he has the perfect blend of hustle, heart, and talent. He's got plenty of upside, and I think he's going to be well worth the risk.

3rd Round, 43rd Overall: 3B Pat Todd
School: University Red Devils
1945: .528/.555/.736, 122 PA, 14 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 30 RBI, SB
Career: .522/.557/.733, 384 PA, 47 2B, 3 3B, 6 HR, 101 RBI, 10 SB

In all three of his seasons at University Park, Pat Todd managed to keep his average over .500 each season. This year it was .528, a bit lower then the .534 last year, but he match his homer total in two fewer games. A natural third basemen, Todd projects well at the hot corner due to his strong arm and solid range. His value comes at the plate, where he could contend for batting titles due to his excellent hit tool. He has quick hands and a smooth swing, and he won't whiff all that much. His 5 strikeouts were actually a career high, as he struck out just 7 times total the past two seasons. Todd has the tools to develop into an above average player, but as a third basemen, since he plays a corner he will really need to hit to earn a roster spot. His floor is much lower then the average early round pick, but he was too exciting to pass up and I can't wait to see how well he does in affiliated ball.

4th Round, 59th Overall: SS Jim Mako
School: Erasmus Crusaders
1944: .429/.504/.750, 137 PA, 18 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 31 RBI, 17 SB
Career: .429/.504/.750, 137 PA, 18 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 31 RBI, 17 SB

"The Shark" didn't have the greatest high school debut, but I was impressed by the four homers Mako hit at Erasmus. The versatile teen didn't hit for a very high average, but he showed great plate discipline and walked (16) twice as much as he struck out (7). He also doubled 18 times, so there is a lot more power here then once expected. I think this has more to do with his eye then his bat, because he knows which pitches he can handle and that should lead to a lot of mistakes getting punished. It will be interesting to see where he ends up in the field, as Mako got games at second, third, and center as well, so I can't imagine first, left or right will be tough for him. His speed makes me believe he'll have the range to stick at short, but Skipper isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Despite being in his six season, Skipper is only six years older then Mako. Mako may not be a star, but if he can continue to hit for extra bases or put the ball in play more frequently, he could force his way into the lineup. His versatility gives him immense value to any organization, so worst case he could be a really handy tool off the bench. I believe he'll be an every day player, but it may be tough for him to earn the time here.

5th Round, 75th Overall: C Alex O'Dailey
School: Hartford Bulldogs
1945: .443/.500/.604, 125 PA, 9 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 27 RBI, 2 SB
Career: .442/.499/.635, 363 PA, 32 2B, 5 3B, 6 HR, 87 RBI, 14 SB

Every time people say the mock draft is too accurate, and perhaps, sometimes it is, but when guys like Alex O'Dailey are put in, it's a nice reminder that you can't just blindly follow it. O'Dailey checks in as the 13th Pick, and while he is good, he is not a first round quality player. He hit below .450 in his three years of high school with just 6 homers through 72 games. Right now he hits too many ground balls to hit for much power, which takes away part of his value at the plate. He should draw a lot of walks and he puts the ball in play, but he doesn't have the footspeed to take advantage of slow rollers or grounders up the middle. If O'Dailey can elevate the ball, he has a shot to end up a first round worthy player, but I don't think his bat or glove will be good enough to be a star. He's more of a serviceable starter, like Mike Taylor in his 30s, then Harry Mead or Taylor himself in his 20s. He was supposed to compete with Bill Martin for at bats, but after he got called into the service O'Dailey will get to play every day down in La Crosse.

6th Round, 91st Overall: RHP Jim N. Smith
School: Georgia Baptist Gators
1945: 8-5, 118.2 IP, 3.79 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, 57 BB, 98 K
Career: 13-14, 250 IP, 4.18 ERA, 1.56 WHIP, 137 BB, 206 K

A shocking member of the mock, Jim Smith was the last of six pitchers and the lowest ranked player overall. "Noodles" was much better as a junior then sophomore, improving in terms of wins, ERA, WHIP, BB.9 (4.3), K/BB (1.7), and WAR (1.9). A five pitch pitcher, Smith is one of the more developed pitchers in the pool, but he doesn't beat hitters by overpowering him. The stuff overall isn't great, but his mid-80s cutter can be located well, and he mixes in his curve, slider, change, and splitter in well. An intelligent and well-spoken pitcher, even if he doesn't develop into a star pitcher, the younger guys should learn from him well. I think he'll be able to start up in Lincoln, and he'll be in Milwaukee in no time. If he can master his control or add some speed, he could be a decent back-end arm, but I think he'll soak up plenty of innings.

7th Round, 103rd Overall: LF Clyde Parker
School: Liberty Bluejays
1945: .512/.584/.814, 102 PA, 11 2B, 3 3B, 3 HR, 31 RBI, 14 SB
Career: .514/.584/.837, 331 PA, 37 2B, 11 3B, 10 HR, 91 RBI, 44 SB

Clyde Parker had a nearly identical junior and senior seasons, with matching averages, OBPs, PAs (102), ABs (86), hits (44), doubles (11), walks (13), and steals (14). It was also his third season hitting above .500 and third season with an exactly .584 on base percentage, so consistency seems to be key for Clyde Parker. You know who else consistency is key for? Leo Mitchell! There may be 14 years between them, but Parker reminds me a lot of our beloved left fielder. Discounting the fact that they're both lefties who can play left, right, and first, Parker has a strong hit tool and excels at finding gaps in the defense. He has decent speed and a little pop, but the one major difference is the strikeouts. Parker almost never strikes out, just six times in 331 PAs, and I don't see whiffs ever being a problem for him. Tom Weinstock is a big fan, stating he has the talent to "flourish in the majors," but Parker is far from a sure thing. The hard worker has stacked the deck in his favor, but as a bat first prospect he's always going to have to hit. He's far off from the big leagues, but I think he could end up good enough to take the baton from Mitchell when he's ready to move on.

7th Round, 107th Overall: SS Rupert Heinbaugh
School: Weedsport Warriors
1945: .456/.508/.737, 135 PA, 15 2B, 4 3B, 3 HR, 30 RBI, 33 SB
Career: .454/.513/.734, 267 PA, 32 2B, 10 3B, 4 HR, 62 RBI, 64 SB

It was a pretty similar second season from Rupert Heinbaugh, who was a solid two year starter for the Warriors. The second of three seventh rounders, Heinbaugh fits the profile of guys I like to take here. A talented defensive shortstop with great athletic ability, he's the perfect fallback utility guy. He's a smooth defender who's quick on the basepaths and in the field, and he can hold his own at the plate. He's got a solid hit tool and he doesn't strike out too much, and he even managed to hit three homers this season. My expectation is that the power is temporary, but if he continues to build muscle he could put a few out of the park. We don't have many young infielders, so Rupert will have an easy pathway to playing time. His bat and hustle could earn him a major league audition, but he'll have to work hard to earn a spot at the highest level.

7th Round, 110th Overall: RHP Steve Davis
School: Brownwood Lions
1945: 7-1, 88.1 IP, 1.63 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 36 BB, 119 K
Career: 16-2, 196.1 IP, 1.70 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 79 BB, 265 K

A bit on the older side, I thought "Scruff" would have a better season then he did, but the 18-year-old didn't show too much improvement from the prior season. 19 in August, Davis is one of those pitchers who focuses on quantity more then quality, throwing six pitches with no pitch that stands out much from the rest. Standing at 6'2'', he does get decent downward movement, and he can hit 88 at times with his fastball. He struggles with his control at times, which could be because he throws too many pitches, but perhaps Davis can use unpredictability to his advantage. He's put up good strikeout numbers in both of his seasons at Brownwood. He doesn't project as a big league starter yet, but there's something about six pitch pitchers from the 7th Round that will always get me excited.

8th Round, 123rd Overall: RHP Jim Williams
School: Chicopee Pacers
1945: 4-1, 54.1 IP, 1.99 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 18 BB, 60 K
Career: 19-4, 273.2 IP, 1.41 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, 67 BB, 329 K

Jim Williams rounded out the human portion of the draft, but the towering 6'4'' righty had his worst season as a senior. The fourth year starter set worsts in ERA, innings, and WHIP in 7 starts and 5 relief outings. Williams' selection was more on his projectability then his current talent. He has the perfect build of a top quality pitcher, and I imagine he'll be able to throw consistently in the 90s by time he's done developing. His sinker already touches that on occasion, and now that the season is over Williams will return to the weight room. That sinker is the best of three pitches, as it generates plenty of grounders as it's almost impossible to elevate the ball against him. He's allowed just two homers, one as a freshman and one as a junior, and keeping the ball on the ground is a sound strategy when you have Skipper Schneider at short. The odds of Williams becoming the next George Oddo is slim, but Williams has a shot to work his way up our prospect ladder.

Week 11: June 18th-June 24th
 

Weekly Record: 2-5
Seasonal Record: 38-30 (3rd, 3 GB)
Stars of the Week
Harry Mead : 24 AB, 9 H, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .375 AVG, .965 OPS
Art White : 1 Win, 9.0 IP, 2 BB, 1 K, 0.00 ERA
Skipper Schneider : 28 AB, 8 H, 0 HR, 6 RBI, .286 AVG, .680 OPS

Schedule
6-18: Loss vs Saints (11-2)
6-19: Loss at Stars (3-4)
6-20: Loss at Stars (7-8)
6-21: Loss at Stars (1-6)
6-22: Win vs Kings (0-9)
6-23: Loss vs Kings (4-3)
6-24: Win vs Kings (1-3)

Recap
This was an awful week, and in more then one way. Not only was the on field performance rough, as we dropped another against the Saints before being swept by the Stars, but Cliff Moss sprained his ankle and will miss about a month of action. Moss has really slumped in June, hitting just .207/.309/.207 (49 OPS+) in 68 trips to the plate, but was still by and large our most effective offensive player. The now 39-year-old slugger is hitting .317/.387/.504 (153 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 3 triples, 10 homers, and 44 RBIs. We'll need a stopgap for this sim, but this could open the door back for Johnny Peters, who could join the roster in two weeks. We don't really have a good replacement for Moss, so Chick Browning and Bill Rich will platoon for the time being. Browning has started just 1 of his 21 appearances, hitting just .235/.381/.235 (78 OPS+) with 4 walks and 6 RBIs. His WRC+ (101) is much higher due to the walks, but not having a single extra base hit really hurts his case. Rich, who's first at bat would be his debut, has spent 56 games with the Blues, batting .270/.337/.407 (108 OPS+) with 15 doubles, 2 triples, 4 homers, and 32 RBIs. While this duo will get most of the playing time, Don Lee may get a few games in right, with Orlin Yates manning center. The former 2nd Rounder continues to hit well, with his .294/.407/.441 (142 OPS+) line leaps and bounds better then the rest of the hitters left in the lineup.

The pitching was inconsistent, as there were some very good starts, and some very poor ones. Art White befuddled his former employers, tossing a brilliant 2-hit shutout with just 2 walks and a strikeout for his tied for CA-leading 9th win. Harry Parker made two excellent starts, but was left with just a win and no decision. Despite 7.1 scoreless innings with 5 hits, a walk, 3 strikeouts, and a 3-0 lead, he didn't get a win against the Stars, as the normally reliable Ben Curtin collapsed in the ninth. Curtin did get two quick outs in the 8th, but the Stars piled on a walk and five hits, leading to four runs and a walk-off loss. He did save Parker's other start, as the big righty went 8 with 9 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts against the Kings. Parker has seemingly shaken off his slow start, now 7-5 while working to a 3.06 ERA (118 ERA+), 1.13 WHIP, and 3.19 FIP (88 FIP-) with 24 walks and 56 strikeouts.

George Oddo had a rough week, dropping starts to both the Saints and the Kings. He really struggled against the Saints, allowing four homers against a team with just one player boasting more then four home runs on he season. Oddo left after 6 with 7 hits, 6 runs, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. He was better against the Kings, going 8 with 4 hits, 4 walks, 3 runs (2 earned), and 5 strikeouts. The 22-year-old has held his own so far, going 3-3 with a 4.09 ERA (88 ERA+) and 1.30 WHIP in his 6 starts. The walks (19) and homers (7) have been a bit concerning, but I'm still going to give him a few more starts. If he can't cut it, Mike Thorpe will get the chance, as the soon-to-be 23-year-old has done really great with the Blues this season. Thorpe is 9-1 with a 2.87 ERA (132 ERA+) and 1.23 WHIP in 87.2 innings pitched. His strikeouts (17) are down from 3.8 per 9 to 1.7, but his pitches are really tough to hit hard. I don't expect him to be a strikeout arm, more of an Art White type where the defense will be working. He's not a groundballer, but has yet to allow a homer in 306 innings between college, AA, and AAA. Oddo has at least one more start left, but we're in need of wins, so if he can't give them to us Thorpe will get a chance.

Rusty Petrick was hit hard, allowing 10 hits, 8 runs, and 7 walks with 4 strikeouts in just 5.2 innings pitched. In terms of innings, it was his shortest start of the season, as well as season worsts for hits, runs, and walks. Billy Riley continued his struggles, as the Stars had their way with him at Dyckman stadium. He allowed 4 hits, 6 runs (4 earned), and 4 walks with just one strikeout in 7 innings pitched. After a great May, Riley has lost four of his five starts in June, and allowed 6 or more runs in each of the last three. We need him at his best if we cant to catch the Wolves and Cannons, as his recent poor stretch has raised his ERA and WHIP to 3.93 (92 ERA+) and 1.23 on the season. Ken Matson struggled out of the pen, allowing 5 hits, 5 runs, and 4 walks with 2 strikeouts in 4 innings pitched. Our stretch of poor play has hurt our run differential, and we've failed to take advantage of teams behind us in the standings.

With no Cliff Moss we'll need someone to step up from the lineup, and I'm hoping that's going to be Harry Mead and Dick Walker. They were the only two hitters that had above average weeks, and are two of the most dangerous bats left. Mead looked like the Mead from last year, going 9-for-24 with a double, homer, 2 walks, 2 RBIs, and 4 runs scored. Dick Walker went 6-for-26 with a double, homer, 3 steals, 4 RBIs, 6 runs, and 7 walks. Skipper and Ollie Page did alright, as the middle infield duo combined to go 13-for-45 with 2 doubles, 4 walks, 5 runs, and 6 RBIs. Steve Rosko's debut week didn't go too great, just 1-for-6 with a double, walk, run, and RBI. Ken Mayhugh's week was far worse, 5-for-29 with a homer, 2 runs, and 2 RBIs. I'm hoping for more from him, as we have too many weak spots in the lineup already.

Looking Ahead
We get a two day break to prepare for a huge series with the Cincinnati Cannons in Chicago. It's a three game set that they'll look to use to jump over the Wolves for first place. Cincinnati is 39-26 and half a game behind Toronto, who lead us by three. The off days mean that the Cannons can have fun with their rotation, so that means Rufus Barrell! Unlike Harry Parker, who was previously never injured before, Rufus Barrell has shown no side affects, as the oft-injured former first pick can still throw 120 pitches without any worries. The hard thrower is 6-2 with a 2.12 ERA (174 ERA+), 0.88 WHIP, 10 walks, and 37 strikeouts as he looks to capture his third Allen Award. I also expect us to deal with Tom Barrell (8-1, 2.78, 30), who has has looked like himself in his prime. That leaves either Dan Adams (7-4, 1, 2.33, 32) or Sam Sheppard (7-1, 1, 3.10, 22) for the third start. This does not bode well for our crippled offense, and I am very worried we will get embarrassed at home. We'll get our front three, but their offense is very tough to stop. Al Wheeler (.345, 14, 52) is mashing like its the 1930s and they have three other excellent outfielders in Gail Gifford (.321, 7, 30, 10), Sam Brown (.311, 2, 32), and the returned Fred Galloway (.278, 1, 4). I'd love to add any of those guys to our lineup, as they could all fill the Cliff Moss sized hole. Cincy also features talented hitters like Denny Andrews (.283, 8, 24), Chuck Adams (.299, 9, 46), Tom Bird (.274, 2, 21), and Jack Cleaves (.344, 3, 23), with Skipper's clone Jim Hensley (.251, 1, 26) rounding out the dangerous lineup. We need plenty of luck here, something we haven't had much of this month.

For the weekend we'll welcome in the Sailors for one on Saturday and a double header on Sunday. The Sailors offense has really struggled, ranked 7th in the league in runs scored, despite a rather decent lineup. Ed Reyes (.351, 2, 32) has somehow managed to replicate Marion Boismenu's bat, while Frank Covarrubias (.336, 4, 30) has followed up his breakout season with one that's a bit better. Chick Wilhelm (.279, 3, 20, 5), Joseph Mills (.296, 5, 34), and Bill Watson (.266, 4, 21) all boast a WRC+ above 110. They've made an adjustment to the lineup since we last met, adding 28-year-old rookie Addie Allman (.365, 20). The switch hitter has done well in 128 trips to the plate, putting up a 145 WRC+ while getting starts at all three outfield spots. Their run prevention has helped them be a game over .500, with Win Lewis (6-4, 2.44, 46) leading a solid rotation. 25-year-old Art Hull is a newer addition, starting 6 of his 21 appearances while going 3-5 with 4 saves, a 2.60 ERA (140 ERA+), 1.41 WHIP, 35 walks, and 32 strikeouts. Ray McCarthy (3-7, 3.47, 20) has managed to stay healthy and Doc Newell (9-6, 3.70, 43) has started to turn things around and he's always good for inning eating. We can't avoid all of these guys, but even without Cliff Moss I think we can outscore them.

Minor League Report
RF Dan Collins (AA Mobile Commodores): Even before I knew he was Player of the Week, Dan Collins was headed up to Milwaukee to replace Bill Rich who got the call. Collins has raked all season long for the Commodores, slashing .330/.441/.450 (136 OPS+) with 10 doubles, 2 triples, 3 homers, and 32 RBIs. He hit a similar .335/.415/.442 (137 OPS+) with the Commodores last season, but his 143 WRC+ this season is 5 points higher. Now 26, the former 7th Rounder is a clubhouse stalwart, renowned for his leadership, work ethic, and intelligence. His teammates have extreme respect for him, and he's the perfect guy to keep as depth. Looking back at the week that gave him the award, Collins went an impressive 16-for-24 with 5 runs, 2 doubles, a homer, 5 walks, and 5 RBIs. The big lumbering corner outfielder has plenty of value at the plate, but he's not much of a defender. A pinch hit role seems like his destiny, as he offers excellent plate recognition and a solid contact tool, and while the power hasn't surfaced much recently, he did hit 22 homers in A ball two seasons ago. I don't expect him to debut this season, but he should hang around and fight for a late season bench spot.

1B Billy Biggar (B San Jose Cougars): It was a great week for Billy Biggar, who was an even 11-for-22 with with 4 doubles, 2 homers, and 5 RBIs, and he celebrated his 21st birthday with a 3-for-5 day where he was just a triple away from the cycle. Despite his young age, he's mashed this season in San Jose, slashing .327/.379/.515 (153 OPS+) with 13 doubles, 6 homers, and 25 RBIs. I was worried he'd have some struggles this season, as he had a down arrow last year when I wanted to move him in San Jose. With his bat coming to life, he'll be able to secure a lineup spot even with all the outfielders that will need some playing time. A lean and strong lefty, Biggar has a great hit tool and he could end up trying to compete for batting titles if he reaches his ceiling. His hit tool is really his only pull right now, as his discipline isn't great and I'm not sure if his power will stick with him as he moves up the minor league ladder. He's young and has a long way to go, but he could develop into a bottom half starter at first if he continues to hit the ball hard and on a line.

Week 12: June 25th-July 1st
 

Weekly Record: 4-2
Seasonal Record: 42-32 (3rd, 2.5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Billy Riley : 2 Wins, 17.0 IP, 4 BB, 7 K, 1.59 ERA
Chick Browning : 11 AB, 4 H, 3 HR, 7 RBI, .364 AVG, 1.643 OPS
Bill Rich : 8 AB, 4 H, 1 HR, 6 RBI, .500 AVG, 1.375 OPS

Schedule
6-27: Win vs Cannons (0-7)
6-28: Loss vs Cannons (5-2)
6-29: Loss vs Cannons (10-4): 11 innings
6-30: Win vs Sailors (4-5)
7-1: Win vs Sailors (0-6)
7-1: Win vs Sailors (3-4)

Recap
As expected, the Cannons had their way with us, as even though we shut them out in the opener, they won the final two games to take the series, and eventually push themselves back into first place. Lucky for us, there was plenty of unexpected, as we swept the Sailors by riding the bats of Chick Browning and Bill Rich. Despite no Cliff Moss, these two were more then effective, as Browning launched three longballs while finishing 4-for-11 with 2 walks, 4 runs, and 7 RBIs. Rich was an even 4-for-8, hitting his first big league homer while driving in six in his debut week. The duo more then earned another week, as even with Johnny Peters joining the club, he's definitely not big league ready yet and it's not worth starting the talented 21-year-olds clock when there are better options in the system. Peters (18th) is one of many draftees to crack the top 500, joining Carl Clark (65th), Pat Todd (88th), Dutch Yoak (203rd), Jim Mako (222nd), Rupert Heinbaugh (335th), Alex O'Dailey (351st), and two AI round picks who I'll cover later tonight (or maybe tomorrow morning, this one came out a bit late). Our system ranks 4th with 162 points, with 9 top 100 prospects, 19 in the top 250, and 39 in the top 500. To make a little room in the system, we shipped out Leo Davis for cash, as he'll join the Pioneers. They have a ton of it and we are deep in debt, and every penny is going to help as we have to pay plenty of players this offseason.

Billy Riley did a complete 180 this week, starting off with a shutout against Rufus Barrell and the Cannons where he allowed just 4 hits and 2 walks with 5 strikeouts. Riley also finished off the double header and series sweep of the Sailors, going 8 with 8 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and a strikeout. Game one went to George Oddo, who tossed a shutout of his own, charged with 4 hits and walks with 6 strikeouts in the second shutout of his young career. Both of these arms shook of minor slumps, and I'm hoping for more of the same from these two. Art White didn't have much luck, allowing 10 hits, 5 runs, and 3 walks in 7 innings pitched. Harry Parker went 7 too, charged with 6 hits, 4 runs, and a walk with 6 strikeouts in a rather unlucky start against the Cannons. They timed their hits well, including in the 11th when they got to Ben Curtin. It came in his third inning, which he left with two outs, as all six base runners (4 hits and 2 walks) scored after his first two frames were perfect. Curtin was better against the Sailors, saving a pair of games, but his ERA has jumped to 3.90 (92 ERA+) in 30 innings pitched. Our last start went to Rusty Petrick, who picked up a win with 8 innings, 7 hits, and 4 walks, runs, and strikeouts. Our staff had some struggles in June, now dropping to 3rd in runs allowed, but all five of our starters have a 100 or better ERA+, and I expect Riley, Parker, and White to put together quality starts down the line.

No one could match Browning and Rich, but our middle infield continued to hit despite both guys being glove first. Ollie Page is having a nice little resurgence, going 6-for-22 with a homer and two walks and doubles. Skipper Schneider went 8-for-23 with a double, 2 walks, 2 RBIs, 5 runs, and a steal. Don Lee continues to produce, going 8-for-23 with 2 doubles, 2 steals, 4 walks, and 7 runs. On the other side, Rich Langton's bat has gone ice cold, going just 2-for-22 to drop his June line to a miniscule .202/.302/.294 (71 OPS+) in 28 games. Harry Mead struggled as well, just 1-for-17 with 2 runs, 2 RBIs, and 3 walks. I expected both of these guys to be crucial to the lineup this season, but after Langton's hot start his OPS+ is down to 103 while Mead's is sub-100 at 85. Now that Lee is a qualifier, he's one of only two players with an OPS+ or WRC+ of 125 or better, which is not enough to make up for the three we lost last offseason. Still, we're up to 4th in runs scored, so if we can manage to keep scoring, we should be in the heat of things as we rush to the finish line.

Looking Ahead
Off to start the week as we approach the All Star break. It's a week filled with home games, as we start with four games in three days with the Foresters. Cleveland has struggled as expected, 27-43 and 15.5 games behind their state rivals, but they got some good news as #8 prospect Richie Hughes returned from the Army and could slot straight into their rotation. The Chicagoan is arguably the best pitcher both currently and for the future in the Foresters organization, but it's not that too hard to surpass George Rotondi (3-10, 4.83, 38) and/or Ducky Davis (7-8, 3.65, 42). Ben Turner (3-11. 7.04, 26) is probably wishing he hung up the cleats this offseason while Jimmy Collins (3-4, 6.09, 22) and Clarence Linden (4-6, 4.86, 17) may be sweating that their rotation spot is in jeopardy. The lineup isn't great, and both Hank Stratton (.303, 2, 24) and Cal Howe (.273, 3, 34, 5) have started to slump. Elmer Lockwood (.343, 2, 17) has looked good since joining the lineup and either him or veteran Lou Balk (.287, 6, 31) could be shipped out at the deadline. Neither offer much with the glove, but their bats could help lengthen a lineup. One player who doesn't have to worry about a trade or an infusion of talent from the farm is Jim Adams Jr. (.269, 1, 28, 5), but a move off short could help as his -11.2 zone rating and .873 efficiency is a bright red flag. After how poorly we faired against this team last year, I'm expecting the worst, but this is a great way to pad our record before a tough weekend series.

We finish the first half with the Wolves, who like the Foresters, we'll see for four games in three days. They've started to slump a bit, dropping to 41-29 and a game and a half behind the Cannons. Depending on how the trio performs in the first series, this could be a battle for first place in the CA entering the break. For the first time since 1941, we'll have to deal with "The Reticent Reaper," as Fred McCormick (.325, 3, 12, 2) has reclaimed his spot at first and third in the order, moving Walt Pack (.312, 13, 47) to the hot corner and cleanup spot. McCormick has shown no signs of rust, and has been a huge boost for an already solid lineup. Charlie Artuso (.281, 4, 26) continues to produce elite level production at short, and outfielders Chink Stickels (.266, 2, 35, 10) and Juan Pomales (.274, 19, 5; 2-1, 1, 1.53, 3) are productive hitters. They have a strong rotation as well, led by George Garrison (8-4, 2.61, 64) and Chick Wirtz (5-5, 3.19, 35). They recently added Cookie Myers (9-1, 4, 1.95, 14) to the rotation, but even after an excellent start against the Kings, I'm not sold on his viability as a starter. If we can dodge Garrison, we'll have the starting pitching advantage in pretty much every possible matchup, and that may be enough to capture a split or better. The Wolves are very good and have star power we can't match, but they've been far better at Dominion Stadium (22-9) compared to the road (19-20).

One final note; I was working on cuts to get our C ball roster to 50, and I was looking back at old draft writeups of the guys I cut to see just how far I was off. I ended up stumbling upon our top prospect list from 1935, and let me tell you, it was something. The top 23 all debuted and just two of the thirty failed to debut. One of those was Bill Scott, the 7th Rounder who rose up to #47 on the prospect list before retiring at 23 to play basketball. 1935 was a much different time, as the Cougars the post ruptured elbow of Tommy Wilcox proved to no longer be the pitcher he once was. This inspired a write up to help fill an open weekend with nothing to write about.

Minor League Report
RHP Jimmy Ballard (AA Mobile Commodores): No Dixie League starter had a better month then Jimmy Ballard, who took home the award after following up an impressive May with an equally strong June. Ballard went 5-1 with a 2.55 ERA (160 ERA+), 1.19 WHIP, 22 walks, and 25 strikeouts in 6 June starts. His ERA (2.42, 168) was actually lower in May, but he dropped his WHIP and BB/9 and improved his record. The 23-year-old has been impressive all season for Mobile, now 9-4 with a 2.87 ERA (142 ERA+), 1.34 WHIP, 50 walks, and 53 strikeouts. The 23-year-old has stayed healthy, something he's struggled to do so far, but he's still walking too many batters. His 4.0 BB/9 is hard to succeed with, but he has the stuff to strike out more batters then he walks. Ballard also keeps the ball on the ground, limiting homers while excelling at creating double plays, which allows him to bypass some trouble. With our pitching depth, a debut seems unlikely, but once the Rule-5 Draft returns a team may want to risk a roster spot on him.

RHP Willie Kader (B San Jose Cougars): Here's a pretty shocking Player of the Month. A 24-year-old reliever who we picked up from free agency last July, Willie Kader has done excellent in the pen this season. This June Kader went 4-2 with 4 saves, a 1.61 ERA (229 ERA+), 1.29 WHIP, 8 walks, and 42 strikeouts in 14 appearances. His 51 innings on the season have been very similar to his June production, as he's recorded 9 saves to go with a 1.59 ERA (232 ERA+), 1.27 WHIP, 19 walks, and 78 strikeouts. His 13.8 K/9 and 4.1 K/BB are elite, and he's been worth a remarkable 2 WAR as the Cougars' stopper. We have plenty of new arms to fill the lower level, so he'll return to A ball, as he's gotten innings for both the independent Pueblo Mountaineers and the Trenton Eagles. Kader was a former 20th Round selection of theirs way back in 1938, and he worked as both a starter and a reliever. He'll only pitch out of the pen for us, but the righty has interesting stuff, headlined by a fastball that can hit 97. In the pen that's all he needs, with the occasional curve or change to produce a strikeout. He Ks plenty of batters and his command has improved since he joined our organization. Kader is both a leader and performs well with the game on the line, but it's tough to get too excited about relievers.

RHP Lonnie Sis (C La Crosse Lions): Class C just kicked off their struggle this past week, but Lonnie Sis looked like he's been pitching all season. 19 on the 4th, Sis was in complete command against Rock Island, tossing a 5-hit shutout with just one walk and five strikeouts. This was similar to his stellar production for the Lions last season, as the son of a Hall of Famer went 5-5 with a 2.35 ERA (149 ERA+), 1.16 WHIP, 24 walks, and 46 strikeouts. No longer a top 500 prospect, there's still plenty to like about last year's 5th Rounder, who's one of the hardest workers on the team. He has a really nice curveball he pairs well with a good change, and his low 90s cutter is very effective on the edges of the zone. He may develop command issues as better hitters make him work in the higher levels, but I've liked what we've seen so far. He has time to add polish, but Sis' future may be hindered by his small stature. I don't see him adding much velo, so he'll need to command his pitches well if he wants to start in the big leagues like his father.

RHP Al Robison (C La Crosse Lions): Like Charlie Sis, Al Robinson picked up right where he left off, winning the start on Opening Day with 5 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts in a 9-3 win over the Steamboats. He was even better in the encore, tossing a 5-hit shutout in a 4-0 win over the Waterloo Chiefs. Robison walked just one and allowed five hits while setting six Chiefs down on strikes. His two wins were good enough for Player of the Week in the UMVA. 19 in August, Robison performed well in San Jose, going 3-4 with a 2.42 ERA (145 ERA+) and 1.41 WHIP. While impressive on the surface, he walked (39) more batters then he struck out (29) and his FIP (3.66, 98) was right around the mean. Robison is one of those projectable types, standing at 6'4'' which creates plenty of downward movement on his pitches. As a groundballer you'd think he'd throw a sinker, but instead he mixes a high 80s fastball with a slider, change, and curve. He doesn't have one dominating pitch, but each one projects to be at least average. I expect him to be a slow developer, but if he keeps working he could reign in his command issues. He's yet to have a velocity boost and with his size he seems likely to get stronger as he matures. Right now he looks like no more then a spot starter, but at times he ranked in the top 500 and he's pitched well at every level.

1945 Draft: Rounds 9-25
 

9th Round, 141st Overall: RHP Ray Warren
School: Westminster Warriors
1945: 5-1, 66.2 IP, 1.48 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, 16 BB, 79 K
Career: 20-2, 1 SV, 262 IP, 1.61 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, 64 BB, 328 K

The first of two pitchers in the 9th Round, Ray Warren is probably the lesser one. A four year starter at Westminster, Warren never started more then nine of his appearances, finishing with 33 starts and 25 relief outings. The lack of stamina makes it seem like his future is in the pen, but so does his overall talent. He's a skinny soft tosser who likely won't ever throw hard, but his teammates from high school were always learning the art of pitching from him. That alone will help him stick, but the 17-year-old really isn't that bad. A potential spot starter, he hasn't mastered command of his arsenal, but his curve has a nice shape and his change up could be average. It may be tough for him to pitch his way into a rotation, but he'll hang around for a while due to his intangibles. Warren will start his pro career as our stopper, and he's second in line for starts if rotation spots open.

9th Round, 143rd Overall: RHP Wally Eversole
School: Centreville Choctaws
1945: 9-2, 106 IP, 1.87 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 48 BB, 167 K
Career: 27-2, 296.2 IP, 1.58 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, 107 BB, 445 K

The numbers may not look it, but Eversole has a more promising future then Warren. Ranked 37th in our system and 481st overall, Eversole isn't a star by any means, but he started all 42 of his appearances and he finished an impressive 27-2 in just shy of 300 innings for the Choctaws. He's observed gains in the velocity department in each of the last two Junes, sitting at 90-92 with his cutter. It's one of four potentially big league quality pitches, but the best projects to be his curve. Eversole will get some starts for the Lions to start the season, and if he can iron out some of his control issues, he could be a decent rotation filler. I'm excited to see how he performs this season, but he may be one of the guys fighting for a rotation spot this time next year when the next crop of Cougars files in.

10th Round, 158th Overall: 1B Cal Rice
School: Farmington Tigers
1945: .490/.534/.810, 116 PA, 17 2B, 5 HR, 36 RBI, 10 SB
Career: .475/.524/.816, 353 PA, 45 2B, 4 3B, 17 HR, 101 RBI, SB

This could end up being the steal of the draft. I'm not sure if he fell because he was a first basemen, or because he had a huge talent jump between January and July, but Cal Rice is a really good hitter. The 17-year-old hit .490 as a senior after launching 8 homers as a junior, and he doubled 17 times in each of the last two seasons. The power is legit, and has the potential to be well above average. He's shown an above average hit tool as well, and while he may never be a big walk guy, he had far more of them (39) then strikeouts (16). Rice is an imposing figure at the plate, as the lefty stands 6'3'' and is 200 pounds of muscle with plenty of time to get stronger. He's now instantly our best first base prospect, and ranks 21st in our system and 284th overall. His competition may end up being Top 50 prospect Otto Christian, who may have to transition to first due to fellow Top 50 prospect George Sutterfield's far superior glove. Tom Weinstock thinks Rice could end up an above average every day player, and I think he's on to something. This was a solid snag by him, and I'm glad he lasted through the round he wanted to select only pitchers. He's got a long road ahead of him, but it's nice being able to grab a quality first basemen with a very low draft pick.

10th Round, 159th Overall: 2B Woody Patterson
School: Goshen Bruins
1945: .398/.489/.673, 138 PA, 8 2B, 4 3B, 5 HR, 33 RBI, 32 SB
Career: .398/.489/.673, 138 PA, 8 2B, 4 3B, 5 HR, 33 RBI, 32 SB

They can't all be great! Despite being one pick after Rice, Woody Patterson isn't on the same planet. Sure, the 5 homers are nice, but his extra base hit total matched Rice's double total and he failed to hit .400 in his lone season as a starter. He's moody and a sore loser, which is not the type of player I'd want to get with a 10th Round pick. He does have a decent swing and is quick, but he doesn't project to hit for much power. Patterson could develop into a second division starter, but I don't think he'll get the at bats to make that potential a reality.

11th Round, 175th Overall: LHP Frankie Bell
School: Copley Cougars
1945: 6-3, 82.2 IP, 1.96 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 21 BB, 102 K
Career: 6-3, 82.2 IP, 1.96 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 21 BB, 102 K

From one Cougars to another, Frankie Bell left Copley High School in Boston where his school mascot was a Cougar. He pitched just one season there, barely keeping his ERA below 2. The 18-year-old southpaw has a few weaknesses, starting with being a flyball pitcher and a lack of a wipeout pitch, but he's the rare breed of pitcher who throws a sinker that doesn't generate groundballs. His stuff is nothing more then average, and the tiny 5'6'' lefty likely won't ever throw too hard. He'll fill our pen for now, but I'm not sure there's much of a future for Bell.

12th Round, 191st Overall: C Bobby Beavers
School: Belton Cardinals
1945: .432/.531/.667, 99 PA, 9 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 24 RBI, 7 SB
Career: .418/.514/.633, 217 PA, 20 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 52 RBI, 14 SB

In a pool with plenty of talented catchers, it's no surprise there were some good ones left over. Beavers didn't impress too much in his two seasons at Belton, but he's got a solid eye and some pop. A reverse Harry Mead, Beavers is the more typical lefty batter, righty thrower, and with his strength he could develop power similar to Mead's. He needs to work on his hit tool or his glove, and he could develop into an average big league catcher. He'll start on the bench, as Alex O'Dailey is far more exciting, but with his age he'll hang around long enough to work his way into a Lions lineup. He's got plenty of developing ahead of him, but Beavers is good for the clubhouse, and that's a plus for anyone trying to secure a depth spot.

13th Round, 207th Overall: CF Jimmie Overton
School: Frostburg Falcons
1945: .451/.491/.618, 113 PA, 9 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 31 RBI, 18 SB
Career: .465/.514/.666, 451 PA, 44 2B, 6 3B, 8 HR, 120 RBI, 36 SB

Hometown kid! Well, sort of. Jimmie Overton was born in Chicago, but he spent his high school years in Maryland and was a four year starter for the Frostburg Falcons. Overton earned the nickname "Eagle Eye" and the 18-year-old drew more walks (39) then strikeouts (22). He has a decent combination of bat speed and barrel control, but he doesn't scream big league ready. He is cool under pressure and may be able to handle all three outfield spots, so he could end up a useful late game piece. I can't envision him every playing regularly, but sometimes Chicagoans go on to have 3 homer weeks for the Cougars!

14th Round, 223rd Overall: RHP Fred Poster
School: Huntington State Miners
1945: 3-6, 93.1 IP, 5.01 ERA, 1.91 WHIP, 92 BB, 91 K
Career (HS): 7-2, 99.1 IP, 1.77 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 39 BB, 119 K
Career (COL): 12-23, 339.2 IP, 5.03 ERA, 1.84 WHIP, 295 BB, 301 K

One of the rare college draftees in a high school dominated class, Poster was a three year starter for Huntington State who was not all that effective. Originally a 14th Round Pick of the Gothams in 1942, Poster dropped a few spots down this season as he really struggled at school. Poster's only season with a sub 5 ERA was the 4.90 he put up as a junior, and he once again walked more hitters then he struck out. He walks far too many batters to make his strikeouts useful, but he's a kitchen sink kind of guy who can throw six pitches. His curve may be the best, as it has excellent 12-6 movement. Besides that, he's nothing too special, so if you sit curve, you'll probably walk or get hit. His time in the organization may be short lived, but he'll be a decent pen filler for now.

15th Round, 239th Overall: LHP Al LaRose
School: Moss Point Hornets
1945: 8-1, 94.2 IP, 2.38 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 48 BB, 102 K
Career: 24-6, 311 IP, 2.49 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 122 BB, 313 K

Another lefty from high school, Al LaRose was a three year starter for Moss Point, but failed his 2.38 ERA was actually a career best. He's allowed too many runs so far and his walk numbers went the wrong direction. He'll turn 18 in a bit more then a week, and despite standing at 6'4'' his cutter tops out at 85. His height and arm will help him stick around, but I'm not getting my hopes up here. It's unlikely he'll ever see a major league bullpen, let alone roster, but with some hard work he could be a useful roster filler to eat innings that need to be eaten up.

16th Round, 255th Overall: RHP Jack Hart
School: Jordan Bulldogs
1945: 6-3, 97 IP, 2.97 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 35 BB, 100 K
Career: 27-12, 417.1 IP, 2.67 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 148 BB, 399 K

A four year starter at Jordan, Jack Hunt also failed to get his ERA below 2, as his 2.43 mark last season was a personal best. 19 in September, he's on the older side for a prep prospect, which will work against him in the long run. He'll be pushed up quicker then most, and since he's not all that promising of a pitcher, it won't matter too much if he's not ready. His complacency will work against him as well, as he doesn't have the motivation to develop three big league pitches. Likely suited for the pen, his best shot is to attack hitters with his high 80s sinker and fastball, as the change doesn't move nearly enough to be effective.

17th Round, 271st Overall: SS Art Whisenant
School: New Market Bucks
1945: .422/.519/.606, 138 PA, 12 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 31 RBI, 6 SB
Career: .422/.519/.606, 138 PA, 12 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 31 RBI, 6 SB

Our first shortstop of the AI portion, Art only played as a senior, and he didn't hit all that much. Despite that, he did show some versatility, appearing at second, third, and his primary position of short, and he gave his team quality at bats. He doesn't always make good contact, but he lays off the tough pitches and will draw his share of walks. Intelligent and well-spoken, Whisenant had a commanding presence as captain of the New Market team, and he could develop into a captain off the bench. He profiles as a utility man, but his leadership could make him an integral member of a big league bench.

18th Round, 287th Overall: RHP Frank Kelly
School: Cumberland University Explorers
1945: 4-6, 95 IP, 5.87 ERA, 1.88 WHIP, 69 BB, 43 K
Career: 8-13, 195.1 IP, 5.48 ERA, 1.83 WHIP, 135 BB, 87

A two year starter at Cumberland University, Frank Kelly wasn't all that effective, with an ERA above five in both of his seasons. He also walked more hitters then he struck out, and allowed nearly two batters to reach per inning. He's another weird sinker baller who allows a lot of flyballs, but that's more because it's not a very good pitch. To be fair, none of the four are, but he's a hard worker who's always in the gym, and gives it his best even if he's not. He'll start his minor league career in San Jose, and with no red arrow down, he has a good shot of working his way up a rather thin relief corpse.

19th Round, 303rd Overall: SS Heinie Kaczorowski
School: Freeport Yellowjackets
1945: .400/.522/.533, 115 PA, 7 2B, 3B, HR, 22 RBI, 2 SB
Career: .408/.520/.577, 508 PA, 40 2B, 6 3B, 5 HR, 98 RBI, 19 SB

A four year starter for Freeport, Heinie Kaczorowski was the star of campus, and he just loves being the center of attention. He won't in La Crosse, as he'll be lucky to warm the bench. He does have some value, experience at first, second, short, and right, which means at leas third and left, if not also center, seem in play. He has a good feel for the strike zone, and what he lacks for in power, he makes up with discipline. He has the tools to be a useful bench player, but he'll have to get over himself to make his big league dream to come true.

20th Round, 319th Overall: 1B Syd Jones
School: Holyoke Cougars
1945: .455/.526/.626, 461 PA, 12 2B, 3B, HR, 27 RBI, 5 SB
Career: .448/.524/.599, 461 PA, 42 2B, 2 3B, 4 HR, 99 RBI, 23 SB

Hey! Another Cougar! Syd was a four year starter like Heinie, but he actually produced decent numbers at the plate. Despite less career homers, Jones had a far higher OPS, and could develop into an average hitter. He'll be stuck behind Cal Rice and isn't likely to get many at bats any time soon. He has a good eye and could hit for a decent average, and while not a switch hitter, he reminds me a lot of Cuno Myer. You haven't heard much about him, but the former Cougar farmhand got my vote for All Star due to his 147 WRC+, 21 doubles, and 35 walks in 71 games for the Dynamos. Myer was a late round pick too who stick around because he always could hit. He didn't start much, but when he did he was effective, and after years of waiting he finally got a chance to play every day.

21st Round, 335th Overall: SS Chief Ward
School: Perrysburg Yellowjackets
1945: .423/.508/.529, 125 PA, 9 2B, 3B, 22 RBI, 15 SB
Career: .438/.498/.632, 514 PA, 47 2B, 7 3B, 8 HR, 121 RBI, 59 SB

Sticking with the theme, our next selection was Chief Ward, who not only was a four year starter, but a shortstop who played for the Yellowjackets, just like Heinie Kaczorowski. It was in a totally different state, but the Michigan native played pretty much every position in his 102 high school games. Ward checked in everywhere except pitcher, first, and catcher, but after hitting almost .500 as a freshman he disappointed a bit. That season he hit .496/.533/.748, with his bests in the three triple slash categories .423, .508, and .684. I like his chances to stick as a utility guy, but I'm not sure he'll ever get a shot to start in the big leagues.

22nd Round, 351st Overall: RF Hal Spyker
School: Milford Raiders
1945: .425/.520/.637, 101 PA, 7 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 25 RBI, 2 SB
Career: .425/.520/.637, 101 PA, 7 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 25 RBI, 2 SB

Spyker didn't play until he was a senior, and he didn't do all that much to stick out. A rather lazy corner outfielder, he's a strong lefty swinger, but his muscles are more for glamour then homers. He's a disciplined hitter, but he's rather useless in the field and he's not very fast. I doubt he'll last very long in our system, but like every one of these guys he'll get at least half the season. I'm really looking forward to next season, where he have to sign all our picks, as I could let guys like this head to college instead.

23rd Round, 367th Overall: CF Bob Peck
School: Opelika State Wildcats
1945: .285/.315/.322, 254 PA, 7 2B, 3B, 42 RBI, 40 SB
Career (HS): .433/.480/.567, 389 PA, 33 2B, 2 3B, 3 HR, 83 RBI, 54 SB
Career: .271/.300/.328, 794 PA, 25 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 126 RBI, 118 SB

Another "Eagle Eye," Bob Peck was drafted a round earlier this go around, as he wa a 24th selection by the Kings out of high school. Peck didn't hit for much power, but he's got blinding speed which makes me believe he'll have great range out in center. He has a decent hit tool and profiles as a 4th outfielder, due to his excellent focus, speed, and versatility. As a light hitter, it'll be tough for him to play every day, but even Cy Bryant put together a few solid seasons. He's a bit better then some of the earlier picks, but he has a much higher floor, and could probably play up in Lincoln if needed.

24th Round, 383rd Overall: SS Don Nelson
School: Mora Mustangs
1945: .422/.500/.644, 107 PA, 6 2B, 3B, 4 HR, 26 RBI, 15 SB
Career: .422/.500/.644, 107 PA, 6 2B, 3B, 4 HR, 26 RBI, 15 SB

He only played one season of high school ball, but the four homers Don Nelson put up were impressive. He worked his way up to varsity, and filled in where needed, playing games at second, third, short, right, and center. Left shouldn't be too hard, and even though he's under six foot, I have no doubt that he can handle first. He doesn't have a great arm, and his range may not be great, so I can't see him sticking at short. Left might end up being his best position, but we need infielders more then outfielders. Nelson won't ever hit much, but he's a useful bench tool in the lower minors.

25th Round, 399th Overall: C Lew Sullivan
School: Taft Blue Devils
1945: .407/.485/.566, 130 PA, 13 2B, 3B, HR, 30 RBI, 9 SB
Career: .394/.484/.589, 503 PA, 47 2B, 4 3B, 9 HR, 113 RBI, 27 SB

To round out the Class of 1945 we got a Philly born catcher who spent most of his life in the Bronx. Another four year starter, Lew finally hit over .400 as a senior, and finished his career with less then 10 high school homers. One concern is his lack of a position rating at catcher, but that doesn't necessarily mean that he's not a good defender. What he's not, is a good hitter, as he'll likely struggle with top-level pitching. His time as a pro player may be short, but for a last pick, we could have done far worse.

We had a few notable releases, including former 4th Rounder Tommy Davis, part of the Dave Rankin return George Sacchetti, and former 8th Rounders Lew Lord and Johnny Godfrey.

Week 13: July 2nd-July 8th
 

Weekly Record: 3-5
Seasonal Record: 45-37 (3rd, 5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Don Lee : 27 AB, 9 H, 3 HR, 10 RBI, .333 AVG, 1.141 OPS
Billy Riley : 1 Win, 9.0 IP, 4 BB, 4 K, 0.00 ERA
Skipper Schneider : 29 AB, 9 H, 0 HR, 2 RBI, .310 AVG, .720 OPS

Schedule
7-3: Loss vs Foresters (9-2)
7-4: Win vs Foresters (3-5)
7-4: Win vs Foresters (1-7)
7-5: Win vs Foresters (0-6)
7-6: Loss vs Wolves (3-2)
7-7: Loss vs Wolves (5-1)
7-8: Loss vs Wolves (2-1)
7-8: Loss vs Wolves (5-3)

Recap
Yay! Way to stumble into the break... We started out well, taking three of four from the Foresters, but the Wolves propelled themselves to first by taking all four games in Chicago. This really ruined things for us, as we enter the break five games out of first place and closer to fourth (3.5 GA) then second (4.5 GB). The only good "five" is the amount of All-Stars we have, but the only starter is the injured Cliff Moss. It would be Moss' 4th All Star game, as he hit an elite .317/.387/.504 (154 OPS+) with 10 homers and 44 RBIs. Joining him at the game will be repeat customers Skipper Schneider (5th) and Ben Curtin (3rd), as well as two newbies in Don Lee and Rusty Petrick. If it wasn't for the Saints Bill Greene (.298, 14, 58, 12) who owns a 159 WRC+, 4 WAR, and 41 extra base hits. Lee has a slightly better 164 WRC+ to go with 5 homers, 11 steals, and 36 RBIs, but in 100 less trips to the plate. Petrick, who got in as a reliever, has actually been our best starter, going 7-7 with 2 saves, a 2.98 ERA (121 ERA+), 1.28 WHIP, 63 walks, and 67 strikeouts. They won't have to travel, as Cougars Park will host the midsummer classic this year.

We struggled most of the week, but Billy Riley tossed his second shutout in three starts. Riley allowed 4 hits and 4 walks with 4 strikeouts in our 6-0 win over the Foresters. George Oddo had a decent start himself, going 8 with 7 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts in a close 3-2 loss to the Wolves. Harry Parker picked up a win and loss, starting with a rare complete game win over the Foresters. He allowed 9 hits, 3 runs, and a walk with 2 strikeouts. He went just 6.2 against the Wolves, leaving with 7 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts. The All-Star Petrick also split his decisions, tossing a complete game win over the Foresters with 4 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. He went all nine against the Wolves too, allowing 7 hits, 5 runs (4 earned), and 5 walks with 3 strikeouts. Art White lost both his starts, and he didn't look good in either. Combined, he allowed 19 hits, 11 runs (9 earned), and 6 walks with just one strikeout in 16 innings pitched. At the half way point, he's the only starter in our rotation with an ERA+ below 100, as his 3.68 nominal mark coincides with a 98 ERA+. If we keep falling, the almost 34-year-old might be shopped around to a team looking to compete, and his leadership will be crucial in a pennant race. Our staff is still strong, ranked 3rd in runs allowed, and top three in everything except WAR (6th), homers (7th), and walks (4th).

The offense struggled to score, but rookie All-Star Don Lee put together a Player of the Week worthy showing. The 23-year-old is red hot, going 9-for-27 with a double, 3 homers, 2 steals, 5 walks, 6 runs, and 10 RBIs. Lee has dominated in July, slashing .371/.463/.657 (219 OPS+), and if he doesn't win Rookie of the Month, I may have to stage a formal protest. Fellow All-Star Skipper Schneider was the only other everyday player to offer much at the plate, going 9-for-29 with a double, steal, 2 runs, 2 RBIs, and 3 walks. Of course, I'm biased, but I think he should have started over Charlie Artuso, as they have near identical batting stats with Skipper being a far better fielder. Still, Skipper has been one of the few bright spots on both sides of the field for us, on a 10+ WAR pace with a 111 WRC+. Ollie Page and Rich Langton really ended poorly, finishing 11-for-52, with Page's two run homer the only extra base hit. The Browning and Rich platoon had far less success, combining to go 6-for-28 with Browning's double the only extra base hit. If this week taught me one thing, it's that we're clearly the third wheel in the pennant race, and I think it's only a matter of time before we drop out completely. Against teams over .500, we're just 12-22, which is not a recipe for success.

Looking Ahead
Plenty of rest this week, before we hit the road for a three game set with the Foresters. Cleveland has just one All-Star, and its rather a surprise inclusion, as Brooks Meeks will represent the team in the cellar. He hit .261/.290/.409 (91 OPS+) in the first half with 13 doubles, 4 triples, 6 homers, and 28 RBIs. Obviously none of their pitchers are worthy, but Lou Balk (.298, 8, 36, 3) and Jim Adams Jr. (.254, 1, 30, 7) have been far better hitters. What helps Meeks is second is a rather week position, and he is one of the better ones. This could open him up for a trade, but the Wolves and Cannons are set at second, so we don't have to worry about them adding a decent hitter.

We hit the road again after, as we'll start a series in Philly with a double header. The Sailors (40-41) sit a game below .500, and have a pair of All-Stars. Even after a few rough starts, Win Lewis has still been excellent, going 7-6 with a 3.00 ERA (125 ERA+), 1.27 WHIP, 31 walks, and 55 strikeouts in his 19 starts. He'll join battery mate Bill Watson, who is hitting .269/.360/.363 (99 OPS+) with 5 doubles, 2 triples, 4 homers, and 25 RBIs. His WRC+ (116) is far better due to a lot of walks and not many extra base hits, but I think his spot could have been filled better by the Stars' Chick MacKnight (.268, 4, 26). I'll dive deeper into them tomorrow, but even with us starting on the road, we've got a decent shot of getting back on the right foot.

Minor League Report
RHP Bill Tuttle (AAA Milwaukee Blues): His name has come up in trade talks recently, but Tuttle has continued to hold a rotation spot with the Blues. He was brilliant as the Blues hosted the Hoosiers, tossing a 4-hit shutout with 4 strikeouts to improve to 6-4 on the season. He owns an impressive 3.01 ERA (125 ERA+) and 2.98 FIP (79 FIP-) with a 1.21 WHIP, 34 walks, and 46 strikeouts through 83.2 innings pitched. Now 26, Tuttle has still failed to debut, and he's in his last option year. He'll have an inside edge on a September callup, and his stuff may play well out of the pen. He has an early 5 K/9 this season and if he can limit the walks, he'll be very tough to square up. His cutter is a high velo pitch, sitting in the mid 90s comfortably, and his change and split are decent compliments. Tuttle could fill the back of a rotation, but with all the troops coming home, he may have missed his chance.

SS George Sutterfield (AAA Milwaukee Blues): Tuttle's shutout wasn't the only highlight of the day, as George Sutterfield supported him with a 5-for-5 rampage. Getting some reps at second, our 4th ranked prospect would likely have been called up this week if it wasn't for the All Star break, and assuming we aren't embarrassed by the Foresters, he'll join the club next week. The talented 23-year-old is hitting .300/.356/.425 (118 OPS+) with 19 doubles, 3 triples, 3 homers, 5 steals, and 41 RBIs. His 126 WRC+ and 2.3 WAR are both extremely impressive, and he's been an above average defender at both second and short. Ranked as the 29th best prospect in the game, the hard working infielder has shown impact potential both in the field and at the plate. He can range far to his left and right to scoop up groundballs, and he has the arm strength to steal out after out for his pitcher. He's improved his pitch recognition skills already, and he hits the ball hard and often. He pulls liner after liner to the left side of the field, and with his speed he'll leg out numerous extra base hits. I don't imagine he'll ever hit many homers, but neither does Skipper and that hasn't stopped him from being elite. Tom Weinstock actually thinks Sutterfield will be even better, which is a heavy task continuing Skipper's current placement at #3 in the FABL. The sky truly is the limit for Sutterfield, and I expect he'll be a fixture in our lineup for years to come. Whether that's at third, second, short, or a little bit of all three, he's going to be a crucial member of what we can only hope will be a championship team.

Week 14: July 9th-July 15th
 

Weekly Record: 4-1
Seasonal Record: 49-38 (3rd, 4.5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Billy Riley : 1 Win, 9.0 IP, 2 BB, 6 K, 0.00 ERA
Dick Walker : 14 AB, 5 H, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .357 AVG, 1.180 OPS
Rich Langton : 19 AB, 6 H, 0 HR, 2 RBI, .316 AVG, .856 OPS

Schedule
7-12: Win at Foresters (3-0)
7-13: Win at Foresters (3-0)
7-14: Loss at Foresters (2-3)
7-15: Win at Sailors (3-2)
7-15: Win at Sailors (2-1): 10 innings

Recap
Well this was... Odd? Yeah, it's cool to win four games, but we couldn't score more then three runs in any of the five contests. Not only that, we barely made up ground, now 4.5 games behind the Cannons who have a half game lead over the Wolves. The Fed took the All-Star game, winning 8-4 in 10 innings. Rusty Petrick didn't pitch too well, allowing 2 hits, 2 runs, and a walk in two thirds of an inning. Ben Curtin relieved him, picking up the next four outs with a hit and walk. Skipper had the only extra base hit for the CA, going 1-for-3 with a double, walk, run, and 2 RBIs. Don Lee came in off the bench, but went 0-for-2.

All five starters made a start, and all five of them were 8+ inning quality starts. Billy Riley kicked off the second half with a 4-hit shutout, walking 2 and striking out 6 in a 3-0 win over the Foresters. Harry Parker tried to match that, but he had to leave with one out in the ninth. He allowed 6 hits and 2 walks with 4 strikeouts to drop his season ERA back below 3 to 2.97 (121 ERA+). Still a bit higher then Petrick's (2.80), who allowed just a single unearned run in 8 innings with 5 hits, 6 walks, and 2 strikeouts. George Oddo got an unlucky no decision, going 8 with 4 hits, 2 walks, an unearned run, and 5 strikeouts. Unearned runs were the theme of the week, costing Art White a win where a Tip Harrison error, filling in for the injured Skipper Schneider, cost us three runs. White was walked off with just two outs in the ninth, and he finished with 6 hits and 2 walks. Merritt Thomas picked up a win in our extra inning outing, throwing two perfect frames with a strikeout. Ben Curtin picked up a pair of saves, allowing a solo homer in 1.2 innings pitched. Our pitching was elite, with just one earned run throughout the entire week, as we did an excellent job keeping our opponents off the board.

Dick Walker has been great for us the past two months, and this week was one of his best. Walker went 5-for-14 with a homer, 2 RBIs, 3 runs, and 9 walks to up his season line to .256/.380/.383 (119 OPS+). Walker has tallied 13 doubles, 9 homers, 29 RBIs, 18 steals, and 66 walks in 87 games. Walker has walked 10 more times then any other FABL hitter, and he leads us in steals. Rich Langton turned things around, going 6-for-19 with a steal, 2 doubles, and 2 RBIs. Ollie Page and Ken Mayhugh both had good weeks, but there playing time will dwindle a bit with the callup of George Sutterfield. Page went 4-for-13 with a triple, RBI, 2 runs, and 4 walks. Mayhugh went 6-for-20 with a double, triple, RBI, 2 runs, and 2 walks. The #29 prospect in the FABL, Sutterfield will have his contract purchased from AAA Milwaukee. Our #4 ranked prospect was hitting .296/.352/.418 (115 OPS+) with 21 doubles, 3 triples, 3 homers, 5 steals, and 43 RBIs. He will play make consistent starts at both second and third, but will start his first two big league games at short as Skipper nurses a bruised thigh. We are in need of an offensive boost, and the hope is that the 23-year-old infielder can be the spark they need in a week where we are hosted by both the Cannons and Wolves.

Looking Ahead
Two more in Philly with the Sailors, and I hope we score more then five runs. Lucky for us, we beat first time All Star Win Lewis (7-6, 2.85, 59) despite not getting a single run off him. They could adjust their rotation, but it looks like we'll have a tough matchup in Ray McCarthy (4-8, 3.94, 21) today and Doc Newell (11-8, 4.07, 47) tomorrow. Both are experienced veterans, but they'll have to outduel Billy Riley (11-5, 3.14, 56) and Harry Parker (9-6, 2.97, 72).with the 6th ranked offense. Chick Wilhelm's (.245, 5, 31, 8) solo homer in game one of our double header was the only earned run allowed by a Cougar this week, as Rusty and Oddo kept the rest of the lineup in check. Ed Reyes (.339, 3, 39) has cooled down a bit, but Addie Allman (.359, 23) has been a welcomed addition to the lineup. They don't have a star, but plenty of solid bats in Joseph Mills (.287, 5, 41), Bill Watson (.261, 4, 27), and Frank Covarrubias (.312, 4, 35). At 41-45, they are 12 games out of first, so with the deadline coming up there may be some additional scouts in attendance to watch these two games.

The next stop is scary, as we have to face the Cannons in Ohio for three games. They've won three in a row and will have to face the 4th place Saints (44-44) before we come to town. They're riding a three game win streak, and have a lineup so deep that Fred Galloway (.297, 2, 14) is on the bench and would instantly be our best hitter. Their dominant 2-3-4 of Denny Andrews (.283, 10, 33), Chuck Adams (.306, 14, 66), and Al Wheeler (.318, 17, 66) produces plenty of runs and the batting title leader Jack Cleaves (.341, 5, 31) bats seventh in their lineup. "Ten-Time Tom" Bird (.271, 4, 27) was one of their league high seven All-Stars, joining leadoff hitter Gail Gifford (.334, 7, 36, 12), Andrews, Wheeler, Cleaves, and Rufus (9-3, 2.31, 53) and Tom Barrell (10-2, 2.80, 38). We'll see Rufus for sure, but I think we'll miss Tom. Regardless, no easy arm to face as Dan Adams (9-5, 1, 2.76, 43), Sam Sheppard (8-3, 1, 3.11, 31), Jake Smith (3-1, 2, 2.31, 10), and Glenn Payne (1-0, 2.89, 6) are all capable, which makes sense considering they have given up the fewest runs in the league. I'm ready for them to sweep us out of town, so even a single win here would be acceptable.

And it won't get any easier, as we'll visit what could be the first place Toronto Wolves (51-32) for three games in two days. The Wolves are just a half game behind the Cannons, so if we somehow managed to best the Cannons, this series could be for first place. George Garrison (10-4, 2.66, 72) represented the CA in the All-Star game, but the Wolves actually had less players represented then we did. He leads the staff that allowed the second fewest runs, with Chick Wirtz (7-6, 3.04, 42) proving last year was no fluke, and Cookie Myers (10-1, 4, 2.37, 17) putting together great innings out of the pen and rotation. Walt Pack (.316, 18, 58) is in the midst of his best season and with Fred McCormick (.301, 5, 18) back he's really taken it to another level. Charlie Artuso (.289, 5, 36, 5) will likely battle Skipper for the right to be called the "CA War Lord" and former Cougars Chink Stickels (.266, 2, 37, 10) and Juan Pomales (.280, 22, 7, 2-1, 1, 1.53, 3) offer value both at the plate and in the field. I want some revenge after they swept us in Chicago, but once again, even a single win would be acceptable. This is a huge week for us, and with a full weekend for the deadline, there may be a lot more movement.

Week 15: July 16th-July 22nd
 

Weekly Record: 3-5
Seasonal Record: 52-43 (3rd, 5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Art White : 2 Wins, 18.0 IP, 3 BB, 3 K, 0.00 ERA
Don Lee : 30 AB, 11 H, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .367 AVG, 1.008 OPS
Dick Walker : 32 AB, 10 H, 1 HR, 4 RBI, .312 AVG, .871 OPS

Schedule
7-16: Loss at Sailors (3-4)
7-17: Loss at Sailors (1-10)
7-18: Win at Cannons (2-0)
7-19: Loss at Cannons (1-7)
7-20: Win at Cannons (2-0)
7-21: Loss at Wolves (1-3)
7-22: Loss at Wolves (4-5)
7-22; Win at Wolves (11-1)

Recap
Well, we... Survived? I'm not sure this week could have gone much different then I would have expected. The only thing close to anticipated was going 1-2 in Toronto, but I would not have expected to outscore them 16-9, and then still drop two of the games. Even crazier, we shut the Cannons out twice, by a score of 2-0, but they outscored us 7-5 and we came out with the series win. And then to top things off, since both the Wolves and Cannons struggled the rest of the week, we could have gotten within three games of first, but we let the Sailors walk away with a split after a tough one-run loss followed by a blowout. We're in a tricky situation with the deadline approaching, and there could be plenty of changes on the roster once we resume play. Art White or Cliff Moss could be on the move, but we could also end up adding a few pieces as we look to return to the top of the standings.

Art White made an effort to boost his trade value, as he bested both the Cannons and the Wolves. In Cincinnati, White tossed a 6-hit shutout with a walk and 2 strikeouts, and in Toronto he allowed a single unearned run with 8 hits, 2 walks, and a strikeout in a complete game victory. 34 in about a week and a half, White improved to 11-9 on the season with a 3.08 ERA (116 ERA+) in 21 starts. Billy Riley performed well in his two starts, but he lost to Sailors before tossing the other shutout against the Cannons. It was a 3-hitter with 2 walks and 5 strikeouts, which made up for the 8 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs, and 4 strikeouts. The final two start starter, Harry Parker, dropped both his contests. He was hit hard in Philly, allowing 9 hits, 6 runs, and 2 walks with 2 strikeouts in just 6 innings. He was a bit better against the Wolves, but still allowed 10 hits and 3 runs with a single strikeout in 7 innings. George Oddo pitched well in a no-decision, tossing 8 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, 5 walks, and 7 strikeouts. His 2.92 ERA (122 ERA+) would lead the team if he had enough innings, and he has an impressive 1.13 WHIP with 38 strikeouts in 77 innings pitched. The last start went to Rusty Petrick, who's control completely eluded him against the team he debuted with. He allowed 9 hits and 9 walks with 5 runs and 2 strikeouts. We have plenty of off days this week, which should help us out, but July hasn't gone too well and we're starting to run out of time to make a comeback.

Our two man offense was at it again, with really just Don Lee and Dick Walker doing anything much at all. Lee went a strong 11-for-30 with 3 doubles, a homer, 2 RBIs, 3 steals, 4 walks, and 4 runs. After hitting just .206/.287/.304 (70 OPS+) in 42 games last year, he's hit an elite .304/.407/.465 (150 OPS+) with 20 doubles, 3 triples, 6 homers, 15 steals, and 38 RBIs in double the games (81) and almost triple the plate appearances (324). His breakout has been nice, but this shouldn't have been all that unexpected. I let small samples get to me, as Lee put up WRC+ of 195, 147, 145, 131, 166, 152, and 164 in samples that were all larger then his 116 PA debut. His defense has even been passable (.985, -2.8) so Carlos Montes may have some competition. More likely is Cliff Moss does, as Lee could split time between both positions, and only one is approaching the big four-0. Same is said for Walker, who hit his now-tied for team leading 10th home run. The 38-year-old vet went 10-for-32 with an added double, triple, and 3 more RBIs. He stole his team high 19th base and walks three and scored five times.

We got some production from an unlikely source as well, with Bill Rich going 6-for-16 with a double, walk, RBI, and three runs scored. The Illinois native's rookie season has gone well, as after his debut on the 27th he's hit .351/.415/.459 (151 OPS+) in 14 games. His first career homer was off 2-Time Allen Winner Rufus Barrell (10-3, 2.23, 57), who may capture a third, and he's drove in seven runs with more walks (4) then strike outs (2). Fellow rookie George Sutterfield had his debut week, going 3-for-13 with two doubles, a walk, and an RBI. He made two starts at short, one at third, and one at second. Skipper is back and healthy, so there will be less games at short, but he'll get consistent starts at both second and third. Mayhugh and Page combined to go just 11-for-47 this week. There's a chance we pick up a piece to supplement them, but that won't take time away from Sutterfield if he can perform. We get Moss back next week which could provide a spark, but the offense could use another consistent contributor. A Leo Mitchell would be perfect right about now...

Looking Ahead
There is rest for the wicked this week, as we play just one game in the next four days. The lone game is on Tuesday, as we have to deal with the Wolves a fourth time. They'll be in first when we meet, 55-36 and half a game above the Cannons. George Garrison (12-4, 2.41, 77) already dominated us this week, so at least he can't beat us again. We'll roll the dice against Jim Laurita, who comes in 6-9 with a 3.60 ERA (103 ERA+), 1.32 WHIP, 55 walks, and 47 strikeouts in 18 starts. I like our chances with Billy Riley (12-6, 3.03, 65) on the mound, but any pitcher will struggle against Fred McCormick (.284, 5, 19, 2) and Walt Pack (.308, 20, 65). The Cannons will be cheering us on in what should be a very exciting game at Dominion Stadium.

Two off days follow before we host the Kings for three games. This will be a welcomed surprise, as the sub .500 Kings are the first one we'll face after three tough road series. At 39-58, they're just two game over the last place Foresters, and we should have a good series to creep closer to first. The Kings rotation isn't very great, with each rotation member featuring an ERA above 4. Former Cougar prospect Pinch Lenhart (3-6, 2.17, 28) has arguably been their best pitcher, but Bill McGraw (8-8, 4.04, 67) has shown some positive signs out of the rotation. The lineup isn't all that great, but 34-year-old vet Vernon Ruch could be an enticing trade candidate for a team. He's hitting .301/.388/.436 (128 OPS+) with an even better 142 WRC+. He's been worth over 3 wins above replacement in 92 games with 24 doubles, 7 homers, and 51 RBIs. Orie Martinez (.255, 4, 34) still hasn't quite turned things around, and fellow young first rounder Whitey Dorsch (.271, 1, 27) has had a tough rookie season. The Kings have plenty of young talent overseas, and 12 of the top 101 prospects call their organization home. They aren't there yet, but they could be a thorn in our side if their youngsters start clicking together.

Minor League Report
RHP Bill Ballantine (AA Mobile Commodores): 23 next month, Bill Ballantine started this season in Mobile despite just 12 starts in A ball last year. Despite that, he's done tremendous, as the Windy City Whip picked up his 9th win of the season with a 1-run complete game victory. Ballantine has kept Dixie League hitters in check, working to a 2.93 ERA (138 ERA+) and 1.29 WHIP with 50 walks and 47 strikeouts. He's also managed to go deeper into games this season, failing to go all nine in just two of his fourteen outings. The Chicagoan is one of my favorite of our youngsters, and I think he could be a dominant stopper. His arsenal isn't great, but there's a reason he has "Whip" in the nickname, his fastball is an excellent pitch. He doesn't command it well, but that's part of what makes it so tough to hit. Not quite like "Peter the Heater" but when he just let's go, it's a pretty unpredictable thing. When he's not facing batters multiple times, the fastball alone is enough, but having three off-speed pitches to mix in that opposing hitters won't get a good look at will make up for them not being good pitches. All pitches have a ton of movement in all different directions, and in small samples he will be tough to handle.

1B Billy Biggar (B San Jose Cougars): It's been a great season in San Jose for former 10th Rounder Billy Biggar, who picked himself up another Player of the Week. Biggar hit an even 13-for-26 with a double, homer, 3 runs, and 8 RBIs. Things have gone well for the Canadian youngster, who hit .351/.395/.528 (161 OPS+) with 18 doubles, 10 homers, and 42 RBIs in 294 trips to the plate. The increase in power is a nice sign, as he hit just 1 in a slightly larger sample with the Lions last season after 14 homer in 120 games the prior year. Power isn't quite his game, but he's a strong kid with a good swing. His hit tool has always been enticing, so any consistent power would be a huge plus. The defense isn't great, so he's really got to hit, but he has new competition in Cal Rice who's hitting .344/.431/.393 (131 OPS+) in 20 games down in C Ball. Biggar doesn't have the same ceiling as Rice, and it's only a matter of time before he gets passed up in current skill too. I wouldn't count Biggar out yet, but he's got his work cut out for him, and he need to hit his way up to make it in this league.

Trade News!
 

In a move that looked to the future, the Cougars sent off team captain Art White to the Dynamos for a five piece package. Don't let the size fool you, as we went quantity over quality, but this move gives us plenty of flexibility for both this season and next season. To make the salary work, we retained 30% of White's salary this season, and added infielder Rabbit Mudd. A 36-year-old vet, Mudd spent the previous two seasons in the Air Force, with the two years prior in the minor leagues. This season the middle infielder has functioned in a bench role for the Dynamos, hitting .259/.373/.365 (109 OPS+) with 3 doubles, 3 tripes, and 4 RBIs, walking (16) a bit more then he strikes out (11). Mudd likely won't last past this season, but we need some help in the infield, and he can play second, third, and short. Depending how Ollie Page does this week, Mudd might take the job outright, but he'll get a few starts at the keystone regardless with the chance to pick up a few games at third as well. Mudd was likely to be DFA'd by the Dynamos, and since we can't claim players while being over budget, his inclusion seemed perfect as I would have loved to claim him otherwise.

In reality, the trade was for three prospects and a pick, with the pick being the 4th Rounder of Detroit's. With the draft changes, there's no more Duke Bybee's and George Sutterfield's ripe for the taking, but it's hard to complain about getting an extra prospect like Jim Mako, who ranks just outside the league's top 200. You can never have too many picks, and while our system is still on the deeper side, we've had to bring up plenty of youngsters to try to compete this season. We'll also add a young minor leaguer in Bill Perrin, a 5th Rounder from this season who I had my eye on due to his glove and work ethic. Just 18, Perrin is hitting just .107/.286/.179 (40 OPS+) in 35 trips to the plate, but there is plenty to like about the Ohio native. Perrin ranked 12th in the Dynamos system and 192nd overall, and we are in need of some infield depth in the minors. We do have plenty of youngsters, with our entire La Crosse infield in their teen years, but I'm okay pushing guys up to spread at bats around. This season we may need upper minors guys, but once the war is over, they can go right back down to lighter competition. Perrin is a project anyways, so immediate results aren't too important, and his speed and eye should help raise his floor. He's a natural shortstop with experience at first and third too, but I think he has the range to stick at short. Perrin won't ever hit for much power, but he puts the ball in play frequently and is always looking to take the extra base. He's one of those high-risk, high-reward types, with enough patience I think he can pan out as a productive big leaguer.

The other two prospects we acquired are still serving, so we won't have to worry about too many cuts. The lone pitcher in return is Gene Madison, a 22-year-old righty serving in the Navy. "Mean Gene" has been a rather high profile prospect, selected in the 2nd Round of the 1941 draft by the Pioneers. Two seasons later he was shipped to the Dynamos with a 4th Round Pick for another veteran starter, Joe Shaffner, and last season in AA he went 12-6 with a 2.91 ERA (133 ERA+), 1.42 WHIP, 104 walks, and 90 strikeouts. Madison has great stuff, with his slider a very tough pitch to hit. He does have some control issues, which will lead to walks an home runs, but his stuff will produce strikeouts and he's not too far off from the big leagues. I was a big fan of him come draft day, and I thought the Dynamos did well to acquire him for Shaffner, but some of the prospect shine has worn off. He's still a useful depth starter, but the chances of him becoming the #2 scouts thought on draft day is very unlikely.

The final piece is former 1st Rounder Bob Schmelz, who the Dynamos took in the first round of the 1942 draft. He was also a guy on my radar, but due to his defense, I was a bit more hesitant. The highest ranked prospect of the trio, Schmelz checks in at 189, and one spot ahead of Perrin in the Dynamos' ranking. 21 in November, Schmelz spent just one season in affiliated ball before enlisting in the Army a few months after his minor league season ended. He hit very well, with a 135 WRC+ in 21 games in C ball and a 124 in 10 games in Class B. Combined he had 6 doubles, 2 homers, and 12 RBIs with more walks (12) then strikeouts (7). A natural second basemen, I'm not sure if he'll ever see the keystone much in our system, as he seems destined for a first base job. The bat can make up for the lack of glove, as he works the count well and delivers above-average contact. If he can hit some longballs to go with it, he'll be your prototypical type first basemen, but he doesn't have the size of most power hitters. Even without much pop, he'll hit plenty of line drives and will rarely look overmatched at the plate, not quite Ray Ford level, but still very productive. We chased upside with this deal, and added multiple different types of players in a return that should help us in the post-war game.

The biggest part of this deal was moving White, who may not have gotten a rotation spot next season, while opening the door for one of our talented young pitchers. We don't need a fifth starter this week, so Mike Thorpe will get to join the rotation next week. Our other 4th Round selection last year, Thorpe has spent all of the season in the Blues rotation, going an impressive 12-1 with a 2.92 ERA (128 ERA+), 1.23 WHIP, 36 walks, and 29 strikeouts. Not a big strikeout arm, Thorpe is a soft tosser like White who relies more on producing weak contact then blowing things by guys. A very effective arm, the recently turned 23-year-old has been big league ready since draft day, and he's more developed then George Oddo who's been really good in his debut season. Thorpe's 83 FIP- makes me believe he'll have no trouble against tougher hitters, and our league best defense should help cover any rookie mistakes he has to deal with. I'm very excited to see how he performs, and I think long-term we're better off giving him starts this season then White. I'm hoping there won't be a major drop off in production, as first place is still in our sights. We could make a few more moves to improve the depth of the roster, but I wouldn't count anything out yet.

Trade News!
 

I still have a few things up in the air, so I wanted to wait to post, but we did make a second deal after the White semi-blockbuster. In an effort to bolster our lineup depth, we acquired one of Tom Weinstock's absolute favorite players, Ray Struble in exchange for glove first outfielder Ed Neal. Now let me make it clear, "Tadpole" is the farthest thing from a star, but that's not to say he's without his use. Recently turned 31, Struble has gone along way since being selected with the 370th pick in the 1932 draft, but the path to get there wasn't what I'd call direct. He spent his first four seasons in the Saints organization, but was cut prior to Spring Training in 1937. He then latched on with the Pueblo Mountaineers, where he spent the next three seasons. He was an every day starter in his first and third season, and after hitting .315/.385/.438 (115 OPS+) with 42 doubles, 6 triples, 6 homers, and 92 RBIs with a whopping 62 steals. He also played a very strong center field, and caught the eyes of the Sailors organization. That offseason he was acquired for a former 7th Rounder Jake Riley.

Struble spent most of the season in AAA San Francisco, but got a September callup and hit .265 with 2 doubles, 9 RBIs, and a steal in 41 trips to the plate. He played occasionally the next two seasons, before earning the starting center field job in 1943. He was worth nearly 3 WAR in 97 games, hitting .258/.309/.349 (97 OPS+) with 15 doubles, 5 triples, 2 homers, 9 steals, and 45 RBIs while offering solid defense out in center. Unfortunately he has yet to reach that level of production, and Struble is hitting just .228/.278/.372 (78 OPS+) with 14 doubles, 6 triples, 7 homers, 5 steals, and 53 RBIs in 85 games with the Sailors this season. A career .242/.294/.336 (80 OPS+) hitter, his value comes in his defensive ability, as Don Lee and Orlin Yates are the only capable center fielders on the active roster. I'm not worried that either of these guys will get hurt, but Cliff Moss loves spending time on the IL and Rich Langton tends to make a trip or two himself. To keep Moss healthy, Lee might see some time in right, and with Struble now on the roster we'll still have two capable options in center. Yates has been awful at the plate, just a .191 average and 58 OPS+, and his time as a Cougar may be running out. He's three years older then Struble, and while he has the advantage defensively, he offers far less at the plate. They'll get to compete for the backup center fielder spot, and unless Struble really struggles, it should be his.

Week 16: July 23rd-July 29th
 

Weekly Record: 3-1
Seasonal Record: 55-44 (3rd, 5 GB)
Stars of the Week
None Generated

Schedule
7-24: Win at Wolves (5-3)
7-27: Win vs Kings (2-7)
7-28: Loss vs Kings (4-2)
7-29: Win vs Kings (1-6)

Recap
Despite a strong 3-1 week, we made no progress in the standings, as the Cannons went 4-1, and we now trail them instead of the Wolves by five games for first. That's because we beat the Wolves, who are now a game behind Cincy. After the off days, we then finally returned home, but it was a pretty successful 8-6 road trip where we were hosted by the Foresters, Sailors, Cannons, and Wolves. Our homestand was very quick, winning two of three against the Kings, and we'll use the off day to head back on the road. We've actually been a bit better away (28-20) then at home (27-24), with a few more road contests left.

Plenty of offense this week, with four hitters producing an OPS+ of 190 or better. Two of them started three of four, with Ollie Page and Ken Mayhugh looking to hold off newcomer Rabbit Mudd. Page went 5-for-11 with a double, walk, run, and 4 RBIs while Mayhugh was 4-for-9 with 3 doubles, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 4 RBIs. Both have been relatively productive, as Mayhugh has an average 101 WRC+ to go with a strong 2.4 WAR while Page is hitting a productive .277/.353/.387 (112 OPS+) in just over 150 trips to the plate. Harry Mead and Rich Langton both had strong bounce back weeks. Mead went 5-for-13 with 2 doubles, 3 walks, 3 RBIs, and 6 runs while Langton was 8-for-17 with 2 doubles, 2 walks, 3 runs, and a steal. Neither has hit anything like I would have expected, but perhaps they saved the best for last? Cliff Moss returns this week, which expands our lineup a ton, and it couldn't have happened at a better time. The only hitter who hasn't really struggled since he left was Don Lee, who was as good as usual this week. The young center fielder went 5-for-17 with a double, triple, 2 walks, and 5 runs. With Ray Struble's addition to the roster, Lee may see a little more time in right, as I want to ease Moss back into things. This is our last chance to add to the lineup, but I'm worried there won't be much available that can help us score more runs. We have to rely on our internal options, but one big injury and our pennant chances could be crushed.

The way the games lined up, we got a pair of Billy Riley starts, and that's a great strategy towards winning. He wasn't great against the Wolves, but Riley went 6 with 8 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts. He then tossed a gem against the Kings, striking out 7 and allowing just 1 run to improve to 14-6 on the season. After a three game losing streak, Riley has now won seven of eight starts to go with a 2.99 ERA (118 ERA+) and 1.11 WHIP. His ERA is now just one point higher then Rusty Petrick, who picked up the lone loss of the week. We only provided him with two runs, and he was charged with 8 hits, 4 runs (3 earned), and 5 walks. Petrick struck out just one, and hasn't been striking out many batters as of late. After striking out 4 or more hitters in 11 of his first 12 starts, Petrick has struck out just eleven in his last five. We'll need him to start missing more bats, as he puts plenty of runners on base with the walks. Harry Parker earned himself a now rare complete game, allowing 5 hits, 2 runs, and 2 walks with 3 strikeouts in a 7-2 win over the Kings. It's crazy to think that one injury caused the two-time league leader in complete games to have just two all season, but this is a much different Harry Parker. He's still effective, working to a 3.16 ERA (112 ERA+) and 1.14 WHIP in 170.2 innings pitched with far more strikeouts (78) then walks (33). Him and Riley will get plenty of starts down the line, and if we want to stand a chance in the pennant race they need to keep performing.

Looking Ahead
Off to start the week before a three game set in the Big Apple with the Stars. At 47-54 and 14 games out of first, they made a huge deal, sending Army Vet Dixie Lee to the Detroit Dynamos for former #1 pick Roy Schaub. Lee showed no signs of rust after four seasons away, going 10-10 with a 3.29 ERA (110 ERA+) and 1.28 WHIP with 48 walks and 59 strikeouts. The Stars have one of the worst defenses, as his 2.88 FIP (79 FIP-) was significantly lower then ERA, and Detroit's defense, while not great, is still about average. The return is pretty large, as the Stars managed to pry away the two-time Adwell Award winner from the all-in Dynamos. It was an interesting birthday gift for Schaub, who probably won't get the news for a few days. The 38th ranked prospect is serving in the Army, but looked good (5-3, 3.08, 43) in 11 C ball starts last year. Tom Weinstock has always been pretty high on him, and at the beginning of the year he thought he could anchor a rotation. At just 19, there is plenty of risk, but it's scary to think of him and Eli Panneton as a 1-2, and with the amount of young talent they'll have in the lineup, the Stars are going to be a very scary team.

The current roster, however, isn't, as other then Panneton (14-7, 2.83, 71) they don't have any stars left. This might be the last year without the otherworldly Bill Barrett, and the only current Star who really has a spot locked down post-war is Chubby Hall (.291, 7, 65), and even he could be on the bench as the Stars are flush with outfield. #1 pick Bob Riggins (.280, 3) could be a star, but a strained bicep tendon has slowed his debut. Elijah Boudreau (/189, 2, 13) and him will fight to stick in center, and I doubt Boudreau could hold him off for very long. CA steal leader Steve Summers (.263, 20, 27) might stick as utility and Jim Honeywood's (.310, 4, 33) bat will keep him on the roster whether first base is open or not. The one to watch, however, is 22-year-old Bill Grove, who has hit .308/.400/.438 (136 OPS+) in his first 43 big league games. He's tallied 8 doubles, 4 triples, a homer, 3 steals, and 18 RBIs with a 23-to-13 walk-to-strikeout ratio. He'll turn 23 in September, and I don't think he's going to give Gary Carmichael his spot back. There's a lot of young talent here, but with no Lee the pitching is much weaker, and I think we can outhit them.

We don't have to travel too long, heading to Brooklyn for the second in final stop of the road trip. We just took two of three from them in Chicago, and we'll have to face them for four games in three days. They're two games clear of last, 41-61 and just over 20 games out of first. Brooklyn has been quiet so far, and it looks like Jake Shadoan (.294, 3, 43, 8) and Vernon Ruch (.303, 8, 53) will maintain their Kings uniform. They may now also be without the 24-year-old Whitey Dorsch (.263, 2, 28), who strained his hamstring and has hit just .228 with a 68 WRC+ in 29 July games. The staff's next run allowed would be 500, as they pace all CA staffs. Bill McGraw's (8-8, 3.97, 72) 92 ERA+ is the best on the team, and Pinch Lenhart (3-6, 6, 2.17, 28) is the only pitcher on the staff with an ERA below 3.60. All the pieces are in line for an excellent week to propel us up the standings, but I know too well that the Cougars plan is to choke or either spend the rest of the season in third place.

Week 17: July 30th-August 5th
 

Weekly Record: 4-3
Seasonal Record: 59-47 (3rd, 5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Cliff Moss : 20 AB, 9 H, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .450 AVG, 1.150 OPS
Harry Parker : 2 Wins, 12.0 IP, 5 BB, 9 K, 0.75 ERA
Rich Langton : 21 AB, 8 H, 1 HR, 5 RBI, .381 AVG, 1.006 OPS

Schedule
7-31: Loss at Stars (1-7)
8-1: Win at Stars (8-1)
8-2: Win at Stars (5-4)
8-3: Loss at Kings (1-4)
8-4: Loss at Kings (2-8)
8-5: Win at Kings (11-2)
8-5: Win at Kings (10-1)

Recap
Now this felt like a missed opportunity... It was a winning week, as we took two of three from the Stars and then split with the Kings, but I felt like we could have done so much better. We made no progress in the standings, still 5 out, but now behind both the Wolves and Cannons. I'm hoping the return home will help us make up some ground, as we're stuck dealing with the Cannons and Wolves in the near future. It's not going to get any easier, but with just two months left five games isn't out of reach and we have seven games remaining against each of the teams ahead of us. Infielder Jimmie James is now healthy, as the former 4th Rounder was out since June 16th with a bone bruise on his knee. The infield pitcher is plenty crowded now, so James will go on rehab until rosters expand. I want to improve his versatility, giving him starts at pretty much every position. Now 27, James didn't hit much when healthy, owning just a .269/.291/.327 (77 OPS+) triple slash in 111 trips to the plate.

Cliff Moss' return to the lineup went very well, as the veteran slugger went 9-for-20 with a double, homer, 3 RBIs, 2 walks, and 6 runs. He even had a 5-for-5 against the Stars, with his 11th homer the lone extra baes hit. I thought his return to the lineup would have helped our two most productive hitters, but Don Lee and Dick Walker really struggled. Lee had his worst week since April or May, going just 5-for-29, but with 2 doubles, 3 runs, 3 walks, 4 RBIs, and a steal. Walker hit an even worse 4-for-27, adding in a double, 2 steals, 2 RBIs, 7 walks, and 7 runs. Interesting enough, they were the only two hitters who struggled, as all the role players stepped up. Rich Langton was certainly aided by the return of his corner outfield partner, going 8-for-21 with a double, walk, homer, 3 runs, and 5 RBIs. Newcomer Rabbit Mudd had a superb week, 7-for-19 with a run, double, triple, 2 RBIs, and 3 walks. Ken Mayhugh went 6-for-19 with a double, homer, 3 walks, 4 RBIs, and 5 runs. Ollie Page and George Sutterfield combined to go 6-for-17 with 2 RBIs, 4 walks, and 4 runs scored. Skipper was 10-for-31 with with 2 doubles, 2 walks, 3 runs, and 4 RBIs. We did plenty of hitting this week, ironically almost strictly in the games where the pitching did well.

Harry Parker pitched himself a pair of gems, but neither lasted very long. He went just five against the Stars, allowing a single run with 4 hits, 4 walks, and 4 strikeouts. He was much better against the Kings, this time going 7 with 5 hits, a walk, unearned run, and 5 strikeouts. He's one three consecutive starts, and allowed an earned run fewer in each of his last four starts. Of course, he can't go below zero, but Parker has been impressive and I hope he can finish strong. George Oddo was our other two start starter after getting last week off, and the first start showed a little rust. He lost the lone game to the Stars, charged with 7 hits, 7 runs (5 earned), and 7 walks with just two strikeouts. He quickly turned things around against the Kings, picking up a complete game victory in our 11-2 win over the Kings. He allowed just 5 hits, 2 runs, and a walk with 4 strikeouts to even his record back up at five.

Billy Riley had another good start, but he was tagged with the loss as we could only provide one run. He went 8 with 8 hits, 4 runs (2 earned), a walk, and 7 strikeouts where one "bad" inning cost him the win. Rusty Petrick picked up a complete game win, allowing 8 hits, 4 runs, and 3 walks with 3 strikeouts. Mike Thorpe had a nightmare of a debut, as the Kings showed no mercy on the recently turned 23-year-old. The Kings piled on 10 hits, 8 runs, and 3 walks with just a single strikeout before leaving with two outs in the fifth. The pen got plenty of work, starting with Ken Matson, who made four appearances including some mop up for Thorpe. He allowed just a pair of walks and hit with 8 punchouts in 6.2 innings pitched. Merritt Thomas pitched a pair of outings, allowing 2 hits and 3 walks with a pair of strikeouts. Ben Curtin walked two and struck out one in a single inning. The only pitcher who didn't appear is Dick Lyons, who has gone two months without throwing an inning. Now 45, Lyons' still hasn't announced his retirement, but I can't see him coming back for an 18th season next year. 38 innings away from 4,000, it's very unlikely he'll reach that, but ranks 4th out of all pitchers who debuted after 1925. I'm not sure how many more innings he'll get, but if we fall out of things, there's a home game on September 23rd that I'm sure Cougar fans would want to see one more Dick Lyons start.

Looking Ahead
We're off the first two days of the week before hosting the Foresters in a four game set. They stayed rather quiet at the deadline, and at 39-63 they are a game behind the Kings for 7th in the Continental Association. With the trade of Lou Balk (.283, 9, 46, 3), the Foresters had an opening in center they filled with minor league journeyman Pat Carson. A former 15th Round selection of the Wolves back in 1934, Carson spent over a decade in the minors before his debut with the Foresters this season, and he's hit a decent .289/.347/.378 (99 OPS+) in his first 11 games. His 113 WRC+ is above average and he's added two doubles, a triple, 4 walks, and 5 RBIs. Another new face is top 10 prospect Richie Hughes, who has gone 1-3 with a 4.08 ERA (91 ERA+) and 1.64 WHIP in his first four starts. He's struck out 18 and walked 11 in 35.1 innings, and his 3.26 FIP (87 FIP-), while a small sample, is very close to Harry Parker's. The Chicago kid has immense future talent, and all the tools to anchor a rotation. Even if we face him, I like our chances, but we can't afford to drop a single game against Cleveland.

The homestand continues with a tough double header against the co-leaders in the CA, the Toronto Wolves. The Wolves are 63-41, with an extra win and loss compared to the Cannons. Toronto has scored more runs then everyone except the Cannons, and allowed fewer then everyone but them and us. They were linked to a few trades with the Minutemen, but ended up making just one addition to their roster. That would be minor league outfielder Ed Hamor, as a righty bat to platoon with Gus Hall (.217, 6, 54). They didn't necessarily need to make a move, same with Cincy, as their big moves were getting superstars Fred McCormick (.284, 8, 26, 2) and George Garrison (13-6, 2.88, 86) back. They have plenty of depth, with rookie starter Cookie Myers (13-1, 4, 2.35, 20) stealing Rookie of the Month from Don Lee. That's not to say he wasn't necessarily deserving, as he did go 4-0 with a 2.30 ERA (161 ERA+), but his 119 FIP- shows a lot of luck and he walked (13) twice as many hitters as he struck out (6). This will be a very tough series for us, and let me tell you, it won't get any easier next week...

Minor League Report
RHP Charlie Kelsey (AAA Milwaukee Blues): A rather interesting young pitcher in our system, Charlie Kelsey was listed as "Bullpen" or "Strictly Bullpen" pretty much since we selected him in the 9th Round back in 1940. Things have changed recently, as he jumped up the prospect ladder and is now a future "Starter." He hadn't made a single start in his minor league career until August, and it was somehow better then most of his shutdown relief outings. Kelsey came two outs shy from a complete game win, allowing just 3 hits, a run, and 2 walks with 4 strikeouts. This is how he celebrated being named Pitcher of the Month in the Century League, going 5-3 with 5 saves, a 2.35 ERA (157 ERA+), 0.98 WHIP, 6 walks, and 13 strikeouts. 24 in October, Kelsey ranked just outside the top 100 pre-draft, and now sits 13th in our system and 177th overall. He's been a shutdown stopper pretty much his entire minor league career, and this season was no different. Including the start, Kelsey is 8-6 with 22 saves in 90.1 innings pitched. His 1.69 ERA (218 ERA+) and 1.06 WHIP are elite, and he's walked (27) basically half as many batters as he's struck out (55). There's no luck involved either, as his 2.56 FIP (69 FIP-) is still elite, and discounting 8.2 innings post-draft in 1940, he's always had an above average ERA+ and FIP-. Set for a callup this September, Kelsey is another starting pitching option in our very deep system, and Tom Weinstock thinks he could be a back-of-the-rotation piece. There's no obvious spot for him, but I can see Kelsey, Harry MacRae, and Bill Ballantine forming a deadly pen. He's the only of the three on the 40, and while our staff will be crowded next season, he may be right behind Johnny Jones in terms of talent. There's a gap there, don't get me wrong, but I'd wager Kelsey ranks in our top nine for pitchers. His options work against him, but Kelsey has a very high floor, and he'll get a shot to steal a roster spot on Opening Day.

RHP Jim N Smith (B San Jose Cougars): A lot of the new draftees have struggled since joining the organization, but "Noodles" is the clear exception. One of the few pushed past C ball because he's ready, the soon-to-be 22-year-old has made 6 excellent starts for San Jose. He's an unlucky 2-3, but that comes with a 2.04 ERA (175 ERA+), 1.21 WHIP, 16 walks, and 35 strikeouts through 39.2 innings pitched. A five pitch pitcher, Smith lives in the mid 80s, and he uses his cutter well. His command of his secondary stuff isn't as good, but his curve, slider, change, and split are all used effectively. Without overpowering hitters, Smith keeps them off balance, and while his 7.9 K/9 is definitely unsustainable, it is actually a bit higher then his mark in college. Even if it dropped to 4 or 5, that's still really strong, but if he can keep striking out twice as many hitters as he walks, he'll be extremely effective. Smith isn't one of our highest rated specs, sneaking in at the back end of the top 500, but there is plenty to like with the righty. We don't need someone in A ball starting games, so he's likely finishing the season here, but I'd pencil him into the Lincoln rotation for 1946.

Week 18: August 6th-August 12th
 

Weekly Record: 5-1
Seasonal Record: 64-48 (3rd, 5 GB)
Stars of the Week
Don Lee : 21 AB, 12 H, 3 HR, 6 RBI, .571 AVG, 1.640 OPS
Cliff Moss : 15 AB, 6 H, 2 HR, 8 RBI, .400 AVG, 1.300 OPS
Harry Parker : 1 Win, 9.0 IP, 0 BB, 5 K, 1.00 ERA

Schedule
8-8: Win vs Foresters (3-5)
8-9: Win vs Foresters (2-3)
8-10: Win vs Foresters (1-6)
8-11: Win vs Foresters (2-5)
8-12: Win vs Wolves (1-6)
8-12: Loss vs Wolves (6-3)

Recap
I was all ready to complain about how we went 5-1 and didn't gain any ground on the Cannons, but this is a time for celebration!

PETER THE HEATER IS BAAAAAAAACCCCCCCCCCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well... Not technically, although he would have been perfect for this week, as we face the Cannons and Wolves and two Papenfus starts against those two teams would give us our best chance of winning. Unfortunately, we have to wait until the 20th, where he'll arrive just in time to start against the Sailors. Then the following week we'll get our top prospect and the #7 prospect in the FABL Duke Bybee. Having Donnie Jones would be cool too, but after multiple seasons with our top four pitchers overseas, we now have our 1 and 4 back and ready to dominate. Pap will be an instant add to the rotation, but Bybee I'm not too sure yet. I might wait until rosters expand, as I don't want to option Thorpe or Oddo, but if we're way out of it I'm not too sure I want to waste a 40 spot on the now 23-year-old. Both these guys are elite aces, and we have a shot to claw our way back into this. I'm just hoping its not too little to late...

He still doesn't have a Rookie of the Month Award, but Don Lee has a Player of the Week to his name! Lee had a power surge in the double header, homering in both contests, and finishing the week with three to boost his season total up to nine. Lee slugged 1.000 for the week, slashing 12-for-21 with 2 steals, 4 walks, and 6 RBIs. The 23-year-old has single handedly kept our offense afloat once Moss got hurt, and he's mashed pretty much all season, last week and the first week of the season excluded. "Rap" has slashed .309/.405/.479 (153 OPS+) with 23 doubles, 4 triples, 9 homers, 48 RBIs, and 18 steals. His 162 WRC+ and 4.3 WAR are elite, and he's walked (56) a bit more then twice as often as he's struck out (27). His defense hasn't been too much below average, and if we offered team awards, he'd be our MVP. I just wish he got to hit with Hank Barnett, Leo Mitchell, and Billy Hunter around him, as in that case we'd probably be leading the league in runs scored as we so often do. Instead, he's got just Cliff Moss and his 166 WRC+ and 13 homers to support him, and I know that's not enough to win a title. Or at least not without elite pitchers...

Speaking of Moss, he had an equally impressive week, going 6-for-15 with 2 homers, 5 runs, 5 walks, and 8 RBIs. Ken Mayhugh went 4-for-13 with 2 doubles, 2 RBIs, 3 runs, and 3 walks. Harry Mead went 4-for-15 with 3 doubles, 2 walks, and 5 RBIs. Ray Struble was very valuable off the bench, 1-for-3 with a hit by pitch, two steals, a run, and RBI. Some of our vets had a rough go, however, and Dick Walker was one of them. Walker went just 4-for-22 with a double, RBI, 2 runs, and 4 walks. Rich Langton was a similar 4-for-21 with a double, RBI, 2 runs, and 3 walks. We'll need more from those two, but considering we only allowed more then three runs in one game all week, and that was against the #2 offense, our bats haven't been as much of a worry as of late.

The starter who allowed more then three runs was Billy Riley, who split his two starts this week. He was strong against the Foresters, allowing 8 hits, 3 runs (2 earned), and 2 walks with 3 strikeouts for his league best 15th win on the season. The Wolves had far more luck against the 31-year-old vet, piling on 12 hits and 6 runs with 3 walks and 2 strikeouts in the first 6 innings of game two of our double header. He was the only pitcher to allow more then two runs as well, as even Mike Thorpe looked like a quality pitcher after his dreadful debut. Thorpe came an out away from a complete game, finishing with 8 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks, and a strikeout. He helped his cause a bit too, launching a solo homer against opposing starter George Rotondi. Allergic to homers when he's on the mound, he has more FABL homers hit then homers allowed at any level (0) in 362 innings pitched. In contrast, George Oddo allowed his 11th homer in 13 starts, with a whopping 1.0 HR/9 in 100.2 innings pitched. It was a solo homer to Walt Pack, his 25th of the season, but that was the only thing that stopped Oddo from another shutout. He allowed just 3 hits and 2 walks with 5 strikeouts. Harry Parker had a similar start, a single run in a complete game as well, but with 6 hits, no walks, and 5 strikeouts. The red hot Parker improved his season ERA to 2.91 (122 ERA+) which is behind just the All-World starters Rufus Barrell (14-4, 2.17, 79) and George Garrison (14-6, 2.84, 90), and his 92 strikeouts rank second in the CA. I don't think Parker has his mojo back, but he's tossed a pair of complete games in his last four starts, and he's allowed 3 or fewer runs in eight of his last nine. Our rotation has been elite lately, and the staff has allowed 4 or fewer runs in 10 of our 12 August games. And once you add Peter the Heater into that mix... Ooo, I'm just too excited!

Two more hosting the Wolves, and it would have been fun to have Pap, but instead we'll throw Rusty Petrick (10-9, 2, 2.98, 81) and Harry Parker (13-8, 2.91, 92) against Jim Laurita (7-10, 3.40, 59) and Chick Wirtz (9-9, 3.39, 51), and I like our odds there. Not that it will be easy by any means, but we have the advantage in both games on the mound. The lineup will be tough, as Charlie Artuso (.288, 6, 52, 6) is on track to be the most valuable player in the FABL and Walt Pack (.303, 25, 74) leads the league in longballs. Add in Chink Stickels (.263, 3, 46, 11), Fred McCormick (.275, 8, 27, 2), and Juan Pomales (.289, 33, 10; 2-1, 1, 2.75, 4) and it's a very tough order to navigate. I'll be honest, I'm really worried about this week, and I think Papenfus' return may have came in just a little too late. This is a brutal week with plenty of losing opportunities, and our last chance to host the Wolves in 1945.

Up next is the Cannons, who have pretty much matched our wins and losses in August so far. At 67-41, they're two up on the Wolves and five better then us. With four games we have a chance to erase the deficit, but I'm just hoping we don't get swept. The Cannons have worn down a bit, with injuries to Sam Brown (.320, 3, 48) and Jack Cleaves (.330, 6, 42), but they have more then capable replacements in Fred Galloway (.312, 3, 19) and Charlie Ross (.219, 2, 15). Ross is the only hitter in the lineup that would have a sub 100 OPS+ and WRC+, with Jim Hensley (.266, 4, 57) the only one below 120. The "Wonder Wheel" (.313, 24, 78) is just a homer behind Walt Pack for the CA lead, and vets Tom Bird (.275, 6, 36), Gail Gifford (.333, 8, 49, 16), Denny Andrews (.278, 11, 43), and Chuck Adams (.304, 17, 80) are all producing an an extremely high clip. The rotation got better too, as they picked up Red Hampton (9-9, 3.26, 37) from the Chiefs, and he allowed just one run in a complete game victory in his first start that wasn't in a Chief uniform. He'll take starts away from Sam Sheppard (8-4, 1, 3.81, 37), who's hit a wall and allowed 7 runs in each of his last three starts. If he continues to struggle, he may join Butch Smith (5-11, 5, 4.47, 48) in the pen, who has more-or-less proved that the real 1944 Allen Winner should have been Harry Parker, as Smith has a matching 84 FIP- this year, as all the luck he got last year hasn't come this year. That's not to say Smith is not a good pitcher, he's certainly underperforming this year, but he's not Parker level. Regardless of who Cincinnati throws, however, we're in for trouble, and I'll keep saying it; Peter the Heater would have been perfect to take on Rufus Barrell (14-4, 2.17, 79) in front of a sold out Cougars Park...

The week doesn't end there, as we'll finish things off with a double header hosting the Sailors. At 56-57, they're the same amount of games out of first (13.5) then they are above last. They made a deadline deal, shipping out Frank Covarrubias (.298, 5, 45) to the Keystones, and they had plenty of talks involving Doc Newell (14-11, 3.59, 67). In the end, Covarrubias was the only big move, and it opened a spot in the lineup for 23-year-old shortstop Les Cunha (.321, 17), who pushed the incumbent Ed White (.256, 5, 45) over to third. With the Struble (.222, 8, 58, 8) trade, Alex Juris (.219, 2, 27, 2) re-entered the lineup, with breakout rookie Addie Allman (.351, 2, 40) returning to his natural center field. The Sailors have been scoring plenty of runs from Allman, Ed Reyes (.333, 6, 53), and Joseph Mills (.283, 5, 50), but I like our chances to keep them in check. The double header will be tough after six games against the CA's finest, and we won't be off until the 22nd of August.

Minor League Report
RHP Dutch Yoak (C La Crosse Lions): After a slow start to his minor league career, Dutch Yoak has really started to turn things around, allowing one or fewer runs in three of his last four outings. One was a 10 inning affair with 6 hits, a run, 5 walks, and 6 strikeouts, and he upped that in a 1-0 shutout against the Moline Pioneers. Yoak allowed 9 hits, 3 walks, and 2 strikeouts to improve to 2-3 in 6 starts. Our second rounder has a nice 2.50 ERA (127 ERA+) and 1.35 WHIP with 21 walks and 26 strikeouts in 50.1 innings pitched. One of the hardest workers in the system, the 6'4'' lefty isn't the highest touted prospect, ranking 14th in our system and 184th overall. He may end up having some issues with homers, but he has average control and decent stuff. The slender southpaw has a nice high 80s fastball, and he works his curve and change in well. While he uses the fastball most frequently, its actually has the lowest ceiling, as his curve projects to be devastating and his change could be off the charts. Right now, he relies heavily on his fastball, but he can miss a lot of bats with the off-speed stuff. Tom only thinks he can be a #5, but I think that's a little unfair. He has the physicality to be a reliable inning eater and I love his stuff, and I think Yoak could be a #2 once he's done developing. He's got plenty of time before that happens, but with our embarrassment of riches in the present, Yoak can help lead the next guard in with Tommy Seymour and Bert Rogers.

Week 19: August 13th-August 19th
 

Weekly Record: 2-6
Seasonal Record: 66-54 (3rd, 9 GB)
Stars of the Week
Skipper Schneider : 34 AB, 15 H, 0 HR, 6 RBI, .441 AVG, .957 OPS
Dick Walker : 29 AB, 10 H, 0 HR, 4 RBI, .345 AVG, 1.017 OPS
Rabbit Mudd : 19 AB, 8 H, 1 HR, 4 RBI, .421 AVG, 1.134 OPS

Schedule
8-13: Win vs Wolves (3-9)
8-14: Loss vs Wolves (4-0)
8-15: Loss vs Cannons (3-1)
8-16: Loss vs Cannons (8-4)
8-17: Loss vs Cannons (6-2)
8-18: Loss vs Cannons (5-4)
8-19: Loss vs Sailors (6-5): 14 innings
8-19: Win vs Sailors (3-4): 11 innings

Recap
It's official; we're cursed :/

The Cannons came to town and took all four, which was part of a crippling six game losing streak that found us nine games out. Seemingly insurmountable since we're not the ones holding the nine game lead, not even the return of our beautiful fireballer offers any consolation. Just like each of the previous 13 seasons, it's not our year...

What to do... What to do...

I know I definitely didn't want post 1,000 to start with a 2-6 record...

The original plan was to ride Papenfus to the end, starting him every fourth game, but I'm not sure it'll be worth it. Even better, with Bybee's return next week, we could have gone Papenfus-Bybee-Parker-Riley the rest of the way, which seems like a winning formula. But can it make up nine games in a month? With 10 more <s>losses</s> games against the Saints? That seems rather unlikely. Instead, we'll just keep going with five, and Bybee seems like a lock to finish the season in AA or AAA, depending where I need the arms more.

This team really gets me. Even though I thought we had no shot of winning the pennant when the season starts, we hung around just long enough to keep my hopes up, and then the return of Peter the Heater put my expectations through the roof.

Just for them to be squashed right back down...

If there had to be good news, its that Dick Lyons (45 years, 64 days) might be the oldest person to ever win an FABL game. After not pitching for nearly two months, Lyons pitched the 10th and 11th in our double header win, allowing a hit and two walks, but preventing all three runners from scoring. Still no news on retirement, as Lyons looks to add to his 237 wins and 3,964 innings pitched. Another player who should retire is Ben Curtin, who will at least temporarily lose his roster spot to make room for Peter the Heater. Curtin may own a share of the save (15) lead in the CA, but after his stretch of scoreless appearances to start the season, he's completely fallen apart. The latest failure was against the Cannons, as he allowed all five of his hits in the last two innings (1.2 IP for him) to score. It was his 6th blown save and dropped him to 0-5 on the season. The 40-year-old stopper has a 4.10 ERA (87 ERA+) and 1.26 WHIP in 48.1 innings pitched. If he goes unclaimed, Curtin will return to the big league roster once rosters expand, but will be cut once the season ends to save a 40-man spot. We don't really "need" a stopper, but I'm going to let Mike Thorpe cover.

Despite all the losing, we didn't really pitch all that bad. Petrick and Parker were the only pitchers to allow more then three earned runs in a start, and both allowed just four with their second start just two. Petrick split his starts, picking up a complete game win over the Wolves to start the week with 6 hits, 3 runs (2 earned), 4 walks, and 3 strikeouts. The Cannons got him once again, as he walked 9 with 8 hits, 5 runs (4 earned), and 3 strikeouts in 8 frames. No wins for Parker, as we blew his start against the Sailors in extras. He went 7 with 7 hits, 4 runs (2 earned), 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. He gave him no run support against the Wolves, as he left with one out left in the 9th. All four runs were earned, but they came off just 6 hits and 2 walks while he struck out 7. He now ranks second in both ERA (2.95) and strikeouts (105), but he's going to lose out to a Cannon yet again for the Allen. And this time it deserves to be unanimous as Rufus is 14-4 with a 2.09 ERA (173 ERA+) and 1.02 WHIP to go with far more strikeouts (81) then walks (25).

Billy Riley got a no decision, marking the first time since June 17th and 21st where he didn't win in back-to-back starts. If it wasn't for Curtin's collapse, he would have won, leaving after 7 with 4 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Mike Thorpe's last two stats went alright, but I doubt he'll make another one until the end of September when we're officially out. He lost to the Cannons, where walks aside, he actually looked pretty sharp. There were seven of them, but he allowed just 5 hits and 3 runs (2 earned) in a complete game. He then started the game Lyons won, going 7.2 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 5 walks, and 4 strikeouts. All told, Thorpe finished with a 4.50 ERA (79 ERA+) and 1.57 WHIP in 30 innings, and while the 18-to-7 walk-to-strikeout ratio is scary, more then half (8) of his 15 runs came in his debut, and he's still yet to allow a homer in 378.2 career innings. George Oddo, of course, allowed his 12th as a Cougar, and dropped to 6-6 in a loss to the Cannons. He went just 7 as his pitch count got up to 130, and left with 6 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Regardless of if Bybee joins the roster, he'll keep starting the rest of the way, as the 22-year-old just keeps on getting better. His fastball is up to 91-93, and he would probably rank top 15 (if not 10) if he was still considered a prospect. I'm not sure what to do with him, as he's still underdeveloped compared to the rest of the staff, but you can never have too much pitching...

The bats were boom or bust, as some guys were great, while others were downright awful. Surprisingly, Don Lee fell in the "downright awful" category, a pitiful 3-for-30, but at least he walked five times and stole a base. Rich Langton joined him, with a 5-for-35, while adding a steal, two runs, three RBIs, and a pair of doubles. The third member of the club was Ken Mayhugh, who was 4-for-34 with 3 walks and runs. This hurts Mayhugh the most, as it dropped his season line to .255/.312/.359 (92 OPS+), and he'll cede more of his playing time to Page, Mudd, and/or Sutterfield. Cliff Moss wasn't on their level, but he had his struggles too, just 9-for-29 with 2 runs, 2 walks, and 5 RBIs.

On the flip side, Rabbit Mudd has enjoyed his Cougar uniform, and the veteran infielder was the most productive hitter in the lineup. He went 8-for-19 with a triple, walk, homer, 5 runs, and 4 RBIs. His double play partner Skipper Schneider went 15-for-34 with a double, 3 walks, 3 runs, 6 RBIs, and a steal. He was also caught stealing for the first time in 12 attempts, and for just the second time in two seasons. Dick Walker had a huge 10 walk week, finishing 10-for-29 with a double, 2 triples, 2 steals, 4 RBIs, and 6 runs scored. Harry Mead went 4-for-20 with a double, homer, 4 runs, and 6 walks. Inconsistency and bad luck have been detrimental for the Cougars, and while even the Foresters at 30 games out are still technically in it, it's looking more and more likely that the Cannons and Wolves will duke it out for the next six weeks.

Looking Ahead
Out of the Park can't adjust for this, but I know for a fact that once the news got out that Peter the Heater was returning for Monday's game at Cougars Park, every Cougar fan in Chicago would line up to get just one glimpse of the 1941 Allen Winner, who hasn't pitched for the Cougars since that dreadful10-9 10 inning loss against the Minutemen in game six of the most painful World Championship series ever. You would think that a team that scored 10 of their 16 runs in a seven game series would have no chance of winning the series, but that's what happened in 1941, where we lost four one run games and outscored Boston 34-16 in the series. It will be an exciting, high powered matchup with the new father Win Lewis (10-9, 3.11, 79) the projected starter. He's dealing with back spasms, so I'm hoping he'll get skipped, but its a perfect matchup to welcome back the young ace. If we avoid Lewis, we'll have to deal with Art Hull (5-7, 4, 2.82, 58) and Ray McCarthy (8-8, 3.67, 31), which would be a far more preferable matchup. We look pretty evenly matched, good pitching and average hitting vs average pitching and good hitting, and the double header proved it with two, one-run extra inning affairs. Addie Allman (.352, 2, 47) and Chick Wilhelm (.247, 6, 42, 10) had huge 4 hit games against us in their win and we didn't do a good job keeping former Cougar 1st Rounder Ed Reyes (.337, 7, 57) off the bases. With Pap and Riley (15-8, 3.13, 91) we should be able to salvage the series, but it's hard to get too excited when a bad week could push us double digit games out of first.

We're off Wednesday before starting the quickest road trip ever, getting a single game with our 1945 arch-nemesis, the Montreal Saints. Don't let that 59-61 record fool you, they're an unstoppable juggernaut that has gone 9-3 against us, even better then the 12-6 mark the Cannons have put up. With just one game in Montreal, you'd think that means we can escape with just a single loss, but no, they come to Chicago right after for three in Cougars Park. Overall, the Saints haven't pitched well, but its shaping out in a way where we'll see both the #1 strikeout pitcher in the CA Pat Weakly (11-8, 3.38, 116) and the #3 ERA pitcher Karl Weiss (14-5, 2.98, 50). Veteran Ed Baker (11-9, 4.31, 20) did pick up career win #200 (and 201), but even our offense can do damage against him, Ben Watkins (9-8, 4.14, 43), or Jackie James (7-13, 4.50, 67). It would have been nice if they were able to trade Vic Crawford (.302, 10, 82) to the Dynamos, as he's one of the most productive members of the offense. Instead, we'll have to keep him, Bill Greene (.270, 14, 72, 29), Jake Hughes (.326, 4, 54, 26), and Gordie Perkins (.315, 3, 37) in check, which is a tall task for even the second best staff in baseball. Despite their immense talent at the plate, the overall defense is very bad, and the bottom of their order isn't too tough to manage. Still, we just can't find a way to beat Montreal, and I don't expect that to change anytime soon. I'm ready for another two win week, with both coming from the golden arm of Pete Papenfus.

Minor League Report
LHP Bob Petty (AA Mobile Commodores): A lot of our minor leaguers have struggled this season, with plenty of guys pushed up farther then they should be, but Bob Petty is not one of those. 23 in a few weeks, Petty started the season in A ball despite 12 starts there last season where he was 4-5 with a 6.15 ERA (72 ERA+) and 1.90 WHIP. The '45 season couldn't have gone much different for Petty, as his return to Lincoln was stupendous. In 15 starts for the Legislators, "Hard Way" went 7-2 with a 2.25 ERA (181 ERA+), 1.19 WHIP. After near even walks (50) and strikeouts (51) in the 74.2 innings last season, he has a fair amount more strikeouts (70) then walks (48) in the 108 this year. Petty earned a promotion up to Mobile as a response to the Art White trade opening up a spot in the Chicago rotation, and after back-to-back four run starts, Petty got comfortable in a Commodores uniform. He was dominant against the second place Nashville Chieftains, tossing a 4-hit shutout with 2 walks and 5 strikeouts to go back above .500 at 2-1. Petty has a strong 2.88 ERA (139 ERA+) and 14 strikeouts in 25 innings since moving up, and the hard throwing righty seems more then up for the challenge. A five pitch pitcher, Petty's cutter and fastball top out at 97, and his forkball is a well above average pitch. He can mix in the change and curve too, but he's a cutter-forkball guy who can miss a lot of bats. He also likes missing the zone, consistently walking more then 4 per 9, but the bright young righty can be effective even with a few pitches that completely miss. That may prevent him from being a reliable big league starter, but in short bursts out of the pen and he can be really tough to square up. He's not someone you want coming in with runners on, but if you need a clean inning in terms of runs, he'll get that for you. With plenty of arms returning, Petty will likely shift to the pen or start a level down in Lincoln, but he'll get innings one way or another as we look to develop him into an FABL quality hurler.

CF Johnny Peters (A Lincoln Legislators): Things didn't start great for #3 pick Johnny Peters, but he's been one of the best Heartland League hitters in the month of August. The 21-year-old is slashing .362/.436/.565 (169 OPS+) with 9 doubles, 3 triples, and 13 RBIs. One thing you'll notice is that there's not a single home run, and somehow the outfielder has just one in 43 games with the Legislators. That couldn't be further from his 43 games at Liberty College, where he muscled 10 out of the park. While somewhat concerning, Lincoln Park suppresses power (as does Commodore Stadium a level higher), and only one Legislator (Bob Harris) has hit more then three homers on the season. What alleviates the concerns a little bit is the .291/.401/.446 (129 OPS+) batting line, which puts Peters comfortably above average. Currently ranked as the 16th best prospect in baseball, both OSA and Tom Weinstock think he can be an elite center fielder, and BNN thinks he'll be big league ready come next season. I really want him to be a double digit homer kind of guy, but his best tool is his hit tool, and just slightly below that is his eye. He's struck out a bit more then I expected, but he's still maintained a very high level batting line despite it. The big question mark is the glove, and while he hasn't looked great in center, he's young and has plenty of time to improve. The sky really is the limit for this kid, and I'm impatiently waiting for him to flourish in the big leagues.