1952 Season
 

Okay, let's try this out! Yearly recaps! How many can I get before the return-to-live date? Well, at least one!

Season Summary
We've all heard the stories. Oh this Cougars team is just so good. They're going to compete for a title. They might be the best team on the league on paper. And every year, they'd get off to a decent start and look like they could compete for a pennant, just to blow it in spectacular fashion. Of course, they'd also sprinkle in the slow start and then got too late, as the schedule ran out of games and ended too abruptly.

So which Cougar team do we get this year?

Well, we got the hot start Cougars, as after taking the association lead on May 1st, they went 17-12 to pose as an early contender. Cleveland was hotter, holding a slight half game lead to start June, but the race was wide open and clearly anyone's game. Fittingly, the Cougars picked this time to slump, but as the weather heated up, so did the bats. They were putting up runs like the Cougar offenses of old, as as the deadline approached, they made a big move to upgrade the pitching staff that was allowing a lot more runs then it was used to. The arm of choice was Wally Reif (4-1, 1.98, 24), who was coming off a torn UCL last season. After struggling in a rehab assignment, he was dominant in 6 starts for the Saints, posting a sub-2 ERA and sub-1 WHIP in 50 innings. The 2-Time All-Star would sit in front of Donnie Jones in the rotation, and all the Cougars had to do was trade from their minor league outfield depth, sending Bob Allie across the border. A few days later the Cougars sent another young outfielder, Fred Crawford, to Boston in the Fed, adding former 3rd pick John Edwards (6-8, 4.49, 40) to the pen. He can also function as rotation depth in the case of an injury, as youngsters Bob Allen and Dixie Gaines have looked overmatched in their first full seasons.

Since what came next was crunch time, where the games mattered most, the Cougs cooled down, subpar showings in August and September. Still, 83 wins was an improvement on last season, though 13 games out was a let down considering how close they were for the first half of the season. But above all, the cratering in pitching production for everyone except David Molina was a major concern. Last year, Molina's poor pitching was the reason the Cougars weren't a contender, but the game's finest stopper went 7-2 with 20 saves, a 2.08 ERA (165 ERA+), 1.08 WHIP, 34 walks, and 58 strikeouts in an out shy of 100 innings. Conversely, Duke Bybee (12-13, 3.98, 120) and Johnnie Jones (12-13, 3.98, 79) had a matching 86 ERA+, and Allen (2-4, 1, 4.59, 14) and Gaines (3-6, 5.90, 23) struggled mightily in the pen. Donnie Jones (16-15, 3.27, 150) was still solid, and George Polk's (16-9, 3.31, 125) breakout was no fluke, but Pete Papenfus (8-3, 2, 3.16, 61) did not look like the pitcher he was before the injury. His overpowering fastball was down five ticks, and at 34 his best days were clearly behind him. He struggled as a starter, working to a 4.18 ERA (82 ERA+) and 1.33 WHIP, but when he only had to pitch a few innings at a time in the pen he gained some of his mustard back. In 13 innings he walked just one with 8 strikeouts, allowing just 11 hits and 3 runs (2 earned). It's unusual when a Cougar staff is in need of fixing up, but there's a new sheriff in town.

No, I don't mean Jerry Smith, though the Kellogg winner certainly impressed as the anchor of the new lineup. Smith hit a stupendous .265/.372/.482 (143 OPS+) with 101 runs, 25 doubles, 4 triples, 30 homers, 95 RBIs, 100 walks, and 12 steals, appearing in all but one of the Cougars 154 games. Leading the team in most important categories, he also hit was tied for the 3rd most homers in team history. A record he seems destined to break, the graduated #5 prospect is already a top-10 position player, and one of the most exciting young players to build around. He's got some support, including from young guys like Henry Norman (.281, 5, 37, 7) and Elmer Grace (.245, 11, 65), with September callup Frank Reece (.300, 6, 18) expected to play a more important role in the offseason next year. The vets were solid, with production from Leo Mitchell (.274, 12, 52, 9), Don Lee (.245, 12, 53, 19), and George Sutterfield (.254, 7, 55, 16), but aside from Smith and Skipper (.278, 8, 65, 14) there's plenty of spots up for grabs. Former Cougar Bill Bordwell will start his first offseason in charge of the club he debuted with, as he attempts to extend the 80-win streak to six.

Offseason
In a word, the offseason was hectic, as a lot of stuff happened and very little of it made much sense. Joe Hess (5-3, 4, 2.61, 33), Pepper Tuttle (7-15, 3.49, 105), Jim Kenny (7-9, 19, 3.11, 37), and Les Bradshaw (1-2, 4.58, 9), all pitchers, were acquired by trade. Only one of them made it to 1952. Bradshaw was released, Hess waived, and Kenny left unprotected in the Rule-5 draft, so we basically wasted Roxy Hilts, Wally Kirkpatrick, and Phil Boyes while trading Wilson McKinney and Bill Owens for a 23-year-old first basemen George O'Brien who's career highlights involve a 12th Round selection and Class B championship.

For the sake of optimism, I'm going to focus on the trade that might help the Cougars compete for a pennant in 1953. The Cougars acquired the Chicagoan Pepper Tuttle from the Keystones, finally adding a guy that was pretty high on my 1933 draft list that I attempted to trade for a few times in his youth. Now 37, he spent 13 of the last 14 seasons in Philly, as he spent the 1945 season in the Army. A vet of 388 appearances, the former 4th Rounder went 130-138 with a 3.77 ERA (100 ERA+), 3.70 FIP (98 FIP-), and 1.42 WHIP in nearly 2,500 innings. Worth 33.5 wins above replacement, Tuttle struck out 1,187 and walked 1,051, and started more then 27 games for the eighth time this season. A useful depth role, he's been consistently average, and with a quality Cougar defense behind him he could be a useful pitcher.

The cost was rather pricey, as we parted with former 1st Rounder Jack Craft, as well as infielder Dick Coffey, to pry away the Keystones 6th most winningest pitcher. The loss of Coffey is negligible, but Craft was recently ranked as the 35th best prospect and projects to have immense power potential. In 102 games in La Crosse he hit .221/.392/.416 (91 OPS+) with 17 homers and 72 RBIs. That's strong production for a guy who doesn't turn 20 until the 4th of July, and if I was still in charge I'd probably push him to San Jose to start the season. Instead, he'll continue his career with the Keystones, and has a chance to be an above average starter at the hot corner for seasons to come.

I don't have much optimism going into the 1953 season, and with how many acquisitions were made leaguewide I think we are going to be quickly passed up by the better teams. With the #1 farm system and some absolute gems in Pug White (9th), Bobby Crooks (13th), Buddy Byrd (17th), Harry Rollins (20th), Allie Eddy (28th), and Buster Clark (31st), there's a ton of bullets to land a big name star. Instead, they'll probably get traded for relievers, but with five elite pitching prospects there would probably beno player untouchable except for sentimental reasons.

The team will also enter the new year with a new skipper, as Max Wilder was let go after five seasons. Not expected to sign anywhere, Wilder went 498-412 at the helm. Replacing him is former Blues manager Doc Woods, who spent the last six seasons in Milwaukee, and has prior experience with the Fort Worth Cattlemen (Manager) and Cleveland Foresters (Third Base Coach). With Milwaukee, Blues won the Century League in 1951, and finished with a record of .500 or better in each of his seasons. The last four have seen him win more then 80 games, with a .579 win percentage the low point. Woods would be working with a bench coach of his choice, as Pete Morris retired after 15 seasons with the club. His only other experience was as the Nashville Chieftains (AA) manager in the '36 and '37 season. As a player, he just made five starts at second for the Dynamos, four in 1912 and one more in 1914.

He'll be replaced by a guy who spent a few days as a Cougar, as we took Cannons 9th Round pick Sam Barnes in the Rule-5 draft. He was quickly released since I didn't want two second basemen, as we got Mickey Fulton in the 1st Round. He didn't last either, cut before Opening Day, so him and Barnes where both where they returned. "Snow Shovel" got his first taste of AAA for 1940, and spent the next six seasons and part of a seventh with the Cannons AAA team. He never got the call to the show, but they did end up hiring him as their first base coach, serving from 1949 to 1952. The final add to the staff was hitting coach Sam Villalobos, who spent three seasons as the Lions hitting coach. In the most recent season he moved on, starting as the manager of the Charleston Blue Legs.

Notable Transactions
April 15th: Designated CF Clyde Zimmerman, RHP Steve Groves, RHP Charlie Kelsey, RF Jimmy Hairston, 3B Otto Christian, and C Mike Bordes for assignment

April 28th: Released RHP Steve Groves

July 27th: Traded LF Bob Allie to the Montreal Saints for RHP Wally Reif

July 28th: Designated RHP Charlie Kelsey for assignment

July 31st: Traded CF Fred Crawford to the Boston Minutemen for RHP John Edwards

August 1st: Designated RHP Joe Quade for assignment

August 7th: Designated LHP Walt Hill for assignment

August 11th: Designated RHP John Edwards for assignment; Released SS Jimmie James

August 21st: Released LHP Walt Hill, C Johnny Hadley, and LF Buddy Jenkins

August 25th: Released RHP John Edwards

October 10th: Manager Max Wilder and Hitting Coach Rudy Walker leave the team as their contracts were not extended; Bench Coach Pete Morris retires; Scouting Director Dixie Marsh and Pitching Coach Alex Modglin sign 2-year contract extensions; Doc Woods form promoted from Milwaukee to Chicago, signs 2-year contract to become the Cougars manager

October 16th: Traded RHP Lee Parker and LF Delos Williams to the Philadelphia Sailors and LHP Troy Crockett

October 17th: Designated RHP Cliff Wallace for assignment; Signed Sam Barnes to a 2-year contract to become bench coach

October 18th: Traded 2B Roxy Hilts to the Philadelphia Sailors for LHP Joe Hess

October 19th: Designated LHP Bert Rogers for assignment

October 21st: Signed Sam Villalobos to a 2-year contract to serve as hitting coach

October 22nd: Traded 3B Jack Craft and 3B Dick Coffey to the Philadelphia Keystones for RHP Pepper Tuttle

October 23rd: Traded RHP Wilson McKinney and LHP Bill Owens to the Cincinnati Cannons for RHP Les Bradshaw and 1B George O'Brien

October 26th: Traded 1B Jim Campanelli and RHP Aloha Miller to the Philadelphia Keystones for RHP John Grimes

November 7th: Released RHP Les Bradshaw

December 11th: Lost LHP Jim Kenny to the Washington Eagles in the Rule-5 Draft; Lost RHP Joe Quade to the Pittsburgh Miners in the Rule-5 Draft; Designated LHP Joe Hess, LHP Troy Crockett, 1B Charlie Everitt, RF Clyde Parker, and 2B Billy Hunter for assignment

December 24th: Lost LHP Joe Hess on waivers to the Chicago Chiefs, Lost 1B Billy Hunter on waivers to the Pittsburgh Miners, lost LHP Troy Crockett on waivers to the Philadelphia Sailors

Cougars on the Continental Leaderboards:
Homers: Jerry Smith (2nd, 30)
RBIs: Jerry Smith (2nd, 95)
Slugging: Jerry Smith (2nd, .482)
OPS: Jerry Smith (2nd, .853)
WAR: Jerry Smith (3rd, 7.4), Skipper Schneider (4th, 6.6)
Runs: Jerry Smith (1st, 101)
Walks: Jerry Smith (2nd, 100)
Extra Base Hits: Jerry Smith (3rd, 59)
ISO: Jerry Smith (2nd, .216)
OPS+: Jerry Smith (2nd, 143)
WPA: Jerry Smith (4th, 3.36)
wOBA: Jerry Smith (2nd, .383)
Wins: Donnie Jones (t-4th, 16), George Polk (t-4th, 16)
Saves: David Molina (2nd, 20)
WAR: Donnie Jones (4th, 6.0)
Innings: Donnie Jones (5th, 277.2)
CG: Donnie Jones (t-2nd, 19)
Shutouts: Donnie Jones (t-4th, 4)
Strikeouts: Donnie Jones (2nd, 150)
K/BB: Donnie Jones (5th, 1.6)
K/9: George Polk (2nd, 5.4)
WHIP: Donnie Jones (5th, 1.23)
Shutdowns: David Molina (1st, 30)

Team Single Season Records
Home Runs: Jerry Smith (t-3rd, 30)
Walks: Jerry Smith (t-5th, 100)

Team Career Records
Average: Leo Mitchell (6th, .323)
Slugging: Red Bond (2nd, .503)
OPS: Red Bond (3rd, .861)
WAR: Skipper Schneider (4th, 83.2), Leo Mitchell (7th, 44.9)
Games: Leo Mitchell (3rd, 2,185), Skipper Schneider (5th, 1,922), Harry Mead (6th, 1,497)
Runs: Leo Mitchell (3rd, 1,233), Skipper Schneider (7th, 810)
Hits: Leo Mitchell (2nd, 2,688), Skipper Schneider (5th, 1,944)
Doubles: Leo Mitchell (3rd, 340), Skipper Schneider (4th, 381), Harry Mead (5th, 293)
Home Runs: Leo Mitchell (1st, 186), Red Bond (4th, 121)
RBIs: Leo Mitchell (3rd, 1,082), Skipper Schneider (6th, 792)
Walks: Leo Mitchell (5th, 599), Skipper Schneider (7th, 568), Harry Mead (8th, 562)

Notable FABL Events: Current Cougars
Kellogg Award: Jerry Smith
All-Star: George Polk (1st), David Molina (3rd), Leo Mitchell (8th), Skipper Schneider (9th), Jerry Smith (1st)
Batter of the Month: Jerry Smith (April, May)
Pitcher of the Month: Johnnie Jones (April)
Rookie of the Month: Jerry Smith (May, July, August)
Player of the Week: George Sutterfield (1), Jerry Smith (2), Skipper Schneider (1), Frank Reece (1)
Shutouts: Duke Bybee (1), George Polk (2), Johnnie Jones (2), Donnie Jones (4), Pete Papenfus (1), Wally Reif (2)
5-Hit Game: Eddie Howard (1)

Notable FABL Events: Former Cougars
300th Home Run: Sal Pestilli (MON, 9/14)
All-Star: Jim Kenny (1st), Lou Eaker (1st)
Shutouts: Zane Kelley (1, TOR), Mike Thorpe (2, KCK), Danny Hern (1, CLE), Lou Eaker (1, NYG)

Minor League Affiliates
AAA: Milwaukee Blues (82-58, .586, 2nd, 1 GB)
AA: Little Rock Governors (89-51, .636, 2nd, 4 GB)
A: Lincoln Legislators (83-57, .593, t-1st, 0 GB)
B: San Jose Cougars (79-61, .564, 3rd, 13 GB
C: La Crosse Lions (39-23, .629, 1st, 4 GA)

Notable Minor League Events
Batter of the Month: Rupert Heinbaugh (June, AA), Harley Dollar (July, AAA), Bill Doucette (July, AAA)
Pitcher of the Month: Wilson McKinney (1, B)
Player of the Week: Jeff King (1, B), Fred Crawford (1, B), Frank Reece (2, AAA), Doc Zimmerman (1, B), Marv Bennett (1, A), Buddy Jenkins (1, B), 3B Bill Doucette (1, A), Harley Dollar (1, AAA), Johnny Dickinson (1, B), Otto Christian (1, AAA), Henry Sheridan (1, A), John Price (1, B)
Shutouts: Jimmy Isgro (3, B), Al Robison (2, AA), Pug White (2, AAA), Jerry Decker (1, AAA), Bert Rogers (1, AA), Walt Cooper (2, C), Lee Parker (2, AA)
5-Hit Game: Doc Zimmerman (1, B), Garland Phelps (1, AAA), Charlie Artuso (1, AAA), Harley Dollar (1, AAA), Harry Austin (1, AAA), Curt Neville (1, B)
4-HR Game: Doc Zimmerman (1, B)
15-K Games: Harry Rollins (2, C), Walt Cooper (1, C), Allie Eddy (3, C)

Big News!
 

The Cougars are back!

After I don't even want to know how long, play has officially resumed in Figment, and yours truly has returned to his beloved job as General Manager of the Chicago Cougars. Titleless since 1931, the Cougs are coming off a 76-78 showing, their 6th losing season in the last 9 campaigns. For context, I had 7 losing seasons in 26 years, so as bad as we were at winning titles, we were far more successful. Unlike when I took over in 1926, I do not want to start with four losing seasons, as anything under .500 would be an absolute failure. This team is way better then the record shows, and well, I would do literally anything in my power to have a winning season before '66.

Before we get into the roster as is, I'll do plenty of breakdowns before we start, I thought it would be fun to take a look at the only players in the organization that were with the team in 1951 (or part of the last draft class in 1952), and are still on the organization as of January 15th, 1962. It's pretty much none of the guys you'd expect! Most importantly, however, is Dixie Marsh is still the scouting director! A reliable guy I can trust! Makes my life a lot easier!

Anyways, check out this weird group!

LHP Pug White (Acquired in 1951 trade with the Montreal Saints)
Career (CHC): 117-100, 13 SV, 3.57 ERA, 3.83 FIP, 306 G, 250 GS, 1,913.2 IP, 698 BB, 1,165 K, 1.33 WHIP, 113 ERA+, 94 FIP-, 30.3 WAR
1961 (FABL): 14-11, 9 SV, 3.61 ERA, 4.47 FIP, 57 G, 16 GS, 182 IP, 72 BB, 131 K, 1.21 WHIP, 120 ERA+, 103 FIP-, 1.3 WAR

One of my favorite pitching prospects is still around! Pug got to debut in 1953. That season and last, he pitched in a swingman role, but Pug started all his appearances from 1955 to 1960, leading the CA in starts in both of those seasons. Talent wise, he's our best pitcher, and I really want to start him, but he's a borderline starter. We can see current ratings now, so talent evaluation is more straightforward, and his stuff is unmatched. If we were at the start of the offseason, he'd be a candidate to improve a pitch, and I'd love for his changeup to be a little bit better.

C Alex O'Dailey (Acquired in the 5th Round of the 1945 draft)
Career (FABL): 6 G, 5 PA, R , HR, RBI, .400/.400/1.000, 291 OPS+, 322 WRC+, .606 wOBA, 0.1 WAR
1961 (AAA): 93 G, 83 GS, 333 PA, 34 R, 12 2B, 2 3B, 11 HR, 48 RBI, 39 BB, .259/.342/.428, 110 OPS+, 114 WRC+, .352 wOBA, 2.5 WAR
1961 (AA): 20 G, 17 GS, 72 PA, 7 R, 2B, 2 HR, 12 RBI, 9 BB, .300/.389/.417, 112 OPS+, 123 WRC+, .375 wOBA, 0.5 WAR

Bet you had this one on your bingo card!

Statistically one of the best hitters in Chicago Cougar history, 34-year-old catcher Alex O'Dailey hit .400 with a homer and 322 WRC+ during the 1957 season. In 1958? He spent some time with the San Jose Cougars. He's on the 40 and catcher is our only glaring weakness, so the team legend may get a cameo this season. His 30 days of service are the most on the team, as recent backstop Stan Czerwinski (.211, 15, 54) was snapped up in the Rule-5 draft. He couldn't really hit, but he was an amazing defender and a big reason the staff was so good last year.

2B Buddy Byrd (Acquired in 1951 trade with the Kings)
Career (FABL): 1022 G, 902 GS, 3,891 PA, 522 R, 197 2B, 86 3B, 17 HR, 352 RBI, 164 BB, 204 SB, .295/.324/.403, 100 OPS+, 98 WRC+, .320 wOBA, 17.9 WAR
1961 (FABL): 106 G, 85 GS, 344 PA, 41 R, 21 2B, 8 3B, 31 RBI, 17 BB, 26 SB, .276/.308/.390, 82 OPS+, 83 WRC+, 1.7 WAR

A quick, light-hitting, put the ball in play type, Buddy Byrd has played in each of the last 8 seasons for the Cougars. Acquired in the George Oddo deal, Byrd has been a consistent middle infielder, even leading the Conti in steals four times. An elite baserunner, he's the perfect top-of-the-order guy. At least when he's average at the plate. Last season was rough, and he was even striking out a fair amount, but he's a useful piece of the roster. If it wasn't for Jack Gibson (.290, 15, 44) potentially out for the season, Byrd wouldn't even be in the lineup, but instead he'll have the chance to rebuild his value at the plate.

2B Jack Gibson (Drafted in the 2nd Round of the 1952 Draft)
Career (FABL): 468 G, 455 GS, 1,826 PA, 272 R, 36 2B, 9 3B, 123 HR, 353 RBI, 112 BB, 5 SB, .291/.332/.540, 131 OPS+, 128 WRC+, .373 wOBA, 15.5 WAR
1961 (FABL): 45 GS, 198 PA, 36 R, 2 2B, 3 3B, 15 HR, 44 RBI, 11 BB, SB, .290/.323/.579, 132 OPS+, 135 WRC+, .383 wOBA, 2.0 WAR

One of the last picks I got to make, he's been exactly what I thought, and assuming he can recover from this major knee injury he's our best player. A major slugger, Gibson already ranks 5th in team history with 123 homers, and his last at bat came less then two months after his 26th birthday. If all goes well, he'll shatter Leo Mitchell's team record of 205, as the All-Star should be a staple of the lineup as we continue the 60s. He's the perfect fit for our park, and we'll miss him dearly. An All-Star in 1960, had he stayed healthy he would have been again in 1961, and if healthy he'd be our only top-20 hitter or pitcher.

Down on the farm:

LHP Buster Clark (AAA): 31-year-old lefty who we took in the 4th Round of the 1949 draft. Was once ranked as high as 23rd on the league's prospect list. Pitched in parts of four seasons with the big league club, totaling 63.2 innings with a 6.36 ERA (61 ERA+) and 26 strikeouts. Hasn't played in Chicago since 1959, can't see him making the trip back.

RHP Marty Czyzewski (AAA): 32-year-old righty we took in the 8th Round of the 1947 draft. Never considered among our top prospects, but he pitched his way to the big league club in 1956. Got 23.1 innings then, 7.2 the next season, and owns a 5.52 ERA (67 ERA+) with 17 strikeouts and just 6 walks. Not terrible, and if we are desperate for an arm, we could do worse. Our depth is not what I'm used to.

1B Clyde Parker (AAA): A guy who spent a few weeks on the 1951 team without debuting, he got the elusive debut during the 1952 season, but he lucked into just a single at bat. He did not get a hit, and the 7th Rounder has since spent time with the Blues and Governors. At 35 his best days are way behind him, and I'm not sure if he'll even make it to April.

1B Andy Robinson (AAA): Ranked as high as the #12 prospect in FABL, Andy Robinson never developed into the star I once hoped he could. Taken 12th in the 1950 draft, Robinson was one of the few teens to actually produce down in La Crosse, and he looked to be the second basemen of our future. Instead, the glove never really improved, and he definitely hit a wall offensively. He was good enough in AAA, but hit just .264/.296/.336 (81 OPS+) in his 32 game debut in '56. That proceeded a 1-for-6 sample where he appeared in 16 games. Just 24, he was then banished to the minors, and has been there ever since. Now 29, he's not even that useful as minor league depth, and his days may soon be numbered.

2B Rupert Heinbaugh (AAA): Our 7th Rounder back in 1945, Heinbaugh had a weird major league career. He got cups of coffee in 1950, 1952, and 1953, but after that it seemed like he'd be remembered as nothing more then a utility man. Then all of a sudden in 1957, he won the starting shortstop job, despite almost never playing that position prior. The defense was as bad as expected, but the then 30-year-old hit a solid .277/.330/.363 (101 OPS+) with 26 doubles, 5 homers, 50 runs, and 43 RBIs. He was back on the bench in '58, but Heinbaugh was back starting in '59. The bat was poor, evidenced by a .253/.322/.326 (78 OPS+) line, and his only time since was 7 PAs in '61. He's still a capable AAA second basemen, but no way he'd get anywhere near shortstop in Chicago now.

LF Bert Preble (AAA): Picked up in the Jim Morrison trade back in 1951, Preble was a top-100 prospect who got all the way up to 32nd. He debuted in 1953, spending the season as a reserve outfielder, and appeared in a game in each of the next five seasons. He was in the minors the past two years, but owns a .278/.352/.314 (118 OPS+) career line in 702 PAs. He never really got a chance, but at 33 he's just a slower corner guy and no longer someone you'd want in center. Unfortunately, he's second man up among the non 40-guys, behind only former Keystone and Star Don Berry.

RHP Charlie Kelsey (AA): Now 40, 1940 9th Rounder Charlie Kelsey is still pitching, though his time with me in 1951 is the last time he threw in the majors. A veteran of 22 seasons, I'm keeping him around till he calls it quits, and hopefully becomes a minor league pitching coach. One of the team leaders, he's been through it all, including 188.2 innings at the highest level. The results were never great, but the righty stuck around because he could eat innings and help the guys around him.

RHP Harry Rollins (AA): Another former top prospect, Rollins topped out at 16th, but his FABL career so far has consisted of 9 games (7 starts) in 1956. 23 at the time, he was 3-4 with a 4.50 ERA (82 ERA+), 1.67 WHIP, 28 walks, and 22 strikeouts in 36 innings pitched. He never got a chance after that, but he's hung around with the team that took him in the 3rd Round of the 1951 draft. A former starter, his stamina is down to just 1, so there's a good chance his time won't last much longer.

C Johnny Hook (AA): Acquired in the 1951 trade that sent John Moss to the Chiefs, the whole duo could have survived had Minneapolis not taken 1954 All-Star Bobby Crooks (3-3, 2, 4.38, 43) in the expansion draft. Unlike Crooks, Hook never got to Chicago, and only has 14 PAs at AAA. Lucky for him, we have zero catching depth, so he's actually got a shot! An average hitter and defender, he's not the worst catcher, and he could be a very temporary solution.

SS Joe Marshall (AA): Acquired from the Kings back in 1950 for Bob Mundy and Willie Watson (.271, 7), the former 6th Rounder didn't even make it to Chicago as a utility man. Rated a 3 or better everywhere but center, the 31-year-old Marshall seems like a useful utility guy, but he has just 39 AA PAs compared to 3,137 in Class B. Even better, he's hit just .267/.293/.376 (88 OPS+), so it's not like he's even done anything there either. He has a 22 and 50 WRC+ the last two seasons, but if you can play multiple positions, you can carve out a career as a minor league bench guy.

CF Curt Neville (AA): The third piece of the Moss deal, Neville got his chance in 1957, where he appeared in 148 games. The regular left fielder, he hit .245/.312/.357 (93 OPS+) in his aged 25 season with 25 doubles, 10 homers, 50 walks, 60 RBIs, and 64 runs. As solid as that was, he has yet to come close to the 583 PAs he made that year. He was in Chicago for just 52 games and 140 PAs the following season, before just a single one in each of the '59 and '60 season. Now 30, Neville played sparingly in A and AA last season, and will likely retire with a .243/.312/.363 (93 OPS+) line.

LHP Bert Rogers (A): The 12th pick of the 1944 draft, Bert Rogers got one out in the 1951 season, and followed it up with 8 innings out of the Cougar pen in 1952. Between the two seasons, he has a respectable 3.24 ERA (104 ERA+) and 1.20 WHIP, walking 3 and striking out 2. Now 35, he's almost batting practice for A-ball hitters, but I don't know. I don't really want to cut him. He might be here during the minor league season? I mean our farm is a mess and it's not like the free agents are great...

Okay, maybe there are a few... *fingers crossed*

That's it! That's all of my masterpiece that survived! There is a decent group to work with, but the depth in the farm, especially on the pitching side, is nowhere near what I grew accustomed to. I have six months to work for the draft, though the focus is inside the organization first, and it might take a few seasons to get the Cougars back into a well-oiled machine. Obviously a pennant or two would be nice, but the Foresters are amazing and we are not. I have to set reasonable expectations, and it's a lot easier to become self sustainable then it is to win. 80 wins is the goal, and with a few shrewd acquisitions and lineup choices we should be able to get there.

Of course, baseball has a funny way of spoiling those plans, and the years of sustained winning could be in the past. With two additional teams in each association, it could be even tougher to get over the hump. But either way, it is so good to be back with the Cougars! There's plenty to be excited about, and you can find all about it soon!

Go Cougars!

Organizational Breakdown: Pitchers
 

Rotation
RHP Roy Ellis (26, 11-13, 4.45, 139; 13-16, 6, 3.87, 195)
LHP Henry Henderson (21, 9-6, 2, 3.72, 66 - graduated 72nd prospect)
LHP Andy Logue (29, 15-11, 3.40, 139; 42-39, 16, 4.01, 427)
RHP John Mitchell (24, 8-3, 3.74, 45; 40-33, 4.19, 468)
RHP Hank Walker (29, 10-11, 4.63, 123; 43-37, 1, 4.01, 397)
LHP Pug White (31, 14-11, 9, 3.61, 131; 117-100, 13, 3.57, 1,165)

I'm already looking to add depth to the rotation, with my first trade target old friend Bob Allen, but even as is it's pretty solid. The odd man out is technically Pug White, but with four months till opening day there's no guarantee all six of these guys will be the ones who we rely on during the season. The group lacks a true ace, but these are all tough outs and Pug is the only one that's on the wrong side of 30. Even then, he's just 31, and he's got the best stuff of the bunch. He pitched really well in the pen (7-5, 9, 2.04, 71), and since we don't have the inning eaters like Pap and the Jones Brothers, whoever ends up as the stopper may easily pitch 100+ innings. No one had more then four complete games, and I really only want Andy Logue going deep. One of the club leaders and a first time All-Star, Logue was a guy high on my 1951 draft list, so it's interesting coming across him here. He's not a flashy pitcher, but he does an excellent job keeping the ball on the ground. That plays really well at our park, and since he can control the run game double plays get him out of a lot of jams.

Behind him, I'm most excited for Hardie Henderson, but I'm not sure if the 21-year-old is going to crack the Opening Day rotation. Taken 6th in the 1958 draft, he debuted at 20 this season, spending all season on the big league roster. It was an aggressive promotion, but he pitched well in 123.1 innings. Henderson made 28 appearances, 16 of which were starts, going 9-6 with a 3.72 ERA (116 ERA+), 1.30 WHIP, 48 walks, and 66 strikeouts. The stuff is really good, as he has an excellent fastball, curve, and screwball. A six pitch pitcher, he's got a decent sinker too, but his flyball tendencies may work against him at Cougars Park. He did well as a rookie, just 8 of his pitches left the park. He has a clean delivery and can overpower with the fastball, and he's exactly the type of pitcher I'd target if I was able to make draft picks. He has the most upside of the projected front five, as Walker, Mitchell, and Ellis seem to have peaked as middle of the rotation arms. The loudmouthed Walker looked like an ace once, going 11-9 with a 2.99 ERA (141 ERA+) and 1.31 WHIP in 1959, striking out 92 and leading the CA with a 0.3 HR/9.

Ellis and Mitchell are both still on the young side, and Ellis in particular could move up in the rotation. A hard thrower who can locate pitches, his fastball hits in the mid 90s, and while it's not an overpowering pitch it's tough for most guys to catch up with. With three plus-plus off-speed pitches, the former 11th Rounder gets whiffs like you cannot believe. He almost never leaves a pitch over the middle of the plate, keeping the ball on the ground and limiting the walks. In fact, his 2.6 K/BB in 1961 was the best in the association, and it was an even better 4.3 in a 84.2 inning sample the season before. The Pittsburgh native has come a long way since being involved win a five player swap of misfits with Detroit, and with the right defense around him I think we'll be able to get plenty out of him. The same could go for Mitchell, who's the innings eater of the bunch. Another hard thrower, he touches 97, but it's his changeup that makes him so good. It's the clear headliner of his six pitch mix, and he's got three other plus offerings to trick hitters with. He split time between AAA and FABL, and with one option left he could get sent down in a number's game. I'd rather him start in Milwaukee then pitch out of the pen, but aside from a rough spring he looks to be a member of the opening roster.

Bullpen
RHP Bob Burdick (34, 0-0, 4.04, 26; 2-3, 3, 3.92, 75)
LHP Doc Cook (25, 0-1, 1, 2.96, 18)
RHP Ken Stone (22, 2-8, 2, 4.11, 59; 6-14, 4, 4.23, 95)
RHP Arch Wilson (36, 3-10, 13, 5.20, 66; 45-55, 118, 3.57, 443)

On paper, it's one of our weakest units, but it could be bolstered with Pug White, another one of the SPs, or even a waiver acquisition. At the back, Arch Wilson could retake the stopper role, as after David Molina he was a common Continental save leader. Wilson led with 25 in 1957, 1958, and 1959, and in 1960 he was 15-10 with 18 saves in an association and career high 80 appearances. Often a reliable weapon, he really struggled last season, prompting the move to Pug White. If White stays in the rotation, Wilson will regain his stopper role, as the rest of the guys with him aren't lockdown arms. Bob Burdick is a 34-year-old who didn't play in FABL until last year with the Wolves and Doc Cook is a one inning mop-up guy who's best asset is his intelligences, but Ken Stone might be a name to watch. Old friend Dixie Marsh thinks he's the pitcher in the system with the most upside, and his stuff certainly is exciting. A tough sidewinder, his stuff is great, and he's got a rubber arm that can let him pitch deep in games. Just 22, the upside is there, but his stuff seems best in the pen. It's the role for him at this point in his career, but it's hard to not want to try him out in the rotation. Having Bobby Crooks would have been so helpful, as we could more easily send Stone down to the minors. I'd love to add an arm from outside, but regardless he should add to his 142.2 FABL innings.

Next Men Up
RHP Allen Brown (27)
LHP Mario Saucedo (24)
RHP Dick Garcia (37, DNP; 15-15, 20, 4.23, 191)
RHP Ivy Lloyd (26)

The system is thin on pitching, and this is far from an inspiring group. It's hilarious seeing Dick Garcia make his way back to the organization, as that's the same guy we took in the regional round of the 1943 draft and later traded to the New York Stars for Chubby Hall in 1948. He immediately got taken in the Rule-5 draft, and has since pitched in the majors for the Keystones and the Saints. His most time came in 1955 at 30 with the Keystones, where he was 6-6 with 10 saves, a 4.12 ERA (109 ERA+) and 1.53 WHIP. In total, he's made 408.1 innings, working to an adjusted league average 4.23 ERA (99 ERA+) with a 1.59 WHIP and 191 strikeouts. Now 37, we'd be desperate to bring him up, but he's been a rock in the Blues rotation the last two and a half seasons. The ratings are solid for mop-up innings, and it would be a nice feel good story for him to make a return.

If we want to fish for upside, there is Mario Saucedo, a young lefty the Cougars took in the 7th Round of the 1956 draft. As crazy as it sounds, he's our #1 pitching prospect despite being ranked 240th in the league, though that's still 14th among our prospects. A true fireballer, he hits 98 with an elite fastball, and if we need a high octane strikeout arm he might be the guy to call. A starter by trade, he struck out 17.4% of the batters he faced in his 24 AA starts. He pitched a little out of the pen in Milwaukee to close out the season, but I expect him to return there as a member of the rotation. The stuff is really good, but his pitches do get hit hard when he's off. His future may be in the pen, but and that's his easiest path to big league action this year. He's probably 7th or 8th in line for starts at most, and I feel no reason to rush the Boston native. Allen Brown and Ivy Lloyd are the last resorts of the last resorts, with Lloyd a wasted 8th Round pick and Brown a former 5th Rounder cast off by the Cannons. In a pinch, either could fill a pen role, and Brown will compete for a spot in the Blues rotation.

Down on the Farm
14th/240th: LHP Mario Saucedo (24, 7th Round Pick, 1956)
16th/277th: RHP Herb Thomason (22, Minor League Free Agent, 1958)
17th/279th: RHP Charlie Christian (22, Minor League Free Agent, 1958)
19th/318th: RHP John Roberts (20, 4th Round Pick, 1959)
24th/404th: RHP Tony Marino (23, Minor League Free Agent, 1959)
25th/417th: RHP George Chism (25, Trade with St. Louis, 1956)
26th/423rd: RHP Ed Wells (22, Minor League Free Agent, 1958)
28th/458th: RHP Bobby McGough (23, 3rd Round Pick, 1957)
30th/467th: RHP Floyd Lane (22, Minor League Free Agent, 1961)

The options here are barren, and I'm not sure how the AI let it get this bad. I can't remember the last time a minor league free agent was ranked high on our prospect lists, let alone accounting for three of the top five arms. I already covered Saucedo, but with how little else there is it's almost worth bringing him back up again. To be fair, I shouldn't really knock the guys for how they got here, but it's more a bad mark on the ability for the replacements to draft and develop pitchers.

I'm rooting for Herb Thomason, a Chicagoan who the Stars took in the 14th Round of the 1957 draft. He bounced around before sticking here, as his lively fastball has captured the intrigue of many teams. The downside is he runs out of gas quickly, and he's been considered a reliever only prospect despite some time in the rotation. The other three are starters, but Tony Marino is likely to end up in the pen. He has a nice mid 90s fastball, but aside from that the stuff is on the poor side. He doesn't command the secondary stuff well enough to excel, but he's got the work ethic to push past his abilities.

Charlie Christian is a guy to keep an eye on, as while he's not descript now he could develop into a back-end arm. He's got the ability to go deep into games, and he has a reliable five pitch mix. His mid 90s fastball is effective, and the curve and change get plenty of misses. He's set to return to AA, where I'd like to see him put up big strikeout numbers. John Roberts, on the other hand, is a groundballer who relies on generating weak contact, and the 20-year-old is much lower down in San Jose. A recent 4th Rounder, he's a rarity on the Cougars top prospect list, though his future may not be much more then a spot start every so often. The only other draftee on the list is 23-year-old Bobby McGough, who with a little more stamina would probably rank as our top pitching prospect. The hard throwing Chicagoan can hit 98 with his fastball, and he's got a devastating slider that really moves from his 6'4'' arm slot. The former 3rd Rounder has a chance to start the season in AAA, and with a good start to the season he could work his way into the pen role if we can't find guys to keep leads.

Trade News!
 

It didn't take long, as unlike every politician ever, I stuck to my campaign promise, and brought home Bob Allen with my first (or technically third, since I cut George Blake and Norm McBride to free up some salary) acquisition back in charge of the Chicago Cougars. Allen, now 33, is arguably a worse pitcher now then when he was 22, going from a 3-5-3 to a 3-3-3 (with a 4-4-3 in between), but I just had to bring home our former 1st Rounder and potential ace, allowing him the career he was never given.

Formerly the #1 pitching prospect in all of baseball, and a mainstay in the top-10, Allen was taken 10th in the 1946 draft, and next Opening Day he was named the #2 prospect in FABL. A dominant force in the minors, Allen debuted for the Cougars in 1951, making four September starts including a shutout of the New York Stars. Unfortunately, after I left and we went through the quick-sim years, the new Cougars front office did not know how to use him, causing the golden arm to wither away in the pen. He threw just 33.1 innings in 1952 instead of starting in AAA, and until 1956, he always relieved more games the he started. '56 was just a partial season, 13 starts and 11 relief outings, before being sent away to Detroit for first basemen Monty Brown. Brown, 21 at the time, wasn't a bad prospect by any means, but he was just a dime a dozen first basemen Detroit took in the 3rd Round. Brown ended up debuting in 1959 and played again in 1960, but all 30 of his appearances came off the bench. The now 26-year-old hit .276/.323/.379 (87 OPS+), and was recently selected by Minneapolis in the expansion draft.

At the time of the trade to Detroit, Allen had made 148 FABL appearances, going 32-24 with 9 saves in 486 innings pitched. He had a solid 3.70 ERA (106 ERA+), 1.39 WHIP, and 250 strikeouts, and it really made no reason why a team with little pitching would part with a 28-year-old that once had the highest ceiling imaginable. The league didn't value him very much, with Detroit using him strictly out of the pen, even though he could have solidified their 5th spot. He did start all 23 of his appearances in 1957, and with an actual shot, he pitched really well. The extreme groundballer was 12-6 with a 3.45 ERA (119 ERA+), 1.31 WHIP, and 96 strikeouts, a pretty capable season for a back-end starter. Despite that, Detroit still viewed him as more filler then star, with most of the next two seasons coming out of the pen. He did start 16 of his 46 1958 games, again 12-6 but this time with 13 saves, posting an average 4.19 ERA (102 ERA+) and 1.40 WHIP in 141.2 innings. His ERA ballooned to 5.49 (78 ERA+) the next season, but in spite of that his 20 saves were tops in the Fed, and he struck out 55 in 82 innings.

The last two seasons, Allen returned to the rotation, making 28 starts and going 17-17 with 128 walks and 170 strikeouts. The now 33-year-old was much better in 1960, 10-4 with a 3.43 ERA (125 ERA+), 1.32 WHIP, and 86 strikeouts, but he's still a capable back-end guy who can pitch deep into games, keep the ball in the park, and get swings and misses. The stuff is no longer elite, but his curve is a standout pitch, and he can locate his fastball, slider, and change. His groundball tendencies will work well at Cougars Park, and he'll open the 1962 season 85-63 with 45 saves, a 3.97 ERA (104 ERA+), 1.41 WHIP, and 666 strikeouts in 1,214.1 innings between the Cougars an Dynamos. The acquisition of Allen pretty much confirms that Pug White will pitch out of the pen, with John Mitchell and Henry Henderson now competing for the last of the five spots. Allen probably takes #5, and he'll hopefully remain on our staff until he's ready to call it quits.

We didn't actually get Allen from the Dynamos, as he was one of the many players selected in the expansion draft. That was the good fortune of the New York Imperials, a team we will compete with in the 1962 season. For their trouble, we sent a talented young infielder Delos Smith, who was picked up a little over a year ago for another formerly promising Cougar hurler Dixie Gaines (3-3, 4.34, 33). Gaines went from St. Louis to LA in the expansion draft himself, former Cougar pitching prospects were seemingly in high demand, while Smith now joins his third organization in as many years. A former 9th Rounder, he got a September callup this season, hitting a solid .287/.357/.455 (112 OPS+) while playing solid defense in the middle infield. An average all-around guy, I didn't necessarily want to move him, but our starting shortstop is a year younger and better at literally everything except hitting homers, and when healthy, our second basemen is the most dangerous slugger the team has ever had. Smith would have been nice depth, especially while Gibson is hurt, but I'm comfortable with Buddy Byrd (.276, 31, 26) holding down the fort, and starting third basemen Mooney Vetter (.282, 12, 68) could easily shift to second, with former top-100 prospect George McKee (.284, 1, 10) or former 3rd Rounder Bob Decker both options at the hot corner. Decker himself could play second if needed, but McKee is an elite defensive third basemen with a strong contact tool, and enough ahead of Smith that it made it easier to part with him. Smith could easily make his name on the new fledgling team, but he didn't really have a role in Chicago and I can never pass up on acquiring personal favorites of mine.

I mean, I just had to have Bob Allen! It's only right!

Now if only Whitney winner and 9-Time All-Star Jerry Smith was easy to acquire...

Organizational Breakdown: Catchers
 

Battling to Start
C Alex O'Dailey (34, DNP; .400, 1, 1)
C Milt Payne (26)
C Chappy Sanders (24)

Catcher is an absolute mess in Chicago, as the entire organization has a combined 15 FABL plate appearances after losing Stan Czerwinski (.211, 15, 24) to the Suns in the expansion draft. At this point, I have absolutely no idea who we're going to open the season with on Opening Day, as none of the options are all that exciting. Starting with the vet, the "favorite" to secure a spot might be an old draftee of mine Alex O'Dailey, who split last season between Little Rock and Milwaukee. The 34-year-old doesn't strike out much, puts the ball in play a bit, and has a solid eye, but he's a poor defender who doesn't double or hit homers, and his speed is what you expect for a catcher. But, he's the greatest Cougar hitter of All-Time (minimum 5 PAs), with a beautiful 322 WRC+, and his veteran presence might be a boost to this pretty young squad.

Assuming no outside additions, he's likely to be at least a backup, as Milt Payne and Chappy Sanders are both young, and I probably want one of them catching everyday in AAA. In terms of upside, Chappy is the guy, and he might be the best of the three catchers, with the added bonus of being a capable fifth (or I guess sixth) outfielder. Acquired with Hugh Pate (.213, 5, 15), who was lost to Minneapolis in the expansion draft, for Washington current young stopper Carl Levy (12-6, 20, 3.93, 84), Chappy was taken 17th in the 1958 draft, and ranked as high as 67th on the prospect lists. He's dropped a bit since, but I feel like it's a little unfair. He spent most of his time last year in A ball, where he hit .296/.409/.589 (162 OPS+) in 93 games, before upping that to .275/.410/.687 (185 OPS+) in 38 games with the Governors. His lack of upper level minor league experience is a little concerning, but he's an extra base machine and almost never strikes out. Last season he hit 22 doubles, 4 triples, and 38 home runs, excellent numbers at any level. A strong, 6'4'' lefty, Dixie thinks he's got all the tools to start, as he does well on both sides of the field. He's an excellent framer and solid at blocking and throwing, and while no Czerwinski, he's still above average defensively. The spring will be big for him, as if he can handle big league and big league adjacent pitching, it's worth giving him a shot early.

Last is Milt Payne, who I can't really see starting. Acquired in the mistake of a trade with St. Louis for Jerry Smith that got us literally nothing of value, Payne has a chance to be the only one of five prospects to debut. That's mainly because our options are so thin, as there is nothing he does better then average. He's a below average hitter and an average defender, and he's yet to get past A ball. For some reason, he was added to the 40, and at 26 he's probably already as good as he'll be. His best chance at big league action is to be the backup to whoever wins the starting job, but if we can find a catcher outside the organization, he could be the 40-man casualty.

Next Men Up
C Dode Edwards (35)
C Gus Wilson (34, DNP, .200)
C Johnny Hook (31)

A group of suckers and scrubs, if we have to tap into this group, we are truly in trouble. Despite all three dudes being over 30, only Gus Wilson has made it to the majors, getting a whopping 10 PAs between three seasons with the Dynamos. Wilson is a terrible defender, but he's got a good eye and is a better hitter then Payne and maybe O'Dailey. The glove makes him almost unplayable, but Edwards and Hook aren't too gifted there either. What Hook has going for him is being an acquisition of mine, picked up in the John Moss deal, but the AI has him in AA so he's likely the worst of this sorry bunch. There's not too much in free agency, but I'm already sorting through the rubble to boost this position group.

Down on the Farm
8th/114th: C Raul Zamora (19, 2nd Round Pick, 1960)
9th/161st: C Chappy Sanders (24, Trade with Eagles, 1960)

I mentioned earlier how Chappy was underrated on the prospect list, 161st seems silly for a plus defender and plus hitter who's big league ready, but he's one of really only two catching prospects we have with any value. The other is Raul Zamora, taken in the 2nd Round of the 1960 draft. A young, bat-first backstop, Zamora isn't anywhere near impacting the big league team, but he's an athletic kid from Cuba, who like Chappy, is a strong 6'4'' slugger. He hit a nice .304/.409/.503 (106 OPS+) with 13 doubles, 7 homers, and 30 RBIs in 208 PAs with La Crosse. An above average contact hitter who may bat around .300, he's got solid pop and will be able to leg out some doubles and even a triple or two. Not a prototypical catcher, he's an interesting prospect to watch, and in three or more seasons he may be able to secure the job for himself.

Just for Fun?
RF Henry Watson (23, .302, 26, 90; .317, 46, 166, 9)

You know the catching situation is bad when I'm actively considering an outfielder for the catcher spot, but Henry Watson is not your average outfielder. Acquired from the Saints way back in 1956 in the Garland Phelps trade, Watson debuted in 1960, and hit .340/.382/.561 (146 OPS+) with 17 doubles, 3 triples, 20 homers, 76 RBIs, and 5 steals in 411 PAs. Good enough to secure the starting job, he posted another great season last year, and was named to his first All-Star game. Watson hit a still solid .302/.336/.497 (116 OPS+) with 26 doubles, 3 triples, 26 homers, and 90 RBIs, worth 4.4 WAR in 599 PAs due to his strong offense and defense.

He does have a flaw, he almost never walks, but he's quick, got a great arm, and can hit some absolute monster home runs. On top of that, he even made 18 starts behind the plate in 1960, and including the minor leagues he has 948.1 innings behind the plate. He doesn't block well, but he can frame and of course throw, and his offensive output is going to be way better then anyone else we put there. Granted, he's way better in the outfield and expected to start there, but you'll see in the outfield recap we have a solid group of guys. I tend to prioritize defense behind the plate, but Chappy is the only one who really fits that. It wouldn't be an ideal situation, but he can definitely fill the catcher spot in a pinch, and if the guys we try starting there can't do much, he could get multiple starts a week behind the plate.

Organizational Breakdown: Corner Infield
 

Starters
1B Gene Case (23, .288, 21, 77, 8 - graduated #14 prospect)
3B Mooney Vetter (27, .282, 12, 68; .285, 36, 182)

Homegrown first round picks make up the corner infield, with second year lefty Gene Case at first, and two-time Diamond Defense Award winner Mooney Vetter at third. Ironic enough, both guys were taken 8th in back-to-back years, with Vetter coming out of college in '55 and Case in high school in '56.

Despite his youth, Case is already one of the top hitters on the team, boasting an elite eye with plus-plus power, gap, power and avoid K ability. He's also reasonably fast and an an excellent baserunner, and with his ability to rope liners to the gaps, he can often find himself on second and third base. In 509 PAs as a rookie he hit 48 extra base hits with an elite 77-to-42 walk-to-strikeout rate, producing a 136 WRC+ that matched his OPS+. He may not be done developing either, as his power could push him into 30+ home run territory. As a converted outfielder, there is still a lot of athleticism left over, and he could be an anchor in our lineup for years to come.

Vetter doesn't have the upside of Case, he a local hero and already beloved by the Cougars fan base. Debuting in 1958, 1962 will be his fifth season, and he'll enter it with a solid .285/.313/.425 (94 OPS+) career triple slash. Known best for his tremendous work at the hot corner, he's also a fine contact hitter, who swings early and often. He puts the ball in play and almost never strikes out, but his main weakness is his tendency to swing at pitches he shouldn't. Despite decent power, he'll probably never get past 20 homers in a season, as he doesn't work the count enough to get pitches he can handle. One of our weaker starters, we could end up looking to upgrade over him, but he's still a top 10 starter. You can certainly do worse then him in the seven spot, and unless we just can't get over the hump with him, or his production starts to sour, I plan on sticking with him. Even then, he'd be unlikely to lose his roster spot, as he plays plus defense at all three skill position, and at 6'1'' first would be easy to pick up.

Bench Options
1B Jim Chaplin (30, .333, 1; .269, 12, 114)
1B Jack Drake (23, .000)
1B Moe Holt (34, .222, 2, 4; .274, 77, 480, 60)
3B Bob Decker (34, .000; .000)
3B George McKee (24, .284, 1, 10; .281, 2, 11)

The AI absolutely loves first basemen, so it's no surprise we have a lot of options there. Each has varying use, from being optionable for Jim Chaplin, to being a long-time organization member like Moe Holt. Of course, the most value comes from the yet to be mentioned Jack Drake, who's just 23 and could be a useful left handed bat off the bench. A former 3rd Rounder of the Pioneers, we got him in exchange for former Cougar 6th Rounder Foster Smith, who was in his second stint with the organization. Drake then worked his way up to Chicago, debuting last September where he went 0-for-2 in two pinch hit opportunities. Likely to add to that this year, it may be best to first use one of his last two remaining options, as he can get regular time in Milwaukee. A solid gap hitter, he still has a little room for growth, and we don't need multiple first basemen.

Chaplin seems the least likely to make the team, and aside form hitting .269/.336/.354 (93 OPS+) in 951 PAs between the Wolves and Cougars, he doesn't have much going for him. He's one of the guys on the edge of the 40, very easy to DFA, but with an option remaining it's not a necessity. Holt's the likeliest to crack the roster, as aside from his six seasons with the club, he's passable at first, second, third, left, and right. A former New York Star, LA Star, and postseason hero, Holt came to the Windy City in 1955 for a pair of prospects. At the time, he owned a nice .288/.354/.440 (122 OPS+) batting line, compiling 120 doubles, 34 triples, 41 homers, and 288 RBIs in 563 FABL games. In each of his four full seasons, he had an OPS+ and WRC+ above 100, and looked to be a useful add to a team that needed some help. Instead, he posted his worst two seasons as a starter, and was relegated to a rotational role in 1958. Since then, he's seen his seen his playing time dwindle, with just 56 PAs last year. It's surprising, as he's a solid hitter and good baserunner, so I'm not sure why they couldn't make more time for him.

On the other side of the diamond, we have a really useful young infielder in George McKee, who's nothing short of an elite defensive third basemen. He's got one of the strongest arms in the game and almost never makes any errors, all while turning way more then his share of double plays. If he does have a knock, it's that his range is just good, but if it was anything better he'd probably have been a shortstop. The 24-year-old doesn't have as much value at the plate, he's your prototypical light hitter who doesn't strike out much, but he hit a productive .294/.359/.395 (98 OPS+) with a 104 WRC+ in 109 AA games . He also got a significant callup, making 109 PAs in 30 games with the big league club. All but three came as the starting third basemen, and the former 6th Rounder hit a respectable .284/.330/.392 with a 98 WRC+. As solid as that was, he hit just 8-for-48 in AAA, and still has some work to become a more polished hitter. He'd be a really nice bench piece to compliment the right Vetter, but with his potential upside he's best getting everyday playing time. Another thing an optional assignment would do is allow him to increase his versatility, as he profiles as a plus corner outfielder. He's even played some center, but aside from that and a few games at first he's really only handled the hot corner. He'd be effective in the middle infield too, and I may end up moving McKee all around the diamond so we can get looks at some of the guys looking to separate from the pack.

One of those is Bob Decker, though the also 24-year-old has plenty of experience at all four infield spots. He's plus or better all around, with a very similar defensive profile to the starter Vetter. An elite baserunner who very quick and can swipe a decent amount of bases, he could be a very useful pinch runner in the late games. He also does a great job bringing out the best in others, making up for his average to below average offensive ability. That of course could change, Dixie Gaines thinks he'd be a viable contact hitter with solid discipline, but don't expect much power from him. Decker can no longer be optioned, so to get him to Milwaukee he'd have to be DFA'd, though I think he'd be able to sneak through due to his undeveloped bat. Granted, that might not be a risk I want to take, and with his glove and speed he's about as good of a utility guy as it gets.

Next Men Up
1B Bob Mills (35, DNP; .233, 1, 3)
1B Andy Robinson (29, DNP; .259, 1, 9)

Not much to look at down in Milwaukee, but that's mainly because a lot of the guys on the 40 were there last year. In another world, Andy Robinson would have been a starting second basemen, but our former 1st Rounder ended up a big 'ol bust who's best served as an emergency first basemen. Ranked as high as 12th on the prospect list, he did get an audition as the starting second basemen, but he played woeful defense (-7.7 ZR, .847) and hit just 264/.296/.336 (81 OPS+) in 115 PAs. The year after he spent a little time on the bench, but between subpar minor league numbers and his struggles in the field, he hasn't gotten a chance to get back up. I hope that continues to be the case, but him and Bob Mills, a 35-year-old from Chicago, are all we really have in a worst case scenario. Mills at least has an elite eye, but neither can do much hitting or fielding, and I'm sure the wire could provide better.

Down on the Farm
5th/83rd: 3B Ricardo Castillo (20, Trade with Chiefs, 1961)
7th/111th: 3B George McKee (24, 6th Round Pick, 1954)
22nd/382nd: 1B Carlos Morales (23, Trade with Dynamos, 1957)
23rd/403rd: 3B Bob Decker (24, 3rd Round Pick, 1954)
27th/428th: 1B Jack Drake (23, Trade with Pioneers, 1958)

Three of the five guys in our top 30 are already on the 40, so the farm doesn't have too much to offer. What it does have is Carlos Morales, who we got in a trade that's looked quite good for us. We parted with Ted Beaven, a back of the pen arm, and a young pitcher Sammy Whipps who has yet to debut, getting Morales, Doug Stearns, and Roy Ellis. Ellis of course, pitched in our rotation and led the CA in K/BB, making the trade an easy win, though Morales looks pretty solid too. "El Gato" has a useful bat that produces above average bat-speed. At 23 he's still not a finished product, but he has Jim Chaplin beat and can play decent defense. Granted, he may be the slowest guy on the field, but he's strong and can put the ball in play. He won't replace Gene Case anytime soon, but he could be a decent right handed compliment and an arm strong enough for third. I wish we had more then just him,

The gem of the group is Ricardo Castillo, though calling him a third basemen doesn't really do him justice. Sure, it might be his best position, and he certainly has the arm for it, but I'll be working him out at short, and he's already got experience at second and all three outfield positions. The perfect type of utility player, he's set himself a high floor, and at 20 he's already a top-100 prospect and near FABL quality hitter. Aside from his power, he's average or better all around, and he projects to have a really strong bat. He could hit around .300 and he's an above average runner, and with his bat and hustle he seems destined for a major league role. I'm really hoping it's as a starter, potentially at third, but he might be destined for that utility role. It would fit him well, he's always the first guy up on the dugout steps cheering for whoever's batting or making plays in the field, and if he pinch runs he can replace whoever he took out. He's one of my favorite prospects early on, I just wish we could make his infield defense a little better before he's ready to debut.

Organizational Breakdown: Middle Infield
 

Starters
2B Buddy Byrd (30, .276, 31, 26; .295, 17, 352, 26)
2B Jack B. Gibson (26, .290, 15, 44; .291, 123, 353)
SS Tom Holliday (23, .291, 4, 57, 5; .284, 5, 61, 5)

Now you may be wondering how there could be three middle infield starters, but that would be due to the potential season long injury to Jack Gibson. That will allow the speedy Buddy Byrd to reclaim second, a position he's started at 465 times for us since his debut in 1954. Acquired to kick off 1951, he's one of the few survivors from the fast forward era, and he made a decent enough career for himself. A 1956 All-Star, Byrd hit .325/.343/.464 (129 OPS+) with 33 doubles, 17 triples, 7 homers, and 78 RBIs. He led the association with 30 steals, the second of four times he'd do that, and he produced a career best 5.6 WAR in 149 games. Injuries got him the next year, and since getting healthy he hasn't managed an above average offensive season. He came close in '58 and '59, but a rough 1960 saw him moved to the bench and injuries the only reason he's starting now. I'd like to think he can still be a useful leadoff man, as he's obviously quick and he hits line drives in the gaps. Our park does suppress that a bit, but on the road he's going to find a lot of green grass. All he has to do is put the ball in play, something he's never struggled with during his 1,022 game career. Even if he didn't start, his plus infield defense makes him an overqualified utility man, as his .295/.324/.403 (100 OPS+) career line is pretty solid. The 30-year-old has logged 204 steals, 197 doubles, and 86 triples, as his speed can change the game in an instant. With a long leash and consistent position he may thrive, but his versatility will allow him to maintain a spot on the roster.

His counterpart doesn't have the experience, but 23-year-old Tom Halliday has some of the best range in the business. Formerly a 2nd Round selection, we got him in what looks to be an absolute steal of a deal. Halliday, along with current LA Sun Paul Debo (who looks to be pretty solid yet for some reason we waived him right away), for old friend Charlie Everitt. Everitt, now 34 and still in the Minutemen organization, debuted in 1951, and then got appearances for the Cougs from 1954 to 1959. He might have gotten a chance in 1960, but the trade happened in July, so his FABL at bats came with Boston instead. He was 0-for-5 in limited time, and spent all of last season as a reserve first basemen on their AAA affiliate.

Conversely, Halliday had an excellent rookie season, batting .291/.361/.396 (99 OPS+) with 33 doubles, 8 triples, 4 homers, 57 RBIs, 62 walks, 5 steals, and 81 runs. Combined with a 108 WRC+ and solid defense (5.9, 1.024) at short, he was worth 3.8 runs above replacement, appearing on all but two of the teams 154 games. Already ranked as the league's 7th best shortstop, his only weakness is his power, but he puts the ball in play enough to make up for it. With his glove, it would be hard to displace him from the lineup, so all he has to do is help turn the lineup back around. While no Skipper Schneider, it is great to have a talented young shortstop right out of the gate, and his consistency and durability should make roster construction ten times easier.

Bench Options
2B Dave Rathbone (29, .222; .289, 32, 126)
2B Rupert Heinbaugh (35, .143; .259, 6, 109)

The options are slim on the bench, but we have a lot of corner infielders and I shipped Delos Smith to New York to acquire the much missed Bob Allen. Both second basemen here carry interesting FABL pasts, but only Rathbone is currently on the 40. In 1957, the switch hitter made Cougar fans believe good things could happen, as he repeatedly hit late inning home runs. Despite starting just 11 of his 96 appearances, the then 24-year-old hit 7 doubles and 11 homers, slashing an outstanding .343/.366/.635 (184 OPS+) in 142 PAs. Why he didn't play more, who knows, but with a more regular role he hit just .292/.311/.462 (111 OPS+), hitting just three more homers in over 200 more PAs. The last three season has saw him get less and less time, as his defense just doesn't really cut it. He is a good baserunner, especially compared to the average first basemen. Coincidentally, that's the only position his defense is passable, but Buddy may need the occasional off day and he can certainly fill in a pinch. He does have two options left, but for now he's expected to open the season in Chicago.

I mentioned Heinbaugh earlier, because he was one of the guys to survive the fast forward. While I am happy he survived, I'm scouring the available players to make it so him and Rathbone aren't necessities. His defense is better, and I trust him at third and second, but the vet hit just .242/.324/.339 (81 OPS+) last year in Milwaukee. The former 7th Rounder has spent 7 seasons in Chicago, so perhaps it would be best for him if he finishes out his career in the minors. Since he has a major league contract and I don't want to have to DFA him, he won't participate in spring training unless an injury prevented someone in front of him from playing on Opening Day.

Next Men Up
SS Tom Glenn (22)
SS Joe Marshall (31)

If it gets to this, the season is over. Carry on!

Down On the Farm
4th/82nd: 2B Bill Tannen (21, 5th Round Pick, 1958)
20th/337th: 2B Marv Sandau (21, 2nd Round Pick, 1959)

A thin group, we have a vast gap talent wise between the two ranked second basemen. The gem of the group is Chicagoan Bill Tannen, who's just an arm away from being a shortstop that could come close to Tom Halliday. Destined to be a second basemen, he wouldn't be the worst shortstop if he worked at it, as the range, error, and double play are all 4s. Without many shortstop prospects, I might give him some reps there, and he has the work ethic to get to at least average at the position. His range can make up for his arm, especially if whoever is at second can make the tough throws on double play attempts. The bat hasn't come around for the 21-year-old, but Dixie is a big fan of his approach. He'll draw his share of walks, and he can make solid contact when fooled. Don't expect much power, but he's the classic middle infielder who has a good eye, puts the ball in play, and doesn't strike out. Where he differs is the speed, as he often clogs up the bases. Despite that, he profiles as an above average big leaguer, and seems likely to one day play for his hometown team.

Despite being the earlier draft pick, Marv Sandau has not been the ideal 2nd Round pick, and he was spending most of last season on the Rockford and San Jose benches. Rockford is our new (well, not quite anymore) Class A affiliate, replacing the Lincoln Legislators in 1952, and distance wise it's certainly a plus. Right now Rockford has some of our better prospects, which is why Sandau is being pushed up to AA. The 21-year-old will be given a chance to start, and as a team leader I'm really hoping the additional playing time can lead to some talent bumps. He's just a tad shy of 24th man potential, as he's really only valuable at second base. If he can start hitting, it would be a different story, but it's going to take me some time to restock the system and he'll have every opportunity to prove why the old regime made him the 26th pick in the 1959 draft.

Organizational Breakdown: Outfield
 

Starters
LF Jim Barton (25, .303, 9, 68; .327, 39, 204)
CF Jerry McMillan (24, .314, 28, 81, 23, .314, 80, 319, 87)
RF Henry Watson (23, .302, 26, 90; .317, 46, 166)

Easily the strength of the big league squad, the outfield is young and talented, with all three members 25 and under and ranked inside the top-10 at their respective positions. All three have the range for center, and in our tiny mark that means literally no balls are going to find the grass. The prize is in the center, as I'm going to be moving 1960 Diamond Defense award winner Jerry McMillan from right to center. Not the Jerry I expected to return to, the former 6th Overall pick is a rare talent who's already produced a 20/20 season. The 24-year-old Canadian launched a career high 28 home runs while going 23-for-28 in stolen base attempts, giving us a lethal power/speed combo that most teams can only dream of. Already a two-time All-Star, he's hit .314/.371/.481 (128 OPS+) in 2,601 career plate appearances, logging 384 runs, 101 doubles, 27 triples, 80 homers, 319 RBIs, 219 walks, and 87 steals. With excellent defense he's put up 5 or more WAR in each of the last three seasons, worth an elite 6.1 last season and 21.9 since his debut. Aside from bunting, there isn't anything he doesn't do well, and it's somewhat of surprise he's left outside the top 20. There are very few players out there more valuable then he is, and if he stays healthy we'll have an outfield spot on lock like Leo Mitchell once had.

Man I miss him and hate he didn't get the send-off he deserved...

Anyways, that shouldn't take away from the fact that a second spot could be secured with Henry Watson, who like McMillan, is young and top-5 at their respective positions. A year younger, he has the power to match McMillan, but he's never going to put up the big steal numbers. That doesn't mean he's not fast, he certainly is, but for some reason he just doesn't go very often. I'm hoping improving our base coaches can get him going a bit more, as we have a lot of guys who can steal bases. Most of them can't hit homers like Watson can, and he's already emerged as a leader in the locker room. He played great defense (7.7 ZR, 1.032 EFF) in center, but I think the only reason they had him there instead of McMillan is because McMillan has the stronger arm. It's nice having multiple plus defenders in center, allowing us to survive injuries and add a big bat in the corner if we're desperate in a pennant run. Not many 23-year-olds own a .317/.354/.523 (128 OPS+) FABL batting line, and even fewer can play defense as well as he does. I know I mentioned him earlier with his abilities to catch, but realistically he's a guy who could stick around as long as a Rich Langton or Carlos Montes did.

That makes it almost unfair to call Jim Barton the weak link, as the 25-year-old was selected to the 1960 All-Star game just like Watson and McMillan. Acquired back in 1955 for Jimmy Hairston, Barton was quickly named a top prospect, and got as high as 32nd before graduating off. The former 2nd Rounder has hit .327/.389/.501 (135 OPS+), though he saw his home run power tail off last season. Barton hit 12 in 64 games in 1959 and 17 in 139 the next year, so the drop to 9 in 135 the next year was fairly significant. Power isn't really his strong suit anyways, he's more of a reliable .300 hitter, in the '60 season he looked to be more then that. His .338/.393/.569 (151 OPS+) was outstanding, and with great defense in left (8.5, 1.046) he was worth an even 6 WAR. Last season made that br breakout look like an outlier, but a lot of guys had down years last season, and now we seem to have a really solid core that should produce plenty of runs.

Bench Options
LF Byron Burnett (25, .185, 5, 2; .195, 1, 11, 2 -- graduated #56 prospect)
LF Bill Irvin (31, .293, 5, 13; .255, 54, 197)
CF Billy Thompson (24, .227, 5, 19 -- #173 prospect)
RF Bobby Martinez (23, #63 prospect)

There's no shortage of quality outfielders, and I doubt that will ever change, but our bench is filled with talented young outfielders and while technically they can all start in AAA, I'd much rather have one or more of these guys playing a semi-regular role as the 4th outfielder. They seem likely to join Bill Irvin on the bench, as while I don't want him seeing anything but the very occasional appearance in left, he can make an impact. Recently 32, the former 8th overall pick will swing and miss more then a drunk dad at a batting cage, but unlike those free-swingers he knows win to swing. Even better, he knows how to hit the ball far. Irwin hit 5 homers in just shy of 100 (94) PAs, and has 197 homers in just shy of 1,500 (1,415) FABL PAs. Most came in Toronto, where he hit .255/.353/.446 (121 OPS+) in 548 appearances. He didn't get too much playing time, never above 400 PAs in a season, and in just his last two of seven seasons saw him start in even half of his appearances. That's why it's so surprising the Cougars traded for him before the 1960 season, but perhaps it was just for a big bat off the bench. It is nice he hit .293/.436/.533 (154 OPS+), but remember the sample size. It was .231/.354/.343 (85 OPS+) last season, which more or less gives us both ends of what we can expect from him this year.

Irvin's status is less interesting then the rest, as I know there are more then a few teams out there who could benefit from giving Burnett, Thompson, or Martinez everyday playing time. Kansas City may be one of them, as they might choose to go with Burnett over current left fielder Ben Crawford (.233, 13, 62, 11). Or at least have both on hand to maximize change of finding someone who can fill it. They took Burnett out of high school in the 3rd Round of the 1954 draft, before trading him for swingman Gordon McDonald (9-4, 1, 3.63, 34) a year and a half later. Burnett then worked his way to Chicago, debuting at 22 in 1959. It was a poor 17 game sample, as the young lefty went just 5-for-32 with an RBI and two triples. The speed is nice, and after struggling to get walks in his first cup of coffee, he's since been able to draw them more often. He went from walking 5.9% of the time to 13.3 and 17.5, with an excellent 14-to-5 walk-to-strikeout ratio. You would think that translated to results, but he hit just .185 with two doubles and triples in a career high 80 PAs. Now out of options, he can't be sent down without using waivers, though I think his spot on the 24-man roster is secure. The only thing he isn't at least average at is power and bunting, while he's got a great eye, good gap power, and plus skills at all three outfield positions. He's a great baserunner and always looking to take the extra base, and I when one of the starters needs time off he can fill in without too much drop off. Plus as a lefty swinger, he compliments the right Jim Barton, and they can pinch hit for each other late in games. If Barton struggles, Burnett could start taking some starts against righties.

He's not even the one with the most upside, as former #5 pick Bobby Martinez is one of my favorite players in the system. Added to the 40 to protect him in the Rule-5 Draft, he's got a full set of options and is probably best served returning to Milwaukee. He got 11 games there in 1960 and 14 last year, hitting an impressive .357/.417/.469 (147 OPS+) against the pitchers that didn't get called up when rosters expanded. One of the toughest guys to strike out, it's no surprise AAA pitchers couldn't get him out, as he'll foul off pitch after pitch until he gets a mistake he can whack. He's leadoff material and could contend for batting titles, but his batting lines will be dragged down by few walks and minimal power. He'll contribute in other ways, stealing bases, scoring runs, and playing defense, so it will be easy for him to find a spot on a big league club. I would love for him to add a little something more for his game to truly become a star, but for now I want to get him more experience in left and unlock the rest of his potential at the plate.

Billy Thompson is then stuck in the middle, not a top prospect and optionable, but he has the best range in the outfield. Sure, he misplays some of the easier ones, but there's not a ball at Cougars Park the former 3rd Rounder can't shag. The bat leaves more to be desired, as his .227/.280/.391 (74 OPS+) line wasn't near what he did in AAA and AA. The 5 homers were a shock, as he's not considered a power threat. He's more of a put the ball in play type, and in our park sometimes that means out of it. 4 of his 5 bombs came in Chicago, and if he keeps hitting at home he'll be able to develop into more then just a 4th outfielder. That's what he looks to be now, but with that 5 in the range column he's a guy I'd find pretty hard to waive.

Next Men Up
LF Bert Preble (33, DNP; .278, 13, 73)
RF Don Berry (33, .200; .274, 121, 519)

Dow in AAA in case of emergency is a pair of veteran corner outfielders who did not start their baseball careers in Chicago. The more well known bat is Don Berry, who's brother Dallas Berry (.282, 29, 94, 10) has won two Whitneys in Cincy. Unlike his brother, he hasn't seen the same amount of success, and he's on his third organization now. Taken 4th in the 1949 draft, three picks ahead of his younger brother, Don quickly made his debut with the Keystones, starting 113 games for Philly in 1950. The then 22-year-old hit .269/.336/.368 (90 OPS+) with 18 doubles, 9 homers, and 46 RBIs, respectable for someone making their debut. 1951 seemed to be his coming out part, slashing .295/.368/.481 (128 OPS+) with 28 homers and 90 RBIs, but he never found consistent playing time after. He started over 75 games just once more with the Keystones, and in the 1955 offseason they moved him to the Stars for Ed Holmes. He played a little more consistently in LA, but he hit much better with the Keystones. In 768 games he hit .290/.360/.428 (115 OPS+), much higher then the .248/.308/.369 (90 OPS+) he provided afterwards. It comes in about half the time, and last year he was released after just one game. He became a regular on the Milwaukee Blues, hitting a respectable .272/.349/.375 (98 OPS+), and we could do worse then a team leader and switch hitter with a cannon in the outfield on the back of the bench.

Bert Preble has been with the organization longer, having come over in the Jim Morrison deal back in 1951, and the former 3rd Rounder debuted in 1953. In 73 appearances, most coming off the bench, he hit just .231/.352/.315 (88 OPS+), though he did walk 20 times compared to just 12 strikeouts. He hit well in '56 and '57, and at 28 during said '57 season he hit a strong .275/.328/.436 (119 OPS+) with 15 doubles, 4 triples, 8 homers, and 35 RBIs. This came in a career high 317 plate appearances, the only season he managed more then 200. He got just 59 in '58 and 18 in '59, failing to appear in a FABL game in each of the past two seasons. Last year he got 360 PAs with the Blues, batting .271/.358/.392 (105 OPS+). He's got a good arm himself, but the former center fielder doesn't have the range he once did. It would take a lot for him to receive a callup, but there are plenty of times injury could strike.

Down on the Farm
1st/40th: LF Dode Caudill (22, 1st Round Pick, 1960)
2nd/54th: CF Orlando Benitez (19, 1st Round Pick, 1961)
3rd/64th: RF Bobby Martinez (23, 1st Round Pick, 1957)
6th/84th: CF Bob Starr (21, 10th Round Pick, 1958)
10th/179th: CF Billy Thompson (25, 3rd Round Pick, 1955)
17th/311th: RF Doug Lang (23, 2nd Round Pick, 1961)
20th/348th: RF Cliff Coleman (21, 14th Round Pick, 1959)


As you can see, there is no shortage of outfield talent, and I'm not going to go deep into all of them, but Dode Caudill and Orlando Benitez could really be stars, and you already know how much I like Bobby Martinez. Benitez in particular excites, as the former 10th overall pick reminds me a lot of Carlos Montes. Another Cuban center fielder, Benitez is an outstanding athlete, able to track down plenty of balls in center and wreck absolute havoc on the bases. A solid hitter too, he consistently puts bat to ball, and may have the power to punish mistakes. With a sweet swing he crushes liners to the gaps, and even at 19 shows plenty of promise. While not the defender of McMillan or even Watson, he's got dynamic tools and a huge ceiling, and if he can overcome his work ethic issues, he could be a true star. That might be a little too ambitious, but he's the perfect table setter for a powerful lineup, and even if he doesn't stick in center he'd be a top notch left fielder.

That's where Caudill expects to play, and the speedy Wisconsin native has hit at each level since leaving Texas Presbyterian. A consistent top-100 prospect, he could match McMillan as a 20/20 hitter, as he's got big power and launched 16 homers as a junior. He's got 27 homers since being drafted, and there's guys on our active roster that can't hit it as far as him. With just okay defense, he's not the perfect player, but if the bat fills out he'll more then make up for any losses on defense. As a former 1st Rounder, he's always been expected to succeed, and he's done a good job living up to the potential so far. On a roster with outfield worries, he'd be an opening day candidate, and if we decide to make an upgrade he could be a highly valued piece.

Other guys that warrant attention include Chicagoan Bob Starr, who's already exceeded the expectations placed on him as a 10th Round pick. An elite defensive center fielder, I think only Billy Thompson has more range then him, and Starr should be the better hitter. He's got a great eye and decent pop, and hit a solid .232/.378/.406 (107 OPS+) in 84 games with the Legislators last year. He's recently worked his way into the top 100, and I think it would be awesome if he ends up debuting with the team he grew up watching.

Coaching Changes
 

Well, in pretty much one fell swoop, I completely overhauled the coaching staff that was left to me. Only one spot was open, that was for Assistant GM, as the rest of the moves replaced incumbents. Filling that role is a guy I actually wanted to higher as our scout (Dixie would then get promoted to AGM), but despite being an elite scout, he had absolutely no interest in signing with us, and I'm guessing any other FABL team. That would be 49-year-old Tommy Byerly, who spent the last two seasons scouting for the independent Denver Bruins of the Century League. A former 13th Round pick of the Gothams back in 1930, his pro career consists of 31 games off the bench for the Class C Rock Island Steamboats. After flaming out, he went back to school in Florida, and turned into a top baseball mind. His advice will be taken under consideration at all times due to his excellent scouting abilities, and he'll serve in an advisory capacity as I reacclimate with the organization.

The next move actually reunites us with someone I hired, but never got the benefit of using, as way back in 1951 I signed Joe Clark to be the Rockford Wildcats, our brand new Class A club, and he did a great job in his three seasons with the organization. For some reason, that's all he got, as either he didn't want to stay or the new regime wanted one of their own guys, so he spent 1955 in the Dallas Centurions organization. He spent just one year t here, as he caught the eye of the Chicago Chiefs, and signed on for the 1956 season. While he was there, the Chiefs seemed to have no issues scoring runs, and they finished top three in three of his five seasons. There wasn't a sixth, which is much to our benefit, as he's a huge upgrade over my old draftee Cy Howard, who spent the past two seasons in Chicago. He's really just average, and here in Chicago we strive for more then that. That's where Clark comes in, as he's "outstanding" at teaching hitting and influencing mechanical improvement in his students. He's "excellent" when it comes to aging and "good" with development, so he should be a positive influence on the young guys while improving the conditioning of some of our vets. As you might expect, he prefers offense and hitting to defense and pitching, but somewhat surprisingly he prefers speed to power. He preaches patience while still preferring to put the ball in play, with selectiveness leading to better batted ball outcomes. With plenty of minor league experience and 10 games with the Kings in his mid 30s, he brings a wealth of knowledge that should help spark this 7th ranked offense to score the runs they should.

Next up is what can be considered a coup, as we'll add a former FABL manager to be our first base coach. That would be John Wilson, who took a year off from coaching in 1961, but managed the LA Stars the two seasons prior. Before that, he had one year as a hitting coach, before managing the Tulsa Roughnecks (1951-1953) and the Salt Lake City Stars (1954-1958). A long time member of the Stars organization, they drafted him in the 12th Round of the 1939 draft, but he spent far more time with them coaching then playing. More of his playing time came with the Gothams organization, where he got all the way up to AAA before his retirement. A former infielder, he's show a knack for improving defense on the dirt (legendary), while being "outstanding" in the outfield if needed. The plan for now is just infield, but he's also "excellent" in teaching running and in influencing in-game decisions. Same goes for development and mechanics, giving us a really well rounded base coach to help the utility types.

Rounding out the staff is a new bench coach, Elmer De Gray, who spent 9 years as the Kings first base coach and 4 as the Sailors bench coach. Like Wilson, he took a year off coaching, and the league's loss is certainly our game. The new bench coach at Cougars Park, De Gray is "legendary" when it comes to teaching outfield defense and "outstanding" for catchers and infielders. The same goes for his influence on aging, and he's "excellent" for development and teaching running. Now 55, he's put together a respectable coaching career despite not playing in the minors, and he's going to be a key member of our organization. Expected to handle outfield and catching defense, he'll do much better then whoever the old group wanted, and with a revamped coaching staff I expect to see a lot of improvement in the squad. We already had a strong option at third base in Bob Harris, who's "outstanding" at teaching all four aspects of the game, and he's "excellent" with development, mechanics, and in-game running. He's really the only guy on the squad I had interest in keeping, so I'm really glad we were able to quickly fill the rest of the roles. The only real weakness now is pitching coach, and the guy I want doesn't want us. I do have an offer out for there and trainer, but I wouldn't be too distraught if we don't get either.

Offseason Updates
 

More transactions! This time, a pair of coaches and a catcher who's actually pretty competent! While still not a guy with FABL experience, recently turned 34-year-old Bill Plunkett was a mainstay of the independent Minneapolis Lumberjacks, spending 12 seasons with the organization before they folded when FABL admitted the Millers. At first, the former Pioneer 4th Rounder was a reserve catcher, but in each of the last seven seasons he made at least 110 starts. Plunkett is coming off a 4.1 WAR season, playing against teams like our Milwaukee Blues, and hitting a strong .263/.376/.426 (121 OPS+) with 19 doubles, 17 homers, and 74 RBIs. That 121 OPS+ matches his AAA career OPS+, as he's hit .268/.370/.422 in nearly 5,000 PAs. A disciplined slugger, he's drawn 661 walks to just 399 strikeouts, and deposited 141 balls in the seats. Add in 188 doubles, 565 runs, and 672 RBIs, and it's clear to see the value Plunkett brings to the table, even if he has yet to debut for a FABL team.

In the same league, Alex O'Dailey hit .259/.342/.428 (110 OPS+), which gives you some idea of the type of hitter he is. A fair bit better, then my former 5th Rounder, he's got a better arm and similar ability catching and blocking, but his on-base skills are what sets him apart. On the big league club, only Bill Irvin has a better eye, and he's on pace or slightly above Byron Burnett and Gene Case. Then in terms of avoiding Ks, just Bobby Martinez has him beat, while George McKee and Mooney Vetter are about at his level. He doesn't put it in play as much as those guys, so don't expect a high average, but he's still way better then the non-Chappy Sanders backstops in our organization. In an ideal world, Chappy starts with Plunkett as the backup, and since he's a lefty and Plunkett a righty, I can see Plunkett taking starts against southpaws if Chappy can't handle them. While far from an ideal catching group, I'm a little more confident then I was, and we can survive an injury or two should they occur.

On the coaching staff, I replaced our pitching coach and trainer, picking up Earle Robinson and Ed Reed. No, not that Ed Reed...

This Ed Reed is a trainer, and if there's one thing he does well, it's prevent injuries. In fact, well is an understatement, as aside from preventing leg injuries, where he's just "outstanding," he's "legendary" when it comes to arm, back, and other, so we may never have another injury every again. Or at least I hope so! Of course, he's not perfect, else he wouldn't be available to sign, as he doesn't do a good job rehabbing or preventing fatigue. The fatigue issue gives me some pause, and sure Jack Gibson is currently rehabbing, but hey! Who needs rehab if you never get hurt!?

Unlike Reed, Robinson both played professionally and has prior coaching experience, and I remembered him from his Cleveland days. From 1938 to 1943, he pitched on some poor Foresters teams, going 12-19 with a 4.21 ERA (87 ERA+), 1.57 WHIP, and 112 strikeouts. After that, he spent a little time with the Conquistadores and Bulls of the GWL, and he began coaching during the 1952 season. That year he spent with the Savannah Privateers, followed by a year with the Tulsa Roughnecks, and then four with the Austin Violets. The last four seasons came with the Louisville Derbies, so his stint as our pitching coach will be his first time coaching at the FABL level. Now 46, he has a chance to spend a few decades as a FABL coach, though he's not quite the quality of coach I love. He's "just" "excellent" and not anything better, but we didn't have a great pitching coach and the only better option wouldn't sign. He may not stick here forever, but I'm excited to see what he can do with our staff.

Spring Training!
 

I cannot begin to express how happy I am to say this: baseball is back! For the first time in I can't even remember how long, my Cougars will take the field again. I've brought 46 players into camp, and since I have some minor league offers out currently, I may increase that number as we go on. Most of the spots on the roster are determined, but I have no idea how our pen or our bench will look. Even some of the guys currently in AAA may come up later, as there are guys with major league contracts I would consider if they were on minor league deals. Bringing any of them would add them to the 40, and none can go down without being waives. Al Corbin would be the perfect option for a pen spot, but the 26-year-old is out of options and I don't want to risk him losing a numbers game. If some of the guys struggle early, he could be one of the first callups, as I think the former 4th Round selection could hold down a pen spot. He's got a nice fastball/slider mix and his groundball tendencies will allow him to keep the ball in the park. A failed starter, he can eat innings too, but the change was never quite good enough to get him through the lineup multiple times.

Okay, enough of the guys who aren't there, here's the ones that are!

RHP Bob Allen*
RHP Allen Brown
RHP Bob Burdick
LHP Doc Cook
RHP Roy Ellis*
RHP Dick Garcia
LHP Henry Henderson
LHP Andy Logue*
RHP Ivy Loyd
RHP Bobby McGough
RHP Phil Means
RHP John Mitchell*
LHP Mario Saucedo
RHP Ken Stone
RHP Hank Walker*
RHP Arch Wilson*
LHP Pug White*
C Dode Edwards
C Alex O'Dailey
C Milt Payne
C Bill Plunkett
C Chappy Sanders
C Gus Wilson
1B Gene Case*
1B Jim Chaplin
1B Jack Drake
1B Moe Holt
1B Bob Mills
2B Buddy Byrd*
2B Dave Rathbone
3B Bob Decker
3B Luis Jewell
3B George McKee
3B Mooney Vetter*
SS Tom Halliday*
LF Jim Barton*
LF Byron Burnett*
LF Bill Irvin*
LF Buddy McQueen
LF Mike Scott
CF Jerry McMillan*
CF Billy Thompson
RF Don Berry
RF Bobby Martinez
RF Virgil McLaughlin
RF Henry Watson*

* denotes guaranteed roster spot

The most exciting roster battle will be for the catching spots, as Chappy Sanders opens as the favorite and Bill Plunkett the most likely backup. Manager Buck Cuppett likes him as the fifth hitter against both lefties and righties, and Dixie Marsh views him as the best catcher in the organization. Right now I'm looking outside the organization for help, but I have six guys in camp and I can even see a situation with three of them, as Sanders can play the outfield when he's not catching. The occasional day in a corner may do him well, and I'm hopeful having a reliable second catcher will help the young catcher can preserve his knees.

The pen is exciting too, and there is technically a battle for the rotation. I'm pretty sure Bob Allen's the five, but Henry Henderson could pitch so well I can't send him down. Just 21, I think he has more room to grow, and hopefully pitching towards the top of the rotation in Milwaukee can aide his development more then having to worry about being skipped if he's not pitching lights out. I've also toyed with the idea of a six man rotation, with even Pug White getting a chance to start the occasional game. I'm liking him as the stopper this year, but I'll keep working on that changeup as he's the best pitcher on the team and a dominant ace makes everything better. Plus Arch Wilson is a solid stopper in his own right, and we've got plenty of capable pen arms if White goes back to the rotation.

Spring Training: Week 1
 

Weekly Record: 3-3
Overall Record: 3-3 (5th, 3 GB)

Cougars Sign Former #4 Pick: I know that sounds like an amazing headline, but John Morrison is a former top prospect who got into just 16 FABL games. The 32-year-old was part of the Ralph Johnson blockbuster between the Dynamos and Kings in 1951, eventually making his FABL debut in 1954. He went just 2-for-4 with a double, following that up with 1-for-6 and a handful of defensive substitutions. Unable to break into the lineup, he was eventually released by the Kings, spending a week in free agency before signing with the Seattle Thunderbirds. He split time between the bench and lineup, and from 1958 to 1960 he only had OPS+ and WRC+ of 135 or better. When the Thunderbirds were purchased by his former organization, Morrison was released, and after demanding far too much money I finally got him for $30,000. A minimal risk, he's a first basemen only with great power, hitting 28 homers in '59 and 31 in '60. He does whiff, but he's got a great eye. When he connects, he hits the ball far, and if he was a little faster he'd have a ton of doubles and triples too. He gets a chance to earn one of our bench spots, and missing the first week shouldn't impact his chances.

Offense Off to Slow Start: Many of the bats haven't got going, as among the nine players with more then 10 PAs so far, just three have WRC+ above 100. First basemen Gene Case has been our most effective hitter, going 4-for-12 with a steal, homer, and 2 runs scored and driven in, while Tom Halliday (4-12, 2 2B, RBI, 2 R) and Jerry McMillan (2-9, 2B, R, 2 BB) chipped in. Right at 10 PAs, however, Bill Irvin (3-7, HR, 5 RBI, 2 R, 3 BB) and George McKee (4-9, BB) made serious cases for bench spots, taking advantage of their teammates slow starts. After one week, there's nothing to worry about the guys who aren't hitting, though I'd have loved to see Chappy Sanders get off to a better start. Our likely opening day catcher was just 3-for-13, but he did homer and drive in three. He'll get a little time in right too, as I look to work in some of the backups more in week two.

Welcome back to the fray. The hope, the excitement, the thrill of the start! May your team flourish and your opponents falter!

And I am perusing your list of players with interesting names to see which of them the Zetans can kidnap and add to my menagerie. :sneaky2:

Ha there are a few good ones! No Rabbits this time around, but we have a Pug! Mooney Vetter is a cool name, mabye not Fallout-esque, but one of my favorites on the club right now

Spring Training: Week 2
 

Weekly Record: 3-3
Overall Record: 6-6 (6th, 4 GB)

Ellis Emerging as Ace: Andy Logue may be the choice for the Opening Day start, but the intimidating 6'4'' Roy Ellis is doing his best to make manager Buck Cuppett consider him instead. 27 in May, 1962 will be Ellis second full season as a starter, coming off a season where he was 11-13 with a 4.45 ERA (101 ERA+), 1.21 WHIP, and 139 strikeouts in 198.1 innings pitched. Solid numbers for a first year starter, what sets Ellis apart is his command, as his 2.6 K/BB was best in the Continental. An overpowering pitcher with six plus pitches, he's got some of the best command in the league, walking just 6.4% of the hitters he faced last season. With so many quality pitches, its tough to get a feel for his stuff, though he is somewhat susceptible to the longball. Part of it is our park, part of it is his mid-90s velocity, but above all it's his relative weakness against left handed hitters. They can really cause him problems, and just over half (15) his 29 homers came in the at bats from opposite handed hitters. This spring, however, Ellis hasn't had trouble with anyone, as he's spun back-to-back 4-inning, 2-hit, 0-walk, shutout starts, striking out 2 Wranglers and 4 Saints. Our only pitcher with 6 or more innings yet to allow a run, Ellis also has the lowest WHIP, in large part due to that stellar command. Obviously spring starts don't matter too much, but he's been stellar and he's a dependable pitcher who may have some untapped potential left in him.

Strong Pen Work Leading to Tough Roster Decisions: Since our 40 doesn't have many pitchers, there's a good chance one of our non-roster guys can sneak their way on. So far, Phil Means is making the best case, as the former 17th Round selection has showcased his stuff early on. He's retired all but one of the 17 batters he's faced, allowing a single hit with 4 strikeouts and no walks or runs. Re-acquired in 1959 from the Miners, our former draftee has moved around a ton, but has been lights out in the Milwaukee pen. Last season he functioned as the primary stopper, going 8-4 with 21 saves in 123.2 innings. Means worked to an outstanding 2.62 ERA (150 ERA+) and 1.02 WHIP, walking just 28 to 80 strikeouts. His 3.15 FIP (79 FIP-) supported the overall body of work, and the groundballer has great stuff for the pen. A fastball only guy, he's got a great sinker that erases baserunners, and his fastball is pretty decent too. The cutter is an after thought, part of why he doesn't start anymore, but in the pen it's not really needed. The only worry I have is the homers, as despite being a sinkerballer he gives up a lot of homers. That's a worry in our park, especially for a guy who may want to pitch high leverage innings, and the only reason I'm not penciling in his name next to Pug White and Arch Wilson.

No Shortage of Power: While only Chappy Sanders has multiple homers, the Cougars have been hitting a lot of longballs despite the larger spring parks, as 14 individuals have gone deep for us. This ranges from everyday guys like Jim Barton and Gene Case to bench guys like Jim Chaplin and Milt Payne. Even Buddy Byrd, who has just 1 homer in his last 242 FABL games. It's a nice little surprise, as aside from Watson and Case, we don't really have any true home run hitters. Sure, Jerry McMillan (who doesn't have one yet) hit 28 last season, but that's partly due to our park and partly due to his amazing hit tool. If we can make it so all the guys in the lineup are at least a threat to go deep, we'll have a chance to get more and more guys on base, letting the big boppers and top hitters really shine when their opportunity comes. I am going to start targeting more power to bring into the organization, but perhaps we have more home run hitters then I initially thought.

Spring Training: Week 3
 

Weekly Record: 4-3
Overall Record: 10-9 (6th, 3 GB)

Homer Ends Scoreless Streak: It got to 9 innings, but the first batter in the 2nd inning of Roy Ellis' third start, Hal Kennedy, launched his 3rd homer of the spring, giving the Foresters a 1-0 lead that wouldn't last too long. Ellis quickly recovered, not allowing another run the rest of his four inning start, while extending his walkless streak to 12 innings. Ellis left in a 1-1 game with 3 hits and 2 strikeouts, now owning a 0.75 ERA (528 ERA+) and 0.58 WHIP. Easily the most effective of our starting pitchers, he's still expected to remain in the 2 spot, as despite some bad luck with errors, Andy Logue (1-2, 2.87, 11) has been extremely effective. He does have an extra start over Ellis, who opens the week against Logue's former team, the Montreal Saints. All six of our guys will (or at least should) make five starts, but it's looking like we have a clear 1-2. Ironically, both Henry Henderson (2-0, 0.93, 6) and Bob Allen (0-0, 1.74, 6) have been lights out at the bottom of the rotation, making me seriously consider a six man where those two will pitch out of the rotation and the pen. As exciting as that may be, I still think Henderson is best served going to AAA for the first time, as at 21 he's got a ton of upside and could develop into a middle rotation arm.

Starting Catcher Wrapped Up?: After launching two more home runs, Chappy Sanders has seemed to have clinched the Opening Day catching role, as our somehow non-top 100 prospect is sporting a .295/.326/.568 batting line with 4 homers, 8 RBIs, and a 148 WRC+. The #145 ranked prospect and #11 catcher, he's tied for first among catchers with his 4 home runs, and among backstops with 30 or more PAs, he's ranked 6th in slugging. On the team, he's outperforming Dode Edwards (.174, 1), who Buck seems to like, though Milt Payne (.286, 1, 4) and Gus Wilson (.667, 1, 3) have homered in limited time. Those two are probably going to compete with Bill Plunkett (.000) for the backup role, though it's looking increasingly likely that Chappy and Plunkett open the season as our catching do. Chappy has looked good in the outfield too, meaning a third catcher wouldn't be too hard to manage. I've been scouring the wire for a good backup infielder, but if I can't acquire one, I've toyed with keeping an extra catcher until someone who fits what I'm looking for finds their way on the wire. With Payne out of options, it's a way to keep him around a little longer, though I can't see someone else deciding to claim him should he be DFA'd.

Out of Option Check: Speaking of a lack of options, Payne is one of seven members of the 40 currently out of options, and not the only one at risk of being pushed off the roster. A few guys are locked in regardless, Andy Logue and Hank Walker aren't go anywhere. Neither is Arch Wilson. And Byron Burnett has the 4th outfield job for himself. But the rest?

Bob Decker seems the safest of the next group, even if he can't hit, because he's one of our few non-starters who can handle shortstop. A natural third basemen, he's a capable middle infielder as well, which gives him an edge at a utility role. His speed allows him to pinch-run late in games, and while our infield defense is outstanding, should we add a big bat he can both run and defend for the guy he replaces. Or of course, he could pinch run for a pinch hitter, such as recent acquisition John Morrison, who like Decker needs to clear waivers to head to Milwaukee. The 32-year-old is a first basemen only, but he's got legit pop and a great eye, something Decker can't come close to. But if Morrison gets on, Decker is the perfect substitute, and the two can almost work in tandem in late game situations. Morrison hasn't gotten to play much, but the vet is 3-for-9 with a homer and 5 RBIs, much better then the .152/.200/.152 Decker has hit. I think there's room for both of these guys, and their ability to compliment each other gives them an improved chance of surviving the 20+ cuts we'll be forced to make in two weeks.

Spring Training: Week 4
 

Weekly Record: 5-1
Overall Record: 15-10 (t-2nd, 1 GB)

Cougars Move Within One of First: Sure, the games don't technically matter, but it's great seeing this up-and-coming roster have plenty of success in the spring. A 5-1 week helped us jump up the standings, now tied with the Sailors, who just let the Wolves (16-9) take over the top CA spot int he spring. The only loss was a 13-8 defeat to the Foresters, as Henry Henderson (2 IP, 5 H, 6 ER, 3 BB) pretty much booked his ticket down to Milwaukee with a brutal showing. To be fair, he was likely going there anyways, as old pal Bob Allen (14.1 IP, 12 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 8 K) has been superb, but still a small part of me wanted the former 6th pick to pitch well enough to force a tough decision.

Fear not though, I have plenty of other tough decisions, but at least it's easier when its because of good performance and not poor performance. For example, should George McKee (16-42, 8 R, 4 2B, 2 HR, 9 RBI, 4 BB) earn a bench spot? Or is the 24-year-old best served adding a little middle infield to his resume while continuing to play everyday? Pug White (2-2, 3 HLD, 15 IP, 16 H, 4 ER, 4 BB, 10 K) and Arch Wilson (0-0, 3 HLD, 10.2 IP, 12 H, 2 ER, BB, 2 K) have been excellent, and are locked into pen roles, but what about Bob Burdick (1-0, 3 HLD, 9.2, 8 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 6 K)? Or non-roster invitees Allen Brown (0-0, SV, HLD, 9.1 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 7 K) and Phil Means (0-0, 3 SV, 2 HLD, 10.2 IP, 5 H, ER, 2 BB, 7 K)? Both have been excellent and there is room on the 40, and aside from Burdick no pitcher on the 40 that isn't making the opening day roster is out of options. Then there's the bigger question of what to do with the 25th roster spot, now that FABL has added an extra spot. Do we carry ten pitchers? What about a catching duo like Bill Plunkett (2-6, R, RBI) and Milt Payne (5-11, 3 R, HR, 6 RBI) behind Chappy Sanders (16-53, 9 R, 2B, 4 HR, 10 RBI, 3 BB, SB). Or a yet-to-be-claimed guy on waivers who comes in once the other team's in our league decide on their rosters?

Oh the possibilities!

An Undisclosed First Injury?: It was only a matter of time before a Cougar got hurt this spring, but rather surprisingly, it wasn't a member of the spring training roster. Instead, it was 21-year-old Bill Reinhard, who suffered an undisclosed off-field injury this Sunday that may cause him to miss Opening Day in either the Heartland or C-O-W League. Expected to miss two weeks, the former 7th Rounder may miss the next two weeks, which could impact his ability to regain a lineup spot. The versatile outfielder spent time between three levels last season, with his best and largest performance coming in Class B San Jose. Spending time at five positions (1B, 3B, LF, CF, RF), Reinhard hit an impressive .312/.354/.502 (140 OPS+) in 302 trips to the plate. The righty logged 14 doubles, 3 triples, 11 homers, 29 runs, 33 RBIs, and 19 walks, producing a career best 146 WRC+. Ranked as the 10th prospect in our system and 139th overall, it's an unfortunate setback for a guy who could be a useful FABL player. He's got an excellent baseball IQ, raw strength and quick wrists, and the ability to hit for above average power. His range is good enough to stick in center, he's passable in the corner infield, and has a pretty solid bat for someone his age. While not a star, he's at worst a useful bench player, but there's a much higher ceiling then just that. Right now I like him in center, but we have a lot of good center field prospects, and an injury like this could cause him to start in a corner instead.

Roster Trimmed to 40: With just 5 games left I got a little head start on roster cuts, bring out total to an even 40. Some notable cuts include 22-year-old Ken Stone (1-2, 9 IP, 16 H, 9 ER, BB, 3 K), who for some reason Dixie Marsh thinks is both out current and future best starting pitcher (future might be true but he certainly doesn't look better then most of the staff), top-20 prospect Mario Saucedo (0-1, HLD, 14 IP, 17 H, 13 ER, 11 BB, 12 K), and 23-year-old first basemen Jack Drake (3-7, 2 R). Drake was the only one in this trio that was performing in the spring, as both Stone and Saucedo had inflated ERAs and WHIPs, and weren't doing nearly enough to earn one of the open pen spots. Drake, however, was hitting over .400, but the first basemen only wasn't getting nearly enough at bats, and he wasn't passing Gene Case (11-42, 6 R, 2B, 3B, HR, 7 RBI, 5 BB). He could be optioned, while other first base options couldn't, and he'll get to play every day in Mobile or Milwaukee. I mentioned a few of the non-roster pitchers still in camp earlier, but on the position side, one to watch is Don Berry (4-12, 2 R, HR, 2 RBI, BB). The brother of spring triple-crown hopeful Dallas Berry, Don hasn't had the success of his younger brother, but he's a career .274/.341/.406 (105 OPS+) hitter who would be a perfect veteran bat for the bench. If I go with six outfielders, that sixth seems likely to be him, as he's an excellent right fielder and disciplined hitter who could help situationally late in games. With less guys taking away at bats, he's got a chance to make a mark this final week, and extend his FABL season streak to 13.

Spring Training: Week 5
 

Weekly Record: 2-3
Overall Record: 17-13 (t-1st, 1 GA)

Cougars One of Many Spring Champs: Get this: five teams finished tied for first at 17-13. Since the Kings no longer play in Brooklyn, we're now first alphabetically, giving us the technical crown as the first team listed. Best part is we didn't even enter in first, even losing more then we won, so it's really almost disappointing to come ahead the way we did. Losing to the last place Saints is what did us in, as they were one of two teams with 20 spring losses. Milwaukee bound southpaw Henry Henderson (4 IP, H, BB, 3 K) finished on a high note, and he even had a 1-0 lead when he was officially replaced. Ike Lloyd (IP, 4 H, 4 ER, BB) promptly gave up that lead, and aside from Bobby Martinez's solo homer in the 6th the offense was held in check. He singled in his other at bat, finishing his spring with a nice .302/.375/.442 batting line in 48 trips to the plate. As good as that is, he'll have to wait for his major league debut, as like Henderson he's on his way to Milwaukee. The 51st ranked prospect did a great job improving his outfield defense this offseason, now rivaling Jerry McMillan (.415, 3, 2) for both range and arm. He's just shy in both cases, and could see time in center if Billy Thompson (.250, 1, 7) takes one of the remaining roster spots.

Roster Down to 28: We are now a day away from Opening Day, and with a lot of guys that are on and will be on waivers, I'm keeping my options open. There are ten pitchers in camp, including the non-roster invitees Allen Brown (1-0, 1, 2.38, 10) and Phil Means (1-0, 3, 2.19, 9). Both were awesome this spring, and would be in line for major league debuts. Whether they debut or not is yet to be determined, but we won't run with fewer then nine. There's the chance of an outside acquisition, through either waivers or trade, but a waiver claim wouldn't happen before Opening Day. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be Means, who has the perfect mix of stuff and leadership. He's susceptible to the longball, but most times he gets hitters to roll into harmless double plays. Brown's advantage is his ability to spot start, and the hard throwing sinkerballer can keep it in the park. Their different skillsets work in each other's favors, and with a full set of options they can both get a chance.

One of the hardest cuts was George McKee (.365, 2, 9), who will head down to the Blues to be their everyday shortstop. The 24-year-old has played a lot of third base, but he has the range for the middle infield. Skilled at turning double plays and getting the routine ones, McKee is as competent a fielder as it gets, and once he's comfortable at short he'll have a chance to hit his way back up. Aside from the starters, Bob Decker (.127, 3) is the only guy who can play shortstop, and he's one of the most replaceable guys on the roster. I placed a claim on one infielder already, and I'm sure there will be more options available for us later. The outfield has a lot of working pieces too, but I don't expect external options to factor. Then there's the whole three catcher situation, adding to the complex calculus of the final roster. Most seasons I have everything locked down by now, but with a "new" team there's still plenty of things that need trying out.

Notable Stars: Wanted to point out some of the guys who went above and beyond this spring. All of these guys will be on tomorrow's Opening Day roster:

RHP Bob Allen (33): 0-0, 1.96 ERA, 18.1 IP, 15 H, 4 ER, 4 BB, 10 K, 1.04 WHIP
RHP Bob Burdick (34): 1-0, 2V, 3 HLD, 1.42 ERA, 12.2 IP, 11 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 9 K, 1.11 WHIP
RHP Roy Ellis (26): 3-0, 0.82 ERA, 22 IP, 13 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 13 K, 0.68 WHIP
RHP Arch Wilson (36): 0-0, 4 HLD, 1.32 ERA, 13.2 IP, 16 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K, 1.32 WHIP
C Chappy Sanders (24): 65 PA, 10 R, 17 H, 2B, 5 HR, 11 RBI, 4 BB, SB, .279/.323/.541, 140 WRC+
LF Jim Barton (25): 51 PA, 6 R, 16 H, 3B, 3 HR, 7 RBI, SB, .314/.314/.529, 133 WRC+
CF Jerry McMillan (24): 62 PA, 11 R, 22 H, 3 2B, 3B, 3 RBI, 8 BB, 2 SB, .415/.484/.509, 182 WRC+
RF Henry Watson (23): 61 PA, 7 R, 17 H, 4 2B, 3 HR, 13 RBI, 2 BB, 3 SB, .288/.311/.508, 127 WRC+

Opening Day!
 

It feels like it's been years since we've had meaningful Cougar baseball to discuss, but after a fast forward, part of an offseason, and spring training, we have reached the long awaited Opening Day! I may have a ton of waiver claims out, not expecting to get all of them, so even though these 25 guys made the final roster, expect some movement early in the season:

RHP Bob Allen
RHP Bob Burdick
RHP Roy Ellis
LHP Andy Logue
RHP Phil Means
RHP John Mitchell
RHP Hank Walker
LHP Pug White
RHP Arch Wilson
C Milt Payne
C Bill Plunkett
C Chappy Sanders
1B Gene Case
1B Moe Holt
1B John Morrison
2B Buddy Byrd
3B Bob Decker
3B Mooney Vetter
SS Tom Halliday
LF Jim Barton
LF Byron Burnett
LF Bill Irvin
CF Jerry McMillan
CF Billy Thompson
RF Henry Watson

We ended up going with 3 catchers and 3 first basemen, something teams of mine tend not to have, but given the roster we started with, it makes perfect sense. I really don't think we need 10 pitchers, choosing to purchase the contract of Phil Means and not Allen Brown, as I don't expect to need much more then White and Wilson in any given game. Plus Bob Burdick might have the best stamina on the team, so he can eat plenty of innings out of the pen if someone leaves early. Of course, if I it looks like the pen is getting too tired too quick, we can bring someone up from AAA, and there's a chance we get someone off waivers to replace Means or one of the bats on the bench.

The toughest cut was Don Berry, but there's a waiver outfielder I like a lot, and if we can get him, I didn't want to have to cut or option Berry, who was a non-roster guy. This led to 25-year-old Billy Thompson getting the 6th outfielder spot, though with his elite range and top-level defense, he could get some time in center. Otherwise we have Byron Burnett for the corners, and him or Henry Watson could easily play center if Thompson ends up going down. He's got two options left and could still be an everyday player, so regular time in Milwaukee could do him well. Then on the infield Moe Holt or John Morrison could be easily passed up by a younger, better defender, as we don't really have much defense beyond Bob Decker. Holt can play second or third if really needed, but that's far from the ideal situation.

Our farm system opens up at 11th, a position we are very unfamiliar with. On top of that, our top 18 prospects are position players, with not a single pitcher ranked inside the top 300. In years past, we might have 15 or 20 pitchers in that range, but there's almost no hope among the guys without experience. Luckily, Henry Henderson and Ken Stone are young, talented, and not considered prospects, but I'm not used to having such little pitching depth. OSA really likes our bats, especially at the FABL level, with Gene Case (.337, 37, 128, 9), Jerry McMillan (.323, 21, 81, 23), and Henry Watson (.314, 36, 123, 9) all projected to have major seasons. They even think we'll win 88 games, something that hasn't happened since 1946. I think that's way too generous, 80 is about all I expect, but 88 would have us in 4th of a very crowded association.

Our season starts at home, where we'll be the first ever contest for the New York Imperials. One of the four expansion teams, we also gave them their first trade, picking up Bob Allen (7-13, 4.71, 84) for Delos Smith (.287, 4, 14). I was hoping the young 24-year-old would be in Chicago for Opening Day, but the Imps optioned him to AAA Jersey City, deciding to go with Red Ellis (.175, 4, 28, 4) and Amos Weatherby (.233, 3) in the middle infield. As you'd expect with an expansion club, they do not have a lot of talent, but expect a big series and season from Turk Ramsey (.308, 9, 27). The former Keystone has major power, and I'd be stunned if he doesn't take one of our pitchers deep in the opening series. On the mound, we expect to face Gordon McDonald (9-4, 1, 3.63, 34) and Hank Short (0-4, 7.34, 19) in what should be very favorable matchups for our bats.

Next on the docket is a roadtrip, starting with three in Cincinnati and the first of two with the Dallas Wranglers. The Cannons will be a tough test, as they have some stars in the outfield in Dallas Berry (.282, 29, 94, 10) and Bonnie Chapin (.345, 22, 84, 6), who could both compete for the Whitney this season. Chapin isn't the only young talent either, as both second year player and former top 15 prospect Babe Booth (.269, 13, 74) and rookie Bill Ballard are expected to take spots on the middle infield, while the 21-year-old Charlie Warren (7-3, 3, 3.19, 73) is expected to take the #2 spot behind Jim York (7-11, 5.07, 97). Both are young Chicagoans I wish were in our rotation, but we should miss them both due to the two-game series that start the season. The back of the rotation has question marks, and our talented young offense could make things much easier on our staff by scoring early and often.