Experts took a look at the 1921 Saffron Turtles and decided this was a sub-.500 team and predicted a 68-76 record and 5th spot in the division. Instead, by the middle of May the Turtles had got themselves in 2nd and in prime wildcard position and never looked back.
This is predominantly a batting lineup of singles hitters, the Turtles ranked first in COBRA for batting average and on-base percentage but when it came to slugging they slip down to 4th. You can see that's evident when you look at how they rate when it comes to extra-base hits and home runs: 9th.
This certainly never hampered them on their way to the playoffs, nor did it hamper them when it came to extra-innings games (10-4 record) or one-run games (26-16). They always have a hit ready to go.
Similarly to the hitters, the pitchers shun the flashy. Collectively they came 3rd in ERA but 9th in strikeouts. This groundball heavy staff prefers the ground out and with solid defensive guys at 2B and SS that's an efficient reality for the Turtles.
The defending champions have every bit of intention of defending their title. Their batting lineup features a grand assortment of all-stars that led the league in home runs. Kind of the opposite of the Turtles.
Their pitching took a hit this season with the departure of Jared Way but Max Steel has put up another great season -- though not quite as good as his 1920 campaign.
One thing that will be worrying the Roosters is their form heading into the playoffs. They've gone 15-17 over August and September and are currently on a four game losing streak.
The bookmakers have made the Roosters strong favourites.
