There's a minor change to the Sharks from the version posted in the Sharks-Polar Bears series as SS Stu Welch is injured. Their response is to shift Pyotr Gippius from 2B to SS and slot Carl McNutt in at 2B. McNutt is a 2-time All-Star so makes for a useful backup.
So here we are. COBRA Cup II. The Spice District Roosters hope to defend their title against the Dustland Sharks. The Sharks boast of the best pitching in the league while the Roosters can boast of the best collection of power hitters one can assemble.
The Roosters have their own ace up their sleeve. Max Steel was an unanimous pitcher of the year last season. He never quite reached the heights of 1920 this season but having said that, he still led the leagues in strikeouts and WHIP and boasted of a rather frightening 26-8 record.
And of course Shark hitters are nothing to sneeze at. Catcher Kian Lehn was league MVP last season and -- like Steel -- never quite hit the heights of 1920 still put up useful numbers. CF Sid van Kranenburg will also be one to watch for. Just 24, van Kranenburg contributes excellently with the bat (141 OPS+ with 31 home runs), speed (18 stolen bases), and defense (+8.4 ZR the best for a CF)..
It should make for a compelling battle. The bookies certainly can't make their mind up -- barely giving the Roosters the edge in defending their title.
