#1 University Point Deathclaws (67-41) vs #4 Vault 81 Dwellers (63-46)
Season Series: Vault 81 5, University Point 3
April 30-May1 @V81: UP 8-3, UP 2-1
May 7-8 @UP: V81 9-4, UP 9-6
May 21-22 @UP: V81 5-3, V81 8-1
August 6-7 @V81: V81 11-3, V81 8-1
University Point Home Page
Vault 81 Home Page
Game 1 Matchup
Analysis
A season ago, these two teams had different circumstances entering the playoffs, with the Deathclaws entering as the 5th seed while Vault 81 was the top seed. This season, University Point is looking to move to the next level in competing for the Sole Survivor Series. But first, they have to win their first-ever playoff series in just their second try. The Dwellers are not much more advanced, minus that they are only playing in their fourth-ever playoff series. Regardless of circumstances, these are two talented teams. This analysis will look in depth at University Point since we covered the Dwellers in detail in the Play-in Series.
The Claws finished 3rd in the SCA in runs scored (559) and 1st in runs allowed (411). Their good all-around offense in both average and power is led by two legitimate stars in RF Tomas Jones (.355/27/93) and 1B Barker Cocoa (.336/27/79). They are flanked by a lineup that is 7-deep in good hitters, including long-time star LF Kory Richardson (.293/22/74), CF Jukebox Luttrell (.284/17/54), and 2B Jason Harris (.291/17/65). Pitching is even better, especially with the best Starters ERA (3.41) in the SCA. SP Wilson Beachball (20-6, 3.21) may not yet be the ace, but he has earned himself a no-doubt Red Rocket Rookie Award, finishing just a win shy of tying Matt Pageturner's CBO record for wins in a season. The Deathclaws are more likely to rely on veterans in the playoffs, including current ace Phlip Wallace (13-8, 3.02) and Bobby Van Marter (13-9, 3.27) whom they acquired from Warwick. University Point also has two closers in Marc Pondsip (22 SV, 3.75) and Matt Suds (22 SV, 3.77), whom they acquired from The Slog. RP Chase Southie (2-1, 0.00) gave up no earned runs in 23.1 innings. For the record, the one run he allowed on the season was due to a fielder's error.
Prediction
Vault 81 is good, but they missed their window last season. With the advantage in pitching, we expect the Claws to edge the Dwellers, 3 games to 2, and move on to the SCA Championship Series.