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reds1 · 04-07-2023, 05:07 PM

December 1, 1956

Western League: Winning Ways Belong to Pulberry, Sherburn

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The Pulberry Trolleys and Sherburn Tigers established themselves as the two best teams in the Western League last year and that dominance continues this season. If anything, their pre-eminence has only deepened as they have jumped out to a commanding lead in the standings and are currently the only two teams with a winning record in the West. Both appear built for further sustained success.

Of course, any team blessed with a player like 28-year old LF Aidan Thirkettle (.411/.511/.878, 18 HR, 47 RBI, 37 BB, 4 SB, 5.5 WAR), the Western Leagues’ 3-time defending Babe Ruth Award winner, is going to have a distinct advantage. As good as he has been, he may be enjoying his best season yet, to the chagrin of his competitors. Off to his best start as well is 29-year old CF Cooper Tyson (.341/.449/.603, 9 HR, 37 RBI, 36 BB, 5 SB, 3.9 WAR). But the rest of the lineup is experiencing a bit of a letdown from the career years they all enjoyed last season, a strong all-around performance that helped propel the Trolleys to the United Cup. That is to be expected, but with the Tigers nipping at their heels, the supporting crew surrounding Thirkettle and Tyson will need to find last year’s magic if they want to keep holding them off.

Overall, the pitching staff remains one of the top units in the West, led by 21-year old sophomore LHP Bart Ohara (7-3, 3.12 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 2.68 FIP, 125 ERA+) and 31-year old RHP Quintiliano Galeo (4-0, 3.20 EA, 1.16 WHIP, 4.49 FIP, 122 ERA+). But No. 2 starter, 28-year old RHP Taylor Folkard (4-3, 4.86 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, 3.68 FIP, 81 ERA+) continues his hot-and-cold ways. Only this time, he has yet to get on a hot streak. Curious too, is the use of 27-year old LHP Dermott Rathbone (5-1, 6 SV, 3.65 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 3.72 FIP, 107 ERA+) as the team’s stopper. He is more than qualified to take on a role in the rotation.

Player of the Week Awards:

October 15 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.647, 11 H, 5 HR, 7 RBI, 10 R)
November 5 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.435, 10 H, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 8 R)
November 26 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.455, 10 H, 3 HR, 6 RBI, 7 R)

Noteworthy:

October 14 – The Wolseley Unions did not stand a chance in their third game at Trolleys Stadium in the young season. After splitting the first two matches, the Trolleys pummelled Wolseley 13-1, thanks to an incredible performance from LF Aidan Thirkettle, who went 5 for 5 and hit 3 home runs. He was the 16th player in ULB history to hit 3 home runs in a game and the first of four players to accomplish it this season. Thirkettle hit a solo shot off 21-year old sophomore RHP Theo Morse in both the 2nd and 4th innings, doubled in the 6th, hit an RBI single in the 7th and lastly hit a 2-run home run off 32-year old RHP José Fernández in the 8th. In all, he collected 4 R and 5 RBI.

October 16 – Two days later, the Trolleys and Kingston Pelicans engaged in a battle that lasted for 5 hours and 19 minutes before a winner was declared. The Trolleys eked out a 3-2 victory, in 18 innings. Pulberry led 2-1 until the top of the 8th when Kingston tied it up thanks to two singles, a walk and a fielding error. The two clubs would go 9 full innings before another run would score. In the bottom of the 18th, the Trolleys loaded the bases on two singles and a walk. With two out, back-up rookie catcher, 24-year old Hokuaonani Kaili (.229/.269/.333, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 3 BB, 0.0 WAR) drew a full count walk from 25-year old LHP Senzo Hiroyuki to force in the winning run.

November 19 – The Trolleys rolled over the Braeland City Monarchs, 7-4, thanks to another terrific performance by Aidan Thirkettle. The leftfielder went 5 for 5 again with 3 R and 2 RBI. Thrikettle doubled in the 1st, hit a 2-run home run off 30-year old RHP Danilo Narvaez in the 3rd, singled in the 4th, doubled in the 7th and singled in the 8th. The Trolleys would go on to take the next two games to sweep the Monarchs right in Braeland City.

November 23 – It was touted as a battle of two of the very best pitchers in the United Leagues in the pre-game hype and they didn’t disappoint as the Trolleys and Stratford Barons battled for 11 innings before a run was finally scored. Under clear skies and a scorching 91 F at game time at Stratford’s Bosworth Field, 28-year old LHP Robin Wadsworth held the Trolleys’ bats at bay for over 9 innings, limiting them to three hits and 4 walks (4 K, GS: 81). After 130 pitches he was done. But LHP Bart Ohara went all 11 innings, pitching a 2-hitter in a complete game shutout (3 BB, 3 K, 137 PI, GS: 93). The lone run came in the top of the 11th. After 24-year old SS Sean Abercrombie (.285/.353/.461, 4 HR, 25 RBI, 14 BB, 2 SB, 0.8 WAR) doubled with two out, 30-year old 2B Wade Billyard (.233/.312/.314, 14 RBI, 9 BB, 4 SB, 0.2 WAR) lined a single into deep rightfield to score Abercrombie for the game’s first run. The run held up, as Ohara limited the Barons to a walk in the bottom half to close out the game.

November 26 – The Trolleys took care of business in their first game against Wellington, thumping the Athletics, 12-5. The highlight of the game was the 31st cycle in ULB history achieved by CF Cooper Tyson. Tyson hit an RBI double in the 1st, grounded out in the 3rd, hit an RBI triple in the 5th, hit a solo shot off 37-year old RHP Rizal Doctolero in the 7th and hit an RBI single in the 8th. In all, he went 4 for 5 with 1 R and 4 RBI.

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The Sherburn Tigers are proving that last season’s resurgence was no fluke as they enjoy a seven game cushion for the wild card and are keeping pace with the Trolleys. The two teams have yet to meet this season but will do so seven times in December, all in Sherburn. It should provide a perfect opportunity to see how the Tigers measure up to the defending United Cup champions.

Certainly, the offense has a case to make of being the equal of Pulberry’s. While they may not boast a player of Aiden Thirkettle’s caliber just yet, the early going has seen the emergence of 24-year old sophomore CF Leon Albrecht (.324/.437/.596, 12 HR, 51 RBI, 39 BB, 4 SB, 3.2 WAR – 66/80) as one of the United Leagues’ top players (8th overall). The former 1st-overall pick from 1954-55 is joined by 26-year old RF Albert Sulley (.351/.445/.505, 5 HR, 19 RBI, 34 BB, 3 SB, 2.7 WAR) and 27-year old 1B Marcus Timberlake (.373/.445/.466, 3 HR, 22 RBI, 19 BB, 1.8 WAR) in terms of fast starts. But really, this is a lineup of stacked talent that could easily become the top offensive unit when all begin hitting their stride.

Pitching right now though is the biggest concern. It never hurts to have one of the best starters in the league in 32-year old ace RHP Jesús Chapa (8-3, 2.54 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, 2.51 FIP, 158 ERA+), but with the exception of No. 4 starter, 23-year old RHP Kozue Saito (6-3, 3.59 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 3.81 FIP, 112 ERA+), the rest of the rotation has been mediocre. And the bullpen has been downright horrible, something that will have to be fixed soon if the Tigers want to keep up with the Trolleys.

Player of the Week Awards:

November 19 – 3B Adrian Flynn (.444, 8 H, 3 HR, 8 RBI, 6 R)

Noteworthy:

November 14 – The Tigers and Embro Suns played a 10-inning thriller that ended with the visiting Suns pulling out a 11-8 win. But in a losing cause, 1B Marcus Timberlake went 5 for 5 – all singles, with 1 R and 1 RBI. His lone RBI came at a crucial moment when he singled home 26-year old LF Ross Shewman with one out to tie the game up at 7 a-piece and ultimately send the game into extras. But Embro would answer back with two home runs in the top of the 10th, including a 3-run shot by 23-year old 1B Damien Whetter. Although 34-year old S Luwen Rodenburg would lead off with his first home of the season in the bottom of the 10th, it wasn’t enough as the Tigers fell for their 18th loss of the season.

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The Cambria Cannons are in danger of falling further into obscurity after missing the playoffs last year. The pitching is the biggest culprit, but the offense could be more consistent as well.

But nothing but praise can be directed towards 27-year old Sam Tite (.296/.404/.672, 20 HR, 50 RBI, 32 BB, 2 SB, 3.6 WAR), who has been spectacular in his 5th full season and has emerged as the No. 1 right fielder in the ULB. However, the rest of the lineup has taken a step back, although 24-year old SS Doug Martin (.307/.370/.482, 3 HR, 18 RBI, 19 BB, 6 SB, 0.9 WAR – 61/63) still shows enough promise to emerge as one of the top shortstops in the United Leagues.

But what is really dragging the team down is the pitching, particularly the rotation, which does not boast one consistent starter. Only 31-year old stopper RHP Keith Roche (4-5, 6 SV, 2.50 ERA, 1.44WHIP, 2.14 FIP, 158 ERA+) is providing a steady hand in the season’s first two months.

Noteworthy:

October 1 – The Cannons and Balmoral Giants started the season off with a bang, scoring 17 runs off 23 hits on Opening Day. RF Sam Tite collected 8 of those RBIs, tying a United Leagues regular season record. After grounding out in his first two at-bats, Tite came through in the top of the 6th with a bases-loaded single to score two runs, giving Cambria a 2-1 lead. But Balmoral answered back in the bottom half, pushing 5 runs across to retake the lead, 6-2. The Cannons, however, would not give up. In the top of the 7th, they pounded out two singles, a double and two walks to make it 6-3. With two out and the bases loaded once again, Tite faced 28-year old RHP Robert Embley, who had just come into the game. On the third offering, Tite crushed it 433 ft. to dead centerfield for a Grand Slam home run, giving the lead back to Cambria. 36-year old SS César Ruíz (263/.356/.441, 6 HR, 28 RBI 17 BB, 0.6 WAR) followed him with a solo shot of his own. But Tite wasn’t done. With two on and two out in the top of the 9th, the Winnipeg-born right fielder connected for his second home run of the game, sending it 432 ft. into the left-centerfield bleachers. In all, he went 3-5 with 2 R and 8 RBI. The Cannons hung on to win on the road, 10-7.

October 24 – After dropping the first two games of a 3-game set in Pulberry, the Cannons avoided the sweep by trouncing the Trolleys 8-1. Leading the way was 22-year old sophomore CF Kilipeka Maleko (.228/.284/.407, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 13 BB, 0.5 WAR – 43/53). The 2nd-overall pick from 1952-53 hit for the cycle. Maleko started off with a 2-run home run off 28-year old RHP Talyor Folkard in the first inning, then singled in the 2nd, hit an RBI triple in the 4th and doubled in the 6th before striking out in the 9th. It represented the 30th cycle in ULB history and the 8th for a Cambria player, by far the most by any team in the United Leagues. Three other teams are tied for 2nd with three each, while another three teams (Wellington, Downie and Wolseley) have yet to have a player accomplish the feat.

November 13 – In the first game of a 3-game series at home, the Cannons pulled out a win against the Wellington Athletics. With Wellington leading 2-1 with two out and two men on base in the bottom of the 9th, Athletics’ manager Widemar Aquino called in 23-year old rookie RHP Baskin Arncaple to face Cambria’s rookie, 27-year old OF Eiichi Nakashima (.308/.500/.923, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 4 BB, 0.5 WAR – 37/38). On a 1-1 pitch, Nakashima blasted a 3-run home run that landed 389 ft. into the right-centerfield bleachers for a 4-2 walk-off win. He has since returned to Triple-A, so we’ll have to wait and see if the former 4th-round pick from 1951-52 gets another chance for further heroics in the big leagues.

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Reaching the first division after the first two months might appear to be progress for a team that finished in last place for the first time in its existence last season, but it would only be an apparition. The Wolseley Unions still have a long way to go to return to their glory days when they made the playoffs seven straight years and won three United Cups. They have a number of young prospects that have made the major league roster, but emphasis must still be on building up their farm system (11th overall) if they want to become relevant again. Having the No. 1 overall pick this season is a good first step.

The offense is essentially being carried by two players: 22-year old rookie CF Jonathan Higgins (.299/.362/.433, 1 HR, 20 RBI, 16 BB, 6 SB, 1.2 WAR – 50/70) and 35-year old veteran LF Carlton Hawking (.326/.451/.514, 6 HR, 32 RBI, 43 BB, 1.5 WAR). Higgins was a 2nd-overall pick from last season and entered this year as the No. 4 overall rated prospect. With his blazing speed and impressive defensive capabilities in both the outfield and infield, the Milwaukee-born native has a chance to become something special. He won a Rookie of the Month honor in November. Meanwhile Hawking, the 3-time Babe Ruth Award winner, is enjoying a bit of a resurgence in the early going after a poor season last year, one plagued by injuries. But the rest of the lineup is practically invisible, with four players ‘boasting’ WAR in the minus and two others with less than 1.0. The ‘Help Wanted’ sign is definitely on display.

It’s not much rosier in the pitching department. But the Unions do have a couple of promising young pitchers. 21-year old RHP Theo Morse (6-4, 3.20 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 4.27 FIP, 125 ERA+ - 51/80) is a groundball pitcher that has the chance to become quite formidable if he can continue to develop his control (40/55). His stuff (65/75) and movement (65/70) are top notch and his sinker (60/65), curveball (40/60) and slider (65/65) should serve him well. The 2nd-round pick from 1953-54 is currently pitching out of the No. 3 spot. Another potential bright spot is 23-year old rookie RHP Yasuo Yamauchi (5-3, 4.01 REA, 1.39 WHIP, 4.21 FIP, 100 ERA+ - 46/59), a 2nd-round pick from last year. Yamauchi does not have great stuff (45/45) but does have pinpoint control (70/75) to go along with five decent pitches. Scouts believe that he has a chance to be an above-average starter. But that’s currently on hold as he nurses a sore elbow for the next four weeks. But the rest of the staff looks awful, with the possible exception of 31-year old ace RHP Robert Garza (2-6, 4.23 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 3.20 FIP, 95 ERA+), who may be the victim of poor defensive support behind him. He endured a rough month in November, going 0-5, 5.02 ERA, 1.65 WHIP.

Noteworthy:

October 25 – LF Carlton Hawking proved to be a tough out against the Cambria Cannons in the first game of a four game set. Hawking went 5 for 6, collecting 5 singles with 1 R and 2 RBI. His biggest hit came in the bottom of the 11th. Down 5 -4, the Unions cranked out 3 singles against 31-year old RHP Keith Roche to push a run across to tie things up at 5. Up next was Hawking, who promptly singled into the gap in left centerfield to score the winning run.

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It’s 12 years and counting for the Balmoral Giants since they last made the playoffs and it’s increasingly evident that the drought will extend to 13. In the process, it appears they have squandered the few productive years of their best player by either not building around him or trading him for prospects when they had the chance.

36-year old LF Ángel Costa (.244/.328/.357, 4 HR, 25 RBI, 21 BB, -0.3 WAR) joined Balmoral as a 32-year free agent out of Cuba in 1953. In each of his first three seasons he was an all-star and won the 1953-54 WL Rookie of the Year Award. But this year he has gotten off to slow start. Still, scouts think highly of his skill set – his batting ratings are mostly 65 or 70 (eye is 55), so there is a reasonable expectation his bat will come around. But either way, it will be too little, too late for the scuffling Giants’ lineup. Only lead-off hitter, 29-year old 3B Makani Kahale (.294/.358/.431, 3 HR, 22 RBI, 20 BB, 2 SB, 1.7 WAR) and No. 2 hitter, sophomore CF Quido De Jesús (.301/.346/.409, 4 HR, 19 RBI, 13 BB, 2 SB, 1.4 WAR) are providing any kind of spark. The 23-year old De Jesús was the 3rd overall pick from 1953-54. But their best player, 27-year old SS Hayden Gunton (.287/.349/.383, 2 HR, 19 RBI, 18 BB, 0.9 WAR), is having down year, especially compared to last season where he racked up 6.2 WAR.

The pitching staff continues to struggle. 30-year old RHP Wayne Nesling (3-2, 3.69 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 3.55 FIP, 107 ERA+) is the de facto ace and the only one in the rotation playing with any real competence. He pitched well in November, going 2-0, 2.27 ERA, 1.22 WHIP in 5 starts. The Giants promoted 22-year old rookie RHP Clive Kerwin (0-5, 3 SV, 4.39 ERA, 1.69 WHIP, 4.20 FIP, 90 ERA+ - 40/51) to the rotation to start the season, but he struggled in October (0-4, 5.88 ERA, 1.81 WHIP). The former 4th-round pick from 1954-55 responded well when he was moved to the bullpen in November (0-1, 3 SV, 1.83 ERA, 1.56 WHIP). He has since returned to the rotation to pitch out the No. 4 spot. Another rookie, 23-year old RHP Bart Minto (4-4, 4 SV, 3.86 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 3.58 FIP, 103 ERA+ - 53/67) has begun the season as the team’s stopper, but the former 4th-round pick from last season has a chance to become a starter at some point. He has incredible stuff (80/80), but his movement (40/40) and control (35/45) are only so-so.

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The Fort Richmond Generals have spent the most time in the basement of this season’s Western League standings thus far, but a 5-5 finish to a rough month of November has seen them escape from the cellar for now. The Hespeler Stars (2-8) and Kingston Pelicans (1-9) fared far worse during that stretch.

Both the starting lineup and rotation have been listless. 32-year old RF Brandon Robinson (.324/.370/.413, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 13 BB, 0.5 WAR) is perhaps the pick of a weak lot, at least offensively. Indeed, with 24-year old LF Uki Edewada (.318/.362/.362, 1 HR, 13 RBI, 5 BB, 3 SB, 0.7 WAR) batting cleanup ahead of Robinson, this lineup has to be one of the least intimidating in the United Leagues. The Generals do have two rookies who have joined the lineup. 23-year old 2B Dale Linkletter (.266/.376/.353, 8-2B, 16 RBI, 23 BB, 3 SB, 1.1 WAR – 45/54), who was acquired from the Stratford Barons back in January, is showing promise, while 24-year old 1B Takuji Kanno (47/55), a 10th overall pick from 1953-54 has just been promoted to the major league roster, after batting .303/.401/.461 in 179 AB in Triple-A. Kanno does not have a lot of power (45/45), but he has been slotted into the three-hole, nevertheless.

The rotation is in trouble as all members are struggling. 33-year old RHP Nicky Sherlock (4-5, 2.81 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 4.88 FIP, 139 ERA+) appears to be having the most success, but he is in fact being helped by having one the top defensive units in the West playing behind him. That sums up the rest of the rotation as well, as all the starters have FIP north of 4.00. 27-year old RHP Damon Pinney (3-7, 3.68 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, 4.61 FIP, 106 ERA+) is on pace for losing 20 games while 34-year old RHP Ch’ang-chieh Li (0-10, 6.41 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 4.79 FIP, 61 ERA+) is on target for 29 losses.

The bullpen though is one of the West’s top units, led by 32-year old stopper RHP José Rodríguez (3-2, 7 SV, 2.41 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 2.39 FIP, 161 ERA+) and former 2-time Satchel Paige Award winner, 37-year old RHP Roberto Taváres (1-0, 1.82 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, 2.77 FIP, 215 ERA+).

Player of the Week Awards:

October 29 – RF Brandon Robinson (.545, 12 H, 1 HR, 4 RBI)

Noteworthy:

October 3 – After losing the first two games, the Generals got their first win of the season, thanks to an impressive 5-0 win over the Pulberry Trolleys. RHP Damon Pinney got the win, going the distance as he blanked the Trolleys on two hits, a single and a double. Pinney’s line was 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 5 BB, 6 K, 125 PI, GS: 84.

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It’s more of the same for the Hespeler Stars this season, as they appear no closer to making their first playoff appearance in team history. They have some promising talent that has recently joined the major league roster and a tantalizing prospect that is performing well in Triple-A, but it doesn’t look nearly enough to change the franchises’ playoff fortunes anytime soon.

The lineup has been underwhelming, with 29-year old RF John Anthony (.303/.388/.486, 6 HR, 23 RBI, 25 BB, 1.4 WAR) the lone standout. He may earn his first all-star selection if he keeps it up. He may also be joined by 24-year old sophomore C Aidan Bennie (.250/.286/.428, 6 HR, 19 RBI, 8 BB, 0.8 WAR – 58/71) in providing some offensive spark. The former 2nd overall pick from 1954-55 and one-time No. 1-rated prospect is batting immediately behind Anthony in the No. 5 spot. His bat has no apparent weakness as the plate (55 to 65 ratings across the board) and should become one of the top defensive catchers as well (position-70, ability-80, arm-45).

There is not a lot to write home about regarding the pitching staff either. The Stars have promoted 23-year old RHP Eduardo Rodríguez (0-0, 0 SV, 0.00 ERA, 0.52 WHIP, 2.75 FIP, 999 ERA+ - 37/55) from Triple-A this season. The former 2nd-round pick from last year is currently serving as the team’s stopper, but he is projected to be a starter some day. But some day soon, the No. 1-rated prospect in the ULB should be getting the call up to the big-league roster. 20-year LHP Nico van de Ham (2-7, 2.89 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 2.35 FIP, 102 ERA+ - 27/74) was promoted to Triple-A this season after being drafted in the 3rd round back in 1954-55 and is more than holding his own on a struggling farm team. He is projected to be a future ace one day.

Player of the Week Awards:

October 8 – RF John Anthony (.520, 13 H, 3 HR, 6 RBI)
October 22 – LHP Amoka Kalea (2-0, 0.00 ERA, 18.0 IP, 9 K, .150 OppAVG)

Noteworthy:

October 9 – The Stars opened up their 3-game home set against the Fort Richmond Generals with a brilliant performance by 36-year old LHP Patrick Denman (4-5, 4.43 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, 3.27 FIP, 91 ERA+). The 1946-47 Satchel Paige Award winner showed flashes of his former greatness by limiting the Generals to 2 hits en route to a 1-0 complete game win. Denman gave up just two singles along with 2 BB and 5 K (107 PI, GS: 86). The lone run of the game came in the bottom of the 5th, when 25-year old 3B Clive Yarwood (.222/.300/.383, 7 HR, 18 RBI, 15 BB, 0.4 WAR) led off with a double then scored thanks to back-to-back sacrifice flies.

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The Kingston Pelicans are off to their worst start in their 20-year history. They have missed the playoffs for four straight seasons (equalling their previous longest drought) and do not have the pieces, especially on the pitching staff, to prevent missing the post-season for a 5th straight year. The end of November was particularly brutal, where they finished just 1-11. But they have some genuine reasons to be optimistic and if their shrewd drafting continues, they may be able to turn things around – eventually.

The most optimism is to be found in the batting lineup. Scouts are not overly enthused about 1B Ira Bannatyne (.373/.448/.725, 10 HR, 23 RBI, 21 BB, 2.7 WAR – 47/50), calling him a “below average first baseman”. But the 24-year old rookie from Burton, Michigan is defying all naysayers and is off to an incredible start. The 2nd-round pick from 1950-51 is already rated as the top first baseman in the United Leagues and has a formidable bat. His contact/gap/home run power are all rated at 60, eye at 50 and avoid K’s at 65. He looks like the real deal to me. About to join him sooner rather than later is 23-year old rookie CF Dan Hesketh (.263/.318/.369, 1 HR, 17 RBI, 12 BB, 0.6 WAR – 61/75). The former 1st-overall pick from last season should become one of the best defensive outfielders in the ULB to go along with jaw-dropping speed and a smooth swing. Also contributing and developing are 26-year old C Ronald Armstrong (.244/.335/.506, 11 HR, 35 RBI, 23 BB, 1.9 WAR) and 23-year old sophomore 2B Denzel Daintry (.246/.323/.345, 3 HR, 19 RBI, 23 BB, 3 SB, 0.8 WAR – 50/59). IF Hesketh and Daintry can continue to develop, then the Pelicans could have a very respectable offensive core to build around. But their other promising prospects are still in Double-A, so the rebuilding is going to take some time.

But the pitching staff is in most need of attention right now. Just two players are providing some semblance of competency at the moment. 29-year old LHP Diarmid Rowet (6-4, 3.75 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 4.29 FIP, 107 ERA+), who was acquired from the Fort Richmond Generals back in August, is the only starter carrying his weight. He has rebounded nicely after missing most of last season with a torn rotator cuff. But scouts consider him little more than an emergency starter. The bullpen is in somewhat better shape, led by 27-year old stopper RHP Lester Beddoes (3-3, 5 SV, 2.89 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, 3.25 FIP, 139 ERA+) and 23-year old rookie RHP Jacob Jones (1-3, 1 SV, 2.00 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 2.86 FIP, 201 ERA+ - 48/57). The former 6th-round pick from 1952-53 was acquired last July in a trade with the Queensland Eagles.

Player of the Week Awards:

November 12 – 1B Ira Bannatyne (.500, 13 H, 1 HR, 2 RBI, 5 R)

Noteworthy:

October 8 – After starting the season hitting a home run in 5 straight games (and tying a then-ULB record in the process), 1B Ira Bannatyne hit the 29th cycle in United Leagues history in the first game of a 3-game series against the Cambria Cannons. Pacing the Pelicans to a 9-5 home victory, Bannatyne started things off with a 3-run home run off 28-year old RHP Ray Lambright in the 1st, flied out in the 3rd, hit a 2-run triple in the 5th, collected an RBI single in the 6th and finally hit a double in the 8th to cap off the cycle. It was the first cycle accomplished by a Pelicans player in League history.

November 8 – Beginning November with five straight losses, the Pelicans got a much needed win against the Queensland Eagles. Noteworthy in the victory was CF Dan Hesketh, who hit his first major league home run. Leading off the bottom of the 6th, Hesketh jumped on a 2-2 pitch from 31-year old RHP Logan Belsey and launched it 381 ft. down the rightfield line to tie the game up a 3-apiece. Although the Eagles would retake the lead, the Pelicans rallied in the bottom of the 8th to score 3 runs and hold on for a 7-5 win. In all, Kingston’s lead-of hitter went 3 for 4, 1 HR, 3 R, 1 RBI.

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04-07-2023, 05:07 PM	#777
reds1 Hall Of Famer Join Date: May 2002 Location: Winnipeg Posts: 3,919	December 1, 1956 Western League: Winning Ways Belong to Pulberry, Sherburn -------- The Pulberry Trolleys and Sherburn Tigers established themselves as the two best teams in the Western League last year and that dominance continues this season. If anything, their pre-eminence has only deepened as they have jumped out to a commanding lead in the standings and are currently the only two teams with a winning record in the West. Both appear built for further sustained success. Of course, any team blessed with a player like 28-year old LF Aidan Thirkettle (.411/.511/.878, 18 HR, 47 RBI, 37 BB, 4 SB, 5.5 WAR), the Western Leagues’ 3-time defending Babe Ruth Award winner, is going to have a distinct advantage. As good as he has been, he may be enjoying his best season yet, to the chagrin of his competitors. Off to his best start as well is 29-year old CF Cooper Tyson (.341/.449/.603, 9 HR, 37 RBI, 36 BB, 5 SB, 3.9 WAR). But the rest of the lineup is experiencing a bit of a letdown from the career years they all enjoyed last season, a strong all-around performance that helped propel the Trolleys to the United Cup. That is to be expected, but with the Tigers nipping at their heels, the supporting crew surrounding Thirkettle and Tyson will need to find last year’s magic if they want to keep holding them off. Overall, the pitching staff remains one of the top units in the West, led by 21-year old sophomore LHP Bart Ohara (7-3, 3.12 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 2.68 FIP, 125 ERA+) and 31-year old RHP Quintiliano Galeo (4-0, 3.20 EA, 1.16 WHIP, 4.49 FIP, 122 ERA+). But No. 2 starter, 28-year old RHP Taylor Folkard (4-3, 4.86 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, 3.68 FIP, 81 ERA+) continues his hot-and-cold ways. Only this time, he has yet to get on a hot streak. Curious too, is the use of 27-year old LHP Dermott Rathbone (5-1, 6 SV, 3.65 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 3.72 FIP, 107 ERA+) as the team’s stopper. He is more than qualified to take on a role in the rotation. Player of the Week Awards: October 15 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.647, 11 H, 5 HR, 7 RBI, 10 R) November 5 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.435, 10 H, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 8 R) November 26 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.455, 10 H, 3 HR, 6 RBI, 7 R) Noteworthy: October 14 – The Wolseley Unions did not stand a chance in their third game at Trolleys Stadium in the young season. After splitting the first two matches, the Trolleys pummelled Wolseley 13-1, thanks to an incredible performance from LF Aidan Thirkettle, who went 5 for 5 and hit 3 home runs. He was the 16th player in ULB history to hit 3 home runs in a game and the first of four players to accomplish it this season. Thirkettle hit a solo shot off 21-year old sophomore RHP Theo Morse in both the 2nd and 4th innings, doubled in the 6th, hit an RBI single in the 7th and lastly hit a 2-run home run off 32-year old RHP José Fernández in the 8th. In all, he collected 4 R and 5 RBI. October 16 – Two days later, the Trolleys and Kingston Pelicans engaged in a battle that lasted for 5 hours and 19 minutes before a winner was declared. The Trolleys eked out a 3-2 victory, in 18 innings. Pulberry led 2-1 until the top of the 8th when Kingston tied it up thanks to two singles, a walk and a fielding error. The two clubs would go 9 full innings before another run would score. In the bottom of the 18th, the Trolleys loaded the bases on two singles and a walk. With two out, back-up rookie catcher, 24-year old Hokuaonani Kaili (.229/.269/.333, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 3 BB, 0.0 WAR) drew a full count walk from 25-year old LHP Senzo Hiroyuki to force in the winning run. November 19 – The Trolleys rolled over the Braeland City Monarchs, 7-4, thanks to another terrific performance by Aidan Thirkettle. The leftfielder went 5 for 5 again with 3 R and 2 RBI. Thrikettle doubled in the 1st, hit a 2-run home run off 30-year old RHP Danilo Narvaez in the 3rd, singled in the 4th, doubled in the 7th and singled in the 8th. The Trolleys would go on to take the next two games to sweep the Monarchs right in Braeland City. November 23 – It was touted as a battle of two of the very best pitchers in the United Leagues in the pre-game hype and they didn’t disappoint as the Trolleys and Stratford Barons battled for 11 innings before a run was finally scored. Under clear skies and a scorching 91 F at game time at Stratford’s Bosworth Field, 28-year old LHP Robin Wadsworth held the Trolleys’ bats at bay for over 9 innings, limiting them to three hits and 4 walks (4 K, GS: 81). After 130 pitches he was done. But LHP Bart Ohara went all 11 innings, pitching a 2-hitter in a complete game shutout (3 BB, 3 K, 137 PI, GS: 93). The lone run came in the top of the 11th. After 24-year old SS Sean Abercrombie (.285/.353/.461, 4 HR, 25 RBI, 14 BB, 2 SB, 0.8 WAR) doubled with two out, 30-year old 2B Wade Billyard (.233/.312/.314, 14 RBI, 9 BB, 4 SB, 0.2 WAR) lined a single into deep rightfield to score Abercrombie for the game’s first run. The run held up, as Ohara limited the Barons to a walk in the bottom half to close out the game. November 26 – The Trolleys took care of business in their first game against Wellington, thumping the Athletics, 12-5. The highlight of the game was the 31st cycle in ULB history achieved by CF Cooper Tyson. Tyson hit an RBI double in the 1st, grounded out in the 3rd, hit an RBI triple in the 5th, hit a solo shot off 37-year old RHP Rizal Doctolero in the 7th and hit an RBI single in the 8th. In all, he went 4 for 5 with 1 R and 4 RBI. -------- The Sherburn Tigers are proving that last season’s resurgence was no fluke as they enjoy a seven game cushion for the wild card and are keeping pace with the Trolleys. The two teams have yet to meet this season but will do so seven times in December, all in Sherburn. It should provide a perfect opportunity to see how the Tigers measure up to the defending United Cup champions. Certainly, the offense has a case to make of being the equal of Pulberry’s. While they may not boast a player of Aiden Thirkettle’s caliber just yet, the early going has seen the emergence of 24-year old sophomore CF Leon Albrecht (.324/.437/.596, 12 HR, 51 RBI, 39 BB, 4 SB, 3.2 WAR – 66/80) as one of the United Leagues’ top players (8th overall). The former 1st-overall pick from 1954-55 is joined by 26-year old RF Albert Sulley (.351/.445/.505, 5 HR, 19 RBI, 34 BB, 3 SB, 2.7 WAR) and 27-year old 1B Marcus Timberlake (.373/.445/.466, 3 HR, 22 RBI, 19 BB, 1.8 WAR) in terms of fast starts. But really, this is a lineup of stacked talent that could easily become the top offensive unit when all begin hitting their stride. Pitching right now though is the biggest concern. It never hurts to have one of the best starters in the league in 32-year old ace RHP Jesús Chapa (8-3, 2.54 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, 2.51 FIP, 158 ERA+), but with the exception of No. 4 starter, 23-year old RHP Kozue Saito (6-3, 3.59 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 3.81 FIP, 112 ERA+), the rest of the rotation has been mediocre. And the bullpen has been downright horrible, something that will have to be fixed soon if the Tigers want to keep up with the Trolleys. Player of the Week Awards: November 19 – 3B Adrian Flynn (.444, 8 H, 3 HR, 8 RBI, 6 R) Noteworthy: November 14 – The Tigers and Embro Suns played a 10-inning thriller that ended with the visiting Suns pulling out a 11-8 win. But in a losing cause, 1B Marcus Timberlake went 5 for 5 – all singles, with 1 R and 1 RBI. His lone RBI came at a crucial moment when he singled home 26-year old LF Ross Shewman with one out to tie the game up at 7 a-piece and ultimately send the game into extras. But Embro would answer back with two home runs in the top of the 10th, including a 3-run shot by 23-year old 1B Damien Whetter. Although 34-year old S Luwen Rodenburg would lead off with his first home of the season in the bottom of the 10th, it wasn’t enough as the Tigers fell for their 18th loss of the season. -------- The Cambria Cannons are in danger of falling further into obscurity after missing the playoffs last year. The pitching is the biggest culprit, but the offense could be more consistent as well. But nothing but praise can be directed towards 27-year old Sam Tite (.296/.404/.672, 20 HR, 50 RBI, 32 BB, 2 SB, 3.6 WAR), who has been spectacular in his 5th full season and has emerged as the No. 1 right fielder in the ULB. However, the rest of the lineup has taken a step back, although 24-year old SS Doug Martin (.307/.370/.482, 3 HR, 18 RBI, 19 BB, 6 SB, 0.9 WAR – 61/63) still shows enough promise to emerge as one of the top shortstops in the United Leagues. But what is really dragging the team down is the pitching, particularly the rotation, which does not boast one consistent starter. Only 31-year old stopper RHP Keith Roche (4-5, 6 SV, 2.50 ERA, 1.44WHIP, 2.14 FIP, 158 ERA+) is providing a steady hand in the season’s first two months. Noteworthy: October 1 – The Cannons and Balmoral Giants started the season off with a bang, scoring 17 runs off 23 hits on Opening Day. RF Sam Tite collected 8 of those RBIs, tying a United Leagues regular season record. After grounding out in his first two at-bats, Tite came through in the top of the 6th with a bases-loaded single to score two runs, giving Cambria a 2-1 lead. But Balmoral answered back in the bottom half, pushing 5 runs across to retake the lead, 6-2. The Cannons, however, would not give up. In the top of the 7th, they pounded out two singles, a double and two walks to make it 6-3. With two out and the bases loaded once again, Tite faced 28-year old RHP Robert Embley, who had just come into the game. On the third offering, Tite crushed it 433 ft. to dead centerfield for a Grand Slam home run, giving the lead back to Cambria. 36-year old SS César Ruíz (263/.356/.441, 6 HR, 28 RBI 17 BB, 0.6 WAR) followed him with a solo shot of his own. But Tite wasn’t done. With two on and two out in the top of the 9th, the Winnipeg-born right fielder connected for his second home run of the game, sending it 432 ft. into the left-centerfield bleachers. In all, he went 3-5 with 2 R and 8 RBI. The Cannons hung on to win on the road, 10-7. October 24 – After dropping the first two games of a 3-game set in Pulberry, the Cannons avoided the sweep by trouncing the Trolleys 8-1. Leading the way was 22-year old sophomore CF Kilipeka Maleko (.228/.284/.407, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 13 BB, 0.5 WAR – 43/53). The 2nd-overall pick from 1952-53 hit for the cycle. Maleko started off with a 2-run home run off 28-year old RHP Talyor Folkard in the first inning, then singled in the 2nd, hit an RBI triple in the 4th and doubled in the 6th before striking out in the 9th. It represented the 30th cycle in ULB history and the 8th for a Cambria player, by far the most by any team in the United Leagues. Three other teams are tied for 2nd with three each, while another three teams (Wellington, Downie and Wolseley) have yet to have a player accomplish the feat. November 13 – In the first game of a 3-game series at home, the Cannons pulled out a win against the Wellington Athletics. With Wellington leading 2-1 with two out and two men on base in the bottom of the 9th, Athletics’ manager Widemar Aquino called in 23-year old rookie RHP Baskin Arncaple to face Cambria’s rookie, 27-year old OF Eiichi Nakashima (.308/.500/.923, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 4 BB, 0.5 WAR – 37/38). On a 1-1 pitch, Nakashima blasted a 3-run home run that landed 389 ft. into the right-centerfield bleachers for a 4-2 walk-off win. He has since returned to Triple-A, so we’ll have to wait and see if the former 4th-round pick from 1951-52 gets another chance for further heroics in the big leagues. -------- Reaching the first division after the first two months might appear to be progress for a team that finished in last place for the first time in its existence last season, but it would only be an apparition. The Wolseley Unions still have a long way to go to return to their glory days when they made the playoffs seven straight years and won three United Cups. They have a number of young prospects that have made the major league roster, but emphasis must still be on building up their farm system (11th overall) if they want to become relevant again. Having the No. 1 overall pick this season is a good first step. The offense is essentially being carried by two players: 22-year old rookie CF Jonathan Higgins (.299/.362/.433, 1 HR, 20 RBI, 16 BB, 6 SB, 1.2 WAR – 50/70) and 35-year old veteran LF Carlton Hawking (.326/.451/.514, 6 HR, 32 RBI, 43 BB, 1.5 WAR). Higgins was a 2nd-overall pick from last season and entered this year as the No. 4 overall rated prospect. With his blazing speed and impressive defensive capabilities in both the outfield and infield, the Milwaukee-born native has a chance to become something special. He won a Rookie of the Month honor in November. Meanwhile Hawking, the 3-time Babe Ruth Award winner, is enjoying a bit of a resurgence in the early going after a poor season last year, one plagued by injuries. But the rest of the lineup is practically invisible, with four players ‘boasting’ WAR in the minus and two others with less than 1.0. The ‘Help Wanted’ sign is definitely on display. It’s not much rosier in the pitching department. But the Unions do have a couple of promising young pitchers. 21-year old RHP Theo Morse (6-4, 3.20 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 4.27 FIP, 125 ERA+ - 51/80) is a groundball pitcher that has the chance to become quite formidable if he can continue to develop his control (40/55). His stuff (65/75) and movement (65/70) are top notch and his sinker (60/65), curveball (40/60) and slider (65/65) should serve him well. The 2nd-round pick from 1953-54 is currently pitching out of the No. 3 spot. Another potential bright spot is 23-year old rookie RHP Yasuo Yamauchi (5-3, 4.01 REA, 1.39 WHIP, 4.21 FIP, 100 ERA+ - 46/59), a 2nd-round pick from last year. Yamauchi does not have great stuff (45/45) but does have pinpoint control (70/75) to go along with five decent pitches. Scouts believe that he has a chance to be an above-average starter. But that’s currently on hold as he nurses a sore elbow for the next four weeks. But the rest of the staff looks awful, with the possible exception of 31-year old ace RHP Robert Garza (2-6, 4.23 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 3.20 FIP, 95 ERA+), who may be the victim of poor defensive support behind him. He endured a rough month in November, going 0-5, 5.02 ERA, 1.65 WHIP. Noteworthy: October 25 – LF Carlton Hawking proved to be a tough out against the Cambria Cannons in the first game of a four game set. Hawking went 5 for 6, collecting 5 singles with 1 R and 2 RBI. His biggest hit came in the bottom of the 11th. Down 5 -4, the Unions cranked out 3 singles against 31-year old RHP Keith Roche to push a run across to tie things up at 5. Up next was Hawking, who promptly singled into the gap in left centerfield to score the winning run. -------- It’s 12 years and counting for the Balmoral Giants since they last made the playoffs and it’s increasingly evident that the drought will extend to 13. In the process, it appears they have squandered the few productive years of their best player by either not building around him or trading him for prospects when they had the chance. 36-year old LF Ángel Costa (.244/.328/.357, 4 HR, 25 RBI, 21 BB, -0.3 WAR) joined Balmoral as a 32-year free agent out of Cuba in 1953. In each of his first three seasons he was an all-star and won the 1953-54 WL Rookie of the Year Award. But this year he has gotten off to slow start. Still, scouts think highly of his skill set – his batting ratings are mostly 65 or 70 (eye is 55), so there is a reasonable expectation his bat will come around. But either way, it will be too little, too late for the scuffling Giants’ lineup. Only lead-off hitter, 29-year old 3B Makani Kahale (.294/.358/.431, 3 HR, 22 RBI, 20 BB, 2 SB, 1.7 WAR) and No. 2 hitter, sophomore CF Quido De Jesús (.301/.346/.409, 4 HR, 19 RBI, 13 BB, 2 SB, 1.4 WAR) are providing any kind of spark. The 23-year old De Jesús was the 3rd overall pick from 1953-54. But their best player, 27-year old SS Hayden Gunton (.287/.349/.383, 2 HR, 19 RBI, 18 BB, 0.9 WAR), is having down year, especially compared to last season where he racked up 6.2 WAR. The pitching staff continues to struggle. 30-year old RHP Wayne Nesling (3-2, 3.69 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 3.55 FIP, 107 ERA+) is the de facto ace and the only one in the rotation playing with any real competence. He pitched well in November, going 2-0, 2.27 ERA, 1.22 WHIP in 5 starts. The Giants promoted 22-year old rookie RHP Clive Kerwin (0-5, 3 SV, 4.39 ERA, 1.69 WHIP, 4.20 FIP, 90 ERA+ - 40/51) to the rotation to start the season, but he struggled in October (0-4, 5.88 ERA, 1.81 WHIP). The former 4th-round pick from 1954-55 responded well when he was moved to the bullpen in November (0-1, 3 SV, 1.83 ERA, 1.56 WHIP). He has since returned to the rotation to pitch out the No. 4 spot. Another rookie, 23-year old RHP Bart Minto (4-4, 4 SV, 3.86 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 3.58 FIP, 103 ERA+ - 53/67) has begun the season as the team’s stopper, but the former 4th-round pick from last season has a chance to become a starter at some point. He has incredible stuff (80/80), but his movement (40/40) and control (35/45) are only so-so. -------- The Fort Richmond Generals have spent the most time in the basement of this season’s Western League standings thus far, but a 5-5 finish to a rough month of November has seen them escape from the cellar for now. The Hespeler Stars (2-8) and Kingston Pelicans (1-9) fared far worse during that stretch. Both the starting lineup and rotation have been listless. 32-year old RF Brandon Robinson (.324/.370/.413, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 13 BB, 0.5 WAR) is perhaps the pick of a weak lot, at least offensively. Indeed, with 24-year old LF Uki Edewada (.318/.362/.362, 1 HR, 13 RBI, 5 BB, 3 SB, 0.7 WAR) batting cleanup ahead of Robinson, this lineup has to be one of the least intimidating in the United Leagues. The Generals do have two rookies who have joined the lineup. 23-year old 2B Dale Linkletter (.266/.376/.353, 8-2B, 16 RBI, 23 BB, 3 SB, 1.1 WAR – 45/54), who was acquired from the Stratford Barons back in January, is showing promise, while 24-year old 1B Takuji Kanno (47/55), a 10th overall pick from 1953-54 has just been promoted to the major league roster, after batting .303/.401/.461 in 179 AB in Triple-A. Kanno does not have a lot of power (45/45), but he has been slotted into the three-hole, nevertheless. The rotation is in trouble as all members are struggling. 33-year old RHP Nicky Sherlock (4-5, 2.81 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 4.88 FIP, 139 ERA+) appears to be having the most success, but he is in fact being helped by having one the top defensive units in the West playing behind him. That sums up the rest of the rotation as well, as all the starters have FIP north of 4.00. 27-year old RHP Damon Pinney (3-7, 3.68 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, 4.61 FIP, 106 ERA+) is on pace for losing 20 games while 34-year old RHP Ch’ang-chieh Li (0-10, 6.41 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 4.79 FIP, 61 ERA+) is on target for 29 losses. The bullpen though is one of the West’s top units, led by 32-year old stopper RHP José Rodríguez (3-2, 7 SV, 2.41 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 2.39 FIP, 161 ERA+) and former 2-time Satchel Paige Award winner, 37-year old RHP Roberto Taváres (1-0, 1.82 ERA, 0.88 WHIP, 2.77 FIP, 215 ERA+). Player of the Week Awards: October 29 – RF Brandon Robinson (.545, 12 H, 1 HR, 4 RBI) Noteworthy: October 3 – After losing the first two games, the Generals got their first win of the season, thanks to an impressive 5-0 win over the Pulberry Trolleys. RHP Damon Pinney got the win, going the distance as he blanked the Trolleys on two hits, a single and a double. Pinney’s line was 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 5 BB, 6 K, 125 PI, GS: 84. -------- It’s more of the same for the Hespeler Stars this season, as they appear no closer to making their first playoff appearance in team history. They have some promising talent that has recently joined the major league roster and a tantalizing prospect that is performing well in Triple-A, but it doesn’t look nearly enough to change the franchises’ playoff fortunes anytime soon. The lineup has been underwhelming, with 29-year old RF John Anthony (.303/.388/.486, 6 HR, 23 RBI, 25 BB, 1.4 WAR) the lone standout. He may earn his first all-star selection if he keeps it up. He may also be joined by 24-year old sophomore C Aidan Bennie (.250/.286/.428, 6 HR, 19 RBI, 8 BB, 0.8 WAR – 58/71) in providing some offensive spark. The former 2nd overall pick from 1954-55 and one-time No. 1-rated prospect is batting immediately behind Anthony in the No. 5 spot. His bat has no apparent weakness as the plate (55 to 65 ratings across the board) and should become one of the top defensive catchers as well (position-70, ability-80, arm-45). There is not a lot to write home about regarding the pitching staff either. The Stars have promoted 23-year old RHP Eduardo Rodríguez (0-0, 0 SV, 0.00 ERA, 0.52 WHIP, 2.75 FIP, 999 ERA+ - 37/55) from Triple-A this season. The former 2nd-round pick from last year is currently serving as the team’s stopper, but he is projected to be a starter some day. But some day soon, the No. 1-rated prospect in the ULB should be getting the call up to the big-league roster. 20-year LHP Nico van de Ham (2-7, 2.89 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 2.35 FIP, 102 ERA+ - 27/74) was promoted to Triple-A this season after being drafted in the 3rd round back in 1954-55 and is more than holding his own on a struggling farm team. He is projected to be a future ace one day. Player of the Week Awards: October 8 – RF John Anthony (.520, 13 H, 3 HR, 6 RBI) October 22 – LHP Amoka Kalea (2-0, 0.00 ERA, 18.0 IP, 9 K, .150 OppAVG) Noteworthy: October 9 – The Stars opened up their 3-game home set against the Fort Richmond Generals with a brilliant performance by 36-year old LHP Patrick Denman (4-5, 4.43 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, 3.27 FIP, 91 ERA+). The 1946-47 Satchel Paige Award winner showed flashes of his former greatness by limiting the Generals to 2 hits en route to a 1-0 complete game win. Denman gave up just two singles along with 2 BB and 5 K (107 PI, GS: 86). The lone run of the game came in the bottom of the 5th, when 25-year old 3B Clive Yarwood (.222/.300/.383, 7 HR, 18 RBI, 15 BB, 0.4 WAR) led off with a double then scored thanks to back-to-back sacrifice flies. -------- The Kingston Pelicans are off to their worst start in their 20-year history. They have missed the playoffs for four straight seasons (equalling their previous longest drought) and do not have the pieces, especially on the pitching staff, to prevent missing the post-season for a 5th straight year. The end of November was particularly brutal, where they finished just 1-11. But they have some genuine reasons to be optimistic and if their shrewd drafting continues, they may be able to turn things around – eventually. The most optimism is to be found in the batting lineup. Scouts are not overly enthused about 1B Ira Bannatyne (.373/.448/.725, 10 HR, 23 RBI, 21 BB, 2.7 WAR – 47/50), calling him a “below average first baseman”. But the 24-year old rookie from Burton, Michigan is defying all naysayers and is off to an incredible start. The 2nd-round pick from 1950-51 is already rated as the top first baseman in the United Leagues and has a formidable bat. His contact/gap/home run power are all rated at 60, eye at 50 and avoid K’s at 65. He looks like the real deal to me. About to join him sooner rather than later is 23-year old rookie CF Dan Hesketh (.263/.318/.369, 1 HR, 17 RBI, 12 BB, 0.6 WAR – 61/75). The former 1st-overall pick from last season should become one of the best defensive outfielders in the ULB to go along with jaw-dropping speed and a smooth swing. Also contributing and developing are 26-year old C Ronald Armstrong (.244/.335/.506, 11 HR, 35 RBI, 23 BB, 1.9 WAR) and 23-year old sophomore 2B Denzel Daintry (.246/.323/.345, 3 HR, 19 RBI, 23 BB, 3 SB, 0.8 WAR – 50/59). IF Hesketh and Daintry can continue to develop, then the Pelicans could have a very respectable offensive core to build around. But their other promising prospects are still in Double-A, so the rebuilding is going to take some time. But the pitching staff is in most need of attention right now. Just two players are providing some semblance of competency at the moment. 29-year old LHP Diarmid Rowet (6-4, 3.75 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 4.29 FIP, 107 ERA+), who was acquired from the Fort Richmond Generals back in August, is the only starter carrying his weight. He has rebounded nicely after missing most of last season with a torn rotator cuff. But scouts consider him little more than an emergency starter. The bullpen is in somewhat better shape, led by 27-year old stopper RHP Lester Beddoes (3-3, 5 SV, 2.89 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, 3.25 FIP, 139 ERA+) and 23-year old rookie RHP Jacob Jones (1-3, 1 SV, 2.00 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 2.86 FIP, 201 ERA+ - 48/57). The former 6th-round pick from 1952-53 was acquired last July in a trade with the Queensland Eagles. Player of the Week Awards: November 12 – 1B Ira Bannatyne (.500, 13 H, 1 HR, 2 RBI, 5 R) Noteworthy: October 8 – After starting the season hitting a home run in 5 straight games (and tying a then-ULB record in the process), 1B Ira Bannatyne hit the 29th cycle in United Leagues history in the first game of a 3-game series against the Cambria Cannons. Pacing the Pelicans to a 9-5 home victory, Bannatyne started things off with a 3-run home run off 28-year old RHP Ray Lambright in the 1st, flied out in the 3rd, hit a 2-run triple in the 5th, collected an RBI single in the 6th and finally hit a double in the 8th to cap off the cycle. It was the first cycle accomplished by a Pelicans player in League history. November 8 – Beginning November with five straight losses, the Pelicans got a much needed win against the Queensland Eagles. Noteworthy in the victory was CF Dan Hesketh, who hit his first major league home run. Leading off the bottom of the 6th, Hesketh jumped on a 2-2 pitch from 31-year old RHP Logan Belsey and launched it 381 ft. down the rightfield line to tie the game up a 3-apiece. Although the Eagles would retake the lead, the Pelicans rallied in the bottom of the 8th to score 3 runs and hold on for a 7-5 win. In all, Kingston’s lead-of hitter went 3 for 4, 1 HR, 3 R, 1 RBI. -------- __________________ United Leagues of Braeland Last edited by reds1; 04-08-2023 at 01:49 PM. Reason: Spelling