[Eugene Church]

Monday, September 28, 2088

2088 Ruthlandian East Season Review

BP MUSKETEERS REIGN SUPREME 3RD TIME IN 5 YEARS IN RU EAST
5 teams hassled the Belle Plaine Musketeers until August in the Ruthlandian East. A red-hot August helped the Muskies pull away from the pack by 6 games and win going away by 9 games over runner-up Elnora. Third place went to the Beechwood Blues, 11 GB and fourth place to the Wynnamac Sundowners, 12 GB. This is Belle Plaine's third RU East crown in the last 5 seasons. They also captured the flag in 2084 and 2087. The Musketeers were picked to repeat as champion with the only pressure coming from the Eastshore Cotton Kings. Belle Plaine is a well-rounded club with a strong, powerful offense, fairly good pitching and excellent defense. Don't be surprised if the Musketeers make a good run at this year's Pro Cup. Last year they were eliminated in the first round by Pro Cup finalist Rocky Rapids. Belle Plaine's pitching is better this year with the addition of two rookie hurlers. Plus the Muskies are blessed with some fine bats. The high-powered attack is back again this year. Belle Plaine is still looking for its first-ever Pro Cup Trophy. They have never gotten past the opening round in their 3 postseason appearances, but they played pretty well in each one.