|
Gemmy’s Monthly Report: Elite Arms Keep Prayers in First
By Gemmy Nay, Sacramento Sports Chronicle
The first month of the season is in the books, and the Sacramento Prayers sit atop the West Division with an 18-11 record. While the offense has been inconsistent, the pitching staff has been nothing short of historic.
The Good: A Masterclass on the Mound
Sacramento currently boasts the #1 Team ERA in the American League (2.62) and leads the league in strikeouts (184).
* Russ Gray (1.78 ERA) and Jordan Rubalcava (2.01 ERA) have anchored the rotation.
* The bullpen remains a fortress, led by Ricky Gaias (3 wins) and Luis Prieto, who has locked down 9 saves.
The Bad: Cold Bats in the Capital
Despite the winning record, the Prayers are ranked 11th in the AL in Batting Average (.223).
* Eli Murguia (.314 AVG) is the only starter hitting over .300.
* Edwin Musco and Luis Martinez are both in major slumps, with Musco hitting just .033 over his last 8 games.
The Training Room
The biggest hurdle for the next week remains the injury list.
* Bret Perez is expected back in one week from his "pizza parlor mishap."
* Eli Murguia is currently listed as day-to-day, which is a massive concern given he is the team's primary offensive engine.
*The Road Ahead: Showdown in Tucson
The Prayers head to Tucson for a three-game set against the second-place Cherubs, who trail by only half a game. This series will likely determine who holds the division lead heading into the second week of May.
FBL STANDINGS -- MAY 1, 1989:
|