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04-06-2025, 12:03 AM
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#841 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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  Babe Ruth Award For Matthew Floyd, all his perseverance has paid off. Since the 1951-52 season, Wellington’s 30-year old leftfielder has fallen short of the Eastern League’s top hitter’s prize. He has finished 4th in the voting twice, third once and was runner-up last season. Add in a frustrating 1953-54 season that was cut short due to a broken elbow and you can understand the need for perseverance. But Floyd was finally rewarded for an outstanding performance this past season, earning his first Babe Ruth Award. He picked up 12 of 16 first place votes. Here are the top three vote-getters: 1st: Matthew Floyd (.334/.413/.585, 25-2B, 37 HR, 102 RBI, 73 BB, 12 SB, 176 OPS+, 182 wRC+, 9.5 RC/27, 8.2 WAR) 2nd: Queensland’s 32-year old LF Rod Dennis (.326/.410/.594, 32-2B, 35 HR, 107 RBI, 76 BB, 176 OPS+, 185 wRC+, 9.3 RC/27, 5.8 WAR) 3rd: 32-year old CF Raymond Williams (.327/.406/.589, 27-2B, 33 HR, 95 RBI, 72 BB, 8 SB, 168 OPS+, 182 wRC+, 9.6 RC/27, 7.5 WAR). Williams (330) now sits just 3 home runs behind the all-time career leader Stuart Bentham (333). Floyd led the Eastern League in HR (37), WAR (8.2), Hits (189), Runs (120), Total Bases (331) and OPS+ (176). He finished second in another 6 categories and in the Top 5 in 7 others. He led the entire United Leagues in 1 category (highlighted in bold). Dennis led the circuit in RBI (107), SLG (.594), OPS (1.004), EBH (69-tied), ISO (.268), WPA (6.43) and wOBA (.439). He finished second in another 2 categories and in the Top 5 in 7 others. Williams finished first in EBH (69 – tied with Rod Dennis) and RC/27 (9.6). He finished second in another 4 categories and in the Top 5 in 9 others. Voting Results:  Previous Winners:  -------- Satchel Paige Award Like Matthew Floyd, Stiofan Micklethwait has been a perennial candidate for a top prize, in this case, as the top pitcher in the Eastern League. Since the 1953-54 season, he as finished 4th, 3rd (twice) and 2nd for the Satchel Paige Award. When he received the second-most votes in 1955-56, he finished right behind his teammate, Logan Belsey. Last year, Micklethwait endured what was an off-season for him and finished 7th in the voting. But this year he came roaring back and enjoyed perhaps the greatest season ever by a pitcher in the United Leagues. He set a new single season record in ERA (1.839; surpassing Arthur Bence’s 1946-47 mark of 1.929) and from what I can tell, set a new high water mark in ERA+ with 205 for pitchers who pitched a minimum of 200 IP in a season. That surpasses David Cooling’s performance in 1940-41, when he set the previous record of 200 ERA+. That performance earned him his first Satchel Paige Award, where he picked up all 16 first-place votes. Here are the top three vote-getters: 1st: Queensland’s 30-year old RHP Stiofan Micklethwait (25-6, 1.84 ERA, 279.0 IP, 0.99 WHIP, .246 BABIP, 2.37 FIP, 9.7 WAR, 205 ERA+) 2nd: Queensland’s 32-year old RHP Logan Belsey (18-12, 2.51 ERA, 286.1 IP, 1.06 WHIP, .286 BABIP, 2.11 FIP, 11.3 WAR, 150 ERA+) 3rd: Cobourg’s 24-year old RHP Albert Johnson (21-10, 2.60 ERA, 280.1 IP, 1.21 WHIP, .266 BABIP, 3.22 FIP, 6.2 WAR, 148 ERA+) Micklethwait led the East in ERA (1.84), W (25), CG (24 – tied), BB/9 (1.9), WHIP (0.99), ERA+ (205), rWAR (11.7), OAVG (.211) WINP (.806), QS (28). He finished second in 6 other categories and in the Top 5 in a further 1. He led the entire United Leagues in 6 categories (highlighted in bold). Belsey led the Eastern League in WAR (11.3), CG (24 – tied with Micklethwait), SHO (7), K (266), K/BB (4.2), K/9 (8.4), FIP (2.11). He finished second in 5 other categories and in the Top 5 in 3 others. He led the entire United Leagues in 6 categories (highlighted in bold). Belsey set new single season marks in K (266, surpassing his own mark of 231 set last season), K/9 (8.36; surpassing Larry Kovnats 1955-56 mark of 7.66) and Pitching WAR (11.29; surpassing Neil Guerin’s 1937-38 mark of 10.09). Johnson finished second in two categories and in the Top 5 in 8 others. Voting Results:  Previous Winners:  -------- Rookie of the Year Award An impressive inaugural campaign by 23-year old RF Kosaku Fukushima (.281/.330/.431, 32-2B, 8-3B, 5 HR, 42 RBI, 30 BB, 8 SB, 108 OPS+, 117 wRC+, 1.9 WAR) won him top rookie honours in the East this season. The 14th-overall draft pick from 1956-57 entered this season rated No. 26th among all prospects and becomes the third Rookie of the Year honoree for the Stratford Barons. Following him in the voting were: 2nd: Brunswick’s 21-year old LHP Randy Goodwin (8-7, 2 SV, 3.12 ERA, 144.0 IP, 1.25 WHIP, .267 BABIP, 3.67 FIP, 1.8 WAR, 123 ERA+) 3rd: Braeland City’s 24-year old C Ronald Kingsley (.259/.339/.351, 20-2B, 1-3B, 5 HR, 37 RBI, 48 BB, 88 OPS+, 101 wRC+, 2.1 WAR) Voting Results:  Previous Winners:  --------  Babe Ruth Award In 1952-53, Sam Tite made his first appearance in the Western League Babe Ruth Award voting tally, where he earned a solitary vote and finished 15th overall. But with the exception of the 1955-56 season that was plagued by injuries, he has never finished lower than 3rd. Last year, he finished behind only Aidan Thirkettle, who won his fourth consecutive Award. But this year the voters reversed the order and rewarded the 28-year old Canadian with his first Babe Ruth Award. Tite was simply outstanding, setting new single season records in SLG (.7045; surpassing Aidan Thirkettle’s mark of .6860 set last season) and HR (59; surpassing 49 set by himself and Matthew Floyd last season). Tite led the West (and the entire United Leagues for that matter) in 12 categories: HR (59), RBI (144), SLG (.704), OPS (1.128), WAR (10.3), TB (379), EBH (84), ISO (.377), OPS+ (208), WPA (8.80), wOBA (.488) and RC/27 Outs (11.3). He finished second in 4 other categories and in the Top 5 in 2 others. Here are the top three vote-getters: 1st: Cambria’s 28-year old RF Sam Tite (.327/.423/.704, 24-2B, 59 HR, 144 RBI, 87 BB, 7 SB, 208 OPS+, 219 wRC+, 11.3 RC/27, 10.3 WAR) 2nd: Pulberry’s 29-year old LF Aidan Thirkettle (.310/.424/.667, 27-2B, 6-3B, 47 HR, 130 RBI, 93 BB, 9 SB, 200 OPS+, 207 wRC+, 11.0 RC/27, 9.9 WAR) 3rd: Sherburn’s 26-year old CF Leon Albrecht (.309/.413/.538, 25-2B, 14-3B, 25 HR, 96 RBI, 99 BB, 156 OPS+, 171 wRC+, 8.3 RC/27, 7.8 WAR) Thirkettle led the West in OBP (.424) and tied with Leon Albrecht in Runs (117). He finished second in 12 categories and in the Top 5 in 1 other (AVG). Albrecht led the West in Runs (117 – tied with Aidan Thirkettle), Triples (14) and BB (99). He finished in the Top 5 in a whopping 17 categories. He led the entire United Leagues in 2 categories (highlighted in bold). Voting Results:  Previous Winners:  -------- Satchel Paige Award It was another dominant season on the mound for the Trolley’s ace. 22-year old LHP Bart Ohara (24-5, 2.35 ERA, 294.2 IP, 0.98 WHIP, .253 BABIP, 2.45 FIP, 160 ERA+, 9.8 WAR), the top-ranked pitcher in the ULB, won his second consecutive WL Satchel Paige Award. He swept all first-place votes for the second straight season as well. If anything, Ohara was even more dominant this season. He led the West in 17 categories: ERA (2.35), Wins (24), WAR (9.8), IP (294.2), CG (22), SHO (8), K (244.0), K/BB (3.9), K/9 IP (7.5), WHIP (0.98), FIP (2.45), ERA+ (160), rWAR (10.6), BABIP (.244), Opp AVG (.211), WINP (.828) and QS (25 – tied). He led the entire United Leagues in 5 categories (highlighted in bold). He finished in the Top 5 in 2 other pitching categories. Finishing behind Ohara in voting for the second consecutive year were: 2nd: Sherburn’s 34-year old RHP Jesús Chapa (20-10, 3.01 ERA, 272.0 IP, 1.13 WHIP, .259 BABIP, 3.00 FIP, 128 ERA+, 6.9 WAR) 3rd: Pulberry’s 37-year old RHP Robin Medellin (20-10, 2.80 ERA, 254.1 IP, 1.16 WHIP, .244 BABIP, 3.47 FIP, 134 ERA+, 4.4 WAR) Chapa finished second in 5 categories and in the Top 5 in a further 10. Medellin led the West in BABIP (.244). He finished second in 3 categories and in the Top 5 in a further 4 categories. Voting Results:  Previous Winners:  -------- Rookie of the Year Award RHP Kenete Yuri (13-12, 2.72 ERA, 241.2 IP, 1.30 WHIP, .276 BABIP, 3.14 FIP, 138 ERA+, 5.3 WAR), who was drafted second overall by the Fort Richmond Generals in 1956-57 and was rated the No. 1 prospect, did not disappoint when he was promoted to the majors this season. Building on his impressive Triple-A season last year where he led the Generals’ top farm club, the Marleton Scouts, to a Kings Cup championship, the 24-year old American Samoan was promoted to the majors in mid-October and quickly entrenched himself as Fort Richmond’s ace. He went on to win a Rookie of the Month honour and two Pitcher of the Month honours this season. He now adds a Rookie of the Year Award to his mantlepiece. Finishing behind Yuri were: 2nd: Pulberry’s 29-year old 2B Yoshimi Sekozawa (.263/.355/.391, 11-2B, 8 HR, 46 RBI, 45 BB, 109 OPS+, 119 wRC+, 2.8 WAR) 3rd: Cambria’s 25-year old C Mick Clark (.285/.339/.360, 17-2B, 4 HR, 42 RBI, 36 BB, 94 OPS+, 101 wRC+, 2.1 WAR) Voting Results:  Previous Winners:  -------- Manager of the Year Award  After 17 years serving as a bench coach for four different clubs, Daryl Rowde (96-58, .623) finally got his chance at helming a major league club in the United Leagues. All that experience paid off as the 56-year old rookie led the Queensland Eagles to first place and their first Eastern League Pennant in 11 years. The Eagles improved by 10 games over last season where they finished 5th and 10.5 games back of first. Their 96 victories are the most in a season in team history and marks the first time they reached the 90-win mark. He is locked up for the next two seasons and is reportedly well liked in the clubhouse. It was business as usual for the Pulberry Trolleys as they won their third consecutive United Cup and reached the 100 win mark for the first time in team history. The talent and depth found on this squad is no secret, but neither is their manager, 52-year old Ryo Ichikawa (1198-962, .554) who wins his fourth consecutive Manager of the Year Award. That surpasses the three in a row Ben Houchens won with the Kingston Pelicans from 1942 to 1944. Ichikawa now sits just one back of Houchens for the most Manager of the Year Awards, who has won five overall. And it appears he won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. Immediately following the conclusion of the season, the 52-year old Japanese native was awarded with a new 5-year contract that nearly doubles his previous salary and makes him the highest paid manager in the United Leagues ($41,000 – Stratford’s Xavier Ahernfeld is next at $34,000). No surprise, considering the success he has brought to Pulberry and the fact that he is beloved by the players (i.e. none of the players have a ‘poor relationship’ with him). Previous Winners: 
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United Leagues of Braeland |
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04-07-2025, 01:15 AM
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#842 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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  --------  
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United Leagues of Braeland Last edited by reds1; 04-08-2025 at 12:31 AM. Reason: Updated tables |
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04-13-2025, 01:23 PM
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#843 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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 Notes on 1957-58 All-Braeland Team Starting Pitcher The United Leagues saw some outstanding pitching performances this season led by the three highest-rated pitchers in the ULB today: Bart Ohara, Logan Belsey and Stiofan Micklethwait. Obviously, this was between the two Babe Ruth Award winners this year in Ohara and Micklethwait. Neither would be a wrong choice, but for me this was an easy choice despite the stiff competition. That’s because 30-year old RHP Stiofan Micklethwait enjoyed one of the greatest seasons by a pitcher in the United Leagues and that is saying something. The former 9th overall pick from 1946-47 lead the Eastern League in 10 pitching categories and the entire ULB in six. He also set a new mark in lowest ERA in a season with 1.839. Here are the three pitchers that I felt were the worthiest of consideration this season (league leading stats highlighted in bold – typical):
-------- Catcher Like the pitcher’s evaluations, this came down to the three top-ranked catchers in the Leagues today. 26-year old Aidan Bennie is currently rated No. 1 and 7th overall among all position players. The ranking is well-earned. Selected second overall by the Hespeler Stars in 1954-55, Bennie was soon ranked No. 1 among all prospects. When he was promoted to the majors last season, he quickly established himself and even Hit for the Cycle. Inexplicably, he failed to earn a single vote for Rookie of the Year last season. He has yet to earn a trip the All-Star Game as well, although an injury just before this year’s Game was the culprit. He was running second in the voting among catchers in the Western League up until he went down to a bad back. But he finishes first in my voting for the All-Braeland Team this year. Last year he won a Ball Hawk Award and this year he won the Western League Batting Title. He is an outstanding all-around catcher who should be in the discussion for top catcher for the foreseeable future. He is just the third player from the Hespeler Stars to make the Team. Here are the three catchers that were under consideration:
-------- First Base It was another lackluster year for first baseman in the United Leagues. But Embro’s 25-year old Damien Whetter enjoyed an impressive sophomore season and earned his first selection to the All-Star Game. Like Aidan Bennie, Whetter also Hit for the Cycle last year in his rookie campaign. Installed as the Cannons’ No. 3 hitter this year, the 13th overall pick from 1951-52 has the bat to be an offensive force in the ULB and challenge for further selections the All-Braeland Team. Here are the three players I ultimately considered:
-------- Second Base In last season’s selection for second base, I mentioned that Queensland’s Dennis Purcell could challenge for a spot on the All-Braeland Team if he built upon his sophomore season. Mission accomplished. The 25-year old Canadian enjoyed a terrific season at the plate and has entrenched himself as the top second baseman (and 5th overall position player) in the United Leagues. The two-time All-Star led the entire United Leagues in AVG and OBP. The Barons’ Matthew Channing made a compelling case as well as the top second baseman in the ULB; in fact, he led the entire United Leagues in doubles. But ultimately, I leaned towards Purcell’s offensive output this year as giving him the edge. Here were the Top 3 choices:
-------- Third Base Similar to the first basemen, no third basemen in the United Leagues currently crack the Top 20 among position players. It ultimately came down to the top three rated players at the hot corner and this season, I ranked them 3-2-1. Queensland’s 28-year old Apia Yarrah was a workhorse this season, leading the East in plate appearances (663) and hits (189 – tied with Wellington’s Matthew Floyd). The former 1st overall pick from 1951-52 came over from the Hespeler Stars in a lop-sided trade back in 1955. The third-ranked third baseman beat out perennial contenders Moromao Nakagawa’s and Adrian Flynn in my mind and earned his first selection to the All-Braeland Team. Here are the three that stood out for me this year:
-------- Shortstop The top three choices last year for shortstop were under consideration again. But this time, I went with the 26-year old Callum Spalton of Stratford, the No. 1 rated shortstop in the United Leagues. Spalton is one of the best defensive infielders in the League, as demonstrated by his winning a second consecutive Ball Hawk Award this year. But it was impressive play at the plate to go along with his outstanding defense that propelled him onto the All-Braeland Team. After suffering a serious knee injury in December 1955, Spalton bounced back last season and this year, he took the next step at the plate. If he can stay healthy, the 8th-rated position player has the chance to become the preeminent shortstop in the ULB for years to come. Here are the three shortstops that were considered this year:
-------- Left Field While he may have finally won his first Babe Ruth Award, that was not enough for Matthew Floyd to earn his second selection to the All-Braeland Team and first since 1952-53. The simple reason is that the leftfield position remains occupied by the No. 1 player in the United Leagues, 29-year old Aidan Thirkettle. While Thirkettle did not win a Babe Ruth Award this year, that’s only because of the Ruthian performance of Sam Tite of Cambria. But Thirkettle still had an amazing season in his own right, finishing behind Tite in 12 offensive categories and leading the West outright in OBP. Ironically, Thirkettle’s performance this season may have been a slight step behind his performance last season (similar to Floyd in that regard), but both enjoyed career years. Floyd is currently rated No. 3 overall among all position players. Here are my top three left fielders this season: • Pulberry's Aidan Thirkettle – .310/.424/.667, 156 H, 27-2B, 47 HR, 130 RBI, 93 BB, 1.091 OPS, 200 OPS+, 207 wRC+, 9.9 WAR, 1.024 EFF. • Wellington’s 30-year old Matthew Floyd – .334/.413/.585, 189 H, 25-2B, 37 HR, 102 RBI, 73 BB, .998 OPS, 176 OPS+, 182 wRC+, 8.2 WAR, .990 EFF. • Queensland’s 32-year old Rod Dennis – .326/.410/.594, 172 H, 32-2B, 35 HR, 107 RBI, 76 BB, 1.004 OPS, 176 OPS+, 185 wRC+, 5.8 WAR, .931 EFF. -------- Center Field My top three picks for center fielder this year just so happened to match their player rankings at season’s end. While Raymond Williams and Cooper Tyson are not new to this ritual, Sherburn’s 26-year old Leon Albrecht is. Albrecht, the former No. 1 pick from 1954-55, enjoyed a terrific sophomore season and finished third in the WL Babe Ruth Award voting. The former No. 1-ranked prospect figures to become a contender in the ensuing years with his solid bat and defense. This year, I placed him second, behind only Cobourg’s Raymond Williams, who earns his 6th career selection. At age 32, Williams has not lost a step and remains the top centerfielder and 4th overall position player in the United Leagues. But Albrecht is not far behind (6th overall). These were the top three centerfielders this season in my opinion:
-------- Right Field Last year, I declared that Cambria’s Sam Tite’s performance in 1956-57 was perhaps the greatest ever for a right fielder in the United Leagues. Just one season later, I have to revise that. The 28-year old Canadian produced one of the greatest offensive seasons ever in the ULB this season. Tite dominated the United Leagues this year, leading the entire leagues in 12 offensive categories and set new season records in SLG and HR. This was the easiest category to pick the player this year and quite frankly, as fine as Wan-hua Gu and Aidan Trembath both were, it was not even close.
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United Leagues of Braeland |
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04-14-2025, 12:50 AM
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#844 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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 Carlton Broadbent Elected to Hall of Fame Balmoral, Oxford, June 2 (BP) – The Baseball Reporters Association of Braeland (BRAB) announced today that one new member was added to the Braeland Baseball Hall of Fame, and it was a hometown hero. OF Carlton Broadbent officially becomes the 17th member of the Baseball Hall of Fame and the fifth outfielder to be elected. After garnering 66.6% of the vote in both 1956 and 1957, he succeeded in surpassing the 75% threshold this year with 80.1%. Broadbent, who played all of his 14 seasons with the Balmoral Giants, primarily played in rightfield. But it was his bat that made him one of the most formidable players in the United Leagues in his prime. The 9-time all-star won two Babe Ruth Awards as his League’s most outstanding hitter and was rated the No. 1 position player in the entire United Leagues two years in a row (1943 and 1944). He becomes the first player whose primary team was the Balmoral Giants to be elected to the Hall of Fame.  Teams: Balmoral Giants Notable Achievements: Player of the Week: 12 Batter of the Month: 7 Babe Ruth Awards: 2 (1943-44, 1944-45) Triple Crown: 1 (1944-45) Batting Title: 1 (1944-45) All-Star Selections: 9 All-Braeland Teams: 3 Hall of Fame Metrics: JAWS: 43.2 (average HOF SS – 34) Black Ink: 68 (average HOF – 33) Gray Ink: 226 (average HOF – 150) HOF Standards: 50 (average HOF – 46) HOF Monitor: 193 (average HOF – 148) Induction Pct: 80.1; third year  -------- 
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United Leagues of Braeland |
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04-19-2025, 01:14 AM
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#845 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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 As in years previously, clubs have primarily focused their attention during the offseason to reshaping management. Some moves were made due to retirements of course, but others were of the sacking variety. A couple of the firings were completely unexpected, and several rookie general managers and field managers were hired. Outside of that, a couple of notable player retirements were announced, and a couple of noteworthy trades were completed leading up to the commencement of the Coconut Leagues on Monday, September 1st. Following which will be Opening Day, scheduled for Monday, October 6th, as the clubs embark on the 22nd season of the United Leagues. Also noteworthy is that after several seasons running this League on OOTP23, the United Leagues have been imported into OOTP26 during the offseason. How that significant change in game environment will affect the teams’ and players’ fortunes going forward remains to be seen. But Auto-Calc of modifiers is on as usual so hopefully the statistical results will remain in the realm of reality. ----------- Notable Player Retirements: LHP Patrick Denman Denman was drafted 11th overall by the Kingston Pelicans back in 1940-41, one in a long line of quality pitchers the Pelicans procured during their hey-day in the late 1930s and early 1940s. An ace in making, Denman was touted as a strike-out artist with filthy movement and excellent control. The Cambrian-native shuttled regularly between the rotation and bullpen for his first three seasons in the majors, but in 1945-46 he moved permanently into the rotation and did not disappoint. Denman won 27 games on a 104-48 squad, setting the record for most wins in a season by a pitcher, a record that still stands and which is two wins more than the next pitcher on the list. Denman went on to win the WL Satchel Paige Award that year. He would win 20 or more games in a season three more times but curiously, he was only selected to two all-star games in his 16-year career. That may be due to the fact that he put up a number of seasons that bordered on the mediocre as well, including the 1952-53 season where he lost 23 games, two losses shy of the season record. In his defense, he played most of his years with a Pelicans team that had quickly faded from contention in the late 1940s. That may explain why, although Denman finishes 7th overall in career wins with 225, he also finishes with the third-most career losses with 217. His Hall of Fame case will be an interesting one when he becomes eligible in three years. I believe he will remain on the ballot for several seasons and may even come close to the required 75% of the vote to get elected. But ultimately, I think he’ll come up short. Achievements:
  ----------- SS John Medley The Cobourg Red Stockings drafted Medley first overall back in 1943-44 and after a single season in the minors, the 21-year old shortstop was promoted to the majors for good. Medley served as the Red Stockings/Redlegs’ lead-off hitter for most of his career and used his outstanding speed, baserunning skills and ability to make contact to get on base and steal 322 bases, the most in ULB history. He finishes his career 80 stolen bases ahead of the next base stealer on the list and is 109 more than the top still-active player (Brunswick’s 37-year old Jorge Arrendondo currently has 213 stolen bases). Medley stole 44 bases in 1947-48, just two behind the season record of 46. Medley’s ability to make contact and reach base enabled him to win back-to-back Batting Titles in 1947-48 and 1948-49. Although he was never a power hitter, his speed allowed him to hit 165 triples, third-most in United Leagues history (Jake Walker holds the record with 193). He also collected 200 or more hits in a season four times and led the Eastern League in stolen bases eight times. Although he was never a defensive standout, he was a 7-time all-star. Ultimately, Medley enjoyed two great seasons and five very good ones. Will that be enough to get him elected to the Hall of Fame in three years time? Like Patrick Denman, I think he will definitely get consideration and stay on the ballot for multiple years, but it probably won’t be enough to reach the 75% threshold. Achievements:
  ----------- Management Shakeups: April 25 – Sherburn Sacks Blair in Surprise Move, Hires Rookie Manager Ayling In a rather unexpected move, the Sherburn Tigers fired their field manager of five years, 44-year old Jamie Blair (400-370, .519). Blair led the Tigers to the playoffs the past three seasons, each time as the wildcard, and each time fell to the ultimate United Cup Champions, the Pulberry Trolleys. It is perhaps due to that inability to take the next step that prompted management to seek a new voice in the clubhouse. That new voice will be provided by Lee Ayling. This will be Ayling’s first coaching job in the United Leagues at any position. A former infielder, the 44-year old played for his hometown Cobourg Red Stockings for four seasons from 1937 to 1941, before winding down his playing career with the Wolseley Unions in 1942. While not considered as easy going as Blair, Ayling is still considered personable and is said to favor prospects and hitting.  ----------- April 26 – Long-time Manager Bouchet Calls it a Career, Redlegs Hire Veteran Umbleby to Take Over After just a single season at the helm of the Cobourg Redlegs, 62-year old Bill Bouchet (1476-1604, .479) has retired. Before that, he spent 19 years as the Downie Chiefs field manager, leading them to three playoff appearances, one Eastern League Pennant and one United Cup Championship. Other than that, though, the Chiefs finished in the second division 13 times. He finishes his career second in games managed (3080), third in wins and second in losses. Taking over is 55-year old Ethan Umbleby (311-305, .504), who last managed the Queensland Eagles for four seasons. Prior to that, he served as a bench coach for five seasons, split between the Brunswick Legends and Pulberry Trolleys. In his four seasons at the helm of the Eagles, he led them to three winning seasons but came up short of the playoffs. The Redlegs are hoping he can bring out the best of a squad that won 96 games two years ago but missed the playoffs last year. For one thing, underperforming players will not be given a free pass under him; he is considered a tactician whose focus is on mechanics.  ----------- April 27 – Manager Nicholas Willis Retires, Monarchs Pivot to Former Player, Bert Helmer After 17 seasons coaching in the United Leagues, 67-year old Nicholas Willis (510-508, .501) has retired. Seven of those seasons saw him manage the Cobourg Redlegs and Braeland City Monarchs. His most successful year was his first full season with the Redlegs in 1952-53, leading them to 1st place with a 100-54 record on route to Cobourg’s first and only Eastern League Pennant. In need of a new skipper, Braeland City has turned to 40-year old Bert Helmer. A former outfielder for eight seasons split between the Cambria Cannons and Sherburn Tigers, Helmer won both a Ball Hawk Award and a trip to the All-Star game during his playing days. After retiring as a player in 1949, Helmer spent the past three seasons as a third base coach with the Brunwick Legends. As a manager, he is a large unknown, other than perhaps favoring prospects and power.  ----------- April 27 – Balmoral Starts Fresh with New GM and Manager The Victor Lynch era in Balmoral has finally come to end. After 21 seasons, upper management finally severed ties to the only general manager the Giants have ever known. In those 21 seasons, Balmoral made the playoffs only twice and enjoyed an above .500 record just eight times. They have yet to finish in first place in the West or win a Pennant. On the other hand, they have never finished in the basement. Tasked to set a new course for the franchise is Tim Ambrose. A former first baseman who played five seasons in the majors for three different teams, the 49-year old New Zealander won a Ball Hawk Award in 1939-40. This will be his first season in upper management. He is said to favor prospects, offense and OBP. His first order of business was to hire a new field manager, after 65-year old Gary Compton (300-316, .487) elected to retire. After 15 seasons as a bench coach for three different clubs, Compton served as the Giant’s manager for the past four seasons. His best was his first season, when the Giants finished with an 82-72 record, 5 games back of the wild card. Picked to succeed Compton as field manager is 45-year old Soren Heinke. This will be Heinke’s first season as a coach at any level. The former starting pitcher entered the United Leagues as a free agent from Germany in 1939 and pitched for the Wellington Athletics, Balmoral Giants and Cobourg Red Stockings. He was the Eastern League’s Rookie of the Year in 1939-40 (15-11, 3.23 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 128 ERA+). He has gone on record as espousing smallball tactics while favoring veterans, pitching, speed and average. As a side note, with the end of the Victor Lynch era in Balmoral, just two general managers who have been with their club since the 1937-38 inaugural season remain: 54-year old Adam Trelawny of the Braeland City Monarchs and 52-year old Marcus Dejyothin of the Pulberry Trolleys.   ----------- April 29 – Embro Suns Clean House, Hire Rookie GM and Manager Suns’ Owner Daniel Walker II is considered a tolerant and charitable fellow, so it caught some people off guard when he relieved both GM Alexander Corsie and Manager Benjamin Sadler (476-448, .515) after four seasons. But Mr. Walker also prioritizes winning, and the lack thereof in recent years is perhaps what prompted the spring cleaning. After reaching the playoffs in 1954-55, Embro regressed in each of the following three seasons, falling to 6th place in the East. Charged with making a turn around in the club’s fortunes, is 59-year old Eli Covert. This will be Covert’s first season a general manager. He reportedly favors veterans, hitting, offense, power and OBP. Hired by Covert to take over from the departed Benjamin Sadler is 51-year old Yasuo Hayashi. He too is a rookie. He is considered personable, a tactician who favors prospects, offense, power and average.   ----------- April 29 – Eagles Fire GM Jack Clayton in Shocking Move, Replaced with Rookie Carr In undoubtedly the most shocking move this off-season, the defending Eastern League Champions sacked their general manager of five years, 53-year old Jack Clayton (537-541, .498). The Eagles improved each season under his watch and returned to the playoffs for the first time in 11 years, winning 96 games and the Pennant before succumbing to the Pulberry Trolleys in seven exciting games. But precious few details emerged as to the exact reason for the dismissal. Rumors are circulating that field manager Daryl Rowde had a hand in the move. Known to be temperamental, its believed that Rowde and Clayton did not get along and 83-year old owner Masaharu Koumura sided with the first-year manager. At any rate, the Eagles hired 47-year old Joe Carr, whose temperament appears to be more closely aligned with Rowde’s. This will be the Queensland-native’s first season as general manager. He is said to prefer veterans, hitting, power and OBP.  ----------- Trades: May 26 To Sherburn – 29-year old 1B Jay Durham (OOTP23 – 56/56; OOTP26 – 62/62) To Cambria – 27-year old CF Ryan Blenkhorn (OOTP23 – 44/44; OOTP26 – 42/42) and 24-year old minor league RHP Scottie Dubin (OOTP23 – 28/29; OOTP26 – 31/33) Knee-jerk reaction: For me, this shapes up to be a brilliant move by the Tigers’ GM, Bill Beeby. OF Blenkhorn was buried deep in Sherburn’s depth chart with no chance of making the lineup. Nevertheless, he is a solid defender anywhere in the outfield with blazing speed with a knack for making good contact, especially in hit and run situations. With Cambria, he will serve as the fourth outfielder, perhaps giving him a greater chance at starting when one of the starters goes down to injury. Durbin, a 5th-round pick in 1956-57, has good stuff (55/55) and four solid pitches. But a propensity for giving up the long ball will likely impact his chances of reaching the majors. Durham, a 7th overall pick from 1951-52, is a solid hitter right across the board who should provide a welcome spark to the Tigers’ lineup. Cambria has a logjam at first base even without Durham, with Calvin Hanbridge (OOTP26 – 63/64) and Carlos Corea (OOTP26 – 65/65) each vying for playing time, although Hanbridge has started at leftfield in the past. Durham should prove to be an immediate upgrade at first base for Sherburn and is penciled in to hit out of the No. 3 spot in the lineup. Interestingly, Durham takes over from 30-year old Archie Eridge (OOTP26 – 43/43), a former 1st-overall pick from the same draft class, but who has proven to be a big disappointment.   ----------- May 27 To Cobourg – 30-year old 1B/OF Juan Gonzáles (OOTP23 – 56/56; OOTP26 – 67/67) To Balmoral – 23-year old minor league RHP Juan Reyes (OOTP23 – 46/58; OOTP26 – 47/59) Knee-jerk reaction: The second trade involving the acquiring of a first baseman in the off-season and another coup in my opinion. Gonzáles entered the United Leagues from the Dominican Republic back in 1956 and divided his time between first base and leftfield. He is an outstanding all-round player with solid defense, speed to spare and impressive power at the plate. Last year, he hit 32 home runs and earned his first trip to the All-Star Game. So why Balmoral was so willing to part with him is a head-scratcher. It’s not like they have an equivalent player to take his place. With Cobourg, he is now rated as the No. 1-rated first baseman in the United Leagues and takes over from 8-time All-Star, 32-year old Harry Doxey (OOTP26 – 58/58). Doxey was a three-time Ball Hawk Award winner, but his overall play has begun to decline. That may be due to his age as well as his reputation for being unmotivated and lackadaisical. In Reyes, the Giants receive a young reliever with overpowering stuff, outstanding movement and two solid pitches. He should have no problem settling in as an anchor for any bullpen and may even be able to start on occasion. But it’s hard not to think that Balmoral got the short end of the stick on this trade.  
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04-21-2025, 09:51 AM
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#846 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
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 Once again, Braeland turns its attention to its second official holiday and most anticipated – Opening Day! Following the conclusion of the Coconut Leagues, the country is eager to follow its national pastime for what will be its 22nd season. It will also provide a welcome diversion for the nation as it turns aside from the outside pressures of the world. Following the conclusion of the Korean War in July of 1953, Braeland has been under increasing pressure to join ANZUS, the collective security treaty that was established between Australia, New Zealand and the United States in 1951. With the decline of British power in Asia, the possibility of a resurgent Japan and the growing threat of communism in the region, all three nations sought a broad Pacific security agreement that would address those fears. But by the time the resulting treaty went into effect on April 29, 1952, Braeland’s non-participation in the agreement was conspicuous. Despite increasing efforts from both the Dwight Eisenhower and Robert Menzies Administrations to engage Braeland in the negotiations, the country has remained aloof. Both the Douglas Avery and subsequent Wesley Bryans’ governments have consistently side-stepped and stalled its participation through the years, frustrating the other three countries and straining Braeland’s relationship with them. But the Avery and Bryans administrations have been merely bowing to the mood of the public. The ordeals of World War II and the Korean War are still fresh in the public’s mind and have made Braelanders leery of further unwanted military entanglements. Resentment, rightly or wrongly, has also spread at the increasing influence of the United States in the region, which has resulted in sporadic student protests at the country’s major universities. And with a federal election expected to be held sometime in the new year, the Bryans government is even less willing to anger the country, especially while its base of support remains fragile. Ironically, despite the outward resentment in general, American influence on the United Leagues continues and has resulted in a couple of positive steps leading up to Opening Day. The news back on February 6 that the Boston Red Sox of the American League made their star outfielder, Ted Williams, the highest paid player in Major League Baseball when they resigned him for $135,000 US resonated with the players of the United Leagues and threatened to raise the issue of inadequate remuneration and perhaps even revive calls for the removal of the reserve clause entirely. To head off any potential player unrest, Commissioner Okura Ito quietly convened an owner’s meeting in June with the objective of quickly gaining a consensus in raising the player salary base and in particular, the salary for players deemed the very best in the United Leagues. While an agreement to increase in the base salary was not reached, the Owners did agree in early July to raise the premier quality player’s salary to $172,000 in Braeland dollars going forward. That would put a star player’s salary in the United Leagues on par with the Splendid Splinter. It remains to be seen if a contract of the magnitude will be handed out anytime soon. Finally, with the announcement on March 11 that the American League would be making the wearing of batting helmets mandatory for all its clubs for the 1958 season, and after a number of National League clubs having already adopted it in years prior, the United Leagues announced that batting helmets will also be required for all players in its Leagues starting this season. Here are the results of the Coconut Leagues that have just been completed, as well pre-season predictions, player reports, selected career records that could be broken this season as well other news. ----------- New Logos and Uniforms Three teams unveiled new looks for this season. A couple were fairly significant while another was much more subtle. First, the Brunswick Legends made the first-ever update to their on-field look by adding stripes around the arms on both their home and away jerseys. That’s it. Everything else stays the same for this conservative organization. Reports of the earth wobbling slightly as a result of this earth-shattering makeover are unsubstantiated. The Embro Suns updated their uniforms for the first time in 13 years. Their new look includes an update to their primary logo as well as pinstripes on the home uniform. Also sporting a new look for the first time in 13 years are the Pulberry Trolleys. Besides a new logo, they have ditched the headspoon piping on both home and away uniforms and updated their team’s script.    ----------- Eastern League Results   --------- The Cobourg Redlegs finished at the top of the heap in the East in Spring Training and the projections suggest that that is not a fluke. What stands out for me is the projected performance for 30-year old Juan Gonzáles, the newly acquired first baseman the Redlegs received in a trade from the Balmoral Giants back in May. CF Raymond Williams and Gonzáles are pencilled in to bat out of the Nos. 3 and 4 spots respectively and are forecasted to hit a combined total of 75 home runs, 41 by Gonzáles alone. That would be the most by any player in the United Leagues this year if the projection holds up. But for the Redlegs to succeed, they will need the support around them in the lineup as well as in the rotation. That is where Cobourg could become really scary. In addition to their ace, 30-year old LHP Bill Budd (67/67), Cobourg has their 9th-overall pick from 1954-55, 24-year old RHP Albert Johnson (61/65) ensconced in the No. 2 spot. Scouts feel Johnson has the talent to grow into the role of an ace in his own right. If 22-year old RHP Lester Bell (51/78 – 3rd-round pick, 1954-55) and 23-year old LHP Lachlan Lloyd (50/53 – 5th-round pick, 1952-53) continue to develop, the Redlegs may indeed make some noise this season.  --------- Western League Results   --------- There’s just something about the Coconut Leagues that brings out the best in the Balmoral Giants. For the 8th time in 22 seasons, the Giants finished in top spot (in comparison, both the Embro Suns and Wellington Athletics have each finished first in Spring Training six times). The point of this useless information of course is that the results of Spring Training is completely arbitrary. Only once did the Giants make the playoffs in a year they ‘won’ the exhibition season. The projections in the West favor the Pulberry Trolleys. No surprise there, but once again, the Kingston Pelicans, Wolseley Unions, Sherburn Tigers and Giants appear to be in the mix for a serious playoff challenge. That did not pan out last season, as only the Tigers remained relevant throughout the season. But that may change. The Pelicans boast three players in the Top Hitters projection. 29-year old LF George Nipper (56/56 – 11th overall pick, 1948-49), 25-year old CF Dan Hasketh (73/74 – 1st overall pick, 1955-56) and 26-year old 1B Ira Bannatyne (62/63 – 2nd-round pick, 1950-51) are slated to bat 2-3-4 in the lineup. Hesketh is certainly the one to watch. The 1956-57 WL Rookie of the Year who has one All-Star selection already under his belt is rated as the 8th-best position player in the United Leagues and looks poised to challenge Pulberry’s 31-year old Cooper Tyson as the ULB’s top centerfielder. His defense, arm and speed are all off the charts and his batting instincts are not far behind. The Wolseley Unions have a trifecta of players showing up on the projections list as well, but in this case, it’s the Top Pitchers. 33-year old RHP Roberto Garza (67/67 – free agent signing) is the Unions’ long-time ace who may be joined by two other capable pitchers in the rotation. 22-year old RHP Theo Morse (59/72 – 2nd-round pick, 1953-54) and 25-year old RHP Yasuo Yamauchi (49/53 – 2nd-round pick, 1955-56) are projected to have impressive seasons this year. Morse has elite stuff (75/80) while Yamauchi is capable of developing into a No. 2 starter in his own right if the scouts are correct. The big question mark for the Unions is their lineup. They have a couple of aging stars in 37-year old 1B Carlton Hawking (61/61) and 37-year old SS George Kimpton (50/50) who will be looked to in leading the offense once again, along with some young players they are hoping will reach their potential. After playing 16 years in leftfield, Hawking will move to first base this season, making way for 24-year old OF Steven Burkill (50/51 – 6th-round pick, 1953-54, acquired from Stratford Barons in April 1957). Wolseley also has 24-year old RF Jonathan Higgins (49/59 – 2nd overall pick, 1955-56) and 23-year old CF Jack Jarrom (43/63 – 1st overall pick, 1956-57) who provide some hope for the offense going forward.    --------- Opening Day Reports Here are the various player reports as updated for Opening Day:        --------- Leaderboard Watch The following are Career Records capable of being broken this season. In short, it looks like it will be a tough year for the Babe, er, I mean for future Hall of Famer, Stuart Bentham. No less than five of his career records are set to fall this season, in addition to the one broken last year:        
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04-21-2025, 10:35 AM
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#847 | |
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All Star Starter
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Location: NJ
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04-22-2025, 12:46 AM
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#848 | |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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04-24-2025, 12:27 AM
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#849 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
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October 20, 1958
Mid-Month Snapshot Barely two weeks into the new season and already there are plenty of highlights to talk about:
 ----------- Here are the Standings after the first two weeks of play:    -----------    ----------- Highlights October 12 – Cobourg’s Raymond Williams Ties Career Home Run Record 32-year old CF Raymond Williams (.372/.442/.698, 3 HR, 13 RBI, 5 BB, 209 OPS+, 209 wRC+, 0.8 WAR) entered the season just three home runs shy of the career record, held by Stuart Bentham, who retired with 333. Williams didn’t waste any time beginning his assault, hitting a 2-run home run on Opening Day in Cobourg’s 6-0 win over the Queensland Eagles. Six days later he tied it, thanks to a two home run performance. He hit a two-run home run in the 1st inning, then a 3-run home run in the 8th, both off Stratford Barons’ RHP Joseph Sellwood. Williams went 2 for 3, with 2 R, 5 RBI, 1 BB on the afternoon and was responsible for all of the Redlegs’ runs in their 5-2 win. Now the watch is on for his next homer which will make United Leagues history.  -------- October 13 – Carlton Hawking Sets All New Career Doubles Record In front of the home crowd, Wolseley’s Carlton Hawking (.306/.340/.429, 1 HR, 9 RBI, 3 BB, 108 OPS+, 115 wRC+, -0.1 WAR) became the United Leagues’ all-time doubles leader in a game against the Sherburn Tigers. In the bottom of the 4th inning and trailing 7-0 with a runner on first, Hawking connected on RHP Kieran Bunce’s 1-0 offering, sending it into the gap in left centerfield for double number 478. That moved him past Stuart Bentham on the all-time list. After the crowd gave him a standing ovation, the fans got more excitement when LF Steven Burkill immediately followed with a 3-run home run to get the Unions on the board. Alas, Wolseley ended up falling to the Tigers, 14-5. Hawking went 2 for 4, 1 R, 1 RBI, 1BB on the day.  -------- October 14 – Pi-ao Quian & Aaron Saunderson Set New Record of 252 Career Wins on Same Day Quian Throws 1-hit Shutout, Saunderson Smacks Grand Slam to Help Own Cause Brunswick Legends’ RHP Pi-ao Quian and Wolseley Unions’ RHP Aaron Saunderson entered the season tied with Hall of Famer Anastasio Rodríguez for most career wins. So, it was only fitting that both set a new record of 252 on the same day. In his first start of the season, the 41-year old Quian (1-0, 0.00 ERA, 0.22 WHIP, 2.19 FIP) dazzled the struggling Embro Suns, surrendering just one hit and going the distance in the Legends’ 5-0 victory. Embro’s only hit came in the fourth inning, when 2B Napana Mamo lined a one-out single into shallow left-center. The Taiwanese-born Quian went 9.0 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 3 K, 108 PI, GS: 87 on the mound. Further out west, Wolseley’s Aaron Saunderson (1-1, 5.87 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 2.98 FIP) was making his second start of the young season. The 18-year veteran limited the visiting Sherburn Tigers to one run off of seven hits through the first five innings with the Unions holding onto a 2-1 lead. In the bottom of the 5th, LF Steven Burkill led off with a first-pitch solo home run to increase Wolseley’s lead. 3B Carlos Ortíz and 1B Harry Herold then hit singles before 2B Kane Viccars was hit by a pitch to load the bases with one out. That set up Saunderson, who jumped on LHP Kozue Saito’s first offering, sending it 343 ft. into the amazed leftfield stands for a GRAND SLAM home run. It was the Australian’s first home run in six years and the eighth of his career. That home run proved to be the difference, as the Tigers mounted a furious comeback in the 8th inning, scoring 5 runs to make the score 7-6 and knocking Saunderson out of the game. But the Unions would get an insurance run in the bottom of the 8th to give their two-time Satchel Paige Award winner his record-setting 252nd career win and keep pace with Pi-ao Quian. Saunderson’s line on the day was 7.1 IP, 11 H, 6 R, 6 ER, 1 BB, 3 K, 1 HR, 121 PI, GS: 34.  
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United Leagues of Braeland Last edited by reds1; 04-29-2025 at 09:37 AM. |
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04-27-2025, 01:36 AM
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#850 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
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November 1, 1958
Eastern League: Monarchs, Chiefs Start Off Strong   --------   The Braeland City Monarchs got off to their best start in 10 years, winning 17 games in October and squeezing past the Downie Chiefs on the last day of the month to take over first place. They achieved that through solid play on both sides of the ball and strong defense, but there is still plenty of room for improvement. They are waiting on a number of players to find their groove. They will need that if they hope to continue their success. Third-year starter LHP Charlie Honeysett (42/62 – 2nd-round pick, 1953-54) and sophomore stopper RHP Ramón González (77/77 – 2nd-round pick, 1957-58) are off to impressive starts and offer hope that they can soon form the nucleus of a solid pitching staff. Notable Performers
Rotation
Bullpen
--------   The Downie Chiefs got off their best start in nine years and held onto top spot in the East for longer than any other team in October until dropping their final three games and falling a half-game back of the Monarchs. Their early success is due to a surprisingly strong pitching staff, led by sophomore LHP Lucas Franklin (47/47 – 2nd-round pick, 1954-55) and 5-year veteran LHP Quinn Merrifield (46/46 – 2nd-round pick, 1952-53) in the rotation and LHP Ronald Leggett (40/40 – waiver claim from Brunswick, 1956) in the bullpen. Leggett, who spent 6 seasons in the minors before being promoted to the majors this season, won Rookie of the Month honors in October. But some of Downie’s early success may not be sustainable. While they were a pedestrian 8-7 at home, then went 8-1 on the road, went 4-0 in extra-inning games and went 6-1 in one-run games. Notable Performers
Rotation
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--------   The Wellington Athletics occupied first place the first week of the season with a 6-1 record (like Downie) but a 4-game losing streak dropped them back and they having been playing catch up since then. The Athletics have been solid on both sides of the ball, especially on offense. But they are still waiting for their defending Babe Ruth Award winner, 31-year old LF Matthew Floyd (.270/.356/.393, 2 HR, 10 RBI, 10 BB, 4 SB, 115 ERA+, 0.4 WAR), to break out of an uncharacteristically slow start. They will also need more consistency from the backend of their rotation to keep up in the East. Notable Performers
Rotation
Bullpen
--------   The Brunswick Legends started off slow, going 1-6 and mired near the basement until a 6-game winning streak in the third week of the month pulled them back into relevancy. Their lineup has been doing most of the heavy lifting, led by their clean-up hitter and two-time all-star, 1B Jay Mitchell (56/56 – 11th overall pick, 1951-52). But their pitching staff, while not terrible, will need to step up as a whole. They cannot continue to rely on their ageless wonder, 41-year old RHP Pi-ao Quian (46/46), forever. Notable Performers
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Player of the Week Awards: October 20 – 2B Harley Truman (.455, 10 H, 3 HR, 12 RBI) October 27 – CF Tae-hyang Lee (.520, 13 H, 2 HR, 13 RBI, 6 R) Milestone Watch October 20 – RHP Pi-ao Quian earned his record-setting 253rd career win against the Stratford Barons by pitching the Legends to a 4-3 victory in Stratford. The game was tied 3-3 heading into the top of the 9th where PH Ismael García (.467/.500/.867, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 1 BB, 266 OPS+, 0.4 WAR) led off and smacked a solo home run down the rightfield line. Quian made the lead hold up, shutting down the Barons in the bottom of the 9th. Quian went 9.0 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 1 BB, 3 K, 1 HR, 104 PI, GS: 65. Quian held sole position in career wins until the 31st, when Wolseley Unions’ starter Aaron Saunderson won his 253rd as well. --------   After winning the Eastern League Pennant last season with 96 victories, the Queensland Eagles found themselves near the bottom of the standings in October. At one point, they sat at 4-10 before recovering somewhat to finish the month in 5th place. Surprisingly, the pitching has been the culprit, something that has long been the calling card for this club. Last year’s Satchel Paige Award winner, 31-year old RHP Stiofan Micklethwait (1-4, 4.71 ERA, 36.1 IP, 1.27 WHIP, 3.64 FIP, 74 ERA+), is off to particularly slow start, but he is not alone. The entire staff has been underwhelming in the early going. Notable Performers
Rotation
--------   Projected to be a playoff contender this season, the Cobourg Redlegs have in fact have been chronically inconsistent, something that is not new to this outfit. The rotation has been doing its part, but the offense and bullpen have struggled. 30-year old 1B Juan Gonzáles (.163/.214/.380, 6 HR, 16 RBI, 6 BB, 61 OPS+, -0.2 WAR), after being acquired from the Balmoral Giants in the offseason and after lighting up Spring Training, has been awful and getting worse as the month progressed. The Redlegs need him and the majority of the lineup to get hot come November if they want to get back into the thick of things. Cobourg currently has four starters batting below .200. That’s not going to cut it. Notable Performers
Rotation
Player of the Week Awards: October 13 – CF Raymond Williams (.474, 9 H, 3 HR, 4 RBI, 12 R) Noteworthy: October 26 – CF Raymond Williams started off the month strong, hitting two home runs on Opening Day and another six days later to tie Stuart Bentham for most career home runs at 333. But Williams quickly went cold at the plate and has hit just one home run in the last 17 games. But that fourth one was historic, nonetheless. In a game against the Queensland Eagles, Raymond Williams launched a one-out solo home run against RHP Logan Belsey out to the rightfield bleachers in the top of the third inning to become the United Leagues’ new home run king with 334. That made the score 3-0. Cobourg went on to win, 9-2. Williams line was 1 for 3, 1 R, 1 RBI, 1 BB, 2 K.   --------   The Stratford Barons have qualified for the playoffs in five of the previous six seasons and looked to continue that success early in the month when they were just two games back of first and enjoying a 4-game winning streak. But the Barons then lost the next 8 games which saw them tumble almost all the way to the basement. Stratford have yet to recover. But its still early and the Barons appear strong enough to bet their bearings. Curiously, the stats indicate their offense is suspect, but they have a number of players in the lineup who doing well at the plate even if they have been streaky at times. Notable Performers
Rotation
--------   The Embro Suns started the season with six straight losses and things haven’t improved much since then. They are off to their worst start in their 22-year existence (they started 8-19 in October 1948). And there is plenty of blame to go around as they are wanting in all departments. They went just 3-12 on the road in October and the schedule will not be kind to them, as they will have a whopping 23 road games in November, mostly against Western League teams. Help may be on the way soon, as they have 23-year old CF Rob Puckeridge (44/61 – 2nd round pick, 1957-58), who continues to tear up Triple-A. Scouts feel the Australian native is ready to start in the majors. They also have 24-year old LF Craig Townson (49/61 – 3rd round pick, 1957-58) who was just promoted to Triple-A. He has started off strong as well and could find his way to the majors before too long. Notable Performers
Rotation
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04-28-2025, 01:07 AM
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#851 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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November 1, 1958
Western League: Tight Race Led by Cambria, Pulberry   --------   The Cambria Cannons started off strong, going 7-2 and holding down top spot in the West for most of the month. They stumbled a bit (2-5) to end the month, allowing Pulberry to catch up with them. Their early success is attributable to their potent offense and that is even without their defending Babe Ruth Award winner, RF Sam Tite (80/80) playing up to the stratospheric level he reached last season. If he catches fire though, watch out. Their pitching staff has been merely serviceable, but that alone amounts to an improvement from previous seasons. RHP Leo Lukies (54/58 – 2nd-round pick, 1957-58) won Rookie of the Month honors in October. The England native, currently ranked No. 7 among prospects, has been installed as the Cannons No. 2 starter and is a most welcome addition to the rotation. Cambria is hoping that No. 1 starter, 23-year old sophomore LHP Derek Willday (2-2, 4.31 ERA, 31.1 IP, 1.28 WHIP, 3.50 FIP, 82 ERA+ - 51/59), will grow into his role. In a game against Sherburn on October 22, he was knocked out of the game after surrendering 7 runs in the first two innings. The Cannons fell to the Tigers, 11-4. But just five days later, Willday pitched 7.2 innings, allowing just one hit and one earned run while striking out 7, leading the Cannons to an 8-1 win over the Pulberry Trolleys. Notable Performers
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Player of the Week Awards: October 20 – 1B Carlos Corea (.522, 12 H, 4 RBI, 2 R) October 27 – 3B Louis Torres (.435, 10 H, 3 HR, 8 RBI, 8 R) --------   For the past several seasons, the defending United Cup champions Pulberry Trolleys, have bolted out of the gate to start the season to either take control of the West in the early going or keep pace with an upstart. This year, they experienced some adversity in the early going. Although going a pedestrian 6-7 to start the month however, they bounced back with a 6-game winning streak and finished the month on an 8-3 tear to pull into a tie with the Cambrian Cannons for first place as the calendar turns to November. While the pitching staff remains strong, the lineup has not been as impressive. 30-year old LF Aidan Thirkettle (.216/.324/.443, 4 HR, 14 RBI, 12 BB, 117 ERA+, 0.7 WAR) has gotten off to a particularly slow start by his lofty standards. Notable Performers
Rotation
--------   The Wolseley Unions were mired in last place after the first week of the season but then went 12-6 the rest of the way to get to within a half-game of first place. Their lineup and rotation have been fairly steady with some young players growing into their roles. But there is still much improvement being looked for if the Unions hope to escape the second division for the first time in five years. In addition to the young talent they have on the roster right now, they are also anticipating the addition of 23-year old CF Carlton Monroe (38/62 – 5th overall pick, 1957-58) who is still developing in Triple-A. Notable Performers
Rotation
Bullpen
Milestone Watch October 31 – 39-year old RHP Aaron Saunderson (2-1, 3.42 ERA, 39.1 IP, 1.22 WHIP, 2.79 FIP, 110 ERA+) pitched a fine game against the visiting Cambria Cannons, going all 9 nines while surrendering 3 earned runs off 7 hits for a 5-3 victory. Cambria tied the game up a 3-apiece in the top of 6th thanks to a 2-run triple by CF Kilipeka Maleko. But a misplayed ball in centerfield on a 2B Kane Viccars single plated two in the bottom of the 6th to put the Unions up for good. With that win, Saunderson pulled back into a two-way tie with Brunswick’s Pi-ao Quian for most career wins with 253. --------   It appears the Balmoral Giants will be a streaky bunch this season. After losing their first four games, they then went on a seven game winning streak. Then they lost six of their next seven games before winning five of their next seven to finish the month. Which means that its still too early to predict just how they’ll fare this season. Nevertheless, for a team that hasn’t finished with a winning record in four years, simply getting to .500 over the course of a season would be an accomplishment. The Giants simply do not have any standout franchise players to build around as yet, making this a rather nondescript outfit at the moment. Notable Performers
Rotation
Bullpen
--------   Like the Giants, the Hespeler Stars are a largely nondescript bunch that are still searching for their first winning season in 20 years. They are the last remaining team in the ULB who have yet to qualify for the postseason. But they might have just gained a couple of players who will develop some name recognition if not name confusion. 26-year old C Aidan Bennie (.277/.330/.398, 1 HR, 10 RBI, 5 BB, 95 OPS+, 0.5 WAR), who won the Western League Batting Crown last season, has been joined in the lineup by rookie and #6-rated prospect 21-year old SS Alistair Benney (46/71 – 3rd overall pick, 1955-56). Similar last names and same initials on the same team at the same time. Yikes! But if they both develop into the premier players they are projected to become, no one will be complaining. It’s been a long time since the Stars had any players that had the potential to generate any kind of excitement. But these two may be worthwhile following. Notable Performers
Rotation
Bullpen
--------   The Sherburn Tigers are in trouble. They have an impressive lineup in the early going but both their pitching staff and defence have tanked. That has seen them struggle out of the gate. Granted, the race in the West is still very tight, but the dearth of quality pitching is alarming, and they have no up-and-coming arms in the farm system to help them. It will be interesting to see if they can right the ship or whether their playoff window has closed. Notable Performers
Rotation
--------   The Fort Richmond Generals find themselves near the bottom of the standings after one month, which is not unexpected since the projections have them finishing in last place. The offense or lack thereof, is the main culprit. They have a couple of nice pieces in the minors that one day should provide a boost. 21-year old IF/OF Kinnard Patching (36/58 – 2nd-round pick, 1956-57) was promoted to Triple-A this season and is off to a promising start. He is projected to be an above average power hitter. Their top prospect, 22-year old OF Sami Michel (45/79 – 2nd-overall pick, 1957-58) is still in Double-A and ruptured his Achillies tendon 10 games into the season. Unfortunately, the No. 2 ranked prospect is gone for the season. Notable Performers
Rotation
Bullpen
--------   The Kingston Pelicans were projected to compete this season but a 3-13 stretch in the middle of October, which also included a 7-game losing streak, has put them behind in the early going. Still, there’s lots of season left and the Pelicans are developing an exciting young core that has the potential to make their lineup a powerhouse one day. They have more on the way as well. The closest is 24-year old 3B Ron Higson (47/51 – 2nd-round pick, 1956-57) who is currently in Triple-A. He is forecasted to become a power hitter with few weaknesses at the plate. Kingston’s top prospect, 19-year old OF Puck Zwager (20/72 – 4th-overall pick, 1956-57, #9-rated prospect) remains in Double-A trying to figure things out. Notable Performers
Rotation
Bullpen
Player of the Week Awards: October 13 – CF Dan Hesketh (.515, 17 H, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 4 R) --------  
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04-29-2025, 09:40 AM
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#852 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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November 17, 1958
Mid-Month Snapshot We’re now six weeks into the regular season. Here are some items that caught my eye:
Here is a snapshot of the Leagues after a month and a half of play. -----------    -----------    ----------- Highlights October 28 – Jorge Arredondo Sets New Career Runs Record In a milestone that I completely overlooked, 37-year old 3B Jorge Arredondo (.225/.322/.302, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 19 BB, 71 OPS+, 79 wRC+, 0.1 WAR) surpassed Stuart Benthan for most career runs on October 28 in a game against the Queensland Eagles in Brunswick. Arredondo entered the game tied for the record. In the bottom of the 1st, the 16-year veteran reached base on a fielders choice against RHP Kaula Mafileo. After advancing to 3B on a single by CF Tae-hyang Lee and another fielders choice by 2B Harley Truman, SS Harris Yaag singled home Arredondo to get the Legends on the board. That was the Arredondo’s 20th run of the season and 1,423rd of his career, the most in United Leagues history. However, the Eagles would pull out the victory with a C Robbie Leivers solo home run in the top of the 10th inning and hold on for a 7-6 win.   -------- November 11 – Pulberry’s Ellis Dibble Rips Five Hits Against Embro For the fourth time in his career, 33-year old 1B Ellis Dibble (.316/.379/.487, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 16 BB, 145 OPS+, 157 wRC+, 1.5 WAR) hit everything that came his way, collecting 5 hits in 5 at bats. Dibble singled four times and hit a solo shot off Embro’s RHP Bob Nord in the 3rd inning. Pulberry’s lead-off hitter collected 2 R and 1 RBI. But the Suns rose to the occasion and rained on his parade, winning 10-7. -------- November 13-14 – Jon Berose Goes on Two-Game Tear Against Fort Richmond, Kingston Downie Chiefs’ LF Jon Berose (.346/.383/.542, 5 HR, 17 RBI, 8 BB, 159 OPS+, 167 wRC+, 1.9 WAR) is enjoying a fantastic start to his rookie campaign. The # 1 ranked prospect enjoyed a two-game offensive outburst against two different clubs. In the first game, Berose went 3 for 5 with two singles and a two-out, three-run home run against Fort Richmond’s RHP Damon Pinney, helping the Chiefs to a 7-3 road win. The next afternoon in Kingston, the Kingston-native pounded two more home runs, a 3-run homer against the Pelicans’ LHP Logan Hoadley and a 2-run home run against LHP Senzo Hiroyuki, both with two outs as well. The Chiefs triumphed 8-5. In those two games, Berose batted .500/.500/1.400, 3 HR, 8 RBI, 4 R in 10 at-bats. 
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05-04-2025, 09:30 PM
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#853 | |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: Dec 2001
Posts: 2,522
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Quote:
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05-05-2025, 12:55 AM
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#854 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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December 1, 1958
Eastern League: Monarchs Lead Close Race for First   --------   The Braeland City Monarchs continue to cling to first place in the East despite a mediocre November. They remain pretty solid on both sides of the ball but are still looking for key players like 2B Patrick Lidgate (73/73 – 1st overall pick, 1947-48) to pick up their game. He appears to have begun doing that in the last few games. RHP Jonathan Brookins (49/52 – 15th overall pick, 1952-53) caught fire in November to win his first Pitcher of the Month honor. Since being drafted by the Downie Chiefs, he has been traded twice and finally saw regular playing time with Braeland City two seasons ago where he picked up 22 saves and 14 wins. This season he has moved into the rotation as the Monarchs’ ace and has been impressive thus far. Notable Performers 28-year old RF Aidan Trembath (.302/.363/.511, 11 HR, 40 RBI, 18 BB, 133 OPS+, 1.4 WAR) 34-year old 1B Dean Witherden (.285/.355/.510, 8 HR, 22 RBI, 17 BB, 131 OPS+, 1.2 WAR) 33-year old 2B Patrick Lidgate (.218/.324/.460, 10 HR, 25 RBI, 27 BB, 9 SB, 190 OPS+, 1.4 WAR) Rotation 24-year old RHP Jonathan Brookins (8-2, 2.68 ERA, 84.0 IP, 1.15 WHIP, 2.48 FIP, 145 ERA+) 22-year old LHP Charlie Honeysett (4-5, 3.06 ERA, 64.21 IP, 1.34 WHIP, 3.78 FIP, 127 ERA+) 26-year old RHP Dara Eaddy (6-4, 3.28 ERA, 74.0 IP, 1.45 WHIP, 3.64 FIP, 118 ERA+) Bullpen 23-year old RHP Ramón González (2-2, 11 SV, 1.82 ERA, 39.2 IP, 1.03 WHIP, 2.90 FIP, 214 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: December 1 – 2B Patrick Lidgate (.545, 12 H, 4 HR, 6 RBI) --------   Like the Monarchs, the Downie Chiefs cooled off in November and failed to gain any ground and remain a half back of first place, just as they were a month ago. After years of being a weak spot, the pitching continues to be a pleasant surprise. This is exemplified by RHP Eddie Stannard (45/45- 2nd round pick, 1949/50). Acquired in a trade from the Brunswick Legends in January 1952, the 8-year veteran has pitched mostly out of the bullpen during his career but has begun pitching exclusively out of the rotation for the first time this season. In fact, it’s been three seasons since he last started a game. But he has already matched his personal high of six wins in a season after just eight starts. In 1955-56, he started 11 games and went 6-3, 2.25 ERA, 104.0 IP. Although he is currently the Chiefs’ No. 4 starter, he has been their best pitcher to start the season. Notable Performers 23-year old rookie LF Jon Berose (.328/.381/.505, 6 HR, 21 RBI, 15 BB, 149 OPS+, 2.2 WAR) 28-year old 2B José Olivarez (.293/.333/.497, 9 HR, 18 RBI, 10 BB, 132 OPS+, 2.0 WAR) 27-year old 3B Freddie Ogburn (.317/.359/.585, 8 HR, 22 RBI, 8 BB, 163 OPS+, 1.6 WAR) 30-year old 1B Louie Revill (.258/.311/.500, 11 HR, 28 RBI, 13 BB, 126 OPS+, 0.9 WAR) 26-year old CF Ewan Komaki (.250/.317/.436, 8 HR, 26 RBI, 17 BB, 111 OPS+, 0.8 WAR) Rotation 30-year old RHP Eddie Stannard (6-0, 2.08 ERA, 52.0 IP, 1.02 WHIP, 3.44 FIP, 171 ERA+) 27-year old RHP Stefan Rankin (5-2, 2.83 ERA, 70.0 IP, 1.40 WHIP, 3.54 FIP, 125 ERA+) 27-year old LHP Lucas Franklin (3-6, 2.89 ERA, 84.0 IP, 1.25 WHIP, 4.29 FIP, 123 ERA+) Bullpen 24-year old stopper RHP Frank Greggs (3-0, 7 SV, 2.91 ERA, 43.1 IP, 1.08 WHIP, 3.53 FIP, 122 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: November 17 – LF Jon Berose (.455, 15 H, 4 HR, 9 RBI, 11 R) November 24 – CF Ewan Komaki (.412, 7 H, 5 HR, 10 RBI, 5 R) --------   The Wellington Athletics continue to remain within striking distance of first place despite an uneven month. After starting November with an 8-game winning streak that began in late October, the Athletics immediately embarked on a 6-game losing streak that saw them fall out of a first-place tie with Braeland City. Still, they remain a remarkably balanced squad that is remaining competitive despite the loss of their centerfielder, 26-year old Greg Yates (.297/.352/.468, 3 HR, 16 RBI, 9 BB, 133 OPS+, 1.4 WAR), to injury. The May 1956 trade with the Fort Richmond Generals is starting to pay dividends this season. In that trade, the Athletics acquired RF Wan-hua Gu (75/79, 2nd-round pick, 1953-54) and RHP Kazunori Fujimoto (47/47, 15th-overall pick, 1949-50). Gu has developed into the 6th-best position player in the United Leagues and is thriving as Wellington’s clean-up hitter. Fujimoto’s career has been more circuitous. After Wellington acquired him from Fort Richmond, they released him in March 1957. He then signed a minor league deal with the Kingston Pelicans five days later. Three months later, he was traded back to the Athletics. Since then, he has returned to the Athletics’ rotation and is currently their ace. Notable Performers 23-year old RF Wan-hua Gu (.337/.369/.526, 7 HR, 32 RBI, 11 BB, 4 SB, 153 OPS+, 2.4 WAR) 31-year old LF Matthew Floyd (.307/.382/.479, 6 HR, 27 RBI, 21 BB, 9 SB, 145 ERA+, 1.7 WAR) 32-year old 1B Carlos Camasura (.317/.412/.413, 2 HR, 19 RBI, 27 BB, 137 OPS+, 1.2 WAR) Rotation 32-year old RHP Kazunori Fujimoto (5-4, 2.91 ERA, 74.1 IP, 1.08 WHIP, 2.99 FIP, 111 ERA+) 27-yearold RHP Mike Murray (4-4, 2.92 ERA, 83.1 IP, 1.18 WHIP, 3.85 FIP, 111 ERA+) Bullpen 25-year old stopper RHP Christian Wiley (4-1, 9 SV, 1.60 ERA, 39.1 IP, 0.99 WHIP, 2.82 FIP, 202 ERA+) 39-year old RHP Rizal Doctolero (1-1, 1 SV, 1.71 ERA, 21.0 IP, 1.24 WHIP, 3.30 FIP, 189 ERA+) --------   The Cobourg Redlegs remain a wildly inconsistent bunch. They started off November with a 7-game winning streak only to follow it with a 1-6 stretch and then ended the month 2-6 following a 4-game winning streak. The offense and bullpen are not where they need to be, although there may be some positive signs if one looks hard enough. 30-year old 1B Juan Gonzáles (.195/.268/.437, 13 HR, 30 RBI, 15 BB, 90 OPS+, 0.5 WAR) made modest improvements in November, batting .232/.323/.500 and leads the United Leagues in home runs. 29-year old stopper RHP Brian McDaniel (2-6, 10 SV, 4.13 ERA, 32.2 IP, 1.19 WHIP, 4.45 FIP, 89 ERA+ - 60/60) was outstanding in November (0-1, 8 SV, 1.02 ERA, 17.2 IP, 1 HR, 1 BB) after a rough October (2-5, 1 SV, 7.80 ERA, 15.0 IP, 7 HR, 6 BB). He is currently rated the No. 1 reliever in the United Leagues. Notable Performers 27-year old SS Douglas Jones (.278/.355/.455, 7 HR, 24 RBI, 19 BB, 120 OPS+, 1.9 WAR) 32-year old LF Raymond Williams (.236/.328/.414, 6 HR, 25 RBI, 22 BB, 102 OPS+, 0.5 WAR) Rotation 30-year old LHP Bill Budd (6-3, 1.88 ERA, 96.0 IP, 1.08 WHIP, 2.70 FIP, 197 ERA+) 24-year old LHP Lachlan Lloyd (5-2, 2.54 ERA, 71.0 IP, 1.31 WHIP, 4.09 FIP, 145 ERA+) 33-year old LHP Axel Mackay (2-2, 2.61 ERA, 38.0 IP, 1.37 WHIP, 3.34 FIP, 142 ERA+) 22-year old RHP Lester Bell (5-4, 3.07 ERA, 76.1 IP, 1.11 WHIP, 3.29 FIP, 120 ERA+) --------   The Queensland Eagles continued their mediocre ways, with the pitching and defense being the main culprits, while the offense is largely unremarkable. There were some signs of improvement in the rotation. RHP Stiofan Micklethwait (70/70 – 9th overall pick, 1946-47) seemed to return to form in November, going 3-2, 1.88 ERA, 48.0 IP, 1.23 WHIP. No. 3 starter, 34-year old RHP Tyler Gissing (5-2, 1 SV, 3.90 ERA, 62.1 IP, 1.52 WHIP, 3.86 FIP, 90 ERA+) also picked up his game last month (2-1, 2.50 ERA, 36.0 IP, 1.28 WHIP). Notable Performers 32-year old 1B Rod Dennis (.308/.405/.519, 9 HR, 32 HR, 29 BB, 159 OPS+, 1.4 WAR) 25-year old 2B Dennis Purcell (.257/.381/.485, 8 HR, 30 RBI, 33 BB, 143 OPS+, 1.9 WAR) 28-year old CF Matsuo Oyama (.248/.304/.496, 7 HR, 23 RBI, 8 BB, 122 OPS+, 0.8 WAR) Rotation 31-year old RHP Stiofan Micklethwait (4-6, 3.09 ERA, 84.1 IP, 1.25 WHIP, 3.41 FIP, 120 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: November 3 – 1B Rod Dennis (.500, 13 H, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 6 R) --------   After an 8-game losing streak in early November that saw them fall to the basement, the Stratford Barons salvaged the month by going 12-5 the rest of the way. Their most pressing need it seems is to revitalize a struggling offense. Future Hall of Famers, 32-year old CF Alfonso León (.213/.277/.330, 3 HR, 18 RBI, 17 BB, 68 OPS+, -0.1 WAR) and 39-year old C Aaron Skidmore (.206/.320/.262, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 19 BB, 64 OPS+, 0.0 WAR), are showing their age it would seem. The Barons have LF Don North (54/54 – 13th overall pick, 1949-50) in the starting lineup on a regular basis for the first time in six seasons and it appears that he is taking advantage of it. Down in Triple-A, both 25-year old 1B David Livesley (50/51 – 3rd-round pick, 1951-52 by Cambria) and 23-year old RF Conor Foulsham (39/55 – 2nd-round pick, 1957-58) are thriving and could give the major league lineup a boost in the not-too-distant future. Notable Performers 29-year old 3B Walter Beauvais (.327/.379/.481, 1 HR, 13 HR, 12 BB, 137 OPS+, 1.8 WAR) 27-year old LF Don North (.277/.368/.416, 6 HR, 21 RBI, 23 BB, 117 OPS+, 1.0 WAR) Rotation 30-year old LHP Robin Wadsworth (5-6, 2.59 ERA, 83.1 IP, 1.20 WHIP, 3.23 FIP, 135 ERA+) 34-year old RHP Stephan Tindall (5-3, 2.77 ERA, 65.0 IP, 1.26 WHIP, 3.85 FIP, 126 ERA+) 32-year old RHP Bill Wolf (3-3, 3.00 ERA, 72.0 IP, 1.26 WHIP, 3.99 FIP, 116 ERA+) Bullpen 28-year old RHP Glen Limon (2-1, 1 SV, 2.95 ERA, 21.1 IP, 1.45 WHIP, 3.62 FIP, 118 ERA+) --------   The Brunswick Legends slipped further down the standings in the East during November and it’s clear that they are at a crossroads. Despite winning 97 games and the Pennant two seasons ago and their focus remaining on ‘win now’, they are primed for a rebuild. They have a number of prospects developing in Triple-A that could soon give them a boost in the rotation and lineup. Florida-born 19-year old RHP Martín López (28/64 – 16th overall pick, 1957-58) was just promoted to Triple-A after going 6-2, 1.43 ERA, 88.0 IP, 1.03 WHIP, 2.37 FIP, 244 ERA+ in Double-A this season. Scouts feel the 11th-rated overall prospect has the potential to be a front-of-the-rotation starter one day. The Legends top-rated position player, 23-year old OF Christie Eldred (46/63 – 13th overall pick, 1956-57 by Sherburn), was promoted to Triple-A late last season and is showing promise. The 12th-rated overall prospect was acquired in January 1958 when the Legends shipped 7-time all-star C Robert Kersey (77/77) to the Sherburn Tigers. Notable Performers 30-year old 2B Harley Truman (.317/.377/.633, 11 HR, 38 RBI, 17 BB, 4 SB, 169 OPS+, 3.2 WAR) 28-year old 1B Jay Mitchell (.293/.373/.527, 9 RBI, 27 RBI, 22 BB, 4 SB, 142 OPS+, 0.8 WAR) 24-year old CF Yae-hyang Lee (.329/.374/.517, 4 HR, 29 RBI, 9 BB, 140 OPS+, 1.6 WAR) Rotation 26-year old RHP Dave Ball (3-5, 3.50 ERA, 82.1 IP, 1.30 WHIP, 3.42 FIP, 109 ERA+) Bullpen 33-year old RHP Byron Ollson (2-4, 2 SV, 2.54 ERA, 28.1 IP, 1.24 WHIP, 3.06 FIP, 151 ERA+) 28-year old rookie LHP Won-suk Ko (2-2, 2.52 ERA, 25.0 IP, 1.40 WHIP, 2.65 FIP, 152 ERA+) --------   The Embro Suns bounced back in November, winning twice as many games as they did in October. But they still find themselves in the basement. They are being undermined by a rotation that is in shambles and a porous defense. And they do not have any promising young pitchers in their farm system that can help. That is something they are going to have to try and address in the upcoming Amateur Draft. The lineup has been a pleasant surprise, however. RF Bill Spaeth (54/56 – 2nd overall pick, 1950-51 by Hespeler) was sensational in November, going .371/.418/.645, 4 HR, 21 RBI, 5 BB. The 6-year veteran was acquired from the Hespeler Stars in January 1955 and has been largely a disappointment, apart from his rookie season when he won a trip to the All-Star Game. He has just been moved into the three-hole for the Suns. Notable Performers 28-year old RF Bill Spaeth (.306/.364/.488, 4 HR, 24 RBI, 11 BB, 133 OPS+, 0.5 WAR) 31-year old 2B Napana Mamo (.301/.350/.475, 7 HR, 28 HR, 14 BB, 126 OPS+, 1.3 WAR) 25-year old 1B Damien Whetter (.264/.367/.395, 3 HR, 15 RBI, 20 BB, 111 OPS+, 0.7 WAR) Rotation None. Bullpen 27-year old stopper RHP Rob Gladstone (3-2, 3 SV, 1.78 ERA, 35.1 IP, 1.16 WHIP, 2.75 FIP, 198 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: November 10 – 2B Napana Mamo (.435, 10 H, 2 HR, 8 RBI) Highlights November 28 – The Suns went into Hespeler for a three-game set to cap off the month and put on an offensive clinic, sweeping the three games by scores of 16-1, 12-9 and 13-6. In the first game, CF Bill Spaeth collected five of Embro’s 19 hits, going 5 for 6, 1 R, 7 RBI. On the afternoon, he singled in the 1st, hit an RBI triple in the 3rd, a 3-run double in the 4th, grounded out in the 6th, hit a 2-run single in the 7th and an RBI double in the 9th. --------  
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United Leagues of Braeland Last edited by reds1; 05-23-2025 at 07:33 PM. |
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05-05-2025, 01:04 AM
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#855 | |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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It's interesting - since going to OOTP26 from OOTP23 this season, all the teams have gone to an 8-man pitching staff instead of a 9-man pitching staff that was the norm for years in this dynasty. For the Trolleys, that meant that they released CL Bonie Bandong. He was picked up the Hespeler Stars where he is toiling in Triple-A for them.
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05-23-2025, 07:32 PM
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#856 |
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Hall Of Famer
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 3,919
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(Stating the obvious: colds are not fun!
 )December 1, 1958 Western League: Tigers, Unions, Cannons, Trolleys All Vying for First   --------   Last month I said the Sherburn Tigers were in trouble. This month they’re in first place. So much I know. After finishing October two games below .500, the Tigers then went 10-1 to start November and traded places with the Cambria Cannons, Wolseley Unions and Pulberry Trolleys at the top of the standings throughout the month. At two points in the month, three teams were briefly tied for top spot and the race remains extremely tight. The offense has been sensational, led by lead-off hitter CF Leon Albrecht (67/73) who was on fire in November, batting .429/.500/.615, 2 HR, 13 RBI, 14 BB. Curiously, despite his tremendous speed and baserunning skills, he has yet to steal a base and has made only two attempts. The concern for the Tigers is the pitching as they are unduly relying on their top two starters. Ace RHP Jesús Chapa (62/62) was stout in November (3-1, 2.44 ERA, 44.1 IP, 1.04 WHIP) while RHP Ben Buschlen (56/56) won his third career Pitcher of the Month honour. Notable Performers 26-year old CF Leon Albrecht (.335/.423/.566, 8 HR, 29 RBI, 30 BB, 165 OPS+, 2.5 WAR) 28-year old LF Ross Shewman (.303/.388/.587, 12 HR, 47 RBI, 20 BB, 160 OPS+, 2.2 WAR) 29-year old 3B Adrian Flynn (.297/.359/.527, 9 HR, 34 RBI, 18 BB, 137 OPS+, 1.9 WAR) 29-year old 1B Jay Durham (.283/.358/.514, 8 HR, 30 RBI, 18 BB, 133 OPS+, 1.3 WAR) 28-year old RF Albert Sulley (.285/.403/.431, 3 HR, 20 RBI, 30 BB, 126 OPS+, 1.1 WAR) 30-year old C Robert Kersey (.253/.371/.433, 6 HR, 21 RBI, 27 BB, 117 OPS+, 1.5 WAR) Rotation 34-year old RHP Jesús Chapa (5-4, 3.01 ERA, 80.2 IP, 1.15 WHIP, 2.98 FIP, 124 ERA+) 31-year old RHP Ben Buschlen (7-3, 4.76 ERA, 75.2 IP, 1.33 WHIP, 3.58 FIP, 79 ERA+) Bullpen 32-year old RHP Shusaku Sasaki (4-2, 2 SV, 2.48 ERA, 29.0 IP, 1.17 WHIP, 3.91 FIP, 151 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: November 10 – 3B Adrian Flynn (.529, 9 H, 3 HR, 11 RBI, 6 R) November 17 – CF Leon Albrecht (.640, 16 H, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 10 R) --------   The Wolseley Unions seem to be overachieving to start the season. Despite overall stats that place them in the middle of the pack in the West, they have been one of the more consistent clubs, remaining just a half game back of first place, thanks to a 6-game winning streak in the final week of the month. Based on their Pythagorean expectation, they are a +6, the most in the United Leagues. The Unions must be breathing a sigh of relief over the early performance of RF Jonathan Higgins (52/62 – 2nd-overall pick, 1955-56). The Milwaukee-native ruptured an Achilles tendon in his right knee halfway through his rookie season and was gone for the rest of the year. Although he came back last season, it wasn’t until this year that he finally regained his form. He is on pace to rack up 8.9 WAR. Rookie RHP Tommy Robertson (40/40 – 4th-round pick, 1954-55) currently exemplifies Wolseley’s overachieving ways. In October, the Tennessee-born Robertson went 2-1, 1 SV, 6.16 ERA, 19.0 IP, 2.32 WHIP. But this past month, the otherwise unremarkable reliever went 2-1, 1 SV, 0.92 ERA, 19.2 IP, 1.09 WHIP. Notable Performers 24-year old RF Jonathan Higgins (.344/.396/.575, 8 HR, 24 RBI, 14 BB, 4 SB, 161 OPS+, 3.0 WAR) 37-year old 1B Carlton Hawking (.316/.404/.475, 7 HR, 31 RBI, 27 BB, 139 OPS+, 0.7 WAR) 24-year old LF Steven Burkill (.256/.335/.470, 10 HR, 34 RBI, 19 BB, 117 OPS+, 1.1 WAR) 37-year old SS George Kimpton (.270/.342/.421, 3 HR, 20 RBI, 19 BB, 107 OPS+, 0.5 WAR) Rotation 23-year old RHP Theo Morse (5-1, 2.60 ERA, 79.2 IP, 1.29 WHIP, 2.71 FIP, 144 ERA+) 25-year old RHP Yasuo Yamauchi (3-5, 3.15 ERA, 65.2 IP, 1.48 WHIP, 3.48 FIP, 119 ERA+) 33-year old RHP Roberto Garza (6-2, 3.43 ERA, 86.2 IP, 1.14 WHIP, 2.89 FIP, 110 ERA+) Bullpen 27-year old stopper RHP Robert Metcalfe (5-3, 10 SV, 2.85 ERA, 41.0 IP, 1.27 WHIP, 4.27 FIP, 132 ERA+) 26-year old RHP Tommy Robertson (4-2, 2 SV, 3.49 ERA, 38.2 IP, 1.68 WHIP, 4.90 FIP, 107 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: December 1 – RF Jonathan Higgins (.500, 13 H, 2 HR, 6 RBI) --------   In contrast with the Unions, the Cambria Cannons appear to be underachieving. With an impressive lineup and steady pitching staff and defense, the Cannons should have a better record, although they are only a -1 based on their Pythagorean expectation. So perhaps they are not underachieving. Still, they remain very much in the mix for first place in the West. Sophomore C Mick Clark (62/64 – 2nd-round pick, 1954-55) appears to be settling in nicely as the Cannons’ regular catcher. The position has been a weak spot since the early 1950s when the 5-time All-Star C Heung-Su Park was in his prime. The Australian Clark is on track to collect 5.2 WAR and is rated as the No. 4 catcher in the ULB at the moment. Notable Performers 26-year old SS Doug Martin (.343/.396/.490, 4 HR, 28 RBI, 17 BB, 9 SB, 146 OPS+, 2.0 WAR) 32-year old 1B Carlos Corea (.355/.387/.500, 3 HR, 20 RBI, 8 BB, 146 OPS+, 1.4 WAR) 29-year old RF Sam Tite (.269/.353/.489, 10 HR, 35 RBI, 24 BB, 132 OPS+, 1.8 WAR) 25-year old C Mick Clark (.307/.361/.438, 4 HR, 25 RBI, 13 BB, 122 OPS+, 1.7 WAR) 34-year old 3B Louis Torres (.263/.317/.456, 9 HR, 27 RBI, 14 BB, 113 OPS+, 1.0 WAR) Rotation 23-year old rookie RHP Leo Lukies (5-2, 2.82 ERA, 79.2 IP, 1.17 WHIP, 3.30 FIP, 125 ERA+) 31-year old RHP Fergus Hirst (4-3, 3.04ERA, 68.0 IP, 1.16 WHIP, 3.67 FIP, 116 ERA+) Bullpen 30-year old RHP Ray Lambright (5-2, 3 SV, 2.23 ERA, 44.1 IP, 1.20 WHIP, 3.46 FIP, 158 ERA+) --------   The Pulberry Trolleys are experiencing a bit of adversity for the first time in 6 seasons. Over the past several seasons, who was going to finish first in the West was a forgone conclusion. It was just a question of who would capture the wildcard. This year they are battling with four other clubs in the early going and find themselves in 4th place, although just 2 games back of first. A 3-6 finish to November saw them lose their grip of first place. Their pitching staff remains one of the most dominant in the United Leagues, but their offense has been strangely sluggish. That cannot be said of C Paul England (69/69 – 2nd-overall pick, 1951-52) who was on fire in November, going .350/.404/.637, 6 HR, 27 RBI, 6 BB and winning his second career Player of the Week Award. The Trolleys have a nice prospect who appears close to making the majors. 23-year old IF/OF Marvin Livingston (48/55 – 3rd-round pick, 1954-55 by Kingston) is excelling this season, his first at Triple-A, batting .306/.414/.481, 6 HR, 27 RBI, 28 BB, 141 OPS+, 2.5 WAR. He has speed to burn and can play anywhere in the outfield and at first base. Notable Performers 28-year old C Paul England (.287/.358/.487, 8 HR, 37 RBI, 16 BB, 138 OPS+, 1.9 WAR) 30-year old LF Aidan Thirkettle (.246/.345/.485, 7 HR, 28 RBI, 22 BB, 134 ERA+, 1.9 WAR) 33-year old 1B Ellis Dibble (.298/.362/.449, 4 HR, 15 RBI, 20 BB, 130 OPS+, 1.6 WAR) 31-year old CF Cooper Tyson (.280/.340/.446, 4 HR, 18 RBI, 17 BB, 122 OPS+, 2.3 WAR) 23-year old RF Joe Riding (.262/.344/.399, 4 HR, 21 RBI, 19 BB, 111 OPS+, 1.2 WAR) Rotation 30-year old RHP Taylor Folkard (7-3, 2.47 ERA, 83.2 IP, 1.04 WHIP, 3.00 FIP, 131 ERA+) 37-year old RHP Robin Medellin (6-2, 2.42 ERA, 81.2 IP, 0.99 WHIP, 2.90 FIP, 133 ERA+) 37-year old RHP Alexander Ellacott (3-1, 3 SV, 1.85 ERA, 39.0 IP, 1.13 WHIP, 3.80 FIP, 175 ERA+) Bullpen 28-year old RHP Eddie Roach (2-0, 2.40 ERA, 15.0 IP, 1.07 WHIP, 3.69 FIP, 135 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: November 24 – C Paul England (.556, 10 H, 3 HR, 7 RBI, 4 R) Highlights November 18 – The Trolleys swept a 3-game series against the visiting Downie Chiefs. In the second game, 23-year old LHP Bart Ohara (4-4, 3.42 ERA, 81.2 IP, 1.15 WHIP, 2.52 FIP, 95 ERA+) was brilliant, pitching a complete game 1-hit shut-out for a 3-0 victory. The two-time Satchel Paige Award winner went 9.0 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 2 BB, 5 K, 116 PI, GS: 88. Pulberry scored all their runs in the 8th inning. Paul England provided the winning run when he smashed a solo home run off LHP Lucas Franklin to start the bottom frame. --------   The Hespeler Stars are the tease of the United Leagues right now. After starting November 2-6, they then caught fire, going 9-3. But they finished the month with a whimper with a 2-7 record and a 6-game losing streak. The offense has been respectable and there is a tantalizing group of prospects developing in the minors, but they also have a dearth of quality pitchers in the system and the once promising ones on the major league roster all appear to be fizzling. Notable Performers 27-year old 3B Clive Yarwood (.269/.359/.480, 9 HR, 19 RBI, 23 BB, 132 OPS+, 1.6 WAR) 26-year old C Aidan Bennie (.311/.367/.476, 6 HR, 19 RBI, 13 BB, 125 OPS+, 1.6 WAR) Rotation 29-year old LHP Amoka Kalea (4-4, 3.11 ERA, 63.2 IP, 1.38 WHIP, 3.92 FIP, 125 ERA+) Bullpen 27-year old RHP Pedro Peña (3-1, 5 SV, 2.50 ERA, 39.2 IP, 1.16 WHIP, 3.55 FIP, 156 ERA+) 29-year old RHP Curt McKnight (3-0, 3.79 ERA, 40.1 IP, 1.66 WHIP, 4.23 FIP, 103 ERA+) Highlights November 18 – The Stars swept a 3-game home series against the Brunswick Legends with Hespeler pulling out a thrilling 7-6 victory in 13 innings in game one. The Bennie and Benney boys were front and center. C Aidan Bennie went 5 for 6 with 2 HR, 3 R and 3 RBI. After striking out in the 1st, Bennie hit a 2-run home run off RHP Dave Ball in the 3rd, singled in the 5th, doubled in the 7th and hit a game-tying one-out, solo home run off RHP Lao Chen in the bottom of the 9th that sent the game into extras. He also collected a single in the 11th. Meanwhile, 21-year old rookie SS Alistair Benney (.267/.307/.398, 3 HR, 18 RBI, 11 BB, 88 OPS+, -0.8 WAR) went 5 for 7 with 2 R and 1 RBI. Benney singled in the 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th innings, flied out in the 9th before Bennie hit his game-tying home run, grounded out in the 11th and lastly, hit a walk-off RBI double in the bottom of the 13th off RHP Byron Ollson to win the game. --------   The Balmoral Giants have been bitten bad by the injury bug. The Giants have lost two key cogs for an extended period. 1B Ángel Costa (58/58) who was off to best start in three seasons is gone for several more weeks and No. 1 starter, LHP Carl McBroom (45/45), who was enjoying a career year, is gone for the season. That is a bad blow to the Giants’ fortunes going forward. That is reflected in the 3-12 record they put up to finish the month of November. This is not a team with a lot of depth so this may be only the start of their struggles the rest of the way. Six of their seven top prospects are in Triple-A and doing well, but none of them are projected to be better than an average major leaguer. Notable Performers 28-year old 2B Morgan Tyreman (.266/.363/.435, 7 HR, 15 RBI, 23 BB, 123 OPS+, 1.8 WAR) 38-year old 1B Ángel Costa (.294/.381/.440, 3 HR, 16 RBI, 15 BB, 130 OPS+, 0.7 WAR) Rotation 32-year old LHP Carl McBroom (5-1, 2.40 ERA, 60.0 IP, 1.25 WHIP, 3.69 FIP, 141 ERA+) 24-year old RHP Clive Kerwin (3-3, 3.23 ERA, 69.2 IP, 1.19 WHIP, 3.17 FIP, 105 ERA+) Bullpen 35-year old RHP Gavin Duckering (1-1, 1 SV, 1.19 ERA, 30.1 IP, 1.02 WHIP, 2.69 FIP, 285 ERA+) --------   An anemic offense has the Fort Richmond Generals firmly in the second division and competing with the Kingston Pelicans for last place. In the middle of November, the Generals went 4-12 which included an 8-game losing streak. Fort Richmond is squandering a top notch pitching rotation, which is currently one of top units in the West. Notable Performers 26-year old 1B Takuji Kanno (.384/.441/.630, 7 HR, 31 RBI, 13 BB, 204 OPS+, 2.5 WAR) 30-year old CF Greg Cusack (.306/.359/.393, 3 HR, 11 RBI, 15 BB, 116 OPS+, 1.3 WAR) Rotation 24-year old RHP Kenete Yuri (3-2, 2.48 ERA, 83.1 IP, 1.02 WHIP, 3.08 FIP, 133 ERA+) 29-year old RHP Damon Pinney (3-6, 2.19 ERA, 82.1 IP, 1.12 WHIP, 3.19 FIP, 152 ERA+) 30-year old RHP Vinnie Snell (4-4, 2.99 ERA, 81.1 IP, 1.23 WHIP, 3.53 FIP, 111 ERA+) 29-year old RHP Harvey Heseltine (3-1, 3.15 ERA, 45.2 IP, 1.20 WHIP, 3.26 FIP, 105 ERA+) Player of the Week Awards: November 3 – 1B Takuji Kanno (.450, 9 H, 2 HR, 7 RBI) --------   Like the Generals, the Kingston Pelicans struggled in November, going 2-11 at one point, including a 7-game losing skid. But in the Pelicans’ case it’s a struggling pitching staff that is undermining them. The young lineup has been holding its own thus far. Unfortunately, Kingston does not have any highly rated pitching prospects in their system; only a couple of projected back-end starters toiling in Triple-A. Notable Performers 25-year old CF Dan Hesketh (.359/.420/.571, 8 HR, 34 RBI, 19 BB, 3 SB, 168 OPS+, 3.1 WAR) 29-year old LF George Nipper (.302/.341/.478, 7 HR, 32 RBI, 13 BB, 122 OPS+, 1.4 WAR) 28-year old C Ronald Armstrong (.285/.370/.468, 7 HR, 30 RBI, 21 BB, 128 OPS+, 1.6 WAR) 26-year old 1B Ira Bannatyne (.284/.362/.484, 5 HR, 23 RBI, 19 BB, 129 OPS+, 1.1 WAR) 23-year old rookie SS Ivar Nuyten (.321/.369/.429, 4 HR, 13 RBI, 10 BB, 118 OPS+, 1.8 WAR) 28-year old RF Chris Ramsbottom (.292/.341/.451, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 14 BB, 4 SB, 115 OPS+, 1.0 WAR) Rotation None. Bullpen 27-year old LHP Senzo Hiroyuki (2-3, 1 SV, 3.15 ERA, 54.1 IP, 1.49 WHIP, 3.87 FIP, 118 ERA+) --------  
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