Fallout 4's Commonwealth Baseball Organization

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

24 April 2298 - Gonzalez Helps University Point Cruise to 11-3 Win

University Point left fielder Bernie Gonzalez had a 5-RBI game, which helped his team beat the Warwick Mirelurks, 11-3. University Point, now 9-6, has gotten their season off to a good start.

The Deathclaws took a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning. Facing Warwick hurler John Diner with two outs, Gonzalez hit a 2-run single.

"Winning the game is always the first objective," Gonzalez said.

24 April 2298 - Monticello, FHE Prevail in Pitchers' Duel

In a tight affair between the FHE Yao Guai and the Egret Ninjas, pitcher Sage Monticello was in the zone. The FHE right-hander helped his team win the game, 1-0. The win puts FHE at 5-10.

Monticello, the FHE right-hander, went 8 innings, allowing no runs on 2 hits. He collected 8 strikeouts.

"There was no wiggle room in this one," said Monticello.

24 April 2298 - Tostado Lifts Synths to 10-5 Win

A good performance from right fielder Crooked Tostado helped the Lexington Synths defeat the Abernathy Adamantium, 10-5. Tostado was 3 for 5 with a home run and a double, while scoring 3 times and driving in 4 for the Synths. The loss has the Adamantium at 10-5.

In the top of the first, with the game still scoreless, Tostado hit a 2-run double to put his team in the lead.

"It was a solid team effort," said Tostado after the game.

24 April 2298 - Radstags Dealt 5-3 Loss by Fort Hagen

The Fort Hagen Silver Shroud picked up a win at Hubris Comics Park, knocking off the Concord Radstags, 5-3. Starting pitcher Brent Hooker was a big reason why. Hooker picked up the win for Fort Hagen, going 8 innings. He gave up 3 runs on 8 hits. He now sports a record of 3-1. The win puts Fort Hagen at 11-4.

The win was a team effort for Fort Hagen. Center Fielder Andre Grogg was among the key contributors. In the bottom of the second, he put his team in front, 3-2, when he hit a 3-run home run.

"We'll enjoy this win," said Hooker. "But there's more we hope to accomplish."

24 April 2298 - DiGrande Now 2-2 After Subduing Party Boys

The County Crossing Bloodbugs picked up a win at Beantown Brewery Stadium, taking down the Nordhagen Beach Party Boys, 9-1. Starting pitcher Zach DiGrande was a big reason why. The Bloodbugs have stumbled out of the gate, getting only their 5th win in 15 games.

The Bloodbugs liked what they saw from DiGrande. The 19-year old pitcher had a commanding presence on the mound, limiting the Party Boys to 1 run on 6 hits over 8.2 innings, and striking out 6.

"We were firing on all cylinders today," said Bloodbugs manager Biff Future.

[StLee]

Analysis

We are now 15 games into the 2298 season, and Oberland continues to dominate the CBO. In their first league matchup with preseason wild card favorite Diamond City, the T-51s cruised to an easy sweep, moving their league lead from three games to six games. This already puts the rest of the league at a huge disadvantage; that was a series Diamond City had to win early in the season. Now it looks like the rest of the Railroad League is scrambling for which team will be #2.

Looking at other leagues, the Brotherhood League is the only one with a first-place tie at this point in the season. Nordhagen Beach and Easy Town are both at 10-5, while the favorite, The Slog, sits just a game back. At this point, that league looks to be a three-team race for the two slots, but do not count out Finch Farm and Salem. County Crossing, well, we will need to see about them.

Fort Hagen is the #2 team in the Power Rankings and hold the second-best record in the CBO behind the T-51s. Though they do not score at the same rate of the South Charles Association top teams, the Silver Shroud are the #1 offensive team in the North Charles Association (96 runs scored), topping six offensive categories. The only other team currently challenging the Shroud is the Abernathy Adamantium. While not setting the league on fire, SS Austin Engill and RF Donny Kowalski are helping the team win games, and ace Brad Westing (4-0, 3.13 ERA) is enjoying his greatest success since being traded from the Roxbury Knuckle Punchers this offseason.

In the Minutemen League, the 2297 league race looks to have returned with Goodneighbor, University Point, Warwick, and Quincy occupying first through fourth place in the standings. Atom and Jamaica Plain are not terrible, but both teams appear to be a notch below the others. The Hancocks have been the best so far, but any run could make this league the most topsy-turvy of them all.

Looking at some individual statistics, here are a few players standing out:

Batting average: RF Sam Noob, Fort Hagen, .476/.507/.778
Home Runs: SS Lernz Tentsleep, The Slog, 8 HR
Batter WAR: LF Michael Fogcrawler, Nordhagen Beach, 1.3 WAR, .413/7 HR/ 30 RBI (1st in CBO)
ERA: SP Manny McDuff, Quincy, 3-1, 1.39 ERA, 1.1 WAR (t-1st)
Pitcher WAR: SP Tyler Powers, Diamond City, 1.1 WAR (t-1st), 3-1, 2.51 ERA

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

The View from the BMU

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

26 April 2298 – Outpost Zimonja

On certain Tuesdays for the 2297 and 2298 seasons, we will feature one of the settlements where teams in the Boston Minor Union play.

In our seventh trip around the BMU, we will go to the northern radio tower settlement, Outpost Zimonja.

Boomer Sooner

Nate was a lost soul in a jungle of uncertainty at the start of his escape from Vault 111. After that time, he wandered along the northern parts of Sanctuary Hills and Concord for a time before finally making his way south across the river.

What he did not know when he went far enough east was that there was a small settlement that had been taken over by raiders with a raider with a knack for obliterating his enemies. Nate was still green in the Wastes, so when that pre-War familiar whistle of a mininuke came his way, he knew he had to get out of there quickly.


Zimonja Outpost - 2287

The place where the mininuke came from was a radio outpost in the wilderness due northwest from Malden. That raider encampment was run by a vicious killer named Boomer. Not only was Boomer a tough early match for Nate, but he had to play dodgenuke at the same time.

In time, Nate got smart. After retreating out of self-preservation, Nate later returned with a friend, a rocket launcher. Once in position atop the bridge overlooking Outpost Zimonja, Nate fired down upon Boomer, cooking him inside his own power armor suit.

Nate then took over the area and made it his own northern settler outpost to prevent more raiders and super mutants from entering the Lake Quannapowitt area.

The Great North, the Safe North



While Outpost Zimonja is not heavily-populated these days, the area is still considered a vital defensive outpost for the northern safe zones in the Commonwealth. The area is now home to a dedicated Minutemen patrol unit around Lake Quannapowitt, west around Tenpines Bluff, and south to Dark Hollow Pond.

OZ 2350



The area has not seen its population boom just yet, but there are plans to build a megatower to the area. According to artist depictions, one day the community will fuse with the bridge above it in a skyscraper community. That way the Minutemen patrols can see a wider range towards the north and the community will not have to await caravans coming from far away to deliver supplies. In other words, the future of the OZ is to be self-reliant.

[OrangeP47]

Like the tower at OZ. Always thought it's been an interesting location, kinda out there by itself.

[StLee]

Originally Posted by OrangeP47

Like the tower at OZ. Always thought it's been an interesting location, kinda out there by itself.

Yeah, that looked pretty rad. I saw it at nexusmods and considered downloading it. Then I remember that I haven't really fired up Fallout much in the last few months. Therefore, I'll hold off on bulky mods.

[StLee]

Oops! I forgot to post player of the week stories! Back in time we go!



Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

25 April 2298 - NCA Trophy Goes to Tiller of Fort Hagen

It can be difficult for a young player to step out of the shadows and assert himself in the North Charles Association, but last week Jim Tiller of the Fort Hagen Silver Shroud reminded everyone just why he's here as he threw up numbers that made him an easy selection for Player of the Week. Tiller rocked opposing pitching for a .632 average (12-for-19), 3 home runs and 7 RBIs to come away with the award.

On the season, Tiller is batting .452 with 5 home runs and 16 RBIs. He has played in 15 games.

25 April 2298 - SCA Premier Player Picked

Travis Phillips demonstrated his potential to be a star in the game last week and today he took home the South Charles Association Player of the Week Award.

The Roxbury shortstop wreaked havoc on opposing pitchers last week, pounding them for a .600 average (9-for-15) with 3 home runs and 6 RBIs on his way to claiming the honor.

This year Phillips has hit at a .385 pace and produced 15 RBIs, 6 home runs and scored 12 runs.

25 April 2298 - Tykeson CA's Best of the Week

So far in his young career, Lannie Tykeson has kept a low profile, but after his performance at the plate last week, he attracted the notice of the rest of the Commonwealth Association in a big way as he was named the Player of the Week today for his efforts.

The 20-year-old Taffington Boathouse Spy Hunters first baseman hit at a torrid .615 clip as he collected 8 hits in 13 at-bats, 3 home runs, 11 RBIs and 3 runs scored.

25 April 2298 - Massachusetts Association Names Fugate Best Batter

18-year-old Notorious Fugate made a few Haymarket Mall headlines during this past week as the rookie shortstop proved he could compete at the plate with his high-school idols. He captured the attention of fans, journalists and Massachusetts Association officials last week and today took home Player of the Week honors for his effort.

He cracked 11 hits in 17 at-bats to put up a .647 average. Fugate collected 1 home run, 4 RBIs and scored 3 runs.

"It's like being on top of a tiny world," Fugate said. "You know, all P's and Q's. It is what it isn't. It's like a light at the end of the turnip."

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

26 April 2298 - Deathclaws Mow Down T-51s, 9-0

University Point Deathclaws starter Bobby Lidtke was in fine form against the Oberland T-51s at Gwinnett Brewery Park, leading his team to a win, 9-0. Lidtke went 7 innings to notch the win. He scattered 5 hits, walked 1, and struck out 6. His record improves to 2-1. The win puts University Point at 10-6.

The Deathclaws got an important contribution from right fielder Kory Richardson, who in the bottom of the first knocked a 2-2 fastball into left for a 3-run home run. It was his 6th home run of the season and put the Deathclaws ahead, 4-0.

"I made some pitches when I had to," said Lidtke.

26 April 2298 - Langer Slugs Silver Shroud to 13-9 Win

The Fort Hagen Silver Shroud topped the Finch Farm Four Leafs, 13-9, with left fielder Safety Langer playing a big role. Langer hit 2 home runs, while scoring 4 runs and driving in 4 for the Silver Shroud in the win. The Four Leafs fall to 6-10 and continue their uneven start to the 2298 season.

Fort Hagen used the clutch hitting of Ben Pawlak to capture the win. The center fielder drilled a grand slam home run in the top of the seventh inning to put the Silver Shroud ahead, 10-8. It was his only hit in 4 at-bats, but it was a big one.

"I still think this team can play even better," Pawlak told the Fort Hagen Bulletin.

26 April 2298 - Crook Propels Yao Guai to 8-6 Win

FHE left fielder Adam Crook contributed to his team's 8-6 win over the Jamaica Plain Red Rockets. Crook, who is tied for 7th in the SCA in triples with 1, went 3 for 3 with 2 runs scored to lead the offensive attack for the Yao Guai. Jamaica Plain falls to 6-10.

It could have been a different outcome for FHE, had it not been for Tyler Shoemaker, the top prospect . Shoemaker contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the second inning to put FHE up, 1-0.

"Winning is hard sometimes," said Yao Guai manager David Meatcook. "This one was nice to get."

26 April 2298 - Corsica Leads Charge, Sunshine Tidings Blasts Bloodbugs

Good production from center fielder Frank Corsica helped the Sunshine Tidings Chemists topple the County Crossing Bloodbugs, 13-3. Corsica hit 2 home runs, while scoring 3 runs and driving in 3 for the Chemists. The winning pitcher was Bill Sarnacki. His record is now 2-1. The left-hander went 9 innings, allowing 3 runs on 7 hits for the Chemists. The Bloodbugs, at 5-11, have stumbled out of the gate.

In the top of the first of a scoreless game, Corsica hit a 2-run home run to put his team ahead.

"We'll relax tonight and enjoy this win," said Corsica.

26 April 2298 - Party Boys Sneak Past Adamantium, 6-5

The Nordhagen Beach Party Boys defeated the Abernathy Adamantium, 6-5. Doing his part was shortstop Austin Engill, who was 3 for 4 with a home run, 2 doubles, and a walk, while scoring 2 runs and driving in 2. The loss drops the Adamantium to 10-6.

The Boys trailed 5-2 entering the bottom of the eighth inning. That was before Brian Masterson hit a three-run home run to knot the game, 5-5.

Dustin Mart was the walk-off hero for Nordhagen Beach. With the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Party Boys first baseman hit a dramatic run-scoring double to send the teams home.

"We put it together today and came out with the win," Mart said in postgame remarks. "That's the main thing."

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

27 April 2298 - Lifegivers Announce Simmons Will Retire

Tattoo Simmons said he's made enough money in professional baseball, so it's time to move on.

"I did pretty well for myself, my bank account isn't hurting, maybe I'll become a manager or a team owner or something so I can make even more," he said, announcing this season would be his last. "I'm 36 years old, so I've still got some time to make something of the rest of my life."

Simmons started 45 games at first base for the Life Givers in 2297, batting .238 with six home runs and 21 RBI. This year, he has given way to second-round rookie pick Soundwave Wiggins. Wiggins is struggling, though, hitting just 3 for 46 (.065) so far in 12 games.

27 April 2298 - Witch Hats Cartrette Strikes out 15

In a performance to behold, Mike Cartrette was masterful today in the Witch Hats 2-1 victory over the Lexington Synths. He had them batting the breeze most of the day. In a strong outing, Cartrette registered 15 strikeouts in the ballgame, gave up 5 hits and no walks.

"They helped me out by swinging at all my junk," Cartrette said. "Now I need an ice-cold Gwinnett for my belly and my shoulder."

This season Cartrette has gone 3-2 with an ERA of 3.79, posting 50 strikeouts in 35.2 innings.

Cartrette tied his own CBO record for strikeouts in a game. He first accomplished that task on 29 July 2297. He now holds the current North Charles Association record with 15, surpassing the 14 he struck out just ten days ago.

27 April 2298 - 5-Hit Game for Fireball

Steve Fireball exploded for a barrage of base hits today at Wattz Park.

The Malden left fielder had a field day in the 11-3 triumph over the Mystic Pines Raybathers, finishing 5-for-6.

"My hitting philosophy is simple," he said. "I focus on just seeing the ball and I try to get a good pitch."

Fireball must have focused at least 5 times and apparently got some good pitches, too, leading to one of his best days ever with the bat. Steve Fireball doubled in the 1st, struck out in the 3rd, singled in the 5th, hit an RBI triple in the 6th, singled in the 8th and hit an RBI single in the 9th.

For the season Fireball is currently batting .423 with 1 home run and 6 RBIs. In 13 games he has reached base at a .483 rate and scored 14 runs to date.

27 April 2298 - Hirshfield Hits 2 home runs in Knuckle Punchers Win

The Roxbury Knuckle Punchers topped the Warwick Mirelurks, 10-7, with left fielder Chris Hirshfield playing a big role. Hirshfield hit 2 home runs, while adding 3 RBI and scoring twice for the Knuckle Punchers in the win. Nick Mutfruit, the winner, goes to 1-4. He allowed 3 runs on 8 hits, with 3 walks and 7 strikeouts over 7 innings. Tom Mannequin recorded the save for Roxbury, his 3rd of the season.

The Knuckle Punchers got an important contribution from shortstop Travis Phillips, who in the bottom of the second hit a fastball into center for a 2-run home run. It was his 7th home run of the season and put the Knuckle Punchers ahead, 4-1.

Phillips called the triumph "a good team win."

The loss drops the Mirelurks to 8-9.

27 April 2298 - Bullets Stars in 6-2 Four Leafs Win

Finch Farm second baseman Alec Bullets had 4 ribbies while helping his team defeat the Fort Hagen Silver Shroud, 6-2. Matt Pageturner got credit for the win, improving to 3-2. He allowed 2 runs on 6 hits in 8 innings. The loss makes Fort Hagen 12-5.

Bullets had a game-changing home run in the bottom of the sixth. On a first pitch screwball from Joey Dimes, he banged a grand slam home run to left, giving the Four Leafs a 6-2 lead. It was the 3rd home run of the year for Bullets.

Bullets called the win the result of "everyone working in tandem."

27 April 2298 - Late Magic Gets Nordhagen Beach 7-5 Win

Abernathy right fielder Donny Kowalski had a good game, even if his team did not. The Adamantium dropped a 7-5 decision to Nordhagen Beach at Slocum's Joe Seaside Stadium. Kowalski slugged 2 home runs, while adding 3 RBI and scoring twice.

Tommy Beach picked up the win with 8 innings of work. He allowed 4 runs on 7 hits, while walking 2 and striking out 9. On the season, he is now 5-0. Nordhagen Beach goes to 12-5.

Dustin Mart hit a 2-run double off Brad Westing in the bottom of the eighth, which put the Party Boys in front, 6-4. In addition to the double, Mart had 1 single, while going 2 for 5.

"We can always improve and get better, but we're feeling confident after that win," said Mart.

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

28 April 2298 - Luka 5-for-5 Against Union Hope

Jeff Luka was at the head of a Outpost Zimonja Strongbacks hit parade today at Drumlin Diner Picnic Park. The 19-year-old went to the plate 5 times and came away with 5 hits, but it was the Union Hope Lifegivers that marched off with the 7-6 win.

"We didn't have it today," griped Strongbacks skipper David Troutman following the game. "Jeff did fine, but as a team, we didn't do it with the bats and we didn't do it pitching."

Luka did more than fine, dominating the Lifegivers at the plate during his record-making 5-for-5 performance.

"Each time I went to the plate, I was thinking about hitting the ball hard somewhere," the sweet-swinging third baseman told reporters. "When I focus on that, I usually have quality at-bats."

Jeff Luka singled in the 2nd, hit an RBI double in the 3rd, singled in the 5th, singled in the 7th and hit a two-run single in the 8th.

A look at his current stats shows Luka with a .302 average, no home runs, 11 RBIs and 4 runs scored. He has played in 14 games.

28 April 2298 - Starlight Trades Dimmesdale for Warwick's Sphinx

The Baseball News Network is reporting that Starlight and Warwick have agreed in principle to a swap that will send 21-year-old minor league 2B Arthur Dimmesdale and a 3rd round draft pick to the Mirelurks with 29-year-old minor league RHP Adan Cent, 28-year-old minor league RHP Justin Sphinx, 22-year-old minor league RF Dave Frickitt and 20-year-old minor league SS Reverend Wilson joining the Lady Killers.

Starlight general manager Chris Gowest would not confirm the trade, but a team representative close to the negotiations said the deal is official and is now only awaiting approval from the league.

Sphinx started 40 games in 2296 and 2297 for the Mirelurks. In 2296, he led the Minutemen League in victories (11), ERA (3.62), and WHIP (1.22). He also was named the 2296 CBO Starting Pitcher of the Year.

However, Sphinx started losing favor with the club in 2297 and was sent down to their Boston Minor Union affiliate to start the 2298 season. Word is that Warwick had no plans to bring him back to the CBO club.

[Tyke]

Am I right in thinking that young Lannie has been promoted? If so, he seems to be adapting well!

[StLee]

Originally Posted by Tyke

Am I right in thinking that young Lannie has been promoted? If so, he seems to be adapting well!

No, he hasn't been promoted. I just shared the news story that he won the BMU's Commonwealth Association's Player of the Week award.

I didn't really break down the realignment of the BMU. Due to the combining of the CBO, OOTP forces me to combine the BMU, too. Therefore, the league is now split just like the CBO with the teams based north of the Charles in the Commonwealth Association (Dark Hollow Pond and Cambridge Leagues) and teams based south or west of the Charles in the Massachusetts Association (Downtown Boston and Glowing Sea Leagues).

Tykeson and Fugate are two of the youngsters I like, so they made the Publick Occurrences news this week

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

29 April 2298 - Swatters Drop Another One, 11-3

Diamond City looked like it would be a tough team in 2298, starting out the season 8-3. That hope has now flipped to despair after the Swatters dropped their 7th straight on Friday.

The 11-3 Vault 81 win over Diamond City was due in large part to Bubb Islander. The Dwellers second baseman was 3 for 5 with a home run and 2 doubles. He scored 3 times and drove in 3.

Godfather Hough, who went 8.2 innings, was the winning pitcher. He was charged with 3 runs on 6 hits, while walking 4 and striking out 7. His record now stands at 2-1.

The win gives Vault 81 a record of 10-8 after they won their 6th straight.

Hough also dealt the Swatters a blow while at bat in the bottom of the second. Batting with the bases loaded and Vault 81 leading 1-0, Hough hit a first-pitch curveball for a 2-run single.

Hough called the triumph "a good team win."

29 April 2298 - Gunners Slip Past University Point, 3-2

The Quincy Gunners faced a tough opponent in University Point pitcher William Radwater, but did just enough to pull out the victory at The Stone House by a final score of 3-2. Radwater went 8 innings and allowed 1 run. University Point falls to 10-8.

Robbie Adams was the walk-off hero for Quincy. With the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning, the Gunners shortstop hit a dramatic run-scoring single to send the teams home.

Adams called the win the result of "everyone being in sync."

29 April 2298 - Adamantium Score Late to Upend Chemists, 10-4

Abernathy and Sunshine Tidings got after it at ArcJet Systems Stadium.

The Abernathy Adamantium handed the Sunshine Tidings Chemists a loss at ArcJet Systems Stadium. The final score was 10-4. Donny Kowalski was one of the major contributors for Abernathy. In addition to his 2 singles and 1 home run, he scored 3 runs and drove in 2. For the Chemists, the loss makes them 7-11.

Abernathy relied on the bat of Austin Engill to get the win. The shortstop ripped a bases-clearing triple in the top of the ninth inning to put the Adamantium ahead, 7-4. For the game, Engill had 1 double and 1 triple in 5 at-bats.

"Nice to tuck this win away," said Engill.

29 April 2298 - Party Boys Edge Witch Hats, 4-3

Nordhagen Beach Party Boys starter Chet Arthur was in a groove as he led his team to a win over the Salem Witch Hats, 4-3. Nordhagen Beach reliever Kevin Badluck got the win, raising his record to 1-0. Terrence Artman was tagged with the loss. Night Demon Archacki finished the game for Nordhagen Beach and earned his 7th save.

Michael Fogcrawler, who leads the NCA in extra-base hits with 18, helped out the Nordhagen Beach cause in the bottom of the fifth inning with a 2-run double. For the game, the left fielder went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles, while adding 3 RBI.

"Win or lose, we pick each other up in this clubhouse," Arthur told the Nordhagen Beach News.

The loss puts Salem at 8-10.

29 April 2298 - Radstags Deal Silver Shroud 5-2 Setback

Concord starter Mario Bustos had a strong outing against the Fort Hagen Silver Shroud at Nuka Park. The right-hander was a big part of his team's 5-2 win. Bell Franklin nailed down his 3rd save. Concord, now 5-13, is off to a slow start.

Shawn Cherry broke a 2-2 tie in the bottom of the seventh with a run-scoring sacrifice fly. It put the Radstags in front, 3-2. For the game, Cherry drove in one run.

"We'll pop the top on a cold beverage and get back to work tomorrow," Cherry said.

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

30 April 2298 - First Month Stories Delayed

Due to games played on Sunday, May 1, Publick Occurrences will run its April monthly features on Monday, May 2.

We apologize for the inconvenience for fans of the CBO and BMU, but our red, white, and blue plates are currently full as we experience some understaffing at the moment.

Applications are being accepted. If you can read and write, Publick Occurrences may be the job for you!

30 April 2298 - Provisioner Swats 2 Homers, Chemists Top Adamantium, 10-3

Joe Provisioner drove in 8 runs to help Sunshine Tidings defeat Abernathy, 10-3. The first baseman had 1 double and 2 home runs for the Chemists. The victory makes Sunshine Tidings 8-11.

With Sunshine Tidings leading 6-2 in the bottom of the seventh, Provisioner came up to bat against Abernathy pitcher Jason Worry. Provisioner hit a fastball to right for a grand slam home run. His 7th home run of the season put the Chemists on top, 10-2.

Provisioner said he was "thrilled" the fans had something to get excited about.

30 April 2298 - Big Day for Waterpipe in 11-4 Yao Guai Win

The FHE Yao Guai beat the Egret Ninjas by a score of 11-4. first baseman Nick Waterpipe deserved the lion's share of the credit. Waterpipe went 3 for 4 with a home run, 2 singles, and a walk, while scoring 3 times and driving in 3 for the Yao Guai. The winning pitcher was Sage Monticello. He tossed 106 pitches over 6.1 innings, allowing 4 runs on 5 hits. The Ninjas, now 7-12, continue their slow start.

In the top of the first of a scoreless game, Waterpipe hit a 2-run home run to put his team ahead.

"It's a good day to be a fan after a win like that," Waterpipe told the FHE Daily.

30 April 2298 - Assaultrons Topple Four Leafs, 14-5, as Metalbox Shines

The Easy Town Assaultrons topped the Finch Farm Four Leafs, 14-5, with left fielder Jarrett Metalbox playing a big role. Metalbox went 3 for 4 with a home run, a double, and a walk, while scoring 4 runs and driving in 2 for the Assaultrons in the win. The Four Leafs drop to 7-12 and continue their inconsistent start to the 2298 season.

With two out in the bottom of the fourth, Joe Ransom barreled up a fastball from Josh Dude. The result was a 3-run home run, putting the Assaultrons in front, 5-1.

"I'm just happy to help the team win," Metalbox told the Easy Town Chronicle.

30 April 2298 - Party Boys Earn 3-2 Win in Active 10th

Nordhagen Beach picked up a win at Slocum's Joe Seaside Stadium, toppling the Salem Witch Hats, 3-2, in 10 innings. The game was tied 0-0 entering the extra frame.

Pitcher Julian Shed was one of the reasons the Party Boys triumphed. Nordhagen Beach reliever Night Demon Archacki picked up the win, raising his record to 1-0. Dan Beantown was tagged with the loss. Nordhagen Beach goes to 14-5.

The game came to a dramatic end. In the bottom of the tenth, with Nordhagen Beach trailing 2-0, pinch hitter C3-88 Puppetboy hit a slider from Dan Beantown for a 3-run home run, giving the Party Boys the walk-off win.

"This kind of game is tough on the heart," said winning manager Craig Robinson. "I'm 60 years old, I think, and I don't think I want to manage too many more games like this."

30 April 2298 - Silver Shroud Win, 9-5, Over Concord

The Fort Hagen Silver Shroud bested the Concord Radstags, 9-5, at Nuka Park. Jim Tiller was one of the standouts. He went 3 for 5 with 3 singles. He drove in 4 runs and scored once. Fort Hagen is off to a hot start at 13-6.

Fort Hagen relied on the hitting of Sam Noob to pick up the win. The right fielder clubbed a 2-run home run in the top of the first inning to put the Silver Shroud on top, 3-0. For the game, Noob had 1 home run and 1 single in 5 at-bats.

"I just tried to see the ball and put a good swing on it," said Tiller.

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

1 May 2298 - Ashfire Belts 3 HRs

Will Ashfire went yard three times in an Atom Cats victory over the Warwick Mirelurks at The Homestead today.

"I was in a groove," he said. "Every pitch they tossed up there looked like a glowing melon."

For the day, the Atom first baseman went 3-for-3 against Warwick with 3 RBIs and 4 runs scored in a brilliant display of power hitting that led the Cats to the 12-7 win.

"I tell you what. I'm shocked because I didn't think that last ball had enough to get out," he told BNN reporters in the clubhouse following the game. "I thought it was just going to be a long out."

Will Ashfire hit a solo-shot off Bobby Van Marter in the 2nd, hit a solo-shot off Bobby Van Marter in the 4th, hit a solo-shot off Bobby Van Marter in the 6th, walked in the 7th and walked in the 9th.

This season Ashfire has banged out 23 hits in 74 at-bats for a .311 average with 7 home runs. He is getting on base at a .446 pace and his totals also include 14 RBIs and 15 runs scored.

1 May 2298 - Tiller Keeps Hit Streak Alive

Jim Tiller of the Fort Hagen Silver Shroud tagged 3 hits in today's 3-0 loss to the Concord Radstags at Nuka Park to run his hitting streak to 20 straight games.

"I realize it's unlikely to have a 20-game streak and not have a couple losses mixed in," he said later. "But it still takes the fun out of it."
Jim Tiller singled in the 1st, doubled in the 3rd, flied out in the 6th and doubled in the 8th.

This season Tiller is swinging the bat at a .482 rate with 40 hits in 83 at-bats. To date he has hit 6 home runs, scored 18 runs and driven in 23.

Tiller's three hits made up 60% of his team's hits. Pitcher Johane Iwanski was the difference between victory and defeat. The Concord right-hander earned accolades in the Radstags win. The save went to Bell Franklin, his 4th this season. The victory makes Concord 6-14.

The Radstags got a big hit from left fielder Dan Erb. In the bottom of the fifth, Erb pounded a run-scoring double to left. His 5th double of the season put the Radstags ahead, 2-0.

"I just tried to make good contact," said Erb.

1 May 2298 - Watson Fashions Shutout Against Sunshine Tidings

Neil Watson went the distance at ArcJet Systems Stadium today. The Abernathy Adamantium hurler yielded 6 hits, walked 3 and had 8 strikeouts in the Adamantium 9-0 triumph over the Sunshine Tidings Chemists.

In 5 starts this season Watson has compiled a 1-1 record and a 3.28 ERA.

Jim Waples was 4 for 6 with a double, three runs, and an RBI. Donny Kowalski was 2 for 4, with a double, a three-run homer, a run scored, four RBI, and a walk.

"We played like a team today," Adamantium manager Chase Stingwing said. "I like where this team is headed. Hopefully we have a lot more games like this than the opposite game where we can't pitch or hit."

1 May 2298 - Witch Hats Get Zilch in 3-0 Loss to Party Boys, Diehl

All went well for Casey Diehl of the Nordhagen Beach Party Boys as he pitched his team to a 3-0 shutout victory over the Salem Witch Hats at Slocum's Joe Seaside Stadium, limiting them to 4 hits. In the postgame interview, both managers had glowing things to say about Diehl on the day.

"Casey's got a good selection of pitches he can throw at a guy," said Party Boys manager Craig Robinson. "He changes speed, gives different looks to different hitters. When he's on his game, he's quite a handful."

In the contest, the Nordhagen Beach right-hander rang up 4 and surrendered 1 walk.

"He didn't give us any second chances," said Witch Hats manager Proper Lighthouse. "It's a guessing game with him and today we were always guessing wrong."

To date this year, Diehl shows a 3-0 record, 5 starts, 32.2 innings, 14 strikeouts and a 4.96 ERA.

The Witch Hats did not score a single run in the last 25 regular innings in being swept by the Party Boys. Their only runs since scoring three in the 2nd inning of Game One came in the 10th inning of Game Two. Salem score five total runs in three games at Nordhagen Beach.

"Our offense was disgusting this weekend," Lighthouse said. "I am embarrassed for our hitters. I'm embarrassed for [hitting coach] Matt [Underwood]. I'm embarrassed for [owner] Barney [Rook]. We stunk."

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

2 May 2298 - Fogcrawler Wins Best Bat Award in April

Michael Fogcrawler made his presence known as one of the best young stars in the North Charles Association this past month.

The Nordhagen Beach Party Boys left fielder shined through the month of April and has won the Batter of the Month award.

The 20-year-old hit .432 with 8 home runs, 38 RBIs and 15 runs scored.

2 May 2298 - Rose Snags SCA Batting Honor in April

Nobody was better with the bat in April than John Rose, who caught everyone's attention with some hot hitting and today came away with the Batter of the Month award.

Goodneighbor's center fielder put together a solid month with a .405 batting average, 5 home runs, 18 RBIs and 17 runs scored.

2 May 2298 - Best Starter Chosen by North Charles Association

Jason Woods took a much-deserved turn in the spotlight earlier today as he accepted the North Charles Association Pitcher of the Month award for April.

The 19-year-old Ghouls starter is a relative newcomer to the league, but nonetheless racked up an impressive 5-0 won-lost record in 5 starts. This month he fanned 17 batters in 38.1 innings and compiled a 2.35 ERA.

2 May 2298 - SCA's #1 Starter is McDuff

Manny McDuff is the first South Charles Association Pitcher of the Month award winner. The Quincy starter shone on the hill repeatedly last month and finished April with a sparkling 4-1 record.

In 5 starts he tossed 40 innings, posted 28 strikeouts, and put up a 1.57 ERA.

2 May 2298 - Covert Named NCA Rookie of the Month

Note: OOTP's rookie pool is off due to the merger, so I am selecting my own rookies. OOTP's choices are NOT rookies.

Kevin Covert's premier as the Abernathy Adamantium starting center fielder is off to a roaring success as he was named the April Rookie of the Month.

In April, Covert was 23 for 73 (.315) with six doubles, two triples, 10 runs scored, and 13 driven in. He walked six times, struck out six times, and stole three bases.

2 May 2298 - SCA's Top Rookie: Hayjen

Note: OOTP's rookie pool is off due to the merger, so I am selecting my own rookies. OOTP's choices are NOT rookies.

Vault 81's star rookie, center fielder Aesed Hayjen, has taken advantage of his opportunity, leading to the first-ever South Charles Association's Rookie of the Month award.

In 19 games, Hayjen is batting .291 in 79 at bats. He has hit four doubles, two triples, and two home runs. Also, he has scored 12 times, knocked in 12 runs, walked eight times, struck out 26, stole two bases, and was caught stealing two times.

2 May 2298 - Metalbox Collects Player of the Week Award

One of the league's most exciting young players, Jarrett Metalbox of the Easy Town Assaultrons earned himself North Charles Association Player of the Week honors with a standout performance in last week's games.

For the week the 19-year-old left fielder had a lofty .583 average (14-for-24), collecting 3 home runs, 9 RBIs and 9 runs scored.

This year Metalbox is hitting .483 with 7 home runs and 26 RBIs to his credit. He has gotten on base at a .521 clip and scored 23 runs.

2 May 2298 - South Charles Association Selects Best Performer

So far in his young career, Adam Crook has kept a low profile, but after his performance at the plate last week, he attracted the notice of the rest of the South Charles Association in a big way as he was named the Player of the Week today for his efforts.

The 19-year-old FHE Yao Guai left fielder hit at a torrid .524 clip as he collected 11 hits in 21 at-bats, 1 home run, 11 RBIs and 3 runs scored.

In the 2298 season Crook is hitting .286 with 2 home runs.

[StLee]

Today in the CBO

News and Notes - Reports from around the Commonwealth

by Nat Wright-Kowalski

2 May 2298 - Traderman April's Best Bat Choice

Fon Traderman let his bat do the talking in April for the Corvega Flamers, and the Commonwealth Association heard him loud and clear. He made plenty of noise as he put together a .510 batting average and was named the top hitter of the month.

Traderman's month to remember saw him accumulate 26 hits, 1 home run, 23 RBI, 11 runs, 12 walks and a .591 on-base percentage.

2 May 2298 - MA Announces Outstanding Batter Award

It's perhaps an award he'll win many more times through his career, as at age 19 Bobby Thesea has a lot of baseball ahead of him.

But for now the young Charles View Cannibals star can enjoy the numbers he put up in April, which have garnered him the nod as the Massachusetts Association Batter of the Month.

His breakout month featured a .375 average with 4 home runs, 18 RBIs and 11 runs scored.

2 May 2298 - Robotics Experts Hurler Named April's #1 Starter

The Pitcher of the Month Award has been announced and the Commonwealth Association winner is Galleria hurler, Blaine Phrasemaker. For his standout performances in April he has been named the league's best pitcher.

During the month, Phrasemaker excelled with a 1.69 ERA and 3 wins and no losses. In 32 innings he struck out 42 and gave up 20 hits and 7 walks.

2 May 2298 - MA's Premier Starter is Waddle

Over the past month Edward Waddle has turned quite a few heads. He's young, talented and able to pitch with the established arms in the Massachusetts Association. He proved all that and now he's been named April's Pitcher of the Month.

The rookie for the Trinity Plaza Snipers posted 4-0 mark and a 1.75 ERA. In 4 starts he tossed 25.2 innings, permitted 21 hits and fanned 32 batters.

[OrangeP47]

When this started I really hoped the Swatters could be the Commonwealth's team. Obviously everyone would prefer their local team, but the Swatters could be that second team everyone likes that does at least moderately well. They're just a mess though. I guess such sentiments probably wouldn't develop in the Commonwealth anyway

[StLee]

Originally Posted by OrangeP47

When this started I really hoped the Swatters could be the Commonwealth's team. Obviously everyone would prefer their local team, but the Swatters could be that second team everyone likes that does at least moderately well. They're just a mess though. I guess such sentiments probably wouldn't develop in the Commonwealth anyway

Diamond City seemed like a crazy pick by PAM for the playoffs. Then they started out 8-3, and I thought that was going to be a case where they came out of the red seat to be a force. But now, nine down in a row makes it look like they are moving back to where they were the last two years. I'll break down that collapse in my analysis in just a few minutes.

They need that #1 overall pick in the draft, Oren Gep, to develop sooner than later. He has huge potential to be a big bat in their lineup, which will push them up. I'm thinking of a suitable nickname for him once he does move up to the bigs. Does "Baby Poppy" have a ring to it?

Looking at their current team, DC is definitely a team hurt by the extended schedule. Now that they have a 4th pitcher, you can see just how terrible their pitching depth chart is. Fourth starter Jason Haynes, some random signing this past offseason, is 0-3 with a 13.00 ERA in five starts. His "best" game was when he pitched the longest and gave up the fewest runs, but that was still a 5.0 innings pitched, four earned runs allowed losing affair. In his last start, yesterday against the Dwellers, he gave up seven earned runs in just 2.1 innings pitched. Diamond City needs to make some pitching moves for sure. Maybe they should consider dealing "Baby Poppy" for some solid pitching.

[StLee]

Analysis

We're now 20 games into the 2298 season, and we are starting to see the haves and have-nots of the Commonwealth Baseball Organization. There are a lot of exciting storylines, but let us start with the flipflop that is the Railroad League standings.

As of April 19, the top four of the RL standings looked like this:
Oberland 10-1
Diamond City 8-3
Vault 81 4-7
FHE 3-8

As of today, May 2, the RL standings look like this:
Oberland 18-2
Vault 81 12-8
FHE 8-12
Diamond City 8-12

On April 19, PAM looked like an artificial genius in the way she had the Swatters challenging for the wildcard spot, even if no one was going to catch Oberland. In the nine games since then, which includes six divisional games, Diamond City has not won again. They have now been swept by first-place Oberland and second-place Vault 81, meaning they are in a deep divisional hole at 0-6. The Swatters have scored three or fewer runs in six of those nine losses, whereas they had only done that once in the first 11 games, their 6-3 opening-day loss to Goodneighbor. Their top two starters, X10-44 Mannson (2-1, 3.88) and Tyler Powers (3-2, 3.93) are pitching well, but their fourth starter, Jason Haynes (0-3, 13.00) is a virtual loss every time he takes the mound. At the plate, CF Logan Crawler (.195/1/11) is not getting it done as a leadoff hitter. The middle of the lineup--RF Wayne Lacy (.325/3/20), SS Wally Warwick (.349/4/17), and 1B Jeffrey Curatolo (.304/6/17)--are hitting well, but the rest of the lineup needs to step up to overcome the mediocre pitching.

On the opposite side of the bottle cap, Vault 81 has now won eight in a row, including sweeping division foes Roxbury and Diamond City with a sweep of Atom in between, putting them in the best early-season position for the RL wildcard. The Dwellers do not have the best pitching, but they are surprisingly middle-of-the-pack in quality so far, with the 7th best starters ERA (5.82) and the third-best bullpen ERA (3.67). Their batting lineup has been excellent with 6 of 8 starters hitting over .300, led by reigning CBO MVP RF Deer Quickwalker (.379/3/20) and power-hitting 1B Erns Gold (.333/8/15). Rookie sensation CF Aesed Hayjen is doing decently, but still sports the team's worst starting batting average (.277/2/12). In comparing the Dwellers and Swatters, one team looks to belong, and one team seems to be returning to the RL basement.

Another interesting factor in the early season is just how well the top two teams in the Brotherhood League are doing when comparing them to the rest of the North Charles Association and the CBO. Both the Nordhagen Beach Party Boys and Easy Town Assaultrons are three games up on their expected win-loss totals on the season. The only two teams that have done close to that are Oberland and Starlight, both +2.

Easy Town looks more like the team likely to return to the pack since they are getting the bounces so far. In one-run games, for instance, they have won 8 of 9. Outside one-run games, they are only 6-5. To me, that means they have luck as their biggest factor so far and they are probably closer to a team only slightly above .500 rather than a team with a .700 win percentage. One of the key factors in showing just how flimsy their start is would be to look at the runs scored (134, 1st in the NCA) versus runs allowed (124, 11th in the NCA). If pitching does not improve, the Assaultrons are going to see more losses pile up when they face off against the better pitchers of the league. So far, they have only met the Finch Farm Four Leafs in divisional games, going 4-2 against them, but the Four Leafs do not have the pitching prowess they had two years ago.

For the Party Boys, that path to the Sole Survivor Series may not have been a fluke. They are making Slocum's Joe Seaside Stadium a tough place for teams to go, and their starting pitching is one of the best in the league, shown by their currently being second in the CBO in runs allowed (81) and in starters ERA (3.54), both only behind the Oberland T-51s. The 1-2-3-4(!) punch of Tommy Beach (5-0, 3.35), Chet Arthur (1-3, 3.90), Julian Shed (2-1, 2.19) and Casey Diehl (3-0, 4.96) gives them great chances to win when the offense can offer run support. LF Michael Fogcrawler (.410/8/38), the NCA Player of the Month, is a viable MVP candidate, so the offense is not all bad. If it starts exploding, we are looking at a great chance for a repeat of the 2297 Sole Survivor Series regardless of what any other teams do.

We will break down the Institute and Minutemen Leagues more next week. For now, know that Fort Hagen and Abernathy are stars of the Institute League and look like they will be hanging around the top. A good bet is for both of those teams to win on average 3 of their 5 games each week. In the ML, Goodneighbor is all class, while Quincy, University Point, and Warwick look like they will be battling for that wildcard spot. Unless things go awry, it will probably be a long-term effort of mentioning those four teams since both Jamaica Plain and Atom look like they are anchored to the league cellar.

That is all for this week. We are enjoying the new format so far and hope to really break down later in the season how teams are affected by the five games per week schedule.

[StLee]

Originally Posted by StLee

Diamond City seemed like a crazy pick by PAM for the playoffs. Then they started out 8-3, and I thought that was going to be a case where they came out of the red seat to be a force. But now, nine down in a row makes it look like they are moving back to where they were the last two years. I'll break down that collapse in my analysis in just a few minutes.

They need that #1 overall pick in the draft, Oren Gep, to develop sooner than later. He has huge potential to be a big bat in their lineup, which will push them up. I'm thinking of a suitable nickname for him once he does move up to the bigs. Does "Baby Poppy" have a ring to it?

Looking at their current team, DC is definitely a team hurt by the extended schedule. Now that they have a 4th pitcher, you can see just how terrible their pitching depth chart is. Fourth starter Jason Haynes, some random signing this past offseason, is 0-3 with a 13.00 ERA in five starts. His "best" game was when he pitched the longest and gave up the fewest runs, but that was still a 5.0 innings pitched, four earned runs allowed losing affair. In his last start, yesterday against the Dwellers, he gave up seven earned runs in just 2.1 innings pitched. Diamond City needs to make some pitching moves for sure. Maybe they should consider dealing "Baby Poppy" for some solid pitching.

How fitting: a random event is scheduled for May 3. I rolled a trade. I then rolled . . . drumroll . . . Diamond City. How coincidental!!! I swear it was a true random roll! I swear on Ao's middle toe!

On a related note, May 3-12 was a busy random roll time with NINE random events happening. There was only one trade in that time, unfortunately. I like when those come up.

OK, now let's go see which pitcher is going to help the Swatters and kick that Jason Haynes character to the curb. I mean, the dude appeared as a free agent and came in with a vault dweller's name. . . how dare he!