The Excellence Project

[Nick Soulis]

Season 7
August



Awards
Batter of the month AL: Eric Chavez (2006 Athletics)
Batter of the month NL - Joe Harris (1919 Indians)
Pitcher of the month AL - Rich Harden (2006 Athletics)
Pitcher of the month NL - Stan Coveleski (1919 indians)

Injuries
Ray Herbert(1963 White Sox) - hamstring - 3 Weeks
Dioneer navarro (2005 Dodgers) - knee - season

American League East
Lead by the ageless Frank Thoms, the 2006 Athletics all put the division away this month with 19 wins and now a 10 game lead with a magic number under 20. Thomas is hitting .305 with 17 home runs while Eric Chavez has smashed 25. Rich Harden won his 19th game and has a real shot at the Cy Young with his 239 K's and 2.98 ERA. Huston Street is among the best closers in the business with 33 saves. Tony Pena lead the 2003 Royals to a winning month but they couldnt handled head to head with Oakland. Still nine games under .500 the pitching hasnt been up to par. Carlos Beltran has 95 RBI and is a deer in center while Mike Sweeney has his average up to .336. The 1921 Red Sox have lost 43 games away from Fenway and didnt have the bats to make things work. The starters had a 3.27 ERA lead by 16 game winner Bullett Joe Bush but other then Del Pratt who is hitting .343, the offense has been on snooze. The 1933 White Sox lost 20 times in the month and have wasted an MVP type year from Al Simmons (.341/32/112). Baseball is not a man sport.

American League West
Cruising to 100 wins the 1963 White Sox have made their point. Gary Peters has 21 wins and Juan Pizzaro 19 for a staff that makes it look easy. The offense is first in runs and has a .761 team OPS lead by the MVP favorite Pete Ward who has driven in 111. It will be fascinating to see if the Sox take take it all the way through the post season. The 1974 Twins seem to have lost hope and are not playing great baseball. The club has scored runs and hung tough but the defense has been poor of late and the pen has lost its way. Tough to play knowing that September is without real meaning. The 1986 Ddogers wont quick but Tommy Lasorda never did figuire out the bullpen issues. The club has depended too much on the home run and has not manufactured runs in a park that favors low scoring games. The 2009 Orioles were never in the race and never will be. The record is not all that bad but they find themselves at the bottom of the division. Adam Jones is a five tool player that has had a fine year but starting pitching has been hit hard and a lack of any real consistency other then losing has been the story of this team.

National League East
Poising themselves for the postseason, the 1919 Indians won two more awards in the month of August and are playing as well as they have all season. Tris Speaker is up to .385 and what we have seen from him the past two seasons should reinforce him as one of the all time greats. They are 8-2 in extra innings and 25-12 in one run games; this team knows how to get the job done. Pete Richert has pitched well of late for the 1967 Senators who have played good ball this year. A second place finish and Frank Howard deserves a shoutout for his big year slugging .586. Pitching for the 1969 Braves has been a headache and the club lacks any real speed to manufacture runs. Orlando Cepeda went 1 for 23 to end the month proving that Hank Aaron had little to no help this season. The 1969 Expos look up and are 43 games out of first and surely will be well over 100 losses. Rusty Staub had a good year but the club is last in most all offensive categories having more steals then home runs. Expos have won only 6 times against left handers and 53 losses away from Jary Park.

National League West
The final race is in the West where the top three teams are separated by 4.5 games. The 1972 White Sox are doing their darndest to hang on and Tom Bradley has been on fire since the all star break and now has 17 wins and a 3.23 ERA. Dick Allen has drive in 100 RBI and Bill Melton provides support in the order. The Sox host the 1975 Expos and the 2005 Dodgers for three each in the final month. The Expos won 18 games in August and are the hotter club at the moment. The have 184 steals and Gary Carter hit .412 in the month. Steve Rogers has also found his form with a 1.10 ERA in his last 2 starts and 17 wins overall. The 2005 Dodgers will face off for four games to end the season with the Expos but still seem to believe. This LA team is the best in the league on defense while Jeff Kent and Milton Bradley are seeing the ball well. Brad Penny is the ace and has 17 wins but will need a strong September and should feel confident as the Dodgers have a lights out pen. The team that was suppose to be there in the end, the 1979 Brewers, will do their best to be spoilers and end with some dignity after a shocking season. Ben Oglive has 31 home runs as the Crew does lead the league with 152 long balls.

[Nick Soulis]

SEASON 7
Final



American League Championship Series



2006 Oakland Athletics (87-75) vs 1963 Chicago White Sox (103-59)

The American League East lagged behind the AL West for most of the season but as the playoffs get ready to commence, none of that really matters. The 1963 Chicago White Sox won 103 games and ended with the best record in the game. Gary Peters and Juan Pizzaro both won over 20 games as the Sox allowed the fewest runs and scored the most with a 195 run differential. Pete Ward drove in 123 runs while hitting .340 to takr the league by storm while Floyd Robinson and Ron Hansen played above expectations in the middle of the order. These Sox dont have the household name, but the way they played this season leaves them as heavy favorites against the Athletics. Rich Harden went 22-5 for Oakland and was matched with 22 wins by Esteban Loaiza. thirty eight year old Frank Thomas looked like his younger self driving in 100 runs and hitting .301, a performance that came out of nowhere. Eric Chavez hit 29 home runs and drove in 94 and with his all around play may have been the real MVP of this team. Huston Street and the A's pen is really a strength as Street had 41 saves with a 2.87 ERA. The series would seem to favor Chicago but the two clubs are actually quite similar in style and numbers. Its time for both of them to play some very meaningful baseball after running away with their respected divisions.

National League Championship Series



1919 Cleveland Indians (97-65) vs 1972 Chicago White Sox (98-64)

Another South side club will also be making it to the postseason as the 1972 Chicago White Sox took their race with the 1975 Expos down to the final week but prevailed playing much better in the end. Tom Bradley leads the rotation that allowed the fewest runs in the league and was first in FIP. The Sox also played good defense and have team speed stealing 159 bases. Dont let the steals fool you however as they hammered 173 home runs lead by over 30 from Dick Allen and Bill Melton. Allen had 111 RBI and Carlos May contributed with 95. Walt Williams hit .327 and scored 109 runs at the top of the order. Chuck Tanner has this team ready for the battle of the post season and the 1919 Cleveland Indians await. The tribe wrapped up their division soon after the all-star break and will have to turn up their intensity in a hurry. Tris Speaker had a magical season winning the battng title at .376 and driving in 109 runs. Speaker hit a historical 70 doubles fo the season, an alltime record for anyone. Elmer Smith drove in 128 runs with 35 home runs and was the muscle in the order and Joe Harris was the third player with over 100 RBI. Stan Coveleski was brilliant as team ace winning 23 games with a 127 ERA+ but the Indians pen could be an issue if trusted upon with a 5.07 ERA. Cleveland was 55-26 at home and 30-15 in one run games proving the pen wasnt really used late in games. The series should be a great contrast of generations, while watching Tris Speaker shine should be a focal point for both teams good and bad.

Leaders



Batting Champion



Tris Speaker
(.376, 222 Hits, 70 doubles)

[Nick Soulis]

Season 7
Post Season

American League Championship Series

Sox End Oakland Dreams
Dream Season Continues For Chicago Now Head To WS



It has been a season of accomplishment for the 1963 Chicago White Sox and after winning 103 games during the season, they made short work of their first post season challenge.

The 2006 Athletics prepared for the Sox with some of the best pitching we saw all season. Rich Harden however lost a close one as his defense let him down in game one and in game two Juan Pizzaro beat Dan Haren and took much of the life out of their underdog opponents.

Coming home Ron Hansen hit his second home run of the series and the Sox cruised to an 8-3 win and took complete command of the matchup. Rich Harden did come back to salvage some pride in an Oakland game four win but the Sox put things away in game five as Pizzaro did it again in a 4-2 win.

Pete Ward was voted MVP of the series after he hit .474 in the five games and despite three home runs in the series from Milton Bradley, the Athletics saw their hopes fade away in what was still a season they could be proud of.

Nothing changes for this /White Sox team, that now stands one final series away from a championship.

National League Championship Series

Allen and White Sox Rip Through Tribe
Sweep In The Cards As None Of The Four Are Close



Dick Allen showed why he has no intention of being forgotten or overshadowed by anyone as the big Chicago slugger helped his 1972 team race to the pennant and the World Series.

Allen hit three home runs and drove in 8 runs to win the MVP of the series and outperform the likes of Tris Speaker. The Sox rolled all over Cleveland in game one scoring 11 runs on 16 hits and sending a clear tone. Wilbur Wood was the winner in game two as again the Sox bats came to life and one team was in control as the series moved to Cleveland.

Fan enthusiasm couldnt do much as Buddy Bradford went 4-5 with 2 runs and RBI and and the visitors scored 4 in the 8th to break a tie and break the Indians backs. In the clincher the Sox again punished Stan Coveleski who took his second loss while Dick Allen hit a big home run in a 9-5 win. One team just seemed ready for this series while the other seemed rusty and ill prepared.

Tris Speaker did not drive in a single run and ended hitting a meager .250 proving the post season baseball in a whole other animal. Two White Sox teams now prepare for the World Series that had two red hot confident sides ready to tangle with each other.

Go Go White Sox in every way.

[Nick Soulis]

Season 7
World Series



1963 Chicago White Sox (103-59) vs 1972 Chicago White Sox (98-64)

WHITE SOX CLASSIC: 1963 CHICAGO WHITE SOX TOP 1972
COUNTERPARTS IN SIX-GAME BATTLE

Comiskey Park turned into a cathedral of South Side baseball glory as the 1963 Chicago White Sox captured their first-ever Excellence Project pennant, defeating the 1972 Chicago White Sox in a thrilling six-game clash that balanced shutdown pitching with slugfest outbursts and unforgettable moments.

The series finale was a testament to the grit and balance that defined the ’63 squad all year. After clinching the AL West with a 103–59 regular-season mark, manager Al López’s crew outlasted their newer counterparts, sealing the championship with a 9–5 victory in front of over 84,000 fans waving black and white.

Series MVP: Pete Ward
Third baseman Pete Ward, named the undisputed World Series MVP, delivered at every turn. Ward anchored the lineup with clutch doubles, timely RBIs, and sharp defense under pressure. He finished the series hitting over .420, spraying four doubles and driving in big runs when it mattered most.

“Pete was the heartbeat of our lineup,” said manager López in the champagne-soaked clubhouse. “Whenever we needed a spark, he found a way.”

A Series of Contrasts
The opener set the tone: veteran Ray Herbert twirled a masterful shutout to give the 1963 club a 1–0 lead. But the 1972 Sox, led by the bat of Walt Williams and the power of Bill Melton and Dick Allen, roared back in Game 2 to even things up.

Game 3 turned into a classic South Side slugfest. The ’63 squad put up 13 runs behind Ron Hansen’s grand performance — a four-RBI explosion including a two-run homer that rocked Comiskey to its bricks. But the ’72 squad refused to go quietly. They edged a tight Game 4 behind Wilbur Wood’s steady arm and Rick Reichardt’s clutch pinch-hit RBI single, knotting the series at 2–2.

Key Moments and Heroes
Facing a deadlock, the 1963 White Sox found their postseason edge. In Game 5, Joe Cunningham’s late-game RBI single turned a tense duel into a 2–1 victory. Gary Peters’ early exit due to injury could have derailed their run — but a resilient bullpen, led by knuckleball master Hoyt Wilhelm, locked down every critical out.

In Game 6, Comiskey roared for nearly four hours as the 1963 club pounded out 15 hits and 9 runs. Jim Landis stepped up with a perfect 3-for-3 night, Weis and Robinson delivered big hits, and Ward doubled once more for good measure. Wilhelm notched his seventh save of the series, adding the final exclamation point to an October run South Siders will remember forever.

Final Word
The 1972 White Sox, despite the power of Allen and May and the spark of rookie Dave Lemonds, fell short in a series that showcased old-school toughness vs. new-era swagger. For the 1963 squad, it was a long time coming — a balanced, disciplined group that blended clutch hitting with lights-out bullpen work.

As the champagne flowed and the banners were hoisted over the cold October night, Pete Ward summed it up best: “We played for each other, and for our fans. Now, we’ve made history.”

[Nick Soulis]

Season 7
Awards

Most Valuable Player



Cy Young Award



Stats





Batting Title



Top Performances

Mike Sweeney (2003 Royals) - 5-6, 5 R, 9 RBI, 3 HR - 149
Milton Bradley (2005 Dodgers) - 4-4, 2 HR, 4 R, 4 RBI - 117
Milton Bradley (2005 Dodgers) - 3-3, 3 HR, 3 R, 7 RBI - 114
Felipe Alou (1969 Braves) - 4-5, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 2 R - 108
Bob Welch (1986 Dodgers) - 9 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 10 K - 91

[Nick Soulis]

An interview with the winning skipper, Al Lopez.



🎙️ Field Reporter:
“Al, congratulations on winning the Excellence Project championship for the American League — and beating the ’72 White Sox in the World Series. What’s your first thought when you see your team lift this crown?”

🧢 Al López:
“Well, thank you — it means an awful lot. You know, managing this group reminded me why I loved this game all those years ago. I’ve seen a lot of good clubs come and go, but this team — they just kept showing up, every day, hungry to win. They didn’t care who they were playing — the ’72 club, the ’06 A’s, the big bats out East — they just wanted to outplay ‘em.”

🎙️ Field Reporter:
“You managed a few special players in your time — what made this team so special? Was it the lineup, the arms, the defense?”

🧢 Al López:
“It was everything — you can’t win a championship in this league with one piece missing. Look at Pete Ward — that young man was the heartbeat. He hit .340 with pop, drove in runs, kept the dugout loose. Al Simmons? A hall-of-famer’s hall-of-famer, you give him 37 home runs and 125 RBI and you’ll sleep easy at night.

But then you got guys like Gary Peters on the mound — 23 wins, 2.81 ERA — he was as dependable as they come. The pitching staff kept us in every ballgame. And we played the kind of defense you can set your watch by. I don’t think folks appreciate how many games good gloves win you.”

🎙️ Field Reporter:
“Speaking of gloves — the club picked up hardware everywhere: MVP for Ward, Platinum Stick for Ted Lyons, Gold Gloves, you name it. How does that reflect on the culture you built?”

🧢 Al López:
“Well, I’ve always told my boys — you can’t take days off. You can’t cheat the fundamentals. I’ve seen too many teams with big bats and no leather. We wanted to be the club that didn’t beat itself. Good glove work, smart baserunning, pitchers who field their position — those little things show up in October.”

🎙️ Field Reporter:
“Last one, Al — what does this mean for the legacy of the ’63 White Sox? People will see your name on the Excellence Project trophy forever.”

🧢 Al López:
“You know, I managed a lot of clubs that came close, so this feels like a gift. For me, it’s a testament to Chicago baseball — our fans have always deserved this. And I’ll tell you, if you put that big ol’ trophy on display down on the South Side, I think those fans will keep believing for a long, long time.

I’m proud of these fellas — they earned it, every inning, every at-bat, every out. That’s the White Sox way.”

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
American League Eest Preview

Here’s an in-depth preview outline for the division — I’ll expand this once all divisions are set, but here’s a taste:


1. 1910 Philadelphia Athletics (102-48)* World Champion)
Manager: Connie Mack, the Tall Tactician
Strength: Pitching depth and defensive mastery. Chief Bender and Jack Coombs anchor the rotation.
Key Player: Eddie Collins — an on-base machine and defensive wizard.
X-Factor: Old-school small ball could outlast modern power clubs.

The 1910 Philadelphia Athletics are the class of the Deadball Era, guided by Connie Mack’s steady hand and bolstered by an infield that’s become the stuff of baseball legend. With Chief Bender and Jack Coombs anchoring a deep rotation, the A’s have the pitching and defense to choke the life out of any modern lineup. Small ball, bunts, steals, and error-free defense will be their blueprint — and few clubs in this bracket can match their discipline.


2. 1953 Boston Red Sox (84-69)
Manager: Lou Boudreau
Strength: Run production — Jackie Jensen, Billy Goodman, and Ted Williams (partial season) power the lineup.
Key Player: Ted Williams — the best pure hitter of his time.
X-Factor: Can the pitching hold up in a long grind? Mel Parnell needs to be sharp.

The 1953 Boston Red Sox are the wildcard of the bunch — explosive at the plate but unpredictable on the mound. Their season revolves around one man: Ted Williams. In this Excellence Project timeline, the “Splendid Splinter” has declared that this is his chance to prove he can lead a club across generations, defy modern scouting shifts, and deliver another batting title — or more. After missing time due to military service during the Korean War, Williams is rumored to be more driven than ever. He’s vowed to show these “new kids” that nobody hits like Ted Williams, no matter the era.


3. 1947 St. Louis Browns (59-95)
Manager: Muddy Ruel
Strength: Aggressive base running, hoping for upsets.
Key Player: Vern Stephens — slugging shortstop, needs to carry the offense.
X-Factor: Can they avoid being buried early? Bullpen usage will be key.

The 1947 St. Louis Browns may be the underdogs on paper, but they’re tired of being a footnote in baseball’s rich tapestry. A roster built on hustle and opportunism will try to trip up their more star-studded rivals. Vern Stephens must carry the offense, while the bullpen — by necessity — will be one of the most heavily used in the division. If they start hot, they might just believe they can hang around and steal the crown.


4. 1994 Detroit Tigers (53-62)
Manager: Sparky Anderson
Strength: Home run power. Cecil Fielder, Travis Fryman, and a sneaky good lineup.
Key Player: Cecil Fielder — must keep slugging all season.
X-Factor: A leaky rotation could doom them if the offense slumps.

Finally, the 1994 Detroit Tigers bring modern muscle to this old-school fight. With Cecil Fielder leading the charge, backed by Travis Fryman and a supporting cast capable of scoring in bunches, the Tigers might simply slug their way through. But can the rotation hold up over 162 games? In a division featuring the stingy Athletics and the methodical Sox, Detroit’s feast-or-famine offense could be the key — or their downfall.

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
American League West Preview


1. 1998 Minnesota Twins
Record: 70-92
Manager: Tom Kelly
Ball Park: Metrodome
WAR Leader: Brad Radke (5.2)

The 1998 Twins might not blow you away with towering home runs, but they’re one of the scrappiest clubs you’ll find in the Excellence Project. Managed by Tom Kelly, this Twins squad is built around speed, defense, and relentless hustle. Chuck Knoblauch is the catalyst — getting on base, swiping bags, and setting the tone. Ron Coomer and Matt Lawton chip in with timely hits, but the real strength is a clubhouse that knows how to manufacture runs the hard way. If they can play clean defense and keep games close, they could frustrate more talented teams and squeak out the division crown through sheer determination.



2. 1945 St. Louis Browns
Record: 81-70
Manager: Luke Sewell
Ball Park: Sportsmans Park
WAR Leader: Nels Potter (7.8)

Back for another bite of the apple, the 1945 Browns are the epitome of wartime baseball: patched together with grit, spare parts, and a lot of hustle. They may lack the big bats and deep arms of other clubs, but what they do have is unshakeable tenacity. Vern Stephens provides much-needed pop at shortstop, while the rest of the roster scrambles for hits, steals bags, and capitalizes on mistakes. They’ll need to catch teams off guard and grind out wins with small ball and opportunism. If the Browns can get on a roll early, they might just annoy the favorites all season long.



3. 1990 Seattle Mariners
Record: 77-85
Manager: Jim Lefebvre
Ball Park: Kingdome
WAR Leader: Edgar Martinez (5.6)

The 1990 Mariners are all about potential — raw, untamed, and thrilling. With Ken Griffey Jr. roaming center field and just starting to blossom into a generational superstar, Seattle brings youthful thunder to the division. Edgar Martinez and Alvin Davis provide a steady veteran presence in the lineup, while a young Randy Johnson tries to harness his fireball arsenal into something consistently devastating. The M’s are unpredictable: they might dazzle with highlight-reel defense and moonshot homers, or frustrate fans with untimely strikeouts and pitching woes. But one thing’s for sure — if Griffey takes the next step, nobody’s safe.



4. 1972 Pittsburgh Pirates
Record; 96-59
Manager: Bill Virdon
Ball Park: Three Rivers Stadium
WAR Leader: Richie Hebner (5.3)

Still reeling from the loss of Roberto Clemente, the 1972 Pirates enter the Excellence Project determined to honor his legacy with the same grit that defined his career. Willie Stargell anchors an offense that’s dangerous when it finds a rhythm, and Manny Sanguillen’s steady bat keeps the lineup moving. This Pirates squad is built on balance rather than flash — they can grind out tight games, but they’ll need their rotation to hold up against the division’s youthful bats. If Stargell gets hot and the team rallies around Clemente’s memory, the Bucs could sneak into the postseason and remind everyone why they were one of the NL’s class acts of the early ’70s.

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
National League East



1. 1983 Chicago Cubs
Record: 71-91
Manager: Lee Elia
Ball Park: Wrigley Field
WAR Leader: Lee Smith (4.7)

The 1983 Cubs stand at the dawn of a new era. Ryne Sandberg is emerging as a future star, giving the Wrigley faithful hope that better days are ahead. While they’re not yet the powerhouse they’d become later in the decade, this club has a scrappy edge and flashes of offensive firepower with Bill Buckner and Leon Durham providing pop. The rotation is patchy, but if Sandberg’s glove and bat catch fire and the bats stay hot through the summer, the Cubs could make life miserable for the more disciplined deadball and small-ball teams in the division.



2. 1913 Pittsburgh Pirates
Record: 78-71
Manager: Fred Clarke
Ball Park: exhibition Stadium
WAR Leader: Babe Adams (9.4)

Legends don’t fade quietly — the 1913 Pirates enter this tournament with Honus Wagner still manning shortstop in the twilight of his extraordinary career. The Deadball stalwarts play crisp, no-nonsense baseball, relying on contact hitting, bunts, and smart base running. Pitching and defense are their lifeline; they’ll suffocate lineups that depend too much on the long ball. While Wagner may be older, his leadership is ageless, and if he sparks the bats around him, the Pirates’ old-school style might prove surprisingly tough to beat across 162 games.



3. 1926 St. Louis Cardinals
Record: 89-65
Manager: Rogers hornsby
Ball Park: Sportsmans Park
WAR Leader: Les Bell (4.6)

The 1926 Cardinals bring a champion’s swagger to this fight. Fresh off their World Series triumph, this club has a perfect blend of power, speed, and veteran savvy. Rogers Hornsby remains one of the greatest right-handed hitters to ever step in the box, and the pitching staff, led by Grover Cleveland Alexander, can shut down big bats when it matters. What sets them apart is their balanced attack — they can outslug you or small-ball you into submission. If Hornsby gets hot, this division might belong to St. Louis from wire to wire.



4. 1965 Washington Senators
Record: 70-92
Manager: Gil Hodges
Ball Park: DC Stadium
WAR Leader: Pete Richert (4.8)

For the 1965 Senators, this Excellence Project season is about redemption and proving they’re more than just a basement dweller. With Frank Howard swinging a big bat, they’ve got raw power to change games with one swing — but they’ll need more than that to compete with disciplined Pirates and championship-hardened Cardinals. Their pitching is suspect, and defensive lapses could cost them dearly, but if they start to believe in themselves, this club could be the division’s biggest spoiler — and maybe, just maybe, its biggest surprise.

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
National League West



1. 1969 San Francisco Giants
Record: 90-72
Manager: Clyde King
Ball Park: Candlestick Park
WAR Leader: Willie McCovey (8.1)

The 1969 Giants are a snapshot of pure baseball royalty in the final prime years of Willie Mays and Willie McCovey playing together. These sluggers anchor an offense that can change a game with one mighty swing, while Gaylord Perry and Juan Marichal give the rotation championship-caliber bite. Their style mixes old-school fundamentals with classic ‘60s power — they’ll look to muscle past modern bullpens and outlast younger arms. If Mays stays healthy and the pitching stays sharp, the Giants could easily control the division with vintage swagger.



2. 2005 Houston Astros
Record: 89-73
Manager: Phil Garner
Ball Park: Minute Maid Park
WAR Leader: Roger Clemens (8.2)

The 2005 Astros come in with unfinished business. Fresh off a World Series loss in real life, this team brings a lethal combo of ageless aces and big bats. Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte, and Roy Oswalt form one of the nastiest rotations in the tournament, giving them a legit shot every series. Craig Biggio’s spark, Lance Berkman’s switch-hitting thunder, and a veteran clubhouse make them dangerous in tight, late-season chases. If they get the run support they need, the Astros could be the ultimate buzzsaw for any offense-first team in the West.



3. 2013 San Diego Padres
Record: 76-86
Manager: Bud Black
Ball Park: Petco Park
WAR Leader: Chris Denorfia (4.2)

The 2013 Padres are the misfits of the division — overlooked, gritty, and itching to prove they belong on the same diamond as baseball royalty. This was a rebuilding Padres squad with Chase Headley and a young Everth Cabrera trying to provide sparks, while Andrew Cashner and Tyson Ross gave the rotation an edge when healthy. Their season hinges on playing clean defense, stealing bags, and winning close games that the Giants or Astros might otherwise sleepwalk through. If they catch teams flat-footed, don’t be shocked if the Padres play spoiler and hang around late.



4. 2015 Cincinnati Reds
Record: 64-98
Manager: Bryan Price
Ball Park: Great American Ballpark
WAR Leader: Joey Votto (7.7)

For the 2015 Reds, it’s a matter of whether the stars align one more time. Joey Votto remains one of the most disciplined and dangerous hitters in baseball, while Todd Frazier’s power can carry them for stretches. The problem? A rotation that was in flux and a bullpen that can unravel under pressure. This Reds club has the sticks to slug with anyone, but they’ll need to turn Great American Ball Park’s home-run barrage into something sustainable on the road. If the pitching holds together just enough, this team could be a heartbreaker for the West’s big favorites.

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
April



�� The Excellence Project – Season 8 Monthly Recap: April
An In-Depth Look at the First Month Across All 16 Clubs

As the sun sets on the first month of Season 8 in The Excellence Project, each of the 16 participating clubs has shown flashes of brilliance, vulnerability, and everything in between. From breakout stars to early-season MVP campaigns, April brought fireworks and clarity to the divisional races. Let’s dive into a full breakdown by league and division.

�� Award Winners Recap

SL1 Pitcher of the Month: Charles Bender (Philadelphia 1910) – 4-1, 4.07 ERA, 41 K

SL2 Pitcher of the Month: Babe Adams (Pittsburgh 1913) – 5-1, 2.25 ERA, 35 K

SL1 Hitter of the Month: Jay Buhner (Seattle 1990) – .367 AVG, 10 HR, explosive power

SL2 Hitter of the Month: Willie McCovey (San Francisco 1969) – .353 AVG, 9 HR, 23 RBI

�� AMERICAN LEAGUE

East Division

⚾ Philadelphia 1910 Athletics (12–9, 1st Place)
The A’s are riding the dominant right arm of Charles Bender, who has been superb with 41 strikeouts and only six walks in April. Offensively, Eddie Collins (.424) and Stuffy McInnis (.376) have kept the lineup clicking. With elite contact hitting and crafty starting pitching, this is a team built for consistency.

⚾ St. Louis 1947 Browns (11–11, 2nd Place)
A surprise second-place effort from a scrappy Browns team. Though lacking a true star, the lineup is finding timely hits, and the rotation has held its own. Their challenge moving forward will be bullpen durability.

⚾ Detroit 1994 Tigers (10–12, 3rd Place)
Detroit has struggled to find consistency, despite flashes from its offense. Cecil Fielder has yet to heat up, and the pitching has been erratic. If the bullpen stabilizes, they’re still in the hunt.

⚾ Boston 1953 Red Sox (9–13, 4th Place)
Ted Williams’ presence alone keeps pitchers cautious, but this team is not stringing together wins. The staff is allowing too many base runners, and their -21 run differential is a red flag.

West Division

⚾ Pittsburgh 1972 Pirates (13–9, 1st Place)
With names like Willie Stargell and Roberto Clemente, the ‘72 Bucs bring power and leadership. The rotation is solid if unspectacular, but the bats have been clutch, especially late in games.

⚾ Minnesota 1998 Twins (11–10, 2nd Place)
The Twins are staying afloat thanks to timely offense and a surprisingly steady bullpen. Brad Radke is anchoring the rotation, and Ron Coomer has chipped in with key RBIs.

⚾ Seattle 1990 Mariners (10–12, 3rd Place)
Jay Buhner was baseball’s most dangerous man in April, slamming 10 HR and hitting .367. Yet Seattle’s pitching has let them down — particularly their starters’ inability to get past the 5th inning.

⚾ St. Louis 1945 Browns (6–15, 4th Place)
Already looking like a team destined for the bottom, the ‘45 Browns have no standout offensive contributors and a staff that ranks last in ERA. Barring a turnaround, this could spiral quickly.

⚾ NATIONAL LEAGUE

East Division

⚾ Pittsburgh 1913 Pirates (14–8, 1st Place)
This vintage team is thriving thanks to Babe Adams’ brilliance and a ferocious offense. Rennie Stennett (.446 AVG) leads all of baseball in hitting, and Owen Wilson has 9 HR and 21 RBI. Add in Hank Robinson’s 1.66 ERA, and the Pirates are an early juggernaut.

⚾ St. Louis 1926 Cardinals (11–11, 2nd Place)
Jim Bottomley leads the league in homers (10) and anchors a team that’s treading water. The pitching has been better than expected, but the bullpen lacks a true closer.

⚾ Washington 1965 Senators (9–11, 3rd Place)
While not an elite team on paper, Washington has shown grit. However, the offense ranks near the bottom of the league, and unless they get more out of Frank Howard, it’s hard to see a playoff push.

⚾ Chicago 1983 Cubs (7–15, 4th Place)
One of the worst starts in the tournament. Despite solid efforts from Ron Cey and Jody Davis, the rotation has been crushed, especially by left-handed hitters. Their staff has surrendered the most HR in the league.

West Division

⚾ San Diego 2013 Padres (17–5, 1st Place)
No team has been hotter. Winners of 10 straight at one point, the Padres have elite starting pitching (3.12 team ERA) and a deep bullpen. Chase Headley and Carlos Quentin are providing run production, and the defense has been nearly flawless.

⚾ San Francisco 1969 Giants (12–10, T-2nd Place)
Willie McCovey (.353, 9 HR, 23 RBI) is staking a claim as the league MVP so far. Juan Marichal (41 K) is striking out batters at will, though the bullpen has blown three saves.

⚾ Houston 2005 Astros (12–10, T-2nd Place)
Roger Clemens has been dominant (4-0, 1.70 ERA) and Morgan Ensberg is flashing power. The team is winning with a tight rotation and good defensive play. Their Achilles heel? Inconsistent run support.

⚾ Cincinnati 2015 Reds (10–13, 4th Place)
Despite a strong week from Marlon Byrd, Cincinnati remains inconsistent. Raisel Iglesias (1.95 ERA) and Homer Bailey (2.22 ERA) are giving them chances, but the offense lacks punch outside of Byrd and Todd Frazier.

�� Final Thoughts

Early MVP Watch: McCovey in NL and Buhner in AL

Best Rotation: Pittsburgh 1913, with Adams and Robinson leading a vintage shutdown staff.

Biggest Surprise: San Diego 2013, off to a blistering 17-5 start.

Biggest Disappointment: Chicago 1983 Cubs, with the league’s worst record and leakiest pitching.

As May begins, contenders will look to build momentum, while early underachievers must scramble to stay alive. With two elite Pirates clubs leading their respective leagues, could we be headed for an all-Pittsburgh finale? The Excellence Project’s eighth season is heating up.

[Nick Soulis]

🎙️ EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Bud Black on the 2013 Padres’ Red-Hot Start in The Excellence Project




BNN Insider: Coach Black, thanks for taking the time. Let’s start with the obvious — your 2013 Padres are 17-5, the best record across Season 8 so far. Did you see this coming?

Bud Black:
Well, first off — thanks for having me. I’d be lying if I said 17-5 was expected, but I’ll tell you what — we came into this thing confident. This group, back in 2013, we were often overlooked. But in this tournament, where every team is trying to prove something from history, that chip on our shoulder’s gotten even bigger. These guys came ready to play, and they’re showing it.

BNN Insider: What’s been the key so far? You’ve won 10 straight at one point, and your pitching has been lights out.

Bud Black:
It starts on the mound. Our starters — Eric Stults, Andrew Cashner, Tyson Ross — they’re giving us a chance to win every night. And our bullpen? Luke Gregerson, Dale Thayer, Joe Thatcher, they’re pounding the zone. We’re not giving up free passes, and we’re making the other team earn everything. That’s our DNA — pitching, defense, situational hitting.

BNN Insider: Let’s talk offense. A lot of people didn’t expect much pop from this Padres lineup, but Carlos Quentin and Chase Headley are delivering.

Bud Black:
Absolutely. Carlos is just barreling balls. He’s got that uppercut swing and he’s seeing the ball really well right now. And Chase, I mean, he’s the glue guy. He’s our quiet leader. Doesn’t always get the headlines, but he’s driving in runs, working deep counts, playing Gold Glove defense at third. When those two are locked in, we’re dangerous.

BNN Insider: You’ve played some strong clubs already — the ’69 Giants, ’05 Astros — and handled them well. Is this team built to go the distance?

Bud Black:
We like to think so. It’s a long tournament, and things will tighten up. But we’ve got depth, we’ve got arms, and most importantly — we’ve got belief. The guys in that clubhouse believe they belong here with the best. That’s half the battle.

BNN Insider: What’s the message you’re sending to the club now that you're the hunted instead of the hunter?

Bud Black:
Stay humble. Stay hungry. We respect every team in this tournament — whether it’s the 1913 Pirates or the '94 Tigers. Anyone can beat anyone on a given day, especially with the arms we’re seeing. So the focus is one game at a time. Don’t read the press clippings — just keep grinding.

BNN Insider: Any player that’s surprised even you so far?

Bud Black:
Honestly? Yonder Alonso. He’s not putting up huge numbers, but the quality of his at-bats has been phenomenal. Taking pitches, fouling stuff off, wearing pitchers down. That stuff doesn’t show up on the scoreboard but it makes a difference. And Everth Cabrera is creating havoc on the basepaths — just what we need at the top of the order.

BNN Insider: Last one for you — if you had to pick one word to describe this team through April, what would it be?

Bud Black:
Resilient. Doesn’t matter if we’re down two or tied in the ninth, these guys believe they’re going to find a way. And more often than not so far, they have.

BNN Insider: Coach, thanks for the insight and best of luck as the season rolls on.

Bud Black:
Appreciate it. Go Pads!

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
May Review



As the dust settles on the second month of play in Season 8 of the Excellence Project, contenders are beginning to emerge while others are scrambling to stay afloat. May was a month defined by pitching dominance, explosive offense, and some major separation in the standings. Let’s dive into the league-wide storylines, monthly award winners, and a team-by-team analysis across both the American League and National League brackets.

⭐️ Monthly Award Winners

�� AL Pitcher of the Month: Eddie Plank, 1910 Philadelphia A’s

Record: 6-2 | ERA: 3.74 | K: 40 in 57.1 IP
The veteran lefty rebounded from an up-and-down April with a stellar May, leading the A’s rotation with consistency and command.

�� NL Pitcher of the Month: Andy Pettitte, 2005 Houston Astros

Record: 5-1 | ERA: 1.70 | K: 38 in 58.1 IP
Pettitte continues to be a rock, delivering quality start after quality start to keep Houston in the thick of the race.

�� NL Batter of the Month: Rogers Hornsby, 1926 St. Louis Cardinals

AVG: .337 | HR: 10 | RBI: 26
The Rajah was relentless, adding to his MVP case with a scorching May that helped St. Louis claim first in the East.

�� AL Batter of the Month: Willie Stargell, 1972 Pittsburgh Pirates

HR: 20 | AVG: .365 | RBI: 48
“Pops” is absolutely obliterating the ball and leads all of baseball in home runs and RBIs, providing the thunder for Pittsburgh’s rise.

�� League Leaders (As of May 31)

�� Batting Average (Top 5):

Eddie Collins – PHA – .368

Willie Stargell – PIT – .365

Stuffy McInnis – PHA – .353

Rennie Stennett – PIT – .351

Jack Barry – PHA – .346

�� Home Runs:

Willie Stargell – PIT – 20

Richie Hebner – PIT – 17

Jay Buhner – SEA – 16

Jeff Heath – SLA – 15

Willie McCovey – SFN – 15

�� RBIs:

Danny Murphy – PHA – 48

Willie Stargell – PIT – 48

Vern Stephens – SLA – 47

�� Wins (8-way tie):

Plank (PHA), Haines (SLN), Perry (SFN), Pettitte (HOU) – 8 each

�� ERA:

Luke Walker – PIT – 1.75

Hank Robinson – PIT – 2.00

Andy Pettitte – HOU – 2.21

�� Team-by-Team Analysis

AMERICAN LEAGUE

�� East Division

�� Philadelphia 1910 Athletics (33-17)
The A’s are a powerhouse. Eddie Collins is batting .368, Danny Murphy is tied for the league lead in RBIs, and Plank leads the rotation. With the league's best offense and two top-five pitchers (Plank, Krause), they’re the team to beat.

�� Detroit 1994 Tigers (22-28)
Despite some flashes of offense, their pitching depth continues to hurt them. The gap between them and Philadelphia may already be insurmountable.

�� Boston 1953 Red Sox (18-32)
Frank Sullivan has been solid with 78 Ks, but the offense is sluggish and the bullpen unreliable. They’re in a spiral.

�� St. Louis 1947 Browns (18-32)
Jack Kramer has been inconsistent, and the bats aren’t supporting him. A tough, grinding team, but outclassed so far.

�� West Division

�� Pittsburgh 1972 Pirates (33-18)
Absolutely lethal. Stargell, Hebner, and Stennett are all top-5 in major categories. The rotation is dominating with Luke Walker, Hank Robinson, and Babe Adams all posting ERAs under 2.60. A true juggernaut.

�� Seattle 1990 Mariners (23-26)
Jay Buhner’s power is carrying the offense, but the rest of the lineup is too streaky. Pitching has been average. Still in reach but slipping.

�� Minnesota 1998 Twins (23-27)
Solid contact hitters but no major standouts. Their depth keeps them in games, but no one has emerged as a clear difference-maker.

�� St. Louis 1945 Browns (23-28)
Better than expected, with Vern Stephens raking (47 RBIs), but their pitching is porous. They're scrappy but unlikely to climb far.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

�� East Division

�� St. Louis 1926 Cardinals (30-20)
Rogers Hornsby is an MVP frontrunner, and Jesse Haines is 8-2. Balanced attack with timely hitting. They’ve separated from the pack.

�� Pittsburgh 1913 Pirates (27-23)
Babe Adams is leading a quietly good staff. The offense is hit-or-miss, but they hang around. Need a spark to catch St. Louis.

�� Washington 1965 Senators (21-28)
Pitching has been competent, but the bats are flat. They’re in games but rarely win them. A few tweaks could yield better results.

�� Chicago 1983 Cubs (19-32)
Mark Grace and Ryne Sandberg haven’t lived up to expectations yet. They’re struggling to get consistency in the rotation.

�� West Division

�� San Francisco 1969 Giants (31-20)
Juan Marichal and Gaylord Perry have been outstanding. McCovey leads the offense. Classic formula: elite pitching + middle-of-order punch.

�� San Diego 2013 Padres (31-20)
One of the league’s biggest surprises. Quietly efficient with a top-10 staff. Very little star power but a lot of cohesion.

�� Houston 2005 Astros (28-24)
Andy Pettitte and Roy Oswalt form a nasty 1-2 punch (both top-5 in ERA). If Berkman or Ensberg heats up, they’ll surge forward.

�� Cincinnati 2015 Reds (23-28)
Offense is middle-tier, and the rotation lacks bite. They hang tough but haven’t capitalized in close games.

�� Looking Ahead to June…

Will Stargell break the home run record for the project?

Can San Diego keep up with the Giants in the West?

Is there anyone who can slow down Philadelphia or Pittsburgh in the AL?

Are the Astros a dark horse with Pettitte and Oswalt on fire?

Expect continued fireworks, a tightening of the playoff picture, and more historic performances in June.

[Nick Soulis]

EXCLUSIVE: Phil Garner Talks 2005 Astros’ Sleeper Surge
June 2, 2025 | Excellence Project – Season 8

📍Houston, TX – Minute Maid Park



As the calendar flips to June in the Excellence Project's eighth season, the 2005 Houston Astros find themselves sitting in third place in a brutal NL West division — just 3.5 games behind the co-leaders, the 1969 San Francisco Giants and 2013 San Diego Padres.

But to hear Astros skipper Phil Garner tell it, the best is yet to come.

We caught up with “Scrap Iron” in the dugout ahead of the Astros' series against the Reds to talk about the team’s pitching dominance, underdog status, and the quiet confidence building in the clubhouse.

🎙️ INTERVIEW: PHIL GARNER, MANAGER – 2005 HOUSTON ASTROS

Q: Phil, your team is sitting at 28-24, third in the NL West. What’s the mood in the clubhouse right now?

Garner:
We’re not rattled, not one bit. You look at our record, and sure, we’ve dropped a couple tough ones, but we’re right there. The vibe is strong. We’ve got some seasoned guys who’ve been through the grind — they know what it takes. We’re not worried about who's ahead of us today. We’re focused on who’s ahead of us tomorrow.

Q: The rest of the league is starting to call you a "dark horse." Do you embrace that label?

Garner:
You better believe it. I love that. You come into a season like this with juggernauts from every era — '69 Giants, '26 Cardinals, '72 Pirates — and you get a team like ours that nobody circles on the calendar. That’s fine. We’ll be the team you don’t want to face in September. Let ‘em sleep on us.

Q: Your rotation has been lights-out. Pettitte and Oswalt are both top five in ERA. Talk about what they’ve meant to this group.

Garner:
Andy’s been the anchor. He’s throwing like he’s got something to prove — and maybe he does. Eight wins already, ERA just above two? He’s locked in. Roy’s been equally nasty. I mean, hitters are walking back to the dugout shaking their heads. And we’re getting quality starts up and down the line. When your guys are going 7+, you’re in every ballgame.

Q: Offensively, you’re not leading any categories, but you're doing enough to win. How do you assess the bats right now?

Garner:
We haven’t exploded yet — but it's coming. Berkman’s heating up. Biggio’s still grinding out great at-bats. Ensberg is about to break out, I feel it. We’re a club that can manufacture runs when needed, but when the dam breaks — and it will — we’ll hang crooked numbers.

Q: You’re staring up at two very good clubs in the standings. What’s it going to take to pass them?

Garner:
Consistency. That’s it. We can’t afford those three-game skids. We've gotta grind series wins, pitch to contact, play clean defense, and keep applying pressure. We don’t have to win 10 in a row — we’ve got to win 2 out of 3 every week. I think if we do that, the standings will take care of themselves.

Q: Final question — do you believe the 2005 Astros can win the NL West in this tournament?

Garner: (smiles)
Without question. We’ve got the arms, we’ve got the grit, and we’ve got the guys who’ve been in big games. We’re built for the long haul, not just headlines in April. I say bring on the Giants, bring on the Padres — we’ll be ready.

With Pettitte and Oswalt forming a lethal tandem, the 2005 Astros are quietly turning into one of the tournament’s most dangerous teams — lurking behind the division leaders with purpose and poise.

Stay tuned. The West might not be settled for a long while.

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
June



�� The Excellence Project – June 2025 Monthly Report (Season 8) ��
All-Star Break Nears as Races Tighten, Cueto and Coombs Capture Rookie Honors, Stargell Shines

As June gives way to July in Season 8 of The Excellence Project, all eyes turn toward the upcoming All-Star Game — but not before reflecting on a June filled with jaw-dropping performances, shifting pennant races, and breakout stars. From Willie Stargell’s MVP-caliber month to Johnny Cueto and Jack Coombs dominating from the mound, the league delivered another unforgettable chapter.

Let’s break down June team-by-team as the races heat up:

�� AMERICAN LEAGUE ANALYSIS

East Division

Philadelphia 1910 Athletics (52–26, .667) — ��
Connie Mack's club continues to run laps around the rest of the AL. Jack Coombs' sensational June (5-2, 2.68 ERA, 60 Ks) earned him Rookie of the Month honors. Backed by a deep rotation (Krause, Bender, Plank), the A’s own the pitching leaderboard with all three in the top 3 in strikeouts. Eddie Collins (.334 AVG) and Danny Murphy (63 RBI) fuel the offense. Philly looks like the early World Series favorite.

Detroit 1994 Tigers (31–46, .403) — ��
An abysmal June saw Detroit slip further into irrelevance. Pitching woes and an offense that can't keep pace leave the Tigers needing a miracle second-half turnaround.

Boston 1953 Red Sox (31–46, .403) — ��
June was another frustrating month for Boston. The bats are lukewarm, the pitching is pedestrian, and the team is playing below expectations. They'll need a jolt to avoid a last-place finish.

St. Louis 1947 Browns (28–48, .368) — ❌
The AL's worst team in June. Vern Stephens continues to mash (22 HR, 74 RBI), but the supporting cast is nonexistent. Expect trade rumors to swirl around the slugger before long.

West Division

Pittsburgh 1972 Pirates (50–29, .633) — ��
Still comfortably in first, thanks largely to one man: Willie Stargell, your SL1 Player of the Month, who launched 32 HR and drove in 77 RBI. Stargell also had a 3-HR game in June, leading a power-packed offense. On the mound, Bob Moose (2.01 ERA) and Hank Robinson (2.36 ERA) keep hitters off-balance. This team is built to win now.

Seattle 1990 Mariners (39–37, .513) — ⏳
The M's held steady in June, neither rising nor falling significantly. They're a tier below Pittsburgh but remain in the Wild Card conversation.

St. Louis 1945 Browns (34–43, .442) — ⚠️
Judnich (.324 AVG) continues to impress, but they’ve lacked pitching depth. Without a midseason acquisition or breakout, the Browns will drift further from contention.

Minnesota 1998 Twins (29–48, .377) — ��
Despite strong June showings from Matt Lawton and Ron Coomer, this team is lacking elite talent on the mound. Their fate appears sealed.

⚾ NATIONAL LEAGUE ANALYSIS

East Division

St. Louis 1926 Cardinals (45–32, .584) — ��
Solid and steady, the ‘26 Cards played balanced baseball in June. They don’t have the firepower of Pittsburgh or Philly, but their rotation led by Flint Rhem and dependable defense keeps them ahead in the division.

Pittsburgh 1913 Pirates (43–33, .566) — ��
Quietly surging, the Pirates put together a strong June with sound fundamentals and timely hitting. A few pieces away from catching St. Louis.

Chicago 1983 Cubs (30–48, .385) — ��
Slumping hard. A few early bright spots have faded, and this club is struggling to find an identity.

Washington 1965 Senators (27–48, .360) — ��
June saw them slide even further. The lowest scoring team in the league.

West Division

San Diego 2013 Padres (46–31, .597) — ��
A 17-9 June has the Padres atop the West. Tyson Ross (11 wins) has been exceptional, and the team’s depth is proving resilient. The best blend of offense and pitching in the NL.

Houston 2005 Astros (46–33, .582) — ��
Roger Clemens was untouchable in June (1.17 ERA, 54 IP, .161 BAA), earning Pitcher of the Month honors. Add Andy Pettitte (12 wins, 2.10 ERA) and Roy Oswalt (2.52 ERA), and Houston may have the league’s best rotation. The Astros are heating up fast.

San Francisco 1969 Giants (44–34, .564) — ��
Quietly consistent. Juan Marichal (118 Ks) remains dominant, and Willie McCovey’s 22 HR and 66 RBI are keeping them within striking distance.

Cincinnati 2015 Reds (42–35, .545) — ��
The hottest team in baseball in June. Rookie Johnny Cueto (4-1, 1.19 ERA in June) dazzled en route to Rookie of the Month, helping Cincinnati win 18 of 27 games. Joey Votto and Todd Frazier are raking, and the bullpen has locked down leads. This team has swagger and momentum.

�� MONTHLY HONORS

Pitcher of the Month (NL)
Roger Clemens Houston 2005 4-1, 1.17 ERA, 47 K, 54 IP
Batter of the Month (AL)
Willie Stargell Pittsburgh 1972 32 HR, 77 RBI, .347 AVG

�� LEAGUE LEADERBOARDS

Batting Average

Stuffy McInnis (PHA) – .355

Willie Stargell (PIT) – .347

Eddie Collins (PHA) – .334

Home Runs

Willie Stargell (PIT) – 32

Jeff Heath (SLA) – 22

Willie McCovey (SFN) – 22

Richie Hebner (PIT) – 22

Vern Stephens (SLA) – 22

RBI

Willie Stargell (PIT) – 77

Vern Stephens (SLA) – 74

Willie McCovey (SFN) – 66

ERA

Bob Moose (PIT) – 2.01

Andy Pettitte (HOU) – 2.10

Roger Clemens (HOU) – 2.27

Strikeouts

Harry Krause (PHA) – 131

Charles Bender (PHA) – 126

Jack Coombs (PHA) – 122

�� STORYLINES TO WATCH IN JULY

Can Stargell make a run at 60 HR before September?

Will Houston’s Big Three starters carry them past San Diego?

Can Cincinnati keep riding Cueto’s magic and shock the West?

Will anyone catch Philadelphia in the AL, or are they unstoppable?

All-Star Game: Who will start on the mound – Moose or Clemens? Stargell or Collins at DH?

[Nick Soulis]

🏆 Excellence Project Spotlight: Willie Stargell’s Monumental First Half Has History Within Reach 🏆
Pittsburgh’s Slugger Eyes Kingman’s 54-HR Record as MVP Buzz Builds



PITTSBURGH — There are hot streaks… and then there’s what Willie Stargell is doing in Season 8 of the Excellence Project.

Through just 79 games, the 1972 Pittsburgh Pirates’ iconic first baseman is not only tearing through opposing pitchers — he’s tearing up the history books. With 32 home runs and 77 RBI, Stargell is putting together one of the most devastating first halves in tournament history. But there’s one number that looms larger than all the rest: 54.

That’s the single-season home run record in Excellence Project play, set by Dave Kingman of the 1979 Chicago Cubs in Season 3 — a record once thought safe from even the most powerful bats. Now, it's squarely in Stargell's sights.

🌟 The First Half: Ruthian Numbers in Steel City

Stargell has been nothing short of extraordinary. He leads all of SL1 in:

Home Runs: 32

RBI: 77

Slugging %: .725

OPS: 1.119 (unofficial estimate)

Total Bases: Over 200

He’s also hitting for average — a crisp .347, good for second in the league behind only Stuffy McInnis (.355). He’s doing it all while anchoring a Pittsburgh squad that sits atop the AL West at 50–29, emerging as a true World Series contender.

On June 15, Stargell erupted for three home runs in a single game, sending shockwaves through the tournament and putting Kingman’s record within realistic striking distance.

🔢 The Math: Can He Reach 54?

At his current pace of 32 HR in 79 games, Stargell is on track to hit:

(32 HR / 79 games) × 162 games = ~65.6 HR

That projects to 66 home runs, which would obliterate Kingman's 54 and set a new Excellence Project benchmark. Even with some regression or a cold streak, Stargell has built in a significant cushion. If he hits even 22 home runs in the final 83 games, he ties the record.

To break it? He needs 23.

🧠 What’s Changed?

Though always a feared slugger, Stargell's 1972 campaign in past seasons never hit these heights. Analysts credit:

Elite plate discipline: Walks are up, and he's chasing fewer bad pitches.

Consistent lineup protection: With Richie Hebner (22 HR, 63 RBI) and Al Oliver getting on base, pitchers are forced to attack Stargell.

Optimized matchups: Manager Bill Virdon has kept him fresh and fed him a steady diet of right-handed pitching.

📜 The Record He’s Chasing: Dave Kingman, 1979 Cubs

Kingman's 54 homers in Season 3 stood out as a lone beacon in a powerful yet inconsistent Cubs lineup. His all-or-nothing approach led to a streaky campaign, but his raw power pushed him to the summit. Stargell, in contrast, is putting together a more well-rounded MVP-level season, pairing average and on-base skill with raw power.

🗣️ Voices Around the League

Bob Prince, legendary Pirates broadcaster:

“If Pops keeps swinging the bat like this, you better bring a glove to the outfield — you’re gonna need it!”

Don Zimmer, Boston skipper:

“We’ve pitched to him, pitched around him, walked him… it doesn’t matter. He’s locked in like I’ve never seen.”

Stargell himself, after his 3-HR game:

“Records are nice, sure. But I’m playing for October. If the homers come, they come. I just want to win.”

🏆 MVP Watch and October Dreams

Stargell is now the clear front-runner for the SL1 MVP award. His combination of eye-popping power and leadership has elevated Pittsburgh into championship conversation — and he could become the first player in project history to win both the Home Run Title and MVP while leading his team to a Field of Dreams Championship.

🔭 Looking Ahead
With the All-Star break approaching, all eyes will be on Stargell’s performance in the Midsummer Classic — likely as the AL’s starting first baseman and cleanup hitter. But the real question remains: Can he make history?

If his first-half pace is any indication, Kingman’s 54 is living on borrowed time.

[Nick Soulis]

Season 8
All Star Break

Excellence Project Season 8: All-Star Weekend Preview
Forbes Field, Pittsburgh, PA
Midseason, 2025 (Season 8)


It's Time for the Midsummer Classic!
The stars are shining bright over Pittsburgh as the Excellence Project's Season 8 All-Star Weekend takes center stage. With the league’s most dominant players assembled, the time has come to settle league supremacy in front of a raucous Forbes Field crowd and millions watching worldwide. From jaw-dropping sluggers to lights-out aces, every corner of the diamond will be filled with the elite.

All-Star Game Starting Rosters

American League Starters
SP: Charles Bender (Philadelphia A's) – The ace of the AL with a 12-6 record and 5.8 WAR

C: Manny Sanguillen (Pittsburgh Pirates) – Hitting .315 with elite contact

1B: Willie Stargell (Pittsburgh Pirates) – 33 HR, .689 SLG, and a Derby favorite

2B: Eddie Collins (Philadelphia A's) – A table-setter and base-stealing menace (44 SB)

3B: Richie Hebner (Pittsburgh Pirates) – 22 HR, .603 SLG – silent but deadly

SS: Vern Stephens (St. Louis Browns) – 23 HR, a slick-fielding, slugging shortstop

LF: Milt Byrnes (St. Louis Browns) – Brings balance to the outfield with .380 OBP

CF: Al Oliver (Pittsburgh Pirates) – Consistent, reliable, and batting .314

RF: Danny Murphy (Philadelphia A's) – 20 HR and 23 SB for this dynamic weapon

National League Starters

SP: Roy Oswalt (Houston Astros) – 10 wins, sub-3 ERA, and a big-game reputation

C: Devin Mesoraco (Cincinnati Reds) – .300 AVG, 12 HR in just 233 ABs

1B: Willie McCovey (San Francisco Giants) – 27 HR, 191 wRC+, and slugging .641

2B: Rogers Hornsby (St. Louis Cardinals) – A legend with 21 HR and a .327 AVG

3B: Morgan Ensberg (Houston Astros) – 20 HR, 152 wRC+ in a breakout season

SS: Honus Wagner (Pittsburgh Pirates) – Steady glove and 19 SB for the Flying Dutchman

LF: Carlos Quentin (San Diego Padres) – Quiet power with 18 HR and solid OBP

CF: Owen Wilson (Pittsburgh Pirates) – A true MVP candidate: 22 HR, 182 wRC+, 6.4 WAR

RF: Ham Hyatt (Pittsburgh Pirates) – 20 HR, .523 SLG, and big late-inning moments

Home Run Derby Lineup
Location: Forbes Field – a pitcher's park, but these guys don’t care.

Participants:
Willie Stargell (AL) – 33 HR, fan favorite, Derby favorite

Willie McCovey (NL) – 27 HR, all-time power icon

Owen Wilson (NL) – 22 HR, one of the league’s most complete stars

Jeff Heath (AL) – 26 HR and a Ruthian .638 SLG

Vern Stephens (AL) – 23 HR from the shortstop position

Jay Buhner (AL) – 23 HR, .564 SLG and raw bat speed

Mickey Tettleton (AL) – 22 HR, moonshot master

Jim Bottomley (NL) – 22 HR, old-school muscle

Special Note: Willie vs. Willie in a potential final? The crowd is dreaming of a Stargell–McCovey showdown.

Key Storylines to Watch
⭐ Stargell’s Super Season
Willie Stargell has 33 home runs already and is chasing Dave Kingman’s Excellence Project single-season home run record of 54. Can he keep the pace, and will the Derby light a fire?

WAR of the Worlds
The AL comes in with five players over 4.0 WAR, including Bender, Collins, McInnis, Hebner, and Baker. But the NL features the all-around dominance of Owen Wilson (6.4 WAR) and McCovey (5.6 WAR), with Clemens and Pettitte anchoring the mound.

Team Influence
Pittsburgh Pirates dominate both rosters with a whopping 9 total All-Stars across both leagues. And with the game at Forbes Field, they’ll have the home crowd rocking.

Philadelphia A’s also have a strong showing with 5 players, all starters or key pitchers.

Houston Astros boast the top pitching rotation of the NL with Clemens, Oswalt, Pettitte, and Lidge.

Fan Picks and Surprises
Most Popular Pick: Willie Stargell (AL) and Willie McCovey (NL) were runaway vote-getters.

Biggest Snub?: Frank Baker (PHA) – 19 HR and 177 wRC+ but left off the starting nine.

Quiet Breakout: Jim Viox (NL) – underrated, but his .393 OBP and elite contact has scouts buzzing.

[Nick Soulis]

Excellence Project – Home Run Derby Recap
Forbes Field, Pittsburgh
All-Star Weekend, Season 8

Owen Wilson Crowned Home Run Derby Champion at Forbes



The historic Forbes Field crackled with energy and nostalgia as the stars of the Excellence Project took center stage for the Season 8 Home Run Challenge. In a thrilling final round showdown, Owen Wilson of the 1913 Pittsburgh Pirates emerged victorious, blasting 9 home runs to defeat Mickey Tettleton of the 1991 Detroit Tigers, who managed 4 in the finale.

Wilson, the deadball-era center fielder known more in his day for triples than towering shots, tapped into the modern spotlight with a dazzling display of raw power and rhythm. His fluid swing and crowd-pleasing poise made him a fan favorite from the opening round.

"I was glad to be part of this event," Wilson said, trophy in hand beneath the golden Pittsburgh sunset. "Even happier to win it."

Tettleton, no stranger to the longball himself, gave credit to his opponent.

"Owen got locked in. When a guy like that finds his groove, you tip your cap."

Final Round Result

Owen Wilson (1913 PIT): 9 HR

Mickey Tettleton (1991 DET): 4 HR

Notable Highlights:

Wilson belted 3 homers that cleared the right-center bleachers, an unheard-of feat in spacious Forbes Field.

Tettleton wowed early with back-to-back-to-back shots in the semifinal but ran out of steam in the final.

The crowd of 41,202 roared with each moonshot, blending eras and legends in a celebration of pure power.

As fireworks lit up the Pennsylvania sky, Wilson’s name was etched into the lore of the Excellence Project. His triumph serves as a powerful reminder: even in a game filled with giants from across the ages, the past still has some pop left in the bat.

[Nick Soulis]

All Star Game
Season 8




Owen Wilson Steals the Show at Forbes Again

From deadball-era grace to modern-day heroics, 1913 Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Owen Wilson delivered one of the most memorable All-Star Weekends in Excellence Project history. In a two-day span, Wilson claimed both the Home Run Challenge crown and All-Star Game MVP honors, delighting the Pittsburgh faithful at historic Forbes Field.

All-Star Game – July 15th
National League 6, American League 3
Forbes Field — Attendance: 24,000
MVP: Owen Wilson (PIT 1913) – 2-for-3, 2 RBI, 1 triple

Trailing 3–2 heading into the bottom of the 7th, the National League All-Stars staged a late rally. Fueled by Owen Wilson’s game-tying triple and Ham Hyatt’s clutch 2-run triple in the 8th, the NL pulled away to secure the win.

Wilson postgame: “Just playing on the same diamond as some of these guys is a pure treat. Being named MVP is extra special.”

American League Notes:

Al Oliver had a double and an RBI.

Mickey Tettleton added a hit and an RBI after his derby runner-up finish.

Defensive miscues by Tettleton and Sanguillen hurt late.

National League Notes:

Owen Wilson: 2-for-3 with a triple and 2 RBI.

Ham Hyatt: 2-run triple in the 8th to seal the game.

Strong bullpen effort: Lidge earned the win, Chapman secured the save.

Pitching Standouts:
AL Bullpen:

Charlie Bender, Mel Parnell, and Terry Miller each posted clean, scoreless innings.

Jay Dygert and Roberto Hernandez faltered in the 7th and 8th.

NL Staff:

Roger Clemens (1986 BOS) and Brad Lidge (2005 HOU) kept the game in control.

Aroldis Chapman slammed the door in the 9th with his trademark heat.

Weekend MVP: Owen Wilson (1913 Pirates)

Home Run Derby Champion
All-Star Game MVP
Triple and 2 RBI in the win
Showcased both deadball-era flair and modern excellence

Final Thoughts:

With vintage uniforms, roaring fans, and unforgettable performances, the 2025 All-Star Weekend at Forbes Field delivered a celebration for the ages. And in the heart of it stood Owen Wilson, the quiet legend from 1913, reminding everyone that greatness transcends time.

[Nick Soulis]

The Excellence Project – Season 8 Monthly Review: July 2025
All 16 clubs near the trade deadline and postseason chase

🌟 Monthly Superlatives

Pitcher of the Month (NL): Gaylord Perry – 1969 Giants
Record: 5-1 | ERA: 1.05 | Innings: 51.2 | K: 26
→ Now 15-6 with a 2.75 ERA over 26 starts.

Pitcher of the Month (AL): José Lima – 1994 Tigers
Record: 5-1 | ERA: 1.53 | Innings: 58.2 | K: 29
→ Now 13-10 with a 3.89 ERA.

Batter of the Month (NL): Rogers Hornsby – 1926 Cardinals
AVG: .343 | HR: 10 | RBI: 27 | Runs: 20
→ Slashing .327/.392/.619 with 28 HR and 80 RBI.

Batter of the Month (AL): Stuffy McInnis – 1910 Athletics
→ League-best .364 AVG, anchoring a juggernaut lineup.

📊 League Leaders Snapshot – July 31

Batting Average:
1. Stuffy McInnis (PHA) – .364
2. Owen Wilson (PIT) – .343
3. Eddie Collins (PHA) – .338

Home Runs:
1. Willie Stargell (PIT) – 38
2. Willie McCovey (SFN) – 30
3. Jeff Heath (SLA) / Rogers Hornsby (SLN) – 28

RBI:
1. Willie Stargell (PIT) – 96
2. Danny Murphy (PHA) – 93
3. Willie McCovey (SFN) – 84

Wins:
1. Eddie Plank (PHA) – 16
2. Bender, Coombs (PHA), Perry (SFN) – 15

ERA:
1. Andy Pettitte (HOU) – 2.15
2. Hank Robinson (PIT) – 2.36
3. Roger Clemens (HOU) – 2.40

Strikeouts:
1. Charles Bender (PHA) – 180
2. Harry Krause (PHA) – 174
3. Jack Coombs (PHA) – 163

📁 Team-by-Team Summaries – July 2025

AL East Division

Philadelphia 1910 Athletics (71–32, .689) – 🔥
McInnis, Collins, and Murphy power an unstoppable offense. Plank, Bender, and Coombs dominate on the hill. A 20+ win month has them cruising toward the postseason.

Detroit 1994 Tigers (47–55, .461)
Lima's brilliant July (5-1, 1.53 ERA) couldn’t save a struggling club. Tettleton (27 HR) needs more support. Still searching for consistency.

Boston 1953 Red Sox (44–58, .431)
Ted Williams-less team lacks identity. No major July standouts. Hovering in mediocrity.

St. Louis 1947 Browns (39–63, .382)
A rough July continues a lost season. Few signs of a turnaround.

AL West Division

Pittsburgh 1972 Pirates (63–40, .612) – ⭐
Stargell is the league’s top slugger (38 HR, 96 RBI). Elite arms like Moose and Robinson make this team dangerous. Took control of the division in July.

Seattle 1990 Mariners (52–50, .510)
Solid but unspectacular. Erik Hanson (154 K) is a bright spot. Hanging around in a crowded wildcard chase.

St. Louis 1945 Browns (43–61, .413)
A rough 9-17 July. Offense is stagnant, pitching worse. Sliding down the standings.

Minnesota 1998 Twins (42–60, .412)
Virtually tied with the Browns. Another team that hasn’t put it all together. Treading water.

NL East Division

St. Louis 1926 Cardinals (60–42, .588)
Hornsby’s award-winning July carries the team. Gritty group leads a tight race. Smart, balanced baseball keeps them on top.

Pittsburgh 1913 Pirates (59–44, .573)
Owen Wilson (.343) keeps raking, Honus Wagner steady as always. Still within striking distance.

Washington 1965 Senators (39–63, .382)
A once-promising team fading fast. McMullen earned recognition, but not enough help.

Chicago 1983 Cubs (39–64, .379)
Rough July as they continue to struggle against top-tier opponents. Another step back.

NL West Division

San Francisco 1969 Giants (61–42, .592)
Perry’s dominant July headlines a team on the rise. McCovey (30 HR) providing big power. Quietly establishing themselves as a frontrunner.

Cincinnati 2015 Reds (54–47, .535)
Inconsistent but dangerous. Votto and Frazier give them life, but they need more rotation support.

Houston 2005 Astros (54–50, .519)
Pettitte and Clemens form a shutdown 1-2 punch. Still in the mix, but bats must improve.

San Diego 2013 Padres (54–50, .519)
Underrated squad playing clean baseball. Looking for a true breakout star to lead them.

What to Watch in August

• Can anyone catch the Athletics? Philly has run away with the AL East.
• NL West is a 4-team brawl – 7.5 games separate first and fourth.
• MVP Race: Stargell vs Hornsby
• Cy Young Watch: Perry (SFN), Bender (PHA), Pettitte (HOU) all surging

The Excellence Project continues into the heat of August…