Chicago Cougars (FABL)

[ayaghmour2]

CF Fuzzy Cronin
Acquired: Via Draft: 2nd Round, 42nd Overall (1969)
1974: 121 G, 536 PA, .233/.286/.342 (84 OPS+), 60 R, 19 2B, 2 3B, 10 HR, 39 RBI, 18 SB, 2.8 WAR
Career: 617 G, 2,434 PA, .238/.292/.334 (83 OPS+), 250 R, 75 2B, 10 3B, 38 HR, 234 RBI, 70 SB, 13.0 WAR

If OSA is right, this may be the year Fuzzy Cronin moves from the supporting cast to the new group of stars, as the recently turned 27-year-old enters the spring as the 4th best center fielder in the league and our second best player, ahead of Alford and Babel and behind just superstar Tom Lorang. That's despite hitting just .233/.286/.342 (84 OPS+) in 121 games last year. He's been worth more then 3 WAR just once, posting a 3.9 in his sophomore year, but the elite defender did win the Diamond Defense award in his rookie season and he's already picked up 78.7 zone rating (1.076 EFF) in his five year career.

Undrafted out of high school, a strong three-year performance out of Strub College got him to be taken 42nd Overall, as his always great defense finally had some bat to go with it. He even went straight to the majors, appearing in 116 games as a rookie. The .241/.298/.340 (78 OPS+) line and 19.2 SO% left plenty to be desired, but the Cougars decided that was good enough for his outstanding defense to make up for. He's never had an above average season in terms of OPS+ or WRC+, but I'd love to see more of what he did in 1971. Fuzzy hit a respectable .246/.293/.345 (89 OPS+) in 155 games, adding 13 doubles, 12 homers, 58 runs, 61 RBIs, and 13 steals. It was one of the few seasons he didn't deal with an injury, something that has become common for him. He's already had seven lasting at least a week, and back spasms cost him a month and a half last year. All nine of his AAA games have come off rehab assignments, but in an odd year we may be safe.

All I'm asking for is 140 games, but if he can do more that would be excellent. His defense is game changing, as he's easily one of the fastest and rangiest outfielders in the game. It's what he takes pride in most, but he is working on his offensive game. He's cut his strikeout rate all the way down to 11.9, so even though he doesn't walk much he's not wasting at bats. Any ball he puts in play could end up with him on first base, and in a lineup with more production his patient approach could end up in a higher batting average. Right now he's hitting 6th, which means Baab, Lorang, and Babel could all be on in front of him. If not, he could help turn the lineup over, giving our new heart a chance to do damage again. Even average offense from Fuzzy will place him among the game's most valuable outfielders, and it will be nice not having to worry about this position for a long time.

2B Cleo Harris
Acquired: Via Draft: 15th Round, 364th Overall (1969)
1974: 48 G, 183 PA, .306/.364/.425 (132 OPS+), 24 R, 7 2B, 4 HR, 14 RBI, SB, 2.0 WAR
Career: 350 G, 1,333 PA, .249/.314/.367 (102 OPS+), 130 R, 38 2B, 6 3B, 30 HR, 124 RBI, 3 SB, 7.3 WAR

Taken 13 rounds and 312 picks after Fuzzy Cronin, Cleo Harris had a much less direct trip to Chicago, but he also did it without much time in the minors. He scattered 101 appearances between AA and High-A, but once he got to Chicago he stayed there. Harris won an Opening Day spot in 1972, spending about a third of his time at short and the rest at second. A disciplined hitter, he drew 57 walks, which helped produce a slightly above average .242/.322/.339 (102 OPS+) across 555 plate appearances.

That earned him third place in the Kellogg race, contributing 16 doubles, 9 homers, 49 RBIs, and 48 runs. He hit 17 homers in 1973, and it looked like he was having a true breakout last year. It was just 48 games, but he hit an excellent .306/.364/.425 (132 OPS+). The only problem was a torn PCL, that we're hoping won't impact him too much this season. Before the big moves, he might have had to carry a big load in the offense, but a lot of pressure has been removed from him. A plus defender on both sides of second, his range will be something to watch, as it was easily his best asset. Tom Halliday doesn't need much coverage at short, but when Harris filled in he's been excellent. He'd be the first choice to fill in if there was an injury, and while it's not ideal he could be the eventual replacement there. OSA thinks he'd be top-10 at the position, which leads me to believe that our middle infield can make almost any pitcher look good. We don't have many groundballers, but every pitcher benefits from elite up-the-middle defense and that's exactly what we have. They'll pay him back with sac-bunts as the expected 8th hitter, and as long as he gets his compliments when he makes good plays he'll be more of an asset then a liability.

RHP Bob Goldman
Acquired: Via Draft: 2nd Round, 37th Overall (1966)
1974: 8-12, 29 GS, 200 IP, 3.46 ERA (106 ERA+), 1.22 WHIP, 60 BB, 84 K, 2.5 WAR
Career: 40-32, 112 G, 100 GS, 729.2 IP, 3.37 ERA (106 ERA+), 1.23 WHIP, 262 BB, 461 K, 12.8 WAR

The real wild card of the roster, Bob Goldman could legitimately determine the success of our campaign. A guy who almost didn't last the offseason, he's now a potential breakout candidate and dev lab success story. Joining Tom Halliday's seamless picking up of right field and Gene Homer's improvement in infield defense, Goldman is currently "Excelling" in control improvement, and it could reshape the type of pitcher he is. Before the previous regime acquired him from the Imperials, he was a guy who walked a ton and struck out even more, but in his one season as a full-time starter with us he couldn't be more different. He dropped his BB% and K% from 9.4 and 17.6 to 7.3 and 10.2, and I can't understand why his stuff went from elite to below average.

Noe 27, the team leader actually led the Conti with 168 strikeouts in 1971, and followed that up with 184 in almost the same amount of innings. But in 254.1 innings as a Cougar, he's set down just 109, and that includes a 1973 season where most of his innings came out of the pen. If he takes a huge step forward in command, the lack of stuff won't matter one bit, as the six-pitch garbage sink type could soon be Roger Alford's #2. Already an average pitcher who makes most starts, above average or more command could push him from back to front of the rotation, and allow him to pitch deeper into games. Right now pitch counts get him in trouble, but with fewer unintentional waste pitches he could emerge as one of the best pitchers on the team.

[ayaghmour2]

So not only are the players way different, but so is our farm system, as expansion has taken away most of the teams we've known and loved. Classification levels have been adjusted too, now AAA, AA, High-A, Low-A (both listed as just "A" in-game), and Rookie, and of our original four minor league teams (Class C came in 1929), none remain with the system. We do still have two from the first fast-forward, and I'll miss the days of a close AAA affiliate Milwaukee Blues team. It makes sense, the Arrows play better baseball then us, but that's one of the many changes our system has gone through.

AAA Omaha Plainsmen (Century League): 79-61 (.564), 2nd, 2 GB: Gone are the Blues and in our the Plainsmen, as our optioned players now head to Omaha where they will look to go from wild card to pennant winner. The runner-ups in the Century League, they've been our affiliate for each of the past three seasons, and got major help from 54th ranked prospect C Sam Calhoun. Our 2nd Round pick in 1972, he had a great Century League debut, slashing .279/.389/.497 (131 OPS+) with 26 homers and 83 RBIs. The power is legit, and with his patient approach he proved he was ready for the big leagues. Unfortunately it would take an injury for that to happen, and his optioning will be the Plainsmen's gain. He'll join shortstop Bud Edmonds (.296, 12, 55) and young pitchers Ferdie Williams (15-10, 3.57, 146) and Walt Wilson (9-12, 4.48, 126) in what should be a very competitive team. The real key is Bill Bartlett (8-5, 4.51, 82), who could pitch his way into the Chicago rotation. The #6 starter in the spring, he's ready if Jim Norris can't handle starting. A wicked three pitch pitcher, all his offerings are weapons, as his command allows him to stand out. Harry Carr thinks he's better then every one but Alford, but that's probably too generous. What's more likely is that he starts the season in Omaha until the inevitable injury or poor play surface.

AA Memphis Cougars (AA Dixie League): 58-82 (.414), 8th, 21 GB): Almost nothing went right in the Dixie League, as our new AA affiliate was dead last in the eight team league. Once the Memphis Excelsiors, the now Cougars replaced the Little Rock Governors, who are now the New York Imperials AAA affiliate -- actually competing with the Plainsmen. I'd love for this team to win more games, but I'm very unfamiliar with our organizational depth. Even before the trades, we didn't really have any upper minors prospects that weren't in AAA, so AA was kind of the best of the rejects and old guys that weren't good enough for AAA. That allowed 30-year-old Paul Johnson (9-8, 3.19, 129) look like a star. There was not a counterpart on the offensive side, but it is good one of the only real prospects was the only guy to get to 400 plate appearances. That would be our #3 catching prospect and former first rounder Earl Wade, who hit a solid .246/.351/.445 (105 OPS+) with 21 doubles, 19 homers, and 73 RBIs. 22 in March, he even got a few AAA games once Sam Calhoun was promoted in September, and where Wade ends up depends again on Calhoun's placement. As the season goes on, I think they'll get the guys who stand out in A ball, which could lead to a better second half record then first. Our minor league teams tend to perform well, and I won't stand for another last place finish from my new AA club.

A Rockford Wildcats (Heartland League) 64-76 (.457), 4th, 23 GB: I remember this team!

Replacing the Lincoln Legislators in 1952, the Rockford Wildcats survived the shuffling, but have not found success without our help. I didn't leave a mark with them, most of the work was done in Lincoln, but this is a team with a combined 11 championships, most recent the Wildcats 3rd in 1960. They had a few more solid seasons before settling in as a team that finishes closer to last then first. One of two A-ball affiliates, they're our "High-A" club and will likely have the fewest quality prospects here to start the season. Most of the good guys are in low-A or below, so their performance throughout the season could end up a nice reinforcement for Rockford. Until then I might just keep giving innings to 33-year-old Tom Arencibia (7-5, 3.76, 124) who was obviously the best pitcher on the team. He's not a unique case either, former 2nd Rounder Johnny Kern (5-7, 3.30, 118) did well before moving up to Memphis, as the previous regime kept past their prime FABL pitchers to eat innings until a young pitcher came around. There's not much hope in the lineup either, but post-draft I think we can start their turnaround.

A Yakima Rams (California-Oregon-Washington League): 65-75 (.464), 4th, 31 GB: Now that San Jose has a GWL team affiliated with the Baltimore Clippers, we no longer have the San Jose Cougars. Instead, it's the far less cool Yakima Rams, who were the 1971 C-O-W League champs. They were second each of the next two seasons, though 65-75 is not normal for second place, as the six team league can have a lot of quirky endings. In fact, this year 65-75 was fourth place, 31 games behind the 96-win Mounties. The final landing spot for 25th ranked prospect Carl Carroll (.272, 3, 17, 8), they lost Joe Stocksdale (.258, 3, 40, 6) and Julio Torres (9-3, 3.82, 86) so their depth will be quickly tested. Carroll's the star, likely to lead off what was one of the worst lineups in the league, as he's arguably the fastest guy in the system and when paired with a well above average hit tool he can cause problems right off the bat. Just 18, he's already among the best shortstop too, so even if he never walks his value will be immense. His success will be determined by those who hit behind him, but if the Rams aren't competitive he's likely to earn a minor step up to Rockford as long as the bat is looking good. The pitching will be interesting, and I think the recently turned 22-year-old Howie Kirtz (2-5, 4.78, 32) can improve and remain a rotation mainstay. A five pitch pitcher, his stuff is really good, but he's a little dull and walks more then his share of hitters. Still, in a dry system he's a rare potential gem, and he survived the flurry of trades that proceeded the spring.

R La Crosse Lions (Upper Mississippi Valley Association): 37-25 (.597), 2nd, 3 GB: Now our longest tenured club, I'm glad they survived, as fast-forwards aside the Lions entire history is under my control. The 1972 UMVA champions have won eight times, and with a lot of low minors depth a ninth is more then just a thought. Not only do they get most, if not all, of our first ten picks, they'll enter the year with some true headliners. Three of our top five 100 prospects are here, but one of those might be on his way to Yakima before the season begins. 20-year-old Lyle Lessard (8-2, 3.14, 123) is the lowest ranked, checked in at 93rd, but if there's a rotation spot available for him once full-season ball starts he'll take one. If not, the Lions will get a nifty five pitch pitcher and former 1st Rounder who projects as a mid-rotation arm. Expected to sit comfortably in the 90s with his fastball and sinker, his change up is the true prize, as it's among the best pitches in our system. He'll get a ton of strikeouts on the way up, figuring out how to get great hitters out along the way. At worst he's the first man up, and I'm excited to see the pitcher he develops into.

Of course, the real star is 9th ranked prospect Bob Hays, the gem of our system that I refused to move. A 5th Rounder last year, this is a hard working three pitch pitcher who has everything but stuff, though that's something we can work on. Still 18, he's as raw of a prospect as it gets, and it comes with ace-like potential. Everything should be above average or better, as when he's on batters are hopeless to stop him. I'd love for him to get a fourth pitch, and that's probably what I'm doing in the dev lab next offseason. It'll take a lot of luck for everything to develop as planned, but we have a great pipeline and I have faith we can get the most out of him. It starts with backstop Henry Girten, one of many talented catchers in our system. #63 in FABL, he was taken a round after Hays, and has quickly shown the ability to make consistent hard contact. Solid behind the plate as well, he could be similar to Charlie Sanders or Sam Calhoun, but I don't think he'll ever have the same power. His eye is what intrigues, and I have no doubts that he will be an excellent everyday player once he's in his early 20s. You can never have too much catching or pitching depth, and we're lucky that even after emptying the cupboard some there is plenty of talent left over.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 3-4
Overall Record: 3-4 (4th, 3 GB)

We've got some starters!: A 3-4 record isn't any good, but hey! Only one of our starting pitchers gave up an earned run! That was Bob Goldman, who was charged with 3 hits, 2 runs, and a walk in our 7-0 loss to the Sailors. Otherwise, any runs were the fault of our fielders, which cost Roger Alford and Jim Norris wins. Alford made two starts, his first seeing 3 hits, 2 walks, and 3 unearned runs in 1.2 innings pitched, but the second was more like the Allen winner. Again there were 3 hits, but he struck out 2 in his 3 scoreless innings. Norris also had 3 unearned runs charged to him, with just a hit and walk in 1.2 innings. Good enough for a 45-year-old, who should have no issues continuing to fill the back-est part of our rotation.

It's not good enough for a 44-year-old, or 39-year-old for that matter, as both Pug and Hal were outstanding. Pug went four scoreless, allowing 4 hits and a walk with 2 strikeouts in a no decision. Hal got the win, 3.1 scoreless with 3 hits, a walk, and a strikeout. Both are crucial pieces of our rotation, and I love seeing the vets show no signs of rust. On the other side of the spectrum, last year's 3rd Rounder Bill Bartlett was arguably the best of our hurlers. The 22-year-old fighting for a rotation spot went 4 with just 2 hits and a strikeout, keeping a very good KC team in check. A few more starts like this and I might believe that he's actually our second best pitcher, but for now he'll likely have to settle for Omaha (I wanted to type Milwaukee) ace. A three pitch pitcher he relies a lot on his velocity, as most pitches thrown are a sinker or fastball, but his command will more then make up for any deficiencies in stuff. He's going to do all he can to pitch his way into our rotation, but if no one is giving up any runs he's going to have his work cut out for him.

Tom Lorang looks great in Cougar threads!: For Cougar fans who haven't really had much to be happy about, the few fans who ventured over to the Wolves spring facility got treated with the beauty of a surefire Hall-of-Famer wearing Cougars threads. Ever since the Leo Mitchell snub we haven't had a player quite like this. Sure, Pug White should be in the Hall once his vampire juices wear off but there's levels between a 7-Time All-Star and a 4-Time Whitney winner. Over a decade younger then Pug he has five more All-Star selections and if he can get to Pug's age he might have records upon records upon records. It may not have looked like it, he was kept off base in each of his first five games, but he drew a pair of walks in a 2-0 win over the Kings and followed it up with a pair of singles, a run, and an RBI in our 5-1 win over the Imperials. The #2 ranked FABL position player, he has the most job security of any player in baseball, and I imagine getting bombarded by fans he never knew he had and having to learn a whole lot of new names might make it a little tough to concentrate. The only stats we'll care about come on April 7th, where his real Cougar debut will come in Kansas City against the expansion Mavericks. Settled in the cleanup spot he's the most sure thing we have, and I'm hoping I surrounded him with enough pieces that we can compete for a playoff spot or at least he can compete for a Whitney.

Who will pitch the 9th?: It's probably our most up for grabs spot and right now it looks like it's Tom Andress' to lose. The Cougars 8th Rounder in 1973, the reliever only prospect is who Harry Carr thinks is the best we have, with the potential to pitch high leverage innings. Even for a pen guy his stuff is above average, as the fastball/curveball mix is tough if you only get to face it once or twice a game. Able to pitch multiple innings when needed, he pitched most days this week, five appearances of five total innings. No runs were allowed, striking out 4 with 2 hits and 3 walks. Perhaps most valuably, he breaks the tension in the clubhouse well, and unfortunately the past regime left a lot of malcontents to go with the abundance of leadership. Andress keeps things loose with his pranks, always keeping the other guys in the pen on their toes and focused on what's most important. The game. His biggest competition is likely from Bill Jackson, Carr's current top guy, who couldn't be more different. Once called humdrum, there 1971 9th Rounder has two seasons of AAA experience to Andress' half season, 12-8 with 25 saves, a 3.93 ERA (108 ERA+) and 120 strikeouts in 167 innings. He's only got two pen innings, once which saw 3 hits, a walk, and a run, but he seems to be the safer bet. Neither is on the 40, though that won't be much of a concern, and they could both end up with an opening day spot. Augie Hicks is really the only guaranteed pen spot, though he's not stopping, and we could end up vastly improving our pen by trusting some of the younger guys. It's a long spring, so the three or four pen spots up for grabs could be highly debated over with most else set in stone.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 3-3
Overall Record: 6-7 (t-3rd, 5 GB)

Rotation Holds Strong: Going to be a quicker one today as I haven't been feeling well lately and I haven't really wanted to write. In game we've got some really good starts so far, with Roger Alford still sporting a 0.00 ERA. This week it was 4 shutout, as he allowed just 3 hits in the scoreless frames. No strikeouts, 7 groundouts and 4 flyballs did the trick, as Alford picked up his first win of the spring. Pug White (4 IP, 3 H, ER, BB, K), Bob Goldman (2 IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K), and Jim Norris (2.2 IP, 2 H, ER, 3 K) all pitched well, keeping strain off the pen. It had some issues, like Tom Andress' first misstep (3 H, 3 ER, BB), but like Alford Walt Wilson (4 IP, 3 H, 3 K) has stayed unblemished while Charlie Lawson (5 IP, 4 H, ER, BB, 2 K) has put himself in contention for the closer role. OSA thinks he should have it, though they don't have much weight in the decision, but I think the 36-year-old vet is positioning himself for at least a pen spot.

Offense Sputters: We aren't really scoring many runs, which accounts for our still subpar 6-7 record. Five starters are hitting .200 or lower, including Tom Lorang (.182), but there have been a few bright spots. Charlie Sanders has three two-hit games, batting .421/.476/.579 in 21 trips to the plate. No RBIs, though he's scored twice, and easily our best hitter. Even Andy Babel slumped a bit this week, just 3-for-14, though one of the hits was a double and a second drove in the only run he produced this week. The reserves haven't offered much more, but minor league free agent signing Jeff Oliver (5-16, 3 R, 5 BB) has one of our four homers and Gene Homer has gone 6-for-16 with a pair of doubles and runs scored. It's nothing to worry about now, but something we may need to keep an eye on once the seasons starts.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 4-3
Overall Record: 10-10 (3rd, 6 GB)

Carroll show improvements in patience at the plate: It may not have been the program I would have given him, but our only success of three long-term programs this week (there's a fourth that should excel) was Carl Carroll's successful completion of a plate discipline program. He's already a disciplined hitter, walking in 11.8% of his plate appearances between Rookie and Low-A last year, so an improvement to his quality of contact or even bat-speed would have been more useful. Still, a win is a win, and the 18-year-old did an excellent job improving his approach. Carr expects an increase in walks this season, as he made noticeable improvements to his pre-game preparation and eventual approach at the plate. For someone as quick as him, more walks can only be a good thing, as any time he's on base he can create a run. As a lead-off hitter him being more patient could help the rest of the lineup, as long as he's still willing to ambush a mistake early in the count. Probably my favorite of our prospects, this guy could be elite, and it will be beautiful watching Tom Halliday pass the baton to him once he's ready for Chicago. Yakima will be his starting spot, and I'm excited for his full-season debut in late April.

First wave of cuts sends six to minor league camp: Most players survived the first wave of cuts, but I sent away players who weren't getting any time or were doing more harm then good. The most notable was Earl Wade, our 7th ranked prospect and the league's 156th. Our third of three talented catchers, he'll go all the way down to Memphis, where the 1971 1st Rounder hit .246/.351/.445 (113 OPS+) last season. Recently 22, the bright backstop made just one appearance, and since that matched Chappy Sanders who should be the backup, I figured I wouldn't want him taking one of his rare chances away. A little unlucky, he's stuck behind both a prospect and a big leaguer, one of which was almost traded early in the offseason. The bat is good enough that I might try and teach him another position, as he works the count well and drives the ball when he makes contact. There's enough power for first base, but corner outfield would be interesting. He's smart enough to learn the position, but he might have to wait until the offseason before buying a new glove.

Mostly position players, other notables include 24-year-old outfielder Bill White, who we picked up from the Imperials for two-time Cougar Ed Wells. White was New York's 5th Rounder in 1969, and has shown a nice bat in limited time. He's someone I'm keeping an eye on, but as a corner-only guy a pinch-hit role is his best chance. The only pitcher was Chicagoan Dale Holm, who allowed 5 walks, 4 hits, and 4 runs in 5 innings pitched. A FABL vet of three seasons, he has just 13.2 innings pitched, though they were actually pretty effective. He allowed a run a season, working to a 1.98 ERA (191 ERA+) and 0.88 WHIP. A seven pitch pitcher, most of his minor league appearances have came as the starter, and he'll probably again split time between Memphis and Omaha, where he's been great and awful. The last guy worth noting is another 24-year-old, Joe Sterling, who could easily be a Tip Harrison type utility infielder. A prankster and capable defender, he likely won't hit enough to start, but I can see him lucking out and spending a few seasons on our big league roster.

Rotation looks set:After a brilliant start to his spring, Bill Bartlett has been hit hard, and more or less sentenced himself to a return to Omaha. He lost his command against the Imperials, walking 4 before being forced out with one out in the 4th. Charged with 6 runs on 6 hits and a strikeout, he showed his youth, while Jim Norris (7.1 IP, 8 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 5 K) has been the reliable vet of earlier days. Bartlett is definitely more talented, but the command is something he's yet to master. His 6.8 BB% in 18 AAA starts last season is what it could be, and he didn't walk many hitters at Chesapeake State (7.3 BB%, 334.1 IP) either. Now up to 95 on the prospect list, the league starting to pay attention to him, and a demotion shouldn't deter him. He was a long-shot to make the rotation to begin with, and there's absolutely no reason to rush him into the five spot. If we're in contention and someone struggles he'd be a quick callup, and he'll get the finish the spring learning from some storied and talented pitchers.

Hal Adams has been the best, putting together back-to-back shutout appearances in games we won. He only got credit for the second, 5 shutout in Cleveland with just a hit, walk, and strikeout. Milwaukee put more men on base, with four reaching with a hit, though he did not allow a free pass and struck out one in 4 innings of the eventual 2-1 win. Likely with one start left, he's in line to start game two in Kansas City. That start will be his 368th, as he looks for his 190th FABL victory. His 1.26 ERA leads the rotation, but the non-Bartlett members have ERAs of 3 or lower. Set to be a strength of the squad, it might have to make up for a middle-of-the-pack offense, as we might not have done quite enough to be a team who can keep up in frequent slugfest. We'll win games by keeping teams off the board, and I'm hoping that will get enough timely hitting from the Babel-Lorang-Babb heart of the lineup.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 2-4
Overall Record: 12-14 (t-3rd, 5 GB)

Roster cut down to 47 with Opening Day a week away: Just four games left in the spring, leading to another round of cuts. A standout is 22-year-old Walt Wilson, who didn't allow a run in his 7.1 innings pitched. A 7th Rounder back in 1970, he allowed just 5 hits and 3 walks, striking out 4 in an excellent display. Despite that, I view him as a starting pitcher, and am not ready to alter his rotation. Starting all 112 of his minor league games, he'll return to Omaha for a third season. Starting 30 games in both previous seasons, the surface numbers aren't great, as his 4.94 ERA (86 ERA+) and 1.52 WHIP leave plenty to desire. What doesn't is the 4.04 FIP (94 FIP-), as even in a brutal 1973 (7-12, 5.42, 130) he still had a 97 FIP-. Wilson does an excellent job keeping the ball in the park, something that will serve him well at Cougars Park. Entering the season as our #12 prospect, he's shown the potential to be a back-of-the-rotation starter, and I think there's room for more growth. His four pitch mix is pretty solid, and if he can limit free passes our infield could cover most of his mistakes. Three diamond defense level defenders is good for anyone, so if he can stop walking people we'll have a ready replacement for an aging vet.

One keeping an eye on is soon-to-be 24-year-old Jay Richardson, who looked overmatched in limited time. A 14th Rounder in 1973, Harry Carr thinks he has the most potential among non Tom Lorang third basemen, and he's set to finish his infield defense program before Opening Day. It will be close, but the glove is a relative weakness, and any improvements will be welcomed. A bat first prospect, he hit .365/.482/.587 (187 OPS+) in 60 AA games, accounting for a little more then half of his 1974. 8 of his 10 homers came with the Cougars, and he had an excellent 47-to-23 walk-to-strikeout ratio. He's probably done with AA, but the move up to Omaha did slow him down. I think he'll be more ready now, but unfortunately for him his only angle for playing time is the worst thing possible happening.

Morrison shut down until Opening Day: Dealing with a sprained ankle suffered in our 8-3 win over the first place Sailors. Just a moderate impingement, it's not worth having him play through anything, as we want our leadoff hitter ready for Opening Day. A 3-Time All-Star, Sam Morrison is looking for a bounce back season, hitting just .267/.318/.354 (98 OPS+) in 160 games. A step down from his .277/.335/.405 (119 OPS+) career line, he at least stole a tied for career high 24 bases, but his overall effectiveness was limited by a drop in extra base hits. In '73 he led the Conti with 41 doubles -- more then the 38 extra base hits he had all of last season. The power was at an all time low, as after 12 in '73 and up to 24 in '70, he hit just 6 homers. That came in 677 plate appearances, the second most he's made in one season. We won't need to rely on his home runs, but we need his legs healthy for when he's on the bases, as almost any time he gets on Tom Lorang will get to hit with a runner on base.

In his absence at bats are opened for guys on the fringes of the roster, including team vets Henry Watson and Jerry McMillan. Watson has hit a pitiful .081/.190/.081, something you'd expect from a 36-year-old pitcher not your franchise home run leader. Andy Babel may have taken his job outright, but a performance like this would have seen him on the bench regardless, and even that is now up for some discussion. Despite a shared lack of power, McMillan has hit better, a more palatable .316/.381/.316 line in a similar sample. In the end their team legacy and leadership should get them two of the available bench spots, so the real audition comes down to the last four outfielders in camp. I don't need a sixth outfielder, but someone like Jeff Oliver are making cases for the 25th spot. Making his first FABL plate appearance last year, he's hungry for more, and has hit a productive .242/.405/.455 in 43 trips to the plate. He homered for the second time this week, alone as the team leader, and he's managed to walk (8) more then he's struck out (6). Chicagoan Bob Ryan has a homer too, batting .320 with 3 doubles, but all 25 of his at bats have been plate appearances. A one dimensional hitter could be nice, but Tom O'Connor, George Crandall, Mike van den Heuvel offer plus defense. I'm interested to see who steps up, and this last group of games should help make my decision a little easier.

Adams shines in final start: Most 39-year-olds need help running a mile, but Hal Adams is on a FABL field getting quality hitters out. A brilliant five start run, he was a perfect 3-0 with a 1.47 ERA (274 ERA+) and 1.09 WHIP. Completing 18.1 innings pitched, he walked just 4 hitters, and if you have to point out a flaw it was the 4 hitters he struck out. While not normally a big strikeout arm, he is a consistent 125+ strikeout guy, so the lacking here was somewhat surprising. That he was able to dominate without it wasn't, as he's been a remarkable success story from 30 on. This year will be his 17th season and his 11th as a starter, and so far it's shaping up to again be one of the best he's pitched.

In other rotation news, Bill Bartlett got a glimmer of hope, as he pitched well and Jim Norris was hit hard. In start four the young righty allowed 4 hits, 3 walks, and a run, striking out 2 in a 4 inning no decision. Then for Norris it was the Wolves who got him, piling on 6 hits and 4 runs on a pair of walks and strikeouts. Leaving with two outs in the 4th, he saw his ERA jump to 4.91, but I expect a much better showing in his last start against the Imperials. Bartlett will get the Stars, a much harder matchup, but after looking like a longshot to claim a rotation spot he could pitch his way back into the fifth spot. Norris is still the odds on favorite, but if I can't find many guys to put with Augie Hicks (7.1 IP, 3 H, ER, 2 BB, 3 K) in the pen he may go back to a late inning leverage role. I think he's still got it, and should benefit greatly from our potentially elite defensive infield.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 1-3
Overall Record: 13-17 (t-4th, 5 GB)

Roster finalized, but not yet announced: I know which 25 players we are bringing to Opening Day, but for a variety of reasons, that might not matter too much. I have a few waiver claims out so some of the guys in are more or less what-if the claims don't go through. The players all clear after the first week of games, so even if we do win them, they won't get to Chicago in time for Opening Day. Tomorrow we will advance a single day and the roster will be official, with real games finally back on the menu Wednesday. We begin with a road trip, so the guys who made the team will travel to Kansas City and Seattle before our home opener on the 15th. Bad spring or not, I'm excited to see what Tom Lorang can do in his real Cougar debut, as he's still feeling good and ready for his first season as the best player of the Continental Association. Expected to hit cleanup for Pug Bryan's squad, he might not hit as many homers as he did in the Fed, but he will easily surpass the 15 of team leader Charlie Sanders last season.

Surprise end to bullpen final alignment: It really is a strategic move, but I did not purchase Bill Jackson's contract, sending him to Omaha as I await a potential addition to the pen. It's not for a game changer, but I have a chance to get a pitcher I liked who had a rather unfortunate fall off. At this age he's just a decent pen guy, but the edge is that he's a competitor who will still put the team on his back. It won't be flashy, but he's the perfect guy in an extra inning snooze fest who can get outs and keep you in it. Who he would replaced isn't really guaranteed, but the guy who replaced Jackson is one who turns 35 in June and has limited upper minors experience. More expendable and already on the 40, Harl Thompson earned another shot with a dominant spring, picking up a win and hold thanks to ten scoreless innings. Allowing just 8 hits and 2 walks, the 1958 San Francisco Sailor 6th Rounder struck out 9 in 8 impressive outings. Debuting last year, he could not have had less success, tattooed with 6 homers in 6 games. Battered in 8.2 innings spread across 6 outings, he allowed 16 hits and 8 walks with just 6 strikeouts. Thompson will get a rare chance at redemption, as anything could happen in a week of baseball, and that includes an outing that makes someone else the eventual odd man out. Whether due to his performance or the failure of others, never giving up on his baseball career will give him once last chance to seize a full-time job. And as crazy as it may sound he's not even in the top half for age on our staff, as time and time again the team has been able to get production from older players.

Spring Shoutouts:
C Charlie Sanders (21 G, 47 PA, 3 R, 4 2B, 4 RBI, 4 BB, 149 WRC+)
RHP Hal Adams (5 GS, 3-0, 18.1 IP, 1.47 ERA, 3.42 FIP, 1.09 WHIP, 4 BB, 4 K, 274 ERA+, 85 FIP-)
RHP Bob Goldman (5 GS, 2-2, 18.1 IP, 1.96 ERA, 2.87 FIP, 0.93 WHIP, 5 BB, 12 K, 206 ERA+, 71 FIP-)

[ayaghmour2]

After a slight delay, baseball is back! Games will begin tomorrow morning, as the long awaited Figment return is finally upon us. I'm not sure how this season is going to go, but I cannot wait to find out! Here's the 25 guys we'll open with:

RHP Hal Adams
RHP Roger Alford
RHP Tom Andress
RHP Bob Goldman
RHP Don Griffin
RHP Augie Hicks
RHP Charlie Lawson
RHP Jim Norris
LHP Bill Scott
RHP Harl Thompson
LHP Pug White
C Chappy Sanders
C Charlie Sanders
1B John Babb
1B Bill Grimm
2B Cleo Harris
2B Clarence Jackson
3B Tom Lorang
SS Bud Edmunds
SS Tom Halliday
LF Sam Morrison
CF Fuzzy Cronin
RF Andy Babel
RF Jerry McMillan
RF Henry Watson

There are a lot of guys on waivers I really like, more then I can claim, so there could be a ton of movement right away. No guarantee I get any of them, but the few I claimed pre-sim no one with higher priority got, so you'd think we'd have at least two transactions to worry about in the coming weeks.

I wouldn't say there are many surprises here, even if I didn't really know how things would end up. The lineup and rotation were pretty much set, but nearly everything else was up for grabs. That's part of why I made the claims, as there were not many confident selections. I do wish one of Watson or McMillan would go to the minors, as I don't think I could cut any of them this season. I already had to DFA Gene Case, who also refused assignment to Omaha, and I expect him to go unclaimed before an eventual release. Same goes for Cal Randall and Pablo Vazquez, but shortstop Mack Pixley could go to Omaha or even Memphis if he clears. A bit of a clubhouse cancer, it cost him his spot in Chicago, but with less then two years of service he doesn't have nearly enough experience to refuse an outright assignment. He could have been optioned, but we will need 40-man spots at some point, ideally in two sims, and I haven't quite decided what to do with him. There's room for him in the minors, but I need more time to consider if he's worth the trouble.




The preseason predictions don't expect any bit of contention from us, and I don't really blame them, but it is nice to see the projected 82 wins. Even two games over .500 would be a successful season, and I think we're going to score a lot more runs then they're expecting. Our offense isn't great, but they're not giving Tom Lorang much credit despite his #2 rank on the top players list. I really think he's going to elevate our lineup and improve the performances of everyone around him. We could turn some heads, and if we're in shouting distance of the division come July I can't promise I won't push a few chips in.




Our farm still ranks in the top half, though more surprisingly it's in the top-10. The rating is inflated by Bob Hays (9th) and Clay Carrol's (20th) inclusion in the top-25, as the rest of our top-100 group is in the back half and only 3 of our last 18 ranked prospects are in the top-250. Lucky for us, I think most of our draft picks hit, and nearly all of the initial ten will enter the top-500. Even if guys like Sam Calhoun (58th) and Bill Bartlett (90th) graduate, I'd expect us to hold about a dozen top-150 prospects. I've been gradually scouting our draftees and aside from Bill Ketchum, everyone has maintained lofty or still positive praise. Thompson and Brewer still rank with Frank Torsiello in the top-3, and 2nd Rounder Joe Williams rounds out his top 25. That's basically three first round quality picks, and in a deep draft there were plenty of key supplement pieces.



I mentioned it a few times, but we start the season on the road, hosted by two cities with a strong connection. Seattle and Kansas City, as well as Brooklyn, have housed the Kings, with Seattle their current home. We start in Kansas City with the expansion Mavericks, who played their first season less then two years after the Kings finished their final season in KC. '68 was the only season Kansas City residents have been without a FABL team since the Kings first came in 1952. No titles despite multiple pennants, the Mavs have yet to provide their new fans with quality ball like that, yet to win 70 games or finish out of last. Likely destined for the same fate this season, we need to win every time we matchup, though I'd understand losing the hope opener or even the series. After that it needs to be wins and nothing else, as there is very little they do better then even us. The pen is the clear exception, and I may have to reach out to them if our pieced together options don't click, but they have a really quality young first basemen.

Just 26, the former Washington Eagle first rounder Chuck Cohen is coming off a season where he hit .297/.371/.414 (129 OPS+). The first time All-Star won his second Diamond Defense award, and added 32 doubles, 5 triples, 7 homers, 55 RBIs, 67 runs, 7 steals, and more walks (62) then strikeouts (43). He has about as much support in the lineup as he has power, but there is hope with second year outfielder Tony Keil (.294, 8, 62) and a variety of young bench players ready to transition to the lineup. We'll face their interesting starters too, as 23-year-old Dave Dalton (6-8, 1, 3.34, 99) will duel the reigning Allen winner in the opener and 1974 breakout arm Cal Newman (7-14, 3.01, 88) penciled in for the finale. One thing we will miss is the debut of 32nd ranked prospect Harry Kluth, who was named to the Opening Day roster. Taken in the 2nd Round by KC just last season, he had a similar AAA season to Bill Bartlett. His ERA was high (5.32, 79) and his FIP low (3.63, 85), and with more question marks then guaranteed rotation spots they don't have options who could offer similar quality. A southpaw from Illinois, he's a guy to keep an eye on, as he could be anything from a potential ace to severely overmatched.

Severely overmatched may also describe us against the Kings on the weekend, as they're a year removed from they finally broke their near 40-year title drought that spans all the way back to their Brooklyn days. Winning back-to-back Wests with 98 wins, they're the favorite again this year, but I don't think they'll have to fight off 90-win juggernauts in the Wranglers and Stars this year. I'm expecting a few low 90s and mid-to-high 80s, with Seattle the eventual leader. One of the most talented teams top to bottom, they have three aces and even their #4 is someone you'd feel comfortable with in one of your top two spots. Their 39-year-old is their #5, not their 2, as 5-Time All-Star and 2-Time 20 game winner Charlie Rushing (14-9, 3.58, 93) is just like Hal Adams (13-12, 3.24, 124) in the way that he still absolutely has it. And as much as I love Roger Alford (17-9, 2.35, 139), facing Moe Lowery (17-10, 3.11, 182) may be the only time he's not the surefire better pitcher in the matchup. The offense is filled with stars, including the still hammering Hank Williams (.234, 19, 55), who finally got a well-deserved championship. Like Lorang, he's a 4-Time Whitney winner, and I hope our version doesn't have to wait until 41 to experience the big win. Far from the best bat in the lineup, Kellogg winner Mike Griffith (.311, 20, 76) had a major breakout, going from 18th Round Pick to unlikely curse breaker. His corner outfield partner Bob Glowacki (.293, 20, ,78) joined Griffith with a WRC+ above 150, and two deadlines ago acquisition Jesse Walker (.280, 29, 93, 21) led the Conti in homers in his first full season away from the Fed. I'd love to say we won't get swept, but that's a serious possibility, and a quick first true test as we'll have little rust shaken off before dealing with a championship level squad.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 4-3
Seasonal Record: 4-3 (t-2nd, 0.5 GB)

Schedule
4-7: Loss at Mavericks (2-3)
4-8: Win at Mavericks (5-3)
4-9: Win at Mavericks (6-3): 10 innings
4-10: Loss at Kings (3-4)
4-11: Loss at Kings (4-6)
4-12: Win at Kings (6-3)
4-12: Win at Kings (3-2)

Recap
We have games again! How glorious! It's amazing!

So was the Cougars play, as our first week went really well! I'm pretty dumb and didn't realize our series with the division favorite Kings was a four gamer, so we played seven games as it was a double header to end the week. We managed to split, entering the week tied for second with Seattle, who we don't have to deal with again this week. The double header was the best part of the week, as we bested Seattle both times. There ended up being no Alford vs Lowery showdown, with Lowery instead facing Hal Adams. Both got lead blown, with Adams' in the 7th and Lowery in the 9th. We got three runs off Chicagoan and back-to-back save leader Billy Collins, but it wasn't how you would have thought. Babel, Lorang, and Babb went 1-2-3 in the 8th, so it was up to Fuzzy Cronin to get something going in the ninth.

He had plenty of help, as Collins threw four pitches wide, putting the speedy center fielder on and bringing up the tying run to the plate. Collins knew he needed a strike, and spring star Charlie Sanders tried to attack, but it was as far as it was foul. Back in his routine, he took a pick before singling past the shortstop to bring up the go ahead run. I'm sure Pug Bryan would have been happy just keeping the line going, but Cleo Harris had other ideas. After locking in on another uncompetitive pitch, he reminded Collins that he was a 17-homer hitter in 1973, hitting hopefully the first of many homers this season. We did put more guys on that were eventually left, but that was enough for rookie stopper Tom Andress. He didn't allow much in play, striking out one as he stranded both runners he walked. That was a consistent issue for him, as he split his decisions. 2 saves and 2 losses isn't a trend I'd like to continue, but I can't be too mad at him losing the Mavericks home opener and a games against this Kings club.

He was not needed in game two, as Jim Norris had a magnificent return to the rotation. Winning his 326th FABL game, he's now alone in 8th as Mike Marner and Woody Trease have been tied (and previously passed) in the leaderboards since Marner's retirement in 1918. Norris was key in finishing off the double header, completing 8 innings with just 6 hits, 2 runs (1 earned), 3 walks, and a strike out. He was key in our 3rd inning rally after a rattled Swede Hawkins hit him on the first pitch. Backup catcher Chappy Sanders ambushed Hawkins with a double to start the inning, and the 1973 Allen winner was now quickly in trouble. It went bad to worse as Sam Morrison singled to load the bases, but Tom Halliday grounding into a double play looked to foil that. Sanders scored and Norris was at third, and with two outs Hawkins had a chance to escape. Instead, Norris chirped his opponent who plunked him, getting into the less experienced starter's head. He missed badly to Babel, and when coming back into the zone the All-Star roped it past short to drive his pitcher home. After he left long-time Sailor Charlie Lawson closed it out, striking out one in a perfect 9th. It may not seem like much early on, but we beat Allen winners on the same day to truly announce our arrival.

I'm sure you're wondering about how Tom Lorang did in his Cougar debut, and it started perfectly with an eight pitch single that scored Tom Halliday two batters after his first pitch triple. His 99 MPH single was one of four balls hit that hard or harder, but each of his three later at bats ended in outs. While acceptable for most players, 7-for-27 with 4 runs, walks, and RBIs doesn't seem like much for someone with his pedigree. He had plenty of good games being the player he is, and now that we are heading home he'll have some prime opportunities for his first Cougar home run. John Babb isn't looking for that, one of his 8 hits was a longball, as he pretty much hit like you'd expect Lorang to. The moth away from 28-year-old hit .333/.448/.625 (200 OPS+) with a triple, pair of doubles, and intriguing 5-to-2 walk-to-strikeout ratio. Babb scored 3 times and drove in 5, doing exactly what we want him to do. Lastly Andy Babel had himself a singles fest, 9 of his 10 hits were, but unlike Lorang and Babb there weren't any walks. His .312/.312/.344 (85 OPS+) batting line is quite uncharacteristic, and one of the true joys of small samples. Those 10 hits will help his average far more then the missing walks and extra base hits long-term, and of all the guys we've added I think he's the one most likely to thrive in our home park.

I loved seeing Charlie Sanders build momentum after his great spring, 9-for-21 with a pair of doubles and RBIs. Our starting catcher drew a walk, drove in two, and scored five times, all while offering strong guidance behind the plate. The only game he didn't start was the double header, and even then he was able to come into the 9th. Currently ranked as the 6th best catcher in FABL, he's making a serious case for top-5

A few of our waiver claims were executed, while many more still likely to go through in tomorrow's sim. He's not nearly the pitcher he once was, but I'm beyond hyped to get Steve Madden, who at one time I offered a lot of prospects for before the fast forward. Part of the three-headed monster in St. Louis, Madden was elite from 1961 to 1963, but from 1964 on he never quite had it. An All-Star at 22 and 23, he started his career with ERA+ of 120, 132, 135, and 148. After 133 at 26 in 1966, it's been almost all below average innings from a once great pitcher. I don't expect to get much out of him, but he's a workhorse out of the pen who's committed to the team and to winning. We did well in our extra inning game, but I feel like Madden is perfect for situations like that and can really give it all whenever he's called upon. I don't love our pen, and at worst he's an easy cut if things don't work out.

More upside comes in the form of "Mr. G" Paul Germano, an outfielder who's FABL entrance came as a 7th Round pick of the Washington Eagles back in 1967. Later traded to the Minutemen, he debuted for them in 1972, and got into a few games in each of the last three seasons. He did get better each year, but that's in part for being bad his first season and not getting much action in his third. 91 of his 114 PAs came in 1973, where the then 23-year-old hit .278/.352/.342 (94 OPS+) with 10 runs, 10 walks, and 3 doubles. 26 on July 1st, he's a corner bat who can cover center, and a better depth option then what we have in AAA. He seems like the type of guy we can sneak down if necessary, but considering Babb is our only guy with really just one position we can manage six outfielders. Depending on how much time he gets, he could replace Watson or McMillan, but that's a route I'd like to avoid. Germano has upside as a potential average starter, and that could eventually push him ahead of Sam Morrison. A bounce back from him would be huge, but if he continues to hang around a 100 OPS+ and WRC+ there will always be a way to hit into playing time.

One of those will join the team instantly, as our starting shortstop injured his back, and while minor his IL placement allows us to avoid sending anyone down before all the claims go through. I'm hoping he can shake it off quickly, as even just tightness is an issue when it comes to 36-year-olds and their back. Even moreso when their most recent season ended with a concussion, and early in the season it is worth taking every precaution necessary. Off to a nice start too, he was 9-for-28 with 2 doubles, a walk, a steal, and the triple that led to Lorang's first RBI. Expected to miss the minimum two weeks, we'll turn to Cleo Harris, who should have no issues shifting to the other side of the diamond. At second will go Bill Grimm, at least for this upcoming week, as I am very curious to see how this middle infield will work. Harris is elite at second and Grimm has played both middle infield positions, so we shouldn't have too much of a drop-off defensively. He did struggle their last season, but with more time removed from his major knee injury he could find it easier to manage now.

Looking Ahead
After taking two of three from the Mavericks in Kansas City, we should take all three in Chicago, as after a nice Monday off day we'll start the homestand on Tuesday. We'll get to miss Dave Dalton, who absolutely dominated us on Opening Day. The 23-year-old allowed just 4 hits, a run, and 2 walks, striking out 3 in 7.1 innings pitched. He matched the inning total against LA, but this time without allowing a run. Dalton allowed 3 hits and 2 walks, but struck out 6 as he looks to emerge as a true ace. With an off day of their own, any of the other four starters could take the games in Chicago, and I think we'll get our first look at 22-year-old Harry Kluth. The Illinois native impressed in his debut, going 7 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs (1 earned), a walk, and 3 strikeouts. No matter who pitches though, I really like our odds, as the first week did not see them put up much of a fight at the plate. Aside from Cicero native Lou Rush, who surprisingly went 7-for-14 with a homer, 2 walks, and 3 runs scored and driven in, there wasn't much of note. A former 16th Rounder of Cleveland, he's a tick below average as a hitter (99 OPS+ and WRC+) in 1,432 career plate appearances, but at 27 it's not too late for a break out. Same goes for Lombard native and waiver claim Dick Anderson, who's 9-for-23 with 3 doubles to start his Maverick career. No FABL team should be taken lightly, and we'll need to be at our best to pick up the wins we need.

Our weekend is spent with our first new opponent, as we'll host the San Francisco Sailors for three. 2-4, they lost series to the Kings and Wranglers at home, and now they'll have to face the Kings and us on the road. Already expected to finish towards the bottom of the division, they could be sent down low fast, as I hope to inflict some misery on them. They've hit less then KC, and somehow 23-year-old center fielder Charlie Jarzombek is their only position player ranked in the top-15. The former 1st Rounder is 7th, but isn't even in the starting lineup. That makes Pete Gibson the defacto best player, as the fellow first rounder hit a nice .282/./337/.434 (125 OPS+) last season. He had a rough week, 6-for-24 with a double, no walks, and a strikeout, but he's the only guy you really have to worry about in the lineup. Same goes for the rotation, and no matter who they throw at us, we should be able to score a lot of runs. I'd love to take advantage of this week schedule, as everything is lining up for us to have a chance at first in the division early on.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 3-3
Seasonal Record: 7-6 (t-2nd, 1.5 GB)

Schedule
4-15: Loss vs Mavericks (14-1)
4-16: Loss vs Mavericks (4-2)
4-17: Win vs Mavericks (6-8)
4-18: Loss vs Sailors (12-6)
4-19: Win vs Sailors (1-9)
4-20: Win vs Sailors (3-9)

Recap
Losing two of three to the to Mavericks was certainly not what I expected, as a potential top-5 drafter absolutely ravished our pitching staff. Pug White looked his age in our home opener, allowing 6 runs on 8 hits and 2 walks in 4 innings, but what came worse was far worse. Proving the spring and two-strikeout 1975 debut was a fluke, Harl Thompson was blasted for 4 homers, completing 4.2 innings of awful mop up work. The end line read 8 hits, 8 runs (5 earned), and 1 walk. On the bright side, he struck out 4, but when the ball was put in play he was just no effective. The outing was easy enough to make him the eventual roster casualty for Steve Madden. After a tight 4-2 loss the offense did wake up for the back end of the week, so we finished 3-3 and stayed pace with the Kings for second. Dallas did one better, gaining a little breathing room as the lead is up to a game and a half.

It is nice that two of our three big acquisitions are doing well to start the season, it's sad to see that Tom Lorang is the one who isn't. Yet to hit a home run, he's done little but walk, which of course is part of why he's so valuable, and is just 11-for-48 with 3 doubles at the plate. 9 walks helps, but he has just 7 runs and 6 RBIs which aren't anywhere near the team leads. Instead, it's been the guy who I was most worried about, John Baab, who has provided the most production. To be fair, worry is a stretch, I expected him to hit, but I'd expect Lorang or even Babel to be the one hitting .304/.389/.522 (153 OPS+) with 5 doubles, a triple, a homer, and more walks (7) then strikeouts (4). No Continental hitter as more RBIs then him, and that's despite Maverick Bob Howard driving in 8 during our nightmarish 14-1 hope opener loss. Baab is at 15, and has capitalized on a lot of the runners Lorang has left on. Babel has hit well too, a productive .352/.368/.481 (137 OPS+) batting line, and he hit his first Cougar homer in our 8-6 home opening series salvaging win. The doubles machine has one in each of the last three games too, quickly taking advantage of his new stadium.

Defying age was Jim Morris, who's now tied for 7th all time in FABL for wins. Re-energized by his return to the rotation, Morris was his vintage self again, going all nine against the Sailors. 9 runs of support helped, but Norris was excellent, finishing with 7 hits, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Already with 17 innings and a 1.06 ERA (360 ERA+), it's a good thing I went with him for the rotation, as Pug Bryan would have left him out for Bill Bartlett if I let him. Instead, he's been our best starter, outperforming a lot of expectations. Same goes for Bob Goldman, who completed his control program a little late. It's for the best, he got an outstanding grade, and proved it with a second consecutive walk-free start. I don't love that both saw just one strikeout, but his 2.84 ERA (134 ERA+) is the only other one below 4.50 so he can do it how he chooses. The training result has bumped him up in Harry Carr's eyes, now listed as our #5 current starter behind Alford, Bartlett, Norris, and Pug. When we had Manny Espinosa, even he was above Goldman, and it's starting to look like a real good thing I didn't trade him in the offseason.

Our pen has really been an issue, and while I didn't get the pitcher I claimed on waivers, I do have one more chance to make an outside addition. Not only will more players likely get waived after a flurry of claims, but there's a leftover waived player I'd love to get. All of our relievers with more then 2 innings pitched have allowed at least 2 runs, with none of those guys having even a sub 5.50 ERA. It starts at the back, as Tom Andress is responsible for 4 of our 6 losses. He's allowed runs in 6 of his 7 outings, and I'm on the verge of sending him down to Omaha to fix whatever is bugging him. Unfortunately, I'm in no rush, as Augie Hicks (3.2 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, BB, BB) and Charlie Lawson (W, SV, 5 IP, 5 H, 5 ER, 2 BB, 5 K) haven't had any success keeping runs off the board themselves. It's obviously early, but I can't have the back of our pen putting up performances like this. Even if we can't make an outside addition, Bill Jackson is an option in AAA, with plenty of DFA candidates available if a 40-man spot is needed.

No pitchers may have been added, but we did add two to position player collection. One is a former Cougar, as I added an elite defensive shortstop in Sam Pratt. Now 32, the former Cougar 4th Rounder was lost to the Mavericks in the expansion draft, and unless Earl Poston enters the lineup for an extended time he'll remain the young franchise's appearance leader. That accounts for 910 games, as he previously made all six Opening Day rosters. He never hit much -- last year's 71 WRC+ was actually a career high -- but he's generated a 56.6 zone rating (1.042 EFF) at the game's toughest defensive position. While never a diamond defense winner as there are plenty of other elite defenders, that's basically what he can provide us, and I'm sure once Halliday is back he'll be the one to give him the rare off day. Pratt will replace Bud Edmonds, who went 0-for-5 and will join the Plainsman in time for their Opening Day this coming Thursday. A solid defender, he does have a better bat then Pratt, but for now I want to ensure our staff has the best defensive alignment possible.

This fills our 40-man, so when I bring our second claim to the roster next week I will need to DFA someone. That may be new Cougar Paul Germano, who despite singling in his only Cougar rat bat, is in danger of losing his roster spot to someone who's both better and more versatile. His name is Bill Rawdon, as the 33-year-old has experience at five positions, and makes it way easier to carry six outfielders. Capable in all three outfield spots as well as second and third, he's also a respectable .264/.327/.381 (106 OPS+) hitter. Better last season, he slashed .295/.367/.418 (129 OPS+), and despite low accuracy Harry Carr thinks he's an above average big league left fielder. I'd settle for average, which he may deduce when he finishes scouting him, but he's an experienced player who can put the ball in play. A former 8th Rounder of the Wolves, he played with both them and the Saints, so when he gets into a game with us it will be his first with a United States organization. While far from a star, he's a useful supplemental piece, and if any of our outfielders get injured he's better then all our internal options.

Last bit of news is our own waived playres, as all cleared as expected. Mack Pixley got to go to Memphis, but Gene Case, Cal Randall, and Pablo Vazquez all preferred a pink slip. Vazquez 's departure brought cheers, but it did hurt releasing two guys that I had before the time skip. Randall was someone I traded for. Unfortunately things didn't work out in both cases, and my guess is they'll linger long enough for me to offer them a minor league deal once injuries thin out the system.

Looking Ahead
Not only do we not get rest this week, but we actually have to play eight games in seven days, with our next off day May 1st. Our week starts with two quick home series, as the homestand concludes with the Stars and Wranglers. They're on opposite ends of the division, as LA is on the bottom and Dallas on the top. Despite that, both won 90+ games last year, and probably are expected to win these games. There's no lack of star power, as we'll have to deal with Bobby Garrison, Bob Griffin, and Ed Moore before dealing with John Miller, Nick Parker, Buck Stout, and Steve Prather. All rank top three at their respective positions, so our pitchers will really have their work cut out for them. The only saving grace is that neither team has any pitching. The only Wrangler to be worried about is the extremely talented Pete Rosenbaum, who we are in line to face, and LA ace Bill Dunham is expected to pitch the finale. It's going to be tough, but our offense is scoring runs and splits are more then doable.

Our weekend is then spent back in San Francisco, where we will be hosted by the team we just took a series from. The double header is in the finale, but I don't think we'll bring in a pen arm for an emergency start. It's unknown if they will, but aside from Jim Teal they also don't have any pitchers. Of course, here you can say the same about the pitching, despite Pete Gibson's Player of the Week. Aided by a 5-for-5 against Seattle and two 3-hit games against us, he won it for the second time in his young career, and is hitting .412/.423/.510 (159 OPS+) to start things off. If we can limit his damage like we did this week, I expect another successful series, and it wouldn't not be too surprising if we win three of four to start what could be a really tough roadtrip. As you might guess, LA and Dallas follow, so if we can't handle them at home, things could get ugly quickly.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 3-5
Seasonal Record: 10-11 (4th, 3 GB)

Schedule
4-21: Loss vs Stars (4-3)
4-22: Loss vs Stars (5-1)
4-23: Loss vs Wranglers (5-2)
4-24: Win vs Wranglers (2-6)
4-25: Win at Sailors (7-1)
4-26: Loss at Sailors (0-1)
4-27: Win at Sailors (7-2)
4-27: Loss at Sailors (1-2)

Recap
I didn't expect much this week, so I can't be too mad, but it really could have been better. If we split with the Stars instead of getting swept, things look a lot different, but instead all I can think about is our old best friend coming back.

If there's one thing you remember about these Cougars, it's probably that they always come up short. But if there are two things you didn't forget, it's that they are absolutely abysmal in one run games. That's how we lost both games against the Sailors, as well as the opener with LA that we really should have won. We out-hit them 11-8 and one of the three runs Bob Goldman allowed was unearned. I'm sure our pen would have blown it later anyways, as Charlie Lawson did in the 8th, but maybe just maybe we could have a clutch at bat with one more chance. Tied is easier then down, and for now we'll have to fight to get back above .500.

I guess the double header was painful too, as in the first game pretty much everything was working. Roger Alford looked like an Allen winner, 8 innings with 6 hits, a run, and 5 strikeouts, and with Charlie Sanders (3-4, 2B, R, 3 RBI, BB), Sam Morrison (2-4, HR, HBP), Andy Babel (2-4, R, BB, 2B), and even Tom Lorang (1-3, 2 R, RBI, 2 BB, 2B) he had more then enough support for the win. That couldn't be further from what happened to Hal Adams, as when we got guys on not much else happened. Two leadoff doubles were stranded, and the lone run came on Sam Morrison's sac-fly in the 6th. 5 other hits and 3 walks were left on, but it's starting to look like we might not have the depth for long weeks.

That will be helped by the return of Tom Halliday, who is not only replacing Bill Grimm in the lineup, but on the active roster. The defense at second was good, but the former Kellogg winner was hitting just .204/.232/.296 (45 OPS+) and would have been moved to the bench anyways. I was pleasantly surprised he'd accept an optional assignment. I could have DFA'd Clarence Johnson, but he's 5-for-12 with 2 walks and 3 RBIs, more then effective in a role Grimm could have filled. In Omaha he can get every day at bats, as we look to fix whatever has been holding him back so far.

A second roster move was needed for Bill Rawdon, and at least for now it's not to replace Paul Germano. Picking up his first career homer against Wrangler ace Pete Rosenbaum (4-0, 1.20, 19) in his most recent at bat, he's now 3-for-5 as a Cougar and far too hot to expose to the wire. Same goes for Jerry McMillan, who's 6-for-18 with 4 runs, 2 doubles, 2 walks, and an RBI, so it's Henry Watson who will lose his roster spot. He's not accepting an option, so on to waivers the franchise home run leader goes. He'll likely clear, and by then I'm sure our outfield will sort itself out. Off to a dreadful start, he went just 5-for-28 with 3 runs, a walk, and an RBI. No homers so he'll remain at 283, but even if the almost 37-year-old stayed on the roster, he'd be quickly losing at bats. I'm hoping someone left over can cover center, with the most obvious choice Sam Morrison. All of the rest of the outfielders say they can play center, which I'm sure is to a very low ability, and with Morrison shifting over Rawdon can enter the lineup in left. The bat could be a nice boon, and in the frequent games he isn't starting he's a weapon off the bench.

Tom Lorang hasn't homered yet, but for the first time as a Cougar he had a week worth celebrating. Our star third basemen went 6-for-22 with 3 doubles, 3 runs, 5 RBIs, and 9 walks, now hitting an above average .243/.398/.329 (103 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 11 RBIs, and 18 walks. An unusual line, a lot of the hits are missing, but he's walking and a rate (20.5) that matches his previous career high and striking out around the same as usual. Walks for power is not a trade off we want him to make, but he may still need some time adjusting to his new home. That hasn't been an issue for Andy Babel, who was our most productive bat of the week and on the season. Babel was 10-for-27 with 4 doubles, 5 RBIs, and 5 runs, upping his season line to .358/.391/.494 (144 OPS+) on the season. He's only hit one homer so far, but he's on pace for an insane 62 doubles. As the weather warms up, some of those will start leaving the seats. Just two Cougars have multiple homers, Cleo Harris who hit one in each of our first two weeks, and John Babb, who homered in half his hits this week. Just 4-for-24, he now leads the team with 3 homers, while his 19 RBIs are best in the entire association. This trio should get a boost with Halliday's return to the lineup, as we could be a really formidable squad once our centerpiece wakes up.

On the mound, Jim Norris has been outstanding, continuing to etch his name in FABL history. In just three starts, he's already broke a tie for 8th All-Time in wins, entered a tie for 7th, and then took it for himself. He's done it in fashion too, allowing 2 or fewer runs each time out, and his 6.1 inning victory against the Wranglers was the first time he didn't also go at least 7 full innings. A 1.54 ERA and 1.29 WHIP are legit, all being done with more walks (10) then strikeouts (7). Ironically known for his command, the walks haven't been a bad thing, as last game was really the only one where he crowded the basepaths. To be 5th on his own, he'd need 12 more wins, which somehow still seems possible even if he doesn't return next year. If the start of his season is any indication, he seems likely to return, and it's quite funny that our obvious most effective pitcher early on is one who actually had to compete for his job.

Looking Ahead
The vet Norris starts our week on short rest, as we have three in LA before a much needed off-day to start May. 8-12, the Stars are the surprising last place team, and that's even with their two wins against us. Looking to upgrade their outfield as Paul Richardson (.191, 5) and Ed Bogan (.232, 4, 1) have struggled, they had their eyes on contention, and are far better then the record looks. They'll also have the advantage of a more rested staff, as even tough they did make the trip from Seattle, they did not deal with a double header. Our short rest staff will face Jackie Thompson (1-1, 1.33, 14), Vern Conrad (0-3, 2.83, 12), and John Green (1-2, 5.18, 17), the three starters we didn't draw to start last week. Our focus will be more on the lineup, specifically Chicagoan Bobby Garrison (.333, 2, 15, 4), a player I very much wish I had my hands on. Already in year 14, he has 313 homers, 411 doubles, 258 steals, 878 walks, 1,221 RBIs, and 1,332 runs. Aside from steals, there all already top-5 in franchise history, and his 75.5 WAR trails just teammate Ralph Barrell (.215, 3) and three Hall-of-Famers. The now 35-year-old Barrell is trending backward, losing a tenth of a WAR as Garrison narrows the gap with expected excellence against us. Fellow Chicagoan Bill Bell (.291, 2, 10, 3) is the only one giving him support right now, but I know it's only a matter of time before the sleeping giant wakes up. They may not be as good as they have been in past years, but they're not a last place team, and certainly not going to be easy to beat in their own park.

That will be mroeso the case in Dallas, as we'll duel for three before another off day. Leading the division, the Wranglers are 13-8, two games ahead of the Mavs and Kings and three above us. Somehow they have three pitchers with at least 13 innings and a sub-1.50 ERA, as ace Pete Rosenbaum (4-0, 1.20, 19) and pen arms Asbury Ashmore (1-1, 3, 1.35, 8) and Joe Rice (2-0, 1.12, 11) have been nearly impossible to solve. Pair that with the highest scoring offense in the Conti, and you can see why they're such a force to be reckoned with. Back-to-back batting title winner Buck Stout (.325, 3, 17, 2) will have competition from his outfield, as Ed Norris (.359, 1, 11, 1), Steve Prather (.351, 2, 18, 7), and Tony McKittrick (.364, 9, 1) are all ahead of him out of the gate. He'll also have to compete with Prather and Nick Parker (.293, 2, 14) for the Whitney, as all three are among the game's top offensive players. Add in a top catcher in first year starter and former first rounder John Miller (.273, 1, 6), and the first inning can really drag on for opposing pitchers. I'll be honest, I'm nervous here, and this will be a true test of our grit and resolve, and the perfect opportunity for Tom Lorang to welcome himself to Chicago.

Minor League Report
RHP Pete Lee (AA Memphis Cougars): A few of our minor league clubs got going this week, and it only took one Dixie League game for a Cougar farmhand to turn in their first shutout. The culprit was the well-traveled Pete Lee, who was making his minor league debut with us. A 6th Round pick of the Eagles back in 1967, Memphis marks his 30th stint with a club, as while they're plenty of repeats, he's got a ton of year/team combinations despite his youth. I doubt any went as good as this, as just his 4th AA start was fun to watch. Allowing just 2hits, he struck out 3 as the Cougars defeated the Jacksonville Gators in a much finer 2-0 home opener. 6 walks wasn't ideal, and as you might guess command is part of the reason he's played for so many teams, but when someone comes in with no expectations it's hard not to be impressed. A six pitch pitcher, he does have the stuff to start, but whether his overall makeup will ever be good enough is up for question. Lucky for him, we have very few legit upper minors pitching options, so if I have to dip too far past Bill Bartlett we may need to get creative. Even then, 40-man spots are always available in September, and a string of starts like this could get Lee a big league debut that once felt out of reach.

[StLee]

Glad to see Cougars ball has returned!

[ayaghmour2]

Originally Posted by StLee

Glad to see Cougars ball has returned!

It's been a blast to be back! After being away for so long I wasn't sure I was going to be as excited for the games. It took maybe one sim for that to change. Sim. Not week of games. Just sim.

Like I'm sure it is for you, it will be tough to keep up, but I can still get my fix with the baseball section of TWIFS. Today's probably going to be one of those days where I'm late but one way or another as long as FABLs back the Cougars will be here!

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 4-2
Seasonal Record: 14-13 (t-2nd, 2.5 GB)

Schedule
4-28: Loss at Stars (4-7)
4-29: Win at Stars (2-1)
4-30: Loss at Stars (4-11)
5-2: Win at Wranglers (3-0)
5-3: Win at Wranglers (7-3)
5-4: Win at Wranglers (12-9)

Recap
Much to my surprise, we not only finished 4-2 and got back over .500 to return to a tie for second, but we did it not by taking advantage of the Stars. They looked like last year's squad, taking two of three as we couldn't put runs on the board. The off day helped us re-focus, as our return home was easily our best series of the season. We outscored the then first place Wranglers 22-12, sweeping them right out of Cougars Park. Starting off our May 3-0, we finally have some momentum, and I can be happy with how our start has gone so far.

Most importantly might be the first homer of the season for Tom Lorang, who's two-run blast gave Roger Alford more then he needed for the 3-0 win. Alford didn't go all nine, Pug went to an improving Tom Andress for the 9th, but he allowed just 5 hits and a single walk, lowering his ERA to 3.48 (113 OPS+) on the season. I hate the lack of strikeouts, but he had 6 and 5 in his last two 8 inning starts, and I'll trade some whiffs for no walks or homers. Lorang is now hitting a weird looking .272/.407/.370 (116 OPS+), leading the Conti with 21 walks in 27 games. His defense (2.8 ZR, 1.051 EFF) is as good as usual, and now he's starting to do everything except hit frequent tape measure home runs.

There was nothing to worry about!!! Not my fault he was giving off major Sal Pestilli vibes...

That wasn't the case for John Babb or Andy Babel, who again both out-performed Lorang on the week. Sure, most weeks it's because Lorang didn't do anything, but his 175 WRC+ was below 200, unlike the double Bs. For Babel it was exactly that much, 10-for-23 with 2 doubles, a homer, 4 RBIs, and 4 runs, for Babb it was just the floor. His was 226 -- matching is OPS+ -- as he went 8-for-22 with 3 doubles, 2 homers, 9 RBIs, 6 runs, and 3 walks. Now with 28 RBIs on the season, he has at least 7 more then everyone else in the CA, and his .283/.364/.554 (152 OPS+) batting line is right below the .375/.396/.529 (155 OPS+) Babel has produced, as our two supplementary acquisition have been better then advertised.

As good as the week was, there was one thing to be sad about, as Jim Norris returned to being a 45-year-old pitcher. After three consecutive gems, the lefty got his first loss, allowing 10 hits, 6 runs (5 earned), and 3 walks with 2 strikeouts. Lasting only 4.2 innings, he not getting the groundballs he usually gets. Just 3 on the night after 9, 9, 14, and 7 to start the season, LA managed to elevate his well-located stuff. He's hittable up in the zone, but all players are allowed a rough day at the office. Better is the pen, specifically Tom Andress, who who has thrown five consecutive scoreless outings. All lasted at least an inning, with only even seeing a baserunner. Now in 14.2 innings, he lowered his ERA and WHIP to 3.68 (107 ERA+) and 1.36, going from likely optioned to remaining the stopper. We added a pen arm on waivers, Leroy Williams, who I expected would join the roster right away. Instead, he's likely to wait one more week, as a lot of the runs the pen was giving up did not happen this time around. Thinking we'd have pen woes I also brought in a flurry of veterans on minor league deals, who's chance to return to the highest level may be thwarted before they got going.

Looking Ahead
I'm almost upset we're off to start the week, as we built a ton of momentum off one of our toughest series of the year. Still, its a long season and we haven't had many so far, so I'm appreciate our vets enjoyed spending a day in Chicago away from the diamond and enjoying all the things I'm so luck to enjoy. But once the week turns to Tuesday, it has to be nothing but business, as we have a rare chance to put ourself in first place. Us and the Sailors are 2.5 games out of first, but since we play the first place Kings, we can claim at least a share of the crown with another sweep. Don't plan on it -- the reverse is far more likely -- but we're playing good ball and will find a way to sneak Roger Alford (3-2, 3.48, 20) in what could only be a top pitching matchup. Seattle has enviable depth, and since they're off like us, they'll have a chance to adjust their rotation. We do dodge the Moe Lowery (3-2, 2.68, 30) bullet, as he beat the Mavs to extend their snappable win streak to eight, but not only is he's not their only Allen winner, but they even picked up third-year righty Bill Harris (2-2, 2.87, 20) from Cleveland this offseason to truly make this staff look scary. The former 3rd Round pick was one of many to start a Conti high 37 games, and he's only looked better in Kings apparel. He's striking out hitters at a career best rate (13.0%) and walking them at his lowest (5.2%), about as encouraging of a trend as you can get. I'm interested to see how they can handle our clearly improved lineup, which looked really good at the start of the homestand.

Offense isn't an issue for them, and the reason they lead the West is the Association high 127 runs scored. The unlikely crux of the lineup has been 26-year-old Bob Glowacki, who's hit an elite .350/.485/.675 (220 OPS+) that you might mistake for a prime Hank Williams (.270, 1, 7, 1). Already recognized as a reliable 20+ homer slugger, he has 6 homers in 24 games, picking up 2 doubles, 3 triples, 12 RBIs, 18 runs, and 20 walks. An early Whitney candidate, he's tied for second in homers and the OPS (1.160) leader, and from a 4-hit game to a homer off Bob Goldman on the 11th, all he's done is hit, and Seattle's ability to find and develop prolific players like this one.

Williams himself will miss at least the first game of the series, as he's one of many Kings dealing with an injury. It's a minor intercostal strain, but like Lorang he hasn't been providing the power we've grown accustomed to. He hit 19 homers last year and 20 or more in 13 other seasons 4 spots ahead of our star on the All-Time list. All 492 of his homers have came with the Kings, and he's the obvious franchise leader and a near lock for becoming the 6th player to hit 500 FABL homers. Even without him, there's plenty of support with Mike Griffith (.323, 3, 18) and Fred Tollefson (.278, 3, 13, 3) generally in front and behind him in the lineup. The Wranglers series proved to be far easier then expected, but they had a weakness we could exploit. Seattle doesn't, so our fate hinges on our ability to hit win runners on base.

Our homestand ends with a welcomed guest from the East, as the Montreal Saints come to town for three days. 11-14, they're 5.5 out of first, but cannot be taken seriously. Leading off the order is an enigma of a player, as the '73 Kellogg Winner and former Chief Joe Robertson is no longer the guy he once was. Obviously the Kellogg came with the Kings, his only season with the team who stole him from us in the Rule-5 draft. I'm quite disappointed to learn that he was a 13th Rounder of ours, as the talented center fielder is one of the best in the game, even if he's decided to abandon in his power. As a rookie he slugged 11 homers, but he's adopted a singles only approach. Cougars Park might let his first one out, but through 103 plate appearances he's been plenty valuable without power. His .400/.465/.578 (185 OPS+) batting line is nothing short of elite, and with his speed (3-for-3 on steals) and defensive ability it'll be harder to find a more valuable player.

That is, of course, if he sustains it, as he was never a highly regarded prospect and scouts now aren't yet convinced. For a team that doesn't score runs, it's blessing, as superstar Dixie Turner (.245, 1, 8, 8) has struggled even more then Lorang. That's something they cannot afford, as despite their early pitching successes I don't see that lasting. Hal Bennett (3-0, 1.95, 19) is good but not great, and 26-year-old rookie Don Curtis (1-1, 2.18, 20) is not going to continue pitching at an Allen level pace. A more reliable starter is my former prospect John Roberts (1-4, 3.62, 16), who we traded in what could only be described as an awful deal. Now in 11th year, he's made 352 consecutive starts, playing a key part in two of their recent championships. His 107 ERA+ in 32.1 innings matches the value in his 2,586 career innings, and it's exactly the kind of work you can expect from him. If Montreal's record continues to slip, he's an enticing trade candidate and someone I certainly would keep an eye on. I'd prefer not facing him, but on paper we have a noticeable pitching advantage and should throw the better pitcher each time out. Wins here are crucial, especially since they're unlikely earlier in the week, and the road awaits us until the 20th.

Minor League Report
2B Ernie Dreier (AAA Omaha Plainsmen): Our depth took a major hit early in the Century League season, as the Plainsmen will be without Ernie Dreier for what could be the rest of the season. It's just 11 games, of which he hit .333/.364/.548 (121 OPS+) while trying to play shortstop, as he ruptured his Achilles running the bases. A tough injury for anyone to overcome, it's going to be a lost season for the 25-year-old. He probably entered the offseason thinking he would be finally fighting for a starting job, and instead he got a nightmare diagnosis that might end his big league hopes. This was his last option year, and he has an uphill battle for a roster spot going into next season. To perhaps make that easier, he may want to look to a late season return, as even if the minor league season is over, he could come up for action if the division race is decided weeks in advance.

2B Joe Sterling (AA Memphis Cougars): It's technically a tie, but Joe Sterling became the first Cougar to win a Player of the Week, as our AA infielder was bestowed the honor in the Dixie League. Our 12th Rounder in 1969, he hit an excellent .407/.484/.593 (181 OPS+) with 2 doubles, a homer, 5 runs, 4 RBIs, 4 walks, and even a steal. A little over half his season, he was pretty good the week before too, so his .422/.500/.600 (188 OPS+) line is just a little better. Not one of our more highly regarded prospects, he's not even guaranteed a starting role, which makes this hot start all the more important to him securing an unlikely FABL debut. Previously his best bet was versatility and his wide variety of wisecracks, but a solid contact tool is starting to peak through. A Dixie League vet, it's his fourth stint here, and his .292/.371/.415 (114 OPS+) line in 145 combined games is far closer to average. I'd expect more of that throughout, but he's done a good job getting his name on the map.

RHP Joe Nichols (A Yakima Rams): Not even the first Joe to get a Player of the Week, Joe Nichols was our other Player of the Week. Rare for a pitcher, he was a perfect 2-0 with a 0.82 ERA (442 ERA+) and 0.64 WHIP. It was just 11 innings, but he struck out 10 and walked just 3, pretty impressive for a twice released former 6th Round pick. He was just as good in his first start, even if he didn't get the win, holding a 1.12 ERA (322 ERA+) with 17 strikeouts and just 4 walks in 16 innings pitched. Now with his third organization, he's been with us since 1972, easily the longest tenure in his early career. Still 22, he's not as mature and motivated as you'd like, but the natural talent is there. He'll hover in the high 80s and low 90s with both a fastball and a cutter, part of a deep five mix he's been commanding well. That's not always the case, as what has held him back early on is his tendency to get wild. Another less regarded prospect, he has a lot working against him, but like his name brother he's made a good first impression that could lead to a leash far longer then deserved.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 3-3
Seasonal Record: 17-16 (3rd, 5.5 GB)

Schedule
5-6: Loss vs Kings (4-2)
5-7: Loss vs Kings (3-5)
5-8: Loss vs Kings (0-4)
5-9: Win vs Saints (6-7)
5-10: Win vs Saints (5-6)
5-11: Win vs Saints (3-4)

Recap
Sweeps a plenty, and if you had to guess they were the one's you thought. We were swept by the Kings, now winners of fourteen straight, and we then swept the Montreal Saints. To my utter disbelief, they were all one run wins, two of which were even elegant. Augie Hicks blew the save in the first, but that's more because Pug left Pug in too long. Hicks probably should have started the seventh instead, as he entered a game with no outs and a run already in. Done with two singles, a walk, and a third single, nothing went right, and our 6-3 lead was completely gone. Hicks did keep it tied, with the only hit coming when he first entered. His 8th went well and Tom Andress' followed with a scoreless ninth, setting us up for a chance to win it and skip extras.

If you ever wondered why I went after Tom Lorang, you'll have your answer today, as after Andy Babel worked a full count fly out, the living legend knew exactly how to attack the struggling stopper Miguel Hernandez (3-4, 2, 7.06, 14). Taking a strike and then a ball, Lorang then lined one on the ground between first and second. When it wasn't fielded cleanly by Bill Gilman (.179, 3) in right, Lorang made his way to second, taking advantage of something only real skilled players notice, with most not able to move like he can. The CA RBI leader was then walked intentionally to set up a double play, which could not have been possible if Lorang wasn't such an excellent base runner. I hate that Jerry McMillan was up, thankfully he flew out, so the unheralded Charlie Sanders got a moment. Having seen multiple pitches he knew exactly what to look for, hitting something hard and far enough to allow Lorang to score the winning run.

The next day the roles were reversed, as entering the bottom of the 7th we were down 5-2. Lorang was again the producer, starting the rally with a two-out RBI single. With two outs they didn't dare walk John Babb, but after he tied the game with a double it looked like they would have been better off dealing with Fuzzy even if the baes were loaded. He got down 0-2, flying out to keep the score tied, but again Lorang got momentum on our side. After a perfect 8th from Charlie Lawson, last night's hero did it again, singling to start things off. Again it was Hernandez, who then walked Cleo Harris on four pitches to bring up the pitcher's spot. Instead of Lawson it was new outfielder Bill Rawdon, who hit one to second and avoided a double play.

With the defenders drawn in, Sam Morrison could not clear the infield, and our burly catcher was cut down to preserve the tie. Now with two outs and Lorang in the on deck circle, it was the now healthy Tom Holliday that had a chance to give us the lead. Like Morrison, he attacked a first pitch, but his was roped to right center. Rawdon came roaring home, almost too fast, as Montreal first basemen and FABL active walk leader (6th, 1,697) Harry Swain (.258, 8, 2) cut off the outfielders throw, sniping the trailing Morrison at third. Of course, that doesn't prevent the run, and again Tom Andress took care of the ninth. This time it was a save, his 6th so far, despite allowing his first walk since April 18th. He wasn't rested enough for all three, leaving Charlie Lawson to almost blow Bob Goldman's gem (6 IP, 5 2 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 7 K), with Montreal's 3rd run coming in inning two of an eventual save.

Lawson's struggles almost led to him being DFA'd, but I went against sentimentality, and instead waived former trace acquisition Don Griffin. Lawson is better then the numbers suggest, and perhaps so is Griffin, but Doc is the one who's an occasional clubhouse issue. If this is it, 1,275 of his 2,587 FABL innings will come with the Cougars, though he was obviously far better in Boston. He wasn't bad as a Cougar, going 79-58 with 30 saves, a 3.53 ERA (105 ERA+), and 1.23 WHIP, but he was never the ace I thought he could be. He never returned to his elite command, and for the last six years he was mostly low leverage in the pen. This year he allowed 13 hits, 5 runs, and 4 walks, striking out 4 in 8.1 innings pitched. With his age and ability to decline an outright assignment, the most likely end to his Cougar career is cleaning before a release, but if someone gets hurt or implodes, he has a chance to return.

Henry Watson was hoping for something similar, and he instead got to take Paul Germano's roster spot. As good as he was, Pug just doesn't use him, and hasn't in any of our May games. I'm not sure he clears, but if he does I'd like to see him play center in AAA or AA. Being a good defender there is the easiest way to get back into our favor, and I just couldn't bare releasing the franchise home run leader even if he may never hit another one. Pug is already planning on overusing him, so I know adjustments will be needed to be made.

Looking Ahead
Despite getting swept, we had a nice homestand, and will get to face teams that aren't the Seattle Kings. This includes another out of division matchup, as we'll be in Cleveland for four with the Foresters. 13-14 they're in the opposite position of us, a game under instead of a game over. Working in our favor is Vern Schneider's (.303, 7, 16, 1) calf strain, as he's the clear best hitter of their lineup. Even with a 174 WRC+ bat like his in the lineup, they're last in the Conti in runs scored, and I can only imagine how few runs will be produced with out him. They do have a good rotation, 2nd in runs against, but with little run support I like our chances. We'll see most of the rotation, including struggling ace Roy Rice (2-4, 4.97, 30), but I think it's our lineup that will control the narrative. I'm really curious to see how Andy Babel (.346, 2, 17, 2) does in his return to Forester Stadium, the place where he made hit his first 340 doubles. Even as an opponent the 5-Time All-Star and 4-Time Diamond Defense winner should get a warm welcome, and I'm sure he'll have many home fans waiting for him once the team arrives to the park. With how little offense they have, he could win games on his own, and I'd expect at least one gapper that ends with him smiling on second base.

Our weekend could be fun, as we'll get to visit the Montreal Saints for three more. After we swept them they dropped to 11-20, 9.5 games behind the Arrows (19-9) in the East. Still without Reid Barrell (.298, 3, 12, 2), we'll get a weakened Saint lineup, after doing a good job keeping Joe Robertson (.349, 16, 5) quiet. Losers of nine straight, them or Dallas has to break their massive losing streaks, and as long as they don't sweep them I think it's good if they at least break the streak. They've had trouble on both sides of the field, but former 1st Rounder Hal Bennett (3-1, 2.29, 21) has been a standout worth mentioning. Now 29, he's always been a reliable pitcher, but his early success gives him a case for the All-Star game. We missed him this week, but I expect him in game two of this series. As long as they keep finishing games with Miguel Hernandez, I'll feel comfortable, but regardless of what they do we are the better team, and even on the road we need to win. Seattle is threatening to run away with it early, so we cannot drop the easy games on our schedule this week. They can't win forever, and with a visit from Milwaukee to start the week, we have a rare chance to catch up.

Minor League Report
2B Gene Homer (AAA Omaha Plainsmen): Don't worry, we didn't lose another of our infield depth options (although the system was ravished with injuries this week), as Gene Homer was one of many bats to have an outstanding Tuesday. In the Plainsmen 18-2 win in OKC, homer was 5-for-6, slugging 2 homers with a double, 3 runs, and 6 RBIs. Bud Edmonds (3-5, R, 2 RBI) and Tom Perkins (3-6, 3 R, 5 RBI) both had homers in 3-hit games, and even starter Walt Wilson (W, 7.1 IP, 5 2, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K) got into the fun. He was 2-for-4 with a run and 2 RBIs, both coming on a 2nd inning double that happens to be his 2nd double of the season.

Homer's return to the minors has impressive, as while I'm sure he wishes he wasn't here, hitting .377/.449/.710 (188 OPS+) to start the season-has to feel good. So does his Player of the Week award, as Homer finished 10-for-26 with 7 runs, 8 RBIs, and 5 extra base hits. 26 in June, he's gathered 4 doubles, 2 triples, 5 homers, 14 RBIs, and 15 runs in 78 trips to the plate. He only walked once this week, but he has about as many (9) as he does strikeouts (11). All encouraging, the former corner infielder has been getting most of his time at second, with a path to playing time replacing or sharing time with Cleo Harris. Of course, if Halliday gets hurt again we may need a more long-term replacement, and Homer has made the best case to enter the lineup. A potential FABL starter, he makes regular contact with his aggressive approach, and he has the strength to do what his last name says. Aside from John Babb, no one has really been hitting home runs, and more weeks like this could force me to find a spot for him at least a few days a week.

C Earl Wade (AA Memphis Cougars): More hardware for Cougars, as a major power surge made Earl Wade the easy choice. 8-for-21, he blasted 5 homers, capped off by a 2-homer win over Montgomery to end the week. Adding 7 runs, 5 walks, and 10 RBIs, he's been a key piece of Memphis' six game win streak. Ranked seventh in our system, he's hit .258/.365/.565 (135 OPS+) in his first 16 games. He had just one homer coming into the week, but before this week most of his production came from drawing walks. He's got 11 of them, same with strikeouts, excellent at working the count and getting on. This week that allowed him to take advantage of poor pitching, as instead of professional at bats he just put the ball in the seats. Above average power is what makes him most appealing, something nearly all catchers have issues with. I've said enough about our catching surplus, but that doesn't diminish our value, and his presence made it so we could skip taking the risk on a catcher in the draft. It's almost the time of year when we get statistics, as well as figure out how much each guy costs. I'm sure we'll get plenty of catchers in the second half of the draft, some potentially better then I would have taken earlier, but it's highly unlikely anyone form the 4th on would have been at or around the level of our former 1st Rounder.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 2-5
Seasonal Record: 19-21 (t-3rd, 8 GB)

Schedule
5-12: Win at Foresters (5-1)
5-13: Loss at Foresters (2-5)
5-14: Loss at Foresters (2-3)
5-15: Loss at Foresters (4-5)
5-16: Loss at Saints (4-5)
5-17: Loss at Saints (1-7)
5-18: Win at Saints (7-6): 11 innings

Recap
Anything and everything sucked this week, as while we were away from home we just could not get anything going. The pen was back to blowing games and the offense we enjoyed was not to be found. We couldn't take advantage of two bad teams, basically the opposite of clutch until an extra inning win avoided a sweep. Three one run losses is quite frustrating, as I jinxed Tom Andress. He blew a game in both of his outings, one in Cleveland (IP, H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 2 K) and one in Montreal (1.2 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, BB). I won't dwell on too much else of what happened, because the big news was the official draft pool release. OSA thinks our first rounder Tom Brewer is the second best player available, and Harry Carr has him as the new 1.1. I'll get to all ten of our previously drafted guys at some point, likely over the weekend, as there is plenty of time before the draft itself. I still think this is a really deep draft class, and I'm really excited to see how my guys are looking five months after the draft.

I do have to shout out Charlie Sanders, who was one of the few Cougars to do something with the bat. Despite being in tougher stadiums to do it, he hit two homers, both in our thrilling 7-6 extra inning win, 7-for-23 with a double, 3 walks, 3 runs, and 6 RBIs. A consistently good hitter early on, he's hitting .328/.374/.459 (127 OPS+), and Pug has moved him to the five spot in the lineup. Tom Halliday has been moved out, with the 1 through 5 now Morrison, Babb, Babel, Lorang, Sanders. It didn't work this week, but it will be something to watch in our return to Cougars Park.

There's also the matter of Charlie Lawson's retirement, which makes me wish I DFA'd him instead of Don Griffin. He tried to blow a save shortly after, allowing 3 hits, including a homer, in 2 innings pitched. Thankfully it was a solo shot, and the rest were stranded with help from 3 strikeouts, but the veteran might not make it through the end of the year. Part of me would feel bad cutting him, but we can't keep a guy who keeps giving up runs. In 12.2 innings he's allowed 12 hits, 10 runs, and 5 walks. Early on the strikeouts helped his FIP, as he has 10 strikeouts, but he's now with a third homer it's below average just like his ERA. No longer high leverage, it was necessity that brought him in, and if there are better external options they will be pursued.

Oh and Andy Babel did double (and later scored) in Cleveland. But it was as a pinch hitter. He started the other three games, 3-for-14 with two runs scored. Not the return he wanted, but I have no doubt he'll quickly return to the guy he's been all season long.

Looking Ahead
Off to start the week, we'll return home to lick our wounds, as the week really couldn't have gone much worse. With only five games, we can't lose more then we did this week, and we'll get a chance for revenge against the Foresters. Just two games, I expect Juan Solorzano (4-2, 2.42, 26) and Manuel Andreu (2-4, 5.48, 28), decent pitchers but not ones who are going to change the game. Both did beat us, with Solorzano in particular doing very well (7.1 IP, 3 H, ER, BB, 6 K), but not many pitchers leave Cougars Park unscathed. They couldn't score much on us in Cleveland, so all we really need to do is get some runs on the board. Schneider's replacement George Smith (.147, 1, 1) did not do well in his first week as a starter, and Reggie Anderson (.328, 2, 16) remains the only legitimate threat. We need both these wins, as with another off day following we may really fall behind without them.

It gets harder on the weekend, as we'll welcome the East leading Arrows for our first series against them. 23-11, they have a huge 6 game lead, with no other division rival over .500. Equipped with the best staff in the association, ace Joe Wright (5-2, 3.88, 34) is the only starter with an ERA above 3, and his 102 ERA+ is still above average. He was also below 3 in each of the last two seasons, 2.56 (148 ERA+) in 235,2 innings two years ago and 2,96 (123 ERA+) in a career high 264.1 last year. Without a weak spot in the rotation, the only thing to do is keep them off the board. The worst part is they're still scoring with a more toned down version of Harry Edwards (.269, 5, 26) and not the Whitney version winner. On top of that, Rich Moyer (.402, 3, 10, 2) hit the IL with a sprained ankle last week, and he was looking to be the Arrow Whitney winner this year. Ironically, replacement Dennis Miller (.458, 1, 6) is hitting just as well, but I do think our lineup is deeper, and we actually have scored 7 more runs then them. It won't be easy, but we caught them at the right time, and could do some damage on our home turf.

Minor League Report
RHP Walt Wilson (AAA Omaha Plainsmen): Everyone's focus was on Jack Kotarski of the Copperhead's no-hitter, but Walt Wilson had one of his own in the minors. His fifth start of the season, he walked 3 and struck out 9, improving to a perfect 4-0 on the season. He took missing out on the big league roster well, and with our pen struggling, he could be an option for high leverage innings. Don't get me wrong, his future is as a starter, but we are getting to the point where we just need arms. Along with the record, he's got a picturesque 1.93 ERA (236 ERA+), 1.02 WHIP, and even the 3.19 FIP (69 FIP-) is outstanding. He's got great stuff too, striking out 30 in 37.1 innings, and his mix of command and groundball tendencies have led to just a single allowed homer. In the spring, Pug liked him in the 8th, and I'm thinking more and more that he was on to something. I think it's still too early, and there's hope for someone to appear on waivers, but if we fall too far out it's not worth impacting his development with an unfamiliar role.

SS Carl Carroll (A Yakima Rams): Perhaps it was in response to dropping outside the top-25, but Carl Carroll's bat really caught fire. Taking home Player of the Week, the 18-year-old went 12-for-25 with 8 runs, 2 doubles, a triple, a homer, 3 RBIs, 6 walks, and 3 steals. Now the 31st rated prospect, he's hitting an excellent .330/.440/.440 (142 OPS+) on the season, worth 1.5 WAR in just 24 games. He hasn't drove in many runs, just 7 in 111 PAs, but he's got 19 runs, 17 walks, 2 doubles, a triple, 2 homers, and 4 steals. An almost ideal prospect, he's got flashy tools and excels in the leadoff spot, and off the field he's got the perfect skillset to succeed. Always looking to improve, he's a menace on the bases and an artist in the field, and aside from power the bat is everything you look for. It could be average, still solid for a shortstop, but never a part of his game that we will rely on. The other things he brings the table more then makes up for it, and if all goes right he's going to be our shortstop for a very long time.

[ayaghmour2]

Weekly Record: 4-1
Seasonal Record: 23-22 (4th, 7.5 GB)

Schedule
5-20: Win vs Foresters (0-3)
5-21: Win vs Foresters (1-5)
5-23: Loss vs Arrows (3-1)
5-24: Win vs Arrows (3-4)
5-25: Win vs Arrows (3-6)

Recap
Yeah we're just a lot better at home, quickly sweeping the Foresters before taking two of three from the Arrows. The week started out great, with Pug White shutting out Cleveland in the start that tied Paul Williams for the 2nd most appearances in FABL history. Completely dominant, he allowed just 4 hits, striking 5 without walking a single Forester. He got to pitch against Milwaukee too, picking up his 5th win with another quality start. Just 7 this time, he allowed 4 hits with a run and 3 strikeouts, he hasn't missed a beat. Through 10 starts his 3.50 ERA (113 ERA+) and 3.58 FIP (90 FIP-) are pretty nice, and his 6.2 BB% would be the fourth lowest of his lengthy career. Expected to become the FABL games pitched leader before the break, he'll be that in four games, as at 911 he's three behind the Allen awards namesake Allan Allen. Pug of course never won one, and like every pitcher since he'll never top Allen's 514 wins, but to do anything more then baseball legend did is impressive.

Almost everyone pitched well, as we got good starts from everyone. Even the lone loser, as Roger Alford certainly pitched well enough to win. Our ace went 7, allowing 5 hits with 2 runs, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Picking up wins were Bob Goldman and Hal Adams, who beat Cleveland and Houston respectively. Goldman may not have had a shutout, but he was just as dominant as Pug, going 8 with 5 hits, a run, a walk, and 5 strikeouts. Hal wasn't quite as good, but he scattered 2 hits and 3 walks, striking out and allowing 3. For both it was just t heir second wins, as they have not gotten much support. Even this week we didn't do too much, and I may have to look for ways to bolster our lineup.

It's also worth noting that Paul Germano cleared waivers, and will head to Memphis to get more comfortable in center fielder. Primarily a corner guy, he has a spot back towards regular playing time if he can handle it. It's looking more and more like this will be Henry Watson's last season, which would open a barrier to the roster for former 7th Rounder.

Looking Ahead
Off to the road, which could mean we'll fall right back under .500. Thankfully, the Cannons are struggling, losing 6 straight to fall to 19-24. I do like our chances here, but it may be tough to do things away from home. We're lucky enough to avoid Herm Quinn (6-1, 2.53, 54) too, scheduled to challenge Charlie Wolf (1-4, 4.32, 10), Ike Hawley (2-2, 2.35, 44), and Bob Briggs (5-4, 4.85, 20). Despite Hawley's impressive ERA, there's really not much to worry about, and I really need vintage Tom Lorang (.264, 2, 22, 6) to surface. I don't think they'll score much, as while Frank Eddy (.367, 1, 14, 3) will be on often, he hasn't been helped. Injuries slowed down Bill Brown (.304, 1, 19) and Billy West (.318, 4, 28, 7), and considering there's almost nothing behind 40th ranked prospect Joe Barrett (.310, 3, 23, 5) to give pitchers concern. If we can manage the top and not waste outs on the bottom, we can finally get some space between us and .500.

Off on Thursday, we finish with one of the two Eastern teams above .500, the 21-20 New York Imperials. They haven't made too much sense this year, as co-aces John Alfano (4-5, 4.61, 34) and Jim White (6-1, 3.36, 53) oscillate between ace and scrub. I expect us to face both, which will make winning quite difficult. They do hit, as Phil Terry (.339, 9, 34, 3) is on track to lead the Conti in homers, and if offseason acquisition Rusty Robertson (.194, 3, 16) can hit like he did with the Millers they won't have a hole in the lineup. George Love (.288, 7, 19, 8) is making a bid for an 8th All-Star selection, former Cougar first rounder Al Reece (.297, 3, 18, 6) has looked good at first and right, and former Sailor Woody Richardson (.328, 2, 12) took full advantage of Mike Counts' (.273, 1, 13) injury and seems to have earned regular playing time. Somewhat similar to us, this could be a really interesting series, and it's almost a shame we have to wait all weekend to figure out what will come next.

Minor League Report
3B Jay Richardson (AAA Omaha Plainsmen): It's hard to have as good of a week as Jay Richardson did, as despite not hitting a single home run he hit three in Monday's 18-3 thrashing of the first place Little Rock Governors. Driving in 9, he was responsible for half of the runs, and pretty much equaled his production in every game prior. What's impressive is how he followed it up, as the former 14th Rounder homered in each of the next two games, a combined 4-for-8 with 4 runs, a double, a walk, and 3 RBIs. He got hits in each of the last three games, as the eventual Player of the Week slashed .519/.567/1.111 (315 OPS+) in a season defining week. Off to a slow start to the year, the now 24-year-old owns a strong .333/.407/.504 (129 OPS+) batting line. Despite being unranked as a prospect he's our highest current and potential rated third basemen behind Tom Lorang, and we got a sneak peak of the absolute best he could potentially bring.

[ayaghmour2]

1st Round, 9th Overall: LHP Tom Brewer
School: Sag Harbor Whalers
Commit School: Waterbury College
1975: 11-0, 114.1 IP, 0.71 ERA, 0.71 WHIP, 17 BB, 175 K
Career: 29-0, 311.2 IP, 0.75 ERA, 0.71 WHIP, 46 BB, 497 K

I already loved the Tom Brewer pick months ago when it happened, and with the college and high school seasons completed, it's now looking even better. Ranked by OSA as the 2nd best player available, and Harry Carr lists him 1st, which means there's a really good chance that not only is he a top-10 prospect, but he's probably going to be our best prospect.

A perfect 29-0 at his New York high school, Brewer was dominant for three seasons, and his junior year was no different. His 0.71 ERA and WHIP were both between his ERAs and WHIPs his first two seasons, while his 175 strikeouts, 114.1 innings, and 7.7 WAR are all personal bests. The way he does it is immense talent, that even with the blinding fog of war from both a new scout and years off, it was able to shine and shine and shine all the way through.

OSA and Carr agree that he's an aces ace, and if I get started talking about him I may not stop. Of course, that's what these are for, so I'll at least try to keep by ramblings to a minimum and my sentences from running on. Armed with four pitches, two of which are already there and two more that can be, three of the four have seemingly unlimited upside. The change, splitter, and sinker can all be elite, and even though his fastball is just average, in the 88-90 range it's still effective. It's not going to get much better, like the other three offerings will, but it's far from what makes him great. Just turned 18, it's the sinker and the off-speed pitches that do the damage, as he keeps the ball on the ground and forces hitters into swinging over his pitches. Not only will this lead to a high groundball rate, low homers, and a ton of strikeouts, but also low pitch counts. His best tool may be his command, as he's gong to avoid keeping pitches over the heart, or far from the zone. When he misses, it is with purpose, and even when he's behind in the count he knows he can get right back in it.

Frankly, the only thing standing between Brewer and becoming an ace is health, as he has no weaknesses and even his development risk is just "Medium" and not lower. Unusual for a high school arm, he also seems pretty well developed, and while I don't plan on having him skip La Crosse I think it's something he'd be able to handle. Rushing him to the big leagues won't do us any good, and we'll do whatever is necessary to make sure he reaches his lofty ceiling. Demanding $16,000, pocket change and nowhere near what I'd give him if he asked, it will be easy to meet his demand and get him in the system once the actual draft happens in mid-July.

2nd Round, 33rd Overall: CF Joe Williams
School: Regis Raiders
Commit School: Richmond State
1975: .459/.623/1.027, 169 PA, 27 2B, 6 3B, 8 HR, 39 RBI, 8 SB
Career: .466/.650/1.033, 570 PA, 87 2B, 22 3B, 25 HR, 122 RBI, 25 SB

Dropping a bit in Carr's draft list, Joe Williams is located about on the list as where we grabbed him, his talent still stood, and I'm still very happy we were able to add a bat of his caliber. Another three year starter, he's an absolute extra base hit machine, with only 10 of his 51 hits this year singles. It's similar for his career, 169 hits that contain 87 doubles, 22 triples, and 25 homers, accounting for nearly 80% of his high school hits.

A gifted slugger, "Smokey" could be an impact outfielder, even if he has to eventually shift from center to a corner. Equipped with unbelievable patience and a professional approach, he makes the most out of it too, as he doesn't waste many swings. If he can hit it, he will, and a lot of times the result goes far. Above average is the floor for his eye, contact, and power, and I'm really curious to see how the extra base hit power evolves with his growth. Will those doubles start turning into homers as he matures, or will he instead be more of an Andy Babel type.

The former is preferred, especially in our park, but as we've seen from Babel so far that's a pretty great floor. There's a lot of similarities between the two, and it almost feels like the perfect comp I didn't know existed when I drafted him. Few strikeouts, lots of hits, and lots of doubles, but the one difference is the walks. Babel doesn't draw many, as while this year's 3.8 BB% is less then half of what he's used to, his career high of 10.9 seems like the low end for Williams. He drew 70 walks in 47 games as a freshman, and while I don't think it's a Tom Lorang level eye, but right now it's look like 100 walk potential, something only guys like him can do. He may not have been the best piece we could have got here, but we definitely need help in the outfield, and there's a good chance he enters our system as our top ranked position player.

[ayaghmour2]

3rd Round, 57th Overall: RHP Ed Thompson
School: Cazenovia Lakers
Commit School: Carbondale
1975: 4-0, 58.1 IP, 1.54 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, 15 BB, 97 K
Career: 25-6, 329.1 IP, 1.80 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, 73 BB, 435 K

He's no longer #3 on Harry Carr's list, pushed down to 20th, but his ""has the makings of a future ace" assessment has remained unchanged. Now 18, the four year starter was best as a senior, going 4-0 with a 1.54 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, and 97 strikeouts. I don't love that he only started 7 of his 12 appearances, but coming into this year he started all 37 of his prior outings. If he traded endurance for skill, so be it, as the crafty five pitch pitcher has plenty to offer. Like Brewer, he's a groundballer, but he isn't expected to throw very hard. While our first rounder can hit 90, Thompson may never get past 87, and right now he's in the 84-86 range with his cutter.

It's not what makes him so exciting, as he has a filthy screwball that could be a real problem for hitters. Something you don't see often, his could be really good, and until you get it a few times even the best of hitters may not know what to do. When it's working it can take the life out of a swing, but like all of his pitches they still need a lot of work. Excellent command will allow him to succeed without multiple elite weapons, but I see a lot of above average pitches. Carr loves the change and OSA showcases the splitter, and even the knuckle curve could be a put away pitch. A bit of a work in-progress, he has a lot of development ahead of him. Another ace in the making, him Brewer and Hays could really be something, three potential top-25 or even 15 prospects. Even if one or two of them end up closer to 50, it's a good set of arms to add to an already top-heavy system. I don't think any of the guys we currently have share his and Brewer's upside, with ceilings potentially higher then Roger Alford himself.

4th Round, 80th Overall: CF Phil Ransom
School: Riverdale Quakers
Commit School: Penn Catholic
1975: .410/.490/.770, 208 PA, 34 2B, 9 3B, 4 HR, 41 RBI, 20 SB
Career: .450/.539/.884, 756 PA, 143 2B, 35 3B, 19 HR, 172 RBI, 87 SB

He may not be high on Harry Carr's list, but Riverdale senior Phil Ransom is still a huge get for us here in the fourth round. Another four year starter, he hit .450/.539/.884, worth 16.9 WAR with 887 steals, 143 doubles, 172 RBIs, 178 runs, and 113 walks. An outstanding defender, he has blazing speed and makes the most of it in every aspect of his game. Along with great range, he's a solid base stealer, and any ball he squares up could end up going for extra bases. More then just a glove, the bat his more then just a compliment, producing plenty of bat speed to hit line drives to all parts of the field. I don't think he'll hit many homers and some swing as miss could be expected, but he's an advanced hitter for his age and should be ahead of the curve development wise.

Not your average 4th Rounder, both Carr and OSA agree that he's a remarkable talent, and it's really hard for me to understand if this is just a really good draft or we just had a great class. Plenty of guys later are liked just by OSA or Carr, but both have recent glowing recommendations. Coming into the season we looked set in center, but Fuzzy Cronin has hit just .209/.259/.279 (48 OPS+) in his first 37 games. I'm sure his injury had something to do with it, but since he may not have as much of an edge defensively on Ransom as he does most other outfielders, he could be his first legitimate threat in the organization. One of him or Joe Williams may end up in Yakima, ideally Smokey, but if they're together it's obvious the speedster would be the one patrolling center for the Lions.

[ayaghmour2]

5th Round, 105th Overall: SS Bill Ketchum
School: Plymouth Vikings
Commit School: Garden State
1975: .438/.512/.745, 163 PA, 21 2B, 3 3B, 5 HR, 39 RBI, 10 SB
Career: .455/.538/.766, 551 PA, 87 2B, 6 3B, 14 HR, 126 RBI, 29 SB

The first, and maybe only, bust of the draft, I knew I was reaching when I took Bill Ketchum but we really needed a shortstop and the guy I wanted to take was already gone. Someone OSA is a fan of, calling him a "reliable hitter in the organization's grand scheme" even in May, I think Harry Carr is more accurate in expecting him to end up on a bench. To be fair, that's not usually that bad outside of the top-100, but there are a lot of guys I thought about here that would have been much better options. On a downward trend, he seemingly peaked as a sophomore, where he hit .484/.579/.810 with 34 doubles, 4 homers, 41 RBIs, 71 runs, and 41 walks. Aside from home runs, pretty much everything was best here, but he's a projectable picked based off pure athleticism. He's not fast, which is what limits his overall ability. but the bat can keep him progressing even if he has to move off of short. We'll give it to him to start, but his bat is really what drew me to him initially. He has a great swing and a plus-plus hitting ability, so if he can just get there the rest doesn't really matter. With his natural strength he has to at least hit doubles, but I can see low double digit homers as a respectable end result. The young left is a prototypical table setter, but with at best average speed he may not be the run scorer we need.

6th Round, 129th Overall: RHP Tom Ballard
School: Bouckville Yellowjackets
Commit School: Oglethorpe College
1975: 3-1, 52.2 IP, 1.03 ERA, 0.76 WHIP, 11 BB, 94 K
Career: 13-1, 2 SV, 179.2 IP, 0.90 ERA, 0.73 WHIP, 38 BB, 322 K

Basically a gamble in the 6th, Tom Ballard has to be the most interesting pitching prospect I've ever seen. Clocking in below 80, he was called an ace, and even now both Carr and OSA place him in a future FABL rotation role. The soft-tosser did end up losing during his Bouckville career, finishing 13-1 in three seasons, and despite never throwing too many innings he did well as a starter and reliever. It's worth attempting that at some point, as in seasons with a lot of double headers it can be advantageous to have a pen guy who can give you a spot start. If all the arms in front of him hit, that's the role he could end up in, as his command is great and his pitches are tough to elevate.

Using his sinker a majority of the time, what will determine his rotation success is the curve, as it needs to be a whiff generator. If he can put batters away and not have to rely on getting weak contact, he could thrive with a great defensive infield, and if you know me you know that we are going to have one of those. This crop of groundballers could all end up pitching together, as all four arms got rotation grades and are at least a groundball pitcher. There's plenty of talent to go around, and Lions fans will be treated to some excellent baseball once that season starts post-draft. Most of the guys currently in the system aren't, with 82nd ranked prospect Bill Bartlett the notable exception, and while unintentional this year, it represented an organizational shift for the Cougars. That's not to say only the groundballers get benefits from Lorang, Halliday, and Harris, but Jim Norris (3-1, 2.59, 13) has had the most success and he's the lone groundball guy in the rotation. All these guys are in a good environment, and we have chance to produce most of a rotation from one class.

7th Round, 153rd Overall: 3B Al Hall
School: Hopkinton Falcons
Commit School: Plantations College
1975: .489/.584/.865, 180 PA, 28 2B, 2 3B, 7 HR, 46 RBI
Career: .477/.578/.814, 725 PA, 119 2B, 8 3B, 19 HR, 174 RBI

The hardest guy to search for in-game (there's a lot of -al Hall's), the elusive Al Hall could end up the steal of the draft. Someone I was really back and forth on a lot, I took the four-year starter in the 7th, and with a big senior year he backed the flashy comments made about him. Whether you want to call it "dynamic" like OSA or "obvious" like Harry Car, the talent is lauded, and when you combine natural talent with work ethic the sky really is the limit. Inside of Carr's top 100, he's one of his favorite prospects in the draft, and it's easy to see why. After hitting 4 homers in each of his first three seasons, Hall crushed 7 longballs in 180 PAs -- which was actually his second lowest count. Ending up a homer shy of 20, and unlike Ketchum he reversed his negative trends. With an above average eye and and plus-plus contact ability, he could be a middle-of-the-order hitter, and even if he's a skinny 6'3'' there's now power. If he can keep building strength, we could have someone to actually challenge Tom Lorang, which sounds insane when directed at a 7th Round pick. He's definitely far from there, but his potentials show a complete player. If you need a weakness it's speed, he's probably the slowest guy out there, but when you have a knack for hitting it where they ain't, you have more then enough time to get to first. I'm probably getting a little too excited about him, but we have nearly nothing prospect wise at third and he should be the clear heir apparent to our Hall-of-Fame third basemen.

And it may be a good one too! This guy can really hit!!!