NL East
Well I wasn't too far off on my predictions for this division last season. I said that Cincy would take the division, which they did, and that all the teams could finish close to or above 500. The worst team was only 7 games under 500 in this division last season. Unfortunately, it was the team I chose to finish second, Jacksonville. Overall, it was still a very tough division. The NL was very tough last season as a whole, which probably helped push the three teams that didn't win the division below 500. For Cincinnati, it was just the teams second division title and they also won the most games in franchise history. It was a very nice season for them. Kansas City fell back a little bit from season 13, but still was respectable as they finished second in the division for their highest finish since season 10. New York had the same exact record, 75-87, as the season before as they have seen their share of struggles the past few seasons, but still remained a decent team. Jacksonville was the surprise, as they dropped off quite a bit from season 13. After dominating the division the previous 4 seasons, they dropped to fourth for the worst finish in franchise history.
Cincinnati Firestorm
Season 14 record- 93-69(NL East Champs)
5 year record- 408-402
Offense- Average-11th(.263), OBP-4th(.339), Slg-11th(.421), Runs-4th(847), HR-9th(217), SB-12th(79)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.988), Plus Plays-3rd(65), Minus Plays-1st(20)
Pitching- ERA-10th(4.57), OAV-9th(.270), SO-14th(1007), Saves-2nd(53/79)
Key Additions-P Garrett Shea(rule V), RP Stan Woodson(FA), RP Ebenezer Beverlin(FA), LF/1B Troy Jefferson(FA), RP T.J. Starr(resigned),
Key Losses-RP Robin Sanders(FA), RP Jorel Austin(FA)
Cincinnati has really turned things around the past couple of seasons. After only making the playoffs 4 times in the first 13 seasons, this team made it back last season by winning the division. After winning 90 games in season 13 and missing the post season, this bunch won 93 last season and won the second division title in team history. jbburner has owned this team for 15 seasons and is happy with where the team is right now. The fans in Cincy were hoping for a big move in the off season to put this team over the top, but that just didn't happen. Not that ownership didn't try though. It looks like the same team will be coming back this season and that isn't a bad thing. Offensively the team was pretty solid last season. While the hitting wasn't very good, they did find ways to get on base and score runs. They didn't show much speed or power but they found ways to get it done. I think it will be pretty much the same this season and the addition of Jefferson adds a little to that. I think the team actually improves offensively. Defensively the team has very good gloves. They have one of the best centerfielders in the league and solid gloves in other positions as well. They don't have a great shortstop. This team is well above average defensively. They resigned the closer from last season and that's a good sign for this teams pitching. The rotation worries me a bit, but it is good enough to get by. Pitching was the teams weakness last season and it probably will be again. The have some good arms in the bullpen though and I think it'll be a just below average pitching staff. Overall, this is a pretty good team that will be tough to knock off the perch in the NL East. Even if they somehow don't win the division, they would have a very good shot at a wild card spot, as I think this team wins over 90 games for a third straight season.
Kansas City Kardinals
Season 14 record- 76-86
5 year record- 412-398
Offense- Average-4th(.275), OBP-8th(.337), Slg-4th(.451), Runs-3rd(852), HR-7th(235), SB-15th(62)
Defense- Fielding %-16th(.978), Plus Plays-13th(34), Minus Plays-9th(57)
Pitching- ERA-11th(4.59), OAV-8th(.269), SO-5th(1114), Saves-16th(39/65)
Key Additions-2B Alex Rincon(resigned)
Key Losses-SP/RP Sergio Austin(released), IF Mac Hayes(FA), SP Gregg Thomas(FA), RP Jeremi Coleride(FA)
This team has been pretty average for quite some time. They've had good seasons and bad seasons in their history, but for the most part the stay competitive and finish with 70+ or 80+ victories most of the time. Owner bodean has been around since season 2 and has always managed to keep this team respectable. Last season the team finished toward the top of the league offensively. They do have some good hitters, but overall it would surprise me to see them finish so well again. They have a good mix of contact hitters and power hitters in the lineup and shouldn't be a bad offensive team. I just don't think they are one of the best, more like average. The fielding however, really hurt this team last season. The team lacks range, but they do have some players that have average to just below average gloves. I can see them being better than where they were last season in the field. What really hurts them is that they lack a true shortstop. The pitching wasn't very good last season either, but that could be due to the fielding being so bad. While the pitching isn't even above average, I just don't think it's as bad as they looked last season. The team really didn't do much in the off season to improve the club and I think it'll be tough for them to even match last seasons win total. This is a team that should be in rebuilding mode if they aren't already.
New York Moneymaker
Season 14 record- 75-87
5 year record- 410-400
Offense- Average-7th(.268), OBP-11th(.333), Slg-8th(.442), Runs-10th(789), HR-8th(234), SB-10th(87)
Defense- Fielding %-9th(.981), Plus Plays-14th(33), Minus Plays-9th(57)
Pitching- ERA-14th(4.79), OAV-13th(.276), SO-4th(1115), Saves-12th(43/66)
Key Additions-RP Osvaldo Tatis(FA), OF Dicky Bartee(FA), P Christopher Cora(FA), RP Antonio Whang(resigned), OF Cam Stubbs(promoted)
Key Losses-SP John Fogg(declined option), RP Ron Bowen(declined option), SP Alex Montero(FA), RP Brad Shave(FA)
New York through the seasons has put together a good amount of wins. With only 3 losing seasons in team history, Phillies26, has done an impressive job as owner of this franchise. Last season though, marked a second straight season with a losing record and the team wasn't going to sit by and let it happen again. Ownership opened up the pocket books and made some nice off season signings and let a few players go from last season to try and turn this thing around. They also promoted Cam Stubbs and that should help this team out as well. Last season, this team wasn't one of the best offensively as they were average to just below average. I just can't see that being the case this season. The offense impresses me. They have a little speed, a little power, and some good hitters that can get on base. Last season the defense was average, but looking at the team this season, I believe they are below average. They lack a good centerfielder and shortstop and that will hurt. I'd actually rank this team near the bottom of the league in the field. The pitching staff struggled last season, and I can see that happening again. The rotation is not very strong although they do have some good pitchers in the bullpen. Overall, I think this team will have a decent season, and probably play close to 500 ball unless they can upgrade the rotation. If they were to add a couple starters and a shortstop, this team could be much better.
Jacksonville Juice
Season 14 record- 74-88
5 year record- 476-334
Offense- Average-15th(.258), OBP-4th(.339), Slg-11th(.421), Runs-12th(765), HR-11th(211), SB-8th(114)
Defense- Fielding %-14th(.980), Plus Plays-9th(44), Minus Plays-12th(62)
Pitching- ERA-6th(4.45), OAV-12th(.274), SO-7th(1077), Saves-10th(44/71)
Key Additions-OF Dean Podsednik(tr-Tex), SP Max Mateo(tr-Nas), SP Ron Bowen(FA), SP Vernon Hamilton(FA), 3B Hector Cairo(FA), RP Bill Walker(FA), RP Brad Shave(FA)
Key Losses-SP Russell Wheeler(tr-Tex), 1B Pascual Ortiz(released), SP Tomas Nieves(declined option)
Jacksonville has been the most successful team in the NL East through the years and has never experienced a season as bad as last season. At 74-88, it marked the second losing season in team history as well as the worst record. So the team decided to start a rebuild and dealt away some higher priced aging players and acquired some young near ML ready minor leaguers. They also signed some free agents to fill in the gaps. The expectations according to ownership are for a 500 record at worst. Not really much of a rebuild, but fans in Jacksonville are accustomed to winning and don't have the patience to wait around for another division winner. Last season, the offensive found ways to get on base but it wasn't the hitting. They finished near the bottom of the league in average, but toward the top in obp. The rest of the offensive numbers were below average though. I'm expecting a bit of the same this season. They do have some good hitters, but overall it's not a great hitting team. The fielding was below average last season, and it probably is closer to an average fielding team on paper. The lack of a true shortstop hurts. The pitching was pretty good last season. The rotation looks a little weak, but they have some good arms in the pen. I think the pitching takes a step back this season. Overall, this isn't the Jacksonville team that has run this division over the years, but they aren't bottom feeders either. I don't think the playoffs are likely this season, but an 81 win season should be attainable.
Predictions
Cincinnati, is a pretty good team and should take this division again this season. Overall the division looks weak, but Cincinnati does not. Jacksonville and New York could flip flop between 2nd and 3rd this season as the two teams look really close. Kansas City looks like they'll take some steps back this season and will struggle to stay with the other teams.
1. Cincinnati
2. Jacksonville
3. New York
4. Kansas City
Monday, March 28, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Season 15 preview-NL North
NL North
Well another season and the same old crap in the NL north. When is Fargo ever going to let go of first place. It's really getting boring. WTF, YOU MEAN THEY DIDN'T WIN THE DIVISION LAST SEASON!!!! Well unbelievable. I thought I was going to get by with using the same preview again and just changing a few words here and there to make it feel new. That damn team in Helena had to go and ruin that for me. So anyway, Helena, finally goes and unseats Fargo. After 13 seasons of dominance in the North, Fargo's reign of terror(um, dominance) finally came crashing down. Now Helena has to prove themselves by doing it again. Helena, no doubt, has a very talented squad and while last season was a huge success, they still fell short of the ultimate goal. Heck, they really didn't even finish better than Fargo. Fargo blew off the division loss and went to the NLCS last season. With these two teams at the top of the division it makes life hard for the teams in Cleveland and Trenton. This may not be the best division in the league, but it may be the toughest to get to the top of. When you have a team like Fargo at the top for all those years and Helena always a contender, but always falling short until last season, it just shows how tough it is for the other two teams.
Helena Ass Hats
Season 14 record- 92-70(NL North Champ)
5 year record- 399-411
Offense- Average-6th(.273), OBP-10th(.334), Slg-6th(.447), Runs-7th(823), HR-6th(237), SB-5th(155)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.988), Plus Plays-6th(53), Minus Plays-7th(45)
Pitching- ERA-2nd(4.11), OAV-2nd(.255), SO-3rd(1122), Saves-13th(42/65)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses-RP Phil Harding(released)
After 12 seasons of finishing 2nd in the division and coming off a season that they finished 58-104, this franchise took a huge step last season in knocking off Fargo to win the division. Owner moosedrool, now has had this team for 11 seasons and while it hasn't won the division until last season, they have still been very successful. They have a world championship and have been to the NLCS 3 times. Unfortunately, last seasons success ends with the division crown. They failed to make the NLCS as division foe Fargo made it there. In the post season, a team needs a little luck and Helena just didn't have that on their side. The goal this season should be to win the division and advance in the post season. They stayed quiet in the off season as management feels confident in what they have in place. The offense on this team could use a little help as they finished near the middle of the league last season. They have some power and hitting, but it's not consistent throughout the lineup and bench. The team does have some good team speed though. Defensively this team is very solid and one of the best in the NL, as they are very strong up the middle. The pitching is where this team stood out last season. The have a good rotation with a few good relievers in the mix as well. Last season, they blew too many saves and the team really needs to get better about that this season. I could see this team winning the division again, and if not a wild card spot. Whether they are ready to make the leap in the post season remains to be seen and they'll have to prove it to me before I say they are ready to do that.
Fargo Wood Chippers
Season 14 record- 87-75(Wild Card, NLCS runner up)
5 year record- 478-332
Offense- Average-3rd(.276), OBP-3rd(.341), Slg-5th(.448), Runs-9th(794), HR-4th(241), SB-16th(49)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-5th(55), Minus Plays-11th(58)
Pitching- ERA-3rd(4.20), OAV-3rd(.259), SO-2nd(1169), Saves-4th(50/78)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses-RP Kenny Fischer(released), 1B Tony Cummings(FA), SP Ed Nathan(FA)
How can you call a season that the team made the NLCS a disappointing season? Well, you can't. I'm sure they would have liked to have won a 14th consecutive division title, but that's not a necessity. The fans in Fargo sure are used to winning division titles, but I'm sure they'll be just as happy with where the team finished the post season. Starbuckdc, is the most successful owner in league history. One of the original owners in Pine Tar, Starbuck has molded a very successful franchise. Last season actually matched the franchise low in victories. Not bad for an 87 win team. Last season the team finished near the top offensively. They had problems scoring runs though. The team didn't make any moves in the off season to help that as it appears they are counting that as a fluke season. They have good hitting and some power. The team has some speed, but the faster players on the roster don't have good base running abilities. Defensively the team finished in the top half of the league last season. That surprises me, because this team appears to be one of the best in the league. They have really good fielding and should finish higher this season. They finished near the top of the league in pitching and will probably do so again. Fargo has some really good pitchers on the roster. The rotation has a couple really dominant starters, but it falls off after the first few. That is the only real weakness I see with this team and that is being knit picky. I think Fargo will make a run at starting up a new streak of division titles this season. If they can't win the division, then they are a good pick at one of the wild card spots for sure.
Trenton Thunders
Season 14 record- 71-91
5 year record- 324-486
Offense- Average-16th(.248), OBP-16th(.308), Slg-14th(.390), Runs-15th(706), HR-13th(171), SB-4th(168)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.979), Plus Plays-1st(91), Minus Plays-8th(47)
Pitching- ERA-13th(4.71), OAV-7th(.267), SO-12th(1046), Saves-9th(45/64)
Key Additions-RF Melky Gonzalez(promoted), C Julio Palmeiro(promoted)
Key Losses-none
Like I said, in a division like this, it's just tough for the teams at the bottom to work their way up. qtip32, took over this team in season 11 and has had a tough time getting the team into the upper half of the division. Last season was a bit successful as the team posted 71 victories, for a new high under this ownership group. This franchise has only had the enjoyment of 2 winning seasons in their history. Better days could be coming up though for this team. They have some young talent on the ML squad and some good talent coming through the minors as well. Last season this team was just horrible offensively. Finishing last in several categories, the team really needed help. I think they have some good hitters on the team, but overall it's still not a good hitting team. Defensively the gloves were bad last season, but they made up for that with range. This season is likely going to be more of the same, but the errors may go down just a bit. The team pitching was also not very good last season too. They have one of the better young closers in the league in Ortiz, and setup man Moorehouse is a phenomenal reliever as well. What hurts this team is the starting rotation. It's just not a very good rotation. I predict another long season in Trenton, but the future looks bright for this team. It won't be long until they can field a good team to challenge Fargo and Helena.
Cleveland indians
Season 14 record- 60-102
5 year record- 326-484
Offense- Average-13th(.262), OBP-15th(.326), Slg-15th(.377), Runs-16th(656), HR-15th(138), SB-6th(139)
Defense- Fielding %-9th(.981), Plus Plays-16th(16), Minus Plays-14th(71)
Pitching- ERA-16th(5.75), OAV-16th(.292), SO-15th(1006), Saves-13th(42/63)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses-RP Teddy Tracy(FA), 2B Chris Oliver(FA)
This team has had a rough go of it in their history. Only one winning season and the highest finish was second and that happened once. lonely548 took over the franchise in season 12 and hasn't had much luck with this team yet. A second place finish in season 13 had fans hopes up heading into last season, only to be let down with a 60-102 record from the team. Their isn't much talent at the ML level aside from young SS Corky Whitehead, LF Joseph Bang, and under achieving SP Davey Quinones. They do have 2B Hank Roling down at high a that should be able to help soon, but besides him, this organization is pretty bare. Last season the offense was one of the worst in the league and I don't think they have the players to change that this season. The defense was below average and didn't improve in the off season. The pitching was at the bottom of the league as well. They don't have much on the staff in that regards and probably won't improve. Overall, this team is in bad shape and needs a complete overhaul. I can't see them competing at all this season, and probably will take a few seasons to get them on track.
Predictions
Helena did a great job last season in taking the division title and still has a pretty good team. They have some holes offensively, but overall it's one of the better teams in the league. Fargo has a great team and I doubt they finish as bad, as if it were bad, as last season. They should be pretty good and could take back the division title. Trenton still has too many holes this season to really make a run at the post season. Cleveland is in shambles and could really use a massive rebuild to get this team competitive.
1. Fargo
2. Helena
3. Trenton
4. Cleveland
Well another season and the same old crap in the NL north. When is Fargo ever going to let go of first place. It's really getting boring. WTF, YOU MEAN THEY DIDN'T WIN THE DIVISION LAST SEASON!!!! Well unbelievable. I thought I was going to get by with using the same preview again and just changing a few words here and there to make it feel new. That damn team in Helena had to go and ruin that for me. So anyway, Helena, finally goes and unseats Fargo. After 13 seasons of dominance in the North, Fargo's reign of terror(um, dominance) finally came crashing down. Now Helena has to prove themselves by doing it again. Helena, no doubt, has a very talented squad and while last season was a huge success, they still fell short of the ultimate goal. Heck, they really didn't even finish better than Fargo. Fargo blew off the division loss and went to the NLCS last season. With these two teams at the top of the division it makes life hard for the teams in Cleveland and Trenton. This may not be the best division in the league, but it may be the toughest to get to the top of. When you have a team like Fargo at the top for all those years and Helena always a contender, but always falling short until last season, it just shows how tough it is for the other two teams.
Helena Ass Hats
Season 14 record- 92-70(NL North Champ)
5 year record- 399-411
Offense- Average-6th(.273), OBP-10th(.334), Slg-6th(.447), Runs-7th(823), HR-6th(237), SB-5th(155)
Defense- Fielding %-2nd(.988), Plus Plays-6th(53), Minus Plays-7th(45)
Pitching- ERA-2nd(4.11), OAV-2nd(.255), SO-3rd(1122), Saves-13th(42/65)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses-RP Phil Harding(released)
After 12 seasons of finishing 2nd in the division and coming off a season that they finished 58-104, this franchise took a huge step last season in knocking off Fargo to win the division. Owner moosedrool, now has had this team for 11 seasons and while it hasn't won the division until last season, they have still been very successful. They have a world championship and have been to the NLCS 3 times. Unfortunately, last seasons success ends with the division crown. They failed to make the NLCS as division foe Fargo made it there. In the post season, a team needs a little luck and Helena just didn't have that on their side. The goal this season should be to win the division and advance in the post season. They stayed quiet in the off season as management feels confident in what they have in place. The offense on this team could use a little help as they finished near the middle of the league last season. They have some power and hitting, but it's not consistent throughout the lineup and bench. The team does have some good team speed though. Defensively this team is very solid and one of the best in the NL, as they are very strong up the middle. The pitching is where this team stood out last season. The have a good rotation with a few good relievers in the mix as well. Last season, they blew too many saves and the team really needs to get better about that this season. I could see this team winning the division again, and if not a wild card spot. Whether they are ready to make the leap in the post season remains to be seen and they'll have to prove it to me before I say they are ready to do that.
Fargo Wood Chippers
Season 14 record- 87-75(Wild Card, NLCS runner up)
5 year record- 478-332
Offense- Average-3rd(.276), OBP-3rd(.341), Slg-5th(.448), Runs-9th(794), HR-4th(241), SB-16th(49)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-5th(55), Minus Plays-11th(58)
Pitching- ERA-3rd(4.20), OAV-3rd(.259), SO-2nd(1169), Saves-4th(50/78)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses-RP Kenny Fischer(released), 1B Tony Cummings(FA), SP Ed Nathan(FA)
How can you call a season that the team made the NLCS a disappointing season? Well, you can't. I'm sure they would have liked to have won a 14th consecutive division title, but that's not a necessity. The fans in Fargo sure are used to winning division titles, but I'm sure they'll be just as happy with where the team finished the post season. Starbuckdc, is the most successful owner in league history. One of the original owners in Pine Tar, Starbuck has molded a very successful franchise. Last season actually matched the franchise low in victories. Not bad for an 87 win team. Last season the team finished near the top offensively. They had problems scoring runs though. The team didn't make any moves in the off season to help that as it appears they are counting that as a fluke season. They have good hitting and some power. The team has some speed, but the faster players on the roster don't have good base running abilities. Defensively the team finished in the top half of the league last season. That surprises me, because this team appears to be one of the best in the league. They have really good fielding and should finish higher this season. They finished near the top of the league in pitching and will probably do so again. Fargo has some really good pitchers on the roster. The rotation has a couple really dominant starters, but it falls off after the first few. That is the only real weakness I see with this team and that is being knit picky. I think Fargo will make a run at starting up a new streak of division titles this season. If they can't win the division, then they are a good pick at one of the wild card spots for sure.
Trenton Thunders
Season 14 record- 71-91
5 year record- 324-486
Offense- Average-16th(.248), OBP-16th(.308), Slg-14th(.390), Runs-15th(706), HR-13th(171), SB-4th(168)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.979), Plus Plays-1st(91), Minus Plays-8th(47)
Pitching- ERA-13th(4.71), OAV-7th(.267), SO-12th(1046), Saves-9th(45/64)
Key Additions-RF Melky Gonzalez(promoted), C Julio Palmeiro(promoted)
Key Losses-none
Like I said, in a division like this, it's just tough for the teams at the bottom to work their way up. qtip32, took over this team in season 11 and has had a tough time getting the team into the upper half of the division. Last season was a bit successful as the team posted 71 victories, for a new high under this ownership group. This franchise has only had the enjoyment of 2 winning seasons in their history. Better days could be coming up though for this team. They have some young talent on the ML squad and some good talent coming through the minors as well. Last season this team was just horrible offensively. Finishing last in several categories, the team really needed help. I think they have some good hitters on the team, but overall it's still not a good hitting team. Defensively the gloves were bad last season, but they made up for that with range. This season is likely going to be more of the same, but the errors may go down just a bit. The team pitching was also not very good last season too. They have one of the better young closers in the league in Ortiz, and setup man Moorehouse is a phenomenal reliever as well. What hurts this team is the starting rotation. It's just not a very good rotation. I predict another long season in Trenton, but the future looks bright for this team. It won't be long until they can field a good team to challenge Fargo and Helena.
Cleveland indians
Season 14 record- 60-102
5 year record- 326-484
Offense- Average-13th(.262), OBP-15th(.326), Slg-15th(.377), Runs-16th(656), HR-15th(138), SB-6th(139)
Defense- Fielding %-9th(.981), Plus Plays-16th(16), Minus Plays-14th(71)
Pitching- ERA-16th(5.75), OAV-16th(.292), SO-15th(1006), Saves-13th(42/63)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses-RP Teddy Tracy(FA), 2B Chris Oliver(FA)
This team has had a rough go of it in their history. Only one winning season and the highest finish was second and that happened once. lonely548 took over the franchise in season 12 and hasn't had much luck with this team yet. A second place finish in season 13 had fans hopes up heading into last season, only to be let down with a 60-102 record from the team. Their isn't much talent at the ML level aside from young SS Corky Whitehead, LF Joseph Bang, and under achieving SP Davey Quinones. They do have 2B Hank Roling down at high a that should be able to help soon, but besides him, this organization is pretty bare. Last season the offense was one of the worst in the league and I don't think they have the players to change that this season. The defense was below average and didn't improve in the off season. The pitching was at the bottom of the league as well. They don't have much on the staff in that regards and probably won't improve. Overall, this team is in bad shape and needs a complete overhaul. I can't see them competing at all this season, and probably will take a few seasons to get them on track.
Predictions
Helena did a great job last season in taking the division title and still has a pretty good team. They have some holes offensively, but overall it's one of the better teams in the league. Fargo has a great team and I doubt they finish as bad, as if it were bad, as last season. They should be pretty good and could take back the division title. Trenton still has too many holes this season to really make a run at the post season. Cleveland is in shambles and could really use a massive rebuild to get this team competitive.
1. Fargo
2. Helena
3. Trenton
4. Cleveland
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Season 15 previews-AL West
AL West
Well, of all the divisions in Pine Tar, the AL West may be the most frustrating for me. This division has the largest rollover of owners in any division in the league. The longest tenured owner in this division as it stands now is heading into a third season as owner. It's actually 2 owners that are tied for this. It's hard for any team in this game to build success without a plan set in place and carried out over multiple seasons. Hopefully the two new owners will be sticking around for a while and then maybe this division can start to join the ranks of all the others in Pine Tar. The division winner last season was the team in Cheyenne, as they posted their third straight season with a winning record and finally got to the top of the division. This franchise now has 6 division titles. Vancouver took a step backwards last season. After winning the division in season 13 with 90 wins, last season they fell to 79 wins and dropped to second. The team in Los Angeles last season, was taken over by new ownership this season to make 3 owners in 3 seasons. They came in third last season and had the second most losses in franchise history with 98. The franchise that was in Santa Cruz was taken over by new ownership as well this season and moved to St Louis. This will be the sixth straight season with new ownership for this franchise. Last season they finished 58-104, and last in the entire world of Pine Tar.
Cheyenne Rawhide
Season 14 record-87-75(AL West Champ)
5 year record-387-423
Offense- Average-7th(.278), OBP-7th(.340), Slg-10th(.441), Runs-7th(846), HR-11th(202), SB-13th(85)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-10th(39), Minus Plays-8th(45)
Pitching- ERA-12th(5.20), OAV-11th(.285), SO-7th(1036), Saves-3rd(53/66)
Key Additions-C Roy Ashby(resigned), SP Kevin Xaio(resigned)
Key Losses-2B Francis Norton(FA)
Last season Cheyenne took over as division champion in the West. While this is the one franchise that has found consistent success through the years, it had also gone 4 seasons without a post season appearance. That ended last season when owner mrbinson ended this teams drought in just his second season with the franchise. Last season the team found success through slightly above average hitting, fielding and relief pitching. The team however didn't have much power, or overall pitching. In the off season, instead of trying to strengthen those areas with free agents, they chose to stay the course with what they had. The only 2 key signings they made were of their own players. They also lost 2B Norton, which will hurt a little bit. While this team is fairly young, their talent lies more with the older players on the roster. Not that they don't have younger talent though. RP Linden and SS Santiago are 2 pretty good young players. Offensively this team has some good contact hitters, but little power in the lineup. They also don't have much speed on the team. Defensively this is a solid team with the glove but they don't have much range in the field. The pitching isn't very good still and outside of closer Linden, the pitching staff is less than average. Overall this team may take a few steps back from last season or end up with pretty close to the same record, but I don't see them improving upon the win total from last season without some luck.
Vancouver Canadiens
Season 14 record- 79-83
5 year record- 424-386
Offense- Average-4th(.286), OBP-3rd(.350), Slg-6th(.457), Runs-9th(829), HR-9th(219), SB-14th(65)
Defensive- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-14th(29), Minus Plays-12th(58)
Pitching- ERA-8th(4.82), OAV-8th(.272), SO-6th(1038), Saves-4th(45/56)
Key Additions-LF Alberto Machado(tr-Bos), SP Matty Andujar(tr-Ott), RP Hal Davenport(FA), RP Ed Nathan(FA), RF Daryle Moran(FA), 2B Karl Shumaker(FA), C Guy Robinson(FA), 3B Dave Thompson(promoted), C Richie Allen(Rule V)
Key Losses-RP Chico Guerrero(tr-Bos), RP Felipe Lee(tr-Ott), 1B Matty Coco(tr-Ott), 1B Jose Martin(FA), SP Ron Sweeney(FA), RP Milton Simpson(FA), CF/2B Dicky Bartee(FA), RF/1B Troy Jefferson(FA), 2B Dennis Nomura(FA), 2B Darren Cox(FA), SP Dave Grey(FA)
Wow, my head hurts looking through all the moves that were made by this team in the off season. Obviously, not happy with last seasons results, this team went wild in the off season. Owner lukeb31, heading into a third season at the helm was not going to settle for another losing record. Quite possibly one of the more disappointing teams in the AL last season, this team subtracted 11 wins from the previous seasons division championship and finished in second place. The made moves that should help in most areas of weakness on the team. Defensively this team finished in the bottom half of the league last season. They have a slick fielding shortstop in Bennett that can run the infield for sure. Shumaker should play second to sure up the middle and that makes for a pretty good infield. They don't really have a very good outfield as James is in centerfield, but probably is more fit to play third, which would give them a very good infield, but weaken the outfield even more. Offensively this team finished near the top of the league in most categories last season. The lack of speed hurt the team though, but they addressed that in the off season and should finish in the upper half of the league in steals this season. They finished near the middle of the league in homers, but they have some pop this season. They could possibly be a better hitting team this season. The pitching was middle of the pack last season. This is one area that I'm not too confident about for this bunch. I like the relief pitching as a group, but they lack a true top of the rotation starter. This team should be better than last season and could possibly take the division crown once again. I could see them winning close to 90 games and if things fall their way then more than 90, but they are going to have to get more from the starting pitching than the abilities these guys have.
Los Angeles Regulators
Season 14 record- 64-98
5 year record- 372-438
Offense- Average-15th(.255), OBP-15th(.321), Slg-14th(.397), Runs-14th(719), HR-13th(193), SB-8th(117)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-3rd(76), Minus Plays-6th(39)
Pitching- ERA-9th(4.93), OAV-10th(.281), SO-9th(1029), Saves-12th(37/52)
Key Additions-CF Nigel Zaun(tr-Sea), 1B Miguel Pichardo(tr-Sea), SP Al Rivers(tr-Sea), SP Jeff Spivey(FA), RP Carlton Harding(FA), RP John Chen(FA), 2B Darren Cox(FA)
Key Losses-SP Wayne Perez(tr-Sea), CF Darrell Evans(FA), RP Flip Buck(FA)
In his first season as owner of the Los Angeles Regulators, bobswagger91, is full of confidence. In his interview when asked how he thought his team would do this season he replied "The Regulators are f***ing in and Cheyenne is f***ing out." He also said something about winning on the reg. When asked why he thought his team would do better with him running the squad he replied "winners aren't made, they are just born that way." He also claims his team is a bullet proof tiger. OK, well to be honest with you, this guy seems a little bit crazy to me. I'm starting to think that Kenny Powers has taken over a team under the alias of bobswagger91. Anyway, last season this team finished near the bottom of the league in hitting, and fielding, and near the middle of league in pitching. They improved the offense and defense with a couple off season moves though. They already have plenty of range on defense, but they added a good glove in centerfield and secondbase that should help. The big problem is that they don't have a real shortstop that can play gold glove type shortstop. Offensively, they didn't really lose anyone, but they added Pichardo and Cox. Those two should upgrade the hitting on the team. Looking over the team, I'm not really sure why they finished as bad as they did offensively last season. They have good hitters, some power and players with good eyes at the plate. The did decent in pitching and losing Buck and Perez, hurts. The players they brought in to replace them ease the losses though. I like the pitching and think they'll be better than last season. My judgements on this team is that they underachieved last season and should be quite a bit better this season. They could even challenge for the division title, but I don't think they could get a wild card if they don't win the division.
St Louis Vipers
Season 14 record-58-104
5 year record-313-497
Offense- Average-16th(.246), OBP-16th(.308), Slg-16th(.390), Runs-16th(644), HR-16th(178), SB-9th(114)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-12th(35), Minus Plays-10th(48)
Pitching- ERA-10th(5.07), OAV-9th(.278), SO-8th(1032), Saves-13th(35/58)
Key Additions-3B Dolf Buhner(claimed), 2B Tony Marin(claimed), SS Lou Jefferies(promoted), OF Mo James(promoted)
Key Losses-SP Pedro Batista(released), C Cleatus Simon(released), RP Herm Redman(FA), 1B Bryce Hatcher(FA)
This is another team that just can't keep an owner around. Now on a seventh owner in seven seasons, Flucie takes over a team that needs rebuilt badly. Due to such a turnover, this team hasn't had much of a direction for several seasons and the record shows. Last season the team finished at the bottom of the league offensively. The added some parts in the off season, but nothing that will make a huge improvement for them this season. However, any improvement is welcome for this franchise and that's what it was. They may finish at the bottom again this season offensively, but it shouldn't be as bad as last season. The highlight for this team was that the defense wasn't bad. This season the defense isn't great, but they'll be able to get by with what they have. They shouldn't be too bad defensively but they probably will be below average from what I see. The pitching wasn't too bad last season either, finishing just below average. I really think the pitching will be worse this season. Hopefully this owner sticks around a while and gets this team built up to be a contender, but this isn't the season that it will happen.
Predictions
Cheyenne, while winning the division last season actually doesn't look like a division winner to me, but I could be wrong. Vancouver looks improved upon last season and may be the team to beat in the West. Los Angeles, after a disappointing season last season, looks ready to compete for the division title. St Louis is in full rebuild mode and probably finishes last.
1. Vancouver
2. Los Angeles
3. Cheyenne
4. St Louis
Well, of all the divisions in Pine Tar, the AL West may be the most frustrating for me. This division has the largest rollover of owners in any division in the league. The longest tenured owner in this division as it stands now is heading into a third season as owner. It's actually 2 owners that are tied for this. It's hard for any team in this game to build success without a plan set in place and carried out over multiple seasons. Hopefully the two new owners will be sticking around for a while and then maybe this division can start to join the ranks of all the others in Pine Tar. The division winner last season was the team in Cheyenne, as they posted their third straight season with a winning record and finally got to the top of the division. This franchise now has 6 division titles. Vancouver took a step backwards last season. After winning the division in season 13 with 90 wins, last season they fell to 79 wins and dropped to second. The team in Los Angeles last season, was taken over by new ownership this season to make 3 owners in 3 seasons. They came in third last season and had the second most losses in franchise history with 98. The franchise that was in Santa Cruz was taken over by new ownership as well this season and moved to St Louis. This will be the sixth straight season with new ownership for this franchise. Last season they finished 58-104, and last in the entire world of Pine Tar.
Cheyenne Rawhide
Season 14 record-87-75(AL West Champ)
5 year record-387-423
Offense- Average-7th(.278), OBP-7th(.340), Slg-10th(.441), Runs-7th(846), HR-11th(202), SB-13th(85)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-10th(39), Minus Plays-8th(45)
Pitching- ERA-12th(5.20), OAV-11th(.285), SO-7th(1036), Saves-3rd(53/66)
Key Additions-C Roy Ashby(resigned), SP Kevin Xaio(resigned)
Key Losses-2B Francis Norton(FA)
Last season Cheyenne took over as division champion in the West. While this is the one franchise that has found consistent success through the years, it had also gone 4 seasons without a post season appearance. That ended last season when owner mrbinson ended this teams drought in just his second season with the franchise. Last season the team found success through slightly above average hitting, fielding and relief pitching. The team however didn't have much power, or overall pitching. In the off season, instead of trying to strengthen those areas with free agents, they chose to stay the course with what they had. The only 2 key signings they made were of their own players. They also lost 2B Norton, which will hurt a little bit. While this team is fairly young, their talent lies more with the older players on the roster. Not that they don't have younger talent though. RP Linden and SS Santiago are 2 pretty good young players. Offensively this team has some good contact hitters, but little power in the lineup. They also don't have much speed on the team. Defensively this is a solid team with the glove but they don't have much range in the field. The pitching isn't very good still and outside of closer Linden, the pitching staff is less than average. Overall this team may take a few steps back from last season or end up with pretty close to the same record, but I don't see them improving upon the win total from last season without some luck.
Vancouver Canadiens
Season 14 record- 79-83
5 year record- 424-386
Offense- Average-4th(.286), OBP-3rd(.350), Slg-6th(.457), Runs-9th(829), HR-9th(219), SB-14th(65)
Defensive- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-14th(29), Minus Plays-12th(58)
Pitching- ERA-8th(4.82), OAV-8th(.272), SO-6th(1038), Saves-4th(45/56)
Key Additions-LF Alberto Machado(tr-Bos), SP Matty Andujar(tr-Ott), RP Hal Davenport(FA), RP Ed Nathan(FA), RF Daryle Moran(FA), 2B Karl Shumaker(FA), C Guy Robinson(FA), 3B Dave Thompson(promoted), C Richie Allen(Rule V)
Key Losses-RP Chico Guerrero(tr-Bos), RP Felipe Lee(tr-Ott), 1B Matty Coco(tr-Ott), 1B Jose Martin(FA), SP Ron Sweeney(FA), RP Milton Simpson(FA), CF/2B Dicky Bartee(FA), RF/1B Troy Jefferson(FA), 2B Dennis Nomura(FA), 2B Darren Cox(FA), SP Dave Grey(FA)
Wow, my head hurts looking through all the moves that were made by this team in the off season. Obviously, not happy with last seasons results, this team went wild in the off season. Owner lukeb31, heading into a third season at the helm was not going to settle for another losing record. Quite possibly one of the more disappointing teams in the AL last season, this team subtracted 11 wins from the previous seasons division championship and finished in second place. The made moves that should help in most areas of weakness on the team. Defensively this team finished in the bottom half of the league last season. They have a slick fielding shortstop in Bennett that can run the infield for sure. Shumaker should play second to sure up the middle and that makes for a pretty good infield. They don't really have a very good outfield as James is in centerfield, but probably is more fit to play third, which would give them a very good infield, but weaken the outfield even more. Offensively this team finished near the top of the league in most categories last season. The lack of speed hurt the team though, but they addressed that in the off season and should finish in the upper half of the league in steals this season. They finished near the middle of the league in homers, but they have some pop this season. They could possibly be a better hitting team this season. The pitching was middle of the pack last season. This is one area that I'm not too confident about for this bunch. I like the relief pitching as a group, but they lack a true top of the rotation starter. This team should be better than last season and could possibly take the division crown once again. I could see them winning close to 90 games and if things fall their way then more than 90, but they are going to have to get more from the starting pitching than the abilities these guys have.
Los Angeles Regulators
Season 14 record- 64-98
5 year record- 372-438
Offense- Average-15th(.255), OBP-15th(.321), Slg-14th(.397), Runs-14th(719), HR-13th(193), SB-8th(117)
Defense- Fielding %-12th(.980), Plus Plays-3rd(76), Minus Plays-6th(39)
Pitching- ERA-9th(4.93), OAV-10th(.281), SO-9th(1029), Saves-12th(37/52)
Key Additions-CF Nigel Zaun(tr-Sea), 1B Miguel Pichardo(tr-Sea), SP Al Rivers(tr-Sea), SP Jeff Spivey(FA), RP Carlton Harding(FA), RP John Chen(FA), 2B Darren Cox(FA)
Key Losses-SP Wayne Perez(tr-Sea), CF Darrell Evans(FA), RP Flip Buck(FA)
In his first season as owner of the Los Angeles Regulators, bobswagger91, is full of confidence. In his interview when asked how he thought his team would do this season he replied "The Regulators are f***ing in and Cheyenne is f***ing out." He also said something about winning on the reg. When asked why he thought his team would do better with him running the squad he replied "winners aren't made, they are just born that way." He also claims his team is a bullet proof tiger. OK, well to be honest with you, this guy seems a little bit crazy to me. I'm starting to think that Kenny Powers has taken over a team under the alias of bobswagger91. Anyway, last season this team finished near the bottom of the league in hitting, and fielding, and near the middle of league in pitching. They improved the offense and defense with a couple off season moves though. They already have plenty of range on defense, but they added a good glove in centerfield and secondbase that should help. The big problem is that they don't have a real shortstop that can play gold glove type shortstop. Offensively, they didn't really lose anyone, but they added Pichardo and Cox. Those two should upgrade the hitting on the team. Looking over the team, I'm not really sure why they finished as bad as they did offensively last season. They have good hitters, some power and players with good eyes at the plate. The did decent in pitching and losing Buck and Perez, hurts. The players they brought in to replace them ease the losses though. I like the pitching and think they'll be better than last season. My judgements on this team is that they underachieved last season and should be quite a bit better this season. They could even challenge for the division title, but I don't think they could get a wild card if they don't win the division.
St Louis Vipers
Season 14 record-58-104
5 year record-313-497
Offense- Average-16th(.246), OBP-16th(.308), Slg-16th(.390), Runs-16th(644), HR-16th(178), SB-9th(114)
Defense- Fielding %-6th(.984), Plus Plays-12th(35), Minus Plays-10th(48)
Pitching- ERA-10th(5.07), OAV-9th(.278), SO-8th(1032), Saves-13th(35/58)
Key Additions-3B Dolf Buhner(claimed), 2B Tony Marin(claimed), SS Lou Jefferies(promoted), OF Mo James(promoted)
Key Losses-SP Pedro Batista(released), C Cleatus Simon(released), RP Herm Redman(FA), 1B Bryce Hatcher(FA)
This is another team that just can't keep an owner around. Now on a seventh owner in seven seasons, Flucie takes over a team that needs rebuilt badly. Due to such a turnover, this team hasn't had much of a direction for several seasons and the record shows. Last season the team finished at the bottom of the league offensively. The added some parts in the off season, but nothing that will make a huge improvement for them this season. However, any improvement is welcome for this franchise and that's what it was. They may finish at the bottom again this season offensively, but it shouldn't be as bad as last season. The highlight for this team was that the defense wasn't bad. This season the defense isn't great, but they'll be able to get by with what they have. They shouldn't be too bad defensively but they probably will be below average from what I see. The pitching wasn't too bad last season either, finishing just below average. I really think the pitching will be worse this season. Hopefully this owner sticks around a while and gets this team built up to be a contender, but this isn't the season that it will happen.
Predictions
Cheyenne, while winning the division last season actually doesn't look like a division winner to me, but I could be wrong. Vancouver looks improved upon last season and may be the team to beat in the West. Los Angeles, after a disappointing season last season, looks ready to compete for the division title. St Louis is in full rebuild mode and probably finishes last.
1. Vancouver
2. Los Angeles
3. Cheyenne
4. St Louis
Season 15 Preview-AL South
AL South Preview
There was no real surprises in this division last season. Each team in the division finished in the same order for the third consecutive season. If anything could be labeled a surprise it would have been that Tampa, after finishing with over 90 wins for a second straight season, didn't make the post season again. They continue to put together good seasons and can't get into the post season. Nashville had a great season by running off 110 victories. They have a really young team and probably won't be going anywhere for a while. New Orleans took a step backwards last season. Austin continues to rebuild the team as they struggled once again.
Nashville Nalas
Season 14 record- 110-52(AL South Champs)
5 year record- 449-361
Offense- Average-1st(.294), OBP-1st(.367), Slg-2nd(.485), Runs-1st(1023), HR-4th(252), SB-10th(113)
Defense- Fielding %-3rd(.987), Plus Plays-1st(87), Minus Plays-1st(13)
Pitching- ERA-4th(4.00), OAV-4th(.261), SO-15th(987), Saves-8th(42/60)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses- 1B Tommy Parker(tr-Atl), SP Max Mateo(tr-Jax), RF-Brian Tomlin(released), SP Orber Torres(FA)
Owner bnags heads into his 10th season running this franchise. After last season, this franchise has improved upon the previous season win total in 7 straight seasons now. I'm not sure if that streak can continue, but this is a very talented franchise and nothing can be ruled out. This team has it all, fielding, speed, hitting and pitching. The only weakness would be the bullpen and ownership has stated that they are looking at all options to add a true closer to the fold. In the offseason they didn't add any key players, but this young well rounded team didn't need anyone really. They did lose some good players, but I don't think any of the losses will hurt the team. Last seasons MVP snub Heinie Rice will come back looking to take the award in season 15. 3 time all star shortstop Tino House, will look to add another silver slugger to his cabinet this season as well. This is still a very young and very talented roster of players and should be contending for a while, but winning the division isn't the goal in Nashville. They have bigger aspirations and this could be the year.
Tampa Bay Thunder
Season 14 record- 92-70
5 year record- 445-365
Offense- Average-3rd(.287), OBP-2nd(.353), Slg-7th(.456), Runs-6th(871), HR-10th(216), SB-3rd(168)
Defense- Fielding %-10th(.981), Plus Plays-13th(34), Minus Plays-11th(56)
Pitching- ERA-5th(4.27), OAV-5th(.266), SO-2nd(1088), Saves-9th(40/58)
Key Additions-2B Roberto Flores(FA)
Key Losses- RP Osvaldo Tatis(FA)
Tampa Bay has had a rough go of things lately. Last season marked their third straight of being left out of the post season and the last two were after posting 90+ victories. This has still been an extremely successful franchise under the only owner they have had in rxw1. They've been to 4 world series and have won 2 of those. So it's probably only a matter of time before this team rights the ship and gets them back to the post season and possibly another world series. Choosing to stay quiet in the off season, ownership kept around the team they had last season and added a good player in Flores while only losing relief pitcher Tatis. While I wouldn't consider the players to be old on this team, the better players are over 30. They do have some young talented players mixed in with the veterans though, so it is a good mix overall. This team really struggled in the field last season. Outside of shortstop Matsumoto, the fielding on this team is just not very good. Offensively they have some good hitters, as evidence of finishing third in the AL in hitting last season, but they lack a real power threat. I like the speed that they bring to the game though. They have good pitching, but I can't put them at the top of the league in that category as they aren't dominant. Overall this is still a good team that could win 90 games again, but I don't think they challenge for the division title. This could be another season that Tampa is left out of the post season.
New Orleans Nighthawks
Season 14 record- 69-93
5 year record- 395-415
Offense- Average-9th(.272), OBP-9th(.332), Slg-9th(.442), Runs-8th(842), HR-6th(232), SB-6th(140)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.977), Plus Plays-15th(24), Minus Plays-14th(70)
Pitching- ERA-13th(5.21), OAV-16th(.296), SO-11th(1014), Saves-7th(43/61)
Key Additions-SS Vin Hernandez(claimed), RP Miguel Sierra(FA), 2B Dennis Nomura(FA), SP Dave Grey(FA), RP Teddy Tracy(FA), C Cristobal Rodriguez(Rule V), OF Eduardo Sanchez(Rule V)
Key Losses-DH Al Bravo(FA), SP Phil Gardner(FA)
Last season this team dropped in win total for the first time since season 11. After putting together back to back 81 win seasons they dropped to 69 last season. Owner larryvegas heads into a fourth season as owner and wasn't willing to sit by in the off season without improving the team. The additions the team made are much better than what they lost. They added to the defense through the waiver wire by picking up shortstop Hernandez, that should really help bring this defense from the bottom of the league. The team already had some team speed that had them in the upper half of the league and I don't see that changing this season. they finished in the middle of the league in hitting last season, and I don't see that changing much. They have some power, but the guys that bring the most of it won't hit for higher averages. LF Sam Slotnick is young though, and should continue to become a better hitter over the next couple seasons to add to his power. Pitching was another sore spot for this team last season and looking at the team with the additions, I feel it will be better than last season. While the pitching isn't great, it will be improved and should be average to a little above average. I don't see this team taking the division title this season, but I do see them improving and possibly getting to or just above 81 victories.
Austin Tumbleweeds
Season 14 record- 60-102
5 year record- 291-519
Offense- Average-13th(.265), OBP-13th(.325), Slg-12th(.426), Runs-12th(752), HR-12th(200), SB-1st(198)
Defense- Fielding %-16th(.974), Plus Plays-16th(11), Minus Plays-16th(80)
Pitching- ERA-15th(5.37), OAV-13th(.287), SO-1st(1107), Saves-16th(29/43)
Key Additions-SP Alberto Castillo(FA), 2B Jimmie Gonzales(FA), 1B Jose Martin(FA), 2B Chris Oliver(FA)
Key Losses-RF Daryle Moran(FA), SP Mark Matsumoto(FA), SP Christopher Cora(FA), 2B Miguel Flores(FA)
The franchise in Austin has seen more struggles throughout their history than success. With owner sheepdog07 heading into a fourth season at the helm, hopefully they finally have found an owner with a direction that can get them some glory. It's been a rough first 3 seasons for the ownership, but it takes time to build a winner. The fourth season of a rebuild should usually be the time that a little bit of the plan starts to show. Well this is a pretty young team and hopefully for the fans they will see a little bit of that light shining through. Ownership didn't sit by idly in the off season. They added some good players to this organization. They also lost a few good players in the process, but I like the players that are replacing them much more. This team finished last in fielding in season 14, and I think they probably will finish close to that again. The team lacks a true shortstop or centerfielder and that hurts. They led the league in steals last season and I wouldn't be surprised if they repeated that feat. This team is fast. This team finished toward the bottom of the league in hitting last season, but I believe the hitting is improved and they will finish closer to the middle of the league. They also have a little bit of power on this team. The pitching finished at the bottom last season and I just don't think it'll be any different this season. The pitching overall just isn't very good. It looks like it could be another long season in Austin.
Prediction
Nashville is the team to beat in this division and it will probably be that way for the next few seasons as this team is pretty young. Tampa Bay has a good team, but not great. They could be battling for a wild card spot again this season. New Orleans is improved, but not enough to get in the wild card race quite yet. Austin will continue the rebuilding process this season.
1. Nashville
2. Tampa
3. New Orleans
4. Austin
There was no real surprises in this division last season. Each team in the division finished in the same order for the third consecutive season. If anything could be labeled a surprise it would have been that Tampa, after finishing with over 90 wins for a second straight season, didn't make the post season again. They continue to put together good seasons and can't get into the post season. Nashville had a great season by running off 110 victories. They have a really young team and probably won't be going anywhere for a while. New Orleans took a step backwards last season. Austin continues to rebuild the team as they struggled once again.
Nashville Nalas
Season 14 record- 110-52(AL South Champs)
5 year record- 449-361
Offense- Average-1st(.294), OBP-1st(.367), Slg-2nd(.485), Runs-1st(1023), HR-4th(252), SB-10th(113)
Defense- Fielding %-3rd(.987), Plus Plays-1st(87), Minus Plays-1st(13)
Pitching- ERA-4th(4.00), OAV-4th(.261), SO-15th(987), Saves-8th(42/60)
Key Additions-none
Key Losses- 1B Tommy Parker(tr-Atl), SP Max Mateo(tr-Jax), RF-Brian Tomlin(released), SP Orber Torres(FA)
Owner bnags heads into his 10th season running this franchise. After last season, this franchise has improved upon the previous season win total in 7 straight seasons now. I'm not sure if that streak can continue, but this is a very talented franchise and nothing can be ruled out. This team has it all, fielding, speed, hitting and pitching. The only weakness would be the bullpen and ownership has stated that they are looking at all options to add a true closer to the fold. In the offseason they didn't add any key players, but this young well rounded team didn't need anyone really. They did lose some good players, but I don't think any of the losses will hurt the team. Last seasons MVP snub Heinie Rice will come back looking to take the award in season 15. 3 time all star shortstop Tino House, will look to add another silver slugger to his cabinet this season as well. This is still a very young and very talented roster of players and should be contending for a while, but winning the division isn't the goal in Nashville. They have bigger aspirations and this could be the year.
Tampa Bay Thunder
Season 14 record- 92-70
5 year record- 445-365
Offense- Average-3rd(.287), OBP-2nd(.353), Slg-7th(.456), Runs-6th(871), HR-10th(216), SB-3rd(168)
Defense- Fielding %-10th(.981), Plus Plays-13th(34), Minus Plays-11th(56)
Pitching- ERA-5th(4.27), OAV-5th(.266), SO-2nd(1088), Saves-9th(40/58)
Key Additions-2B Roberto Flores(FA)
Key Losses- RP Osvaldo Tatis(FA)
Tampa Bay has had a rough go of things lately. Last season marked their third straight of being left out of the post season and the last two were after posting 90+ victories. This has still been an extremely successful franchise under the only owner they have had in rxw1. They've been to 4 world series and have won 2 of those. So it's probably only a matter of time before this team rights the ship and gets them back to the post season and possibly another world series. Choosing to stay quiet in the off season, ownership kept around the team they had last season and added a good player in Flores while only losing relief pitcher Tatis. While I wouldn't consider the players to be old on this team, the better players are over 30. They do have some young talented players mixed in with the veterans though, so it is a good mix overall. This team really struggled in the field last season. Outside of shortstop Matsumoto, the fielding on this team is just not very good. Offensively they have some good hitters, as evidence of finishing third in the AL in hitting last season, but they lack a real power threat. I like the speed that they bring to the game though. They have good pitching, but I can't put them at the top of the league in that category as they aren't dominant. Overall this is still a good team that could win 90 games again, but I don't think they challenge for the division title. This could be another season that Tampa is left out of the post season.
New Orleans Nighthawks
Season 14 record- 69-93
5 year record- 395-415
Offense- Average-9th(.272), OBP-9th(.332), Slg-9th(.442), Runs-8th(842), HR-6th(232), SB-6th(140)
Defense- Fielding %-15th(.977), Plus Plays-15th(24), Minus Plays-14th(70)
Pitching- ERA-13th(5.21), OAV-16th(.296), SO-11th(1014), Saves-7th(43/61)
Key Additions-SS Vin Hernandez(claimed), RP Miguel Sierra(FA), 2B Dennis Nomura(FA), SP Dave Grey(FA), RP Teddy Tracy(FA), C Cristobal Rodriguez(Rule V), OF Eduardo Sanchez(Rule V)
Key Losses-DH Al Bravo(FA), SP Phil Gardner(FA)
Last season this team dropped in win total for the first time since season 11. After putting together back to back 81 win seasons they dropped to 69 last season. Owner larryvegas heads into a fourth season as owner and wasn't willing to sit by in the off season without improving the team. The additions the team made are much better than what they lost. They added to the defense through the waiver wire by picking up shortstop Hernandez, that should really help bring this defense from the bottom of the league. The team already had some team speed that had them in the upper half of the league and I don't see that changing this season. they finished in the middle of the league in hitting last season, and I don't see that changing much. They have some power, but the guys that bring the most of it won't hit for higher averages. LF Sam Slotnick is young though, and should continue to become a better hitter over the next couple seasons to add to his power. Pitching was another sore spot for this team last season and looking at the team with the additions, I feel it will be better than last season. While the pitching isn't great, it will be improved and should be average to a little above average. I don't see this team taking the division title this season, but I do see them improving and possibly getting to or just above 81 victories.
Austin Tumbleweeds
Season 14 record- 60-102
5 year record- 291-519
Offense- Average-13th(.265), OBP-13th(.325), Slg-12th(.426), Runs-12th(752), HR-12th(200), SB-1st(198)
Defense- Fielding %-16th(.974), Plus Plays-16th(11), Minus Plays-16th(80)
Pitching- ERA-15th(5.37), OAV-13th(.287), SO-1st(1107), Saves-16th(29/43)
Key Additions-SP Alberto Castillo(FA), 2B Jimmie Gonzales(FA), 1B Jose Martin(FA), 2B Chris Oliver(FA)
Key Losses-RF Daryle Moran(FA), SP Mark Matsumoto(FA), SP Christopher Cora(FA), 2B Miguel Flores(FA)
The franchise in Austin has seen more struggles throughout their history than success. With owner sheepdog07 heading into a fourth season at the helm, hopefully they finally have found an owner with a direction that can get them some glory. It's been a rough first 3 seasons for the ownership, but it takes time to build a winner. The fourth season of a rebuild should usually be the time that a little bit of the plan starts to show. Well this is a pretty young team and hopefully for the fans they will see a little bit of that light shining through. Ownership didn't sit by idly in the off season. They added some good players to this organization. They also lost a few good players in the process, but I like the players that are replacing them much more. This team finished last in fielding in season 14, and I think they probably will finish close to that again. The team lacks a true shortstop or centerfielder and that hurts. They led the league in steals last season and I wouldn't be surprised if they repeated that feat. This team is fast. This team finished toward the bottom of the league in hitting last season, but I believe the hitting is improved and they will finish closer to the middle of the league. They also have a little bit of power on this team. The pitching finished at the bottom last season and I just don't think it'll be any different this season. The pitching overall just isn't very good. It looks like it could be another long season in Austin.
Prediction
Nashville is the team to beat in this division and it will probably be that way for the next few seasons as this team is pretty young. Tampa Bay has a good team, but not great. They could be battling for a wild card spot again this season. New Orleans is improved, but not enough to get in the wild card race quite yet. Austin will continue the rebuilding process this season.
1. Nashville
2. Tampa
3. New Orleans
4. Austin
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