Season 20 NL North Preview

NL North
The NL North was a very tough division in season 19. Division winner Trenton finished the season with a league leading 106 wins. Trenton looked ready to make a splash in the post season but was eliminated in the second round in a 5 game series. Iowa City took a small step back last year finishing with 91 wins, still impressive. Even with 91 wins, Iowa City failed to make the post season after making the post season for the first time in franchise history back in season 18.  Continuing the rebuilding process, Fargo had a franchise worst record, finishing with a 60-102 record.Under very good and experienced ownership it only a matter of time before Fargo becomes a contender. Detroit finished in the basement for a second consecutive season. This off season we saw Detroit move to Montreal and new ownership put in place in hopes of turning around the franchise's losing ways.


Trenton Thunders
Season 19 Record: 106-56 (NL North Champ)
5 Season Record: 476-334
Owner: qtip32: 745-726 (3 division titles)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.278	3		Fielding %	.982	21		ERA	3.54	3
Home Runs	156	31		Double Plays	401	17		Opp. Avg.	.239	3
Ops.	.759	14		+ Plays	61	15		Stike Outs	1108	8
Runs	882	5		- Plays	31	14		Saves	53	7
Steals	345	1		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.412	21		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- None


Key Losses- RP Phil Krause(FA), SP Dean Harvey(FA)


The Trenton Thunders have been in control of the NL North for a few seasons now. They've won the division three of the last four years and earned a wild card spot once. Season 19 was a bitter sweet year for qtip32. Under his ownership, Trenton finished with a franchise record of 106-56 but failed to make it past the second round of the playoffs. This team is poised to be a top tier team in the NL with young star Raymond Petrov leading the way.

This team was above average in offense last season. They scored 882 runs but somehow finished 31st in homers. Raymond Petrov had a solid year finishing with a .277 avg, 22 home runs and 72 RBIs, not bad for a player who is only 25. Eddie Delahanty is another big player in Trentons' offense. Delahanty finished with a .311 avg and 61 steals. Trenton's offense is old school and built around small ball. This team can get on base, where the real damage is done. 345 steals last season led all of Pine Tar. Combine that with such a deep line-up and this team is a terror on the base paths. Overall Trenton has a very good offense but they lack any  real power. Thats not necessarily a bad thing though. Can you imagine this team with one big slugger in the middle of the order? Grade B+ 


Defense was the weak spot of this franchise in season 19. Ranking toward the middle of the league in all major defensive categories, Trenton has room to improve. If they added a true defensive short stop in the off season it would of greatly improved this team. With no major signing though Trenton looks to be content with the solid gloves they have in the field. This team has sacrificed defense for offense but their defense isn't too bad, average with plenty of room to improve. Grade C


Trenton's pitching staff is very good. Ranked 3rd in ERA, Opp Avg and 8th in K's, pitching is the backbone of this team. This team has a three headed monster of  Tony Fernandez, Al Rosaio and Rudy Baker at the top of the rotation. These three combine for 51 wins and 19 losses, you cant ask for more out of your top three starters. To compliment the starters, Trenton also has a very good bullpen. David Ortiz and Ivan Carrasco are just two above average guys in the pen. This team has a pitching staff that is the real deal and will be a tough out if Trenton makes the playoffs. Grade A


It wouldn't be surprising to see Trenton take the NL North crown again this season. This team has above average pitching and an offense that will make any opposing pitcher have a hard time. Trenton looks ready to take the next step and win a championship in the next couple seasons.



Iowa City Hawkeyes
Season 19 Record: 91-71
5 Season Record: 359-451
Owner: tk21775: 327-334 (1 division title)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.259	23		Fielding %	.988	3		ERA	3.34	1
Home Runs	188	22		Double Plays	384	26		Opp. Avg.	.235	2
Ops.	.725	26		+ Plays	85	7		Stike Outs	1075	13
Runs	681	27		- Plays	6	1		Saves	52	9
Steals	52	9		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.404	24		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- 1B Jose Alfonzo(Promoted),  DH Neifi Mathews(FA)

Key Losses- DH Joseph Bang(FA)

One of the more underrated teams in Pine Tar, Iowa City is due for a breakout season. This team missed the playoffs last year even though they posted a 91-71 record. Owner tk21775 has turned the page in Iowa City from the losing ways of the past to the winning ways of now. This club has had consecutive 90+ wins in a season for the last two years. Hard to believe just five seasons ago this team only had 39 wins.

In season 19 offense wasn't a strength of the Iowa City Hawkeyes. They were in the bottom half of the league in most offensive categories. This team did damage on the base paths finishing with 52 steals and 7th in the league.  Kory Garland had a great season with 26 homers and 90 RBI's. Even with those numbers i could see Garland improving a bit in his home run numbers and RBIs. The acquisition of Neifi Mathews this off season will add some much needed pop in the middle of the order. Mathews is a journeyman who has played in many different ballparks so i don't see his home runs taking a dip this year. He should hit anywhere from 40-50 long balls. Jose Alfonso has made his long awaited ML debut this season and should be a big help to the offense. He is a solid bat plus he adds more speed to the line-up. Overall this offense will be better in Season 20 with those two additions. Grade C+


Iowa City only committed 6 minus plays in all of Season 19. The last time a team had less then 6 minus plays was way back in Season 8.  The Hawkeyes defense ranked in the top of the league last year. Bert Biggio is a great fielder holing down the middle infield. Aramis Cordera can field just about any position which is always a benefit when injuries start to stack up. The only place where Iowa City can improve defensively is second base or short stop, depending on which position Cordera plays. Double plays is the only flaw in this teams defense. The Hawkeyes defense is very good and should be just as good in Season 20, if not better.
Grade A-

Pitching is Iowa City's major strength. A team ERA of 3.34 lead all of Pine Tar last year. Sticky Farquhar when 17-7 and posted a 2.71 ERA, not bad for a rookie. Deivi Valentin and Matty Andujar help round out a very solid rotation that's only getting better. Stud setup man, Brendan Taylor, will head a very good bullpen for the Hawkeyes. Combine Taylor with Dennis Coleman and they will shut down most late inning rallies. This team has a very strong pitching staff which will carry Iowa City to a lot of wins and possible a playoff berth. Grade A-


This franchise should make the post season this year with all the pieces they have in place. Iowa City is a young team and will be a contender for years to come. This team only needs one or two pieces to really hit the next level and make it deep into the playoffs. Watch for this team to make a big move in Season 20 by making a trade to add one more big bat. The Hawkeyes look ready to take the NL by storm and make the post season by either dethroning Trenton or clinching a wild card spot.



Fargo Wood Chippers
Season 19 Record: 60-102
5 Season Record: 378-432
Owner: Starbuckdc: 1784-1307 (2 World Series Titles, 14 division titles)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.256	26		Fielding %	.976	31		ERA	5.04	29
Home Runs	159	30		Double Plays	407	14		Opp. Avg.	.289	30
Ops.	.695	31		+ Plays	22	32		Stike Outs	1042	20
Runs	619	32		- Plays	105	32		Saves	34	28
Steals	28	32		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.379	31		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- CF Saul Trevino(Promoted)


Key Losses- IF Vic Diaz(FA)


Season 19 was a down year for the rebuilding Fargo Wood Chippers. This team finished with a record of 60-102 but came in 3rd place in the division. Owner Starbuckdc has been rebuilding the franchise for the past two season. Management is still looking for pitching before any young players will be promoted to the majors.The draft helped this team in a big way by giving them future stud Zip Sullivan with the third overall pick. Historically Fargo has been a premier team in Pine Tar winning the NL North for 13 straight years. With that in mind it shouldn't be long before this team is ready to compete again.

The Chippers offense struggled in Season 19 but they look to improve this year. Ranked toward the bottom of the league in every category, this team had some needs to address. The addition of Cather Ron Hudek is a big help. Hudek adds a middle of the order bat with his .306 avg and his 50 walks. Julian Prieto made his ML debut in season 19 as well. As a rookie played in 73 games, finishing with 7 homers and 27 RBIs. Prieto will be a nice piece in this offense in the seasons to come. Saul Trevino will make his ML debut in season 20.
Trevino is another stud player who will have a big impact on this team. He can cruch lefties and he should be a stolen base threat. Fargo has some very good power in Luis Barrios, Geraldo Martin and Herm Terrell who are all under the age of 27. Offensively this team does have needs but they are being adressed with young good prospects every year. Grade C


Pitching is another weak spot for Fargo. This team has a lot of needs in the rotation and the bullpen. Orlando Nieves was a bright spot for the Chipper is season 19. He finished with a 13-16 record but he can still be a part of quality rotation. Jamie Saito made his ML debut last season. Saito had a down year last season and looks to rebound in season 20. Overall this team has a good bullpen which will help them win close games. This teams rotation is in need of some help which will probably be worked on through the draft as Fargo continues to rebuild. Grade C

Fargo had a very bad defense last season. Ranked almost last in plus plays, minus plays, and fielding percentage. This team lacks a true short stop and second baseman. Julian Prieto should grow into a very good middle infielder but he is still young and isn't ready to field at a high level right now.  The loss of Vic Diaz in free agency hurts Fargo defensively and he is hard to replace. The Wood Chippers should be about the same as last year defensively. Grade D

As Fargo continues the grueling rebuilding process the major league team looks to be in the bottom of the league once again. This team is in full on rebuilding mode and wont make any noise in the National League in season 20.



Montreal Leaf Blowers
Season 19 Record: 59-103
5 Season Record: 351-459
Owner: optistrat

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.262	17		Fielding %	.977	28		ERA	4.83	25
Home Runs	166	27		Double Plays	364	28		Opp. Avg.	.287	29
Ops.	.725	26		+ Plays	22	31		Stike Outs	989	28
Runs	674	29		- Plays	101	31		Saves	42	21
Steals	81	21		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.402	26		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- OF Garland Easley(tr-lou), C Harry Mateo(FA)


Key Losses- RP Carlos Flores(tr-lou)




Formerly the Detroit Tigers, the Montreal Leaf Blowers look for a new start under new ownership and a new city. Optistrat's first season in Pine Tar with Montreal will likely be a dull one. This team has been on the decline since season 14 and is in desperate need of a rebuild. Montreal has the third pick in Season 20's draft which will help them get into the rebuilding process.

This team had a decent offense last year. The new ballpark will be a huge help in making this team produce some runs. Detroit's Comerica Park is more of a pitchers park which made this teams offensive numbers look a lot worse then they should of been. The addition of Julio Silva last season helped Montreal in a couple ways. Silva had 32 homers and 105 RBI's, not bad in a pitchers park. Stud prospect Houston Graves had a big second year in the majors also, he had 19 home runs and 56 RBI's while batting a .275. Graves played in all 162 games in season 19. Montreal does have one big power hitter too, Don Masato. Masato only played in 44 games last year and only hit four long balls. Look for him to have a come back year is season 20. Overall this team has some solid hitters and some young players who will contribute. Given the new ballpark I think this team will improve offensively. Grade C+ 


Montreal has a pitching staff that is in need of some help. The rotation only has one pitcher who is above average, Mat Stults. This team does have setup man Mike Clinton who will be some much needed help in the bullpen. Clinton will be a rookie in Season 20 and a bright spot in the pitching staff. This franchise didn't add much this off season to improve the rotation or the bullpen so i wouldn't look forward to any major improvements.  Grade C-


Defensively this team should be solid in season 20. Managment traded for Garland Easley who is still young an he might grow a little more. Easley isn't a great fielder but he is still an upgrade. Jorge Lopez will be a very solid infielder who will help the defense a lot. This team doesn't look to be above average defensively in season 20 but they should be solid. A couple moves this season to improve the defense would be a big help.
Grade C


Montreal looks to keep rebuilding in season 20 and more then likely will be at the bottom of the NL North. This team is a couple seasons away from being a contender but they are heading in the right direction.. Young players and a high draft pick will be the highlights for season 20. Overall this team looks to be in the bottom of the National League and won't be in a playoff race.



Predictions
The NL North is a tough division with two top tier teams, Trenton and Iowa City. Trenton looks ready to defend their division title this season and more then likely will. Iowa City is a very good team with loads of talented players but they don't look ready to take the division crown. The Hawkeyes look poised to take a wildcard spot and make some noise in the playoffs. Fargo is going to continue to rebuild and is still a couple seasons away from competing. Montreal is a very young team and will continue the rebuilding process.

1.Trenton
2.Iowa City
3.Fargo
4.Montreal

Seaon 20 AL North Preview

AL North
Well, I've got way behind on these this season. I guess they aren't really previews now, but rather early season reviews. I'm still going to look at last season and compare though and really I'm still basing the teams on how I see them. So with that here's my AL North season 19 review. Last season this division was won by the Scranton franchise. After the franchise didn't win the division in season 18, they found their way back to the top under new ownership. They've now won 8 of the last 9 division titles. The post season wasn't much of a success though. Their season ended in the DCS with a 3-1 series loss to division rival Dover. After winning the division title in season 18 the Dover franchise took a step back during the regular season and came in 2nd. The post season was much better for them though. They beat Durham in the opening round 3-2. Came back and beat Scranton in the DCS. Swept St Louis in the ALCS. Then lost to Jackson 4-2 in the World Series. Overall in was a very successful season for them. The franchise that was in Milwaukee ended an 8 season run of post season appearances. They decided it was time for a change and sold the franchise to new ownership that relocated the team to Detroit. The franchise formerly in Hartford missed the post season for the second straight season and only 5th time in franchise history. They also made an ownership change and moved to New York.

Scranton Associates
Season 19 Record: 96-66 (AL North Champ)
5 Season Record: 96-66
Owner: elgman

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.264	16		Fielding %	.986	8		ERA	3.99	9
Home Runs	212	14		Double Plays	415	12		Opp. Avg.	.261	12
Ops.	.754	16		+ Plays	78	10		Stike Outs	1070	14
Runs	760	15		- Plays	41	21		Saves	53	8
Steals	30	30		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.419	16		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- 1B Craig Adkinson(tr-cha), RP Dean Harvey(FA), 1B/DH Ben Morton(FA),
SP Al Rivers(FA), IF/OF Peter Cheng(FA)

Key Losses- 1B/DH Ismael Liriano(FA), DH Pep Takada(FA), RP T.J. Starr(FA)

This franchise is on a great run. They've been to 10 straight post seasons and have 3 World Championships in that time. They made some big additions in the off season and lost a few players as well. The additions were more geared at fixing the offense.

Offensively this team was right in the middle last season. They went out and traded for a big time power hitter in Craig Adkinson and added a great overall hitter in Peter Cheng. Ben Morton may be aging but he is still a quality hitter as well. I see a really good hitting team here. They have power and should hit for a good average as well. They won't steal many bases, but they don't need to. Grade- A


The defense was pretty solid last season. They ranked near the bottom of the top 10 so they were well better than average. Yorvit Ortiz is a phenomenal fielder and is one of the better shortstops in the league. Enos Jones is the teams best option in center, but he lacks ideal range. The gloves on this team are solid all around, but the lack good range. I think the defense takes a step back this season as they made an effort to improve the offense and took a defensive hit. They are still better than average though. Grade- B


This has been one of the better pitching teams in the AL for some time now. The rotation is pretty good with Dock King, and Cyrus Torres holding down the top of it. Both are Cy Young caliber pitchers. The bullpen features Bill Walker, Omar Gabriel, Felipe Lee, and Bart Hamelin. All are very good relievers. This pitching staff is still up there among the best in the AL. The back end of the rotation brings them down a bit, but not much. Grade- A-


Scranton has gotten off to a hot start this season and you can see why. This is a pretty well rounded team. The hitting is improved, and the pitching is still good. Look for this team to hang around the top of the pack in this division all season and could likely take home the division title again. If not then they are surely a wild card team.

Dover Dinklebergs
Season 19 Record: 92-70 (AL Champ)
5 Season Record: 195-129
Owner: tmfran (195-129, 1 division title, 1 AL title)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.275	6		Fielding %	.985	14		ERA	4.37	17
Home Runs	256	2		Double Plays	446	5		Opp. Avg.	.257	11
Ops.	.807	3		+ Plays	82	9		Stike Outs	1084	11
Runs	926	3		- Plays	21	7		Saves	37	26
Steals	74	20		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.451	4		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- None


Key Losses- OF Ben Morton(FA)

After going through a dry spell of 7 seasons without making the post season, this franchise has found their way back in the past 2 seasons. Although they didn't win the division like they did in season 18, it was an extremely successful season for them. They made it to the ALCS for the third time in franchise history and made the World Series for their first time. They lost in the World Series, but finishing as the second best team in Pine Tar was a pretty big accomplishment. The franchise stayed pretty quiet as far as making any big off season splashes, but did lose a really good hitter in Ben Morton.

Offensively this was one of the best teams in Pine Tar last season. They were a top 5 team in most key categories and finished 6th in batting average. Armando Mota and John Pong are 2 great hitters in the lineup. Jim McCormick and Christopher Herman are a step below those guys, but are still pretty good. They have good power from most spots in the order and they should draw plenty of walks. Grade- A-


The defense was good as well last season. They have 3 possible shortstops on this team in David Prieto, Maicer Lopez, and Santos Guevara. Then Ruben Palaez is a good solid centerfielder. If played correctly this could be one of the best defenses in the league. Too bad the bats will keep a couple of these guys out of the lineup regularly. Grade- A-


I'm going to say the pitching was slightly above average last season. It really wasn't a strength for this team. They didn't do much to upgrade it so it's pretty much the same. Frank Buss will start games, but he has control issues. Vinny Evans is pretty much the same, but not as effective. Enrigue Santiago is good and likely the 2nd best pitcher in the rotation. Karim Ontiveros is the guy I see as the best pitcher they have. The wild card of the bunch is youngster Sammy Johnson. He has the abilities to be the #1 but his high ERA last season knocks him down a bit. The bullpen is solid, but a little less than average. Grade- B


The pitching isn't bad on this team, but it's not one of the better staffs in the league. The defense helps out the pitching as they have really good defense. The offense will win them some games and they feature a couple MVP caliber players. This team should challenge for the division title and if they can't take it then I could see another Wild Card for them.



Detroit Demons
Season 19 Record: 85-77
5 Season Record: 462-348
Owner: gobluehens83

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.266	14		Fielding %	.985	13		ERA	4.08	11
Home Runs	204	16		Double Plays	360	30		Opp. Avg.	.264	14
Ops.	.761	12		+ Plays	45	22		Stike Outs	1007	27
Runs	787	11		- Plays	42	22		Saves	42	20
Steals	116	10		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.430	12		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- None


Key Losses- RP Esteban Gonzalez(FA), RP Archie Metzger(FA), RP Ron Owens(FA), OF OT Munson(FA), SP Wayne Perez(FA)

After this franchise made the post season for 8 straight seasons, the stretch ended in season 19. With that, the long time owner of the franchise sold them to new owner, gobluehens83, who moved them to Detroit. Last season wasn't a bad season for them, but it wasn't successful either. The new owner came in and cleaned house. They let some big players for this team go in the off season and replaced them with stop gap type players as it is clear they are trying to rebuild the franchise.

The offense was a bit better than average last season. They were close to the middle of the league in most categories, but they were a well rounded team with power, speed and good hitting. This season they seem to lack much power. They still have some good speed. They have some good hitters in Howard Atkins, Red Smith, Jorge Rincon and Cozy Adams. This is a solid offense, that won't be great, but should be close to where they were last season. Grade- B-


The fielding last season was just average. They had better than average gloves with less than average range. They have a great shortstop in Fritz Dydalewicz and a good centerfielder in Diego Oropesa at 2 key positions. They also have some solid gloves that play other positions. They aren't very deep though. That brings the grade down a bit. Grade- B-


Detroit's pitching was a little better than average last season. The ERA was good enough to finish just out of the top 10, but they allowed opponents to hit too much and didn't strike out many. The rotation doesn't look very good this season. Harry Guerrero is the only starter that looks solid and he's more suited for a middle to back end of the rotation role. The bullpen is lacking quality arms as well. This is going to be what holds this team back this season. Grade- D


The offense and defense for this team are good enough to at least contend for a wild card spot, but the pitching is going to keep that from happening. I think this team may be better suited trading their quality pieces for quality prospects and rebuilding.

New York Damage Controllers
Season 19 Record: 53-109
5 Season Record: 388-422
Owner: skuff730

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.254	28		Fielding %	.976	32		ERA	5.79	30
Home Runs	182	20		Double Plays	456	3		Opp. Avg.	.280	26
Ops.	.709	30		+ Plays	28	29		Stike Outs	950	32
Runs	691	26		- Plays	40	20		Saves	34	29
Steals	39	31		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.397	27		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- C Gregory Singleton(promoted), SP Felipe Ramos(promoted), RP Mel Lloyd(FA),


Key Losses- RP Bob Hill(released), 3B Freddy Cuddyer(FA), 2B Peter Cheng(FA)

This franchise seems to have hit hard times. After making a post season appearance for 14 straight seasons, they've now missed the past 2. The team has seen their record get worse in each of the past 5 seasons. A trend that they won't want to keep repeating after a rock bottom 53 win season 19. In a first season under new ownership it will be interesting to see what this owner can do with them.  They lost some pretty good players in free agency in the off season and the biggest moves they made were through promotions.

Offensively this was one of the worst hitting clubs in the league. Even with Cheng and Cuddyer they didn't do very well as a team. Gregory Singleton's promotion should help as he is a real good young hitter. The team is pretty rough besides him though. They lack any kind of power and hitting. In the off season they added some stop gap talent while they build for the future, but that talent isn't enough to get them out of the bottom of the league in hitting. Grade- D-


The fielding also was not very good last season. They finished last in fielding percentage and near the bottom in plus plays. Miguel Manzanillo is a solid shortstop, and Eli Manzanillo is a solid centerfielder. Neither provide much offensively and aren't great enough defensively to be anything more than a placeholder until the team can upgrade. They have a few other solid gloves on the field and could be better than last season, but still not good enough to consider as average. Grade- C-


The pitching staff was also among the worst in Pine Tar last season. The rotation features quite a few back end of the rotation type pitchers. The bullpen is a bit better though. I like Felix Wilson, Javy Mendoza, Michael Miller and Mel Lloyd. The bullpen helps the teams grade here, but the starters may end up running this guys out to the mound way to much. Grade- C+


This isn't a very good team.They are filled with players that are going to be holding spots until better replacements can be found. My guess is that this team will be more worried with rebuilding than trying to win this season.

Predictions
Scranton looks like they are going to be tough to knock from the top of this division. They are off to a hot start on the season, and will likely end up battling for a shot at going to the World Series. Dover is a good team that may end up sticking around for a chance to win the division, but I think they end up battling for a wild card spot. Detroit is solid, but not quite a team that will battle for the division and likely will not take a wild card spot either. New York should be in full rebuild stage right now as they look like they are a few seasons off from competing.

1. Scranton
2. Dover
3. Detroit
4. New York

Season 20 AL East Preview

AL East
We seen some changes in this division last season. Durham took home the division crown for the first time since season 13 as they ended Pittsburgh's 5 season run atop the division. Pittsburgh still had a good season, but it wasn't quite good enough to reach the post season. Boston remained in third for the 4th time in 5 seasons and seen their record worsen by 1 game. Chicago seen their win total rise by 5 games, but continued an 8 season run without a post season appearance.




Durham Doormats
Season 19 Record: 94-68(AL East Champ)
5 Season Record: 397-413
Owner: algoman1 (774-846, 3 division titles)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.291	1		Fielding %	.982	20		ERA	4.99	28
Home Runs	319	1		Double Plays	421	10		Opp. Avg.	283	28
Ops.	879	1		+ Plays	49	19		Stike Outs	1122	6
Runs	991	1		- Plays	51	26		Saves	46	16
Steals	55	24		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.512	1		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- SP Wayne Perez(FA), RP Flip Buck(FA)


Key Losses- SP Chris Kirk(Released), SP Curtis Bannister(Released)

Durham was the division champ last season as they ended an 8 season streak without a winning record. The post season didn't go very well, but they are moving in the right direction. This team has some very good young talent and could be poised to be on top for quite some time. In the off season they actually added the 2 oldest players on the team, but still very quality pitchers in Perez and Buck.

Offensively this team was the best in Pine Tar last season. The offensive production by this team was pretty phenomenal. I don't see that changing. With players like Eric Lindsey, Julio Navarro, Fred Inge, Billy Haynes, Ernest Christiansen and Angel Faulk in the lineup, they are going to be tough stop. They sure look like they'll be the top offense again. Grade- A+


The fielding was below average last season. With such an emphasis put on offense, this will happen. Angel Faulk is a pretty good shortstop though and Eric Lindsey is a solid centerfielder. Besides that they aren't very solid at the other positions. The defense is what brings this team back to the pack. Grade- C


The pitching was pretty bad last season. They ranked near the bottom of the league, but they have some solid pitching. They made a couple signings in the off season to help address this and hope it will pay off. The rotation is anchored by Willie Jacquez, who is a legit ace. Rounding it out are Benny Bravo, Orlando Cruz, Wayne Perez, and Victor Maranon. This is a pretty good rotation. In the bullpen they have Glenn Hafner, Flip Buck, and Miguel Gonzales, who should all be pretty good at closing down close games. The pitching staff looks pretty good and should bounce back after a poor performance last season. Grade- B


This team looks really good offensively and should be able to win a lot of games just on that. The pitching is good too though, but the defense will likely keep them from reaching the peak of their abilities. This team could very well win 100 games though with what they have and should win the division again. They should give it a run at making the World Series as well, but their defensive woes could stall that push.


Pittsburgh Psychics
Season 19 Record: 89-73
5 Season Record: 190-134
Owner: blues_bros (190-134)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.270	10		Fielding %	.986	10		ERA	4.27	16
Home Runs	225	11		Double Plays	485	2		Opp. Avg.	267	17
Ops.	.783	6		+ Plays	45	21		Stike Outs	1019	24
Runs	824	8		- Plays	45	21		Saves	50	12
Steals	70	23		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.443	6		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- 1B Joseph Bang(FA), SP Ivan Silva(FA), C Felipe Reynoso(FA),
  SP Bartolo Montero(Rule 5)


Key Losses- SP Jorge Figureoa(FA), 1B Charles Torres(FA)

After winning this division for the past 5 seasons, the run ended. With 89 wins the team failed to make the post season. The team wasn't happy about that and went out and made some changes in the off season. With one of the older teams in the league, it appears that it's almost time to start rebuilding. I guess that will depend on how the season shapes up for them.

Offensively this team was one of the better teams in the league last season. They were top 10 in average, OPS, Runs and Slg, and finished 11th in homers. With players like Corky Lawrie, Joseph Bang, Alvin Reed, Reggie Creek, Phil North, Coco Stratton and Felipe Reynoso spread throughout the lineup, the should be able to rank up there again. They have real good hitters for average, some decent power and good eyes. Grade- A-


The defense was good last season. The gloves were there, but they lacked range for the plus and minus plays. Robin Risley is a solid shortstop, but this team is only average at the other positions on the field. They have average gloves and less than average range. Grade- C+


The pitching was pretty average last season. They were right in the middle of the league. Ivan Silva was a solid pickup, but not a move that can change the way the staff looks. Carlos Nieto is a good starter, Lou Offerman is solid, and Walter Heredia is good, but they aren't really aces. They are better suited as middle rotation pitchers. The bullpen has a couple good arms in Irv Coghlan, and Rudy Jameson. This staff really looks average to me. Grade- C+


I like the teams offense, but the pitching and defense really hurt them. That is what is likely to hold this team back from the post season again. I don't think they can match up with Durham, so a division title is unlikely. They would need a lot of things to go right for them to get into the post season.


Boston Pilgrims
Season 19 Record: 76-86
5 Season Record: 374-436
Owner: kjmulli (341-439)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.261	18		Fielding %	.982	18		ERA	4.63	21
Home Runs	242	5		Double Plays	420	11		Opp. Avg.	269	21
Ops.	.766	11		+ Plays	133	1		Stike Outs	1003	28
Runs	801	12		- Plays	30	12		Saves	40	24
Steals	46	27		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.766	10		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- None


Key Losses- SP Charles Hayashi(FA), 1B Junior Cruz(Released), RP Chico Guerrero(FA)

Just a few seasons ago, Boston was on its way up and finished second in the division with 83 victories. They've hit hard times since and have seen the winning percentage drop in each of the past 2 seasons. They aren't too far behind the leaders of this pack though as they finished just below .500 and could be a few pieces from jump into contention. In the off season they didn't really make any key signings, but lost a few players that could hurt them. It looks like the team is planning on bringing up a couple of young prospects, Matt Jaha, and Hipolito Owen a few weeks into the season.

Offensively this team was just above average last season. The team average was just average, but they hit for power and scored runs at a decent clip. Pepper Sanders, Darren Urich and Rico Tatis should hit well. Rico Tatis has tons of power also and can get on base. He's always a threat to take home an MVP award. Houston Baptist adds some power, but he's not a great hitter. This offense has some really nice pieces, but they could use a few more. If they added some average players in with this group they could be really good, but the others look below average to me. Grade- B


I'd say this was an above average defense last season. The gloves ranked in the middle of the league, but they flashed some range with the plus plays. I'm not sure who will be the shortstop, but the team has 2 potential gold glove options in Yusmeiro Julio and Chun-Lim Li. Neither played short last season and that is a surprise. Tito Raburn was the shortstop, but he committed a lot of errors and could be better used at second or third where he'd commit less of them. I like this defense. It isn't great, but it's pretty good. Grade- A-


The pitching on this team was below average last season. Hayashi and Guerrero were good pitchers and the losses will hurt. Ronald Lynch and Woody Sheridan are solid starters, but neither can anchor down the rotation. Nash Casanova and Damaso Infante are good relievers, but there isn't much else for this team coming out of the pen. I think they pitching takes a step back this season as I'm unimpressed with what I see. Grade- C-


I really do like some of the pieces this team has offensively, and defensively, but the pitching is a real weakness. They could also use some depth in the lineup. I think the weakness is enough to keep this team from reaching last seasons win total and that means that I don't see them in the post season with the way things are right now.




Chicago Wind Tunnel
Season 19 Record: 73-89
5 Season Record: 348-462
Owner: skidmark (558-738)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.258	24		Fielding %	.977	27		ERA	4.80	24
Home Runs	197	19		Double Plays	430	6		Opp. Avg.	.283	23
Ops.	.744	19		+ Plays	37	28		Stike Outs	1055	16
Runs	752	20		- Plays	44	23		Saves	38	25
Steals	224	2		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.416	18		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- SP Cutris Banister(FA), C Davey Decker(FA)


Key Losses- OF/IF Roberto Fernandez(Released)

The Wind Tunnels. This team has been struggling for some time now. The last post season appearance was back in season 11. They've only had 1 winning season since then. Last season was a step forward as they improved by 5 games over the previous season, but they were still a ways off. I do like the 2 key additions they added in the off season. Banister should be solid for them and Decker should hit. If anything though, this team has some good young talent.

Offensively the team was slightly below average last season, but they stole a lot of bases. They do have some speed on this team for sure. They also have a few good hitters in Barney Taft, Russell Powell and Davey Decker. They just don't have much to go around them. The team is still a few good hitters short of having a good offense. Grade- C+


This teams defense wasn't very good last season. Gerardo Vega is the best option at short and he's not a very good option. They do have solid gloves at other positions, but they are not good up the middle. The middle is where most of it happens and that brings this team down a lot. Grade- D+


The pitching was also below average last season. Vinny Napoli is a good starter and Curtis Bannister is solid, but they don't have very quality arms besides them in the rotation. The bullpen looks worse. Yorvit Diaz and Alan Denham are decent, but they are it. This teams pitching staff could use an overhaul. I really don't like what I see. Grade- D


I'm just stumped with what I see here. This rebuild is taking longer than I would have expected. They should be loaded with young talent, but I just don't see it. Outside of a few players, this team really doesn't have much quality major league caliber players. It's looking like they will continue the rebuild for another season and likely finish in last.


Predictions
Durham is looking tough this season. They have a great offense and decent pitching. The only thing that may hold them back of the AL championship could be the defense. Pittsburgh has a real good offense, but the pitching and defense hold them back. I think they'll struggle to make the post season. Boston has a few nice weapons offensively and a real good defense, but the pitching could use some help. I think they may be a few good pitchers away from challenging for a post season spot, but as it stands now I don't think they can reach 81 wins. Chicago just looks like a AAAA team to me. They have a few really good offensive weapons, but those weapons are meaningless if they don't have a full compliment of help for them.

1. Durham
2. Pittsburgh
3. Boston
4. Chicago

Season 20 AL South Preview

AL South
In season 19, Nashville continued their run of dominance in this division. With a sixth consecutive 100 win campaign, they extended the division title streak to 8 seasons. Tampa Bay closed to gap in the division last season a bit though. Tampa ended up 15 games out of first, but took a wild card spot and returned to the post season for the first time since season 11. The team in San Juan finished third, but continued a 5 season streak of improving their record. New Orleans finished last in the division as they haven't been to the post season now in 11 seasons.




Nashville Nalas
Season 19 Record: 107-55(AL South Champ)
5 Season Record: 391-419
Owner: bnags (1148-958, 8 division titles, 1 World Series Title)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.286	2		Fielding %	.988	2		ERA	3.58	4
Home Runs	225	12		Double Plays	399	18		Opp. Avg.	.239	4
Ops.	.818	2		+ Plays	98	3		Stike Outs	1101	9
Runs	978	2		- Plays	15	4		Saves	46	13
Steals	160	6		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.456	3		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- None


Key Losses- SS Tino House(FA)

This team has now won 8 division titles in a row and they've been doing it pretty impressively. With 6 straight 100 win seasons, this team has established themselves as a true power house. The problem for them has been post season success. For all the winning they do in the regular season, they've only won 1 World Championship and that was 5 seasons ago now. Last seasons let down of not even making the ALCS had to frustrate the fans in Nashville. The team didn't do much in the off season, but the loss of Tino House doesn't improve things for them.

Offensively this team has been pretty good for some time. The have some great hitters and some speed, but only average power. 2 time MVP, Heini Rice, is a phenom at the plate and provides most of the power on the team. Brian Sveum, is one of the best hitters around with a career .333 average and .405 obp. Juan Latos, is really good hitter also. These are only the guys that stand out to me. The lineup is loaded with players that are close to as good as these three. I would grade them an A+ if they had more power. Grade- A

Defensively, Nashville is one of the top 2 or 3 teams in Pine Tar. They ranked near the top of the league in the key defensive categories. I'm not really impressed with the shortstop situation here, but they do have real good gloves at almost every other position. That should help ease the lack of a real good shortstop. With a gold glove shortstop this team would be the best defensive team in the league, but I can't say that right now. Grade- A


Pitching is another of this teams strengths. Like there are any weaknesses? They ranked near the top of the league in pitching last season. The starting rotation is a big part of that. Alex Martis, Dan Seibert, and Jeremi Rice are 3 very good pitchers and any of them could be considered an ace. The bullpen is pretty good as well with Mitchell Hayes, Tom Leonard, and Raul Santiago coming out to close down games. Grade- A

The ownership in Nashville has declared that the window on this team is "Closing fast." As the newest member of the Owner Hall of Fame, bnags, is a pretty good owner and knows his stuff, but I'm not quite sold on his statement. This team looks poised to make another run this season and should push for another World Series appearance. I see no way that they don't win the division this season with the talent that they have assembled.


Tampa Bay Thunder

Season 19 Record: 92-70 (Wild Card)
5 Season Record: 397-413
Owner: rxw1 (1665-1413, 7 division titles, 2 World Series Titles)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.273	8		Fielding %	.980	24		ERA	4.18	13
Home Runs	205	15		Double Plays	980	22		Opp. Avg.	.252	9
Ops.	.767	10		+ Plays	38	27		Stike Outs	1141	4
Runs	810	11		- Plays	68	29		Saves	55	4
Steals	110	12		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.428	13		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- SP Heinie Hutton(Promoted),


Key Losses- None

Last season was pretty successful for this franchise. They ended a 7 season run of not making the post season. They also ended a 3 season run of losing records. While they still didn't step up to Nashville's level, they made strides toward getting there. The team didn't really make any splashes in the off season, but the promotion of my long lost cousin, Heinie Hutton, adds a little help to the pitching staff. I tried to talk his parents out of naming him that, but the whole family got a good laugh out of it anyway.

Offensively this was an above average group last season. They ranked in the upper half of the league in the key categories, but they weren't quite at the top of any of them. This is a pretty good hitting bunch. They have some power also. This isn't a great offense, but they are above average again. Grade- B+


Defensively this team ranked near the bottom of the league. I don't see much improvement. They lack a good shortstop and centerfielder. They do have solid gloves at other positions though. Overall it's a below average defense. Grade- C


Even with a bad defense, this team had some good pitching last season. They were a good, but not great staff. Starter, Claude Collins, is a true ace. Bo Carter, and Jimmy Washington are solid middle rotation pitchers. The bullpen has Ezdra Johnson and Frank Murphy as two really good arms coming in to tight games. Overall, this is a pretty good staff. Grade- A-


This team looks pretty good heading into this season. I don't think they can challenge Nashville, but I can see them with 90+ wins and in the post season again. Anything short of that is a disappointing season for this franchise.

San Juan Pollos Hermanos
Season 19 Record: 78-84
5 Season Record: 231-255
Owner: soxfan_9 (231-255)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.277	4		Fielding %	.987	6		ERA	4.77	23
Home Runs	234	7		Double Plays	384	27		Opp. Avg.	.269	16
Ops.	.794	4		+ Plays	66	12		Stike Outs	1056	15
Runs	903	4		- Plays	25	9		Saves	41	23
Steals	76	22		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.447	5		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- SP Charles Hayashi(FA)


Key Losses- IF David Reyes(FA)


You could say that the Pollos Hermanos had a successful season 19. They improved the win total for a fifth straight season and even though it was by just one win it was still a step forward. This franchise has had 11 losing seasons in a row now and any bit of improvement is welcomed. They really aren't far off from ending that slump, but this is a tough division. The addition of Charles Hayashi could be what they needed to give them that bump above .500. 


Offensively San Juan was one of the top teams in Pine Tar last season. They hit for average, and hit for power. This offense is led by youngsters Alexander Williamson, Bernard Charleston and Harvey Merrick. That is a pretty solid core of young players that this team has to lead them into the future. The offense as a whole isn't great, but they produce. Grade- B+


The fielding is also pretty solid for this franchise. They were one of the better defenses in the league last season. The have a good shortstop in Efrain Matsumoto, and real good centerfielder, Horacio Blanco. They are solid up the middle, but only average at all other positions. They don't have the best rated fielding instructor, but that guy knows how to get results. Grade- B


The pitching was a concern for this team. They were just below average last season. The addition of Hayashi really helps the staff out. Matching him with Diego Valbuena and Darren Banks should give them a really good top 3 in the rotation. The bullpen is solid, but I wouldn't even say they are average. They could use some bullpen help for sure. Grade- B-


San Juan has the team in place to make the jump this season. We shall see if they can, but my money is on them improving. They have a good rotation, but the bullpen could be the weakness that brings them down. The defense is solid and the offense produces. I think they challenge Tampa Bay this season for second, but end up just short. I do think they finish above .500 though.

New Orleans Nighthawks
Season 19 Record: 65-97
5 Season Record: 359-451
Owner: larryvegas (590-706)

Offense			1	Defense			1	Pitching
Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank		Category	Stat	Rank
Average	.251	31		Fielding %	.977	29		ERA	4.86	27
Home Runs	241	6		Double Plays	384	25		Opp. Avg.	.273	19
Ops.	.752	17		+ Plays	73	11		Stike Outs	1023	23
Runs	738	25		- Plays	39	19		Saves	41	22
Steals	98	16		1	1	1		1	1	1
Slugging	.434	11		1	1	1		1	1	1

Key Additions- P Jesus Amezaga(FA)


Key Losses- 1B Dummy Wright(FA), LF Luke Ryan(FA)

This team has been struggling now for a while. Last season marked the third straight season that the win total dropped. They haven't been to the post season since season 9. The addition of Amezaga was a needed signing to help out the pitching. They lost Luke Ryan and Dummy Wright in the off season, but those aren't huge losses.

This team was below average offensively in season 19. They hit a lot of homers, but the team average was just bad and they didn't score runs very well. Sam Slotnick is a great power hitter, but his average could use some help. Youngster Braden Fussell is going to be a pretty good hitter for quite some time. Quinn Watson has had some good seasons and is another good offensive threat. I really think this team should be a better offensive team than they are. I guess the number don't lie though. Until proven otherwise, I'm grading them low. Grade- C-


The defense is one of the worst in the league. They have some range, but the gloves aren't good. Vin Hernandez is a real good shortstop, but the centerfield position could use a better glove. Looking at each position though, the team looks solid. I'm not sure how they ranked so low, but I think they'll bounce back a bit this season. Grade- C+


Last season the pitching was below average. The addition of Amezaga helps. The rotation features Darren Miller, Jhonny Andujar, Charles Taylor, and Everth Benitez. All of them are more suited for middle to back end of the rotation duties though. This team could use an ace at the top. The bullpen is real good though. Amezaga is better suited for the pen, so that's where I'm guessing he goes. George Eaton is real good coming out of the pen. Ruben Valbuena and Ron Bowen are a couple more solid bullpen arms. The pitching isn't great, but it's not bad either. The bullpen appears a bit better than the rotation. Grade- B-


This team isn't likely to move up the ranks this season, but they do have some pieces in place to make the move soon. With the addition of an ace and a couple more bats this team could contend in the next couple seasons.

Predictions
I'm going with Nashville in this division. They just appear too dominant and poised for a World Series run. Picking them isn't a knock against the other teams in this division. They are just too good. Tampa Bay should have another run at the post season as they are a really good team, but a step below Nashville. I like San Juan's chances of surprising this season, but I'm not sure they'll be good enough to make it into the post season. I'll bet they give it a good run though. New Orleans isn't far off from being a tough team, but they still have some holes to fill before they step up to playoff team status.

1. Nashville
2. Tampa Bay
3. San Juan
4. New Orleans