NBL - a league of state-based teams

[Matt from TN]

The National Baseball League began in 1988 with 30 teams. Each team plays in a different US state and is named after that state. In 1988, each team played home games in their respective state capitols, but after time and finances evolved, many teams moved to larger in-state cities. A prime example would be the Nevada Goldminer franchise that began play in Carson City, but has since moved to greener pastures in Las Vegas. You will notice that many teams are hosted by states that could never really hope to host a major league franchise, but that's the beauty of this league... as you will see.

In 1988, the league officially began play with a 56-game schedule. The league maintanied a 56-game season for 5 years until fan supprt and interest became so great that the league put together a plan for expansion of the season. In 1993, the league unveiled an 81-game season. In 1994 they played 80-games. In 1995, the league moved to its current format of 162 games.

As the league has grown and evolved, some teams have moved, many have been renamed to help merchandising, two teams were contracted and after future seasons, four expansion teams were added. The league's popularity continues to grow, and thoughts of future expansion have been considered for states with no home team... especially key states that are hungry for their own NBL franchise.

Since the NBL is based on US geography, the teams were broken into leagues under the same premise. You may notice that league officials had not studied US geography as well as they should have, as some teams ended up in bizarre spots. Here's a list of the league's initial franchises. Over time, much reconstruction will befall the NBL, and by 2003 the league will look somewhat different:

NL East
Florida Springs
Georgia Rangers
Illinois Cougars
Louisiana Choctaws
South Carolina Ocenics
Tennessee Mockingbirds
Virginia Stallions

NL West
Arizona Trailways
California Angels
Nebraska Shuckers
Nevada Goldminers
Oklahoma Coyotes
Oregon Blues
Texas Oilrigs

AL East
Delaware Mavericks
Maine Coastals
Maryland Orioles
New York Yankees
Pennsylvania Pirates
Ohio Indians
Rhode Island Rams
Vermont Kings

AL West
Colorado Dragsters
Indiana Panthers
Michigan Tigers
Minnesota Twins
Montana Cowboys
North Dakota Larks
Washington Alpiners
Wisconsin Brewers

[Matt from TN]

1988

Teams in this league had been assembling talent for two years, with players often playing for teams that have since evolved into moden AAA franchises. Many players agreed to play for their home states, but many were left unsigned by the beginning of 1988. In January of that year, the league held a massive draft that encorporated all unsigned players. Teams assembled talent and tried to piece together a quick plan for the future of their new franchises.

The first spring training debuted that April across Florida. As players tried for roster spots, the talent levels of these 30 teams began to become more clear. The press swarmed the training facilities, and watched the games closely. As April ended, many bold predictions were made. Most people, however, realized that - with a few exceptions - the talent in the league was fairly evenly distributed.

The league opened it's inaugural season in late May of 1988. The Tennessee Mockingbirds got off to an amazing start by winning 12 of their first 15 games. By mid-season, the NL West had no team more than 3 games over .500 and no team more than 3 games below .500. In the AL, Vermont won the first 8 games in franchise history, and although they faced a lot of stiff competition, they managed to lead the East wire-to-wire. In the AL West, several teams were contenders, and five of them were able to claim the division lead at some point during the season.

As the summer of 1988 drew to a close, so did the regular season. Here's the final standings from the first season:

NL East                   W      L    %    GB
Tennessee                41     15  .732  - 
Illinois                 28     28  .500  13 
South Carolina           28     28  .500  13 
Georgia                  27     29  .482  14 
Louisiana	         26     30  .464  15 
Virginia                 24     32  .429  17 
Florida                  18     38  .321  23

NL West	             W	    L	 %    GB
California	         31	25  .554  - 
Oregon		         31	25  .554  - 
Texas			 31	25  .554  -
Nebraska	 	 29	27  .518  2
Nevada			 29	27  .518  2
Oklahoma	 	 28	28  .500  3
Arizona			 26	30  .464  5

AL East		     W	    L	 %    GB
Vermont			 35	21  .625  - 
Maine			 32	24  .571  3
Delaware		 31	25  .554  4
Rhode Island		 30	26  .536  5
Ohio			 27	29  .482  8
Maryland		 25	31  .446  10
Pennsylvania		 25	31  .446  10
New York		 24	32  .429  11

AL West		     W	    L	 %    GB
Montana			 33	23  .589  -
Colorado		 31	25  .554  2
Wisconsin		 31	25  .554  2
Indiana			 28	28  .500  5
Washington		 28	28  .500  5
Minnesota		 26	30  .464  7
Michigan		 23	33  .411  10
North Dakota		 22	34  .393  11

[Matt from TN]

1988 Playoffs

The league's first season ended with an intriguing 3-way tie for first in the NL West. Oregon was allowed to host the first game by way of a coin flip. Home field advantage proved fruitless, however, as the Angels scored two runs in the top of the 9th to win 5-4.

In Game 2, California hosted Texas. The Angels proved to be a team of destiny as they scored 4 runs in the bottom of the 3rd, and went on to win 6-1. The victory gained them the first NL West pennant.


NLCS

In 1988, the League Championship Series was a best-of-3 series. With the best record in the league, Tennessee hosted California in the first NLCS. Game 1 saw the Mockingbirds win 5-1 thanks to a dominating 4-hit, 1-walk, 11-K complete game by Jacques Turrut, a French-speaking native of Montreal.

In Game 2, The Angels took an early 3-1 lead, but a 3-run home run in the 7th by Mockingbird outfielder Boyd Edwards gave Tennessee the lead. Closer Marc Germaine shut the Angels out with a 1-2-3 9th inning, sending Tennessee to the first ever Byrns Trophy Championship Series.


ALCS

Game 1 was hosted by Vermont, the AL East champ and owner of the best record in the league. The Kings struggled, however, against Montana's offensive juggernaut. The Cowboys hit four home runs in the game, defeating Vermont 6-1.

In Game 2, Montana scored four runs in the first three innings to go up 4-0 early. The Cowboy pitching staff stuggled all day, allowing 17 hits, but the Kings offense struggled just as much, leaving 16 runners on base. Montana won the game 4-3, earning a spot in the BTCS against the mighty Mockingbirds.


Byrns Trophy Championship Series

Home field advantage in the first ever BTCS went to Tennessee. The Mockingbirds were highly favored in the series. They were the most balanced and potent team in the NBL all season. Some "experts" gave Tennessee the edge by as much as 10-1.

On a quest for respect, Montana stunned Tennessee and their fans in the first two games of this best-of-7 series in Nashville. They defeated Tennessee by scores of 7-3 and 4-1. After a day off, both teams met in Montana in front of a raucous crowd of 31,000. In a hard fought game that lasted 13 innings, Tennessee came out on top 6-5. In Game 4, Tennessee squeaked by with a 5-4 victory, even after the bullpen allowed 3 runs in the 8th.

With the series now tied 2-2, both teams knew Game 5 would be a key victory, possibly pushing one club on to final victory. With the score tied 2-2 in the 7th, Tennessee 1B Jake Roland hit a bases-loaded double to push the Mockingbirds up by a large 3 runs. In the bottom of the 8th, Montana scored a run, drawing the score to 5-3. With two outs and two runners on in that same inning, Germaine came on for Tennessee. He struck out the only batter he faced in that inning, ending the threat. Montana failed to get a runner on base in the 9th as Germaine earned his 4th postseason save.

Game 6 saw both teams return to Tennessee, and Mockingbird fans cheared all night long as their team broke out to an early 4-0 lead and went on to win the game 5-1, crowning themselves as the NBL's first ever champions.


Playoff Summary

NLCS: Tennessee 2 - California 0

ALCS: Montana 2 - Vermont 0

BTCS: Tennessee 4 - Montana 2


Of Note

The All-Star Game was played after the season in Tallahassee, FL. The NL won 8-5.


Awards

Batting Title:
NL - Kevin Reboss, Nebraska - .343
AL - Jack Stern, Montana - .355

HR Title:
Rob Vixon, Georgia - 14
Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota - 19

RBI Title:
Rowdy Doggett, Tennessee - 58
Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota - 53

Pitcher of the Year:
Jacques Turrut, Tennessee - 13-1, 2.43
Don Balinski, New York - 12-2, 2.58

Fireman:
Mark Weiman, Arizona - 2-1, 17 Sv.
Terry Cuvinick, Vermont - 3-0, 15 Sv

Manager of the Year:
Alan Geoffrey, Tennessee
Dwight Mimmack, Vermont

Rookie of the Year:
(In the league's first season, this was judged as anyone age 26 or younger)
C, Gary "Gutter" Limones, Oklahoma - .305 AVG, 10 HR, 38 RBI
LF, Mark Wape, Washington - .311 AVG, 11 HR, 39 RBI

League MVP:
CF, Boyd Edwards, Tennessee - .317 AVG, 11 HR, 52 RBI
3B, Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota - .347 AVG, 15 HR, 53 RBI

Gold Gloves:

C, Steve Harris, Arizona... Ron Banks, Colorado
1B, L.L. Wicks, Louisiana... Jack Stern, Montana
2B, Kevin Reboss, Nebraska... Jim Jensoni, Rhode Island
3B, Matt Alford, Tennessee... Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota
SS, Ben Baleyi, Florida... Bob Wain, Pennsylvania
LF, Rob Vixon, Georgia... Rich Darna, Wisconsin
CF, Boyd Edwards, Tennessee... Chris Halley, Indiana
RF, Chris LeWay, Oregon... Jim Boydan, North Dakota
P, Louis Smit, California... Frank Caminati, Minnesota

[Matt from TN]

1989

This was a year of flux in many ways. The league officially "got its feet wet," and the talent in the minors began to flesh out. Few rookies were promoted, because many of the league's first players were in their early 30's or mid-to-late 20's. However, with teams and players now accustomed to the league and the short season, some of the standings were turned on their heads by season's end.


NL East

The defending NBL champion Tennessee Mockingbirds were easy preseason favorites. The team did little to change its makeup, other than adding two rookies from AAA Memphis - starting pitcher Rick Morting and shortstop Dick Roche. Shortstop was the team's only glaring weakness in 1988, and while Roche wasn't expected to be much of a hitter, he had world-class speed.

The Mockingbirds were stellar again in 1989, but they didn't dominate the division as badly as the previous season. Illinois quickly turned out to be a key division rival. The Cougars took the pennant race down to the wire, falling just short of unseating the defending champs. But, having the second-best record in the league is not very satisfying when you can't even make the playoffs.


NL West

A weak, if not balanced, division in 1988, the Western teams did little to impress in 1989. After their disappointing one-game division playoff loss in '88, Texas turned some heads this season. They were by far the best team in this weak division. The Oilrigs were one of only two teams with winning records in the West. Meanwhile, California flopped and finished last after winning the first NL West pennant in 1988. They recorded the worst record in the NL.


AL East

Vermont was another huge disappointment. After winning the pennant last season, they finished dead-last. That's nothing to write home about in an 8-team division. With the Kings out of the picture, Maine and Delaware took charge in the East. They both won one more game than in 1988, which was good enough to put them atop the division. In the end, Maine won out, thanks in large part to a 6-game sweep of Vermont and Ohio to end the season.


AL West

The AL West had huge turnover in the standings, further prooving that life could be erratic, maybe even chaotic, in a short 56-game season. Any significant loosing streak could easily doom your season. After making it to Game 6 of the Byrns Trophy Championship Series last season, Montana was never able to get on a roll in '89, finishing in a tie for 5th. Indiana proved to be one of the league's best surprises by improving their .500 record from 1988 to a 34-22, .607 winning percentage performance in 1989. That record earned them the pennant, just one game ahead of Wisconsin. Finishing second made it two years as a bride's maid for the Brewers, who finished two games behind Montana in 1988.


Here are the final standings from the league's second season:

NL East                   W      L    %    GB
Tennessee		 38	18  .679  -
Illinois		 36	20  .643  2
South Carolina		 30	26  .536  8
Virginia		 29	27  .518  9
Louisiana		 27	29  .482  11
Georgia			 26	30  .464  12
Florida			 22	34  .393  16

NL West	             W	    L	 %    GB
Texas			 32	24  .571  -
Arizona			 29	27  .518  3
Nevada			 27	29  .482  5
Oklahoma		 27	29  .482  5
Oregon			 26	30  .464  6
Nebraska		 23	33  .411  9
California		 21	35  .375  11

AL East		     W	    L	 %    GB
Maine			 33	23  .589  -
Delaware		 32	24  .571  1
Maryland		 29	27  .518  4
Ohio			 27	29  .482  6
Pennsylvania		 27	29  .482  6
Rhode Island		 27	29  .482  6
New York		 26	30  .464  7
Vermont			 25	31  .446  8

AL West		     W	    L	 %    GB
Indiana			 34	22  .607  -
Wisconsin		 33	23  .589  1
Minnesota		 31	25  .554  3
North Dakota		 27	29  .482  7
Colorado		 26	30  .464  8
Michigan		 26	30  .464  8
Montana			 26	30  .464  8
Washington		 20	36  .357  14

[CoachL]

I like it. I have toyed with moving the teams in my solo league, which were the major league teams before 1977 to different states, or all to the west coast for a Pacific Coast or Western league. Keep it up.

[Matt from TN]

1989 Playoffs

After the end of the second season, the only team to repeat a playoff appearance was Tennessee. While Texas lost a one-game playoff for the NL West last season, this was their first official playoff game. They have the daunting task of unseating a powerful Mockingbird team. In the AL, both Maine and Indiana won their divisions by one game, so they appeared to be the most mentally prepared for a playoff run after the high level of competition all summer. However, they were not able to rest their players the way Tennessee did.


NLCS

Tennessee opened this best-of-3 series at home by defeating Texas 4-2. The deciding blow came in the 6th when Mockingbird catcher Rick Hutcherson drilled a 2-out, 2-run double. Game 2 in Texas was dominated by the home team Oilrigs. Texas led 4-0 after 3 innings, and thanks to a strong 7 innings of 5-hit ball by pitcher Brad Hart, the Oilrigs won 5-2.

Game 3 was the first such game in the league's two-year history. Both LCS's were 2-game sweeps in 1988. In this game played in Nashville, Tennessee jumped out to a 2-0 lead off a first inning home run by outfielder Alan McCabe. The Mockingbirds later added two more runs, but Texas came back by scoring 3 runs in the 6th. That knocked rookie starting pitcher Rick Morting from the game. With the score 4-3 in Tennessee's favor, Texas got runners on 2nd and 3rd in the top of the 7th, but Tennessee's bullpen got out of the jam by forcing first baseman Cecil Benyo to pop out to SS and shortstop Travis Comptin to strikeout. Tennessee went on to add two runs in the 8th to seal the victory 6-3.


ALCS

Indiana hosted Game 1 and delighted local fans with a 5-3 victory. The Panthers jumped out 4-0, but their bullpen failed late and almost lost the game. After traveling to Maine for Game 2, the Panthers looked sluggish. They scored only 1 run on 3 hits against Coastal pitcher Hank Sherman. Meanwhile, the Coastal offense exploded for 6 runs on 15 hits. The offensive star was first baseman Ed Hamerski who went 5-for-5 with a home run and 3 RBI.

In Game 3 in Indiana, pitching was the name of the game. The two teams combined for only 10 hits on the day, but the biggest hit of all came in the top of the 6th when Hamerski hit a two-run homer with one out. The final score was just that, 2-0, as Maine earned its first trip to the BTCS.


BTCS

Tennessee set out to defend its 1988 Byrns Trophy title against newcomer Maine. The Coastals hosted the series in front of a sellout crowd in Portland. Game 1 was a classic. With the score tied 6-6 in the bottom of the 8th, Maine shortstop Billy Hurst hit a 2-out single with a runner on second. That runner, Arnie Hall raced around third and just beat the throw to the plate, giving Maine a 7-6 lead to the delight of the home crowd. Not to be outdone, Tennessee put runners on first and second in the 9th thanks to back-to-back singles. Tennessee third baseman Matt Alford hit a double deep to left-center field. The runner from second scored but first baseman Jake Roland, trying to score from first, was thrown out at home on an amazing 7-6-2 assist. With one out and the score tied 7-7, McCabe stroked a single to right-center scoring Alford. In the bottom of the 9th, Tennessee closer Marc Germaine entered the game. He struck out the first two batters he faced, and then enduced an easy flyout to center to preserve Tennessee's 8-7 win.

In Game 2, the Coastals seemed distraught after their loss the previous day. They scored 3 runs on only 6 hits, and Tennessee took a 2-0 lead in the series with a 6-3 victory. After a day off, Game 3 took place in Nashville. The Mockingbirds hammered Maine starter Andy Barker for 6 runs and 11 hits in just 2.1 innings. Meanwhile, Tennessee starter Will Barber allowed just 5 hits and two walks on way to an 11-0 shellacking.

In Game 4, Tennessee fans were screaming for a sweep. They were unsettled early as Hamerski hit a 3-run homer in the top of the 3rd to give Maine an early lead. Tennessee slowly came back, scoring a single run in the 3rd, 4th and 6th to tie the game at 3-3. After 9 complete innings, the score remained knotted at 3. In the top of the 11th, Maine had a runner on 3rd with one out, but were unable to score. In the bottom of the 12th, however, Tennessee DH Rowdy Doggett hit a 385-foot solo homer with one out that just cleared the outstretched glove of Coastal left fielder Carlos Garcia. That hit won the game 4-3 and gave Tennessee a 4-game sweep and back-to-back championships.


Playoff Summary

NLCS: Tennessee 2 - Texas 1

ALCS: Maine 2 - Indiana 1

BTCS: Tennessee 4 - Maine 0


All-Star Game

The All-Star Game was again played after the season. It was held in Annapolis, MD. The NL came out on top 4-2.


Awards

Batting Title:
NL - Joe McMickal, Texas - .342
AL - Tom Larquet, Indiana - .346


Home Run Title:
NL - L.L. Wicks, Louisiana - 13
AL - Jack Stern, Montana - 15

RBI Title:
NL - Shawn Kantston, Virginia - 51
AL - Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota - 53

Pitcher of the Year:
NL - Ben Falkland, Florida - 12-1, 2.82
AL - Jay Timmot, Pennsylvania - 11-1, 2.61

Reliever of the Year:
NL - Walt Towning, Oregon - 3-0, 14 Sv.
AL - Don Potsworth, Michigan - 4-0, 14 Sv.

Manager of the Year:
NL - Alan Geoffrey, Tennessee
AL - Daniel Zepney, Indiana

Rookie of the Year:
NL - Kenny Pinkel, Georgia - .298 AVG, 12 HR, 36 RBI
AL - Tom Larquet, Indiana - .346 AVG, 10 HR, 50 RBI

League MVP:
NL - Joe McMickal, Texas - .342 AVG, 12 HR, 57 RBI
AL - Tom Larquet, Indiana - 346 AVG, 10 HR, 50 RBI

Gold Gloves:

1B: Jerry Cevericks, Nevada... Jack Stern, Montana
2B: Kevin Reboss, Nebraska... Tom Larquet, Indiana
SS: Ben Baleyi, Florida... Larry Stevens, New York
3B: Joe McMickal, Texas... Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota
C: Gary Limones, Oklahoma... Corey Veil, Maine
LF: Rob Vixon, Georgia... Rich Darna, Wisconsin
CF: Charles Afnin, Arizona... Steve Shazman, Maryland
RF: Cap Marcran, Illinois... Craig Stebas, Ohio
P: Larry Eskito, Oregon... Ron Charley, Colorado

[Matt from TN]

1990

The league began to stabilize after its first two seasons. Tennessee proved to be a league powerhouse and perhaps a dynasty in the making. Meanwhile, no other team has yet managed to repeat a division title.

NL East

Tennessee continued to dominate the league, taking its third straight title. Illinois picked up where it left off, and again finished second, this time just one game behind the Mockingbirds. In three seasons, Illinois has finished second each time. After tying for second in 1988 and finishing in third in 1989, South Carolina fell apart and finished last in 1990.


NL West

For the second season in a row, only two teams finished with a winning record. After slipping in 1989, Oregon returned to a tie for first. Along with them was Nevada, who had the best record in the franchise's three seasons. Last season's champs, Texas, fell below .500 and tied for third.


AL East

This division was amazing in 1990! They dominated the AL, and no team finished below .500! After a disappointing 1989 season, Rhode Island improved in 1990 and finished tied with Vermont for first. Vermont finished last in 1989 after making the playoffs in 1988. This season was proof that they are a quality team. Following in Vermont's footsteps, Maine finished last after winning the division last season.


AL West

If no team in the AL East finished below .500, it's reasonable to expect many losing teams in the West. North Dakota was the only AL West team with a winning record. The Larks have shown steady improvement every season. They had the worst record in the AL in 1988 and then won 27 games in 1989. This season they won the division at 30-26. The top two teams in the division from last season, Indiana and Wisconsin, had difficult seasons. Montana continued their slide. The Cowboys played in the BTCS in 1988, tied for 5th in 1989 and finished tied for last this season.


Here are the final standings from this season:

NL East                   W      L    %    GB
Tennessee		 36	20  .643  -
Illinois		 35	21  .625  1
Georgia			 30	26  .536  6
Florida			 28	28  .500  8
Virginia		 27	29  .482  9
Louisiana		 26	30  .464  10
South Carolina		 22	34  .393  14

NL West	             W	    L	 %    GB
Oregon			 31	25  .554  -
Nevada			 31	25  .554  -
Oklahoma		 27	29  .482  4
Texas			 27	29  .482  4
Arizona			 26	30  .464  5
California		 24	32  .429  7
Nebraska		 22	34  .393  9

AL East		     W	    L	 %    GB
Rhode Island		 32	24  .571  -
Vermont			 32	24  .571  -
Delaware		 31	25  .554  1
Maryland		 31	25  .554  1
Ohio			 31	25  .554  1
Pennsylvania		 31	25  .554  1
New York		 30	26  .536  2
Maine			 28	28  .500  4 

AL West		     W	    L	 %    GB
North Dakota		 30	26  .536  -
Colorado		 28	28  .500  2
Minnesota		 28	28  .500  2
Indiana			 27	29  .482  3
Washington		 24	32  .429  6
Wisconsin		 23	33  .411  7
Michigan		 21	35  .375  9
Montana			 21	35  .375  9

[Matt from TN]

One note for anyone following this thread... I plan to continue posting until I'm up to the 2003 season... at that point (or maybe I'll have to wait for 2004), I'll attempt to post somewhat in real-time... in other words, I'll report on daily, weekly or monthly happenings of the current real year... At that point I'll sim daily or weekly...

Something I've wanted to try & it should be interesting...

One other note... these historic results are real, as I've been running this league since 1988 using various systems. The league's used OOTP since the 1997 season. I also hope to get a website up for the league at some point, once I've gotten these posts up to a more current date.

Hope you enjoy these posts... they should get more thorough as I close in on a more current date.

[Matt from TN]

1990 Playoffs

There were ties in two divisions this season, the NL West and the AL West. In the NL West, Nevada won the right to host Oregon in a one game playoff. Their luck didn't last, however, as the Blues jumped out to an early 6-2 lead after 4 innings. Nevada managed to climb back to within a run at 6-5 after a 3-run bottom of the 7th. In the bottom of the ninth, Nevada got a runner on second with only one out, but the Goldminers were unable to score. The win gave Oregon the division title and their first trip to the playoffs.

In the AL West, Rhode Island hosted 1988 division champion Vermont. Both teams hit well on this day in Providence. After 6 innings, the score was knotted at 5. In the bottom of the 7th, Rhode Island third baseman Cliff Goldwyn hit a two-run homer with one out. The Ram bullpen ensured Vermont never had a chance to tie the game by not allowing a base runner in the final two innings. The 7-5 victory sent Rhode Island to the playoffs for the first time.


NLCS

With the best record in the league, Tennessee hosted Oregon in this best-of-3 NLCS. In Game 1, the Mockingbirds jumped out early when third baseman Matt Alford hit a bases-loaded double in the 3rd, scoring three runs. He later scored on a two-out single to give Tennessee a 4-0 lead. That was all starting pitcher Jacques Turrut would need, allowing 2 runs off 6 hits and one walk through 9 innings.

In Game 2 in Portland, Tennessee scored one run in each of the first 5 innings. With Oregon only scoring two runs on 8 hits through the game, Tennessee rolled easily 7-2, returning to a third-straight BTCS.


ALCS

For the third straight year, the ALCS saw two new teams. This season, Rhode Island hosted North Dakota. Thanks to a 4-hit, 5-RBI performance by third baseman Cliff Goldwyn, Rhode Island dominated North Dakota in Game 1, winning 7-3. Game 2 in Bismark, was a much closer contest. The hometown Larks jumped out early on a 2-run homer in the 1st inning by cleanup hitting leftfielder Pete Conlan. The Rams scored a run in the 2nd and 3rd innings to knot the game at 2. In the top of the 5th, Rhode Island took a 4-2 lead thanks to four hits and a walk off Lark starting pitcher Emilio Davis. That spelled the end of the day for Davis, but he would not be tagged for the loss as North Dakota immediately tied the game at 4 with 2 runs in the bottom of that inning. In the top of the 8th, Goldwyn hit a clutch 2-out RBI single to give Rhode Island a 5-4 lead. Rams closer Danny Dover struck out the side in the bottom of the 9th, giving the Rams a shot at Tennessee in the BTCS.


BTCS

After winning both of the first two Byrns Trophy titles, Tennessee entered this year's BTCS as heavy favorites. They also had the pleasure of home field advantage. The Rams, however, shocked Tennessee in Game one by winning 4-1. Game 2 was an extra inning affair that Tennessee won 4-3 off a solo homer in the bottom of the 11th by centerfielder Boyd Edwards.

With the series tied 1-1, the teams traveled to Providence for Game 3. Rhode Island took a 5-1 lead after 7 innings to the delight of the home crowd. Tennessee scored two runs in the top of the 8th before Rams' closer Danny Dover ended the threat with a pop out. In the top of the 9th, Dover struck out the first man he faced before giving up a walk, followed by back-to-back singles. One run scored on the second single, bringing Tennessee to within one run at 5-4. After getting another strikeout, Dover allowed a towering 2-run double off the wall in left-center to DH Rowdy Doggett, giving Tennessee a 6-5 lead. Mockingbird closer Marc Germaine entered the game in the bottom of the 9th and blew through 3 Ram hitters for the save.

Game 4 was another close contest. Rhode Island scored two runs in the 6th to break a 2-2 tie. Thanks to stellar bullpen work, Rhode Island won the game 4-2, tying the series at 2 game a piece. The Rams' offense showed up in Game 5, and even though they allowed some late runs to Tennessee, Rhode Island dominated the game and won 7-5.

After a day off, both teams returned to Nashville with Tennessee needing to win both games to take its third Byrns Trophy. After 5 innings in Game 6, Tennessee held a 4-3 lead. In the top of the 6th, Rhode Island scored two runs to take a 5-4 lead. They added another run in the 7th, and Tennessee couldn't get any more offense, losing their bid to three-peat. Winning the BTCS, Rhode Island took the first title for the AL in the league's three seasons.


Playoff Summary

NLCS: Tennessee 2 - Oregon 0

ALCS: Rhode Island 2 - North Dakota 0

BTCS: Rhode Island 4 - Tennessee 2


All-Star Game

The All-Star Game was played after the season in Phoeniz, AZ. The AL won for the first time 8-6.


Awards

Batting Title:
NL - Matt Alford, Tennessee - .335
AL - Corey Veil, Maine - .331


Home Run Title:
NL - Rich Bipters, Tennessee - 17
AL - Mitch Vaughn, Michigan - 15

RBI Title:
NL - Matt Alford, Tennessee - 57
AL - Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota - 55

Pitcher of the Year:
NL - Jack Hasserry, Oregon - 12-2, 2.31
AL - John Foxx, Colorado - 11-2, 2.62

Reliever of the Year:
NL - Nick Hessner, Illinois - 1-0, 16 Sv.
AL - Les Kramer, Minnesota - 2-0, 14 Sv.

Manager of the Year:
NL - Wayne Harris, Oregon
AL - Glen Henson, North Dakota

Rookie of the Year:
NL - C Jack Hammering, Florida - .284 AVG, 10 HR, 37 RBI
AL - CF Wynne Donnogh, Colorado - .281 AVG, 11 HR, 35 RBI

League MVP:
NL - RF Rich Bipters, Tennessee - .308 AVG, 17 HR, 55 RBI
AL - LF Ted Walter, Wisconsin - .329 AVG, 15 HR, 54 RBI

Gold Gloves:

1B: Greg Caminan, Nebraska... Mark Hibbons, Washington
2B: Tom Cattrus, Oklahoma... Vince Larnocki, North Dakota
SS: Steve Leiger, Virginia... Larry Stevens, New York
3B: Brad Hais, South Carolina... Cliff Goldwyn, Rhode Island
C: Rick Oosnit, California... Mike Barlodd, Vermont
LF: Ted Kevlix, Virginia... Ted Walter, Wisconsin
CF: Rob Thompson, Oklahona... Jed Williams, Indiana
RF: Mel MacInvene, Louisiana... Craig Stebas, Ohio
P: Matt Remnoi, Cal.ifornia... Terry Scott, North Dakota

[Matt from TN]

1991

While the National Baseball League has received a lot of support from local fans, league execs fear the league will not survive without more national appeal. The powers-that-be begin to discuss serious changes to the league after the 1991 season. Rumors abound that the league is suffering through an economic crisis. While the league wants to expand to a longer season, they cannot afford it. Plus the league cannot earn more money without expanding the season. That is their quandry. Commissioner Ben Carmack announces before the 1991 season gets underway that the league may undergo some wholesale changes after the season.

Meanwhile, on the field, the Rhode Island Rams have enjoyed an offseason as Byrns Trophy Champions after knocking off the heavily favored Tennessee Mockingbirds 4 games to 2 in the 1990 series. Other teams, such as Illinois, have big plans for this season.


NL East

While Tennessee has won this division in each of the league's three seasons, the team's win-loss record has slowly diminished. This is not necessarily proof that the team was slipping, but rather it was proof that other teams in the division were improving. The Mockingbirds had another solid season in 1991, winning 34 games. Perennial bride's maid Illinois dropped into a tie for 4th, mostly because their starting rotation slipped. South Carolina and Virginia took up the slack, but they finished in a tie for 2nd place.


NL West

The NL West proved once again to be the weakest division in the NBL. No team had a winning record in 1991. California and Oklahoma tied for first with weak 28-28 records. California finished first for the second time. They won a three-way playoff in 1988 before losing in the NLCS to Tennessee. Oklahoma's .500 performance matched it's frachise-best record. Oregon and Nevada were huge disappointments after tying for the division last season.


AL East

Maine recovered from a last place finish in 1990 to tie Maryland for first in the division. The Coastals made it to the BTCS in 1989 where they were swept by Tennessee. Maryland matched their own 31 wins from last season when that same record was only good enough to put them one game out of first. This season it earned them a tie for the division lead. The two teams that tied for the division lead last season, the defending BTCS champion Rhode Island Rams and Vermont, fell to 7th and 8th in the division respectively this season. Vermont continued its up-and-down history, where they had finished first in 1988, last in 1989, tied for first in 1990 and last again in 1991.


AL West

After back-to-back 30+ win seasons, Wisconsin fought through a miserable 23-win season in 1990. However, in 1991, the Brewers got back on track by winning an AL-best 34 games and winning the division one game ahead of Colorado. The 33-win season by the Dragsters was the second best record in the AL and the best in Colorado history, yet it was only good enough for second place in the division. Indiana, who won the division in 1989, fought back from a rough 1990 season to win 31 games this season. Last season's division champs, North Dakota, went from a 30-26 first place record in 1990 to a 26-30 7th place record this season.


Final standings for 1991:

NL East W L % GB
Tennessee 34 22 .607 - -
South Carolina 30 26 .536 4
Virginia 30 26 .536 4
Georgia 29 27 .518 5
Illinois 29 27 .518 5
Louisiana 29 27 .518 5
Florida 28 28 .500 6

NL West W L % GB
California 28 28 .500 - -
Oklahoma 28 28 .500 - -
Oregon 27 29 .482 1
Texas 27 29 .482 1
Arizona 26 30 .464 2
Nevada 26 30 .464 2
Nebraska 21 35 .375 7


AL East W L % GB
Maine 31 25 .554 - -
Maryland 31 25 .554 - -
Ohio 28 28 .500 3
Pennsylvania 27 29 .482 4
Delaware 26 30 .464 5
Rhode Island 25 31 .446 6
Vermont 23 33 .411 8

AL West W L % GB
Wisconsin 34 22 .607 - -
Colorado 33 23 .589 1
Indiana 31 25 .554 3
Montana 29 27 .518 5
Minnesota 28 28 .500 6
North Dakota 26 30 .464 8
Washington 21 35 .375 13

[Matt from TN]

1991 Playoffs

Once again, two playoff games were necessary to determine the regular season champs of the NL West and AL East. California came out on top in the 3-way NL West divisional playoff in 1988. They had their chance again this season as they hosted Oklahoma. Angels' starter Phil Cockraine, only 4-9 on the season, got the nod against the Coyotes' Chris McKonkie, who was an equally unimpressive 4-8. Both hurlers pitched well for most of the game. After 8 innings, the score was tied 3-3. In the top of that inning, Coyotes' first baseman Phillip Brown hit a solo home run, giving Oklahoma a 4-3 lead and knocking Cockraine out of the game. In the bottom of the 8th, Angels' second baseman Kevin Reboss led off with a double, causing the Coyotes to dip into their bullpen for reliever Jack Hamilton. After getting an out, Hamilton allowed back-to-back doubles which scored two runs and gave California a 5-4 lead. Oklahoma was shutout in the 9th, and California made travel plans to face Tennessee.

In the AL East, Maine opened things up early, scoring severn runs in the first three innings. Maryland scored five runs in the bottom of the 5th, but the Coastal offense kept piling it on, finally winning the game 11-8.


NLCS

Tennessee once again hosted the NLCS. They defeated California in 1988, and the Mockingbirds were very heavily favored in this rematch against the 29-28 Angels. In Game 1, Tennessee starter Jacques Turrut threw a gem, allowing one run on five hits and no walks while striking out 14 Angels. Tennessee's offense was smooth, collecting 5 runs on 8 hits to win 5-1.

Game 2 in California saw Tennessee starter Whit Barber knocked out of the game i the 4th inning, after allowing 3 runs on 9 hits. Tennessee came back, however, scoring a combined five runs in the 6th and 7th innings, and winning the game 5-3.


ALCS

In Game 1, Wisconsin trailed at home 3-2 after 8 innings. In the bottom of the 9th, left fielder Anthony Spako drilled a two-run double with one out to win the game 4-3. In Game 2, Wisconsin hammered Maine for seven runs off 13 hits to win 7-3 and sweep the Coastals.


BTCS

This marked the fourth Byrns Trophy Championship Series, and Tennessee has been part of all four. They were 2-1 in the previous three BTCS's, losing for the first time last season. Wisconsin was the fourth AL team in four years to face Tennessee. Game one was played in Milwaukee, and the home town fans got a treat as the Brewers hammered Tennessee starter Keith Raimner on way to a 7-1 win. In Game 2, both teams were tied 3-3 after 9 innings. In the bottom of the 10th, Mockingbird catcher Chris Mikela hit a solo homer to give Tennessee a 4-3 victory.

Moving to Nashville, Tennessee's rookie pitcher Ken Houlas dominated the Brewers through six innings, allowing no runs and only four hits. Tennessee had a 3-0 lead until their bullpen faltered, allowing two runs in the 8th. Closer Marc Germaine came o in the 9th, however, and shut Milwaukee down to give Tennessee a 4-3 win. Game 4 was another close game. Both teams scored early. After 6 innings the game was tied 4-4. Wisconsin scored a run in the 7th, but Tennessee did the same in the 8th. In the top of the 11th inning, the Brewers scored the winning run thanks to two walks, a passed ball and a single.

With the series tied two games a piece, Tennessee hammered Wisconsin 8-2 in Game 5 to give them 3-2 edge as the series returned to Milwaukee. At home, the Brewers flourished, scoring 12 runs off the Mockingbirds in Game 6. They won 12-4.

Game 7 solidified this BTCS as the best series in league history. It was a pitcher's duel between Tennessee's Raimner and Wisconsin's Joe McHale. McHale gave up a run in the 7th when Mockingbird outfielder Marc Lynn singled home first baseman Matt Alford from third. However, Wisconsin scored a run in the 8th to tie the game at 1-1. In the top of the 9th, with one out and a runner at second, Mockingbirds' shortstop Ken Hundt hit a series-winning single with two strikes that squeaked through the right side of the Brewers infield. With four games decided by one run, this BTCS went down as a classic.


Playoff Summary

NLCS: Tennessee 2 - California 0

ALCS: Wisconsin 2 - Maine 0

BTCS: Tennessee 4 - Wisconsin 3


All-Star Game

The All-Star Game was played after the season in Bismark, ND. The AL won again, this time 4-3.


Awards

Batting Title:
NL - Ben Baleyi, Florida - .352
AL - Jack Stern, Montana - .354


Home Run Title:
NL - Tom Cattrus, Oklahoma - 19
AL - Corey Veil, Maine - 17

RBI Title:
NL - Phillip Brown, Oklahoma - 57
AL - Pete Waseley, Colorado - 56

Pitcher of the Year:
NL - Joe James, Oregon - 10-4, 2.94
AL - Jay Timmot, Pennsylvania - 11-3, 2.81

Reliever of the Year:
NL - Marc Germaine, Tennessee - 14 Sv., 0.00 ERA
AL - Charlie Lendon, Washington - 1-0, 14 Sv.

Manager of the Year:
NL - Bill Telley, South Carolina
AL - Mike Higgins, Wisconsin

Rookie of the Year:
NL - SS Todd Evans, South Carolina - .298 AVG, 11 HR, 43 RBI
AL - 2B Pete Waseley, Colorado - .306 AVG, 12 HR, 46 RBI

League MVP:
NL - 1B Benny Covasonn, South Carolina - .340 AVG, 18 HR, 51 RBI
AL - 3B Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota - .350 AVG, 16 HR, 56 RBI

Gold Gloves:

1B: Jerry Cevericks, Nevada... Jack Stern, Montana
2B: Cal Poole, Nevada... Pete Waseley, Colorado
SS: Ben Baleyi, Florida... Larry Stevens, Ohio
3B: Brad Black, Oklahoma... Gregg Gaseton, Minnesota
C: Rick Oosnit, South Carolina... Corey Veil, Maine
LF: Jake Roland, South Carolina... Mitch Vaughn, Vermont
CF: Charles Afnin, Arizona... Don Ericher, Maryland
RF: Jose Vanchez, Arizona... Ted Walter, Wisconsin
P: Phil Cockraine, California... Ozzie Consuela, Ohio

[Matt from TN]

1992

In a cost-cutting move, the NBL decided to disband the AL after the 1991 season. By doing this, the league hoped to dump more revenue into the NL to help improve stadiums, or build new stadiums. The league also announced plans to expand the season in 1993. While there were many sad and angry fans of the 16 AL teams, the league promised to return franchises to many of the AL states in the near future. With the NBL down to one league (the NL), the Byrns Trophy Championship Series would consist of two NL teams. Meanwhile, the 16 AL teams worked all offseason to secure local funding to maintain the league. It played the 1992 season on its own in a valiant attempt to retain its core players and fan base.

Contrary to the financial woes claimed by the NBL, the league awarded two expansion franchises to the NL. The two new teams became known as the Alabama Lariats and the Missouri Mustangs. Both teams took part in an expansion draft during the winter. With NL teams allowed to protect very few major league players, both new franchises assembled strong initial rosters.


NL East

The Tennessee Mockingbirds celebrated their third Byrns Trophy Championship and fourth consecutive NL championship last season. In 1992, however, the team struggled. There were five new starters in the Tennessee lineup compared to last season's opening day lineup. All five of those players were backups or platoon players in 1991. Some of those players had very solid seasons, but the Mockingbirds failed to replace the homerun power of former #5 hitter Rich Bipters, who was taken by new division rival Alabama in the expansion draft. Tennessee's key offseason acquisitions were former Nevada shortstop Zack Razenick and Evan D'Weston, Louisiana's #2 starting pitcher last season. While both Razenick and D'Weston had solid seasons, the team got off to a poor start from which they never recovered.

After finishing second last season, South Carolina ended 1992 tied for first with the expansion Lariats. New Ocenic pitcher Luke Zevistane established himself as a dominating hurler. Zevistane, who was drafted by Alabama in the expansion draft before being traded to South Carolina, finished 10-4 on the season with a league leading 2.84 ERA. Alabama was led by Bipters and a pair of hard-hitting rookies, first baseman Arthur Adams and third baseman Chet Bennett. The Lariat rotation was anchored by veterans Chris McKonkie (8-6) and John Bass (7-4), but the real stars were rookies Josh Irving (6-5) and Keith Caine (8-6), who became recognized as two of the league's top upcoming pitchers after strong perfomances in their first season. After finishing tied with the Ocenics for second last season, Virginia had an identical 30-26 record in 1992, but this time it was only good enough for fourth place. Louisiana improved to 31-25, but finished one game out of first.


NL West

This division has been synonymous with underachieving since the NBL began play in 1988. However, in 1992 an amazing thing happened: expansion Missouri set a division record with 34 wins (.607). This team, composed of one-time cast-offs, role players and a few enlightened free agents, stunned the NBL by bringing a pennant to the Show-Me State in only the team's first season. The big star in Missouri was first baseman Benny Covasonn, who never cracked the starting lineup in South Carolina. In his first season as a starter, Benny hit .320 with 14 home runs and 48 RBI. Former Texas third baseman Cecil Benyo had a career year for the Mustangs, as did former Georgia starter Victor Lewisson, who recorded a 9-2 record. Nevada improved from 26 wins (.464) in 1991 to 31 wins (.554) in 1992, but they finshed three games behind Missouri. After returning to the playoffs last season, California repeated their 1991 record (28-28), but not their 1991 results (3rd place, 6 games back). Oklahoma, who tied California for the division lead last season, finished tied for last in 1992.



Final 1992 Standings:

NL East W L % GB
South Carolina 32 24 .571 - -
Alabama 32 24 .571 - -
Louisiana 31 25 .554 1
Virginia 30 26 .536 2
Tennessee 29 27 .518 3
Illinois 27 29 .482 5
Georgia 26 30 .464 6
Florida 23 33 .411 9


NL West W L % GB
Missouri 34 22 .607 - -
Nevada 31 25 .554 3
California 28 28 .500 6
Texas 27 29 .482 7
Nebraska 25 31 .446 9
Oregon 25 31 .446 9
Arizona 24 32 .429 10
Oklahoma 24 32 .429 10

[Matt from TN]

I'm beginning the real-time thread for 2003 HERE. I'll continue updating this historical thread once I get 2003 on its feet. Please check it out and tell me what you think.

[Matt from TN]

1992 Playoffs

This was the first season without the AL, so the Byrns Trophy Championship Series showcased the two NL division winners.


BTCS

Although Missouri had a slightly better record, South Carolina were slim favorites to win the first "All NL" BTCS. Perhaps that favoritism came more from Missouri's expansion status rather than a lack of talent. The Mustangs were out to prove the critics wrong. In Game 1 of the BTCS, hosted by Missouri, the home town Mustangs pounded Ocenic pitching for an early 6-0 lead. The Ocenics would score three runs in the top of the 7th, but Missouri rolled to a 7-3 win. In Game 2, Mustang rookie Travis Sanders shut the door on the Ocenics, allowing only 1 run on 5 hits and 3 walks over eight innings. Meanwhile, Mustang hitters, such as rightfielder Ralph Monroe, hammered South Carolina starter Steve Karuma for 5 runs in the first two innings of the game. Monroe's three-run homer in the first opened the flood gates, and Missouri won 7-1.

South Carolina returned home for Game 3. The Ocenics had been embarrassed by the expansion Mustangs. Ocenic starter Carl Zinnes wanted to give his team a much needed victory, but instead, he too was hammered by the suddenly potent Mustang offense. Zinnes allowed seven runs through four innings. The pitching star of the game was Missouri starter Victor Lewisson who threw a 4-hit, 1-walk complete game shut out. This 7-0 victory gave Missouri an unprecedented 3-0 lead in the BTCS.

In Game 4, Missouri looked for the sweep, while South Carolina hoped to extend the series. The Ocenics scored in the first inning off a solo home run by rightfielder Montey Lewis, but that was all they would get. Mustang rookie starter Walt Thayer allowed only that one run and a total of 7 hits through six innings. The Mustang offense scored four runs to win the game 4-1. That win gave Missouri an unimaginable BTCS championship in its first season in the league. The series was also the first BTCS sweep in the league's history.


Playoff Summary

BTCS: Missouri 4 - South Carolina 0


1st Annual East-West Game

The All-Star Game was renamed the East-West Game. It was held in Atlanta, GA. The East won 6-4.


Awards

Batting Title:
NL - Bob Ebony, Georgia - .365

Home Run Title:
NL - Jerry Cevericks, Nevada - 18

RBI Title:
NL - Jerry Cevericks, Nevada - 62

Pitcher of the Year:
NL - Luke Zevistane, South Carolina - 10-4, 2.84 ERA

Reliever of the Year:
NL - Marc Germaine, Tennessee - 14 Sv., 1.50 ERA

Manager of the Year:
NL - Jim Hull, Missouri

Rookie of the Year:
NL - 3B Chet Bennett, Alabama - .287 AVG, 15 HR, 47 RBI

League MVP:
NL - 1B Jerry Cevericks, Nevada - .319 AVG, 18 HR, 62 RBI

Gold Gloves:

1B: Matt Alford, Tennessee
2B: Darryl Whitson, Illinois
SS: Todd Evans, South Carolina
3B: Allan Williams, Virginia
C: Mike Trofus, Texas
LF: Rob Vixon, Georgia
CF: Chris Morrison, Louisiana
RF: Andy Harborred, Oregon
P: Taylor Hendrick, Florida

[Matt from TN]

1993

The league announced that after the 1993 season, it would re-create the AL with some of the same cities. More on that next season. As for 1993, this would be the second and final championship that would consist of two former NL teams. This season was the first in the NBL's experiment with an extended schedule. The league decided to play an 81-game season, and if it was successful, they would consider increasing it again at a later date.


NL East

South Carolina made their first postseason appearance last season after defeating expansion Alabama in a one-game division playoff. The Ocenics were crushed in the BTCS, however, and several key players left via free agency. Thad forced the team's front office to make several trades to fill holes. The Ocenics were unable to defend their division title in 1993. They finished with a losing record and 15 games out of first. Alabama also had difficulty repeating their tie for first place. They too finished this season with a losing record.

Tennessee came off the franchise's first losing season with renewed energy. A few key personnel additions did the trick. Centerfielder Gary Cerex was a spark plug atop the team's batting order. Georgia was coming off the franchise's first losing season in three years. They too had an amazing season. The Mockingbirds and Rangers finished with the top two records in the NBL, but it was Tennessee who won the pennant by 3 games.


NL West

Expansion Missouri shocked the NBL world in 1992 by winning the Byrns Trophy Championship. The team cuold not withstand the pressur in 1993 however, and they never got on a roll. Nevada finally put it's stellar roster together for a first place finish, but they ended in a tie with Oregon. In 1990, these same two teams finished the regular season in a tie for first and Oregon came away with a win in a one-game playoff. This year, they faced off again and Oregon repeated their victory, this time by a score of 1-0. Blues' starter Keith Raimner allowed only 4 hits in a complete game shutout of the Goldminers.



Final 1992 Standings:

NL East W L % GB
Tennessee 53 28 .654 - -
Georgia 50 31 .617 3
Louisiana 41 40 .506 12
Virginia 40 41 .494 13
Alabama 39 42 .481 14
South Carolina 38 43 .469 15
Illinois 33 48 .407 20
Florida 30 51 .370 23


NL West W L % GB
Oregon 47 34 .580 - -
Nevada 47 34 .580 - -
Oklahoma 44 37 .543 3
Nebraska 42 39 .519 5
Missouri 40 41 .494 7
California 38 43 .469 9
Texas 34 47 .420 13
Arizona 32 49 .395 15

[Matt from TN]

1993 Playoffs

With the recreation of the AL, this would be the final NL-only BTCS. Tennessee was the heavy favorite, finishing the season with the best overall record, but Oregon is a feisty team with a lot to prove. The Blues know that to be considered among the best, they must go through Tennessee.


BTCS

Oregon had to use their #2 starter in the one-game playoff with Nevada, so their #3 man, Larry Eskito started Game 1 of the BTCS. He was 8-5 on the season with a team-best 2.94 ERA. With three days rest, Tennessee was able to throw out their ace, Jacques Turrut, who was 13-3 on the season with a 2.61 ERA. Turrut would come out on top this day, allowing only 1 run off 7 hits. Eskito pitched well, but he gave up 4 runs in the 6th inning as Tennessee went on to win 5-1. The killing blow was a 3-run homer by leftfielder Gabe Rawls.

Game 2 in Nashville, Oregon scored 5 runs in the first inning off Tennessee starter Evan D'Weston (12-2, 2.06 ERA). D'Weston calmed down and allowed only 2 more hits through the 7th inning, but the damage had been done. All Tennessee got were a pair of solo homers off Oregon's Jack Hasserry (10-6, 3.22). The Blues won 5-2 to even the series.

In Portland, Oregon pitcher Keith Raimner (10-6, 3.29) started his first game since shutting down Nevada in a 1-game division playoff. He had the right stuff on this night, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits and a walk. On the other side, Tennessee's Robert Vanderbilt (10-5, 2.42) was just a little better. He allowed only one run on 8 hits and 2 walks. Mockingbird centerfielder George Jumper made an amazing catch with two outs in the 8th to save two runs. Tennessee went on to win 2-1.

Eskito returned to the mound in Game 4 as Oregon looked to even the series. He again faced Tennessee ace Turrut. This game was another pitcher's duel. Tennessee scored 2 runs in the 3rd to take an early lead, but after scoring a run in the 5th, a solo homer by Blues' catcher Lloyd Johnson in the 6th tied the score. The game went into extra innings and with a runner on 2nd base and 1 out in the top of the 11th, Tennessee shortstop Zack Razenick stroked a single that gave his team a 3-2 lead. Mockingbird closer Marc Germaine came on to seal the deal, and he did with a 3-up, 3-down 11th that included two strikeouts.

Tennessee now had a 3-game-to-1 lead in the series. Hasserry, Oregon's ace, returned to the mound to face Vanderbilt. Neither pitcher made it past the 5th inning as both teams scored almost at will. By the end of the 6th, the score was tied 5-5. Infielder Alan McCabe entered the game in the top of the 8th as a pinch hitter. He hit a double that scored two runs, giving Tennessee a 7-5 lead. The Mockingbird bullpen shut Oregon down the rest of the way. Germaine collected his second save of the BTCS and Tennessee won its 4th championship in the 6th NBL season.


Playoff Summary

BTCS: Tennessee 4 - Oregon 0


2nd Annual East-West Game

The East-West Game was again held in Atlanta, GA. The East won 6-1.


Awards

Batting Title:
NL - Ross Chandler, Tennessee - .443

Home Run Title:
NL - Andy Harborred, Oregon - 21

RBI Title:
NL - Andy Harborred, Oregon - 66

Pitcher of the Year:
NL - Evan D'Weston, Tennessee - 12-2, 2.06 ERA

Reliever of the Year:
NL - Rick Gregory, Georgia - 31 Sv., 3.46 ERA

Manager of the Year:
NL - Wayne Harris, Oregon

Rookie of the Year:
NL - RF Ross Chandler, Tennessee - .433 AVG, 10 HR, 53 RBI

League MVP:
NL - RF Andy Harborred, Oregon - .344 AVG, 21 HR, 66 RBI

Gold Gloves:

1B: Benny Covasonn Mis
2B: Tom Cattrus Ore
SS: Corey Hasselton Tex
3B: Huey Davidson Ore
C: Matt Ellard Okl
RF: Troy Damerman Ore
CF: Chris Morrison Lou
LF: Nick Seigel Lou
P: Stan Cooley Vir