NBL - An Experiment in Real-Time Reporting - 2003

[Matt from TN]

This thread will be dedicated to real-time reporting of the National Baseball League. In this thread, I will attempt to report real-time happenings and news around the league, including offseason transactions, preseason predictions, weekly/monthly reports, All-Star festivities, the postseason and anything else I come across.

When I say real-time, I literally mean that the league will keep up with the current dates. So as I am making this post on May 14, 2003, that is the same date in the league. The season will, therefore, mirror the real MLB somewhat in terms of time of year (i.e. spring training, opening day, postseason, etc). I've been interested in this for a long time, and I hope with regular reporting, this will catch the interest of a few readers.

Let me start by saying I have been simulating real-time seasons for the NBL since 1988 using various methods/games. The league migrated to OOTP for the 1997 season, and it's been using OOTP ever since. There is a thread where I've been posting some brief historical capsules of past seasons HERE. It isn't complete yet, but if there is interest, I'll finish it up once I get the 2003 NBL season started in this thread. Please post any comments or suggestions about this thread. Also, if you want to see specific types of posts from me, such as more in-depth stories on specific players, more stats, etc, just let me know.

Hope you come to enjoy the NBL through this thread as much as I've enjoyed keeping this league alive for so long. Here goes....

EDIT: You can now view the html for this league HERE

[Matt from TN]

I suppose there's no better place to begin than to recap the 2002 season. This will give you a clearer picture of the current state of the league. (PS - if anyone knows a way to make these standings keep their format for better reading, please let me know).

Final 2002 Standings:

Southern League

East

Alabama Lariats 105-57 --
Tennessee Mockingbirds 99-63 6
South Carolina Ocenics 96-66 9
Virginia Stallions 70-92 35
Georgia Rangers 59-103 46

Central

Nebraska Shuckers 86-77 --
Texas Oilrigs 85-78 1
Louisiana Chocktaws 72-90 13.5
Missouri Mustangs 65-97 20.5
Oklahoma Coyotes 65-97 20.5

West

Oregon Blues 92-70 --
California Cobras 87-75 5
Nevada Goldminers 78-84 14
Arizona Trailways 76-86 16


Northern League

East

New Jersey Jets 88-74 --
New York Knights 85-77 3
Connecticut Dragsters 80-82 8
Delaware Mavericks 75-87 13
New Hampshire Hornets 57-105 31

Central

Pennsylvania Sentinels 97-65 --
Ohio Assassins 92-70 5
Michigan Dragons 90-72 7
Wisconsin Rattlers 76-86 21
Illinois Panthers 71-91 26

West

Washington Timbers 88-74 --
Dakota Grizzlies 82-80 6
Kansas Wranglers 79-83 9
Alaska Huskies 74-88 14


In 2002, the Alabama Lariats shocked the league by going worst-to-first in style. After loosing 103 games in 2001, the Lariats made an amazing 47-game turnaround in 2002. While many experts believed their 2001 season was a huge disappointment caused by lackluster play and terrible seasons from most key players, no one expected 105 wins from Alabama in 2002. The Tennessee Mockingbirds continued their return to glory. The most dominating franchise in the league's 15-year history, Tennessee won 99 games and made the playoffs as a wildcard. South Carolina won a dominating 96 games, but finished third in the powerful SL East. Meanwhile, the 2001 Southern champion Georgia Rangers backed up their shocking Byrns Trophy Championship Series appearance with a 103-loss, last place finish.

In the SL Central, Nebraska won a one-game playoff with Texas to return the Shuckers to the playoffs. Nebraska won the Byrns Trophy in 2000, but were unable to defend the title or the division pennant in 2001. Texas continued to be one of the all-time underachieving franchises. The Oilrigs have been labeled as an overpaid team that could not get results for many seasons now. Louisiana continued to rebuild their strugging franchise, while Oklahoma continued to be the poster child for futility (insert Bengals comparison here).

The Oregon Blues were strong again in 2002, and their closest competitor was a surprising California club who finished last in 2001. Both Nevada and Arizona were big disappointments. Nevada had been building on a recent string of successes, while Arizona's club had aged too much to be among the best any more.

The Northern East saw New Jersey repeat as division champs. These two division titles were the first in the club's history since beginning play as an expansion team in 1995. New York was a big surprise in second place, proving that their recent rebuilding is paying off. This was the Knights' first winning season since 1995. Delaware was a disappointment after being picked as the #1 or #2 team in the division, and New Hampshire officially became labeled as the North's worst franchise.

Pennsylvania shocked the NBL to come out of nowhere to win a league-high 97 games. Ohio, one of the North's best franchises for many years, was just as surprising by maintaining their winning ways even after losing many key players over the past two offseasons. After winning the Byrns Trophy in 2001, Wisconsin drove experts and team management mad with their 76-86 title defense.

After losing to Wisconsin in the 2001 NLCS, Washington won the West again, but they were not as dominating. Dakota eeked out a winning record (82-80) in what has been known as the weakest division in the NBL for many seasons.


Playoff Recap

Nebraska (2) against Alabama (3)
Oregon (3) against Tennessee (1)
Washington (0) against Pennsylvania (3)
New Jersey (3) against Ohio (1)

LCS:
Oregon (4) against Alabama (1)
New Jersey (4) against Pennsylvania (2)

Byrns Trophy Series:
New Jersey (3) against Oregon (4)
WINNER : Oregon

[Matt from TN]

Here's a brief rundown of the major player movement during the winter prior to 2003 Spring Training. This is brief only because it's a recap. When the next offseason arrives, the report will be much more in-depth.

C Garret Duran, ORE: Now known as one of the premier catchers in the NBL (a league with many offensive backstops), Duran left Oregon as soon as his 5-year eligibility arrived. He shocked the league by signing a 5-year deal with hapless New Hampshire where he will make over $8.6 million per year.

C Mitchell Breeden, WSH: A slugging catcher. Left division champ Washington to play with small market Louisiana.

SS Dick Roche, NJ: One of the all-time best baserunners in the league. Will be playing for Alaska.

1B Greg Caminan, ARZ: Hall-of-Fame potential. On many offensive career leaderboards. At age 38, has slowed somewhat. Signed 2-year contract with Michigan.

RF Charles Hunter, MIS: Came on strong in last few seasons of arbitration. Will now wear Oklahoma jersey. One of the best acquisitions for Coyotes in many years.

CL Marc Germaine, NJ: One of the two best closers of all-time. Did not get many good offers. Will get over $6 mill per year in New Hampshire. May be bad situation statistically for him, since there will be few save opportunities on lousy team.

CF Eric Crenshaw, TEX: Age 36, but a Hall-of-Famer. Incredible career. Still hit .333 with 26 HR, 104 RBI, 28 SB in 2002. Surprisingly signed with Oklahoma.

2B Tyke Quincey, WIS: One of league's best 2B's. Career .321 AVG. Still has power at age 35. Signed with Texas.

1B Fernando Villalpando, ALB: With Alabama, was part of the NBL's best 3-4 hitter combo. Only 28, but has career .338 AVG and 127 HR. Has had 100+ RBI in 4 of 5 seasons. Will make over $11 million for 6 years in Missouri.

CF Tomo Tsunami, KAN: Japanese native has career .299 AVG in first 5 seasons, along with 99 HR and 193 SB. Signed with Tennessee and will give his new team another offensive threat.

CL Robert Honug, SC: Career 2.52 ERA. Has had ERA under 2.00 four times in past six seasons! 218 saves to his credit. A huge addition to Missouri's improving pitching staff.

C Mike Wilson, ILL: Gets little notoriety due to other stellar catchers. Has .302 career AVG and can hit a few homers too. Will give Missouri a better offensive catcher.

1B Benny Covasonn, KAN: Possible Hall-of-Famer. Age 35 and still hits for average. Has lost some of his power stroke though. Signed with Ohio.

RF Wayman Lucas, DEL: Age 30, with .298 career AVG. Hits 20+ HR's per year and should drive in a lot of runs for Virginia.

MR Clay Abrahms, WIS: One of the best setup men. Has a chance to be a closer in Ohio.

C Stan Nolan, CAL: Also part of super-catching crop from last several years. Hits 30+ homers and drives in runs. Has a chance at playoffs in New Jersey.

SP Rusty Catlin, TEX: A very strong pitcher. Best free agent starter this season, which paid off in $10.7 million contract with Nevada. 123-81 career record.

LF Ross Chandler, CAL: A pure hitter. Hit over .400 in one of the last short seasons (56 game schedule). Has decent power, average speed and good fielder. (His name is not a 'Friends' reference, that's pure coincedence).

[Matt from TN]

Here's a brief analysis of the major offseason trades:

Texas gets:
2B Al Simmons
New York gets:
RF Kevin Young
C Del England
SS Mike McCullough

Simmons is a potential hitting machine, but career .270 average must improve. Average defensively, but can play 2B, 3B and SS. England and McCullough are fringe prospects with little shot at the bigs, but Young is an emerging star. Only 25, Young has ability to hit for average and add a lot of long balls. This trade could end up very lopsided in New York's favor.


Alaska gets:
LF Gary Ouellette
SP Stevie Noell
Kansas gets:
SS Damon Grady

Grady is a solid shortstop. He's a good #2 hitter and decent fielder. Ouellette slumped in 2002, his 3rd pro season, but he has .300, 25 HR potential. Noell has a slim shot at the majors.


Virginia gets:
SS Derel Baker
RP Jay Esser
Kansas gets:
RF Corbet Birmingham

Birmingham was the 1999 SL Rookie of the Year, but as part of a very weak rookie class. Found a power stroke last season, but hit only .226. Baker has a lot of speed and is a solid hitter. Esser will likely be a AAA reliever.


Louisiana gets:
3B Daniel Powers
Michigan gets:
SP Aril Hamburg
SP Faustino Camacho

Powers was once considered to be the best young 3B in the league. He still hits well, but not as much as originally hoped. He's good for 30 HR's a year. Hamburg is a 37-year-old starter who can fill a spot in Michigan's rotation. The kicker, though, is Camacho - a 5 star SP prospect in A ball.


California gets:
LF Craig Aubrey
1B Luther Vogtman
2B Linwood Kale
New York gets:
SP McKinley Marty

Marty is a 23-year-old phenom. He was 5-8 with a 5.58 ERA as a rookie last season, but he could become a team ace. Put him behind super-starter Lucas Alford, and New York may have one awesome pitching staff soon. Aubrey hit .360 from the bench last season. Vogtman has little chance at the majors. Kale is developing very slowly in A ball at age 22, but scouts believe he could become a very stong 2B. Still, how could California trade Marty? Bad move.


Delaware gets:
RF Brad Oakley
Tennessee gets:
RP Pablo Fuentes
SP David Habeck
3B Samuel Barcenas
RF Reese Sato

Oakley is a solid outfielder, but Delaware gave up too much to get him. Trying to rebuild their farm system, Tennessee got a very good reliever in Fuentes, a solid starter in Habeck, a hard-hitting 3B in Barcenas who they hope will become Matt Alford's replacement after retirement and throw-in outfielder Sato. The Mockingbirds like Sato, who was Delaware's first round draft pick in 1988. Sato never panned out in the Maverick's system. He'll get his shot in Tennessee as a part-time DH. With some work, this 26-year old could still develop into a big slugger.

[Matt from TN]

This post will begin the division previews for 2003. I will list teams in my predicted order of finish.

Southern League East

1. Tennessee Mockingbirds, (99-63, 2nd Place, Wildcard)

Three-time Pitcher of the Year Jacques Turrut announced this would be his last season. His ERA ballooned to 4.97 in 2002, and he will pitch out of the #4 or 5 spot in the rotation. This will mark the first time in Tennessee's 16-year franchise history that Turrut was not the opening day starter. That distinction falls to Tommy Henkgen, who was 18-6 with a 3.62 ERA in 2002. The rest of the staff is loaded with Martin Evans, Quinn Magee and 25-year-old future ace Cedric Arriaga.

The team's offense is strong as well. They are led by a core of powerful hitters. Leftfielder Jeff Woods hit .323 with 32 HR and 112 RBI last season. He is surronded by other solid hitters such as shortstop Kevin Martin (.324, 27, 104), third baseman Matt Alford (.318, 24, 101), catcher Gene Patrick (.296, 19, 90), rightfielder Gary Cerex (.298, 14, 74, 33 SB), new centerfielder Tomo Tsunami (.292, 15, 86) and others.


2. Alabama Lariats, (105-57, 1st Place)

This is a very potent lineup that hit on all cylinders last season. No matter how good they are, it will be hard to replace the bat of first baseman Fernando Villalpando who left via free agency this winter. They still have 2003 SL MVP, third baseman John D'Amirico (.309, 49, 145), one of the top power hitters in the game. They need a major upgrade at first base. Villalpando's departure has left a gaping hole there. Currently they only have former backup Simon Telutta to fill the spot, but they will need to bring in someone else.

Pitching made the difference for this team last year, mostly thanks to the addition of Beau Rochester, who went 14-8 with a 3.20 ERA. The biggest shock was now 24-year old Eric Alford, who was named Rookie of the Year after recording a 22-5 record and 2.53 ERA, all SL rookie records. Alford's brother Lucas was NL Rookie of the Year in 2000 for New York. Eric earned the opening day nod in 2003 after mowing down the competition in his rookie campaign. Young closer Marcus Mihara makes up a great 1-2 combo with setup man Thomas Boldey.


3. South Carolina Ocenics, (96-66, 3rd Place)

The Ocenics were very disappointed last season when they won 96 games but finished third in the division and missed the playoffs. Competition will again be tough this season, but the Ocenics are up for the challenge. Ace Cy Mills again anchors the rotation. He won his first Pitcher of the Year Award last season by going 27-5 with a 1.68 ERA. Newly acquired Greg Wright will be the #2 starter. He was 12-12 with a 3.60 ERA between Connecticut and Nebraska last season.

Offensively, this team has some question marks. Leftfielder Steve Beuser hit 40 homers last season, but he hit only .244. This 26-year-old can go nowhere but up. He will have little other help outside of second baseman Tuck Carver (.286, 22, 78) and first baseman Thomas Akeo (.301, 12, 82).


4. Georgia Rangers, (59-103, 5th Place)

The Rangers further proved that their 2001 BTCS appearance was a fluke, but no one foresaw them losing 103 games in 2002. Manager John Caspar's promise to rebuild the pitching staff has been hollow up until now. However, some of his work may begin to pay off now that youngsters Michael Clift and Luther Whatley have a full season under their belts.

Pitching will need to improve if this team wants to win. Thier offense doesn't stand up to other powerhouses in this division. 26-year-old first baseman Eduardo Coska had a breakout year in 2002 hitting .288 with 37 HR and 97 RBI. Very good on a team that won only 59 games.


5. Virginia Stallions, (70-92, 4th Place)

This team has some very good hitters in first baseman Arthur Adams (.292, 29, 106), leftfielder Carlos Iveman (.267, 25, 103) and new rightfielder Wayman Lucas (.255, 23, 87). Their pitching rotation is anchored by fading Robin McCormick. They also have young up-and-comers Karl Kadani and Daniel Phillipi. However, outside of closer Adam Gillahan, their bullpen is in shambles. They are expected to promote some youngsters, but it might be too soon.

[Matt from TN]

1. Missouri Mustangs, (65-97, Tied - 4th Place)

Yes, the Mustangs HAVE improved that much. During the winter, they added first baseman Fernando Villalpando (.328, 30, 100), catcher Mike Wilson (.280, 14, 59) and rightfielder Marco Durrante (.239, 12, 57) who is coming off a down year. Those guys join a lineup that already contains second baseman Clint Browning (.293, 29, 104) and outfielders Dan Billops and Trent Blake.

They added closer Robert Honug to their bullpen. Honug is one of the best. He's had an ERA below 2.00 in four of the past six seasons! Their rotation will be the key to this team's success. They are led by Brian Corsett and Dan Benerot.


2. Louisiana Choctaws, (72-90, 3rd Place)

Veteran Zane Gerdrine (8-8, 3.30) was brought in to anchor this rotation. Around him are youngsters Dorio Chaves (18-5, 4.39) and Charles Zermeno (6-14, 6.81). Outside of Gerdrine, no other starter is over age 27. The bullpen needs to help carry the load. 23-year-old Maxim Figueroa was handed the closer's job last season. He did well, converting 80% of his save opportunities.

They upgraded their offense with catcher Mitchell Breeden, who hit .245 with 43 homers and 115 RBI in 2002. He will be surrounded by other good hitters like first baseman Derrick Pickney (.282, 20, 94), centerfielder LeRoy Mitchen (.313, 27, 115), rightfielder Cleve Maydon (.310, 31, 117) and surprising leftfielder Greg Foley (.281, 20, 73).


3. Oklahoma Coyotes, (65-97, Tied - 4th Place)

Oklahoma added two offensive threats in centerfielder Eric Crenshaw (.333, 26, 104, 28 SB) and rightfielder Charles Hunter (.285, 26, 93). Outside of those two, much of the offense is aging but can still be productive.

The Coyotes believe their core of young pitchers can make this team competitive in 2003. Daniel Belitz, 26, will start on opening day. He was 15-8 with a 4.09 ERA in his first full season. They are also counting on improvement from Mark Luce and Mike Masuraca, as well as the steady hands of Ricky Mariciani and Travis Sanders.


4. Nebraska Shuckers, (86-77, 1st Place)

During the offseason, Nebraska lost two of their starting pitchers and two outfielders to free agency. They are using this opportunity to test out youngsters Farris Berryhill and rookie Charles Wright. The staff is still anchored by former POTY winner Phil Dunnert. They have a very strong bullpen led by closer Harry Heins and the consummate setup man Zeke Riles. The bullpen will aid in their rotation's development.

Their outfield is weak except for 2001 Rookie of the Year Martin Willard. Catcher Damon Erickson may be forced to play leftfield, giving Anthony Beith the duties behind the plate.


5. Texas Oilrigs, (85-78, 2nd Place)

Several of this team's top players retired or left as free agents this winter, namely their #1 pitcher Rusty Catlin. His absense leaves a huge void in this staff.

Offense has long been this team's strong suit, but it was lessened by the loss of Eric Crenshaw. They still have leftfielder Ricky Abbott (.279, 34, 100), catcher Tony Waqueme (.297, 19, 84), third baseman Chet Bennett (.274, 17, 67) and young rightfielder Edward Newbolt (.349, 16, 108).

[Matt from TN]

1. Oregon Blues, (92-70, 1st Place, NBL Champs)

The defending NBL champs took a huge hit when they lost catcher Garret Duran to free agency. They chose not to replace him, but instead handed the reigns to Don DeBaret, who doesn't have Duran's power, but who hits for a high average. They expect Duran's slack will be taken up by future Hall-of-Fame second baseman Kevin Reboss (.352 AVG), leftfielder Brad Daye (.278, 18, 103) and centerfielder Chris Morrison (.278, 21, 113).

Pitching has become the team's strong suit. They are led by surprise 26-year-old Mike Morris (15-8, 3.79). Their bullpen is one of the league's best, and they showcase Johnny Yostetson, one of the two best closers in NBL history.


2. Nevada Goldminers, (78-84, 3rd Place)

After failing to improve on 2001's strong performance, Nevada looks to improve on last season. They lost a lot of players to free agency, but they made a huge splash in signing ace Rusty Catlin (16-12, 3.74) to a 4-year contract worth over $42 million. He will lead a staff that features other solid starters, such as Mahktar Sarr (12-6, 3.78), Louis Yunghall and Steve DeMay.

Offensively, they have one of the best hitters in the history of the NBL, first baseman Jerry Cevericks. They also managed to resign centerfielder Ethan Welch (.284, 22, 96), who is one of the top defensive outfielders in the SL. The lineup also contains leftfielder Brock Young (.289, 31, 94).


3. California Cobras, (87-75, 2nd Place)

California will not likely be able to overcome the loss of several key offensive players this winter. They still have young rightfielder Trace Williamson (.283, 23, 98) and first baseman Jack Stern (.322, 19, 98), but that likely won't be enough firepower.

Their strength lies in pitching, where they are led by Jake Nahgler (17-10, 2.30). They also feature young star Rufus Gherting. The presence of Gherting allowed the Cobras to trade another young star pitcher, McKinley Marty to New York, but they will probably come to regret that decision.


4. Arizona Trailways, (76-86, 4th Place)

This once proud franchise is now in full decline. Many players have gotten too old. They have three solid starters: two-time POTY Jack Hasserry, Brad Mytry and Theodore Morgan. After them, the rotation is shaky at best. Their bullpen is solid, especially with star closer Tommy Waters.

The offense is where most of the age has caught up, and where most of the weaknesses are. Their only solid starters are second baseman Andrik Howard (.294, 20, 99), third baseman Mike Georgia (.306, 17, 76), leftfielder Malik Howard (.298, 18, 105) and rightfielder Miguel Nunez (.292, 38, 143).

[Matt from TN]

1. New Jersey Jets, (88-74, 1st Place, NL Champs)

The Jets lost their leadoff hitter and their closer this offseason. The team still has one of the better rotations in the game, led by future Hall-of-Famer Ben Lestrick (22-5, 2.37). They also have the luxury of a second ace, Ean Carlisle, (8-14, 3.53) who struggled at times last season. They signed free agent Earl Davidson (11-7, 4.24), a former All-Star. Their rotation also features Manuel Despaigne and Ricardo Keenan. 25-year-old setup man Corey Herrera will move to the closer's role, replacing one of the all-time great closers, Marc Germaine. That transition will be key.

New Jersey spent over $41 million to add catcher Stan Nolan (.270, 30, 105) to their lineup. He worked out at first base during the spring, and that move will allow young catcher Terry Zamudio to start most of the season behind the plate. The Jets also have one of the better hitters in the game with leftfielder Duane Cope (.313, 23, 84).


2. Connecticut Dragsters, (80-82, 3rd Place)

Connecticut has a solid pitching staff. They are not dominating, but they can help the team win many games. They have three-time POTY Evan D'Weston (3-8, 5.60), who has continued to slip badly after his three awards in 1993-1995. He is no longer considered among the elite. They also have Rick Irwin (10-15, 5.40), Chad LaCaze (8-10, 3.86) and 22-year-old Jim Hardy (15-11, 5.39). While their rotation is average, their bullpen is strong. Dale Bronas moved into the closer role in 2002 and did well (36 saves, 2.42 ERA).

Last season's NL Rookie of the Year, Graham Salzman (.292, 39, 129), leads the offense. He is surrounded by rightfielder Mitch Vaughn (.302, 24, 79), centerfielder Dave Coleman (.260, 18, 73) and shortstop Edgar Dillon (.298, 15, 83).


3. Delaware Mavericks, (75-87, 4th Place)

Two-time POTY Ben Garse leads this underachieving team. Last season he was 13-11 with a 3.88 ERA. He is #1 on a strong pitching staff. Brain Bavada struggled last season in his first shot as a closer. This season, the Mavericks brought in one of the game's best lefty setup men, Cal Gordon, to help out.

Gus Macy (.324, 46, 153), the 2000 and 2002 NL MVP, returns as the starting catcher. He leads a strong offense that also features third baseman Gabe Baldwin (.324, 27, 116), shortstop Rob Hoch (.272, 17, 78), LF/DH Tom Marine (.302, 23, 94), leftfielder Jim Russell (.242, 22, 77), young centerfielder Gary Flickinger (.324, 11, 51, 29 SB) and new rightfielder Brad Oakley (.295, 15, 68).


4. New York Knights, (85-77, 2nd Place)

This team that was once a hitter's haven, is now becoming a pitcher's team. They are led by 2001 Rookie and Pitcher of the Year Lucas Alford (20-6, 1.66), brother of Alabama's pitching phenom Eric Alford. They also get strong pitching from John Turcsak, who had an off year in 2002. They added future star McKinley Marty to their staff this winter in a trade with California. They have a strong bullpen, headed by closer Kelvin Graff, but their overall pitching depth is questionable.

This offense still has some pop with catcher Byll Beach (.288, 29, 93), second baseman Nate Gaston (.284, 24, 83) and young third baseman Randall Bethel (.275, 38, 109). They also hope to get some increased productivity out of newly acquired rightfielder Kevin Young.


5. New Hampshire Hornets, (57-105, 5th Place)

Although this was one of the worst teams in the league last season, they managed to land some big free agents, namely catcher Garret Duran (.331, 29, 115) and closer Marc Germaine (3-1, 42 Sv, 0.95 ERA). While these two players cannot make the Hornets an overnight success, they should at least prevent them from losing 100 games again.

The team has a few solid pitchers in Ryan Edwards (15-16, 4.03) and company. Their bullpen, however, is full of holes - outside of Germaine. Duran's main offensive counterparts will be third baseman Matt Fitzsimmons (.310, 35, 100), first baseman Jerrod Vicker (.234, 25, 78) and shortstop Chad McCawben (.258, 17, 79).

[Matt from TN]

1. Michigan Dragons, (90-72, 3rd Place)

Michigan was very disappointed last season to win 90 games and miss the playoffs. They made very few changes this offseason, but they traded for veteran starter Aril Hamburg (11-15, 5.15). They also added a few faces to the bullpen. They were very happy with the 2002 performance of first-time closer Digby Austin (9-7, 23 Sv, 2.76 ERA).

This team has some major offensive firepower, with key hitters like catcher Zack Rozway (.275, 32, 105), shortstop Kenny Kyan (.304, 27, 81), leftfielder Wendell Aldwin (.331, 31, 111) and centerfielder Marcus Rosas (.312, 22, 120).


2. Illinois Panthers, (71-91, 5th Place)

This may be the season that Illinois finally makes their move after years of rebulding. Their rotation is led by Mike Fornier (19-9, 3.38). He is followed by some other stong pitchers, such as Tex Jackson (9-17, 4.63). Closer Aaron Mitchell can only be helped by the addition on setup man Mark Lecksauer.

The offense is steadied by veteran centerfielder Jed Williams (.340, 22, 88). Rightfielder Gabe Rawls (.297, 25, 104) has become a consistent bat. The team also counts on hitters such as third baseman Bryce Chapman (.285, 15, 51) and young leftfielder Josh Erlec (.283, 19, 104).


3. Wisconsin Rattlers, (76-86, 4th)

The Rattlers hope to improve on their disappointing 2001 BTCS title defense last season. They made few changes to their roster, but they are counting on more productivity for their established players. The pitching staff is led by Randy Cole (15-7, 3.83). Second starter Dustin Jackson (8-13, 6.31) was a huge disappointment in 2002, but newcomer Ronaldo Aceves (5-8, 4.20) made a good impression. Their pen is strong with closer Drew Alley and setup man George Zulansky.

Leftfielder Brian Pitt (.294, 37, 112) leads the offense along with catcher Chris Abistan (.292, 33, 105). The team needs similar production from shortstop Ol Tak (.297, 53 RBI) and third baseman Justo Rivera (.268, 23, 83). They also expect better numbers from first baseman Harmon Dego (.220, 19, 54).


4. Pennsylvania Pirates, (97-65, 1st Place)

It's not easy to pick the team with the best record in the NL last season to finish fourth, but this was an overachieving team. Pitching is the team's strength, and Ben Lemire (18-8, 3.50) is developing into an ace. He is followed by Bryce Preston, Geoff Montayne and youngster Gary Summers, all solid starters. The bullpen is also strong.

However, the offense just isn't there. First baseman Joseph Turrut has slipped lately. The Sentinels only two major offensive threats are third baseman Alik Krzysztof (.349, 21, 115) and rightfielder Lewis Speed (.297, 33, 124).


5. Ohio Assassins, (92-70, 2nd Place, Wildcard)

Pitching, once a steadying force in Ohio, has crumbled. Future Hall-of-Famer Joe Wiclock (24-5, 2.98), is still there, but the other starters are either fading vets or youngsters still getting their feet wet. The bullpen has a solid closer and setup man, but the rest is shaky.

First baseman Benny Covasonn (.277, 21, 87) was signed to a 5-year, $51 million contract. Ohio hopes he can breathe some life into this offense. He will be assisted by first baseman Pete Marshall (.316, 22, 88), third baseman Mike Strickland (.314, 29, 117) and 25-year-old centerfielder Curtis Davis (.358, 32, 130).

[Matt from TN]

1. Washington Timbers, (88-74, 1st Place)

This has always been an offensive team in a highly offensive division. The NL West has never been known for its pitching. Washington lost one of its top hitters in catcher Mitchell Breeden. First baseman John Rickner's average slipped last season (.232, 31, 106). They still have a lot of firepower with right fielder Derek Ingram (.341, 29, 110), centerfielder Rick Columbus (.325, 23, 95) and third baseman Eric Wysniewski (.291, 20, 70). The entire lineup has good offensive capabilities, perhaps one of the best lineups in the league.

With offense no question, pitching becomes the key to success for the Timbers. Ozzie Consuela, who was let go after 14 seasons in Ohio, was masterful for Washington in 2002 (20-1, 2.90). The team also has good young arms in Pablo Holliday and Marv Zelichenko, as well as veterans Tyler Isler and Stew Penley. The team's bullpen is also solid. This team should be among the best in the NL when the season's over.


2. Dakota Grizzlies, (82-80, 2nd Place)

The Grizzlies have a solid offense, led by rightfielder Bryce Hares (.323, 41, 148). He is surrounded by centerfielder Jay Russard (.292, 18, 80), leftfielder Tayib Helms (.313, 18, 101), shortstop Emilio Stevens (.262, 22, 81), third baseman Donnie Moore (.275, 29, 116) and catcher Mark McDaniel (.285, 18, 104). The best news for Dakota is the fact that Hares, Helms, Stevens and McDaniel are all age 28 or younger.

Pitching is the key for this team. They had three solid starters last season, and they hope that the addition of Pete Jenkins (9-14, 6.09) and Pete Salzen (14-9, 4.66), both of whom had sparkling careers a few years ago, will turn this pitching staff around. Jenkins and Salzen are the only two major acquisitions the Grizzlies made this offseason, so they need these guys to perform.


3. Alaska Huskies, (74-88, 4th Place)

Several key offensive players retired from last year's squad. The organization brought in catcher Ryan Kensha (.257, 19, 81) and new leadoff hitting shortstop Dick Roche (.259, 82 R, 48 SB). The team has several other solid offensive contributors, but they still don't match up to Washington and Dakota.

The Huskies have the best 1-2 pitching combo in the league, but the question comes after their turn in the rotation. Greg Rymon (17-11, 2.89) and Paul Van Jander (17-9, 2.40) are devastating, but the final three starters are aged 25 and younger. They need to learn the ropes, but they have potential. This could be a surprising team in 2003.


4. Kansas Wranglers, (79-83, 3rd Place)

Kansas took big hits this winter and did little to replace lost talent. They have some talented pitchers like Clint Anglin (15-11, 4.03), Marv Roberts (8-13, 5.06) and youngster Ben Capone (12-16, 5.37), who many think will be a future ace. The rest of the staff is weak, and the bullpen is average.

The Wranglers offense is its biggest liability. There's no way these guys can keep up with the big dogs in this division. Their only real offensive star is young catcher Tony Sassus (.285, 21, 100). The only thing the Wranglers have going is their youth.

[Matt from TN]

This first set of updates will take us up to the current date. Here are some of the biggest storylines so far this season:

Note: this post is now obsolete because the season crashed... I'll leave it here for posterity...

1. The Tennessee Mockingbirds and South Carolina Ocenics started the season at 6-0 before they faced each other in Nashville on April 8-10. Tennessee swept the series 4-0, 10-4, 6-4 on their way to an amazing 12-0 start, the best start of any franchise in NBL history. Their first loss came April 15 in Nebraska when they lost 7-6 in the 12th inning. Nebraska took 3 of 4 games from the Mockingbirds, dropping them to 13-3. After that series, Tennessee went on a 6-game winning streak. South Carolina, meanwhile, lost 4 of their next 5 games after being swept in Tennessee. After that, they got back on track and went 8-3 through the remainder of April.

2. After winning 105 games in 2002, Alabama got off to a rocky start. They finished April 12-14. Much of that start could be blamed on the offense. No regular starter was hitting over .265.

3. Nebraska jumped out to a commanding lead in the SL Central. They proved they were for real when they took 3-of-4 games from a super-hot Tennessee club in mid-April. They finished the month at 17-10.

4. Most of Oregon’s top pitchers got off to an ugly start. The team currently boasts a 5.23 team ERA. Meanwhile, Nevada is out to prove that last season was an off-season for their talented club. They are leading the SL West, thanks mostly to the offensive leadership of former MVP Jerry Cevericks (.304, 10, 27). The Goldminer rotation has been solid, but their bullpen has been iffy. New ace Rusty Catlin has not earned his paycheck yet, but he has been dominant in 2 of his last 3 starts.

5. Four of five teams in the NL East are over .500. New Jersey leads the way. They are 2nd in the league in home runs, but they are not among the top of any other category. Opponents are only hitting a combined .233 against New York. Credit much of that to ace Lucas Alford, who has a 1.46 ERA. Third-place Connecticut is among the top 10 in many offensive and pitching categories. They are 3rd in the league in both home runs and runs scored.

6. The NL Central has been disappointing. Michigan leads the division at a measly 19-18. Their 5.29 team ERA will not keep them on top for long without improvement. Pennsylvania, 18-19, has looked sharp at times. Offensively, they’re among the top 10 in home runs and walks, and they lead the league in stolen bases. As for pitching, they are in the top 10 in almost every category. They lead the league with only 88 walks allowed, but they are 23rd in the league in home runs allowed.

7. The NL West has been a pleasant surprise with three teams well above .500. Washington’s amazing offense leads the NBL with a .302 team batting average, but amazingly, they are also among the top 10 in every major pitching category. Second place Alaska has stunned the league with it’s pitching. They lead the league in ERA and runs allowed, and they are 2nd in the league in homers and walks allowed. Leading the way, as usual, are Greg Rymon (4-3, 2.69) and Paul Van Jander (4-2, 2.98). The team has been pleasantly surprised by the early performance of 26-year-old Anthony Coursen (3-2, 3.12), who should pitch his first full season in the majors this year.

[Matt from TN]

Here are some reports. This will provide a base for future posts. It's a lot at once, but this way the next times these type of things are reported, there's a base to look back on. Enjoy:

edited on 5/20 to new stats

Southern Standings

East

Team W L PCT GB Pyt.Rec Diff Home Away XInn 1Run M# Streak Last10
Tennessee 26 17 .605 - 24-19 2 14-7 12-10 4-0 9-3 119 L5 5-5
Alabama 25 18 .581 1.0 25-18 0 13-9 12-9 3-1 6-3 - W1 6-4
Virginia 21 25 .457 6.5 17-29 4 10-15 11-10 2-1 8-3 - L2 5-5
South Carolina 18 25 .419 8.0 21-22 -3 10-14 8-11 0-4 5-8 - L1 1-9
Georgia 16 26 .381 9.5 16-26 0 13-11 3-15 2-5 6-11 - W2 7-3

Central

Team W L PCT GB Pyt.Rec Diff Home Away XInn 1Run M# Streak Last10
Nebraska 28 15 .651 - 25-18 3 16-9 12-6 5-0 9-4 116 W3 7-3
Oklahoma 27 19 .587 2.5 27-19 0 16-10 11-9 0-1 6-5 - W5 7-3
Texas 25 20 .556 4.0 28-17 -3 11-11 14-9 1-5 4-6 - L1 6-4
Louisiana 21 22 .488 7.0 20-23 1 14-9 7-13 3-1 6-8 - L2 3-7
Missouri 21 24 .467 8.0 21-24 0 11-14 10-10 1-2 6-5 - W2 5-5

West

Team W L PCT GB Pyt.Rec Diff Home Away XInn 1Run M# Streak Last10
Nevada 26 18 .591 - 27-17 -1 11-7 15-11 1-2 5-8 116 W3 8-2
Oregon 25 21 .543 2.0 24-22 1 6-13 19-8 5-1 5-6 - W1 4-6
Arizona 15 28 .349 10.5 18-25 -3 8-7 7-21 0-4 6-8 - L4 3-7
California 14 30 .318 12.0 15-29 -1 7-12 7-18 1-1 3-6 - L2 4-6


Northern Standings

East

Team W L PCT GB Pyt.Rec Diff Home Away XInn 1Run M# Streak Last10
Delaware 26 18 .591 - 24-20 2 17-6 9-12 4-2 7-6 117 L1 7-3
New York 24 20 .545 2.0 23-21 1 13-10 11-10 0-0 7-5 - L1 6-4
New Jersey 23 21 .523 3.0 24-20 -1 14-8 9-13 1-2 6-7 - L2 6-4
New Hampshire 20 22 .476 5.0 18-24 2 13-10 7-12 5-3 6-2 - W5 6-4
Connecticut 18 27 .400 8.5 18-27 0 11-16 7-11 4-3 7-8 - W1 3-7

Central

Team W L PCT GB Pyt.Rec Diff Home Away XInn 1Run M# Streak Last10
Ohio 26 16 .619 - 25-17 1 11-10 15-6 3-2 6-2 120 W3 8-2
Michigan 26 17 .605 .5 23-20 3 17-8 9-9 2-2 8-5 - W1 5-5
Pennsylvania 25 19 .568 2.0 24-20 1 16-6 9-13 2-3 7-5 - L1 4-6
Illinois 21 22 .488 5.5 19-24 2 11-11 10-11 1-0 3-2 - W1 3-7
Wisconsin 17 27 .386 10.0 17-27 0 8-17 9-10 1-1 2-6 - W1 6-4

West

Team W L PCT GB Pyt.Rec Diff Home Away XInn 1Run M# Streak Last10
Alaska 25 19 .568 - 23-21 2 8-10 17-9 0-1 7-2 117 W1 6-4
Dakota 22 21 .512 2.5 25-18 -3 9-9 13-12 1-0 4-8 - L3 5-5
Washington 17 27 .386 8.0 24-20 -7 6-13 11-14 0-3 0-10 - L1 3-7
Kansas 15 29 .341 10.0 15-29 0 7-10 8-19 1-3 4-6 - L1 3-7




Power Rankings

RANK (Last Week) Team Points Tendency Record PCT AVG ERA Pyt.Rec Diff
1st (1st) Nebraska 122 o 28-15 .651 .298 4.33 25-18 3
2nd (2nd) Ohio 118 o 26-16 .619 .302 5.14 25-17 1
3rd (3rd) Nevada 113 o 26-18 .591 .289 4.78 27-17 -1
4th (4th) Oklahoma 112 o 27-19 .587 .292 4.68 27-19 0
5th (5th) Delaware 110 o 26-18 .591 .278 5.15 24-20 2
6th (6th) Michigan 109 o 26-17 .605 .293 5.29 23-20 3
7th (7th) Tennessee 107 o 26-17 .605 .275 4.97 24-19 2
8th (8th) Alabama 107 o 25-18 .581 .270 3.83 25-18 0
9th (9th) Alaska 104 o 25-19 .568 .263 3.91 23-21 2
10th (10th) Texas 102 o 25-20 .556 .296 4.37 28-17 -3
11th (11th) Pennsylvania 100 o 25-19 .568 .284 5.11 24-20 1
12th (12th) New York 100 o 24-20 .545 .269 4.31 23-21 1
13th (13th) Oregon 96 o 25-21 .543 .281 5.09 24-22 1
14th (14th) New Jersey 95 o 23-21 .523 .248 3.83 24-20 -1
15th (15th) Dakota 91 o 22-21 .512 .288 4.37 25-18 -3
16th (16th) New Hampshire 90 o 20-22 .476 .260 5.01 18-24 2
17th (17th) Missouri 85 o 21-24 .467 .262 4.58 21-24 0
18th (18th) Illinois 84 o 21-22 .488 .261 4.52 19-24 2
19th (19th) Louisiana 83 o 21-22 .488 .290 5.49 20-23 1
20th (20th) Virginia 81 o 21-25 .457 .247 4.92 17-29 4
21st (21st) Georgia 74 o 16-26 .381 .271 5.69 16-26 0
22nd (22nd) Wisconsin 72 o 17-27 .386 .263 5.30 17-27 0
23rd (23rd) Connecticut 68 o 18-27 .400 .267 5.42 18-27 0
24th (24th) South Carolina 67 o 18-25 .419 .260 4.18 21-22 -3
25th (25th) Washington 66 o 17-27 .386 .274 4.94 24-20 -7
26th (26th) Kansas 57 o 15-29 .341 .240 4.86 15-29 0
27th (27th) Arizona 57 o 15-28 .349 .278 5.92 18-25 -3
28th (28th) California 54 o 14-30 .318 .262 5.84 15-29 -1


PAYROLLS

# Team Payroll
1 Tennessee $91,710,900
2 Delaware $82,812,900
3 Ohio $82,383,100
4 Michigan $80,044,700
5 New Jersey $78,524,300
6 South Carolina $75,192,300
7 Oklahoma $74,700,500
8 Nevada $71,901,700
9 Connecticut $70,445,200
10 New Hampshire $66,562,100
11 Washington $65,156,000
12 Dakota $63,949,100
13 Missouri $63,607,300
14 Oregon $61,454,300
15 Wisconsin $61,384,200
16 Nebraska $60,877,200
17 Alabama $59,845,800
18 Alaska $58,051,000
19 Arizona $56,836,500
20 Pennsylvania $56,662,300
21 New York $53,592,200
22 Texas $52,710,600
23 Illinois $52,680,900
24 Louisiana $52,482,300
25 Virginia $50,465,700
26 California $48,699,800
27 Georgia $40,779,200
28 Kansas $40,245,800

HIGHEST PAID PLAYERS

# Pos Name Team Payroll
1 CF Mark Rosas MCH $15,372,000
2 P Ben Lestrick NJ $15,306,300
3 P Jake Nahgler CAL $13,456,400
4 P Ben Garse DEL $12,500,000
5 P Joe Wiclock OH $11,400,000
6 1B Fernando Villalpando MIS $11,219,600
7 P Cy Mills SC $10,925,000
8 P Rusty Catlin NEV $10,726,900
9 P Ozzie Consuela WSH $10,610,700
10 P Evan D'Weston CNT $10,550,000
11 1B Jack Stern CAL $10,500,000
12 P Phil Cockraine NEB $10,500,000
13 2B Kevin Reboss ORE $10,500,000
14 1B Stan Nolan NJ $10,471,300
15 1B Benny Covasonn OH $10,295,500
16 3B Alik Krzysztof PEN $9,940,400
17 C Byll Beach NY $9,661,500
18 CF Eric Crenshaw OKL $9,522,000
19 P Greg Rymon ALK $9,500,000
20 RF Mitch Vaughn CNT $9,231,000
21 2B Nate Gaston NY $9,200,000
22 P Beau Rochester ALB $9,092,500
23 P Tommy Henkgen TEN $9,000,000
24 1B Jerry Cevericks NEV $9,000,000
25 P Randy Cole WIS $8,700,000

ATTENDANCE

# Team ATTENDANCE 2003 ATTENDANCE 2002
1 Michigan 1,130,011 3,291,066
2 South Carolina 1,027,793 3,480,261
3 Nebraska 1,014,888 3,283,475
4 Texas 1,011,112 3,713,766
5 New Jersey 1,004,884 3,695,967
6 Tennessee 965,808 3,715,042
7 Ohio 964,453 3,715,323
8 Delaware 956,219 3,427,588
9 New York 951,060 3,001,138
10 Pennsylvania 935,078 3,273,241
11 Connecticut 932,979 2,983,214
12 Oklahoma 916,408 2,661,341
13 Virginia 896,899 2,709,542
14 California 891,498 3,729,605
15 Oregon 863,088 3,547,054
16 Alabama 850,941 3,054,902
17 Georgia 841,709 3,085,249
18 Washington 828,792 3,540,778
19 Wisconsin 819,655 3,339,467
20 Missouri 816,242 2,877,242
21 Nevada 790,312 3,480,519
22 Dakota 783,948 3,727,591
23 Illinois 771,652 2,654,125
24 New Hampshire 733,577 2,796,188
25 Louisiana 727,139 2,723,294
26 Alaska 616,340 2,651,777
27 Arizona 612,174 3,451,830
28 Kansas 551,954 2,797,961



Recent Transactions

Thursday 4/3/2003 :

Oregon: Released P Mike Swinton, he refused assignment to minors.


Monday 4/7/2003 :

Missouri: Released P Stan Seavers.
Oklahoma: Released P Robert Vanderbilt.
Oklahoma: Released P Raymond Lionel.
Oklahoma: Released P Roger Markella.
Oklahoma: Released P Bobby Thomas.
Oklahoma: Released P Jon Eager.
Oklahoma: Released C Joe Quarez.
Arizona: Released P Coy MacGeraghty.
California: Released 1B Jose Amaro.
Oregon: Released P Darren Birchfeld.
New Hampshire: Released LF Brad Shawnee.
New Hampshire: Free agent P Robert Vanderbilt has been signed to a minor league contract.
Trade between Ohio and Alaska :
Alaska gets :
1B Pete Marshall
P Darrell Cherrow
P Anthony Matthews
Ohio gets :
P Devin Tucker


Monday 4/14/2003 :

Louisiana: Released 3B LaMond Purcival.
Oklahoma: Released 3B Michael Slepoy.
Oklahoma: Released P Terry Barrak.
Nevada: Released P Trinidad Artieda.
Dakota: Free agent RF Trent Vermeersch has been signed to a contract of $300,000 per year, for 1 year.
Illinois: Free agent 3B LaMond Purcival has been signed to a contract of $300,000 per year, for 1 year.
Delaware: Free agent P Mike Swinton has been signed to a contract of $513,000 per year, for 1 year.
Missouri: Released DH Dave Wendell, he refused assignment to minors.


Wednesday 4/16/2003 :

Trade between Louisiana and Connecticut :
Connecticut gets :
C Byron Spencer
Louisiana gets :
P Palmerin Hernandez
P Pepe Castro
2B Alonzo Muzquiz
Ohio: Released RF Andy Kreig, he refused assignment to minors.


Sunday 4/20/2003 :

Trade between Texas and Illinois :
Illinois gets :
1B Erik Day
Texas gets :
P Gabon Roberto
CF Jose Felan
2B Chris Kuypers


Monday 4/21/2003 :

South Carolina: Released P Vincent Scolaro.
Nevada: Released P Leland Morphis.
New Hampshire: Released RF Jeff Shackling.
Illinois: Released SS Cal Kendrick.
Nevada: Free agent RF Andy Kreig has been signed to a contract of $301,600 per year, for 1 year.
Connecticut: Free agent P Vincent Scolaro has been signed to a minor league contract.


Tuesday 4/22/2003 :

Trade between Tennessee and Delaware :
Delaware gets :
SS Phillipe Diaz
Tennessee gets :
CF Esequiel Gonzales
Trade between Tennessee and New Jersey :
New Jersey gets :
RF Mike Cranchik
Tennessee gets :
P Rafael Molina


Sunday 4/27/2003 :

Kansas: Released 3B Nick Bonocarto, he refused assignment to minors.


Monday 4/28/2003 :

California: Released LF Alyn Pierce.
Connecticut: Released P Luke Zevistane.
Dakota: Released LF Willie Cushenberry.
South Carolina: Free agent 3B Nick Bonocarto has been signed to a contract of $300,000 per year, for 1 year.
South Carolina: Released 3B Jim Hunter, he refused assignment to minors.


Tuesday 4/29/2003 :

Oregon: Released LF Ralph Monroe, he refused assignment to minors.


Wednesday 4/30/2003 :

New Hampshire: Released SS Bob Wain, he refused assignment to minors.


Thursday 5/1/2003 :

Illinois: Released 1B Joseph Turrut, he refused assignment to minors.


Friday 5/2/2003 :

Georgia: Released 3B Tony Varchills, he refused assignment to minors.


Monday 5/5/2003 :

Louisiana: Released P Robbie Hurchin, he refused assignment to minors.
Missouri: Released 1B Steven Haselhuhn.
Nebraska: Released 1B Johnathon Kiep.
New York: Released CF Galen Eaton.
Nevada: Free agent SS Bob Wain has been signed to a contract of $300,000 per year, for 1 year.
Connecticut: Free agent 1B Steven Haselhuhn has been signed to a minor league contract.
Georgia: Free agent DH Dave Wendell has been signed to a contract of $300,000 per year, for 1 year.


Monday 5/12/2003 :

Missouri: Released RF Rick Boleimo.
Wisconsin: Free agent P Roger Markella has been signed to a minor league contract.
Georgia: Free agent CF Galen Eaton has been signed to a minor league contract.


Tuesday 5/13/2003 :

Missouri: Released 1B Craig Burkley, he refused assignment to minors.


Wednesday 5/14/2003 :

New Jersey: Released SS Chris Reece, he refused assignment to minors.


Friday 5/16/2003 :

Tennessee : Free agent Willie Cushenberry has been signed to a contract of $0 per year, for 0 years.


Monday 5/19/2003 :

Oklahoma: Released P Ricky Mariciani, he refused assignment to minors.
Alaska: Released CF John Harshow, he refused assignment to minors.
Illinois: Released 1B James Gross.
Nebraska: Free agent P Ricky Mariciani has been signed to a contract of $342,000 per year, for 1 year.
Illinois: Free agent P Trinidad Artieda has been signed to a minor league contract.

[Matt from TN]

Batting Leaders

# AVG (min. 2000 AB) AVG
1 K. Reboss* .369
2 B. Baleyi* .355
3 J. Stern* .343
4 F. Villalpando* .338
5 A. Krzysztof* .337
6 J. Williams* .337
7 D. Cope* .335
8 D. Ingram* .333
9 W. Aldwin* .333
10 M. Vaughn* .332
11 E. Crenshaw* .332
12 T. Gwynn* .332
13 C. Marcran* .327
14 J. McMickal .327
15 R. Chandler* .325
16 M. Rosas* .324
17 G. Baldwin* .323
18 T. Quincey* .321
19 G. Gurson .321
20 M. Alford* .320
21 G. Macy* .319
22 J. Cevericks* .318
23 R. Columbus* .318
24 J. Woods* .316
25 J. Belder .315


# Career Hits H
1 B. Baleyi* 2473
2 K. Reboss* 2451
3 E. Crenshaw* 2339
4 J. Williams* 2265
5 J. Stern* 2230
6 M. Vaughn* 2171
7 J. Cevericks* 2169
8 C. Marcran* 2140
9 M. Alford* 2100
10 G. Caminan* 2069
11 J. Rickner* 2035
11 D. Spittser* 2035
13 G. Cerex* 2012
14 M. Nunez* 2006
15 T. Quincey* 1961
16 R. Chandler* 1952
17 C. Morrison* 1946
18 M. Davis* 1945
19 S. Davidson* 1939
20 B. Hurley* 1938
21 J. Klus* 1924
22 B. Covasonn* 1919
23 R. Vixon 1907
24 T. Carver* 1904
25 C. Erskine 1900


# Career HRs HR
1 J. Cevericks* 399
2 R. Vixon 395
3 M. Vaughn* 381
4 J. Rickner* 370
5 K. Kuczog 364
6 G. Caminan* 355
7 S. Davidson* 353
8 R. Darna 348
9 M. Nunez* 337
10 J. Alan* 336
11 J. Stern* 335
12 G. Parks 334
13 M. Breeden* 332
14 J. Turrut* 330
14 B. Ebony 330
16 D. Wendell* 318
17 B. Young* 317
18 J. Williams* 316
19 G. Campass* 311
20 C. Abistan* 309
21 M. Alford* 305
22 J. Dravecios* 300
23 D. Ruth 294
24 A. Williams* 293
24 D. England* 293


# Career RBIs RBI
1 M. Vaughn* 1360
2 G. Caminan* 1357
3 J. Rickner* 1330
4 J. Cevericks* 1302
5 J. Stern* 1286
6 R. Vixon 1246
7 M. Alford* 1241
8 S. Davidson* 1234
9 M. Nunez* 1231
10 J. Williams* 1210
11 B. Baleyi* 1204
12 J. Turrut* 1182
13 K. Kuczog 1176
14 J. Klus* 1158
15 R. Darna 1150
16 E. Crenshaw* 1140
17 J. Dravecios* 1139
18 C. Morrison* 1107
19 J. Alan* 1106
20 A. Harborred 1083
21 P. Wilkins* 1077
22 C. Marcran* 1075
23 M. Davis* 1071
24 A. Williams* 1067
25 G. Campass* 1060


# Career Doubles 2B
1 K. Reboss* 508
2 C. Morrison* 458
3 J. Cevericks* 436
4 S. Davidson* 413
5 C. Marcran* 411
6 M. Davis* 410
7 J. Williams* 396
7 J. Rickner* 396
9 J. Stern* 382
10 E. Crenshaw* 370
11 G. Caminan* 369
12 T. Breede* 366
13 M. Alford* 364
14 M. Nunez* 363
15 M. Vaughn* 360
16 T. Carver* 358
17 G. Matheson 357
18 B. Baleyi* 356
19 C. Erskine 346
20 J. Klus* 343
21 A. Harborred 342
21 L. Mitchen* 342
23 G. Cerex* 341
24 J. Muthane* 339
25 R. Chandler* 337


# Career Triples 3B
1 D. Roche* 132
2 R. Rodriguez* 105
3 D. Spittser* 104
4 E. Crenshaw* 98
5 G. Cerex* 84
6 B. Edwards* 81
7 T. Breede* 79
8 R. Thompson 78
8 C. Morrison* 78
10 M. Davis* 70
11 C. Braswell* 68
12 T. Gwynn* 64
13 B. Baleyi* 62
14 Z. Foster* 55
15 M. Hample* 54
15 M. Martin* 54
15 J. Williams* 54
18 J. Boxwort* 53
19 W. Henderson* 50
19 E. Wyman* 50
21 E. Welch* 49
21 M. Durrante* 49
21 B. Daye* 49
21 J. Woods* 49
25 J. Dravecios* 48


# Career Walks BB
1 K. Reboss* 1151
2 B. Covasonn* 1095
3 M. Alford* 1082
4 J. Stern* 1008
5 J. Cevericks* 997
6 J. Dravecios* 994
7 J. Williams* 987
8 G. Caminan* 979
9 M. Vaughn* 965
10 B. Baleyi* 910
11 D. Spittser* 888
11 G. Matheson 888
13 S. Davidson* 882
14 M. Davis* 877
15 L. Watson* 876
16 D. England* 845
17 B. Ebony 836
17 C. Morrison* 836
19 T. Walter* 829
20 T. Carver* 800
21 R. Darna 786
22 C. Marcran* 784
23 D. Roche* 767
24 D. Cope* 765
25 B. Wain* 763


# Career Runs R
1 J. Williams* 1402
2 K. Reboss* 1349
3 M. Alford* 1332
4 B. Baleyi* 1330
5 J. Cevericks* 1294
5 M. Vaughn* 1294
7 D. Spittser* 1290
8 J. Stern* 1281
9 G. Caminan* 1276
10 E. Crenshaw* 1253
11 G. Cerex* 1212
12 C. Morrison* 1211
13 C. Marcran* 1208
14 D. Roche* 1202
15 M. Nunez* 1171
16 M. Davis* 1168
17 R. Vixon 1146
18 T. Carver* 1133
19 S. Davidson* 1128
20 J. Rickner* 1109
21 B. Covasonn* 1105
22 T. Quincey* 1095
23 B. Ebony 1093
23 T. Damerman 1093
25 G. Baldwin* 1081


# Career Stolen Bases SB
1 D. Roche* 616
2 D. Spittser* 516
3 C. Morrison* 435
4 C. Braswell* 394
5 T. Breede* 351
6 G. Cerex* 341
7 T. Gwynn* 327
8 M. Cranchik* 326
9 E. Crenshaw* 324
10 M. Hample* 317
11 J. Boxwort* 293
12 M. Davis* 292
13 C. Mathews* 282
14 R. Rodriguez* 272
15 T. Damerman 251
16 D. Ogen 232
17 C. Marcran* 229
18 B. Edwards* 224
19 L. Watson* 220
20 F. Platt* 208
21 D. Huston* 196
21 T. Tsunami* 196
23 R. Thompson 185
24 B. Baleyi* 174
24 J. Woods* 174


Pitching Leaders

# ERA (min. 2000 IP) ERA
1 C. Mills* 2.33
2 G. Rymon* 2.86
3 B. Lestrick* 2.94
4 B. Garse* 3.02
5 P. Van Jander* 3.08
6 J. Hasserry* 3.10
7 O. Consuela* 3.13
8 J. Wiclock* 3.14
9 J. Nahgler* 3.19
10 J. Turrut* 3.54
11 Z. Gerdrine* 3.84
12 L. Zevistane* 3.85
13 S. Coy 4.03
14 L. Smit 4.03
15 E. Davidson* 4.06
16 J. Stepston 4.11
17 G. McTooey 4.12
18 K. Hampess* 4.13
19 P. Dunnert* 4.16
20 R. Vanderbilt* 4.27
21 R. Rabbiti 4.28
22 T. Isler* 4.33
23 M. Heath* 4.39
24 M. Vagness* 4.48
25 T. Henkgen* 4.48


# Career Wins W
1 J. Wiclock* 226
2 J. Turrut* 215
3 J. Hasserry* 205
4 B. Garse* 203
5 O. Consuela* 192
6 B. Lestrick* 182
7 L. Zevistane* 173
8 G. Rymon* 170
9 M. Vagness* 166
10 L. Smit 163
11 J. Stepston 159
12 R. Vanderbilt* 155
13 P. Van Jander* 151
14 C. Mills* 149
15 R. Rabbiti 148
16 R. McCormick* 147
17 S. Coy 143
18 Z. Gerdrine* 142
18 E. Davidson* 142
20 P. Dunnert* 139
21 J. Nahgler* 138
21 T. Henkgen* 138
23 J. Cardinan 136
24 R. Charley 135
25 G. McTooey 134


# Career Strikeouts K
1 J. Turrut* 2671
2 J. Wiclock* 2418
3 R. Washington* 2388
4 J. Stepston 2274
5 O. Consuela* 2126
6 T. Isler* 2074
7 E. D'Weston* 2049
8 J. Nahgler* 2011
9 J. MacCalley* 1946
10 J. Bass 1936
11 J. Hasserry* 1848
12 P. Van Jander* 1841
13 R. Vanderbilt* 1836
14 B. Garse* 1793
15 L. Zevistane* 1781
16 T. Jackson* 1747
17 G. McTooey 1743
18 R. Koasnix 1719
19 Z. Gerdrine* 1701
20 R. McCormick* 1697
21 K. Hampess* 1682
22 B. Preston* 1640
23 A. Hamburg* 1602
24 G. Rymon* 1550
25 M. Vagness* 1532


# Career Saves SV
1 J. Yostetson* 375
2 M. Germaine* 374
3 W. Towning* 317
4 S. Hohen* 314
5 R. Gregory* 301
6 D. Potsworth 275
7 C. Moolers* 263
8 T. Waters* 255
9 R. Honug* 232
9 M. Stenway 232
11 J. Hoyke* 228
12 M. Shazzon* 220
12 M. Darninger* 220
14 G. Gillatta* 214
15 D. Alley* 213
16 M. Weiman 200
17 A. Janeway* 199
18 A. LaFeaux* 195
19 C. Calton* 189
20 C. Xavier 186
21 J. Riverbock* 182
22 J. Hayney 167
23 S. Richards 164
24 Z. Riles* 163
25 L. Kramer* 155


# Career CG CG
1 J. Wiclock* 109
2 M. Vagness* 104
3 J. Turrut* 78
4 C. Mills* 69
5 V. Lewisson 64
6 R. McCormick* 61
7 O. Consuela* 57
8 P. Van Jander* 48
9 E. Mickey 47
10 L. Zevistane* 45
11 J. McBeck* 43
12 L. Smit 42
13 J. Hasserry* 41
14 R. Charley 39
15 R. Jett 37
16 P. Torey 36
17 K. Raimner 34
18 G. Rymon* 32
19 J. Nahgler* 31
20 B. Garse* 30
21 L. Alford* 27
21 T. Scott 27
23 E. D'Weston* 25
23 J. Stepston 25
25 Z. Gerdrine* 23


# Career SHO SHO
1 C. Mills* 25
2 J. Wiclock* 24
3 J. Turrut* 22
4 P. Van Jander* 18
5 J. Hasserry* 17
5 O. Consuela* 17
7 M. Vagness* 16
7 L. Zevistane* 16
9 L. Alford* 13
10 V. Lewisson 12
11 J. Nahgler* 10
11 B. Lestrick* 10
11 R. Charley 10
11 J. Bunter 10
11 G. Rymon* 10
16 S. Coy 9
16 J. Stepston 9
16 R. Rabbiti 9
16 E. Mickey 9
20 B. Garse* 8
20 J. McBeck* 8
20 R. McCormick* 8
20 C. Bryklin* 8
20 E. D'Weston* 8
25 D. Balinyik 7