Confederate Baseball Association (solo fictional)

[jmm8356]

October 3, 1953

The final weekend of the season begins with three teams vying for the Eastern Division crown. Norfolk and Tampa are all knotted up, with Jacksonville two games back with two contests at Harbor Stadium, against the Clippers, remaining. The Tomahawks, meanwhile, host Carolina with hopes of clinching their first postseason in front of a home crowd at Teflon Field. Tampa, however, has lost Dave Haskell (13-12, 4.28) for the remainder after a torn tricep on September 21.

Awaiting the winner of the East are the Dallas Drifters. Their second straight Western pennant, Dallas clinched September 25 with a 6-1 victory over second-place Memphis.


Western Division Batter of the Month:

SS Justin Charley (MEM) - Hit .412 with 4 HR and 22 RBI (36th round pick in initial draft)

Western Division Pitcher of the Month:

Bill "Spike" Ebeling (NSH) - Went 4-2 with a 2.03 ERA

Eastern Division Batter of the Month:

3B Travis O'Connell (ATL) - Hit .444 with 4 HR and 15 RBI

Eastern Division Pitcher of the Month:

Joe Melton (NOR) - Went 4-1 with a 1.69 ERA


Western Division Standings

Dallas........ 96 - 64 .600 -
Memphis....... 84 - 76 .525 12
San Antonio... 83 - 77 .519 13
Houston....... 71 - 89 .444 25
New Orleans... 70 - 90 .438 26
Nashville..... 67 - 93 .419 29

Eastern Division Standings

Norfolk....... 86 - 74 .537 - (Magic: 3)
Tampa......... 86 - 74 .537 - (Magic: 3)
Jacksonville.. 84 - 76 .525 2
Carolina...... 81 - 79 .506 5
Atlanta....... 77 - 83 .481 9
Miami......... 75 - 85 .469 11

[jmm8356]

October 4, 1953

Jacksonville 3, Norfolk 1

NORFOLK - C Greg Olson's two-run double down the left field line made the difference as the Ospreys top the Clippers, 3 to 1, pulling Jacksonville within a game of the lead in the East. CF Dave Floyd (1 for 3, 2 R) was hit by Bruce Solomon (L, 8-10, 4 2/3 IP, 3 R, 6 H, 5 K), and SS Ken Bennett singled before Olson (2 for 3) drove in the game winners with one out in the 3rd. Greg Archer (2 for 2) hit a pinch-hit homer off Gary Nardi (W, 17-7, 8 IP, 1 R, 5 H, 1 BB, 7 K) in the 6th for Norfolk's sole tally. Will Bearden (1 IP, 1 H) collected the save, his 37th.

Carolina 5, Tampa 4

TAMPA - A pinch-hit two-run shot by John Theiss caps a five-run Flyers 9th as Tampa is devastated by Carolina, 5 to 4. RF Henry Reynolds (2 for 4) scores two with a double off Ronald Coleman (1 2/3 IP, 3 R, 2 H, 2 BB, 1 K), then Dave Staggs drives Reynolds in with a pinch hit off Chad Milam (L, 4-7, 1/3 IP, 2 R, 2 H) before Theiss's 427-foot blast to straightaway center completes Carolina's comeback. LF Bill Danner was 2 for 4 with 2 homers and 4 RBIs off Earl Cole (7 IP, 4 R, 8 H, 1 BB, 6 K), but Ben Brown (W, 7-5, 1 IP, 1 K) and Ron Nauman (SV, 39, 1 IP, 2 K) are perfect in the 8th and 9th. Andy Garrison (2 H, 3 BB, 3 K) threw seven shutout innings for the losing cause.


October 5, 1953

Tampa 4, Carolina 3 (10)

TAMPA - Journeyman 1B Tommy Merchant is the toast of all Tampa tonight after his two-out pinch hit in the bottom of the 10th wins the game and the pennant for the Tomahawks, 5-4. LF Bill Danner (2 for 5) singled off Dave Doyle (L, 1/3 IP, 1 R, 1 H), and pinch runner Bill Herring stole second on Dan Bennett before Merchant fisted one to short right-center, scoring Herring easily and sending 41,982 at Teflon Field into hysterics. Yesterday's loser, closer Chad Milam (5-7, 1 2/3 IP, 1 H, 2 K) gets the victory for Tampa today.

Jacksonville 9, Norfolk 7 (10)

NORFOLK - LF Ron Brookshire (3 for 4, 3 R, 2 RBI) doubled in a run and scored in the 10th to put Jacksonville over Norfolk, 9-7, leaving both clubs tied for second in the East. After Craig Albright's two-out pinch hit, Dave Lyons (L, 1 2/3 IP, 1 R, 2 H, 1 K) had to give way to Al Shanahan due to an inflamed tricep. Perhaps Shanahan (1/3 IP, 1 R, 2 H, 1 K) should have taken more time warming up, as he gave up Brookshire's double and 1B Brad Mason's single, quashing Norfolk's playoff hopes. Will Bearden (7-7, 1 IP, 1 R, 1 H) gives up the tying run on LF Tim Ryan's solo shot (2 for 5, 2 HR) with two out in the 9th but earns the win, while John Peaslee gets three fly outs for the save, his second.


Final Western Division Standings

Dallas........ 96 - 66 .593 -
Memphis....... 86 - 76 .531 10
San Antonio... 84 - 78 .519 12
Houston....... 72 - 90 .444 24
New Orleans... 71 - 91 .438 25
Nashville..... 68 - 94 .420 28

Final Eastern Division Standings

Tampa......... 87 - 75 .537 -
Jacksonville.. 86 - 76 .531 1
Norfolk....... 86 - 76 .531 1
Carolina...... 82 - 80 .506 5
Atlanta....... 77 - 85 .475 10
Miami......... 77 - 85 .475 10

[jmm8356]

October 7, 1953

Confederate Series Preview


The Dallas Drifters are in their second consecutive Confederate Series under two-time Manager of the Year Steve Hamilton. Dallas hopes to exploit their homefield advantage in the series after a 54-27 regular season record at Mercury Field.

The Drifters led the league in both batting (.269) and scoring (805), with SS Jerry Carroll (.301, 33 HR, 99 RBI, 96 R, 23 2Bs), RF Raymond LaVallee (.314, 22 HR, 104 RBI, 93 R, 33 2Bs, 11 3Bs, 42 SB) and C Patrick Baskerville (.310, 8 HR, 79 RBI, 36 2Bs) leading the hit parade. Dallas also ranked second in stealing (200), thanks to CF Jeff McGovern (.250, 83 R, 89 BB, 52 SB) and 2B John Allen (.265, 13 HR, 83 RBI, 23 2Bs, 33 SB).

The Drifters have a middle-of-the-pack pitching staff, sixth in ERA (3.90) and seventh in runs allowed (696). Kurtis Collins (15-9, 3.56), Bryan Smiley (12-11, 3.58) and southpaw Gordon Ringer (11-8, 3.88) top the starters, while closer Joe Ellingson (9-5, 10 SV, 2.54) and Chase Kirkham (7-5, 21 SV, 4.35) anchor the pen.


The Tampa Tomahawks won their first Eastern Division pennant ever, under the leadership of 1949 Manager of the Year Ryan Willoughby. Tampa was strong at home as well (48-33) but won just two of their twelve meetings with the Drifters this season, going 0-6 in Dallas.

Tampa ranked second in batting (.266) but sixth in scoring. 2B John Watkins (.300, 21 HR, 88 RBI, 109 R, 32 2Bs, 7 3Bs, 57 SB) and RF Don Graham (.308, 90 R, 75 BB, 23 2Bs, 53 SB) provide the speed for the club with the third most steals (189) in the league, while LF Bill Danner (.260, 30 HR, 91 RBI, 94 R, 116 BB) and CF Nick Bacon (.328, 15 HR, 95 RBI, 94 R, 27 2Bs) drive them in.

The Tomahawks had a below-average staff (3.95, 7th) even before the injury to strikeout artist Dave Haskell (13-12, 4.28, 205 Ks in 193 2/3 IP). Lefties Brian Pointer (13-11, 3.70) and Andy Garrison (7-7, 3.54) throw the ball well, as do Richard Doney (15-10, 4.26) and closer Chad Milam (5-7, 40 SV, 2.50).

[jmm8356]

October 16, 1953

Confederate Series Recap


Game 1 - Wednesday, October 7 - Tampa 5, Dallas 1

DALLAS - Richard Doney hurls a shutout through eight for the complete-game victory as Tampa tops Dallas, 5-1. Doney allowed just one 9th-inning run on five hits and seven walks, striking out one. 3B Lane Brasfield's (2 for 5) RBI-double off Ron Peters (L, 4 1/3 IP, 5 R, 8 H, 2 BB, 5 K) in the 4th is the only extra-base hit out of twelve Tampa knocks; five Tomahawks record two hits on the night. Dallas C Patrick Baskerville is 2 for 4 with two doubles for a losing cause.


Game 2 - Thursday, October 8 - Tampa 3, Dallas 0

DALLAS - An error by 3B Chris Wardell leads to the deciding tally as Dallas manages just three hits in a 3-0 defeat to Tampa. LF Bill Danner (2 for 3) starts off the 7th with a single off Bryan Smiley (L, 8 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 6 H, 5 K), then Wardell bobbles 3B Lane Brasfield's easy grounder to put two on with no outs. Pinch-runner Larry Murphy advances to third on 2B John Watkins' fly to right-center and scores the game winner on 1B Andy Roberts' sacrifice fly to right. Brian Pointer (W, 8 IP, 3 H, 2 BB, 2 K) and Chad Milam (SV, 1 IP, 1 K) are both stellar on the hill for the Tomahawks.


Game 3 - Saturday, October 10 - Tampa 8, Dallas 0

TAMPA - SS Bill Floyd hit a grand slam off Chase Kirkham in a seven-run Tampa 8th as the Tomahawks scalp the Drifters, 8-0, to take a three-games-to-none lead in their first Confederate Series. After Kurtis Collins (L, 7 IP, 4 R, 3 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 4 K) gave up a walk to PH Dave Ayres, a hit to RF Don Graham and an RBI-single to C Wilson Stokes (2 for 4), he intentionally walked CF Nick Bacon to load the bases before yielding to Kirkham (2/3 IP, 4 R, 2 H, 3 BB). LF Bill Danner lined into a double play at second, but 3B Lane Brasfield, 2B John Watkins and 1B Andy Roberts (2 for 2, 2 BB) drew three straight walks, scoring two, before Floyd's 358-foot shot to right brought the curtain down. More stellar pitching from Tampa, thanks to Andy Garrison (W, 7 1/3 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 5 K), Alex Yardley (2/3 IP, 2 H) and Lou Vogler (1 IP).


Game 4 - Sunday, October 11 - Dallas 12, Tampa 4

TAMPA - C Patrick Baskerville homers twice, including a grand slam, as Dallas routs Tampa, 12 to 4, to extend the series. Baskerville ends up 3 for 5 with three runs and seven RBI on the night, with a three-run shot in the 7th off Lou Vogler (L, 0-1, 2/3 IP, 5 R, 4 H, 1 BB, 1 K) and the salami off Alex Yardley (2 IP, 4 R, 3 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 1 K) in the 9th. RF Raymond LaVallee (4 for 5, 4 R, 3 RBI) also taters, a solo shot off Richard Doney (6 1/3 IP, 3 R, 5 H, 4 BB, 7 K) in the 2nd. Tampa CF Nick Bacon drives in three with a base-clearing double in the 5th off Ron Peters (W, 1-1, 6 IP, 4 R, 4 H, 3 BB, 6 K), but Durst (1 IP) and Mueller (2 IP, 1 H, 1 K) have no trouble closing the game out.


Game 5 - Monday, October 12 - Dallas 6, Tampa 2

TAMPA - Two-run homeruns by SS Jerry Carroll (3 for 3), RF Raymond LaVallee (2 for 4) and C Patrick Baskerville account for all the Drifters' scoring as Dallas beats Tampa, 6 to 2, sending the series back to Texas. All three shots come off Brian Pointer (L, 1-1, 2 1/3 IP, 6 R, 7 H), LaVallee's in the 1st and both Carroll's and Baskerville's coming in the 3rd. Bryan Smiley (W, 1-1, 8 IP, 1 R, 7 H, 3 BB, 3 K) pitches effectively for Dallas.


Game 6 - Wednesday, October 14 - Dallas 6, Tampa 1

DALLAS - The first Game 7 in Confederate Series history awaits, after Dallas pounds Tampa, 6 to 1. C Patrick Baskerville (3 for 4, 2 R) and 3B Chris Wardell (2 for 5) both hit two doubles off Andy Garrison (L, 1-1, 7 IP, 4 R, 10 H, 1 BB, 2 K); 2B John Allen (2 for 5) adds a homer and drives in three. Kurtis Collins (W, 1-1, 7 2/3 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 5 K) throws well, while Kirkham (1/3 IP, 1 BB) and Mueller (1 IP, 1 H, 1 K) finish the job.


Game 7 - Thursday, October 15 - Dallas 6, Tampa 5 (10)

DALLAS - "It's gone! It's gone! It's gone!" was Gordon McLendon's call on KLIF radio as SS Jerry Carroll (2 for 4) hit the walkoff homerun down the left field line off Alex Yardley (L, 0-1, 1 IP, 1 R, 1 H, 1 K) leading off the bottom of the 10th to win Dallas its first CBA championship. RF Raymond LaVallee's three-run shot off Richard Doney (5 IP, 5 R, 5 H, 3 BB, 4 K) in the 3rd gave the Drifters a 5-0 lead, but Tampa tied the game at five in the 5th after three runs on four singles off Lawrence Durst (2/3 IP, 3 R, 4 H, 1 K). Janson (2 IP, 1 H, 1 K), Kirkham, Ellingson and Mueller (W, 1-0, 2 IP, 1 H, 1 BB) combined for five strong innings of relief, allowing just three hits between them, after shaky work by starter Ron Peters (4 IP, 2 R, 4 H, 2 BB, 4 K) and Durst. Drifters C Patrick Baskerville was named the series MVP for hitting .346 with four doubles and three taters, scoring seven times and driving in nine.

[jmm8356]

October 17, 1953

Year In Review


Western Division Most Valuable Player

RF Raymond LaVallee (DAL) - .314, 22 HR, 104 RBI, 93 R, 33 2Bs, 11 3Bs, 42 SB

Western Division Hurler of the Year

Joseph Palmer (SAN) - 18-8, 2.46 ERA, OAVG .204, 268 Ks in 245 IP

Western Division Rookie of the Year

SS Justin Charley (MEM) - .281, 9 HR, 58 RBI, 4 E in 349 TC (.989) at shortstop

Western Division Manager of the Year

Steve Hamilton (DAL) (3) - Won 96 games and 2nd consecutive Western pennant


Eastern Division Most Valuable Player

1B Brian Gray (MIA) (2) - .310, 30 HR, 99 RBI, 109 R, 115 BB, 38 2Bs

Eastern Division Hurler of the Year

Steve Bruce (JAX) - 19-7, 2.18 ERA, OAVG .182, 194 Ks in 194 1/3 IP

Eastern Division Rookie of the Year

Not awarded.

Eastern Division Manager of the Year

Donnie Chancellor (CAR) (2) - Won 82 games, beating expectations by 11


Western Division Slick Fielders

P Gale Bailey (NSH)
C Joe Deutsch (SAN)
1B Jeff Hickox (DAL) (3)
2B Victor Beauchamp (NSH)
3B Chris Wardell (DAL) (2)
SS Tyler Scott (NSH)
LF Larry Richards (MEM)
CF Rick Speed (MEM) (2)
RF Scott Heyer (MEM)

Eastern Division Slick Fielders

P Bruce Landry (NOR)
C Greg Olson (JAX)
1B Casey Pattison (NOR)
2B Lee Pinkney (ATL) (2)
3B Emery Thurston (JAX)
SS Darrell Shehan (ATL) (2)
LF Ron Brookshire (JAX)
CF Bob Mangum (CAR)
RF Waldo Hertel (JAX)


League Leaders

Batting

.359 - Travis O'Connell (ATL)
.335 - Brian Dumas (NSH)
.328 - Nick Bacon (TAM)
.325 - Gary Schneider (NWO)
.320 - Tom Swaim (NOR)

Homeruns

33 - Jerry Carroll (DAL)
32 - Bob Mangum (CAR)
32 - Matt Ketron (SAN)
30 - Bill Danner (TAM)
30 - Brian Gray (ATL)

RBI

106 - Kevin Pierce (MEM)
104 - Raymond LaVallee (DAL)
102 - Bob Mangum (CAR)
99 - Jerry Carroll (DAL)
99 - Brian Gray (ATL)

Doubles

45 - Kevin Pierce (MEM)
43 - Ted DeRouen (NOR)
38 - Ryan Jackson (ATL)
38 - Bob Wall (CAR)
38 - Brian Gray (ATL)
38 - Victor Beauchamp (NSH)

Triples

14 - Gary Schneider (NWO)
13 - Bob Wall (CAR)
11 - Raymond LaVallee (DAL)
11 - Jason Music (NOR)
9 - Jeff Frost (NOR)

Runs

109 - John Watkins (TAM)
109 - Brian Gray (ATL)
106 - Ken Bennett (JAX)
101 - Scott Heyer (MEM)
97 - Tim Ryan (NOR)

Stolen Bases

75 - Rick Speed (MEM)
57 - John Watkins (TAM)
53 - Don Graham (TAM)
52 - Jeff McGovern (DAL)
47 - Tim Ryan (NOR)

ERA

2.18 - Steve Bruce (JAX)
2.43 - Steven Mackay (MEM)
2.46 - Joseph Palmer (SAN)
2.75 - Don Skelly (SAN)
2.76 - Oscar Alloway (HOU)

Wins

19 - Steve Bruce (JAX)
18 - Joseph Palmer (SAN)
17 - Gary Nardi (JAX)
15 - Richard Doney (TAM)
15 - Kurtis Collins (DAL)
15 - Daryl Warren (MEM)
15 - Joe Melton (NOR)

Saves

42 - Dave Samuelson (SAN)
41 - Jeffrey May (NWO)
40 - Chad Milam (TAM)
39 - Ron Nauman (CAR)
37 - Will Bearden (JAX)

Strikeouts

268 - Joseph Palmer (SAN) - NEW LEAGUE RECORD
231 - Barney Maloy (NWO)
228 - Oscar Alloway (HOU)
205 - Dave Haskell (TAM)
194 - Steve Bruce (JAX)

[jmm8356]

March 1, 1954

Offseason Recap

No new managers this season.

Memphis, Nashville, and Jacksonville get $5 million from revenue sharing.

Last year's Hurler of the Year, San Antonio SP Joseph Palmer (18-8, 2.46) gets the largest arbitration award, $5.8 million.


Free Agency Highlights

February 7 - Two-time Hurler of the Year Don Skelly (14-12, 2.75) signs with Carolina for four years at $14.6 million.

February 11 - The Flyers continue the spending spree, inking 3B Travis O'Connell (.359, 14 HR, 69 RBI, 28 2Bs) at $8.2 million for four years.

February 14 - Defending champion Dallas fills one of their few holes, signing a four-year deal at $7.5 million with 1B Chris Roseboro (.299, 21 HR, 73 RBI), formerly of New Orleans.

February 15 - Another member of New Orleans' championship squad of 1951 departs; SP Ronald Absher (12-14, 3.48) signs with Tampa for three years at $8.7 million.

March 2 - Rule 5 Draft

Four picks this year:

Nashville (from ATL) - C Patrick Cloininger, hit .273 in AAA Greenville last year

Atlanta (from DAL) - SP Vernon Hurt, awful control, 7-9, 5.15 for AAA Little Rock

Miami (from CAR) - 3B Newton Butler, .245, 18 HR, 64 RBI at AA Hickory

Memphis (from NOR) - C Charlie Buzzard, hit .269 for AA Durham

[jmm8356]

May 1, 1954

Tampa seems to have unfinished business after their collapse in the Confederate Series last season. The Tomahawks ride a seven game winning streak beginning April 20 to a two game lead over Carolina in the Eastern Division. 3B Lane Brasfield (.412, 3 HR, 17 RBI, 7 2Bs) has a hit in every Tampa game this season, a 19-game streak. Elsewhere in the East...

Last year's Hurler of the Year, Jacksonville SP Steve Bruce (19-7, 2.18 last year), goes down in just his second start with a strained ligament in his elbow April 10; he is expected back in around 3 weeks.

Last-place Miami is not standing pat, acquiring 3B Bob Wall (.243, 6 HR, 57 RBI, 38 2Bs) from Carolina for two minor leaguers on April 27. Wall is known for hitting the first homerun in CBA history.

In the West, Houston leads San Antonio by one and Memphis by 1 1/2 games. New Orleans is in the cellar despite two starters with sub-2 ERAs, Douglas Agan (1-0, 1.44 in 4 GS) and Roland Woods (1-0, 1.57 in 3 GS).


Western Division Batter of the Month:

1B Chris Roseboro (DAL) - Hit .369 with 7 HR and 24 RBI

Western Division Pitcher of the Month:

John McElveen (HOU) - Went 3-0 with a 1.31 ERA

Eastern Division Batter of the Month:

CF Bob "Popcorn" Mangum (CAR) - Hit .393 with 6 HR and 17 RBI

Eastern Division Pitcher of the Month:

Bob Byers (NOR) - Went 2-0 with a 1.78 ERA


Western Division Standings

Houston....... 12 - _8 .600 -
San Antonio... 11 - _9 .550 1
Memphis....... 12 - 11 .522 1.5
Nashville..... 11 - 12 .478 2.5
Dallas........ 10 - 12 .455 3
New Orleans.... 9 - 14 .391 4.5

Eastern Division Standings

Tampa......... 14 - _5 .737 -
Carolina...... 15 - 10 .600 2
Atlanta....... 11 - 11 .500 4.5
Norfolk........ 9 - 12 .429 6
Jacksonville.. 10 - 14 .417 6.5
Miami.......... 9 - 15 .375 7.5

[jmm8356]

June 1, 1954

Well, you can't keep a good dog down. Norfolk wins twelve straight beginning May 18 to take the lead in the Eastern Division, half a game ahead of Carolina and one game clear of Tampa.

San Antonio and Memphis are tied atop a weak Western Division. Houston falls to third, 3 1/2 games back, after going 11-17 in May.


Western Division Batter of the Month:

SS Johnny Dean (NWO) - Hit .363 with 5 HR and 22 RBI

Western Division Pitcher of the Month:

Oscar Alloway (HOU) - Went 5-1 with a 2.30 ERA

Eastern Division Batter of the Month:

3B Tom Swaim (NOR) - Hit .389 with 5 HR and 24 RBI

Eastern Division Pitcher of the Month:

Don Skelly (CAR) - Went 6-1 with a 3.04 ERA


Western Division Standings

San Antonio... 26 - 21 .553 -
Memphis....... 27 - 22 .551 -
Houston....... 23 - 25 .479 3.5
Nashville..... 23 - 26 .469 4
Dallas........ 22 - 27 .449 5
New Orleans... 18 - 31 .367 9

Eastern Division Standings

Norfolk....... 29 - 21 .580 -
Carolina...... 29 - 22 .569 .5
Tampa......... 27 - 21 .563 1
Miami......... 26 - 23 .531 2.5
Jacksonville.. 25 - 25 .500 4
Atlanta....... 19 - 30 .388 9.5

[jmm8356]

June Draft Highlights


Nashville (1st) - 3B Jack Thomas, 20 (8/9/8)
Hitting .365 with 17 HR and 11 SB in 267 AB for Missouri, this rightie gets a signing bonus of $1.2 million.

New Orleans (2nd) - SS Ed Rooker, 18, (9/9/10)
This switch-hitter got a $3 million signing bonus after hitting .553 with 10 HR in 87 AB at South Hadley HS (Massachusetts).

Houston (3rd) - LF Dan Titus, 22 (6/7/10)
Signing for $1 million, this Virginia Cavalier hit .310 with 13 HR in 233 AB.

Carolina (5th) - CL Kenny Dunston, 18 (7/8/8)
This young righthander from Silver Creek HS (New York) struck out 84 with a 0.79 ERA in 57 IP. [I ran cross country against Silver Creek! We really hated those guys! Sometimes this game is so cool...]


Post-Draft Minor League Rankings

Houston (230)
Carolina (206)
Nashville (180)
San Antonio (170)
New Orleans (125)
Memphis (112)
Jacksonville (108)
Tampa (107)
Dallas (100)
Miami (53)
Norfolk (52)
Atlanta (12)


Top Minor League Records

AAA Austin (SAN) - 31-16
AA Hickory (CAR) - 34-17
A Huntsville (NSH) - 30-19

[jmm8356]

July 1, 1954

San Antonio wins eight straight beginning June 8 to take a three game lead over Memphis in the Western Division. Third-place Houston, 6 1/2 back, lose SP Henry Combs (2-5, 2.84 in 10 GS) June 4 due to a ruptured disc in his back.

In the East, Norfolk leads Carolina by 2 1/2 games. Hot in April, defending division champ Tampa have slipped to fifth, 10 1/2 back.


Western Division Batter of the Month:

1B Chris Roseboro (DAL) - Hit .282 with 7 HR and 26 RBI

Western Division Pitcher of the Month:

Quinton Reed (DAL) - Went 2-0 with a 1.38 ERA, WHIP 1.00

Eastern Division Batter of the Month:

LF Frank Waits (ATL) - Hit .314 with 7 HR and 26 RBI

Eastern Division Pitcher of the Month:

Bob Byers (NOR) - Went 2-0 with a 2.55 ERA (7-0 on the season)


Western Division Standings

San Antonio... 44 - 31 .587 -
Memphis....... 42 - 35 .545 3
Houston....... 38 - 38 .500 6.5
Dallas........ 35 - 42 .455 10
Nashville..... 35 - 42 .455 10
New Orleans... 30 - 47 .390 15

Eastern Division Standings

Norfolk....... 47 - 30 .610 -
Carolina...... 45 - 33 .577 2.5
Jacksonville.. 39 - 39 .500 8.5
Miami......... 37 - 40 .481 10
Tampa......... 36 - 40 .474 10.5
Atlanta....... 33 - 44 .429 14

[jmm8356]

July 13, 1954

NEW ORLEANS - Tim Ryan and Greg Archer both hit pinch-hit RBI-doubles in the 8th, while Jeff Hickox and Nick Bacon add RBI-singles in the 9th, all off Dave Samuelson (L, 1 2/3 IP, 3 R, 5 H, 1 K) as the Eastern All-Stars come back to beat the West, 4-2. David Standley (2 for 4) is named MVP after his two-run homer in the 4th plates the West's only runs. Floyd Luft (2 IP, 1 H) gets the win, and Chad Milam (1 IP, 1 K) earns the save.


Western Division All-Stars

Starters

SP Oscar Alloway (HOU) - 9-5, 2.56 ERA, 136 Ks in 137 1/3 IP

C David Standley (SAN) (2) - .287, 5 HR, 38 RBI (.352 in June)

1B Chris Roseboro (DAL) (3) - .311, 21 HR, 72 RBI

2B Lee Pinkney (HOU) (4) - .260, 5 HR, 37 RBI

3B Brian Dumas (NSH) (2) - .318, 17 HR, 57 RBI, 50 R, 52 BB

SS Jerry Carroll (DAL) (5) - .304, 23 HR, 62 RBI, 68 R

LF Daniel Taylor (HOU) - .264, 17 HR, 60 RBI, 16 SB

CF Scott Heyer (MEM) (6) - .274, 7 HR, 43 RBI, 51 R, 60 BB, 11 SB

RF Raymond LaVallee (DAL) (4) - .272, 11 HR, 46 RBI, 25 SB

Reserves

SP Paul Jones (SAN) (2)
SP Lawrence Gladden (SAN) (2)
SP Joseph Palmer (SAN) (4)
SP Steven Mackay (MEM) (4)
SP Vernon Elswick (MEM) (2)
SP John McElveen (HOU) (2)
MR Lance Stephenson (SAN)
CL Dave Samuelson (SAN) (5)
MR Rick Olander (NSH)
C Travis Henry (MEM) (2)
1B Kevin Pierce (MEM) (3)
LF Buck Blasingame (NSH) (3)
LF Malcolm Harris (NWO) (3)
CF Jeff McGovern (DAL) (4)
3B Charie McCay (MEM)
SS Justin Charley (MEM)


Eastern Division All-Stars

Starters

SP Joe Melton (NOR) (6) - 11-3, 2.56 ERA, WHIP 1.04

C Paul Bowen (JAX) - .349, 4 HR, 52 RBI, 12 2Bs, thrown out 14 of 41 base stealers (34.1%)

1B Ron Harris (CAR) (2) - .315, 11 HR, 36 RBI, 53 R

2B Greg Archer (NOR) - .272, 12 HR, 46 RBI, 14 2Bs, 5 3Bs

3B Tom Swaim (NOR) (2) - .347, 12 HR, 61 RBI, 56 R, 17 2Bs

SS Ken Bennett (JAX) (6) - .305, 15 HR, 46 RBI, 62 R, 75 BB

LF Frank Waits (ATL) - .311, 13 HR, 60 RBI, 53 R, 22 2Bs

CF Bob Mangum (CAR) (2) - .325, 21 HR, 62 RBI, 69 R, 8 3Bs, 28 SB

RF Stephen Delisle (CAR) (5) - .343, 8 HR, 42 RBI, 59 R, 22 2Bs

Reserves

SP Don Skelly (CAR) (3)
SP Ronald Absher (TAM) (4)
SP Bob Byers (NOR) (2)
SP Joseph Phillips (CAR) (2)
SP Ted Knott (ATL)
SP Andy Garrison (TAM)
MR Ryan Cummings (NOR)
CL Floyd Luft (NOR)
MR Chad Milam (TAM) (3)
C Greg Olson (JAX) (4)
1B Jeff Hickox (ATL) (5)
CF Nick Bacon (TAM) (5)
RF Joe Thomas (MIA) (3)
LF Tim Ryan (NOR) (3)
SS Raymond Timmerman (NOR) (5)
SS Johnny Dean (ATL)

[jmm8356]

August 1, 1954

The top two spots in both divisions have swapped. Memphis leads San Antonio by 2 1/2 in the West, while Carolina leapfrogged Norfolk for a three game lead in the East.

Trading season started early this year, as cellar dweller New Orleans gets $19.6 million man SP Keith Ward (8-7, 4.19) with a minor leaguer from Miami for C Mark Jost (.267, 5 HR, 37 RBI, 56 BB) on June 24.

Last-place Atlanta has been especially active. On July 21, the Flames get SP Bob Byers (8-1, 3.12) and $1.1 million from Norfolk for CF Ryan Jackson (.277, 14 HR, 61 RBI). July 28 sees Lawrence Miles (5-5, 3.55), just acquired from Nashville three weeks earlier, sent to New Orleans for RF Gary Schneider (.321, 5 HR, 29 RBI). Finally, Atlanta trades SP Devon Dahlgren (4-8, 4.50) to Dallas for Pitcher of the Month Kurtis Collins (8-6, 3.71) and a minor leaguer on July 29.

In contract news, Dallas signs C Patrick Baskerville (.243, 2 HR, 24 RBI, 21 2Bs) for four more years at $12.6 million, while Tampa inks CF Nick Bacon (.316, 18 HR, 59 RBI) at $8.2 million for three years.


Western Division Batter of the Month:

3B Brian "The Sandman" Dumas (NSH) - Hit .436 with 8 HR and 24 RBI

Western Division Pitcher of the Month:

Tom "Spooky" Gustafson (NSH) - Went 1-1 with a 1.04 ERA, WHIP 0.87 (2-7, 3.73 on the year)

Eastern Division Batter of the Month:

RF Joe Thomas (MIA) - Hit .355 with 6 HR and 17 RBI

Eastern Division Pitcher of the Month:

Kurtis Collins (ATL) - Went 3-1 with a 1.57 ERA


Western Division Standings

Memphis....... 60 - 43 .583 -
San Antonio... 57 - 45 .559 2.5
Dallas........ 50 - 53 .485 10
Nashville..... 49 - 54 .476 11
Houston....... 48 - 55 .466 12
New Orleans... 38 - 65 .369 22

Eastern Division Standings

Carolina...... 60 - 44 .577 -
Norfolk....... 57 - 47 .548 3
Tampa......... 53 - 50 .515 6.5
Miami......... 53 - 51 .510 7
Jacksonville.. 48 - 56 .462 12
Atlanta....... 47 - 57 .452 13

[jmm8356]

September 1, 1954

Carolina stretches their Eastern Division lead to four games over Norfolk. The Flyers have the best pitching staff (3.72) in the CBA, led by Don Skelly (15-7, 2.82) and Joseph Phillips (11-8, 3.41).

The Clippers, meanwhile, were without 3B Tom Swaim (.350, 14 HR, 69 RBI) for most of the month; Swaim went on the DL on August 7 with an inflamed groin, but is expected back after the weekend.

In the West, Memphis maintains their 2 1/2 game margin over San Antonio. The Blues are tops in scoring (665), with RF Rick Speed (.261, 65 R, 49 SB) set to lead the league in thefts for the second straight year.


Western Division Batter of the Month:

SS Jerry Carroll (DAL) - Hit .374 with 10 HR and 25 RBI

Western Division Pitcher of the Month:

Joseph Palmer (SAN) - Went 5-0 with a 2.61 ERA

Eastern Division Batter of the Month:

SS Johnny Dean (ATL) - Hit .409 with 6 HR and 31 RBI, acquired via trade from New Orleans on June 16

Eastern Division Pitcher of the Month:

Ted Knott (ATL) - Went 3-1 with a 1.17 ERA


Western Division Standings

Memphis....... 74 - 58 .561 -
San Antonio... 71 - 60 .542 2.5
Dallas........ 69 - 63 .523 5
Nashville..... 60 - 72 .455 14
Houston....... 58 - 74 .439 16
New Orleans... 52 - 80 .394 22

Eastern Division Standings

Carolina...... 78 - 54 .591 -
Norfolk....... 74 - 58 .561 4
Tampa......... 68 - 64 .515 10
Atlanta....... 65 - 67 .492 13
Miami......... 64 - 68 .485 14
Jacksonville.. 59 - 74 .444 19.5

[jmm8356]

October 2, 1954

For the second straight year, the Eastern Division is not decided going into the final weekend. Norfolk wins seven straight, including two at Carolina, starting September 2, to take a one-game lead over the Flyers. The Clippers host Atlanta, while Carolina visits Miami for the final two contests of the year.

In the West, Memphis has won nine of their last ten, clinching the pennant on September 29 with a 8-3 win at Nashville.


Western Division Batter of the Month:

3B Norm Lewis (NWO) - Hit .343 with 5 HR and 24 RBI

Western Division Pitcher of the Month:

Paul Jones (SAN) - Went 5-1 with a 2.70 ERA

Eastern Division Batter of the Month:

SS Raymond Timmerman (NOR) - Hit .368 with 6 HR and 19 RBI

Eastern Division Pitcher of the Month:

Roger Stauffer (NOR) - Went 5-0 with a 1.11 ERA


Western Division Standings

Memphis....... 93 - 67 .581 -
San Antonio... 87 - 73 .544 6
Dallas........ 86 - 74 .537 7
Houston....... 70 - 90 .438 23
Nashville..... 67 - 93 .419 26
New Orleans... 67 - 93 .419 26

Eastern Division Standings

Norfolk....... 93 - 67 .581 -
Carolina...... 92 - 68 .575 1
Atlanta....... 80 - 80 .500 13
Tampa......... 80 - 80 .500 13
Miami......... 73 - 87 .456 20
Jacksonville.. 72 - 88 .450 21

[jmm8356]

October 3, 1954

Norfolk 7, Atlanta 6

NORFOLK - RF Jason Music singled to center off Clint Shope (L, 7-3, 0 IP, 1 R, 2 H, 1 BB), scoring pinch runner Alton Hinz in the bottom of the 9th and winning the game for Norfolk, 7-6. Pinch hitter Lynn Jerome drew a walk, Hinz stole second and 1B Casey Pattison (3 for 4) singled to move Hinz to third before Music (3 for 5) hit the game winner. Tom Swaim's (2 for 4, 2 R, 3 RBI) two-run shot tied the game in the 8th, while Flames RF Gary Schneider was 4 for 5 for the losing cause. Floyd Luft (10-8, 2/3 IP, 2 H) gets two whiffs for the win.

Carolina 2, Miami 1

MIAMI - Don Skelly throws 7 2/3 shutout innings as Carolina keeps pace in the East with a 2-1 victory. The Flyers need a win tomorrow and a Norfolk loss to force a one-game playoff. Skeely (20-9) allows just three hits and two walks while striking out four. Matt Miller's pinch-hit in the 9th scores C Dave Staggs for the winning run. Wesley Pope (L, 7-22, 6 2/3 IP, 1 R, 6 H, 3 BB, 4 K) threw well for Miami, but George Beck and Benjamin Shipp (1 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 2 H, 2 K) got the final four outs to secure the win.


October 4, 1954

Carolina 8, Miami 2

MIAMI - A 42-minute rain delay cannot douse the Carolina bats as four Flyers double in a 8-2 win that forces the first one-game playoff in CBA history at Norfolk today. RF Stephen Delisle goes 3 for 5 with two runs and two RBI, and C Dave Staggs drives in three, including a two-run double in a four-run Carolina 4th. Errors and the rain both affect Jonathan Ford (L, 10-18, 3 2/3 IP, 7 R, 4 ER, 9 H, 2 BB, 1 K), while Joseph Phillips (13-9, 2 R, 7 H, 1 K) grits his way through five for the victory.

Atlanta 11, Norfolk 8

NORFOLK - Nineteen runs and twenty-six hits in a wild one at Harbor Stadium, but Norfolk falls short, 11 to 8, to slip into a tie atop the Eastern Division. A five-run Atlanta 6th is keyed by RBI-doubles from pinch-hitter Jeff Hickox off Joe Melton (L, 17-10, 5 1/3 IP, 10 R, 8 ER, 11 H, 2 BB, 4 K) and SS Johnny Dean off Bob Freeland (2/3 IP, 1 R, 2 H, 1 BB). Clippers 3B Tom Swaim went 3 for 4 with a homer and 3 RBIs; Flames 3B Tyrrell Holland was 2 for 2 with three walks, scoring twice and driving in three. Tom Birt (12-5) gets a K to end the 5th for the win, and Clint Shope throws a strikeout to end the 9th for the save, his 9th of the season.


October 5, 1954

Norfolk 4, Carolina 1

NORFOLK - 3B Tom Swaim (3 for 4) doubles in a run and scores off Leland Meyer (L, 7-5, 2/3 IP, 3 R, 4 H) in a three-run Clippers 7th to send Norfolk to yet another postseason with a 4-1 victory over Carolina. Both Ken Schleicher (6 IP, 1 R, 5 H, 1 BB, 6 K) and Gary Dupre (W, 12-12, 7 IP, 1 R, 8 H, 2 BB, 2 K) pitch effectively, but Dave Lyons (1 IP, 1 BB) and Floyd Luft (SV, 37, 1 IP, 1 H) bring down the curtain on the Flyers' season. Jeff Frost (2 for 4) and Greg Archer (2 for 3) both add solo shots to the winning tally.


Final Western Division Standings

Memphis....... 94 - 68 .580 -
San Antonio... 88 - 74 .543 6
Dallas........ 87 - 75 .537 7
Houston....... 71 - 91 .438 23
New Orleans... 69 - 93 .426 25
Nashville..... 67 - 95 .414 27

Final Eastern Division Standings

Norfolk....... 95 - 68 .583 -
Carolina...... 94 - 69 .577 1
Atlanta....... 81 - 81 .500 13.5
Tampa......... 80 - 82 .494 14.5
Jacksonville.. 74 - 88 .457 20.5
Miami......... 73 - 89 .451 21.5

[jmm8356]

October 7, 1954

Confederate Series Preview


The Norfolk Clippers go for their fourth Confederate Series win in five tries under three-time Manager of the Year Lloyd Jorgensen. Norfolk won ten of their twelve games against Memphis this year and hope to convert their homefield advantage in the series after a 51-31 record at Harbor Stadium.

The Clippers tied for second in scoring (784) but led the league in homers (159). 3B Tom Swaim (.356, 17 HR, 86 RBI, 22 2Bs), SS Raymond Timmerman (.302, 23 HR, 87 RBI, 100 R), LF Tim Ryan (.272, 29 HR, 88 RBI, 102 R, 23 2Bs, 48 SB) and RF Jason Music (.304, 15 HR, 74 RBI, 90 R, 30 2Bs) all swing big bats, while CF Jeff Frost (.231, 12 HR, 46 RBI, 57 R, 16 2Bs, 39 SB in 368 AB) provides some of Norfolk's speed (175 SB, 2nd).

Norfolk's staff was third-best (3.78) in the CBA last year despite a rash of injuries; only Joe Melton (17-10, 2.96) and Gary Dupre (12-12, 4.83) threw over 200 innings. Roger Stauffer (6-0, 1.83, WHIP 1.02 in 8 GS) was simply incredible down the stretch after a total of eight minor league starts in a seven-year career as a reliever, and closer Floyd Luft (10-8, 37 SV, 3.12) had eight saves after September 1.


The Memphis Blues win their second Western Division pennant under skipper Ray Blanton. Blanton was Manager of the Year in 1950, the same year the Blues lost the Confederate Series to Norfolk in six games.

Memphis features the top offense in the league, batting .278 and scoring 831 runs, despite ranking dead-last in homers (98). 1B Kevin "Pluto" Pierce (.330, 13 HR, 98 RBI, 122 R) hit an astounding 60 doubles this season. CF Scott Heyer (.278, 19 HR, 86 RBI, 109 R, 118 BB, 25 2Bs, 27 SB) and 2B Justin Charley (.331, 8 HR, 77 RBI, 22 2Bs) are also big contributors, while RF Rick Speed (.262, 85 R, 64 SB) may be the most appropriately named player in league history.

The Blues' pitchers, meanwhile, rank 11th in ERA (4.31) and runs allowed (769), though Ron Stephenson (13-10, 3.07, WHIP 1.19), Steven Mackay (18-7, 3.60, WHIP 1.25), Vernon Elswick (18-13, 3.74, WHIP 1.24) and closer Ron McCoy (28 SV, 4.10, WHIP 1.31) are all effective from the hill.

[jmm8356]

October 16, 1954

Confederate Series Recap

Game 1 - Thursday, October 7 - Memphis 3, Norfolk 2

NORFOLK - 3B Charlie McCay singles in pinch-running reliever [you can do that?!?] Douglas Englehart off Floyd Luft (L, 1 IP, 1 R, 2 H) with two down in the top of the 9th as Memphis squeaks by Norfolk, 3 to 2. After Joe Melton (8 IP, 2 R, 7 H, 3 BB, 2 K) walked C Travis Henry, Luft gave up a pinch hit to Leland Donaldson before getting a fielder's choice at third and a fly out to bring McCay to the plate. Norfolk's runs came on solo shots by LF Tim Ryan in the 1st and C Anderson Camper in the 8th. Steven Mackay was outstanding, allowing just the two homers for hits and striking out eight in eight innings of work, while Ron McCoy (SV, 1 IP, 1 H, 1 BB, 2 K) had the tying run on second (and the losing run on first) before getting the save.


Game 2 - Friday, October 8 - Memphis 4, Norfolk 2

NORFOLK - 1B Kevin Pierce's two-run double off Bob Freeland (2 IP, 2 R, 3 H, 2 BB) in the 8th makes the difference as Memphis tops Norfolk, 4-2, bringing a two-games-to-none lead back to Tennessee. Freeland gives up a walk to 3B Charlie McCay and a single to RF Scott Heyer to set the table for Pierce's game-winning smash down the left field line. Norfolk never leads in this game, as Roger Stauffer (6 IP, 2 R, 6 H, 1 BB, 4 K) takes a tough loss in his ninth major league start. Ron Stephenson (6 1/3 IP, 1 R, 5 H, 1 BB, 4 K) throws well for the win, and Ron McCoy strikes out two for his second save in as many games.


Game 3 - Sunday, October 10 - Memphis 5, Norfolk 2

MEMPHIS - 1B Kevin Pierce goes 3 for 4 with a double and a two-run homer off Gary Dupre (L, 6 IP, 5 R, 10 H, 2 BB, 2 K) as Memphis beats an anemic Norfolk squad, 5 to 2, at The Fabulous Avalon. 3B Charlie McCay goes 2 for 3, scoring twice, and 2B Justin Charley hits 3 for 4 with an RBI to add to the Blues' 13-hit onslaught. Another fine outing for Memphis pitching, thanks to Vernon Elswick (W, 6 2/3 IP, 2 R, 5 H, 2 BB, 4 K), Ronald Grant (1 1/3 IP, 1 K) and Ron McCoy (SV, 3, 1 IP, 2 BB, 1 K).


Game 4 - Monday, October 11 - Memphis 5, Norfolk 4

MEMPHIS - Lloyd Jorgensen blew it! In the bottom of the 9th, with CF Rick Speed (3 for 4, 2 R) on third after a double and a sacrifice, Jorgensen, the Clippers' manager, has Floyd Luft (L, 0-2, 2/3 IP, 1 R, 1 H, 2 BB) put RF Scott Heyer and 1B Kevin Pierce on to load the bases for slow 2B Justin Charley, but leaves the infield deep. Charley hits a grounder to Raymond Timmerman at short, but beats the relay to first, Speed scores, and Memphis sweeps Norfolk with the 5-4 victory. Ronald Grant gets the win (W, 1-0, 1/3 IP, 1 R, 1 H) despite giving up the two-run shot that tied the game to Tom Swaim in the top half of the 9th. Pierce is named the series MVP; he hit 7 of 15 with three doubles and a homer, scoring twice and driving in four.

[jmm8356]

October 17, 1954

Year In Review


Western Division Most Valuable Player

SS Jerry Carroll (DAL) - .303, 42 HR, 116 RBI, 111 R, 21 2Bs, 8 3Bs

Western Division Hurler of the Year

Oscar Alloway (HOU) - 18-11, 2.49 ERA, WHIP 1.18, 249 Ks in 257 IP

Western Division Rookie of the Year

SP Tom Gustafson (NSH) - 6-13, 3.92 ERA, WHIP 1.38

Western Division Manager of the Year

Ray Blanton (MEM) (2) - Won 94 games, an 8 game improvement, and Western Division pennant


Eastern Division Most Valuable Player

CF Bob "Popcorn" Mangum (CAR) - .300, 36 HR, 111 RBI, 134 R, 105 BB, 25 2Bs, 12 3Bs, 51 SB

Eastern Division Hurler of the Year

Don Skelly (CAR) (3) - 20-9, 2.62, WHIP 1.12

Eastern Division Rookie of the Year

Not awarded.

Eastern Division Manager of the Year

Lloyd Jorgensen (NOR) (4) - Won 95 games, a 9 game improvement, and Eastern Division pennant


Western Division Slick Fielders

P Gordon Ringer (DAL) (2)
C Ron Cowell (HOU) (4)
1B Chris Roseboro (DAL) (3)
2B Ted DeRouen (NWO) (2)
3B Brian Hammond (HOU)
SS Jerry Carroll (DAL) (2)
LF Alan Neel (DAL)
CF Rick Speed (MEM) (3)
RF Jim Gamble (HOU) (4)

Eastern Division Slick Fielders

P Ken Schleicher (CAR)
C Mike McCreary (CAR) (3)
1B Casey Pattison (NOR) (2)
2B Richard Safford (JAX)
3B Travis O'Connell (CAR) (2)
SS Malcolm Ables (CAR)
LF Bill Danner (TAM) (2)
CF Dave Floyd (JAX) (4)
RF Scott Henry (CAR)


League Leaders

Batting

.356 - Tom Swaim (NOR)
.339 - Norm Lewis (NWO)
.332 - Stephen Delisle (CAR)
.331 - Justin Charley (MEM)
.330 - Kevin Pierce (MEM)

Homeruns

42 - Jerry Carroll (DAL)
36 - Chris Roseboro (DAL)
36 - Bob Mangum (CAR)
31 - Daniel Taylor (HOU)
29 - Tim Ryan (NOR)

RBI

124 - Chris Roseboro (DAL)
116 - Jerry Carroll (DAL)
111 - Bob Mangum (CAR)
108 - Johnny Dean (ATL)
100 - Daniel Taylor (HOU)

Doubles

60 - Kevin Pierce (MEM) - NEW LEAGUE RECORD
37 - Travis O'Connell (CAR)
36 - Stephen Delisle (CAR)
35 - Brian Gray (MIA)
Three tied with 34.

Triples

12 - Bob Mangum (CAR)
11 - Bob Wall (MIA)
11 - John Watkins (TAM)
10 - John Smith (MIA)
9 - Rick Speed (MEM)

Runs

134 - Bob Mangum (CAR) - NEW LEAGUE RECORD
122 - Kevin Pierce (MEM)
111 - Jerry Carroll (DAL)
109 - Scott Heyer (MEM)
103 - Stephen Delisle (CAR)

Stolen Bases

64 - Rick Speed (MEM)
51 - Bob Mangum (CAR)
51 - Jeff McGovern (DAL)
48 - TIm Ryan (NOR)
45 - Ron Brookshire (JAX)

ERA

2.49 - Oscar Alloway (HOU)
2.62 - Don Skelly (CAR)
2.68 - Quinton Reed (DAL)
2.79 - Ted Knott (ATL)
2.96 - Joe Melton (NOR)

Wins

20 - Don Skelly (CAR)
18 - Vernon Elswick (MEM)
18 - Paul Jones (SAN)
18 - Steven Mackay (MEM)
18 - Oscar Alloway (HOU)
18 - Lawrence Gladden (SAN)

Saves

38 - Chad Milam (TAM)
37 - Floyd Luft (NOR)
32 - Joe Ellingson (DAL)
31 - Dave Samuelson (SAN)
31 - Benjamin Shipp (CAR)

Strikeouts

249 - Oscar Alloway (HOU)
228 - Joseph Palmer (SAN)
210 - Barney Maloy (NWO)
186 - Steven Mackay (MEM)
183 - Keith Ward (NWO)