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Nugget699 · 04-03-2012, 09:38 PM

Wednesday April 4th 2012
This Friday the Super League, Koana Island’s top baseball league, starts a new season. Contributor Nic Niskanen takes a look at each team and their prospects for 2012.

For non-Koanians, especially those who come from traditional baseball powerhouses such as the United States, Japan or Korea, the standard of Koanian domestic baseball can be depressing. We only have a few teams each year capable of winning the title, while the rest battle to stave of relegation for another season

In stark contrast to so many other baseball leagues no team has won the Super League outside of the "Big 5" since Conneaut Spartans in 1958. With the same five teams harboring realistic expectations of challenging for the title, 2012 will be no different.

Dyce Whalers
Dyce rebounded straight back up to the Super League after being relegated in 2010 and they may have just enough left in the tank to see them survive another relegation at the end of the season. The Princeton-based team have some really young hurlers, including 16-year old Svenbjom Attwell, whose lack of experience could be the Whalers undoing. In fact, the whole team is lacking in experience having built a side up around youth.

Strengths
Despite their ages, Attwell and Rob Backstedt (17), both in their rookie seasons lead a strong pitching staff that also includes closer Kai Addison who pitched a 1.87 ERA from 47 games back in 2010. The young bullpen, with none over the age of 24 except for Artur Forstan, will need to pick up the slack. Left Fielder Jai Upchurch could be a surprise amongst the top batters in the league. In 2010, aged 19, the Merriford-born youngster went .263/.314/.313 from 131 games. Last year in the First Division he batted .371/.457/.491 in 585 AB. His lack of power of his only real weakness, as he stoled 36 bases last year, too. Expect him to lead-off in the line-up.

Weaknesses
Experience, experience, experience. Dyce has next to none. Most of these youngsters have never even played professionally having signed over the off-season. Those that have generally only have First Division experience. The learning curve will be steep.

Bottom Line
Despite the lack of experience, Dyce's pitching staff should have enough oomph to not need any run support in games against similar opponents. 12th.

Grenada Kings
The Kings had a poor year last season finishing 14th, 14 games above the drop zone. However, a strong off-season has strengthened the squad and they should match it with the big-boys at the top end of the table. Grenada begins their 3rd year in the Super League having finished runners-up in the KBA Cup and will look to push on from there.

Strengths
Grenada snapped up former New Auckland Closer Crister Egerman in the off-season, along with young rookie Third Baseman Ale Allison, who will slot straight into the line-up. First Baseman Helmer Hjelm went .300/.367/.527 last year, and will easily rank in the Top 10 Batters again this year. Watch out for 18-year old reliever Bart Neumann, who will surely make his debut some time this season.

Weaknesses
Despite a sexy Active Roster, the reserves are lacking, with some barely good enough for Local teams. Marcus Borden was signed from Tranent over the off-season and looks every bit like being the liability he was at the Fury.

Bottom Line
If Grenada stays relatively injury-free the Kings have every chance of squeezing into the Big 5. 6th.

Hollydale Islanders
The team from Hollyoak seems to be punching above their weight in the Super League. Yet since their promotion in 2008, the Isles have survived by the skin of their teeth each time. Last year they avoided the drop by 4 games, but have a real possibility of finishing higher up the table this year.

Strengths
Starting Pitcher Oliver Myrdal is in his third and final year at Hollydale, having signed as a rookie in 2009. This guy is the main reason for the Islanders survival in 2009 and 2010, going 24-25 for an ERA of 3.39 in 64 games over the two years. He has already pitched two shutouts as well. The bullpen is amongst the best in the league, with rookie Tim Parsons, Joe Stuart and Aiden Sowerbutts all expected to make big contributions. The latter of the three signed from Vizhune. Rookie Phillipp Lickliter is a rare gem out in Left Field. Although not game-ready, the 21-year old will surely make his debut at some point this season.

Weaknesses
As of typing this, Hollydale has a squad of, wait for it, 29. Only woefully inadequate pitcher Malcolm Leeder sits on the reserves and he has never played in the Super League before since his signing from Arbordale. The Isles have 5 Shortstops, and none of them are any good; two of them will certainly miss Opening Day through injuries. Lars Sæther is expected to be given the role, and he has never played higher than Division 2. Last year for Crawfordleigh, the 30-year old went .313/.382/.398; not exactly Super League caliber numbers.

Bottom Line
Hollydale could well be plying their trade in the Super League for at least the next two years, but they need to fix up the SS and the squad depth as soon as possible. 13th.

Hydewaters Clippers
The most westerly-based Super League team is the true definition of average. Since returning to the top flight 1999 the Clippers have never finished higher than 5th or lower than 12th. In fact, in the last four years Hydewaters has finished 10th, 12th, 10th, and 12th. Unfortunately Hydewaters fans, the average-ness (that's right, we make up words here at KoanaBaseball.com) is going to continue.

Strengths
Center Fielder Zachariah Bowlby will surely continue where he left off last year (.304/.404/.394). Starter Jens Dindorf is hoping to have a slightly better season than last year when he missed 4 months through two separate injuries. Young Closer Carlo Pryor is one of the best in the business whilst 2B Torbjorn Ekroth, a real utility fielder who can play everywhere but Catcher will be sorely missed at the start of the season whilst he is out injured. SS Everton Rivers is the dark horse in the Clippers team. The 18-year old made his debut in his only appearance last year, but could knock Callum Orton out of the spot as soon as Opening Day.

Weaknesses
The bottom of the rotation is awful, with 33-year old Quincy Shopland and Ewan Stockdale not good enough for this league. Catcher Edwin Porter had a good year in 2010, leading the team in Homers (12) and RBI (88). Unfortunately, Spring Training seemed to show him struggling, and Hydewaters have no adequate cover at the plate.

Bottom Line
Ruprecht Christensson is a young starter who will look to muscle his way into the rotation this season, if he does the Clippers could finish slightly higher than middle-of-the-road. 10th.

Independence City Cardinals
Cardinals owner Rio Samuelsson announced in late 2011 that he was going to cut funding to his beloved team. Why? Because apparently 31 years in the top flight without a title is just too long. I don't blame him. Independence City is one of the "Big 5" yet they have never finished higher than 2nd and haven't finished higher than 4th since 2000. Is this going to be one the last hurrah's of the Cardinals, before they start to slip down the standings and become like every other Super League team?

Strengths
There isn't a man (or woman) in the country who wouldn't snap up young Shortstop Jeckel Gögler in a fantasy draft. In his debut season last year, the 22-year old notched up impressive figures of .278/.374/.381 from 138 games. Starting Pitcher Elton Amphlett is expected to start on Opening Day and is in with a chance of breaking the Top 10 Pitchers list for the first time. Closer Gavin Bellett and 18-year old reliever Sixten Smith will also prove a big factor. The depth of the Cardinals at the moment is quite weak, but they have a plethora of youngsters waiting for their big break including 16-year old Left Fielder Sebaldus Stroebel who may have a few chances pinch-hitting this year.

Weaknesses
Gunner Fredriksen was traded to the Cardinals from Erana Hills last year and it was clear the Wolves got the better deal. The 29-year old Catcher is expected to start ahead of Tim Jakobsen but both have really poor power with the bat, and struggle in all areas at the plate, both offensively and defensively. In fact, it's not surprising to see Fredriksen batting 9th throughout the whole season. Pitcher Mark Wainwright had a few spot starts last year, his rookie season, and is expected to make the rotation this year. Whilst his potential is through the roof, he is currently not a Super League-caliber player.

Bottom Line
The Cards are along way from the Megopolis' and the New Auckland's of this league, but should finish quite nicely in the Top 5. 5th.

Lexington Wasps
Lexington returns to the Super League for the first time since 1998, but unfortunately for the Wasps faithful, it looks like a long year looms. Despite signing some young studs, the Wasps are horrifically out of their depth and anything but relegation will be a huge victory.

Strengths
This is hard. Reliever Rich Jensson is by far the best pitcher on the team despite his tender age of 21. Roy Kyle will also have to be on his game in the bullpen, although unlike last year he won't have to play Closer. The Wasps snapped up a gem from the Dolphin Island league system in Marten Wilander; the Left Fielder will make his debut at age 26. The Wasps also have a great prospect in First Baseman Soren Thul who could see action this season at DH due to his poor fielding.

Weaknesses
Both Infield and Outfield are terrible, with Shortstop particularly woeful. Starter Quentin Tyack was snapped up from Division 1 Embleton during the off-season and didn't really set that league alight. The few useful players on the team are all over the age of 34 and on the decline statistically.

Bottom Line
Lexington squeezed ahead of Uckford for the final promotion spot last year with 2 games to go. It was perhaps best they didn't win their last 3 games of the season. 19th.

Lyndbank Phoenix
Lyndbank begin their 6th season in the Super League having never finished lower than 8th. With a good young team led by Alvin Eliassen, the Phoenix are poised for another top 10 finish although not as strongly as last year when they missed out on breaking into the Top 5 by a single game.

Strengths
Eliassen went 21-7 for an ERA of 2.77 in 221 innings last year and is amongst the Top 10 pitchers in the league. CF Beau Robilliard is in his 8th year in the Super League and 4th with Lyndbank. The 32-year old has never batted below a .260 average since 2007 and ranked second in triples last year with 11. Right Fielder Axel Mattiasson followed Robilliard from Greenborough to Lyndbank in 2009 and last year posted .305/.369/.460 including 91 runs from 144 games. Young CF André Nystrom is one to look for in the future as well as Catcher Jean Sæther who may have a long wait for his debut.

Weaknesses
Lyndbank's Starting Rotation is a bit thin, and the team's depth in most areas needs looking into. Left Field is a bit of a concern with Abraham Friggeberg on the decline; despite his best year in 2011 since his first Super League season in 2008.

Bottom Line
Financially, Lyndbank are secure and with a strong team, and good prospects, the Phoenix will be playing top flight ball for a few more years yet. 8th.

Madison Harbour Bobcats
The Bobbies finished 2011 in 14th place but fought against the drop for much of the year after going 8-18 in June. Despite a high number of signings, very few are Super League ready and Madison Harbour can expect a similar finish to last year.

Strengths
33-year old SP Michael Ahlquist is a certainty to start on Opening Day for the Bobcats, with Rhett Ayliffe providing stiff competition for the 1st spot on the rotation. Second Baseman Martin Paxman had a fantastic rookie year in 2011 (.276/.360/.379, 58 Runs, 40 RBI) and will be a definite starter around second or third in the lineup. Rookie Shaun Overton is one to look out for in the future.

Weaknesses
The loss of 32-year old Pyry Tuomainen will hit Madison Harbour hard. The RF, who signed with Saffron during the off season, led the team in HR and RBIs last year. In fact, Right and Left Field are both really weak whilst Harbour will have a large number of losses whilst Holger Koertig and Viljami Tuominen remain in the starting rotation. Closer Carl Gräslund can be a bit of a liability, with his ERA and WHIP going up considerably in each of the last three years.

Bottom Line
The Bobcats have some real talent in the squad, but they also have some dross. They are a bottom-half side but should be good enough to avoid the drop. 16th.

Megopolis Titans
The Titans fell away badly towards the end of 2011, finishing 8 games behind eventual winners the New Auckland Warlocks. The 17-10 record for September proved their undoing, as the Warlocks went 22-5 for the same month.

Strengths
One of the biggest problems last year was the bullpen which has now been tightened up with the signing of Richard Truswell from New Auckland. The loss of Brandon Blenkinson in the rotation has been fixed with the signing of Ivan Svendsen from Rothes in a 5-year KK112,000,000 deal. Daryl Hodge has become the first choice Right Fielder, ahead of Stewert Bloye who batted .297/.388/.385 for the year in 2011. 37-year old Kaj Larsen looks set to lose his Third Base spot to Louis Shuker this season. Bert Lewknor from Saphire Coast has finally plugged the gap at Shortstop.

Weaknesses
Center Field is still a bit "meh" by Big 5 standards, and back-up Catcher Felix Olsson is an obvious band-aid solution to the problem. Any injury to Ross Myatt will see the lack of talent in Olsson shine through. Outside of the rotation the Titans have no adequate reserve pitchers and are really lacking in spare infielders.

Bottom Line
The Titans haven't won the title since 2008, but have a real distinct possibility of breaking that drought if they can avoid the September slump that has plagued them time and time again. 1st.

New Auckland Warlocks
The Green & Gold won their second consecutive league title after a 16-year wait since the last one but with one of the oldest teams in the Super League, is the cherry about to pop?

Strengths
Household name Li Dryden doesn't look like he has aged at all, and will be an obvious choice for many to win his third Pitching award. Goran Hansen is the quiet under-achiever, but could have a more prominent role in the team as Andor Wiik seems to be on the decline. Reliever Alfie Grist may even make a few spot starts this season. Right Fielder Ian Pegge has joined from Lyndbank after batting .314/.412/.580 last season but will have a fight on his hands to hold the top spot with Christos Nolan, who is currently on the disabled list with a slight knee complaint. Remember the name Odell Thurgood, who is touted to be a Nicky Loxton clone.

Weaknesses
Age is a big factor for the side, and many players may not be up to standard come the close of 2012. Offensively, the Warlocks are quite poor with depth in both Infield and Outfield a major concern. RF Zak Bradley led the team in HRs last year with 36, but he has now lost his spot to Ian Pegge who isn't a big slugger. Andrew Earnshaw had a great year on the mound in 2011, but the 29-year old could find the going a bit tough this year.

Bottom Line
Age is a major factor as the players start declining and the Warlocks are like a retirement home. New Auckland will struggle to match Megopolis or Vizhune this year but will still walk over most of the league. 3rd.

Nyhaven North Stars
The Stars have had a 20 year absence from the Super League before they romped away with the First Division title last year, finishing 13 games ahead of Dyce. Their return looks to be short-lived however, with SP Lenny Titmus ruled out for the season with a torn ligament in his elbow. The pitcher is likely not going to make his Super League debut this season.

Strengths
Despite the loss of Nyhaven's favourite, the North Stars picked up some impressive rookie's who could certainly have a career in the top flight such as Starters Hano Heading and Lambert Pettersen. Closer Elias Andersson posted an ERA of just 0.28 with a WHIP of 0.60 in his 64 starts last season, although save opportunities may be quite scarce in 2012. 19-year old CF Peter Isacksson (.247/.299/.383, 65 Runs, 60 RBI) is a real dark horse.

Weaknesses
Unfortunately, Nyhaven lacks any real talent at the Infield positions, and most players struggle to hit for power. Colin Tibbetts signed from Jonestown and looked out of depth in Spring Training, don't be surprised if prospect Axel Hallstrom makes his debut on the mound in 2012. Shortstop William Rennenberg will miss most of April with a fractured thumb; a month when the team face New Auckland, Vizhune and Megopolis.

Bottom Line
A weak team that has some solid prospects coming through. Expect them to bounce between the Super League and First Division over the next few years. 20th.

Port Redhill Raiders
Port Redhill ranked 12th in Runs Against per game, but were tied for 3rd last in Shutouts. Thankfully, the team stepped up with the bat and they finished a respectable 13th in their 9th season in the top flight. The forecast for the Raiders is much of the same.

Strengths
Ross Anderson is the lone star in the pitching staff as an average Starter, but Third Baseman Rex Blume is the obvious standout. He led the league last year in Batting Average with .342 and Hits with 212, unfortunately he only scored 89 times and drove-in just 49. Despite his, he has improved each year since his Super League debut in 2008, and will be the go-to guy for the Raiders again this year. Former Xyport RF Tuukka Fagerstedt improves the outfield, but has never played at the Super League level before. In reserves, the Raiders have a couple of good teenage relievers in Janne Gilliatt and Han Marples, but the definite blue-chip prospect is Bart Lee, who sits behind Joakim Baumgart and Bryan Wilcox for the starting spot at Second Base.

Weaknesses
The pitching staff and in particular the rotation is very weak. 36-year old Crister Karneus is the faithful Closer, but he can't go on forever. Mainio Kivivuori is woefully inadequate for Port Redhill's rotational needs. The Catcher position is also poor, with Sami Dahlquist and Otoo Cajander expected to share the role. Both are barely First Division caliber players.

Bottom Line
The Bats need to be the same as the temperature in Port Redhill if they are to stay well clear from the relegation zone... Hot, hot, hot. 11th.

Ridgewich Falls Pride
The Pride had there best finish in 6 years in 2011, notching up an 84-78 record for 8th place which included an impressive batting average and team ERA. But a poor off-season will leave the Wilkes-based team with a bit of a fight on their hands this season.

Strengths
Valio Jokela is amongst the best pitchers in the league, and will get the nod ahead of Spencer Rowarth who is also a good quality hurler. 24-year old Left Fielder Tom Gazard (.313/.414/.563, 110 Runs, 104 RBI) has his position locked down, whilst Catcher Lorenz Lauchart (.298/.353/.421 69 Runs, 65 RBI) comes off a good first season with the Pride since moving from Grenada in 2010. Ridgewich Falls have some excellent prospects in the ranks, with Outfielders Marcel Tilden and Mario Rowe just two of the up-and-comers.

Weaknesses
Like most teams, the depth in the rotation is weak, with Claus Lester and Ensio Ollson expected to start in their rookie years whilst Lee Nyle is a bit of a liability as Closer since signing from Division Two team Glenton Hills. Although Gazard is a monster in the outfield, Iestyn Popplewel and Nils Silven, the expected starts in CF and RF respectively, are poor; the former is only 18 though.

Bottom Line
If this team can hang around for another few years and bolster it's pitching staff, the Pride could become quite a team to watch. 14th.

Rothes Blue Jays
2011 could be considered a failure for the Blue Jays who went from 2nd place in 2010 to a disappointing fourth last year. This season looks much the same for the North Island team.

Strengths
No Rothes preview is complete without mentioning Nicky Loxton, who won his 6th Pitcher of the Year award last season; amassing a 24-3 record with an ERA of 2.01, 0.87 WHIP, 294 K's from 255.2 IP. Closer Alexander Sneddon is expected to hit the high 40s for saves again this year whilst all pitching staff can rely on Catcher Christoffer Oxenstierna who led the team in batting average last year with .335 which included 88 Runs and 95 RBI. 2B Callum Hughes and CF Heinrich Holstein also deserve mentions.

Weaknesses
Besides Loxton, the rotation is very poor by Super League standards; so expect some high-scoring games from Rothes this year. Outfield is also a bit of a concern, with only 6 players considered "true" outfielders whilst The Jays have 6 Catchers who could be used as trade bait. 39-year old Oliver Trana is the lone First Baseman, and he isn't getting any younger.

Bottom Line
The glory days of the late 90s and early Naughties are behind them. 4th.

Saffron Knights
The Knights narrowly avoided the dreaded drop last year, despite spending most of last season sitting in 19th place holding off a quick return to the First Division. Unfortunately, it looks like much of the same is to come.

Strengths
Catcher Maximilian Asther joins from Hollydale and will be a real offensive standout whilst rookie Reliever Hal Pearce may even see himself making the occasional start. Rob Hornyold went 10-13 on the mound from 34 starts last year and needs to continue his form into 2012 to help Saffron. Watch out for rookie Right Fielder Lothar Jänne who has a bright future ahead and may even feature this year.

Weaknesses
Saffron's Infield is appalling, whilst Center and Right Field is not much better. Closer Hayden Warwick blew three saves from 34 opportunities last year, something that he can't afford to do too often this year. SP Tye Mansfield signed from Blanchester in the off-season but struggled in the Super League, posting an ERA of 5.14 which included just 93 strikeouts.

Bottom Line
It's a toss-up between the Knights and Tempest Lake for the final relegation spot, but I think Saffron may have just enough to survive for another year. 17th.

Sandford City Bulldogs
The Doggies enter their 11th year in the top flight having dropped considerably over the last 2. They finished 6th in 2009 before finishing 9th the following year and struggling to a disappointing 12th in 2011; their worst finish since joining the Super League in 2001.

Strengths
Young Jarod Bull is one of the best young pitchers in the league and will need to stay fit and healthy to keep the Bulldogs away from the relegation zone. Catcher Carl Helland has declined in the last three years, but is still a threat with the bat, whilst Third Baseman Sepp Hunkoos smacked 33 Homers last year and will be a major concern for the opposition. 21-year old Kieran Raddle batted .296 last year and will be a certainty to bat in the three-hole in 2012.

Weaknesses
Both First Base and Shortstop are major weaknesses in the line-up whilst rookie Shaun Nilsmark is expected to start LF this season which is a big worry. Rookie Derek Kaipainen has a great future predicted for the right-hander, but he is going to find 2012 a tough year. Ylermi Rosberg started 11 games last year and lost 6 of them winning 2, as his ERA blew-out to 7.03 which included an appalling WHIP of 2.14.

Bottom Line
I like the Dogs. They have some great young prospects coming through, and a good mix of talent. If injuries go against them the Bulldogs could soon see the drop zone looming. 15th.

Saphire Coast Sharks
The Sharks gained promotion in 2009 along with fierce rivals the Grenada Kings; the latter of which has done arguably better in the two years. The Sharks aren't to be sneezed at though, as they improved to 7th place last year, an improvement of 8 places from the previous year.

Strengths
Saphire Coast has an impressive pitching staff for a team not considered a "Big 5". SP Brian Wicksted has shown consistency on the mound along with young Bradley Doidge who could surprise many this season. James Reakes joins from the Newport Royals having spent 2007-2009 with Lyndbank, accruing an ERA of 3.60 from 95 starts with a 43-34 win-loss record. Byron Fyson has joined from New Auckland whilst Thomas Burnell joins from Grenada to plug the gap left by Lewknor who went to the Titans. The Sharkies also have three amazing blue-chip prospect Relievers in Saku Pursglove, Santtu Pyatt and Nick Tjarnqvist.

Weaknesses
The team is just 34-strong, which could be a problem in defense as 18 players are pitchers. The outfield is atrocious, with Blair Bond the best and the Right Fielder only batted .248 last year. 39-year old Viggo Strand will start at 1B but when he retires the Sharks don't have anyone ready to replace him.

Bottom Line
The Sharks-Kings rivalry will continue this season as both teams will make very good bids to push into the Big 5, but the Kings are slightly better on paper. 7th.

Tempest Lake Skyhawks
The Skyhawks have a major concern to deal with, and time is fast running out. They have no offense. 2011 was a good year for the Lakers finishing 11th; but they were ranked 17th in Offense. Only the pitching staff saved them from a dismal year.

Strengths
Ewan Hyling has a new face to help on the mound with Nicky Randolf who joins from Angelsea whilst Vic Penrose and Teuvo Utriainen will continue to do a fine job as Relievers. Closer Logan Edney has joined from Shettleston where he has spent his entire career. Last year in the Third Division, he posted an ERA of just 0.61 for 34 saves. He played for the Blue Sox when they were in the Super League in his rookie year aged 23 and started 7 games for an ERA of 3.22 from 142 IP. 2B Carlton Eddison is the lone bat, leading the team in batting average last year (.293).

Weaknesses
The loss of Jacob Heathcote to the Titans has left a huge gap in the outfield, and a good batter to boot. With the exception of Second Base, no one is likely to step up and hit for big numbers. 40-year old John Wetterstrum is most likely in his final year having been released from Grenada at the end of 2011 and he is expected to play clean-up. Jack Dobson joined from Jaxon City and is expected to make the rotation which is another concern.

Bottom Line
Tempest Lake's 6 year stay in the top flight could well come to an end this year, which is a shame as the pitching staff is more than capable to stay in the Super League. 18th.

Tranent Fury
Tranent has cracked the top 10 the last two seasons and could finish in a similar position this year. They may even finish higher up, if their youngsters step-up.

Strengths
Nigel Adderley is a huge signing for the team, after snatching him from Tempest Lake and is expected to start Opening Day. Dwayne Broadley, two years Adderley's senior is another competent Starter. 3B Cain Wurfel hit .331/.415/.450 to lead the team in batting average and LF Abraham Bakke posted similar numbers placing the 25-year old in the cleanup spot ahead of Wurfel. Tranent's relieving squad are all young and raw, but if given time could develop into one of the best bullpens in the league. Just don't expect miracles this year.

Weaknesses
First Base is woefully bad, whilst Kevin Rasmussen at Catcher might do more harm then good. He batted .294/.440/.433 in the First Division last year. Two rookies hold outfield positions (RF Ancel Makk and CF Lars-Bjorn Shufflebottom) whilst 17-year old rookie Clive Colclough will be Designated Hitter to start off the season.

Bottom Line
Tranent has one of the best group of prospects in the league, and could well be around for a few years yet. As for now, Tranent will have to make do with another Top 10 finish. 9th.

Vizhune Vipers
The Northern State team started slow last year and the month of August knocked the Vipers out of contention for the title. A few signings in the off-season could be blessings in disguise...but I doubt it.

Strengths
Salmund Ødegård led the team on the mound last year, but he has slipped to 5th in the rotation with the signing of Brandon Blenkinson from Megopolis with Theodor Mehler looking much improved during Spring Training. The Vipers easily have the best outfield in the league with Simon Andresson, Chris Raddle and Johannes Hjerstedt (who led the team in everything in 2011) sitting in Right, Center and Left respectively. 43-year old Domenic Loetzsch is still going strong, and will be the teams Designated Hitter again. Last year he batted .292/.404/.493; not bad for the oldest player in the league. Even the infield is great, with 1B Troy Brusnahan signing from Port Redhill to replace Lester Willets who had trouble striking out far too much last year.

Weaknesses
Things aren't all sunshine and rainbows in the desert, Closer Rob dejong is not good enough for a Big 5 side such as Vizhune; last year he blew 4 save opportunities. Backup at Shortstop is poor, with Phil Zebedee and Liam Tyley being bad alternatives should injury strike Marco Hassett. 3B Finlay Toms couldn't hit a Home Run to save his life; in 8 years he has hit just 8, including a three year stint with Hollydale in the First Division. Catcher Keith Cutler has big shoes to fill should Henry Vance go down with injury.

Bottom Line
Despite my complaints, the Vipers are still an excellent squad, and are great to watch for offense alone. Expect to see these guys a lot on the TV over the coming months. 2nd.

04-03-2012, 09:38 PM	#17
Nugget699 Major Leagues Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Sydney Posts: 444	Wednesday April 4th 2012 This Friday the Super League, Koana Island’s top baseball league, starts a new season. Contributor Nic Niskanen takes a look at each team and their prospects for 2012. For non-Koanians, especially those who come from traditional baseball powerhouses such as the United States, Japan or Korea, the standard of Koanian domestic baseball can be depressing. We only have a few teams each year capable of winning the title, while the rest battle to stave of relegation for another season In stark contrast to so many other baseball leagues no team has won the Super League outside of the "Big 5" since Conneaut Spartans in 1958. With the same five teams harboring realistic expectations of challenging for the title, 2012 will be no different. Dyce Whalers Dyce rebounded straight back up to the Super League after being relegated in 2010 and they may have just enough left in the tank to see them survive another relegation at the end of the season. The Princeton-based team have some really young hurlers, including 16-year old Svenbjom Attwell, whose lack of experience could be the Whalers undoing. In fact, the whole team is lacking in experience having built a side up around youth. Strengths Despite their ages, Attwell and Rob Backstedt (17), both in their rookie seasons lead a strong pitching staff that also includes closer Kai Addison who pitched a 1.87 ERA from 47 games back in 2010. The young bullpen, with none over the age of 24 except for Artur Forstan, will need to pick up the slack. Left Fielder Jai Upchurch could be a surprise amongst the top batters in the league. In 2010, aged 19, the Merriford-born youngster went .263/.314/.313 from 131 games. Last year in the First Division he batted .371/.457/.491 in 585 AB. His lack of power of his only real weakness, as he stoled 36 bases last year, too. Expect him to lead-off in the line-up. Weaknesses Experience, experience, experience. Dyce has next to none. Most of these youngsters have never even played professionally having signed over the off-season. Those that have generally only have First Division experience. The learning curve will be steep. Bottom Line Despite the lack of experience, Dyce's pitching staff should have enough oomph to not need any run support in games against similar opponents. 12th. Grenada Kings The Kings had a poor year last season finishing 14th, 14 games above the drop zone. However, a strong off-season has strengthened the squad and they should match it with the big-boys at the top end of the table. Grenada begins their 3rd year in the Super League having finished runners-up in the KBA Cup and will look to push on from there. Strengths Grenada snapped up former New Auckland Closer Crister Egerman in the off-season, along with young rookie Third Baseman Ale Allison, who will slot straight into the line-up. First Baseman Helmer Hjelm went .300/.367/.527 last year, and will easily rank in the Top 10 Batters again this year. Watch out for 18-year old reliever Bart Neumann, who will surely make his debut some time this season. Weaknesses Despite a sexy Active Roster, the reserves are lacking, with some barely good enough for Local teams. Marcus Borden was signed from Tranent over the off-season and looks every bit like being the liability he was at the Fury. Bottom Line If Grenada stays relatively injury-free the Kings have every chance of squeezing into the Big 5. 6th. Hollydale Islanders The team from Hollyoak seems to be punching above their weight in the Super League. Yet since their promotion in 2008, the Isles have survived by the skin of their teeth each time. Last year they avoided the drop by 4 games, but have a real possibility of finishing higher up the table this year. Strengths Starting Pitcher Oliver Myrdal is in his third and final year at Hollydale, having signed as a rookie in 2009. This guy is the main reason for the Islanders survival in 2009 and 2010, going 24-25 for an ERA of 3.39 in 64 games over the two years. He has already pitched two shutouts as well. The bullpen is amongst the best in the league, with rookie Tim Parsons, Joe Stuart and Aiden Sowerbutts all expected to make big contributions. The latter of the three signed from Vizhune. Rookie Phillipp Lickliter is a rare gem out in Left Field. Although not game-ready, the 21-year old will surely make his debut at some point this season. Weaknesses As of typing this, Hollydale has a squad of, wait for it, 29. Only woefully inadequate pitcher Malcolm Leeder sits on the reserves and he has never played in the Super League before since his signing from Arbordale. The Isles have 5 Shortstops, and none of them are any good; two of them will certainly miss Opening Day through injuries. Lars Sæther is expected to be given the role, and he has never played higher than Division 2. Last year for Crawfordleigh, the 30-year old went .313/.382/.398; not exactly Super League caliber numbers. Bottom Line Hollydale could well be plying their trade in the Super League for at least the next two years, but they need to fix up the SS and the squad depth as soon as possible. 13th. Hydewaters Clippers The most westerly-based Super League team is the true definition of average. Since returning to the top flight 1999 the Clippers have never finished higher than 5th or lower than 12th. In fact, in the last four years Hydewaters has finished 10th, 12th, 10th, and 12th. Unfortunately Hydewaters fans, the average-ness (that's right, we make up words here at KoanaBaseball.com) is going to continue. Strengths Center Fielder Zachariah Bowlby will surely continue where he left off last year (.304/.404/.394). Starter Jens Dindorf is hoping to have a slightly better season than last year when he missed 4 months through two separate injuries. Young Closer Carlo Pryor is one of the best in the business whilst 2B Torbjorn Ekroth, a real utility fielder who can play everywhere but Catcher will be sorely missed at the start of the season whilst he is out injured. SS Everton Rivers is the dark horse in the Clippers team. The 18-year old made his debut in his only appearance last year, but could knock Callum Orton out of the spot as soon as Opening Day. Weaknesses The bottom of the rotation is awful, with 33-year old Quincy Shopland and Ewan Stockdale not good enough for this league. Catcher Edwin Porter had a good year in 2010, leading the team in Homers (12) and RBI (88). Unfortunately, Spring Training seemed to show him struggling, and Hydewaters have no adequate cover at the plate. Bottom Line Ruprecht Christensson is a young starter who will look to muscle his way into the rotation this season, if he does the Clippers could finish slightly higher than middle-of-the-road. 10th. Independence City Cardinals Cardinals owner Rio Samuelsson announced in late 2011 that he was going to cut funding to his beloved team. Why? Because apparently 31 years in the top flight without a title is just too long. I don't blame him. Independence City is one of the "Big 5" yet they have never finished higher than 2nd and haven't finished higher than 4th since 2000. Is this going to be one the last hurrah's of the Cardinals, before they start to slip down the standings and become like every other Super League team? Strengths There isn't a man (or woman) in the country who wouldn't snap up young Shortstop Jeckel Gögler in a fantasy draft. In his debut season last year, the 22-year old notched up impressive figures of .278/.374/.381 from 138 games. Starting Pitcher Elton Amphlett is expected to start on Opening Day and is in with a chance of breaking the Top 10 Pitchers list for the first time. Closer Gavin Bellett and 18-year old reliever Sixten Smith will also prove a big factor. The depth of the Cardinals at the moment is quite weak, but they have a plethora of youngsters waiting for their big break including 16-year old Left Fielder Sebaldus Stroebel who may have a few chances pinch-hitting this year. Weaknesses Gunner Fredriksen was traded to the Cardinals from Erana Hills last year and it was clear the Wolves got the better deal. The 29-year old Catcher is expected to start ahead of Tim Jakobsen but both have really poor power with the bat, and struggle in all areas at the plate, both offensively and defensively. In fact, it's not surprising to see Fredriksen batting 9th throughout the whole season. Pitcher Mark Wainwright had a few spot starts last year, his rookie season, and is expected to make the rotation this year. Whilst his potential is through the roof, he is currently not a Super League-caliber player. Bottom Line The Cards are along way from the Megopolis' and the New Auckland's of this league, but should finish quite nicely in the Top 5. 5th. Lexington Wasps Lexington returns to the Super League for the first time since 1998, but unfortunately for the Wasps faithful, it looks like a long year looms. Despite signing some young studs, the Wasps are horrifically out of their depth and anything but relegation will be a huge victory. Strengths This is hard. Reliever Rich Jensson is by far the best pitcher on the team despite his tender age of 21. Roy Kyle will also have to be on his game in the bullpen, although unlike last year he won't have to play Closer. The Wasps snapped up a gem from the Dolphin Island league system in Marten Wilander; the Left Fielder will make his debut at age 26. The Wasps also have a great prospect in First Baseman Soren Thul who could see action this season at DH due to his poor fielding. Weaknesses Both Infield and Outfield are terrible, with Shortstop particularly woeful. Starter Quentin Tyack was snapped up from Division 1 Embleton during the off-season and didn't really set that league alight. The few useful players on the team are all over the age of 34 and on the decline statistically. Bottom Line Lexington squeezed ahead of Uckford for the final promotion spot last year with 2 games to go. It was perhaps best they didn't win their last 3 games of the season. 19th. Lyndbank Phoenix Lyndbank begin their 6th season in the Super League having never finished lower than 8th. With a good young team led by Alvin Eliassen, the Phoenix are poised for another top 10 finish although not as strongly as last year when they missed out on breaking into the Top 5 by a single game. Strengths Eliassen went 21-7 for an ERA of 2.77 in 221 innings last year and is amongst the Top 10 pitchers in the league. CF Beau Robilliard is in his 8th year in the Super League and 4th with Lyndbank. The 32-year old has never batted below a .260 average since 2007 and ranked second in triples last year with 11. Right Fielder Axel Mattiasson followed Robilliard from Greenborough to Lyndbank in 2009 and last year posted .305/.369/.460 including 91 runs from 144 games. Young CF André Nystrom is one to look for in the future as well as Catcher Jean Sæther who may have a long wait for his debut. Weaknesses Lyndbank's Starting Rotation is a bit thin, and the team's depth in most areas needs looking into. Left Field is a bit of a concern with Abraham Friggeberg on the decline; despite his best year in 2011 since his first Super League season in 2008. Bottom Line Financially, Lyndbank are secure and with a strong team, and good prospects, the Phoenix will be playing top flight ball for a few more years yet. 8th. Madison Harbour Bobcats The Bobbies finished 2011 in 14th place but fought against the drop for much of the year after going 8-18 in June. Despite a high number of signings, very few are Super League ready and Madison Harbour can expect a similar finish to last year. Strengths 33-year old SP Michael Ahlquist is a certainty to start on Opening Day for the Bobcats, with Rhett Ayliffe providing stiff competition for the 1st spot on the rotation. Second Baseman Martin Paxman had a fantastic rookie year in 2011 (.276/.360/.379, 58 Runs, 40 RBI) and will be a definite starter around second or third in the lineup. Rookie Shaun Overton is one to look out for in the future. Weaknesses The loss of 32-year old Pyry Tuomainen will hit Madison Harbour hard. The RF, who signed with Saffron during the off season, led the team in HR and RBIs last year. In fact, Right and Left Field are both really weak whilst Harbour will have a large number of losses whilst Holger Koertig and Viljami Tuominen remain in the starting rotation. Closer Carl Gräslund can be a bit of a liability, with his ERA and WHIP going up considerably in each of the last three years. Bottom Line The Bobcats have some real talent in the squad, but they also have some dross. They are a bottom-half side but should be good enough to avoid the drop. 16th. Megopolis Titans The Titans fell away badly towards the end of 2011, finishing 8 games behind eventual winners the New Auckland Warlocks. The 17-10 record for September proved their undoing, as the Warlocks went 22-5 for the same month. Strengths One of the biggest problems last year was the bullpen which has now been tightened up with the signing of Richard Truswell from New Auckland. The loss of Brandon Blenkinson in the rotation has been fixed with the signing of Ivan Svendsen from Rothes in a 5-year KK112,000,000 deal. Daryl Hodge has become the first choice Right Fielder, ahead of Stewert Bloye who batted .297/.388/.385 for the year in 2011. 37-year old Kaj Larsen looks set to lose his Third Base spot to Louis Shuker this season. Bert Lewknor from Saphire Coast has finally plugged the gap at Shortstop. Weaknesses Center Field is still a bit "meh" by Big 5 standards, and back-up Catcher Felix Olsson is an obvious band-aid solution to the problem. Any injury to Ross Myatt will see the lack of talent in Olsson shine through. Outside of the rotation the Titans have no adequate reserve pitchers and are really lacking in spare infielders. Bottom Line The Titans haven't won the title since 2008, but have a real distinct possibility of breaking that drought if they can avoid the September slump that has plagued them time and time again. 1st. New Auckland Warlocks The Green & Gold won their second consecutive league title after a 16-year wait since the last one but with one of the oldest teams in the Super League, is the cherry about to pop? Strengths Household name Li Dryden doesn't look like he has aged at all, and will be an obvious choice for many to win his third Pitching award. Goran Hansen is the quiet under-achiever, but could have a more prominent role in the team as Andor Wiik seems to be on the decline. Reliever Alfie Grist may even make a few spot starts this season. Right Fielder Ian Pegge has joined from Lyndbank after batting .314/.412/.580 last season but will have a fight on his hands to hold the top spot with Christos Nolan, who is currently on the disabled list with a slight knee complaint. Remember the name Odell Thurgood, who is touted to be a Nicky Loxton clone. Weaknesses Age is a big factor for the side, and many players may not be up to standard come the close of 2012. Offensively, the Warlocks are quite poor with depth in both Infield and Outfield a major concern. RF Zak Bradley led the team in HRs last year with 36, but he has now lost his spot to Ian Pegge who isn't a big slugger. Andrew Earnshaw had a great year on the mound in 2011, but the 29-year old could find the going a bit tough this year. Bottom Line Age is a major factor as the players start declining and the Warlocks are like a retirement home. New Auckland will struggle to match Megopolis or Vizhune this year but will still walk over most of the league. 3rd. Nyhaven North Stars The Stars have had a 20 year absence from the Super League before they romped away with the First Division title last year, finishing 13 games ahead of Dyce. Their return looks to be short-lived however, with SP Lenny Titmus ruled out for the season with a torn ligament in his elbow. The pitcher is likely not going to make his Super League debut this season. Strengths Despite the loss of Nyhaven's favourite, the North Stars picked up some impressive rookie's who could certainly have a career in the top flight such as Starters Hano Heading and Lambert Pettersen. Closer Elias Andersson posted an ERA of just 0.28 with a WHIP of 0.60 in his 64 starts last season, although save opportunities may be quite scarce in 2012. 19-year old CF Peter Isacksson (.247/.299/.383, 65 Runs, 60 RBI) is a real dark horse. Weaknesses Unfortunately, Nyhaven lacks any real talent at the Infield positions, and most players struggle to hit for power. Colin Tibbetts signed from Jonestown and looked out of depth in Spring Training, don't be surprised if prospect Axel Hallstrom makes his debut on the mound in 2012. Shortstop William Rennenberg will miss most of April with a fractured thumb; a month when the team face New Auckland, Vizhune and Megopolis. Bottom Line A weak team that has some solid prospects coming through. Expect them to bounce between the Super League and First Division over the next few years. 20th. Port Redhill Raiders Port Redhill ranked 12th in Runs Against per game, but were tied for 3rd last in Shutouts. Thankfully, the team stepped up with the bat and they finished a respectable 13th in their 9th season in the top flight. The forecast for the Raiders is much of the same. Strengths Ross Anderson is the lone star in the pitching staff as an average Starter, but Third Baseman Rex Blume is the obvious standout. He led the league last year in Batting Average with .342 and Hits with 212, unfortunately he only scored 89 times and drove-in just 49. Despite his, he has improved each year since his Super League debut in 2008, and will be the go-to guy for the Raiders again this year. Former Xyport RF Tuukka Fagerstedt improves the outfield, but has never played at the Super League level before. In reserves, the Raiders have a couple of good teenage relievers in Janne Gilliatt and Han Marples, but the definite blue-chip prospect is Bart Lee, who sits behind Joakim Baumgart and Bryan Wilcox for the starting spot at Second Base. Weaknesses The pitching staff and in particular the rotation is very weak. 36-year old Crister Karneus is the faithful Closer, but he can't go on forever. Mainio Kivivuori is woefully inadequate for Port Redhill's rotational needs. The Catcher position is also poor, with Sami Dahlquist and Otoo Cajander expected to share the role. Both are barely First Division caliber players. Bottom Line The Bats need to be the same as the temperature in Port Redhill if they are to stay well clear from the relegation zone... Hot, hot, hot. 11th. Ridgewich Falls Pride The Pride had there best finish in 6 years in 2011, notching up an 84-78 record for 8th place which included an impressive batting average and team ERA. But a poor off-season will leave the Wilkes-based team with a bit of a fight on their hands this season. Strengths Valio Jokela is amongst the best pitchers in the league, and will get the nod ahead of Spencer Rowarth who is also a good quality hurler. 24-year old Left Fielder Tom Gazard (.313/.414/.563, 110 Runs, 104 RBI) has his position locked down, whilst Catcher Lorenz Lauchart (.298/.353/.421 69 Runs, 65 RBI) comes off a good first season with the Pride since moving from Grenada in 2010. Ridgewich Falls have some excellent prospects in the ranks, with Outfielders Marcel Tilden and Mario Rowe just two of the up-and-comers. Weaknesses Like most teams, the depth in the rotation is weak, with Claus Lester and Ensio Ollson expected to start in their rookie years whilst Lee Nyle is a bit of a liability as Closer since signing from Division Two team Glenton Hills. Although Gazard is a monster in the outfield, Iestyn Popplewel and Nils Silven, the expected starts in CF and RF respectively, are poor; the former is only 18 though. Bottom Line If this team can hang around for another few years and bolster it's pitching staff, the Pride could become quite a team to watch. 14th. Rothes Blue Jays 2011 could be considered a failure for the Blue Jays who went from 2nd place in 2010 to a disappointing fourth last year. This season looks much the same for the North Island team. Strengths No Rothes preview is complete without mentioning Nicky Loxton, who won his 6th Pitcher of the Year award last season; amassing a 24-3 record with an ERA of 2.01, 0.87 WHIP, 294 K's from 255.2 IP. Closer Alexander Sneddon is expected to hit the high 40s for saves again this year whilst all pitching staff can rely on Catcher Christoffer Oxenstierna who led the team in batting average last year with .335 which included 88 Runs and 95 RBI. 2B Callum Hughes and CF Heinrich Holstein also deserve mentions. Weaknesses Besides Loxton, the rotation is very poor by Super League standards; so expect some high-scoring games from Rothes this year. Outfield is also a bit of a concern, with only 6 players considered "true" outfielders whilst The Jays have 6 Catchers who could be used as trade bait. 39-year old Oliver Trana is the lone First Baseman, and he isn't getting any younger. Bottom Line The glory days of the late 90s and early Naughties are behind them. 4th. Saffron Knights The Knights narrowly avoided the dreaded drop last year, despite spending most of last season sitting in 19th place holding off a quick return to the First Division. Unfortunately, it looks like much of the same is to come. Strengths Catcher Maximilian Asther joins from Hollydale and will be a real offensive standout whilst rookie Reliever Hal Pearce may even see himself making the occasional start. Rob Hornyold went 10-13 on the mound from 34 starts last year and needs to continue his form into 2012 to help Saffron. Watch out for rookie Right Fielder Lothar Jänne who has a bright future ahead and may even feature this year. Weaknesses Saffron's Infield is appalling, whilst Center and Right Field is not much better. Closer Hayden Warwick blew three saves from 34 opportunities last year, something that he can't afford to do too often this year. SP Tye Mansfield signed from Blanchester in the off-season but struggled in the Super League, posting an ERA of 5.14 which included just 93 strikeouts. Bottom Line It's a toss-up between the Knights and Tempest Lake for the final relegation spot, but I think Saffron may have just enough to survive for another year. 17th. Sandford City Bulldogs The Doggies enter their 11th year in the top flight having dropped considerably over the last 2. They finished 6th in 2009 before finishing 9th the following year and struggling to a disappointing 12th in 2011; their worst finish since joining the Super League in 2001. Strengths Young Jarod Bull is one of the best young pitchers in the league and will need to stay fit and healthy to keep the Bulldogs away from the relegation zone. Catcher Carl Helland has declined in the last three years, but is still a threat with the bat, whilst Third Baseman Sepp Hunkoos smacked 33 Homers last year and will be a major concern for the opposition. 21-year old Kieran Raddle batted .296 last year and will be a certainty to bat in the three-hole in 2012. Weaknesses Both First Base and Shortstop are major weaknesses in the line-up whilst rookie Shaun Nilsmark is expected to start LF this season which is a big worry. Rookie Derek Kaipainen has a great future predicted for the right-hander, but he is going to find 2012 a tough year. Ylermi Rosberg started 11 games last year and lost 6 of them winning 2, as his ERA blew-out to 7.03 which included an appalling WHIP of 2.14. Bottom Line I like the Dogs. They have some great young prospects coming through, and a good mix of talent. If injuries go against them the Bulldogs could soon see the drop zone looming. 15th. Saphire Coast Sharks The Sharks gained promotion in 2009 along with fierce rivals the Grenada Kings; the latter of which has done arguably better in the two years. The Sharks aren't to be sneezed at though, as they improved to 7th place last year, an improvement of 8 places from the previous year. Strengths Saphire Coast has an impressive pitching staff for a team not considered a "Big 5". SP Brian Wicksted has shown consistency on the mound along with young Bradley Doidge who could surprise many this season. James Reakes joins from the Newport Royals having spent 2007-2009 with Lyndbank, accruing an ERA of 3.60 from 95 starts with a 43-34 win-loss record. Byron Fyson has joined from New Auckland whilst Thomas Burnell joins from Grenada to plug the gap left by Lewknor who went to the Titans. The Sharkies also have three amazing blue-chip prospect Relievers in Saku Pursglove, Santtu Pyatt and Nick Tjarnqvist. Weaknesses The team is just 34-strong, which could be a problem in defense as 18 players are pitchers. The outfield is atrocious, with Blair Bond the best and the Right Fielder only batted .248 last year. 39-year old Viggo Strand will start at 1B but when he retires the Sharks don't have anyone ready to replace him. Bottom Line The Sharks-Kings rivalry will continue this season as both teams will make very good bids to push into the Big 5, but the Kings are slightly better on paper. 7th. Tempest Lake Skyhawks The Skyhawks have a major concern to deal with, and time is fast running out. They have no offense. 2011 was a good year for the Lakers finishing 11th; but they were ranked 17th in Offense. Only the pitching staff saved them from a dismal year. Strengths Ewan Hyling has a new face to help on the mound with Nicky Randolf who joins from Angelsea whilst Vic Penrose and Teuvo Utriainen will continue to do a fine job as Relievers. Closer Logan Edney has joined from Shettleston where he has spent his entire career. Last year in the Third Division, he posted an ERA of just 0.61 for 34 saves. He played for the Blue Sox when they were in the Super League in his rookie year aged 23 and started 7 games for an ERA of 3.22 from 142 IP. 2B Carlton Eddison is the lone bat, leading the team in batting average last year (.293). Weaknesses The loss of Jacob Heathcote to the Titans has left a huge gap in the outfield, and a good batter to boot. With the exception of Second Base, no one is likely to step up and hit for big numbers. 40-year old John Wetterstrum is most likely in his final year having been released from Grenada at the end of 2011 and he is expected to play clean-up. Jack Dobson joined from Jaxon City and is expected to make the rotation which is another concern. Bottom Line Tempest Lake's 6 year stay in the top flight could well come to an end this year, which is a shame as the pitching staff is more than capable to stay in the Super League. 18th. Tranent Fury Tranent has cracked the top 10 the last two seasons and could finish in a similar position this year. They may even finish higher up, if their youngsters step-up. Strengths Nigel Adderley is a huge signing for the team, after snatching him from Tempest Lake and is expected to start Opening Day. Dwayne Broadley, two years Adderley's senior is another competent Starter. 3B Cain Wurfel hit .331/.415/.450 to lead the team in batting average and LF Abraham Bakke posted similar numbers placing the 25-year old in the cleanup spot ahead of Wurfel. Tranent's relieving squad are all young and raw, but if given time could develop into one of the best bullpens in the league. Just don't expect miracles this year. Weaknesses First Base is woefully bad, whilst Kevin Rasmussen at Catcher might do more harm then good. He batted .294/.440/.433 in the First Division last year. Two rookies hold outfield positions (RF Ancel Makk and CF Lars-Bjorn Shufflebottom) whilst 17-year old rookie Clive Colclough will be Designated Hitter to start off the season. Bottom Line Tranent has one of the best group of prospects in the league, and could well be around for a few years yet. As for now, Tranent will have to make do with another Top 10 finish. 9th. Vizhune Vipers The Northern State team started slow last year and the month of August knocked the Vipers out of contention for the title. A few signings in the off-season could be blessings in disguise...but I doubt it. Strengths Salmund Ødegård led the team on the mound last year, but he has slipped to 5th in the rotation with the signing of Brandon Blenkinson from Megopolis with Theodor Mehler looking much improved during Spring Training. The Vipers easily have the best outfield in the league with Simon Andresson, Chris Raddle and Johannes Hjerstedt (who led the team in everything in 2011) sitting in Right, Center and Left respectively. 43-year old Domenic Loetzsch is still going strong, and will be the teams Designated Hitter again. Last year he batted .292/.404/.493; not bad for the oldest player in the league. Even the infield is great, with 1B Troy Brusnahan signing from Port Redhill to replace Lester Willets who had trouble striking out far too much last year. Weaknesses Things aren't all sunshine and rainbows in the desert, Closer Rob dejong is not good enough for a Big 5 side such as Vizhune; last year he blew 4 save opportunities. Backup at Shortstop is poor, with Phil Zebedee and Liam Tyley being bad alternatives should injury strike Marco Hassett. 3B Finlay Toms couldn't hit a Home Run to save his life; in 8 years he has hit just 8, including a three year stint with Hollydale in the First Division. Catcher Keith Cutler has big shoes to fill should Henry Vance go down with injury. Bottom Line Despite my complaints, the Vipers are still an excellent squad, and are great to watch for offense alone. Expect to see these guys a lot on the TV over the coming months. 2nd. Last edited by Nugget699; 04-03-2012 at 10:22 PM.