The Expos got off to a solid start to the season in April.
The season again opened against the Marlins. The Expos won 1 of 3 games. Next the Expos won 2 of 3 against the Dodgers, 1 of 3 against Tampa Bay, and 2 of 4 against the Mets. Next the Expos were swept by the Phillies in a three game set followed by winning just 1 of 3 against the Giants.
At this point, 2B Massey was placed on the DL with an injury for three weeks. As Massey was struggling after being one of the most consistent performers last year, I hope that he can come back from this injury refreshed.
The Expos got back on track winning 2 of 3 against Cincinnati. At this time I placed LF Ceciliani on a rehab assignment to AAA.
The month concluded with winning 2 of 3 against Cleveland and splitting a two game series with the Cubs. The Expos finished the month with a 12-15 record.
Here's how my batters performed for the month:
1B Franco got off to the best start of my hitters. He led the team with 7 HR and 20 RBI. LF Kirilloff had 14 R and was joined by CF Lewis and RF Tucker as positive contributors offensively.
2B Massey struggled before his injury and C Dillard is off to a slow start as well. If this team is going to play up to my expectations, I will need both of them to rebound strongly in the coming months.
And the pitchers:
RP Mejia had the most spectacular month of my pitchers with 21 K, 0 BB, 1.29 ERA, 0.44 FIP in 14 IP. CL Bracho also pitched well with 7 SV, 2.19 ERA, and 3.96 FIP. If he continues to pitch close to this level, he will no doubt turn down a qualifying offer.
SP Montes De Oca led the way for my rotation with 36 IP, 3.74 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 2.62 FIP.
Next, I hope to build some momentum and put up a winning record in May...