{A little out of order this time around.}
For the first series after the all-star break, we visit to the Big Apple, where the
New York Black Yankees are hosting the
Cleveland Spiders.
This is the third featured series for the Black Yankees, who we looked at in
Series XI and
Series XV. It's the second focus for the Spiders, who were in
Series VII.
This is a pretty crucial series, as the Spiders trail the Black Yankees in the
Effa Manley Division by only 1 1/2 games.
#Cleveland Spiders
The Spiders brought in
Ron Reed and
Lance Berkman, hoping that the infusion of bullpen talent and power on the bench is enough to catch the division leaders. If that's going to work out, it will require the Spiders' pitching staff to continue it's excellent job, led by
Cy Young,
Pat Malone, and
Bill Steen.
Offensively, Cleveland is all about MVP candidate
Ron Blomberg and the trio of
Louis Santop,
John Ellis, and
Jake Stahl, who divide the C and 1B duties between them. If they continue to produce, the Spiders have a chance.
#New York Black Yankees
The Spiders' job is going to be harder, given that the Black Yankees improved as well, with all-star
Tom Herr being brought in to solve their 2B challenge,
Gary Lavelle being added to the bullpen, and
Jamie Moyer taking over the final rotation spot (Herr came over from Birmingham, Lavelle and Moyer from Ottawa).
Herr addresses the one weak spot in a dominant lineup, while Lavelle may take over as the closer if
Sparky Lyle's struggles continue.
#Series Matchups
These may change quite a bit as teams readjust after the three day break. Cleveland starter listed first.
Pat Malone (6-4, 4.03) @
Ron Guidry (5-6, 4.27)
Bill Steen (5-1, 4.07) @
Waite Hoyt (5-1, 3.51)
Stan Coveleski (5-2, 4.37) @
Jack Scott (7-3, 4.32)
Whit Wyatt (3-4, 4.82) @
Jamie Moyer (4-3, 3.71)
#Predictions
I want to see Cleveland emerge in 1st place in the division, as that would setup the best rest of the season. But my guess is it's an even split, and the Black Yankees maintain their lead.