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reds1 · 02-18-2024, 05:24 PM

December 1, 1957

Western League: No Signs of the Trolleys Slowing Down

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The Pulberry Trolleys have merely picked up where they left off, dominating the Western League in the early going. The Sherburn Tigers and Cambria Cannons battled the Trolleys for top spot in the first few weeks of October, but a 12-1 stretch in late October and early November helped the Trolleys zoom past their nearest rivals and take a commanding lead for top spot. It’s business as usual for the United Leagues’ defending champions. Having both the No. 1-rated position player and starter on the same roster doesn’t hurt. But they have a couple of new faces working their way into the lineup as well.

29-year old LF Aidan Thirkettle (.344/.448/.756, 17 HR, 40 RBI, 29 BB, 3 SB, 3.7 WAR), who has won four straight Western League Babe Ruth Awards, shows no sign of slowing down. But a 5th Babe Ruth Award is not a lock. While he currently leads the West in two categories (Runs – 45 and EBH – 29), he is runner-up in a whopping 12 categories – all behind the same player (more on him in the Cambria Cannons section).

Thirkettle is being ably supported in the lineup by 30-year old CF Cooper Tyson (.310/.374/.476, 3 HR, 18 RBI, 18 BB, 9 SB, 2.4 WAR) and two other players who are enjoying bounce-back seasons: 27-year old C Paul England (.295/.341/.564, 10 HR, 27 RBI, 10 BB, 2.0 WAR) and 25-year old SS Sean Abercrombie (.252/.320/.440, 6 HR, 23 RBI, 16 BB, 1.0 WAR).

But Pulberry’s lineup also sees two new faces who are being given regular starts. Due to an extended injury to 31-year old 1B Gerard Koerner (.500/.538/.750, 3 RBI, 1 BB, 0.3 WAR) just three days into the regular season, 32-year old Ellis Dibble (.289/.332/.484, 8 HR, 29 RBI, 12 BB, 0.7 WAR) has moved to first base (60/70) from his regular spot in right field (55/55). This has allowed 22-year old rookie OF Joe Riding (.224/.304/.414, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 15 BB, 3 SB, 0.7 WAR – 45/61) to start in right. Also seeing regular playing time is free-agent signee, 28-year old Yoshimi Sekozawa (.204/.322/.510, 4 HR, 9 RBI, 9 BB, 0.7 WAR). He has taken over second base from 32-year old veteran Paul Heisler (.235/.273/.343, 1 HR, 13 RBI, 6 BB, 0.1 WAR).

If anything, the pitching staff is more intimidating than the lineup if that is possible, led by the amazing 22-year old ace LHP Bart Ohara (9-0, 1.51 ERA, 0.69 WHIP, 1.74 FIP, 255 ERA+). He is joined in the rotation by a dominant 36-year old RHP Robin Medellin (7-2, 1.77 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 3.15 FIP, 218 ERA+) and 28-year old LHP Dermott Rathbone (6-1, 3.13 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 3.63 FIP, 123 ERA+), who appears to have finally found a regular spot in the rotation this season in the No. 4 position. Only 29-year old RHP Taylor Folkard (4-5, 4.16 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 3.12 FIP, 92 ERA+) is struggling. His hot and cold tendencies continue this season.

Player of the Week Awards:

November 11 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.500, 12 H, 6 HR, 12 RBI)

Noteworthy:

November 7 – The Trolleys swept a 4-game set against the Unions in Wolseley. The first game set the tone, as LHP Bart Ohara blanked the Unions, 4-0 on the strength of a 2-hitter. Ohara went 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 6 BB, 7 K, 118 PI, GS: 84. Three of Pulberry’s four runs came off the bat of LF Aidan Thirkettle who belted two home runs on the afternoon. Thirkettle connected on a 2-run homer in the 1st inning as well as a solo shot in the 4th, both against RHP Roberto Garza.

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The season has started ominously for the Cambria Cannons as they performed a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde act over the first two months. In October, they were world beaters, going 14-1 at one point with an 11-game winning streak. By October 28, they boasted the best record in the ULB and sat 2-1/2 games ahead of the Pulberry Trolleys. But as soon as the calendar turned to November, they imploded, going 3-9 to start the month to eventually fall 8 games out of first by the end of the month. As dramatic as their rise and fall, there’s no mystery as to the cause. While they have one of the best lineups in the League, they are hampered by one of the worst pitching staffs ever assembled.

There’s no debate who has been the top offensive player in the United Leagues this season. It’s 28-year old RF Sam Tite (.348/.474/.774, 21 HR, 57 RBI, 40 BB, 4.2 WAR), who currently leads the entire ULB in 12 offensive categories. He is currently on pace to hit 65 home runs, collect 176 RBI and rack up 12.8 WAR. All would set new standards of excellence if he can keep up the pace. This comes after setting a new record of 49 home runs in a season last year, a mark he shares with Wellington’s Matthew Floyd.

While the rest of the lineup can’t hold a candle to him, a couple of his teammates are enjoying fine seasons in their own right. 26-year old Calvin Hanbridge (.302/.387/.509, 7 HR, 29 RBI, 25 BB, 3 SB, 1.8 WAR) is starting almost exclusively at first base this season after spending his first four seasons in leftfield. The move has been a success so far for the lead-off hitter, as he appears to be more comfortable defensively there (.989 PCT, 9.52 RNG, +2.0 ZR, 1.026 EFF). 24-year old sophomore Kuauli Walenekino (.234/.312/.447, 6 HR, 15 RBI, 16 BB, 3 SB, 1.0 WAR – 36/47), a 14th-overall pick from 1955-56, has taken over leftfield and will be given every chance to develop.

Also noteworthy is the performance of 25-year old SS Doug Martin (.333/.399/.497, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 17 BB, 7 SB, 1.6 WAR). The 6th overall pick from 1950-51 is enjoying his best season offensively thus far hitting out of the No. 3 spot in front of Tite. His defense, however, remains shaky (.929 PCT, 5.00 RNG, -8.9 ZR, .868 EFF).

But there’s no avoiding the nightmare that is the Cannons’ pitching staff. The moves that GM Tony Hinton made this past off-season to bring in aging, past-their-prime pitchers has not panned out, to no one’s surprise. Both 30-year old RHP Fergus Hirst (3-5, 5.52 ERA, 1.51 WHIP, 4.86 FIP, 70 ERA+) and 35-year old RHP Kelii Pelanekelina (2-3, 6.46 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 5.45 FIP, 60 ERA+) are struggling mightily.

Right now, only 27-year old ace LHP Bill Southon (7-3, 2.92 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 3.77 FIP, 132 ERA+) is pitching with any effectiveness. Joining him in the rotation in the No. 5 spot is 23-year old rookie RHP Oscar Lines (1-4, 1 SV, 6.61 ERA, 2.17 WHIP, 6.13 FIP, 58 ERA+ - 43/57), a 2nd-round pick from last season. While he is experiencing baptism by fire, scouts view him as a future mid-rotation starter, with terrific stuff (55/60) and movement (70/70) and a repertoire that includes a devastating changeup (70/75) and a solid slider (45/55).

Player of the Week Awards:

October 21 – SS Doug Martin (.469, 15 H, 5 RBI)
October 28 – RF Sam Tite (.391, 9 H, 6 HR, 13 RBI)
November 25 – RF Sam Tite (.474, 9 H, 12 RBI, 6 R)

Noteworthy:

October 27 – The Cannons beat the Kingston Pelicans, 6-5 at home, thanks to the bat of RF Sam Tite. The Canadian-born Tite became the 21st player in ULB history to hit 3 home runs in a game, the 22nd time it has been accomplished. Tite went 3 for 4, with 3 R, 5 RBI. Tite hit a solo shot in the 4th, a 2-run home run in the 6th and a 2-run shot in the 8th, all against Kingston’s LHP Diarmid Rowet. The Cannons led 6-1 after 8 innings, but Kingston would rally in the top of the 9th, scoring 4 runs off of two home runs before Cambria was able to tame the Pelicans and hang on for the win.

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With the Western League wild card appearing to be wide open, the Balmoral Giants have as good a chance as any other club to lay claim to it. If they manage to do so, it would be their first playoff appearance in 14 years. But the Giants simply do give off playoff vibes. That could change within the next few seasons, as they have the top-rated farm system and their top pitching prospect is already on the major league roster.

The offense has been very middle-of-the road thus far and that is reflected in a lineup that is rather ho-hum overall. Nevertheless, 28-year old LF Danny Jevons (.309/.392/.544, 10 HR, 26 RBI, 18 BB, 5 SB, 2.4 WAR) is enjoying a break-out season, his third in the majors after being drafted in the 3rd-round back in 1950-51. 24-year old CF Quido De Jesús (.319/.385/.465, 3 HR, 20 RBI, 20 BB, 4 SB, 1.4 WAR), a 3rd-overall pick from 1953-54, continues to progress in his third full season in the majors. But the rest of the lineup has been rather lackluster.

The rotation has been steady, led by 31-year old RHP Wayne Nesling (7-2, 3.09 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 3.45 FIP, 126 ERA+), who is having a terrific season. He is on pace for 22 wins. 30-year old RHP Harry Dinsmore (3-7, 3.47 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 3.90 FIP, 112 ERA+) has been very serviceable, but has been the receiver of some tough breaks and is on pace for 22 losses.

The bullpen has been awful in the early going. But one pitcher is worth noting. 21-year old RHP Ashley Tazewell (1-1, 4.34 ERA, 1.71 WHIP, 4.46 FIP, 90 ERA+ - 47/72), Balmoral’s 6th-overall pick from last season, who made his major league debut in mid-October as a middle reliever. He is a future sidearm starter with terrific stuff and movement (60/70) and an outstanding changeup (65/70) to go along with three other solid pitches.

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In a crowded field for the wild card, the Sherburn Tigers are struggling just to keep their head above water. The Tigers have been really streaky over the first two months of the season. In mid-October, they endured an 8-game losing streak before winning their next 6 games and going 8-1 during that hot streak. In early November, they went 8-1 again, then lost the next seven games. Those struggles can largely be attributed to a less than dominating pitching staff.

While the Tigers do not have a bonafide superstar in their lineup, they are blessed with a solid core. The offense is led by 28-year old SS Dwayne Vick (.325/.372/.393, 1 HR, 17 RBI, 14 BB, 1.9 WAR) and 28-year old 3B Adrian Flynn (.305/.337/.539, 9 HR, 39 RBI, 9 BB, 1.9 WAR). But both 26-year old CF Leon Albrecht (.269/.360/.446, 5 HR, 33 RBI, 28 BB, 4 SB, 1.8 WAR) and 27-year old LF Ross Shewman (.263/.374/.462, 8 HR, 32 RBI, 30 BB, 1.7 WAR), while still contributing, are experiencing a bit of a down year compared to last season. Most alarmingly, 27-year old lead-off hitter, RF Albert Sulley (.208/.331/.296, 3 RBI, 22 BB, 2 SB, 0.1 WAR) has fast become a shell of his former outstanding self, as he is unable to stay healthy. His chronic health injuries began last November with quadriceps strains and now concussions and back tightness issues.

On the pitching side of things, the big story has been the terrific start of 30-year old RHP Ben Buschlen (8-2, 2.71 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 2.87 FIP, 146 ERA+) and the down year being experienced by 3-time Satchel Paige Award winner, 33-year old RHP Jesús Chapa (5-6, 3.81 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 3.66 FIP, 104 ERA+). Buschlen is now Sherburn’s ace and is on pace to win 24 games. Hopefully Chapa’s slump is just that; scouts still believe he is a capable No. 1 or No. 2 starter. The rest of the rotation is struggling. Other the other hand, No. 5 starter, 28-year old LHP Brendan Wombwell (5-0, 3.42 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 4.39 FIP, 116 ERA+) has responded nicely after returning to the rotation. Last season, he pitched out of the bullpen, with middling results (5-5, 1 SV, 5.95 ERA, 1.57 WHIP, 4.60 FIP, 70 ERA+).

The bullpen can use more help. Right now, only 29-year old stopper RHP Roy Hay (0-2, 2 SV, 3.26 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 4.29 FIP, 121 ERA+) is pitching with some consistency. However, he has blown 4 of 6 save opportunities so far.

Player of the Week Awards:

October 14 – SS Dwayne Vick (.486, 17 H, 5 RBI, 9 R)

Noteworthy:

November 30 – The Tigers ended the month on a high note, pummeling the Brunswick Legends 14-5 at home. 3B Adrian Flynn figured prominently, becoming the 5th player to drive in 7 RBI in a game this season. The Legends led 3-2 heading into the bottom of the 6th, but the Tigers erupted for 9 runs in the inning to break the game wide open. Legends starter, LHP Luke Henty, did not escape the inning, giving up a double, a single and four walks that drove in 3 runs. After a HBP that loaded the bases, Henty walked his 5th batter that brought home the inning’s 4th run with the bases still loaded. That set the stage for Flynn, who slammed a 0-1 pitch to rightfield for a Grand Slam home run. That ended Henty’s day. Flynn would later hit a 2-run home run in the bottom of the 8th off Henty’s replacement, LHP Ron Killingworth. In all, Flynn went 3 for 5 with 2 R, 2 HR, 7 RBI.

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Like the Tigers, the Hespeler Stars have been a streaky bunch in October and November. After losing the first three games of the season, they rattled off eight straight victories to get to within a 0.5 game of first. But they soon unravelled, losing 11 straight to end the month. In mid-November, they rebounded, going 9-1. There’s still nothing to indicate that they are finally ready to make their first playoff appearance in franchise history, but as long as the wild card is up for grabs and they keep pace with the rest of the pack, anything is possible.

The lineup is decidedly underwhelming once again. However, 30-year old RF John Anthony (.323/.391/.484, 6 HR, 25 RBI, 17 BB, 1.6 WAR) is off to a great start and his best season in his 8-year major league career if he keeps it up. But outside of 25-year old C Aidan Bennie (.311/.358/.447, 4 HR, 26 RBI,13 BB, 1.5 WAR), there is not a lot of impact players on this roster right now.

The pitching staff is in somewhat better shape, but the true standout in the rotation so far is the No. 4 hurler, 29-year old RHP Battista Carotta (5-4, 3.09, 1.37 WHIP, 3.21 FIP, 129 ERA+). Carotta, a free agent signing from Italy back in 1952 is on pace to earn his second all-star selection. The Stars are giving 23-year old RHP Zachariah Horton (1-0, 0.00 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 2.37 FIP – 47/55), a 5th-round selection from 1952-53, a chance to start this season, after two seasons in the bullpen.

Hespeler also has two of their pitching prospects throwing out of the bullpen. 21-year LHP Nico van de Ham (3-3, 4.50 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 3.58 FIP, 88 ERA+ - 52/68) is currently the Stars’ stopper while 26-year old RHP Pedro Peña (3-3, 5 SV, 3.05 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 3.65 FIP, 130 ERA+ - 53/56) is currently serving as a middle reliever. Peña was a free agent signing out of Colombia in 1955. Both are projected as future starters.

Noteworthy:

November 22 – The Stars hosted the Stratford Barons for a 3-game series and although they would drop the series, the managed to win the first game, 1-0 on the strength of an outstanding performance from RHP Battista Carotta, who pitched a 2-hit shut-out. The Italian-born Carotta went 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 4 BB, 4 K, 124 PI, GS: 83. The lone run came in the bottom of the 8th, when Hespeler connected on 3 straight 2-out singles followed by a passed ball.

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The Kingston Pelicans started the season off with a whimper, going 2-12 and battling the Fort Richmond Generals to keep out of the basement for most of October. Although they improved somewhat in November, it’s a pretty safe bet that they will miss the playoffs for the 6th straight year.

The offense has struggled in the early going despite some promising young talent on the squad. 27-year old Chris Ramsbottom (.307/.365/.415, 3 HR, 17 RBI, 16 BB, 4 SB, 1.6 WAR) is enjoying a nice bounce-back season now that he has taken over rightfield full-time from 33-year old OF Mo Spenceley (.244/.346/.378, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 7 BB, 0.0 WAR). Last season, Ramsbottom started at four different positions and was Kingston’s starting centerfielder before then. 27-year old Ronald Armstrong (.283/.321/.553, 10 HR, 27 RBI, 10 BB, 1.4 WAR) is off to another solid season in his second full season as Kingston’s starting catcher, 5 years after they acquired him in a trade with the Queensland Eagles.

But the rest of the offense is either struggling or running hot and cold. In the latter category, 25-year old 1B Ira Bannatyne (.242/.306/.399, 8 HR, 36 RBI, 17 BB, 0.3 WAR) has come up big in a few games but then has gone cold, such as the final week of November (.062/.118/.062). 24-year old CF Dan Hesketh (.284/.340/.477, 6 HR, 20 RBI, 15 BB, 1.3 WAR), the former 1st overall pick from 1955-56 and last season’s WL Rookie of the Year continues to progress. The Pelicans also have unheralded 25-year old 3B Andy Wearne (.415/.455/.561, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 0.7 WAR – 54/58), a 3rd-round pick from 1950-51 on the major league roster. Scouts consider him ready to start, but he is currently being blocked at both third base and shortstop. Hopefully, Kingston can find him more regular playing time.

The rotation has been incredibly underwhelming thus far, with only 31-year old RHP Brian Marsland (5-5, 3.02 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 3.59 FIP, 130 ERA+) pitching effectively. In fact, the 9-year veteran is off to his best start and may finally earn his first all-star selection if he can keep it up.

The bullpen on the other hand, is currently tops in the West. Leading the way are 28-year old stopper RHP Lester Beddoes (1-1, 4 SV, 1.93 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 4.03 FIP, 205 ERA+) and 24-year old sophomore RHP Jacob Jones (1-0, 0.66 ERA, 0.80 WHIP, 2.07 FIP, 599 ERA+). Both may see their first all-star selections this season as well.

Player of the Week Awards:

November 4 – 3B Mark Johnson (.529, 9 H, 3 HR, 10 RBI)
November 18 – RHP Connor Naysmith (2-0, 0.50 ERA, 18.0 IP, 13 H, 5 K, .206 OppAVG)

Noteworthy:

October 21 – The Pelicans took game 1 of a 3-game series against the Fort Richmond Generals, thanks to the bat of 1B Ira Bannatyne and the pitching of 23-year old LHP Ronald Dulihanty (2-5, 5.98 ERA, 1.86 WHIP, 5.43 FIP, 66 ERA+). Kingston’s No. 5 starter was on his game, pitching a complete, 2-hit shutout. The Sherburn-native went 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 4 BB, 8 K, 120 PI, GS: 87. The game was scoreless until the bottom of the 9th when Bannatyne launched a walk-off, 3-run home run to leftfield off RHP Damon Pinney.

November 13 – The Pulberry Trolleys took it on the chin in Kingston as they dropped 2 of 3 to the Pelicans. Kingston took the first game 7-1 then walloped the Trolleys, 12-3 in the final match. Ira Bannatyne came up big in that third game, collecting 7 RBI. He went 3 for 5 with 2 R and 2 HR. He hit a 3-run home run in the 1st inning off RHP Taylor Folkard and a two-run shot in the 8th off RHP Alexander Ellacott. He also added a 2-out, 2-run single in the bottom of the 3rd for good measure.

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The first two weeks of the season began promising for the Wolseley Unions as they jumped out to a 9-5 record to get to within 2 games of first place. But the wheels quickly fell off, as the Unions went 3-20 after that, a stretch that was capped off with a 14-game losing streak. Although Wolseley recovered a bit to finish November 8-6, it is plainly evident that there will be more downs than ups for the Unions for the foreseeable future as they look to rebuild their roster, five years removed from the last playoff appearance.

The biggest issue is that they lack impact players on the roster. But they do have some fine young talent who could soon change that.

23-year old sophomore CF Jonathan Higgins (.281/.347/.404, 3 HR, 21 RBI, 18 BB, 6 SB, 1.1 WAR) appeared heading to a Rookie of the Year Award last year before he ruptured an Achilles tendon in early January that ended his season. The Unions are simply hoping that the Milwaukee-born Higgins who was selected 2nd overall in 1955-56 can pick up where he left off. He along with 28-year old 1B Carlos Ortíz (.298/.376/.538, 12 HR, 32 RBI, 22 BB, 1.8 WAR), who is off to a sensational start, are Wolseley’s top two offensive producers. But the most excitement is reserved for the recent promotion of the No. 2-rated prospect in the ULB, 23-year old 2B Jack Jarrom (.226/.296/.263, 11 RBI, 12 BB, 1 SB, -0.1 WAR – 43/79). Jarrom, the overall pick from last season, debuted on October 14 in a 4-2 loss to the Balmoral Giants (he went 2 for 4 and committed two errors). But scouts feel he will be a regular participant at the annual All-Star games before too long.

The pitching staff has been very mediocre thus far as the Unions allow a few promising arms to find their way in the rotation. 32-year old ace RHP Roberto Garza (5-4, 3.54 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 3.67 FIP, 112 ERA+) has been the most consistent starter. Joining him are 24-year old sophomore RHP Yasuo Yamauchi (6-3, 4.79 REA, 1.33 WHIP, 4.09 FIP, 82 ERA+ - 48/58), a future No. 2 starter, and 23-year old rookie RHP Ekemona Koorong (2-6, 4.65 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 4.52 FIP, 85 ERA+ - 42/48). The Palau-born Koorong was a 3rd-round pick from last year. Scouts believe that a role in the No. 5 spot is his best-case scenario.

Lastly, Wolseley is hoping their No. 2 starter, 22-year old RHP Theo Morse (2-8, 4.18 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, 4.11 FIP, 95 ERA+ - 54/80) can bounce back after going 0-5, 4.84 ERA in November. The 2nd-round pick from 1953-54 won 16 games last season in his first full season in the majors. This season he is on pace to lose 24.

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The season started as expected for the Fort Richmond Generals, who were projected to finish dead last in the West for second season in a row. The Generals got off to a 1-13 start, a stretch that included a 10-game losing streak. Like the Downie Chiefs in the East, the Generals are in danger of losing 100+ games in a season for the first time in their history. The difference is that Fort Richmond has genuine, young talent on the major league roster that could dramatically improve matters if they can all find their way.

But on offense, the majority of the lineup are either treading water or making progress in minute steps. The lone exception is 26-year old C Scott Sheelah (.266/.387/.390, 3 HR, 14 RBI, 25 BB, 2.2 WAR). Sheelah is ranked 4th overall among catchers in the United Leagues and is off to the best start of his 6-year career. The rest of the lineup is rather hum-drum, but the Generals are hopeful that 25-year old sophomore Takuji Kanno (.270/.317/.444, 7 HR, 24 RBI, 14 BB, 0.6 WAR) can develop into an impact player at first base, something Fort Richmond oddly has never had.

The rotation is really struggling right now, but that shimmering glimmer of hope stationed at the top of the rotation is the top-rated prospect in the United Leagues, 24-year old RHP Kenete Yuri (2-5, 3.92 ERA, 1.45 WHIP, 3.55 FIP, 98 ERA+ - 44/72). The 2nd-overall pick from last season has scouts drooling with three solid pitches and no weaknesses who is considered a hard worker, a sparkplug and durable. But even if he delivers on his promise, he can’t do it alone. But there really is no one right now who appears capable of stepping up and supporting him.

The bullpen is in somewhat better shape, with 22-year old stopper RHP Shotaro Tsuji (3-1, 5 SV, 1.00 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 3.17 FIP, 383 ERA+) and 24-year old middle reliever LHP John Witheycombe (2-0, 2.42 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 2.43 FIP, 158 ERA+) having outstanding seasons. Witheycombe is considered a future stater, so he may be an option for the Generals if none of their current starters can get out of their funk.

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02-18-2024, 05:24 PM	#819
reds1 Hall Of Famer Join Date: May 2002 Location: Winnipeg Posts: 3,985	December 1, 1957 Western League: No Signs of the Trolleys Slowing Down -------- The Pulberry Trolleys have merely picked up where they left off, dominating the Western League in the early going. The Sherburn Tigers and Cambria Cannons battled the Trolleys for top spot in the first few weeks of October, but a 12-1 stretch in late October and early November helped the Trolleys zoom past their nearest rivals and take a commanding lead for top spot. It’s business as usual for the United Leagues’ defending champions. Having both the No. 1-rated position player and starter on the same roster doesn’t hurt. But they have a couple of new faces working their way into the lineup as well. 29-year old LF Aidan Thirkettle (.344/.448/.756, 17 HR, 40 RBI, 29 BB, 3 SB, 3.7 WAR), who has won four straight Western League Babe Ruth Awards, shows no sign of slowing down. But a 5th Babe Ruth Award is not a lock. While he currently leads the West in two categories (Runs – 45 and EBH – 29), he is runner-up in a whopping 12 categories – all behind the same player (more on him in the Cambria Cannons section). Thirkettle is being ably supported in the lineup by 30-year old CF Cooper Tyson (.310/.374/.476, 3 HR, 18 RBI, 18 BB, 9 SB, 2.4 WAR) and two other players who are enjoying bounce-back seasons: 27-year old C Paul England (.295/.341/.564, 10 HR, 27 RBI, 10 BB, 2.0 WAR) and 25-year old SS Sean Abercrombie (.252/.320/.440, 6 HR, 23 RBI, 16 BB, 1.0 WAR). But Pulberry’s lineup also sees two new faces who are being given regular starts. Due to an extended injury to 31-year old 1B Gerard Koerner (.500/.538/.750, 3 RBI, 1 BB, 0.3 WAR) just three days into the regular season, 32-year old Ellis Dibble (.289/.332/.484, 8 HR, 29 RBI, 12 BB, 0.7 WAR) has moved to first base (60/70) from his regular spot in right field (55/55). This has allowed 22-year old rookie OF Joe Riding (.224/.304/.414, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 15 BB, 3 SB, 0.7 WAR – 45/61) to start in right. Also seeing regular playing time is free-agent signee, 28-year old Yoshimi Sekozawa (.204/.322/.510, 4 HR, 9 RBI, 9 BB, 0.7 WAR). He has taken over second base from 32-year old veteran Paul Heisler (.235/.273/.343, 1 HR, 13 RBI, 6 BB, 0.1 WAR). If anything, the pitching staff is more intimidating than the lineup if that is possible, led by the amazing 22-year old ace LHP Bart Ohara (9-0, 1.51 ERA, 0.69 WHIP, 1.74 FIP, 255 ERA+). He is joined in the rotation by a dominant 36-year old RHP Robin Medellin (7-2, 1.77 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 3.15 FIP, 218 ERA+) and 28-year old LHP Dermott Rathbone (6-1, 3.13 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 3.63 FIP, 123 ERA+), who appears to have finally found a regular spot in the rotation this season in the No. 4 position. Only 29-year old RHP Taylor Folkard (4-5, 4.16 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 3.12 FIP, 92 ERA+) is struggling. His hot and cold tendencies continue this season. Player of the Week Awards: November 11 – LF Aidan Thirkettle (.500, 12 H, 6 HR, 12 RBI) Noteworthy: November 7 – The Trolleys swept a 4-game set against the Unions in Wolseley. The first game set the tone, as LHP Bart Ohara blanked the Unions, 4-0 on the strength of a 2-hitter. Ohara went 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 6 BB, 7 K, 118 PI, GS: 84. Three of Pulberry’s four runs came off the bat of LF Aidan Thirkettle who belted two home runs on the afternoon. Thirkettle connected on a 2-run homer in the 1st inning as well as a solo shot in the 4th, both against RHP Roberto Garza. -------- The season has started ominously for the Cambria Cannons as they performed a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde act over the first two months. In October, they were world beaters, going 14-1 at one point with an 11-game winning streak. By October 28, they boasted the best record in the ULB and sat 2-1/2 games ahead of the Pulberry Trolleys. But as soon as the calendar turned to November, they imploded, going 3-9 to start the month to eventually fall 8 games out of first by the end of the month. As dramatic as their rise and fall, there’s no mystery as to the cause. While they have one of the best lineups in the League, they are hampered by one of the worst pitching staffs ever assembled. There’s no debate who has been the top offensive player in the United Leagues this season. It’s 28-year old RF Sam Tite (.348/.474/.774, 21 HR, 57 RBI, 40 BB, 4.2 WAR), who currently leads the entire ULB in 12 offensive categories. He is currently on pace to hit 65 home runs, collect 176 RBI and rack up 12.8 WAR. All would set new standards of excellence if he can keep up the pace. This comes after setting a new record of 49 home runs in a season last year, a mark he shares with Wellington’s Matthew Floyd. While the rest of the lineup can’t hold a candle to him, a couple of his teammates are enjoying fine seasons in their own right. 26-year old Calvin Hanbridge (.302/.387/.509, 7 HR, 29 RBI, 25 BB, 3 SB, 1.8 WAR) is starting almost exclusively at first base this season after spending his first four seasons in leftfield. The move has been a success so far for the lead-off hitter, as he appears to be more comfortable defensively there (.989 PCT, 9.52 RNG, +2.0 ZR, 1.026 EFF). 24-year old sophomore Kuauli Walenekino (.234/.312/.447, 6 HR, 15 RBI, 16 BB, 3 SB, 1.0 WAR – 36/47), a 14th-overall pick from 1955-56, has taken over leftfield and will be given every chance to develop. Also noteworthy is the performance of 25-year old SS Doug Martin (.333/.399/.497, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 17 BB, 7 SB, 1.6 WAR). The 6th overall pick from 1950-51 is enjoying his best season offensively thus far hitting out of the No. 3 spot in front of Tite. His defense, however, remains shaky (.929 PCT, 5.00 RNG, -8.9 ZR, .868 EFF). But there’s no avoiding the nightmare that is the Cannons’ pitching staff. The moves that GM Tony Hinton made this past off-season to bring in aging, past-their-prime pitchers has not panned out, to no one’s surprise. Both 30-year old RHP Fergus Hirst (3-5, 5.52 ERA, 1.51 WHIP, 4.86 FIP, 70 ERA+) and 35-year old RHP Kelii Pelanekelina (2-3, 6.46 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 5.45 FIP, 60 ERA+) are struggling mightily. Right now, only 27-year old ace LHP Bill Southon (7-3, 2.92 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 3.77 FIP, 132 ERA+) is pitching with any effectiveness. Joining him in the rotation in the No. 5 spot is 23-year old rookie RHP Oscar Lines (1-4, 1 SV, 6.61 ERA, 2.17 WHIP, 6.13 FIP, 58 ERA+ - 43/57), a 2nd-round pick from last season. While he is experiencing baptism by fire, scouts view him as a future mid-rotation starter, with terrific stuff (55/60) and movement (70/70) and a repertoire that includes a devastating changeup (70/75) and a solid slider (45/55). Player of the Week Awards: October 21 – SS Doug Martin (.469, 15 H, 5 RBI) October 28 – RF Sam Tite (.391, 9 H, 6 HR, 13 RBI) November 25 – RF Sam Tite (.474, 9 H, 12 RBI, 6 R) Noteworthy: October 27 – The Cannons beat the Kingston Pelicans, 6-5 at home, thanks to the bat of RF Sam Tite. The Canadian-born Tite became the 21st player in ULB history to hit 3 home runs in a game, the 22nd time it has been accomplished. Tite went 3 for 4, with 3 R, 5 RBI. Tite hit a solo shot in the 4th, a 2-run home run in the 6th and a 2-run shot in the 8th, all against Kingston’s LHP Diarmid Rowet. The Cannons led 6-1 after 8 innings, but Kingston would rally in the top of the 9th, scoring 4 runs off of two home runs before Cambria was able to tame the Pelicans and hang on for the win. -------- With the Western League wild card appearing to be wide open, the Balmoral Giants have as good a chance as any other club to lay claim to it. If they manage to do so, it would be their first playoff appearance in 14 years. But the Giants simply do give off playoff vibes. That could change within the next few seasons, as they have the top-rated farm system and their top pitching prospect is already on the major league roster. The offense has been very middle-of-the road thus far and that is reflected in a lineup that is rather ho-hum overall. Nevertheless, 28-year old LF Danny Jevons (.309/.392/.544, 10 HR, 26 RBI, 18 BB, 5 SB, 2.4 WAR) is enjoying a break-out season, his third in the majors after being drafted in the 3rd-round back in 1950-51. 24-year old CF Quido De Jesús (.319/.385/.465, 3 HR, 20 RBI, 20 BB, 4 SB, 1.4 WAR), a 3rd-overall pick from 1953-54, continues to progress in his third full season in the majors. But the rest of the lineup has been rather lackluster. The rotation has been steady, led by 31-year old RHP Wayne Nesling (7-2, 3.09 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 3.45 FIP, 126 ERA+), who is having a terrific season. He is on pace for 22 wins. 30-year old RHP Harry Dinsmore (3-7, 3.47 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 3.90 FIP, 112 ERA+) has been very serviceable, but has been the receiver of some tough breaks and is on pace for 22 losses. The bullpen has been awful in the early going. But one pitcher is worth noting. 21-year old RHP Ashley Tazewell (1-1, 4.34 ERA, 1.71 WHIP, 4.46 FIP, 90 ERA+ - 47/72), Balmoral’s 6th-overall pick from last season, who made his major league debut in mid-October as a middle reliever. He is a future sidearm starter with terrific stuff and movement (60/70) and an outstanding changeup (65/70) to go along with three other solid pitches. -------- In a crowded field for the wild card, the Sherburn Tigers are struggling just to keep their head above water. The Tigers have been really streaky over the first two months of the season. In mid-October, they endured an 8-game losing streak before winning their next 6 games and going 8-1 during that hot streak. In early November, they went 8-1 again, then lost the next seven games. Those struggles can largely be attributed to a less than dominating pitching staff. While the Tigers do not have a bonafide superstar in their lineup, they are blessed with a solid core. The offense is led by 28-year old SS Dwayne Vick (.325/.372/.393, 1 HR, 17 RBI, 14 BB, 1.9 WAR) and 28-year old 3B Adrian Flynn (.305/.337/.539, 9 HR, 39 RBI, 9 BB, 1.9 WAR). But both 26-year old CF Leon Albrecht (.269/.360/.446, 5 HR, 33 RBI, 28 BB, 4 SB, 1.8 WAR) and 27-year old LF Ross Shewman (.263/.374/.462, 8 HR, 32 RBI, 30 BB, 1.7 WAR), while still contributing, are experiencing a bit of a down year compared to last season. Most alarmingly, 27-year old lead-off hitter, RF Albert Sulley (.208/.331/.296, 3 RBI, 22 BB, 2 SB, 0.1 WAR) has fast become a shell of his former outstanding self, as he is unable to stay healthy. His chronic health injuries began last November with quadriceps strains and now concussions and back tightness issues. On the pitching side of things, the big story has been the terrific start of 30-year old RHP Ben Buschlen (8-2, 2.71 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 2.87 FIP, 146 ERA+) and the down year being experienced by 3-time Satchel Paige Award winner, 33-year old RHP Jesús Chapa (5-6, 3.81 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, 3.66 FIP, 104 ERA+). Buschlen is now Sherburn’s ace and is on pace to win 24 games. Hopefully Chapa’s slump is just that; scouts still believe he is a capable No. 1 or No. 2 starter. The rest of the rotation is struggling. Other the other hand, No. 5 starter, 28-year old LHP Brendan Wombwell (5-0, 3.42 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 4.39 FIP, 116 ERA+) has responded nicely after returning to the rotation. Last season, he pitched out of the bullpen, with middling results (5-5, 1 SV, 5.95 ERA, 1.57 WHIP, 4.60 FIP, 70 ERA+). The bullpen can use more help. Right now, only 29-year old stopper RHP Roy Hay (0-2, 2 SV, 3.26 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 4.29 FIP, 121 ERA+) is pitching with some consistency. However, he has blown 4 of 6 save opportunities so far. Player of the Week Awards: October 14 – SS Dwayne Vick (.486, 17 H, 5 RBI, 9 R) Noteworthy: November 30 – The Tigers ended the month on a high note, pummeling the Brunswick Legends 14-5 at home. 3B Adrian Flynn figured prominently, becoming the 5th player to drive in 7 RBI in a game this season. The Legends led 3-2 heading into the bottom of the 6th, but the Tigers erupted for 9 runs in the inning to break the game wide open. Legends starter, LHP Luke Henty, did not escape the inning, giving up a double, a single and four walks that drove in 3 runs. After a HBP that loaded the bases, Henty walked his 5th batter that brought home the inning’s 4th run with the bases still loaded. That set the stage for Flynn, who slammed a 0-1 pitch to rightfield for a Grand Slam home run. That ended Henty’s day. Flynn would later hit a 2-run home run in the bottom of the 8th off Henty’s replacement, LHP Ron Killingworth. In all, Flynn went 3 for 5 with 2 R, 2 HR, 7 RBI. -------- Like the Tigers, the Hespeler Stars have been a streaky bunch in October and November. After losing the first three games of the season, they rattled off eight straight victories to get to within a 0.5 game of first. But they soon unravelled, losing 11 straight to end the month. In mid-November, they rebounded, going 9-1. There’s still nothing to indicate that they are finally ready to make their first playoff appearance in franchise history, but as long as the wild card is up for grabs and they keep pace with the rest of the pack, anything is possible. The lineup is decidedly underwhelming once again. However, 30-year old RF John Anthony (.323/.391/.484, 6 HR, 25 RBI, 17 BB, 1.6 WAR) is off to a great start and his best season in his 8-year major league career if he keeps it up. But outside of 25-year old C Aidan Bennie (.311/.358/.447, 4 HR, 26 RBI,13 BB, 1.5 WAR), there is not a lot of impact players on this roster right now. The pitching staff is in somewhat better shape, but the true standout in the rotation so far is the No. 4 hurler, 29-year old RHP Battista Carotta (5-4, 3.09, 1.37 WHIP, 3.21 FIP, 129 ERA+). Carotta, a free agent signing from Italy back in 1952 is on pace to earn his second all-star selection. The Stars are giving 23-year old RHP Zachariah Horton (1-0, 0.00 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 2.37 FIP – 47/55), a 5th-round selection from 1952-53, a chance to start this season, after two seasons in the bullpen. Hespeler also has two of their pitching prospects throwing out of the bullpen. 21-year LHP Nico van de Ham (3-3, 4.50 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 3.58 FIP, 88 ERA+ - 52/68) is currently the Stars’ stopper while 26-year old RHP Pedro Peña (3-3, 5 SV, 3.05 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 3.65 FIP, 130 ERA+ - 53/56) is currently serving as a middle reliever. Peña was a free agent signing out of Colombia in 1955. Both are projected as future starters. Noteworthy: November 22 – The Stars hosted the Stratford Barons for a 3-game series and although they would drop the series, the managed to win the first game, 1-0 on the strength of an outstanding performance from RHP Battista Carotta, who pitched a 2-hit shut-out. The Italian-born Carotta went 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 4 BB, 4 K, 124 PI, GS: 83. The lone run came in the bottom of the 8th, when Hespeler connected on 3 straight 2-out singles followed by a passed ball. -------- The Kingston Pelicans started the season off with a whimper, going 2-12 and battling the Fort Richmond Generals to keep out of the basement for most of October. Although they improved somewhat in November, it’s a pretty safe bet that they will miss the playoffs for the 6th straight year. The offense has struggled in the early going despite some promising young talent on the squad. 27-year old Chris Ramsbottom (.307/.365/.415, 3 HR, 17 RBI, 16 BB, 4 SB, 1.6 WAR) is enjoying a nice bounce-back season now that he has taken over rightfield full-time from 33-year old OF Mo Spenceley (.244/.346/.378, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 7 BB, 0.0 WAR). Last season, Ramsbottom started at four different positions and was Kingston’s starting centerfielder before then. 27-year old Ronald Armstrong (.283/.321/.553, 10 HR, 27 RBI, 10 BB, 1.4 WAR) is off to another solid season in his second full season as Kingston’s starting catcher, 5 years after they acquired him in a trade with the Queensland Eagles. But the rest of the offense is either struggling or running hot and cold. In the latter category, 25-year old 1B Ira Bannatyne (.242/.306/.399, 8 HR, 36 RBI, 17 BB, 0.3 WAR) has come up big in a few games but then has gone cold, such as the final week of November (.062/.118/.062). 24-year old CF Dan Hesketh (.284/.340/.477, 6 HR, 20 RBI, 15 BB, 1.3 WAR), the former 1st overall pick from 1955-56 and last season’s WL Rookie of the Year continues to progress. The Pelicans also have unheralded 25-year old 3B Andy Wearne (.415/.455/.561, 3 RBI, 3 BB, 0.7 WAR – 54/58), a 3rd-round pick from 1950-51 on the major league roster. Scouts consider him ready to start, but he is currently being blocked at both third base and shortstop. Hopefully, Kingston can find him more regular playing time. The rotation has been incredibly underwhelming thus far, with only 31-year old RHP Brian Marsland (5-5, 3.02 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 3.59 FIP, 130 ERA+) pitching effectively. In fact, the 9-year veteran is off to his best start and may finally earn his first all-star selection if he can keep it up. The bullpen on the other hand, is currently tops in the West. Leading the way are 28-year old stopper RHP Lester Beddoes (1-1, 4 SV, 1.93 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 4.03 FIP, 205 ERA+) and 24-year old sophomore RHP Jacob Jones (1-0, 0.66 ERA, 0.80 WHIP, 2.07 FIP, 599 ERA+). Both may see their first all-star selections this season as well. Player of the Week Awards: November 4 – 3B Mark Johnson (.529, 9 H, 3 HR, 10 RBI) November 18 – RHP Connor Naysmith (2-0, 0.50 ERA, 18.0 IP, 13 H, 5 K, .206 OppAVG) Noteworthy: October 21 – The Pelicans took game 1 of a 3-game series against the Fort Richmond Generals, thanks to the bat of 1B Ira Bannatyne and the pitching of 23-year old LHP Ronald Dulihanty (2-5, 5.98 ERA, 1.86 WHIP, 5.43 FIP, 66 ERA+). Kingston’s No. 5 starter was on his game, pitching a complete, 2-hit shutout. The Sherburn-native went 9.0 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 4 BB, 8 K, 120 PI, GS: 87. The game was scoreless until the bottom of the 9th when Bannatyne launched a walk-off, 3-run home run to leftfield off RHP Damon Pinney. November 13 – The Pulberry Trolleys took it on the chin in Kingston as they dropped 2 of 3 to the Pelicans. Kingston took the first game 7-1 then walloped the Trolleys, 12-3 in the final match. Ira Bannatyne came up big in that third game, collecting 7 RBI. He went 3 for 5 with 2 R and 2 HR. He hit a 3-run home run in the 1st inning off RHP Taylor Folkard and a two-run shot in the 8th off RHP Alexander Ellacott. He also added a 2-out, 2-run single in the bottom of the 3rd for good measure. -------- The first two weeks of the season began promising for the Wolseley Unions as they jumped out to a 9-5 record to get to within 2 games of first place. But the wheels quickly fell off, as the Unions went 3-20 after that, a stretch that was capped off with a 14-game losing streak. Although Wolseley recovered a bit to finish November 8-6, it is plainly evident that there will be more downs than ups for the Unions for the foreseeable future as they look to rebuild their roster, five years removed from the last playoff appearance. The biggest issue is that they lack impact players on the roster. But they do have some fine young talent who could soon change that. 23-year old sophomore CF Jonathan Higgins (.281/.347/.404, 3 HR, 21 RBI, 18 BB, 6 SB, 1.1 WAR) appeared heading to a Rookie of the Year Award last year before he ruptured an Achilles tendon in early January that ended his season. The Unions are simply hoping that the Milwaukee-born Higgins who was selected 2nd overall in 1955-56 can pick up where he left off. He along with 28-year old 1B Carlos Ortíz (.298/.376/.538, 12 HR, 32 RBI, 22 BB, 1.8 WAR), who is off to a sensational start, are Wolseley’s top two offensive producers. But the most excitement is reserved for the recent promotion of the No. 2-rated prospect in the ULB, 23-year old 2B Jack Jarrom (.226/.296/.263, 11 RBI, 12 BB, 1 SB, -0.1 WAR – 43/79). Jarrom, the overall pick from last season, debuted on October 14 in a 4-2 loss to the Balmoral Giants (he went 2 for 4 and committed two errors). But scouts feel he will be a regular participant at the annual All-Star games before too long. The pitching staff has been very mediocre thus far as the Unions allow a few promising arms to find their way in the rotation. 32-year old ace RHP Roberto Garza (5-4, 3.54 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 3.67 FIP, 112 ERA+) has been the most consistent starter. Joining him are 24-year old sophomore RHP Yasuo Yamauchi (6-3, 4.79 REA, 1.33 WHIP, 4.09 FIP, 82 ERA+ - 48/58), a future No. 2 starter, and 23-year old rookie RHP Ekemona Koorong (2-6, 4.65 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 4.52 FIP, 85 ERA+ - 42/48). The Palau-born Koorong was a 3rd-round pick from last year. Scouts believe that a role in the No. 5 spot is his best-case scenario. Lastly, Wolseley is hoping their No. 2 starter, 22-year old RHP Theo Morse (2-8, 4.18 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, 4.11 FIP, 95 ERA+ - 54/80) can bounce back after going 0-5, 4.84 ERA in November. The 2nd-round pick from 1953-54 won 16 games last season in his first full season in the majors. This season he is on pace to lose 24. -------- The season started as expected for the Fort Richmond Generals, who were projected to finish dead last in the West for second season in a row. The Generals got off to a 1-13 start, a stretch that included a 10-game losing streak. Like the Downie Chiefs in the East, the Generals are in danger of losing 100+ games in a season for the first time in their history. The difference is that Fort Richmond has genuine, young talent on the major league roster that could dramatically improve matters if they can all find their way. But on offense, the majority of the lineup are either treading water or making progress in minute steps. The lone exception is 26-year old C Scott Sheelah (.266/.387/.390, 3 HR, 14 RBI, 25 BB, 2.2 WAR). Sheelah is ranked 4th overall among catchers in the United Leagues and is off to the best start of his 6-year career. The rest of the lineup is rather hum-drum, but the Generals are hopeful that 25-year old sophomore Takuji Kanno (.270/.317/.444, 7 HR, 24 RBI, 14 BB, 0.6 WAR) can develop into an impact player at first base, something Fort Richmond oddly has never had. The rotation is really struggling right now, but that shimmering glimmer of hope stationed at the top of the rotation is the top-rated prospect in the United Leagues, 24-year old RHP Kenete Yuri (2-5, 3.92 ERA, 1.45 WHIP, 3.55 FIP, 98 ERA+ - 44/72). The 2nd-overall pick from last season has scouts drooling with three solid pitches and no weaknesses who is considered a hard worker, a sparkplug and durable. But even if he delivers on his promise, he can’t do it alone. But there really is no one right now who appears capable of stepping up and supporting him. The bullpen is in somewhat better shape, with 22-year old stopper RHP Shotaro Tsuji (3-1, 5 SV, 1.00 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 3.17 FIP, 383 ERA+) and 24-year old middle reliever LHP John Witheycombe (2-0, 2.42 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 2.43 FIP, 158 ERA+) having outstanding seasons. Witheycombe is considered a future stater, so he may be an option for the Generals if none of their current starters can get out of their funk. -------- __________________ United Leagues of Braeland