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#141 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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2059 playoffs begin - The playoff bracket, and a recap of how they work.
Before I lay out the bracket for each conference, a quick recap of how the playoffs work in the World Baseball League: There are 24 teams in total in the playoffs, 12 from each conference. The 8 divisional winners (4 in each conference) all get a well deserved bye for the wildcard round. The wildcard round consists of the 8 second placed teams in each division (4 per conference) vs the remaining 8 teams with the highest amount of wins across any of their respective conference’s 4 divisions. So essentially, in each conference: 4 first placed teams - wildcard round bye 4 second placed teams 4 wildcard teams Note that end of season ties are sorted via a tie-breaker game where needed to finalise these playoff positions. The wildcard round is best of 5, every other round is best of 7. With that out the way, here’s the bracket. Cross-reference it with the end-of season standings above if needed ![]() WILDCARD ROUND The Americas and Oceania (TAO) Guatemala Ocelots v San Diego Stingrays (winner plays Ascuncion Pampas Foxes) Boston Bluebirds v Santo Domingo Dolphins (winner plays New Orleans Jazz) Havana Cafecitos v Medellin Woodpeckers (winner plays Honolulu Seahawks) Managua Motmots v Memphis Steamers (winner plays Panama City Poets) Europe Asia and Africa (EAA) Vienna Whistlers v Kano Camels (winner plays Madrid Mallards) London Gentlemen v St Petersburg Pelicans (winner plays Hiroshima Express) Bucharest Sound v Seoul Crabs (winner plays Karachi Seafarers) Phnom Penh Jackhammers v Manila Snakes (winner plays Kinshasa Leopards)
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#142 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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Havana Cafecitos - some info before we follow their playoff run
![]() Logo and concept by @20_range History This is the 5th time Havana have made the playoffs since their, and the league’s, inception in 2040. They previously made the playoffs in 2045, 2046, 2049 and 2051. They came 4th in the Central America & Oceania division this year, and so qualified for the playoffs in a wildcard spot. They have won their division an impressive 4 times, in each of the years they previously made the playoffs. They have never made the World Series. 2059 top performers Position players ![]() 26 year old Nicaraguan first-baseman has been the team’s top performer this year in by far his best season since graduating as a prospect for the team in 2056. A contact specialist with a superb eye, he also hits for plenty of power, with 21 home runs this season. 33 year old Indonesian right fielder Aeary Kartini has been a hit at the club since arriving from the Kabul Caracals in 2058. Another batter with a superb eye, he’s also one of the division’s top defenders at right field. Unspectacular, but reliable. Which could be the Havana Cafecitos’ motto in 2059. Peruvian Cather Roberto Dominguez is very much an offensive catcher - with below average skills behind the plate, but a good contact and power ability at it. Russian Zlygarev has a superb eye and is a very solid defender at second base. 33 year old Indian Neelakatanchar is one of the division’s premier centre-fielders, with great speed and an elite arm, but he’s rather unreliable at the plate. Pitching ![]() Bolivian Winston Gonzales has had his best season from a WAR standpoint, with a very high 4.9. Having spent most of his career at the Hong Kong Kites, the 33 year old has impressed since coming to the Cafecitos in 2057. He has great stuff with plenty of movement and one of the league’s best fastball and curveball combos. Bangladeshi Mohamedzai is coming off a career high 2.7 WAR last season, with another solid season. His pitches have good movement and he possesses 4 strong pitches, which he mixes up to confound batters. Another one who fits the reliable but unspectacular mould the team seems to be taking. 31 year old Moroccan Wayaasi Kadiri is the Cafecitos’ biggest bullpen weapon with a mean fastball and a couple of very good off-speed pitches in his cutter and splitter.
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#143 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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Medellin Woodpeckers v Havana Cafecitos (Wildcard Round, October, 2059)
![]() ![]() Both logos by @20_range The Woodpeckers made the playoffs by virtue of their 2nd place finish in the South America Division, where they went 89-73, their highest finish on record. This is only their second playoff appearance, having made it in 2045. Game 1 As the wildcard team, the Cafecitos are the underdog in the series but they took a commanding 1-0 series lead with a solid 3-0 win over the Woodpeckers on their home turf. Offredi was on fire, going 7.2 shutout innings and giving up only 4 hits. Indian Asvathama Neelakantachar led the way at the plate, going 2 for 3 with 2 RBIs and a walk, knocking an important triple in the 4th, an inning in which the Cafecitos took the important 3-0 lead. Player of the game: Offredi Game 2 The Cafecitos look poised to cause an upset after a 9-7 win in Medellin. Cuban star Jordan Navarro had a 3 hit game, going 3 for 4, scoring 2 and driving in 2. The Cafecitos were 6-2 up before the start of the 8th, when the Woodpeckers threatened a comeback as reliever Doug Craig crumbled and gave up 4 runs in 1.2 innings. Luckily the Cafecitos continued to produce on offence and held them off. Juan Hernandez and Roberto Dominguez got the Cafecitos’ first homers of the playoffs. Player of the game: Jordan Navarro Game 3 Havana completed an unlikely sweep to book their place in the final 16 to take on the Honolulu Seahawks, the North America (West) champions. The Cafecitos win looked in doubt when the Woodpeckers took a 2-0 lead in the second inning, but a 6 run 5th inning for Havana proved too much for the Woodpeckers to recover from. Aeary Kartini hit a 2-run homer, while English third-baseman Kale Byrne also knocked in 2 RBIs. Matt Perreault gave up only one earned run in a solid start.
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#144 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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Playoff bracket after Wildcard Round (16th October, 2059)
The only wildcard teams to have made it through to the last 16 are the Havana Cafecitos, London Gentlemen and Phnomh Penh Jackhammers. This bracket has also reminded me that the European Division took up all 4 playoff spots for the EAA conference, which is the first time one division has taken all the spots. The next round sees the introduction of all 8 division champions. ![]()
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#145 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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Honolulu Seahawks v Havana Cafecitos (Second Round, October 2059)
![]() ![]() HS logo by skynet, HC logo by @20_range Games 1 to 3 This is the Seahawks’ fourth playoff appearance, all of which have come since 2052, after a rough first 12 years in the league. They qualified with a first-round bye due to their first place finish in the North America (West) Division, their second division title. They have never made the World Series. Game 1 The Havana Cafecitos powered past the hometown Honolulu Seahawks, 7-6, in the opener of the Second Round in Honolulu. Havana shortstop Kale Byrne was 2 for 3 with a home run and was hit by a pitch, while adding 2 RBI and scoring once, to lead the charge. Cafecitos ace Winston Gonzales had a first inning meltdown, giving up 5 runs in just 0.2 innings before being pulled. Fortunately for Havana, the 6 relievers they used to follow only gave up one more run between them. Player of the game: Kale Byrne Game 2 Honolulu starter Lesta Wakhoff, who has the surname of a slugger rather than a pitcher, perplexed the Cafecitos to help the Seahawks to a dominant 5-0 win in game 2. In his 88-pitch effort, Wakhoff allowed no runs on 1 hit over 7 innings. He walked 4 and struck out 4. On the Havana side Offredi gave up 4 runs in 6 innings, but he can hardly be blamed when the offence failed to put up a single run. Player of the game: Lesta Wakhoff Game 3 As the series moved to Havana, things continued to move in the direction of the Seahawks. With right fielder Michael Young leading the charge, the Honolulu Seahawks won 5-3 to take a 2-1 series lead. Young was 3-4 with a home run and a double, while scoring 3. Peruvian catcher Roberto Dminguez hit his third home run of the playoffs, a 2-run shot in the 5th to make it 3-3, but Havana were unable to complete the comeback. Player of the game: Michael Young
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#146 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
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Game 4
The rhythm of the drums may have been absent, but the heartbeat of Havana thundered loud and proud Tuesday night as the Cafecitos clawed their way back into the Division Series with a tense 4–3 win over the Honolulu Seahawks in front of 54,000 soaked but roaring fans. It all started with a statement first inning. Javi Navarro set the tone with a double, and by the time Kale Byrne lashed his 2-run double into the left-field corner, the Cafecitos were up 3–0 and Tocororos Park was in full swing. Add a sac fly from Osayande in the third, and Havana were flying. Ismail Mohamedzai, calm as a cucumber, spun 6.1 innings of gritty brilliance. He gave up just four hits and struck out three, conceding a pair of long balls but never losing command of the moment. When Wafi Kadiri and Dan Craig took over, they slammed the gates shut—Craig in particular looking like a man with a point to prove, nailing down a two-inning save without a hitch. Yes, the Seahawks mounted a response—homers from Zahor and Kimutai added drama—but Havana’s pitching and poise proved decisive. Player of the game: Ismail Mohemedzai Game 5 A raucous crowd at Tocororos Park was left subdued on Wednesday evening as the Havana Cafecitos dropped Game 5 of the Division Series, falling 4–1 to the visiting Honolulu Seahawks. The loss puts Havana behind 3–2 in the best-of-seven set, with the series now shifting to Honolulu. Despite a solo blast from Ramón Dominguez in the sixth inning, the Cafecitos couldn’t muster enough offense to overcome a masterclass from Seahawks starter Lufti Mu’tazz, who rightfully earned Player of the Game honours. Mu’tazz allowed just one run on three hits over 5.1 composed innings, navigating Havana’s potent lineup with deceptive ease. The game turned in the sixth when Honolulu’s Bernard Laporte hammered a two-run homer off Wilmer Gonzalez to open the scoring. A second long ball, this time a two-run shot from J. Pennington an inning later, proved the final blow. Havana’s bats showed occasional life—Anant Kartini reached base four times and Anirudh Neelakantachar doubled—but failed to cash in with runners in scoring position. The Cafecitos stranded seven in total and were held scoreless in eight of nine innings. With a travel day ahead, the Cafecitos faced elimination on the road. Game 6 The Cafecitos refused to go quietly. Facing elimination, Havana delivered a clutch 5–3 win over the Honolulu Seahawks to force a decisive Game 7 in the Division Series. The game’s hero—and Player of the Game—was shortstop Yuniesky Jerez, who smashed a two-run homer in the fifth to give the Cafecitos a lead they would never relinquish. Jerez also walked twice and scored another run, sparking Havana’s offense when it mattered most. Starter Austin Morel battled through 5.2 innings, giving up three earned runs while keeping Honolulu’s bats from taking over. The bullpen held strong, with three relievers combining for 3.1 scoreless innings, capped off by Dan Craig’s composed save. The Cafecitos jumped ahead early but saw their lead briefly erased before Jerez’s blast. A late insurance run in the ninth—scored by Anirudh Neelakantachar—provided a crucial cushion. With the series now level at 3–3, all eyes turn to Game 7. One more game. One last fight. Havana’s dream lives on.
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#147 |
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Game 7
The Cafecitos are through to the last 8—and they did it in dramatic, unforgettable fashion. Down 3–2 in the series just days ago, Havana stormed back to win Games 6 and 7, capping the comeback with a 5–2 victory in hostile Palm Avenue to eliminate the top-seeded Seahawks. The hero? None other than Yuniesky Jerez, who followed up his Game 6 heroics with a towering three-run homer in the fifth that flipped a 2–1 deficit into a 4–2 lead. For the second straight game, Jerez earned Player of the Game honours, cementing his status as a postseason legend in Havana. Ramón Dominguez added an RBI single for insurance in the eighth, while the Cafecitos bullpen was once again rock solid. Wafi Kadiri, César Umanzor, and closer Dan Craig combined for 4.2 shutout innings, striking out five and allowing just two hits. Starter Jack Carrigan worked 4.1 gutsy innings, allowing two runs and keeping the game within reach until the bats came alive. It wasn’t just the stars, either—Havana’s depth showed up big. Anant Kartini walked twice, Neelakantachar doubled again, and the defense turned two key double plays to snuff out Seattle threats. From 2–3 down to 4–3 winners, the Cafecitos now carry all the momentum into the WBLCS. They'll take on the Panama City Poets, vying for a place in the TAO Conference Final, and then - if they dare dream - the World Series. The Poets are fresh from a 4-0 sweep of the Memphis Steamers and were the winners of the Central America and Oceania Division that the Cafecitos came 4th in. Havana will once again be the underdogs, but that hasn't stopped them so far.
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#148 |
Major Leagues
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Location: Sheffield, UK
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Playoff tree update
![]() And so we enter the last eight, composed of 4 teams who won their divisions, and 4 teams who made it through as underdogs, including the Havana Cafecitos. The biggest shock has to be the San Diego Stingrays' victory over the Asunción Pampas Foxes, who were favourites to make the World Series on the TAO side, having won 104 games, second to only the Madrid Mallards' 108 in the World Baseball League.
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#149 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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Panama City Poets v Havana Cafecitos (Third Round, 2059)
![]() ![]() HC logo by @20_range, PCP logo by @skynet Game 1 – October 27, 2059 Cafecitos Stumble in Series Opener, Fall 5–1 The Havana Cafecitos dropped Game 1 of their third-round series 5–1 to the Panama City Poets, undone by a four-run fifth inning that flipped the contest. Havana had tied the game 1–1 in the top half thanks to a solo homer from Jorge Navarro — his first of the postseason — but the Poets stormed back with clutch hits from Anekelea and Castro. Wenceslao González took the loss, allowing five runs over 4.2 innings. The bullpen held steady, with clean outings from F. Mavlevich and J. Henderson, but the offense couldn’t recover. Byrne and Osayande each singled, and Dominguez drove in a run, but the Cafecitos stranded five. Navarro also stole a base and threw out a runner from left field in a sharp all-around game. Still, the Cafecitos will need more from the middle of their order if they hope to bounce back. Game 2 – October 28, 2059 Galeano Muzzles Havana Bats in 4–1 Defeat Panama’s José Galeano delivered a masterclass in Game 2, limiting Havana to just two hits across seven innings in a 4–1 Poets victory. Havana’s lone run came in the sixth via a triple from Anisa Kartini, but offensive threats were few and far between. Ju-zheng Ma crushed a two-run homer off Idris Mohamedzai in the fifth, breaking a scoreless tie and energizing the home crowd. Ma later added another RBI and caught a clean game behind the plate. The Cafecitos’ hits came from Kartini and Navarro, with the latter doubling late off closer L. Straub. But Havana again struggled to produce with runners on base, stranding five. With the series swinging back to Havana, the Cafecitos trail 2–0 and desperately need a spark. Game 3 – October 30, 2059 Offredi Solid, But Havana Blank Again in 2–0 Loss Back at Tocororos Park, the Cafecitos fell 2–0 in Game 3, their second shutout in three games. Starter Bruno Offredi was serviceable, yielding two runs across seven innings, but the bats never got going. Panama opened the scoring with a Khiari double in the fourth, and Ma tripled home a second run in the sixth. Havana’s best threat came in the eighth, when Navarro and Jimenez each doubled — but both were left stranded. Catcher Roberto Dominguez exited with an injury in the fifth, further thinning Havana’s lineup. Kartini and Jimenez accounted for most of the offense, while newcomer Malave filled in ably behind the plate. Now down 3–0, Havana faces elimination with one more loss. Game 4 – October 31, 2059 Panama Completes Sweep Despite Late Havana Rally The Cafecitos bowed out of the playoffs with a 4–2 loss in Game 4, as the Poets completed the sweep at Tocororos Park. A three-run stretch between the third and fifth innings was enough for Panama to hold off a late Havana push. Milo Perreault gave up all four runs in 4.2 innings, including doubles to Bohn, Ma, and Anekelea. Seth Hermes earned the win with 5.2 solid innings for the Poets. Havana’s offense finally stirred — Kurt Zlygarev doubled twice, while Neelakantachar and Navarro each knocked in a run. But a double play by Osayande killed momentum in the sixth, and the Cafecitos stranded four. Ju-zheng Ma was named series MVP after batting .600 and anchoring the Poets’ defense throughout. It’s a bitter end to a promising season for Havana, swept out of the third round despite an 88-win campaign.
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#150 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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Playoff Tree - Going into the Conference Series'
![]() So, our boys the Cafecitos are out, though I think they'll be happy with their overall playoff run despite the disappointing sweep by the Panama City Poets. Going into the Conference Series, and thus final 4, banners are on the line as teams aim to be champions of either the Americas and Oceania (TAO) or Europe, Asia and Africa (EAA) before battling in the World Series. The biggest shock is the London Gentlemen, who came 5th in the European Division, entering the playoffs in a wildcard place (though, with a very good 92 win record), knocking out the World Series favourite Madrid Mallards, who had the most wins out of any team in the regular season. It once again showcases the strength of the European Division. Other notable entrants are the New Orleans Jazz, who aim to become the first team ever to win 3 World Baseball League titles. The other teams on 2 titles, the Calgary Tartans and Yaounde Cannons failed to make the playoffs this year. The London Gentlemen will be hoping that their 6th playoff appearance is finally the one that brings them home a Conference Championship or World Series. I'll be writing up the World Series as always, see you there!
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#151 |
Major Leagues
Join Date: Jul 2023
Location: Sheffield, UK
Posts: 359
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2059 World Series Preview
And so the world series will be.... the Panama City Poets (who swept the New Orleans Jazz in 4) vs the London Gentlemen (who beat the Karachi Seafarers in 5). ![]() ![]() PCP logo by @skynet, LG logo by @20_range I'll do a preview of each of the teams before I report on the games one by one. Panama City Poets: Team Preview The Panama City Poets arrive at the 2059 World Series as one of the league’s most complete and dangerous teams — a club built on relentless lineup depth, frontline pitching, and postseason momentum that has grown with every round. Winners of the TAO’s Central America and Oceania Division with a 96–64 record, the Poets paced the league in runs scored and ranked top-five in team ERA. At the plate, few lineups could match their blend of contact, power, and speed. Left fielder Harola Anekelea put together a sensational campaign, hitting .306 with 28 home runs and 104 RBIs while swiping 49 bases — good for a 5.3 WAR season. Center fielder Ubaydah Khiari (.281 AVG, 19 SB) and shortstop Alex Morel (.251 AVG, 21 HR) added balance, while catcher Ju-zheng Ma (.310/.370/.421) was quietly elite both at the plate and behind it. The rotation has been anchored by Zegeye Muhammed (16–4, 2.92 ERA), with Nelson Padilla (15–13, 3.23 ERA) emerging as the team’s playoff ace. Muhammed’s 197 innings led the club, but Padilla’s postseason has stolen the spotlight — including a dominant eight-inning effort to open the World Series. Panama’s playoff journey has been nothing short of emphatic: a sweep of the Memphis Steamers in the second round, a clinical four-game dismantling of the Havana Cafecitos in the third, and a decisive 4–0 League Championship Series win over the New Orleans Jazz — all while allowing just nine total runs in the final two rounds combined. Despite never having won a championship in their 20-year history, the Poets are now in the World Series for the first time, and are the first Central American team to make it this far. This postseason run has showcased not only their talent but also their cohesion and composure. With veteran bats like Jean Gonnet and Steve Bohn mixing with rising stars like Morel and Khiari, the team seems as focused as it is fearless. Now, only the London Gentlemen stand between the Poets and a historic first title — a fitting final chapter for one of the WBL’s most dynamic clubs. London Gentlemen - Team Preview After years of contention and close calls, the London Gentlemen have finally broken through to the World Series. Their 2059 campaign — a 92-win season and dominant playoff run — has brought the team to the sport’s grandest stage for the first time in franchise history. And they’ve done it in quintessential London fashion: steady, disciplined, and deep. Led offensively by a trio of standout outfielders, London boasts one of the most balanced lineups in the WBL. Right fielder Jaime Bargo tallied 29 home runs and 93 RBIs while batting .280 over 603 at-bats. Center fielder Zijadin Galica emerged as a force in his own right, with 46 doubles, 20 homers, and a .294 average. Meanwhile, the versatile Colt Ellertson was a consistent presence, batting .279 with 74 RBIs and 14 home runs from the second base position. Defensively and on the mound, the Gentlemen thrive on tactical execution. While their staff ERA ranked middle of the pack, it was their situational strength and bullpen depth that shone this October. Veteran arms like Matt Wolf and E. Ruiz have shouldered key innings, but the staff’s success stems from versatility more than overpowering stuff. Catcher Kian Goode’s game management and leadership have played a pivotal role, particularly during tight postseason contests. Their playoff path has been gruelling and full of upsets. After besting St. Petersburg, who placed second in the European Division, in the Wildcard Series, they surged past Hiroshima in six, and edged out Madrid in seven in the biggest upset of the playoffs. Madrid had won the European Division with the highest win total in the WBL, 108. Finally, London dispatched the Karachi Seafarers 4–1 in the EAA Championship Series, netting them their first EAA pennant and a place in the World Series. Historically, the Gentlemen have flirted with success — a consistent playoff presence in the early 2050s, they never made it past the Championship Series until now. But with a lineup that can grind out runs and a defense that rarely beats itself, London enters the World Series poised and prepared.
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#152 |
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Location: Sheffield, UK
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World Series Game 1: Poets Overpower Gentlemen in Lopsided Opener
The Panama City Poets made a commanding statement to open the World Baseball League World Series, steamrolling the London Gentlemen 12–2 behind a dominant outing from Nelson Padilla and a relentless offensive display. Padilla, the 25-year-old Honduran ace, delivered eight innings of two-hit ball, striking out six while walking four. Backed by early run support, he never allowed London to settle, leaning on a crisp fastball and precise command. The Poets wasted no time seizing momentum, tagging London starter Hugh Wolf for three runs in the first inning and never looking back. Jean Gonnet opened the scoring with a two-run homer — the first of two he’d hit on the night. Harola Anekelea added a long ball of his own, and shortstop Alex Morel contributed a 3-for-4 performance with two RBIs. By contrast, the Gentlemen were overwhelmed. Wolf and three relievers combined to allow 17 hits and 12 runs, while the offense managed just five baserunners. Zijadin Galica had a pair of singles, but the heart of London’s order was silent. With Game 2 looming, the Poets lead the best-of-seven series 1–0 and have already put London on notice with a performance as loud as the scoreline suggests.
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#153 |
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World Series Game 2: Gentlemen Outslug Poets to Level Series
The London Gentlemen leveled the series with a thrilling 9–8 win, sparked by key contributions from all corners of their lineup. American first baseman Gerald Hallet went 3-for-4 and scored three runs, continuing a strong postseason following his .303 regular season. Panama City jumped out to a 7–0 lead after a disastrous first inning for London, but the Gentlemen chipped away methodically. Kosovo’s Colt Ellertson delivered the decisive blow with a two-run single in the eighth. Ellertson, who batted .308 with 14 homers and 74 RBI during the regular season, showcased his knack for clutch hitting. The Poets’ potent lineup showed its usual firepower—Anekelea (USA) grabbed three bases on two hits, while Cuban Angel Castro added a shot—but their bullpen faltered. Vietnamese reliever Hi Ba and German closer Lynssl Straub couldn’t hold the lead, with Straub taking the loss. London’s own relief corps fared better. Jamaican journeyman J. Stovall got the win after a clean inning, and American rookie Ezra Zuhair closed it out. In a seesaw battle, it was London’s depth and grit that proved the difference. With the series tied 1-1, the stage was set for a pivotal Game 3.
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#154 |
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I had planned to do one game of the World Series a day, but as I didn't manage to post yesterday, I'l do two today. You're welcome...
World Series Game 3: London Take Series Lead Behind Patterson’s Composure Behind a commanding outing from American right-hander Chris Patterson, the London Gentlemen claimed a 2-1 series lead with a 6-2 victory. Patterson, who posted a 3.76 ERA across 32 starts during the regular season, found another gear—spinning seven innings of two-run ball while striking out five and walking one. Offensively, London used balanced production to outpace the Poets. Kosovo’s Zijadin Galica (.294 AVG, 20 HR in the regular season) knocked in two runs, and Panama’s Kian Goode chipped in with a double and a sac fly. Veteran Gerald Hallet continued his strong postseason with another RBI. Panama City’s bats were quieted after a first-inning double by Madagascar’s Irgen Baka, and aside from a Steve Bohn (USA) RBI single, the Poets couldn’t capitalize on traffic. Their pitching staff—Nigerian starter Zegeye Muhammed and German reliever Lynssl Straub—combined to allow six earned runs, including a two-run rally in the seventh that broke the game open. The Poets’ inability to string hits together against Patterson was a key storyline, as London’s defense and bullpen—anchored again by Zuhair—shut the door late. With momentum swinging firmly to the Gentlemen, Panama City faced a crucial Game 4 to avoid falling behind 3-1.
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#155 |
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World Series Game 4: London on Cusp of World Series Triumph After 4–3 Win
The London Gentlemen moved to the brink of a championship, winning a dramatic 11-inning affair 4–3 thanks to a walk-off sacrifice fly by American shortstop Gerald Hallet. Hallet, who hit .303 with 13 home runs during the regular season, capped off a tense back-and-forth with a composed plate appearance against Panama’s Jason Gregory. American starter Seth Hermes was rock-solid for London, allowing just two runs over 6.1 innings and continuing the postseason form that has mirrored his 3.52 regular season ERA. Kosovo’s Colt Ellertson (.308 AVG, 21 HR in 2059) sparked the offense with a triple, while Galica and Bargo each collected two hits. For the Poets, Angel Castro drove in a pair, while Steve Bohn and Anekelea chipped in with RBI hits. Taiwanese shortstop Ju-zheng Ma (.404 OBP) was on base three times but was thrown out at third on a key play in the eighth. The Poets’ bullpen, including Hi Ba and closer Jason Gregory, kept the game alive until the 11th, but London’s relentless lineup eventually broke through. The Gentlemen now lead the series 3–1, needing just one more win to claim their first title in franchise history.
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#156 |
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World Series Game 5: Panama Hang on With Tight Victory
The Panama City Poets held off the London Gentlemen for a gritty 4–3 win in Game 5, cutting London’s series lead to 3–2 and sending the World Series back to Central America. Panama’s ace Nelson Padilla (Honduras) once again rose to the moment. The 25-year-old right-hander — who led all qualified pitchers in ERA during the regular season at 0.85 — went 7.2 innings, giving up just two earned runs on nine hits while striking out four. It was Padilla’s second standout performance of the series and improved his playoff record to 5–0. Offensively, the Poets found production up and down the order. Swiss veteran Jean Gonnet delivered the game’s opening run with a sacrifice fly, while Steve Bohn (USA) and Ju-zheng Ma (Taiwan) both added RBI hits. Harola Anekelea (Panama), who hit .306 with 28 homers during the regular season, chipped in a double and a run scored. For London, Colt Ellertson (USA) continued his strong postseason with a triple and a two-run double. Jason Jones (USA) added a solo homer in the eighth to narrow the gap, but the Gentlemen ultimately stranded 11 runners. Hugh Wolf (Switzerland) took the loss, allowing four runs in 5.2 innings despite recording eight strikeouts. The series now shifts back to Panama, where the Poets will look to even things up in Game 6.
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Game 6: London Takes World Series
![]() The London Gentlemen are World Series champions for the first time in club history, sealing the title with a tight 5–4 victory over the Panama City Poets in Game 6 at Canal Grounds to take the 2059 title! Colt Ellertson, who hit .308 with 14 homers and 74 RBIs in the regular season, was named World Series MVP after driving in his 22nd postseason RBI with a go-ahead single in the sixth. Gerald Hallet added a double and two RBIs, while Jason Horan and Jaime Bargo each chipped in run-scoring hits as London clawed back from a 3–1 deficit. Panama City opened the scoring on a double from Ubaydah Khiari and a home run by Harola Anekelea, who slugged 28 homers and posted a .306 average during the regular season. Steve Bohn and Alex Morel also had key hits for the Poets, but the bullpen couldn’t hold a slim lead. Hugh Duong started for London and exited early, but relievers Asuiku Usiwu and Ezra Zuhair held the line. Usiwu earned the win, tossing 1.2 scoreless innings, and Zuhair locked down his 9th postseason save with a clean ninth. Jose Galeano took the loss for Panama after allowing four runs in 5.1 innings. It was a fitting end to a hard-fought series. The Gentlemen, who won 92 games in the regular season, now sit atop the baseball world, as celebrations continue across England's capital, as they celebrate the country's first World Series win. The Gentlemen are the first winner from the European Division since the Vienna Whistlers in 2048, and the 7th winner from the EAA conference. The TAO conference have 13 titles. Hares fans will feel conflicted that their national rivals have won the sport's greatest trophy, but I think there's more brotherly love between the teams than they care to admit...
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Read about the Sheffield Mountain Hares in my World Baseball League blog here Last edited by dinosauryoshi; 06-23-2025 at 05:54 PM. |
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#158 |
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The Americas and Oceania - Player Awards 2059
![]() Most Valuable Player: Antonio Cardoza (La Paz Doves) Ecuadorian Cardoza put together one of the most dominant offensive seasons in TAO history, slashing .390/.508/.720 with 41 home runs, 112 runs scored, and 110 RBIs. His 10.4 WAR comfortably led all hitters in the conference, combining elite on-base skills with massive power production. As the driving force of the La Paz Doves offense, Cardoza’s performance was a cut above the rest. This is the 9-time all-star’s first MVP award, though he has won 7 silver slugger awards at shortstop. Pitcher of the Year: Sateki Kikeona (Bogota Condors) Easter Islander Kikeona was a strikeout machine, fanning 14.2 batters per nine innings while compiling a 19-4 record and a 2.83 ERA over 194.0 innings. His 1.21 WHIP and 8.3 WAR placed him at the top of a crowded field of strong TAO arms, and he was a model of consistency across the season for Bogota Condors. This is Kikeona’s second Pitcher of the Year award, his previous was in 2054. He has also made 5 all-star appearances. Rookie of the Year: Aseffa Amara (Kansas City Meadowlarks) Cameroonian Amara stormed onto the scene with a blend of power and speed that made him one of the most exciting players in the league. He hit .295 with a .525 slugging percentage, clubbed 31 homers, swiped 50 bases, and posted 6.9 WAR. His 122 RBIs and 111 runs scored marked him as an immediate star. Amara also won the Silver Slugger award at left field, a superb achievement in his rookie season. Drafted in 2053 by the Kansas City Meadowlarks, Amara was the 406th pick. Reliever of the Year: Russ Underhill (Vancouver Green Sox) In 65.2 innings, Canadian Underhill posted a sparkling 0.96 ERA and secured 47 saves. His 0.94 WHIP and 7.7 K/9 demonstrated his control and composure in tight situations, anchoring the Vancouver bullpen throughout the year. This is Underhill’s second Reliever of the Year award, and at 28 he’s set to be a bullpen star for years to come. Golden Glove Award Winners (Best Defenders by Position) Pitcher: Edmundo Roby (MEX) – 1.000 fielding %, 9 putouts, 16 assists, 1.16 range. Catcher: Xavier Natrio (SDI) – .999 fielding %, 960 putouts, 62 assists, 16.5% caught stealing rate. First Base:Bruce Marlin (MED) – .998 fielding %, 837 putouts, 51 assists, 8.11 range. Second Base: Mhelter Magante (POR) – .997 fielding %, 137 putouts, 240 assists, 4.78 range. Third Base: Erminio Gonzalez (PER) – .974 fielding %, 87 putouts, 254 assists, 2.89 range. Shortstop: Halim Kabaila (POR) – .983 fielding %, 185 putouts, 433 assists, 4.49 range. Left Field: Nafi Fakihi (POR) – .994 fielding %, 173 putouts, 0 assists, 2.22 range. Center Field: Brad Carter (MIA) – .994 fielding %, 303 putouts, 8 assists, 3.24 range. Right Field: Rauno Ururainen (TOR) – .989 fielding %, 271 putouts, 11 assists, 2.35 range. Silver Slugger Award Winners (Best Hitters by Position) Catcher: Topi Siurunen (HOU) – .260/.381/.529, 29 home runs, 99 RBI, 5.9 WAR. First Base: Antonio Cardoza (LPZ) – .390/.508/.720, 41 home runs, 110 RBI, 10.4 WAR. Second Base: Angel Rios (MAN) – .283/.364/.530, 35 home runs, 128 RBI, 5.4 WAR. Third Base: Jon Pitts (MEM) – .275/.395/.550, 36 home runs, 90 RBI, 7.0 WAR. Shortstop: Yasuki Ota (PER) – .284/.356/.523, 30 home runs, 92 RBI, 3.1 WAR. Left Field: Aseffa Amara (KAN) – .295/.383/.525, 31 home runs, 122 RBI, 6.9 WAR. Center Field: David Ortiz (WAS) – .325/.409/.612, 35 home runs, 126 RBI, 9.8 WAR. Right Field: Nick Thackeray (ATL) – .336/.452/.592, 38 home runs, 120 RBI, 8.1 WAR. Designated Hitter: Valdemar Bregar (LOS) – .295/.420/.529, 32 home runs, 92 RBI, 5.5 WAR.
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Read about the Sheffield Mountain Hares in my World Baseball League blog here Last edited by dinosauryoshi; 06-27-2025 at 06:41 PM. Reason: some corrections and formatting |
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#159 |
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Europe, Asia and Africa - Player Awards 2059
![]() Most Valuable Player: Tony Iwaki (Pyongyang Grasshoppers) The highly decorated Japanese-Brazilian first baseman was a force of nature in 2059, slashing an outrageous .377/.478/.706 across 592 at-bats. This is his second MVP award in consecutive years. He crushed 48 home runs, drove in 145, and scored 130 runs while compiling a league-best 10.2 WAR. His offensive dominance not only led Pyongyang’s charge but also cemented his status as the most feared hitter in the EAA this season. He adds his second MVP award to his 5 all-star selections, Rookie of the Year award and 2 Silver Slugger awards, and he’s only 27. One of the league’s absolute stars. Pitcher of the Year: Dumadi Kartodirjo (St. Petersburg Pelicans) The Indonesian lefty turned in a masterclass on the mound. Over 220.1 innings, he posted a 19–7 record, a superb 2.61 ERA, and a 1.07 WHIP while striking out 8.4 per nine. His 5.8 WAR led all pitchers in the conference, and his consistency anchored a strong rotation for a postseason-bound squad. His win came as a huge surprise, given he has never made an all-star selection. This is his first WBL award at 33. Rookie of the Year: Orel Bagirove (Dubai Dunes) Russian right-fielder Bagirov made an immediate impact for Dubai, showcasing speed, power, and on-base prowess. He hit .317 with 15 home runs, swiped 64 bases, and scored 111 runs, all while posting a 129 wRC+ and accumulating 7.3 WAR. The Uzbek outfielder looks like a cornerstone player for years to come. He was picked by Dubai in 2053, with the 106th pick. Reliever of the Year: Erhan Kurtbek (Kuala Lumpur Tigers) Turkish lefty Erhan Kurtbek was lights out from the bullpen, winning his second Reliever of the Year award. The 34 year old closer went 8–4 with 43 saves and a 1.54 ERA over 70.1 innings. With a 1.04 WHIP and a 6.0 K/9, he brought quiet dominance and steady nerves in the late innings, helping keep the Tigers competitive. ⸻ Golden Glove Award Winners Pitcher: Tony Cisneros (ULA) – .957 fielding %, 8 PO, 1.02 range Catcher: Hudhayfah Jamal al Din (ADD) – .997 fielding %, 19.0 CS% 1B: Zach Hallock (ABI) – .995 fielding %, 1206 PO, 8.83 range 2B: Abdul Hakim Lone (TOK) – .989 fielding %, 5.36 range 3B: Nawaf bin Umar (CAS) – .980 fielding %, 2.34 range SS: Faiq bin Shafiq (CAS) – .992 fielding %, 4.79 range LF: Jeff Phillips (KUA) – .979 fielding %, 2.17 range CF: Zijadin Galica (LON) – .998 fielding %, 3.45 range RF: Ponco Susanti (CAS) – .990 fielding %, 2.38 range Silver Slugger Award Winners Catcher: Abdul-Jalil Riyad (NAI) – .272/.380/.557, 112 RBI, 6.0 WAR 1B: Tony Iwaki (PYO) – .377/.478/.706, 145 RBI, 10.2 WAR 2B: Gunadi Suharto (BEN) – .285/.386/.558, 104 RBI, 5.9 WAR 3B: Mujahid bin Basim (MAN) – .293/.351/.614, 125 RBI, 5.9 WAR SS: Joo-seok Yoo (SEO) – .250/.326/.528, 126 RBI, 2.9 WAR LF: Hieu Thach (SGP) – .309/.406/.503, 98 RBI, 6.9 WAR CF: Andargachew Hafidh (LUA) – .347/.446/.686, 142 RBI, 9.9 WAR RF: Daniil Rochegov (SEO) – .351/.414/.629, 123 RBI, 7.8 WAR DH: Mao Fou (ULA) – .306/.459/.584, 91 RBI, 6.8 WAR No awards for the Hares once again, we'll get one one day, maybe...
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Read about the Sheffield Mountain Hares in my World Baseball League blog here Last edited by dinosauryoshi; 07-01-2025 at 05:55 PM. |
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