The Keystone League

[Big Six]

Originally Posted by marc

Close but no cigar again for Lancaster, looks like they are headed in the right direction though. Nice to see Nicol selected to the all-decade team (though not at all surprising).

The Red Roses demonstrate that pitching and power win ballgames. Their three top starters--McKernan, Mortensen, and Cormier--are as good a trio as any in the Keystone League, including Parker, Wagner, and Davis of the Steelers. The Reds' threesome is younger, too.

Nicol can still mash, and Andrew Crafts is a very productive hitter who should be in his prime. Twenty-eight year old rookie first baseman Larry Nichol hit only .239, but hammered 12 homers and knocked in 83 runs.

Lancaster could use another bat or two, and there's some possible help on the way from the farm. Bruno Whobrey and Wayne Kitchens are both promising hitters; Whobrey has more power, while Kitchens makes better contact. Both are first basemen, although Whobrey might be athletic enough to learn another position.

The Reds' 1969 first-round pick, outfielder George MacFater, hit .332/.409/.463 at Class A, and looks like he might be a good one someday. If some of these youngsters break out before Bryce Nicol declines, the Red Roses will probably hoist a pennant or two, and might find themselves sipping champagne from the Governor's Cup.

[Big Six]

Speaking of the Red Roses, they're prominently featured in this list of the 1969 Mathewson Division's pitching leaders.

EARNED RUN AVERAGE
1  B. Mortensen (LAN)     1.93 
2  J. Parker (BTH)        2.01 
3  D. Wagner (BTH)        2.07 
4  M. McKernan (LAN)      2.27 
5  J. Cormier (LAN)       2.69 
6  J. Henderson (LEW)     3.04 
7  O. Davis (BTH)         3.19 
8  C. Kohn (REA)          3.26 
9  B. Funk (YRK)          3.33 
10  B. Johnson (LEW)      3.53

The 1969 Red Roses and Steelers had the lowest team ERAs in Keystone League history. Not surprisingly, both teams won well over 90 games and battled for the Mathewson Division lead all season long.

WINS
1  B. Mortensen (LAN)       28 
2  J. Parker (BTH)          26 
3  O. Davis (BTH)           25 
4  B. Funk (YRK)            23 
5  D. Wagner (BTH)          22

No trio of teammates have won more games in a single KL season than Parker, Davis, and Wagner did this year. Mortensen had a great shot at 30 wins before going 6-5 in July and August. Nevertheless, his 28 victories set a new Keystone record.

STRIKEOUTS
1  J. Parker (BTH)         424 
2  M. McKernan (LAN)       346 
3  J. Cormier (LAN)        314 
4  O. Davis (BTH)          277 
5  B. Mortensen (LAN)      262

“424” might become one of those iconic numbers that fans automatically associate with a particular player. Then again, Jack Parker is just entering his prime. We might not have seen his best; that’s both exciting and, especially if you're not a Steelers fan, a little scary.

SAVES
1  N. Kisner (BTH)          45 
2  L. Kopecky (LAN)         42 
3  A. Mathis (YRK)          41 
4  J. Germain (LEW)         29 
5  R. Hodnett (PVL)         24

Because the Oil City bullpen was in such disarray, the club rushed Ron Hodnett to the Keystone League before he was ready. He held his own, however, and at age 24 has put in four solid seasons. Pottsville isn’t a contending club right now, but by the time they are, they’ll be able to put the ninth inning in capable hands.

INNINGS PITCHED
1  B. Mortensen (LAN)    349.1 
2  C. Kohn (REA)         339.1 
3  D. Wagner (BTH)       330.0 
4  E. Caron (LEW)        328.0 
5  B. Funk (YRK)         327.0

Fast Eddie Caron epitomizes the journeyman pitcher of distinction. He’ll take the ball every fourth day, and if he’s on a good team, he’ll win close to 20 games. He’ll allow a hit per inning, strike out a few more batters than he walks, and give his team a decent chance to win. That’s why Eddie Caron will have a job until his arm finally wears out, and he’ll retire a happy man.

SHUTOUTS
1  C. Kohn (REA)             7 
2  B. Mortensen (LAN)        6 
2  J. Parker (BTH)           6 
4  E. Caron (LEW)            4 
4  M. McKernan (LAN)         4

Chuck Kohn was a first round draft pick back in 1961. He has pitched for four different teams, mostly in middle relief. The Coal Heavers acquired him last season, and have finally given him a regular starting gig. In 1969, he went 18-15 with a terrible team, and you’ll see his name on several of these leader lists.

WHIP
1  J. Parker (BTH)        0.92 
2  B. Mortensen (LAN)     0.93 
3  J. Cormier (LAN)       0.93 
4  D. Wagner (BTH)        1.06 
5  M. McKernan (LAN)      1.08

I bet you weren’t too surprised to see Steelers and Red Roses on this list, were you? I wonder if one of these teams would come out ahead if they traded one of their arms for an elite hitter.

[Big Six]

Now, let's go over to the Wagner Division and meet their batting leaders for 1969.

BATTING AVERAGE
1  G. Truman (WIL)        .359 
2  L. Pohl (JHN)          .339 
3  M. Naughton (SC)       .309 
4  P. Mill (WAS)          .303 
5  R. Ong (WIL)           .303 
6  W. Coachman (ALT)      .297 
7  W. Price (ALT)         .297 
8  L. Aguirre (GET)       .296 
9  L. Zavaleta (SC)       .296 
10  J. Merriam (WAS)      .293

Gerard Truman’s lifetime batting average is now .340, and if he keeps reeling off base hits like he has so far, he’ll take over the title of career batting leader when he gets enough at-bats to qualify. He’s won the batting title in both his full Keystone League seasons.

ON BASE PERCENTAGE
1  G. Truman (WIL)        .459 
2  M. Naughton (SC)       .416 
3  W. Coachman (ALT)      .416 
4  J. Francis (WIL)       .394 
5  E. Browne (JHN)        .392

Truman is also drawing 100 walks a year, so he is on base constantly. Imagine how many runs he would score at the top of a more productive lineup than Williamsport’s!

SLUGGING AVERAGE
1  L. Pohl (JHN)          .520 
2  W. Coachman (ALT)      .512 
3  L. Zavaleta (SC)       .505 
4  R. Ong (WIL)           .489 
5  G. Huntley (WAS)       .475

Lewis Pohl has batted .353 and .339 in successive seasons, and has probably surpassed Altoona’s Steven Davis as the division’s most productive catcher. They’re almost the same age—Pohl (27) is actually a year older than Davis (26)—so their individual “battle” should rage for several more years, at least.

ON BASE + SLUGGING
1  W. Coachman (ALT)      .928 
2  G. Truman (WIL)        .911 
3  L. Pohl (JHN)          .898 
4  L. Zavaleta (SC)       .865 
5  H. Tafoya (JHN)        .860

Willie Coachman’s batting average dropped below .300 for the first time as a regular, but with the pitching/offense balance tilting in favor of the hurlers all over the league, the Cat’s “slump” was more the result of a statistical illusion than a real decline in his formidable talents.

HOME RUNS
1  G. Huntley (WAS)         30 
2  R. Ong (WIL)             29 
3  L. Zavaleta (SC)         26 
4  W. Coachman (ALT)        25 
4  H. Tafoya (JHN)          25

Over the past few years, State College has been assembling a core of good young players. Some of them are now entering their prime: Mike Naughton, Leandro Zavaleta, Keith Clear, Ezra Numbers. Zavaleta, now 26, looks like he’s developed into a legitimate heart-of-the order basher.

RUNS BATTED IN
1  R. Ong (WIL)            113 
2  L. Zavaleta (SC)         94 
3  H. Tafoya (JHN)          92 
4  L. Pohl (JHN)            89 
5  W. Coachman (ALT)        88

I confess that I had forgotten what a good player Randy Ong really is. An original Millionaire, Ong has made the All-Star team eight times, has hit 263 career homers, and should drive in and score his 1000th runs in 1970. He can run (279 lifetime steals) and displays a better-than-average throwing arm. If he played for Washington or Bethlehem, Randy Ong would be a household name.

HITS
1  G. Truman (WIL)         198 
2  L. Pohl (JHN)           191 
3  R. Ong (WIL)            182 
4  W. Price (ALT)          180 
5  L. Lambert (JHN)        177

Leo Lambert is another Keystone League veteran who hasn’t gotten the recognition he’s deserved. A lifetime .292 hitter, he’s played some very good baseball for some very inconsistent Johnstown clubs. Leo’s “problem” is that he doesn’t do any one thing spectacularly; he possesses no single trademark skill like Warren Price's speed or Donald Peterson's power. Still, any manager would be glad to write Leo's name on his lineup card each day, because he does everything fairly well.

RUNS SCORED
1  G. Huntley (WAS)        108 
1  W. Price (ALT)          108 
3  K. Clear (SC)            99 
4  W. Coachman (ALT)        95 
5  L. Lambert (JHN)         92

Keith Clear was the first player drafted in 1966, and consequently, if he becomes anything less than a superstar, he’ll always seem like a bit of a disappointment. He’s now 24, and he won a full-time job in the State College outfield this year. Clear’s speed and defense are already first-rate, and he’s making strides as a hitter. If he develops the power he’s projected to show, he’ll live up to the Number One Pick hype. Even if he doesn’t, the Climbers have themselves a good one.

STOLEN BASES
1  W. Price (ALT)          125 
2  S. Howard (WIL)          54 
3  A. Meneses (GET)         53 
4  J. Eidson (WAS)          34 
5  K. Clear (SC)            31

Bun Bun Price was always fast, but he’s more than a sprinter in a baseball uniform. He’s learned to control the strike zone, so he walks 80 times a year now. He’s filled out, and can now do more than slap the ball and run like hell; his 27 doubles, 11 triples, and 7 homers were all career highs. For some strange reason, the computer manager seems to think Price should bat fifth for the Mountaineers. With his matchless combination of speed and OBP, he’s a natural leadoff hitter, and I always use the 7-day lineup feature to override the AI.

[Big Six]

And, finally, the best pitching performances in the Wagner Division for 1969.

EARNED RUN AVERAGE
1  B. Fite (GET)          2.06 
2  L. Portwood (WAS)      2.23 
3  J. Greer (WIL)         2.51 
4  K. Hermosillo (ALT)    2.55 
5  E. Numbers (SC)        2.80 
6  R. Greenwell (WAS)     2.87 
7  R. Peralta (JHN)       3.30 
8  C. Flippen (GET)       3.39 
9  L. Pulaski (WIL)       3.61 
10  D. Salo (ALT)         3.65

As Bobby Fite masters more and more of the pitcher’s craft, the once-proud Gettysburg Cannons fall apart around him. Bobby deserves a better fate, and I know a lot of fans are hoping the Cannons get back on track soon. There’s still time for Gettysburg to build a strong cast of characters before Fite is too old to be more than a supporting player.

Take a good, long look at Clarence Flippen's name on this list. It's the only time you'll see it this year; I hope it's not the last time it shows up on a list like this one.

WINS
1  J. Greer (WIL)           26 
2  L. Portwood (WAS)        22 
3  K. Hermosillo (ALT)      21 
4  E. Tate (WAS)            19 
5  L. Pulaski (WIL)         18

James Greer has won 51 games in two seasons now, and his career record is a sparkling 116-60. He’s the best fielding pitcher in the Keystone League, and is one of the few players at his position who can be said to be a true team leader. James proves you don’t have to have a 98 mph fastball to win baseball games.

STRIKEOUTS
1  L. Portwood (WAS)       384 
2  B. Fite (GET)           290 
3  E. Numbers (SC)         271 
4  R. Peralta (JHN)        245 
5  E. Tate (WAS)           237

It’s quite possible that Larry Portwood is the best pitcher in the Keystone League right now. He’s made geniuses out of the scouts who, when Larry was a teenaged phenom in 1960, predicted he would turn out to be something special. The difference between Portwood's performance this year and that of Jack Parker was almost exactly one strikeout per start. I guarantee you Parker would trade that strikeout for Portwood's Governor's Cup ring.

SAVES
1  B. Keener (WAS)          35 
2  M. Sanders (JHN)         26 
3  B. Estill (ALT)          21 
4  J. Schuman (GET)         18 
5  M. Russell (WIL)         15

For some reason, most Wagner Division managers preferred not to give one relief pitcher sole responsibility for pitching the ninth inning. Even Altoona, who once seemed content to use Ignacio Hernandez almost exclusively in save situations, split the “closer” role this year. That opened the door for Washington’s solid young fireman, Brandon Keener, to take center stage. The few messes Portwood, Greenwell, Tate, and Co. leave behind, Keener cleans up.

INNINGS PITCHED
1  K. Hermosillo (ALT)   353.1 
2  L. Portwood (WAS)     347.2 
3  J. Greer (WIL)        326.1 
4  E. Numbers (SC)       314.2 
5  R. Greenwell (WAS)    307.2

The Mountaineers were very patient with Kevin Hermosillo after drafting him in the second round in 1962, and their loyalty to him has paid off handsomely. He is as strong as an ox, and his natural throwing motion enables him to work inning after inning without getting hurt. For some strange reason, he beat the Generals like he owned them, while pitching terribly against last-place Gettysburg.

SHUTOUTS
1  K. Hermosillo (ALT)       5 
2  E. Tate (WAS)             4 
2  R. Peralta (JHN)          4 
4  D. Mendez (SC)            3 
4  J. Greer (WIL)            3

Dalcio Mendez won the 1964 MOP in the Mathewson Division when he went 22-14 for the Lewisburg Profs. He’s pitched well since then, but he’s bounced from team to team, finally landing in State College. Dalcio is probably the worst hitting pitcher in the history of the Keystone League. His season performances include abysmal .040 and .029 batting averages and skimpy OPS figures of .116 and .145. Mendez’ Hillclimber teammate, Richard Jenny—a lifetime .275 hitter—is a much tougher out than many everyday players.

WHIP
1  L. Portwood (WAS)      0.87 
2  B. Fite (GET)          1.03 
3  J. Greer (WIL)         1.04 
4  R. Peralta (JHN)       1.07 
5  E. Numbers (SC)        1.08

Ezra Numbers is a very good pitcher right now, but at least one scout believes he has the potential to be even better. Said the scout, on the condition of anonymity: “His fastball isn’t overpowering, but he never throws it straight. Good hitters in this league can destroy any fastball that doesn’t have life and movement. If Numbers masters his command, nobody will be able to touch him.”

Ezra’s ratings are simply SICK! His potential ratings (Stuff-Control-Movement) are 109-134-102. Right now, Ezra’s actual ratings are all in the high 70s. The starting pitchers with the highest actual ratings in each category are Jack Parker (Stuff, 108), James Greer and Johnny Cormier (Control, 100), and Bobby Fite (Movement, 98). I’m not sure how much more Ezra will develop, since he’s 26 years old now. If he hasn’t peaked yet, he could be scary good.

[Big Six]

Let’s meet the major award winners for the 1969 Keystone League. If a player’s statistical achievements haven’t been featured in the divisional leader boards, I’ll give you a few highlights here.

MATHEWSON DIVISION

Most Outstanding Batter: Bradley Foster, Bethlehem

Most Outstanding Pitcher: Bob Mortensen, Lancaster

Rookie of the Year: Matt Smith, Pottsville
Smith, a 26-year-old shortstop, hit .249 with ten homers and 69 RBI for the Brewers. He also played solid defense, displaying good range and a sure glove.

Gold Glove Winners:
Pitcher: Peter Marlatt, Pottsville
Catcher: Victor Garrow, Bethlehem
First Base: Jerome Patel, York
Second Base: Ron Garrett, York
Third Base: Jack Raper, Pottsville
Shortstop: Scott Bova, York
Leftfield: Eddie Reams, Bethlehem
Centerfield: Jeff Nimmons, Bethlehem
Rightfield: Andre Privette, Lewisburg

Bova has won four Gold Gloves, and Patel and Privette have three apiece. Privette has won three years running.


WAGNER DIVISION

Most Outstanding Batter: Randy Ong, Williamsport

Most Outstanding Pitcher: Larry Portwood, Washington

Rookie of the Year: Dan Blackstock, Gettysburg
Blackstock struggled at times, posting a 4.69 ERA and a record of 6-19. On the other hand, the 6’7” righty struck out 180 men in 207 innings.

Gold Glove Winners:
Pitcher: James Greer, Williamsport
Catcher: Steven Davis, Altoona
First Base: Paul Kaczmarek, Washington
Second Base: Craig Clayton, Altoona
Third Base: Gerard Truman, Williamsport
Shortstop: Robert Rodriguez, Williamsport
Leftfield: Spencer Howard, Williamsport
Centerfield: Keith Clear, State College
Rightfield: Joey Davis, Johnstown

Greer, Kaczmarek, and Rodriguez are all repeat honorees. Greer has won three Gold Gloves, while Kaczmarek has won the award four consecutive years.

[ifspuds]

Is that BOY number 3 or number 4 for Foster? I've forgotten.

[Big Six]

Originally Posted by ifspuds

Is that BOY number 3 or number 4 for Foster? I've forgotten.

I consider it his fourth.

When I created the Keystone League, I wasn't aware that if you created a baseball universe with only one league, you couldn't have an All-Star game or divisional playoffs. The only way you could have a post-season was to create two distinct leagues (i.e., National and American.)

I fixed this beginning in 1961, making the Mathewson and Wagner Divisions into separate "leagues." In 1960, the KL awarded one Most Outstanding Batter award, which went to Gettysburg's Donald Peterson. The Hulk batted .318 with 50 home runs and 114 RBI, slugging .657 with a .441 OBP.

Over in the Mathewson Division, Foster hit .297-50-120, with a slugging average of .627, an OBP of .415, and 37 steals.

I've retroactively awarded Bradley the 1960 MOB for the Mathewson Division. And, since he's won the award in each of the past three seasons, that gives him four.

[Big Six]

May 1, 1970

MATHEWSON       W  L  PCT   GB
Bethlehem      17 10 .630   -- 
York           16 11 .593  1.0 
Pottsville     14 13 .519  3.0 
Lancaster      13 14 .481  4.0 
Lewisburg      12 15 .444  5.0 
Reading         9 18 .333  8.0 

WAGNER          W  L  PCT   GB
Washington     22  5 .815   -- 
Williamsport   14 13 .519  8.0 
State College  13 14 .481  9.0 
Gettysburg     11 16 .407 11.0 
Johnstown      11 16 .407 11.0 
Altoona        10 17 .370 12.0

A baseball season is a marathon, not a sprint.

Nevertheless, the race is often won by the team that breaks out of the blocks fastest. Will this be the case in the Wagner Division this season?


The division’s perennial powerhouse, the Washington Generals, have played nearly flawless baseball throughout the season’s first month. Both their offense (37 home runs in 27 games) and their pitching staff (2.67 staff ERA) have been superlative so far in 1970.

Veteran outfielder Jim Eidson is off to the best start of his distinguished career, hitting .364 with seven homers and a division-leading OPS of 1.161. Paul Kaczmarek is driving the ball with increased authority this season, too; he’s tied with Eidson for the Wagner Division lead in home runs.

Ronny Greenwell is unbeaten in five April starts, with an ERA of 1.46, while Larry Portwood (4-2, 1.94) leads all Keystone League pitchers with 60 strikeouts in 55 innings.


The Mathewson Division-leading Bethlehem Steelers are relying on proven stars again this year. Bradley Foster (.324-3-21) hasn’t been hitting the ball over the fence, but he’s doing everything else the Steelers ask of him. Billy Buckingham (.340-3-19) and Jeff Nimmons (12 steals) are also playing fine baseball.

The Steelers’ staff is once again headed by Donovan Wagner (4-1, 2.33) and Jack Parker (5-1, 2.97). Parker isn’t striking out as many batters so far in 1970—he’s “only” punching out one hitter per inning—but, like a veteran pitcher should, he’s doing what it takes to put wins on the board for his team.


Look who’s in third place in the Mathewson Division! The Pottsville Brewers are a game over .500 as April turns to May. The franchise’s recent run of poor finishes have stocked their roster with talented young players, and several of them appear to be blossoming into quality Keystone Leaguers.

Outfielder Bill Mitchell, the first overall pick in the 1969 draft, earned the right field position for the Brewers with a strong spring. He’s swinging the bat to a .288/.408/.508 tune, demonstrating outstanding strike zone management for a 21-year-old player.

Big Jim Tobin, the team’s #1 choice in 1967, also appears to be on the brink of stardom. Tobin, a first baseman, is hitting .286 with a team-leading 17 RBI and, like Mitchell, is learning not to swing at bad pitches and take walks when they’re offered to him.

The Brewers have pieced together an effective rotation with two veterans, Brian Duplantis and Peter Marlatt; a journeyman, Dane Whitehead; and a youngster, Eddie Stackpole. Marlatt is tied for the KL lead with five wins. The Brewer bullpen is still shaky, with the exception of Ron Hodnett (4 saves, 2.25 ERA, 1.13 WHIP). Still, there’s a positive vibe in the Pottsville clubhouse, as players who have tasted more than their share of defeat enjoy the feel of winning.

[John P. Yuda]

Go Brewers!

[woodfeld]

I'm feeling good things for the York White Roses this year, they'll break up this stranglehold Bethlehem and Washington seem to have on each division. The Night Train for MOB!

[Big Six]

Originally Posted by woodfeld

I'm feeling good things for the York White Roses this year, they'll break up this stranglehold Bethlehem and Washington seem to have on each division. The Night Train for MOB!

I didn't say much about the Whites in my monthly report, so here's a quick update on their first month.

A quartet of .300 hitters have paced their attack, led (as usual) by veteran James Dean and slugger "Night Train" Patel.

Dean, a member of the All-Decade Team for the 1960s, hasn't missed a beat as he enters the Seventies. Playing with the enthusiasm of a younger man, the 36-year-old Dean is batting .344, and he's knocked in 22 runs in 26 games. Dean still has his wheels, too; he's stolen seven bases in nine tries.

Patel smacked nine home runs in April, second only to Danny Shaw of Lewisburg among Keystone League hitters. He's hitting .307, slugging .653, and getting on base at a .417 clip. Your hopes for an MOB for Patel are very realistic, woodfeld.

Gold Glove shortstop Scott Bova is off to a .320 start, while outfielder Herb Charette (.308-5-22) is enjoying the best season of his Keystone League career. Bova, a popular Canadian import who is an original White Rose, and Charette, who broke in with Altoona, are both 34 years old. Can both of them sustain their excellent play over the course of the season?

In contrast to their veteran lineup, the York pitching staff features hurlers in their prime. Danilo Velez (age 28, 5-1, 2.15, 38/9 K/BB ratio) and Aussie John Long (age 29, 5-1, 2.29, 27/9 K/BB ratio) are following the same formula for success with nearly identical results. They're changing speeds, throwing strikes, and letting the White Roses' outstanding fielders do the rest.

The Whites are also thrilled with the emergence of 1967 first-rounder Paxton Griswold. Only 22, Griswold--like many young pitchers--can be maddeningly inconsistent. For example, he pitched a brilliant game on April 18 against Lancaster, a complete-game 11-1 victory. Four days later, Reading ripped him for seven runs in six innings. Paxton is, however, consistently throwing strikes, and he's helping himself with the bat. In 18 at-bats, he's driven in seven runs.

It's still early, but it looks like York has all the pieces in place for a strong run at the Mathewson Division pennant.

[Big Six]

Originally Posted by John P. Yuda

Go Brewers!

I think the franchise's move to Pottsville might have rejuvenated it. I don't think Pottsville fans demand a winner right now; they're simply looking for signs that the team is heading in the right direction. Playing .500 baseball seems like a realistic goal for the 1970 Brewers, who are giving playing time to their most talented youngsters. As a result, they'll take their share of lumps, but every once in a while a player like Bill Mitchell will dish out some punishment, too.

[Big Six]

June 1, 1970

MATHEWSON       W  L  PCT   GB
Bethlehem      34 20 .630   -- 
Reading        28 26 .519  6.0 
York           27 27 .500  7.0 
Pottsville     25 29 .463  9.0 
Lancaster      24 30 .444 10.0 
Lewisburg      24 30 .444 10.0 

WAGNER         W   L  PCT   GB
Washington     38 16 .704   -- 
State College  29 25 .537  9.0 
Williamsport   26 28 .481 12.0 
Altoona        25 29 .463 13.0 
Gettysburg     23 31 .426 15.0 
Johnstown      21 33 .389 17.0

As the calendar turns from May to June, the teams atop the Keystone League standings are the ones we’ve been most used to seeing there for the past two or three years. Both division leaders, the Bethlehem Steelers and Washington Generals, have good-sized leads, and in neither division does one team appear to have the upper hand in the race to overtake the front-runner.


The Steelers are the only Mathewson Division club that has been able to remain both healthy and consistent, and as a result they’ve opened up a comfortable six-game advantage over the field. The division’s other five teams have shuffled up and down in the standings, depending on who’s hot and cold.

Bethlehem star Bradley Foster found his power stroke as the weather warmed up in May. He launched six homers during the month, raising his season total to nine while keeping his batting average over .320 and drawing more walks. With Billy Buckingham (seven home runs), Eddie Reams (seven) and third baseman Roberto Marquez (eight) also knocking the ball over the wall, the Steelers’ offense has been both potent and balanced.

Jack Parker (11-1) and Donovan Wagner (9-2) have won 20 games between them in the season’s first two months, and Norm Kisner (14 saves, 1.29 ERA, 24 strikeouts in 21 innings) has been his normally unhittable self. Otherwise, however, the Steelers’ pitchers have not been quite as effective as last year, but with no other Mathewson Division club seemingly able to play well enough for long enough to challenge them, the Steelers might have enough to win the pennant once again.


Right now, the Reading Coal Heavers, who have won seven of their last ten contests, hold down second place. Michael Girouard leads the division with a 1.87 ERA, and veteran reliever Ruben Bonnell has been deadly in the late innings, with 13 saves and an ERA below 1.00. The Heavers’ offense is mediocre at best. Speedy centerfielder Michael Borgen (.285, 25 steals) and former first-round pick Reggie Baumgardner (8 homers, 28 RBI) have supplied the few offensive highlights the Heavers have produced this season.


The Lancaster Red Roses have the talent to put pressure on the Steelers, but the Reds have been forced to battle through a series of injuries. All-Star pitcher Mark McKernan is currently shelved with a sore arm, while Bryce Nicol’s productivity has been limited by a sore hamstring and a migraine headache. Has Father Time begun to catch up with Nicol, whose .223 batting average and five home runs are far short of what we’ve come to expect from him?

Nobody expected the Washington Generals to continue to play .800 baseball, and not surprisingly, the rest of the Wagner Division have begun to slowly cut into their lead. The State College Hillclimbers, fortified by the addition of the Keystone League’s leading home run hitter, have moved into second place, nine games off the Generals’ pace.


On May 11, the Climbers traded hard-hitting outfielder Leandro Zavaleta to Lewisburg for first baseman Danny Shaw . Big Danny, who has belted 17 homers this season, made an impact in his first week in State College. He blasted a game-winning home run on May 14, and drove in four runs in another Hillclimber victory two days later. The deal was made even sweeter for the Climbers when the Profs included promising pitcher Emory Chase in the bargain. Chase returns to the club that drafted him in the first round two years ago.

Surprisingly, State College has made its run at the top while its two best starting pitchers, Ezra Numbers and Richard Jenny, have been on the disabled list. Both will return to action this week, so look for the Climbers to mount an even stronger challenge in the weeks to come.


The Generals seem ready for anything State College brings their way, however. Like the Steelers, they possess two ace starters who have been absolutely dominant once again this season. Larry Portwood is 9-3 with a 1.60 ERA, and he’s struck out nearly ten times as many batters (113) as he’s walked (12). Ronny Greenwell is undefeated at 10-0, and has already pitched five shutouts. On May 24, he came within one out of a perfect game against the Johnstown Johnnies. Colby Swartwood spoiled the perfecto with a base on balls, but Greenwell retired Leo Lambert on a grounder to complete his no-hitter.

The Generals can also win games with their bats. They lead the KL in home runs with 73 in 54 games. Four Generals sluggers—Glen Huntley, Jim Eidson, Paul Kaczmarek, and Bernard Sherrard—have hit at least ten homers, while Patrick Mill has connected for nine.

And, the Generals take the field each night with the air of a team that is used to winning, and that expects to keep on doing so. Five Governors’ Cup championships will create that kind of swagger; the Generals have certainly earned the right to carry themselves like champions.

The amateur draft is just around the corner, and after we take a look at the first round selections, we’ll find out if any team is ready to challenge the Steelers and Generals for Keystone League supremacy.

[Big Six]

June 1, 1970

Once again, it's time for the Keystone League amateur draft. This year's class is not as deep as last year's was, especially with regards to pitching. Still, there are several players who look like they have what it takes to become stars.

Let's meet the twelve players chosen in this year's first round, and check on the progress of 1969's first rounders, too.

1. POTTSVILLE BREWERS: 1B Gaspar Gonzales

The Brewers once again held the first selection in the draft, and not surprisingly, they tapped Gonzales, the player who is expected to develop into the most complete hitter in this year’s draft class. This powerfully built 21-year-old from Venezuela grew up in Philadelphia, and won All-Conference honors for three years at the University of Maryland. Gonzales’ swing is short and powerful, and he generates a tremendous amount of leverage. He can drive the ball out of any part of any ballpark, and he makes extremely good contact for a power hitter. Gaspar is patient at the plate, waiting for pitches he can hit hard. He could develop into a batting champion, a home run champion, or both. The only knocks on Gonzales are the glacial speed with which he rounds the bases and his mediocre skills as a fielder. His inability to play any position except first base might cause the Brewers to move Jim Tobin, who is much more athletic, to the outfield in order to get both bats into their lineup. For now, Gonzales will hone his craft at AA Meadville.
Let’s catch up with Bill Mitchell, who is hitting .271 and getting on base 38 percent of the time as the Brewers’ starting right fielder.

2. READING COAL HEAVERS: 2B Don Kelly

The Heavers insist they would have chosen this line-drive hitting machine if they had picked first overall. They are as impressed with Kelly’s love for the game as they are with his considerable talents. The son of a high school coach and an elementary school principal, Kelly, who will turn 19 in July, was recruited by almost two dozen colleges for baseball and basketball, but his passion for baseball led him to leap at the chance to sign with the Heavers. Like many young hitters, Don will need some grooming, but he projects as a .300-plus hitter with decent power for a middle infielder. Kelly is also a plus-plus runner with good baserunning instincts, and he is a solid average fielder at both second base and shortstop. The Heavers will ease him into professional competition at Class A Coatesville.
Let’s catch up with Tim Gibson, who is doing just fine as a Keystone League regular at the age of 19 (.253-2-11, only three errors at shortstop).

3. GETTYSBURG CANNONS: OF-1B Dave Vanlandingham

The Cannons admit this 22-year-old athlete’s baseball skills are raw, but they are willing to take the chance that he will turn into something extra-special. He needs no introduction to Pennsylvania sports fans, as he starred at quarterback for Penn State’s nationally-ranked football team for the past three years. Vanlandingham hasn’t played baseball since high school, and surprised many “experts” when he turned his back on a chance to play in the Canadian Football League and chose baseball and the Keystone League instead. Dave bats and throws left-handed, and the Cannons will first audition him as an outfielder. He runs well and, as one might expect of a quarterback, he has a strong throwing arm. His 6’2”, 190-pound frame should generate some power, and if he can master the nuances of hitting breaking pitches, the Cannons might have themselves quite a player. Vanlandingham will report to Class A Shippensburg for now.
Let’s catch up with Clark Friday, whom the Cannons traded to Williamsport last for veteran outfielder John Ward last July. Friday is hitting. 328-5-29 for AAA Lock Haven; Ward is hitting .239-1-11 as a reserve for Gettysburg. Right now, the Cannons would happily take this one back.

4. STATE COLLEGE HILLCLIMBERS: CF Floyd Humphries

Humphries is a prototypical centerfielder. He should hit for average, and he possesses doubles and triples power, but won’t hit many home runs. He runs like a deer, and will steal bases and make things happen on the basepaths. He possesses outstanding range in the field, and his arm is merely average. Unlike Dave Vanlandingham, Humphries has played lots of baseball, and it shows. Only nineteen, his skills and instincts are very highly polished for a player his age. That’s why the Climbers will challenge him with an assignment to AAA Huntingdon. Don’t be surprised if you see him alongside Keith Clear in the State College outfield very soon.
Let’s catch up with Carl Lee, who hit nearly .300 in stops at AA and AAA last year and has added power to his repertoire this year in his second season with Huntingdon. With Danny Shaw in town Lee, a natural first baseman, is learning to play other positions in order to pave a clearer path to State College.

5. JOHNSTOWN JOHNNIES: LHP Ben Turnage

Drafting teenaged pitchers is always a risky proposition, but the Johnnies think they’ve hit the jackpot with this 17-year-old hurler. Turnage is a left-hander with a low-90s fastball, a sharp-breaking slider, and a fairly good changeup. He throws with a smooth, easy motion, and should be able to log lots of innings as he gets stronger. Turnage is a good athlete who fields his position well, can lay down a bunt, and won’t embarrass himself with a bat in his hands. The Johnnies sorely need pitching help, but Turnage is several years away from being able to help them. For now, he’ll pitch for Class A Somerset.
Let’s catch up with Kent Bouffard, who is taking his lumps right now in the Johnnies’ bullpen. Despite his ugly 7.01 ERA and the fact he’s walked 25 men in 24 innings, scouts remain convinced he’ll develop into a relief ace one day.

6. LEWISBURG PROFS: 1B Barton Kiddler

It’s all or nothing with Kiddler, who loosens his buttons and attacks the ball with his big, long swing. When he makes contact, the ball disappears out of sight; he has more power than any young hitter the Keystone League has seen in years. However, Kiddler has serious problems getting his bat on the baseball. He will probably never hit more than .250 or so, and he might strike out 150 times a year. If if he can crank out 40 homers a season, nobody will care. Barton is surprisingly nimble around the first base bag, and he moves fairly well for a big guy. He’s only eighteen, so he has lots of time to develop. He’ll begin his professional career with Class A Danville.
Let’s catch up with George Lawry, who is considered by some scouts to be the Keystone League’s #1 prospect. Playing for AAA Sunbury, Lawry isn’t hitting for average (.260), but he’s clubbed 11 homers and stolen 10 bases.

7. WILLIAMSPORT MILLIONAIRES: SS Bob Colquitt

The Millionaires’ choice of Colquitt in the first round surprised some “experts,” who doubt if the 17-year-old infielder will ever be able to hit well enough to hold down a regular job in the Keystone League. There are no doubts whatsoever about his defensive skills, and that’s why the Millionaires called his name. Colquitt displays tremendous range in the field, making plays most shortstops only dream about. His strong arm enables him to go deep in the hole and gun down runners with ease. The Millionaires hope Colquitt will team with John Francis in the middle of their infield before long, and will give him every opportunity to advance through their system quickly. Class A Montoursville will be Bob’s first professional club.
Let’s catch up with Easton Carwile, who has returned for a second tour of duty at AA Milton. He’s working both as a starter and a reliever, and trying to master his control (20 walks and 25 strikeouts in 30 innings).

8. YORK WHITE ROSES: RHP David Nance

York quickly snapped up this 22-year-old righthander, who won 58 games in four years at Bucknell. Nance lacks overpowering velocity—his fastball is clocked in the low nineties—but all four of his pitches have movement and bite. He can throw all of them for strikes, and demonstrates the ability to outthink opposing hitters. At least one Keystone League club passed on Nance because they believe he’ll never develop the endurance an ace starter needs, and they didn’t want to use their first round pick on a reliever. The Whites disagree, however, and are grooming Nance for a spot in their rotation at Class A Columbia.
Let’s catch up with Frank Mickel, who is considered the best pitching prospect in the Keystone League. He’s struggled with his control at Class AA Hershey, primarily because he’s been working on his secondary pitches. The Whites believe he’s very close to making his Keystone League debut, and that once he’s there, he’ll be there to stay.

9. ALTOONA MOUNTAINEERS: SS Mark Freke

“We never thought we’d have a chance to draft Mark Freke,” said the Altoona general manager, smiling after doing exactly that. He is one of the few players in this year’s draft class who projects to hit .300 in his prime, and he should draw enough walks to enable him to hit at the top of the order. Freke is a solid-average defender, with adequate range and a plus arm. He played for three years in a strong program at OhioWesleyan University, where he hit .403 as a junior. The Mountaineers are not pleased with the play of Chris Carrico at shortstop, so Freke will be sent to AAA Clearfield where he’ll be only a phone call away from the Keystone League.
Let’s catch up with Ryan Copenhaver, who torched Class A pitching last year (.330-13-62 in 82 games.). Moving up to AA this year, he’s off to another good start (.294-8-24) and is progressing just as the Mountaineers hoped he would. He should make his KL debut in September, if not sooner.

10. WASHINGTON GENERALS: LHP Bill McNiven

There is probably no true ace starter in this year’s draft class, but the Generals like the poise, maturity, and strength of this 21-year-old lefty. He possesses a power arsenal—fastball, slider, and splitter—and he keeps the ball down in the strike zone consistently. McNiven’s solid 6’1”, 210-pound frame will withstand a heavy workload, and the Generals believe he’ll develop into a workhorse who will solidify the middle of their rotation. They can afford to be patient with him, so he’ll start out with Class A Waynesburg.
Let’s catch up with Ashton MacAndeoir, who is moving steadily through the Generals system. Now he’s at AA Greensburg, where he’s hitting .276 with a .430 OBP. His ability to play every infield position and his hard-nosed playing style should earn him a ticket to Washington before long.

11. LANCASTER RED ROSES: OF Roando Chambergo

This 23-year-old grew up in Pittsburgh, the son of Cuban immigrants who fled Castro’s regime a decade ago. Since graduating from high school, Roando has worked in a tool and die shop while playing semi-pro baseball, and his quick lefthanded bat caught the eye of a number of Keystone League scouts. Chambergo’s swing has a natural lift that enables him to hit the ball out of the park, and he makes contact often enough that he should hit .275 or so in his prime. His bat will be his ticket to professional success, however; he is a below-average fielder with a suspect throwing arm. The Reds have assigned him to their Class A affiliate at Ephrata.
Let’s catch up with George MacFater, who sulked when he was reassigned to AA after hitting .332 there last season. After being reassured he was still in the Red Roses’ plans, MacFater began playing better, and his batting average is up to .265. MacFater is hitting for more power, and has walked more than he’s struck out.

12. BETHLEHEM STEELERS: RHP Dan Mullock

The Steelers have been extremely successful with the pitchers they’ve selected in the first round, and they think they have another winner in Mullock. Tall (6’7”) and athletic, Mullock spurned basketball scholarship offers from Temple, St. Joseph’s, and Villanova. Despite his size, Mullock is not an overpowering pitcher, relying instead on his excellent control. He projects as a third or fourth starter or a reliable reliever, and the Steelers will use him in both roles as he develops. Mullock will report to Emmaus, the Steelers’ Class A affiliate.
Let’s catch up with Dave Warner, who has suddenly emerged as one of the best outfield prospects in the Keystone League. Not expected to hit with much power, Warner has started to drive the ball with authority (8 homers for Emmaus), and he’s hitting well over .300. He’s 23, so he’ll have to demonstrate his ability to hit better pitching before long, but his future looks very bright.

[ifspuds]

I'm pulling for another Bethlehem-Washington Governor's Cup. We'll get them one of these times!

[Big Six]

Originally Posted by ifspuds

I'm pulling for another Bethlehem-Washington Governor's Cup. We'll get them one of these times!

When you see the standings update I'm about to post, you'll see that your wishes might come true.

[Big Six]

July 1, 1970

MATHEWSON       W  L  PCT   GB
Bethlehem      52 27 .658   -- 
York           44 35 .557  8.0 
Reading        40 39 .506 12.0 
Pottsville     38 41 .481 14.0 
Lancaster      33 46 .418 19.0 
Lewisburg      30 49 .380 22.0 

WAGNER          W  L  PCT   GB
Washington     53 26 .671   -- 
Altoona        42 37 .532 11.0
State College  39 40 .494 14.0 
Williamsport   37 42 .468 16.0 
Johnstown      35 44 .443 18.0 
Gettysburg     31 48 .392 22.0

I'll forgive any of you who root for teams other than the Steelers or the Generals for paying more attention to the individual accomplishments of your favorite players or the development of your team's young talent than you do to the standings right now. Only one team in the league is within ten games of the division lead, so a Bethlehem-Washington rematch in the Governor's Cup Series looks like a decent bet.


The biggest story of what's turning out to be a very happy summer in Bethlehem has, once again, been provided by ace pitcher Jack Parker. Jack lost to the York White Roses on Opening Day, and he hasn't been vanquished since! He has seventeen straight victories to his credit, a Keystone League record. Not surprisingly, he leads both divisions in victories, with teammate Donovan Wagner (14-3) his closest competitor.

Bethlehem fans have also applauded the emergence of Eddie Reams. Scouts have always believed Reams would one day hit for real power, and this year he's beginning to deliver on that promise. His 12 first-half circuit clouts equal his career high for a full season. Not only is Eddie hitting for power, he leads the Matty loop with a .325 average, and he's getting on base 40 percent of the time.

Reams' numbers are reminiscent of a typical Bradley Foster season, and that's exactly what Foster is delivering again this year, too. Foster's 322-14-58 line, bolstered by a .404 OBP and a .529 slugging percentage, once again ranks him as one of the most productive hitters in the league. For the first time, however, a few scouts have noted that Foster's bat is seeming to slow, and that he doesn't generate quite as much pop as he once did. Bradley is 37 years old now; are the rumors true, or will he continue to pound the ball in the second half of the season?


There appears to be little doubt that Bryce Nicol's skills have begun to fade, however. The Red Roses legend has struggled to keep his average north of .200, and he has hit only six home runs. It's unfair to blame the Reds' slow start on Nicol alone, however; none of his teammates are crushing the ball, either. The only regular player hitting over .260 is second baseman Robert Whyte. Andrew Crafts is hitting for power (16 home runs) but his "slash stats" have slipped to .242/.313/.480. Those aren't truly terrible, but they're not the marks you'd expect from a young star in his prime.


Unless the White Roses can cut into the Steelers' lead soon, their fans will have to content themselves with Jerome Patel's quest for the Triple Crown. The Night Train leads both divisions with 23 home runs, trails Foster by one RBI, and ranks third in batting average at .315.


Over in the Wagner Division, the core of the Washington Generals team that has dominated the league for several years now is still playing as well as ever. Putting on a Generals uniform appears to bring out the best in players who have been slow to develop their potential with other clubs. Take, for instance, Bernard Sherrard, a former first overall draft pick who, at age 28, is finally establishing himself as a productive hitter (.280, 13 homers).

Other Wagner Division standouts include Gerard Truman of Williamsport, who continues to rip base hits like nobody else in the league (.355); hard-hitting backstops Steven Davis of Altoona and Mike Naughton of State College, who rank 1-2 in the division in OPS; and Naughton's fence-busting teammate Danny Shaw, who has launched 19 home runs.

[marc]

Ugh, big step back for Lancaster this year.

[Jestor]

that's one ugly record for Gettysburg. The Cannons sure seem to have a boom-or-bust tendency.

[Big Six]

Originally Posted by marc

Ugh, big step back for Lancaster this year.

Their slow start this year is almost entirely the "fault" of the offense. Lancaster has the second best pitching in the division behind Bethlehem, by a wide margin.

All four of the Red Roses' starters have ERA's under 3.50, and all have WHIPs of 1.15 or lower. The bullpen has been somewhat less effective, but is still considerably better than league average.

There are a couple of players at AAA who are hitting the ball well. 3B Ezra Arceniaga has belted 19 homers and knocked in 55 runs, and has kept his average close to .300. Outfielder Leon Losoya is hitting .281 with 15 homers and 58 RBI. Both Arceniaga and Losoya are minor league vets who have combined for 26 Keystone League at-bats in their careers.

The Red Roses' top hitting prospect, first baseman Bruno Whobrey, made the big league roster out of camp, but was sent back to AAA after hitting .212. Since his return, he's batted .341 and mashed nine homers, so he might be given another chance to prove he can produce at the Keystone League level. Otherwise, don't be surprised if the Reds make a deal for a hitter or two before the trade deadline passes.