The United Kingdom Baseball League -- from 2009.

struggles_mightily · 06-03-2009, 10:51 PM

I like baseball. It's really good & nice & ace, isn't it? The problem is that not many of my compatriots agree. I do like football, too, but I have an analytical side (a "side", in fact, that covers like 98% of me) which association socfoots can't satisfy. Like, if you ask a baseball fan whether Tris Speaker was a better player than Ty Cobb, he can give you three .xls files and a PowerPoint presentation. If you ask yr average football fan whether Lev Yashin was better than Gordon Banks, he'll probably just give you a punch in the gob.

So, in the words of Mancunian art-pop heavyweights Buzzcocks, "oh, oh, what do Iiiiiiiiiiiiii get?" What I get, in fact, is Johnny Gould on Channel Five -- a lovely but senile man who has never heard of baseball and thinks that Chad Moeller is his sister.

What I would really, really like -- even more than a subscription to MLB TV, probably -- is a good domestic British league. Obviously "good" here is a relative term. What I really mean is "not terrible." The sort of thing that might be able to attract the former utility infielder for the Tumbleweed State University Jockstraps should he be unable to sneak into the fiftieth round of the Golden Baseball League draft. The sort of thing that might, someday at least, see its Championship series get a patronising, factually-incorrect one-line write-up in the 'Birmingham Post.' In short: I'm a ridiculous dreamer.

But, I'm something more than just a dreamer, my lady and a gentlemens -- I'm a dreamer with an OOTP. Let's play the balls...

POSTMODERN LEAGUE DESCRIPTION!!!!!

Yeh. I don't have the time or the inclination to write-up a "convincing" newspaper-style backstory for this league's inception. Let's just say: a bunch of minor business guys who like baseball and have some money decided to start a baseball league in Britain. A league slightly -- but not that much -- better than the previous leagues extant in that country. Local newspapers will start to cover it a bit, and people will actually attend the games. That may not be realistic. But a "realistic" presentation of a British baseball league at this point would just be a series of photos of me shrugging and not being able to find any information about such an entity. Which may not be exciting.

It's an eight-team league, divided into two divisions (one Northern ; one Southern). The teams will play a thirty-six game schedule. That's twelve games against each other team in their division. Inter-divisional play will be introduced gradually after a season or so, but will not occur in the first year so that teams can save on travel expenses and whatnot. Games are played over the weekend, with matches (yes... "matches"!) on Friday night, a Saturday morning and a Sunday morning. Sometimes double-headers and night games might be necessary to avoid scheduling conflicts (all teams share their grounds with other sports clubs).

Due to the schedule set-up, the roster limits are slightly more restrictive than that of Major League Baseball. Each team will carry twenty players. For most teams, I envisage that the squad will comrpise three starters; four relief pitchers; eight starting positional players; and a five man bench. Teams might alternatively choose to drop a bench guy and add a reliever. No more than five of the players on a roster may have citizenship of a country other than the United Kingdom. If the European Union complains about this, I will get Bob Crow to go 'round and give them a funny look. Further, a team may not use of all of its foreign player allocation on players designated as "pitchers", or all of its allocation on players designated as "position players."

In addition, there is a fifteen-man "practice squad" for each team. This will contain either younger players not yet ready for UKBL action, or fringy guys who are nice to have around in the event of injury or poor performance striking down a main roster dude.

Financials are on, and free agency requires three years of service time (there's no arbitration). Guys who are twenty-five or older when taken in the inaugural draft will be credited with one year of service time AT NO ADDED COST! The minimum salary is ten grand; guys who are amongst the circuit's very best can expect to make eighty or so thousand quid a year.

A further "house" roster rule is the following: any player above the age of twenty-five who ends the year on a "practice squad" and who appeared in fewer than eighteen games (i.e. half the schedule) during the previous season, may elect for free agency after the Championship series. I am calling this the Serf Law.

The amateur draft will take place on the 1st December each year. It will involve forty players considered to be the best after a system of regional and then national tryouts are held around the UK. Enough players are created for five rounds; and five rounds there are.

It's worth noting that the league runs in a universe which features full real-life MLB rosters and minor leagues, as well as fictional facsimilies of the ***, KBO and Taiwanese Major League. Eventually, I would like to see some low-level minors guys (single A flameouts and Ni-Gun rejects, etc) come to the UKBL. Anything ridiculous, like Matt Holliday signing for Bristol at a price of £500,000 over five years, will be vetoed by me.

Finally -- league totals basically replicate modern MLB. So there you go.

Right, that's far more than anyone could possibly wish to know about this league. Up next: a look at the UKBL's eight founding clubs.

Graphical credit goes to "justafan." Thanks, justafan!

BigRed75 · 06-04-2009, 03:21 AM

Awesome. You described the plans for the league's future in another thread, and I can't wait to see how it unfolds.

No backstory, eh? You want me to write a "Jack Walker-type figure who loves baseball instead of Blackburn Rovers decides to fund a baseball league"-type story for you?

struggles_mightily · 06-04-2009, 12:12 PM

MEET THE TEAMS!

Northern Division

GLASGOW RED SOX

Comrade, the People's Sox are deepest red! The Glasgow team's name harkens back to the days of 'Red Clydeside' when, in the 1910s to 1930s, the city witnessed the rise of perhaps the most left-wing labour movement in the country. Notable for its opposition to the First World War; in support of the forty-hour week; and in action against rent increases under Herbert Aquith's Liberal government, the movement also returned the first Independent Labour Party M.P.s. The team appears to have inherited the disdain of the old Clydesiders for the ownership of property, and currently operates a ground-share in one of the smallest stadia in the league. Hughenden Stadium, a rugby ground used by Hillhead Jordanhill RFC, seats only six thousand and also lacks such luxuries as floodlights. For this reason, Glasgow's Friday games are played during the day and will no doubt have an "intimate" feel. Incidentally, the Sox are expected to field a team comprised mostly of native Scots. They are also expected soon to start saving-up so that they can afford the legal costs when a certain American baseball nine phones them up about the odd familiarity of the above logo. Glasgow can expect to benefit, however, from having the Scotland market all to themselves. Softy Edinburgh poofs mincingly perched on the seats of the Hughenden is a real possibility this year.

Park Factors: A high wall and plenty of space in the Hughenden's right-field makes the park one of the toughest on LHB in the league. Righties, on the other hand (hurr), should hit a bit above average at the Hugh. The reasonably large outfield makes for plenty of places to hit a triple.

LEEDS ROSES

Along with Glasgow, Leeds are the only other club playing in a stadium without floodlights. In the Roses' case, this is South Leeds Stadium. Quite apart from the lighting problem, the SLS is tiny -- only 2,500 seats -- and is shared with local rugby league club the Hunslet Hawks. Put these issues together, and the Roses will probably be looking for a new place to play from the outset. If they start off nicely, they might be able to get the cash together for a baseball-specific ground of their own. If not, they may have to start looking elsewhere -- probably Wakefield, Castleford or Halifax. In which case, their generic "county emblem of Yorkshire" logo, the white rose, will come in handy (The West Yorkshire White Roses of Leeds???). The Hawks, incidentally, often play their games on a Sunday -- so the Saturday double-header should quickly become an element of Leeds baseball culture.

Park Factors: Like the Hugh, South Leeds Stadium favours RHB due to a high wall and deep fence in Right. The rest of the ballpark is comparatively small, which make the disparity even more noticeable. Unlike the Hugh, you could a long while without seeing a three-base hit at SLS.

MANCHESTER MILLERS

The Millers are named, natch, for Lancashire's historic place as one of the worldwide leaders in cotton production. The Manchester textiles industry became a site of one of the first industrialised proletariats in Britain, and was visited by Karl Marx when the German sociologist was living in London. Mahatma Gandhi also visited the North Western mills, but I think that that was just because he liked textiles. With red a prominent element of the Millers' colour scheme, they may well be trying to channel the success of a certain local footballing club (I'm referring, of course, to Altrincham F.C. of the Conference National...). Actually, the Millers don't play in Manchester right now -- they share the Leigh Sports Village with that town's rugby league side, Leigh Centurions. The stadium is about a thirty minute drive from Manchester city centre. Ideally, the Millers would like their own digs at some point; though playing at the Village does allow them to attract fans from surrounding towns like Bolton, Wigan and St. Helens. Although how willing people in Bolton, Wigan (and even bits of Manchester) would be to embrace a Mancunian sports team who play in red jersies remains to be seen.

Park Factors: The Village gives slight favour to pitchers, suppressing the offense of hitters from both sides of the plate. In particular, hitting a homerun to straightaway centre in the park is next to impossible: the fence is twenty feet high and stands 430 feet away from home plate.

TYNESIDE MINERS

Representing the large conurbation of Tyneside (including towns such as Gateshead, South Shields, Washington and Whitley Bay) but based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, the Miners' name and aesthetics obviously reference the area's historical importance to the coal industry. Until the 1980s, Tyneside was the main coal-producing region of England -- the effects of the industry's demise are still felt acutely in parts of the region today. Although playing all of their home games this season at Kingston Park -- which they share with rugby union side Newcastle Falcons -- they may begin to move some games around the area next season. Gateshead International Stadium would be an obvious alternative (and larger) venue. Local newspapers are salivating at the prospect of new acquisitions for the club, with the possibility of using the same "suitable for Miners" pun over and over again particularly tempting.

Park Factors: A high wall in Right (this seems to be a common feature of UKBL ballparks) depresses left-handed power-hitting somewhat, but the Kingston otherwise plays fairly evenly.

Southern Division

BIRMINGHAM LOCK KEEPERS

The team from England's "second city" (according to people from Birmingham, anyway) sports perhaps the most well-known (and certainly the largest) UKBL venue -- Edgbaston Cricket Ground. The stadium is used not only for Warwickshire County Cricket Club fixtures, but also for England first XI matches. Of course, the Lock Keepers will be greatly subservient under the letting arrangement, so expect plenty of double-headers; weird and inconsistent first-pitch times; and a number of games ending at midnight on Sunday. The team's livery references the city's large and tortuous canal system -- over one hundred miles of waterway makes the system one of the biggest in Europe. The nickname / logo choice is also due to the fact that nothing of historical importance has ever happened in Birmingham, ever. (N.B... I am from Birmingham. I love Birmingham.)

Park Factors: Edgbaston plays as one of the more even parks in the league. It's one of the few places that offers some advantage to power-hitting LHB, but the relatively small outfield also does something to depress extra-base hits.

BRISTOL ADMIRALS

The only team from the provincial south, the Admirals should take in support from a broad area. In the immediate environs there's Bath, but there's also Bournemouth and Exeter on the south coast, and Swindon and Oxford to the East towards London's orbit. Bristol is also the Welshest place represented in this league without any Welsh teams. The nickname and logo of the Admirals is in reference to the fact that Bristol is quite near the coast, and is also a bit boring. (In fairness the city does have something of a history as a hub of maritime commerce). The team will become the summer tenants of the Memorial Ground, a stadium used through the rest of the year by Bristol Rovers and the imaginatively-titled union club Bristol Rugby.

Park Factors: Due to its short porch in Right, the Memorial Ground is the most LHB-friendly park in the league. Its Mandatory UKBL High Wall is actually in Left, although the distance to the fence on that side still isn't too far. Naturally, in a park that looks like it might play as a bit of a bandbox, extra-base hits are depressed slightly.

NORTH LONDON ROYALS

Representing everything wholesome and shiny about good old London town -- the thriving financial City; Our Gracious Queen; the Houses of Parliament; and that Kinks song about a dirty river -- the Royals are designed to appeal to the capital's more affluent 'burbs. Located in the nation's most populous city and decked out in blue-pinstriped white jerseys, North London appears to have designs upon becoming the UKBL's very own Yankees. Slightly dampening these delusions of grandeur is the fact that they currently share a ground with Leyton Orient. The Matchroom does have the advantage, however, of being quite large and also unoccupied during the summer, as Orient's fans, players, and staff spend the entirety of June and July drowning their sorrows (which have usually multiplied enormously over the previous ten months).

Park Factors: The Matchroom also offers the most egalitarian dimensions of any UKBL venue, and its park factors are more like park "non-factors" (hee hee hee).

SOUTH LONDON DOCKERS

Representing everything crude and filthy about grimy old London town -- the docklands; Millwall supporters; the cast of 'Eastenders'; and the offices of 'The Sun' -- South London are expected to appeal to inner-city districts such as Southwark, Lamberth, Lewisham and Greenwich. It will also benefit from having with its scope the outermost borough of Croydon -- one of the top teams in Britain's pre-UKBL days was located there. The name and logo of the Dockers (the latter of which, incidentally, looks like something that you might've seen on a 1930s Italian fascist propaganda poster... nevermind) refers to -- surprise -- the old docks of south-east London, which at one time was a thriving industrial centre buoyed by London's status as the world's most important port. Nowadays, it's a bunch of flats, but the South London Tenants didn't sound like such a good name. The Dockers play at the Twickenham Stoop (not to be confused with the far bigger, better and more glamorous Twickenham Stadium), which they share with the Harlequins ruby union and league clubs. The union club's season doesn't coincide with that of the UKBL, but the Dockers can still expect some shifting of games due to HRLFC's commitments to play in the weird, made-up sport of Rugby Leaguing.

Park Factors: The largest playing field in the league, the Stoop will be friendly to pitchers and death on power hitters. Speedy guys can expect to get some triples, though.

Up next: An inspection of the league's inaugural draft pool, as we talk about the players who should be quickly off the board; the second-tier guys who can still kind of help out; the young guys who can be stashed for the future; and the inept fools who will cause your franchise to disband and explode should they ever pick up a mitt whilst wearing your uniform.

********

Credit goes once more to "justafan", this time for designing the Leeds Roses' logo. Thanks, justafan!
Credit also to "codyg19", who supplied the Birmingham logo. Thanks, cody!
All of the other logos were found on cephasjames' brilliant resource (found here). This compiles hundreds of city-generic fictional logos. It is awesome.
Culpability for the horrific 'UKBL map' image lies entirely with me, however.

Quote:

No backstory, eh? You want me to write a "Jack Walker-type figure who loves baseball instead of Blackburn Rovers decides to fund a baseball league"-type story for you?

Hahaha... sure. We also need a "Jock McWalker" who can spread the appeal of the game in Scotland...

canadiancreed · 06-04-2009, 01:02 PM

Looking smashing. Keep up the good work, and go SOuth Londities! (as someone that has brnaches spanning to Croydon)

metzrule3 · 06-04-2009, 01:31 PM

Nice job, as an American living in London I'm definitely interested in this league. I usually hate Yankees-type teams like the Royals, but I live in North London so I'm going to have to support them. Keep up the good work!

Tyke · 06-05-2009, 12:27 PM

Nice job so far! I love the tone you set and look forward to following this dynasty through. One proviso, however.... the Roses MUST stay in Leeds! [Though I wouldn't be averse to them changing their name - to the Owls, perhaps?]. Your description of the South Leeds Stadium is spot on, but if the team prospers, might you envisage a move to Headingley, home of the Leeds Rhinos and also a major venue for the Yorkshire and England cricket teams?

Jamee999 · 06-05-2009, 07:01 PM

Aren't there two stadiums at Headingley? Surely we can't let the rugby league boys play all over the cricket pitches?

Tyke · 06-06-2009, 06:54 AM

They are actually part of the same complex, but on separate pitches, thank goodness! At one end of the cricket ground there is a "back-to-back" grandstand which faces the cricket field on one side and the rugby field on the other.

BigRed75 · 06-06-2009, 09:30 AM

Quote:

They are also expected soon to start saving-up so that they can afford the legal costs when a certain American baseball nine phones them up about the odd familiarity of the above logo.

Don't worry - the Kwinana Millers of the Rockingham and Districts League in Baseball WA will soon be in touch with the Manchester Millers' solicitors about ripping off their logo. They have also informed the Fremantle Dockers Aussie rules football club that they might want to take a look at this website.

Seriously though, great write-ups about each team. This league is shaping up to be a cracker.

Craig Costello · 06-06-2009, 02:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tyke

They are actually part of the same complex, but on separate pitches, thank goodness! At one end of the cricket ground there is a "back-to-back" grandstand which faces the cricket field on one side and the rugby field on the other.

headingley-ba33061.jpg

Tyke · 06-07-2009, 05:56 AM

Thanks for posting the pic, Craig. I thought of going back and adding one myself, but then I got busy!!

struggles_mightily · 06-07-2009, 03:43 PM

UKBL: INAUGURAL DRAFT POOL REPORT.

CATCHERS

Left to Right: Martin Horsforth, Sean Cattanach, Mitch Pittock, Dave Gripton.

Probably the best option at catcher in the draft is Martin Horsforth (25 years old; place of birth: Berkhamstead, Herts.). An excellent defensive backstop, Horsforth also brings solid contact-hitting skills and plate discipline to the table. Blessed with doubles power, Horsforth is not a much of a threat to go deep. Nevertheless, his youth and good hitting ability for a catcher make him an exciting player.

Two years his junior is Mitch Pittock (23; Spillsby, Lincs.), a definite option for those looking for a young blue-chipper behind the plate. Possessing good power for a backstop, and displaying above-average hitting skills in almost all areas, Pittock also benefits from above-average D.

A more short-term solution will be provided by the powerful bat of Sean Cattanach (33; Mayfield, Scotland). With excellent plate discipline as well as plenty of pop, Cattanach would be an elite offensive talent if he drew more walks. Nevertheless, these skills -- added to an above-average glove -- make him a very valuable player, even if he doesn't project to be at that level for too much longer.

The quality of backstops falls off rather sharply at this point. Dave Gripton (26; Oldham, Manc.) is on the right side of thirty and has an above average bat. However, he has questionable defensive skills and an arm made out of little bits of papier mache held together by Gloy. These problems are also likely to be un-solvable, as he is five foot seven (tiny for a catcher, smallest player in the draft) and only 190lbs, which is also below average. Alternatively, one might choose defensive whizz Declan Durridge (34; Brownhills, West Mids.). He also has a decent bat (albeit with not much power) and hits lefty which is a nice oddity for a backstop. His age is a worry though, especially considering his position. A compromise option might be Jake Counsell (29; Burton, Derbys.) who is neither old nor young; neither defensively whizzy or challenged; and somewhere between Pudge Rodriguez and Pudge Heffelfinger with a baseball bat. If you hate fish exactly as much as you hate fowl, he's a solid option.

Rounding out the list of guys likely to find starting jobs are Josh MacArtney (30; Aberdeen, Scotland) and Gavin Howey (33; Great Sankey, Chesh.). These two guys are basically symmetrical opposites who have the same amount of talent. MacArtney is a great defensive player with not too much of a bat; Howey is an above-average singles hitter with some gap power and some defensive kinks. On the bright side, he does watch a lot of film. However, being conversant with every Palme d'Or winner since 1939 is unlikely to help one in a baseball-playing context.

Also of some interest is Charlie Arbuthnot (22; Fort William, Scotland), the youngest of three Scottish brothers all eligible for the draft. Charlie is a solid defender, but he needs to develop his hitting skills if he wants to win a starting job. Still, his age makes him an attractive option to be stashed away.

If a team is looking for a defensive star in the later rounds to use as a backup, then it's difficult to improve on Nathan Udall (35; Stroud, Gloucs.). He can hit a bit for average, but his main asset is his glove. He rarely makes an error behind the plate and, due to an horrific birth defect, he has a cannon where his arm should be.

FIRST BASEMEN

Left to Right: Carl Leggett, Mark Jeffcoate, Billy 'Beanpole' MacNidder, Christopher Thompson.

There are rather fewer power-hitting studs available to play first than you might guess. Nevertheless, there remains Carl Leggett (24; Kingsteignton, Dev.), a guy with above-average pop who can also spray doubles to all fields. His defense, even at the diamond's easiest position, leaves rather a lot to be desired, however. But, considering his young age, the simple solution might be more reps. The other serious option to be taken first amongst first sackers is Mark Jeffcoate (26; Nottingham, Notts.), a converted third-baseman with great contact skills and a good eye. He can hit some doubles, though he's not a major power threat. Slight for a 1B at six feet and only 185lbs, his small size enables him to get around the bag quickly, and he has good defensive skills. His history as a third baseman also means that he's one of the few right-handed first basemen available.

A tier below these two is Billy 'Beanpole' MacNidder (33; Wolverhampton, West Mids.). At six feet and eight inches, he's the league's tallest position player. He shouldn't have problems getting to any throws air-mailed by his third baseman. It's he who's likely to be air-mailing the throws, however, as his skills as a first baseman leave something to be desired -- if UKBL introduces the designated hitter, MacNidder will be first to volunteer. Nevertheless, he is credited as one of the league's most intelligent players by its scouts, and can hit for plenty of average and take walks with regularity. Don't expect huge home run totals, but he'll smash some gappers.

The drop-off here is quite significant -- first base is generally a weakly-represented position in the draft. Christopher Thompson (27; Normanton, Derbys.) offers doubles-hitting ability and an above-average glove, but no power.

Two options to draft a younger guy and see how he pans out present themselves in Tim Brierly (22; London) and Aaron Maddy (22; London). Brierley is an average hitter across the board, but a major defensive worry at present. Maddy isn't really much better in that department; but is known to be an incredibly hard worker. Maybe his work can help him to get some power out of his 6'5, 230lbs frame. Otherwise, he'll remain a fairly mediocre hitter.

Considering the weak 1B class, taking an older guy and letting him act as the bridge to a future rookie might be a smart option. Freddie Winters (33; London) -- probably the very definition of an average ballplayer -- provides an opportunity to do just that. Ryosei Kondo (31; Imabari, Japan) is the girthiest player in the draft. Sadly he has not turned his blubber into power, and remains kind of an average hitter. He also has a terrible glove and, inside that terrible glove, a hand that plays terrible defense.

Further down the food chain, and not likely to be starting options, are a couple of younger players who could be of interest. Gari Boniface (24; Portsmouth, Hamps.) is essentially Ryosei Kondo after a ten minute treadmill sesh. Unlike Kondo, however, he does have some power -- if a front office thinks he can develop some more, he will probably be a starter in due course. Like Kondo, he's a real liability defensively. Alternatively, there's the slightly younger Colm Rennison (21; Great Malvern, Worcs.). He should be an average hitter, but (at present anyway) he makes Kondo and Boniface look like Albert Pujols glove-wise.

SECOND BASEMEN

Left to Right: Robbie Crerar, Stuart Millington, Mitchell Isgar, Elton Northam.

The pool of second basemen available in the draft is led by a group of three talented young players. At the top of the tree is Robbie Crerar (24; London). Amongst the best players in the league as regards hitting for average and plate discipline, he also sprays doubles into the gaps and plays a passable second base. He has no power, but nevertheless remains an elite offensive talent and can steal a bag on occasion also. If your team can't get Crerar, then they wouldn't do much worse by drafting Stuart Millington (26; Longbenton, Tyne & Wear). He has maybe a tick more power than Crerar, but has slightly weaker on-base skills. However, he is one of the very best glovemen in the league at second. Scouts are also eager to praise his intangibles -- but that's bollocks, innit, really? Rounding out the trio is the youngest of the group, Mitchell Isgar (21; Stalybridge, Manc.). He's a good all-around hitter with nice power for a 2B. He's also a real burner, and should be near the top of the league in stolen bases. His problem is his defense. Being young, more reps may be an adequate solution. Otherwise, the combination of the league's weak talent at first and Isgar's strong bat might facilitate a move across the infield.

On a lower rung is another young player, Elton Northam (25; Ivybride, Dev.). He's only an average hitter -- his lack of power is notable, but not unusual for a second baseman -- but also an excellent gloveman with good speed. The best power option amongst second sackers (that sounds dumb, but synonyms are good) is probably Jack Crittall (28; Hartwell, Bucks.). He's an average all-around hitter, and also plays a mediocre 2B. If Crittall loses some of his power as he gets older, then he'll basically turn into Cameron MacBeth (35; Walsall, West Mids.). MacBeth is solid, but too unremarkable for me to want to talk about any further.

Rounding out the players of a "starting"-type calibre are Corey Thompson (28; Waltham Abbey, Ess.) and Douglas Young (31; Shotton, Dur.). Thompson is a below-average hitter, with no power in particular, but he has a pretty good glove and great speed (though he gets thrown out a lot when trying to steal). Young is a singles hitter who will get on base at a good clip; he also has a passable glove. His speed matches Thompson's, and Young has mastered the technical aspects of base stealing also.

Another burner who should be available in later rounds is Bradley Payton (24; Portslade, Suss.). He's a solid hitter, but there's doubts about whether his glove will allow him to remain at second. He can play first very well; but doesn't really have the bat for it. Other younger players who might be able to develop into something of use include Martin Limby (20; Tiverton, Den.) and Aidan Metson (21; Torpoint, Corn.). Limby has a good glove, but needs to develop his hitting skills if he's going to see significant UKBL time. Metson can hit a little bit for contact, and might turn into a low-level starter for a club down the road.

SHORTSTOPS

Left to Right: Ethan MacMillan, Harvey Daintry, Brian Williams, Gaz York.

Clearly the best shortstop available is Scotland's pride, Ethan MacMillan (22; Glasgow, Scotland). He's a very good hitter for an SS, and is easily the most powerful shortstop available. Scouts who have spoken to the kid have apparently been very impressed with his general attitude. The only question is whether he has the defense to stick at short. Being young, he has plenty of time to improve in that area. His youth also means that he may be able to develop even more power as he fills out. It should be particularly interesting to see whether the Red Sox can manage to nab this local talent and turn him into the future face of the franchise.

The next player down from MacMillan is probably Harvey Daintry (34; Waterlooville, Suss.). He sprays singles to all fields and gets on base at a very nice clip. He doesn't have much power, and his glove is just mediocre. He age obviously prevents him from being a player to build around, but he should nevertheless be one of the better starting SS in the league for a couple of years.

There's quite a drop-off before the next tier of players. Brian Williams (26; Oldbury, West Mids.) is the best left-handed hitter available at short. He's solid enough, but can't hit for power at all. His glove is pretty good, and he also has above average speed and good stealing skills, which should ensure that he racks up plenty of sack-thefts (yeh...). Another Black Country shortstop is Gaz York (35; Wolverhampton, West Mids.). He's an all-around average player -- not terribly exciting, but he has more power than most others at his position. His glove is only mediocre, however, and obviously his age means that he won't be sticking around for long, unless he has Omar Vizquel genes. He isn't as old as Des Teale (36; Guiseley, Yorks.), however. Teale might actually be Omar Vizquel -- he's an excellent defensive player with just an average bat. He can also play third base to a high quality if needed.

The final tier of probable starters consists of three very similar players: your typical decent hitting, decent glove, no power shortstops. James Kernuish (29; Inverurie, Scotland) is probably the best hitter of the group, and is solid defensively. More of a doubles hitter than a real power threat, Dwaine Bowes (29; London) is maybe a tick below the rest of this group defensively. He is incredibly versatile, though, and can fill-in in most positions in a pinch, at least. Alaistar Laslett (34; Biggleswade, Beds.) is essentially an older version of Bowes, with a slightly better glove. But he's kinda old, obviously.

At short, it's obviously important to have a top-calibre gloveman, even if just as a defensive replacement. Alan Gander (31; Kirkby, Mers.) could well find himself fulfilling that role. He's one of the best fielders in the league, but is also a below-average hitter. A younger version, who may be able to develop more of a bat in the future is Ellis Freegard (22; Wath, Yorks.). He might also serve as a defense-minded backup, with a view to taking more playing time in future.

Also available in the later rounds will be Evan Oulton (28; London), one of the league's best base-stealers and another solid glove guy.

THIRD BASEMEN

Left to Right: Riley Harris, Lee Allmark, Ry Bonham, Scott Ring.

The top players at third base are basically clustered together. If anyone stands out, then it's Riley Harris (23; Melton Mowbray, Leics.) He doesn't have very much power, but hits singles at will and gets on base at a great clip. His glove is mediocre, but he's young enough that that can improve. Adding something to his value is his incredible speed and stealing ability. He is a good bet to lead the league in steals during the first seasons. Also available is Lee Allmark (22; Darlington, Dur.), who is pretty much the definition of "above-average". He exceeds the mean in just above every category, but doesn't really excel in any area. Scouts are quick to praise his "work ethic", which is probably another way of saying "this guy is kind of boring to talk about but also pretty good, I guess." Rounding out this initial trio of young dudes is the youngest of the lot, Ry Bonham (20; Leicester, Leics.). He hits hard gappers like a machine for hitting hard gappers, and is just generally an above-average hitter. His main problem is his defense, which is pretty bad. His youth (he's the second-youngest guy in the draft) makes him intriguing, though, especially if he can add some extra power and some skill around the bag.

Just a tick below them is Scott Ring (23; East Kilbride, Scotland). He's a solid hitter, albeit without much power, and a mediocre defender. He can also steal bases from time to time. Alternatively, for those who prefer an older man, Hamish Quarry (32; Glasgow, Scotland). He's a good hitter and a decent glove-man. He's probably as good as Allmark is right now, but obviously kind of old. He might slip down the draft order due to his age. He might steal a bag or two. Literally. One, or maybe two.

Further down the pecking order is Kyle Coinneach (22; Newry, Nothern Ireland). He's a very average player, with a mediocre bat and slightly above-average glove. After Riley, he's probably the biggest stolen-base threat amongst third-sackers. He also has an older brother called Jacob, who plays center-field. So they're, like, the second-most remarkable Celtic family unit in this league. Very similar to the younger Coinneach is Aaron MacElfrish (25; London). He has maybe slightly better defense; but is a bit older. Finally in this trio is Mark Hemming (23; Cramlington, Northum.). He's a better hitter than the other two -- he hits singles at a good rate and can get on base well. Unsurprisingly, he has now power, however. And his glove is only mediocre.

Perhaps fighting the above youngsters for a starting job on a club this year is Lewis Wood (34; Clarkston, Scotland). He's a good contact hitter and has some above-average plate discipline; but his glove is only mediocre. He might be over-looked, since there are players of similar quality who will probably be cheaper and definitely are younger. Wood also has the dubious distinction of being perhaps the slowest runner in the draft pool

Another option is Dennis Calvert (22; London), who will come in handy should anyone need to field the most mediocre player in the world for any reason.

LEFT FIELDERS

Left to Right: Lucas Bundy, Gonzalo Antonio, Andrew Arbuthnot, Karsten de Meij.

Like most positions, left field is topped by a young star with a great bat. In this case, it's Lucas Bundy (24; Stowmarket, Suff.). A very good all-around hitter, Bundy has average power but hits for excellent contact and also has a great eye. He has mostly doubles power, but could also be a serious home run threat if taken by a team with a smaller ballpark. For what it's worth, he also has very nice defense, albeit at one of the game's easier positions. With a decent arm, he could probably play some right field without being a disaster. Furthermore, he has excellent speed and stealing ability, and so looks to be almost the complete player. His surname also facilitates a large selection of potential nicknames, depening on whether his play bests resembles that of a hen-pecked shoe-salesman; a mountainous professional wrestler; or a serial killer and rapist.

Another good option in left is Chile-born Gonzalo Antonio (31; Tome, Chile). He's pretty much as good a hitter as Bundy, but has a slightler weaker glove and is a bit older and slower (but still a stolen-base threat). Like Bundy, he can also play some right field if required.

Also intriguing is the most promising of that band of brothers, the Arbuthnots. Andy Arbuthnot (25; Fort William, Scotland) is a good all-around hitter, who's just a tick weaker than the above two players in all facets. His defense is his only serious problem -- he has a weak arm and frequently takes sub-optimal routes.

From the next tear of left fielders, Karsten de Meij (27; Utrecht, Netherlands) is a solid player; though he lacks the contact hitting skills of most of this cohort. He is an above average defensive player but, as said earlier, the importance of this in choosing a left-fielder is uncertain. Alternatively, one might plump for the solid singles-hitting certainty of Aidan Spurle (31; Saint Martin, Jersey) -- the league's only Channel Islander. He lacks the power you would normally expect from an LF, but makes good contact and also plays acceptable defense. In a similar vein is Joshua MacIlraith (37; Stretford, Manc.). Not at all a power threat, MacIlraith can hit for average somewhat and get on base at a decent clip. He is also probably the best left fielder available in the draft, sporting an above-average arm. Indeed, there's a good chance that a team might take him in order to put him in right, where his average hitting skills will be more useful. Rounding out this tier of players is Alex Carylyon (37; London). He's a slightly better hitter than MacIlraith, but really has no defensive ability at all, with all the poise and acceleration of an oil tanker. He does have kind of a cool surname, though. Both Carylyon and MacIlraith are harmed also by the fact that any team taking them can't bank on a long-term contribution.

The final player who can expect a starting job is the Mexican-born Cesar Jimenez (29; Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico). He has very little power in his bat, and is probably not even an average hitter. His glove is O.K., but his relative prominence within the class is probably a result primarily of the weak options at the lower reaches of the left field pool.

Competing with Jimenez for a starting role will be Ceri Bett (Cheltenham, Gloucs.). A below average hitter with an average glove, some team might draft him in the hope that he'll develop some power. Alternatively, he may end up as a bench-warming corner outfielder.

Amongst the role players to be had at the position is Griff Armistead (31; Broadstairs, Kent.), a base-stealing threat with defensive skills.

CENTRE FIELDERS

Left to Right: Kieran MacNicol, Lucien Desrosiers, Kai Blowers, Jack Arundale.

The best centre fielders available in the draft are mostly established players; there isn't really an obvious stud who will be the class of the position for years to come. Nevertheless, there are strong players available already in their prime. Most notable is Kieran MacNicol (31; Birntisland, Scotland). He has uncommon power for a CFer, and is solidly above average in all aspects of the offensive game. He's also very rangy in centre; although he doesn't have much of an arm. Right up there with MacNicol is the league's only French player, Lucien Desrosiers (34; Lyon, France). Getting up there in years, Desrosiers is nevertheless an elite defensive player at a position where fielding skills are a major source of value. He's no slouch with the bat either: his skills are solidly above-average; though he's not a longball threat.

Kai Blowers (28; Dawlish, Dev.) is a player with a similar offensive skillset to Desrosiers. Blowers doesn't quote possess the range of the man from Lyon, but is nevertheless an above-average defensive contributor. He can also swipe some bags, and is vaunted by scouts for his intelligence -- both defensively and when running the bases, he makes the best out of average speed using great decision-making skills. Alternatively a team might look to Jack Arundale (27; London), a solid player with some upside. He hits for good average and gets on base at a nice clip, though he isn't at all a power threat. He has good defensive tools, but is a recently converted right fielder who simply needs more reps at the position. His above-average speed and excellent instincts make him a stolen base threat, too. Fellow Londoner Andrew Stay (31; London) is another solid option for a starting job in centre. He is above average in all facets of the game, both defensive and offensive. Unlike many of his fellow CFers, however, he has only mediocre speed. Rounding out this tier is Andy Houlbrook (32; South Normanton, Derbys.). He has a great eye, and is in general an a slightly above-average offensive player. However, he has a poor arm and only mediocre range. He plays more like a left fielder, but doesn't have the bat to switch across the outfield.

At the end of the list of guys who will be looking for starting jobs are two somewhat younger dudes with polar opposite skillsets. Evan Cadle (26; Leeds, Yorks.) is one of the elite defensive centre fields. Unfortunately, he's a below-average hitter with, in particular, zero power. He can steal some bases, but not enough to make up for his offensive shortcomings entirely. Alternatively, there's Neil Gillett (24; Bolton, Manc.). He can hit for good average, and might develop some power. By the time he develops it, however, he may not be a centre fielder anymore. He hasn't yet learnt how to make good reads on balls in CF, and might be more comfortable sliding over to right.

There are a bunch of younger players with upsides available for teams who can stash them. At the top of this pile are Elton Atherton (24; Sunderland, Tyne & Wear) and Zak Kenworthy (23; Harrogate, Yorks.). Both of them are major burners who will steal a lot of bases. Neither has any power, but Kenworthy in particular has the ability to develop above-average contact and discipline. Atherton is already an elite defender; Kenworthy is no slouch either.

The CF pool is unsurprisingly a good place to pick up a pinch runner. Perhaps most attractive in this regard is Jacob Coinneach (27; Newry, Nothern Ireland) -- he's a real burner and can play some D; but doesn't really have a bat.

RIGHT FIELDERS

Left to Right: Joe Nowell, Edgar Colon, Francisco Lopez, Finlay Sandercock.

Right field looks to be pretty stacked in the draft, and houses probably the two best position players available -- including a possible first pick. A strong candidate to be taken first overall, Joe Nowell (21; London) is an excellent all-around player who should be amongst the league's best players for years to come. He's out on his own as the league's most powerful hitter, and he can hit for contact and work a walk with the best of them too. He has above average speed, and will steal his fair share of bases. He's by no means an elite defensive RF, but he should be good enough to stick and avoid moving to left. Even if he has to transition, though, he easily has the bat to justify the move. A shade behind him, mostly due to his slightly higher age, is Dominican Edgar Colon (25; Santiago, D.R.). The second or third best pure power hitter in the league (behind Nowell and perhaps the catcher Sean Cattanach), Colon is an excellent all-around masher; definitiely Nowell's equal. Also like Nowell, Colon is a solid defensive player with good speed and the ability to steal bases. Both of these guys can be plugged into the middle of a line-up for years to come.

Francisco Lopez (26; San Juan, P.R.) would be considered the top dog if he played a number of other positions. As it is, he's a solid number three. He has some power, and is a well above-average across the board. He strikes out a lot and lacks elite contact skills, which may put some off. He does have an excellent glove, though, and is probably the best available RF defensively. He has an absolute canon as well as good range.

A good contact-and-discipline hitter, Finlay Sandercock (25; Verwood, Dors.) is a solidly above-average batsman with a mediocre glove. He isn't very mobile out there, and might begin to look lost in a bigger outfield. Nevertheless, his bat makes him a good starting option, and he has kind of a funny name. Heh heh -- "cock". Also available is the final of the trio of brothers, Sean Arbuthnot (28; Fort William, Scotland). He's just about above-average in all areas of the game. He takes walks and hits for average; he isn't huge power guy, though hell get his share of taters. Like Sandercock, his lack of footspeed harms his range. Arbuthnot does, however, have a nice arm for right field.

Leading off the final tier of starting calibre players is Kieran Telfer (26; Spennymoor, Dur.). He's just an all-around above average player, whose major struggle is with making solid contact regularly. His defense is good and he might steal a few bases also. A more defensive-minded option is Archie Foulsham (29; Plymouth, Dev.). He has excellent speed and gets to balls easily -- his burner-ish-ness also makes him a very good base stealing option. His bat isn't really up to much, however: he's not terrible; but he has no power. Finally, there is another Dominican, Manny Melendez (25; Azua, D.R.). He is pretty much the definition of a mediocre player; though he does have some doubles power.

Alternatively, one might look to Jordan Elston (26; Portsmouth, Hamps.). He has a slightly more exciting bat than Melendez; but he has a weak arm and lacks speed. All this makes for a frustrating defensive experience, and he might be more of a 1B or LF in the long term.

Summary

The best position players available in the draft overall are, I should think:

#1: Joe Nowell ----- RF ----- London. ----- 21.
#2: Edgar Colon ------ RF ------ Santiago, D.R. ----- 25.
#3: Lucas Bundy ----- LF ----- Stowmarket, Suff. ----- 24.
#4: Robbie Crerar ------ 2B ------ London ----- 24.
#5: Kieran MacNicol ------ CF ------ Birntisland, Scot. ------ 31.
#6: Martin Horsforth ----- C ------ Berkhamstead, Herts. ------ 25.
#7: Francisco Lopez ----- RF ----- San Juan, P.R. ----- 26.
#8: Ethan MacMillan ----- SS ------ Glasgow, Scot. ----- 22.
#9: Riley Harris ------ 3B ----- Melton Mowbray, Leics. ----- 23.
#10: Sean Cattanach ------ C ----- Mayfield, Scot. ----- 31.

STARTING PITCHERS

Left to Right: Colin 'Northern Gas' Ladbrooke, Ryan Monteith, Bryan Dickinson, Ashley Fitter, Jorge Cruz, Taylor Cheshire, Arturo Castillo, Bejamin Cooper.

There are basically two major choices regarding which pitcher should be taken first in the draft. The most bankable option is Colin 'Northern Gas' Ladbrooke (31; Bradford, Yorks.). An established player with great natural stuff and command, he should be pretty dominant for a few years. He has the best fastball of any available starter, and maybe the best change-up too. His sits right around 94 m.p.h., which puts him in an elite class of UKBL starters. His arsenal also includes a very good slider, and a curveball which he can sometimes mix in. He also has an awesome nickname; which I personally would say is more important than anything related to the actual playing of baseball -- a boring game for squares & jerks. The other potential choice is the younger Ryan Monteith (26; Bletchley, Bucks.). He has better raw stuff than Ladbrooke, and controls his pitches better too. However, he only has two pitches at present -- a hard 93 m.p.h. sinker that he throws most of the time, and a slider that is pure filth and easily the best in the league. That arsenal on a LHP starting pitcher would make for a no-brainer first overall pick. However, his lack of a third pitch and his history of endurance-limiting arm problems might make him into a relief pitcher soon. Front offices will need to weight these factors heavily when considering how to approach Montieth.

If your team passes on him, then there are other good options to plug in as an ace. Bryan Dickinson (32; Cleadon, Tyne and Wear) is probably the best right-handed starter in the draft after Ladbrooke. He throws his very good, 93 m.p.h. cutter most of the time; and backs it up with a nice splitter and a passable curveball. His lack of a two-seam fastball lead some to consider him a somewhat "junky" hurler, but he's a very good option for the next few years. Alternatively, one could assemble an elite infield defense and go with Ashley Fitter (28; Reading, Berks.), a sinkerballer who induces groundballs like a machine. Fitter also has a good cutter and a decent change that he mix in if the sinker don't sink. He's also one of the younger guys at the top of the pile. Those who would prefer to put a southpaw at the top of their rotation could choose Taylor Cheshire (31; West Bromwich, West Mids.) or Jorge Cruz (39; Barquisimeto, Venezuela). Cheshire is one of those guys who shouldn't be as successful as he is. His stuff looks pretty mediocre -- average change; average curve; average splitter; crappy 89 m.p.h. fastball. But sometimes a junkballing lefty just manages to paralyse RHB-heavy lineups, I guess. The success of Cruz is rather less mysterious -- it's mostly due to his Mickey Mouse change-up (it has big ears and owns a dog called 'Pluto'). His fastball and curve are pretty average, though, and he's obviously not at all a long-term option.

The last two options for the "ace" mantle are probably Cuban-born Arturo Castillo (25; Havana, Cuba) and not-Cuban-born Benjamin Cooper (29; Steyning, Suss.). Castillo is a kind of RHP junkballer, with a whole host of mediocre-looking pitches that nevertheless do a bunch of weird things. He controls his pitches pretty well, but obviously isn't going to be blowing anyone away. Cooper is a finesse guy -- great control, but not much movement on his stuff. He has a nice, low nineties fastball and a decent slider and forkball (probably the best forkball in the league, in fact, for what that's worth). He "pitches to contact" and this means a tonne of flyballs. You probably want to pass on this guy if you play in a small park (i.e. the Admirals, mainly).

Moving on to #2-type guys, Danny Bamber (25; London) is a young horse who can throw (his mediocre pitches) a lot. He's also the best candidate to be the UKBL version of Rick Ankiel, as he can hit for a bit of average. (That's not a knock on his control, incidentally -- it's OK). Mick Lyford (28; Ashburton, Dev.) is a LHP and is completely boring. Calum Carmicheal (32; Lhanbryde, Scotland) is the probably the most talented Scottish pitcher in the draft. This means: the Red Sox definitely need to look to foreign players for their pitching staff. Keeping with the nationality-based notations, Joe Sloan (33; Norwalk, USA) is the only American in the draft; perhaps somewhat surprisingly. He's also a very fringy proposition as a starter, due to arm troubles in the past.

In the second half of this tier, there is Brandon Wentworth (26; Dudley, West Mids.), a guy with a vaguely porn star-ish sounding name -- but, considering his place of birth, almost certainly not a porn star-ish sounding voice. He also has a nice forkball, which I guess could be woven into some kind of tame innuendo given the above consideration. Below him is Daryl Carleton (Tamworth, Staffs.), a (soon to be) professional baseball pitcher with an 87 m.p.h. fastball. So he should be interesting. Rounding out the list of guys who will probably be #2 types are Stewart Oglander (26; Birmingham, West Mids.) and Sam MacDuff (26; Saint Andrews, Scotland). They are both men with heads. I guess MacDuff is slightly interesting as a further piece of evidence re: Scotland's inability to develop pitching.

There are a few other guys worthy of comment, though. Keith Winkley (37; Reading, Berks.) has the best curve in the league. Unfortunately, the rest of his arsenal is fairly crappy and he projects as a number three (which is the bottom of a UKBL rotation, of course). As a "crafty lefty" archetype, though, he's kind of interesting. He's also the only guy in the league who throws a knuckle curve. There's also the league's final sinkerballing starter, James MacGowing (22; Earling, Scotland). He cranks it up to 88 m.p.h and lacks stamina, though, so "starter" is only a provisional designation.

RELIEF PITCHERS

Left to Right: Aidan Carrick, Thomas Larwood, Charlie Rippon, Juan Miranda.

For all its struggles in developing starting pitching, Scotland can claim as its own the league's best reliever, Aidan Carrick (24; Livingston, Scotland). He has probably the best fastball in the league -- it sits at 94 m.p.h and has excellent movement. He backs this up with an excellent slider. He does a pretty good job of inducing groundballs, too. He's strictly a one-inning type of guy due to his lack of stamina, but he remains the best reliever available.

Another intriguing option is provided by Thomas Larwood (22; Gosberton, Lincs.). He has a strong arm, and could be a workhorse starter if he can develop a third pitch. Being young, he obviously has plenty of time to do so. Any team drafting Larwood gets not only one of the league's best relievers over the short term, but also a potential ace or #2 starter in the future. He has a decent 90 m.p.h. fastball and an excellent slider. Not being a fireballer, it might be better for him to develop a breaking pitch -- a curve, perhaps -- or a cutter, rather than a change-up.

If you do want a flamethrower, then you can't do much better than Charlie Rippon (29; Mosborough, Yorks.). His cut fastball is the fastest pitch in the league; topping out at 96 m.p.h.. He also throws an excellent curveball, and is one of the best available options to be a relief ace in the league.

Alternatively, there's Juan Miranda (32; Macaracas, D.R..), a standard fastball-change pitcher without much speed who hits his spots flawlessly. Can you guess the problem that Dwayne 'Wild Thing' Askin (27; Manchester, Manc.) experiences? Yes, that's correct, he only has two fingers. Oh, and he also struggles with his location. His low-nineties fastball might still make him very useful, however. He also has an above-average slider. A similar player is Jordan Northmore (32; Pelsall, West Mids.). He has a hard fastball (without much movement on it), and a good arsenal that also includes an above-average change and curveball. He gives up a lot of flyballs, though.

Rounding out the list of closer-y type guys are Harry Spriggs (37; Halifax, Yorks.) and Jacob Wickenden (27; London). Spriggs is Jordan Northmore with a few m.p.h shaved off. Wickenden is a finesse guy who throws a 90 m.p.h fastball and an assortment of junk.

There are a whole bunch of middle relief guys, of course. But who could possibly care?

Summary

These dudes, I reckon, are the most tantalising hurlamators one might acquire in the upcoming draft:

#1: Colin Ladbrooke ----- SP ----- Bradford, Yorks. ----- 31.
#2: Bryan Dickinson ----- SP ----- Cleadon, Tyne & Wear ----- 32.
#3: Ryan Monteith ----- RP/SP ----- Bletchley, Bucks. ----- 26.
#4: Ashley Fitter ------ SP ------ Reading, Berks. ----- 28.
#5: Thomas Larwood ------ RP/SP ----- Gosberton, Lincs. ----- 22.
#6: Jorge Cruz ----- SP ----- Barquisimeto, Venezuela ------ 39.
#7: Taylor Cheshire ----- SP ----- West Bromwich, West Mids. ----- 31.
#8: Arturo Castillo ----- SP ----- Havana, Cuba ------ 25.
#9: Aidan Carrick ----- RP ----- Livingston, Scot. ------ 30.
#10: Benjamin Cooper ----- SP ----- Steyning, Suss. ----- 29.

Nine Cool Things to Look for during the Draft.

-- Traditionally, teams are supposed to build around pitching rather than hitting. But with no hurler standing clearly above the rest, and studly young position players like Joe Nowell and Edgar Colon available, the Leeds Roses might be best served by adding a bat to their roster first.

-- Where will young pitchers Ryan Monteith and Thomas Larwood go? Issues with arm strength (for Monteith) and developing a third pitch (Larwood) mean that both could be viewed as either starters or relievers. If any team sees one of these kids as the former, expect them to be off the board early.

-- This also feeds into the question: which pitcher will be taken first? Northern Gas (yeh, I really want to get that nickname over) would be a good and logical choice. But Montieth would be a good high risk / high reward choice.

-- Will any of the three Arbuthnot brothers be drafted together? The older pair, outfielders Sean and Andrew, are amongst the best players at their positions, and could go in the early rounds. Younger brother Charlie, a catcher, is more likely to take a back-up role in the hope that he develops starting ability later.

-- How will Glasgow approach their drafting strategy? They have to carry at least fifteen Scottish players on their active roster because of foreign player rules. Scotland has not produced any starting pitcher who could reasonably be an ace, so one would think they'd have to use up a foreign player allocation there. Will they be able to get more than one of the MacMillan-MacNicol-Cattanach trio? That would be a big coup, and I think it's possible.

-- Will Bristol be smart enough to realise that they play in a small stadium that will play horrible for pitchers who give up a lot of fly balls? Might they take a sinkerball to build their staff around. I've mentioned Montieth already, but Ashley Fitter could be a less risky option.

-- Conversely, will the Dockers just load up on pitching in order to exploit their large stadium. Blessed with the third pick, they could choose to use it on a stud pitcher, and develop a pitching-defense type team that would thrive at the Stoop.

-- How will teams value relief pitching? There are some relievers with really great stuff out there -- Aidan Carrick most notably -- but are they important in the UKBL? They might throw maybe 30-40 I.P. compared to the 50-80 I.P. one would hope to get from a front-line starter. Could a guy with a strong arm, like Thomas Larwood, become very valuable if it's determined that he could be available in every single game?

-- Who will be the last player taken? Whoever it is taking the mantle of two hundred and sixty-second pick, we surely have to follow their career closely.

********

Sorry for the length of this, but I think it should help me to become familiar with the best players in the league.

In re: Headingley. I did consider putting the Roses in that stadium; but I couldn't find capacity data for the rugby pitch. I don't really want them in the cricket ground, because it's too prestigious (and big), I think. Average attendance is set for this year at 5,000; so Headingley Cricket Ground would be under 30% full most of the time.

BigRed -- Ha! I had no idea that those logos were ripped from Aussie football teams. Oh, well -- they're quite nice graphics and there's less chance of such a team finding out about the purloining.

Peregrine · 06-08-2009, 08:12 AM

This looks really interesting! Can't wait to see more.

Sdpm100 · 06-08-2009, 08:18 AM

FWIW, the current capacity at Headingley Carnegie is 20,500.
Sport Industry Group | News

muted79 · 06-08-2009, 08:56 AM

Excellent read so far, go the Mancs!

struggles_mightily · 06-08-2009, 12:33 PM

UNITED KINGDOM BASEBALL LEAGUE:
2009 INAUGURAL DRAFT.

A meeting room at the back of an old pub in Edgeware. May 1st, 2009. Amongst the fug of real ale stench sit representatives of the UKBL's eight clubs. It's time for the Inaugural Draft of the United Kingdom Baseball League. We'll be having thirty-two rounds, the picks being arranged under the "serpentine" system. The order will be thus: Leeds Roses; Tyneside Miners; South London Dockers; Glasgow Red Sox; North London Royals; Birmingham Lock Keepers; Bristol Admirals; Manchester Millers. And then, in the next round, the reverse of that. Obviously. Because that is what snakes are like!

Before I give the results of the draft or any analysis of the outcome, I'll just quickly say a few words about how teams valued players generally. This is the first time I've run an inaugural draft with budgets on. It made a real impact on the selection of players. A lot of veteran guys made high demands -- evidently looking for their pay-days after long careers toiling in amateur leagues -- and dropped in the order as a result. Many players of high ability -- mostly veterans -- fell out of the first ten rounds, as will be shown later. I think that this is reasonable. Teams with small revenues and an uncertain future in a new league would not wish to make rich, long-term investments in players unless they thought it absolutely necessary. Some guys of high ability were not drafted at all (there were about ten of these, depending on how one defines "high ability"). It does seem that some vets took the piss rather with their contract demands. I'm kind of torn on this. On one hand, you can understand a player wanting a big contract and reasoning ultimately that the UKBL is an uncertain venture that might tank before its first season is even finished -- not receiving a deal with the league might not be the end of the world. On the other hand you would think that, particulary at CF where four of the five players I considered to be at the top of that position's pool went unsigned, eventually a veteran would take a pay-cut and benefit from the shortage of competing options. Eh -- on the whole I don't mind it. These guys will be around for the free agency period next year, and so will get another chance at a contract.

Whilst on the topic of free-agency, I'll also make a note unrelated to the draft. I had originally said that three years of service time would be required for free agency, and that players over 25 years of age would receive one year of service time upon being drafted. This was based on the assumption that OOTP generated players with no service time at all. I see that, in fact, it generates service time numbers based on player age. I like that more. As a result. free agency will still require three years of service time; but there is no "bonus" given to veteran players upon being drafted. Some veterans signed single year deals with the teams by whom they were drafted, so those guys will form the free agent class next year (alongside the previously mentioned unsigned holdouts).

Draft Report.

Round One.

#1.1 Leeds Roses --- RF Joe Nowell.
#1.2 Tyneside Miners --- SP Colin Ladbrooke.
#1.3 South London Dockers --- RF Edgar Colon.
#1.4 Glasgow Red Sox --- 3B Riley Harris.
#1.5 North London Royals --- LF Lucas Bundy.
#1.6 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- SS Ethan MacMillan.
#1.7 Bristols Admirals --- SP Arturo Castillo.
#1.8 Manchester Millers --- SP Ashley Fitter.

Well, no real surprises in the first three picks. Nowell is expected to be the face of the league for some years to come, and will be a force in the middle of Leeds' line-up. Ladbrooke was the most bankable pitcher available, and will be the anchor of Tyneside's rotation for a few years. That pick makes sense. Colon is every bit as good as Nowell, just slightly older. The Red Sox taking Harris is a bit more questionable -- there were better position players available at that point. Indeed, Lucas Bundy was one such player, and the Royals wasted no time in snapping him up. It'll be interesting to compare the performance of those two over their UKBL careers. Ethan MacMillan at #6 is an O.K. pick. There were a few better players available (Robbie Cerar; Martin Horsforth; Francsico Lopez). The shortstop is the youngest, though, and I guess Birmingham really wanted a guy to build around. Bristol's pick is the only major oddity in the first round. Castillo is good, and is one of the younger ace-quality starters out there. I can accept that they may not view Ryan Montieth as a starter; and also that Jorge Cruz is old. But, in the small-ish Memorial Stadium, I think Ashley Fitter would've been a better fit for them. The Millers must've been very pleased to find the sinkerballer still available.

Round Two.

#2.1 Manchester Millers --- RF Manny Melendez.
#2.2 Bristol Admirals --- 2B Mitchell Isgar.
#2.3 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- 2B Robbie Crerar.
#2.4 North London Royals --- 2B Elton Northam.
#2.5 Glasgow Red Sox --- C Mitch Pittock.
#2.6 South London Dockers --- RP Jacob Wickenden.
#2.7 Tyneside Miners --- 2B Harold Dumbrill.
#2.8 Leeds Roses --- C Jake Counsell.

Melendez is an odd pick. I had him ranked eighth out of RFers; admittedly the strongest position in the draft. He's youngish (25), and a solid all-around player, but I'm not sure you'd want to build a line-up around him. Isgar is questionable too. I like Stuart Millington more at 2B, but teams seem really eager to draft young, and I can accept that. Indeed, Robbie Crerar was the guy I had ranked first at second base. He's only three years older than Isgar, and is a better hitter at present. I guess the Ads think that Isgar will develop into something special; but I think that the Keepers got a steal here with the eleventh pick. They now have an incredible young middle infield with MacMillan and Crerar. The Northam pick is just weird. Even if you really want a young position player here (and so rule out Kieran MacNicol and Francisco Lopez), there are guys like Martin Horsforth, Carl Leggett and Lee Allmark available. This pick might make a bit more sense if North London think that Elton can play third; which maybe they do. Mitch Pittock is a good pick; although... no Horsforth? And, just to note, Glasgow haven't taken a Scotsman yet. O.K... now, this is a genuine head-scratcher: South London take a reliever with their second pick? It's not even like Wickenden is a stud guy out of the 'pen. I had him ranked eighth out of relievers. Maybe they think he can start, but... good luck with that. Dumbrill is even weirded. I did not have him ranked as a guy who would start at second. And this makes him the nine billionth 2B to be taken in the draft. He's kind of young, and I guess the Miners think he'll grow into something over the next couple of years. Counsell is O.K., but there were at least two better catchers available at this point.

Round Three.

#3.1 Leeds Roses --- 3B Gabriel Parent.
#3.2 Tyneside Miners --- CF William Warr.
#3.3 South London Dockers --- SP Bryan Dickinson.
#3.4 Glasgow Red Sox --- 2B Bradley Payton.
#3.5 North London Royals --- SP Ethan Whearty.
#3.6 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- RF Ben Ennis.
#3.7 Bristol Admirals --- RF Finlay Sandercock.
#3.8 Manchester Millers --- 2B Stuart Millington.

Parent is a fringy starter who has no business going in the third round. He was cheap, I guess. Tyneside round out the stretch of rubbish picks by drafting literally a back-up outfielder with their third selection. A back-up outifielder, incidentally, with no glove. Dickinson is a nice selection; he was probably the best starter available at this time. He could put up some really nice numbers in the Stoop, the league's biggest park. Payton is a fast young guy who can hit a bit, and might have value if he can stick at second. Still no Scot for the Sox, incidentally. This is the pick that has the biggest chance of backfiring into a bad use of a foreign player allocation. Whearty is basically garbage -- I can't think of anything more illuminating to say about him. Birmingham continue to do good work, picking up an excellent prospect here in Ennis. Their line-up could be scary in a few years, with MacMillan, Crerar and now Ennis smashing the cover off the ball. Bristol, unusually for them, make a solid selection with their third pick. Sandercock was a guy I rated fourth in a very strong class of right fielders. Millington is an absolute steal with the twenty-fourth pick, and I'm generally liking the Manchester draft so far.

Round Four.

#4.1 Manchester Millers --- SP Jorge Cruz.
#4.2 Bristol Admirals --- SP Thomas Wood.
#4.3 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- SP Riley Pilcher.
#4.4 North London Royals --- CF Mike Jones.
#4.5 Glasgow Red Sox --- SP Daryl Carleton.
#4.6 South London Dockers --- SP Dean Fremlin.
#4.7 Tyneside Miners --- RF Toby Dook.
#4.8 Leeds Roses --- SP Leon Hotchkiss.

And the Millers continue with another nice choice. Cruz is 39, so he won't be around for long. But, at present, he has some of the best stuff in the league. The rest of this round is made up of guys I'd either never heard of, or had envisioned going about ten rounds later than this. The only reason I can think for selecting Thomas Wood is that Bristol thought they were selecting Thomas Larwood. Maybe Bristol's G.M. said, "Thomas ah... Wood." Which could sound like "Larwood." I guess. Riley Pilcher has a really nice glove for a pitcher, so there's that I guess. I think Birmingham took my advice that they needed "some pitching" a bit too literally. Mike Jones is what I might generously call a "professional." He's kind of oldish and hits a bit, but he is no way one of the thirty best players in the league. Carleton is a guy I think I mentioned earlier -- he of the 87 m.p.h. fastball. He's actually not terrible, but expecting him to be your ace suggests an optimism for which our brothers north of the border are not usually reknowned. There were, like, six pitchers available at this point who were both younger and better than Dean Fremlin. I kind of like him, though, because he has a name which really sounds like that of a League One footballer. Toby Dook is actually not a bad selection. He's 35, and there are four or so RFers I would rather have had at this jucture. But he's cheap and is probably about as good as Manny Melendez, who was taken ninth, so... Leon Hotchkiss is a workhorse who will just keep on throwing the ball for you. No matter how politely you ask him to stop. Or how menacingly you threaten him with a knife.

Round Five.

#5.1 Leeds Roses --- SP Joe Sloan.
#5.2 Tyneside Miners --- SP Taylor Cheshire.
#5.3 South London Dockers --- CF Kieran MacNicol.
#5.4 Glasgow Red Sox --- SP Christopher Cardew.
#5.5 North London Royals --- SP Keith Winkley.
#5.6 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- SP Calum Carmicheal.
#5.7 Bristols Admirals --- SP David Sellick.
#5.8 Manchester Millers --- 3B Hayden Eaves.

Leeds kick off the round with what is a pretty decent pick -- Sloan should be a solid #2. However, I would probably have taken Cheshire instead, and there's no surprise that he was quickly snapped-up by the Miners. With Ladbrooke and Cheshire at the top of their rotation, Tyneside should be a pitching force next year. Kieran MacNicol was the guy I ranked as the #1 centre fielder, so the Dockers have to be thrilled to pick him up in the fifth round. He's on the wrong side of thirty; but only just. He should be an impact bat for the next few years. Cardew is the first Scot to be taken by the Sox. I don't think much of him, and can't see what they didn't just take Lhanbryde man Calum Carmicheal, who went to Birmingham with the next selection. Carmicheal is a hair better and wouldn't necessitate them burning a foreign play allocation. Bristol continues to insist on being weird, as they take a fairly mediocre reliever with their fifth pick. Sellick actually has the stamina to be a starter -- so maybe that's their plan, and they see something in him. I don't share their optimism. Eaves is just garbage.

Round Six.

#6.1 Manchester Millers --- CF Jay Pidduck.
#6.2 Bristol Admirals --- LF Lucas Rignell.
#6.3 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- LF Alexander Robertson.
#6.4 North London Royals --- 3B Nathan Darvell.
#6.5 Glasgow Red Sox --- 1B Mark Jeffcoate.
#6.6 South London Dockers --- LF Cesar Jimenez.
#6.7 Tyneside Miners --- RP Arhie Priday.
#6.8 Leeds Roses --- 2B Aidan Metson.

Pidduck -- more garbage. No idea what Manchester are trying to do here, other than fill up their roster with young, sort-of crappy guys who don't make much money. There were like six or seven better left fielders available when Rignell was taken, but I guess he's not a bad option for the money. Alexander Robertson got £80,000 to suck for Birmingham next year. That's £25,000 more (based on AAV) than Joe Nowell got. So... terrible deal. Nathan Darvell is bad but cheap. Mark Jeffcoate was my #2 ranked 1B and is really rather good, so I like this pick for Glasgow here. Incidentally, the Sox now have their full compliment of five "foreign" players in place. Jimenez is solid, makes reasonable money and is a fine pick. I can't believe no-one has taken Andrew Arbuthnot yet, though. (I have similar thoughts about Martin Horsforth, but I gave up airing those a while ago.) I object to taking a relief pitcher this early but, if you must, then Archie Pridat isn't a bad option. Metson is a toolsy young 2B who might turn into something and costs nothing, so I don't mind that pick.

Round Seven.

#7.1 Leeds Roses --- RP Jordan Northmore.
#7.2 Tyneside Miners --- 1B Carl Leggett.
#7.3 South London Dockers --- SP James MacGowing.
#7.4 Glasgow Red Sox --- SP Sam MacDuff.
#7.5 North London Royals --- SP/RP Ryan Monteith.
#7.6 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- SP Connor Belcham.
#7.7 Bristols Admirals --- SS Oliver Lamplough.
#7.8 Manchester Millers --- SP Andrew Stickells.

Northmore is in exactly the same situation as Priday -- though I guess taking a bullpen guy with your seventh pick is slightly better than doing it with your sixth. Leggett was my top-ranked first baseman and was an absolutely steal here. James MacGowing is a decent young sinkerballer who could be a solid #2 if he progresses as expected, so I kind of like this. Glasgow really had to take a Scottish pitcher with this selection, and that's an unenviable position to be in. MacDuff was the right choice though. Monteith, who I've written about quite a bit before, is incredible value here with the 53rd selection. At worst, the Royals are getting a lights-out closer for years to come. At best, they're getting a guy who will become an ace for them in future (albeit one who will never be anything close to a workhorse). Belcham and Stickells are similar guys -- both mediocre young pitchers who can round out a rotation. Lamplough is bad but versatile -- the Ads have basically taken a utility infielder with their seventh pick.

Round Eight.

#8.1 Manchester Millers --- SS Gaz York.
#8.2 Bristol Admirals --- 3B Harry Sears.
#8.3 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- 1B Freddie Withers.
#8.4 North London Royals --- RP Charlie Rippon.
#8.5 Glasgow Red Sox --- LF Andrew Arbuthnot.
#8.6 South London Dockers --- C Luke Mortimer.
#8.7 Tyneside Miners --- C Gavin Howey.
#8.8 Leeds Roses --- SP Lewis MacIvor.

Gaz York is a very good short-term option at shortstop. It seems that the clubs are turning to veterans now. Sears is a good old-ish third baseman who can hold down a starting job and contribute with some offense. Freddie Withers is the archetypal "veteran leadership" guy, and can maybe offer some guidance to the young kids he'll be sharing the infield with (MacMillan and Crerar). Rippon is a fireballing reliever who could probably close, althogh he hasn't done it in the past. Arbuthnot is an absolute steal, and could be a franchise-type player for the Red Sox. Mortimer and Howey are both veteran catchers who can be of use for another few years. MacIvor was one of the best starting pitchers available at this point, and should be a nice option to round out the Roses' rotation.

Round Nine.

#9.1 Leeds Roses --- 1B Billy 'Beanpole' MacNidder.
#9.2 Tyneside Miners --- SP Bejamin Cooper.
#9.3 South London Dockers --- 1B Ross Cannell.
#9.4 Glasgow Red Sox --- RP Aidan Carrick.
#9.5 North London Royals --- RF Samuel MacKellar.
#9.6 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- 3B Lewis Wood.
#9.7 Bristols Admirals --- SP Samuel Smith.
#9.8 Manchester Millers --- 1B Christopher Thompson.

MacNidder was the best remaining first baseman, and to get him here is an excellent deal. Getting Bejamin Cooper makes the Miners rotation stacked, with three guys I projected as aces. Cannell is crappy and will be overpaid. The Dockers really should've just taken Christopher Thompson for slightly more money, as Manchester did at the close of the round. Aidan Carrick was easily the best reliever available at the start of the draft. I guess his drop all the way into the middle of the ninth round suggests a determination amongst teams not to overpay for relief pitching. But Glasgow had the money to spend, and have acquired themselves a lights-out closer. (Although whether their starters will give him any games to save is questionable). MacKellar is a fringy starter with a good glove. Lewis Wood gives the Lock Keepers another solid starting infielder in his prime years to balance the youth they'll be fielding up the middle. Smith is the fourth pitcher taken by Bristol and, with the exception of Castillo who was kind of a reach anyway, they've all been complete crap.

Round Ten.

#10.1 Manchester Millers --- RP Thomas Larwood.
#10.2 Bristol Admirals --- RP Jon Brightman.
#10.3 Birmingham Lock Keepers --- C Andrew Murray.
#10.4 North London Royals --- C Darren Wicksted.
#10.5 Glasgow Red Sox --- CF Jay Stewart.
#10.6 South London Dockers --- RP Gael Renwick.
#10.7 Tyneside Miners --- 3B Scott Ring.
#10.8 Leeds Roses --- CF Elton Atherton.

Larwood is a crazy, crazy steal at this point for Manchester. He's already one of the best relievers in the league, is 22 years old, and is a third pitch away from being an ace starter. He also costs very little. Jon Brightman is a decent reliever. Murray and Wicksted are both absolutely awful, and Martin Horsforth must've slept with the wives of each and every UKBL GM. Jay Stewart is about as good as you can do for a Scottish centre fielder (now that Kieran MacNicol is gone, anyway). Renwick is a relief pitcher. Scott Ring is another veteran who has dropped deep into the draft and become a steal for the team that eventually paid him. Elton Atherton is a cheap, speedy guy with an excellent glove and some offensive upside.

Other Players of Note

Here is a list of players that I had ranked in the top five for their positions (or top twenty for starters and top ten for relievers) and where they were eventually drafted. Most of these were older guys, but some excellent young players fell too, due to signing demands. Some players went undrafted -- mostly the old, non-elite players. They are sorted into positions, and their rank wihin their position's class is given.

Player	Position	Age	Rank	Drafted by	in Round	with Pick.

Martin Horsforth	C	25	#1	Bristol	11	7
Sean Cattanach	C	33	#2	Glasgow	12	4
Dave Gripton	C	26	#4	Manchester	12	1
Declan Durridge	C	34	#5	not drafted	//	//

Tim Brierly	1B	22	#5	Bristol	12	2

Jack Crittall	2B	28	#5	not drafted	//	//

Harvey Daintry	SS	34	#2	not drafted	//	//
Brian Williams	SS	26	#3	Leeds	11	1
Des Teale	SS	36	#5	not drafted	//	//

Lee Allmark	3B	22	#2	Bristol	16	7
Ry Bonham	3B	20	#3	Birmingham	16	3
Hamish Quarry	3B	32	#5	Glasgow	19	5

Gonzalo Antonio	LF	31	#2	not drafted	//	//
Karsten de Meij	LF	27	#4	Tyneside	11	2
Aidan Spurle	LF	31	#5	Manchester	11	8

Lucien Desrosiers	CF	34	#2	not drafted	//	//
Kai Blowers	CF	28	#3	not drafted	//	//
Jack Arundale	CF	27	#4	not drafted	//	//
Andrew Stay	CF	31	#5	not drafted	//	//

Francisco Lopez	RF	26	#3	North London	16	5
Sean Arbuthnot	RF	27	#5	Glasgow	11	4

Danny Bamber	SP	25	#9	South London	26	6
Mick Lyford	SP	28	#10	Leeds	23	1
Brandon Wentworth	SP	26	#13	Birmingham	25	7
Stewart Oglander	SP	26	#15	South London	22	6
Zack Tomkins	SP	27	#19	Tyneside	27	2

Juan Miranda	RP	32	#4	not drafted	//	//
Dwayne Askin	RP	27	#5	Tyneside	13	2
Harry Spriggs	RP	37	#7	Manchester	13	8
Connor MacDonnell	RP	26	#10	Glasgow	14	5

Comments

I was going to do a full, team-by-team draft evaluation, but I think that would tread too much on the heels of the season preview I'll be doing next. So, instead, I'll just give the quickest thoughts possible on each team's draft:

Glasgow: Excellent line-up; crappy pitching. Two excellent catchers... could do with dealing one for a starter. But they can't really get anyone good unless they lose one of their foreign players.

Leeds: Outside of Nowell, they really don't have a lot. Their pitching might end up being really poor. Their line-up isn't a lot better, even with MacNidder backing up The Joe Man.

Manchester: The Fitter-Cruz one-two punch is excellent for next year, at least. Larwood in the pen is also exciting. Their line-up is full of solid guys, with only Millington a possible star. Should be there or thereabouts.

Tyneside: Three aces in the rotation and a solid closer. Line-up isn't great, but should be able to scratch out enough runs to make them favourites for the division.

Birmingham: Line-up full of young studs with some solid veterans backing them up. Terrible pitching.

Bristol: Some late-round steals has left them with a promising line-up. Serious doubts about their rotation other than Castillo.

North London: Their two best pitchers are both relievers, and they have no-one who can really hit other than Bundy and Lopez. Possible basement-dwellers.

South London: Built around Dickinson in the rotation and Colon in the middle of the line-up, they need some secondary players to step-up. Division is pretty wide open, though.

********

Sdpm: thanks for the info. I definitely don't want the Roses playing there, then: that's a much too large capacity.

Up next: Unless anything exciting happens in the next three game-weeks, then it'll be a Northern Division season preview I should think.

Jamee999 · 06-08-2009, 12:58 PM

Wow - comprehensive!

Love a bit of British baseball, keep it up

struggles_mightily · 06-09-2009, 07:39 PM

UNITED KINGDOM BASEBALL LEAGUE:
2009 SEASON PREVIEW

Northern Division

GLASGOW RED SOX

Left to Right: 1B Riley Harris, C Sean Cattanach, RP Aidan Carrick, LF Andrew Arbuthnot, 2B Hamish Quarry, SP Daryl Carleton, RF Sean Arbuthnot, C/1B Mitch Pittock.

General Manager: Ray Ogilvie (34; Ballykelly, Northern Ireland).

Manager: Rob Malcolm (54; Fauldhouse, Scotland).

Starting Rotation

RHP Daryl Carleton.
LHP Christopher Cardew.
LHP Sam MacDuff.

This is the worst pitching rotation in the division. Glasgow were really harmed here by the necessity that they take Scottish players -- very few starting pitchers of quality have been developed north of the border. All three of these guys are fringy types who shouldn't be anything more than #2 starters; probably number threes. Sam MacDuff has an 89 m.p.h. and decent secondary pitches and might end up being the best of the group. Cardew gives up a ton of flyballs and is 35 years old. Carleton is O.K., I guess, but definitely not an ace.

Rating: 3/10

Bullpen

RHP Aidan Carrick
LHP Connor MacDonell
RHP Scott Williamson
RHP Paul Armstrong
RHP Ryan Millar
RHP Olly Witheridge

This is a mediocre bullpen that should be alright as long as Glasgow can farm most of the innings out to Carrick and MacDonell. Carrick is probably the best reliever in the league: his fastball sits in the nineties and he has an elite slider. He's strictly a one-inning guy, though. MacDonell probably will be the lefty specialist and should do a decent job. He has a decent low-nineties fastball and a solid change. Scott Williamson is pretty decent too, and should be a middle-innings horse. Armstrong, Millar and Witheridge will fill in the gaps, do mop-up duty, etc. Armstrong is only 22 years old, and so might develop into something.

Rating: 6/10.

Lineup

Note: one asterisk denotes a left-handed hitter; two denote a switch hitter.

SS James Kernuish**
LF Andrew Arbuthnot**
1B Riley Harris
C Sean Cattanach**
RF Sean Arbuthnot
CF Josh Sonnborn
2B Hamish Quarry**
3B Sean McKay

Glasgow are blessed with probably the best line-up in baseball. Every member can hit at least a bit, and the presence of four switch hitters makes it hard to employ situational relievers against them. The 2-5 slots really anchor the hitting. Sean Cattanach is one of the most powerful hitters in the league, and Arbuthnot is a very good hitter for both average and power. Harris, meanwhile, is a sturdy gap hitter who should club plenty of doubles. Andrew's brother, Sean, is very good for a number five hitter, and should provide plenty of protection for Cattanach. The only problem in their line-up is James Kernuish, who I'm not sure has the on-base skills to be a valuable lead-off hitter. Ideally, they should move Sean Arbuthnot into the top spot, and push Josh Sonnborn -- a very solid hitter -- into fifth. Quarry is a very nice hitter for a second baseman, and McKay will do more than adequately in front of the pitcher.

The defense is above-average at most positions, and Riley Harris (drafted as a third baseman) will make an excellent fielding 1B. Hamish Quarry is learning a new position after spending his entire career at third, however, and that could be problematic. In the outfield, Andrew Arbuthnot has a fringy glove in left and Josh Sonnborn would be more comfortable at a corner. All in all, though, the presence of guys like Keruish, Cattanach, McKay and Sean Arbuthnot should make the D solid.

Rating: 10/10.

Bench

C Josh McArtney
C/1B Mitch Pittock
OF Jay Stewart*

Having two catchers on the bench obviously harms vesatility, even if one of them is the best "bench" player in the league, Mitch Pittock. Pittock is the third best catcher in the league and should really be starting. However, the plan is to platoon him with Cattanach this year, and then move him into the line-up in 2010 when the older Cattanach is a free agent. Pittock is expected to play at first base for the first time in his career this year. MacArtney is an elite defensive catcher who should operate as a late-innings replacement. Stewart has a weak glove and hasn't played the corners much, but should just about be adequate as a fill-in. The lack of a bench infielder isn't as egrergious as it seems. Both Kernuish and McKay can play any position required of them on the diamond, and starting 1B Riley Harris also plays a decent third.

It's worth noting that Glasgow have 1B/3B Mark Jeffcoate on their practice roster. He's one of the best first basemen in the league, but won't make the Red Sox due to "foreign" player issues. Their third draft pick, 2B/UT Bradley Payton, is in a similar position. Both Englishmen surely have to be trade candidates.

Rating: 9/10.

Overall Team Rating: 6.7/10.

*************************************

LEEDS ROSES

Left to Right: RF Joe Nowell, 1B Billy MacNidder, SP Joe Sloan, C Jake Counsell, CF Elton Atherton, RP Conor Cornock, SS Brian Williams, RP Mick Lyford.

General Manager: Francis Deck (47; Grimsby, Lincs.)

Manager: Bert d'Urberville (43; Luton, Beds.)

Starting Rotation

RHP Leon Hotchkiss
LHP Joe Sloan
Jordan Northmore

This is maybe a slightly better rotation than that being thrown out by Glasgow; but that shouldn't be much comfort to Leeds fans. Hotchkiss is mediocre, and would seem like a stretch as a #2 starter. Northmore has average skills, but he really lacks the stamina to be a starter. He has come out of the bullpen for most of his career. I wouldn't be surprised to see him back there before the season is out. The American southpaw Joe Sloan is solid, and makes sense as a solid number two. He's probably the best pitcher in this rotation, though, which says something.

Rating: 5/10.

Bullpen

RHP Conor Cornock
LHP Mick Lyford
LHP Lewis MacIvor
RHP Henry Tibbett
RHP Ryan Paterson
LHP Sam Harding

This is an OK pen that lacks a star, but nevertheless should do alright. Cornock and Lyford should share the roles of joint relief aces, one right-handed and the other a southpaw. However, Lyford also has a good chance to make the rotation in short order should Northmore struggle. Henry Tibbett is another horse who could potentially start if it were required. Lewis MacIvor is another good lefty for the pen; he gets by very well on pin-point control and rarely gives up a homer. The one problem with this bullpen, other than its lack of an ace, is that it's made up largely of old guys. Only Lyford is under thirty and, as mentioned, he may be headed for the rotation soon. These players will all need to be replaced imminently.

Rating: 6/10

Lineup

CF Elton Atherton*
1B Billy MacNidder*
LF Joe Nowell*
C Jake Counsell
3B Gabriel Parent
2B Aidan Metson*
RF Patrick Courtenay
SS Brian Williams

Leeds' position players are notable mostly for their uniformly good defense. All of the Roses' players are at least average at their position, and many are considerably better than that. Leadoff man Elton Atherton is particularly notable in this regard -- one of the best defensive CF in the league. He's also a real burner, and should get enough slap hits as a leadoff man to be valuable. Offensively, first overall pick Joe Nowell is obviously the jewel in the crown. MacNidder is a very good hitter with some additional power, too. Counsell is a pretty tough out, and hits for average and gets on base at a decent clip. The latter half is really not much to write home about offensively. Courtenay is maybe a bit above average, but Metson, Parent and Williams are all fairly mediocre hitters. The Roses are likely to cause havoc on the basepaths, though -- with Williams, Atherton and Nowell hitting close together in the line-up, they could steal bases in bunches. Leeds will need to win with great defense; timely hitting; and excellent base-running.

Rating: 8/10.

Bench

C Fergus Pynchon
INF Kyle Coinneach*
OF Leon Kestle*

This bench is really not up to much. Pynchon is basically a non-factor: Leeds would be happy if he never got into a game this season. Coinneach is a really a corner infielder, and might look lost defensively when playing up the middle. He's not very effective with the bat either. Kestle is a better player in both regards, but his arm might struggle if he's ever asked to play right field. Both Coinneach and (especially) Kestle are pinch-running options, though. The Roses could theoretically field a line-up featuring six stolen-base threats.

Rating: 2/10.

Overall Team Rating: 5.8/10.

*************************************

MANCHESTER MILLERS

Left to Right: SP Ashley Fitter, 2B Stuart Millington, SP Jorge Cruz, RP Thomas Larwood, RF Manny Melendez, RP Harry Spriggs, 1B Christopher Thompson, C Dave Gripton.

General Manager: Keith Evans (55; Huddersfield, Yorks.)
Manager: Nicky Renton (31; Grantham, Lincs.)

Starting Rotation

RHP Ashley Fitter
LHP Jorge Cruz
LHP Francis Feather

Manchester sport probably the second-best rotation in the division, headed by an excellent one-two punch. Fitter controls with his excellent, hard sinkerball and very good cutter. Southpaw Cruz is a more orthodox fastball-change merchant. Fitter should anchor this staff for years to come, though he'll probably have to do it without the 39 year-old Cruz for most of that time. The six foot seven Feather is rather mediocre -- he has a wide arsenal, but none of his pitches is really above average. He should be an acceptable third starter for a few years, though.

Rating: 7/10.

Bullpen

LHP Thomas Larwood
RHP Harry Spriggs
RHP Sergio Moreno
RHP Ian Mawson
LHP Ross Erskine
RHP Andrew Stickells

Larwood, who I've written about before, is obviously a stud. He becomes the team's relief ace in the immediate future, but could also be Cruz's replacement in the rotation long-term if he can develop another pitch. Spriggs is also a very good short-innings reliever, and provides a nice right-handed complement to Larwood. There's a bit of a drop off after those two, though, which is what stops the Millers' corps from being an elite bullpen. Sergio Moreno is admittedly solid, but having only Ross Erskine as the second lefty might cause problems. Mawson and Stickells are both mediocre guys, but they have strong arms and can eat innings. Both might also be options to make spot starts, cover the rotation in case of injury, or step-in should Feather struggle.

Rating: 7/10.

Lineup

2B Stuart Millington
LF Aidan Spurle
RF Manny Melendez*
3B Hayden Eaves
SS Gaz York
CF Jay Pidduck
1B Christopher Thompson*
C Cameron Strudwick

This line-up is probably the very worst in the UKBL. Stuart Millington is an excellent lead-off hitter, and plays a very good second base. Spurle, Melendez and Thompson are all solid -- though why Thompson is all the way down at seventh in the order is a mystery to me. The rest of the hitting, however, is comfortably below average. Eaves is easily the worst clean-up hitter in the league, and York makes poor contact and can't be relied upon to get on base at a good clip. Pidduck and Strudwick, meanwhile, are two of the most offensively-challenged everyday players in the league. The line-up is starved of home run potential in particular -- only Melendez and Eaves even hit for decent power. For what it's worth, this starting eight also has very little speed.

The defense is solid, which is the one positive thing about the Millers' collection of position players. The combination of Millington and York up the middle should help Fitter be effective, as the sinkerballer can expect to induce plenty of ground balls.

Rating: 2/10.

Bench

C Dave Gripton
INF Rob Mattison
UT Daryl Brickell

The Manchester bench isn't particularly valuable either. Gripton is a very solid hitter, and it's insane to me that they're only platooning him considering the state of their offense. Admittedly, he is a questionable catcher defensively, but the Millers need whatever hitting they can get at this point. Mattison can't hit much and, although he plays a solid second base, Manchester really don't want him getting too many innings at short. Brickell is a better hitter -- he approaches the heights of league-average-ness -- but he's only a decent defenive option at the outfield corners, and the Millers will be trying to use him in the infield as well.

Rating: 2/10.

Overall Team Rating: 4.5/10.

*************************************

TYNESIDE MINERS

Left to Right: SP Colin Ladbrooke, SP Taylor Cheshire, 1B Carl Leggett, RP Dwayne Askin, SP Benjamin Cooper, RF Toby Dook, SS Scott Ring, RP Archie Priday.

General Manager: Kevin Norman (35; Portsmouth, Hamps.)
Manager: Fergus Matcham (58; Denham, Bucks.)

Starting Rotation

RHP Colin Ladbrooke
LHP Taylor Cheshire
RHP Benjamin Cooper

Tyneside have comfortably the best rotation in the league. It comprises three players that I had projected to be aces, and is balanced well; it contains two righties and a southpaw. Colin Ladbrooke is probably the best starting pitcher in the league, and should be dominant for the three years he is signed for. Cheshire, also on a three-year contract, is one of the league's best left-handers. Cooper, who has a nice and varied arsenal and throws 92 m.p.h. consistently, rounds out the staff and is the youngest of the three. Athough all of the starters are thirty or older, the Miners have a few years to compete using this staff, and build successors simultaneously.

Rating: 9/10.

Bullpen

RHP Dwayne Askin
RHP Archie Priday
LHP Scott Bairstow
RHP Harley Balsdon
LHP Louis Puttock
RHP Zach Tompkins

Backing up the league's premier rotation is an elite bullpen. Askin is a hard-throwing right hander with excellent stuff who, despite control problems, can handle short relief well. Priday is a young hurler who throws an 89 m.p.h fastball and relies largely on pin-point control and the inducement of groundballs. Bairstow is a workhorse with decent stuff who will be the premier lefty in the 'pen. Balsdon and Puttock are both mediocre middle relief options, whilst Thompkins provides an alternative option to start, perform mopup duties, throw long relief, etc.

Rating: 9/10.

Lineup

CF Jacob Coinneach*
C Gavin Howey**
Harold Dumbrill
RF Toby Dook*
1B Carl Leggett**
LF William Warr
SS Scott Ring
3B Mark Hemming

As you might of a team assembled via a draft and sporting an elite pitching staff, the Tyneside line-up is nothing to write home about. The defense is mostly solid. The only concerns are William Warr's fringy glove in left field, and Scott Ring -- a third baseman attempting to learn shortstop this season. The lineup has a serious lack of power, with only Dook and Leggett capable of providing even average home run numbers. Coinneach should serve his role as a leadoff man well enough -- he hits for average, walks a bit and also has excellent speed. Behind him, Howey is a solid singles hitter with a keen eye. However, the Miners' inexplicable love of Harold Dumbrill and William Warr (taken second and third in the draft respectively by Tyneside) hurts the middle of the line-up. Leggett is a very good hitter, and Dook, Ring and Hemming are all O.K., but the Miners lack a real star who can be relied on to put together a great offensive season.

Rating: 3/10.

Bench

C Charlie Arbuthnot
3B/SS Evan Oulton
OF Karsten de Meij

de Meij will be involved in a platoon, playing left against southpaws. William Warr will slide over to centre in such situations, with Coinneach sitting. de Meij should really just be the permanent starter -- he's a much better hitter than Warr. Warr, who has a poor glove for a left fielder, will be lost when trying to field centre. Arbuthnot is a good, young defensive catcher and is fine as a backup. Oulton can offer decent defense on the diamond, and is an excellent pinch running option. All in all, the Miners' bench looks pretty good -- but at least part of that is due to a failure to start the best players.

Rating: 6/10.

Overall Team Rating: 6.3.

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Up next: the Southern Division preview.

canadiancreed · 06-09-2009, 08:53 PM

Glasgow seems to be one of those teams that could put up football scores

Dr. Wu · 06-10-2009, 02:11 PM

Fantastic read so far.

06-07-2009, 03:43 PM	#12
struggles_mightily Minors (Triple A) Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 292	UKBL: INAUGURAL DRAFT POOL REPORT. CATCHERS Left to Right: Martin Horsforth, Sean Cattanach, Mitch Pittock, Dave Gripton. Probably the best option at catcher in the draft is Martin Horsforth (25 years old; place of birth: Berkhamstead, Herts.). An excellent defensive backstop, Horsforth also brings solid contact-hitting skills and plate discipline to the table. Blessed with doubles power, Horsforth is not a much of a threat to go deep. Nevertheless, his youth and good hitting ability for a catcher make him an exciting player. Two years his junior is Mitch Pittock (23; Spillsby, Lincs.), a definite option for those looking for a young blue-chipper behind the plate. Possessing good power for a backstop, and displaying above-average hitting skills in almost all areas, Pittock also benefits from above-average D. A more short-term solution will be provided by the powerful bat of Sean Cattanach (33; Mayfield, Scotland). With excellent plate discipline as well as plenty of pop, Cattanach would be an elite offensive talent if he drew more walks. Nevertheless, these skills -- added to an above-average glove -- make him a very valuable player, even if he doesn't project to be at that level for too much longer. The quality of backstops falls off rather sharply at this point. Dave Gripton (26; Oldham, Manc.) is on the right side of thirty and has an above average bat. However, he has questionable defensive skills and an arm made out of little bits of papier mache held together by Gloy. These problems are also likely to be un-solvable, as he is five foot seven (tiny for a catcher, smallest player in the draft) and only 190lbs, which is also below average. Alternatively, one might choose defensive whizz Declan Durridge (34; Brownhills, West Mids.). He also has a decent bat (albeit with not much power) and hits lefty which is a nice oddity for a backstop. His age is a worry though, especially considering his position. A compromise option might be Jake Counsell (29; Burton, Derbys.) who is neither old nor young; neither defensively whizzy or challenged; and somewhere between Pudge Rodriguez and Pudge Heffelfinger with a baseball bat. If you hate fish exactly as much as you hate fowl, he's a solid option. Rounding out the list of guys likely to find starting jobs are Josh MacArtney (30; Aberdeen, Scotland) and Gavin Howey (33; Great Sankey, Chesh.). These two guys are basically symmetrical opposites who have the same amount of talent. MacArtney is a great defensive player with not too much of a bat; Howey is an above-average singles hitter with some gap power and some defensive kinks. On the bright side, he does watch a lot of film. However, being conversant with every Palme d'Or winner since 1939 is unlikely to help one in a baseball-playing context. Also of some interest is Charlie Arbuthnot (22; Fort William, Scotland), the youngest of three Scottish brothers all eligible for the draft. Charlie is a solid defender, but he needs to develop his hitting skills if he wants to win a starting job. Still, his age makes him an attractive option to be stashed away. If a team is looking for a defensive star in the later rounds to use as a backup, then it's difficult to improve on Nathan Udall (35; Stroud, Gloucs.). He can hit a bit for average, but his main asset is his glove. He rarely makes an error behind the plate and, due to an horrific birth defect, he has a cannon where his arm should be. FIRST BASEMEN Left to Right: Carl Leggett, Mark Jeffcoate, Billy 'Beanpole' MacNidder, Christopher Thompson. There are rather fewer power-hitting studs available to play first than you might guess. Nevertheless, there remains Carl Leggett (24; Kingsteignton, Dev.), a guy with above-average pop who can also spray doubles to all fields. His defense, even at the diamond's easiest position, leaves rather a lot to be desired, however. But, considering his young age, the simple solution might be more reps. The other serious option to be taken first amongst first sackers is Mark Jeffcoate (26; Nottingham, Notts.), a converted third-baseman with great contact skills and a good eye. He can hit some doubles, though he's not a major power threat. Slight for a 1B at six feet and only 185lbs, his small size enables him to get around the bag quickly, and he has good defensive skills. His history as a third baseman also means that he's one of the few right-handed first basemen available. A tier below these two is Billy 'Beanpole' MacNidder (33; Wolverhampton, West Mids.). At six feet and eight inches, he's the league's tallest position player. He shouldn't have problems getting to any throws air-mailed by his third baseman. It's he who's likely to be air-mailing the throws, however, as his skills as a first baseman leave something to be desired -- if UKBL introduces the designated hitter, MacNidder will be first to volunteer. Nevertheless, he is credited as one of the league's most intelligent players by its scouts, and can hit for plenty of average and take walks with regularity. Don't expect huge home run totals, but he'll smash some gappers. The drop-off here is quite significant -- first base is generally a weakly-represented position in the draft. Christopher Thompson (27; Normanton, Derbys.) offers doubles-hitting ability and an above-average glove, but no power. Two options to draft a younger guy and see how he pans out present themselves in Tim Brierly (22; London) and Aaron Maddy (22; London). Brierley is an average hitter across the board, but a major defensive worry at present. Maddy isn't really much better in that department; but is known to be an incredibly hard worker. Maybe his work can help him to get some power out of his 6'5, 230lbs frame. Otherwise, he'll remain a fairly mediocre hitter. Considering the weak 1B class, taking an older guy and letting him act as the bridge to a future rookie might be a smart option. Freddie Winters (33; London) -- probably the very definition of an average ballplayer -- provides an opportunity to do just that. Ryosei Kondo (31; Imabari, Japan) is the girthiest player in the draft. Sadly he has not turned his blubber into power, and remains kind of an average hitter. He also has a terrible glove and, inside that terrible glove, a hand that plays terrible defense. Further down the food chain, and not likely to be starting options, are a couple of younger players who could be of interest. Gari Boniface (24; Portsmouth, Hamps.) is essentially Ryosei Kondo after a ten minute treadmill sesh. Unlike Kondo, however, he does have some power -- if a front office thinks he can develop some more, he will probably be a starter in due course. Like Kondo, he's a real liability defensively. Alternatively, there's the slightly younger Colm Rennison (21; Great Malvern, Worcs.). He should be an average hitter, but (at present anyway) he makes Kondo and Boniface look like Albert Pujols glove-wise. SECOND BASEMEN Left to Right: Robbie Crerar, Stuart Millington, Mitchell Isgar, Elton Northam. The pool of second basemen available in the draft is led by a group of three talented young players. At the top of the tree is Robbie Crerar (24; London). Amongst the best players in the league as regards hitting for average and plate discipline, he also sprays doubles into the gaps and plays a passable second base. He has no power, but nevertheless remains an elite offensive talent and can steal a bag on occasion also. If your team can't get Crerar, then they wouldn't do much worse by drafting Stuart Millington (26; Longbenton, Tyne & Wear). He has maybe a tick more power than Crerar, but has slightly weaker on-base skills. However, he is one of the very best glovemen in the league at second. Scouts are also eager to praise his intangibles -- but that's bollocks, innit, really? Rounding out the trio is the youngest of the group, Mitchell Isgar (21; Stalybridge, Manc.). He's a good all-around hitter with nice power for a 2B. He's also a real burner, and should be near the top of the league in stolen bases. His problem is his defense. Being young, more reps may be an adequate solution. Otherwise, the combination of the league's weak talent at first and Isgar's strong bat might facilitate a move across the infield. On a lower rung is another young player, Elton Northam (25; Ivybride, Dev.). He's only an average hitter -- his lack of power is notable, but not unusual for a second baseman -- but also an excellent gloveman with good speed. The best power option amongst second sackers (that sounds dumb, but synonyms are good) is probably Jack Crittall (28; Hartwell, Bucks.). He's an average all-around hitter, and also plays a mediocre 2B. If Crittall loses some of his power as he gets older, then he'll basically turn into Cameron MacBeth (35; Walsall, West Mids.). MacBeth is solid, but too unremarkable for me to want to talk about any further. Rounding out the players of a "starting"-type calibre are Corey Thompson (28; Waltham Abbey, Ess.) and Douglas Young (31; Shotton, Dur.). Thompson is a below-average hitter, with no power in particular, but he has a pretty good glove and great speed (though he gets thrown out a lot when trying to steal). Young is a singles hitter who will get on base at a good clip; he also has a passable glove. His speed matches Thompson's, and Young has mastered the technical aspects of base stealing also. Another burner who should be available in later rounds is Bradley Payton (24; Portslade, Suss.). He's a solid hitter, but there's doubts about whether his glove will allow him to remain at second. He can play first very well; but doesn't really have the bat for it. Other younger players who might be able to develop into something of use include Martin Limby (20; Tiverton, Den.) and Aidan Metson (21; Torpoint, Corn.). Limby has a good glove, but needs to develop his hitting skills if he's going to see significant UKBL time. Metson can hit a little bit for contact, and might turn into a low-level starter for a club down the road. SHORTSTOPS Left to Right: Ethan MacMillan, Harvey Daintry, Brian Williams, Gaz York. Clearly the best shortstop available is Scotland's pride, Ethan MacMillan (22; Glasgow, Scotland). He's a very good hitter for an SS, and is easily the most powerful shortstop available. Scouts who have spoken to the kid have apparently been very impressed with his general attitude. The only question is whether he has the defense to stick at short. Being young, he has plenty of time to improve in that area. His youth also means that he may be able to develop even more power as he fills out. It should be particularly interesting to see whether the Red Sox can manage to nab this local talent and turn him into the future face of the franchise. The next player down from MacMillan is probably Harvey Daintry (34; Waterlooville, Suss.). He sprays singles to all fields and gets on base at a very nice clip. He doesn't have much power, and his glove is just mediocre. He age obviously prevents him from being a player to build around, but he should nevertheless be one of the better starting SS in the league for a couple of years. There's quite a drop-off before the next tier of players. Brian Williams (26; Oldbury, West Mids.) is the best left-handed hitter available at short. He's solid enough, but can't hit for power at all. His glove is pretty good, and he also has above average speed and good stealing skills, which should ensure that he racks up plenty of sack-thefts (yeh...). Another Black Country shortstop is Gaz York (35; Wolverhampton, West Mids.). He's an all-around average player -- not terribly exciting, but he has more power than most others at his position. His glove is only mediocre, however, and obviously his age means that he won't be sticking around for long, unless he has Omar Vizquel genes. He isn't as old as Des Teale (36; Guiseley, Yorks.), however. Teale might actually be Omar Vizquel -- he's an excellent defensive player with just an average bat. He can also play third base to a high quality if needed. The final tier of probable starters consists of three very similar players: your typical decent hitting, decent glove, no power shortstops. James Kernuish (29; Inverurie, Scotland) is probably the best hitter of the group, and is solid defensively. More of a doubles hitter than a real power threat, Dwaine Bowes (29; London) is maybe a tick below the rest of this group defensively. He is incredibly versatile, though, and can fill-in in most positions in a pinch, at least. Alaistar Laslett (34; Biggleswade, Beds.) is essentially an older version of Bowes, with a slightly better glove. But he's kinda old, obviously. At short, it's obviously important to have a top-calibre gloveman, even if just as a defensive replacement. Alan Gander (31; Kirkby, Mers.) could well find himself fulfilling that role. He's one of the best fielders in the league, but is also a below-average hitter. A younger version, who may be able to develop more of a bat in the future is Ellis Freegard (22; Wath, Yorks.). He might also serve as a defense-minded backup, with a view to taking more playing time in future. Also available in the later rounds will be Evan Oulton (28; London), one of the league's best base-stealers and another solid glove guy. THIRD BASEMEN Left to Right: Riley Harris, Lee Allmark, Ry Bonham, Scott Ring. The top players at third base are basically clustered together. If anyone stands out, then it's Riley Harris (23; Melton Mowbray, Leics.) He doesn't have very much power, but hits singles at will and gets on base at a great clip. His glove is mediocre, but he's young enough that that can improve. Adding something to his value is his incredible speed and stealing ability. He is a good bet to lead the league in steals during the first seasons. Also available is Lee Allmark (22; Darlington, Dur.), who is pretty much the definition of "above-average". He exceeds the mean in just above every category, but doesn't really excel in any area. Scouts are quick to praise his "work ethic", which is probably another way of saying "this guy is kind of boring to talk about but also pretty good, I guess." Rounding out this initial trio of young dudes is the youngest of the lot, Ry Bonham (20; Leicester, Leics.). He hits hard gappers like a machine for hitting hard gappers, and is just generally an above-average hitter. His main problem is his defense, which is pretty bad. His youth (he's the second-youngest guy in the draft) makes him intriguing, though, especially if he can add some extra power and some skill around the bag. Just a tick below them is Scott Ring (23; East Kilbride, Scotland). He's a solid hitter, albeit without much power, and a mediocre defender. He can also steal bases from time to time. Alternatively, for those who prefer an older man, Hamish Quarry (32; Glasgow, Scotland). He's a good hitter and a decent glove-man. He's probably as good as Allmark is right now, but obviously kind of old. He might slip down the draft order due to his age. He might steal a bag or two. Literally. One, or maybe two. Further down the pecking order is Kyle Coinneach (22; Newry, Nothern Ireland). He's a very average player, with a mediocre bat and slightly above-average glove. After Riley, he's probably the biggest stolen-base threat amongst third-sackers. He also has an older brother called Jacob, who plays center-field. So they're, like, the second-most remarkable Celtic family unit in this league. Very similar to the younger Coinneach is Aaron MacElfrish (25; London). He has maybe slightly better defense; but is a bit older. Finally in this trio is Mark Hemming (23; Cramlington, Northum.). He's a better hitter than the other two -- he hits singles at a good rate and can get on base well. Unsurprisingly, he has now power, however. And his glove is only mediocre. Perhaps fighting the above youngsters for a starting job on a club this year is Lewis Wood (34; Clarkston, Scotland). He's a good contact hitter and has some above-average plate discipline; but his glove is only mediocre. He might be over-looked, since there are players of similar quality who will probably be cheaper and definitely are younger. Wood also has the dubious distinction of being perhaps the slowest runner in the draft pool Another option is Dennis Calvert (22; London), who will come in handy should anyone need to field the most mediocre player in the world for any reason. LEFT FIELDERS Left to Right: Lucas Bundy, Gonzalo Antonio, Andrew Arbuthnot, Karsten de Meij. Like most positions, left field is topped by a young star with a great bat. In this case, it's Lucas Bundy (24; Stowmarket, Suff.). A very good all-around hitter, Bundy has average power but hits for excellent contact and also has a great eye. He has mostly doubles power, but could also be a serious home run threat if taken by a team with a smaller ballpark. For what it's worth, he also has very nice defense, albeit at one of the game's easier positions. With a decent arm, he could probably play some right field without being a disaster. Furthermore, he has excellent speed and stealing ability, and so looks to be almost the complete player. His surname also facilitates a large selection of potential nicknames, depening on whether his play bests resembles that of a hen-pecked shoe-salesman; a mountainous professional wrestler; or a serial killer and rapist. Another good option in left is Chile-born Gonzalo Antonio (31; Tome, Chile). He's pretty much as good a hitter as Bundy, but has a slightler weaker glove and is a bit older and slower (but still a stolen-base threat). Like Bundy, he can also play some right field if required. Also intriguing is the most promising of that band of brothers, the Arbuthnots. Andy Arbuthnot (25; Fort William, Scotland) is a good all-around hitter, who's just a tick weaker than the above two players in all facets. His defense is his only serious problem -- he has a weak arm and frequently takes sub-optimal routes. From the next tear of left fielders, Karsten de Meij (27; Utrecht, Netherlands) is a solid player; though he lacks the contact hitting skills of most of this cohort. He is an above average defensive player but, as said earlier, the importance of this in choosing a left-fielder is uncertain. Alternatively, one might plump for the solid singles-hitting certainty of Aidan Spurle (31; Saint Martin, Jersey) -- the league's only Channel Islander. He lacks the power you would normally expect from an LF, but makes good contact and also plays acceptable defense. In a similar vein is Joshua MacIlraith (37; Stretford, Manc.). Not at all a power threat, MacIlraith can hit for average somewhat and get on base at a decent clip. He is also probably the best left fielder available in the draft, sporting an above-average arm. Indeed, there's a good chance that a team might take him in order to put him in right, where his average hitting skills will be more useful. Rounding out this tier of players is Alex Carylyon (37; London). He's a slightly better hitter than MacIlraith, but really has no defensive ability at all, with all the poise and acceleration of an oil tanker. He does have kind of a cool surname, though. Both Carylyon and MacIlraith are harmed also by the fact that any team taking them can't bank on a long-term contribution. The final player who can expect a starting job is the Mexican-born Cesar Jimenez (29; Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico). He has very little power in his bat, and is probably not even an average hitter. His glove is O.K., but his relative prominence within the class is probably a result primarily of the weak options at the lower reaches of the left field pool. Competing with Jimenez for a starting role will be Ceri Bett (Cheltenham, Gloucs.). A below average hitter with an average glove, some team might draft him in the hope that he'll develop some power. Alternatively, he may end up as a bench-warming corner outfielder. Amongst the role players to be had at the position is Griff Armistead (31; Broadstairs, Kent.), a base-stealing threat with defensive skills. CENTRE FIELDERS Left to Right: Kieran MacNicol, Lucien Desrosiers, Kai Blowers, Jack Arundale. The best centre fielders available in the draft are mostly established players; there isn't really an obvious stud who will be the class of the position for years to come. Nevertheless, there are strong players available already in their prime. Most notable is Kieran MacNicol (31; Birntisland, Scotland). He has uncommon power for a CFer, and is solidly above average in all aspects of the offensive game. He's also very rangy in centre; although he doesn't have much of an arm. Right up there with MacNicol is the league's only French player, Lucien Desrosiers (34; Lyon, France). Getting up there in years, Desrosiers is nevertheless an elite defensive player at a position where fielding skills are a major source of value. He's no slouch with the bat either: his skills are solidly above-average; though he's not a longball threat. Kai Blowers (28; Dawlish, Dev.) is a player with a similar offensive skillset to Desrosiers. Blowers doesn't quote possess the range of the man from Lyon, but is nevertheless an above-average defensive contributor. He can also swipe some bags, and is vaunted by scouts for his intelligence -- both defensively and when running the bases, he makes the best out of average speed using great decision-making skills. Alternatively a team might look to Jack Arundale (27; London), a solid player with some upside. He hits for good average and gets on base at a nice clip, though he isn't at all a power threat. He has good defensive tools, but is a recently converted right fielder who simply needs more reps at the position. His above-average speed and excellent instincts make him a stolen base threat, too. Fellow Londoner Andrew Stay (31; London) is another solid option for a starting job in centre. He is above average in all facets of the game, both defensive and offensive. Unlike many of his fellow CFers, however, he has only mediocre speed. Rounding out this tier is Andy Houlbrook (32; South Normanton, Derbys.). He has a great eye, and is in general an a slightly above-average offensive player. However, he has a poor arm and only mediocre range. He plays more like a left fielder, but doesn't have the bat to switch across the outfield. At the end of the list of guys who will be looking for starting jobs are two somewhat younger dudes with polar opposite skillsets. Evan Cadle (26; Leeds, Yorks.) is one of the elite defensive centre fields. Unfortunately, he's a below-average hitter with, in particular, zero power. He can steal some bases, but not enough to make up for his offensive shortcomings entirely. Alternatively, there's Neil Gillett (24; Bolton, Manc.). He can hit for good average, and might develop some power. By the time he develops it, however, he may not be a centre fielder anymore. He hasn't yet learnt how to make good reads on balls in CF, and might be more comfortable sliding over to right. There are a bunch of younger players with upsides available for teams who can stash them. At the top of this pile are Elton Atherton (24; Sunderland, Tyne & Wear) and Zak Kenworthy (23; Harrogate, Yorks.). Both of them are major burners who will steal a lot of bases. Neither has any power, but Kenworthy in particular has the ability to develop above-average contact and discipline. Atherton is already an elite defender; Kenworthy is no slouch either. The CF pool is unsurprisingly a good place to pick up a pinch runner. Perhaps most attractive in this regard is Jacob Coinneach (27; Newry, Nothern Ireland) -- he's a real burner and can play some D; but doesn't really have a bat. RIGHT FIELDERS Left to Right: Joe Nowell, Edgar Colon, Francisco Lopez, Finlay Sandercock. Right field looks to be pretty stacked in the draft, and houses probably the two best position players available -- including a possible first pick. A strong candidate to be taken first overall, Joe Nowell (21; London) is an excellent all-around player who should be amongst the league's best players for years to come. He's out on his own as the league's most powerful hitter, and he can hit for contact and work a walk with the best of them too. He has above average speed, and will steal his fair share of bases. He's by no means an elite defensive RF, but he should be good enough to stick and avoid moving to left. Even if he has to transition, though, he easily has the bat to justify the move. A shade behind him, mostly due to his slightly higher age, is Dominican Edgar Colon (25; Santiago, D.R.). The second or third best pure power hitter in the league (behind Nowell and perhaps the catcher Sean Cattanach), Colon is an excellent all-around masher; definitiely Nowell's equal. Also like Nowell, Colon is a solid defensive player with good speed and the ability to steal bases. Both of these guys can be plugged into the middle of a line-up for years to come. Francisco Lopez (26; San Juan, P.R.) would be considered the top dog if he played a number of other positions. As it is, he's a solid number three. He has some power, and is a well above-average across the board. He strikes out a lot and lacks elite contact skills, which may put some off. He does have an excellent glove, though, and is probably the best available RF defensively. He has an absolute canon as well as good range. A good contact-and-discipline hitter, Finlay Sandercock (25; Verwood, Dors.) is a solidly above-average batsman with a mediocre glove. He isn't very mobile out there, and might begin to look lost in a bigger outfield. Nevertheless, his bat makes him a good starting option, and he has kind of a funny name. Heh heh -- "cock". Also available is the final of the trio of brothers, Sean Arbuthnot (28; Fort William, Scotland). He's just about above-average in all areas of the game. He takes walks and hits for average; he isn't huge power guy, though hell get his share of taters. Like Sandercock, his lack of footspeed harms his range. Arbuthnot does, however, have a nice arm for right field. Leading off the final tier of starting calibre players is Kieran Telfer (26; Spennymoor, Dur.). He's just an all-around above average player, whose major struggle is with making solid contact regularly. His defense is good and he might steal a few bases also. A more defensive-minded option is Archie Foulsham (29; Plymouth, Dev.). He has excellent speed and gets to balls easily -- his burner-ish-ness also makes him a very good base stealing option. His bat isn't really up to much, however: he's not terrible; but he has no power. Finally, there is another Dominican, Manny Melendez (25; Azua, D.R.). He is pretty much the definition of a mediocre player; though he does have some doubles power. Alternatively, one might look to Jordan Elston (26; Portsmouth, Hamps.). He has a slightly more exciting bat than Melendez; but he has a weak arm and lacks speed. All this makes for a frustrating defensive experience, and he might be more of a 1B or LF in the long term. Summary The best position players available in the draft overall are, I should think: #1: Joe Nowell ----- RF ----- London. ----- 21. #2: Edgar Colon ------ RF ------ Santiago, D.R. ----- 25. #3: Lucas Bundy ----- LF ----- Stowmarket, Suff. ----- 24. #4: Robbie Crerar ------ 2B ------ London ----- 24. #5: Kieran MacNicol ------ CF ------ Birntisland, Scot. ------ 31. #6: Martin Horsforth ----- C ------ Berkhamstead, Herts. ------ 25. #7: Francisco Lopez ----- RF ----- San Juan, P.R. ----- 26. #8: Ethan MacMillan ----- SS ------ Glasgow, Scot. ----- 22. #9: Riley Harris ------ 3B ----- Melton Mowbray, Leics. ----- 23. #10: Sean Cattanach ------ C ----- Mayfield, Scot. ----- 31. STARTING PITCHERS Left to Right: Colin 'Northern Gas' Ladbrooke, Ryan Monteith, Bryan Dickinson, Ashley Fitter, Jorge Cruz, Taylor Cheshire, Arturo Castillo, Bejamin Cooper. There are basically two major choices regarding which pitcher should be taken first in the draft. The most bankable option is Colin 'Northern Gas' Ladbrooke (31; Bradford, Yorks.). An established player with great natural stuff and command, he should be pretty dominant for a few years. He has the best fastball of any available starter, and maybe the best change-up too. His sits right around 94 m.p.h., which puts him in an elite class of UKBL starters. His arsenal also includes a very good slider, and a curveball which he can sometimes mix in. He also has an awesome nickname; which I personally would say is more important than anything related to the actual playing of baseball -- a boring game for squares & jerks. The other potential choice is the younger Ryan Monteith (26; Bletchley, Bucks.). He has better raw stuff than Ladbrooke, and controls his pitches better too. However, he only has two pitches at present -- a hard 93 m.p.h. sinker that he throws most of the time, and a slider that is pure filth and easily the best in the league. That arsenal on a LHP starting pitcher would make for a no-brainer first overall pick. However, his lack of a third pitch and his history of endurance-limiting arm problems might make him into a relief pitcher soon. Front offices will need to weight these factors heavily when considering how to approach Montieth. If your team passes on him, then there are other good options to plug in as an ace. Bryan Dickinson (32; Cleadon, Tyne and Wear) is probably the best right-handed starter in the draft after Ladbrooke. He throws his very good, 93 m.p.h. cutter most of the time; and backs it up with a nice splitter and a passable curveball. His lack of a two-seam fastball lead some to consider him a somewhat "junky" hurler, but he's a very good option for the next few years. Alternatively, one could assemble an elite infield defense and go with Ashley Fitter (28; Reading, Berks.), a sinkerballer who induces groundballs like a machine. Fitter also has a good cutter and a decent change that he mix in if the sinker don't sink. He's also one of the younger guys at the top of the pile. Those who would prefer to put a southpaw at the top of their rotation could choose Taylor Cheshire (31; West Bromwich, West Mids.) or Jorge Cruz (39; Barquisimeto, Venezuela). Cheshire is one of those guys who shouldn't be as successful as he is. His stuff looks pretty mediocre -- average change; average curve; average splitter; crappy 89 m.p.h. fastball. But sometimes a junkballing lefty just manages to paralyse RHB-heavy lineups, I guess. The success of Cruz is rather less mysterious -- it's mostly due to his Mickey Mouse change-up (it has big ears and owns a dog called 'Pluto'). His fastball and curve are pretty average, though, and he's obviously not at all a long-term option. The last two options for the "ace" mantle are probably Cuban-born Arturo Castillo (25; Havana, Cuba) and not-Cuban-born Benjamin Cooper (29; Steyning, Suss.). Castillo is a kind of RHP junkballer, with a whole host of mediocre-looking pitches that nevertheless do a bunch of weird things. He controls his pitches pretty well, but obviously isn't going to be blowing anyone away. Cooper is a finesse guy -- great control, but not much movement on his stuff. He has a nice, low nineties fastball and a decent slider and forkball (probably the best forkball in the league, in fact, for what that's worth). He "pitches to contact" and this means a tonne of flyballs. You probably want to pass on this guy if you play in a small park (i.e. the Admirals, mainly). Moving on to #2-type guys, Danny Bamber (25; London) is a young horse who can throw (his mediocre pitches) a lot. He's also the best candidate to be the UKBL version of Rick Ankiel, as he can hit for a bit of average. (That's not a knock on his control, incidentally -- it's OK). Mick Lyford (28; Ashburton, Dev.) is a LHP and is completely boring. Calum Carmicheal (32; Lhanbryde, Scotland) is the probably the most talented Scottish pitcher in the draft. This means: the Red Sox definitely need to look to foreign players for their pitching staff. Keeping with the nationality-based notations, Joe Sloan (33; Norwalk, USA) is the only American in the draft; perhaps somewhat surprisingly. He's also a very fringy proposition as a starter, due to arm troubles in the past. In the second half of this tier, there is Brandon Wentworth (26; Dudley, West Mids.), a guy with a vaguely porn star-ish sounding name -- but, considering his place of birth, almost certainly not a porn star-ish sounding voice. He also has a nice forkball, which I guess could be woven into some kind of tame innuendo given the above consideration. Below him is Daryl Carleton (Tamworth, Staffs.), a (soon to be) professional baseball pitcher with an 87 m.p.h. fastball. So he should be interesting. Rounding out the list of guys who will probably be #2 types are Stewart Oglander (26; Birmingham, West Mids.) and Sam MacDuff (26; Saint Andrews, Scotland). They are both men with heads. I guess MacDuff is slightly interesting as a further piece of evidence re: Scotland's inability to develop pitching. There are a few other guys worthy of comment, though. Keith Winkley (37; Reading, Berks.) has the best curve in the league. Unfortunately, the rest of his arsenal is fairly crappy and he projects as a number three (which is the bottom of a UKBL rotation, of course). As a "crafty lefty" archetype, though, he's kind of interesting. He's also the only guy in the league who throws a knuckle curve. There's also the league's final sinkerballing starter, James MacGowing (22; Earling, Scotland). He cranks it up to 88 m.p.h and lacks stamina, though, so "starter" is only a provisional designation. RELIEF PITCHERS Left to Right: Aidan Carrick, Thomas Larwood, Charlie Rippon, Juan Miranda. For all its struggles in developing starting pitching, Scotland can claim as its own the league's best reliever, Aidan Carrick (24; Livingston, Scotland). He has probably the best fastball in the league -- it sits at 94 m.p.h and has excellent movement. He backs this up with an excellent slider. He does a pretty good job of inducing groundballs, too. He's strictly a one-inning type of guy due to his lack of stamina, but he remains the best reliever available. Another intriguing option is provided by Thomas Larwood (22; Gosberton, Lincs.). He has a strong arm, and could be a workhorse starter if he can develop a third pitch. Being young, he obviously has plenty of time to do so. Any team drafting Larwood gets not only one of the league's best relievers over the short term, but also a potential ace or #2 starter in the future. He has a decent 90 m.p.h. fastball and an excellent slider. Not being a fireballer, it might be better for him to develop a breaking pitch -- a curve, perhaps -- or a cutter, rather than a change-up. If you do want a flamethrower, then you can't do much better than Charlie Rippon (29; Mosborough, Yorks.). His cut fastball is the fastest pitch in the league; topping out at 96 m.p.h.. He also throws an excellent curveball, and is one of the best available options to be a relief ace in the league. Alternatively, there's Juan Miranda (32; Macaracas, D.R..), a standard fastball-change pitcher without much speed who hits his spots flawlessly. Can you guess the problem that Dwayne 'Wild Thing' Askin (27; Manchester, Manc.) experiences? Yes, that's correct, he only has two fingers. Oh, and he also struggles with his location. His low-nineties fastball might still make him very useful, however. He also has an above-average slider. A similar player is Jordan Northmore (32; Pelsall, West Mids.). He has a hard fastball (without much movement on it), and a good arsenal that also includes an above-average change and curveball. He gives up a lot of flyballs, though. Rounding out the list of closer-y type guys are Harry Spriggs (37; Halifax, Yorks.) and Jacob Wickenden (27; London). Spriggs is Jordan Northmore with a few m.p.h shaved off. Wickenden is a finesse guy who throws a 90 m.p.h fastball and an assortment of junk. There are a whole bunch of middle relief guys, of course. But who could possibly care? Summary These dudes, I reckon, are the most tantalising hurlamators one might acquire in the upcoming draft: #1: Colin Ladbrooke ----- SP ----- Bradford, Yorks. ----- 31. #2: Bryan Dickinson ----- SP ----- Cleadon, Tyne & Wear ----- 32. #3: Ryan Monteith ----- RP/SP ----- Bletchley, Bucks. ----- 26. #4: Ashley Fitter ------ SP ------ Reading, Berks. ----- 28. #5: Thomas Larwood ------ RP/SP ----- Gosberton, Lincs. ----- 22. #6: Jorge Cruz ----- SP ----- Barquisimeto, Venezuela ------ 39. #7: Taylor Cheshire ----- SP ----- West Bromwich, West Mids. ----- 31. #8: Arturo Castillo ----- SP ----- Havana, Cuba ------ 25. #9: Aidan Carrick ----- RP ----- Livingston, Scot. ------ 30. #10: Benjamin Cooper ----- SP ----- Steyning, Suss. ----- 29. Nine Cool Things to Look for during the Draft. -- Traditionally, teams are supposed to build around pitching rather than hitting. But with no hurler standing clearly above the rest, and studly young position players like Joe Nowell and Edgar Colon available, the Leeds Roses might be best served by adding a bat to their roster first. -- Where will young pitchers Ryan Monteith and Thomas Larwood go? Issues with arm strength (for Monteith) and developing a third pitch (Larwood) mean that both could be viewed as either starters or relievers. If any team sees one of these kids as the former, expect them to be off the board early. -- This also feeds into the question: which pitcher will be taken first? Northern Gas (yeh, I really want to get that nickname over) would be a good and logical choice. But Montieth would be a good high risk / high reward choice. -- Will any of the three Arbuthnot brothers be drafted together? The older pair, outfielders Sean and Andrew, are amongst the best players at their positions, and could go in the early rounds. Younger brother Charlie, a catcher, is more likely to take a back-up role in the hope that he develops starting ability later. -- How will Glasgow approach their drafting strategy? They have to carry at least fifteen Scottish players on their active roster because of foreign player rules. Scotland has not produced any starting pitcher who could reasonably be an ace, so one would think they'd have to use up a foreign player allocation there. Will they be able to get more than one of the MacMillan-MacNicol-Cattanach trio? That would be a big coup, and I think it's possible. -- Will Bristol be smart enough to realise that they play in a small stadium that will play horrible for pitchers who give up a lot of fly balls? Might they take a sinkerball to build their staff around. I've mentioned Montieth already, but Ashley Fitter could be a less risky option. -- Conversely, will the Dockers just load up on pitching in order to exploit their large stadium. Blessed with the third pick, they could choose to use it on a stud pitcher, and develop a pitching-defense type team that would thrive at the Stoop. -- How will teams value relief pitching? There are some relievers with really great stuff out there -- Aidan Carrick most notably -- but are they important in the UKBL? They might throw maybe 30-40 I.P. compared to the 50-80 I.P. one would hope to get from a front-line starter. Could a guy with a strong arm, like Thomas Larwood, become very valuable if it's determined that he could be available in every single game? -- Who will be the last player taken? Whoever it is taking the mantle of two hundred and sixty-second pick, we surely have to follow their career closely. ******** Sorry for the length of this, but I think it should help me to become familiar with the best players in the league. In re: Headingley. I did consider putting the Roses in that stadium; but I couldn't find capacity data for the rugby pitch. I don't really want them in the cricket ground, because it's too prestigious (and big), I think. Average attendance is set for this year at 5,000; so Headingley Cricket Ground would be under 30% full most of the time. BigRed -- Ha! I had no idea that those logos were ripped from Aussie football teams. Oh, well -- they're quite nice graphics and there's less chance of such a team finding out about the purloining. Last edited by struggles_mightily; 06-07-2009 at 03:48 PM.

06-09-2009, 07:39 PM	#18
struggles_mightily Minors (Triple A) Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 292	UNITED KINGDOM BASEBALL LEAGUE: 2009 SEASON PREVIEW Northern Division GLASGOW RED SOX Left to Right: 1B Riley Harris, C Sean Cattanach, RP Aidan Carrick, LF Andrew Arbuthnot, 2B Hamish Quarry, SP Daryl Carleton, RF Sean Arbuthnot, C/1B Mitch Pittock. General Manager: Ray Ogilvie (34; Ballykelly, Northern Ireland). Manager: Rob Malcolm (54; Fauldhouse, Scotland). Starting Rotation RHP Daryl Carleton. LHP Christopher Cardew. LHP Sam MacDuff. This is the worst pitching rotation in the division. Glasgow were really harmed here by the necessity that they take Scottish players -- very few starting pitchers of quality have been developed north of the border. All three of these guys are fringy types who shouldn't be anything more than #2 starters; probably number threes. Sam MacDuff has an 89 m.p.h. and decent secondary pitches and might end up being the best of the group. Cardew gives up a ton of flyballs and is 35 years old. Carleton is O.K., I guess, but definitely not an ace. Rating: 3/10 Bullpen RHP Aidan Carrick LHP Connor MacDonell RHP Scott Williamson RHP Paul Armstrong RHP Ryan Millar RHP Olly Witheridge This is a mediocre bullpen that should be alright as long as Glasgow can farm most of the innings out to Carrick and MacDonell. Carrick is probably the best reliever in the league: his fastball sits in the nineties and he has an elite slider. He's strictly a one-inning guy, though. MacDonell probably will be the lefty specialist and should do a decent job. He has a decent low-nineties fastball and a solid change. Scott Williamson is pretty decent too, and should be a middle-innings horse. Armstrong, Millar and Witheridge will fill in the gaps, do mop-up duty, etc. Armstrong is only 22 years old, and so might develop into something. Rating: 6/10. Lineup Note: one asterisk denotes a left-handed hitter; two denote a switch hitter. SS James Kernuish LF Andrew Arbuthnot 1B Riley Harris C Sean Cattanach RF Sean Arbuthnot CF Josh Sonnborn 2B Hamish Quarry 3B Sean McKay Glasgow are blessed with probably the best line-up in baseball. Every member can hit at least a bit, and the presence of four switch hitters makes it hard to employ situational relievers against them. The 2-5 slots really anchor the hitting. Sean Cattanach is one of the most powerful hitters in the league, and Arbuthnot is a very good hitter for both average and power. Harris, meanwhile, is a sturdy gap hitter who should club plenty of doubles. Andrew's brother, Sean, is very good for a number five hitter, and should provide plenty of protection for Cattanach. The only problem in their line-up is James Kernuish, who I'm not sure has the on-base skills to be a valuable lead-off hitter. Ideally, they should move Sean Arbuthnot into the top spot, and push Josh Sonnborn -- a very solid hitter -- into fifth. Quarry is a very nice hitter for a second baseman, and McKay will do more than adequately in front of the pitcher. The defense is above-average at most positions, and Riley Harris (drafted as a third baseman) will make an excellent fielding 1B. Hamish Quarry is learning a new position after spending his entire career at third, however, and that could be problematic. In the outfield, Andrew Arbuthnot has a fringy glove in left and Josh Sonnborn would be more comfortable at a corner. All in all, though, the presence of guys like Keruish, Cattanach, McKay and Sean Arbuthnot should make the D solid. Rating: 10/10. Bench C Josh McArtney C/1B Mitch Pittock OF Jay Stewart* Having two catchers on the bench obviously harms vesatility, even if one of them is the best "bench" player in the league, Mitch Pittock. Pittock is the third best catcher in the league and should really be starting. However, the plan is to platoon him with Cattanach this year, and then move him into the line-up in 2010 when the older Cattanach is a free agent. Pittock is expected to play at first base for the first time in his career this year. MacArtney is an elite defensive catcher who should operate as a late-innings replacement. Stewart has a weak glove and hasn't played the corners much, but should just about be adequate as a fill-in. The lack of a bench infielder isn't as egrergious as it seems. Both Kernuish and McKay can play any position required of them on the diamond, and starting 1B Riley Harris also plays a decent third. It's worth noting that Glasgow have 1B/3B Mark Jeffcoate on their practice roster. He's one of the best first basemen in the league, but won't make the Red Sox due to "foreign" player issues. Their third draft pick, 2B/UT Bradley Payton, is in a similar position. Both Englishmen surely have to be trade candidates. Rating: 9/10. Overall Team Rating: 6.7/10. *********************************** LEEDS ROSES Left to Right: RF Joe Nowell, 1B Billy MacNidder, SP Joe Sloan, C Jake Counsell, CF Elton Atherton, RP Conor Cornock, SS Brian Williams, RP Mick Lyford. General Manager: Francis Deck (47; Grimsby, Lincs.) Manager: Bert d'Urberville (43; Luton, Beds.) Starting Rotation RHP Leon Hotchkiss LHP Joe Sloan Jordan Northmore This is maybe a slightly better rotation than that being thrown out by Glasgow; but that shouldn't be much comfort to Leeds fans. Hotchkiss is mediocre, and would seem like a stretch as a #2 starter. Northmore has average skills, but he really lacks the stamina to be a starter. He has come out of the bullpen for most of his career. I wouldn't be surprised to see him back there before the season is out. The American southpaw Joe Sloan is solid, and makes sense as a solid number two. He's probably the best pitcher in this rotation, though, which says something. Rating: 5/10. Bullpen RHP Conor Cornock LHP Mick Lyford LHP Lewis MacIvor RHP Henry Tibbett RHP Ryan Paterson LHP Sam Harding This is an OK pen that lacks a star, but nevertheless should do alright. Cornock and Lyford should share the roles of joint relief aces, one right-handed and the other a southpaw. However, Lyford also has a good chance to make the rotation in short order should Northmore struggle. Henry Tibbett is another horse who could potentially start if it were required. Lewis MacIvor is another good lefty for the pen; he gets by very well on pin-point control and rarely gives up a homer. The one problem with this bullpen, other than its lack of an ace, is that it's made up largely of old guys. Only Lyford is under thirty and, as mentioned, he may be headed for the rotation soon. These players will all need to be replaced imminently. Rating: 6/10 Lineup** CF Elton Atherton* 1B Billy MacNidder* LF Joe Nowell* C Jake Counsell 3B Gabriel Parent 2B Aidan Metson* RF Patrick Courtenay SS Brian Williams Leeds' position players are notable mostly for their uniformly good defense. All of the Roses' players are at least average at their position, and many are considerably better than that. Leadoff man Elton Atherton is particularly notable in this regard -- one of the best defensive CF in the league. He's also a real burner, and should get enough slap hits as a leadoff man to be valuable. Offensively, first overall pick Joe Nowell is obviously the jewel in the crown. MacNidder is a very good hitter with some additional power, too. Counsell is a pretty tough out, and hits for average and gets on base at a decent clip. The latter half is really not much to write home about offensively. Courtenay is maybe a bit above average, but Metson, Parent and Williams are all fairly mediocre hitters. The Roses are likely to cause havoc on the basepaths, though -- with Williams, Atherton and Nowell hitting close together in the line-up, they could steal bases in bunches. Leeds will need to win with great defense; timely hitting; and excellent base-running. Rating: 8/10. Bench C Fergus Pynchon INF Kyle Coinneach* OF Leon Kestle* This bench is really not up to much. Pynchon is basically a non-factor: Leeds would be happy if he never got into a game this season. Coinneach is a really a corner infielder, and might look lost defensively when playing up the middle. He's not very effective with the bat either. Kestle is a better player in both regards, but his arm might struggle if he's ever asked to play right field. Both Coinneach and (especially) Kestle are pinch-running options, though. The Roses could theoretically field a line-up featuring six stolen-base threats. Rating: 2/10. Overall Team Rating: 5.8/10. *********************************** MANCHESTER MILLERS Left to Right: SP Ashley Fitter, 2B Stuart Millington, SP Jorge Cruz, RP Thomas Larwood, RF Manny Melendez, RP Harry Spriggs, 1B Christopher Thompson, C Dave Gripton. General Manager: Keith Evans (55; Huddersfield, Yorks.) Manager: Nicky Renton (31; Grantham, Lincs.) Starting Rotation RHP Ashley Fitter LHP Jorge Cruz LHP Francis Feather Manchester sport probably the second-best rotation in the division, headed by an excellent one-two punch. Fitter controls with his excellent, hard sinkerball and very good cutter. Southpaw Cruz is a more orthodox fastball-change merchant. Fitter should anchor this staff for years to come, though he'll probably have to do it without the 39 year-old Cruz for most of that time. The six foot seven Feather is rather mediocre -- he has a wide arsenal, but none of his pitches is really above average. He should be an acceptable third starter for a few years, though. Rating: 7/10. Bullpen LHP Thomas Larwood RHP Harry Spriggs RHP Sergio Moreno RHP Ian Mawson LHP Ross Erskine RHP Andrew Stickells Larwood, who I've written about before, is obviously a stud. He becomes the team's relief ace in the immediate future, but could also be Cruz's replacement in the rotation long-term if he can develop another pitch. Spriggs is also a very good short-innings reliever, and provides a nice right-handed complement to Larwood. There's a bit of a drop off after those two, though, which is what stops the Millers' corps from being an elite bullpen. Sergio Moreno is admittedly solid, but having only Ross Erskine as the second lefty might cause problems. Mawson and Stickells are both mediocre guys, but they have strong arms and can eat innings. Both might also be options to make spot starts, cover the rotation in case of injury, or step-in should Feather struggle. Rating: 7/10. Lineup 2B Stuart Millington** LF Aidan Spurle RF Manny Melendez* 3B Hayden Eaves SS Gaz York CF Jay Pidduck 1B Christopher Thompson* C Cameron Strudwick This line-up is probably the very worst in the UKBL. Stuart Millington is an excellent lead-off hitter, and plays a very good second base. Spurle, Melendez and Thompson are all solid -- though why Thompson is all the way down at seventh in the order is a mystery to me. The rest of the hitting, however, is comfortably below average. Eaves is easily the worst clean-up hitter in the league, and York makes poor contact and can't be relied upon to get on base at a good clip. Pidduck and Strudwick, meanwhile, are two of the most offensively-challenged everyday players in the league. The line-up is starved of home run potential in particular -- only Melendez and Eaves even hit for decent power. For what it's worth, this starting eight also has very little speed. The defense is solid, which is the one positive thing about the Millers' collection of position players. The combination of Millington and York up the middle should help Fitter be effective, as the sinkerballer can expect to induce plenty of ground balls. Rating: 2/10. Bench C Dave Gripton INF Rob Mattison UT Daryl Brickell The Manchester bench isn't particularly valuable either. Gripton is a very solid hitter, and it's insane to me that they're only platooning him considering the state of their offense. Admittedly, he is a questionable catcher defensively, but the Millers need whatever hitting they can get at this point. Mattison can't hit much and, although he plays a solid second base, Manchester really don't want him getting too many innings at short. Brickell is a better hitter -- he approaches the heights of league-average-ness -- but he's only a decent defenive option at the outfield corners, and the Millers will be trying to use him in the infield as well. Rating: 2/10. Overall Team Rating: 4.5/10. *********************************** TYNESIDE MINERS Left to Right: SP Colin Ladbrooke, SP Taylor Cheshire, 1B Carl Leggett, RP Dwayne Askin, SP Benjamin Cooper, RF Toby Dook, SS Scott Ring, RP Archie Priday. General Manager: Kevin Norman (35; Portsmouth, Hamps.) Manager: Fergus Matcham (58; Denham, Bucks.) Starting Rotation RHP Colin Ladbrooke LHP Taylor Cheshire RHP Benjamin Cooper Tyneside have comfortably the best rotation in the league. It comprises three players that I had projected to be aces, and is balanced well; it contains two righties and a southpaw. Colin Ladbrooke is probably the best starting pitcher in the league, and should be dominant for the three years he is signed for. Cheshire, also on a three-year contract, is one of the league's best left-handers. Cooper, who has a nice and varied arsenal and throws 92 m.p.h. consistently, rounds out the staff and is the youngest of the three. Athough all of the starters are thirty or older, the Miners have a few years to compete using this staff, and build successors simultaneously. Rating: 9/10. Bullpen RHP Dwayne Askin RHP Archie Priday LHP Scott Bairstow RHP Harley Balsdon LHP Louis Puttock RHP Zach Tompkins Backing up the league's premier rotation is an elite bullpen. Askin is a hard-throwing right hander with excellent stuff who, despite control problems, can handle short relief well. Priday is a young hurler who throws an 89 m.p.h fastball and relies largely on pin-point control and the inducement of groundballs. Bairstow is a workhorse with decent stuff who will be the premier lefty in the 'pen. Balsdon and Puttock are both mediocre middle relief options, whilst Thompkins provides an alternative option to start, perform mopup duties, throw long relief, etc. Rating: 9/10. Lineup** CF Jacob Coinneach* C Gavin Howey Harold Dumbrill** RF Toby Dook* 1B Carl Leggett LF William Warr SS Scott Ring 3B Mark Hemming As you might of a team assembled via a draft and sporting an elite pitching staff, the Tyneside line-up is nothing to write home about. The defense is mostly solid. The only concerns are William Warr's fringy glove in left field, and Scott Ring -- a third baseman attempting to learn shortstop this season. The lineup has a serious lack of power, with only Dook and Leggett capable of providing even average home run numbers. Coinneach should serve his role as a leadoff man well enough -- he hits for average, walks a bit and also has excellent speed. Behind him, Howey is a solid singles hitter with a keen eye. However, the Miners' inexplicable love of Harold Dumbrill and William Warr (taken second and third in the draft respectively by Tyneside) hurts the middle of the line-up. Leggett is a very good hitter, and Dook, Ring and Hemming are all O.K., but the Miners lack a real star who can be relied on to put together a great offensive season. Rating: 3/10. Bench C Charlie Arbuthnot 3B/SS Evan Oulton OF Karsten de Meij de Meij will be involved in a platoon, playing left against southpaws. William Warr will slide over to centre in such situations, with Coinneach sitting. de Meij should really just be the permanent starter -- he's a much better hitter than Warr. Warr, who has a poor glove for a left fielder, will be lost when trying to field centre. Arbuthnot is a good, young defensive catcher and is fine as a backup. Oulton can offer decent defense on the diamond, and is an excellent pinch running option. All in all, the Miners' bench looks pretty good -- but at least part of that is due to a failure to start the best players. Rating: 6/10. Overall Team Rating: 6.3. *********************************** Up next: the Southern Division preview. Last edited by struggles_mightily; 06-10-2009 at 01:53 PM.

06-03-2009, 10:51 PM	#1
struggles_mightily Minors (Triple A) Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 292	The United Kingdom Baseball League -- from 2009. I like baseball. It's really good & nice & ace, isn't it? The problem is that not many of my compatriots agree. I do like football, too, but I have an analytical side (a "side", in fact, that covers like 98% of me) which association socfoots can't satisfy. Like, if you ask a baseball fan whether Tris Speaker was a better player than Ty Cobb, he can give you three .xls files and a PowerPoint presentation. If you ask yr average football fan whether Lev Yashin was better than Gordon Banks, he'll probably just give you a punch in the gob. So, in the words of Mancunian art-pop heavyweights Buzzcocks, "oh, oh, what do Iiiiiiiiiiiiii get?" What I get, in fact, is Johnny Gould on Channel Five -- a lovely but senile man who has never heard of baseball and thinks that Chad Moeller is his sister. What I would really, really like -- even more than a subscription to MLB TV, probably -- is a good domestic British league. Obviously "good" here is a relative term. What I really mean is "not terrible." The sort of thing that might be able to attract the former utility infielder for the Tumbleweed State University Jockstraps should he be unable to sneak into the fiftieth round of the Golden Baseball League draft. The sort of thing that might, someday at least, see its Championship series get a patronising, factually-incorrect one-line write-up in the 'Birmingham Post.' In short: I'm a ridiculous dreamer. But, I'm something more than just a dreamer, my lady and a gentlemens -- I'm a dreamer with an OOTP. Let's play the balls... POSTMODERN LEAGUE DESCRIPTION!!!!! Yeh. I don't have the time or the inclination to write-up a "convincing" newspaper-style backstory for this league's inception. Let's just say: a bunch of minor business guys who like baseball and have some money decided to start a baseball league in Britain. A league slightly -- but not that much -- better than the previous leagues extant in that country. Local newspapers will start to cover it a bit, and people will actually attend the games. That may not be realistic. But a "realistic" presentation of a British baseball league at this point would just be a series of photos of me shrugging and not being able to find any information about such an entity. Which may not be exciting. It's an eight-team league, divided into two divisions (one Northern ; one Southern). The teams will play a thirty-six game schedule. That's twelve games against each other team in their division. Inter-divisional play will be introduced gradually after a season or so, but will not occur in the first year so that teams can save on travel expenses and whatnot. Games are played over the weekend, with matches (yes... "matches"!) on Friday night, a Saturday morning and a Sunday morning. Sometimes double-headers and night games might be necessary to avoid scheduling conflicts (all teams share their grounds with other sports clubs). Due to the schedule set-up, the roster limits are slightly more restrictive than that of Major League Baseball. Each team will carry twenty players. For most teams, I envisage that the squad will comrpise three starters; four relief pitchers; eight starting positional players; and a five man bench. Teams might alternatively choose to drop a bench guy and add a reliever. No more than five of the players on a roster may have citizenship of a country other than the United Kingdom. If the European Union complains about this, I will get Bob Crow to go 'round and give them a funny look. Further, a team may not use of all of its foreign player allocation on players designated as "pitchers", or all of its allocation on players designated as "position players." In addition, there is a fifteen-man "practice squad" for each team. This will contain either younger players not yet ready for UKBL action, or fringy guys who are nice to have around in the event of injury or poor performance striking down a main roster dude. Financials are on, and free agency requires three years of service time (there's no arbitration). Guys who are twenty-five or older when taken in the inaugural draft will be credited with one year of service time AT NO ADDED COST! The minimum salary is ten grand; guys who are amongst the circuit's very best can expect to make eighty or so thousand quid a year. A further "house" roster rule is the following: any player above the age of twenty-five who ends the year on a "practice squad" and who appeared in fewer than eighteen games (i.e. half the schedule) during the previous season, may elect for free agency after the Championship series. I am calling this the Serf Law. The amateur draft will take place on the 1st December each year. It will involve forty players considered to be the best after a system of regional and then national tryouts are held around the UK. Enough players are created for five rounds; and five rounds there are. It's worth noting that the league runs in a universe which features full real-life MLB rosters and minor leagues, as well as fictional facsimilies of the **, KBO and Taiwanese Major League. Eventually, I would like to see some low-level minors guys (single A flameouts and Ni-Gun rejects, etc) come to the UKBL. Anything ridiculous, like Matt Holliday signing for Bristol at a price of £500,000 over five years, will be vetoed by me. Finally -- league totals basically replicate modern MLB. So there you go. Right, that's far more than anyone could possibly wish to know about this league. Up next: a look at the UKBL's eight founding clubs. Graphical credit goes to "justafan." Thanks, justafan!* Last edited by struggles_mightily; 06-03-2009 at 10:53 PM.

06-04-2009, 03:21 AM	#2
BigRed75 Hall Of Famer Join Date: May 2009 Posts: 2,430	Awesome. You described the plans for the league's future in another thread, and I can't wait to see how it unfolds. No backstory, eh? You want me to write a "Jack Walker-type figure who loves baseball instead of Blackburn Rovers decides to fund a baseball league"-type story for you? __________________ Mainline team SPTT team Was not a Snag fan...until I saw the fallout once he was gone and realized what a good job he was actually doing. - Ty Cobb

06-04-2009, 01:02 PM	#4
canadiancreed Hall Of Famer Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 11,660	Looking smashing. Keep up the good work, and go SOuth Londities! (as someone that has brnaches spanning to Croydon)

06-04-2009, 01:31 PM	#5
metzrule3 Minors (Rookie Ball) Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 22	Nice job, as an American living in London I'm definitely interested in this league. I usually hate Yankees-type teams like the Royals, but I live in North London so I'm going to have to support them. Keep up the good work!

06-05-2009, 12:27 PM	#6
Tyke All Star Starter Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, U.K. Posts: 1,138	Nice job so far! I love the tone you set and look forward to following this dynasty through. One proviso, however.... the Roses MUST stay in Leeds! [Though I wouldn't be averse to them changing their name - to the Owls, perhaps?]. Your description of the South Leeds Stadium is spot on, but if the team prospers, might you envisage a move to Headingley, home of the Leeds Rhinos and also a major venue for the Yorkshire and England cricket teams?

06-05-2009, 07:01 PM	#7
Jamee999 All Star Reserve Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 772	Aren't there two stadiums at Headingley? Surely we can't let the rugby league boys play all over the cricket pitches?

06-06-2009, 06:54 AM	#8
Tyke All Star Starter Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, U.K. Posts: 1,138	They are actually part of the same complex, but on separate pitches, thank goodness! At one end of the cricket ground there is a "back-to-back" grandstand which faces the cricket field on one side and the rugby field on the other.

06-07-2009, 05:56 AM	#11
Tyke All Star Starter Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, U.K. Posts: 1,138	Thanks for posting the pic, Craig. I thought of going back and adding one myself, but then I got busy!!

06-08-2009, 08:12 AM	#13
Peregrine All Star Reserve Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Cary, North Carolina Posts: 635	This looks really interesting! Can't wait to see more.

06-08-2009, 08:18 AM	#14
Sdpm100 Hall Of Famer Join Date: May 2005 Location: Cheltenham, England Posts: 7,644	FWIW, the current capacity at Headingley Carnegie is 20,500. Sport Industry Group \| News

06-08-2009, 08:56 AM	#15
muted79 All Star Reserve Join Date: Sep 2007 Posts: 890	Excellent read so far, go the Mancs!

06-08-2009, 12:58 PM	#17
Jamee999 All Star Reserve Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 772	Wow - comprehensive! Love a bit of British baseball, keep it up

06-09-2009, 08:53 PM	#19
canadiancreed Hall Of Famer Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 11,660	Glasgow seems to be one of those teams that could put up football scores

06-10-2009, 02:11 PM	#20
Dr. Wu Minors (Single A) Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: San Francisco Posts: 91	Fantastic read so far.