All things Figment - from the pages of The Figment Sporting Journal

[Tiger Fan]

With the one-day sim to finalize rosters in advance of opening day we do not have a full weekly recap today, but instead here are a couple articles from local scribes on what to expect from the local nine in the coming months.

Little Optimism as Dynamos Open Season

The Detroit Dynamos landed in Minneapolis this morning, which means baseball is officially back—and so, unfortunately, are the Dynamos. They’ll open the 1975 season tomorrow night with a three-game set against the Millers at Hennepin County Stadium, a series that figures to answer one burning question right out of the gate: which club intends to spend the summer unpacking in the Federal Association West Division cellar.

Calling it a marquee matchup would be generous to the point of fiction. This looks far more like the opening skirmish in a long, weary march toward last place, a destination the Dynamos know the way to without consulting a map. Detroit has finished at the bottom of the Fed West three times in the past four seasons, including last year’s grim 100-loss slog that left them tied with Kansas City for the worst record in big league baseball. Nothing about this year’s opening-day roster suggests the scenery is about to change.

The lone new face in the starting lineup belongs to Ty Rusconi, a 37-year-old catcher whose chief qualification appears to be that the New York Imperials no longer wanted him. Everyone else is familiar—sometimes painfully so—and familiarity, in this case, has bred little more than resignation. If this club improves meaningfully on last season, it will require an imagination as vivid as spring training optimism.

There are, of course, whispers. There are always whispers. Bill Austin is reportedly close to being moved, and management has made it known—without much subtlety—that Jack Lucas, Dave Black, Buddy Ensey, and Austin himself are available to the highest bidder. Those four happen to be Detroit’s best players, which means if they’re gone early, the Dynamos may struggle to scrape together 55 wins. And that’s being charitable.

The pitching staff? Think less “rebuilt” and more “rearranged.” It’s the same furniture, just pushed to different corners of the room. The great hope is Ossie Schrieber, once the first overall pick in the 1964 draft and now a 28-year-old reclamation project claimed off waivers from Milwaukee. The Arrows finally gave up after five seasons of promise unfulfilled—23 wins, 26 losses, and a 4.34 ERA—and Detroit has decided that this is the moment Schrieber finally becomes what everyone once thought he’d be.

Spring numbers—3–0, 1.45 in 18 innings—have stirred the faithful, but spring always lies. Betting on Schrieber to suddenly transform into Jim Norris is the sort of wager usually made by desperate men and doomed franchises.

As a group, the 11 pitchers currently on the roster combined to go 38–56 a year ago. Jack Williams led the club with a 9–16 record, which tells you most of what you need to know. The new arms—Pat Fortier, Joe Jones, and Rip Kimball—arrive courtesy of the waiver wire, that well-known pipeline of salvation. It’s difficult to see how this staff won’t again rank among the league’s worst, unless several opposing lineups forget to show up.

Motors Out, Mustangs on Life Support

April belongs to the Dynamos by default. The Detroit Motors have already packed up their skates, finishing a season that confirmed what everyone feared: without Hobie Barrell, they are simply another team. The glow of the Challenge Cup won in Barrell’s final Detroit game three years ago has faded into the reality of two missed playoffs in three seasons and a 66-point campaign that mercifully ended last week. That Yves Dagenais finished one point short of the scoring title only added a final twist of the knife.

Across the hall at the Motor City Forum, the Mustangs are limping toward the finish line of another lost season. The playoffs have been a rumor for years now, and the franchise hasn’t sniffed an FBL title since 1952. There are games left to play, technically speaking, but the outcome has been settled for some time.

Which brings us back to baseball. Opening Day has arrived, and the Dynamos are the only show in town. That counts for something, at least for now. How long before even that wears thin is another question entirely—and one Detroit fans may not have to wait very long to answer.

A Look at the Wolves for 1975

There is a certain honesty that comes with Opening Day when a club knows exactly what it is—and what it is not. As the Toronto Wolves prepare to raise the curtain tomorrow with Cleveland visiting Dominion Field, nobody is hanging bunting or dusting off old playoff clichés. Hope exists, as it always does in April, but it is the restrained kind, the variety that understands history and respects reality.

That history, unfortunately for Wolves fans, has not been kind. Toronto has not played a postseason game since 1940, a number so distant it feels almost abstract. The late-1960s offered a brief suggestion of progress, with consecutive second-place finishes, but the 1970s have delivered more frustration than promise. Now, with a familiar general manager back after a decade away, the organization is clearly in reset mode rather than revival.

The new old hand in charge has been refreshingly direct. There has been no talk of surprise pennants or breakthrough summers. Instead, the message has been one of evaluation and patience—two words that tend to test fan loyalty but often precede genuine improvement. Spring training produced a respectable 17–13 record, though the Wolves lost their final four games after the roster was trimmed. Those games, played with regulars rather than hopefuls, likely told the more important story.

The Shape of the Club

Offensively, this is not a lineup designed to overwhelm. It is designed to function.

Jess McPherson returns behind the plate, steady if unspectacular, while the organization quietly acknowledges that catching help is coming from below. At first base, Bob Reynolds earned his job the old-fashioned way, hitting his way into the lineup and allowing Pedro Maldonado the luxury of further seasoning in Buffalo.

Second base will be shared by Phil Story and George Rigby, a practical solution rather than an inspiring one. Story’s strong spring saved his roster spot, though April will determine how secure it really is. Heine Pearce, at third, is another veteran who made the most of March, and his versatility may prove as valuable as his bat.

At shortstop, Clyde Bradshaw carries an outsized burden for a club likely to struggle to score. His glove may not draw applause, but his bat will need to produce. The outfield is anchored by Jackie Daniels, coming off an 83-RBI season, with Dwayne Cleaves providing range and speed in center. In right, the Wolves will get their first extended look at Pat Kellison, a former first-round pick whose spring performance earned him a platoon role.

The bench reflects the broader organizational picture: a mix of aging stopgaps and younger players auditioning for the future.

Pitching First, Always

If the Wolves are to remain competitive on most nights, it will be because of their pitching and their defense. Manager Carl Evans has emphasized fundamentals throughout camp, fully aware that Toronto cannot afford sloppy baseball.

The rotation leans heavily to the left side, with Stan Terry, Manny Espinosa, and Gary Preston joined by Red Bullock and Lee Humphrey. The bullpen is serviceable, if unspectacular, and pitching coach John Joiner will spend the summer trying to squeeze efficiency out of a staff that must keep games close.

Maintaining last year’s combined ERA and trimming defensive mistakes would represent a meaningful step forward, even if it does not translate immediately into victories.

Beyond 1975

This season is as much about observation as outcome. Toronto’s farm system is stocked with youth, particularly at catcher and among left-handed pitchers. Pat Duffy and Elam Kellerman sit near the top of prospect lists, and several arms could advance quickly if their development stays on course.

The temptation to rush will be real, especially if the big club struggles early. Resisting that temptation may determine whether this rebuild finally produces something lasting.

Opening Day, then, arrives not with illusions but with intent. The Wolves may not yet be contenders, but for the first time in some years, they appear to have a plan. In a city starved for baseball relevance, that may be the most important development of all.

[Tiger Fan]

APRIL 14, 1975

MISSISSIPPI A&M WINS NATIONAL CAGE CROWN

Mississippi A&M added another chapter to its proud basketball history Monday night at Bigsby Garden, riding a brilliant performance off the bench from Frank Warner to a 60–47 victory over conference rival Noble Jones College and its third AIAA national championship.

Warner poured in 17 points in a sparkplug role, changing the tenor of the game after a shaky opening and pushing the Generals to titles in 1961, 1971, and now 1975. With the win, Mississippi A&M became just the 10th program in AIAA history to capture three national crowns.

Early on, it appeared the Colonels might again have the upper hand. Having already defeated the Generals twice during the Deep South Conference season, Noble Jones burst out to an 8–0 lead and kept Mississippi A&M scoreless for nearly five minutes. Darren LeBlanc finally broke the ice, but the Generals continued to labor, trailing 19–8 midway through the first half as Noble Jones dictated tempo.

The turning point came when Warner entered the game. His energy and shooting fueled a 12–2 Mississippi A&M run that steadied the Generals and erased most of the deficit. The comeback was completed when Ed Turner knocked down a jumper from the wing with 3:12 remaining in the half, giving Mississippi A&M its first lead at 25–23.

From there, the Generals were firmly in control. Warner continued to deliver, LeBlanc finished a crisp 5-for-7 from the floor, and Mississippi A&M shot nearly 52 percent as a team. The Colonels were never able to reclaim the lead, and the Generals gradually pulled away in the second half to secure a convincing 13-point victory.

For Noble Jones College, the loss was another painful near miss. The Colonels have reached the national title game five times in the past 11 seasons, but only once—against Custer College in 1969—have they emerged as champions. Monday night marked yet another long walk off the Bigsby Garden floor wondering how close is still not close enough.

For Mississippi A&M, there was no such doubt. The Generals arrived in New York determined to finish the job, and behind a deep, balanced effort and a defining performance from their bench, they left as national champions once again.

COPPERHEADS, CANNONS PACE ASSOCIATIONS AFTER FIRST WEEK

Baseball is back again for the 1975 season, and even after one week it's easy to look at the top of the association. In both the Fed and the Conti, it's their East division leader with the early lead, as both Atlanta and Cincinnati won 4 of their first 5 games. For Atlanta, that's expected. They're one of the best and most talented teams in the country, one of the top lineups and rotations in the game. Studs like Al Hubbard and Howard Smith make it easy, both are top-5 position players, but they have so many guys who can beat you and that's exactly what happened here. Hubbard and Smith hit as well as they tend to, but it was a power explosion from shortstop John Newton that's led their current 4 game win streak. Not really known for his power, hitting just 11 homers last year and 6 the year before, the 32-year-old homered in three of those four wins, and owns a 1.667 OPS despite having yet to draw a walk in 18 plate appearances. He was the obvious Player of the Week in the Fed, the fifth of his ten year career. They've also allowed tied for the fewest runs allowed despite ace Howie Burt accounting for a third of the runs they've allowed. Veteran Jack Kotarski threw 7.1 shutout innings while Marco Middleton allowed a single run in a complete game win, and five of their seven relievers didn't allow runs in their outings. A complete team, they may not look back all year, as they've gotten quite comfortable in the top spot in the East.

Cincinnati is a different story, as while they've had a few recent second place finishes, they have some rotation questions and the lineup doesn't have the same fire power. They do have a budding star, 25-year-old Billy West, who at least hit like one to get things going. Hitting two of the Cannons four homers, West slashed .350/.435/.650 (199 OPS+) with 6 runs and 5 RBIs. Fellow 25-year-old Bill Brown (.435, 2, 1) got off to just as hot of a start, just with singles instead of homers, and a majority of their rotation found a ton of success. The lone exception was their ace, in name only, Ace Barrell, who allowed 6 of the 11 earned runs charged to Cannons pitchers this week. Coming off a 18-10 season with a 2.94 ERA (122 ERA+), 3.07 FIP (85 FIP-), and 1.10 WHIP, '75 was supposed to be the big breakout for the son of a Hall of Famer, but for that to happen he'll have to shake off this rough start.

FABL's win leader, however, is the Chicago Chiefs, who quickly won each of their first five games before dropping a double header in Chicago against the Detroit Dynamos. Despite being hit with a few pitching injuries in the spring, that's been the strength, as each of their top four starters have early ERAs below 2.60. Leading the way is new ace Otis Hawkins, who has quickly shown he does not want to return to the minors in 1975. The 27-year-old was hit with two unlucky no-decisions, allowing just 8 hits, 3 runs, and 5 walks in 15 innings. Most impressively, the lefty already has 10 strikeouts, and his K% is nearly 5 points higher to start this year then in his 10 starts with the Chiefs last year. Johnny Maples (1-0, 2.08, 11) made two good starts while both Nate Carr (1-0, 1.08, 2) and Walt Jackson (0-0, 2.57, 3) impressed in their season debuts. It hasn't only been pitching, however, as third year catcher Chris Wells has hit a robust .480/.581/.680 (252 OPS+) in the opening week and both Rankin Ziegler and Joe Siniscalchi are hitting over .330 with clutch home runs. Few would have expected much from the Chiefs after winning just 69 games last year, but considering 11 consecutive winning seasons predated their tough 1975, they may be working to portray their recent misstep as a fluke.

On the flip side, the New York Imperials have yet to win a game, but as the only team to play four games they have a built in excuse. Getting swept by Milwaukee and Cincinnati, likely the top two teams in their division this year, Imperials fans may have to get used to losses when they catch them on the schedule. A rebuilding team, it might be a year for slugger Phil Terry and co-aces John Alfano and Jim White to bring in large prospect packages. It's also a year to see what their young players can do, with guys like Al Reece starting to get chances to emerge as new building blocks. 25 in May, he's got a swing kids love, off to a quick .500 start as the #3 hitter. Even if this ends up another lost season, the Imperials will have talented players to enjoy, and with more fair competition we'll see the Imperials string together wins.

• In the Continental, Milwaukee's Harry Edwards joined John Newton in taking hope the opening Player of the Week. Like Newton, Edwards reached the .500 mark, though he didn't push past it. Already on his Whitney defense, the former 2nd Rounder hit .500/.579/.938 (323 OPS+) with a double, 2 homers, 4 runs, 8 RBIs, and 3 walks. He struck out just once in 19 PAs, and his only real issue was a caught stealing. Already one of the top hitters in the game, Edwards hit an elite .306/.408/.503 (164 OPS+) last season, leading the Conti in walks (104), OBP, OPS (.912), WRC+ (172), wOBA (.410), and WAR (6.7).
• Edwards wasn't the only Arrow to take the headlines, as "Double M" Mel Maddox twirled a 3-hit shutout against the Imperials. Winning 5-0, the 34-year-old vet walked just 1, striking out 4 to capture the third shutout of his career. He wasn't the only pitcher to throw a shutout, as a few minutes before his game ended John Roberts of the Saints finished off the Wolves in the Canadian series. Soon-to-be 34 himself, the 10th year starter matched Maddox's line. For him, it's his 20th, led by five times throwing three shutouts in a year. About as reliable a starter as it gets, Roberts is looking to make '75 another season with 32 or more starts, and he's made 34 or more in all but his rookie season.
• Along with the two shutouts, April 11th also saw a big offensive explosion, with long-time Keystone Andy Parker going 5-for-5 in a big 12-3 win over Boston. Parker added a double, 2 runs, and 2 RBIs, but had just two hits the rest of the week. It's not his first time reaching base on five base hits either, as way back in 1967 he went 5-for-5 against the Pioneers.
• Ten players made their FABL debut in the opening week, but none were as widely watched as Gil Armstrong. Not only is Armstrong a former #1 pick, but the 22-year-old was involved in the spring blockbuster between Washington and Boston. Ranked as the 68th best prospect in baseball, Armstrong led off all week, and the twice traded outfielder got to face the team that traded him most recently. It wasn't an easy task, as he had to face Eagle ace Eddie Yandow, who got him to whiff and then flyout to start the bottom of the first. Armstrong did single later in the game, and the potential building block in Beantown finished his opening week 5-for-15 with a walk.
• Three other first rounders debuted, including the guy taken two picks behind Armstrong. That would be righty Jack Turner, a Kansas City Maverick who ranks as FABL's 78th best prospect. Winning the stopper job, he got the win in his debut despite allowing 4 hits and a run in 1.2 innings against the Cougars. What helped was the 3 strikeouts, and he ended up pitching in 5 of the Mavs 6 games. An even 3-3, he's responsible for two wins and a save, already an extremely valuable member of a weak staff.
• The waiver wire is filled with players and claims, with two going through after the opening week. Both involved the Chicago Cougars, who still have a few claims out on other players. The more notable add is Steve Madden, the former rotation member of some dominant Pioneer rotations. At 35 he's far from Allen quality, and he's been more of a journeyman pen member the last five seasons. Now with his sixth organization, Madden will have a chance to eat innings out of the pen. Known for his workhorse tendencies and ability to put the team ahead of himself, he's a career 120-91 pitcher in 490 FABL outings, working to a 3.68 ERA (104 ERA+) and 1.27 WHIP with 1,338 strikeouts. He'll be joined by an outfielder 10-years younger then him, Paul Germano, who spent parts of three seasons on the Boston bench. A former 7th Rounder from Washington, "Mr. G" is a smart kid who once had starter potential that the Cougars may hope he can still reach. Unlikely to start, he can handle all three outfield positions but he's best suited for the corners.
• One of those two are likely to replace Tom Halliday on the active roster, who left the Cougar 3-2 victory over Seattle with back tightness. Now 36, 1975 was his 15th Opening Day selection, and the slick fielder is now quickly injured again after a concussion ended his 1974. A 4-Time All-Star, Halliday hit .321/.345/.464 (127 OPS+) to start his season, picking up a steal, two doubles, and a triple in 30 trips to the plate. A mainstay in the Cougar infield, he's appeared in 150 or more games in 14 of his 15 full seasons, but will likely miss that now this year. Chicago lacks an obvious replacement, but the early expectation will be second basemen Cleo Harris temporarily shifting to the other side of the bag, and slugger Bill Grimm taking over at the keystone.

A Look at the Wolves Opening Week

The Toronto Wolves began their long journey through the summer of 1975 with a 4-2 week, taking 2 of 3 from both Cleveland at home followed by Montreal in Quebec.

On a chilly evening at Dominion Stadium with 21,579 on hand the Wolves has their worst game of the week in the season opener. If the team is to win with pitching and defense it certainly was not evident on this day. The Foresters scored 12 runs on 12 hits aided by three errors, two by normally reliable third baseman Henie Pearce which contributed to gifting Cleveland 5 unearned runs in the game. The crowd left the park with the feeling of "here we go again, it is going to be a long summer".

After a day off the team rallied behind a strong 7 inning performance on the mound from Red Bullock, to win 6-1 aided by three doubles on a warm, at least by April standards, afternoon. The only downside was two more fielding miscues. With their bags packed for the impending trip to Montreal, Lee Humphrey worked around 6 walks in 5 2/3 then handed the ball over to the 'pen triumvirate of Dick Miller, Bill Cox, Harry Street who completed a 6-0 whitewash aided by two double plays to put the team in a festive mood for the jaunt to Montreal.

At Stade Montreal John Roberts worked a complete game for the Saints in the series opener, allowing only 3 hits while his mates bombarded three Toronto hurlers with 13 hits in a 8-0 rout in front of 27,426. The good news is that Toronto once again showed the ability to quickly bounce back when on Saturday Jackie Daniels produced the big hit with his third double of the season driving in a pair breaking a 1-1 tie in the 8th where the Wolves score 4 to give Manny Espinosa his first Toronto victory by a 5-1 score.

In a Sunday afternoon marathon the Wolves won 3-2 in 13 innings when backup catcher Jim Brooks delivered a single to bring home Dwayne Cleaves with the winning run. Cleaves had earlier gunned down Montreal star Dixie Turner with a perfect throw to third. This was one of two outfield assists in the game which aided 5 Wolves pitchers along with 3 twin killings on the bases. Bill Johnson was credited with the W. The bullpen will by glad to have 2 days off before the comes home to face Milwaukee on Wednesday. The five hurlers on Sunday combined to throw 190 pitches in the game.

Wolves manager Carl Evans comments: "4-2 is better than 2-4, it is still early. We have tightening up our defense 7 errors in 6 games is not winning baseball."

In the far too early to mean anything Phil Story, 36, continues to hit posting .333/.429/.444 line in 21 PA. Let's see if Bullock can replicate his first start when facing the Arrows on Wednesday.

HOME AT LAST: THE SHAKEOUT IS OVER AND THE MINUTEMEN ARE READY
By Mickey Sullivan | Globe Staff April 7, 1975

BOSTON — Boston! We are home! The Minutemen touched down after finishing the spring with a league-best 20-10 record, and you could feel the confidence radiating off them as they stepped onto the tarmac. Of course, that confidence was immediately met by a gale-force wind that made the low 40s feel more like a freezer in a North End butcher shop. We can only hope that the chill cools off Washington’s bats tomorrow and not our own when things kick off at 2:05 pm.

We have come a long way since the first day of camp when sixty hopefuls were fighting for twenty-five spots. The brass must have had some sleepless nights recently because they made some eye-opening decisions to get this roster compliant.

Here is the staff that will lead the charge:
Starting Pitchers: Bill Kelly (R), Johnny Hall (R), Hank Springer (R), Bob Scott (R), and Charlie Roberts (R).

Aside from Bob Scott, the starters were remarkably effective this spring. It might raise a few eyebrows to see Scott sliding all the way down to the four-spot in the rotation, but he will get plenty of chances to prove he still has the "ace" stuff. With not a single lefty in the rotation, the club decided to carry three of them in the bullpen to keep things balanced.

The Bullpen: Owen Phipps, Ed Phipps, and John Lewis will handle long relief, while Les Snyder and Richie Thorton (L) cover the middle. The late innings belong to Walt Portelli (L) and the man with the ice-water veins, Bud Shireman (L).

The bullpen looks like a genuine strength. While manager Dode Edwards is a "ride the starter" kind of guy, he has to feel better knowing he has capable replacements waiting in the wings. No major surprises here; the Kelly trade really allowed the rest of the arms to fall into their natural slots.
Behind the plate, we have Ed Cole (L) and Bill Gallagher (R). This is a bit of a curveball. Early in the spring, we thought Cole was just resting his legs, but as the weeks went by, Gallagher kept forcing his way into the lineup. Cole is the Opening Day starter, but don't be shocked if this turns into a platoon situation.

On the dirt, the infield consists of Willie Stephens (1B), Charlie Hartsell (2B), Hal Mazur (2B), Howard Smith (3B), Jim Wise (3B), Dale Raz (SS), and Dick Wood (SS).

Sully’s Stance: Howard Smith is the story of the spring. The 35-year-old hit an incredible .400 and basically dared the club to cut him. They couldn't. Consequently, Mickey Barker and Frank Borgen are heading to Columbus. As the old saying goes: if you hit, you play. It was also a relief to see Willie Stephens find his stroke at the end of camp; we are going to need that bat to stay hot.

Then there is the outfield: Dick Ward (LF), Gil Armstrong (CF), Jim Morton (RF), and Bob Menz (RF).

Yes, you read that right. The club is carrying only four outfielders. But the real story isn't who is on the roster—it is who isn't. The front office just put a massive amount of hardware on the waiver wire, and it is going to sting.

First, there is Frank Kirouac. A four-time All-Star and three-time Diamond Defender who has never worn another uniform. It hurts to see a man with 1,500 hits and 273 homers in a Minutemen jersey get shown the door, but the performance just wasn't there. Then there is Bobby Phelps, a two-time All-Star who was rumored to be the very last cut. At 32, he still has plenty of gas in the tank.

But the biggest shocker? Buddy Miller. The three-time Whitney winner and ten-time All-Star is looking for work. At 44 years old, it will be the first time since 1950 that Miller isn't on a roster to start the season. With 3,100 hits and 434 homers, he is a first-ballot Hall of Famer, but the Minutemen decided they couldn't afford to be a retirement home.

So, there you have it. For better or worse, these are the twenty-five men going to war for the Eastern crown. It all starts tomorrow, and I for one am ready. Just pray this weather lets up before the first pitch.

Until next time, stay warm Boston.

OBSERVATIONS FROM THE FIRST WEEK OF WHAT LOOKS TO BE ANOTHER LONG YEAR IN DETROIT

You don’t want to overreact to the first week of a baseball season. That’s one of the old rules. Another one is that you shouldn’t ignore what your eyes are telling you, either. The Detroit Dynamos, after seven games, are already testing both theories.

They opened the year by losing five straight, which is not the sort of thing that inspires springtime optimism, especially when three of those losses came at the hands of Minneapolis — a club Detroit privately hoped to beat out so it wouldn’t be glued to the bottom of the Federal Association’s West Division again. That didn’t happen. Not yet, anyway.

The Dynamos did manage to confuse everyone on Sunday by sweeping a doubleheader from Chicago, a Chiefs club that had started the season by winning five in a row and apparently figured Detroit would be a convenient stopover. Baseball has a way of doing that. One day you look finished, the next day you look merely fragile.

Detroit gets a day off now, which may be the most popular item on the schedule, before opening at home Tuesday afternoon at Thompson Field against St. Louis. The Pioneers are 2–4, a half-game ahead of the Dynamos, which already tells you something about where both clubs expect to spend the summer. At least Detroit can take comfort in knowing it was not the last team in organized baseball to win a game. That honor belongs, so far, to the New York Imperials of the Continental Association, who somehow survived an 0–4 week without a single victory among the FABL’s 24 teams.

One of the early disappointments wore a familiar name. Ossie Schrieber looked like a pitcher reborn in spring training, giving up just one earned run over his final four exhibitions and briefly convincing people that maybe — just maybe — he was finally ready to become the ace scouts once promised back in 1964. Then the season started. Eight hits, four walks, five earned runs in six innings later, the Dynamos were reminded why Milwaukee finally cut bait after a decade of waiting. Detroit claimed Schrieber on waivers in November. It may already be back on the waiver wire, looking for something else.

Not everyone has been sleepwalking. Buddy Ensey and Jack Lucas are playing like men who would very much like a change of address, and since both are on the trade block, that’s probably not an accident. Bill Austin, also rumored to be available, had himself a useful week, driving in five runs and coming through when Detroit desperately needed somebody — anybody — to do so.

As for genuine bright spots, they’re scarce, but one deserves mention. Richard Elk finally got his first big-league start, and he looked like he belonged. The 24-year-old right-hander, once a second-round pick of Washington, came over in the Eddie Yandow deal — a trade that has otherwise aged poorly — and may yet justify it all by himself. Elk allowed just one earned run and five hits over seven innings against Minneapolis, leaving with a 2–1 lead that the bullpen couldn’t protect. He didn’t get the win, but he got noticed.

Which brings us to Paul Sullivan, who is already 0–2 with an ERA that looks like a typo. Three appearances, 24.00 earned run average, and more tension than comfort when he’s on the mound. Manager Roger Cleaves insists Sullivan remains his closer, at least for now. Managers say a lot of things in April. Sometimes they mean them. Sometimes they’re just buying time.

It’s early. That’s the mantra. But after one week, the Dynamos already feel like a club searching for traction on a road they know all too well. In Detroit, hope still shows up in April. It just doesn’t tend to unpack for very long.

NAHC QUARTERFINAL MATCHUPS SET AFTER OPENING ROUND CONCLUDES

The North American Hockey Confederation’s new-look opening round is in the books, and for the most part it delivered exactly what was expected. The short, best-of-three series produced only one mild surprise as three of the four higher seeds advanced. With that preliminary hurdle cleared, the postseason now shifts into its traditional gear. Beginning with the quarterfinals, all remaining series will be best-of-seven.

The four division champions now enter the picture after enjoying first-round byes, and all four will open their quarterfinal series this week.

League-leading Boston, which finished atop the NAHC standings with 112 points, begins its pursuit of the Challenge Cup tomorrow night at home against Minneapolis. The Norsemen had little difficulty disposing of expansion Cincinnati in the opening round, sweeping the Ironclads in two games. Doug King’s late goal with 28 seconds remaining sealed a 5–4 win in the opener, and Minneapolis followed that with a 6–3 victory in Game Two, paced by a three-point night from Anthony Baptiste.

Defending Challenge Cup champion Philadelphia will be tested by an unpredictable Los Angeles Stingrays club that showed its dangerous side in the opening round. The Stingrays knocked out St. Louis by winning two one-goal games, starting with a 4–3 victory at home when Alain Ducharme scored with just 57 seconds left. In Game Two at St. Louis, Alvin Yardley took over, scoring twice — including the overtime winner — and adding an assist to send Los Angeles through with a 3–2 triumph.

In the Yeadon Division matchup, Chicago will renew its rivalry with Toronto after the Dukes swept New York. It was a disappointing end for the Shamrocks, who were making their first playoff appearance in 15 years. New York succeeded in quieting Toronto star Ollie Perreault, holding him to a single assist, but the Dukes found offense elsewhere. Sam Schmidt and Ty Cole led the way as Toronto posted 5–2 and 4–2 victories to advance.

The final quarterfinal pairing gets underway on the West Coast, where Vancouver will meet Montreal in what shapes up as the most evenly matched series on paper. The Totems and Valiants finished level with 90 points during the regular season, and Montreal arrives after a dramatic three-game set with San Francisco. The Valiants opened that series with a dominant 7–0 win, highlighted by Ron Kincaid’s two-goal, two-assist performance. The Gulls responded in Game Two, earning their first playoff win in franchise history on Dick Paletta’s overtime goal after Marty Jensen scored twice in the third period to force extra time. Montreal closed things out in the decider, a 2–1 overtime win in which Dean Sapier finally broke through after the Valiants outshot San Francisco 42–17.

With the opening round now complete, the NAHC’s heavyweights step onto the stage. The margin for error disappears from here on out, and the road to the Challenge Cup promises to be far more demanding.

MAULERS, PEAKS MOVE ON TO SEMI-FINALS
Ottawa, Cleveland Set For Game Seven

Two tickets to the Continental Hockey League semi-finals have been punched, while the remaining pair will not be decided until the final horn sounds. Top-seeded Milwaukee and Denver both closed out their quarterfinals in five games, while Winnipeg and Kansas City, along with Ottawa and Cleveland, are still very much locked in battle.

The Milwaukee Maulers continued their remarkable inaugural season by dispatching the defending Continental Cup champion Edmonton Huskies in five games. The expansion club left little doubt, leaning heavily on the steady play of 24-year-old rookie goaltender Simon Allenby, who was consistently sharp throughout the series. Milwaukee now awaits its next opponent with confidence growing by the shift.

Denver joined the Maulers in the semi-finals after eliminating Chicago in five games, ending the run of a Lions club that reached the finals a year ago. The Peaks were fueled by winger Rosey Austin, whose breakout regular season has carried seamlessly into the postseason. Austin scored six goals in the series, including two in each of the final two games, as Denver pulled away late to finish the job.

The other two series remain unresolved. Winnipeg, paced by league scoring champion Tim Moore, holds a 3–2 edge over Kansas City. Moore has been productive again, posting seven points in five playoff games, but the Falcons were handed a stiff reminder of how quickly momentum can swing. The Warriors stormed into Winnipeg over the weekend and blanked the Falcons 6–0 behind a Mark McCoach hat trick and a 34-save shutout from Eric Spencer. Winnipeg can close out the series tonight in Kansas City; a Warriors win would send it back to Manitoba for a deciding seventh game.

The most dramatic series of all will be settled tonight in Ottawa. The Athletics and Cleveland Immortals are headed for Game Seven after Ottawa roared back from the brink with consecutive wins. The Athletics dropped three of the first four games and appeared finished in Game Five when Cleveland grabbed a 4–2 lead midway through the third period on Ben Hirsch’s 10th goal of the series. Hirsch, a 22-year-old winger who scored just 12 goals in 78 regular-season games, has been one of the postseason’s great surprises.

Ottawa refused to fold. The Athletics’ big line of Hobie Barrell, Ludvig Olsson and Neil Ferguson scored twice late to force overtime, and Olsson—set up by his linemates—ended it just 30 seconds into the extra session for a 5–4 victory. Any lingering suspense vanished in Game Six, as Ottawa carried that momentum into a decisive 6–1 win, highlighted by a three-point night from Ferguson.

With Milwaukee and Denver already through, the CHL now waits to see which two clubs will survive the final tests. Possibly by tonight or Wednesday at the latest, the semi-final picture will finally be complete.

MERGER TALK DOMINATES AS PLAYOFF RACE TIGHTENS

The Federal Basketball League may be enjoying one of its most spirited finishes in years on the floor, but this past week it was the sound of murmurs from the boardroom — not the bounce of the ball — that carried the farthest. Long-simmering speculation about a union between the established FBL and the eight-year-old Continental Basketball League has suddenly grown louder, and for the first time the talk feels less theoretical and more inevitable.

Whispers of cooperation between the two circuits are nothing new. Previous conversations never progressed beyond polite soundings and carefully worded denials. This time appears different. While neither league will publicly acknowledge that negotiations are underway, multiple sources within Federal circles insist a merger ahead of the 1975–76 season is “all but assured,” with a single top-level professional basketball league expected to take the floor come October.

The Continental league was formed by owners intent on forcing their way into the basketball establishment, borrowing a page from the football playbook. When the National Football Conference challenged the old order and eventually earned admission into the American Football Association, it provided a blueprint — one the CBL’s founders have followed with patience and persistence. If reports prove accurate, that gamble is about to pay off in similar fashion.

According to sources, the framework of a deal is already in place. The remaining question is not whether a merger will happen, but how many of the CBL’s 12 clubs will be folded into the Federal Basketball League’s current lineup of 18 franchises.

PLAYOFF SCRAMBLE INTENSIFIES ON THE COURT

Lost somewhat beneath the weight of merger speculation is the fact that the FBL’s regular season is careening toward a dramatic finish. With just one week remaining, only half of the division titles have been settled. Chicago has locked up the Central Division, while Minneapolis has claimed the Midwest crown and will enter the postseason as the Western Conference’s top seed.

Everything else remains unresolved.

In the Eastern Conference, four clubs are fighting for three playoff spots. New York currently leads the Atlantic Division and can secure a berth with a single win, or with one Philadelphia loss in any of the Phantoms’ remaining three games. Boston and Toronto remain very much in the picture as well, with the uncomfortable reality that one of those four teams will be watching the playoffs from home.

The Western Conference offers no less drama. Behind division champion Minneapolis, St. Louis, Houston, Seattle, and San Francisco are locked in a four-way struggle for the final three postseason positions. Just one game separates the quartet, turning every possession and every scoreboard glance into something of consequence.

With boardroom decisions threatening to reshape the sport’s future and playoff races hanging by a thread, the Federal Basketball League heads into its final week with no shortage of intrigue — even if much of it is coming from places far removed from the hardwood.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 04/13/1975

• Ordered to fight at any cost to save the remaining quarter of the country, South Vietnamese forces drove back heavy assaults over the weekend against strongholds northeast and southwest of Saigon.
• Congress passes legislation barring renewed U.S. combat role in Vietnam, effectively closing the door on any return of American forces.
• U.S. shifts focus to evacuation and humanitarian relief, with White House officials acknowledging that saving lives, not territory, has become the administration’s top priority.
• Phnom Penh falls to Khmer Rouge forces, ending Cambodia’s civil war and raising alarm in Washington and Ottawa over the fate of civilians and foreign nationals.
• The Philippine government is reconsidering just how useful American bases in its country are. "We have to ask ourselves whether we can continue to be involved in conflicts engendered by policies not our own" said an official as they debated the merits of Clark Air Base and the Subic Naval Base.
• 29 are reported dead after Lebanese rightists and Palestinian guerrillas clashed yesterday in Beirut.
• The army has taken over the government of Chad after the President of the north central African country was killed in an attack on the presidential palace.
• A leading magazine in England ran a cover story asking "Is America Fading?" alongside pictures of the troubles in Indonesia, Europe and the Middle East.

[Tiger Fan]

APRIL 21, 1975

ARROWS AIM HIGH AS EAST GUARD CHANGES HANDS

I’ve been around long enough to know two things about baseball. First, it never waits for your permission to move on. Second, when it does move on, it rarely sends a thank-you note.

A year ago, power in the Continental Association East quietly packed its bags, slipped out the back door in Montreal, and took a westbound train to Milwaukee. No parade, no brass band—just a steady, unmistakable shift that anyone paying attention could see coming. I happened to be paying attention. I was sitting on the Arrows’ bench, infielder’s glove in my lap, watching a young club figure out it didn’t have to ask anyone’s permission anymore.

Now here we are in April of 1975, and the Milwaukee Arrows are not asking. They’re taking.

At 9–2, the Arrows look less like last year’s pleasant surprise and more like a club that expects to be here. They hit, they pitch, and—this is important—they don’t panic. Trust me, panic is easy to spot. I played on enough expansion teams to recognize it the way you recognize a bad hop on a cheap infield.

Milwaukee finished dead last its first four seasons, then started climbing like a guy who finally found the ladder in 1973, grabbed the East Division crown last year, and now looks intent on moving the furniture around. Same manager, Randy Hendrix, same calm dugout, same feeling that nobody’s trying to win April—but nobody’s giving it away either.

The numbers are loud enough to wake the press box attendant. Plus-35 run differential, barely two runs allowed per game, and the only blemishes are a pair of shutouts that could’ve gone either way. Montreal nipped them 2–0 early, Cincinnati squeezed out a 1–0 special in ten innings, and then Milwaukee turned around and reminded the Cannons—twice on Sunday—who currently owns the deed to the division.

Pitching has been the headliner, and rightly so. Joe Wright, Mel Maddox, and Johnny Hoskinson have been throwing strikes like they’re paid by the inch of plate they hit. But the hitting—that’s the part that makes opposing managers start checking the calendar to see how long the season really is. Paul Burkley sets the table and occasionally flips it over. Rich Moyer keeps knocking in whatever Burkley leaves behind. Harry Edwards? Let’s just say pitchers are already working on Plan B, and it’s only April.

All of this would be story enough if not for what’s happening—or not happening—up in Montreal.

I’ve shared a league with Dixie Turner long enough to know you don’t bury a legend in April. Eight Whitney Awards don’t disappear because of a bad box score or a cold spring. But baseball has never been sentimental, and right now it’s treating Turner the way it treats everyone else eventually: without mercy.

Last season, when his average fell off a cliff and the Saints finally gave up their grip on the East, people said it was a blip. A bad year. The kind even the great ones have before reminding you why they’re great. This spring was supposed to be the reminder.

Instead, it’s been the warning label.

Turner’s bat has been quiet to the point where you can hear the pigeons at Stade Montreal. A .156 average in April doesn’t prove the end has arrived—but it does suggest the door is open, and Father Time is standing there with his hat on. The Saints built an era on Turner’s shoulders, and if those shoulders are finally sagging, Montreal may be staring at a long look in the mirror they haven’t had to face since before 1968.

That’s the thing about power in this game. It doesn’t announce itself. It just changes addresses.

A year ago, the East stopped running through Montreal and started running through Milwaukee. I know the Arrows clubhouse well enough to tell you nobody there is interested in nostalgia, least of all the kind that lives in someone else’s city. They’ve got unfinished business, and they’re playing like it.

As for the rest of us? We’ll watch. We always do. Because baseball never waits—and it never sends a thank-you note.

• At this point fans may have to get used to Atlanta players winning Player of the Week, as Jim Duchesne followed up his shortstop John Newton as the Fed winner. The third basemen occasionally gets overshadowed by his star teammates, but at 27 he holds a career .273/.345/.424 (122 OPS+) batting line. A former 5th Rounder of the Chiefs, the Copperhead hit 4 home runs, batting .438/.550/1.188 (378 OPS+) in a true offensive explosion. Two of the homers came to finish the week, as a 2nd inning homer tied the game at 1 and the second came to give Atlanta a lead they'd hold over Baltimore, as him and center fielder Jay Hunter went back-to-back to start the 6th. It was a nice bounce-back week for Duchesne as well, as he was just 1-for-13 with 4 strikeouts in the opening week.
• In the Conti the award went to Pete Gibson, who went 15-for-27 with 2 doubles, a triple, a walk, a steal, and 6 runs scored and driven in. His highlight of the week was a perfect 5-for-5, though it was made less perfect coming in a 7-6 loss to the Kings. An All-Star as a rookie last season, "Twinkletoes" is looking to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump, and has done a good job thus far. It may just be 12 games, but his .412/.423/.510 (159 OPS+) batting line is one of the best in the league, as his contact oriented approach has led to a lot of balls in play and very few out. Of his 52 plate appearances, all but two have been in play, with just a single walk and strikeout to begin his 1975. It may be a long season in San Francisco, but watching a guy like Gibson can at least keep the fans interested as they continue in their rebuild.
• Three of the four division leaders entering week 3 have 9 wins, with Milwaukee's 9-2 record the best in FABL. After sweeping a double header against the Cannons, the Arrows have now won 8 of their last 9, opening an early 2.5 game lead over Cincy. Ace Joe Wright is a perfect 3-0, going 8 or more innings in each start, and veteran Mel Maddox followed up his shutout with just 1 run in 8 innings, improving to 2-0 with a 0.53 ERA (713 ERA+) and WHIP. In the Fed West, the Chiefs lead at 9-4 while the Conti West leading Wranglers are 9-5. The last division leader, the star-studded Copperheads, have fewer losses then both, 7-3 in their ten games to kick off the season.
• LA Star infielder Ralph Barrell hit a nice milestone this week, as the former 2nd Overall Pick recorded his 800th extra base hit. 35 earlier in April, he became the 39th player to reach this mark, compiling 341 doubles, 65 triples, and 394 homers in a 2,176 game career. All of his action has came with the Stars, where he's won 2 Whitneys and been selected to 6 All-Star games. A Kellogg winner, 4-Time Champ, and 1972 Diamond Defense winner at third, he's had a mostly up career that's fought through some downs. After rebounding from his rough '73 season last year, Barrell is off to a slow start, pushed to the 8-hole and hitting just .238/.312/.286 (66 OPS+). Ranked top-10 in team history in slugging (5th, .494), OPS (9th, .851), WAR (4th, 76.3), games (3rd), runs (3rd, 1,293), hits (4th, 2,148), doubles (6th), and walks (2nd, 930), as well as being the franchise leader in homers and RBIs (1,437), a removal from the lineup seems unlikely, and a trade would be almost unheard of. Barrell is happy now, but as the 97-win Stars find themselves in the basement early on, he could be benched to spark improvement from the team if his personal performance doesn't go back to what the league have been used to.
• Eddie Van der Heyden had about as good of a FABL debut as you could ask for, as the former 13th Round selection impressed in KC's 14-1 domination that spoiled the Cougars home opener. Coming in relief of Orville Johnson (5.2 IP, 3 H, R, 2 BB, 2 K), Van der Hayden mopped up what he couldn't finish, throwing 3.1 scoreless innings to get the save. Allowing just one hit with a strikeout and no walks, Van der Hayden also outscored the Cougars, as his second FABL at bat was a 2-run home run. At least for now, he has more 1975 homers then superstar Tom Lorang, who he got to flyout on one pitch in the 9th.
• Unfortunately for Van der Heyden and Johnson, they both pitched a second time this week, and it did not go nearly as well. Wrangler hitters were far tougher their Cougar counterparts, as Johnson couldn't even finish the first. He allowed 4 hits and 3 walks, all of which scored, with his lone out a ground out to start the game. Van der Heyden was second to pitch, given the 6th inning with the goals of mopping up the last three innings the home side would bat. Instead, a fourth reliever was needed, as after allowing 8 hits, 6 runs (5 earned), and 3 walks (again with a strikeout), he got a rude awakening when rookie manager Bob Bendick brought in Charlie Rude for the final out.
• Last bit on the Mavericks, who showed plenty of slug in a 3-4 week. Waiver claim outfielder Dick Anderson was one of two Mavs to hit 3 homers on the week, including a 2-homer game in Chicago he won on his own. Finishing 3-for-4, he drove in all four of his team's runs, even adding a 2nd inning double in his first at bat. Recently 26, he's hit a strong .422/.458/.733 (224 OPS+) early on, as he attempts to establish himself as a long-term piece on the young franchise. The other three homer hitter was third basemen Bob Howard, who hit all three in the same game. Yes, it was that 14-1 victory, as Howard was 4-for-5 (also with a double) and accounted for 8 of the 14 RBIs. He had a 4th run scored, meaning 9 of the teams runs involved him, as pretty much all of his impact this season came in that one blowout.
• Two more shutouts this week, but this time they were a game apart. Again Toronto was a victim, as Imperial co-ace John Alfano was in complete command of a 6-0 shutout. Allowing just 4 hits and a walk, Alfano struck out 5 to improve to 1-1 on the season. A former 1.1 pick and one of the top hurlers in the game, it's the 10th of his career, as he looks completely healed from his major elbow injury last season. Alfano was then followed up by Dallas' Pete Rosenbaum, as their young ace twirled a 4-hitter of his own. It came in a 8-0 win over Kansas City, where he walked 3 and struck out 7. It's his 3rd win and second scoreless outing, and the near 28-year-old sports a remarkable 0.82 ERA (458 ERA+) and 0.86 WHIP in 22 innings.
• Long-time Keystone catcher Dick Christian finally announced he was hanging up the cleats, as after three seasons with less then 100 PAs and a 39th birthday in September, he finally acknowledged that the writing was on the wall. Mainly a backup, he was always a great hitter, and his six seasons as a starter from '63 to '68 actually went really well. Unfortunately for him, Philly exchanged his bat for the glove of Jay Ziegler Jr. in the '69 season, despite the fact that he never had a WRC+ above 75. Christian has done that in every single one of his completed seasons, and will retire with a triple slash similar to his current .265/.353/.434 (127 OPS+). Taking a bat seat to rookie Nick Dennis and sophomore Jack Hinkle, he's 0-for-2 in a pair of pinch hit outings, and will be lucky to get a chance to add to his 1,074 career FABL starts. At print, he has 170 doubles and 170 homers as well as exactly 40 wins above replacement, all strong marks for a catcher with 4,200 career at bats.
• 11 players were claimed off waivers this Sunday, with many more clearing and awaiting a potential assignment. The claims were all made by four teams, with just one of the four settling for a single new player. The Suns, Dynamos, and Cougars were busy, but most of the players selected are rather unknown. Most notable is champion Bill Rawdon, who appeared in 155 games for the 1973 champion Saints. A former 8th Round pick of the Wolves, he's spent time in the big leagues with them and the Saints, hitting .264/.327/.381 (106 OPS+) with 126 doubles, 29 triples, 36 homers, 37 steals, 285 runs, and 308 RBIs. He has appeared in 100 or more games in each of the seven seasons, but just two of them saw more then 70 starts. He gives the Cougars depth and a right handed bat to pair with left handed hitting starting left fielder Sam Morrison. Experienced at all three outfield positions, as well as second and third base, he could serve a utility and leadership role in the Windy City.
• Dick Butler is another guy to keep an eye on, as he went from Baltimore to Cincinnati. A 34-year-old veteran, he spent one season with the Clippers, going 13-11 with a 4.20 ERA (90 ERA+), 1.40 WHIP, and 130 strikeouts in 35 starts. Detroit is in need of starting pitching, and they'll reunite with a guy they gave 20 starts to back in 1972. It went really well for the journeyman, 7-7 with a 2.71 ERA (129 ERA+), 1.08 WHIP, and 86 strikeouts, before being traded to the Miners for a minor league infielder. Not usually that talented, his career 3.56 ERA in 1,313 FABL innings is exactly average for his parks and timeframe, but he can do a good job eating innings for a rebuilding club.
• Cincinnati could potentially be without one of their top young players, as 25-year-old third basemen Bill Brown strained his shoulder. While it is something he could play through, just moderately impacting throwing, it has a recovery time of 3-4 weeks, and it would likely be longer should they push their second year player through the injury. Taken 12th in the 1972 draft, he hit .263/.311/.365 (96 OPS+) in his debut season, and he's hit .354/.392/.396 (116 OPS+) to start the new campaign. The Cannons have a capable backup too, as 29-year-old Tony Nino spent his first six seasons in the starting lineup, including last year where he hit .269/.317/.403 (108 OPS+) in 142 game for the club.
• Unlike the Cannons, the Gothams will be without one of their infielders long term, as second basemen Joe Jones tore his hamstring, and is expected to miss at least the next five weeks. Another former 1st Rounder, Jones started 9 games at second for the Gothams before suffering his ailment. A mainstay in the Gothams lineup since his debut in '71, he's hit a nice .269/.358/.391 (115 OPS+) with 93 doubles, 50 homers, 262 RBIs, 267 runs, and 299 walks. Losing the Kellogg winner for any time would be a blow, and their internal options are not great. That being said, veteran infielder Jon Horton did just clear waivers, and could make a quick return to the big league club now that Jones is out of commission. Now 34, Horton has nine years of FABL experience, hitting .241/.310/.342 (89 OPS+) in time split between the Imperials, Suns, Mavericks, and Gothams.

DEALING BEGINS WITH DYNAMOS

A funny thing happened to the Detroit Dynamos this past week. They started playing better baseball — and almost nobody noticed.

The Dynamos went 4–2, lifted their record to 6–7, and even managed to sweep three straight from St. Louis, including the home opener at Thompson Field. That’s progress by any reasonable standard, even if it still leaves them fifth in the Federal Association West, looking down at only one club — the same Pioneers they just finished pushing around. St. Louis is 3–9 now, which is one way of saying Detroit is no longer alone in the neighborhood.

But baseball in Detroit has reached a point where what happens off the field carries more weight than what happens on it. And this week, the real news came not from the batter’s box but from the front office.

After weeks of rumors, the Dynamos finally made their first trade under the new regime — which is really an old regime, resurrected. The general manager now running the show is the same man who helped assemble the bones of those magnificent teams in the 1950s, the ones that went on to win seven pennants and four World Classic titles after he’d already left town. History doesn’t always repeat itself, but Detroit is clearly hoping it at least rhymes.

The message has been clear from the start: this club is getting younger, and it’s finally admitting what everyone else already knew — a rebuild is overdue. The first domino to fall was not Bill Austin, as many expected, but veteran corner infielder John Lucas.

Lucas and his $62,000 contract were shipped to the Seattle Kings for three prospects, none of whom made the league’s top 100 according to OSA. That’s not exactly the kind of return that gets framed and hung on the office wall. It also continues a long, complicated, and not particularly comforting trading relationship between Detroit and Seattle.

The two clubs have been doing business with each other for decades, going back to the days when the Kings still played in Brooklyn. Some of those deals did not work out — Al Wheeler and Frank Vance once brought the then Brooklyn-based Kings its first World Classic title while Detroit never did get all the way with its rebuild, but some did as the trade that landed Ralph Johnson and Bob Arman helped fuel a dynasty, but also gave the Kings, in Kansas City at this point, years and years of quality pitching from Fred Washington and Beau McClellan. Yes, that one proved to work out well for both teams. But those memories are sepia-toned now. More recent history is less forgiving, particularly the move six years ago that sent All-Star shortstop Ben Baker west in exchange for Austin. Austin has helped. Detroit’s shortstop position has not.

So when fans hear that Lucas is heading to Seattle, a little uneasiness is understandable. He’s 33, yes, but he also hit .316 last season and remained one of the few reliable bats in a fragile lineup. Then again, the Dynamos weren’t going anywhere with him either, and that’s the cold arithmetic driving this entire process.

The centerpiece of the return is Art Purnell, a 22-year-old right-hander taken 17th overall by the Kings in 1971. He’s spent four years in the minors and hasn’t pitched above Class A, which explains why OSA doesn’t get excited about him. Chuck Cole, Detroit’s scouting director, does. Cole believes Purnell can grow into a middle-of-the-rotation starter, which may not sound glamorous, but on this club it would qualify as a small miracle.

Also coming over is Ted Lashway, a 24-year-old reliever with exactly one big-league appearance to his name. Lashway throws five pitches, which tells you the Dynamos see him as more than a bullpen arm. Had Detroit not just grabbed two pitchers off waivers, Lashway might already be stretching out as a starter at Thompson Field. Instead, he’ll spend some time in AAA while the organization figures out what it really has.

The final piece is Pete Pratt, a 19-year-old third baseman taken in the fifth round last June. He’s a long shot, the baseball equivalent of a lottery ticket. Sometimes those pay off. Mostly they don’t. But when you’re rebuilding, you collect as many as you can and hope one of them hits.

Will Detroit win this trade? Nobody knows. History suggests caution when Seattle is involved. But it’s clear the man who once helped build a powerhouse is starting to leave fingerprints on the roster again. More moves are coming. That much is certain.

Whether they work is another matter entirely. But the past 15 years have shown one thing beyond debate: standing still was no longer an option.

WOLVES HAVE A TOUGH WEEK

There is a familiar sound around Dominion Field in April, and it isn’t the crack of the bat. It is the quiet, collective sigh of a crowd that has seen this picture before and is wondering—again—how long the next chapter will last.

A week ago, there was cautious optimism. Not the parade kind, but the sensible Toronto kind. With eight of their first eleven games at home, the Wolves had an opportunity to make a decent first impression, even in the raw chill of a Toronto spring. Instead, the Wolves managed to turn hope into apprehension in the space of five games.

They lost all five, were outscored 41–18, and committed 11 errors. For a club whose blueprint depends on pitching and defence, those numbers do not require deep analysis. They speak plainly, and they speak loudly.

The only contest that flirted with competitiveness came Wednesday night against Milwaukee, in a game that seemed determined to outlast both the players and the spectators. With the temperature hovering near freezing, many of the announced 11,524 had sensibly gone home by the time the Arrows finally pushed across two runs in the twelfth inning to win 5–3, shortly after one o’clock in the morning. Milwaukee, a club that looks every bit a contender, returned the next afternoon and removed any doubt with a brisk 9–1 victory. The Wolves managed just three hits, one of them a Phil Story home run that briefly interrupted an otherwise quiet afternoon.

If the Wolves were going to right themselves, the weekend series against New York was supposed to be the moment. It wasn’t. The Imperials swept the set by scores of 6–0, 11–9, and 10–5, and even those numbers flatter Toronto. The 11–9 game was 11–3 when the Wolves batted in the ninth, and Sunday’s finale featured five Toronto errors that handed New York four unearned runs. That sort of generosity is appreciated in many walks of life. In professional baseball, it is fatal.

Now the Wolves pack their bags for eight games in eleven days on the road, and there is an old truth that applies neatly here. Good teams work their way out of slumps. Ordinary teams explain them away. This trip may tell us which one Toronto is.

Under a new front office, the Wolves have been granted a measure of goodwill, but goodwill is not an endless account. Much of it has already been spent during the last five games. Toronto fans are patient, but they are not naïve. They have heard the explanations for three decades now. What they want is progress—visible, measurable, and honest—even if it requires uncomfortable decisions.

With the minor-league season about to begin at every level, the ladder is officially in place. Promotions need not wait for sentiment or seniority. Opportunity is available to those who earn it.

The season is young. But so, already, are the questions.

WEEK ONE: A MIXED BAG, A COLD START, AND THE CURIOUS CASE OF BILL KELLY
By Mickey Sullivan | Globe Staff April 14, 1975

BOSTON — The suitcases are packed, the bus is idling, and the Minutemen are heading back to the Hub with a 2-2 record that feels exactly like what it is: a work in progress. While we were shivering in the stands, Atlanta started the year 4-1 because, apparently, they didn't get the memo that the season is supposed to start slowly. They look like a juggernaut already, but here in Boston, we are still trying to figure out if our new ace can find the strike zone with a compass and a map.

Opening Day was a scene straight out of a Jack London novel. Over 22,000 of you brave souls packed Minutemen Park in 44-degree weather just to see the new kid, Bill Kelly, face off against his old pals from Washington. Kelly got the 4-2 win, but it wasn't exactly a masterpiece. He walked six batters. Six. He escaped with only two earned runs allowed and four strikeouts, but you can’t live on the edge like that for long. Jim Morton provided the heater for the offense, racking up a double and two singles to make sure the fans went home happy, if not a little frostbitten.

Then the boys hit the road for Philadelphia, and things got ugly fast. Friday night’s opener against the Keystones was a 12-3 beatdown that I’d personally like to strike from the record. The defense played like they were wearing greased oven mitts, committing three massive errors. Poor Johnny Hall didn’t even make it out of the third inning. When your starter is watching the fourth inning from the clubhouse shower, you know it’s a long night.

Thankfully, Hank Springer reminded us why we play the games on Saturday. He was a surgeon on the mound, spreading four hits across seven and a third innings while fanning seven. It was a beautiful 2-0 shutout fueled by RBIs from Charlie Hartsell and that man Jim Morton again.

Sully’s Stance: We went into the rubber match on Sunday hoping Bill Kelly would settle down. Instead, we got a carbon copy of Opening Day. Another six walks in a 4-3 loss. That is 12 free passes in two starts, folks. You can’t give professional hitters that many gifts and expect to win ballgames. A pair of errors didn't help his cause, but the fact remains that Kelly is dancing on a landmine right now. On the bright side, Jim Wise looked sharp with three hits and Willie Stephens looks like he’s finally finding his timing with a pair of knocks.

The team has the next four days off, and they are high-tailing it back to Boston for some maximum rest. They’ll need it before the Keystones roll into town for a rematch at our place.

Early concerns? Bill Kelly’s control is currently M.I.A. Early bright spots? Jim Morton is hitting at a .375 clip with five RBIs and looks like the best player on the field every time he steps over the white lines.

The season is a marathon, not a sprint, but I’d feel a lot better if we stopped giving away free bases like they were campaign flyers. Enjoy the break, Boston. We’ll see you at the park.

NAHC QUARTERFINALS SHAPING UP AS A DOGFIGHT

If the opening week of the NAHC quarterfinals is any indication, this year’s playoff road will be anything but smooth for the league’s division champions. All four series are deadlocked at one game apiece, and whatever home-ice advantage Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago and Vancouver spent six months earning has already been chipped away.

Boston, owner of the league’s best regular-season record, learned quickly that past standings offer no protection in April. The Bees finished a staggering 33 points clear of Minneapolis, yet looked anything but dominant in the opener, absorbing a 5–2 loss as the Norsemen erupted for four third-period goals that stunned the crowd at Denny Arena. Boston steadied itself in game two, grinding out a 4–3 victory behind a pair of first-period power-play goals from Bruce Callahan. With the series even, the scene now shifts to Minneapolis for games tonight and Thursday.

The defending Challenge Cup champion Philadelphia Rogues followed a similar script. After a weeklong layoff, the Rogues appeared rusty in game one and were undone by superb goaltending from Los Angeles netminder Bill Simpson. Julien Ouellet scored twice, the second coming just over ten minutes into overtime, to lift the Stingrays to a 3–2 victory. Philadelphia responded the way champions are expected to, taking game two 5–2 on the strength of two goals apiece from league scoring leader Adam McPherson and defenseman Patrick Reimer. The series now heads west, with game three set for tonight in Los Angeles.

In Chicago, the Yeadon Division champions also stumbled out of the gate. Toronto spoiled the opener with a 4–1 victory, fueled by two goals from Sam DaSilva and three assists from Sam Schmidt. The Packers recovered in a wildly entertaining second game, hanging on for a 6–5 win after nearly letting a three-goal lead slip away. Bruce Denison paced Chicago with a goal and three assists, while Ollie Perreault did his best to steal it for Toronto with two goals and an assist in the third period. The series now moves to Dominion Gardens for game three tonight.

The only top seed to claim the opening game on home ice was Vancouver, and even that came with difficulty. The Totems needed overtime to edge Montreal 4–3 in game one, with Gordie Tremblay scoring three minutes into the extra session. Donnie Peel was the catalyst for Vancouver, setting up three goals. Montreal answered emphatically in game two, blanking the Totems 2–0 behind Fred Rucks’ second shutout of the playoffs. Clyde Raines opened the scoring early, and Ed Halliday sealed it with an empty-net goal in the final seconds. That series now shifts east for games three and four in Montreal.

Two games in, one thing is clear: no favorite is safe, and every series looks capable of going the distance.

MAULERS INCH CLOSER TO HISTORY

The Milwaukee Maulers have already stunned the hockey world as the expansion club finished with the best regular season record in the Continental Hockey League. Now the Maulers have their sights set on something consider even less plausible - a playoff championship in their first season of existence. The Maulers dethroned defending Challenge Cup champion Edmonton in the opening round and now are halfway to reaching the finals after they beat the Ottawa Athletics 3-2 last night to go up 2 games to none in their semi-final series.

The Maulers built a 3-0 lead midway through the second period on goals from Sergio Mangia, Charlie Fountain and Scott Crawley and then hung on for a 3-2 victory at the Milwaukee Auditorium. This after they rallied from a 2-0 first period deficit in the series opener to top the Athletics 4-2. Perhaps even more impressively the Maulers held scoring star Hobie Barrell off the scoresheet in both games.

Barrell, the CHL's all-time leading scorer, was the reason the Athletics reached the semi-finals after he picked up 3 points and willed his club to a 4-2 victory over the Cleveland Immortals in game seven of their quarterfinal series, one in which the Athletics battled back with three straight victories after going behind 3-1 in the series.

The other semi-final series opened in Denver Saturday evening with the hometown Peaks scoring two unanswered goals in the third period to pull out a 3-2 victory over the Winnipeg Falcons.

PHANTOMS VANISH FROM PLAYOFF PICTURE

A six game losing streak to end the season including back-to-back losses to Washington with their playoff future at stake has seen the Philadelphia Phantoms endure one of the worst collapses in recent Federal Basketball League history. The Phantoms need just one win in their final five games to clinch a playoff berth but they came up short each time and, despite their 43-39 record, they will not advance to the playoffs.

The Washington Statesmen instead end a four year playoff drought to nose out Philadelphia and advance on a tie-breaker after both ended the season 43-39. With no margin for error, the Statesmen won each of their final five games including a pair over Philadelphia to sneak into the fifth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Washington kept its winning streak going with a 149-137 win on the road in Toronto to open their preliminary series with the Falcons. New York, Chicago and Boston also qualified in the East.

The West preliminary round series between San Francisco and Seattle also got underway yesterday with the visiting Apollos upsetting the Miners 110-104 in the opener of the best-of-three series. Division winners Minneapolis and Seattle, along with the St Louis Rockets, also qualified for the playoffs.

FINAL CBL PLAYOFF UNDERWAY

While the details have not been made public, multiple sources within the Continental Basketball League has confirmed that this will be its final season, as the loop is poised to be absorbed by the long-running Federal Basketball League. When the curtain falls on this playoff, it will mark the end of an eight year run for the innovative league which introduced, among other things, the three-point shot to basketball.

GATORS BOAST TOP GRID RECRUITING CLASS

Highlighted by five-star recruit Bill Ellis, a game-breaking linebacker out of Grove City, OH., the top recruiting class in college football this year belongs to the Georgia Baptist Gators. OSA, the multi-sport scouting service, ranks the Gators haul -especially on defense which also includes linebacker Charlie Attaway and linemen Jason Sheppard and Sid Rosenboro- to be the top group of incoming recruits in the AIAA.

The Gators have had a couple of down years by their lofty standards, going 7-4 each of the past two seasons and playing on New Year's Day just once in the past five years, are expected to be much improved in the coming season and on a short-list that will also include Central Ohio, Mississippi A&M, Lawrence State and St Blane as favourites to be the preseason number one when that ranking is released in June.

Speaking of St Blane, the Fighting Saints are slotted in as number two in the top ten recruiting classes, followed by Noble Jones College, Central Kentucky and Rome State to round out the top five. Lawrence State, Boston State with a surprisingly strong class, defending national champion Redwood, Alabama Baptist and Coastal California round out the top ten classes according to the OSA.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 04/20/1975

• North Vietnamese forces close in on Saigon, capturing key towns and cutting major highways as South Vietnam’s defenses rapidly disintegrate.
• President Thieu resigns amid military collapse, delivering a bitter televised address blaming the United States for abandoning South Vietnam before fleeing the country.
• U.S. orders accelerated evacuation planning for Saigon, with embassy officials preparing contingency plans as panic spreads in the capital.
• Cambodia’s new Khmer Rouge regime seals borders, prompting international concern over reports of mass evacuations and harsh new controls in Phnom Penh.
• Congress rejects final Vietnam aid appeals, confirming that no additional U.S. military funding will be provided in the war’s closing days.
• Unemployment claims rise again as recession deepens, reinforcing pressure on the Ford administration to expand economic relief measures.
• A convicted Watergate burglar says he was working with the CIA on a plot to assassinate Fidel Castro in 1959 but it was dropped after failing to get the green light from Washington.
• Israel has no intention of softening her negotiation position on a new Sinai accord until the Ford administration agrees to resume talks on Israel's pending arms request.

[Tiger Fan]

APRIL 28, 1975

SUNS SHINE ATOP FEDERAL ASSOCIATION

As April winds toward its close, the brightest glow in the Federal Association is coming from the West Coast, where the Los Angeles Suns have surged to the forefront of the pennant race. After a sluggish 5–5 start, the defending West Division champions have caught fire, winning nine of their last ten games and rolling through a perfect week that included sweeps of St. Louis, Detroit, and the Chicago Chiefs.

Los Angeles has received uneven results from its pitching staff—Heinie Schmidt (3–0, 1.91) has been sharp, while Pete Meissner (1–2, 6.75) has struggled—but the Suns’ offense has been relentless. They now sit 2½ games clear of Chicago atop the Fed West, averaging better than six runs per game and outscoring their nearest rival by 22 runs overall. Seven of the Suns’ eight regulars are batting .300 or better, with only catcher Ed Mooney (.290, 1 HR, 8 RBI) below that mark. Tom Lally (.367, 3 HR, 21 RBI), Sam Forester (.315, 4 HR, 17 RBI), and Bill Perry (.373, 4 HR, 12 RBI) have combined for 11 home runs—more than 11 Federal Association clubs have managed as entire teams.

In the East, Atlanta’s presence atop the standings comes as no surprise, but the identity of the Copperheads’ closest pursuer has raised eyebrows. Washington currently holds second place despite appearing to enter a rebuilding phase after dealing four-time Whitney Award winner Tom Lorang to Chicago. Lorang (.243, 0 HR, 11 RBI) has been steady but unspectacular with the Cougars, while the Eagles—without him—have raced to a 10–7 start. A minus-10 run differential suggests Washington may be skating on thin ice, but the early results have been undeniable.

Over in the Continental Association, familiar powers are showing signs of strain. The Los Angeles Stars, long a fixture near the top of the CA West, appear vulnerable as age begins to catch up with a club that finished second in the division in each of the past two seasons following eight consecutive playoff appearances. At the moment, it is Dallas setting the pace in the CA West, fueled by the early brilliance of Pete Rosenbaum (4–0, 1.20), who is already staking a claim in the Allen Award discussion. Seattle sits second after sweeping Los Angeles over the weekend, though the defending World Champion Kings endured a rocky week that included a three-game sweep at the hands of Kansas City.

In the CA East, Milwaukee’s fast start has come to an abrupt halt. The Arrows dropped all five games last week, losing twice at home to Toronto before being swept in Cleveland. That slide has opened the door for Cincinnati, which won four of six to grab the division lead. The spotlight now shifts to Ohio, where the Cannons will host Milwaukee in a pivotal three-game series beginning tomorrow—an early test that could signal whether the Arrows’ stumble is temporary or something more troubling as April gives way to May.

• When the season started, many expected Jim Norris' (3-0, 1.54, 7) return to the rotation to be nothing more then a publicity stunt to bring fans to watch a struggling Cougars team. Still pitching at 45, Norris' goal for the season was to enter the top-6 in FABL for victories, entering the season tied for 8th with Hall-of-Famers Mike Marner and Woody Trease. Pundits expected multiple starts, as Norris lost 14 games as a reliever last year, working to a 4.80 ERA (77 ERA+) and 1.70 WHIP. Instead, it took him a game to break the tie, another to enter a tie for 7th, and a third to take the 7th spot all on his own. Instead of struggling to get through games, Norris has been one of the best pitchers in baseball, allowing 2 or fewer runs in each of his 3 starts, including a complete game win last week. Now with 328 career wins, one above Al Miller, and he's 6 away from tying Charlie Wilson for 6th. It's hard to expect him to maintain a 1.54 ERA (243 ERA+) and 1.29 WHIP all season, especially with more walks (10) then strikeouts (7), but it's clear that Norris still has it, and if he can win 12 more games this year he'll have the 5th spot all to himself.
• In other Cougars news, they'll get another veteran back, with Tom Halliday fully recovered from his back tightness. One of the best defenders in the CA, it was a quick absence covered by his double play partner Cleo Harris (.247, 2, 10, 1). Another strong defender, they didn't lose much there, but replacement second basemen Bill Grimm (.204, 1, 5, 1) did not offer Chicago must offense. He'll head to Omaha, despite having the ability to refuse an optional assignment, and look to get the bat working again against weaker competition.
• No Atlanta player got the Fed Player of the Week this week, though they do sport FABL's best record, as the opposite division leader got credit for their performances this week. At 14-6, the Suns lead the West and have the most wins in the league, aided by the highest scoring offense in the Fed. It was an unlikely hero this week, as seventh hitter Bill Perry (.373, 4, 12, 3) had a power surge that even he didn't see coming. Hitting just 5 homers last year and before this week, just 31 career homers in nearly 700 games. This week he had three, including a 2-homer game in the Suns tight 6-5 win. He homered earlier in the week too, coming in a 4-for-5 all-around strong game, finishing up 15-for-30 with 9 RBIs and 10 runs scored. Now hitting .373/.397/.573 (168 OPS+) in 18 games, it's about as far from his norm as possible, as before last season he never had an OPS+ or WRC+ above 80, and it came in just 336 PAs.
• I doubt skipper Jim Coulter will continue relying on production from their defensive star, as they have a real superstar in Tom Lally (.367, 3, 21, 3), who has continued to tear the cover off the ball in '76. Lally had an excellent week himself, as the reigning Whitney winner went 12-for-25 with 6 runs, a triple, a homer, 10 RBIs, and 3 walks. Finishing off a trio of Player of the Week worthy performances was outfielder Jim Thurman (.386, 1, 8), who was just recently added to the starting lineup. Replacing Bill Kearny (.226, 1, 4), Thurman went 10-for-17 with a double, triple, and home run. He isn't yet playing everyday, as Kearny still takes a few starts, but the former 2nd Rounder is doing all he can to secure his first full-time job since 1969. Having even part-time guys like Thurman on the bench has helped them build a high quality roster, and as we get closer to May, they're looking like a legitimate contender.
• No homers for the other winner, but Montreal's Joe Robertson (.439, 12, 1) has shown that it's not important. More of a power hitter then Perry, he hasn't done any slugging so far, but the 1973 Kellogg winner was 13-for-25 with 5 doubles, a triple, 4 runs, 5 RBIs, and 6 walks. Off to an electric start, Robertson is now hitting .439/.471/.667 (212 OPS+), and while he hasn't homered, he is the first FABL hitter with double digit doubles, as his 11 are three more then anyone else. It's unusual for him too, as he hit 20 last year and 19 the year before, totals he should quickly surpass if he continues his stellar form.
• John Alfano (1-2, 4.56, 10) had the shutout last week, and this week it was his co-ace Jim White (3-0, 4.13, 24) who kept the runs off the board. An up-and-down season for White, his perfect record was aided by a 4-hit shutout of the Saints. Walking 3 and striking out 9, he's on pace for another 200+ strikeout season, and he's probably the only pitcher this season who will win a game where he goes at least 8 innings and allows 8 or more runs. For him, it was 8.1 and 9 runs (8 earned), walking 3 and striking out 2 in a closer-for-comfort 11-9 win over the Wolves. 6 of those runs came in the bottom of the 9th, accounting for all but 3 of the runs he's given up this season.
• New Minuteman Bill Kelly (1-2, 2.92, 16) would have joined him had he had any run support, as against the Gothams Kelly had everything working. Going what should have been all nine, he allowed just 3 hits and a walk, striking out 4 in his first start with Boston that felt like what he was capable of. Capable can't describe his offense, as they mustered up just 3 hits in regulation. Neither team could solve the starter, so after nine it was still tied at 0, and Kelly would not get the 10th. Two innings later, the Gothams walked it off on a Bill Arndt (.296, 3, 13) single, ruining an excellent start from their new ace.
• Baltimore made a minor signing, adding 33-year-old Davey Cronin to a $30,000 contract. A champion with the Kings last year, Cronin was released a few days earlier. Now 33, he has 1,597.1 career FABL innings under his belt, 96-97 with 56 saves, a 3.87 ERA (92 ERA+), and a 1.28 WHIP. Added to the Clippers pen right away, he's already made two appearances, going 3 innings with 6 hits, a walk, a strikeout, and a save. He's expected to continue to replace former stopper Larry Warren (0-1, 3, 4.82, 9), who was waived before the signing. A 3-Time All-Star, he was once the ace of the present and future for a young Baltimore franchise, but just after his 27th birthday he'll be joining his second FABL organization. Claimed by multiple teams, the Foresters currently hold the winning claim, as he's scheduled to finish waivers later in the week.
• Toronto suffered injuries both on the mound and in the field, losing reliever Bill Johnson (1-1, 8.68, 2) and outfielder Jackie Daniels (.321, 6). Johnson is assured to go to the IL, as forearm inflammation will cost him about a month and a half. Recently 25, Johnson debuted on April 9th, and the former Miners 8th Rounder allowed 13 hits, 9 runs, and 5 walks, striking out just 2 in 9.1 innings pitched. Getting hurt may have saved his pay, as he would have been a sensical option to be replaced. Daniels, however, may not even be replaced on the active roster, as while a hip flexor strain will inconvenience him for 2-3 weeks, it won't stop the former 10th overall pick from doing much other then running. Now 28, the sixth year outfielder is off to a great start, batting .321/.387/.464 (132 OPS+) with 7 extra base hits. That's not really something the lowest Continental offense can afford to lose, but they have plenty of replacement candidates should they take a conservative approach with their best player.

THE APRIL FROM HELL: BATS IN THE DEEP FREEZE AS MINUTEMEN HIT ROCK BOTTOM

WINTER HAVEN was a long time ago, folks. If there is a team in professional baseball that needs to tear the page off the calendar and set it on fire more than the Minutemen, I haven’t met them. Boston is currently sitting at 3-9. That isn’t just the basement of the FA East; it is the worst record in the entire FABL. We aren't just losing; we are anchor-dragging.

From a pitching standpoint, you can almost squint and see some hope. Aside from Johnny Hall, the rotation is actually holding its own. Sure, they are still handing out walks like they’re trying to win a civic generosity award, but so far, those free passes haven't completely buried them in the earned run department. No, the real stench coming off this team is originating in the dugout.

To put it bluntly, this team appears to be allergic to hitting a baseball. Going into action today, the Minutemen rank 11th or 12th in every major hitting category that matters. The boys are averaging just over three runs a game. Three! I’ve seen better offensive production at a Little League park in Dorchester. Even more embarrassing? The team has only managed to hit three home runs all year. This was supposed to be a lineup with pop, but right now, they couldn't break a pane of glass.

Sully’s Stance: Out of the regular starters, only Jim Morton is showing up to work every day. He is having a fantastic start to the year, but he is a lonely man on the basepaths. It is hard to drive people in when everyone else is walking back to the dugout with their heads down.

As much as this month needs to end, the schedule maker didn't do us any favors for May. The club is currently in the middle of a grueling nine-game, four-city road trip. We still have to survive stops in Washington and Baltimore before we get to see the friendly confines of home again. And when we finally do touch down in Boston? The first-place Atlanta Copperheads will be waiting at the gate. Talk about a "Welcome Home" party you’d rather skip.

The minor league season is only five days old, so it is probably too early to start screaming for reinforcements from the farm. However, if this downward spiral doesn't correct itself—and fast—the brass might be forced to start looking at who is performing in AAA. A few bus tickets to Columbus might be the only way to wake this roster up.

I’m out of matches and my coffee is cold. Let’s just hope May brings something besides more rain and strikeouts.

Until next time, try to keep your chin up, Boston.

Wolves Rebound, A Bit, To Start Road Trip

The Toronto Wolves start their road swing through Milwaukee, Cincinnati and New York with a little bounce back going 3-2, although it did come at a cost, more on that later. If fans were worried starting the 8 games away from home against the Arrows their fears proved to be unfounded at least for this short two game series. After a "rest day" on Monday Red Bullock was almost unhittable as he worked into the 6th on a rainy afternoon at Lakefront Park. In a low event game Bullock survived 4 BB before Evans brought in Dick Miller with one out in the sixth. Miller worked to end of 7 before giving the ball to Bill Cox who retired 4 Arrows before Ray Smith closed the game for his first save of the season. This pitching quartet limited Milwaukee's big bats to only 3 hits but did allow 6 walks. They only scoring play in this 1-0 Wolves win was a sac fly by Heinie Pearce in the top of the second. The Wolves hung again the next afternoon again under a drizzly sky when they built a 4-0 lead to hang on to win 4-3 again with 4 hurlers who only gave up 5 hits but walked 9 Arrows. Evans said post game "Wins are wins, we were fortunate that the walks did not come back to haunt us this series. Let's head to Cincy."

The pitching came crashing down back to earth a Friday at Tice Memorial. Stan Terry's rocky start to 1975 continued as he went to 0-3 giving up 4 runs on 8 hits going only 5. He was not helped by his own error then another by Story. Cannons pounded out 13 hits hanging a 8-4 loss on Toronto. Manny Espinosa had a rough outing Saturday afternoon allowing 15 baserunners on 8 hits, 7 BB before his day was over after 6 IP with his team trailing 6-1. The Wolves made the score a little more respectable by scoring 2 in the 8th on Jackie Daniels' 5th two-bagger of the season in a game that was never really in doubt for the Cannons. Toronto salvaged the final game of the set on Sunday afternoon before 17481 patrons on first game played without rain clouds hanging over the field. Gary Preston kept his infielders on their toes inducing 13 groundballs in 8 IP in a 6-2 win. Daniels drove in the first two runs with his 6th double in the second, before pulling up lame at second then being removed from the game. Wolves now head into New York before returning home next weekend to face the Cannons.

Daniels was only part of the cost mentioned in the opening of this article. He will be joined on the DL by reliever Bill Johnson who was pulled Saturday afternoon. Johnson will probably be out until mid-June with a forearm issue. Daniels' loss will probably be more costly to the team as .321/.387/.464 line is out for at least two weeks with a hip flexor. For the team that has scored the fewest runs in the CA they cannot afford to lose a bat like Daniels, time for someone to step up.

OF George Downing was recalled along with RP Ken Jeffrie, they both will join the team before the Imperials series.

All minor league teams, with the exception of Rookie, have begun so the front office feeling is that the shuttles between their minor league cities will busy over the month of May.

PACKERS PUNCH TICKET FOR SEMI-FINALS

The Chicago Packers became the first team to reach the semi-finals in the pursuit for the 1974-75 Challenge Cup. The Packers, who had not won a playoff series since 1966, followed up their first round bye for winning the Yeadon Division with a relatively easy time in disposing of the Toronto Dukes in five games. The Packers dropped the opener of their best-of-seven set with the Dukes but roared back with 4 consecutive victories to capture the series. Rejean Gillies had a 36-save shutout in Chicago's 2-0 road win in game four on Thursday before Chicago closed out the series with a 3-1 victory at the Lakeside Auditorium on Saturday. Long-service Packers winger Ken York, who endured the least productive regular season of his career, proved that at age 38 he still has something left in the tank as the Chicago captain scored once and assisted on each of the other two Packers goals in the series clinching victory.

Each of the other three series remain undecided but the Boston Bees -owners of the league's best regular season mark- can close out the pesky Norsemen with a victory in Minneapolis tonight. Boston leads the series 3 games to two after the Bees, who were thumped 7-0 in game four, rallied for two goals in the third period to nip the Norsemen 4-3 in Saturday's fifth game.

The Los Angeles Stingrays will try for a second time to eliminate the reigning Challenge Cup champion Philadelphia Rogues on Tuesday. The Stingrays took a 3-1 series lead with back-to-back wins on home ice in games three and four but fell 5-1 in Philadelphia last night as the Rogues stayed alive and trimmed the Los Angeles series lead to 3 games to two. Glenn McKenzie, who won the David Welcombe Trophy and led the playoffs in scoring a year ago, picked up his first two goals of this year's playoffs in the game five win. A seventh game, if necessary, will be played on Thursday in Philadelphia.

The Montreal Valiants, who had not advanced past the opening round since winning their ninth Challenge Cup in 1971, are now one win away from the semi-finals after beating the Totems 5-3 in Vancouver last night. Montreal, which eliminated San Francisco in the opening round, leads Vancouver 3 games to two in their quarterfinal series and can advance with a win on home ice tomorrow. The clubs split the first four games before Montreal's game five victory, which was keyed by a 3-point outing from Ken Roper.

IN THE MINORS -The Rochester Robins, who are affiliated with the New York Shamrocks, are one victory away from winning just their second-ever Hockey Association of America playoff title. The Robins, who won the HAA in 1968, won each of the first three games of the finals by a single goal over the Toledo Tigers but Toledo stayed alive in the series with a 5-1 victory on home ice in game four....The Halifax Mariners were crowned champions of Canadian Junior Hockey after they disposed of Windsor in five games in their best-of-seven CAHA title series. It was the third time the Mariners were crowned junior champions.

MAULERS, FALCONS EACH ONE WIN FROM FINALS

The Milwaukee Maulers and Winnipeg Falcons will each try to close out their semi-final series and earn a berth in the Continental Cup with a road victory over the next two days. Milwaukee, which visits Ottawa tonight, and Winnipeg, which plays in Denver tomorrow evening, are each leading their respective best-of-seven semi-final series three games to two.

The expansion Maulers, who have been the biggest surprise in the CHL this season after posting the league's best regular season record and then disposing of the defending Challenge Cup champion Edmonton Huskies rather easily in the opening round of the playoffs, find themselves facing adversity for one of the few times this season. Milwaukee had opened a three games to none lead on Ottawa only to see Ottawa win each of the last two games to get back into the series. The Athletics, led by Ludvig Olsson's hat trick, stayed alive with a 6-3 victory in game four before blasting the Maulers 8-4 in Milwaukee on Saturday.

Meanwhile the Winnipeg Falcons, fresh off their first-ever playoff series victory when they dispatched Kansas City in six games in the quarterfinals, split the first four games of their semi-final series with the Denver Peaks before pulling out a 4-3 victory in double overtime last night to move within one victory of a trip to the finals. Tim Moore, who led the CHL in scoring during the regular season, was Sunday's hero with a goal and three assists for the Falcons including setting up Glenn Ritchie's winner that came after 24 minutes of overtime. It has been a tight series with four of the five games decided by a single goal.

CAGE PLAYOFFS IN FULL SWING

The playoffs are well underway in both of the pro basketball league's although this will be the final year that two champions of the pro game are declared. The 8-year-old Continental Basketball League is set to fold once its playoffs are complete, with many of its teams set to be absorbed by the long-running Federal Basketball League.

The focus on the moment remains on the court for the CBL which saw only one small surprise in its quarterfinals after the third place Philadelphia Mariners upset the second place Pittsburgh Ironmen three games to one in their best of five series. The Mariners will face a great challenge in the semi-finals as the Cincinnati Steamers-owners of the best regular season record in the CBL- are the Mariners opponents. Cincinnati took the opener of the best-of-seven second round series 149-127. In the West Division both first place San Antonio and second place Denver, which won the league title a year ago, advanced to the semi-finals although Kansas City did push the Outlaws to the full five games. Despite 30 points from league regular season scoring champion Bill Fairchild, the Bighorns drew first blood in the semi-finals, claiming a 125-109 road victory.

The FBL opening round saw the two fifth place teams each sweep the fourth place clubs in their respective conferences to advance to the semi-finals. The New York Knights, top seed in the East and winners of three of the past five playoff titles, took a quick two games to none lead on the Washington Statesmen in the their quarterfinal series. It is Washington's first playoff appearance since the spring of 1970. Chicago and Boston are tied 1-1 in the other series in the East. The Minneapolis Bobcats, who had never made the playoffs prior to this season, took full advantage of having the best record in the Western Conference during the regular season and beat Houston twice at home in their series while Seattle and St Louis split the opening two games of their quarterfinal.

TOP COLLEGE FOOTBALL QUARTERBACKS

The Portland Tech Magpies have not won a West Coast Athletic Association title since 1966 and likely won't have the talent to compete with the likes of Redwood and Coastal California this season but the future looks extremely bright at quarterback. Charlie McElroy, a sophomore who was considered the number one recruit in the nation when he came out of a California High School two years ago, is considered to be the most talented quarterback in the AIAA according to the college scouting service OSA.

The scouting team was especially impressed with McElroy's showing in the Magpies spring game, afterwards it was announced that he would replace senior Porter Carlos as the starter next year. McElroy has yet to appear in a regulation game - he spent last season learning the Portland Tech offense as third on the depth chart- but he will be counted on to lead the Magpies to a classic game for the second time in three years.

There is no doubting McElroy's talents but it is a rare moment when a quarterback who has yet to play a collegiate game is listed by OSA as the best signal caller in the sport. In contrast, Carolina Poly senior Frank Payne, who has started 22 games for the Cardinals, is number two on the list followed by two more seniors with plenty of experience in Lauren Marsh of Alabama Baptist and Wisconsin State's James Jackson.

Other names high on the scouting service ranking of quarterbacks include St Blane sophomore Bob Hitt, who will also be a first time starter come September, Deep South All-conference selection Jimmy Ray Johnson, a junior from Mississippi A&M and Del Thomas Jr. of Brunswick College. The sophomore is the son of former AFA star quarterback and briefly a FABL pitcher Del Thomas. The elder Thomas excelled for the Boston Americans in the 1940's and 50's while also spending some time with baseball's St Louis Pioneers following his collegiate career at Amarillo Methodist.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 04/27/1975

• Saigon prepares for final evacuation as North Vietnamese forces advance, with artillery reported within range of the capital and panic spreading among civilians and officials.
• U.S. Embassy orders mass helicopter evacuations, as American personnel and selected Vietnamese allies are airlifted from rooftops and embassy grounds under emergency conditions.
• President Ford authorizes full-scale evacuation of remaining Americans, calling the situation “beyond salvage” as South Vietnam’s collapse becomes imminent.
• Refugee crisis deepens as thousands flee by sea and air, overwhelming evacuation points and prompting humanitarian appeals from U.S. and international agencies.
• Communist forces capture key Saigon-area installations, including air bases and highway junctions, further isolating the capital.
• Congress debates responsibility for Vietnamese refugees, with lawmakers weighing emergency funding and resettlement programs for evacuees bound for North America.
• Oil-producing nations hint at future price flexibility, offering a rare note of optimism amid ongoing inflation and energy concerns.
• Economic indicators show recession leveling but not easing, with analysts warning that recovery remains uncertain heading into summer.

[Tiger Fan]

MAY 5, 1975

SEMI-FINALS UNDERWAY IN NAHC

The long road to the Challenge Cup has narrowed, and the Boston Bees are now seven wins away from adding a tenth championship to a trophy case that has gathered more dust than silver in recent years. Boston opened its best-of-seven semi-final with an emphatic statement, overwhelming the Los Angeles Stingrays 8–3 in the opener, a game highlighted by a four-assist night from veteran defenseman Andy Agar.

For Agar, and for his longtime blue-line partner David Bertrand, the performance carried extra meaning. Neither has ever been part of a Challenge Cup winner in Boston colors. Bertrand, now 35, is the senior Bee, having debuted back in 1961-62—two seasons after Boston last lifted the Cup. Since then, the Bees have reached the final twice, only to be turned away by Toronto two years ago and by Chicago in the spring of 1965. This year’s club, which owned the league’s best regular-season record, is determined to avoid another near miss.

Boston’s path to the semi-finals was anything but easy. The Bees were pushed to the edge by a stubborn Minneapolis Norsemen side before finally prevailing with a 6–3 win in a decisive game seven. Los Angeles, by contrast, arrives riding momentum after knocking out the defending champion Philadelphia Rogues in six games. Alvin Yardley, now second in playoff scoring, struck for his seventh goal of the postseason in the clincher, a tally that stood as the winner before the Stingrays added an empty-netter to close out a 6–4 victory.

The other semi-final pairing begins tonight at the Montreal Arena, where the Valiants host the Chicago Packers. Chicago has been idle for nine days after dispatching Toronto in five games, while Montreal is coming off one of the postseason’s most dramatic moments. The Valiants appeared bound for overtime in game seven against Vancouver until veteran Ed Halliday stunned the Civic Coliseum with a goal in the final 15 seconds of regulation. The strike completed a hat trick for the 34-year-old Halliday, who finished the series with seven goals.

Montreal enters the series as a slight favorite, having taken two of three meetings from Chicago during the regular season.

FALCONS AND MAULERS SPLIT OPENING TWO GAMES OF CHL FINAL

It should come as no surprise that the Milwaukee Maulers and Winnipeg Falcons ended up being the two participants in the Continental Hockey League playoff championship series. The two clubs each collected 97 points on the season, tops in the CHL with the Maulers earning the top seed and home ice advantage in the playoffs due to their higher win total. They were also, by a wide margin, the two highest scoring teams in the CHL this season.

The battle for the Continental Cup opened in Milwaukee but it was the Falcons, led by two goals from league scoring champ Tim Moore, that pulled out a 4-3 victory following an overtime goal by Taylor Moyse. The Maulers, a first year club that continues to defy expectations, bounced back with a 4-2 victory on home ice over the weekend but now must go to Winnipeg for the next two games and hope for a split if they wish to regain home ice advantage in the best-of-seven series.

DALLAS DOMINATES CONTINENTAL MONTHLY AWARDS; SLIP ONCE CALENDAR FLIPS TO MAY

They didn't have a rookie with any consideration, but the then first place Wranglers had far and away the best hitter and pitcher in their association. It seems offseason workout techniques to improve Steve Prather's conditioning also helped his hitting, as the hopefully no longer fragile outfielder followed up last year's September Batter of the Month with this year's April award. Now 31, the 3-Time All-Star slugged .353/.433/.565 (170 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 4 homers, 15 runs, 21 RBIs, and a lethal 12-to-3 walk-to-strikeout ratio. The perfect miss of discipline and usually extra base slug, but the increase in homers could be big for the team leader. Now in his 9th season, his career high in homers is 14, and he's failed to reach double digits in each of the last two seasons. Well on his way now, he actually leads the team in homers, one ahead of star sluggers Nick Parker (.302, 3, 15, 1) and Buck Stout (.347, 3, 17, 2), with the trio of heart-of-the-order doing what they can to get Dallas to the postseason for the first time

On the mound, it's a one man show, which is exactly why Pete Rosenbaum got the nod. The only Wrangler with a sub-4 ERA, he was 4-1 in his 5 starts, working to a 1.50 ERA (257 ERA+), 1.00 WHIP, and 21 strikeouts. Despite those dominant numbers, they're middle-of-the-pack in runs allowed, and their now 4.33 starter's ERA is second highest in the association. 19-game winner Larry Perry (0-5, 6.51, 27) should be having far more success then he is, but aside from some solid arms in the pen, there isn't anyone else they can rely on. If you can get the game to Asbury Ashmore (1-2, 3, 1.12, 10), it's a good chance they'll hold on, but when Pete isn't on the mound it's far from a given. They survived so far, but it's a long season and you need a deep team to make things happen.

Then when May came, all their April luck went away. Rosenbaum lost his first start, allowing 7 hits, 7 runs (4 earned), and a strikeout, as the visiting Chicago Cougars pulled off and improbable sweep. Outscoring the April co-leaders 22-12, it dropped the Wranglers to .500. And while they were getting swept by the Cougars, the Seattle Kings were sweeping the back-to-last-place Kansas City Mavericks, quickly breaking the tie and taking a comfortable 2.5 game lead. The reigning champs quickly shook off their slow start, getting outstanding pitching from Moe Lowery (3-2, 2.68, 30) and Bill Harris (2-2, 2.87, 20), while Bob Glowacki (.350, 6, 12) is crushing everything in sight and Mike Griffith (.323, 3, 18) picks up him or whatever he left on. Seattle has a big series coming up in Chicago, where they'll square off with one of the two second place clubs.

*** Mavericks Stopper Top Rookie in April ***

Just like the formerly first place Dallas Wranglers, the Kansas City Mavericks are nursing a five game losing streak, and they had something to celebrate when April awards were announced. A weak rookie class helped, but top-100 prospect and former 3rd pick Jack Turner was still worthy of the month's accolade. Making 14 appearances in 26 April games, the 22-year-old righty was 2-2 with 5 saves, earning a 2.95 ERA (132 ERA+), 2.83 FIP (73 FIP-), and 1.41 WHIP. He did strike out (11) just one more hitter then he walked (10), but the poise the young righty has shown late in games has impressed members of the league.

Still viewed by some as a starter, closing out games may be a better fit, even if he does have the stuff to start. Predicted by OSA as a #2, he has a deep repertoire with plenty of movement, and he's done well keeping the ball in the park. Including two May games, he has just 1 homer in 23.1 innings, and it came against the first place Kings and recent acquisition Jack Lucas (.222, 2, 8, 2; .264, 3, 11, 3) in his most recent outing. Right now the command isn't great, but it is expected to be an asset of his. With more success, he could pitch his way into the rotation, but if they want to win games this season, it may be best to keep the promising youngster in the role he's excelled in.

LALLY TOP FED BAT, REST OF AWARDS GO TO UNLIKELY POTENTIAL CONTENDER

As the Los Angeles Suns sit at the top of the Fed and their Western division, you can once again thank superstar shortstop Tom Lally. The reigning Whitney winner and former Kellogg winner has already cemented himself as a great in the game, and his start of April has put him ahead of the pack for more hardware. Making an even 100 trips to the plate, Lally hit a robust .364/.420/.557 (170 OPS+), totaling 3 doubles, a triple, 4 homers, 16 runs, 23 RBIs, and 10 walks. Paired with outstanding defense at short (1.3 ZR, 1.061 EFF), his 1.8 WAR is best in the Fed, and while it's far too early to think Triple Crown, he leads in average and RBIs, just two homers away from a tie for the Fed lead.

Far from a one-man show, he's not the only reason the Suns lead the West, as Bill Perry (.372, 4, 13, 3) is undergoing a surprising breakdown, and the outfield of Henry Hart (.337, 2, 16, 4), Jim Thurman (.333, 2, 10), and last year's homer and steal leader Sam Forrester (.289, 5, 18, 7) is the clear class of the lead. Pitching is not as secure, especially the rotation, but the pen has been nothing short of lockdown. Aside from Heinie Schmidt (3-1, 2.25, 26) starts, you can't rely on too much from the rotation, making the role of their back end guys so important. Both Ron Clark (2-1, 7, 2.63, 12) and Jimmy Blair (1-0, 1.76, 5) are already in double digits for innings, and they've been as quality as you can ask for. Good teams win close games, and Clark and Blair are responsible for a lot of their team's success.

A few games back of the Suns is the Minneapolis Millers, who somehow had both the best pitcher and rookie in the Fed. The pitching award was not without it's controversy, as instead of one of the two perfect 4-0 Chiefs (who both won their first May start by the way), or any of the sub-2 ERA pitchers, it went to the Millers' stopper Ben Baird. Don't get me wrong, Baird is a big reason the Millers have more wins then losses, but it feels weird giving it to him. The 4-0 records helps, as did the 7 saves, but a 2.42 ERA (166 ERA+) and 1.41 WHIP aren't overly impressive. What is, is the 17 strikeouts in 23.1 innings, and the only April game he blew the team ended up winning. A converted starter, he can go multiple innings, and he's been far more effective then he was last year. Leading the Fed with 94 appearances, he was a busy 17-15 with 21 saves and a below average 4.51 ERA (83 ERA+) and 1.54 WHIP, and if the Millers want to compete he will need to be nails in the ninth.

They'll also need help from upstart rookie Bill Barber, who was a far more deserving selection for the award. A former 10th round pick, he won the shortstop job out of the spring, replacing longtime shortstop Rusty Robertson (.185, 2, 10), who was shipped to New York in the offseason. Already looking like an upgrade, Barber hit .319/.361/.484 (129 OPS+) with 9 doubles, 2 homers, 11 RBIs, and 13 runs. May has been slower, off to a 2-for-14 starts, but both hits are homers, and he still holds a .295/.333/.495 (124 OPS+) season line in 111 PAs. Ranked just outside the top-100 prospect list, he's up to 105 in FABL and 12th in a deep Minneapolis system, he's quickly demonstrated his plus contact ability. His defense has been shaky to start (-2.8 ZR, .916), but with more experience he is expected to be at least average there. Already among one of their best position players, really just #1 center fielder Bill Powell (.323, 3, 9, 2) is more of a problem for the opposition, and he's done a good job positioning himself as both a long-term building block and Kellogg candidate with the first part of the season now complete.

• Both teams leading the Continental are red hot and overtook the teams that opened the week ahead of them. For Milwaukee, the Arrows left the top for just a single week, slumping behind the Cannons, before ripping off six straight wins. This includes a huge three game sweep in Cincinnati, allowing them to retake the East. In the West, the Kings finished off a perfect 6-0 week, now winners of each of their last 8. Their lead is a game shorter, 2.5 to Milwaukee's 3.5, as both take on their top trailer. Seattle will be Chicago for three while Milwaukee will be in New York to take on the Imperials. A sweep can't get the Imperials to the top, but both chasers have a great opportunity to trim their deficits.
• Leads are slimmer in the Fed, with the first and second place teams in both divisions tied in terms of wins. Losses make the leads 1 and 1.5 games, with Baltimore on top of Atlanta and the Suns above the Chiefs. Few expected success from the Clippers, the tied for youngest franchise who has yet to win 81 games. An excellent 14-8, they just swept the Gothams while Atlanta has dropped 4 of 5. In the West, both the Suns and Chiefs are coming off series wins, and they won't meet during the month of May.
• Monthly awards took most of the headlines, but Player of the Weeks were distributed to the Chiefs' Rankin Ziegler (.362, 3, 16, 2) and the Sailors' Charlie Jarzombek (.464, 3, 11, 3). A third year infielder, the half-German Ziegler is off to a great start to the season, culminating in a 13-for-27 week where he collected 3 doubles, a triple, a homer, 5 runs, and 6 RBIs. Now hitting .362/.395/.500 (143 OPS+), the switch hitter is hitting noticeably better then he did in parts of two seasons, and his 3 home runs are already one away from a career high. Jarzombek, meanwhile, hit a laughable .706/.684/.1.235 (420 OPS+) with a pair of homers, as he tries to explain that he deserves more then a part-time role. Starting just 12 of his 22 appearances, the 23-year-old holds a lethal .464/.492/.714 (229 OPS+) line, grabbing a double, 2 triples, and 3 homers, driving in 11 and scoring 5 times. Ranked as the 48th best prospect, he's got more talent then your regular 4th outfielder, and it's only a matter of time before one of the non-Pete Gibson (.300, 11, 5) spots goes to him.
• After a month, two Continental hitters are still at the .400 mark, with Montreal's Joe Robertson (.400, 14, 3) right there, and Milwaukee's Rich Moyer (.410, 3, 10, 2) 10 points higher. Other notable leaders include John Babb (.283, 5, 28), who's 28 RBIs are 7 more then any other Continental hitter, the five wins Chiefs starters Nate Carr (5-0, 4.38, 23) and Johnny Maples (5-0, 2.50, 35) share, or the 12 steals from Comets' first basemen Johnny Adams (.310, 3, 11, 12), who's been caught just once and is the first FABL base stealer to reach double digits.
• Jim White (4-0, 3.13, 31) quickly became the second pitcher with multiple shutouts, victimizing another Canadian team in the process. This time it was the Saints, held to 6 hits and 3 walks as the 27-year-old ace struck out 7. A perfect 4-0 on the season, he has three starts with zero runs allowed and one with nine, holding an excellent 3.13 ERA (123 ERA+), 2.42 FIP (62 FIP-), and 1.10 WHIP with 31 strikeouts. Teammate and co-ace John Alfano did the same, spinning a 2-hit shutout with no walks and 6 strikeouts. Now 3-2, he's got a decent 3.27 ERA (118 ERA+) and 1.31 WHIP, but he's actually walked (21) more guys then he struck out (20). A little inconsistent this year and most, he's been either dominant or vulnerable, but this start was most impressive as he was on a day less of rest, and could have gone far longer then the 106 pitches needed.
• There was another shutout, as Keystone Buzz Lucas (1-2, 2.16, 18) put the Eagles through a Buzz Saw. An unlucky 0-2 with a 3.38 ERA (115 ERA+) and 1.06 WHIP in a pair of April starts, his first May one was the best of his career. In the 6-0 shutout he allowed just 3 hits and 2 walks, striking out 9 for the first win of his season. A towering 6'6'' righty, it was the first shutout of his career, as he looks to break his career high of 12 starts now that he has what looks to be a stable rotation spot.
• Almost as common were 5-hit games, including one from the Player of the Week Rankin Zeigler. Game 9 of his current 11 game hit-streak, he was a perfect 5-for-5 with a run, 3 doubles, and 3 RBIs in a 9-4 win over the Pioneers. The other went to Montreal's Ken Steinbach (.302, 2, 14, 1) to start the week. 5-for-5 with a triple, homer, 3 runs, and 3 RBIs, he was a key part of their 12-2 win over the Foresters. Not usually a common feat, three FABL hitters have already managed a 5-hit game this season, with the first Pete Gibson on the 16th.
• Tom Lorang (.272, 1, 16, 2) finally hit his first homer as a Cougar, taking Ed Smith (2-2, 4.45, 19) deep in Chicago's 3-0 shutout win. The big acquisition of the offseason, Lorang was off to an ice-cold start, but an uptick in production the past two week has elevated his season line to .272/.407/.370 (116 OPS+). He hasn't had much slug, just 7 extra base hits in 113 PAs, but he's drawn a Conti high 21 walks with just 15 strikeouts. Despite his pedestrian start, the Cougars are a game over .500, and looking to stay relevant in what could be a very difficult CA West division race.
• After a pretty healthy start to the regular season, multiple FABL clubs were hit with injuries to finish the week. Already dealing with a sore thumb, Billy West (.371, 3, 18, 6) is now dealing with knee inflammation as well, with a week of rest expected for a full recovery. Unlikely to leave the lineup, he's hit .371/.458/.618 (192 OPS+) with 13 extra base hits, 17 runs, 18 RBIs, and 16 walks in 25 games for the Cannons. More serious is the concussion suffered by Larry Cimino (.286, 2, 6), as the resulting PCS should keep him out of action for the next four months. Potentially a season ender, the sixth year infielder finally had a starting role, making 24 starts at second for St. Louis. A former 7th Rounder, he did appear in 143 games (68 starts) for the Pioneers last season, but his .286/.402/.429 (126 OPS+) batting line to start this season was even better.
• A day before these diagnosis, the Imperials learned they would be out a member of their pen for a full calendar year, as Hal Radabaugh (0-0, 1.00, 5) tore a ligament in his elbow. After cups of coffee in each of the last two seasons, he made New York's Opening Day pen, allowing just 1 run off 6 hits and 3 walks, striking out 5 in 9 innings. Already an edge of the roster player, this injury could end his FABL career, as the now 27-year-old entered the year with limited previous success. On the bright side, the Imps did get 1B/OF Mike Counts (.158, 1, 5) back, as they activated the now healthy former All-Star. Fracturing his foot during the spring, he got off to a slow start, 3-for-19 in 6 starts. He did homer, the 61st of his career, and will look to return to the type of hitter who owns a 140 career WRC+.
• Our last piece of injury news takes us to Montreal, where Reid Barrell (.298, 3, 12, 2) suffered an oblique strain during the Saints 7-6 win over the Imperials. A key piece of the win, going 2-for-2 with a double, homer, and 2 RBIs, Barrell is expected to miss at least the next two weeks. The 34-year-old was doing well in a lightened role, batting an excellent .298/.389/.617 (173 OPS+) in 19 games. Far higher then his .253/.310/.401 (105 OPS+) career line, it was a nice boost to a team that saw star Dixie Turner (.245, 1, 8, 8) get off to a sluggish start.
• As expected, the Foresters claimed starter-turned-stopper Larry Warren (0-1, 3, 4.82, 9) off waivers from the Clippers. A real fireballer, Warren's decline from ace to waived has been well-documented, but a change of scenery could really do him well. A former 1st Overall pick, he can either fill the rotation with the highest Conti ERA, or give support to the still runless Bob James (0-0, 5, 0.00, 5) and Charlie Sawyer (1-0, 0.00, 9) at the back of their pen. Now in his first new organization, Warren is a veteran of 1,240.1 FABL innings, 68-70 with 22 saves and a 3.38 ERA (116 ERA+). Recently turned 27, I wouldn't right him off just yet, and we could look back to this transaction as a key one for a Cleveland team in need of pitching.
• Cleveland also lost a pitcher, as the waiver hunting Cougars picked up a guy they waived prior to claiming Warren. Not a high quality piece, Leroy Williams (0-1, 13.50, 1) was hit hard in two appearances this season, and has just 10 (3 starts) since his 1971 debut. He does have some upside, with OSA believing he can fill a back-end rotation spot, but he is expected to join a Cougar pen that struggled in April. May has been better early on, with just one reliver allowing a run in three games, and he could report to Chicago as early as this Tuesday.

SIGNS OF LIFE AT THE PARK: THE COPPERHEADS GET BIT [/b]

BOSTON — It has been a week of whiplash for your Boston Minutemen. While the club still finds itself staring up at the rest of the FA East from the basement, they finally decided to pack some fight in their luggage, posting a 4-4 week to pull the overall record to 7-14. It is a small step, but after the month we just endured, I will take a small step over a giant leap backward any day of the week.

The week started in the shadow of the capital, and it was the same old song at Columbia Stadium. Bill Kelly took the hill against his old club and looked like he was trying to pitch around the entire ZIP code, handing out five walks in just over five innings. A Wise homer kept us in it, but we dropped the opener 4-3. We salvaged the split the next night with a gritty 7-4 win in ten innings, though Bud Shireman gave me a few more gray hairs by blowing the save in the 9th. Thankfully, the bats bailed him out in the 10th.

Then came the trip to Baltimore, which started as a total disaster. Johnny Hall was once again a human gas can, walking four and giving up six earned. Even a late-inning power surge from Dick Ward and Jim Morton couldn't save us because Les Snyder decided to join the "Blown Save Club." We dropped that one 10-8, officially mercifully ending the month of April with a 4-11 record.

Sully’s Stance: April was a punch to the gut, but the way May started was even more frustrating. Hank Springer pitched his heart out at Patapsco Field, but the defense played like they were on ice skates. Usually dependable guys like Dale Raz and Willie Stephens coughed up errors that led to two unearned runs in a 6-5 loss. When you are struggling to score, you simply cannot give away free bases.

So, after a dismal 2-7 road trip, what do the Minutemen do? They come home and punch the first-place Atlanta Copperheads right in the mouth. Boston took three of four from the best team in the division. It started with a Howard Smith walk-off single to bail out Shireman (who has now blown four saves, a stat that should make everyone nervous). We dropped game two when the bats went silent, and Kelly walked another five batters—a trend that is officially alarming.

But then, the miracle happened. Charlie Roberts gave us seven innings of beautiful two-run ball to win game three, and in the finale, Johnny Hall actually looked like a big-league pitcher. He charmed the Copperheads for six innings, giving up just one run.

Sully’s Stance: Of course, this team wouldn't be the Minutemen if they didn't follow up a big series win with a head-scratcher. We opened the current series with Baltimore by handing them a 4-3 win thanks to two Howard Smith errors. Smith is the hero with the bat one minute and the goat with the glove the next.

One thing I have noticed while hovering around the dugout is that Bill Gallagher is starting to run away with the starting catcher job. He is hitting a scorching .390 while Ed Cole is languishing at .231. If you hit, you play—it is that simple. Bob Menz is also starting to look like the player we traded for, lifting his average to a respectable .280.

We have five games left on this homestand with Baltimore and Detroit coming to town. In the next few weeks, I’ll be keeping an eye on the farm reports to see who is knocking on the door in the minors. Until then, let’s hope the boys can keep their heads above water.

Stay warm, Boston. The coffee is finally starting to taste a little better.

WOLVES LIMP HOME

After starting the eight game road trip 2-0 the Wolves lost 5 of the last six including being swept in a three game series in the Big Apple by the Imperials. New York has a 6-0 record when facing Toronto in 1975 which is not sitting well with Carl Evans.

The first inning of the first game in Dyckman Stadium was a harbinger of things to come in this set. Toronto went down in order on 12 pitches by Don Brader then the Imperials came to the plate to face Red Bullock, who to this point was the Wolves best starter. In what only can be described as a comedy errors NY scored 7 runs in their half on 3 hits,* two errors by 3B Pearce, another by callup George Pearce along with 3 walks. Another error in the bottom of the second by Bradshaw led to 2 more runs for the home side after Bradshaw had tried to atone for his error by homering in top half. Evans decide that was end of Red's day. His line for day was 2 IP, 6 H, 9 R, 1 ER, 2 K, 3 BB, 69 tosses in a game in which the Wolves were embarrassed 11-2.

The clubhouse was closed to reporters for awhile after the game while Evans berated the team who had made 6 errors. The next day the fielding was better although the pitching wasn't when Lee Humphrey was lit up in the 5th for 4 runs including a 3 run shot by Mike Counts which made the score 6-2. Toronto scraped together 2 more runs but it was too little, too late.

Hoping to escape with one win the Wolves were thwarted by Jim White who tossed a complete game 4-0 shutout before 15,305 on the first day of May.

Toronto played host to Cincinnati at the right time. The Cannons were on a losing streak when the Wolves bats woke up taking down the visitors 10-1 on Friday night with the big hit being a Edwin Viramontes base clearing triple. This allowed Espinosa to square his record at 2-2 after the Cannons had roughed him up last Saturday.

A crowd of 13,412 on windy, chilly Saturday afternoon were treated to a Wolves comeback. Trailing 2-0 after 5, the team rallied for a run in each of 6th, 7th before Heinie Pearce walked it off stroking a double in the bottom of 9 on a Dutch Lane offering to send happy fans home.

Red Bullock took the mound again for the series finale on Sunday after his New York game he would like to erase from memory. Bullock worked out of jams into the 6th giving up on 2 runs on 8 hits, 5 BB, handing the ball to the bullpen leading 3-2. The 'pen could not hold the lead, Bob Bell took Billy Cox deep in 8 that allowed the Cannons to snap their 6 game losing streak 4-3.*Another chilly evening saw the Wolves defeat their Canadian rival from Montreal 5-2 on Monday. George Downing led the offense with his first 3 RBI of the season in Wolves uniform, helping Humphrey run his record to 3-2 with Dick Miller picking up his second save. Home stand continues for the Wolves this week.

TOP SEEDS IN EACH CONFERNCE PUSHED TO 7TH GAME

A pair of upsets in the Federal Basketball League are the potential outcome of tonight's action as both the New York Knights and Minneapolis Bobcats will need to win in their respective game sevens in order to advance to the semi-finals. The Knights, top seed in the Eastern Conference, and the West's top seed Minneapolis each are trying to dispose of the fifth seed in their respective groups.

New York had fallen behind the Washington Statesmen three games to two but forced a seventh game after rallying to a 137-127 victory on the road over the weekend. Dick Van der Linden, who has already won three playoff MVP awards in his career, almost singlehandedly willed his Knights to victory, scoring 42 points and adding 15 rebounds in the game six victory. Meanwhile the Bobcats are in danger of blowing a three games to one series lead on Houston after the Apollos prevailed in each of the last two games including a decisive 136-115 victory at the Astro Arena on Saturday night.

The St Louis Rockets and Boston Centurions have each advanced to the semi-finals. The Rockets, who have won three of the past six playoff titles, moved on to the Western Conference final with a surprisingly easy triumph over Seattle in five games. John Brantner, the regular season scoring leader, picked right up on the same page in the playoffs and is averaging a league high 37.8 points per game in the postseason. Boston moved on to the Eastern Conference final after downing the Chicago Panthers in six games.

STEAMERS REACH CBL FINAL

After posting the best regular season record in the Continental Basketball League the Cincinnati Steamers made short work of the Philadelphia Mariners to advance to the CBL final for the fourth time in the past five years. The Steamers, who eliminated Philadelphia four games to one, have never won a CBL title but will have one last chance to rectify that in what will be the final series in league history. The CBL will be closing its doors and joining the Federal Basketball League prior to the 1975-76 season.

The Steamers are still waiting for an opponent as the West Division series between San Antonio and Denver is not yet decided. The Outlaws missed a chance to eliminate Denver after falling 110-107 at home to the Bighorns. San Antonio leads the series three games to two with Denver set to host tonight's sixth game. The Bighorns defeated Cincinnati in the finals a year ago.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 05/04/1975

• More than 7,000 American personnel and at-risk Vietnamese were evacuated from Saigon as North Vietnamese forces closed in and took control of the city late last week.
• The United States has intercepted a radio transmission indicating nearly 100 Cambodian officers and their wives have been killed by the Khmer Rouge since the fall of Phnom Penh.
• President Ford proposed a $507 million program of aid to care for South Vietnamese and Cambodian refugees through the next twelve months.
• Federal Energy Administrator Frank Zarb says that coal is the answer to the nation's energy problem, and also believes the Clean Air Act is too stringent.
• Treasury Secretary William Simon says that the worst may be over while pointing out that inflation has come down faster and further this year than anyone first estimated.
• Moe Howard, the last surviving member of the Three Stooges, has died in Los Angeles following a brief battle with cancer.

[Tiger Fan]

MAY 12, 1975

MAULERS MAKE HISTORY!
Expansion Club Captures Continental Cup in Debut Season

The impossible happened in Milwaukee this week, and it happened quickly. In just their first season of existence, the Milwaukee Maulers climbed to the top of the Continental Hockey League, defeating the Winnipeg Falcons in five games to claim the Continental Cup and give Wisconsin its first professional sports championship.

No expansion team in modern pro sports had ever pulled off such a feat, and while skeptics may note that the CHL is only three years old, there was nothing small about what the Maulers accomplished. Milwaukee finished the regular season tied with Winnipeg for the league’s best record, then tore through the playoffs with a 12–4 mark, dispatching defending champion Edmonton and the Hobie Barrell-led Ottawa Athletics before closing the door on the Falcons in the finals.

What made the Maulers’ run even more remarkable was the absence of a traditional superstar. No Milwaukee player finished among the league’s top ten scorers, and leading scorer Larry Ewbanks spent the first half of the season in Houston. In goal, the Maulers relied on 24-year-old rookie Simon Allenby, who was playing senior hockey in Ontario a year ago and ranked in the lower half of the league in both goals-against average and save percentage.

What Milwaukee did have was balance, depth, and a roster full of players with something to prove. Acquired in December, Ewbanks transformed the club, piling up 56 points in 36 games after managing just 28 in 40 contests with the Outlaws. Four Maulers scored at least 20 goals, including 28-year-old defenseman Matt Mosher, who enjoyed a breakout season with 77 points while anchoring the power play.

That depth carried straight through the playoffs. Allenby was steady without being spectacular, and no single scorer dominated the scoresheet. Tony Kenward, picked up midseason from Seattle, led the Maulers with 15 playoff points, yet still ranked only eighth overall. Eleven different Milwaukee players scored at least three playoff goals, a statistic that neatly summed up how the Maulers won. Ewbanks, slowed by injury, was less visible as a scorer but contributed three assists in the Cup-clinching victory.

Winnipeg struck first, taking the series opener 4–3 in overtime behind two goals from league scoring champion Tim Moore, capitalizing despite being badly outshot. Milwaukee responded in game two with a 4–2 win, again controlling play as Kenward assisted on three goals.

When the series moved north to Winnipeg’s Red River Gardens—where the Falcons had posted a league-best 24–8–7 home record—the Maulers simply kept winning. Game three went to overtime, and this time it was Milwaukee celebrating as 34-year-old Jack Drolet, a former NAHC veteran, scored midway through the extra period for a 3–2 victory. Two nights later, eight different Maulers recorded a point as Milwaukee dominated 45–22 in shots and earned a 3–1 win to take a commanding series lead.

Back home, Ewbanks set up three goals in game five as the Maulers closed out the Falcons 5–3 at the Milwaukee Auditorium, sealing a championship few would have dared to predict.

Three seasons into its existence, the Continental Hockey League now has three different champions—and a new benchmark. An expansion team didn’t just compete. It won it all.

VALIANTS ON THE BRINK
Montreal Leads Chicago 3-0, Boston & LA Tight in Other Semi

The Montreal Valiants are doing what experienced champions are supposed to do at this time of year: take control early and leave little doubt. After a 5–3 victory at the Montreal Arena last night, the Valiants hold a commanding three-games-to-none lead over the Chicago Packers and stand one win away from a return to the Challenge Cup finals, something they haven’t done since capturing their ninth title four years ago.

Ed Halliday continues to look very much like a man in a hurry. His playoff-leading 10th goal highlighted game three, with Mark Moggy and Charles Thibeault each chipping in two-point nights as Montreal once again dictated the terms of play. The Valiants have been faster, deeper, and far more composed than Chicago at every turn.

The tone of the series was set in Chicago earlier in the week, where Montreal opened with two authoritative road victories. Game one was as one-sided as a semifinal can be, the Valiants outshooting the Packers 46–14 in a 4–0 shutout. Fred Rucks barely broke a sweat in recording his third shutout of the postseason, while Ron Kincaid, Pete Fortin, John Partridge, and Dean Sapier supplied the offense.

Game two followed much the same script, at least in terms of territorial dominance. Chicago goaltender Rejean Gillies kept the Packers alive through forty minutes with a series of acrobatic saves, and Pat McGibbon briefly gave the home crowd hope by scoring just 25 seconds into the third period. That hope lasted only moments. Clyde Raines struck twice, with Halliday and Dan Roeszler adding singles, as Montreal pulled away for a 4–1 victory. The Valiants can finish the sweep Wednesday night back on home ice.

In the other semifinal, the Boston Bees and Los Angeles Stingrays are locked in a far more competitive affair, with Boston holding a narrow two-games-to-one edge. The Bees opened the series at Denny Arena with an emphatic 8–3 win, only to see Los Angeles respond in game two with a 3–1 victory behind two-point performances from Dick Mitchell and Ernie Baldwin.

The series shifted west for game three, and it was Boston that regained the upper hand. Eddie Lafleur and Tommy Gordon each recorded three points as the Bees skated away with a 6–2 victory at the LA Events Center. Game four goes tomorrow night, with the Stingrays—still chasing their first Challenge Cup—looking to even the series. Los Angeles has been this far before, reaching the finals in 1971, only to be turned back by the very same Montreal club that now sits three wins ahead of Chicago and one step from the Cup stage once again.

KINGS SEIZE CROWN AND DON'T LOOK BACK

A little over a month into the season, there are still 12 clubs who have won 14 or fewer games this season.

Seattle has won 14 in a row.

It shouldn't be a surprise for anyone that the defending champs are having little difficulty to begin the year, they have arguably the most talent on their roster top to bottom, but the way they are both dismantling teams and outlasting them, it's going to be impossible to stop them.

Sweeping five consecutive series, they haven't lost since a quick three game series in Kansas City, and before their nice streak they actually lost five of their last six. Now it would seem crazy for them to lose five the rest of the way, as no one can keep up with their offense, and almost no one can keep up with their pitching. That's even with the struggling of former Allen winner Swede Hawkins (4-2, 5.36, 19), who's record is courtesy of the previously mentioned offense, as the perk of four aces is that one of them can struggle and there's nothing to worry about. Their other Allen winner, Moe Lowery (4-2, 2.60, 35), is pitching like he wants a second, while offseason acquisition Bill Harris (3-2, 3.02, 23) and former 6th Rounder John Howell (4-1, 3.38, 20) could each be the top guy in another rotation.

Of course, it's all about the bats, specifically the corner outfield. Two of the best hitters in the game, Bob Glowacki and Mike Griffith seem to do enough scoring all by themselves. Glowacki is an early Whitney candidate, hitting an elite .330/.460/.600 (191 OPS+) with 3 doubles, 3 triples, 6 homers, 13 RBIs, 21 runs, and 23 walks. About all he can't do is steal bases, 0-for-3 this year and 2-for-7 last, but they have Sam Barnes (.236, 1, 8, 4), Jesse Walker (.269, 4, 19, 6), and catcher Fred Tollefson (.295, 4, 14, 5) to do that. Griffith doesn't steal bases, but just like Glowacki he doesn't need to. They hold a share for the team average line, as the young 24-year-old defending Kellogg winner is hitting a similar .330/.395/.504 (147 OPS+). Adding in 4 doubles, 2 triples, 4 homers, 21 runs, and 25 RBIs, he's produced in every other way, and will continue to remain a key cog in this well oiled machine.

The wheels will take them to Milwaukee to start the week, ending an already successful nine game road trip. At 19-9, the Arrows are the only FABL team with single digit losses, but that could change in a blink. Easily the best team either will face at this point, but it's not because the Arrows can keep up with their offense. Aside from surprise .400 hitter Rich Moyer (.402, 3, 10, 2), who just sprained his ankle and won't return until June. Lucky for them, it's the pitching staff, as they've allowed a FABL few 79 runs and are the last remaining team still in double digits. Perhaps more impressively, two teams have actually allowed more then 100 more runs then them and three more have allowed at least twice as many runs. Tex Cavanaugh (1-2, 1.73, 20) is expected to get the opener, as despite his record he's been one of the leagues top pitchers, and he'll be followed by their top two pitchers in Joe Wright (5-1, 3.04, 30) and Mel Maddox (3-1, 2.63, 23). These are three of the few pitchers that can handle a lineup as talented and deep as Kansas City's, and it will be exciting to see how the two division leaders fair, knowing that even a sweep can't kick them out of the top spot.

• While the Continental division leaders have plenty of comfort, the Fed leaders don't, with both leading by a half game. In the East, Baltimore and their surprisingly dominant pitching has allowed them to open up a half game over the Copperheads, while in the West the Suns lead the Millers with the Chiefs 1.5 out. Baltimore and Minneapolis were both expected to be far outside the playoff race, and are doing it in the exact opposite way. Baltimore is 2nd in runs against, led by ace Jose Martinez (3-1, 3.40, 23) and breakout vet Johnny Hugot (2-1, 2.52, 21), while Minneapolis and their 2nd in runs scored are fueled by an imposing front five that all have WRC+ above 125. The two second place clubs will be in Baltimore to start the week, as the Cannons and Millers square off in a two game set. Hugot is expected to take on struggling Miller ace Hank Wagner (1-4, 5.77, 30) in the opener. The finale will see Minneapolis breakout arm Hub Huffman (2-2, 2.45, 28) draw number five starter Max Reed (1-1, 4.05, 6), the only member of the Clipper rotation with a below average ERA+ (97).
• Many might have expected Houston, who's won 100 games back in 1973, to be one of the teams leading the division, but at 17-15 they're in 4th. 2.5 games out isn't insurmountable, and it could shrink if they give more time to Stan Francis (.380, 1, 20). He only made 17 trips to the plate this week, but it was the quality and not the quantity that got him the Fed Player of the Week. Francis was 10-for-14 with 5 doubles, leading to an absurd .714/.765/1.214 (434 OPS+) weekly line. On the season he's now up to .380/.453/.565 (177 OPS+), sporting a dominant 13-to-2 walk-to-strikeout ratio. 2 is also the amount of 4-hit games Francis, as the second year outfielder as really found his stroke.
• Another unlikely Player of the Week winner, Cannon 8th hitter Frank Eddy (.371, 1, 10, 3) was nominated this week. Hitting an even 10-for-20, he picked up 2 doubles, a triple, 2 RBIs, and 3 runs scored, as the former 15th Rounder inflated his season line to .371/.451/.483 (154 OPS+). Like Francis he has 13 walks, though you need a 1 before Francis' K totals to match it. 31 in June, he's never hit for an above average batting line, usually relying on his Diamond Defense level second base skills instead. Cincy has been able to put runners on, 2nd in average and 3rd in OBP, but as you can see from Eddy's runs and RBIs the don't get the guys in, tied for 9th in runs scored.
• Failure to score has been a common theme at times this year, as Continental hurlers added four more shutouts. Starting things off was the first one of Johnny Baylor's (4-2, 5.01, 19) career, as the former All-Star quickly turned around his fortunes. Entering with an ERA above 6, he dominated the Wranglers, scattering 6 hits and a walk while he struck out 2 in the Sailors 3-0 win. It ended up being back-to-back shutouts, as Elmer Peters (1-1, 2.79, 14) and the Sailors again bested the slumping Wranglers. Like Baylor it was Peters' first of his career, allowing 2 hits and 2 walks with 2 strikeouts in a 4-0 win. Dallas has had a brutal May, 0-9 so far as they look to finally snap their 11 day losing streak. Falling from first to last, they're now 13-19 and 9 games behind the Kings, who haven't lost since April.
• The same day as the Peters shutout, Seattle's John Howell (4-1, 3.38, 20) had 4s for hits, walks, and strikeouts, as his Kings beat the Cougars 4-0. Two days later it was Jackie Thompson (3-1, 1.67, 24), has the stopper-turned-starter-turned-stopper-turned starter is on track for his first All-Star selection. He struck out just one, but walked none, charged with 6 hits in a* 2-0 shutout win. Lowering his ERA to an association best 1.67 (235 ERA+), Thompson has a 3.07 FIP (78 FIP-) and 0.98 WHIP, even better then anything he's done so far out of the pen.
• Their could have been a shutout in the Fed too, but the Copperheads could not score for Jack Kotarski (2-3, 2.74, 27). After 9 innings, he held the Eagles to 2 hits and 2 walks, striking out 10 in what should have been his 3rd win of the season. Instead, it turned into a loss, as Atlanta could not solve Herman White (1-4, 5.40, 40), despite being easily solved both before and after. Kotarski was brought out for the 10th, but a struggling Virgil Belisle (.207, 3, 12, 2) started the extra frame with a lead-off homer. Kotarski did get one more batter so the pen could be ready, and it stayed 1-0, but Atlanta stranded two one-out singles in the bottom half, which contributed to them losing first place.
• Fans of offense did get a treat on the 6th, where for a rare time this season Quinton Vincent (.242, 2, 9, 4) wasn't struggling. Generally a consistent bat in the Pioneers lineup, his .242/.300/.359 (79 OPS+) batting line would be his first below average slash since his 1968 debut with the Keystones. Houston made him look like himself, as "Q" was a perfect 5-for-5 with a double, run, and 2 RBIs. A career .276/.353/.417 (120 OPS+) hitter, he's usually exactly what you want at the top of the order, especially with his speed, but his lack of production has contributed mightily to the Pioneers 9-23 start.
• Suns superstar Tom Lally (.355, 9, 33, 3) became the first FABL player to reach the 2 WAR mark, up to 2.2 in 30 games. Good for an 11.4 WAR pace, over 2 wins higher then his league leading mark last year, it would replace that season as the most valuable one in Suns history. Hitting .355/.418/.613 (182 OPS+) with 3 doubles, 9 homers, 24 runs, 33 RBIs, 3 steals, and excellent defense, he's a triple crown threat and the early Whitney favorite. He leads the Fed in homers and RBIs, and his 1.031 OPS leads as well.
• In a precautionary measure, the Kings placed 39-year-old Charlie Rushing (1-1, 5.24, 10) on the IL before his diagnosis came, giving his spot in the rotation to former 1st Rounder Danny Anderson (1-0, 1.38, 3), who despite 6 walks had no troubles with the Wolves in Toronto. Rushing was later diagnosed with an oblique strain, but the Kings medical staff is not sure how much longer he'll need. Injuries are always trick when you're as old as Rushing, but their is hope he can return before his 40th birthday on the 23rd. A 5-Time All Star and 3-Time Association Win leader, he's been a rotation weapon since joining the Keystones rotation in 1964, but it's a loss that will be easy for the West leaders to overcome.
• A harder injury to cover comes in Cleveland, where they'll be without star outfielder Vern Schneider (.303, 7, 16) as he deals with a calf strain. it shouldn't be a long absence, likely two weeks, but Cleveland is the lowest scoring offense and will be without their most productive hitter. Hitting .303/.376/.658 (174 OPS+) he's provided his club with a lot of slug, and his 7 home runs are second in the association. Replacing his bat will be tough, and a lot of pressure will be placed on young catcher Reggie Anderson (.327, 1, 12) to keep Cleveland in the Eastern division race.
• It's similar for the Stars and Bill Bell (.290, 2, 17, 3), who sprained his ankle on Sunday. Set to miss six weeks, LA will have to find a new leadoff hitter, as Bell had done a great job bouncing back from an uncharacteristic 1974. He hit just .242/.290./.324 (79 OPS+), far away from his career .272/.322/.398 (108 OPS+) line and stretch of eight consecutive above average offensive seasons. Also a great defender, it's a big loss for a Suns team on the up, though it could make room for top prospect and FABL's 27th ranked prospect Bob Branson. The shortstop is hitting .330/.392/.477 (122 OPS+) in AAA, and can easily shift over to second if they want to keep former Whitney winner Lew Smith (.305, 5, 14, 2) at short.
• No one was hit harder then St. Louis, who lost both Tom Spruill (.303, 6) and Milt Howard (.500, 2) for over a month. Both started the season as bench bats, but Spruill was recently added to the middle infield to replace Larry Ciminio (.286, 2, 6) following his concussion. Still looking for their 10th win, it's been a nightmare season for them, tagged with the most losses (23) among FABL organizations.
• Last injury note goes to Maverick starter Harry Kluth (3-2, 4.81, 10), who may try to push through it. Dealing with a strained rib cage muscle, it's not going to heal without rest, but it's not going to impact him throwing the ball. Pitchers don't usually need to run or hit, so it may not impact his production too much. It does seem to be something to last multiple weeks, four if he isn't pitching, and with his early struggles the Mavs may place him on the shelf so he doesn't mess anything else up.

A TALE OF TWO TEAMS: THE BEST ARMS AND THE WORST BATS IN THE HUB

BOSTON — There is no sugarcoating this week, fans. If you were looking for a reason to smile at the ballpark, you probably spent most of your time staring at the pitching mound and ignoring the batter's box. The week started with a sloppy loss to Baltimore and a wasted gem from Bob Scott, who struck out seven in seven innings but watched a rough sixth frame turn into a 3-2 heartbreaker. That loss dropped Scott to a miserable 0-3, a record that doesn't tell half the story of how well he pitched.

Baltimore finished the sweep the next day when Walt Portelli coughed up a blown save. That left a no-decision for Bill Kelly, who I suppose deserves a small pat on the back for only walking four batters instead of his customary five or six. Small victories, right? Things didn't improve when Detroit rolled in. Johnny Hall gave us a respectable outing, only to have Bud Shireman surrender a two-run bomb in the 10th inning. That pushed the losing streak to four and the overall record to a dismal 7-17.

Finally, Hank Springer decided he’d seen enough. Springer delivered arguably the best performance of the young season, going eight innings of three-hit, shutout ball in a 3-0 win. Bob Scott followed that up by finally getting some run support—and his first win—with a masterful six-hit complete game. Ed Cole blew that one open with a three-run blast in the fifth, and Jim Morton added his third homer of the year as the Minutemen took a 7-2 win to close the homestand.

Sully’s Stance: The club finished the homestand 5-5 against the big boys of the FA East, Atlanta and Baltimore. That’s the good news. The bad news? I’ve been looking out from the press box lately and it’s like a ghost town down there. We had 11,000 for the Detroit finale, but the other games didn't even crack the 10,000 mark. We haven't drawn 15,000 for a single game all year.

Now, this isn’t a jab at you, the fans. Why would you brave a forty-degree wind to watch a team that flirts with the worst record in the league every Monday morning? Boston is a proud baseball town, but nobody is going to pay good money to watch an offense that has gone into a deep freeze.

Jim Morton has been the only constant, hitting .359 with an OBP over .400. Beyond him, we’ve got some average work from Charlie Hartsell and some decent role-playing from Hal Mazur and Dick Wood. Bill Gallagher has essentially stolen the backstop job because he’s actually producing. But you can't win with two regulars and a handful of subs. Willie Stephens is dragging a .267 average, Dick Ward is hitting just above his weight at .188, and Gil Armstrong is stuck at .212. As for our spring darling, Howard Smith? He’s plummeted to .185.It is a tale of two extremes. This club leads the league in ERA, runs allowed, hits allowed, and opponent’s average. Our pitchers are heroes; our hitters are spectators.

We are heading across the country to play the LA Suns, the best in the West, before heading to Detroit. If this offense doesn't wake up against the "soft underbelly" of the schedule soon, the brass is going to have to look at Columbus. Bill Ward is hitting .354 with two homers for the AAA club, and Frank Borgen is hitting .302 with more walks than strikeouts.

Options and service time are a headache, but so is losing. The best solution is for the guys currently in the clubhouse to start earning their keep.

Until next time, get those bats out of the cellar, Boston.

WOLVES CLIMB OUT OF THE CELLAR, THEN MEET REALITY

For a few pleasant days last week, the Toronto Wolves were allowed to imagine themselves as something other than tenants of the Eastern Division basement. They began the week briskly, ended it limping, and still managed to step over Montreal in the standings. In a division that has yet to decide what it wants to be, that qualifies as progress.

At 13–16 the Wolves remain a sub-.500 club, but they sit only two games behind the second-place Imperials, which tells you more about the Continental Association East than it does about Toronto. The conversations drifting through Dominion Stadium these days are not so much about what is, but what might have been—particularly the six games already donated to New York. Remove those, the argument goes, and the Wolves might look almost respectable. Baseball, however, does not honour hypothetical standings.

Toronto’s week opened on a cold Tuesday night against Montreal and dragged deep into the early hours, a 14-inning, 3–2 victory that felt more like survival than triumph. The Wolves committed three errors and handed out ten walks, both numbers that seem to age manager Carl Evans a year every time they appear. Still, a win is a win, and Toronto took it.

The following night brought something closer to order. The Wolves jumped on the Saints early, scoring three runs in the first inning, with Heinie Pearce lining a sharp two-run single to right with two outs. Montreal crept back to within one by the seventh, but Gus Hayes’ seeing-eye single in the bottom of the eighth plated two insurance runs. Dick Miller closed it out—though not without a little drama—to earn his third save in a 5–3 victory.

By the time Sid Cullen finished bludgeoning the Saints on Thursday, Toronto was riding a four-game winning streak and feeling rather pleased with itself. Cullen, at 38, turned back the calendar with two home runs, one of them a grand slam, and drove in six as the Wolves completed the sweep with a 10–4 win. Even then, they could not resist complicating matters with three errors and seven walks. The Wolves, it seems, insist on winning in spite of themselves.

Good feelings lasted until Seattle arrived.

The Kings have been tormenting this franchise since its Brooklyn days, and a change of address has done nothing to soften their touch. Seattle brought the bats on Friday night, pounding out 18 hits in an 11–2 win that featured a disastrous fourth inning in which Bullock was chased after surrendering seven runs.

The weekend games were closer, which offered little comfort. Toronto lost 5–4 when a late rally fizzled, then dropped a 7–6 decision on Sunday after building a 3–0 lead. Seattle responded with four runs in the fourth and three more in the fifth before Phil Story tightened things up with his second home run of the season. The tying and winning runs never arrived. The Seattle bullpen saw to that.

So the Wolves leave the week both encouraged and chastened. They are no longer last, which matters, and yet the gap between them and the league’s better clubs remains uncomfortably wide. The Los Angeles Stars arrive Monday for three games before Toronto heads west for a six-game swing that should clarify matters further.

There was movement off the field as well. Ken Jeffie returns to Buffalo, Stan Terry moves to the bullpen after a trying six weeks in the rotation, and Jim Hunter—3–0 with a sparkling 0.81 ERA at Buffalo—will be given his chance with the Wolves. Joe Trent, armed with a newly developed forkball, moves up from Double-A to Buffalo.

For now, the Wolves are out of the cellar and looking around cautiously, as if unsure how they got there or how long they’ll be allowed to stay. In this division, that may be enough to keep the conversation interesting—at least for another week.

CENTURIONS ONE WIN FROM FIRST FINALS TRIP IN SIX YEARS

The Boston Centurions are on the verge of ending a long postseason drought. After stumbling in the opener of their Eastern Conference semi-final series, Boston has responded with three straight victories and now holds a commanding 3–1 edge over the Washington Statesmen following a 108–93 win last night in the nation’s capital.

One more victory will send the Centurions to the Federal Basketball League finals for the first time since 1969. Boston was a dominant force during the 1960s, capturing three league championships and reaching the finals twice more, but had not won a playoff series in this decade before this spring. That changed with a six-game quarterfinal triumph over Chicago, and the Centurions now stand on the brink of a return to the league’s biggest stage.

Washington has already authored one of the postseason’s major surprises. The Statesmen, who finished fifth in a tightly packed Eastern Conference race, stunned defending champion New York by winning game seven of their quarterfinal series 129–117. Veteran center Herman Bergmann led the way in that clincher with 31 points and 15 rebounds.

Bergmann carried that form into the semi-finals, scoring 30 points as Washington took the opener in Boston, 120–116. Since then, however, the series has tilted decisively toward the Centurions. Boston erased an eight-point halftime deficit to claim game two, 115–107, then stole game three in Washington on Wayne Toler’s buzzer-beater in a 108–107 win. Game four was far less dramatic, with Doug Memmott scoring 25 points and Bill Champagne adding 24 as Boston pulled away for a 15-point victory.

Out West, the conference final between Minneapolis and St. Louis is deadlocked at two games apiece. The Rockets, winners of three of the past six FBL titles, advanced past Seattle in five games, while the Bobcats—an expansion club from 1970—earned the first playoff series win in franchise history by edging Houston 128–113 in a decisive seventh game.

The Western series has been defined by prolific scoring. Brooks Brown poured in 39 points as Minneapolis opened with a 151–140 win, a game that featured little resistance at either end of the floor. St. Louis answered in game two behind a 58-point outburst from John Brantner, slipping away with a 127–126 victory. Back at Gateway Center, Brantner again led the Rockets with 37 points in a 118–114 win, only to see Minneapolis even the series last night with a 136–132 decision highlighted by Brown’s FBL playoff single-game record of 63 points.

Game five is scheduled for tomorrow night in St. Louis before the series shifts back to Minneapolis, with the Western Conference still very much up for grabs.

OUTLAWS LOSE FAIRCHILD INJURY

If the San Antonio Outlaws are going to knock off the mighty Cincinnati Steamers in the Continental Basketball League championship series they will have to do it without the services of the CBL's leading scorer. Bill Fairchild, who averaged more than 30 points a game during the regular season and was putting up similar numbers in the playoffs, hyperextended his knee early in the second half of what would be a wild 154-142 win for the Outlaws over the Steamers.

That victory evened the series at one win apiece as the series heads to Texas for the next three games but the Outlaws will be without their top player the rest of the way. Fairchild had paced the Outlaws with 30 points in a 118-116 loss in the series opener and had 25 points in 22 minutes of action before he was knocked out of game two with the knee injury.

In this the final season of the CBL before the league is absorbed by the Federal Basketball League next season, will provide a first time CBL champion as neither San Antonio nor Cincinnati won a title in the first seven years of the CBL. The Outlaws had never made the finals prior to this season but the Steamers have reached the championship series three times before but never won including back-to-back losses over the past two years.

EXPLORERS LOOKING FOR BIG YEAR OUT OF HASKELL & McRAE

While much of the defense that led the Cumberland Explorers to a 9-3 record and a Cajun Classic victory a year ago are lost to graduation, the Explorers return a load of talent to their offense and will be looking to challenge for a Deep South Conference title. Front and center in Tennessee will be the Cumberland backfield of Robert Haskell and Ambrose McRae. The two enter their junior season and will be joined by senior quarterback Steven Sheffield and four/fifths of their offensive line from a year ago.

That line helped Haskell earn All-American honors and Deep South Player of Year accolades while rushing for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns while McRae ran for a little over 1,100 and they were considered to be the most dangerous backfield tandem in the AIAA a year ago. As TWIFS continues its college preview with a look at some of the top running backs in the nation it is clear that the Cumberland duo belong near the forefront of any discussion on that topic.

The Deep South Conference as a whole seems loaded this year with quality runners including the highly touted Darrell Grogan. Grogan is a sophomore who did not play last year for Georgia Baptist but was outstanding in the Gators spring game and is a big reason why the Gators will be one of the candidates to be ranked #1 in the preseason poll. Mississippi A&M has a proven back in Marcus Butler, who ran for nearly 1,300 yards as a freshman last season and David Cross, a senior from Central Kentucky is back after being one of the top rushers in the nation a year ago.

Other running backs to keep an eye on include Raleigh Cutter, a St Blane senior who rushed for over 1,000 yards as a backup last year; Luther Dickinson, a junior at Lawrence State who ran for 1,241 yards and 17 touchdowns and was named the Plains Athletic Association player of the year; senior Willard Lancaster of Coastal State who has been the Eagles starting running back each of the previous two seasons along with Lane State senior Daniel Baird.

Among the incoming freshmen who might have a big impact on the rankings are Bill Smithson and Ricky Joynes. Smithson, a highly touted recruit out of Savannah, GA., may have to wait his turn with the Gators -who might have the deepest contingent of backs in the nation- but if he gets a chance he and Grogan will give the Gators a duo that will challenge the Cumberland pair for best in the Deep South. Joynes, a California native who signed with Detroit City College, will be relied on heavily if the Knights are going to make a third consecutive trip to the East-West Classic as they were hit hard by graduation especially on the offensive side of the ball.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 05/11/1975

• The Communist dominance of Indochina continues to grow with Laos teetering after the fall of South Vietnam and Cambodia. The Red Pathet Lao was preparing to take over cabinet in Loas as pro-American members of the government were reported fleeing.
• The new Communist government of Cambodia has accused the United States of spreading "dishonest propaganda" in an attempt to mislead world public opinion.
• A Cambodian naval vessel seized an American merchant ship off the coast of Cambodia and forced it to port. President Ford called this "an act of piracy" and warned that failure to release the ship "will have the most serious consequences."
• Despite a step up in exploration and drilling, U.S. offshore oil production is considerably lower than in recent years. The main reason is said to be some off-shore wells are pumping less. The hope is production off Alaska's north slope will soon increase to offset the drop.
• The European Common Market has signed a far-reaching trade agreement with Israel despite Arab warnings of the political consequences.

[Tiger Fan]

MAY 19, 1975
KOTARSKI SHINES, NO-HITS CHIEFS

It doesn't happen every season, but a little over a month into the season FABL saw it's first no-hitter of the season. FABL has seen one every season since 1964, with last year the only no-hitter credited to Roger Alford (4-4, 3.86, 28) of the Chicago Cougars. The eventual Allen winner struck out 6 with 2 walks in a victory over the Kansas City Mavericks.

This year it was former 5th overall pick Jack Kotarski (3-3, 2.29, 32), who threw the first no-hitter in franchise history. This even includes their Pittsburgh days, where Kotarski spent the first nine seasons of his career, and developed into one of the games best pitchers.

Cementing himself again in team history, Kotarski dominated the Chiefs, coming just a walk away from perfection. Don Barker (.233, 4, 2) was the lone baserunner, drawing his walk with two outs in the 8th. Obviously stranded, Kotarski finished with 5 strikeouts as Atlanta took out Chicago 5-0. Kotarski himself had a hit, 1-for-3, while he got a lot of support from star shortstop John Newton (.339, 4, 13, 7). His second inning homer was more then enough, finishing 3-for-4 with a steal and pair of runs.

For Kotarski, it was his 148th career victory, evening his season record to 3-3 in 7 starts. Completing 55 innings, he has an outstanding 2.29 ERA (171 ERA+) and 0.96 WHIP, striking out 32 with just 13 walks. A 5-Time All-Star, he's always been among the top pitchers in the Fed, with only the first of his now eleven seasons containing a below average ERA. In 1967, he led the Fed with 21 wins, earning a 2.88 ERA (124 ERA+) and 1.07 WHIP with 210 strikeouts. From 1968 to 1972, he produced at least 6 WAR, only snapped by a few months in the pen during the '73 season. It's been all starts since, and the 30-year-old holds a 2.90 ERA (123 ERA+), 2.96 FIP (81 FIP-), and 1.11 WHIP. Worth 50.9 WAR, he's struck out 1,706 hitters in 2,271 innings, and was a key part of the team that brought a title to Pittsburgh in 1972.

Atlanta followed up the no-hitter with a pair of wins, completing a four game sweep and extending their win streak to a league high 7 games. Now 24-12, they've reclaimed the East lead from the Clippers, who now sit two and a half games behind them.. It's been due to Kotarski and the top ranked staff, with him, Harry Inge (5-1, 1.24, 36) and Marco Middleton (5-0, 2.83, 44) dominating in the back-half of the rotation. If the top two of Howie Burt (1-3, 4.96, 30) and Curly Anderson (1-1, 4.79, 15) regress back towards the mean, they could really be unstoppable.

Kotarski

• A strange situation is impacting the Cincinnati Cannons, as torrential downpours caused Tice Memorial Stadium's sewage system to fail. For once, showing up early was a bad thing, as John Walker (0-0, 2, 6.32, 5) took the brunt of the damage. Going in for an early shower, he realized the dark room was wet in a way it shouldn't. After turning on the lights, it was clear why, as dark, viscous, and strangely lumpy water was flowing up from the drains. An old stadium that has had issues in the past, this is the worst it has been, and this incident may cause the league to get involved.
• For one staffer, who we promised to keep un-named, something like this is not too surprising, and there's one easy person to blame. "It's Mary Tice Davies. This place is a dump, literally. It's an embarrassment to the players, the team, and the league, and [she] should be ashamed." While it is believed that most players feel similarly, Walker was the only one who responded to comment.
• FABL's draft pool was officially released today, as while the first 10 round of the draft have already been completed, but high school and college regular seasons are now done as well. OSA also listed their early favorites, with the top five consisting of 3B Caleb Johnson (.448, 11, 41), LHP Tom Brewer (11-0, 0.71, 175), RHP Willis Amasson (7-4, 2.73, 73), RHP Bill Gagnon (10-0, 0.89, 150), and 3B Frank Torsiello (.296, 13, 58, 18). All five were taken in the first round, by the Keystones (6th), Cougars (9th), Arrows (17th), Saints (13th), and Sailors (3rd) respectively.
• After a 5-hit performance end of April, Ken Steinbach (.328, 4, 21, 2) got more recognition, taking home the Continental Player of the Week. No 5-hit game for the 26-year-old, but the former 6th Rounder went 11-for-24 with 3 runs, a double, a triple, 2 homers, 6 RBIs, and a walk. Likely the best week of his career, Steinbach is hitting .328/.388/.496 (141 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 2 triples, 4 homers, 15 runs, and 21 RBIs. With Joe Robertson (.343, 1, 18, 6) continuing to fall away from .400, Steinbach has been doing what he can to get the Saints out of the cellar. At 17-21 they're now within a half game of fifth, but still far away from the leading Arrows (23-11).
• In the Fed another recent 5-hit hitter took the award, with the now surging Pioneer outfielder Quinton Vincent (.280, 4, 18, 4) tearing the cover off the ball. The 31-year-old went 13-for-29, adding 8 runs, a double, a triple, 2 homers, and 9 RBIs. He didn't walk and was caught stealing three times, but he did more then enough good to outweigh the bad. Now in 38 games this season, he has hit a respectable .280/.325/.433 (105 OPS+) that more closely resembles his usual production.
• No-hitters weren't the only notable pitching performances, as we saw two more shutouts on the 17th and a 3rd on the 18th. Houston veteran Spencer Reece (5-0, 2.59, 26) stayed perfect on the season with a 7-hit, 5-strikeout shutout in a 2-0 win over Baltimore. Undefeated through 8 starts, both him and Johnny Blackburn (4-0, 1.99, 37) have done all they can to keep the Comets above .500. Reece shared the spotlight with Swede Hawkins (5-2, 4.38, 28), who was not pitching like we're used to seeing. The shutout looked familiar, 2 hits and 4 walks with 9 strikeouts, as despite an ERA well above 4 he's 5-2 in 8 starts. Seattle did eventually lose this week, but they're 13-2 in May and opened a 4 game lead in the West. Hawkins, along with co-ace Moe Lowery (4-3, 3.18, 37) and stopper Billy Collins (2-1, 9, 2.16, 17) also inked extensions to guarantee their salaries for 1976.
• Finishing off the week was Dallas' Jack Mead (2-2, 2.79, 24), who got Dallas a much needed win. Chasing the Kings, they've gone an almost reverse 2-14, but it's not because of Mead. The 33-year-old has allowed 3 or fewer runs in each of his last 6 starts, including his 3-hit shutout. Walking 1 and striking out 2, he's now 2-2 with a 2.79 ERA (141 ERA+), 1.18 WHIP, and 24 strikeouts in 8 starts.
• Called up to replaced the injured Bill Bell (.290, 2, 17, 3), 27th ranked prospect and former 1st Round pick Bob Branson (.321, 7) made his FABL debut in a 10-1 crushing of the Wolves. Branson was 1-for-5 with an RBI, later starting all six of the Stars games this week. Known for his defense and high contact ability, he went 9-for-28 with 2 runs, 7 RBIs, and 4 doubles. A natural shortstop, he's been getting his games at second, with regular shortstop Lew Smith (.303, 5, 19, 4) staying where he's most comfortable.
• On the other side of the spectrum, two pitchers are ending their careers, with both Vern Osborne (0-1, 8.76, 7) and Charlie Lawson (2-1, 2, 7.11, 10) announced they'd call it quits at the end of the season. A long-time Chief, Osborne has won 257 FABL games in 670 appearances (591), but the soon-to-be 44-year-old is no longer the durable and dominant starter he once was. Appearing in 9 games out of the pen for the Cannons, he has 12 hits, 12 runs, and 6 walks in 12.1 innings, and realized he no longer had it. Same goes for Lawson, who's really struggled in the Cougars pen. The Sailor ace turned journeyman reliever doesn't have anywhere near as much success as Osborne, but he's a veteran of over 1,500 innings. Lawson's announcement came almost directly after a rough showing in Seattle, where he got just one out and allowed all three baserunners he put on to score.
• First place wasn't the only thing Baltimore lost this week, as one player hit the IL and another was lost on waivers. First came the injury to second basemen Clay Roberts (.350, 1, 28), as a separated shoulder will cost him the next four weeks. Having earned a full-time role, the 27-year-old was off to an excellent start, batting .350/.389/.458 (131 OPS+) in 30 games. He doesn't have much power, just a single homer in 131 PAs, but he's got 10 doubles, 11 runs, 28 RBIs, and more walks (9) then strikeouts (5). Replacing him will be tougher then Bob Nelson (2-1, 2.19, 6), who like Larry Warren will go from the Clippers to the Foresters. A 35-year-old vet, Nelson was pitching well for Baltimore, but they preferred Davey Cronin (0-1, 6, 4.50, 11) who signed in April.
• Bigger injury news came to Detroit, who lost one of the veterans they were trying to build value for. A 3-Time All-Star, Bill Austin (.270, 3, 25, 2) suffered a high ankle sprain, and will be out of commission for at least the next six weeks. Now 32, he suffered one of those back in 1972, and each of his last three injuries have been ankle related. That's not enough to make him injury prone, but it is a hit to a career .293/.344/.428 (122 OPS+) hitter who could have been a big acquisition to a contender in need of an infield bat.
• Washington's Joe Cantrell (.366, 5, 25, 3) also picked up a minor ailment, but it may not be enough to derail his breakout campaign. At 33, he hadn't previously produced a WRC+ above his 132 as a rookie, but in 34 games it's a much higher 179. Coinciding with a .366/.432/.542 (166 OPS+) batting line, he has the same amount of walks (13) as strikeouts, slapping 13 extra base hits and grabbing 20 runs with 25 RBIs. His strained hamstring will only hamper his running, something that is a part of his game, but with how little the rest of his teammates have hit, they may not want to remove him from the lineup for an extended period.
• Tom Lally (.331, 11, 42, 3) continues his stellar Whitney defense, becoming the first FABL player to reach double digit home runs. He hit two this week, now with 11 on the season, and is already one away from his total last year. He did hit 24 in 1973, so this isn't completely out of nowhere, but his power surge has been crucial to the Suns opening a 5 game lead in the East. Between him, Sam Forrester (.304, 8, 35, 13), Henry Hart (.355, 3, 20, 4), Jim Thurman (.333, 3, 17), and Eddie Kellum (.341, 12, 6), there's no shortage of offensive production, so pitcher's have been forced to take Lally on head-on. He's just too good for that, and remains the lead in two triple crown categories.
• On the other LA team we have the first pitcher to 50 strikeouts, as Stars ace Bill Dunham (5-1, 2.69, 56) reached 50 with 8 against the Wolves, and got past it on Saturday with 6 against the Imperials. Among the best pitchers in the game, Dunham is now 5-1 in 9 starts, throwing 67 innings and recording a 2.69 ERA (148 ERA+), 3.38 FIP (85 FIP-), and 1.09 WHIP early on.
• Montreal stopper Miguel Hernandez (4-4, 4, 5.40, 15) became just the 37th pitcher to record 100 FABL saves. It's a bit of surprise after how rough he started the season, but he pitched two nice innings to secure a 1-0 win over the Wranglers. He got 101 too finish Montreal's four game sweep, and the 28-year-old now owns a 3.56 ERA (105 ERA+) and 3.39 FIP (90 FIP-) in 527.2 FABL innings.

Rarely does a high school freshman garner much attention with FABL scouts, who tend to focus much more on the current draft class or perhaps the next one, but a pair of 15-year-old's have big league scouts eagerly anticipating the 1978 draft. The pair each have ties to professional baseball although those of one of them clearly run much deeper.

That would be George Lee, whose family tree reads like baseball royalty. Lee's father Gene had a brief stint in FABL has a catcher but it is his mother's side of the family that would be well known. His mother is Jean Barrell Lee which makes him the grandson of former catcher and big league manager Fred Barrell and the great-grandson of Hall of Famer Rollie Barrell. Gene is a centerfielder at Brooklyn's Erasmus High School but is said to have the talent to play anywhere on the ballfield.

Just 15 years of age and already 6'2", Lee has been nicknamed "The Natural" and with good reason. As a freshman he was among the leading hitters in the nation, batting .529 with 13 homers in 42 games for Erasmus.

The other player scouts that has scouts drooling is a Detroit high schooler by the name of Mack Eichner Jr. His father was an 8th round selection of the Cleveland Foresters in 1941. He spent a decade in the minors, compiling a 52-50 career record, but never made it to FABL. Mack Jr., a shortstop, hit .500 for Northern High School in Detroit as a 14-year-old and has impressed Detroit Dynamos scouting director Chuck Carr among others.

The current class also has two sons of Hall of Famers in it. Catcher Duke Bowman and outfielder Red Johnson Jr. They are the sons of Ed Bowman and Red Johnson, who were long-time teammates with the New York Gothams. Both youngsters were selected in the fourth round in January with Johnson going 12th to Baltimore, two selections ahead of Bowman who lands with St. Louis.

In addition there is shortstop Gene Peters. His father Johnny and his great-grandfather, also named Johnny, both played several years in FABL. Gene was selected by the Washington Eagles in the first round, 10th overall. His great-grandfather pitched for the Eagles in 1911 and 1912. Finally there is Leo Dill, an outfielder selected by the Los Angeles Suns in round five. Dill's grandfather Doc never made it to FABL but was drafted by the Brooklyn Kings in 1928 and again by Baltimore in 1931.

The 1976 class does not appear to have any players with family ties to FABL but among those in the 1977 group is Dan Schneider. Dan is the son of long-time Chicago Cougars all-star shortstop Skipper Schneider. Dan is a catcher who was not drafted out of high school and just completed his freshman season at Burleson College in Texas.

BOSTON AND MONTREAL SET TO BATTLE FOR CHALLENGE CUP

The Boston Bees and Montreal Valiants are each looking for their 10th Challenge Cup title in franchise history as the pair prepare to meet in the finals for the first time in 24 years. Each punched their ticket to the finals with series wins in the semi-finals last week. For Boston it will be their second trip to the finals in three years, losing to Toronto in 1973, while the Valiants are back for the first time since their 1971 win over Los Angeles.

It was the Los Angeles Stingrays that the Boston Bees eliminated to get to this year's Challenge Cup final. The Bees prevailed in six games culminating in a 2-1 victory on Saturday evening in Los Angeles to close out the series. Joel Pearce scored what proved to be the series winning goal, snapping a 1-1 tie with just over five minutes remaining in regulation to lift Boston to victory. The Bees received solid goaltending from veteran Alexander Daoust in the game but Daoust, hampered by a lingering rib injury, has been inconsistent throughout the playoffs and will be challenge by Montreal offense that has looked pretty good during the postseason.

The Valiants are well rested, having completely a relatively easy four game sweep of the Chicago Packers with a 31- victory on Wednesday. Ed Halliday scored twice, giving him a playoff high 13 goals while veteran Fred Rucks continued his solid work in the Montreal net. The 34-year-old leads all postseason goalies with a 2.18 goals against average.

The Challenge Cup final series opens tomorrow night in Boston with game two set for Friday before the series shifts to Montreal for games three and four. Boston which led the NAHC with 112 points finished 22 points ahead of their Connelly Division rivals from Montreal. Head to head during the regular season the Bees won five of the six meetings between the two long-time rivals with Montreal's lone triumph being a 5-2 victory on March 7.

BRANTNER PROPELS ROCKETS TO FINALS
St Louis Scoring Star Nets Record 64 Points in Game Seven

Whatever doubts might have lingered as to whether or not John Brantner is the greatest scoring in pro basketball history disappeared after the 31-year-old legendary forward scored a playoff record 64 points and added 24 rebounds to lead his St Louis Rockets to a 139-122 victory over the Minneapolis Bobcats in game seven of the FBL's Western Conference final. It was the seventh time in his career that the four-time FBL Most Valuable Player scored at least 60 points in a game.

Brantner, who's 38.5 points per game during the regular season led the FBL in scoring for the fifth consecutive season, is averaging over 42 points per game and more than 16 boards through the Rockets 12 playoff games. Next up for St Louis will be the Boston Centurions, who needed just five games to eliminate the Washington Statesmen. The Rockets will be looking for their fourth FBL title in the past seven years. Included in those victories was a six-game win over the Centurions in the spring of 1969, which was the last time Boston made the FBL championship series.

STEAMERS WIN FINAL CBL GAME
Cincinnati Tops San Antonio in CBL Swan Song

It took four attempts and they were not successful until the very last game in the eight year history of the Continental Basketball League but the Cincinnati Steamers earned the final league title in CBL history. The Steamers had reached the finals three times in the previous four years but came up short on each occasion. This time, overshadowed by the news of the CBL's demise, the Steamers proved too much for a gritty San Antonio Outlaws club that was missing the CBL's leading scorer and earned the CBL title with a resounding 153-125 victory in game seven.

The CBL will fold after eight seasons with many of its 12 teams expected to be added to the long-running Federal Basketball League next year. That news broke just before the playoffs began making this, their final opportunity, even more important to a Steamers team that always seemed to get so close to a title only to fall just short of the goal.

Fate smiled on the Steamers this year as CBL scoring champ and likely league MVP Bill Fairchild of San Antonio suffered a knee injury in the second game of the finals that ended his season. Without their scoring star the Outlaws dropped game three but put together back to back wins to return to Cincinnati for games six and seven with a 3-2 series lead. The fourth victory never came for the Outlaws as the Steamers, who won a regular season high 58 games this season, pulled out a 134-131 victory in game six and then exploded for 153 points in the game seven win.

The Continental Basketball League had an impressive eight year run that saw six different teams win at least one league title. They revolutionized the sport with the introduction of the three-point shot which sent scoring soaring and created a very exciting brand of the game. It will be interesting to see if the Federal League will adopt the three-point shot and if the addition of the CBL squads will create a more wide-open game. The other big questions is will the FBL accept all twelve CBL entrants? It seems unlikely the woeful New Jersey Demons will be admitted and there is question whether the Mariners will be allowed to remain in Philadelphia considering that territory belongs to one of the FBL's original franchises in the Philadelphia Phantoms.

The defending national champion Northern Mississippi Mavericks highlight the field of 16 schools which have qualified for the AIAA college baseball World Championship Series. It will be the 66th edition of the tournament and will feature a single-elimination format to reach the finals, which will be a best of three series.

Also in the field is Maryland State and the Bengals will be looking to become the first five time winner of the tournament. Eastern State, Grange College and Lubbock State are currently tied with Maryland State for the most tournament titles at four. The Bengals won the inaugural tournament in 1910 and then back to back titles in 1939 and 1940 before winning their most recent CWCS back in 1943.

Those selected in the first round of the FABL draft in January and are playing in the tournament include second overall selection George Carney, who was chosen by Detroit and is coming off a 6-2 season for the St. Ignatius Lancers. The Lancers will kick off the tournament by facing Tallmadge State in the opening game with Carney slated to pitch for St. Ignatius. Sam White (.286,18,50), selected 14th by St Louis is the key player on the CC Los Angeles Coyotes, who open the tournament against Michigan Lutheran. The Coyotes have never won the college World Championship Series but are one of the favourites this year.

A LOOK AT COLLEGE FOOTBALL'S TOP WIDE RECEIVERS

In recent seasons, the passing game has steadily overtaken the running attack as college football’s primary source of offense. Over the past five years alone, pass attempts per game have risen by nearly 20 percent, while quarterbacks are throwing with greater accuracy than ever before. The result is an increased premium on elite wide receivers. As part of our ongoing preview of the 1975 collegiate football season, here is a look at several receivers who figure prominently in the All-America conversation.

St. Blane is widely regarded as a potential national title contender, and much of its offensive success will hinge on the development of new quarterback Bob Hitt. If Hitt settles in quickly, junior wideout Jim Chambliss is likely to play a central role. The Jacksonville, Florida native was among the nation’s most productive receivers last season, hauling in 26 passes, five of them for touchdowns. Chambliss enters 1975 as a near lock for preseason All-America honors.

Central Ohio also harbors championship ambitions and brings back one of the country’s most reliable targets in senior Sal Parrish. A Green Bay native, Parrish has started 22 games for the Aviators and has caught nine touchdown passes during his career, including six last season. He will not lack for competition within the conference. Senior Darrin Kelsey, an All–Great Lakes Alliance selection a year ago, returns for Lincoln College, while Detroit City College sophomore John McDonnell—who did not play as a freshman—is already being touted as one of the finest young receiving talents to emerge in years.

Several other receivers merit close attention this fall. Chicago Poly senior Derek Lemon and Eastern Oklahoma senior Rick White are both proven performers, while Daniel Noland of Amarillo Methodist continues to draw national notice after earning TWIFS All-America honors last season as a sophomore.

Tight ends are also playing an increasingly important role in modern offenses. The most prominent names return from the Deep South Conference, led by 1974 All-American Johnny McClary of Cumberland, now a senior, and Mississippi A&M junior John Wendell, a dependable receiver whose speed often surprises opposing defenses.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 05/18/1975

• A week after the Khmer Rouge seize U.S. cargo ship Mayaguez, capturing the crew in international waters and triggering the first major foreign policy crisis of the Ford presidency, U.S. Marines launch rescue operation in Cambodia, storming Koh Tang island and retaking the Mayaguez in a swift but deadly military action.
• Crew of Mayaguez freed as fighting ends, though it later emerges the sailors had already been released, raising questions about intelligence failures and decision-making.
• Ford defends use of force in Mayaguez crisis, declaring that the United States must show resolve after the fall of Saigon, even as casualties draw scrutiny.
• Congress questions White House handling of Cambodian operation, opening early hearings and debate over presidential war powers in the post-Vietnam era.
• Vietnam refugee resettlement accelerates across North America, with U.S. states and Canadian provinces preparing to absorb tens of thousands fleeing Southeast Asia.
• Economic anxiety persists with new figures showing high unemployment and slow recovery despite signs inflation may be easing. Energy markets stabilize but prices remain high, as consumers face continued fuel costs while governments press OPEC for longer-term assurances.

[stratonapba]

Hopefully Cincinnati might be the Figment Universe's Indiana Pacers so they can join the FBL along with San Antonio and perhaps Portland, Denver, Dallas and Pittsburgh so the league will have 24 teams so they could help bolster Pittsburgh's Chances to get a new franchise in the FABL in '77.

[Tiger Fan]

MAY 26, 1975

VALIANTS SEIZE EARLY COMMAND OF CHALLENGE CUP FINAL

The Boston Bees may have spent six months reminding the rest of the NAHC who owned the league’s best regular-season record, but the Montreal Valiants have wasted no time reminding them that spring hockey keeps no such ledger. With two hard, fast victories on Boston ice, the Valiants have seized firm control of the best-of-seven Challenge Cup final and now return home needing just two more wins to claim the Cup for a tenth time.

On paper, this was supposed to be Boston’s series. In practice, Montreal arrived with a simple plan—skate early, shoot often, and test a Bees lineup held together by tape and grit. Boston entered the final without steady defenseman Barry Waddington and with goaltender Alexander Daoust laboring through a rib injury that has followed him since the closing days of the regular season. Daoust has started every playoff game, but the Valiants made certain he was asked uncomfortable questions early and often.

Game one set the tone. Montreal poured shots at the Boston goal from the opening faceoff and was rewarded quickly when Gary Whitaker and Dean Sapier found the net in the first period. Teddy Visheau briefly settled the crowd by answering Whitaker’s opener, but the reprieve was short-lived. Ed Halliday, already the most dangerous man in the series, struck midway through the second period for his playoff-leading 13th goal, restoring Montreal’s two-goal cushion.

Bruce Callahan brought Boston back within one early in the third, but Ken Roper answered eight minutes later, and although Matt Brophey’s late goal made for a frantic final minute, the Bees could not complete the chase. Montreal skated off with a 4–3 victory that felt more decisive than the score suggested.

Game two followed a familiar script. The Valiants again jumped out quickly, outshooting Boston 18–7 in the opening period, and Whitaker continued his strong series with the lone goal of the frame. Boston pushed harder in the second, but Montreal’s pressure paid off in a more clinical way. Brooks Ivey converted a rebound off a Mark Moggy drive, and Pete Fortin followed by cashing in another loose puck to make it 3–0. Callahan’s sixth goal of the postseason, scored in the final minute of the period, offered the Bees a flicker of hope.

That hope lasted only until Fortin slipped in alone early in the third and beat Daoust cleanly on a breakaway. The 4–1 final left Boston searching for answers and Montreal boarding the train with a commanding two-game edge.

The series resumes tonight in Montreal, with game four set for Thursday. For the Bees, the task is simple in description and daunting in execution: win on the road, or watch the Challenge Cup drift steadily toward Montreal.

CENTURIONS KEEP FINALS ALIVE AS ROCKETS LOSE BRANTNER

The 1975 Federal Basketball League championship series changed course in the span of five shocking minutes Saturday night at Denny Arena, moments that may come to define the entire postseason.

The St. Louis Rockets arrived in Boston appearing ready to close the book. Winners of three of the first four games—and fresh off a commanding 131–113 victory the night before—the Rockets carried a 3–1 series lead and the unmistakable air of inevitability that has followed them through much of the past decade. John Brantner, the league’s leading scorer for five straight seasons and the dominant force of these playoffs at better than 37 points per game, seemed once again poised to finish the job.

Instead, the series was turned upside down.

Boston, playing before a crowd that entered the building bracing for elimination, opened game five with unexpected urgency, racing out to a 14–6 lead. St. Louis steadied itself and began to reel the Centurions back in, trimming the margin to a single point. Then came the moment that stunned the arena into silence.

Battling for a rebound, Brantner landed awkwardly and crumpled to the floor. The Rockets’ star remained down for several tense minutes before being helped off the court. He would not return. By Sunday afternoon, the diagnosis was confirmed: a stress fracture, sidelining Brantner for the remainder of the series.

Without the player who accounts for more than a third of their offense—and who had poured in 43 points in game four—the Rockets were suddenly a very different team. Boston seized the opening and never let go, rolling to a 121–105 victory that breathed life back into a series that had appeared all but settled.

Brantner’s absence looms large. Remarkably durable, he had not missed a game since the 1971–72 season, and his central role in St. Louis’ attack is unmatched anywhere in the league. The question now hanging over the finals is a simple but enormous one: can the Rockets win without the best offensive player in the sport?

The math still favors St. Louis. The Rockets return home for games six and, if necessary, seven, needing just one more win to claim their fourth championship in seven years. But momentum is a fragile thing in playoff basketball, and what once felt inevitable now feels uncertain.

The Centurions, left for dead 48 hours ago, have been given a chance—and history suggests they won’t let it pass quietly.

ONE LAST GASP BY STARS

There comes a day in every ballplayer’s life when the bat feels a half-ounce heavier, the fastball looks a half-tick faster, and the trainer suddenly knows your first name, your middle name, and your cholesterol level. You can deny it, argue with it, ice it, rub it, and blame the travel schedule—but sooner or later the game taps you on the shoulder and says, “Kid, we need to talk.”

Ballclubs, it turns out, age the same way.

The Los Angeles Stars have been staring into that same unforgiving mirror lately, and judging by their latest trades, they’ve decided they’re not ready for bifocals just yet. This is a franchise that has been great for so long it practically forgot how to be ordinary. Since 1964: eight postseason trips, four World Championship Series titles, and a permanent reservation near the top of the standings. Third place? That hasn’t been fashionable in Los Angeles since the early Kennedy administration.

But time, like a good breaking ball, eventually gets everybody.

Bill Dunlop doesn’t hit quite as hard, George Dunnigan doesn’t run quite as fast, and Ed Moore doesn’t scare pitchers the way he used to—unless you count scaring them into pitching inside. Bobby Garrison, Floyd Warner, and Bob Griffin can still play, still produce, still look the part. The problem is that the rest of the division has gotten younger, faster, and nastier while the Stars have been quietly collecting gray hairs and fond memories.

Seattle, in particular, has gone from annoying neighbor to full-blown landlord. The Kings are the reigning World Champions and they’re playing like they intend to stay that way. Even San Francisco—the division’s longtime second cousin who ate at the kids’ table—has passed the Stars in the standings. Los Angeles sits third at 24-21, which in most towns would feel respectable. In this town, it feels like leaving a party just as the music gets good.

So what do you do when the clock is ticking and the legs are creaking? If you’re the Stars, you reach into a farm system that already looks like it’s been hit by a drought and trade away a couple more prospects in hopes of squeezing out one more good summer.

OSA says the Stars’ minor league cupboard ranks 22nd out of 24 clubs. In plain English, that means there’s more dust than hope down on the farm. That didn’t stop Los Angeles from dealing two of those remaining hopes for a pair of veterans: outfielder/first baseman Dave Black from Detroit and pitcher Charlie Walker from New York.

Black, at 29, is the kind of player managers like and pitchers don’t. He hits triples like most men hit singles—led the Federal Association with 16 last year—and he’s still young enough that you don’t wince when he bends over to tie his shoes. He gives the Stars a professional bat and a little life in a lineup that’s been running on reputation as much as production.

Walker is a different story. At 33, he’s more “fond memory” than “sure thing.” He once won 13 games back in 1964, which in baseball time is roughly the Bronze Age. He was serviceable last year split between Seattle and St. Louis, and downright forgettable in a brief bullpen cameo with the Imperials. The Stars are betting that a change of scenery—and maybe a return to the rotation—can coax one more useful chapter out of an arm that’s been around longer than some of the rookies’ parents.

Will it work? Maybe. Stranger things have happened. I once went 3-for-4 after swearing I was done playing forever.

But if Seattle keeps rolling the way it is, these moves may amount to little more than rearranging the furniture while the neighbors throw a bigger, louder party. Still, you have to respect the attempt. Dynasties don’t usually go quietly, and the Stars clearly aren’t interested in slipping out the back door.

This may be the last gasp of a once-great run—or it may buy them just enough time to remind everyone that old stars, like old ballplayers, can still surprise you.

Just don’t ask them to play a doubleheader in August.

• All-Star voting in FABL begins this week, open until the teams are released on the 13th of July. Some names to watch in the Fed are Millers' catcher Julio Castaneda (.310, 11, 37), Atlanta's Harry Inge (5-2, 1.40, 38), and of course the Whitney frontrunner Tom Lally (.314, 11, 43, 3). In the Conti, top candidates include RBI leader John Babb (.293, 5, 38, 2), triple crown hopeful Bill Dunham (6-1, 2.61, 66), or batting title leader Frank Eddy (.367, 1, 14, 3). Ballots will be cast throughout the coming weeks, and upcoming performances will certainly impact the way votes go.
• You could also just say anyone on the Kings, who became the first FABL organization to 30 wins. A win quicker then the Fed leading Suns, they're 2nd in runs scored and 3rd in runs against, and have no shortage of All-Star worthy players. From stopper Billy Collins (2-1, 10, 1.76, 22) to star outfielders Bob Glowacki (.285, 9, 17) and Mike Griffith (.305, 5, 27), the West leaders should be well represented. They won't, however, be represented by either of their second basemen, with both Sam Barnes (.222, 1, 9, 7) and Curt Day (.174, 5, 2) picking up injuries. Barnes is the starter, and will miss less time, 2-3 weeks with a herniated disc in his back. Day, who replaced him for a few days, then strained his oblique, likely out for five weeks. This makes their earlier acquisition of Jack Lucas (.250, 3, 12, 3; .267, 4, 15, 4) so important, as either him or Jesse Walker (.281, 5, 25, 6) can take second, with the other filling their natural position of third.
• Castaneda boosted his All-Star campaign, as the third year catcher is looking to pick up his 2nd selection. A Player of the Week will aid in that quest, as the 27-year-old was an even 8-for-16 with 5 homers, 5 walks, and 11 RBIs. He homered in four of his five games, including a 3-hit, 2-homer game in Baltimore where he was the difference in the 7-6 contest. Now with 11 on the season, he's on pace for the first 40-homer season in franchise history, as just John Edwards (31, 1970; 30, 1969) has been able to reach even 30. Known more for above average defense then the bat, he has always hit for some power, but currently he's the most over-qualified 8-hitter in baseball.
• In the Conti, it was an outfielder named Player of the Week, as the Sailor's Milo Daniel (.328, 3, 26) became the third San Francisco outfielder to take home the prize. Joining Pete Gibson (.318, 22, 7) and reserve outfielder Charlie Jarzombek (.426, 3, 18, 5), the offseason pickup went 10-for-24 with 3 doubles, 2 homers, 9 RBIs, 3 runs, and 4 walks. A breakout at 28, Daniel is finally getting regular playing time, and turning in the best offensive production of his career. Batting .328/.368/.522 (143 OPS+), he's 50 PAs away from matching his previous career high (195), as he never had a real chance of breaking into the Cannons outfield. Now, his work ethic, excellent defense, and consistent contact ability has earned himself a spot in a deep outfield, helping the surprisingly 26-19 Sailors make a run at the leading Kings.
• Suns first basemen Harry Dellinger (.330, 1, 17, 6) is having a renaissance at 36, and with his first homer of the season, the 1960 Whitney Winner became the 39th FABL slugger to hit 300 home runs. 284 of them came with the Keystones, where he spent 14+ seasons, but he was traded at the '73 deadline to the Suns so he could get a little more playing time. Despite hitting .251/.301/.348 (88 OPS+) last year, the contending Suns gave him one last chance, and even before the homer it was a huge success. He's hitting above .300 for the first time since 1963, slashing .330/.396/.455 (134 OPS+) with 4 doubles, 2 triples, 17 RBIs, 15 runs, and 6 steals. It's been overshadowed by a lot of the current starts on the Suns, but it's been very nice to see a talent like him regain some of his past quality.
• Speaking of aging vets, one of the shutouts came from one of the elderlies, as Cougar southpaw Pug White (5-1, 3.50, 28) was dominant in a 3-0 win over the Foresters. In front of a collection of Cougars fans that have lived his whole career, his 910th FABL appearance ended in a 4-hit, 0-walk, 5-strikeout shutout. That put him in a quick tie for 2nd All-Time with Paul Williams, who like Pug started and relieved a ton of games. He then got above with a 7-inning win over the Arrows, allowing just 4 hits and a run with 3 strikeouts. Now 3 away from Allan Allen for the FABL appearance lead, it's pretty much a foregone conclusion at this point. Even at 44, he's an excellent pitcher, going 5-1 in 10 starts for the Cougars. His 3.50 ERA (113 ERA+) and 3.58 FIP (90 FIP-) are both above average, joined with a 1.34 WHP, 17 walks, and 28 strikeouts. He now has 256 wins, 4,255 innings, and 2,623 strikeouts in a remarkable 23-year career.
• It was far from the only shutout, which started on Monday with Herm Quinn (6-1, 2.53, 54). The only win for the Cannons this week, Quinn allowed just 5 hits and a walk, striking out 5 to improve to 6-1 on the season. The weekend saw too as well, with Irv Hoops (3-4, 2.76, 36) and his Mavs victimizing the Foresters, who of course were shut out by White earlier in the week. It was the first in his career, as he scattered 7 hits and 2 walks while striking out 3. Finally on Sunday Jack Vander Kooi (3-3, 2, 2.08, 19) was better then needed as his Dynamos crushed the Gothams 10-0. Recently moved into the rotation, it was his fourth start of the season, allowing 4 hits and 2 walks with 3 strikeouts. It's also his first shutout, as even though he's 34, he's made just 190 appearances (73 starts) and most have been as a reliever.
• Can't forget 5-hit games either, as both Fed batting title leader Stan Francis (.381, 1, 25) and 1971 WCS MVP Ed Bogan (.262, 2, 17, 4) managed perfect 5-for-5. For Francis, it was all singles, though he did drive in 3 during the Comets' 11-4 win over the Eagles. Bogan did more for his Stars, 2 doubles and a homer away from the cycle, scoring once and driving in two. Francis doing it is no surprise, but Bogan is still hitting just .262/.319/.378 (91 OPS+) on the season, and despite being a generally solid hitter, he hasn't hit .300 since his 99 game rookie season way back in 1966.
• Whatever Steve Prather (.331, 6, 27, 10) did in the offseason didn't quite work, as Dallas' nightmare May got even worse. Now without their most productive hitter for at least four weeks, the 31-year-old fractured his rib. Leaving with a robust .331/.390/.503 (142 OPS+) line, he added 9 doubles, 6 homers, 27 RBIs, and 10 steals, in an excellent all around performance. Replacing him will not be easy, especially since C/OF John Vance (.191, 5, 1) is a likely replacement, and he's been brutal since moving out of the lineup. The easy fix would just be replacing him on the roster with Herb Graves, who was hurt in the spring and now is ready to go.
• A lot of outfielders were hurt, as Prather was just the most notable, not the only casualty of the week. More minor is the ailment hampering former #1 pick Gil Armstrong (.256, 9), as Boston's new rookie suffered a knee contusion. Likely to slow him down for the next two weeks, it's a huge blow to his defense, and with his age and their position in last, a precautionary IL stint may be best. Same goes to Cannon's outfielder Bud Cormier (.287, 15, 3) and his quadriceps strain. Again, set to impact running, his four week recovery time makes an IL placement more likely, and after losing six in a row they might want to shake things up.
• Baltimore lost shortstop Jack Goodman (.258, 3, 14, 9) to a herniated disc, set to miss not much more than the minimum 15 days. A skilled defender, his .258/.310/.383 (90 OPS+) batting line was elite by his standards, and he was on pace (5.0) to shatter his previous career high of 2.7 WAR. Injuries are common for the 3-Time Diamond Defense winner, and since his replacement Dan Matthews (.100, 1, 5) didn't hit or field well after replacing him, they will hope this is the only absence he needs this year.

FORTY GAMES OF FRUSTRATION: THE MAYDAY SIREN IS WAILING

CHICAGO, IL — There are baseball lifers who swear that you don’t really know what kind of team you have until the first forty games are in the books. They also like to say that while you can’t win a pennant in April, you can certainly lose one. Well, we are just two games shy of that forty-game benchmark, and I don't think those last two outcomes are going to change the stench coming off this roster.

No team in professional baseball has won fewer games than your Boston Minutemen. At 11-27, we aren't just in the cellar; we’ve dug a sub-basement. We are already thirteen games behind the division-leading Atlanta Copperheads, and the statistics are enough to make a grown man weep into his scotch. The club is a staggering 1-12 in one-run games. That isn't just bad luck; that is a fundamental inability to finish a job. Combine that with a 3-15 record away from home, and you have a team that is essentially a homecoming opponent for the rest of the league.

The pitching that was holding this leaky boat together a few weeks ago has finally started to tail off, and the hitting—outside of Jim Morton—is still non-existent. Morton is the only man on this roster who should bother packing a bag for the All-Star game. He is a lock, but he is a very lonely one.
Sully’s Stance: The decision to hand the keys to Bill Gallagher behind the plate has backfired like a rusted-out tailpipe. Gallagher is hitting a miserable .111 over his last nine games. It isn't as if Ed Cole is making a case for himself either, languishing at .215 for the year. If you can’t get production from the backstop, you’re playing with eight men.

Around the horn, Willie Stephens is proving to be the definition of a streaky hitter. He is currently on a hot flash, batting .333 with more walks than strikeouts, which is a nice change of pace. However, the power is completely gone. Zero home runs in 135 at-bats for your starting first baseman? That is a stat from the dead-ball era. At second, Charlie Hartsell is at a respectable .273, but he’s hitting with all the pop of a wet noodle.
Then we get to the left side of the infield. We knew Dale Raz was going to struggle with the stick, but we were promised a vacuum at shortstop. Instead, he’s already booted six balls and is carrying a .963 fielding percentage. If the glove isn't elite, what are we doing here? Over at third, Howard Smith has gone into a deep freeze, hitting .130 over his last seventeen games.

Sully’s Stance: Howard Smith is 35 years old and hitting .189 on the season. In AAA Columbus, Mickey Barker and Frank Borgen are both hitting over .300. In my book, a veteran hitting below the Mendoza line shouldn't be blocking hungry kids. Smith’s days have to be numbered. I also expect to see Dick Wood get more looks at shortstop over Raz, considering Wood is actually finding grass with a .300 average in limited time.

The outfield needs a chainsaw, not a scalpel. Morton is the only sure thing, leading the club in every major category. Dick Ward has six homers, but the .229 average is tough to swallow. Still, Dode Edwards will likely keep Ward in there just to have some semblance of a threat in the box. Gil Armstrong has a bum knee, and Bob Menz has been a ghost. Do not be surprised if Bill Ward or George Browne get the call-up soon. Pat Allen hasn't handled his demotion well—hitting .237 with 16 strikeouts in Columbus—so the help might have to come from elsewhere.

On the mound, there isn't much the brass can do but pray. The top-tier prospects are still in the oven. 19-year-old Sal Baldassari is 4-1 with a 3.52 ERA and 59 strikeouts at Low A Arlington, and he deserves a promotion tomorrow. But at the higher levels, the only arm that could have helped, Ken West, just hit the training room for a month. That means we are going to keep seeing Johnny Hall propped up out there every five days like a stage prop.

We close out May on the road in Chicago and Minnesota. Statistically, May has been "better" than April—we’ve won three more games than last month with five to go—but that is like saying a cold is better than the flu. It is entirely possible the boys clear ten wins for the month, but I wouldn't put my grocery money on it.

Dig in, Boston. This is going to be a long, lonely summer at the ballpark. I’m going to need another pack of Reds just to get through the next road trip.
Until next time, keep your head down.

WOLVES LIMP HOME, SINK INTO CELLAR

Toronto's ballclub heads home after disappointing but unfortunately unsurprising trip west in which they managed only 2 wins in 9 games. The Wolves are now occupying a far too familiar position as they sit last in the CA East at 17-24.

The theme for the team was the same this week and prominently featured spotty pitching, porous defense and anemic offense. Going into the season everyone with any baseball knowledge knew the only hope for this ballclub to achieve even minimal success, defined as being at least competitive, rested on the pitching staff backed by at least solid, if not spectacular, defense. With about a quarter of the season gone neither has been even close to being true for the long suffering team and its fans whose impatience grows daily.

This is going to hurt but lets break it down starting with pitching. The Wolves have the highest ERA in the CA at 4.11, highest OOBP at .359, along allowing the opponents the second highest BA, have still have not registered a CG, have allowed the most BB, have fewest saves, on it goes, this not winning pitching.

Now to fielding that was supposed to aid the pitching. The team has been charged with 52 errors, leading to 34 unearned runs. A game without an error almost feeling like a win and unfortunately seeming to be as rare as one. This team also has the lowest mark in the league for converting balls put into play into outs and lowest fielding percentage.

At the plate, which was known weakness starting 1975, Toronto is at the bottom of the CA in all 3 categories of the slash line, BA/OBP/SLG leading to scoring the least runs, 151, by a wide margin.

In summary 17-24 can be explained by not hitting, not pitching, not fielding, not winning. Fans in Toronto expect and deserve better. We have endured more than enough of the front office saying 'help is on the way." It might be time to blow up what they have, may as well lose with the future than wallow in the dumps with players who have proven they cannot win in the FABL. Was the move to designate for assignment Chick Reed the first move of many?

This writer will cease detailed game by game recaps of the Wolves week, as they are depressing both the writer and the fans. Instead he will move to the week's highlights both positive and negative. There will also be critical analysis of the writer's opinion of needed steps to break the losing culture, some of which will infuriate the front office.

As for what transpired last week summary I will make it quite. The Wolves started the week well with a 4-3 over the Sailors at Golden Gate Stadium then lost the next 5 before flying home Sunday including blowing a 5-0 lead to the Sailors to lose 6-5 in 10 on Tuesday. In the last 4 losses including being swept in Los Angeles by the suddenly hot Stars the team scored 4 runs while allowing 27, enough said....

The next Mail & Empire article will concentrate on the system for the future along with the current FABL staff, If changes are to be made, which is a must, the change should start in Toronto. Is Carl Evans the first to go?

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 05/25/1975

• Nation mourns 14 Marines killed in Mayaguez rescue, as funerals and memorials underscore the human cost of the brief but violent operation.
• Pentagon releases revised account of Mayaguez timeline, acknowledging the crew had been freed before the main assault began, intensifying criticism.
• Congress moves to reassert war powers, with lawmakers citing the Cambodian action as proof of the need to limit unilateral presidential military decisions.
• Ford administration presses refugee legislation forward, seeking emergency funds and expanded authority to resettle Indochinese refugees.
• Cambodia sealed off under Khmer Rouge rule, as reports emerge of mass evacuations of cities and an information blackout from Phnom Penh.
• OPEC officials signal no immediate oil price hikes, briefly calming markets still shaken by the 1973–74 energy crisis.
• Post-Watergate political reforms gain traction, as renewed public scrutiny fuels momentum for ethics and campaign-finance legislation.

[Eugene Church]

Yeah buddy, I mean to tell you this is a fantastic dynasty.

It is the PERFECT dynasty report... great graphics and great writing.

Head and shoulders above anything else.

Superbly done!

[Tiger Fan]

Originally Posted by Eugene Church

Yeah buddy, I mean to tell you this is a fantastic dynasty.

It is the PERFECT dynasty report... great graphics and great writing.

Head and shoulders above anything else.

Superbly done!

From all of us at the Figment Sporting Universe who contribute to the recaps, thank you Eugene for the kind words. Much appreciated.

[Tiger Fan]

JUNE 2, 1975

VALIANTS CLAIM CHALLENGE CUP

The Montreal Valiants closed the book on the 1975 NAHC season Saturday night with a performance that was as disciplined as it was decisive, blanking the Boston Bees 1–0 at Denny Arena to claim the Challenge Cup for the 10th time in franchise history. Only the Toronto Dukes, with 13 championships, have lifted hockey’s most prized trophy more often.

The final act belonged to goaltender Fred Rucks, whose calm, economical brilliance defined the series and the postseason as a whole. Rucks turned aside every Boston chance in the clincher and finished the playoffs with four shutouts and a 2.22 goals-against average, numbers good enough to make him just the second goaltender ever to earn the David Welcombe Trophy as playoff Most Valuable Player.

It was a difficult week for Boston sports fans. Four nights before the Bees were shut out of the Cup, the city’s other finalist, the Boston Centurions, saw their season end at the hands of St. Louis in the Federal Basketball League championship series.

For the Bees, the trouble in the Challenge Cup final began early. Despite owning the league’s best regular-season record, Boston surrendered both opening games on home ice, immediately placing itself in a precarious position. The Bees did respond in Game Three with their most convincing effort of the series, skating to a 5–1 victory behind a pair of goals from Mark Berg. Even then, the win did little to shake Montreal’s confidence—or Rucks, who later called it his poorest outing of the postseason.

Game Four proved to be the turning point. Boston appeared poised to even the series after carrying the play early and building a 2–1 first-period lead while outshooting Montreal 15–7. The Valiants steadied themselves in the second period, tying the game on a John Partridge goal, before seizing the lead midway through the third when Mark Moggy’s point shot threaded its way through traffic and past Alexandre Daoust.

The Bees answered quickly, Steven Perreaux knotting the score at three just over a minute later, and the game remained deadlocked through regulation as Rucks made several critical stops. Boston survived an early overtime penalty, but the reprieve was temporary. Eleven minutes into the extra session, Pete Fortin finished a crisp setup from Ed Halliday to give Montreal a 4–3 victory and a commanding three-games-to-one series lead.

The decisive fifth game was a tense, tightly checked affair befitting the stakes. Montreal struck late in the opening period when Dan Roeszler snapped a wrist shot past Daoust from the top of the left circle. That lone goal stood up as Rucks and the Valiants turned aside everything Boston could muster, including a frantic final-minute push with Daoust on the bench, to seal the series with another 1–0 victory.

Ron Kincaid led all scorers in the postseason with 24 points in 19 games, flanked by linemates Ed Halliday—who topped the league with 13 playoff goals—and Fortin. It was an unexpected run from a team that entered the final as an underdog, but it ended with a familiar result: Montreal once again at the top of the hockey world.

With five Challenge Cups in the past dozen years and a 10th overall now secured, the Valiants have reaffirmed their place among the NAHC’s great dynasties—and done so by outplaying, outthinking, and ultimately outlasting the league’s best regular-season club.

ROCKETS CAPTURE FBL CROWN
St Louis Seals Title Without Injured Brantner

No John Brantner, no collapse.

The St. Louis Rockets answered the one question that hovered over the Federal Basketball League finals by closing out the Boston Centurions with a composed 110–100 victory in Game Six, securing their third championship in four years and their fourth in the past seven seasons.

There was understandable anxiety inside Gateway Center before the opening tip. The Rockets returned home holding a 3–2 series lead, but they were coming off a bruising 121–105 loss in Boston that coincided with the stunning sight of Brantner—the league’s most prolific scorer and its unmistakable centerpiece—leaving Game Five early with an injury that ended his postseason. For a team built so heavily around his scoring brilliance, the question was not whether St. Louis could replace Brantner’s points, but whether it could replace his presence.

They did so collectively, and decisively.

Pressed into the starting lineup, Bob Baranowski delivered the finest performance of his four-year FBL career. Making just his 12th career start, Baranowski led all Rockets with 25 points, playing with poise and confidence well beyond his résumé. He was far from alone. Center Reggie Barton and guard Clarence Turgeon each poured in 21 points as St. Louis spread the offensive burden and never allowed Boston to seize control.

The Rockets took the lead midway through the first quarter and, from that point on, dictated the game. Boston made several pushes and cut the margin repeatedly, but St. Louis answered each one with timely baskets and disciplined execution. Shooting nearly 50 percent from the field, the Rockets outworked the Centurions at both ends of the floor and ensured that the season would end on their home court.

Despite missing the finale, Brantner’s imprint on the postseason was impossible to overlook. His extraordinary body of work earned the 31-year-old forward his fourth playoff Most Valuable Player award. The defining moment came in Game Seven of the Western Conference finals against Minneapolis, when Brantner erupted for a playoff-record 64 points. He also authored a 58-point outing earlier in the postseason and finished with eight games of 40 points or more—numbers that bordered on the absurd even by his lofty standards.

In the end, Game Six became a testament not just to Brantner’s brilliance, but to the Rockets’ depth, resilience, and championship pedigree. When the moment demanded it, St. Louis proved it was more than a one-man team—and in doing so, added yet another banner to an already crowded rafters.

WHEN THE CALENDAR TURNS, THE TRUTH COMES OUT

By the time the calendar flips to June, baseball has usually stopped pretending. The excuses are thinner, the sample size is thicker, and clubs begin to look less like preseason hopes and more like what they truly are. After roughly 50 games—just under a third of the schedule—the 1975 races are starting to separate expectation from reality, and in most cases, the standings are telling the truth.

Some of it has unfolded just as forecast. Atlanta and Seattle, the class of their respective associations a year ago, are doing what good teams tend to do once the weather warms: pulling away. Other developments, however, are enough to make even the most seasoned observer blink twice at the box scores.

Start in the Federal Association East, where Atlanta has made dominance look routine. The Copperheads have ruled the division for three seasons now, so their perch atop the league standings comes as no shock. They’ve opened up a five-game cushion on Baltimore, and they’ve done it without fanfare—just solid pitching, timely hitting, and the unmistakable posture of a club that knows it will still be standing in September.

Baltimore’s presence in second place isn’t the story. Boston’s position at the bottom most certainly is.

The Minutemen came into the season talking openly about ending a 15-year playoff drought, backing up the talk with veteran acquisitions meant to signal seriousness of purpose. Two months in, the result has been something closer to disbelief. Boston owns the worst record in baseball, and while the standings show a club floundering, the numbers beneath them tell a stranger tale. The Minutemen have been snakebitten in one-run games, losing 12 of 14 such contests, a statistical oddity that explains how a team that has been outscored by just six runs can sit 12 games under .500 after 44 games. Baseball, as always, finds new ways to bruise the hopeful.

Out West in the Federal Association, the disappointment has been St. Louis—but with an asterisk. The Pioneers are still in the cellar, still eight games behind the Los Angeles Suns, but the season has quietly shifted beneath their feet. Since May 9, St. Louis has gone 17–5, shedding an early six-game losing streak and beginning to resemble the club many thought it would be in April. They remain a long shot, but at least now they look alive.

The Continental Association has been less about surprise risers than fallen standards. Montreal, once a fixture atop the standings, is now confirming fears that last season’s slip to .500 was more than a blip. Harry Barrell’s Saints are six games under even and already 9½ back of Milwaukee, as the Arrows position themselves for a second straight division crown. The pitching has held, but the offense has lagged, and the most troubling sign wears No. 16 and answers to Dixie Turner.

Turner, the eight-time Whitney Award winner, saw his numbers tumble in 1974 and has yet to find his footing this season. At 33, still young by ordinary measures, he is suddenly old by baseball’s ruthless arithmetic. He’s hitting .259, popped his fourth home run yesterday, and went 2-for-4 in a loss to Kansas City—but those are footnotes compared to the dominance he once commanded. Whispers have begun, and in this game, whispers have a way of growing louder.

In the Continental West, Seattle has done little to diminish the glow of last October’s long-awaited championship. The Kings lead the division as expected, but few would have guessed that the Los Angeles Stars would already be 9½ games adrift, or that Dallas would trail by a staggering 14. The bright spot belongs to San Francisco, where the Sailors have quietly sailed into second place at 29–22. If they can hold their course, it would mark their first winning season since 1970—a modest achievement, perhaps, but one that matters deeply in that clubhouse.

There are still four months of baseball ahead, and no lead is permanent in a sport that grinds as relentlessly as this one. Still, with every division leader already holding at least a 4½-game edge, the early sorting has been swift and, in most cases, unforgiving. June doesn’t end races—but it does tell you who belongs in them.

• Congratulations to Atlanta pitcher Marco Middleton as the 32-year-old became the 72nd pitcher in FABL history to reach the 200-win plateau with a 2-1 victory over Minneapolis on Wednesday. The four-time Allen Award winner is off to a hot start to his season, posting a 6-1 record with a 2.70 era through nine starts.
• Two other milestones last week as Tom Lorang of the Chicago Cougars joined the 1,500 rbi club - a group with only 20 members- while Ben Baker of the Seattle Kings collected his 1,500th career base hit.
• Monthly Awards were handed out for May. Bill Dunham of the Los Angeles Stars was named the top pitcher in the CA last month, going 4-0 with a 2.38 May era. In the Fed it was Lloyd Henson as the 29-year-old was returned to the Pioneers after being released by Toronto who had claimed him in the rule five draft. The struggling Wolves have to be kicking themselves after Henson went 5-1 with a 1.93 era in May and helped St Louis start to turn its season around.
• Imperials outfielder Phil Terry and Minneapolis catcher Julio Castaneda were the batters of the month for May.

WOLVES MOVING FORWARD, WHAT TO DO?

This reporter stated at the end of his last article he would start condensing his recaps to save fans from the mostly painful reliving of past events. Instead we start looking ahead in an attempt to give the fanbase some hope in the future. Dunbar has decided to start at the top of organization, with the people who have the final say therefore bear the most responsibility for the results of the Wolves.

GM- At present this may be most secure position in the upper level of management for the team. He was just brought out of retirement back the head the front office. He is said to have a good relationship with Bob Smith, the owner. He will likely be given time to bring winning baseball back to Toronto.

MGR- Carl Evans: Evans is in his 4th year as Wolves bench boss having compiled a 204-282 record over his first 3 seasons. His style seems to fit the team's roster. He favours pitching and defense over explosive offense. He has the final say on all in-game decisions so has the most control over the W/L record. He along the rest of the bench staff, except one, is in final year of his contract. Jim thinks that odds of Evans returning in 1976 are no better than 50/50 though he will most likely finish the year as the GM evaluates all aspects of the organization.

BC- Pete Giaimo: Is constantly seen in discussions with Evans before, during, after games. A sound developer of outfielders his future will be tied directly to that of Evans.

PC- John Joiner: Came to Toronto after 7 seasons in Japan before the start of last season. His first year was termed a success, things have turned negative this season. Jim thinks if a firing for show is required to placate the fans Joiner would be close to the top of the list.

HC- Jesse Krollinger: Joined the Wolves from the Milwaukee organization this spring, Initial results with his methods are less than satisfactory in the first 6 weeks of 1975. He still probably has time to get his system into place but fans want to see something moving forward in the very near future. He is the only staff member with a contact for 1976.

[b}1B Coach- Howie Strong and 3B Coach Andy Antonetti:[/b] Each of their job security is tied directly to Evans' future.

Trainer- Eli Christian: A fixture for the Wolves, he has been trainer since 1960 and will probably have the job as long as wants to work.

Scouting Director Jim Mackey: In his third year on the job the GM will get feedback on his worth when draft picks start reporting to minor league teams in June. His acumen will be will constantly on display as the GM evaluates the prospects over the summer. Mackey's job will rest on these results of the young players performance.

Overall most of the staff is tied to the whether or not the GM feels Evans is the right man for the future. The GM accompanied the team west on its poor road showing for the end of May. He was seen constantly taking notes during the game then holding post game meetings with Evans. Only time will tell if these meeting were critical of in game decisions or positive reinforcement of Evans. The GM has another card to play, will he force Evans' hand by trading some of the players on the current roster?

Wolves Remain in CA East Cellar

The Wolves went 3-3 last week taking 2 of 3 from the San Francisco Sailors before dropping 2 of 3 to Dallas which is one of 2 teams with a lower winning percentage in the CA than the Wolves. For May the Wolves finish with a 13-15 record. Not bad you say, until you look a little deeper.

For the first half of the month they were 8-6 after going 8-5 on a home stand. They finished the month 5-10 after taking a trip west before coming home this past week. Toronto has faced the top 3 in the West in 18 of 21 games interdivision this season, so there could be hope going forward against the West. A minor consolation is the Wolves are winning at home, 11-8 at home 2-7 on the road for May. This does not bode well for June with 20 of 30 games on the road including 2 twin bills in 5 days in Milwaukee then Cleveland.

The past week played out in a similar manner of the season has gone. Winning at times despite shoddy defense, they made 9 errors in the 3 game series against SF. Jim Hunter pitched well in the first game then Red Bullock survived 4 miscues in an 8-3 win. With Dallas in town the team walked it off on a chilly Friday evening before dropping both weekend games. The Sunday loss to open June was particularly maddening when the Jim Hunter could not hold a 5-0 lead in a 6-5 loss when the winning run was walked across the plate. The team was loudly booed leaving the field. The left side of the infield, Clyde Barrow,14, Heinie Pearce, 12, has now combined for 26 errors in the first two months of the season. Dunbar knows that Evans knows this has to stop or changes must made soon.

In other news Sid Cullen was POTW in the CA. Nice for him although at 38 how much does he left in the tank? Rumours are that the GM is trying to send Cullen to a contender to close out his 15+ year FABL career. Davenport's Danny Munoz was POTM in the Heartland League. At 24 he could soon be in AA. A roster was made on Sunday Jackie Daniels was recalled after short rehab stint with George Downing heading back to Buffalo. The month of June will probably decide the direction for the Wolves.

Buffalo Nickels -AAA

The staff in Buffalo is on the young side led by newly hired Manager John McDonald who at 43 many believe is at least at one level above where he should start his managerial career. His forte is as a defensive instructor. He is a former 4th rounder who never caught on full-time in Boston before he went to Japan to finish his career. He is assisted by PC Babe Holden who is in his second year with the team. At 36 he seems to be able to communicate effectively with the staff. The old man on the staff is HC George Bise at 50. He is reputed to very good at instructing players by keeping their approach simple with generally only giving only one key for each hitter to concentrate on while at the plate.
At this time Nickels, Toronto's highest level farm team, are currently 19-18 sitting 4th in the Union League.

Biggest Surprise: Had this column been written a week ago it would have been Jim Hunter who was 3-0 with a miniscule 0.81 ERA. He was called to the big club before the western swing where he has struggled in his four starts. At present Dan Moran 2B is opening eyes, turning heads. Moran was acquired in an off-season trade with Seattle that sent P Ray Eddy to the Kings. Moran's has started the AAA season well both at the plate and in the field. Currently ranked as the #97 prospect he can play second, third, or short. While some are calling for immediate promotion he may be better served spending more time in Buffalo in the long term.

Watching: Pedro Maldonado, 1B, who was another off-season acquisition rumoured to be staying in FABL had Bob Reynolds not had a hot spring. Maldonado has struggled to start the season, though he has improved lately at .250/.372/.412 6 HR 27 RBI. Some think will Reynolds slow start if he had shown anything early Maldonado would already be with the Wolves.
On the mound Joe Trent, 27, who has discovered a new pitch is being revaluated by the scouting staff. Could be a late bloomer that will help at the FABL level?

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 06/01/1975

• The White House seeks to close chapter on Mayaguez crisis, as President Ford urges Congress to move forward while defending his authority to act swiftly.
• War Powers debate intensifies on Capitol Hill, with lawmakers pressing new limits on presidential military action in the wake of Cambodia and Vietnam.
• Public confidence in government remains fragile, as post-Vietnam, post-Watergate skepticism continues to shape political commentary.
• Vietnam refugee airlifts are complete but now the focus turns towards long-term resettlement plans. Canada expands intake of Indochinese refugees, signaling a broader humanitarian commitment as provinces prepare housing and employment support.
• Energy officials warn consumers not to expect relief at the pumps, despite calmer oil markets and the absence of new OPEC price hikes.
• Middle East diplomacy stalls as Kissinger suspends shuttle talks, acknowledging a deadlock between Israel and Egypt over further Sinai withdrawals.

[Tiger Fan]

JUNE 9, 1975

LITTLE EXCITEMENT IN EARLY DIVISIONAL RACES

It may just be June 9th, but it's already looking like the postseason is set. Two months in all four divisions are led by at least 5 games, and each division already has at least one team that is more then 10 games behind the leader.

The closest thing we have to a pennant race is in the FA West, where the LA Suns (35-20) just extended their lead to 5.5 games over the Comets (31-27), the only other Western team over .500. Those teams don't even play until after the All-Star break, making it even tougher for Houston to cut the deficit. The CA East, meanwhile, has five teams under .500 and the 32-20 Milwaukee Arrows, who still hold a 7 game lead over Montreal (27-29) and New York (26-28) despite just being swept by the Cougars. Chicago -- despite a very respectable 31-26 record -- are stuck behind the FABL leading Kings (40-17), who hold a league leading 9 game lead. And finally there's Atlanta, who at 36-18 hold a 6 game lead over the only other team above .500 in their division.

A lack of parity in FABL this year could lead to a slower trade season, as few teams may think they are just a piece or two away from contention. That's not to say a division leader wouldn't make a move to help in an eventual postseason series, as aside from the Kings, there are obvious areas of improvement. Rich Moyer (.402, 3, 10, 2) is set to return for the Arrows this week, but Milwaukee still needs help scoring runs, just 7th despite their excellent record. Atlanta has a similar problem, matching Milwaukee's top ranked pitching with a sub-par (6th in runs scored) offense, though both teams may stand pat and hope their regulars return to form. LA might have the most motivation to upgrade, as Houston has the best chance of the rest, but they have a FABL high +87 run differential and the 2nd ranked pitching and offense in the Fed.

Just nine teams are currently over .500, with four of those in the CA West, so there should be no shortage of sellers. Even the 29-28 Stars and 30-27 Sailors, both in the seemingly settled West, could join that group, and outside of the Cougars I don't really see any non-first place team that would adamantly decline moving on from their players. That's not to say Chicago will be active in adding, they do want to continue adding to their lineup, but expect any move to be focused on improving the future.

Neutral fans may hope for more, but this is the new reality of divisional play in baseball. If we were all thrown together in one association, the Conti may have still lacked a thrill, but a three team race between the Copperheads, Suns, and Comets could excite, and the Cannons would have more hope knowing the teams in front of them could beat up on each other. Students of the game know that no lead is safe, and until the All-Star break things are far from determined, but it's becoming quickly apparent that those who are yearning for an intense and action-packed September may have to wait another year to get their wish.

• If you told me on June 9th the Minneapolis Millers were leading all of baseball in runs scored, I'd tell you that you were crazy, but here we are on June 9th and Minneapolis is the first team to reach 300 runs (308). A major reason for that is Player of the Week Bill Powell (.322, 6, 25, 2), who recently went 12-for-25 with 8 runs, 2 triples, a double, a homer, 5 RBIs, and 5 walks. Set to be an All-Star in consecutive seasons, the 26-year-old has hit an outstanding .322/.398/.485 (140 OPS+) with 9 doubles, 5 triples, 6 homers, 27 walks, 25 RBIs, and 42 runs scored. Unfortunately for Minneapolis, a top offense hasn't been enough, as they've actually allowed more runs (319) then they've scored, and they might be over .500 instead of 28-28 if they didn't have the worst base-running in the game. 12th in the Fed for both steals (9) and base-running (-9.8), they could have even more rallies if they weren't running themselves out of innings.
• Slick fielding middle infielder Herb Reed (.298, 4, 25, 5) then took home the Conti version of the award, hitting an absurd .538/.538/.962 (300 OPS+) for the Foresters. He doubled his season home run total with a pair of longballs, adding 3 doubles, a triple, 4 RBIs, and 5 runs scored. 32 in just over a week, he's playing at an 8-WAR pace, slashing .298/.342/.449 (113 OPS+) with 19 extra base hits, 18 runs, 25 RBIs, 13 walks, and 5 steals. Combined with his Diamond Defense level glove, he should easily complete his 7th 5-WAR season and potentially highest total since a remarkable 9.1 in 1968.
• Not too much time came between the 37th and 38th player to reach 100 FABL saves, as shortly after Montreal's Miguel Hernandez (6-4, 7, 3.98, 20) reached the mark, Boston's Bud Sherman (3-4, 4, 2.92, 22). Joined him. A far better pitcher, he hasn't had many save opportunities, as at 19-32 the Minutemen just don't win many games. Two of Sherman's four saves, including the milestone, came during this week, though he does have 5 blown. It's not all his fault, as a 2.92 ERA (133 ERA+) and 1.32 WHIP are effective, but he's had some bad luck with the longball. A few poor tied homers have disrupted his season, but he's done little to dispel the notion that he's one of the best late inning arms around.
• Little can disrupt the Kings repeat quest, but they will have to wait a little longer for the return of Sam Barnes (.222, 1, 9, 7). Suffering a herniated disc on May 20th, he dealt with a setback in recovery, pushing his expected return time back three weeks. Seattle has tried a few players to replace him, most recently 24-year-old rookie Hal Franke (.269, 8). A former 5th Rounder, he started seven games at second this week, going 7-for-26 with a double, 2 runs, and 8 RBIs.
• In better Kings news, ace Moe Lowery (6-5, 2.93, 62) threw his first shutout of the season, holding the Cannons to 7 hits and a walk. Striking out 7 in the 3-0 win, it evened his record to 5-5 despite a sub-3 ERA. Now 6-5, he won later in the week with a good start in New York (7 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 3 K), dropping his ERA to 2.93 (132 ERA+) in 95.1 innings. It comes with a matching 2.92 FIP (75 FIP-) and a 0.99 WHIP, as Lowery makes a case for his 2nd All-Star and Allen selection.
• Lowery's shutout was one of three on the 3rd, joined by Montreal's Hal Bennett (7-2, 1.67, 39) and Houston's Johnny Blackburn (6-2, 2.60, 52). Bennett has been one of the best pitchers in all of baseball this season, and his 1-hit shutout was more proof of that. It was needed too, his Saints scored just once, as Bennett walked 2 and struck out 7. Holding a FABL best 1.67 ERA (234 ERA+), he's now 7-2 in 11 starts, owning a 1.06 WHIP and 3.05 FIP (77 FIP-) with 21 walks and 39 strikeouts. Blackburn has been just as impressive, though his shutout saw 6 hits, 2 walks, 4 strikeouts, and 7 runs of support. After struggling in Atlanta to finish the week, he dropped his record down to 6-2, but with a strong 2.60 ERA (151 ERA+) and 1.04 WHIP. He's walked (30) and struck out (52) a lot of hitters, and the team leader has done admirably attempting to fill the shoes of injured ace Joe McCarthy.
• Two more shutouts were thrown, including a second by the Kings. This time it was Bill Harris (7-2, 2.29, 46), who allowed 5 hits and a walk with 5 strikeouts in a 7-0 win over the Cannons. Now 7-2, Harris has allowed 2 or fewer runs in each of his last five starts and seven of the last eight, lowering his ERA and WHIP to 2.29 (169 ERA+) and 1.11 respectively. His shutout was followed by Baltimore's Johnny Hugot (6-2, 2.84, 43), who bested the Fed West leading Suns. The well traveled lefty allowed 3 hits with 3 strikeouts in a 3-0 win, beating the Suns for the second consecutive start. 6-2, the 34-year-old has a 2.84 ERA (137 ERA+) and 1.21 WHIP in 79.1 innings pitched.
• Despite winning five straight this week, it wasn't all good news in the Windy City, as 39-year-old Hal Adams (3-5, 4.20, 37) will miss about 6-7 weeks with a torn thumb ligament in his right hand. A rare injury for the 17-year vet, it's his first of more then a week since 1966, and before this week the only time he missed more then a month was a time he didn't really miss more then a month, as he strained his hamstring the last week of the 1961 season. The only Cougar starter with an ERA above 3.25, Adams' was up to 4.20 (94 ERA+) in 12 starts. He walked 27 and struck out 37, providing the Cougars with average work. With Adams being sidelined for a lengthy absence, Chicago is expected to call up 80th ranked prospect Bill Bartlett from AAA Omaha. Taken in the 3rd Round less then a year ago, Bartlett has only pitched in AAA, making 18 starts last year and 9 this year. He looked FABL ready, 3-2 with a 3.14 ERA (146 ERA+) and 1.43 WHIP, striking out 53 while walking 31.
• Bartlett's first start will be his debut, and if it was anything like the debut week of teammate Bill Jackson (0-0, 3, 1.59, 1), Cougars fans are in for a treat. Replacing Tom Andress (1-7, 8, 4.94, 12) as Chicago's stopper, Jackson appeared in 4 of the Cougars 5 wins this week. His debut was actually the worst, allowing 2 hits, a run, and 2 walks in an eventual save. That was followed up with 4.1 scoreless innings, and for the first time all season Pug Bryan may now feel comfortable moving from his dominant starters to a shakier pen.
• Another debut went to a more notable prospect, as former 4th Overall pick Hank White (0-0, 12.27) made his debut out of the Imperials pen. It is certainly one he'd like to forget, as the 25-year-old was tagged with 7 hits, and a walk, leading to 5 runs in 2 innings. No longer viewed as a potential ace, his leadership is still highly regarded, and it could help him stick around despite this early implosion. Working in his favor too is breakout righty Don Bradner (5-2, 3.34, 43) may hit the IL with back-tightness, making the Imps more likely to add a pitcher from their minors then replace the struggling White. They could also turn to 26-year-old Carl Hoffman (2-3, 1, 5.34, 14), the former 2nd overall pick, who they claimed off waivers from Detroit. Having failed to live up to that potential, the Suns sent him to Detroit after his 1972 debut, and he owns a below average 4.58 ERA (87 ERA+) and 4.46 FIP (111 FIP-) in 184.2 FABL innings.
• Atlanta's lineup took a hit as 30-year-old Earl Skains (.234, 8, 25, 6) was diagnosed with a season ending injury. Fracturing his knee in a 16-1 slaughtering of the Pioneers, Skains' season will end with a .234/.325/.453 (114 OPS+) batting line in 44 games. Adding 6 doubles, 8 homers, 25 RBIs, 19 walks, 19 runs, and 6 steals, you'd think replacing him would be tough, but his uselessness at first and in left has caused the former 3rd Rounder to finish with his first below replacement level season. It's by less then a tenth of a win, but it's a mighty fall for the 1972 Whitney winner. Hitting an astronomical .321/.430/.617 (210 OPS+) with a Fed high 124 runs, 41 homers, and 154 RBIs, it was one of the best seasons in recent memory, and he had at least a 140 WRC+ each season from 1967 to 1973. Major drops in discipline and power turned him into the guy he is today, and now with this serious injury his star level days are long gone.
• Injuries took out plenty of first basemen this week, with the second Willie Stephens (.333, 29) of the Boston Minutemen. Offense has been an issue for them all season, and losing the former #1 pick and prospect is only going to make it worse. Expected to miss 3 months with a torn meniscus, the 23-year-old is likely to miss his 24th birthday, and could end up finishing the season without a home run. That hasn't stopped him from being effective, a .333/.412/.415 (129 OPS+) batting line is comfortably below average, but you want to see power from your first basemen. A knee injury could sap what he has, forcing him to rely even more on his elite discipline and contact. On the bright side, he can be replaced on the active roster by another former #1 pick, Gil Armstrong (.256, 9), but the Boston front office would much rather have two of their brightest building blocks in the lineup together.
• Thankfully for Dallas, their injured first basemen may not miss any time, as Nick Parker's (.335, 6, 30, 5) knee inflammation should only impact his running. An oft-injured superstar, a precautionary IL stint may be best long-term, as Dallas is 26-31 and 14 games out of first. A disappointment after coming so close to the playoff last season, they may not want to risk him further hurting himself, especially with Steve Prather (.331, 6, 27, 10) dealing with an injury of his own. Losing Parker's .335/.450/.503 (161 OPS+) batting line would be tough to overcome, but even with him little has gone the way they were hoping this year.
• Our last piece of new injury news impacts San Francisco, who may need a new shortstop for the next three plus weeks. Likely to impact his throwing, starter Art Gates (.233, 4, 27, 8) strained his biceps, another issue in a year that hasn't gone as planned. After hitting .260/.305/.383 (101 OPS+) last season, it's down to .233/.272/.310 (62 OPS+) in 228 PAs, so a quick reset on the IL could be just what he needs. Conversely, they don't have a real respectable replacement, so even a slightly encumbered Gates may end up their best option.
• A few teams got good news, with Montreal returning Reid Barrell (.291, 4, 15, 3) and Cleveland returning Vern Schneider (.297, 7, 16). Both productive hitters on not-so-productive offenses, it was a nice boon, especially if they can stay healthy. Montreal took it easy with Barrell, who was 2-for-8 with a double, homer, walk, steal, 2 runs, and 3 RBIs, while Cleveland let Schneider start all six of their games. He didn't have as much success, 7-for-25 with 4 runs, a triple, and 2 walks, but that's a noticeable improvement over replacement Steve Keen (.239, 6).

MORE OF THE SAME IN TORONTO

Another week of frustration for Carl Evans, the Toronto Wolves and more importantly the fans who are beginning to stay away from Dominion Stadium.

Despite going 2-4 last week there were some signs of hope in the team's play. The team recorded their first shutout of season beating the Cougars 2-0 behind Red Bullock who had two good outings for the week. Bullock could be rebounding from a horrendous May. Other good signs were that the team was in every game losing by 2 runs in 3 of 4 losses.

The Wolves were only tagged with 4 fielding miscues in 6 games, not much but better than the team had been fielding through the first two months of the season. The Wolves dropped 2 of 3 at home to Chicago before starting what is going to be a tough month on the road in Kansas City were the Mavericks also took two of three games. The offense was what it is known to be, weak, only scoring 16 runs in 6 games, The highlight was a 6 run inning Friday at Mavericks Stadium that almost allowed them to come back from a 7-0 deficit- almost but not quite as KC won 8-6. The big hit was a bases clearing double by Phil Story.

Pitching was overall a little better except for the 8 run game, in the other 5 the team only allowed 15 runs. The bullpen is much better, the rotation has to step up their game. The Wolves have a difficult time coming from behind when trailing by multiple runs. Rumours are rampant that Leo Makepeace is going to be replaced in the coming days as the lineup needs another bat, Evans cannot the luxury of a strictly defensive replace on the roster.

Dunbar's minor league team review continues with a look at the AA Chattanooga Reliables.

At the helm in Chattanooga entering his 4th season with the team is Roy Face, 47, who has been a moderate success in his first three seasons. Face's strength is in run prevention through pitching and defense which fits the FABL's team current focus. Face is known as a tactician using all options available to win games. The Reliables coaching staff includes pitching coach Jerry Moore who effectively manages the young pitching staff even if he is at least 40 years older than most of the pitchers. The third member is newly arrived HC Roy Gass a former 4th round pick of the Cougars. The jury is still out on Gass in first 38 games as a hitting instructor. The Reliables currently have a record of 23-21 to sit in 3rd place in the Dixie League.

Biggest Surprise(s): The work of Jim Wright, Duke Woodrow, Jim Donohue out of the bullpen has been commented on by the scouting staff. At the plate both 2B Scotty Timmons, 22, along with RF Howie Collins, 25, are both making enough noise both at the plate, in the field that AAA could be in their immediate future.

Watching: Bruce Cowell, 26, who is on the 40-man is off to a horrible start with a .172/.368/.276 line in x games. As he is on the protected roster Dunbar has been told without immediate improvement this 15th overall pick in 1970 could be reaching the end of his tenure with Toronto. Overall the entire organization has an excess of players to patrol the outfield with more on the way from the draft. A saving grace could be his ability to 4 positions both corners of infield and outfield. Charlie Brawner will likely be leave AA for more grooming, at 19 he does not appear to be ready for this level of competition.

Next up will be a look at the Davenport Duster who are tearing up the Heartland League.

COYOTES WIN AIAA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

The City College of Los Angeles Coyotes swept North Carolina Atlantic two straight in the finals to win the 66th annual AIAA College World Championship Series. It marked the first time either school had reached the finals of the tournament, which traces its roots back to the dawn of collegiate baseball and the creation of feeder leagues in 1910.

It was CCLA's first baseball title but far from their first national championship as the Coyotes have won the AIAA basketball tournament four times, although not since 1945, and they won a national football title in 1971.

The Coyotes, who finished first in the West Coast Athletic Association to earn an automatic bid to the tournament, opened with a relatively easy 5-1 victory over a Michigan Lutheran squad that was clearly overmatched as three Coyotes pitchers combined to limit the Bears to just three hits with their lone run coming on an 8th inning solo homerun off the bat of freshman catcher Benny Wilson, who smacked 11 longballs during the regular season.

Next up was Brooklyn Catholic after the Bulldogs had upset Deep South Conference powerhouse Central Kentucky in the opening round. Slugging junior outfielder Sam White led the way for CCLA in a 6-3 doubling of Brooklyn Catholic. The first round selection of the St Louis Pioneers in the January FABL draft had 4 hits including a 2-run homer in the first inning, and drove in 5 of the six Coyotes runs.

The longball also helped propel the Coyotes to the final as Tommy Gooch and Ducky Rodgers each homered for CCLA in a 7-2 victory over tournament favourite Maryland State to reach the finals.

The finals are a best-of-three but CCLA only needed two games to dispose of North Carolina Atlantic, which had reached the finals with wins over Opelika State, St Ignatius and College of San Diego. The opener saw the Coyotes plate four runs in the second inning and roll to a 7-3 win while game two was tighter, at least until Gooch smacked a 2-run homer in the 8th inning for his second hit of the game and some breathing room to extend what was a 1-run lead to what would end up being the final margin of victory as CCLA won by a 4-1 score.

Gooch a senior who only returned to the Coyotes because he was not drafted a year ago, was named series MVP after hitting .444 in the series with 3 homers and 10 rbi's. After being overlooked completely a year ago, Gooch did have his name called in January as the Toronto Wolves selected the 22-year-old native of Phoenix, AZ., with their 9th round pick. Gooch had a strong regular season for CCLA, hitting .299 while finishing among the leaders in homeruns with 17. Gooch, along with White who hit 18 homers during the season, were perhaps the most feared slugging duo in collegiate baseball this season but while White is projected to be an elite big-league outfielder it remains to be seen if Gooch can be as effective as a pro.

WILL REDWOOD’S DEFENSE CARRY THE MAMMOTHS BACK TO THE SUMMIT?

Redwood may have needed a helping hand last New Years Day—courtesy of Boulder State’s stunner over unbeaten Annapolis Maritime in the Sunshine Classic—but no asterisk hangs over the Mammoths’ first national championship. And as head coach Sam Mills surveys his program this summer, he believes Redwood has a legitimate chance to do something college football has not seen since the Georgia Baptist Gators of 1959 and 1960: defend a national crown.

The path back, however, will not look the same as the one that led them there.

On offense, the Mammoths return the spine of last year’s attack. Quarterback John Coughlin and tailback Michael Cannon are both seniors, seasoned and unflappable, and their presence alone gives Redwood a chance every Saturday. Around them, though, the picture has changed. Graduation stripped the receiving corps bare, and the offensive line took a heavy hit, losing three of five starters, including All-Americans Danny Payne and Louis Jones. It is little wonder that early forecasts suggest Redwood’s two-year run as the West Coast Athletic Association representative in the East–West Classic may be at risk, with CC Los Angeles and Northern California both penciled in slightly ahead of the champions.

If Redwood is to defy those predictions, the reason is likely to be defense.

The Mammoths were one of the nation’s most difficult teams to score against a year ago, surrendering just over 12 points per game—sixth best in the 114-team AIAA. That unit returns seven starters, led by junior linebacker Dennis Brower, who piled up 83 tackles as a sophomore and has become the emotional center of the team. Around him, Coach Mills believes he has the pieces to reload rather than rebuild.

The most intriguing of those pieces is freshman Elmer Koontz, the crown jewel of a deep and highly regarded recruiting class. Koontz shocked many by choosing Redwood over Alabama Baptist and a host of Deep South powers that had been tracking him since his days at Muscle Shoals High. The top recruit in Alabama and widely considered the nation’s best linebacker prospect, Koontz looked every bit the part in the spring game, where he was dominant from the opening snap.

So impressive has Koontz been that This Week in Figment Sports has already toyed with the idea of naming him a preseason All-American alongside Brower—an almost unheard-of honor for a freshman. Safety Francis Booker and linebacker Albert Huff, also first-year players, are expected to contribute immediately, giving Redwood uncommon depth on that side of the ball.

There will be new faces, new combinations, and likely a few growing pains along the way. But if championships are built on defense, Redwood has the foundation to make another run. Whether it is enough to carry the Mammoths back to the top—and into rarefied historical company—will be one of the central questions of the college football season ahead.

FALCONS DOMINATE CHL AWARDS

The Winnipeg Falcons may have fallen just short in the Continental Hockey League finals against the Milwaukee Maulers but when it comes to individual accolades there were plenty to hand out to Falcons. After two years in the hands of Ottawa's Hobie Barrell the league Most Valuable Player Award and the scoring championship went to Tim Moore. The 24-year-old, who was rookie of the year in the CHL last season, collected 143 points including a league-high 95 assists.

A Falcons newcomer claimed the rookie of the year award for the second consecutive season as Mattais Jacobsson was named the winner, narrowly edging his teammate and fellow Swede Bjorn Sjostrom. The two were lured to North American from Europe and both had an immediate impact on the CHL. Jacobsson,24, scored 58 goals and 124 points playing alongside Moore while Sjostrom, who was named the league's top defenseman, had 67 points and was a dominant presence on the Winnipeg blueline.

The only award that did not go to a Falcons player was the top goaltender trophy. It was claimed by Alex Britain of Ottawa. The 21-year-old is already in his third season with the Athletics and went 29-23-11 with a 3.30 goals against average and a .902 save percentage this season.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 06/08/1975

• New York City on brink of financial collapse, as officials warn the nation’s largest city may default on its debts without emergency state or federal assistance.
• Ford administration signals no bailout for New York—yet, insisting the city must impose strict fiscal reforms before federal aid will be considered.
• Congress sharpens War Powers challenge to White House, holding hearings prompted by the Mayaguez operation and renewed concerns over unchecked presidential authority.
• Britain votes to remain in European Common Market, with Prime Minister Harold Wilson claiming a decisive mandate that stabilizes the U.K.’s political and economic direction.
• Vietnam refugee resettlement strains housing and services, as U.S. and Canadian communities grapple with the scale of long-term integration efforts.
• Unemployment remains stubbornly high despite easing inflation, reinforcing fears that recession recovery will be slow and uneven.
• Middle East peace talks remain frozen, with U.S. officials conceding little progress since the suspension of Kissinger’s shuttle diplomacy.
• Public confidence in government continues to lag, as post-Vietnam and post-Watergate skepticism dominates editorial pages.

[Tiger Fan]

JUNE 16, 1975


KINGS EXTEND LEAD TO DOUBLE DIGITS

For most teams, when they play 10 games in 8 days, they run into some struggle or issue or fatigue that will make things difficult.

The Seattle Kings are not most teams. Instead, they won 9 of 10, now 11.5 games ahead of the Cougars, who despite being 35-29, have to direct their attention to next season.

Even better, they won three of five before and three after this long stretch, but if the past week was any indication, it won't do anything to get in their way. Seattle is a disciplined team that can win games, evidenced by all the nailbiters. The Kings week started with the East leading Milwaukee Arrows, winning a 3-2 and 4-3 contest, both in extra innings, followed by a 7-6 edging of the Saints. They blew Montreal out of the water on Thursday, 16-2, before hosting Cleveland for four in three days. Cleveland got the first game, a slim 2-1 victory they stole from defeat, but Seattle bounced back a day later with a 4-1 win and won both halves of the Sunday double header by a single run.

One-run games, and especially those in extras, have been the key to Seattle's success. They're good enough to win without them, but the reason they still haven't lost 20 games is that nothing phases them. They're 16-7 in one-run games and 6-1 in extras, as nearly every game that could have gone wrong, has instead gone right. Seattle Municipal Stadium has been a fortress as well, 24-8, and since the start of May they're a remarkable 34-8 overall. Aside from their hitters proneness to strike outs, the Kings do nothing wrong, and as the most complete team in baseball, they have to be the favorite to defend their WCS title.

If there is something in Seattle's way, it's those second place Chicago Cougars, as Seattle will be in Chicago for a four game set this weekend. It comes after an off day, but they'll deal with their third consecutive Sunday double header, and for once the third time may not be a charm. Chicago has an off-day and no recent double header, and that extra rest could be the different. Good enough to be in a pennant run in the CA East or the FA West, this is a rare chance for them to even sniff first in their own division.

Anything short of a four game sweep and you can pretty much kiss that dream good-bye, but it will be Seattle's toughest test in weeks. Along with superstar Tom Lorang (.284, 4, 31, 7), offseason acquisitions John Babb (.299, 8, 50, 4) and Andy Babel (.298, 7, 43, 3) have really lengthened the Cougars lineup, but it's still not deep enough to match the Kings. They can match on the mound, with all five current members of the rotation sporting ERAs below 3.50, as despite their advanced age 45-year-olds Pug White (7-1, 3.27, 37) and Jim Norris (6-2, 2.52, 34) they've been nothing short of elite. Add in an Allen winner in Roger Alford (6-7, 3.12, 43), and perhaps there's a chance the hosts can try to make things interesting over the summer.

• John Kingsbury (.275, 3, 26, 12) got a souvenir for himself this week, as the long-time Sailor became the 63rd player to reach 2,500 FABL base hits. A single off Roy Rice (7-5, 3.26, 62) in the 8th of a 8-6 loss, he became the second player in franchise history to reach that mark. Only late 1800s, early 1900s catcher Bill Brady (2,592) has had more in a Sailor uniform, though he did do it in 50 less games. A career .282/.342/.423 (116 OPS+) hitter, he's a 5-Time Diamond Defense winner and 3-Time All-Star, and at 37 his name is all-over the team leaderboards. He's top-5 in WAR (4th, 58.7), games (1st, 2,352), at-bats (1st, 8,877), runs (2nd, 1,295), doubles (1st, 410), triples (4th, 136), homers (2nd, 192), RBIs (1,180), and walks (3rd, 803). 1975 has been okay, but his bat has slipped to .275/.330/.379 (95 OPS+) in 60 games. He is stealing bases, 12 now and on pace for 30 that would shatter his previous high of 15, but aside from that his best days are behind him.
• We also had another pitcher reach 100 saves, the third in about a month, Houston stopper Bob Young (4-4, 14, 1.94, 31) became next to join. Pretty much a late inning guy since his 1970 debut with the Wolves, he's got 14 saves this year, going and in 541.1 FABL innings he has an excellent 3.33 ERA (111 ERA+), 3.21 FIP (86 FIP-), and 1.34 WHIP. He's been in Houston for two and a half seasons, recording 45 of his now 101 career saves.
• Cleveland may not have a very good offense this season, but it's not because of their young catcher. Picking up Player of the Week the day after turning 25, Reggie Anderson (.307, 3, 28), hitting an even 11-for-22 with a double, homer, and 7 RBIs. It's likely no coincidence it comes shortly after Vern Schneider (.318, 9, 21) returning to the lineup, as having him back in the three spot was a boon for the guys around him. First it was Herb Reed (.291, 4, 27, 5), who got the boost last week, and perhaps it will be Andy Barrington (.292, 1, 7) or Ken McKinney (.304, 1, 20, 2) to take home the award next week.
• FABL batting leader Buddy Ensey (.372, 9, 47, 7) then took the award in the Fed, as the 1972 All-Star and consistently above average hitter has continued his re-breakout. Going 14-for-28 with 2 doubles, at triple, 3 homers, 9 RBIs, 6 runs, and 3 walks, he upped his season line to 372/.420/.561 (166 OPS+) and his WAR total to 2.7. His batting line is even better then the .311/.376/.484 (155 OPS+) line in his All-Star campaign, and with two more homers he'd tie his total in each of the last two seasons. That was a drop for him, as he clobbered 19 and should at least be at 15 or above, and he's on pace for 23 homers, 118 runs, and 121 RBIs as he tries to help Detroit inch closer to the first place Suns.
• We've had plenty of 5-hit games this season, including a cycle from the Dynamo's Ensey earlier in the week, and a 5-for-6 by Dixie Turner (.269, 5, 28, 18) towards the end, but FABL had their first 6-for-6 game this season. Coming from about as unlikely a source as you get, the recently called up Ossie Fuller (.500, 1, 6, 2). Coming in just his 6th FABL appearance, Fuller was a perfect 6-for-6 with a double, a homer, 5 runs, and 5 RBIs as his Keystones crushed the Chiefs 19-8. Worthy of Player of the Week, his debut week saw him go 13-for-26 with 8 runs, 6 RBIs, and 2 steals, a much needed jolt to Philly's lineup. A natural left fielder, his center field defense wasn't great, but it looks like the former Boston 2nd Rounder will keep playing regularly if he keeps on hitting.
• Sticking with debuts, it's hard to ask for much better of a debut team then the Toronto Wolves, and it worked pretty well for 22-year-old rookie Bill Bartlett (1-1, 3.38, 10). The Cougar's 3rd Round selection last season, he impressed during the Chicago 11-2 win, picking up the first of what they hope is many complete game wins. Throwing 137 pitches, Bartlett scattered 5 walks, 4 hits, and 2 runs, striking out in front of over 17,000 fans. He had a few more issues in his second start, losing to the Imperials 4-2, going 7 with 7 hits, 4 runs, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Bartlett, who was called up to replace Hal Adams (3-5, 4.20, 37), who tore a ligament in his thumb, and will be out until August at the earliest.
• Pitching impressed most of the week, starting with Ed Smith's (4-5, 4.22, 46) 4-hit shutout on the 12th. Besting Toronto, his Wranglers won 4-0 as Smith allowed 4 hits and 2 walks with 2 strikeouts. Dallas was apart of all three shutouts, though the second two were at the hands of the Cannons top two. In back-to-back games they were held scoreless, first victimized by Herm Quinn (9-2, 2.41, 74) before the ace in name only Ace Barrell (5-8, 5.30, 52) looked not only like an ace, but a Barrell. Quinn had the better shutout, 6 hits, a walk, and 8 strikeouts, but Ace wasn't too far away. He had 5 hits, a walk, and 6 strikeouts, as he looks to bring his 5.30 ERA (73 ERA+) closer to his 3.53 FIP (91 FIP-).
• Setbacks were plentiful too, with delays on three recoveries. First came to Imperial righty Don Bradner (5-2, 3.34, 43), who they decided not to IL with back tightness. He can still pitch through it, even if he hasn't, but at this point an IL stint would have been best for the staff. Same goes for Comet backstop Jerry Robinson (.289, 3, 28), who strained his back and was also left on the active roster. He's playing through it, and hitting some, but his recovery is now unclear and it may stick with him through the All-Star break. And as you might guess, the last was also left off the IL, as Nick Parker (.335, 7, 36, 5) will deal with knee inflammation for at least one more week. The 26-year-old just had his 15-game hit streak snapped with an 0-for-5, but aside from baserunning he looks like the Nick Parker Dallas fans know and love.
• We have new injuries too, as 32-year-old infielder John Butts (.283, 2, 24, 8) is dealing with a nagging groin injury. A strain expected to take 2-3 weeks, it's sapping his speed and limiting his bat, and could lead to an IL stint. A 5-Time All-Star, Butts has hit .283/.324/.360 (88 OPS+) with 8 doubles, 3 triples, 2 homers, 8 steals, 24 RBIs, and 40 runs in 62 games.
• Not all injury news is bad, however, as Boston replaced one 1st overall pick with another, as Gil Armstrong (.274, 11, 1) took the spot of Willie Stephens (.333, 29), who joined the IL to start the week. Armstrong looked better than before, capping off a .357/.400/.393 (117 OPS+) week with a 4-for-4 against the Pioneers.

WOLVES SINK EVEN LOWER

The FABL schedule is a long grind with 162 games to separate the 24 teams. It must be a longer grind for the players and fans on teams that are effectively out of the race early on. Those teams find themselves playing only for pride - and next year's contract on the field. The fans are left looking for hope, any hope, while the front office scrambles to find answers for the future. This is exactly the case the Toronto Wolves find themselves in despite it just being the middle of June. The Wolves record sits at 24-36 and already 12.5 games behind Milwaukee in the CA East which only has one team over .500.

Finishing a 7 game road trip to start the week the Wolves were not only beaten in 4 games, they were embarrassed. Toronto was outscored 38-7 including giving up 13 run inning to the Cougars on Tuesday after getting beat 11-2 the night before by Chicago. There is no sense recapping any of these debacles.

The team ran the current losing streak to 5 by losing to Kansas City 9-5 Friday before winning two games on the weekend from the Mavericks: one of only 3 teams in the entire league with a worse winning percentage than Toronto. The Wolves played their last 34 games against the CA West going 11-23 (.323). Thankfully the team is finished with the West until July.

If the Wolves are going to salvage any respect in '75 they must at least win 12 of the next 22 interdivision games. The scouting department is working hard checking out all minor league teams so expect many promotions with possible releases once the rookie league Tuscaloosa Tomcats begin play in two weeks. The GM is said to have told the staff that he will err on the conservative side letting players develop rather than pushing players too far, too fast. An example would be Pedro Maldonado who just won the Union League's POTW. After a slow start he is picking up steam with a line of .291/.410/.514 12 HR 44 RBI. He now has to make a decision whether or not this 23 year old is better served for the long term remaining in Buffalo getting everyday playing time for the summer or joining a struggling team at the top level.

The fans are mostly likely in for a long summer unless Manager Evans, whose job is on the line, can lead the team to a respectable summer. If the team is on the wrong side of the score in over 100 games, which is a definite possibility, the writer think the staff will be on the way out before or at season's end.

A look at Davenport to give the fans a look at a successful team:
The Davenport Dusters are off to a fine start in the Heartland League. With a record of 38-18 for a winning percentage of .679 for a 3 game lead in the Heartland League West. The on-field leader is Charlie Tresch, 53, who joined the Toronto management group this season after managing the WBL's Pueblo Chiefs for three seasons. Not reputed to be exceptional in any one area all Tresch is doing in Davenport is winning. Jack of all trades, master of none?

He is fielding an offensive juggernaut with a team slash line of .283/.397/.407 in 50 games the team his 81 doubles leading to 271 runs. He is assisted by PC Marv Lawson who at 59 is in first year as a staff leader. His skill in handling a staff will not be tested unless the offense cools off over the summer. The man who is instructing the hitters is Ernie Rockey, 50, who spent all or parts of 7 seasons patrolling the OF with the Pittsburgh Miners the highlight being appearing in 101 games in 1951 mostly as a late innings defensive replacement. With his charges hot start there is talk of Rockey getting more responsibility in the organization.

Biggest Surprise(s): Bob Russell a Chicago Chiefs 1st round pick in '71 who was acquired in a 1973 trade is making noise that he should be in AA with a .381/.519/.512 line for a 1.030 OPS (181 OPS+). Making the trip with Bob could be SS Moses Watts who has been in the Wolves clan since being drafted in the 2nd round 39th overall in 1970. Pitchers Pedro Winn and Bob Ryan are making heads turn form the mound.

Watching: Dusters have two 30+ pitchers on the staff in Gene West and Sid Fitzgerald who could be moved up or out. At their age there are only to be used as placeholders unless there is a miracle.

CBL SAYS GOODBYE AT FINAL AWARDS NIGHT

The eighth—and now officially final—post-season awards dinner of the Continental Basketball League was held last week in New York, and for the first time the evening felt less like a celebration of a season just completed and more like a wake for a league that never quite got the chance to grow old.

Earlier in the month it was confirmed that the CBL will fold after eight seasons, with an undetermined number of its 12 franchises set to be absorbed into the long-established Federal Basketball League. It was the end result many of the league’s founders had quietly hoped for when the CBL launched as an outlaw circuit: follow the blueprint of the Continental Football Conference and force the door open to the major league. By that measure, the CBL succeeded. League insiders expect at least six and perhaps as many as ten CBL clubs to receive invitations.

Still, the mood in the ballroom was far from triumphant. The CBL had carved out its own identity, cultivating a small but fiercely loyal following that embraced its wide-open style of play—an approach that stood in sharp contrast to the more deliberate, conservative game long favored by the FBL. For those fans, and for many in the room, the sense of loss was unmistakable.

The league’s influence on the sport will outlast its short life. Chief among its contributions was the introduction of the three-point line, a novelty when the CBL began but one that quickly became a defining feature of its brand of basketball. The rule proved so popular that serious discussion is already underway about its adoption by the Federal Basketball League, a quiet acknowledgment that the upstart circuit helped push the game forward.

On the awards front, the evening marked a changing of the guard. San Diego forward John Jenkins saw his three-year reign as Most Valuable Player come to an end, finishing second in the voting to Bill Fairchild of the San Antonio Outlaws. Fairchild, a 26-year-old forward, led the CBL in scoring at 30.9 points per game and captured his first MVP award. He was named to the All-CBL First Team for the second straight season, joined by Jenkins and his San Diego teammate Randy Baker, along with Roman Sollars Jr. of the Pittsburgh Ironmen, and Denver standout Andy Evans.

The All-CBL Second Team was led by a Philadelphia Mariners duo—forward Cliff Schneider and guard Arnie Lund—alongside Baltimore Chargers center Zane Davis, Pittsburgh forward Leroy Washington, and guard Phil Brouwer of the league champion Cincinnati Steamers.

When the final speeches were made and the last handshakes exchanged, the sense was clear: the Continental Basketball League may be disappearing on paper, but its fingerprints will remain on the game. For eight seasons, it dared to be different—and in the end, that may be its lasting legacy.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 06/15/1975

• New York City bailout talks intensify, as state lawmakers scramble to prevent default while President Ford maintains opposition to unconditional federal aid.
• President Ford vetoes education funding bill, citing inflationary concerns and renewing debate over federal spending priorities.
• Congress advances tougher War Powers legislation, moving closer to limiting presidential authority to deploy U.S. forces without approval.
• Unemployment figures remain grim, with North American jobless rates holding near recession-era highs despite slowing inflation.
• Middle East peace prospects dim further, with U.S. officials conceding that negotiations between Israel and Egypt remain stalled.
• Vietnam-era draft resisters press for amnesty, renewing public debate as the nation reassesses the legacy of the war.
• Energy officials caution against complacency, warning that oil supplies remain vulnerable despite the absence of new OPEC price hikes.

[Tiger Fan]

JUNE 23, 1975

FEDERAL BASKETBALL LEAGUE CONFIRMS FOUR-TEAM EXPANSION FROM CBL

The worst-kept secret in professional basketball became official yesterday as the Federal Basketball League announced it will admit four clubs from the now-defunct Continental Basketball League, bringing an end to months of speculation surrounding the future of the eight-year-old rival circuit.

The move expands the FBL from 18 to 22 teams and formally closes the book on the CBL, which had operated since 1967 as an alternative professional league. News of the CBL’s impending collapse first surfaced nearly two months ago, with early reports suggesting that as many as eight of its franchises could be absorbed into the established FBL. In the end, the league opted for a more modest expansion.

Joining the Federal Basketball League will be the Cincinnati Steamers, Denver Bighorns, Pittsburgh Ironmen, and San Antonio Outlaws—four of the CBL’s strongest and most stable organizations. Together, they will be tasked with carrying forward what remains of the Continental League’s legacy.

The remaining eight CBL franchises will cease operations. Owners of those clubs are believed to be receiving substantial buyouts as part of the dissolution agreement, and most are said to be satisfied with the terms. There is, however, at least one notable exception.

Kevin Oliphant, owner of the New Jersey Demons, is reportedly exploring legal options in an effort to force his club’s inclusion in the FBL. Ironically, the Demons appear to be the least compelling candidate on basketball grounds, having finished last season with a dismal 19–59 record—by far the worst mark in the CBL.

Federal Basketball League officials declined to comment in detail on the situation, stating only that they were unaware of any legal action currently underway when asked about Oliphant’s reported objections.

With the announcement now official, the focus shifts to how the four incoming clubs will be integrated into the FBL structure and what the expanded league will look like when play resumes in October. What is certain is that one chapter of professional basketball history has closed, even as another begins.

FBL HANDS OUT HARDWARE

The Federal Basketball League also announced its award winners for the 1974-75 season. It comes as no surprise that John Brantner of the St Louis Rockets was named the Most Valuable Player for the third consecutive year and fourth time overall. Only Chicago Panthers hall of famer Luther Gordon, with five, has be named the FBL's MVP more often than the 31-year-old Brantner.

Brantner, who was also named playoff MVP despite being sidelined with a leg injury for the Rockets title clinching game over the Boston Centurions earlier this month, led the league in scoring by more than 10 points per game over his nearest rival. Brantner's 38.5 ppg in 74-75 was the second highest total ever recorded, trailing only his own mark of 39.1 set the previous year.

Joining Brantner on the All-FBL first team was Detroit center Hank Woolley, Minneapolis forward Brooks Brown and guards Scott Gruninger of San Francisco and Wade Muleky of Seattle. The rookie of the year was Gus McIntyre of the Cleveland Bulldogs. McIntyre, an All-American guard out of Central Kentucky, was selected third overall by the Bulldogs in the 1974 draft. The native of Baltimore, MD., started 80 games and averaged over 20 points per game in his debut season.

SUNS SINK, OPEN UP FA WEST TITLE RACE

Not too long ago, it seemed like all four divisional races were set in stone. Now, things have started to tighten up, as not only as the Suns lead shrunk to just 2.5 games, but all six teams are now within single digits of first. Considering, both the Copperheads (13.5) and Kings (12.5) have more room between them and second then the Suns have between them and the cellar.

For LA, they've started to allow more runs, which has led to a 10-12 June as they've cooled since the hot start. The offense isn't the issue, they have plenty of run producers, including triple crown longshot Tom Lally. The reigning Whitney winner, he's leading the Fed with 16 homers and 59 RBIs, pairing it with an elite .315/.392/.549 (162 OPS+) and a 4.9 WAR. He's likely to reach 5 before a third player even gets to 3.5, with just Seattle's Fred Tollefson (4.0) within a win and a half of his total. He's already way passed his home run total from last year, just 12 in 160 games, and he's less then 10 RBIs from his total too. He's never had an issue scoring runs, with back-to-back home run leader Sam Forrester (.278, 13, 54, 17) behind him, but while the losses start to pile up, he's going to need help elsewhere.

Right now, Houston is their closest threat, and for them, it's been the pitching. Johnny Blackburn (7-3, 2.62, 61) was outstanding when Joe McCarthy (0-1, 2.25, 10) was hurt, and now that he's back the Suns might start to sweat. His first start wasn't great, 5 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs (3 earned), and 4 walks and strikeouts, but #2 was the McCarthy that won the Allen award last year. He kept the Millers scoreless for 7, allowing 6 hits and a walk with 6 strikeouts. Add in Jay Hunt's (6-5, 2.08, 65) and Spencer Reese's (8-1, 2.47, 48) breakout, and it's really hard to get runs off of them. It's easier to prevent them, they don't do much scoring, but Stan Francis (.359, 2, 34) is gunning for a batting title and Hank Andrew (.292, 6, 32, 5) and stolen base fiend Johnny Adams (.319, 6, 40, 29) have inflated their RBI numbers because of it. If former Whitney winner John Edwards (.281, 4, 37, 8) can return to form, things could really start cooking, and there is more then enough time to cut a sub-3 deficit.

You can't leave out Minneapolis or Detroit either, even if no one really expected them to be anywhere near first place. Instead, they're just 4.5 and 5 games out, and as we approach July perhaps the two sellers decide to switch gears. For the Millers, it'd be almost unheard of, as they tend to trade away talent when they have it, but the offense can slug and they're scoring more runs then anyone else. Out of the eight spot Julio Castaneda (.266, 14, 54) has developed into one of the games top sluggers, while Carl Kilkenny (.308, 13, 43) and George Fisher (.264, 11, 35) join him in double digits. Only one member of the lineup has less then 5 homers, but it's not all they can do. Bill Powell (.324, 6, 29) collects extra base hits, walks, and balls in play while top-100 prospect Bill Barber (.321, 9, 50) is making a large case for the Kellogg.

Detroit does it the other way, with pitching as opposed to hitting, with all five of the current rotation members sitting with ERAs below 3.60. Led by breakout star Pat Fortier (7-3, 2.36, 40), who is second in the Fed in ERA, they have the 3rd best rotation ERA, but they have now seemed to find the perfect combination. Jack Vander Kooi (5-4, 2, 2.90, 37) has transitioned from the pen to rotation effortlessly, as have Pedro Castro (6-2, 2, 3.48, 32) and Richard Elk (3-3, 3.56, 33), though it is yet to be seen if they can keep it up. The lineup did take a hit too, with Harvey Van Orden (.321, 6, 29) hitting the IL with a sprained ankle, putting a lot of pressure on Buddy Ensey (.360, 9, 48, 8) and Geoff Taylor (.321, 7, 36, 12). If they can hold on for a few more weeks, star infielder Bill Austin (.270, 3, 25, 2) will return, and the Dynamos can try to sever their 16 season postseason drought.

This coming week is a big one, as after dropping three of four to the Dynamos, the Suns have to take on the Millers. Then later in the week, the Dynamos will be in Houston for three, so each series of the week will contain a pair of the top contenders. A huge opportunity for everyone involved, the games will seemingly mean more here, and as we approach July it's nice to see a pennant race materialize itself.

FABL DRAFT WRAPS UP WITH PHASE TWO PICKS

The Federally Aligned Baseball Leagues completed the second and final phase of its annual amateur draft this week, bringing to a close a process that once again highlighted the league’s unique approach to talent acquisition.

As has long been the case, the FABL draft was conducted in two distinct phases. Clubs made their first ten selections back in January, well before the start of the amateur season and prior to the release of any official mock drafts. Rounds 11 through 20 were then held in mid-June, after the conclusion of the College World Championship Series and the end of high school play across the country.

The two-phase format is something of an oddity—even within the Figment Sports Universe—but it is very much by design. By separating the draft and denying clubs access to an OSA mock, the league forces general managers to rely more heavily on their scouting departments and instincts, adding another layer of difficulty to the already challenging, stats-only evaluation process of the Figment Online League.

That structure often produces a surprise or two, and teams are always hopeful of uncovering a late-round gem—perhaps a player who surged late in the spring or only recently appeared on the radar. The Kansas City Mavericks, owners of the first pick in each round after finishing with the Continental Association’s worst record a year ago, believe they may have done just that. With the opening selection of Phase Two in the 11th round, Kansas City chose 18-year-old shortstop Carl Reynolds of Newark, New Jersey. A three-year high school starter, Reynolds is committed to Detroit City College, but OSA scouts believe he has the tools to develop into a reliable big-league shortstop.

Pitching dominated the early portion of the 11th round, with six of the first nine selections used on arms. The headliner was Don King, taken second overall in the round by the Detroit Dynamos. Dynamos scouting director Chuck Cole followed King closely throughout his senior season in the St. Louis High School ranks and has been effusive in his praise, suggesting the 18-year-old has the ceiling of a future staff ace.

With the draft now complete, attention turns to the signing period as each FABL club attempts to bring its 25 selections into the fold. Many of the high school draftees, including first overall pick Pat Cathcart—who holds a scholarship offer from Darnell State—will weigh the appeal of college against the value of their signing bonuses. High school players who opt for college will become draft-eligible again in their junior seasons, while unsigned college juniors will re-enter the pool next year as seniors.

For now, the selections are made, the boards are cleared, and the long process of turning draft picks into ballplayers begins.

• Even at 38, Floyd Warner (8-4, 3.77, 54) still has it, but the Los Angeles Stars hurler had a lot of help securing his 250th FABL win. In 6 innings he was charged with 9 hits, 6 runs (5 earned), and a walk, striking out 5 in a 10-6 win over San Francisco. He's been much better on the season, already throwing 4 quality starts with just 1 run allowed. A 7-Time All-Star, 4-Time World Champion, and 1967 Allen Winner, even six more wins would get him to 35th in FABL history, but he's already the Stars franchise leader. He may also lead in starts (534) and innings (3,847.2), but only one other pitcher has reached 200. His 64.8 WAR is best among all Stars pitchers, as are his 2,421 strikeouts, and he's 3rd with 26 shutouts. Warner has started 14 games in 1975 for LA, an effective 8-4 with a 3.77 ERA (104 ERA+), 3.40 FIP (104 FIP-), and 1.22 WHIP.
• That's about all the celebrating the Stars did this week, however, as they got the awful news that former Whitney winner Lew Smith (.270, 8, 33, 10) has a partial tear in his UCL that will require surgery. Out for the rest of the season, the 31-year-old shortstop will finish year 12 with just 68 games. It's his lowest since his debut year in 1964, and is just the next thing to go wrong in a 35-36 season. Second basemen Bill Bell (.290, 2, 17, 9) was getting ready to return from his sprained ankle, and instead of joining Smith he'll probably now replace him. A silver lining is Bob Branson (.303, 1, 19, 2), who currently ranks as FABL's 18th best prospect, is a natural shortstop and did well filling in for Bell. Over 14 games out of first, they can focus on giving their former 1st Rounder an extended look before regrouping with a healthy Smith in '76.
• Compounding the misery was 1973 All-Star Bill Dunham (7-4, 3.00, 89), who left the second inning of start #15 with an oblique strain. Out for at least the next four weeks, the loss of a staff ace is never easy, especially when he's in the midst of one of his best seasons. In 105 innings the 31-year-old held a 3.00 ERA (130 ERA+) and 2.98 FIP (75 FIP-), with a legitimate chance for not only a trip to the All-Star game, but a potential finalist for the Allen.
• The second half of the draft began with Kansas City and finished with Atlanta, as 240 more players were drafted in the 20 round Amateur Draft. 478 of the 480 players selected will need to be signed, as Baltimore worked quickly and secured deals with their 5th and 8th round picks. 5th Rounder Joe Rodgers was first, getting $1,100 to report to Low-A Norfolk. He made his debut on Saturday, 1-for-4 with a solo home run. Prospect lists will adjust a lot as more guys sign, but he's 22nd in the organization due to strong infield defense and a great hit tool. 8th Rounder Jim Everett signed for less, just $300, and will join Rodgers on the Navigators, just watching from the bench.
• Atlanta went 7-0 this week, sweeping the Minutemen in Boston and the Clippers at home, opening up a 13.5 game lead over Baltimore. Powering the win streak was outfielder Jack Blair (.333, 6, 50, 18), who went 15-for-28 with 5 doubles, 2 homers, 4 walks, 10 runs, 15 RBIs, and a steal. The obvious Player of the Week, Blair was a perfect 5-for-5 in the Copperhead 12-6 win over the Clippers, and he's running a 14 game hit streak that dates back to June 8th. A candidate for the month's best hitter, he's batted .427/.478/.646 (211 OPS+) with 7 doubles, a triple, 3 homers, 25 RBIs, 19 runs, 8 walks, and 7 steals. Trying to put his slow start to the season completely behind him, he's been instrumental in the Copperheads 18-3 June.
• Conti winner Bob Howard (.261, 10, 39, 4) plays for a far different team, but just because his Mavericks are in last, doesn't mean his performance doesn't merit attention. Howard became the first KC hitter to reach double digits for homers, hitting two as he finished his week 12-for-20. That came with 6 runs, 2 doubles, a triple, and 8 RBIs, with each homer winning the game it was hit in. He was key in two thirds of Kansas City's home sweep of Dallas, and is now on pace for 25 doubles, 23 homers, and 88 RBIs.
• Bad to worse is how the year went for Pioneer righty Red Kline (0-5, 5.45, 14), as the 1972 All-Star went from rotation to pen to injured. A lengthy absence is expected too, as the 33-year-old tore his flexor tendon, and will not be ready for Opening Day. Early estimates is a 13 month recovery, which would lead to almost a season and a half of missed baseball. His ERA crown in '72 (2.53) now seems like a true outlier, as he already had a career worse 5.45 (71 ERA+) mark. A major injury could spell disaster for his FABL future, and if this is it he'll finish with 1,727.1 innings pitched and an 82-94 record.
• One career that is guaranteed to end is Henry Watson (.182, 1), as the Chicago Cougar All-Time home run leader (283) announced 1975 will be his last season. Yet to homer this year, when he's gotten to play it's been awful, as he's just 6-for-33 with a walk and RBI. This is coming after a career worst .200/.249/.322 (67 OPS+) last season, far from the guy who clubbed 30+ homers in the early 60s.
• Quickly overshadowed was the news that Tom Lorang (.265, 4, 33, 7) would need an IL stint. A tough first season out of Washington, he's hit just 4 homers in 288 plate appearances, despite still getting a home run friendly park to call home. Walking 52 times has made up for it somewhat, as he still produced a 122 WRC+, but it's not what anyone expected from the future Hall of Famer. Hitting at levels not seen since he was 18, a reset may be best for the 12-Time All-Star, who will not be adding a 13th and first in the CA. He's not the only Cougar lost too, as setup man Leroy Williams (0-2, 3.00, 8; 0-3, 7.40, 9) is dealing with a herniated disc in his back. He'll miss four weeks, while Lorang could be back in three.
• Offense has been the recipe for Minneapolis this season, but on Saturday it was the pitching that took center stage. After a brutal 10-hit, 7-run loss in LA, Hank Wagner (4-7, 5.60, 68) shined in front of the Millers home crowd. Disarming a strong Arrows team, he threw a 2-hit shutout with 1 walk and 6 strikeouts. A lot has gone wrong for the 27-year-old, but with a major gap between his 5.60 ERA (69 ERA+) and 3.96 FIP (102 FIP-), this start could be the sign of things to come. If Minneapolis wants to capitalize of the Suns struggle, they'll need a rebound from their "ace" as they have not gotten many good starts from their staff.
• Those Suns may be cold, but it hasn't impeded Eddie Kellum's (.327, 17, 8) 20-game hit streak. The longest of the season, the last day he didn't get a hit was actually April 21st, as on two separate occasions he had hit streaks ruined by double headers. He did survive the split with the Dynamos on Sunday, 1-for-3 with 2 walks and a run and 1-for-4 with a double, but he may not be as lucky this coming Friday. Sacrificing slug for contact this year, his .327/.371/.393 (115 OPS+) batting line is right in line with his career norms, he's just getting there in a different way. Right now, fatigue may be the only thing to end his streak, as he's about as automatic for a base hit as there gets.
• Tough debut for Bob Moore, as the recently turned 25-year-old exited his first FABL start with a sprained ankle. Called up to replace Manuel Andreu (2-9, 5.65, 44) in the rotation, he lasted just 2.2 innings, now expected to miss the next three weeks. Tagged with the loss since his team scored just one run, he allowed 2 hits and 2 unearned runs with a walk and strikeout. A well-traveled 14th Round pick, it's a shame this is what happens when he finally gets his chance, but the bright young righty is now on the 40 and has a chance to regain a rotation spot when he's healthy.
• A few pitchers changed hands on waivers, with Dutch Lane (1-5, 7, 3.67, 19) going from Cincinnati to Detroit and Frank Stone (0--0, 0.57, 9) going from Cincy to New York. Now 36, Lane was the Cannons stopper, but he blew 3 saves and loss 5 games, leading to his eventual designation for assignment. A former 17th Rounder, he's managed 1,383.1 FABL innings, with Detroit set to be his fifth FABL team. Stone has far less experience, making his FABL debut at 28 this season. Now 29, he allowed just 11 hits and 1 run with 9 strikeouts in 15.2 innings pitched. The 6 walks and lack of upside must have been enough to suggest it was too good to last.

THE LONG ROAD TO NOWHERE: DRAFT DREAMS AND DIAMOND DRUDGERY

BOSTON — Where do we even begin with this one, folks? I have spent the last few hours staring at the standings, trying to find a way to spin this that doesn’t sound like a eulogy. After a dismal 1-9 stretch in their last ten games, the Minutemen own a 21-43 record. That is the worst record in professional baseball by a full seven games.

Get this: the Minutemen are more games back in the East (25) than they actually have wins (21). It is a staggering achievement of absolute futility. Dick Ward is at least providing some fireworks with 12 homers, but his .212 average makes those blasts feel like lonely islands in a sea of strikeouts. Jim Morton remains the only adult in the room, hitting .312 with 7 homers and 40 RBIs. He is out there playing his heart out, but he is doing it completely alone.

The roster turnover I told you was coming has finally arrived, though not always for the reasons we wanted. The decision to call up Frank Borgen or Mickey Barker to handle third base was made for us when Willie Stephens went down with a torn meniscus in his knee. Now we have Borgen at the hot corner and Barker splitting time at first with Hal Mazur. Borgen is playing just a hair over league average while Barker is a bit under it. The result? A net gain of just about nothing.

Sully’s Stance: Dick Wood’s bat has fallen off a cliff lately, and since he was never going to win a Diamond Award over Dale Raz, expect to see Raz back in the lineup more often. At least Gil Armstrong is back from the trainer's room and holding his own in center. He is only 22, so we can’t expect him to carry the franchise on his back quite yet. The man who really needs to wake up is Charlie Hartsell. He was the top pick in ’72 and at 25 years old, he should be entering his prime. Instead, he looks like he is miles away from the pace he set the last couple of years.

Since the present is so bleak, let’s talk about the future. The amateur draft just wrapped up, and the Minutemen stashed away some fresh faces. Picking 16th in the first round meant we missed out on the true blue-chip, "save the franchise" talent—don't worry, we will surely have a top pick next year at this rate—but the club went with Ollie Edwards, a high school shortstop out of Taylor, Texas.

Edwards put up some nice high school stats that absolutely nobody outside of his immediate family cares about, but the scouts are in love with his strength. They think it will project well at this level, and if the power shows up, he might move off shortstop later on. For now, he is heading to rookie ball. Check back in five years to see if we were right.

In the second round, the club took another prep pitcher from New York named Mule Ricci. I haven’t dug deep enough yet to find out if "Mule" is a nickname or a personality trait, but I do know the scouts are raving about his change-up and slider. His fastball still needs a lot of work, which gives me the nagging fear that we just spent a second-round pick on a future reliever instead of a front-line starter.
Sully’s Stance: My favorite pick of the bunch has to be the third-rounder, a local kid named Irv Feinberg. Irv played his high school ball right here in Boston and hit enough tape-measure shots to lead his team to a state title. He has the power-eye connection that scouts drool over, and frankly, it’ll be nice to have a local name to root for in the system.

The organization went heavy on high schoolers with their first twelve picks, so this is going to be a long, slow build. Word is the scouting department has already started looking at next year’s class. They are probably looking for a college kid who can get to Boston fast because the fans are running out of patience.

The only real lighthouse in this fog is 19-year-old Sal Baldassari. The kid is 8-1 with 110 strikeouts in 92 innings at Low A Arlington. He just got word that he is being promoted to High A Springfield to act as their new staff ace. He is the one to watch, folks. It is just a shame we can’t see Springfield games from the bleachers in Boston. Maybe someday.

Until then, keep the scotch poured heavy. We’re going to need it.

PITCHING—AND A FEW OTHER SURPRISES—KEEP DYNAMOS AFLOAT

There are still a lot of folks around town who think baseball doesn’t start until after the Fourth of July, which probably explains the double take they gave the morning paper when they noticed the Detroit Dynamos were actually over .500.

Not just over .500, either. Two games over. Five games out of first. With June nearly in the books.

Somewhere, a few old-timers nearly spilled their coffee.

This was not how the summer was supposed to go. The Dynamos were coming off a 100-loss season, which followed three straight years of losing 90 or more. The basement had become familiar territory—comfortable, even. After all, last year’s pitching staff couldn’t get hitters out with a written invitation, and that was with Johnny Hoskinson, the lone starter who managed a winning record at 12-11.

Hoskinson is now in Baltimore, which made the outlook even sunnier—if your idea of sunshine involves thunderstorms and possible flooding. The rotation figured to be a patchwork of waiver claims and kids still trying to figure out where the bullpen door was.

Fast forward 70 games, and the jokes have stopped landing.

Somehow—quietly, improbably—the Dynamos’ pitching staff has become the backbone of the club. Pat Fortier, plucked off the wire, is 7-3 with a tidy 2.36 ERA and looks like he’s been in Detroit for years. Pedro Castro has been nearly as good at 6-2 and 3.48, though his last couple of outings suggest he’s human after all. Richard Elk, a 24-year-old rookie who’s been waiting his turn since coming over from Washington, is holding his own at 3-3 with a 3.56.

Add it up and you get a rotation that now owns the third-best ERA in the Federal Association—after being the worst a year ago. Baseball does that to you sometimes. It waits until you’re sure you understand it, then changes the rules.

Nobody here is engraving playoff tickets just yet. A club that lost 100 games doesn’t turn into a pennant winner overnight. But a .500 season? That no longer sounds like science fiction. And if it happens, it would mean a 21-win jump—something Detroit hasn’t seen since 1962, when a miserable ’61 was followed by a near-miss the next year.

Not that pitching has been doing this alone.

ENSEY REWRITES HIS OWN STORY

Buddy Ensey has decided that last season never happened.

The 27-year-old outfielder, an All-Star back in ’72, looked lost in 1974. His numbers dipped, the whispers got louder, and for a few days in February it looked like he might be wearing Los Angeles Suns colors. That deal fizzled, and the Dynamos quietly exhaled.

Good thing.

All Ensey has done since Opening Day is lead the Federal Association with a .360 batting average while slugging at a rate he’s never reached before. On a team that still has trouble scratching out runs, Ensey has been the difference between competitive losses and actual wins. It’s not much of a stretch to wonder where Detroit would be right now if that February trade had gone through.

Probably back where we expected them to be.

A DRAFT THAT BREEDS HOPE

If you’re looking for optimism beyond this season, scouting director Chuck Cole is more than happy to provide it. Cole says—without blinking—that this year’s draft class might be the best he’s overseen in nearly 15 years.

That’s strong talk from a man who usually undersells.

The second phase of the draft wrapped up last week, and Cole can’t stop mentioning Don King, an 18-year-old pitcher from St. Louis who came out of nowhere this spring and became Detroit’s first pick in Round 11. Cole thinks King has top-of-the-rotation written all over him.

He’s not alone. First-rounder George Carney and fifth-round pick Vern Ladd are also pegged as potential front-line starters. Jay Crist, Bruce Fields, and Joe Miller are viewed as solid mid-rotation possibilities. Eight of Detroit’s first 11 picks were pitchers, which tells you exactly where this organization thinks its future lies.

None of them have thrown a professional pitch yet, of course. Promise is easy in June. Delivery comes later. Still, optimism has been in short supply at Thompson Field, and right now it’s finally back on the menu.

BASKETBALL ENDS, HOCKEY DRAGS ON

One final note from the wider sports world: the Continental Basketball League is officially finished. Four of its 12 teams will move into the Federal Basketball League, and that chapter is closed.

Hockey, though, refuses to follow the script.

The Continental Hockey League—long rumored to be on life support—insists it’s staying put. That’s bad news for Detroit Motors fans still dreaming of a Hobie Barrell reunion. Barrell remains under contract in Ottawa, and as long as the CHL survives, so does that deal.

His last game in Detroit ended with a Challenge Cup raised overhead. Anyone hoping for an encore will have to keep waiting.

For now, though, Detroit baseball fans might want to check the standings again. Summer has arrived, and so—somehow—have the Dynamos.

WOLVES SHOW SIGNS OF LIFE

Every baseball season offers at least one week when a struggling club briefly resembles something sturdier than a collection of loose parts. For the Toronto Wolves, last week was that week.

It does not amount to a resurrection. It barely qualifies as a stirring of the pulse. But a 4–2 record, capped by a home sweep of Cincinnati, passes for progress on a team that has spent much of the spring looking as if it were playing the game under protest. If nothing else, it reminded everyone that even troubled ballclubs occasionally stumble into competence.

The week began quietly enough at Dyckman Stadium, where the Wolves dropped the final two games of a three-game set. The lone bright spot came courtesy of Jim Hunter, who picked up just the second win of his FABL career in a tidy 9–2 victory. The two losses that followed were the sort that test a pitcher’s vocabulary. Red Bullock and Stan Terry both pitched well enough to deserve better than 2–1 and 3–1 defeats, only to be undone by an offense that produced six hits in one game and five in the other, while the Imperials’ pitchers did their work with professional efficiency.

That theme carried into Friday night when the Cannons arrived. Lee Humphrey carved out eight scoreless innings, Ray Smith nailed down his fifth save, and the Wolves escaped with a 2–1 win that felt far more fragile than the box score suggested. The lone Cannon run in the ninth was unearned, courtesy of yet another Toronto error—an ongoing subplot that refuses to resolve itself.

Saturday offered something close to joy. The Wolves collected 15 hits and won 7–5, a number that seemed almost excessive by recent Toronto standards. Sunday was less convincing but just as welcome: a 6–3 victory fueled more by patience than power, as five walks compensated for just six hits. When the dust settled, the Wolves found themselves tied for fifth in the East with Cleveland.

It was their first winning week since early May. That alone tells you how modest the bar has become.

Now comes the hard part. Toronto heads out on the road until July 4, staring at nine games in seven days, including doubleheaders against Milwaukee and Cleveland. If the Wolves intend to build on this sliver of momentum, they will need to do something they have not done all season: string wins together.

Errors remain the club’s loudest enemy. Eighty of them so far—easily the most in the Continental Association—have turned manageable innings into extended ordeals. The pitching, while showing occasional signs of coherence, still owns the league’s worst staff ERA at 4.20. Offense offers little relief, with a team line of .245/.315/.656 that lives at or near the bottom of every meaningful category.

Before the season began, it was said that this team would go only as far as its pitching and defense carried it. So far, neither has been willing to shoulder the load for very long.

A Look Down the Line: Vancouver Mounties

The Vancouver Mounties, meanwhile, remain the steadiest reflection of what the Toronto organization hopes to be someday. The Mounties have been part of the system for half a century and have made a habit of winning, collecting nine COW championships and sending a steady stream of names—Sam Orr, Charlie Artuso, Chuck Cole—up the ladder.

After drifting through the 1950s and ’60s, Vancouver has rediscovered its footing, winning the last two COW titles and reaching three straight finals. In a development league built on patience, the Mounties may have found the perfect formula.

Manager Bob Ginger is 59 and has been managing young players for more than a decade, seemingly immune to the temptation of promotion. His preference for working with prospects has become a feature, not a flaw. He is joined by pitching coach Dave Hunt, 56, who has carved out a similar niche, and hitting coach Yamato Hashimoto, 58, who arrived from Japan a few years ago. Together, they form a staff that is collectively old enough to remember when pitchers finished what they started—and young enough, apparently, to keep producing results.

The Mounties sit at 32–25, good for third place in a fiercely competitive COW North.

Among the players to watch is Ron Burch, 20, currently ranked fifth by OSA. His five starts have been adequate rather than eye-opening, and another stretch of mediocrity could send him back to Tuscaloosa by July. Ed Hall continues to intrigue scouts as a potential rotation piece. At the plate, last year’s first-round pick Pat Duffy has been slower out of the gate than hoped, hitting .263/.404/.394 over 221 plate appearances. It was once assumed he might be in Davenport by now; patience, for the moment, has prevailed.

Gene Goodson, a 13th-round pick from two years ago, has been turning heads as a possible late-round success story, while Charlie Sheldon’s ability to handle both infield corners could ease his path upward.

Expect movement in both Davenport and Vancouver once the draft dust settles this week. That, too, is part of the rhythm of the game.

Next time: a closer look at Toronto’s newest draft picks as they begin the long, uncertain walk toward professional baseball.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 06/22/1975

• New York City avoids immediate default as emergency measures advance, with state-backed financial controls imposed to keep the city operating while long-term rescue talks continue.
• President Ford vetoes farm price-support legislation, warning that higher food prices would worsen inflation and strain consumers already facing economic hardship.
• Congress presses ahead with War Powers reforms, citing Vietnam and Cambodia as evidence of the need for clearer limits on presidential use of force.
• Inflation shows signs of cooling across North America, though economists caution that high unemployment and weak growth still threaten recovery.
• Canada weighs wage and price restraint measures, as Ottawa signals willingness to confront unions and provinces to curb inflation.
• Vietnam refugee resettlement expands into smaller communities, prompting both humanitarian praise and concerns about housing and employment capacity.

[Tiger Fan]

JUNE 30, 1975

COPPER IS KING: FOURTEEN STRAIGHT VICTORIES FOR ATLANTA

If losing is something you're supposed to do in baseball, the Atlanta Copperheads aren't doing baseball right. Winners of 14 straight, they haven't lost since June 15th, and in their last 20 games they've won 18. It helps when most of the games are at home, including each of the last 11, as they're a much better team in Atlanta (35-7) when they are away from home (20-13). Of course, even their road winning percentage (.606) would have them first in the Fed East, but they're a different animal at Peachtree Stadium.

It's the pitching that makes everything happen, as it's almost impossible to get any runs off this team. They haven't allowed more then 3 runs in a game since June 20th, and in the entire month they've allowed 5 or more runs just 5 times, including two of their three losses for the month. The 243 runs they've allowed are fewest in the Fed, while they're 1st in rotation ERA (2.92) and 2nd in pen (2.75). In fact, only ace and Allen winner Howie Burt (7-3, 3.52, 49) has an ERA above 3, and even he has an ERA+ (109) above 100.

In his place, it's been Marco Middleton, who this Tuesday threw a 3-hit, 10-strikeout shutout in a tight 1-0 win where the only scoring was a Jay Hunter (.270, 4, 26) solo homer. Middleton improved to 11-1 on the season, and after a no decision to finish the week, the 4-Time Allen winner lowered his ERA to 2.66 (144 ERA+) and his FIP to 2.95 (75 FIP-) in 121.2 innings pitched. Striking out 89 and walking just 32, he's not only looking to earn his 8th All-Star selection, but he's going to receive serious consideration for a fifth Allen. Only Rufus Barrell has five, with the fast burning Frenchy Mack and mad professor Adrian Czerwinski the only to reach six. Middleton is already in an exclusive group, and even if he struggled a bit last season, it's clear he belongs, and that he still has many good seasons left in him.

They don't hit as well as they pitch, but during their streak they have had no shortage of runs. Jack Blair (.341, 8, 56, 21) is red hot, hitting an astronomical .426/.470/.660 (215 OPS+) in 26 June games, adding 8 doubles, a triple, 5 homers, 25 runs, 31 RBIs, and 10 steals, which should allow him to waltz into next week's Batter of the Month. Or at least he would, if former Whitney winner Al Hubbard (.296, 9, 38, 11) wasn't trying to keep up. His .413/.516/.600 (213 OPS+) line isn't too far away, coming with 31 runs, 5 doubles, 3 homers, 14 RBIs, 5 steals, and an outstanding 14-to-3 walk-to-strikeout ratio. Blair has the counting stat edge, but regardless of who ends with the award, they've both been instrumental in separating the Copperheads from the pack.

Only one team is within twenty games of the first place Copperheads, the Baltimore Cannons, and they will do everything they can to keep the lead from expanding anymore. Having been swept in Atlanta in a four game series two weeks ago, they've already been ran through once, but with two games at home to start the week they at least have a chance to try and not be eliminated in July. They'll have to beat Harry Inge (6-4, 2.72, 58) and the ace Burt, and if there is one way Baltimore can make it a series is their pitching. 3rd in runs against, they'll counter with Buck Guthrie (7-6, 4.15, 53) and Jose Martinez (7-5, 2.75, 59), but unless they can get some much needed help from a far weaker lineup, they're going to quickly find themselves in a deficit they'd need two seasons to crawl out of.

• He may now be completely relegated to a bench role, but the 3-Time Champion and Whitney winner Bob Bell (.182, 2, 11, 1) did end up recording his 2,000th FABL hit. Five years removed from at least 450 PAs in a season, he's made 53 appearances this season, but only 12 of the came in the starting nine. Just his 11th hit of the season, his current 62 WRC+ is less then three times smaller then his 214 in '62 or 201 in '64. Once one of the most feared hitters in baseball, some speculated he was sticking around just long enough for 2,000, and the angry veteran's motivation to keep going may now be at an all time low. He won't get to 350 homers and he just got his 900th walk, and every extra at bat he takes just decays his .303/.386/.512 (154 OPS+) career line.
• Win #251 of Floyd Warner's (9-4, 2.46, 59) career was a shutout, the first of his season and 27th of his career. He did it in Seattle too, holding the dominant Kings lineup to 6 hits and a walk, striking out 5 in his 15th start of the season. In the middle of yet another great season, he has a 3.46 ERA (112 ERA+), 3.26 FIP (83 FIP-), and 1.18 WHIP, worth 2.4 WAR through 109.1 innings.
• First rounders started to sign, with 16 of the 24 now on their FABL team. ## were top-100 prospects, with the new highest ranked FABL prospects 3rd overall pick Frank Torsiello (SFS) and 2nd overall pick George Carney (DET). The guy taken before them, new Maverick farmhand Pat Cathcart, checks in at 37, but they have the highest ranked prospect who wasn't taken this year, former #1 and current #3 prospect Chuck Barton. Two other pitchers crack the top 10, with Cougars first rounder Tom Brewer at #6 and Arrows first rounder Willis Amason at #9. Both pitchers look like steals, but considering Amason was taken 17th, that seems to be the bigger get. Brewer was eight picks earlier at 9th.
• Joining Cathcart outside of the top-10, but inside the top 50 are Bill Gagnon (MON, 13th; #15), Gene Anderson (TOR, 7th; #28), and Sam White (STL, 14th; #34). Just two more fill out the back half of the top-100, with Bob Spencer (NYG, 22nd; #54) and Caleb Johnson (PHI, 6th; #78) comfortably in. Neither should get knocked out by new entrants, but a lot of these ranks will change as teams completed their classes.
• Non-first rounders made early top-100 appearances too, even as high as the top 25. Most notably is Mavericks 3rd Rounder Harry May. He may have been taken 49th, but he ranks 11th on the top-100 list. Perhaps dropping for spending his prep years in Canada, he impressed in showcases with his confident approach and meticulous mechanics. Stars 2nd Rounder Morrie Knight ranks 18th due to patience and power, with Gothams 2nd Rounder Doug Goss at 22nd for elite offspeed pitches and ace potential.
• Other late round gems appear to be reliever Paul Bennett (LAS, 117th; #45), a pair of starters in what is another Canadian and another Maverick Washington Johnson (KC, 73rd, #49), and American born, Duke Cole (LAS, 69th; #71), catcher Paul Bosma (CLE, 3rd; 73rd), a third Star draftee and second reliever Jack Mitchell (LAS, 165th; 74th). The real surprises come in the 11th, with Detroit getting 73rd ranked prospect Dan King. He was a new add as a senior, splitting between the pen and rotation at his Missouri High School. A potential ace with great command and stuff, his late breakout is one of the true quirks of the split draft.
• Surprisingly, Federal Player of the Week was not given to a Copperhead, with Suns slugger Sam Forrester (.287, 16, 64, 20) stealing the award. The 7-Time All-Star did deserve it, 10-for-27 with 2 doubles, 3 homers, 10 RBIs, 7 runs, 4 walks, and 3 steals in a crucial 5-2 week for the division leaders. On track for his first 30/40 season, Forrester and Tom Lally (.312, 18, 62, 5) have helped the Suns stay on top, and continued excellence from their superstars will be required to stay there. Now 5 games ahead of Houston, that duo is really the only reason they are where they are, and they will be relied on as the Suns continue their stretch of 19 games in 17 days.
• Al Reece got the pleasure in the Conti, batting .545/.583/.818 (283 OPS+) with a double, triple, homer, 2 walks, 3 runs, and 4 RBIs. A pleasant surprise in New York, the third year player has come into his own this season, helping contribute to the Imperials solid pennant race. Even without John Alfano (4-6, 4.61, 34), they're winning games, and are just three and a half behind the leading Arrows. Reece has the benefit of hitting after George Love (.275, 11, 36, 10) and before Woody Richardson (.347, 6, 32) and Phil Terry (.289, 11, 46, 9), but the results speak for themselves. In about 30 fewer PAs then last season, he already has new bests in doubles (10), triples (4), homers (6), RBIs (28), steals (11), and WAR (2.0), and his current .321/.384/.484 (138 OPS+) batting line could stay a personal best for a while.
• Not many players go right to the IL after winning Player of the Week, but just three days later last week's Continental winner Bob Howard strained his oblique early in the Mavericks 5-1 loss to the Stars. The clear best hitter in a bad lineup, the 26-year-old was hitting .271/.326/.482 (119 OPS+) with a 129 WRC+ in 278 trips to the plate. Out for five weeks, he'll still have time to add to his 11 doubles, 11 homers, and 43 RBIs, but with the Mavs already in last, they may take their time bringing him back. He leaves a gaping hole in their lineup, and Dick Anderson (.307, 7, 27) cannot do nearly enough on his own.
• A bigger injury loss hit the Chicago Cougars, as after struggling to find help at the back of the pen, Bill Jackson (1-1, 5, 2.31, 1) seemed to finally have it down. He came into the top of the ninth of a 2-1 game in the series opener, but lasted one batter before leaving with an elbow injury. The Cougars went on to win the game, but it was the last one Jackson will pitch this season. Diagnosed with a fractured elbow, he won't be able to pick up a ball until 1976, and if he has any setbacks he may miss the start of the season. Debuting earlier this month, he'll finish with just 11.2 innings, working to a 2.31 ERA (169 ERA+) and 1.54 WHIP. On the bright side, the Cougars did sweep a four game series in Kansas City, even without star Tom Lorang (.265, 4, 33, 7). Still double digit games out, they'll be back in Seattle to start July, and could finally get the tally back to a single number.
• Philly's pitching staff took a hit too, two in fact, as they will be without 30-year-old starter Joe Downing (6-8, 6.26, 57) for the rest of the season. Shut down with inflammation in his shoulder, it ends a nightmare season early. Delivering the 16 worst starts of his career, Downing had an elevated 6.26 ERA (62 ERA+) and 1.56 WHIP -- both easily the worst of his career. In fact, he was never even above 4.50, as his 4.29 (96 ERA+) in his first season with the Keystones back in 1973 was his previous worst. While never elite, the former Montreal 2nd Rounder was always serviceable, and it would be a shame if this becomes his new reality post-rehab.
• They are also without Doc Carver (6-4, 3.38, 64), as the 39-year-old lefty strained his hamstring, and could miss the rest of the season. If his win over Boston is the last of his career, it's at least a good one, as his 136th career win saw 4 hits, a run, and a walk with 5 strikeouts in 7.1 innings pitched. A veteran of 18 seasons, he's thrown 2,749.2 innings pitched, working to a 3.90 ERA (99 ERA+), 3.48 FIP (88 FIP-), and 1.36 WHIP.
• Though the biggest loss of the week might be reigning Whitney winner Harry Edwards, as the already struggling Arrows superstar is set to hit the IL with a bone spur in his elbow. Likely to miss at least the next five weeks, the 25-year-old has hit just .245/.340/.436 (114 OPS+) on the season, and will spend his 26th birthday rehabbing his arm. After hitting an outstanding .306/.408/.503 (164 OPS+) last season, he's seen almost all his numbers take a stark downturn, with just the 11 homers something going his way. Now he's unlikely to match or pass his 22 homers from last season, and with Milwaukee's division lead starting to shrink, being without their slugger doesn't seem likely to help.
• St. Louis took a few hits too, with both Ed Holt (.351, 1, 14) and Frank Green (.271, 6, 36, 5) likely to hit the IL with separate ailments. Holt could avoid it, as knee tendinitis will only deal with his baserunning. He's hit well when healthy, a strong .351/.407/.481 (144 OPS+) line, but as the backup he will be easier to keep around. Green won't, as the starting shortstop can't play through his sore elbow. Likely to miss over a month, the 27-year-old was having a bounce-back offensive season, hitting a nice .271/.339/.431 (111 OPS+) with strong defense at short (2.3 ZR, 1.060 EFF). They do have a decent replacement on hand, Tom Spruill (.309, 1, 9), but now both members of the St. Louis Opening Day middle infield are on the IL.
• Baltimore and Cincinnati made a minor trade, with the Cannons sending a pair of younger minor leaguers for recently turned 26-year-old Steve Bell. A former 15th Round pick, it's hard to say why Baltimore wanted the first basemen, as he was hitting just .302/.383/.415 (105 OPS+) in 60 AAA plate appearances. Mostly as a bench player too, he might have been released, but the prospects he gave up weren't too used either. 22-year-old lefty Jim Stallard's season consists of just two Low-A starts while 24-year-old catcher Kent Parkhurst was getting limited time in High-A and AAA.
• 20 was the magic number for Eddie Kellum, who saw his streak snapped with a 0-for-1 in an unnecessary pinch-hit at bat. He got hits in each of his next four games, 6-for-15 with 3 runs, a walk, and an RBI. Complicating matters is what ended the second half of a double header, as while sliding in safely with a double, he tore a few ligaments in his ankle. The 33-year-old will now miss the next 5-6 weeks, a tough blow to a Suns team that is looking to stay on top of their division.
• Boston rookie Frank Borgen (.316, 2, 12) didn't wait too long before recording his first 5-hit game. Called up from AAA on May 26th, he was a perfect 5-for-5 a month and day later, picking up an RBI and pair of runs scored in a 9-1 victory. That came in his 31st FABL game, and through 33 he's hit .316/.377/.419 (121 OPS+) with 6 doubles, 2 triples, 12 RBIs, 12 walks, and 14 runs. 25 in September, he's shown all the tools of being an elite contact hitter, and the former Suns 3rd Rounder is quickly developing into a piece the Minutemen can rely on for the rest of the 70s.

DUKES LAND YOUNG IN STUNNING DEAL WITH SHAMROCKS

Just when it looked like the New York Shamrocks might finally be turning a long, slow corner, they went and yanked the rug out from under themselves.

In a move that sent a ripple through NAHC circles, the Shamrocks announced late this week that star center Milt Young has been dealt to the Toronto Dukes. Heading back to New York is Toronto’s first-round selection in next month’s entry draft. No players, no prospects—just the pick which is expected to be 13th overall.

Young, 31, is coming off another big season, scoring 49 goals and piling up 101 points in the regular campaign. He added three more points in two playoff games before the Shamrocks were ushered out—by Toronto, no less—in the opening round. Come September, Young will be pulling on the same Dukes sweater that ended New York’s long-awaited return to the postseason.

A Belleville, Ontario native, Young had been a Shamrock from the moment he entered the league. Drafted first overall in 1963, he jumped straight from the junior Kitchener Roosters into the NAHC and made his debut at 19. Eight hundred eighty-four regular-season games later, all with the Greenshirts, he leaves New York as the franchise’s all-time scoring leader.

His résumé is heavy enough. A two-time Second Team All-Star, Young captured the Yeadon Trophy in 1972-73 after scoring a career-best 56 goals, the second-highest single-season total in league history. Sixteen months ago, he passed the legendary Orval Cabbell—father of former teammate Danny Cabbell—atop the Shamrocks’ scoring list. He departs with 898 points, including 441 goals, in those 884 games.

Which is what makes this trade so hard to wrap one’s head around.

The Shamrocks had just completed their first playoff season in 15 years, finishing third in the Dewar Division before being swept two games to none by Toronto in the preliminary round. It was their first taste of postseason hockey since 1960, even if it ended quickly. New York still hasn’t won a playoff series since 1950, but for the first time in a long while, there was at least the sense they were inching closer.

Instead, they’ve dealt away a 100-point scorer entering his early thirties for a future draft choice, a move that feels less like a push forward and more like a step back into familiar territory. How subtracting the greatest scorer in franchise history helps end that quarter-century playoff drought is a question the Shamrocks will be answering all summer.

In Toronto, meanwhile, there are no such mysteries. The Dukes were already dangerous. Now they’ve added a proven finisher, a playmaker with a taste for big moments—and a little extra sting for his old club when the schedule turns over in the fall.

size="6"]DUKES DOUBLE DOWN, ADD DUCHARME IN BUSY OFF-SEASON WEEK[/size]

Toronto was not content to add just one proven point producer to their club this off-season as the Dukes also finalized a deal with the Los Angeles Stingrays that brings Alain Ducharme to Toronto in exchange for defenseman Ty Cole.

Ducharme, 27, joined the Stingrays in their expansion year of 1967-68 and has been with Los Angeles ever since. He is a veteran of 530 NAHC games and has accumulated 271 points during that span including 50 points in 80 games last season. He also added 7 points in 7 playoff games for the Stingrays this year.

Cole's absence may be felt on the Toronto blueline as he has been a steady defender for the Dukes over the past eight seasons. He was named an assistant captain prior to last season and responded with the best offensive output of his career, scoring 15 times and adding 35 assists. Toronto does have a fair bit of blueline depth and Dukes management likely feels very good about their moves, which make the team one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. The excitement of seeing their other newcomer Milt Young paired with Toronto star Ollie Perreault has the city buzzing, but some pundits suggest that Ducharme may just surprise as he could be the perfect piece to round out that dangerous line should Toronto coach C.J. Lake decided to unite the three.

NAHC NOTES

While the exit of Milt Young from New York took center stage there were a number of other moves over the past week in the North American Hockey Confederation as club's prepare for the 1975 Entry Draft and as the upcoming season approaches the return of human General Managers. Here are some of the highlights:

• The offensive-minded Philadelphia Rogues dealt 20-year-old winger Patrick Reimer to the Minneapolis Norseman in exchange for some blueline help, getting 30-year-old Cliff Melrose in return. Reimer, the Rogues first round pick a year ago, was a candidate for the McLeod Trophy after collecting 57 points in 76 games as a rookie this past season. Melrose has been with the Norsemen since the 1967-68 expansion draft and had previous experience playing in Philadelphia as he was a member of the Rogues early in his career when they were a minor league franchise.
• The Rogues also announced that they have signed their 1973 second round draft pick Claude LaPierre to a pro contract. Now 20, LaPierre had a breakout season in his final year of junior, finishing second in league scoring with 127 points for the London Lions. This after collecting just 95 points in his first three seasons of junior hockey.
• The St Louis Sawyers added some veteran depth in picking up forward Ron Carthy from the Washington Federals. The 32-year-old has bounced around the league with stops in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Vancouver before joining the Federals in a deal last summer. He played 67 games for Washington and tallied 12 goals and 28 points. Washington receives 22-year-old right winger Darryl Snell in return. The Sawyers 1973 second round draft pick spent most of the year in the HAA, but did make his NAHC debut this season, going pointless in five games with St Louis.

CONFERENCE PREVIEW: ACADEMIA ALLIANCE

The road to autumn Saturdays begins this week with a look at the Academia Alliance, the sport’s oldest—and most dignified—conference. While its members now turn out more diplomats than tailbacks, the Alliance still offers a brand of football rooted in tradition, rivalries, and the occasional surprise contender.

Once a national power across multiple sports, the Academia Alliance hasn’t produced a football champion since George Fox raised the trophy in 1928. That drought hasn’t dulled the conference’s relevance entirely, though, thanks largely to one familiar name at the top.

Dickson Maroons Have Owned the Alliance in Recent Years

The Maroons remain the standard, having captured four straight Alliance titles and representing the conference in two New Year’s Day classics over the past decade. Dickson’s 1966 Lone Star Classic victory capped a 9–1 season and a sixth-place national finish—still the high-water mark for the league in modern times.

This season, however, may test that dominance. The Maroons must replace several cornerstone players, most notably running back Alex Becker, who led the conference with 1,215 rushing yards a year ago. Reloading has been Dickson’s specialty, but the margin feels thinner than usual.

If anyone is ready to shove Dickson aside, Sadler looks the part. Coming off a 7–2 campaign, the Bluecoats return a defense that scouts quietly rave about. They may not overwhelm anyone offensively, but Sadler figures to win games the old-fashioned way—by shortening them and punishing mistakes.

The league’s wild card may be Brunswick. The Knights flashed real promise two seasons ago with a surprise run into the national top 25, then promptly fell apart last fall with a 4–5 finish. The difference this year could be under center.

Quarterback Del Thomas Jr. remains one of the most intriguing stories in college football—a Texas blue-chip recruit who bypassed the Southwestern Alliance and Deep South powers to play in New Jersey. Redshirted last season after entering college as the 16th-ranked recruit in the nation, Thomas carries a famous name and even bigger expectations. His father, Del Thomas Sr., was an AFA standout with the Boston Americans and later a pro baseball player with the St. Louis Pioneers. The son has the tools to make his own headlines—and perhaps reshape the Alliance race.

Outlook: Dickson remains the favorite by reputation alone, but this feels like a season where the rest of the conference senses opportunity. If the Maroons stumble early, the door may finally be open—and in the Academia Alliance, change tends to arrive quietly, then all at once.

WILL '75 DRAFT BE THE START OF SOMETHING BIG FOR THE DYNAMOS?

Hope is a funny thing in this town. It sneaks up on you when you’re not looking, usually after you’ve sworn it won’t happen again.

And yet here we are, the calendar about to tip into July, the Detroit Dynamos somehow a couple of games over .500, and a stack of scouting reports on the desk that read like a love letter. If you listen closely around Thompson Field these days, you can almost hear the word nobody has dared say out loud in a while.

Dynasty.

Now before anyone starts fitting rings, let’s remember that drafts are held in June and disappointments arrive right on schedule in August. The minor leagues have a way of straightening out big dreams. But it’s hard to ignore what baseball’s central scouting oracle—OSA—has to say about Detroit’s 1975 haul, especially since it lines up almost word for word with what scouting director Chuck Cole has been telling anyone who will stand still long enough.

The folks in the Dynamos’ front office are grinning like they just found money in an old coat pocket. After three last-place finishes in four years and a 100-loss season still fresh in the rearview mirror, you can forgive them for the enthusiasm.

Detroit isn’t going anywhere in the Federal Association race this summer, and nobody sensible thinks they are. But for the first time in a long while, the talk isn’t about surviving the season—it’s about what might be coming.

Start with George Carney, the hometown kid from St. Ignatius. Drafted second overall, the 21-year-old right-hander is rated by OSA as the top pitching prospect in all of baseball, which is the kind of sentence that usually belongs to somebody else’s organization. Carney will make his professional debut this week at AAA Pittsburgh, and if the stars behave themselves, he could be pitching at Thompson Field before August is out. Detroit fans have seen saviors before, but they usually arrived by rumor, not résumé.

The second round brought Jay Crist, an 18-year-old right-hander who already ranks 61st on OSA’s top 100 list. Crist heads to Class A Raleigh, where the weather is hot, the hitters are impatient, and the lessons come fast. Detroit suddenly has enough teenage arms to start a Little League parade.

The real eyebrow-raiser, though, came in the 11th round. That’s where the Dynamos plucked Dan King, a 17-year-old out of a St. Louis high school who somehow slipped through the cracks long enough to become a Detroit bargain. OSA has him ranked 66th overall, which is awfully rich territory for an 11th-round pick. King joins Crist in Raleigh, and together they make a pitching coach’s phone ring a little faster.

There’s more. Vern Ladd, a fifth-round selection, is another high school arm headed to rookie ball in Biloxi. OSA has him just outside the top 100 at 107th, which in Detroit these days counts as encouraging news.

And then there’s catching, a position where the Dynamos already thought they were well-stocked. Jose Chavez, signed as a minor league free agent back in 1973, sits 69th on the OSA list. Now he has company. Third-round pick Bob McCauley, an 18-year-old backstop, ranks 111th overall and 10th among catching prospects. That’s the kind of problem teams like to have, even if it leads to arguments down the road.

Add it all up and OSA now ranks Detroit’s farm system second-best in baseball, trailing only San Francisco. The Dynamos boast nine players in the top 100, five pitchers inside that group and another five between 101 and 200. That’s a lot of arms, a lot of hope, and a lot of chances for something to go wrong—especially with pitchers, who break hearts as easily as they miss bats.

Still, it has been a long time since optimism felt even remotely justified around here. Detroit fans have grown used to squinting at the standings and looking away. This time, they’re looking at a list of names instead, and for once it doesn’t read like fiction.

Whether this draft becomes the foundation of the next Dynamos dynasty or just another chapter in the long book of almosts will be decided somewhere between Biloxi and Thompson Field over the next few summers. But for now, the Motor City is allowed a little optimism.

Just don’t get carried away. That comes later.

WOLVES GO 4-5 DURING TOUGH WEEK

The Toronto Wolves made it through their hardest road week of the season with a not entirely unsatisfactory result of 4 wins and 5 losses. With the exception of one game, a 16-9 shellacking in Cleveland on Saturday, the contests were close. Three of the other 4 losses were only by a single run with two of those needing extra innings. The other defeat was by two runs. It was tight all around as three of the four wins were by a single run while the other was a 3-1 win to close out the week at Forester Stadium.

The starting pitching was good except for Saturday with the highlight being a 1-0 complete game victory on Wednesday by Lee Humphrey thanks to McPherson's sac fly in the top of the ninth. Humphrey was dominate in a 109 pitch outing where gave up only 6 singles and a double while walking only one batter.

Manager Carl Evans was not too disappointed with going 2-2 in Milwaukee in which they only made one error in four games. Heading into Cleveland for 5 games in 4 days the Wolves lost the first two 2-1 and 4-3 in 14 before winning the back end of day/night doubleheader 4-3, After the debacle on Saturday debacle, before they headed to Montreal to close out the road trip the team got some redemption by winning in 11.

The first game in Stade Montreal will put a fork in the month of June in which the Wolves will finish either 13-17 or 12-18 after a horrendous start to the month when playing teams from the CA West. The club is playing better at the moment with both the pitching and fielding becoming more stable. Lee Humphrey seems to be turning a corner and Stan Terry rejoined the rotation in June with modest results. The base on balls in still a major problem for the entire staff. If defense can maintain its recent better play the team may stay in games longer if opponents are gifted less free passes.

At the plate Sid Cullen's hot streak has come to an end, he will be replaced in the starting lineup in Montreal with Reid moving to the outfield while Bob Reynolds will be getting another shot at first. Evans is said to be going to heavily platooned lineups to finish off the first half of the season. The Wolves bullpen is gassed the team so the needs a few starters to go deep in games during the Montreal series. Bill Cox has been recalled to provide some depth in the 'pen along with Joe Henke, a former 20th round pick, to back up in the infield. In corresponding moves George Downing and Leo Makepeace have been optioned out. The team could not keep Makepeace on the FABL roster for his glove only. This could be the end of the road for him at 29 unless he show something in AAA.

In Minor League news Davenport continues to lead the HL West with a 46-23 record led by Bob Russell, 22, with a line of .399/.532/1.114 who is soon destine for AA. Pedro Maldonado continues to make a strong case for in himself in Buffalo after a slow start, .289/.401/.531 16 HR 52 RBI is making the GM sit up and notice.

A Look At the Draft Class of '75

With the draft completed lets take a look at the selections the Wolves made and where they should start the journey to Toronto, if or when they sign.

Gene Anderson- 17-LHSP- Selected 7th overall this HS senior from New Bedford, MA. The scouting raves about his 4 quality pitches although the fastball tops out under 90 mph. It is hoped that Gene will gain some velocity as his 5'11" 165 lb. frame fills out. Signing Anderson who is said to have high demands is a top priority for the GM. Tuscaloosa should the starting point in July, if all goes well the team could give him a birthday present on 18th birthday July 16th with a promotion to Vancouver.

Eugene "Rip" Orton- 18- 2B/SS- With pick 37 Orton's name was called by the Wolves. A smooth fielding middle infielder he is a patient hitter. Spending the summer in Alabama working with the staff seems to be the future as Orton is said to slow to put concepts into practice.

Bill Franzen- 18- SS- This West New York, NJ high school senior has an upside for being power threat as he matures. Dunbar sees him as a pair with Orton in Gulf States League over this summer to get himself grounded in professional baseball.

Mel Cannon- 17- LHRP- Cannon continued the trend of taking HS players, first eight picks were from the HS ranks. Cannon has electric stuff averaging around 17 K/9 while limiting walks. If this remains true Mel could progress to Vancouver before the end of the summer.

Howie Carter- 18- OF/1B- In the fifth round Carter's name was called, Wolves staff was surprised he was not taken earlier with smooth swing, good glove with limited range in OF. Tomcats is a good place to start in a corner OF position.

Brett Mott- 18- OF- From Chicago Brett is another player drawing raves about his swing. He should be the starting CF in Tuscaloosa if he is signed soon to a contract.

John Johnson- 18- RHRP- Johnson is said to be a right handed version of Cannon which could strike terror in batting opponents in the Gulf States League over the summer.

Milo Clark- 18- 2B- Another draftee with a strong bat who will need to take steps forward defensively to take steps forward in the system.

Tommy Gooch- 22- INF/LF- First college pick Gooch can play 5 positions. He hit well against college pitching. Expect to see him starting all over in the infield in a reserve role to see if he can continue to hit. His versality makes him an interesting future project.

Francisco Obregon- 18- C- Back to high schoolers to take a C, a position in which the Wolves have depth. The hope is Obregon can add to that strength.

These top 10 are ones who give the GM a good idea of the drafting/scouting skills of Head Scout Mackey. Anderson, Orton are almost a "must" if the Wolves are to move up the standings in the next 5 years. If they have moved up these two become valuable tools to keep the team moving ahead in the CA. Dunbar moves to picks 11-20 where they hope have found at least one diamond in rough, a player who develops late into a star. There are many examples of this happening in history.

11. Joe Scott- 21- OF- The second college player taken in the draft. Scott brings promise rather than fact so far. He will have to prove himself in Vancouver in a short time frame to stay in the system.
12. Hal Griffith- 18- RHSP- A Texan who relies on control rather than power to retire hitters. Scouts hope as he fills out Hal will become a back of the rotation starter.
13. Marty Queen- 18- 1B- Queen is a development project with a quick bat that could develop some power as he fills out with age.
14. Andy Bishop- 18- RHSP- Bishop is said to leaning towards college so he may not even sign this summer.
15. Dwayne Nunn- 18- INF/LF- Nunn is said to have huge upside. He is another who is leaning to developing further in college.
16. Jimmy Cammon- 18- C/OF- Cammon is a long shot to sign, again college may be in his immediate future.
17. Mel Maupin- 17- LHRP- A control specialists, yet another longshot to sign.
18. Ace Middaugh- 21- RHRP- Saw limited game action in college so he will be on a short leash in Toronto.
19. Eddie Middlebrooks- 21- RHSP- As a junior he may stay in college for his senior year. Nothing so far to suggest that he has a short path to the FABL.
20. Bob Sherman- 21- 3B- Has had remarkably consistent college career for 3 years. Could be a late round surprise.


That concludes a review of Toronto's first twenty picks in the 1975 draft. This is the path to the future. Toronto went heavy on high schoolers early which is a big risk. The question is how many will develop into FABL players?


A late update confirms that the Wolves have signed their 1st, 9th, 11th and 20th round picks. they are still in talks with other draftees. Gene Anderson debuts at #28 in the prospects list while Joe Scott is listed at 211th.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 06/29/1975

• New York State takes direct control of city finances, as the legislature approves an emergency financial control board to oversee budgets, borrowing, and labor contracts.
• Ford administration signals possible loan guarantees for New York, marking a notable softening in the White House’s stance after weeks of resistance to federal involvement.
• Congressional leaders warn of broader urban financial risk, with lawmakers raising fears that other major U.S. cities could face similar fiscal crises.
• Canada’s economy minister warns inflation fight not over, cautioning that recent easing could reverse without wage restraint and fiscal discipline.
• Vietnam refugee admissions surge again, as additional evacuees arrive in North America and governments expand resettlement capacity.
• Supreme Court issues several late-term rulings, including decisions affecting criminal procedure and free expression, as the justices clear their docket before summer recess.
• Energy officials repeat conservation calls ahead of summer driving season, warning that stable oil supplies remain vulnerable to geopolitical shocks.

[Sevsdast]

Hopefully the Academica Alliance stays at the highest level of College football...

[Tiger Fan]

Originally Posted by Sevsdast

Hopefully the Academica Alliance stays at the highest level of College football...

I hope so as well and I think it will. The primary reason is I do not believe that DDSCF allows you to fold schools in a league so that alone would make the Academia Alliance schools safe. Even without that factor the conference as a whole has done fairly well. A school like Pierpont, which has not won a game since 1970 and enters the season on a 43-game losing streak, certainly brings the conference down but other conferences have their bottom feeders as well - Baton Rouge State in the mighty Deep South Conference famously went seven years without a win in the early 1960s.

Prestige is low for all of the Academia Alliance schools but several of them still have recruited well. Dickson had the 19th best recruiting class this year and the Maroons, have finished the season ranked in the top twenty each of the past three years and Sadler cracked the top 25 last year. Dickson even finished as high as 6th in 1966 when they went 9-1.

Brunswick landing quarterback Del Thomas Jr. in 1973 recruiting was huge as he signed with them despite plenty of other offers from big-time schools. We have "fog of war" turned on and just 1-5 ratings so it is hard to say for sure, but I think Thomas over the next 3 seasons has a decent chance to guide the Knights into the top 20 for the first time in school history. Brunswick did go 7-2 two years ago was ranked 23rd that season which is the high-water mark for the Knights.

[Tiger Fan]

JULY 7, 1975

VALENTINE TAKES MVP AS NAHC HANDS OUT HARDWARE

The St. Louis Sawyers didn’t hang around long in the playoffs, but their regular season had more than enough shine to put Pat Valentine front and center when the NAHC passed out its year-end awards.

Valentine, the Sawyers’ smooth-skating seventh-year center, was named the winner of the McDaniels Trophy as the league’s Most Valuable Player after turning in the finest season of his career. The 29-year-old piled up 114 points, finished third in league scoring, and edged out two defensemen—Boston’s Andy Agar and Montreal Valiants stalwart Mark Moggy—for the game’s top individual honor.

Moggy, who captured the McDaniels back in 1968-69, remains the only defenseman in the modern era ever to win the award.

For Valentine, the trophy is another notch on a résumé already marked by respect around the league. He won the Yeadon Trophy for gentlemanly play four years ago, and this season he backed that reputation with production, appearing in all 80 games and setting career highs with 43 goals and 114 points. His playmaking touch also lifted his wingers, Bernie Caldwell and Jim Hughes, to personal bests. Only Boston scored more goals than St. Louis during the regular season, as the Sawyers finished second in the Yeadon Division before being ushered out of the playoffs by Los Angeles.

Agar may have come up short in the MVP balloting, but he hardly went home empty-handed. The Boston defenseman captured the Dewar Trophy as the league’s top rearguard for the second straight season and added the Paddy O’Donoghue Trophy, awarded by a vote of the players to the man they consider the best in the NAHC.

Several other trophies found first-time homes this year, beginning with Chicago goaltender Rejean Gillies, who won the Juneau Trophy as the league’s top netminder. Gillies, 35, became the first Packer to claim the award since Michael Cleghorn took home a pair more than two decades ago. A late bloomer, Gillies finally got his chance after years in the minors when expansion arrived. Gillies, who debuted in the NAHC at age 28 in 1967-68, played 66 games this season and posting a 36-19-8 record, a 2.91 goals-against average, and a .905 save percentage. The Sudbury, Ontario native spent four seasons with San Francisco before being acquired by Chicago prior to the 1971-72 campaign.

The Yeadon Trophy for sportsmanship and skill went to Detroit Motors veteran Yves Dagenais. Now 31, Dagenais led the NAHC with a record 85 assists and finished second in the scoring race behind Philadelphia’s Adam McPherson. McPherson, in turn, claimed the Denny Trophy as the league’s leading scorer, marking the second straight season a Rogues player topped the charts following Gary Yeadon’s scoring title a year ago.

Rookie of the Year honors, the McLeod Trophy, were awarded to Boston Bees center Mark Berg. The 22-year-old former Saint John Saints junior combined grit with scoring touch, racking up 179 penalty minutes while scoring 28 goals and 57 points—nearly mirroring his offensive production the previous season with Springfield of the minors.

The First All-Star Team blended fresh faces with familiar ones. Montreal defenseman Mark Moggy earned his 11th first-team selection in a 15-year career, while Valentine and Agar each appeared on the top unit for the third time. Philadelphia’s Gary Yeadon was named for the second consecutive season, joined by teammate McPherson who, like Chicago’s Gillies made his first appearance on the First Team.

Minneapolis dominated the Second All-Star Team, placing goaltender Al Ferguson and the forward trio of Bill Sullivan, Anthony Baptiste, and Tom Rowley. It marked Ferguson’s second selection to the Second Team and the first for each of his Norsemen teammates. The defensive pairing consisted of St. Louis veteran Hugh McLaren, earning his third Second Team nod, alongside Boston’s Barry Waddington, who repeated the honor he received a year ago.

Below is the complete list of award winners.

BLAIR, MIDDLETON TAKE FED AWARDS AFTER JUNE DOMINANCE IN ATLANTA

When you go 26-3 in a month, it's almost assumed you are going to get rewarded for it, but for the Atlanta Copperheads a FABL high 61 wins and a 20 game division lead isn't all. You also get the Batter and the Pitcher of the Month.

It was a two-man race for Batter of the Month, with the winner Jack Blair (.346, 8, 61, 21) and the close runner up Al Hubbard (.310, 10, 44, 11). Hubbard hit well, an excellent .408/.510/.592 (208 OPS+) with 5 doubles, 3 homers, 14 walks, 14 RBIs, and 16 runs scored. But compared to Blair, that was just second best.

Atlanta's right fielder managed an even higher .427/.471/.655 (213 OPS+) with even more counting stats. He had 26 runs, 8 doubles, a triple, 5 homers, 31 RBIs, 10 steals, and 9 walks. He didn't slow in July either, batting .389/.560/.444 (184 OPS+) in his first 7 games. This has improved his season line to .346/.404/.482 (147 OPS+) with 15 doubles, 8 homers, 44 runs, and 61 RBIs. After leading the Fed with 36 steals last year, he's already up to 21 this year, good for a 40+ steal pace, and after an ice cold April, Blair has done everything he can to keep the Copperheads winning.

Same goes for Marco Middleton (12-1, 2.48, 93), Pitcher of the Month, who's perfect 5-0 June improved his season record to 11-1. There was a no decision mixed in, as Middleton held his opponents to a 2.61 ERA (146 ERA+) and 1.12 WHIP, striking out 38 in 48.1 innings pitched. Like Blair, the change in month didn't slow him down, and he again put together another production in dominance. This time a shutout, Middleton scattered 5 hits and 3 walks, striking out 4 in a 7-0 win in New York. Now 12-1, He has a 2.48 ERA (153 ERA+), 2.93 FIP (75 FIP-), and 1.11 WHIP in 130.2 innings pitched. The 4-Time Allen winner should be an 8-Time All-Star, as his Copperheads are well on their way to a fourth consecutive 100-win season.

*** Top Rookie Dynamo First Basemen ***

On the Fed side, the only award not going to the Copperheads was the Rookie of the Month, going to 89th ranked prospect and former 9th overall pick Lou Strader. An outfielder moved to first, he's always impressed with the bat, and that was exactly what happened in June. His first full month in Detroit, Strader hit a nice .288/.378/.500 (142 OPS+) with 7 doubles, 5 homers, 15 walks, 15 RBIs, and 20 runs scored. Like the other award winners, he kept it up in July, going 6-for-18 with 3 runs, 3 doubles, a triple, homer, 3 RBIs, and 3 walks.

Since his mid-may callup, he's been nothing short of excellent, hitting .297/.398/.541 (159 OPS+) with 13 doubles, 10 homers, 30 walks, 30 RBIs, and 37 runs scored. Close to his .322/.433/.598 (166 OPS+) AAA triple slash, he's been key in Detroit moving above .500. Coming off a long stretch of subpar seasons, they're still above .500, up to 43-40 and just 6 games out of first. With Strader in the cleanup spot, they've shown a lot of improvement, lightening the load off talented outfielders Geoff Taylor (.303, 8, 41, 13) and Buddy Ensey (.352, 9, 54, 11). Even Detroit themselves didn't expect to play this well, but if they have another Strader or two in the minors to help them out, they could really make the Fed West race interesting.

CONTINENTAL AWARDS SPLIT, SEATTLE SURPRISINGLY ABSENT

All season long the Seattle Kings have dominated the Continental Association, but for once that dominance didn't spill over to award voting. Left out of the ceremony, it was players from Dallas, Cleveland, and Chicago that were rewarded for their efforts.

Dallas had the headliner, as despite battling with a knee and hamstring injury, the Chicago born Nick Parker (.338, 9, 47, 5) was named Continental Batter of the Month. Seemingly always dealing with an injury of some kind, the near 27-year-old decided to forego the IL stints that usually come with them, hitting a robust .391/.482/.598 (196 OPS+), the first basemen tacked on 10 doubles, 3 homers, 18 RBIs, 17 runs, 17 steals, and even 3 steals, and after a week of July games he's hitting .338/.438/.502 (159 OPS+) on the season. His bat helped fuel the Wranglers June turnaround, as they followed their 7-19 May with a much improved 17-12 June. Now 41-43, they won't come close to their franchise high 95 wins from last year, but they could at least put together a third consecutive winning season.

For pitchers, it was 35-year-old Roy Rice (10-5, 3.11, 89), who went 6-0 for the Foresters in 7 starts. A big reason why Cleveland is now a game over .500, Rice held a 2.66 ERA (143 ERA+), 2.52 FIP (65 FIP-), and 1.14 WHIP in 50.2 innings, striking out 41 to just 17 walks. Dating back to May 12th, he's now won eight consecutive decisions, an impressive 10-5 in 19 starts. The 1972 All-Star is looking for his second trip, working to a 3.11 ERA (123 ERA+), 2.99 FIP (77 FIP-), and 1.11 WHIP in 130.1 innings pitched. A surprising source of consistency, the flyball pitcher has finally kept the ball in the park, as he went from a Conti leading 28 allowed last year to just 6 so far. If this holds, Rice could complete his second star level season with the Foresters, and his 3.3 WAR is just 0.4 off his previous high of 3.7 in his All-Star season.

The top rookie also came from the mound, as hot-shot Cougar farmhand Bill Bartlett (4-2, 2.42, 25) was named the Association's top rookie. When June started, he was actually still in the Century League, and he was called up for a June 9th debut. Bartlett replaced the injured Hal Adams (3-5, 4.20, 37), and he picked up a complete game win in his FABL debut against Toronto. Despite his lack of experience, he's had little issues in the majors, and went 3-2 with a 2.51 ERA (155 ERA+), 3.44 FIP (88 FIP-), and 1.18 WHIP in his first big league month. That was followed up with a near complete game, leaving with one out left in an eventual 4-2 win over the Mavs. Bartlett allowed 9 hits, 2 runs (1 earned), and a walk, striking out 6 to improve to 4-2. The low walk total was huge for him, as he already has two 5-walk starts and a 9.2 BB%. Despite that, his ability to generate grounders and weak contact has allowed him to find success without it.

• Monthly awards took center stage, but as always FABL delivers their weekly awards each Monday. He didn't get the rookie award, but Millers rookie Bill Barber (.322, 11, 56) was Fed Player of the Week, the first of his young career. He won Rookie of the Month in April and May, and with this week he's looking to get back into things with July. 11-for-26, he hit 6 doubles and 2 homers with 2 walks and 5 runs scored and driven in. In the Conti, it was the struggling Johnny Kelley (.277, 1, 23, 4), who even after a big week still owns just a 83 WRC+ in 84 games. KC's second basemen had about his season's worth of production in one week, 15-for-29 with 6 runs, 2 doubles, a triple, a steal, 3 walks, 7 RBIs, and his first and so far only homer of the season. It was his first since 1972, and his only one in 859 PAs as a Maverick.
• All-Star teams will be announced over the weekend, with players getting one last chance to showcase their skills. The battles for pitching spots are always tight and highly contested, but so should a lot of the other position player votes. Others will be easy, as you can already pen in guys like Tom Lally (.306, 20, 65, 6) and Hal Bennett (11-4, 1.99, 60), who have been nothing short of elite this season.
• A majority of the first round has signed, with three remaining first rounders. The most notable add is 5th overall pick Pete Ayers, as Cleveland's new top prospect checks in at 4th overall. It is now likely that the new class will have half the top-10 prospects, with Ayers joined by Frank Torsiello (1st), George Carney (2nd), Tom Brewer (8th), and Harry May (10th). May is the only non-first rounder, taken 49th overall, slightly edging Milwaukee first rounder Willis Amason for the final spot in the top ten.
• Other new additions to the top-100 incldue Ralph Reed (LAS, 21st; #13), Buzz Miller (SEA, 23rd; #21), Ray Moran (SEA, 47th, #36), Sam Cramer (MIL, 41st; #39), Elmer Allen (STL, 38th; #90), Clyde Bacon (CLE, 245th; #95), Mikey Wyatt (LAS, 93rd; #97), and Gilby Smith (CHI, 244th, #98). Reed and Miller are the only 1st Rounders, with Bacon and Smith both taken in the 11th.
• Baltimore and Cincinnati made another trade, acquiring corner infielder Jack Jewell (.600, 3) from the Cannons for minor league pitcher Ken King. Jewell, who the Clippers added right to the active roster, is a former undrafted free agent who worked his way up to the Cannons roster for the 1972 season. He spent time on the bench that year and the next, but was later DFA'd. Now back in the majors, he's really no more then a bench piece, but all they had to give up is a below average young reliever.
• During Marco Middleton's shutout, Don Riley (.286, 3, 28, 22) tried to steal the headlines, as the speedy outfielder was a perfect 5-for-5 in the 7-0 win. Adding a double, 2 steals, and 2 runs, the 1972 All-Star was a key part even if his runs weren't really needed. 34 in August, he's hit a solid .286/.396/.378 (118 OPS+) on the year, on track for his second career 5 WAR season. The shutout wasn't the only of the day either, as Jay Hunt (7-6, 1.96, 72) got back above .500 with a 4-hit shutout of the Pioneers. It seems like games like that are the only way the Comets' righty can win, as despite his sub-2 ERA, he was as poor as 2-5 with a 2.72 ERA when June started.
• Add another shutout for John Roberts (3-5, 3.81, 40), who also seems like he can only win when he doesn't allow runs. His second of the season, he held the first place Arrows to 6 hits and 2 walks with 4 strikeouts. Just 3 wins on the season, he's won back-to-back starts, but in his first 15 games (7 starts) his only win was a shutout to start his season. The pen is unfamiliar territory for Roberts, started the first 347 games of his FABL career.
• A final shutout went to the reigning Allen winner, as Roger Alford (8-9, 3.22, 61) used his infield to stymie the Mavericks offense. Generating 17 groundballs, Alford burned plenty of worms in his 5-hit shutout. All but one ball was in play, as he struck out one and didn't walk any, improving to 8-9 on the season. Despite the poor record, his 3.22 ERA (120 ERA+) and 3.32 FIP (85 FIP-) are outstanding, but it's unlikely he'll return for his second All-Star appearance this year.
• Bad news for Bill Austin (.270, 3, 25, 2), who will have to wait a few more days before returning to action. Expected to return this week, he suffered a minor setback in his recovery. The high ankle sprain has cost him nearly two months, and while they've done well without him, they could really use his bat. Second basemen Melvin Williams (.215, 34, 26, 3) has just a 61 WRC+ in 76 games and Austin's replacement at third George Crain (.264, 4, 26, 2) is higher, but still below average, at 89. I'd expect Austin to replace Williams at second, as the almost 24-year-old Crain has more upside, versatility, and does good to work the count.
• We'll have a reunion in Chicago this week, as the Cougars claimed their former 12th Rounder Tom McDaniel (0-0, 1, 7.11, 11) off waivers from the Saints. A 29-year-old reliever, McDaniel debuted for the Cougars in 1970 and pitched in each season with Chicago through 1974. He had some success, a 3.67 ERA (102 ERA+) and 1.32 WHIP with 20 saves and 87 strikeouts in 161.2 innings. His 13 appearances with Montreal did not go well, as he allowed 39 hits, 20 runs, and 8 walks in 25.1 innings. Despite that, his 3.99 FIP (102 FIP-) was right around average, and since the Cougars are in need of some pen help after Bill Jackson (1-1, 5, 2.31, 1) fractured his elbow.

FOOTBALL CONFERENCE PREVIEW: ROCKY MOUNTAIN AND SOUTHERN BORDER

Two western leagues take the spotlight this week as our college football previews continue with a look at the Rocky Mountain Athletic Association and the Southern Border Association. Neither conference has ever claimed a national championship, but both have enjoyed moments on the national stage—and each enters the season with its own familiar storylines and lingering questions.

Rocky Mountain Athletic Association

The Rocky Mountain Athletic Association has flirted with prominence over the years, most notably in 1966 when South Valley State stormed to an 11–1 season, capped by a Bayside Classic victory and a fifth-place finish in the final polls. More recently, the conference returned to the New Year’s spotlight last season as Utah A&M earned its first-ever Classic berth.

The Aggies made the most of the opportunity, edging independent Commonwealth Catholic 23–20 in the Lone Star Classic to finish 11–1. Their lone defeat came at the hands of Cache Valley in conference play, but a modest schedule ultimately left Utah A&M slotted tenth in the final rankings. Still, it marked the program’s first conference championship since 1957 and signaled a shift in a league dominated in recent years by Wyoming A&I.

Utah A&M’s rise has been fueled by one of the most unusual stars in the country. Freshman quarterback Ernest Kidd captured the Christian Trophy last season, becoming the first quarterback to win the award since 1948. Kidd, however, is a quarterback in name only. He threw for just 477 yards but led the nation in rushing with an astonishing 1,763 yards and 15 touchdowns, redefining the position in the process. At just 19, Kidd will again be the centerpiece as the Aggies aim for another New Year’s appearance.

The RMAA’s history with the Christian Trophy runs deeper than Kidd alone. South Valley State running back Harry Clinton claimed the honor in 1959, while Utah A&M fullback Marty Wargo won it in 1954—evidence that while the conference may lack national titles, it has produced elite individual talent.

Utah A&M enters the season as the favorite, but Wyoming A&I is expected to provide stiff resistance. The Prospectors return one of the most punishing backfields in the region, led by sophomore Harold Cox and junior Barry Bergeron, both of whom topped 1,300 rushing yards a year ago. If anyone is poised to knock the Aggies from their perch, it may well be Wyoming A&I, which entered last season having won four titles in a six year period.

Southern Border Association

The Southern Border Association’s path to national recognition runs annually through El Paso. The conference champion receives an automatic berth in the Desert Classic, where the SBA representative faces an at-large opponent on New Year’s Day. The results, however, have been uneven at best.

Last season, Valley State earned the trip but struggled mightily, falling 37–13 to Whitney College. That result was hardly an anomaly. The SBA champion has won just eight of 34 Desert Classic appearances, with the last victory coming seven years ago when El Paso Methodist defeated Carolina Poly.

While the conference has yet to produce a Christian Trophy winner, it has not gone unnoticed on the defensive side of the ball. Two years ago, Valley State defensive back Alvin Butters was named the AIAA’s top defender, and last season Canyon A&M sophomore cornerback Edward King earned All-American honors.

Parity remains the defining trait of the Southern Border Association recently. Three different schools have claimed the conference title over the past three seasons, and no clear favorite has emerged heading into the fall. That balance makes the league unpredictable—and dangerous—though it also means the SBA champion will once again be tested when it reaches the Desert Classic stage.

As the season approaches, the Rocky Mountain Athletic Association appears to have a standard-bearer in Utah A&M, while the Southern Border Association remains wide open. One conference leans on a singular, electrifying star. The other relies on depth, defense, and weekly uncertainty. Together, they form one of the more intriguing corners of the college football landscape.

WOLVES PITCHING RETURNS TO OLD WAYS

Toronto baseball fans who had begun to think that the pitching has improved after a week of lower scoring received a rude awakening this week. It started with a 6-2 loss on the last day of June in Montreal then things got progressively worse with a few exceptions as June turned to July. The Saints took two more games by scores of 6-2 and 10-4 before in a game rare offensive output Toronto avoided a 4 game sweep by winning 12-2 led by Jackie Daniels' two home run 4 RBI night.

Returning home after an arduous road trip Wolves ran their winning streak to two with a walkoff walk in the ninth against Cleveland. The Foresters got their revenge in the Saturday twin bill by manhandling the home side 8-3 and 17-4 leaving the fans, staff and players shaking their heads. Fans, or at least the few left in the stands, also serenaded the players off the field with boos.

The team won on Sunday afternoon before a surprising large crowd of 12,465 surviving 4 errors while banging out 14 hits including 3 homers to win 10-7. As Dunbar has said since the spring this team needs pitching and defense to win on a consistent basis and this win was more good luck than good play.

Toronto now heads into the All-Star break with hosting Seattle and Los Angeles who have won 9 of the 12 games from the Wolves this season before heading west for 9 games after the short hiatus. They had a 2-7 record on the same trip west in May.

In better news for the future Pedro Maldonado was Union League's player of the month after hitting 12 HR, driving in 28 while scoring 26 times in June. For the season on a struggling Nickels team Maldonado has a line of .283/.396/.528 18 HR 55 RBI making it difficult for the GM to keep him down on the farm. The front office line is they want him to stay down to work on his game, while Les Reid remains hot in the FABL. In Davenport Moses Watts received the same award in the Heartland League after hitting .381 in June scoring 27 runs. At 22 he still needs work at short to move up to AA, he is currently blocked by Scotty Timmons' .306/.365/.469 performance in the Dixie League along with strong fielding at short, second.

Another draftee signed, as lefty Mel Cannon, drafted in the 4th round will make his professional debut in Tuscaloosa this week. Negotiations continue with the others selected; the team will start moving player around in system once the Rookie League roster begins to fill out.

The Week That Was
Current events from the week ending 07/06/1975

• President Ford announces conditional federal aid plan for New York City, proposing loan guarantees tied to strict fiscal oversight, ending weeks of uncertainty over Washington’s role.
• New York City averts immediate shutdown, as emergency financing allows payrolls to be met and basic services to continue through the summer.
• Canada unveils tougher anti-inflation stance, with Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau signaling that voluntary restraint may give way to mandatory wage and price controls.
• Supreme Court clears final cases before recess, issuing decisions on school desegregation remedies and criminal justice that draw national attention.
• Congress moves closer to amending War Powers Act, with bipartisan momentum building after committee approvals earlier in the summer.
• Energy prices edge upward despite steady supply, as refiners raise gasoline prices ahead of peak holiday travel.
• Indochinese refugee housing shortages surface, with several U.S. states and Canadian cities warning that emergency placements are nearing capacity.
• Bicentennial planning intensifies nationwide, as federal and local officials accelerate preparations for 1976 celebrations amid budget scrutiny.

[Sevsdast]

Originally Posted by Tiger Fan

I hope so as well and I think it will. The primary reason is I do not believe that DDSCF allows you to fold schools in a league so that alone would make the Academia Alliance schools safe. Even without that factor the conference as a whole has done fairly well. A school like Pierpont, which has not won a game since 1970 and enters the season on a 43-game losing streak, certainly brings the conference down but other conferences have their bottom feeders as well - Baton Rouge State in the mighty Deep South Conference famously went seven years without a win in the early 1960s.

Prestige is low for all of the Academia Alliance schools but several of them still have recruited well. Dickson had the 19th best recruiting class this year and the Maroons, have finished the season ranked in the top twenty each of the past three years and Sadler cracked the top 25 last year. Dickson even finished as high as 6th in 1966 when they went 9-1.

Brunswick landing quarterback Del Thomas Jr. in 1973 recruiting was huge as he signed with them despite plenty of other offers from big-time schools. We have "fog of war" turned on and just 1-5 ratings so it is hard to say for sure, but I think Thomas over the next 3 seasons has a decent chance to guide the Knights into the top 20 for the first time in school history. Brunswick did go 7-2 two years ago was ranked 23rd that season which is the high-water mark for the Knights.

So the Ivies of this world continue to gain momentum...