OOTP24: Baseball in the Desert? Field of Dreams or Fields of Folly?

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AL EAST
Team	W	L	WPct	GB	R	RA
New York Yankees	102	60	.630	-	774	584
Detroit Tigers	94	68	.580	8	911	803
Boston Red Sox	84	79	.515	18½	830	808
Baltimore Orioles	78	84	.481	24	844	828
Tampa Bay Tarpons	78	84	.481	24	847	821

AL CENTRAL
Team	W	L	WPct	GB	R	RA
Chicago White Sox	94	68	.580	-	912	771
Memphis Chicks	85	78	.521	9½	862	870
Kansas City Monarchs	84	78	.519	10	917	873
Dallas Chaparrals	78	84	.481	16	817	874
Birmingham Barons	58	104	.358	36	666	970

AL WEST
Team	W	L	WPct	GB	R	RA
Arizona Diamondbacks	84	78	.519	-	874	842
Los Angeles Browns	83	79	.512	1	773	756
Colorado Rockies	73	89	.451	11	744	831
Portland Beavers	71	91	.438	13	774	822
Sacramento Solons	69	93	.426	15	769	874

NL EAST
Team	W	L	WPct	GB	R	RA
Washington Grays	97	65	.599	-	880	772
Miami Marlins	82	80	.506	15	755	707
Pittsburgh Pirates	81	81	.500	16	714	720
New York Mets	79	83	.488	18	751	742
Philadelphia Phillies	76	86	.469	21	786	857

NL CENTRAL
Team	W	L	WPct	GB	R	RA
Minnesota Giants	85	77	.525	-	771	728
Chicago Cubs	78	84	.481	7	812	805
San Antonio Rebeldes	72	90	.444	13	760	815
St. Louis Cardinals	69	93	.426	16	791	898
Cincinnati Reds	68	94	.420	17	747	878

NL WEST
Team	W	L	WPct	GB	R	RA
San Francisco Seals	88	74	.543	-	687	706
Salt Lake Bees	87	75	.537	1	790	724
San Diego Padres	87	75	.537	1	778	732
Los Angeles Dodgers	86	76	.531	2	864	771
Houston Astros	81	81	.500	7	758	776



POST-SEASON RESULTS
Wild Card Series	Arizona over Kansas City, 2-0
Wild Card Series	Detroit over Memphis, 2-1
Wild Card Series	Salt Lake over Los Angeles, 2-1
Wild Card Series	Minnesota over San Diego, 2-0
Division Series	New York over Arizona, 3-1
Division Series	Chicago over Detroit, 3-2
Division Series	Washington over Minnesota, 3-2
Division Series	Salt Lake over San Francisco, 3-1
League Championship Series	New York over Chicago, 4-3
League Championship Series	Washington over Salt Lake, 4-3
World Series	New York over Washington, 5-1

2049 AWARD WINNERS

NL

Roberto Clemente Award: Allie Barker (Washington Grays) - Barker had an outstanding season with a batting line of .371/.427/.613, 27 home runs, 62 stolen bases, 123 runs scored, 109 RBIs, and an impressive 8.8 WAR.

Satchel Paige Award: Dwaine Ordaz (Salt Lake City Bees) - Ordaz excelled as a pitcher, finishing the season with an 18-5 record, a 3.43 ERA, 223.0 innings pitched, a 1.18 WHIP, 15.5 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 7.3 WAR.

Rookie of the Year Award: Parker Graham (Los Angeles Dodgers) - Graham made a strong impact in his rookie season, posting a 12-7 record, a 2.96 ERA, 176.1 innings pitched, a 1.29 WHIP, 11.7 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 6.3 WAR.

Reliever of the Year Award: Moe Williams (San Francisco Seals) - Williams had an impressive season as a reliever, recording a 9-2 record, 30 saves, a 1.70 ERA, 69.0 innings pitched, a 1.06 WHIP, 13.3 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 3.1 WAR.

Gold Glove Award (Pitcher): Egan Holbrook (Houston Astros) - Holbrook demonstrated excellent fielding skills with a .964 fielding percentage, 4 putouts, 23 assists, and a range of 1.20.

Gold Glove Award (Catcher): Braden Mach (San Francisco Seals) - Mach displayed exceptional defensive abilities behind the plate, maintaining a .999 fielding percentage, 1113 putouts, 181 assists, and an impressive 48.4% caught stealing rate.

Gold Glove Award (First Base): Dwayne Hardin (Minnesota Giants) - Hardin showcased excellent fielding at first base, with a .998 fielding percentage, 504 putouts, 41 assists, and a range of 7.00.

Gold Glove Award (Second Base): Bryan Jencks (St. Louis Cardinals) - Jencks exhibited superb defensive skills at second base, boasting a .994 fielding percentage, 201 putouts, 294 assists, and a range of 3.72.

Gold Glove Award (Third Base): Adilson Antonio (Salt Lake City Bees) - Antonio demonstrated excellent fielding prowess at third base, with a .984 fielding percentage, 30 putouts, 154 assists, and a range of 1.84.

Gold Glove Award (Shortstop): Emmet Brooks (Minnesota Giants) - Brooks displayed remarkable defensive abilities at shortstop, maintaining a .998 fielding percentage, 169 putouts, 403 assists, and a range of 3.85.

Gold Glove Award (Left Field): Shayne Patchen (Chicago Cubs) - Patchen stood out defensively in left field, with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage, 215 putouts, 4 assists, and a range of 1.96.

Gold Glove Award (Center Field): Allie Barker (Washington Grays) - Barker showcased excellent defensive skills in center field, with a .994 fielding percentage, 339 putouts, 6 assists, and a range of 2.41.

Gold Glove Award (Right Field): Santiago Rivera (San Diego Padres) - Rivera displayed superb defensive abilities in right field, maintaining a .995 fielding percentage, 206 putouts, 6 assists, and a range of 1.80.

Silver Slugger Award (Catcher): Rigo Almeida (Philadelphia Phillies) - Almeida had an impressive offensive season, batting .297/.374/.513 with 20 home runs, 64 RBIs, and a 6.1 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (First Base): Ray Ray Lacayo (San Diego Padres) - Lacayo showcased his offensive prowess, batting .315/.391/.544 with 29 home runs, 114 RBIs, and a 3.7 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Second Base): Karim Khalloufi (Philadelphia Phillies) - Khalloufi excelled offensively, posting a batting line of .348/.425/.519 with 15 home runs, 74 RBIs, and a 5.2 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Third Base): Colin Love Jr. (New York Mets) - Love Jr. had an impressive season at the plate, batting .340/.434/.500 with 18 home runs, 75 RBIs, and a 4.2 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Shortstop): Jay Sakai (Philadelphia Phillies) - Sakai demonstrated his offensive skills, batting .301/.399/.466 with 15 home runs, 36 RBIs, and a 4.9 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Left Field): Marco Suniga (Los Angeles Dodgers) - Suniga had an impressive offensive season, batting .332/.409/.571 with 19 home runs, 72 RBIs, and a 4.1 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Center Field): Allie Barker (Washington Grays) - Barker showcased his offensive prowess, batting .371/.427/.613 with 27 home runs, 109 RBIs, and an outstanding 8.8 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Right Field): Kong Nguyen (Minnesota Twins) - Nguyen had a strong offensive performance, batting .329/.402/.534 with 29 home runs, 99 RBIs, and a 3.8 WAR.

Designated Hitter of the Year: Ludovico Cordero (Los Angeles Dodgers) - Cordero had an impressive season as a designated hitter, batting .325/.421/.540 with 30 home runs, 95 RBIs, and a 4.7 WAR.

AL
Roberto Clemente Award: Diego Torres (Arizona Diamondbacks) - Torres had a solid season as a pitcher, finishing with a 15-7 record, a 3.89 ERA, 222.0 innings pitched, a 1.29 WHIP, 13.2 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 7.5 WAR.

Satchel Paige Award: Martín Izquierdo (Memphis Chicks) - Izquierdo excelled as a pitcher, posting a 19-6 record, a 3.04 ERA, 251.1 innings pitched, a 1.20 WHIP, 14.2 strikeouts per nine innings, and an impressive 9.4 WAR.

Rookie of the Year Award: Vic Taylor (New York Yankees) - Taylor had an exceptional rookie season, batting .365/.420/.571 with 26 home runs, 4 stolen bases, a 147 wRC+, and a 4.8 WAR.

Reliever of the Year Award: Kai Thein (New York Yankees) - Thein had a strong performance as a reliever, recording a 7-6 record, 46 saves, a 2.04 ERA, 79.1 innings pitched, a 1.30 WHIP, 11.1 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 2.4 WAR.

Gold Glove Award (Pitcher): Rodolfo Díaz (New York Yankees) - Díaz demonstrated excellent fielding skills as a pitcher, with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage, 7 putouts, 13 assists, and a range of 0.80.

Gold Glove Award (Catcher): Eddie Garcia (Boston Red Sox) - Garcia showcased exceptional defensive abilities behind the plate, maintaining a .997 fielding percentage, 1193 putouts, 174 assists, and an impressive 52.0% caught stealing rate.

Gold Glove Award (First Base): Tatu Myllärinen (Kansas City Royals) - Myllärinen displayed excellent fielding at first base, with a .997 fielding percentage, 584 putouts, 39 assists, and a range of 7.66.

Gold Glove Award (Second Base): Sammy Delgado (Los Angeles Browns) - Delgado exhibited superb defensive skills at second base, boasting a .998 fielding percentage, 229 putouts, 314 assists, and a range of 3.81.

Gold Glove Award (Third Base): Ian Hierro (Baltimore Orioles) - Hierro demonstrated excellent fielding prowess at third base, with a .971 fielding percentage, 59 putouts, 247 assists, and a range of 2.12.

Gold Glove Award (Shortstop): Apolino Brea (Chicago White Sox) - Brea displayed remarkable defensive abilities at shortstop, maintaining a .983 fielding percentage, 187 putouts, 394 assists, and a range of 4.04.

Gold Glove Award (Left Field): Mike Mwangi (Sacramento Solons) - Mwangi stood out defensively in left field, with a .996 fielding percentage, 224 putouts, 5 assists, and a range of 1.92.

Gold Glove Award (Center Field): Grayson Rasor (Baltimore Orioles) - Rasor showcased excellent defensive skills in center field, with a .980 fielding percentage, 432 putouts, 7 assists, and a range of 3.12.

Gold Glove Award (Right Field): Chano Canino (Sacramento Solons) - Canino demonstrated superb defensive abilities in right field, maintaining a .994 fielding percentage, 301 putouts, 8 assists, and a range of 2.22.

Silver Slugger Award (Catcher): Kyler Dingel (Los Angeles Browns) - Dingel had an impressive offensive season, batting .336/.401/.581 with 26 home runs, 79 RBIs, and a 3.8 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (First Base): Franklin Abreu (Sacramento Solons) - Abreu showcased his offensive prowess, batting .315/.422/.587 with 37 home runs, 99 RBIs, and a 5.3 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Second Base): Chad Hardman (Arizona Diamondbacks) - Hardman excelled offensively, posting a batting line of .325/.387/.526 with 31 home runs, 97 RBIs, and a 4.8 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Third Base): Yoennis López (Detroit Tigers) - López had an outstanding season at the plate, batting .351/.416/.588 with 38 home runs, 114 RBIs, and a 7.4 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Shortstop): Brennan Cain (Colorado Rockies) - Cain displayed his offensive skills, batting .343/.396/.573 with 31 home runs, 105 RBIs, and a 4.9 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Left Field): Andy Hemphill (Boston Red Sox) - Hemphill had an impressive offensive season, batting .372/.453/.525 with 13 home runs, 79 RBIs, and a 5.8 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Center Field): Parker Calder (Memphis Chicks) - Calder showcased his offensive prowess, batting .299/.382/.574 with 45 home runs, 111 RBIs, and a 4.6 WAR.

Silver Slugger Award (Right Field): Mikey Beregi (Tampa Bay Tarpons) - Beregi had a stellar offensive performance, batting .342/.477/.654 with 44 home runs, 119 RBIs, and an outstanding 9.0 WAR.

Designated Hitter of the Year: Christian Ciano (Kansas City Royals) - Ciano had a strong season as a designated hitter, batting .329/.397/.526 with 31 home runs, 110 RBIs, and a 3.7 WAR.

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In the Players League East division, the Milwaukee Braves finished in first place with a record of 98 wins and 56 losses, followed by the Brooklyn Gothams in second place with 88 wins and 66 losses. The Carolina Twins secured the third spot with 78 wins and 76 losses, while the Philadelphia Keystones and Cleveland Guardians finished fourth and fifth respectively.

In the Players League West division, the Albuquerque Sand Sox claimed the top position with 87 wins and 67 losses, while the Boise Angels finished second with 79 wins and 75 losses. The Vancouver Grizzlies, Seattle Mariners, and California Gold Hearts completed the standings in that order.

In the Federal League East division, the Montreal Expos secured first place with an impressive record of 97 wins and 57 losses. The Indianapolis Clowns followed in second place with 82 wins and 72 losses, while the Toronto Blue Jays finished third with 85 wins and 69 losses. The Atlanta Thrashers, Nashville Sounds, and New York Skyliners completed the division.

In the Federal League West division, the Oklahoma City 89ers claimed the top spot with 97 wins and 57 losses. The Oakland Oaks finished second with 88 wins and 66 losses. The Las Vegas Athletics, Chicago Whales, Austin Senators, and Omaha Storm Chasers rounded out the standings in that order.

GLB Post-Season

In the United League Wild Card round, the Boise Angels defeated the Carolina Twins and the Toronto Blue Jays won against the Indianapolis Clowns.

In the United League Elimination Series, the Boise Angels emerged victorious over the Brooklyn Gothams, while the Oakland Oaks defeated the Toronto Blue Jays.

The United League Division Series saw the Albuquerque Sand Sox defeating the Boise Angels and the Oakland Oaks triumphing over the Montreal Expos.

In the United League Championship Series, the Milwaukee Braves defeated the Albuquerque Sand Sox, and the Oklahoma City 89ers won against the Oakland Oaks.

Finally, in the Commissioner Cup, the Milwaukee Braves emerged as the champions by defeating the Oklahoma City 89ers in a seven-game series.

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At the moment, I have this idea that I'll get immersed into the Arab League and start identifying guys I'd like to see play on a traditional major league team. At some point, perhaps the next idea would be for one of the Arab League teams to get scooped up by a MLB or GLB team like major college football realignment. Perhaps oil cash can induce the Mets or somebody to head to the desert and play winter league baseball?

Probably not. So far, it's shaping up like the Diamond League will end up being able to accommodate guys who are too good for the minors but not good enough for the "real" majors yet, so it could be a decent player development ladder if it's done right where you could see young guys plying their trade in the Arab League before getting dealt or scooped up by a MLB team.

I can't decide if the Galactic League major league off-shoots are destined to be better or even with this league. Right now, it seems they are relatively level, with the best Diamond League teams being able to dominate GL clubs, but the bottom falls out pretty fast there. Major League teams are better than all of them it seems, though.

We'll see how it evolves though, it's still pretty early but guys aren't signing with the Diamond League teams as much as you'd think despite the increased money opportunities, I do wonder if the game puts more of a premium on league reputation than we thought.

Which would make sense when the league got elevated to Major League that guys would rather play in a Major league, than not.

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While I figure out my structure of how I want to tell stories -- it might just be stuff like this -- I want to talk about Colin Love who'll be a Hall of Famer, for still clocking away at 39. He's heading to the post-season with the Sacramento Solons. Cool story, right? Well, it gets funnier.

Because he's been subjected to be in a league I ran, the Solons are a peripatetic organization that have been in like 6 cities since they were originally founded. Normally, I would solve this problem by deleting the original club and creating an expansion club and moving all the players there, but I didn't do that with this club because I didn't realize I was going to move them until I did each time.

(Admittedly, this was over the course of like 3-4 real life calendar years, so there's some excuse)

Here's the franchise history.

2026: Oklahoma City Twisters (expansion)
2027-30: Las Vegas Scorpions
2031-32: Minnesota Loons
2033: Pittsburgh Finches
2034-38: Indianapolis Racers
2039-44: Alaska Goldpanners
2045-present (2050): Sacramento Solons

He obviously wasn't around for all of that moving. He didn't join the franchise until 2031 when the then-Oklahoma City Dodgers dealt him to Minnesota to play for the Loons. (OKC got an expansion team when the Dodgers left, but then it moved again)

From there, he stayed on with the club through the Minnesota years, became a fan-favorite in Indiana and then even schlepped to Alaska for 3.5 years before the Panners traded him back to Indianapolis at a deadline deal. Rather than stick around, he signed with the Houston Astros and won a World Series title in 2045, spent 6 years in Houston before signing with the New York Mets last year. Their playoff hopes quickly were dashed and in the off-season, I decided to send him to Sacramento in the hopes of making it a full circle storyline. Plus, the game will retire him as a Solon regardless (because of how OOTP retires guys), so I wanted to make sure he actually had played for the franchise.




It's been a successful year in Sac-Town, he's hit .284, had a 1 WAR and currently sits at 3187 career hits. This is their 2nd playoff appearance in 3 years, but this time they've won the AL West and are looking to get beyond just the 1st round.

Funny enough, this franchise had one other guy who had only ever played for them through every city, OF Harlan Brown (32.9 WAR, 2140 hits, .277 career BA) he was only an all-star once, but started with them in Las Vegas and went all the way through Alaska, but became a free agent the off-season before the Sacramento move and they didn't resign him.

I don't have managers or coaches on, but I retired his number anyway and he said that he's the manager of the Solons because it's the only thing that makes any sense.

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Sports Illustrated: A New Era in Baseball - The Birth of Two-Tier Promotion & Relegation Structure

In a groundbreaking move that is set to revolutionize the world of baseball, Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Galactic League have come together to form a pioneering two-tier promotion and relegation system. This unprecedented partnership will not only elevate the game's global reach but also provide a thrilling new dynamic to the competition.

The visionary concept of promotion and relegation has long been employed in other sports around the world, and now baseball is embracing this innovative model. Under the new arrangement, the Galactic Series champion will earn a coveted spot in the revered Major League Baseball, providing players and fans alike with the ultimate dream of competing at the highest level of the sport.

The 2052 season will mark the inauguration of this momentous change. The Montreal Expos, having triumphed in the Galactic Series, will now step onto the grand stage of MLB, ready to take on the best teams in the world. Their journey from the Galactic League to MLB represents a giant leap forward for international talent and showcases the growing strength of baseball beyond the traditional borders.

Meanwhile, the MLB's long-established promotion/relegation system will determine which teams will face the challenge of retaining their spots in the prestigious league. After a challenging regular season, the San Francisco Seals and the Birmingham Barons, both facing disappointing records, will vie for survival in a thrilling "Relegation Series."

The Relegation Series is a best-of-five game spectacle that will leave baseball enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. The San Francisco Seals (69-93) and the Birmingham Barons (68-94) will battle with every fiber of their being to secure their place in MLB for the following season. The stakes couldn't be higher, as one team will remain among the elite, while the other will make the journey to the revamped "MLB2," the new moniker for the Galactic League starting next year.

While this merger marks a historic union between MLB and the Galactic League, discussions are also underway to incorporate the Diamond League into the fold. Operating during a non-traditional winter season, the Diamond League, formerly known as the Arab League, has its own unique appeal. Some concerns about the league's smaller markets have been raised, but Diamond League owners, eager to participate at the highest level, have been making substantial investments, even buying MLB clubs to align with the sport's rising popularity.

The Diamond League's focus on developing its own international talent ecosystem from players across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean has been an inspiring narrative. As it looks to assimilate into the Major League ecosystem, the potential infusion of fresh talent and diverse styles of play could make for a truly enriching experience for baseball fans worldwide.

The 2052 season will be a turning point in baseball history, as the convergence of these leagues and the inception of the two-tier promotion and relegation system signify a new era in the sport. With the Montreal Expos leading the charge, aspiring players from around the globe will set their sights on the stars, fueling the ambition of generations to come. As fans eagerly await the Relegation Series clash, the anticipation of a nail-biting contest has the baseball world buzzing with excitement.

So, mark your calendars and brace yourself for a thrilling season that will redefine baseball as we know it. The stage is set, the game is changing, and the world of baseball is about to embark on an unforgettable journey into a bold and boundless future.

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Diamond League agrees to join Major League umbrella as MLB3
November 26, 2051

In a monumental move that will reshape the landscape of professional baseball, the Diamond League has reached an agreement to join Major League Baseball (MLB) as MLB3. The integration of the Diamond League into the MLB ecosystem marks a significant step towards unifying the sport under one umbrella and providing fans with an enhanced global baseball experience.

As talks of the merger progressed, the MLB leadership engaged in discussions with Diamond League officials to facilitate a seamless transition into the MLB family. While specific details are still being finalized, the proposal includes the repatriation of Diamond League clubs to North America as part of the new MLB3 division. The relocation process will involve careful consideration to ensure a geographically diverse and competitive league structure.

One of the key aspects under consideration is the potential number of teams that will be selected to participate in MLB3. While it remains uncertain how many of the current 16 Diamond League teams will make the cut, the goal is to assemble a league that brings together the most talented and competitive franchises. The selection process will take into account various factors, including market size, fan base, and the overall strength of the teams.

Commissioner John Hastings expressed his excitement about the Diamond League joining MLB3, stating, "This historic merger between the Diamond League and Major League Baseball represents a significant milestone for the sport. We are thrilled to welcome the Diamond League clubs and their international talent into the MLB family. This move will further strengthen our commitment to providing fans with a global baseball experience."

While the integration plans are well underway, there are still important considerations to address. The Diamond League's ongoing season, which is approximately a quarter of the way through, raises questions about its completion. MLB3's debut in the upcoming 2053 season is contingent upon whether the Diamond League season will be allowed to finish or if plans for a spring season will be initiated immediately.

Additionally, discussions are underway to establish a new winter league in Dubai, utilizing the stadiums left behind by the Diamond League clubs. This winter league would not only provide continuity for baseball in the region but also serve as a venue for the World Baseball Tournament and Global Baseball Showcase, further elevating Dubai's prominence in the baseball world.

Prince Abdul Rahman Al Saud, a prominent figure in the global baseball community, expressed his excitement about the unification of baseball under one umbrella. "The integration of the Diamond League into Major League Baseball signifies a new chapter for the sport. I am thrilled to witness this unification and the opportunities it will create for baseball players and fans worldwide. It is a testament to the growth and reach of the game we love."

As the baseball world eagerly awaits further details on the transition, the integration of the Diamond League into MLB3 brings the sport one step closer to a unified global baseball experience. The inclusion of the Galactic League as MLB2 adds an element of promotion and relegation, heightening competition and providing teams with opportunities to rise through the ranks. This bold move solidifies baseball's position as a truly global sport and opens up new horizons for international talent to shine.

With the MLB3 merger in progress and the promise of a dynamic future for baseball, fans can look forward to a unified baseball landscape that transcends borders and celebrates the diversity of the sport

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Diamond League Concludes Regular Season early, Transitions to MLB3 in 2052


Date: December 20, 2051

In a season filled with excitement and anticipation, the Diamond League has concluded its regular season three months early. Following the playoffs, the league will undergo a significant transformation, transitioning into MLB3 effective January 1st, with plans to align its season with the traditional spring season in 2052.

The Diamond League, consisting of 16 competitive teams, recently wrapped up its regular season with a thrilling series of games. Yesterday marked the culmination of the league's regular season, setting the stage for an intense postseason battle.

The participating Diamond League teams are as follows:

Fresno Grizzlies
Arkansas Travelers
Billings Mustangs
Chicago Rogues
St. Paul Saints
Hollywood Stars
Amarillo Gold Sox
Tacoma Rainers
Maine Guides
Louisville Bats
Winnipeg Goldeyes
Durham Bulls
Norfolk Tides
New York Knights
Plattsburgh Brewers
Toledo Mud Hens

As the league prepares for its transition to MLB3, there is anticipation surrounding potential relocations or shutdowns of certain teams. It is expected that the Durham Bulls and Plattsburgh Brewers might be relocated or discontinued in favor of geographically diverse markets. However, no official confirmations have been made regarding these potential changes.

The restructured baseball pyramid, which will come into effect starting in 2052, will be organized as follows:

Major League Baseball (30 teams)
MLB2 (24 teams)
MLB3 (16 teams)
MLB4 (10 teams)

Looking ahead, plans are underway to introduce a fifth level to the baseball pyramid in 2053. However, specific details regarding the markets encompassed by this new league have yet to be disclosed, leaving fans eager to learn more about this upcoming addition.

In 2052, no teams will be promoted from lower leagues to Major League Baseball. However, at the conclusion of the 2052 season, two teams will be promoted to MLB, expanding the league to a total of 32 teams once again. No teams will be relegated down to lower divisions during this transition.

The integration of the Diamond League into the MLB ecosystem has sparked a new era of baseball, emphasizing expansion and opportunity. With MLB3 set to kick off its inaugural season in line with the traditional spring schedule, fans can expect an exciting blend of established franchises and emerging talent, as the sport continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide.

As the countdown to the 2052 season begins, baseball enthusiasts eagerly await the dawn of a new era, where MLB3 takes its place within the esteemed MLB family. With the continued growth and transformation of the sport, baseball's global presence and fanbase are poised to reach new heights in the years to come.

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Controversial "Buyback" Scheme Introduces Safety Net for Major League "Signature" Franchises

July 9, 2052

In a move that has ignited both excitement and controversy, Major League Baseball owners, in collaboration with Baseball Chairman Prince Abdul Rahman Al Saud, have introduced a novel "buyback" scheme aimed at safeguarding Major League teams from the possibility of relegation. While some view this initiative as a potential "cheat code" in the spirit of fair competition, the buyback scheme aims to address concerns related to stadium size requirements and financial constraints faced by smaller-market teams.

Relegation, a concept well-known in other sports around the world, has been embraced by the baseball community as a means of fostering fair competition and promoting upward mobility within the baseball hierarchy. However, as the dust settles on the inaugural season of the newly implemented promotion and relegation system across the five Major League divisions, concerns emerged regarding the practical challenges faced by teams promoted to higher tiers, particularly at the MLB and MLB2 levels.

Recognizing these concerns, Prince Abdul Rahman himself negotiated the introduction of the buyback scheme, which allows Major League and MLB2 teams to offer a financial "payment" to potential promoted teams, thus providing them with the option to remain in their current division instead. This scheme aims to alleviate the burden of stadium size requirements and the associated costs of upgrading facilities, which may be prohibitive for smaller-market teams looking to compete at the highest levels.

As the 2052 season reaches its halfway point, the buyback scheme is set to be put to the test. Major League teams facing the possibility of relegation will have the opportunity to negotiate with their would-be promoted counterparts, presenting financial incentives to encourage them to remain in their current division. The success and impact of this initiative will become apparent as the season progresses and the fate of relegation-threatened teams is decided.

It's worth noting that the recently established fifth division, known as the "senior league," caters exclusively to players over the age of 30. Meanwhile, the fourth division focuses on developing younger talent, with players ranging from 17 to 26 years old. Teams relegated to the senior leagues will need to adjust their rosters accordingly to adhere to the age-based regulations governing these divisions.

While the introduction of the buyback scheme provides a safety net for Major League "signature" franchises, it has sparked controversy within the baseball community. Critics argue that it deviates from the fundamental principles of promotion and relegation, potentially undermining the integrity of the system. However, proponents argue that this scheme recognizes the unique challenges faced by certain teams and aims to strike a balance between competition and financial feasibility.

As the 2052 season progresses, the buyback scheme will undoubtedly be closely scrutinized. Its implementation raises questions about the long-term implications for the promotion and relegation structure in Major League Baseball. The coming years will shed light on whether this initiative enhances fairness and sustainability or if further adjustments are necessary to ensure the continued growth and success of the sport.

In the ever-evolving landscape of baseball, balancing tradition and innovation remains a delicate task. The buyback scheme represents a bold experiment aimed at striking the right chord between protecting "signature" franchises and maintaining the principles of fair competition. As fans and stakeholders eagerly await the outcome of this season's relegation battles, the future of the promotion and relegation system in baseball hangs in the balance.

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AMERICAN LEAGUE STANDINGS
Eastern Division	W	L	PCT	GB
New York Yankees	64	50	.561	-
Baltimore Orioles	64	51	.557	.5
Detroit Tigers	60	55	.522	4.5
Tampa Bay Tarpons	58	57	.504	6.5
Boston Red Sox	56	59	.487	8.5

Central Division	W	L	PCT	GB
Dallas Chaparrals	66	49	.574	-
Kansas City Monarchs	60	56	.517	6.5
Chicago White Sox	56	59	.487	10.0
Memphis Chicks	55	61	.474	11.5
Birmingham Barons	52	64	.448	14.5

Western Division	W	L	PCT	GB
Colorado Rockies	63	51	.553	-
Portland Beavers	60	55	.522	3.5
Arizona Diamondbacks	53	63	.457	11.0
Los Angeles Browns	48	67	.417	15.5
Sacramento Solons	46	69	.400	17.5

NATIONAL LEAGUE STANDINGS
Eastern Division	W	L	PCT	GB
Miami Marlins	67	48	.583	-
New York Mets	61	54	.530	6.0
Montreal Expos	56	58	.491	10.5
Philadelphia Phillies	55	60	.478	12.0
Washington Grays	52	61	.460	14.0

Central Division	W	L	PCT	GB
Pittsburgh Pirates	62	54	.534	-
Cincinnati Reds	61	54	.530	.5
Minnesota Giants	60	55	.522	1.5
St. Louis Cardinals	58	57	.504	3.5
Chicago Cubs	49	65	.430	12.0

Western Division	W	L	PCT	GB
Los Angeles Dodgers	69	47	.595	-
San Antonio Rebeldes	56	59	.487	12.5
Houston Astros	55	62	.470	14.5
Salt Lake Bees	54	62	.466	15.0
San Diego Padres	50	64	.439	18.0

FEDERAL LEAGUE STANDINGS
East	W	L	T	PCT	GB
Jackson Generals	58	36	0	.617	-
Cleveland Guardians	56	39	0	.589	2.5
Toronto Blue Jays	49	45	0	.521	9.0
Atlanta Thrashers	43	51	0	.457	15.0
Indianapolis Clowns	43	51	0	.457	15.0
Wilmington Blue Rocks	42	53	0	.442	16.5

West	W	L	T	PCT	GB
San Francisco Seals	60	35	0	.632	-
Oakland Oaks	48	46	0	.511	11.5
Oklahoma City 89ers	48	46	0	.511	11.5
Omaha Storm Chasers	44	51	0	.463	16.0
Las Vegas Athletics	39	56	0	.411	21.0
Chicago Whales	37	58	0	.389	23.0

PLAYERS LEAGUE STANDINGS
East	W	L	T	PCT	GB
Milwaukee Braves	64	30	0	.681	-
Carolina Twins	56	38	0	.596	8.0
Buffalo Bisons	52	43	0	.547	12.5
Brooklyn Gothams	44	50	0	.468	20.0
St. Joseph Autos	42	53	0	.442	22.5
Nashville Sounds	37	57	0	.394	27.0

West	W	L	T	PCT	GB
California Gold Hearts	56	38	0	.596	-
Albuquerque Sand Sox	54	41	0	.568	2.5
Seattle Mariners	44	51	0	.463	12.5
Vancouver Grizzlies	42	53	0	.442	14.5
Austin Senators	39	56	0	.411	17.5
Boise Spuds	37	57	0	.394	19.0

July 31, 2052

As the 2052 Major League Baseball (MLB) season reaches its pivotal moments, teams from both the MLB and MLB2 are actively engaged in trade deadline maneuvers to shore up their positions and make a push towards the playoffs. With the promotion race in full swing, candidates from the lower divisions are also leaving no stone unturned in their quest to secure postseason berths.

Trade Deadline Buzz in MLB:

July 31 marked the trade deadline for MLB teams, and several high-profile deals have taken place in recent days. With fierce competition and tight standings, teams are eager to make strategic moves that could potentially make or break their playoff hopes.

The New York Yankees, currently leading the Eastern Division of the American League, have bolstered their pitching rotation by acquiring a seasoned veteran from the Federal League. The addition is expected to add depth to their roster as they aim to maintain their grip on the divisional lead.

In the National League, the Pittsburgh Pirates, who top the Central Division, have made a blockbuster trade to acquire a power-hitting outfielder from the Players League. The move is seen as an aggressive push to solidify their chances of making a deep playoff run.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers, holding a commanding position in the Western Division of the National League, have focused on reinforcing their bullpen to strengthen their title aspirations.

Promotion Candidates Making Their Moves:

In the MLB2 Federal League, the Jackson Generals are currently leading the East division, with the Cleveland Guardians close behind. Both teams have been actively adding talent to their squads in the hope of securing promotion.

In the Players League, the Milwaukee Braves continue to dominate the East division and have been strengthening their roster with additional depth. Meanwhile, the California Gold Hearts lead the competitive West division and are looking to bolster their rotation ahead of the postseason push.

Relegation Concerns and Playoff Battles:

In an intriguing development, the MLB has decided to suspend relegation for the 2052 season, causing teams at the bottom of the standings to breathe a sigh of relief. However, this suspension has led to some controversy, as relegation is considered a fair way for teams to move up and down the baseball pyramid.

While no team faces relegation from the MLB this season, the race for promotions remains intense in the MLB2. The overall champion of the MLB2 will automatically earn a promotion spot, but the battle for the second promotion spot is set to be decided in a thrilling postseason clash among the remaining top teams.

As July comes to a close, the stage is set for an enthralling final stretch of the 2052 season. Trade deadline acquisitions in the MLB and the determination of promotion candidates in the MLB2 are expected to create an electric atmosphere in the world of baseball. Fans and teams alike are eagerly awaiting the results of these calculated moves and intense battles, as they shape the destiny of both the MLB and the future of baseball's promotion and relegation system.

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Toronto Blue Jays to Acquire Birmingham Barons Franchise: A Shift in Major League Baseball Dynamics

Date: September 20, 2053

In a groundbreaking move that will reshape the landscape of Major League Baseball (MLB), the ownership of the Toronto Blue Jays, represented by the prominent company Northern Enterprises, has announced the acquisition of the Birmingham Barons franchise. The Barons, who finished the 2052 season with a record of 76-86, fourth in the AL Central, will undergo a transition while the Blue Jays aim to secure a position in the top division for the upcoming season.

Despite the Birmingham Barons' recent performance, the acquisition provides the Toronto Blue Jays an opportunity to realign their presence in the top tier of MLB. The Blue Jays, currently sitting 18 games out of first place in their division and seven games out of a wild card spot, have sought to bolster their chances of success by making strategic changes within their organization.

The move signifies a calculated shift in the teams' fortunes. The Barons' ownership, led by Ms. Elizabeth Williams, acknowledges that their performance this season has not been impressive. She emphasized that the acquisition by the Blue Jays does not indicate a decline for the Barons but rather an opportunity to refocus and compete at a level where they can thrive financially.

The logistics of the acquisition involve the Toronto Blue Jays taking over the Birmingham Barons franchise while simultaneously establishing an expansion team in Birmingham to fill the void. The transition will replicate the process of relegation, ensuring a smooth exchange without disrupting player contracts or league regulations.

For the Blue Jays and Barons fans alike, this transformative move ushers in a new era for baseball in both cities. While the opponents on the field may change, the passion and excitement of the sport will endure as the Toronto Blue Jays prepare to take the field in Birmingham, and a fresh expansion team emerges in Toronto.

As the 2053 season approaches, fans eagerly anticipate how these changes will impact the game and create new rivalries within the league. Baseball enthusiasts can look forward to an invigorating season ahead, filled with fresh perspectives and renewed hopes for both the Toronto Blue Jays and the Barons franchise in their respective cities.

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Milwaukee Braves Face Decisive Game on Last Day of 2052 MLB2 Season

October 4, 2052

As the regular season of MLB2 comes to a thrilling close, the Milwaukee Braves find themselves in a tense battle for the automatic bid to MLB. The Braves, who held an 11-game lead over their closest rival on September 1st, now sit one game behind the Carolina Twins in the PL East. With the Twins boasting the best record in MLB2, the final day of the season will determine if the Braves can secure the coveted spot without going through the postseason.

On this crucial day, October 4, 2052, the Carolina Twins will face the Nashville Sounds, a team bound for relegation to the MLB 3rd Division due to their poor performance this season. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Braves will go head-to-head against the Brooklyn Gothams, a team that narrowly escaped relegation and is motivated to finish the season on a high note.

The Twins, holding a slim one-game lead over the Braves, have an opportunity to secure the automatic bid outright with a victory over the struggling Nashville Sounds. However, the Braves are not giving up without a fight. Manager Bryce Carpenter of the Gothams expressed his team's determination to treat the game "like a playoff game" and halt the Braves' chances of promotion. With pride on the line, the Gothams are ready to give their all in the season finale.

If the Braves emerge victorious against the Gothams and the Twins falter against the Sounds, a one-game playoff will ensue in Carolina for the automatic bid to MLB. The loser of the playoff will still hold the top seed in the postseason, providing some consolation.

In the Federal League, the Jackson Generals, Cleveland Guardians, San Francisco Seals, Oakland Oaks, and Toronto Blue Jays have all secured their spots in the postseason. Notably, the San Francisco Seals have made a remarkable comeback after being relegated from MLB just last year. In the Players League, the California Gold Hearts, Albuquerque, and Buffalo Bisons round out the playoff field.

Baseball fans across the league eagerly await the outcome of the final day of the 2052 MLB2 season. The battle between the Milwaukee Braves and the Carolina Twins adds an extra layer of excitement as these teams vie for the automatic bid to MLB. Whether the Braves can pull off a victory and force a playoff or if the Twins can secure the spot outright, the postseason promises to be a thrilling affair for fans of both teams and the league as a whole.

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Carolina Twins Secure Historic Victory in 10th Inning Thriller

Friday, October 4th, 2052 - Lakefront Park

The Carolina Twins clinched their 100th win of the season in stunning fashion with a thrilling 6-5 victory over the Nashville Sounds in the 10th inning, their 16th straight win and solidifying their direct promotion to Major League Baseball by 1 game over the Milwaukee Braves, capping a crazy month where they went from down 11 games in the standings to PL East champions and more importantly back in the top division of baseball for the first time in seven years.

The game showcased the Twins' resilience and offensive firepower, as they overcame a strong performance by Nashville pitcher Pepito Cantu. Cantu pitched an impressive 9.1 innings but ultimately surrendered 6 runs. Twins reliever Jon Werner secured the win with 3 scoreless innings of work.

The standout performer of the game was first baseman Elijah Howard, whose game-winning double in the tenth inning sealed the Twins' victory and sparked a raucous celebration among the fans.

The pitching duel between Nashville's Pepito Cantu and Carolina's Arnold Barclay set the stage for a memorable clash. Cantu displayed a masterful performance, pitching deep into the 10th inning, allowing just 6 runs. However, in the end, Jon Werner proved to be the game's winning pitcher, shutting down the opposition with three scoreless innings of relief.

The Twins' first baseman, Elijah Howard, was the hero of the day, delivering the game-winning hit in the bottom of the 10th inning with a clutch run-scoring double that sent the home crowd into a frenzy.

Twins manager, Paul Johnson, praised his team's resilience, stating, "This was a true team effort, and I'm incredibly proud of our players. It's not easy to achieve 100 wins in a season, but these guys battled every day, and they earned this moment."

Player of the Game: Pepito Cantu (Nashville Sounds)
Cantu's impressive performance on the mound couldn't save the Sounds from the Twins' onslaught, but his stellar outing deserved recognition as the standout player of the game.

Turning Points:

In the 2nd inning, the Twins' bats came alive, with Elijah Howard and Matteo Marín hitting back-to-back home runs to put the Twins ahead early in the game.
In the 4th inning, Fabian Coon's home run brought the Sounds back into contention, and they continued to build momentum in subsequent innings.
The Twins' bullpen, led by Jon Werner, kept the Sounds scoreless in the final three innings, allowing their offense to stay in the game and ultimately secure the win in the 10th inning.
Highlights:

Elijah Howard, with two crucial doubles, emerged as the Twins' offensive star of the game.
Matteo Marín's 2-run home run and Colin Love III's 2-RBI performance contributed significantly to the Twins' success.
For the Nashville Sounds, Fabian Coon's solo home run and Matt Raymond's 2-RBI performance kept them in the game.

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2052 Baseball Season Concludes: Champions Crowned, Promotions, and Relegations Decided


The 2052 baseball season has come to an exhilarating close, with champions crowned across all five levels of the sport. The promotion and relegation system introduced this year has added an extra layer of excitement and intrigue to the sport, providing opportunities for teams to rise through the ranks while others must face the challenge of moving down the "food chain" in baseball.

Senior League:
In a thrilling contest, the Carolina Mudcats secured the Senior League championship with a hard-fought victory against the Cedar Rapids Kernels. The Mudcats finished the season with a commendable 71-69 record, demonstrating their determination and resilience throughout the campaign.

Fourth Division:
The Vermont Lake Monsters showcased their dominance in the Fourth Division, clinching both halves of the season and the playoffs. Their impressive 90-54 record marked a stellar campaign, culminating in a triumph over the Asheville Tourists in the finals.

Third Division:
The Maine Guides, already two-time defending champions, once again proved their mettle in the Third Division, triumphing over the formidable Fresno Grizzlies in the championship showdown. Their balanced performance, highlighted by an 84-64-3 record, secured their promotion to the next tier of baseball.

Second Division:
The California Gold Hearts emerged as the Commissioner's Cup champions, celebrating a spectacular season with a record of 95-59. However, instead of taking their well-deserved promotion to the top division, they decided to sell their promotion spot to the San Francisco Seals, who pursued it with fervor after a heartbreaking post-season loss. The Seals, despite missing out on the Commissioner's Cup, will return to the top division after a year's absence.

MLB:
In the pinnacle of the baseball hierarchy, the Pittsburgh Pirates claimed the coveted World Series title. Their 5-2 series victory over the Baltimore Orioles marked a historic moment for the Pirates, who last won the championship in 1967. Fans in Pittsburgh rejoiced at the victory, but the celebration was equally exuberant in New Orleans, where the team was based from 1977 to 2036 and again from 2040 to 2044.

Promotion/Relegation Highlights:
As the 2053 season approaches, Major League Baseball will expand back to 32 teams. The Toronto Blue Jays and the Birmingham Barons are set to swap franchises, with the teams changing leagues to accommodate the expansion.

In the Second Division, the Carolina Twins secured an automatic promotion after an astonishing late-season surge, clinching the best record in their division on the final day of the regular season.

The California Gold Hearts, despite their Commissioner's Cup victory, opted to sell their promotion spot to the San Francisco Seals, who eagerly reclaimed their place in the top division after a year's absence.

On the relegation front, the Nashville team will move down to the Third Division, while the Maine Guides, reigning champions, will be promoted to the higher tier.

In the Fourth Division, the Vermont Lake Monsters showcased their supremacy, winning both halves of the season and the playoffs, securing their promotion to the next level. Hartford will head to the Senior League, making way for Cedar Rapids, the champions of the Fifth Tier circuit.

Criticism and Muted Reactions:
The new promotion and relegation system has been met with both excitement and controversy in American baseball. While some owners expressed concerns about the buyback scheme's fairness, many were pleased with the added excitement the system brought to the sport. As promotion and relegation remain relatively novel concepts in American sports, opinions on the matter continue to vary.

As the 2052 season concludes, fans eagerly anticipate the future of baseball's promotion and relegation system. The successes, challenges, and surprises witnessed this year will undoubtedly shape discussions and potential adjustments in the years to come.

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Having sufficiently done some extensive world-building to get myself reimmersed back into this OOTP save, I'm trying now to figure out what I want to do next. One of the perils of dynasties is getting caught up in telling a story instead of playing how you want to play and since I'm a god-mode player who plays far out, I'm mostly just wanting to see what happens. But this league is too big and sims a bit too slow to sim 10 seasons fast.

One of the mistakes I made was generating too many offensive players and so there's a GLUT of talented hitters to the point I needed 5 major leagues to accommodate them while the pitching isn't NEARLY as good. So you have replacement level pitchers being aces for teams, I kind of like it from a realism perspective because you just can't find aces at all.

Part of me wanted to just sim ahead 15 years or so and wait for the talent to turn over, but I've started getting into some of the stars of this generation of the league, so I'm less inclined to skip past their primes.

Promotion/Relegation is fun, but it's hard in baseball because you get weird quirks where markets like Portland, Maine has a team that started in the 4th division getting itself promoted 3 levels in 3 years and has a shot at being in the majors and San Diego and San Francisco are about to be relegated.

I'm into that story and that chaos, but frankly, I don't want to try to conjure that world. So I'm probably going to retcon a way -- kinda like trying to imagine what real life would do with this -- where you still have pro/rel but teams find ways to bail themselves out of being relegated (which if you follow LigaMX already happens)

Ideal state, I might do something where I try to follow the careers of the players I care about, look at teams and perhaps the storylines that emerge year after year, since I don't play game-by-game as I don't know how to make that story interesting enough for myself to play.

I mean, there's a small part of me that wants to treat one of these teams like real life, where I take over a real life team that I can buy a baseball cap of, and follow their games -- and seasons -- and get invested in a similar way and let it play out, where I can make moves to fix things, but also perhaps deal with a team amidst a rebuild and figure out how to potentially get them out of it over a period of time, since my stories are always kind of quick rebuilds or worse, dynasties of me doing the NBA-style superfriends titles.

So we're at a crossroads, but I do want to get a bit more immersed into the worldbuild I've crafted, because I'm pretty happy with the general structure of things, so the story will stay weird and generally owned by our friends from the UAE, but from there, who knows what'll happen next?