Fallout 4's Commonwealth Baseball Organization

[StLee]

Originally Posted by ayaghmour2

Curious to see who Glowing Sea ends up with but what a season! 87 wins!!! And with the only two qualified SCA players with a sub-3 ERA!

Their team ERA was 2.96! Diamond City was next closest at 3.67. Not only did the top two starters dominate, but so did the bullpen (2.50). They also likely have the Red Rocket Rookie Award winner in Black Red (12-7, 3.47) and the Vim! Pitcher award in Language. If the playoffs is about pitching, the Radscorpions should be heavy favorites.

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

4 September 2317

CBO Playoff Tree



SCA Playoffs Preview - Wildcard Round

#5 Quincy Granites (71-59) vs #4 Atom Cats (72-58)

Season Series: Atom 6, Quincy 4

May 18-20 @Qui: Atom 8-3, Atom 14-3, Atom 2-0
July 2-2 @Atom: Atom 4-1, Atom 11-10 (10)
August 24-26 @Atom: Qui 11-5, Qui 13-11, Qui 5-4
August 30-31 @Qui: Atom 10-1, Qui 2-0

Analysis

Baseball is probably a "what have you done for me lately" sport. Assuming that to be true, "lately" has been good for both the Quincy Granites and Atom Cats, the fifth ad fourth seeds in this season's playoffs. Just one year ago, the Granites (then the Gunners) were the SCA's #6 seed, still propelling themselves to the Sole Survivor Series and their first championship. In 2313, the Cats entered as the #2 seed and won ever series to win it all. Two of the last four champions have been either Quincy or Atom, and the Granites also represented the SCA in the 2314 Sole Survivor Series as the #2 seed.

The teams had never met in the playoffs until 2315. Now, this will mark the third-straight season that they meet in the postseason. In 2315, the #6 Gunners downed the #3 Cats, 2 games to 1, in the Wildcard Round. Last season, again as the #6 seed, Quincy defeated the #2 Atom squad, 3 games to 2, in the Association Semifinals.

While they have not been able to be the ML regular season champions except for 2314, Quincy is a dangerous postseason team. With a belt now in their possession, they have shown that they know how to win, especially road series against good teams. We like Quincy, but we also see the major flaw in their chance to repeat in 2317.

On offense, the Granites are efficient, including finishing 2nd in the SCA in runs scored (709), powered by their power hitting (2nd in home runs with 148). Four players were the cause for the run barrage, including two 30-homer hitters in Will Hell (33) and Brad Hop (30). Cf Duff Fee (21) and LF Adavald Vigilant (19) also contributed to the CBO's most dangerous power outfield. Rookie 1B Dodge Squallbender has been an interesting callup to the squad, starting the last 11 games of the season (.213/0/3) over Bingy Xiu (.301/8/28). Squallbender was hitting .245/17/39 with the NEBL's Fall Rivers Rippers before the callup.

The fault comes in pitching, where the Granites were last in the SCA in runs allowed (697) and Starters ERA (5.06). Ace Make Money (10-9, 3.46) is the one saving grace with an ERA below 5.00. Kid Boots Appling (9-6, 5.47) and College Luckyman (10-9, 5.62) are expected to be the other two starters and need a ton of runs to get wins in their decisions. Four-time Fallon's Reliever Award winner, CL Professor Harriel (25 SV, 3.71) is still as good as ever, but his ERA was up nearly 100 points from his career 2.73. he had a 1.12 ERA last season, his second straight Fallon award.



For Atom, the most impressive accomplishment in earning the #4 seed is that they were the CBO's worst team for a time. Despite winning on opening day, the Cats then went 2-17 the rest of the month, falling as far as 3-18 before beginning their turnaround. That means the Cats were 69-40 (.633) since May 2. Atom might be the tea to beat after Glowing Sea.

On offense, the Cars were a pretty good team, finishing 4th in runs scored (651) thanks to the 4th-best OBP (.346). Three standouts in both average and power have been 2B Lee Mayhew (.324/15/86), RF Candy Kline (.315/16/63), and 1B McMack Bingham (.301/23/100).

Starting pitching has been good (3rd with a 3.78 ERA). while the bullpen has not (14th in ERA at 5.50), leading to the 5th-best runs allowed mark (620). All four starters had an ERA below 4.00, with the starters in the postseason expected to be K-9 Creep (11-9, 3.52), Josh Brown (16-12, 3.71), and Junkyard Gourd (12-10, 3.96). Melvin Terminator (6-7, 3.50) moves to the bullpen to try to help. CL Benkum Windhelm (35 SV, 4.02) was OK, but the playoffs Cats need much better.



Prediction

It's the defending champions looking to defend their championship, facing off one of the teams looking for revenge from 2316. It's tough to decide which way is best. Looking at the total product, Atom seems to have the shirt series advantage. Then again, the Granites were a lot more successful in the latter part of the season. We are wavering, but we will pick the Gunners to win shootouts. Quincy 2, Atom 1

#6 FHE Yao Guai (70-60) vs #3 Diamond City Swatters (74-56)

Season Series: FHE 6, Diamond City 4

April 9-10 @DC: DC 9-5, FHE 3-1
June 6-8 @FHE: FHE 6-4, DC 8-3, FHE 8-4
July 26-27 @FHE: FHE 7-5, DC 4-2
August 27-29 @DC: DC 9-5, FHE 5-3, FHE 3-1

Analysis

This is a tale of two teams that have had quite different histories over the years. The FHE Yao Guai have not found much success, though they did expect to compete for a playoff appearance in 2317. PAM though that the Swatters would be the 7th-place team in the RL, but we pointed out that the pitching was just too good to have a losing record. In the end, these are the 6th and 3rd seeds in the playoffs, with Diamond City a veteran team in the playoffs, and the Yao Guai trying to create an identity.

For FHE, this is only their 5th appearance in the playoffs. In their first appearance, 2303, the Yao Guai qualified as the last seed (#5) and lost to #4 Diamond City in the Play-in Round. It was their only meeting. The Swatters are making their 12th playoff appearance and fifth straight after an eight-year absence. Diamond City won the Sole Survivor Series twice (2299, 2300), their only two appearances.

The Yao Guai were about in the middle on both offense and pitching. On offense, they finished 6th in runs scored (640) with the 2nd-best stolen bases number (127). Two players that contributed to that cause were leadoff 3B Dathomirian Zabrak (.293/13/63/53 SB) and CF Missile Crews (.317/9/48/39 SB). 2B Blue Dahlia (.285/19/74) was the team leader in homers and RBI.

On the mound, FHE was tied for 6th in runs allowed (625), with the 11th-best Starters ERA (4.67) and 2nd-best Bullpen ERA (3.84). Starters Baker Dozen (10-9, 4.41) and Nien Nunb (14-9, 3.69) give the Yao Guai their best chance of winning.



Diamond City was bad on offense and great on the mound. The Swatters were 11th in runs scored (580) with their best stat being stolen bases (5th at 102). SS Alex Bragman (.282/19/74) was the best overall hitter on the team. RF Nicholas Stapleton (.306/13/66) helped.

The pitching is top-notch, and Diamond City may even drop 2311 Vim! Pitcher Award winner Heaven Fontenot (15-8, 3.46) to the bullpen for the playoffs. The Swatters finished 2nd in runs allowed (529) with the 2nd-best Starters ERA (3.48) and 4th-best Bullpen ERA (4.26). Who will pitch will be Macho Lopez (14-11, 3.27), beachboy Nut (12-14, 3.93), and Dropper Millieu (12-9, 3.00), a rough bunch to score on. CL Machine Beard (21 SV, 2.25) has been efficient.



Prediction

While we are not sold on either team as the 2317 champions, we do think both can make noise in the playoffs. Only one team can come out of this one. FHE has been good at winning at least one game in every series this season against the Swatters. However, pitching tends to stand out in the playoffs, and the Swatters were only bested in the CBO by the Radscorpions in that regard. We think this will be a quick series. Diamond City 2, FHE 0.

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

5 September 2317

NCA Playoffs Preview - Wildcard Round

#5 Nahant Celtics (68-62) vs #4 The Slog Ghouls (71-59)

Season Series: Nahant 6, The Slog 4

April 17-19 @Nah: Nah 10-5, Nah 4-3, Nah 9-3
May 26-27 @Slog: Slog 6-4(12), Slog 6-5
June 23-25 @Slog: Nah 8-7, Slog 6-3, Slog 8-4
August 6-7 @Nah: Nah 16-3, Nah 12-3

Analysis

In 2296 and 2297, the CBO operated as four separate leagues. In the very first season, the The Slog Ghouls defeated the Finch Farm Four Leafs (now Nahant Celtics), 4 games to 1. Once the CBO began, these two teams became less relevant.

With their meeting in the Wildcard Round, the matchup of Nahant (4th) and The Slog (8th) is one of teams that do not make the playoffs much. The Celtics have never appeared in back-to-back years since their days as Finch Farm unitl now, with their last appearance coming in 2313. For the Ghouls, they had a slow run but have been in the playoffs a lot more frequently in the teens, making this their 6th appearance since 2310 and 5th in the last six years. The Slog won it all in 2314.

This season, Nahant had a slight advantage, 6-4, in the regular season with the home team mostly dominating: Nahant 5-0, The Slog 4-1. The Celtics also scored a lot of runs, especially in their two meetings in August when Nahant outscored the Ghouls, 28-5.

The Celtics, as shown, can put up runs, finishing 2nd in the NCA in runs scored (717). Seven players in all hit 10 or more home runs with RF Matt Paydirt (.340/20/73) leading the way. 2B Zara Zapper (.353/6/70) was the team leader in average, while LF Grandson Quarles (27) was the base stealer leader. Unfortunately, two of Nahant's better hitters, 1B Bulleye Shooterson (.270/17/50) and CF Josh Peerson (.294/17/75), are out with injuries in this series but may be back if the Celtics move on.

Pitching is not as good for Nahant, finishing 11th in runs allowed (704) and Starters ERA (4.86) and 13th in Bullpen ERA (5.55). No starter finished with an ERA below 4.00, with third starter Goody Two Shoes Robertson (7-7, 4.15) having the best ERA among starters. CL Tyler Furlow (32 SV, 4.27) was tied with Nordhagen Beach's Stagbuck Ewing for the NCA saves lead.



The Slog are one of the better hitting teams in the NCA, finishing 3rd in runs scored (681) and tied for 1st in home runs (169). Four players hit 20-plus, including star SS Gavin Deux-Gas (.331/27/67/34 SB) who led also in stolen bases. Zap Mast, Trog Alderod, and Hammer Longball each hit 22 home runs.

On the mound, the Ghouls are also in the top half, though barely. They finished 6th in runs allowed (611) and Bullpen ERA (4.57) and 4th in Starters ERA (4.09). The first two starters are legit: Buzzcut McDonald (15-6, 3.20) and Flirt Perez (15-10, 3.65). Austen Austin (6-1, 3.42) continues to be a bullpen force despite his down 2316 season.



Prediction

The first two games are at The Slog, with the third possible game at Nahant. Should this series go two games, we would think the Ghouls came out on top. A third game? We would go with the Celtics due to their 5-0 mark at home in the regular season series. We think one team is significantly better than the other, though, so we are going with that team. The Slog 2, Nahant 0

#6 Starlight Killers(67-63) vs #3 Malden Grognaks (71-59)

Season Series: Malden 2, Starlight 2

June 19-20 @Star: Mal 3-0, Star 3-2(11)
August 15-16 @Mal: Star 3-1, Mal 4-3(10)

Analysis

From 2306-2311, we thought Starlight had something ready to explode. The Killers made the playoffs every year during that stretch and won the IL two of the last three years (2309, 2311), showing improvement. Yet in all those years, the Killers made it to the Sole Survivor Series exactly zero times. They did make it to the NCA CS three years (2008, 2010-2011), but that has been as far as they have been able to go. Now, after a five year absence, Starlight is back to try it again.

Malden is new to the playoffs, having made their first appearance in 2315 and now their third-straight, including representing as the BL champions in 2316. Needless to say, the Grognaks are going to face the Killers for the first time this season in postseason play. As the #1 seed last season, Malden advanced to the NCA Championship Series but fell in seven games to Easy Town.

In the regular season matchups, every game was low-scoring and close with each team splitting the home-away series. Each team came away with one extra-innings victory with Malden outscoring the Killers 10-9 combined in the four games. This looks to be a pitcher's affair, which would strongly favor the Grognaks.

Starlight has slightly better pitching than Malden, but their offense is down there statistically, in fact entering the playoffs as the lowest-rated offense of the 12 teams. The Killers were 11th in the NCA in runs scored (570) with their tied for 7th ranking in home runs (132) being their best offensive category. CF Henry Hampster (.285/23/76) and C Justin Lower (.233/20/51) contributed to that number the most. SS Axe Dillworth (.333/10/46) was the team's batting average champion.

Pitching was quite good and enters the playoffs as one of the better units. Starlight was 2nd in both runs allowed (548) and Bullpen ERA (3.54) and 3rd in Starters ERA (4.03). Mercury Morris was an effective ace, going 14-10 with a 3.36 ERA. Closer Wizard Albutt (23 SV, 3.40) was effective enough. Former starter Whokill Poole (2-1, 2.60) was a bullpen master in 25 appearances and two starts.



Malden was one of the more balanced teams in the CBO, and really only finished behind the force that was the Assaultrons in 2317. On offense, the Grognaks were 5th in scoring (672) though they were a good team hitting (2nd with a .280 team average). The three-headed monster of average and power in 3B Jacob Tarberry (.337/26/94), CF Floren Habern (.330/25/78), and Jack of Diamonds Cordero (.347/22/96) make scoring quite easy at the top of the lineup. The bottom of the lineup will need to step up in the playoffs.

Pitching is also good, with the Grognaks tops in Bullpen ERA (3.34), including 3rd in runs allowed (551) and 5th in Starters ERA (4.11). Ace Hry Caje (15-9, 3.15) was dominant. CL Rump Pellstilt (30 SV, 5.14) had lots of saves but an untenable ERA from that spot.



Prediction

Malden is a good all-around team and Starlight may be happy to be here. While the season series was exciting, we are not predicting the same for the playoffs. We think this ends in two. Malden 2, Starlight 0

CBO Playoffs Power Rankings

Before getting through results, I tried to make a playoff power rankings. This involved pouring over stats and results and coming up with a "who comes out on top" approach. It is not hard data science, just something I will use in my predictions. Here are the results of overall for all 12 teams:

1. Jamaica Plain - great hitting, really good pitching
2. Easy Town - most balanced team
3. Malden - another balanced team
4. Glowing Sea - dominant pitching
5. Atom - balanced
6. The Slog - good offense, average pitching
7. Lexington - great pitching, faltering offense
8. Diamond City - dominant pitching
9. Nahant - good offense, weak pitching
10. Starlight - good pitching, weak offense
11. Quincy - good offense, weak pitching
12. FHE - average all-around

By this logic, we will ultimately predict Jamaica Plain to defeat Easy Town in the Sole Survivor Series. That's the Nat pick, anyway!

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, CYL, and CBA

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

8 September 2317

CBO Wildcard Round Results

NCA - #5 Nahant Celtics vs #4 The Slog Ghouls

Game 1: The Slog 11, Nahant 2

Longball Excels, The Slog Wins Wildcard Round Game 1

The The Slog Ghouls got past the Nahant Celtics by the score of 11-2 in the crucial first game of the Wildcard Round at Tarberry Field Forever. The Slog right fielder Hammer Longball slugged 2 home runs, while adding 3 RBI and scoring twice, to lead the charge. With a 1-0 lead, the Ghouls will have two chances to close out the Celtics.

Name Brand Brown, the The Slog left fielder, contributed a 2-run double in the bottom of the third inning to make the score 4-1, Ghouls. For the game, Brown went 2-4 with a double and a walk. He drove in 2 runs and scored once.

"You can't sugarcoat this one," said Nahant manager Slim Chembaker. "We got flat-out beat."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Tarberry Field Forever in The Slog.

Game 2: The Slog 4, Nahant 2

The Slog Wins Wildcard Round

The The Slog Ghouls made it look easy and are heading to the Association Semifinal Round.

They have ousted the Nahant Celtics in a sweep, the final win coming by a 4-2 score, clinching the 2-0 series win.

"Everything's clicking for us right now," said Hammer Longball, who was named MVP for the series.

Longball hit .667 with a .778 on-base percentage. He added 3 home runs, drove in 4 RBI and scored 3 runs.

The The Slog Ghouls will play against the Easy Town Assaultrons in the next round. Easy Town had a bye in the Wildcard Round. The Association Semifinal Round schedule will be announced after the Wildcard Round finishes.



NCA - #6 Starlight Killers #3 Malden Grognaks

Game 1: Malden 6, Starlight 3

Caje Helps Malden Take Wildcard Round Game 1

The Malden Grognaks powered past the visiting Starlight Killers, 6-3, in the opener of the Wildcard Round at Unstoppable Park. Malden starting pitcher Hry Caje threw 6.2 innings allowing 3 runs, to lead the charge. The Grognaks now lead the series 1-0.

Malden pinch hitter Jeremiah Stingwing helped the Grognaks go up, 5-3, in the bottom of the seventh inning. With the game tied, Stingwing hit a 2-run double off Starlight pitcher Sturdy Woodman.

Malden manager Chris Blizard called it "a pretty good win."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Unstoppable Park in Malden.

Game 2: Malden 6, Starlight 0

Grognaks Heading to Association Semifinal Round

The Malden Grognaks proved to be too much to handle for the Starlight Killers in the Wildcard Round, and a sweep was the end result.

Malden punched its ticket to the Association Semifinal Round on the strength of a 6-0 win in the deciding game, which wrapped up the series 2-0.

Malden first baseman Lance Tinter, named series MVP, was instrumental in the sweep, as he mashed Starlight pitching to the tune of a .500 average, with a .500 on-base percentage. He had 2 home runs, drove in 3 RBI and scored 3 runs.

The Malden Grognaks will play against the Lexington Synths in the next round. Lexington had a bye in the Wildcard Round. The Association Semifinal Round schedule will be announced after the Wildcard Round finishes.



[B]SCA - #5 Quincy Granites vs #4 Atom Cats

Game 1: Atom 6, Quincy 5

Cats Rally Past Granites for 1-0 Series Lead

The Atom Cats powered past the visiting Quincy Granites, 6-5, in the opener of the Wildcard Round at Coolest Field in Town. Atom right fielder Candy Kline was 3 for 5 with 2 triples. He scored 2 runs, to lead the charge. The Cats now lead the series 1-0.

The game was still up for grabs in the bottom of the ninth. With two out, Kline hit a fastball from Professor Harriel for a run-scoring single. The Cats, in dramatic fashion, had a walk-off win.

"This joint was rocking," said Kline.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Coolest Field in Town in Atom Cats Garage.

Game 2: Quincy 10, Atom 3

Quincy Win Evens Series at 1

The Quincy Granites took down the Atom Cats by the score of 10-3 and moved into a 1-1 tie in the Wildcard Round. The largest share of the credit belongs to Quincy starter Kid Boots Appling, who threw 7.1 innings of 4-hit ball.

Appling allowed 1 run on 4 hits over 7.1 innings for the Granites. He walked 0 and struck out 5.

Quincy manager Scrappy Barios commended his team for "putting the pedal to the metal."

The next game is set to be played for Friday, September 7th , 2317 at The Stone House in Quincy.

Game 3: Quincy 6, Atom 4

Quincy Moves on to Association Semifinal Round

After their 6-4 win today at The Stone House over the Atom Cats, the Quincy Granites will advance to the Association Semifinal Round. Quincy won the series by a 2-1 margin.

Leading the way for the Granites was first baseman Bingy Xiu, who had a spectacular series and was named MVP.

"I don't play differently in the regular season or playoffs. I just go out and do my best every game," he said. "It's certainly nice to play in the big game, but you can't let it get to your head and change your focus."

The Quincy Granites will play against the Glowing Sea Radscorpions in the next round. Glowing Sea had a bye in the Wildcard Round. The Association Semifinal Round schedule will be announced after the Wildcard Round finishes.



SCA - #6 FHE Yao Guai vs #3 Diamond City Swatters

Game 1: Diamond City 3, FHE 0

Wildcard Round Game 1 Victory for Lopez and Diamond City

The Wildcard Round got off to a quiet start, with the host Diamond City Swatters taking a low-scoring, 3-0 win over the FHE Yao Guai. Diamond City right-hander Macho Lopez was marvelous at The Great Green Jewel. The Swatters now hold a 1-0 lead in the best-of-3 series.

Lopez gave Diamond City a solid start. The right-hander allowed no runs on 4 hits over 7 innings.

Lopez said his team "played with focus."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Great Green Jewel in Boston.

Game 2: FHE 6, Diamond City 5

Yao Guai Clip Swatters, 6-5, in WCR Contest

When the games really matter, the FHE Yao Guai put on their best show, beating the Diamond City Swatters by a final score of 6-5. Nicholas Stapleton went 3-4 with a home run and a double, while scoring 3 times. The series now sits at 1-1 in the best-of-3 affair.

In the top of the fifth, FHE second baseman Blue Dahlia had a productive at-bat. With the bases loaded and one out, Dahlia stroked a 2-run single to center. It made the score 4-1, FHE. For the game, he was 2-5 with 2 singles. He scored 2 times and drove in 2.

"Trying isn't good enough in this league," said Dahlia. "You've got to get results."

Game 3 is scheduled for Friday at BosCom Circle in Fairline Hill Estates.

Game 3: Diamond City 6, FHE 5

Swatters Win Wildcard Round

Commonwealth Baseball Organization fans were certainly not disappointed with this South Charles Association Wildcard Round.

The two teams were evenly matched and the series went to the final game, with the Diamond City Swatters prevailing over the FHE Yao Guai to advance to the Association Semifinal Round.

Diamond City won the final game by a score of 6-5 at BosCom Circle and that sealed the series 2-1.

"Things were tense in our clubhouse and dugout before and during this game, but we can let loose a bit now -- the hard work is over, for now," said right fielder Nicholas Stapleton, who earned MVP honors.

For the series, Stapleton hit .462 with a .462 on-base percentage. He had 1 home runs, 2 RBI and scored 3 runs.

The Diamond City Swatters will play against the Jamaica Plain Red Rockets in the next round. Jamaica Plain had a bye in the Wildcard Round. The Association Semifinal Round schedule will be announced after the Wildcard Round finishes.



CBO Playoff Tree

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

8 September 2317

SCA Playoffs Preview - Association Semifinals Round

#5 Quincy Granotes (71-59) vs #1 Glowing Sea Radscorpions (87-43)

Season Series: Glowing Sea 2, Quincy 2

April 26-27 @GS: GS 1-0, GS 7-2
July 7-8 @Qui: Qui 6-5, Qui 4-2



Analysis

A year ago, Glowing Sea was in this game as the #4 seed, preparing itself for its first Semifinal Round appearance. Quincy was in the other game, the #6 vs #2 game. Both the Granites (then the Gunners) and Radscorpions won, facing them off in the 2316 SCA Championship Series. Quincy ended up running away with that series, winning it 4 games to 1.

The playoff matchup last season was the only playoff matchup between them. This season marks the Granites' seventh team appearance in the playoffs and fourth straight. Last season was their first championship and second appearance in the Sole Survivor Series. The first appearance was in 2314.

Glowing Sea is playing for the fourth time, including the third-straight season in just their eighth season of existence. In their first two appearances, they were one-and-done before last season's slight success of defeating Diamond City and #1 Vault 81 before being stopped by Quincy.

The regular season series was split with the home team getting sweeps in each of the two-game home-and-home series. The Scorpions' last win against the Granites came in April with the last meeting coming in early July.

Glowing Sea was by far as good as they were thanks to dominating pitching. Their team ERA of 2.96 finished as the fourth-best in SCA history. 2304 Roxbury holds the record at 2.81. Nordhagen Beach's 2301 squad holds the CBO record at 2.80. In the end, the Radscorpions finished 1st in runs allowed (415 or 3.19/game), Starters ERA (3.15) and Bullpen ERA (2.50). The top two starters, Alex Language (17-7, 2.79) and Hot Lips Houlihan (17-5, 2.90) were the top two pitchers in the SCA and should finish 1 and 2 in the Vim! Pitcher Award voting. Language was the Triple Crown pitcher, leading in wins (tied with Houlihan), ERA, and strikeouts (168). he follows Scooter Yaghmour from 2316 as the CBO's only pitcher Triple Crown winners. Rookie SP Black Red (12-7, 3.47) will move to the bullpen for the playoffs, but he is likely to be the SCA's Red Rocket Rookie of the Year. CL Mar Gotfenning (34 SV, 2.63) was the bullpen leader.



Glowing Sea's offense is nowhere near the production, but there are some positives throughout the lineup. The Radscorpions finished 8th in scoring (612), including 9th in home runs (122) but had seven players hit 10+ home runs. The problem is that they had no true power hitter in the lineup with CF Enigma Montgomery (.295/17/67) leading the team in homers and RBI. He also led the team with 58 stolen bases for the team 8th in that number (88).

Prediction

For the second straight season, the Scorpions meet the CBO's defending champions in the Association Semifinals. While the Granites found that playoff magic last season, we do not see them finding their offensive prowess against the Radscorpions' pitching for more than a game in the series. It will be a low-scoring series, but Glowing Sea has to be the favorites here. Glowing Sea 3, Quincy 1

#3 Diamond City Swatters (74-56) vs #2 Jamaica Plain Red Rockets (78-52)

Season Series: Jamaica Plain 2, Diamond City 2

May 21-22 @DC: DC 5-2, DC 4-1
August 2-3 @JP: JP 7-4, JP 10-1



Analysis

Like the other series, the regular season series of #2 Jamaica Plain and #3 Diamond City was split with the home team winning every game. While both teams have been successful over the history of the CBO, neither has been dominant. Before this season, the Red Rockets last won the Minutemen League in 2308. The Swatters, which finished 2nd in the Railroad League, last finished in 1st in 2302.

With their history of playoff appearances--Diamond City's 12th and Jamaica Plain's 11th--these teams of course have a history of meeting in the playoffs. Right? Well, you would be wrong. This will only be the fifth time (2300-2302, 2304) that they are in the playoffs at the same time. In those seasons, their paths just never crossed with both teams in this round in 2300 (the Swatters went on to repeat as CBO champions), Jamaica Plain exiting in the Play-in Series in 2301, the Rockets in the SCACS in 2302 but Diamond City falling in the Association Semifinals, and the Swatters dropping the Play-in Series while Jamaica Plain was in the SCACS.

This series will feature Diamond City's superior pitching to the Red Rockets' superior hitting. The Rockets were 1st in runs scored (759) with an average of 5.84 runs/game. Jamaica Plain basically led in every offensiv category, including home runs (172), except for batting average (4th at .280). 3B Tre' Morgueman (.337/35/112) and 2B Brandon Larsonist (.297/29/79) were absolute power forces, with contributions from both CF Jay Gabby (.331/19/73/46 SB) and 1B Sheedy Smith (.327/19/67) providing extra pop. Rookie SS Jim Clow (.294/0/32 in 86 appearances and 82 starts) was the only offensive player without a contribution to the powerhouse.



Pitching was not the best, but it was still good. Jamaica Plain was 4th in runs allowed (619) with both the 7th-best Starters (4.55) and Bullpen (4.55) ERA. Defense was efficient, including an SCA-low 71 errors committed, which helped to keep runs down overall, forcing teams to earn runs. Starters Tristan Martell (15-6, 3.63) and Derek Green (15-5, 4.30) are expected to keep the runs as low as possible to allow the offense to score a flurry of runs. the two-headed closers, Swampy Tamragouri (26 SV, 2.94) and Heavy Brothers (23 SV, 2.73), help the bullpen to succeed. Tamragouri joined the Rockets from University Point in a midseason trade.

Prediction

This is a tough series to predict. Diamond City's recent playoff appearance, and thus experience, seems to give the an advantage. However, the Red Rockets are a better overall all-around team. The home team has been the only winner, and we will just go with that. Jamaica Plain 3, Diamond City 2

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

9 September 2317

NCA Playoffs Preview - Association Semifinals Round

#4 The Slog Ghouls (71-59) vs #1 Easy Town Assaultrons (81-49)

Season Series: The Slog 6, Easy Town 4

April 11-12 @ET: ET 6-5, Slog 5-4
May 4-6 @Slog: Slog 8-2, Slog 9-3, Slog 7-5
July 17-19 @ET: Slog 5-3, ET 5-4(10), Slog 4-3
August 4-6 @Slog: ET 6-4, ET 7-6(10)



Analysis

A year ago, these two teams met in the Wildcard Round with the The Slog Ghouls as the #6 seed and the Easy Town Assaultrons as the #3 seed. The Assaultrons won that series and then advanced all the way to the Sole Survivor Series before falling to Quincy.

In all, this is the Ghouls' seventh playoff trip and the Assaultrons' eighth trip. This is only the third time both teams are in the playoffs (2300, 2316, 2317). The teams did not meet in 2300, marking 2316 as their first and only playoff matchup.

In the regular season, The Slog got the best of Easy Town, winning the season series 6-4. However, the Trons won the last two and three of the last four. The Ghouls and Salem were the only two teams in the NCA with winning records against Easy Town. This may mean that the Ghouls have the best chance of stopping the Trons.

The Assaultrons were great on offense, leading in every category but home runs (9th at 130). Their runs scored (769) was not only tops in the NCA but it placed 2nd all-time behind Nordhagen Beach's 772 in 2312. Vault 81 set the record of 817 in 2313. All four of LF J.J. Gray (.298/23/104), CF Eden Babz (.317/21/90), 3B Halep Gutteridge (.335/16/88), and SS Stormin' Normin MacDonald (.312/10/85) were RBI machines, Babz set the stolen bases record (93).

Pitching was not as keen, finishing 5th in runs allowed (608) mostly thanks to the efforts of the bullpen (4th in ERA at 3.95). The starters were 10th with a 4.80 ERA. None of the three playoffs starters were good at keeping the opponents' run counts down with Lonely Gale (16-10, 4.52) having the best ERA. CL Tut Cadillac (31 SV, 3.52) was OK as a closer.



Prediction

The Slog is a good team, but Easy Town earned its 2nd-best record in the CBO for the 2317 season. While the Ghouls won the regular season series, they will just have to hold too many Trons bats down to win the series. We're going to take the Assaultrons in four. Easy Town 3, The Slog 1

#3 Malden Grognaks (71-59) vs #2 Lexington Synths (74-56)

Season Series: Malden 4, Lexington 0

April 26-27 @Lex: Mal 4-1, Mal 5-3(11)
July 7-8 @Mal: Mal 4-3, Mal 4-0



Analysis

Regardless of how many ways we look at this series, we feel that both teams have been just too . . . quiet. A year ago, Malden entered the playoffs as the #1 seed but fell just short in their first trip to the NCA Championship Series, falling in seven to Easy Town. Lexington was not even in the playoffs. This year, these are the #3 and #2 seeds, respectively.

Needless to say, these teams have no playoff history together. Well, maybe needless, but we will say it. The Grognaks are in their third-straight and third overall appearance in the playoffs. Lexington is making their fourth playoff appearance, all within the last five seasons. In 2315, the Synths were the #1 seed. This is a chance for the last two #1 seeds to finally settle something in the playoffs. This playoff series may be noisier than the regular season was.

In the regular season, it was all Malden. The Grognaks won all four matchups, with the closest coming in Game 2 when the teams went to extra innings. There, Jack of Diamonds Cordero hit a two-RBI double in the top of the 11th to secure another Grognaks win. Malden pitching held the Synths to seven total runs in the four games, including a shutout in their last meeting on July 8.

For Lexington, pitching gives them the best chance to win a championship. The Synths were 1st in runs allowed (545), including 2nd in Starters ERA (3.63) and 5th in Bullpen ERA (4.19). Both Aaron Noluh (11-6, 2.89) and Deedee Martinson (16-11, 2.79) were amazing all season. CL Hunter Kim (26 SV, 2.82) is one of the best in the CBO.

On offense, what is a talented group struggled. The Synths were 9th in runs scored (614) with some really bad numbers in some areas, including being 13th in OBP (.330) and home runs (112). CF Packs Ton Kling (.261/19/56) was the teams leader in home runs. Only World B. Free (.325/12/74) and Campy Madrid (.311/5/37) hit over .300. However, the Synths were 2nd in stolen bases (163), including 65 from Kling.



Prediction

This one is not that tough to predict. When I came up with my rankings of the CBO teams, I ranked the Grognaks third behind only Jamaica Plain and Easy Town. The Synths had a great season, but the offense is closer to its 2316 form than its 2315 form, and that is a scary prospect for their championship chances. We do not see a sweep, but a good series. Still, we think the Naks are here. Malden 3, Lexington 2

[StLee]

10 September 2317

Dalton Farm Tops Dark in Five Games, Captures SPA Crown

The Dalton Farm Fog Crawlers of the Vim! League captured their sixth Season Pass Association Series title, defeating the Dark Bloodworms of the Nuka World League, 4 games to 1. It marks the second-straight title for the Fog Crawlers. They have won the SPA Series in all six tries. They won every year from 2303-2306 for their first four titles.

SS Gus Hangman was named Series MVP, going 10 for 22 (.455) with a double, home run, six runs, and five RBI. Hangman played for both Dark and Dalton Farm in 2316. He was traded to the Fog Crawlers.

"I have a lot of love for Dark and the people out there in Bradberton," Hangman said. "But I'll be honest. I didn't recognize a lot of the players. There were a lot of changes. I'm just glad they decided to send me to the best team."

Dark's CF Bandit Pujol had an outstanding Game 4, Dark's only win. He went 5 for 5 with a run and RBI. His five-hit performance matched the NWL record for hits in a playoff game. Pujol signed with the Bloodworms after not being drafted in the 2316 CBO Draft.





Game 1

Season Pass Series Game 1 Goes to Dalton Farm, Thanks to Velasquez
When the games really matter, the Dalton Farm Fog Crawlers put on their best show, beating the Dark Bloodworms by a final score of 10-0. Ironfist Velasquez was 3 for 4 with a home run and 2 singles, while scoring 2 times and driving in 4. Dalton Farm now leads Dark 1-0 in the best-of-7 affair.

Hurt Thomas, who finished 5th in the VIML in wins above replacement with 2.8 in 2313, helped out the Dalton Farm cause in the bottom of the third inning with a run-scoring walk. For the game, the right fielder drew 1 walk.

Dark manager Tame Paul Williams called the blowout loss "ugly."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Blood Tide Stadium in Far Harbor.

Game 2

Dalton Farm Pins 10-7 Loss on Dark
A big day at the plate from catcher Haymaker Abernathy was not enough to keep the Dalton Farm Fog Crawlers from extending their lead in the Season Pass Series. The Fog Crawlers topped Abernathy and the Dark Bloodworms, 10-7, at Blood Tide Stadium in Game 2, and now hold a 2-0 edge in the best-of-7 series. Abernathy was 3 for 4 with 3 singles and 2 walks. He scored 2 times in the loss.

Making an impact for Dalton Farm was pinch hitter Jace Spaceghost. He drilled a double off Jackie Jones in the bottom of the fifth. For the game, Spaceghost was 1-2 with a double.

"There was a kid in the stands with a sign that said 'Dalton Farm Fog Crawlers (probably) 2317 Vim! Series Champions'," Spaceghost told reporters after the game. "I told him, 'Premature, but I like the confidence.'"

Game 3 is scheduled for Friday at Ol' Sugartop Ballpark at Dry Rock Gulch in Bradberton.

Game 3

Road Win Lifts Dalton Farm to 3-0 Lead in SPS
With right-hander Steady Mike Holmes leading the charge, the Dalton Farm Fog Crawlers got past the Dark Bloodworms, 7-6, in extra innings in Game 3 of the Season Pass Series. Holmes threw 7.0 innings of 5-hit ball at Ol' Sugartop Ballpark at Dry Rock Gulch as Dalton Farm managed to grab a 3-0 lead in the best-of-7 series.

The game was at a stalemate until shortstop Lexx Butane came to bat in the top of the tenth. Facing Dark pitcher Oogie Boogie Perez, he hit a 0-2 cutter for a run-scoring single. It was a game-changer, putting Dalton Farm on top, 7-6.

"We'll take this win and move on," said Holmes.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Ol' Sugartop Ballpark at Dry Rock Gulch in Bradberton.

Game 4

Dark Breaks Through for First Win in Season Pass Series; Now Trails 3-1
The Dark Bloodworms have closed some of the gap between themselves and the series-leading Dalton Farm Fog Crawlers, winning, 6-2, at Ol' Sugartop Ballpark at Dry Rock Gulch. Bloodworms center fielder Bandit Pujol went 5-5 with 5 singles. The win cuts the deficit facing the Bloodworms to 3-1 in the best-of-7 Season Pass Series.

Pujol contributed in the bottom of the first. With runners on 1st and 2nd, he hit a run-scoring single. It was one at-bat among others that helped Dark get the win.

Said losing manager Greg Hammerberg: "It's very easy to sit in an ivory tower and critique the pitching, but the bottom line is we need to score runs."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Ol' Sugartop Ballpark at Dry Rock Gulch in Bradberton.

Game 5

Dalton Farm Caps Season With Season Pass Association Championship
The Dalton Farm Fog Crawlers are champions of the Season Pass Association.

They polished off the Dark Bloodworms in the decisive game 5-0 to capture the series 4-1.

At the postgame press conference, the winning manager commented, "This is the reason you play this game. To get this trophy says you are not only the best team in your league, you are the best from several leagues. It is a very special feeling to win this Season Pass Association trophy."

The Fog Crawlers won the 6th pennant to qualify for the overall crown. Dalton Farm compiled a record of 58-32 in the Vim! League Fog Division during the regular season.

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

16 September 2317

We have a double feature today! Not only will we update the CBO playoffs, but we will also update award winners in the minor leagues. There is a lot of excitement heading into the final couple of weeks of the 2317 season!

There are four teams remaining in the playoffs for the rights to the 2317 Sole Survivor Series championship. This year is starting to look a lot like 2316 suddenly with three of the four finalists from last season returning again to the association championship series.

CBO Association Semifinals Round Results

NCA - #4 The Slog Ghouls vs #1 Easy Town Assaultrons

Game 1: Easy Town 4, The Slog 2

Association Semifinal Round Game 1 Victory for Gale and Easy Town

The Easy Town Assaultrons started the Association Semifinal Round in style, downing the visiting The Slog Ghouls at Easy Town Field by a score of 4-2 to stake an early 1-0 lead in the best-of-5 series. Assaultrons left-hander Lonely Gale threw 6.0 innings of 4-hit ball.

In the bottom of the fifth, Easy Town left fielder J.J. Gray had a productive at-bat. With runners on 1st and 3rd and two out, Gray stroked a run-scoring single to center. It made the score 3-2, Easy Town. For the game, he went 3 for 4 with a double and 2 singles.

"Lonely was bobbing and weaving the whole game," said Easy Town manager Malik Christmasstory.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Easy Town Field in Easy Town.

Game 2: Easy Town 5, The Slog 3

Easy Town Pins 5-3 Loss on The Slog
The Easy Town Assaultrons moved to within one game of the Association Championship Series, downing the visiting The Slog Ghouls at Easy Town Field by a score of 5-3. Assaultrons right fielder Topher Spark did some major damage. He was 2-3 with 2 singles and a walk. The win gives the Assaultrons a 2-0 advantage in the best-of-5 Association Semifinal Round.

Second Baseman Buns Palmer made an impact for Easy Town, when he swatted a run-scoring triple off Klement Thodberg in the bottom of the fifth. For the contest, Palmer was 1 for 1 with a triple.

"It was a good night for them and a bad night for us," said The Slog manager Melvin Ceja.

Game 3 is scheduled for Wednesday at Tarberry Field Forever in The Slog.

Game 3: Easy Town 4, The Slog 3

Assaultrons Move on to Association Championship Series

The Easy Town Assaultrons proved to be too much to handle for the The Slog Ghouls in the Association Semifinal Round, and a sweep was the end result.

Easy Town punched its ticket to the Association Championship Series on the strength of a 4-3 win in the deciding game, which wrapped up the series 3-0.

Easy Town left fielder J.J. Gray, named series MVP, was instrumental in the sweep, as he mashed The Slog pitching to the tune of a .417 average, with a .385 on-base percentage. He had 1 home runs, drove in 4 RBI and scored 2 runs.

The Easy Town Assaultrons don't know who they will face in the next round. They will play the winner of the Malden Grognaks - Lexington Synths series. Malden leads the series 2 games to 1. The Association Championship Series schedule will be announced after the Association Semifinal Round finishes.



NCA - #3 Malden Grognaks vs #2 Lexington Synths

Game 1: Malden 8, Lexington 1

Tarberry, Grognaks Wallop Synths in Game 1 of ASF

The Malden Grognaks started the Association Semifinal Round in style, winning on the road against the Lexington Synths at Super Duper Mart Stadium by a score of 8-1 to take an early 1-0 lead in the best-of-5 series. Grognaks third baseman Jacob Tarberry excelled. He went 3-5 with 2 home runs. He drove in 3 runs and scored twice.

Tarberry had a key at-bat in the top of the fifth to put Malden in front, 4-1. With a runner on 1st, he hit a 2-run home run off Lexington pitcher Aaron Noluh.

"It's true for every sport, I think, but the playoffs are so short that you've just got to get in and get hot," Malden manager Chris Blizard told BNN after the win. "We took care of the first part and now we're just working on the second."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Super Duper Mart Stadium in Lexington.

Game 2: Lexington 11, Malden 1

Lebowski, Synths Wallop Grognaks in Game 2 of ASF

Lexington left fielder Dude Lebowski produced all the offense the Synths would need in the club's 11-1 win over the Malden Grognaks.

Lebowski went 3-5 with a home run and a double, while scoring 3 runs and driving in 4, while Lexington moved into a tie in the Association Semifinal Round. The Synths and Grognaks are now even at 1-1 in the best-of-5 series.

In the bottom of the third, Lebowski had one of his most important at-bats: a 2-run home run off Beasty Boyd Hollen that staked the Synths to a 2-0 lead.

"I thought we played a nice game," Lebowski told the Lexington Daily. "Good pitching, timely hitting, it was all there."

Game 3 is scheduled for Wednesday at Unstoppable Park in Malden.

Game 3: Malden 6, Lexington 2

Tinter, Grognaks Wallop Synths in Game 3 of ASF

Riding the 2-hit performance of first baseman Lance Tinter, the Malden Grognaks stopped the visiting Lexington Synths, 6-2, in Game 3 of the Association Semifinal Round. Tinter was 2 for 3 with a home run, a double, and a walk. He scored 3 times and drove in 2 for the Grognaks, who now lead the best-of-5 series, 2 games to 1.

Malden second baseman Jack of Diamonds Cordero helped the Grognaks go up, 3-2, in the bottom of the sixth inning. With the game tied, Cordero hit a run-scoring single off Lexington pitcher Admiral Kelm.

"Postseason wins taste oh so sweet," said Tinter after the game.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Unstoppable Park in Malden.

Game 4: Lexington 7, Malden 4

Lebowski Blasts Grognaks, Synths Take Game 4, 7-4

The Lexington Synths and the Malden Grognaks will take the Association Semifinal Round to a decisive 5th game. In a must-win situation, the Synths beat the Grognaks, 7-4, at Unstoppable Park to force the series into what will essentially be a one-game playoff. Lexington left fielder Dude Lebowski went 2-3 with a home run, a double, and 2 walks, while adding 5 RBI and scoring once.

Lebowski had an important at-bat with the bases loaded in the top of the sixth, when he hit a bases-clearing double. The Synths went on to win.

"You need to show up when your number's called," said Lebowski.

The next game is set to be played for Saturday, September 15th , 2317 at Super Duper Mart Stadium in Lexington.

Game 5: Malden 1, Lexington 0

Grognaks Heading to Association Championship Series

The sweet swing of Jacob Tarberry has led his team through the Association Semifinal Round.

The Malden Grognaks star earned series MVP honors as his club downed the Lexington Synths to advance to the Association Championship Series.

The Grognaks won the final game at Super Duper Mart Stadium by a score of 1-0 and the series 3-2.

"I'm seeing the ball well and happy to contribute to a win," said Tarberry. "I hope it continues for the rest of the playoffs."

For the series, Tarberry hit .476 with a .476 on-base percentage. He had 4 home runs, drove in 6 RBI and scored 4 runs.

The Malden Grognaks will play against the Easy Town Assaultrons in the next round. Easy Town won their series against the The Slog Ghouls 3 games to 0. The Association Championship Series schedule will be announced after the Association Semifinal Round finishes.



SCA - #5 Quincy Granites vs #1 Glowing Sea Radscorpions

Game 1: Quincy 3, Glowing Sea 2

Granites Edge Radscorpions, 3-2, to Open ASF

The Quincy Granites powered past the hometown Glowing Sea Radscorpions, 3-2, in the opener of the Association Semifinal Round at Glowing Sea Dome. Quincy starting pitcher Make Money threw 6.0 innings allowing 1 run, to lead the charge. The Granites now lead the series 1-0.

In the top of the second inning of a 0-0 tie, Quincy third baseman Downlow Uptown reached on an error by the 3B, driving in 1 run. It broke the deadlock and put Quincy on top, 1-0.

"Nice to see our side come away with the win," Uptown said after the game.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Glowing Sea Dome in Dover.


Game 2: Glowing Sea 2, Quincy 1

Radscorpions Clip Granites, 2-1, in ASF Contest

The Glowing Sea Radscorpions defeated the Quincy Granites, 2-1, in Game 2 of the Association Semifinal Round. Doing his part was starter Hot Lips Houlihan, who threw 7.0 innings of 3-hit ball. The win moves Glowing Sea into a 1-1 tie with Quincy in the series.

Houlihan was effective for Glowing Sea, seldom allowing the Granites to square up a pitch. The right-hander tossed 96 pitches over 7 innings. He limited Quincy to just 1 run on 3 hits.

"Hot Lips did a nice job," said Radscorpions manager Woody Lumpkin.

Game 3 is scheduled for Tuesday at The Stone House in Quincy.

Game 3: Quincy 5, Glowing Sea 2

Quincy Tops Glowing Sea, 5-2, Claims 2-1 Series Lead

The Quincy Granites moved to within one game of the Association Championship Series, downing the visiting Glowing Sea Radscorpions at The Stone House by a score of 5-2. Granites left fielder Bingy Xiu did some major damage. He went 3-4 with a double and 2 singles. He scored 2 times. The win gives the Granites a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-5 Association Semifinal Round.

Will Hell helped his team take an early lead with a 3-run home run. It came in the first inning, making the score 3-2, Granites.

"It takes a lot of things to win a ballgame," said Quincy manager Scrappy Barios. "It's usually not just one thing."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Stone House in Quincy.

Game 4: Glowing Sea 4, Quincy 2, 10 inn.

Glowing Sea Win Evens Series at 2

Handed an opportunity to close out the Association Semifinal Round, the Quincy Granites could not deliver.

Game 4 went into extra frames and the Glowing Sea Radscorpions emerged victorious, taking a 10-inning, 4-2 win. Glowing Sea pitcher Alex Language threw 7.0 innings of 6-hit ball at The Stone House, as the Radscorpions dragged themselves back to parity. The clubs are now tied 2-2 in the best-of-5 series.

Glowing Sea used a timely hit from Timelord Marvel to get the win. The pinch hitter stroked a 2-run double in the top of the tenth inning to put the Radscorpions ahead, 4-2. It was his only hit in 1 at-bat, but it made an impact.

"If I go out there and help the team win, that's all you can do," said Language.

The next game is set to be played for Friday, September 14th , 2317 at Glowing Sea Dome in Dover.

Game 5: Quincy 2, Glowing Sea 1

Granites Win Association Semifinal Round
In an exciting Association Semifinal Round that had its fair share of drama and intrigue, perhaps it is Commonwealth Baseball Organization fans who have come out the winner.

But on the field, the winners were the Quincy Granites, who edged the Glowing Sea Radscorpions 3-2 to advance to the Association Championship Series.

Quincy won the final game by a 2-1 count to wrap up the series. Bingy Xiu earned series MVP honors, by hitting .545 with a .583 on-base percentage. He had 0 home runs, drove in 0 RBI and scored 3 runs.

The Quincy Granites will play against the Diamond City Swatters in the next round. Diamond City won their series against the Jamaica Plain Red Rockets 3 games to 1. The Association Championship Series schedule will be announced after the Association Semifinal Round finishes.



SCA - #3 Diamond City Swatters vs #2 Jamaica Plain Red Rockets

Game 1: Diamond City 5, Jamaica Plain 3

Road Win Lifts Diamond City to 1-0 Lead in ASF

The Diamond City Swatters powered past the hometown Jamaica Plain Red Rockets, 5-3, in the opener of the Association Semifinal Round at Red Rockets Stadium. Diamond City third baseman Tre' Morgueman went 3 for 4 with a double, 2 singles, and a walk, while scoring 2 times for the hosts. The Swatters now lead the series 1-0.

It could have been a different outcome for Diamond City, had it not been for Todd Smithfield, the two-time All-Star . Smithfield contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the eighth inning to put Diamond City up, 5-3.

Diamond City manager A-Juan Rodriguez commended his team for delivering "maximum effort."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Red Rockets Stadium in Jamaica Plain.

Game 2: Jamaica Plain 6, Diamond City 4

Debate Blasts Swatters, Red Rockets Take Game 2, 6-4

With pinch hitter Ken Debate leading the charge, the Jamaica Plain Red Rockets defeated the visiting Diamond City Swatters, 6-4, in Game 2 of the Association Semifinal Round. Debate was 1 for 1 with a home run. He drove in 3 runs and scored once at Red Rockets Stadium to help Jamaica Plain force a 1-1 tie in the best-of-5 series.

Fairhaven, Massachusetts native Ken Debate had a clutch at-bat in the bottom of the eighth for the Red Rockets. With Jamaica Plain trailing 4-3, he hit a 3-run home run.

"We lost," Diamond City manager A-Juan Rodriguez said later. "We'll deal with it. The series isn't over."

Game 3 is scheduled for Tuesday at The Great Green Jewel in Boston.

Game 3: Diamond City 8, Jamaica Plain 1

Diamond City Wins at Home to Take 2-1 Lead in ASF

The Diamond City Swatters moved to within one game of the Association Championship Series, downing the visiting Jamaica Plain Red Rockets at The Great Green Jewel by a score of 8-1. Swatters left-hander Dropper Millieu had a strong outing in which he threw 6.1 innings of 5-hit ball. The win gives the Swatters a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-5 Association Semifinal Round.

The Swatters picked up the win with a combination of good hitting and good pitching.

"Felt great, felt really good," said Millieu.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Great Green Jewel in Boston.

Game 4: Diamond City 2, Jamaica Plain 1

Diamond City Takes Association Semifinal Round

While it wasn't a complete mismatch, the Diamond City Swatters showed themselves to be the superior team in the Association Semifinal Round, downing the Jamaica Plain Red Rockets 3-1.

"Nothing is ever easy in the Commonwealth Baseball Organization playoffs. Whether you're a favorite or an underdog, you can't take anyone lightly or you'll get burned," said Hey Dentra Venski, who was named series MVP after a standout offensive performance.

Diamond City won the final game by a 2-1 count at The Great Green Jewel to clinch its spot in the next round.

They will hope to once again rely on Venski there, as he hit .429 with 1 home runs, 2 RBI 4 runs scored during the series.

The Diamond City Swatters don't know who they will face in the next round. They will play the winner of the Glowing Sea Radscorpions - Quincy Granites series. Quincy leads the series 2 games to 1. The Association Championship Series schedule will be announced after the Association Semifinal Round finishes.



CBO Playoff Tree



Minor League Awards

NEBL Player Awards

PL Hitter - At the age of 25, Cy Sutcliff of the Burlington Ferals could very well have his best years ahead of him.

It's a startling thought when you consider the year he had in 2317 was good enough to win the shortstop the Patriot League Most Valuable Player Award.

"See the ball, hit the ball," he said. "That's my basic approach."

The top hitter put up a .299 batting average this year, as well as a .383 on-base percentage. He played 87 games and racked up 90 hits, 14 doubles, 1 triple, 29 home runs, 90 RBIs and 47 runs scored.

He received 28 first place votes, as a unanimous winner. Sakda Song of the Arlington Caps finished second in voting, while Sascha Foss of the Lynn Fortune Finders finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Cy Sutcliff - Burlington Ferals - 28 - 392
Sakda Song - Arlington Caps - 0 - 250
Sascha Foss - Lynn Fortune Finders - 0 - 211
Ian Tankengep - Burlington Ferals - 0 - 153
Bastiaan Gonatas - Lynn Fortune Finders - 0 - 148
Mogens Rideout - Medford Radguards - 0 - 132
Beard Harden - Abernathy Adamantium - 0 - 123
Yo Gert Kupp - Burlington Ferals - 0 - 71
Ruby Randle - Abernathy Adamantium - 0 - 55
Jen Zabek - Danvers Sonics - 0 - 49
Shiner Ortiz - Manchester Mammoths - 0 - 29
Narek Begiyan - Arlington Caps - 0 - 15
Ilkka Mattila - Everett Mutant Hounds - 0 - 12
Cesar Larsen - Danvers Sonics - 0 - 7
Oscar Admiral - Arlington Caps - 0 - 5

YL Hitter - The future looks extremely bright for Bannon Harrison. At the age of 22, many players are still trying to find their way in New England Baseball League.

Harrison has not only found his way, he's already established himself as one of the game's brightest stars, today being named the winner of the Yankee League Most Valuable Player Award.

"I didn't expect to hit .283 this year, that's for sure," the second baseman said.

The Braintree Robobrains star also put up a .352 on-base percentage this year, with 82 hits, 18 doubles, 1 triple, 25 home runs, 57 RBIs and 48 runs scored.

He received 11 first place votes out of a possible 28. Sergio Higgins of the Warwick Mirelurks finished second in voting with 12 first place votes, while Ori Gun of the Bradberton Tycoons finished third with 4 first place votes.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Bannon Harrison - Braintree Robobrains - 11 - 288
Sergio Higgins - Warwick Mirelurks - 12 - 280
Ori Gun - Bradberton Tycoons - 4 - 222
Magic Johnson - Worcester Cannons - 0 - 169
Red Roughing - Needham Archers - 0 - 169
Phil Brodie - Bradberton Tycoons - 0 - 117
Fion Black - Waltham Wanderers - 1 - 116
Tobias Hoffman - Providence Warlocks - 0 - 92
Lenny Poertner - Worcester Cannons - 0 - 57
Pad Yeo - Worcester Cannons - 0 - 46
Grayson Topps - Waltham Wanderers - 0 - 45
Vicky Tomaszewski - Woburn Bobbleheads - 0 - 17
Ian Whittick - Warwick Mirelurks - 0 - 16
Copper Quartz - Brookline Bandoliers - 0 - 10
Lateral Booth - Plymouth Pilgrims - 0 - 6
Fern Bulletgraze - Braintree Robobrains - 0 - 2

PL Starter - There's less room in Mirko Polanecky's trophy case today after he brought home the 2317 Patriot League Pitcher of the Year Award.

The talented Everett Mutant Hounds star finished the year 9-3 with a 1.86 ERA. He struck out 100 in 140.1 innings while walking 43.

He received 28 first place votes, as a unanimous winner. Godo Yeoman of the Marlborough Firemen finished second in voting, while Anudrutta Niten of the Danvers Sonics finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Mirko Polanecky - Everett Mutant Hounds - 28 - 196
Godo Yeoman - Marlborough Firemen - 0 - 85
Anudrutta Niten - Danvers Sonics - 0 - 84
Arwen Gonar - Finch Farm Four Leafs - 0 - 67
Meshawn Sutu - Everett Mutant Hounds - 0 - 31
Dream O'Sullivan - Abernathy Adamantium - 0 - 12
Spanky Sutherland - Medford Radguards - 0 - 1

YL Starter - The votes are in for the 2317 Yankee League Pitcher of the Year Award. It has been bestowed on Gobbler Core of the Waltham Wanderers.

The 23-year-old Wanderers ace finished the year with a 8-5 mark, logged 17 starts, threw 99 innings, yielded 72 hits, struck out 84 and held the opposition to a .203 batting average.

He received 24 first place votes out of a possible 28. Diesel O'Neal of the Waltham Wanderers finished second in voting with 4 first place votes, while McRicky McWilliams of the Worcester Cannons finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Gobbler Core - Waltham Wanderers - 24 - 183
Diesel O'Neal - Waltham Wanderers - 4 - 117
McRicky McWilliams - Worcester Cannons - 0 - 60
Big Dog Monaghan - Brookline Bandoliers - 0 - 55
Artistic Ball - Warwick Mirelurks - 0 - 51
Killer Kevin Bishop - Natick Big Leaguers - 0 - 6
Nick Soulless - Waltham Wanderers - 0 - 2
Alt Errigo - Fall River Rippers - 0 - 1
Phantom Thomson - Bradberton Tycoons - 0 - 1


PL Reliever - He may only be 24, but Sean Shabazz of the Clifton Vertibirds has already established himself as one of the elite relievers in the Patriot League.

The reliever was today named the PL Reliever of the Year Award winner for 2317.

He won the award with a strong year that saw him put up 16 saves in 49 relief appearances and 54 strikeouts in 64.1 innings. He had a record of 2-1 to go with his 2.24 ERA.

He received 28 first place votes, as a unanimous winner. Morty Mutantmagnet of the Finch Farm Four Leafs finished second in voting, while Curry Author of the Manchester Mammoths finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Sean Shabazz - Clifton Vertibirds - 28 - 140
Morty Mutantmagnet - Finch Farm Four Leafs - 0 - 64
Curry Author - Manchester Mammoths - 0 - 40
Yaren Bolt - Everett Mutant Hounds - 0 - 7
Maze Ayubu - Graygarden Action Boys - 0 - 1


YL Reliever - At the age of 23, Jessup Gobbler says he still has a lot to learn about life in New England Baseball League.

But he certainly seems to be a quick study, as the Waltham Wanderers reliever was better than all others this year and has captured the 2317 Yankee League Reliever of the Year Award.

"I hope to win this a few more times before all is said and done in my career," the
Torrington, Connecticut native said.

For the season, Gobbler had 2 saves in 51 relief appearances, which totaled 63.2. He fanned 52 betters, while walking 27 and put up a record of 0-1 to go with his 1.98 ERA.

He received 27 first place votes out of a possible 28. Awesome Tony Fox of the Needham Archers finished second in voting with 1 first place vote, while Quack Olvera of the Woburn Bobbleheads finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Jessup Gobbler - Waltham Wanderers - 27 - 138
Awesome Tony Fox - Needham Archers - 1 - 68
Quack Olvera - Woburn Bobbleheads - 0 - 30
Otar Mad - Natick Big Leaguers - 0 - 16

MML Player Awards

LL Hitter - When it came to hitting the baseball, Rham Katte had few peers in the Legends League this year. The gifted left fielder for Nashua tagged opposing pitchers for a .320 average and was voted the Hitter of the Year Award for 2317. Included in his season stats were 87 hits, 15 doubles, 4 triples, 8 home runs, 42 runs scored and 33 RBIs.

He received 28 first place votes, as a unanimous winner. Tucker Patterson of the Ipswich Hitters finished second in voting, while Rearden Rush Hour of the Bedford Beaneaters finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Rham Katte - Nashua Sams - 28 - 392
Tucker Patterson - Ipswich Hitters - 0 - 226
Rearden Rush Hour - Bedford Beaneaters - 0 - 195
David Dawodu - Marblehead Grenades - 0 - 168
Royal Bobber - Belmont Sneakers - 0 - 156
Chimo Gaspar - Nashua Sams - 0 - 148
Crowball Myles - Covenant Refractors - 0 - 81
Heek Noramirian - Watertown Armorers - 0 - 63
Kettle Deitrich - Covenant Refractors - 0 - 61
Louie Louie Burrell - Sanctuary Hills Zetans - 0 - 51
Regan Prezzton - Sanctuary Hills Zetans - 0 - 50
Taylor Houlton - Revere Beach Shoremen - 0 - 37
Krieg Hawksea - Sanctuary Hills Zetans - 0 - 22
Donegal Gunsmith - Marblehead Grenades - 0 - 1
Hi Tran - Nashua Sams - 0 - 1

SL Hitter - Duncan Donutz of the Pawtucket Pips proved that you can step out of the shadows and onto the stage if you've got the talent and the drive to hone your skills. Hard work, long hours and a tireless resolve paid off for him today in the form of the Stars League Hitter of the Year Award.

Donutz hit for a .357 average while collecting 80 hits, 14 doubles, 4 triples, 12 home runs, 38 RBIs and scoring 42 times.

He received 25 first place votes out of a possible 28. Splash Musial of the Hartford Melonheads finished second in voting, while Murr Rohgoo of the Marshfield Savages finished third with 3 first place votes.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Duncan Donutz - Pawtucket Pips - 25 - 377
Splash Musial - Hartford Melonheads - 0 - 242
Murr Rohgoo - Marshfield Savages - 3 - 204
Farengar Secretfire - Hyde Park Stingwings - 0 - 174
Cusack Niamh - Hull Lead Bellies - 0 - 169
Rover Crimson - Hull Lead Bellies - 0 - 145
Air Contreras - Dedham Bombers - 0 - 94
Pedro Bentley - Cranston Boomers - 0 - 79
Jericho Cane - Newton Behemoths - 0 - 58
Forrest Carvalho - Springfield Operators - 0 - 52
Aram Sham - Dedham Bombers - 0 - 31
Robert Sand - Hartford Melonheads - 0 - 16
Corny Jastain - Marshfield Savages - 0 - 9
Phineas Barnum - Hartford Melonheads - 0 - 1
Derr Naverwocker - Bridgeport Gulchers - 0 - 1

LL Starter - It was as good as money in the bank when Korba Karel took the hill for Marblehead. He paid his club back with interest this season with a superb 13-2 mark, collecting the Legends League Pitcher of the Year Award for 2317.

The Grenades star delighted the hometown fans with a fine 2.44 ERA and 108 strikeouts in 147.2 innings. Karel surrendered 97 hits and 23 walks and limited opposing batters to a .186 batting average.

He received 24 first place votes out of a possible 28. Adda DeWhite of the Covenant Refractors finished second in voting with 3 first place votes, while Bubs Tentsleep of the Tenpines Bluff Manta Men finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Korba Karel - Marblehead Grenades - 24 - 184
Adda DeWhite - Covenant Refractors - 3 - 117
Bubs Tentsleep - Tenpines Bluff Manta Men - 0 - 79
Shadow Pile - Revere Beach Shoremen - 1 - 38
Em Belle-Ishing - Nashua Sams - 0 - 19
Skip Ulloa - Littleton Ragers - 0 - 14
Rabid Ray Yellow - Marblehead Grenades - 0 - 14
Jakie Zhou - Bedford Beaneaters - 0 - 10
Body Teacher - Revere Beach Shoremen - 0 - 1

SL Starter - Toon Alljet of Springfield excelled on the mound in 2317 with a 11-4 record and was named the Stars League Pitcher of the Year Award winner.

The Operators star put on quite a show with a 2.00 ERA in 23 starts and 114 strikeouts in 135.1 innings.

He received 26 first place votes out of a possible 28. Warren Woodsman of the Hartford Melonheads finished second in voting with 1 first place vote, while Siltbean Ferguson of the Pawtucket Pips finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Toon Alljet - Springfield Operators - 26 - 190
Warren Woodsman - Hartford Melonheads - 1 - 101
Siltbean Ferguson - Pawtucket Pips - 0 - 61
Gatatog Uvenk - Hull Lead Bellies - 1 - 51
Abernathy Samuelson - Pawtucket Pips - 0 - 35
Arnold Welsh - Hull Lead Bellies - 0 - 17
Dave Vaive - Hartford Melonheads - 0 - 15
Cuff Tailorman - Bridgeport Gulchers - 0 - 5
Geaney Stone - Hull Lead Bellies - 0 - 1

LL Reliever - Jellybean Bryant was a calming influence out of the Revere Beach Shoremen bullpen this season.

His teammates and manager said he had a poised demeanor about him that was typical of someone much older and more experienced. His poise has paid off, as the 24-year-old turned in a sparkling season and has been named the winner of the Legends League Reliever of the Year Award for 2317.

The Sutton, Massachusetts native won the award with 4 saves in 30 relief appearances, 35 strikeouts in 36.2 innings and a record of 6-1 to go with his 1.72 ERA.

He received 16 first place votes out of a possible 28. Aela Hunter of the Covenant Refractors finished second in voting with 11 first place votes, while Zany Zanzibar of the Sanctuary Hills Zetans finished third with 1 first place vote.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Jellybean Bryant - Revere Beach Shoremen - 16 - 112
Aela Hunter - Covenant Refractors - 11 - 100
Zany Zanzibar - Sanctuary Hills Zetans - 1 - 31
Bareil Antos - Littleton Ragers - 0 - 8
Dirtnail Gugenheimer - Revere Beach Shoremen - 0 - 1

SL Reliever - He may only be 19, but Sun Hancock of the Dedham Bombers has already established himself as one of the elite relievers in the Stars League.

The reliever was today named the SL Reliever of the Year Award winner for 2317.

He won the award with a strong year that saw him put up 6 saves in 49 relief appearances and 42 strikeouts in 62.1 innings. He had a record of 5-4 to go with his 1.44 ERA.

He received 22 first place votes out of a possible 28. Chandler Wei of the Bridgeport Gulchers finished second in voting with 6 first place votes, while Jim Strongboy of the Dedham Bombers finished third.

Player - Team - First Place - Total Points
Sun Hancock - Dedham Bombers - 22 - 128
Chandler Wei - Bridgeport Gulchers - 6 - 96
Jim Strongboy - Dedham Bombers - 0 - 20
Rock Howard Snohomish - Springfield Operators - 0 - 6
Matthew Hughes - Hartford Melonheads - 0 - 2

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

16 September 2317

CBO Playoffs Preview - Association Championship Series Round

NCA: #3 Malden Grognaks (71-59) vs #1 Easy Town Assaultrons (81-49)

Season Series: Easy Town 6, Malden 4

April 30-May 2 @ET: Mal 6-5, Mal 3-2, ET 8-4
May 28-29 @ET: ET 4-3, ET 6-3
June 26-28 @Mal: Mal 3-1, ET 9-6, ET 6-5
August 9-10 @Mal: ET 5-1, Mal 3-2

Analysis

A year ago, the #1 Malden Grognaks were awaiting the arrival of the #3 Easy Town Assaultrons for Game 1 at Unstoppable Park. A year later, these two teams meet in the NCA Championship Series for a second-straight season. The Trons won last season's matchup, 4 games to 3, before getting swept by Quincy in the Sole Survivor Series.

This now marks the Grognaks' third-straight and third-overall playoff appearances. Malden went their first five seasons of existence without a winning record and have been good ever since, following Glowing Sea and Cambridge in spamming young talent early on to build talent for today. Now, the Grognaks appear to be yearly contenders.

Easy Town is a bit more seasoned, both in their base as an original franchise and now in its ninth playoff appearance, including three in a row. The Assaultrons have now been to two Sole Survivor Series (2298, 2316) but fell short. This season, though, they are now the favorites of the remaining teams.



In the regular season matchups, Easy Town won the series, 6-4. The Assaultrons were the series winners both at home and on the road, going 3-2 in each, in what turned out to be 10 quality games overall.

Looking at the lineup matchups, hitting seems to slightly favor Malden, while Easy Town gets the pitching advantage. For hitting, the Grognaks get the nod at the very top and bottom of the lineup, while the Assaultrons have secured the middle. The Jacob Tarberry vs Eden Babz MVP watch has begun for this series and potentially for the Nuka Hitter Award race after the season ends.

Pitching-wise, the Grognaks have a Game 1 advantage with Lonely Gale facing off against Malden's Hrye Caje, with an ERA difference of 1.37. In Game 2, Ahsoka Tano may be slightly better than the Trons' Cohort Williams. In Game 3, Easy Town still may not have an advantage with Red Eagle meeting up with Malden's Beasty Boyd Hollen.



Prediction

Last season, this series was a battle. One year later, Easy Town is beginning to look to be a powerhouse and should have the advantage in both this series, and, if they win, the Sole Survivor Series. Malden, however was last season's #1, and they are still good. If they can battle the Trons deep into the series, they have a better chance than if they fall behind 2-0 early. In the end, we will go with the NCA's defending champions to return to the Series. Easy Town 4, Malden 2

SCA: #5 Quincy Gunners (71-59) vs #3 Diamond City Swatters (74-56)

Season Series: Diamond City 2, Quincy 2

June 21-22 @DC: DC 6-5(14), Qui 3-1
August 13-14 @Qui: DC 7-2, Qui 6-2

Analysis

At the beginning of the season, PAM had both the defending champions, the Quincy Granites, and the Diamond City Swatters missing the playoffs with identical 63-67 records. I had both making the playoffs, though, in all fairness I thought the SCA Championship Series would be Vault 81 versus Oberland, which both missed the playoffs in 2317.

In the regular season, this series was a wash with the Swatters winning Game 1 of each home-and-home matchup and then the Granites taking Game 2. Both games at Diamond City were close, including a 14-inning affair, while there was some distance in score in each of the games at Quincy.



Looking at the matchups, Diamond City seems to have advantages on both sides of the baseball overall. While Brad Hop and Will Hell are at the top of their games for the Granites, the Swatters could be considered to have the batting advantage at every other slot.

For pitching, the biggest advantage for Quincy will actually be the #1 vs #1 starter game, their Make Money over the Swatters' Macho Lopez. In Game 2, Diamond City's Beachboy Nut should have the advantage over College Luckyman. In Game 3, Dropper Millieu should one-up Kid Boots Appling of Quincy.



Prediction

There is something to say about veteran leadership and past success. For the Swatters, some of their veteran leadership, especially 4-time title winner Nut, has driven them here. Quincy was here a year ago and took their success to a championship, something that they are still defending despite all the doubts about their ability to do so. In the end, we think that the Swatters are just a little bit better all-around than the Granites, but that playoff success is hard to predict. We have to lean toward numbers rather than recent history, meaning one team gets the nod. Diamond City 4, Quincy 2

[ayaghmour2]

Wow. Can't believe Glowing Sea lost...

I was convinced they were going to win it all! And while far from a guarantee, I at least expected a series win. Just so dominant during the season and eventually the magic ran off. I thought with their rotation they were built perfectly for the playoffs

[StLee]

Originally Posted by ayaghmour2

Wow. Can't believe Glowing Sea lost...

I was convinced they were going to win it all! And while far from a guarantee, I at least expected a series win. Just so dominant during the season and eventually the magic ran off. I thought with their rotation they were built perfectly for the playoffs

Their offense just did not show up for the series with run counts of 2-2-2-4-1. If anything was going to be their Achilles heel, it would be a slight slump on offense.

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

25 September 2316

CBO Association Championship Series Round Results

NCA - #3 Malden Grognaks vs #1 Easy Town Assaultrons

Game 1: Easy Town 9, Malden 4

Association Championship Series Game 1 Goes to Easy Town, Thanks to MacDonald

The Easy Town Assaultrons started the Association Championship Series in style, downing the visiting Malden Grognaks at Easy Town Field by a score of 9-4 to grab an early 1-0 lead in the best-of-7 series. Assaultrons shortstop Stormin Normin MacDonald was 2-5 with a home run, while scoring 2 runs and driving in 2.

An inflection point occurred with no one out in the bottom of the fourth. That's when Assaultrons right fielder Topher Spark hit a fastball from Hry Caje for a 2-run home run. Just like that, Easy Town was up, 5-4.

"I felt good up there," said MacDonald. "I saw the ball well."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Easy Town Field in Easy Town.

Game 2: Easy Town 8, Malden 3

Easy Town Pins 8-3 Loss on Malden

Riding the 2-hit performance of right fielder Topher Spark, the Easy Town Assaultrons stopped the visiting Malden Grognaks, 8-3, in Game 2 of the Association Championship Series. Spark was 2-4 with 2 doubles, while scoring 2 and driving in 2 for the Assaultrons, who now lead the best-of-7 series, 2 games to 0.

A key moment came with two out in the bottom of the second. That's when Spark hit a cutter from Ahsoka Tano for a 2-run double, putting Easy Town up, 2-0.

Spark said afterward that his team has grown over the course of the season, adding: "It feels good when a plan comes together."

Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday at Unstoppable Park in Malden.

Game 3: Malden 6, Easy Town 1

Malden Breaks Through for First Win in Association Championship Series; Now Trails 2-1

The Malden Grognaks have closed some of the gap between themselves and the series-leading Easy Town Assaultrons, winning, 6-1, at Unstoppable Park. Grognaks right-hander Beasty Boyd Hollen threw 7.0 innings of 1-hit ball. The win cuts the deficit facing the Grognaks to 2-1 in the best-of-7 Association Championship Series.

In his 88-pitch effort, Hollen allowed 1 run on 1 hit over 7 innings. He walked 2 and struck out 2.

"Beasty Boyd was doing a good job pouring in strikes," said Malden manager Chris Blizard.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Unstoppable Park in Malden.

Game 4: Easy Town 5, Malden 4

Almost There: Easy Town On Cusp of ACS Triumph After 5-4 Win

Riding the 3-hit performance of shortstop Stormin Normin MacDonald, the Easy Town Assaultrons got a road win against the Malden Grognaks, 5-4, in Game 4 of the Association Championship Series. MacDonald went 3 for 4 with 3 singles and a walk for the Assaultrons, who now lead the best-of-7 series, 3 games to 1.

Easy Town used the timely hitting of Bill Barnes to seize the win. The catcher stroked a 2-run single in the top of the ninth inning to put the Assaultrons on top, 5-4. It was his only hit in 5 at-bats, but it was a game-changer.

Easy Town manager Malik Christmasstory commended his team for exhibiting "no shortage of effort."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Unstoppable Park in Malden.

Game 5: Malden 7, Easy Town 0

Malden Wins at Home to Narrow Series Deficit to 3-2

Facing elimination, the Malden Grognaks were looking for a savior. For today, at least, Ahsoka Tano delivered.

At Unstoppable Park, the 34-year-old pitched a game for the ages to fend off the Easy Town Assaultrons and help the Grognaks close their deficit in the Association Championship Series. Tano threw a 9-inning, complete-game shutout in the 7-0 Malden win, striking out 5 and allowing 4 hits. The Grognaks now trail 3-2 in the best-of-7 series.

Tano allowed no runs on 4 hits over 9 innings for the Grognaks. He walked 3 and struck out 5.

"Ahsoka pitched one heck of a game for us," said Malden manager Chris Blizard.

Game 6 is scheduled for Monday at Easy Town Field in Easy Town.

Game 6: Malden 10, Easy Town 9

Grognaks Clip Assaultrons, 10-9, in ACS Contest

In a crucial game, the Malden Grognaks put on their best show, beating the Easy Town Assaultrons by a final score of 10-9. Eden Babz went 2-4 with a home run, a double, and a walk, while adding 6 RBI and scoring once. Malden and Easy Town are now tied at 3 wins apiece in the best-of-7 affair.

Malden used a clutch at-bat from Floren Habern to capture the win. The center fielder hammered a 2-run home run in the top of the fifth inning to put the Grognaks ahead, 7-6. It was his lone hit in 4 at-bats, but it was a humdinger.

"It's the best feeling when you come through for your teammates," said Habern.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Easy Town Field in Easy Town.

Game 7: Easy Town 9, Malden 8

Easy Town Wins Association Championship Series
With a narrow 4-3 series win, the Easy Town Assaultrons have eliminated the Malden Grognaks and are Association Championship Series winners.

"We tried not to look ahead to the Sole Survivor Series, but we thought we'd be there for sure," said shortstop Stormin Normin MacDonald, who was named series MVP.

Easy Town won the final game by a score of 9-8, wrapping it up at Easy Town Field.

The bottom of the 7th made the biggest difference. Trailing 5-3, Albi Cannibal led of the inning with a solo home run off Gorgeous George Haney. With two outs and the bases loaded, J.J. Gray hit a first-pitch grand slam to give the Trons the lead, 8-5.

MacDonald's big series saw him hit .444 with a .531 on-base percentage. He had 1 home runs, drove in 9 RBI and scored 6 runs.

The Easy Town Assaultrons will play against the Quincy Granites in the next round. Quincy won their series against the Diamond City Swatters 4 games to 2. The Sole Survivor Series schedule will be announced after the Association Championship Series finishes.



SCA - #6 Quincy Gunners #4 Glowing Sea Rascorpions

Game 1: Quincy 4, Diamond City 0

Road Win Lifts Quincy to 1-0 Lead in ACS

Make Money and the Quincy Granites opened the Association Championship Series in brilliant fashion, traveling to Diamond City and shutting out the host Swatters at The Great Green Jewel, 4-0, to secure an early 1-0 lead in the best-of-7 series. Money, the Granites left-hander, threw 8.0 innings of shutout ball.

Money, the Quincy left-hander, went 8 innings, allowing no runs on 1 hit. He collected 7 strikeouts.

"It takes a lot of things to win a ballgame," said Quincy manager Scrappy Barios. "It's usually not just one thing."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Great Green Jewel in Boston.

Game 2: Quincy 3, Diamond City 1

Quincy Extends Series Lead in Low-Scoring Affair

Leave it to the veteran.

The Quincy Granites got a great start from 36-year-old left-hander College Luckyman, as Quincy won the contest, 3-1, at The Great Green Jewel. Luckyman threw 7.0 innings allowing 1 run in the win, which allowed the Granites to grab a 2-0 lead in the best-of-7 series.

Who knows how it might've ended, had it not been for Ramon Saldivar? The Quincy catcher had a run-scoring single in the top of the sixth inning to put the Granites on top, 3-1. For the game, Saldivar had 2 doubles and 1 single in 4 at-bats.

"We're one game closer to our goal," Quincy manager Scrappy Barios said later. "It isn't any more complicated than that."

The next game is set to be played for Wednesday, September 19th , 2317 at The Stone House in Quincy.

Game 3: Quincy 3, Diamond City 2

Granites Clip Swatters, 3-2, in ACS Contest
The Quincy Granites moved to within one game of the Sole Survivor Series, downing the visiting Diamond City Swatters at The Stone House by a score of 3-2. Granites right-hander Kid Boots Appling had a strong outing in which he threw 7.0 innings of shutout ball. The win gives the Granites a 3-0 advantage in the best-of-7 Association Championship Series.

The famously hardworking Appling handled the Swatters all day, notching 6 strikeouts in 7 innings while allowing 5 hits. Appling, who finished 2nd in the SCA in ERA with 3.33 in 2315, goes to 2-0 on the year with 16 strikeouts.

"We put some tough at-bats on some tough pitches," said Quincy manager Scrappy Barios.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Stone House in Quincy.

Game 4: Diamond City 5, Quincy 1

Diamond City Breaks Through for First Win in Association Championship Series; Now Trails 3-1

The Diamond City Swatters have closed some of the gap between themselves and the series-leading Quincy Granites, winning, 5-1, at The Stone House. Swatters right-hander Macho Lopez threw 7.0 innings of shutout ball. The win cuts the deficit facing the Swatters to 3-1 in the best-of-7 Association Championship Series.

Lopez, a native of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, was dealing all game. He kept Quincy hitters off-balance, while giving the Swatters 7 quality innings. Lopez threw 97 pitches, allowing 2 hits and striking out 9.

"The key at this level is throwing strike one," said Lopez. "Successful pitchers do it."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Stone House in Quincy.

Game 5: Diamond City 6, Quincy 1

Diamond City Wins to Cut Quincy Lead to 3-2

The Diamond City Swatters topped the Quincy Granites, 6-1, in Game 5 of the Association Championship Series. Most impressive was left-hander Dropper Millieu, who threw 7.0 innings of 4-hit ball. The win cuts Diamond City's deficit in the series to 3-2.

In the top of the fifth, Diamond City third baseman Hey Dentra Venski had a productive at-bat. With the bases empty and no one out, Venski stroked a solo home run to left-center. It made the score 1-0, Diamond City. For the game, he was 1-4 with a home run.

"Trying isn't good enough in this league," said Venski. "You've got to get results."

The next game is set to be played for Sunday, September 23rd , 2317 at The Great Green Jewel in Boston.

Game 6: Quincy 3, Diamond City 2

Quincy Moves on to Sole Survivor Series

After their 3-2 win today at The Great Green Jewel over the Diamond City Swatters, the Quincy Granites will advance to the Sole Survivor Series. Quincy won the series by a 4-2 margin.

Leading 2-1 entering the top of the 8th, a radstorm delay chased Swatters starter Beachboy Nut. Machine Beard came on in relief, allowing back-to-back singles to Pipewrench Mathis and Voodoo Sycamore before walking Downlow Uptown. Adavald Vigilant hit a sacrifice fly to tie it, and then Brad Hop doubled in the go-ahead run.

Leading the way for the Granites was catcher Ramon Saldivar, who had a spectacular series and was named MVP. He was 7 for 20 (.350) with three doubles, a run, and two RBI.

"I don't play differently in the regular season or playoffs. I just go out and do my best every game," he said. "It's certainly nice to play in the big game, but you can't let it get to your head and change your focus."

The Quincy Granites don't know who they will face in the next round. They will play the winner of the Easy Town Assaultrons - Malden Grognaks series. Easy Town leads the series 3 games to 2. The Sole Survivor Series schedule will be announced after the Association Championship Series finishes.



CBO Playoff Tree

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, and CYL

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

26 September 2317

Sole Survivor Series: #1 Easy Town Assaultrons (81-49) vs #5 Quincy Gunners (71-59)

Season Series: Easy Town 3, Quincy 0

July 10-12 @ET: ET 20-7, ET 3-0, ET 6-5



Analysis

Running it back seems to be the theme this season as for just the second time in CBO history do we have a rematch of the previous season. This time, it's the defending champions, Quincy, taking on the defending runners-up, Easy Town. In 2299-2300, the Diamond City Swatters defeated the Fort Hagen Silver Shroud in back-to-back seasons. There have been other rematches, just not in consecutive seasons.

Last season, it was all Quincy, as the then Gunners swept the Assaultrons in four games. During the regular season, though, the Trons changed it around, winning all three games, including a 20-7 victory. It was Easy Town's second-highest scoring mark of the season; they beat Salem 21-5 on August 7.



Looking at a comparison of team stats, Easy Town is the better team in almost every category with the exception of home runs, FIP, Pitcher WAR, and strikeouts. In some categories, like run differential (161-12), there is a stark advantage for the Assaultrons.

Offensively, the Trons are good at getting on base (.365 OBP) and then advancing runners (173 SB), especially when Eden Babz (CBO record 93 steals) gets on. Quincy relies on the long ball (148 home runs) to generate runs, especially from Will Hell (33 HR) and Brad Hop (30), who finished 2 and 3 in the SCA in homers behind Jamaica Plain's Tre' Morgueman (35).



On the mound, the Granites had to face much better teams overall, thus the 13.2 WAR with a much less efficient defense. Easy Town ended up with a team ERA (4.51) half a run better than Quincy (4.93). Only Nahant (5.13), Bunker Hill (5.33), and County Crossing (5.60) allowed more runs. Still, the Granites' Make Money (10-9. 3.46) is the top pitcher in the SSS.



When comparing the lineups expected for Game 1, the Assaultrons appear to have a lot more talent overall with just the cleanup hitter and pitcher slots advantage Quincy. Some huge talent differences include the Trons' Stormin' Normin MacDonald in the two-spot with a 26-point ratings by OSA advantage over Quincy's Bingy Xiu. Eden Babz has a 28-point talent advantage over Dodge Squallbender.



The position vs position matchups look this way with a change in just naming the expected starters for the first three games in direct competition. These are based on OSA scouting ratings only, not 2317 productivity. Easy Town vs Quincy in order of players:

Game 1 SP: Lonely Gale < Make Money
Game 2 SP: Cohort Williams < Kid Boots Appling
Game 3 SP: Red Eagle = College Luckyman
Top RP: Jerry Lee Fireballs > Gregory King
CL: Tut Cadillac < Professor Harriel
C: Bill Barnes > Ramon Saldivar
1B: Albie Cannibal > Dodge Squallbender
2B: Finnan Hunt < Will Hell
3B: Halep Gutteridge > Downlow Uptown
SS: Stormin' Normin MacDonald > Pipewrench Mathis
LF: J.J. Gray > Bingy Xiu
CF: Eden Babz > Duff Fee
RF: Topher Spark < Brad Hop

Prediction

Last season, the Assaultrons looked primed to win this series and just bombed. This season, they hold the better record, dominated the Granites in their three matchups, and have a championship feeling to them all around. Quincy is the defending champions, and they have proven to be a great team by returning here despite low expectations outside their clubhouse. Based on this matchup, though, we think the CBO will crown its 13th different champion. We hope this series is a series. But we think the Trons will be on top. Easy Town 4, Quincy 2

[ayaghmour2]

Really looks like everything is in Easy Town's favor, but Quincy beat them last year. Sometimes you just match up well with a team. I can't see a lopsided series like the one in the regular season

I love too how when I saw the matchup first I was going to ask "didn't they play last year?" and "how often has this happened?" but knew you'd have it covered in the write up!

[StLee]

Originally Posted by ayaghmour2

Really looks like everything is in Easy Town's favor, but Quincy beat them last year. Sometimes you just match up well with a team. I can't see a lopsided series like the one in the regular season

I love too how when I saw the matchup first I was going to ask "didn't they play last year?" and "how often has this happened?" but knew you'd have it covered in the write up!

I always hope it goes seven, but for sure, this season should be Easy Town's. I keep looking at Quincy's stats and cannot believe they are here again. Really, four or five guys are carrying the team.

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, CYL, and CBA

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

29 September 2317

Sole Survivor Series 2317: Easy Town Assaultrons vs Quincy Granites

Game Results

Game 1: Easy Town 4, Quincy 1

Sole Survivor Series Game 1 Victory for Williams and Easy Town

The Easy Town Assaultrons started the Sole Survivor Series in style, downing the visiting Quincy Granites at Easy Town Field by a score of 4-1 to stake an early 1-0 lead in the best-of-7 series. Assaultrons left-hander Cohort Williams threw 7.0 innings of 4-hit ball.

Easy Town catcher Bill Barnes helped the Assaultrons go up, 2-0, in the bottom of the sixth inning. With the game tied, Barnes hit a 2-run single off Quincy pitcher Make Money.

"Cohort [Williams] is tough to beat when he's hitting his spots," said Easy Town manager Malik Christmasstory.

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Easy Town Field in Easy Town.



Game 2: Quincy 3, Easy Town 1

Quincy Win Evens Series at 1

Behind a bravura effort from starter Kid Boots Appling, the Quincy Granites topped the Easy Town Assaultrons by the score of 3-1 and got their first win in the 2317 Sole Survivor Series. Appling threw 7.0 innings of 6-hit ball for the Granites. The win moves Quincy into a 1-1 tie with Easy Town.

Dodge Squallbender, who is rated as the 4th best prospect by BNN, had a direct impact on the outcome. Squallbender contributed a run-scoring single in the top of the third inning to put Quincy up, 2-1.

"If I go out there and help the team win, that's all you can do," said Appling.

The next game is set to be played for Sunday, September 30th, 2317 at The Stone House in Quincy.

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, CYL, and CBA

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

3 October 2317

Sole Survivor Series 2317: Easy Town Assaultrons vs Quincy Granites

Game Results

Game 3: Easy Town 12, Quincy 3

Road Win Lifts Easy Town to 2-1 Lead in SSS

Riding the 3-hit performance of third baseman Halep Gutteridge, the Easy Town Assaultrons got a road win against the Quincy Granites, 12-3, in Game 3 of the Sole Survivor Series. Gutteridge was 3-5 with 3 singles, while scoring 2 runs and driving in 3 for the Assaultrons, who now lead the best-of-7 series, 2 games to 1.

Easy Town relied on the hitting of Bill Barnes to pick up the win. The catcher ripped a 2-run single in the top of the fifth inning to put the Assaultrons on top, 5-1. For the game, Barnes had 1 triple and 2 singles in 5 at-bats.

Quincy manager Scrappy Barios said: "We'll rinse this one off and get ready for the next game."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Stone House in Quincy.



Game 4: Quincy 6, Easy Town 4

Hop Blasts Assaultrons, Granites Take Game 4, 6-4

Quincy right fielder Brad Hop was the difference-maker for the Granites in what turned into a shootout with the Easy Town Assaultrons. Hop earned accolades after going 3-for-5 in the 6-4 Granites win. With the victory, the Granites moved into a 2-2 tie in the best-of-7 series.

A key moment came with one out in the bottom of the fourth. That's when Hop hit a fastball from Cohort Williams for a 3-run home run, putting Quincy up, 5-1.

"I felt good up there," said Hop. "I saw the ball well."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at The Stone House in Quincy.



Game 5: Easy Town 3, Quincy 1

Road Win Lifts Easy Town to 3-2 Lead in SSS

Game 5 was big. So was Red Eagle.

The Easy Town starter rose to the occasion at The Stone House, leading the Assaultrons to a crucial 3-1 victory over the Quincy Granites. Eagle threw 7.0 innings of 5-hit ball as the Assaultrons won on the road to seize a 3-2 lead in the best-of-7 Sole Survivor Series.

Bill Barnes came through with a big-time hit for Easy Town. The catcher smacked a 2-run home run in the top of the ninth inning to give his team the lead, 3-1. It was his only hit, but it was clutch.

"Red went out and got the job done," said Assaultrons manager Malik Christmasstory.

Game 6 is scheduled for Thursday at Easy Town Field in Easy Town.

[ayaghmour2]

Shaping out to be a real good series. Aside from Game 3 they've all been close. Quincy seems to have something special in the playoffs, even if they are down going into Game 6. Has been anything but easy for Easy Town

[StLee]

Originally Posted by ayaghmour2

Shaping out to be a real good series. Aside from Game 3 they've all been close. Quincy seems to have something special in the playoffs, even if they are down going into Game 6. Has been anything but easy for Easy Town

About to post the final results. Ended as a great series!

[StLee]

BNN Report

News from the CBO, Minors, CCBL, CYL, and CBA

by Nat Wright-Kawolski

6 October 2317

Sole Survivor Series 2317: Easy Town Assaultrons vs Quincy Granites

Game Results

Game 6: Quincy 7, Easy Town 5

Quincy Win Evens Series at 3

The Quincy Granites and the Easy Town Assaultrons will take the Sole Survivor Series to a decisive 7th game. In a must-win situation, the Granites beat the Assaultrons, 7-5, at Easy Town Field to force the series into what will essentially be a one-game playoff. Quincy left-hander College Luckyman had a big role in the win. He threw 5.0 innings of 3-hit ball.

Quincy used the timely hitting of Gian Fist to seize the win. The pinch hitter stroked a 2-run single in the top of the eighth inning to put the Granites on top, 6-5. It was his only hit in 1 at-bat, but it was a game-changer.

"I liked his command," said Quincy manager Scrappy Barios. "College was throwing strikes."

The next game is set to be played tomorrow at Easy Town Field in Easy Town.



Game 7: Easy Town 3, Quincy 2

Easy Town Tops Quincy on Walkoff

It was all about winning for the Easy Town Assaultrons -- and win they did.

There was nothing fancy in how they went about it, players said, they just prepared mentally and physically and then went out and played baseball.

"We did the little things right and we did the big things right," said second baseman Finnan Hunt, who was named series MVP. "Now we're the league champions."

Easy Town defeated the Quincy Granites by a score of 3-2 at Easy Town Field to take the series 4-3.

"Sometimes you get lucky and sometimes you make your own luck," said Easy Town manager Malik Christmasstory. "We got lucky a few times, but mostly we did the right things by being prepared for each game and playing the game the way it's meant to be played."

The Assaultrons entered the bottom of the 8th trailing 2-1 and facing falling short of a championship for the second-straight season. However, the Trons were not finished scoring in the 2317 season.

With Gregory King on the mound for the Granites, Eden Babz led off with a single. With one out, Halep Gutteridge singled to move Babz to second. After Moktar Wakihuri walked to load the bases, Topher Spark walked, bringing in Babz for the tying run.

After a scoreless top of the 9th, Easy Town had their chance to walk off their way to their first Sole Survivor Series crown. King started off the inning but walked Finnan Hunt before being replaces by Fosdyke Rochambeau. Rochambeau got two straight Assaultrons hitters before J.J. Gray connected on a 1-1 pitch, driving the ball off the centerfield fence. Hunt hustled around the bases, beating the throw by Sleve McDichael for the championship.

Hunt not only scored the series-winning run but was also named Series MVP after going 14 for 29 (.483) with five doubles, three walks, four runs, and five RBI. He was the #1 overall pick in the 2313 Draft.

"Magical," Hunt said when asked about the feeling of winning. "Like a dream. Like a three-day jet bender. I don't know. It feels great."



Playoff Overview



Easy Town Team Photo



CBO Playoff Tree