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[Jazzmosis]

Well I was horrificly wrong in my predictions this year. However, the surprises abound!

First up, we have the NACS. This was possibly the best series I've seen in OOTP, with some INCREDIBLE games.

Game 1: Last year's "Mr. Clutch" William Delp started for the Heroes, but was uncharacteristically shaken. He pitched the full game, but gave up 4 runs and took the loss. Meanwhile, Latta started for Ocean City, and gave up only 4 hits in a shutout. Ocean City thrilled the home crowd with a 1-0 start.

Game 2: Michael Kent vs. X-Man. WOW what a game, with X-Man pitching a three-hitter with 8K's. Kent blew his arm in the 8th, and would be out for 5 weeks. Vancouver was dealt a massive blow, losing their ace. But no fear, Vancouver took this game in the 2nd, with an UNEARNED run, giving X-Man the L. His line? 9 IP, 3H, 0ER, 2BB, 8K, L. Ocean City 1, Vancouver 1.

Game 3: This was the most amazing game I've ever seen in my life, and I'm not lost in overstatement. You all hear about these games but wonder if they ever really exist or are just legends. Well this will definitely go down into WWBA lore, and more unbelieveable because it was a postseason game at that. The game was locked at 1-1 after 9 innings, both pitchers throwing CG's. The last run had been scored by Ocean City in the 4th. Ten innings after that run, the game was still tied. Innings passed on and on. . . until the 23rd INNING when W. Mejia of Ocean City, 6.2 innings of shutout-extra-inning ball, gave up a single to Heidenrich, that chased home the legendary Jeff Watson, who was standing on second. Swarming each other at the plate, deep into 3AM, 6 hours and 57 minutes into the game, Vancouver had taken a 2-1 lead in the series with a 2-1 victory. None of the sellout crowd had gone home. There was a total of 14 hits in the game (8 OC/6 VAN), but momentum had swung in the Heroe's favour.

Game 4: Riding that marathon game, Ocean City got the laugh, as this 9 inning wonder fell in their favour. William Delp choked once again, giving up another 4 earned runs over a CG loss. Latta once again kept the Heroe's looking like schoolgirls at the plate, giving up only 2 runs and 3 hits in 8 innings. Tied 2-2, Ocean City could clinch at home.

Game 5: The final game in Vancouver was another masterpiece, with Niemann faced up against X-Man. Harris proceed to trade goose eggs with Niemann until the bottom of the 6th, when X-Man finally let up and the Heroes scored. Not satisfied, the biggest blow was struck when X-Man gave up a two-run bomb to Ralph McKeever, once of the league's better power hitters. That was all Niemann needed, as he finished off a 2 hit shutout to put the Heroes one game from their second straight WWBACS. Harris K'd 10 in the ordeal, but was saddled with the loss.

Game 6: Back in Ocean City, the Hurricanes threw the 23 inning marathon starter Tommy Collar out to take the series to a game 7. He was matched up against the same foe, Vancouver's Dudley Henton. Blood was struck early, as Vancouver plated 3 in the top half of the first. Ocean City responded with a run of their own in the bottom. The biggest hurt came from Doc Watson in the 3rd, when he roped a RBI double that put Vancouver up 4-2. Collars continued to get knocked around, but errors killed his game, as 3 unearned runs were tallied in his start (all in the first). Down 5-1 in the 6th, Ocean City responded with a run, but that would be the end of it. Just to make sure, the Heroes pulled Henton in the 9th and placed their closer Antonio Garcia, who gave up a single, but then finished off the series with a save. The Heroes mobbed Garcia, as they had done it again: Another trip to the WWBACS. The second time they'd gone as the underdog.

The ILCS: Sapporo vs. Tijuana

Game 1: The first game set the tone for the whole series. A 15 inning (still 8 innings short of the VAN/OC Game 3) marathon that ended in a 1-0 score. Tijuana was hitting the ball, but not in clutch situations. At least, not until the 15th, When a single brought in the only run, and gave them a 1-0 series lead. Meanwhile, Sapporo had been baffled by the pitching, totalling only 5 hits and 2 walks.

Game 2: Another extra inning game, this one at a paltry (cough) 11 innings. Sapporo and Tijuana were locked at 1-1, but in the top of the 11th the Sabaku-Kitsune plated a run to give them the slim lead. They threw in their closer to finish it off, but Munguia gave up a walk and then back to back doubles with 2 outs that plated two runs, and Tijuana celebrated an extra-inning-double-come-from-behind-win. Now it was on to Japan for the next game.

Game 3: Sapporo welcomed themselves home with a W, but did it in a grand fashion. Losing 1-0 into the bottom of the ninth, Tijuana starter A. Lowe two outs from finishing off the CGSO, a walk happened. That walk followed a single. That single, brought up S. Gesshin to the plate. Gesshin unloaded on the first pitch he saw and gave Sapporo a taste of revenge, keeping this game from extra innings. Sapporo was on the board, trailing 2-1 in the series.

Game 4: Tijuana opened up the next game with a two-run first, and added two more in the 6th and 7th innings. They rocked to the tune of 11 hits, while giving up only 5. And despite another 9th inning homerun (from Sapporo SS C. Esteves), it wasn't enough. Tijuana took the game 4-2, and had a commanding 3-1 lead in the series.

Game 5: The final game in Sapporo was a gem, with pitchers R. Leyte (TIJ) facing off against B. Arceniaga (SSF). They both went the distance, they scattered only 3 hits each, neither gave up a homerun, but only one made a fatal mistake. And that pitcher was Arceniaga. He gave up an RBI double in the 4th, and that was all Tijuana would need. Leyte dominated, walking none and CGSO'ing the Diablo Rojos into the WWBACS, as Tijuana won the series, 4-1.

The WWBACS would be played by the Vancouver Heroes (78-72) against the Tijuana Diablo Rojos (86-64).

Stay tuned for that (I haven't simmed it yet), as well as the postseason player write-ups and awards!

[ifspuds]

Go Heroes! Kick some Diablos Rojos ass!

[Jazzmosis]

Originally Posted by ifspuds

Go Heroes! Kick some Diablos Rojos ass!

Personally I find it ironic that the Heroes are doing battle against the Red Devils. . . seems like a classic fight of good and evil. Except instead of in some desolate wasteland, it's in Tijuana!.... oh, wait.

[statfreak]

Very nice!!

I'm bummed Ocean City choked in the playoffs. I blew it in game 5. Of course, I didn't exactly get much help from my teammates... where was the offense?!? Liao better get his butt in gear and power up!!

[Jazzmosis]

And now for the WWBACS!

Game 1: Determined to make up for his lackluster NACS performance, William "Clutch" Delp Fired a commanding 8 innings, giving up only 1 earned run en-route to a 3-1 victory. With (for some reason) the series starting in Vancouver, this would give them the boost they would need for...

...Game 2: Niemann locked horns against Figueroa, with Tijuana striking in the 1st inning with an RBI double. That was it, however, as Niemann turned around and lowered his postseason ERA to 0.55 and watched as Figueroa lapsed in the final two innings, giving up 3 runs in the 7th and 8th (highlighted by Ralph McKeever's 3rd postseason bomb in the 8th), and Vancouver sprinted out an early 2-0 series lead.

Game 3: The series headed back to Tijuana, where the rowdy Mexican fans (much like in Guadalajara) rioted on the field during the opening ceremonies. Nobody was hurt, as the Mexicans were only celebrating their team rather than booing the Heroes. The Mexicana Festiva paid off as in the ninth the Diablos Rojos snapped off 3 runs to tie the ballgame up at 4, and sent it into extra innings. This game lasted 4 more innings before Kevin Heidenreich blasted a solo bomb in the top of the 13th, and S. Vierra held on for the win, giving Vancouver an unpresenidented 3-0 series lead.

Game 4: William Delp marched out for the Heroes, hoping to make up for a tough NACS by sealing the sweep, but he was latched against Leyte (again). These two studs tossed the gooseggs around for 6 solid innings before finally, William "Choke" Delp finally alluded two runs in the 7th. Vancouver responded off Leyte in the 8th with a run of their own, but Tijuana held on to the lead to give themselves a fighting chance. With a 2-1 victory, they trailed 3-1 in the series.

Game 5: Niemann vs. Figueroa, take two. Both of these pitchers were not going to let up, but Tijuana seemed to have Niemann's number, racking 11 hits off of him in 8 innings. This time, however, they also plated 6 runs, including a 5 run second inning, and Figueroa cruised to a CG, giving up only 1 unearned run. The series headed back to Vancouver, as Tijuana was pushing for a comeback.

Game 6: Back in Vancouver, Antone Lowe was matched against Dudley Henton. You may remember Henton as the NACS game 6 pitcher. But Lowe was no easy competition, as he pitched a complete game 3 hitter. However, Henton was two better, giving up only 1 single and four walks and also pitching a CG. The difference in this game? The 4th inning: With one out, ice-cold Doc Watson rapped a double. Then, Heidenreich brought him home with a bomb of his own, and that was Lowe's only mistake. Irony fell, as this was the second WWBACS in a row ended in a 2-0 score, but this time the Heroes had taken the crown, mobbing each other after "Clutch" Henton's final out. The celebration went on for hours in Vancouver, as this time they were not denied the trophy they deserved.

Playoff OOTP players report!!

Alan Liao played in the 23 inning marathon, pinch running. He swiped second in the ordeal, but this was his only playing time in the postseason. He never took the field or swung the bat, but the important thing was that he was there.

X-Man turned 26 during the playoffs, but his results were not desired. He lost two postseason games despite K's 18 over 17 innings (2 walks), and was saddled with an 0-2, 1.57 ERA, 2041 postseason record. No worries, though. His team was strong and there's no reason to think Ocean City won't return next year.

Peter Kahle had an abismal postseason, playing in 5 games and totalling: 1 hit in 21 AB. Ronin did walk once and put the ball in play all but 3 times (3K's), but his commanding presence wasn't felt and probably had something to do with Sapporo's early exit from the postseason.

Doc Watson was a mixed bag of adventure during his championship run, as he remained the only OOTP player to go to the WWBACS, and was bestowed with the honour of being the first winner. This postseason was far different than his last. He hit better, but his OBP was only .241 (.405 last year), meaning his eye wasn't as sharp. In 48 AB, he knocked 7 hits, but only 1 came in the CS. At least it was a clutch one, right? His .146 average was disappointing but he more than made up for it with the glove. He K'd 6 times (4 last year) and walked 6 times (14 last year). But it all comes down to the ring he now adorens on his finger...

The awards!

I was surprised to find that only one OOTP player won an award, although I wasn't surprised in what category (Defensive Gem). The player may surprise you, although I was touting him all year long.

Tim Moungey. The only OOTP award winner (except Doc Watson, of course), took home the Defensive Gem at 3B, and it was well deserved. He only made 10 errors in 142 games (.977) while boasting solid range (3.18), although I'm convinced range has alot to do with pitchers rather than skill of the fielder (Considering Moungey's range is 36 and his FP is .957). Congratulations regardless, though!

The blurb for anyone interested.. seems Kyoto, despite their suckiness, cleaned up in the Defence...

North American League WWB Top Rookie:
Randy Lovette (QCI)!
He batted .201 in 447 AB, with 9 homers and 33 RBI.

International League WWB Top Rookie:
Mark Goddard (MEX)!
He batted .249 in 433 AB, with 17 homers and 47 RBI.

North American League Master Pitcher:
Brandon Latta (OCH)!
He had a record of 19-9 with an ERA of 1.24 and 8 shutouts.
In 32 games started, he pitched 276 innings, fanning 244 and walking 70 batters.

North American League Incredible Batter:
Herme Delgado (VAN)!
He batted .224 in 568 AB, with 9 homers and 39 RBI.

International League Master Pitcher:
Leslie Blackburn (FKS)!
He had a record of 21-8 with an ERA of 1.33 and 7 shutouts.
In 33 games started, he pitched 271 innings, fanning 257 and walking 45 batters.

International League Incredible Batter:
Mark Goddard (MEX)!
He batted .249 in 433 AB, with 17 homers and 47 RBI.

North American League Defensive Gem Winners:
Pitcher: Peter Kendall (SAC)
Catcher: Wayne Blanchard (VAN)
First Base: Clarence Sebring (LON)
Second Base: Kasey Biron (EDH)
Third Base: Robert Sifuentes (ARL)
Shortstop: William Burton (QCI)
Leftfield: Robert Ingram (EDH)
Centerfield: James Jett (BIS)
Rightfield: Seve Fresquez (STJ)

International League Defensive Gem Winners:
Pitcher: Ricky Jaimes (KYO)
Catcher: Benjamin Gomez (MEX)
First Base: Eloy Prados (KYO)
Second Base: Dominick Ton (KYO)
Third Base: Tim Moungey (KYO)
Shortstop: Fernando Codobes (MEX)
Leftfield: Donald Boe (SSF)
Centerfield: Horacio Lomas (GDL)
Rightfield: George Gonzalez (SDT)

[Jestor]

Go me!

I love the hardware!

[ifspuds]

You can have your hardware, Jestor. I've got the ring.

[Jestor]

Originally Posted by ifspuds

You can have your hardware, Jestor. I've got the ring.

Touche`

[Thunder044]

Team you'd like to play for originally: No preference-wherever needed
Position: C
Name: JD Boom
Nickname (if any): "The Big"
Age and Day of Birth (MM/DD):21 yo Jan 26
Birthplace: Key West,Fla
Area of strength: Contact
Secondary strength: Power
Loyalty: Very Loyal
Desire for Winner: no
Throwing arm: R
Batting side (R/L/S): S

[Jazzmosis]

Since this league is gaining some popularity (woot!), I decided to do a background writeup (perhaps the first of a series of background). And, a quick writeup for JD "The Big" Boom, the only OOTP player added this year.

With the WWBA's popularity growing and more players declaring for the drafts, it was clear that baseball was being reborn after the terrible decay of 8 years ago. The league was far more balanced, and a salary cap had been placed from the beginning before corporate sponsorships and WWPA (Player's Association) was set in place. There was only two players in the whole league that had crossed both leagues (MLB to WWBA), and one was a first year rookie at the time. The other was Jeffery Huneycutt, who was 22 and in double-A at the time of MLB's demise. Despite all MLB players being banned (with exception of the rookie draftees of 2034, when MLB closed before the draft (MLB's official dispersal date: 5/3/2034)), these two were allowed to cross over years later due to their histories. Both accepted, and were offered the presidency of the WWPA. The players were Jeffery Huneycutt, who was drafted by Tokyo, and Doc Watson (VAN). Both of these players had been actively protesting the MLB Player Steroid scandal in 2034 - and thus, after testing, were declared the ONLY players in MLB play not on steroids. While it may appear shocking that approximately 6000 players were on performance-enhancing drugs, the scandal had run so deep, the cheating so rampant that the only way to be good enough for the draft was to be on roids. Thus, there was an outcropping of 17-18 year olds juicing up. MLB had become a disgrace, and when it tried to place restrictions on steroids for the first time in 2030, a near strike happened. They tried twice more to rectify the situation, but eventually a short strike was instigated by the MLBPA in Febuary 2033.
The strike was resolved before the season started, but only because the MLB could not stand to lose revenue and caved beforehand. MLB was hanging on by a thread financially - a strike would easily bankrupt them.
After countless attempts during 2033 to get a resolution that would save-face and bring fans back to the game that had betrayed them with drugs, the MLB changed Commishioners on 10/30/2033. Leaving was former BALCO CEO (this is how deep the scandal ran: The Commish was a former BALCO owner) Ted Pulaski Jr, and taking his place was take-no-crap Commish Russel Adams, a noted anti-steroid activitist. He immediately gave the MLBPA an ultamatum - clear steroids or else.
When MLBPA refused, making threats that MLB wouldn't be able to handle a strike, 46 year old-Adams stuck to his guns. Others in the front office flaked, immediately regretting putting him in power. Team owners begged him to avoid a strike, but Adams refused. He set in place a team of steroid testing, and pressed forward his plan of testing every single player in the MLB organizations for steroids.

Naturally, the MLBPA refused his plan, and threatened another strike. Adams opened up a "voluntary" steroid test, making implications that any player could go but if they were caught with drugs, they would be banned or suspended indefinitely. Two players in the entire league showed up for the test. 20-year old Doc Watson, who had just been drafted by the Seattle Mariners, was the first to show up. He was still in Low-A ball, but cleared the tests with a perfect score. Three days later, Jeffery Huneycutt, Double-A outfielder (who seemed to have maxed out his potential there, but only due to the roided talent all around him) for Pittsburgh, also cleared the test. No other player showed. They immediately backed Adams' stance, and were promptly thrown out of the MLBPA for it.
Adams refused to give up his position, and finally, on January 14th, 2034, the MLBPA went on strike. Adams gave them a "my way or you can stay on strike" message, and communication was lost between them for nearly two months. The season was supposed to start on April 3rd, but the strike raged on, and teams were losing money. On April 14th, three clubs (Arizona, Cincinnati, Tampa Bay) pulled out of the MLB, cutting their losses. Other teams started to follow that lead, and by May 1st, there was only 16 teams officially still in the MLB. Most of the minor league affiliates had collapsed, but Adams would not back down.

On May 2nd, Adams called a meeting between the remaining officials, team owners, and even invited Doc Watson and Huneycutt to attend. What was said in that meeting is unknown, locked away with the respective attendence.

On May 3rd, 2034, MLB Commishioner Russel Adams called the MLBPA and the media to an open-door meeting. This was the first contact in two weeks between the two parties. Adams provided an ultimatum which read as follows in the highly-televised event:

"Gentlemen, either you submit to mandatory steroid testing, or face the consequences of your refusal. MLB and baseball have suffered as a result of your refusal to comply. Many owners have lost millions of dollars and pulled out because you have broken the rules set decades ago and now are unwilling to fix these infractions."

To which the MLPA president responded: "Do your worst - the MLBPA believes this is a trust issue and mandatory testing breaks that trust between our two parties."

Adams was quoted: "Very well gentlemen. You'll see the great mistake you've made."

The meeting was ajorned, but 6 hours later the MLB press released this statement: "Due to multiple issues, the MLB will be forclosing it's business, and all the of the players will be disbanded. This is the end of professional baseball, at least in the MLB-sense."

The shock rippled everywhere, included in the MLBPA. All teams were disbanded, all contracts rendered null and void, all players banned (except Watson and Huneycutt) and baseball no longer shined in North America.

Over the next 3 years, many other countries followed suit. The Japanese league closed after similiar issues, the Mexican league also closed. But Adams was not done. In 2038, he got together a group of private investors, and the groundwork for the WWBA was made.

That's all for now. When I think of more, I'll write it up again.

Now snapping back to "present" day (2042), the JD Boom writeup:

The draft had noticed an increase in talent, but more due to young players feeling the urge to play baseball again. Fan support had grown, citizens obviously reluctant at first to welcome organized baseball back into their lifes, but warming to the idea. Although pitching still dominated, one was wondering how much after-effects of steroids baseball had on offensive production. However, the draft went smoothly, until JD Boom was drafted. The 21 year old from south Florida had expressed a desire to play, but had not declared for the draft due to his Freshman-status in college. However, after lengthy debates with WWBA Commish Russel Adams, he was allowed into the draft (but had to drop out of college.) as a high school player. He slipped until the fourth round, until the Quebec City Imperials decided to see if they could make it work. There was alot of red tape involved to get him cleared, but QCI had a steal in the making. He had a solid bat and natural power, although lefties gave him fits. He had a decent arm behind the plate and his game-calling skills was average or just slightly above. Good luck to his future in a strong division!

[Thunder044]

Great writeup again, and thanks for the quick addition. Will be reading with interest!

[Jazzmosis]

Sorry about the delay, I had some important University issues to attend to. I'm entering "hell week" (2 exams next week) so hopefully I'll squeeze at least one update in there after one of them. Anywho, here's the 2042 update!

Starting off, I'm going to give out my player of the year award (2041, since I forgot to) to Scotty Menza. Good OPS, solid hitting skills, lead many offensive categories, and gave his team a .500 season. He just edged out Tim Moungey.. funny how both played on underacheiving teams.

So that brings us to my own person record of OOTP palyers of the year:
2040 POTY: SP Alex "X-Man" Harris, Ocean City Hurricanes
2041 POTY: CF Scott Menza, Sacramento Masons

This update takes us to June 1st, 2042.

Doc Watson once again finds the Heroes on top of the Ontario division, leading the usual suspects (London) by 2 games at a 32-25. Watson, while healthy, has not produced the way one would hope. He's only hitting .148 with 3 homeruns and 13 RBI in 183 AB, but finds himself on top of the NA with 21 runs scored. His fielding has been typical, with Doc sporting a .977 FP (5E/221TC). While his walks are normal (31) his K's are surprisingly high so far (at least for him) at 11. In his first two years he totalled 30, so he's clearly seeing the ball as well has he should. But at least he's on top again.

X-Man has had a rather disappointing start to the year, with a 4-4 record. His ERA is an above average 2.06, although that could be credited to a shaky April. He's thrown 100.1 innings in 12 starts, racking up 96 K's, while he trails the league leaders (118, 105, 104) but a margin. He still leads the career K's, but he's yet to throw a shutout (5CG). I wouldn't be too worried though - Ocean City is tied for first (31-26, Bismarck).

Poor Kyoto. Or is it poor Moungey? The Jade Tiger finds himself once again overperforming on a disappointing team, as the Hanta are 9 games out at 25-32. Moungey himself leads the team with a .210 average, 20 stolen bases, .609 OPS, and 19 runs scored. He's shown a surprise amount of power with 4 homeruns so far in 195 AB, but only has 10 RBI to show for it. His fielding has dipped as well, but nothing extreme. 7 errors in 178 chances (.961). Will he be traded to better fortune, or be stuck in Kyoto until he hits free agency?

Alan Liao rejoiced in his big league promotion last September, and it's stuck. Staying on the roster as a utility infielder for Ocean City, he's tried to make the most of it. However, his average is a dismal .129 (31 AB), but he did park his first WWBA homerun on May 9th and has stolen 4 bases. To be honest, I don't think we'll ever see him being anything more than a utility player, but at least he's in the big show.

Peter Kahle has been playing hurt for 2 weeks, and his injury should last another two. And it's shown in his average, which has dipped to .144 from .225 last year. His power is down (2 HR), but he's shown a far better eye (.219 OPS, 17 BB) than in previous years. Hopefully Sapporo can get him healthy soon, since they need his bat. Sapporo currently sits in third in the Japan division, 7 games out of Tokyo (who don't forget, collapsed last year after opening a similiar lead). Ronin has brought in 12 runners in 194 AB, but has only K'd 28 times.

Scott Menza seems to be developing into a bonafide superstar, with his batting average once again amoung the league leaders at .229 (2nd/NL). His power isn't around, but nobody expected to be (2 HR/11 RBI). What he has done, however, is get on base and score (18), and steal some bases (11) while playing flawless defence in Center. Too bad it's more of the same for the Masons - 25-32, 6 games out, 4th place.

Will Ntsky can't seem to put it all together in AA for the WWBA runner-up team, put he has been getting noticeably better. For once, he hasn't lost a limb or exploded while throwing BP, and has remained healthy for two solid months! In AA, he has a 6-4 record in 12 starts, complete with a 2.20 ERA and 71 K's (19BB) in 102.1 IP. He should earn a promotion if he can lower his ERA a little more, seeing as how it appears to be the only blemish in his record (0.92 WHIP).

Vicious Grant once again has been teased by Tokyo management (which ****ing sucks) and was placed in AA for one game and one AB before being shuttled back into A ball again. He's been demoralized and it's showing, as he is hitting an uncharacteristic .206 with 4 HR and 20 RBI in 199 AB. I feel his pain - Seems the only break he'll get is when he leaves the first-place Tokyo "I don't know how to manage my minor leagues" Kotei organization. At least his killer combo fared better in the crap-hole.

Lil' China Chiang has had a a roller coster ride with London. After losing 12 straight in April, they seemed destined for a disappointing season, but have since roared back into the hunt and are once again in the chase with Vancouver. Chiang himself is hitting right on .200, while scoring 15 times, thanks in large part to teammate Zubin Glavin Jr's WWBA leading 11 HR. Lil' China has parked 2 round-trippers with 12 RBI's, but has stole a surprising 4 bases. Not known for his speed, that stat becomes impressive. His 35K's and 16BB are luke-warm in his 190 AB. But he's fighting it out with Vancouver, and what could be more fun then that?

St. John's seemed to have a fluke year in 2041, because they are in dead-last this year (27-30, 5GB). While they may not be that far removed from the top of the most competitive league in the WWBA, Pellows has not disappointed. He wears a .197 average (183AB) in Center, with a lone homerun and 9 RBI's to follow. His perfect fielding builds merit in the outfield (CF), but he's only had 145 chances in 51 games. His OPS is disappointing (.487) but not disastorous. The 19 year old still seems to be adjusting to big league ball, so you can't complain too much about the lack-of-power.

Crazy Taito has been maurading the ball for Veracruz (33-24), who is 2 games out of La Paz in the Mexico Division. Crazy boasts a .236 average and 6 homeruns (3rd, IL), but leads the WWBA with 27 RBI. His OPS is a "sportlich" .679 (4th, IL) The pull hitter has played solid defence from left, while his walks and K's seem to be on par for about last season (16/24 to 42/68). Can't complain about that solid average, though!

Uber-Monkey didn't meet the fiery demise that his pal Vicious Grant seemed too, as Williams was called up by Tokyo to the parent club. He's only playing in a backup role, and his struggling with a .145 average (55AB), but in his 8 hits has 2 homeruns and 10 RBI. That leads one to believe that he is delievering in the clutch. He's also burning the basepaths, with 8 steals. Too bad his 2B starter is hitting a phenominal .263, or else I think he'd be given the starting role.

Stonehenge has been getting a little more playing time, but is still in a backup role. And struggling mightily. He's got only a .123 average (81 AB) with 1 HR and 6 RBI, and has once again got a triple and no doubles. Give him time - he just turned 17 today! Leads one to wonder what (if anything) Tokyo is thinking, but they've got the lead in the Japan division.

JD Boom got a lucky callup from A when Quebec City decided their backup catcher would be better suited in AAA, so he was bumped to the parent club at the expense of a middle reliever (released for room on the 40 man). He's taken over the RHP hitting duties, and has a .193 average in 109 AB since his callup. He's got 1 Homerun and 5 RBI, but that's to be expected when hitting from the 8-hole. Quebec City needs his help, as they are 2 games out from Vancouver. What a race the Ontario division is!

Sorry, can't write anymore (I've finished the player writeups) Stay tuned for the next update!

[statfreak]

I hope your exams went well. Looking forward to the next update.

[Jazzmosis]

The WWBA is on a temporary haitus for a few reasons: First, I've had the worst illness in a few years. Second, I missed an exam because of it, so there's a lot of red tape to get the re-write. Third, it's intent to Register week and I'm in the middle of transferring campuses, Fourth, I just broke up with my girlfiend of 4 and a half years.

So yeah.. once those are sorted out WWBA will return. Sorry for the delay, but I haven't given up on it.

[Magatsu]

Originally Posted by Jazzmosis

First, I've had the worst illness in a few years. Second, I missed an exam because of it, so there's a lot of red tape to get the re-write. Third, it's intent to Register week and I'm in the middle of transferring campuses, Fourth, I just broke up with my girlfiend of 4 and a half years.

Ouch!!! You suffer all of this and just say:

So yeah.. once those are sorted out WWBA will return

???

But thanks for letting us know.

I don't want to sound overly dramatic and you are the best to judge your current situation, but I think everyone who is involved in your league or reads it wishes you all the best. Of course we are all eager to see you continue your league (and your Jazzington-dynasty as well) but please take your time.

I hope everything will be alright.

M

[Jazzmosis]

Thanks for your concern - If I had to guess, I'd say that it'd be about a week at the most (Saturday the 19th) before WWBA and Jazzington return. I've got three exams next week (15th, 16th, 18th) so I need to focus on passing those first. And the registration.. this is a gigantic nightmare.

[statfreak]

Dude, take care of you the important stuff... the WWBA can wait.

Hope things improve soon.

[Thunder044]

Originally Posted by statfreak

Dude, take care of you the important stuff... the WWBA can wait.

Hope things improve soon.

Yep, what Statfreak said...best of luck man.

[Jazzmosis]

Well, the good news is that I've started playing out the Jazzington games again, which means that WWBA isn't far off (since I just simm and check.) Thanks for your patience, guys. WWBA should have it's next update tomorrow night-ish.

[Jazzmosis]

Oh.. joy. The game crashed while I was simming, but saved the results (luckily, so the standings are fine.) HOWEVER. . . all of the players reverted back to game 79-81 (to the best of my knowledge), so for about 25 games stats weren't counted. So while the teams have remembered the stats from the games, the players haven't. There's nothing I can do barring going to the backup file (beginning of the year), which IMO isn't worth it, so I'll just give you the stats from 80 games and we'll have to deal. Sorry everyone. . . my computer's been very sketchy on me recently (which blows, since my hell fortnight just ended on a rather high note (I scored.). . . but I digress).

So the WWBA's leaders as of August 1st, 2042. Ocean City continues to dominate the dUSA division, opening up a commanding 12 game lead over Bismarck, while standing at 66-39 - best in the WWBA. Meanwhile, Vancouver looks to 3-peat in the playoffs, as they lead the Canada division (again), this time with 7 games on London. The two teams were close for most of July, but a slump from the Knights while the Heroes got hot seems to be the difference. Perhaps they can make up the distance - after all, Vancouver (63-42) did it to St. John's last year!

The Mexico division has a new top dog, this time in La Paz (62-42).The Aztecs have a slim 3 game lead over the Cara Caras, who are also trying to tip the balance. It'll be one of these two teams in the playoffs, as Tijuana and Guadalajara are 12 and 18 games out. Veracruz is in the middle, 9 games from playoffs. Sendai lead a tight race over Tokyo and Kyoto (the anagram lover's Tokyo), with 1 and 4 games on the competition. Sendai (55-49) seem to be riding strong offensive production, but will it be enough to stop Tokyo and Kyoto?

The players (bar in mind these are 25 games outdated, but I can't do anything about that):

Doc Watson returned to his steadfast production, pacing the league with 30 runs scored. Doc has returned to his stellar defence, roaming short with commanding presence that would make most batters soil themselves to save the embarrasment. Meanwhile, he's parked 6 HR's and driven in 25, and while he's hitting a lowly .162, his OBP of .304 more than makes up for it.

X-Man's Ocean City lead everything - literally. the Hurricanes have the best batting avg (.196), AND the best ERA (1.51), but also the lowest OPPAVG (.161), have given up the second least runs (192), while scoring the second most (266). X-Man has been a valuable part of that dominance, going 7-5 with a 1.77 ERA. His 142.1 IP have resulted in 138 K's, while yielding only 30 walks. The 26 year old looks to return to the playoffs and trump Vancouver (which seem to have a growing rivalry.). He's also only given up 77 hits on the year (17 starts).

Jade Tiger once again made the All-Star team at 3B, and he continues to add to his impressive credintials, leading the WWBA with 32 steals. He's batting a commanding .225, and has flashed some power (5 HR). The DG (Defensive Gem) two-time All-star has only brought in 19 teammates, but has scored 29 times of his own. His K's are on pace to hit about 70 on the year (48), which is a little high considering his impatience. (19 BB). When asked about what he'll do when he retires, the 21 year old was quoted "I've thought about managing. . ."

Alan Liao is still just a backup player for Ocean City, but he's relishing in all the success he and his teammates are sharing. He's only had 46 ABs, but is hitting bang on the team average (.196), while swiping 4 bases, and parking 2 HR's (7 RBI). He's walked as much as he's K'd (4), which is a good sign, even if both numbers are low.

Peter Kahle hasn't been the steadfast power source he was in '41, this year only hitting .167 with 3 HR in 264 AB. Ronin has walked 24 times and K'd 40, both respectable numbers, but Sapporo's last place team points to a bigger problem.

Scotty Menza once again returned to the All-Star game and the top of the average charts, hitting .246 (1st in WWBA) with a .666 OPS. He's knocked home 20 batters, including himself 4 times. His low K's are good (23/272AB), but his eye is just as bad (21BB). Can't complain about his perfecto in CF though. Or his 15 doubles. Too bad Sacramento can't win (49-56).

Will Ntsky, everyone's favourite hard-luck player, continues to pitch in AA Tijuana. in 17 starts, he's gone 8-7 with a 2.38 ERA and 103 K's in 143.2 IP. His WHIP is a 0.92, but his stats just scream "average". Although he did make an emergency start in AAA, taking the loss after pitching a CG (1 ER, 3R) giving up only 6 hits and 3BB (6K's). Maybe all he needs is out of AA.

Paul Grant is Tokyo's hate-affection, as he remains in A, this time his performance taking a noticeable dip. He hits only .202 with 8 HR and 30 RBI, 30BB, and 48K. He really needs out of Tokyo - he's good enough for at least AAA if not the bigs.

Lil' China Chiang joined the All-Stars, making his second appearance (2040, 2042). He's hitting a respectable .205 with 5 HR's adn 16 RBI in 78 games, but the real story here is his defence. He's taken charge of 2B with authority, claiming a .990 FP, making only 4 errors in 382 chances. I'd be surprised if he doesn't take home the Defensive Gem at this rate. He's scored 19 times, no doubt helped by the WWBA HR leader (Zubin Glavin Jr, 14)

Kit Pellows watched his Vikings take a dive in the standings after playing so well last year, as they now sit in last (46-59). Pellow's average is decent (.185), but he hasn't been much else. He's got a HR and 10 RBI, but has only walked 15 times (271 AB), and has K'd 55 times. The 20 year old needs more discipline before he can be a reliable OFer, and he could use a bit more speed (9 SB).

Crazy Taito rounded out the All-Stars, and he's done it with power. The 23 year old has hit 7 HR's and leads the WWBA with 32 RBI, all while hitting at a .221 clip. The former first round pick has carried his mid-level team, and has even legged out a triple (he's not a speedster). He's becoming one of the premier power hitters in the game, and that'll allow him to cash in after arbitration. His OPS is .636.

Uber Monkey has been vouching for his teammate Paul Grant, but that's about it. In a backup role for Tokyo, he's hit only .148 in 81 AB, but has been used as a pinch runner alot (14 SB, 15 R) He's also got 2 HR, and 11 of RBIs, Walks, and strikeouts to his name.

Stonehenge is still a backup, but doesn't seem to care since he's only 17. He's hitting only .143 in 98 AB. He's set a 'career high' in RBI with 8 so far, and has parked one moonball. He's also stolen 3 bases, while walking 9 times and K'ing 19. Given his age, nobody could ask for more.

JD Boom is platooning at the dish for Quebec City, but his presence hasn't changed much (4th, 50-55). He's hitting .182 for the worst offensive team in the WWBA (.166), and leads the Imperial catchers with a commanding 1 HR (to 0.). He's also brought in 5 men, scored 10 times, and stepped up to the plate 121 times. His K's are high (19), but his walks are good (18). Who knows how this 21 year old will fare?

My predictions:

I'm going to call that all the current leaders make the playoffs. Ocean City is a no brainer and Vancouver seems poised to make another title run, La Paz has been on top for awhile, and Sendai I just think have the luck on their side. (Come on, Tokyo?)