Season 13 Preview - The El Paso Ultraviolence

Overview: Last year's squad went a surprising 95-67 in what was considered to be a rebuiling year. The post-season was short with EP being booted by the Patriots from the AL East in the first round.

Outlook: Bouyed by last season's momentum The Ultraviolence look to contend for the AL South title once again. Will the grooming of three key rookies be enough to allow The Ultraviolence to contend.

Key additions: El Paso was thwarted from adding a top of the line starting pitcher by the wild bidding on the few available stars. The team had to settle for SP Albert Castilla in the free agent market. The offseason also saw EP acquire RF Pedro Merced who should add some power to the lineup and brings the speed that El Paso covets.

Key losses: El Paso fan favorite Bob Fleming and season 2 draftee was not re-signed. Fleming averaged over 70 SB and 100 runs a season during his time in the red and burnt orange uniform.

Starting lineup

2B Al Mendez, NABCL record 197 SB last season - think Vince
LF Keith Sellers, the rookie will replace the aforementioned Fleming and add power to the speed
DH Andrew Lankford, 16th overall pick from season 8 makes his ML debut this year
1B Bump Boucher, his 131 RBI last year were below his first 3 ML seasons
3B Armando Garrido, has hit exactly .263 in each of his first 3 ML seasons, added 36 SB
RF Pedro Merced, expected to add some pop to the lineup, strong arm
C Mandy Michaels, hit .284 as a September callup last season
CF Carlos Rios, 5 straight Gold Gloves to go with 14 HR and 60 RBI
SS Tony Belliard, 3-time Gold Glover looks to rebound from off year

Pitchers

SP Diego Lee, season 4 IFA has accumlated 96 ML wins and a 3.97 ERA
SP Edgar Matos, season 12 Rookie of the year piled up 19 wins
SP Ricardo Santos, went 15-8 with a 4.33 ERA
SP Larry Browne, after opening his career with 3 winning seasons he fell to 7-14
SP Albert Castilla, went 7-10 with a 4.17 ERA for Las Vegas last season
RP Luis Moya, 3.75 ERA to go with his 120 innings
RP Juan Benitez, 38 saves and a 3.41 ERA
RP Trenidad Perez, the lefty was solid in his rookie campaign with a 2.96 ERA
RP David Guerrero, rookie lefty adds some bullpen depth

Prediction: 99-63, El Paso is a young team ready to push Jose's Jacksonville team for the belt in the AL South. El Paso by submission in September.

1st Annual NABCL Franchise Prestige Rankings

First, let me begin with a little background on this project. I was recently inspired by Dream League who compiles what they call a Franchise Prestige Ranking. I decided to steal the idea (while citing them of course) and create one for this league. I thought this would be a good time in the season to ponder the results.

The process was relatively simple. Basically, I went through and compiled team records, owner history, playoff history, and team names for every single franchise in the league since season 1 and put them in a spread sheet. I crunched the numbers and created a relatively crude formula which quantifies a franchise’s overall prestige based on this data.

The final overall formula is an additive index based on the franchise’s win %, WS Championships, Pennants, LCS appearances, Division Titles, Playoff Appearances, the number of winning seasons, and average place in the division standings. Franchises were penalized for high owner turnover, last place finishes in the division, and the worst record in the league.

Like I said, the formula is crude and I am open to suggestions. Suggestions that raise my franchise ranking will be given the highest preference :)


Please note that the table below only shows some of the data used to generate the overall ranking. I did not include all of the data for space reasons and only included some of the more pertinent categories. I will be happy to share the full data with anyone who requests it. TC if you are interested.

Enjoy!

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Rnk	Team	Win %	Playoffs	Division	Pennant	WS	Overall
1	Fargo Roughriders	0.559	7	7	5	3	145.5
2	Jacksonville Jackals	0.588	11	9	3	2	144.3
3	Arizona Arithmetics	0.554	9	7	2	2	123.4
4	Los Angeles Studio Kings	0.611	9	9	1	1	112.5
5	Chicago Beast	0.569	10	8	1	0	99.5
6	San Antonio Missions (Viva the Puffy Taco)	0.553	9	6	3	0	97.8
7	Kansas City Glasgow Kisses	0.493	6	5	2	2	68.7
8	Philadelphia Dead Milkmen	0.538	5	3	1	0	60.3
9	Portland Jacks	0.546	8	2	0	0	56.9
10	Scranton Scewballs	0.498	5	3	1	1	53.7
11	Memphis Maniax	0.507	6	5	1	0	52.8
12	Richmond Poor Men	0.502	4	1	1	1	50.8
13	Washington D.C. Federals	0.517	8	3	0	0	48.3
14	Boston Colonials	0.504	5	3	0	0	28.9
15	El Paso Ultraviolence	0.526	3	1	0	0	26.4
16	Anaheim Natural Disasters	0.497	5	4	0	0	23.3
17	Trenton Thrashers	0.504	4	3	0	0	21.9
18	Charlotte Queen's Men	0.488	4	2	0	0	15.6
19	Boise Hawks	0.497	3	0	1	0	8.7
20	New Orleans Crawdads	0.484	0	0	0	0	7.8
21	Helena Misfits	0.492	3	2	0	0	3.6
22	New Britain Block Heads	0.497	2	0	0	0	-2.3
23	Vancouver Loonies	0.458	1	1	1	0	-4.8
24	Seattle Salty Dogs	0.467	0	0	0	0	-5.3
25	San Diego Storm	0.450	2	1	0	0	-5.6
26	Charleston Tories	0.459	3	3	0	0	-6.7
27	Pawtucket Patriots	0.435	4	3	0	0	-7.8
28	Scottsdale Army of One	0.434	0	0	0	0	-10.4
29	Salem Raptors	0.469	2	1	0	0	-17.3
30	Wichita Pioneers	0.421	3	2	1	0	-17.4
31	Louisville Legionnaires	0.451	2	1	0	0	-25.3
32	Iowa City Shuckers	0.432	1	1	0	0	-29.5

**Win % - franchise's all-time winning percentage; Playoffs - # of playoff appearances; Division - # of division titles; Pennants - # of League Championships; WS - # of World Series Titles

At the Halfway Mark: The NABCL Season 12 Power Rankings

Using Vegas’ super-secret, pat. pend. statistical formula – so involved and dead on accurate that it would make Bill James wet his pants in envy -- we rank the current NABCL franchises in order from 1 through 32. Actual ranking based on current record is also provided as is the ranking based on Exp Pct.

Top Underachievers: San Antonio, Charlotte, Seattle, Portland, Memphis, Vancouver

These teams are better than their records and should see improvement over the second half of the season.

Top Overachievers: Fargo, San Diego, Iowa, Philadelphia, Cheyenne, Helena

These teams are playing over their heads and should come back to Earth before the season is complete.

1. San Antonio Missions (Viva the Puffy Taco) - frazzman80 (Act. 7, Exp. 6)

A team built on pitching and defense playing in a pitcher's paradise. Hitting is slightly above average, which says alot playing in Nelson Wolff. Frazz is more than due to take the whole thing.

2. Sacramento Terrible Two's - Save_Mr_X (Act. 4, Exp. 3)

Second verse, same as the first. SMX matches up almost exactly with Frazz, only he is slightly less due, having already won once.

3. Anaheim Natural Disasters – zackaryl (Act. 3, Exp. 1)

The best combination of hitting and pitching in the league and they place in less of a vast wasteland than San Antonio and Sacramento. Only the fielding is below average. Another owner well overdue to take it all.

4. Wichita 'weed - oldave (Act. 6, Exp. 5)

Another pitcher's park and another team built on strong pitching. Blessed with stronger hitting in the aggregate than San Antonio and Sacramento, though we think the 'weed is more dependant on a smaller number of key players. Will oldave's quirky approach get lost in translation to new owner tomjones?

5. Chicago Beast - bullet6464 (Act. 1, Exp. 4)

The most overall balanced high performer in either league with a murderer's row of hitters playing in the friendly confines of Wrigley. Only the team speed disappoints. Still, despite how much bullett wants it, it remains to be seen if anyone can win a championship in Wrigley.

6. Fargo Roughriders - carpediem33 (Act. 2, Exp. 2)

The two-time and defending champions have BY FARGO the best hitting in the league, but all that lumber still has them behind last season's record. The fielding is decent, but the pitching is only slightly above average. And what wins championships?

7. Louisville Legionnaires – mlhutch (Act. 8, Exp. 7)

The dream continues! The Legion is hitting the muddy crap out of the ball so far and the starting lineup is running on all cyclinders. Still, the pitching is only average, though Slugger Field doesn't help. The NL version of the Roughriders, but we don't know if the arms can get them through the playoffs.

8. Jacksonville Jackals - jose can u c (Act. 5, Exp. 8)

Clean living and clutch hitting -- nothing else explains how the Jackals are playing this far above their heads. The pitching has been less than average but the bats and gloves keep picking them up. Look for the bottom to drop out soon.

9. Trenton Thrashers - tmf12 (Act. 9, Exp. 10)

Poised to make the biggest second half jump after some key pitching acquisitions, Trenton focused on the right need. The bats have come along nicely and the defense is good as it gets. With some arms on board, they should make a nice run.

10. Charlotte Queen's Men – Erran (Act. 16, Exp. 17)

The Men have been playing well below their potential so far these season, so they better gird their loins. Pitching is the strength here, with a well balanced staff that does well in a neutral park. Good fielding helps too. Now if those bats could only get in gear.

11. Seattle Salty Dogs – donaldkey (Act. 17, Exp. 19)
12. Boise Hawks – mitchrapp (Act. 21, Exp. 12)
13. El Paso Ultraviolence – reaperpgh (Act. 13, Exp. 13)
14. Richmond Poor Men – mdonegan (Act. 12, Exp. 9)
15. San Diego Storm – davesanchez (Act. 11, Exp. 11)
16. Portland Jacks - dtrain34 (Act. 20, Exp. 24)
17. Iowa City Shuckers - sportznut11 (Act. 10, Exp. 14)
18. Kansas City Glasgow Kisses – iain (Act. 19, Exp. 22)
19. New Britain Block Heads – Verd (Act. 22, Exp.18 )
20. Memphis Maniax - gerald007 (Act. 24, Exp. 21)
21. Pawtucket Patriots – fletchkd (Act. 18, Exp. 23)
22. Vancouver Loonies – cosmicblob (Act. 26, Exp. 26)
23. Philadelphia Dead Milkmen – newarkwilder (Act. 15, Exp. 16)
24. Cheyenne Grizzlies - charlie22098 (Act. 14, Exp. 15)
25. Toronto Flare - keith1995 (Act. 28, Exp. 28)
26. Scottsdale Army of One - ck1909 (Act. 25, Exp. 25)
27. New Orleans Crawdads - wonka1 (Act. 30, Exp. 29)
28. Helena Misfits - rugrat (Act. 23, Exp. 20)
29. Boston Colonials – randallball (Act. 27, Exp. 27)
30. Washington D.C. Federals – Shalmelo (Act. 32, Exp. 32)
31. Norfolk Wingapos - yoker70 (Act. 31, Exp. 31)
32. Las Vegas Dust Devils – drutes (Act. 29, Exp. 30)

Quarter Pole - The Haves and the Have Nots

With season twelve now past the quarter pole, it is time to take a stab at an analysis of the league's top ten/bottom five list. The new season is full of fresh stories, none more interesting than the emergence of a new breed of elite or "Super" teams, that are dominating the current landscape. Though it is still early, he six "Supers" are all firing at close to a 70 percent winning clip. This is most unusual in one of HBDs most balanced leagues.

Not suprisingly, the early dominance of a few has meant that there are some real dogs at the bottom of the NABCL's barrel. Some deservedly so, others whose performance runs contrary to the talent assembled on their roster. With close to 120games to go there is ample time for these bottom feeders to turn their fortunes around...so without further adieu your Top Ten/Bottom Five

1) Fargo Roughriders (34-12)

The defending World Champs havent missed a stride in the early going. The offense has no peer in the NABCL as it averages a shade more than 7 runs per game. Former AL MVP Rudy Simms is off to a terrific start with 14 bombs, 42 rbi, and a sick .466 obp. The pitching doesnt get the ink that the hitting does but its results are equally impressive - a league low 179 runs allowed. The wily 40 year old Felipe Matos is off to another wonderful start (6-2) and the 'pen has been exceptional when needed. The Roughriders will win the NL East and will have ample opportunity to prepare for the playoffs. A repeat could very well be in order. Super Hero Comparison - SUPERMAN. Odds to win title: EVEN

2) San Antonio Missons (33-15)

Frazzman has quietly (unlike his rivals in Chicago and Sacramento) put together one of the premier organzations in the NABCL. Built to take advantage of a pitchers paradise at Nelson Wolff Municipal, the Missons consistently rank among the leagues best in pitching and fielding. Season 12 is no different as the Missons rank second in WHIP, sixth in ERA, and first in OAV allowed; Byung Hyun Li is the odds on favorite to unseat Lenny Singleton for the NL CY. The offense is steady if unspectacular and fueled by two young stars in Doug Wood and Milt Brock. Despite their torrid start, San Antonio is being pushed by Divisional rival Louisville (huh?). That's probably bad news for the NL as the Missons will be battle ready come the playoffs. Super Hero Comparison - SPIDERMAN. Odds to win title: 2.5 to 1.

3) Sacramento Terrible Twos (30-18)

The petulant owner/manager of the Twos is nothing if not consistent. Once again, the Twos are fast out of the gate leaving divisional rivals Portand and Boise to turn their attention to a Wild Card berth. Sac's pitching is always good; Fausto Bennett just copped the league's Pitcher of the Week Award. The offense has been a bit pedestrian save for Dave Glaus' 17 home runs and 48 rbi. As many may know, Sacramento is working on eight straight divisonal titles and nothing suggests that nine isnt in the offing. However, Chicago's recent three game sweep at Sac-town had to give X pause. That can only mean a blockbuster is in the offing. Super Hero Comparison - WONDER WOMAN (couldnt resist). Odds to win title: 5 to 1.

4) Chicago Beast (34-13)

Owners of the NL's best record to date and currently riding an impressive nine game winning streak, the Beast early rise has nothing to do with its impressive array of offense and everything to do with its pitching. The starters are 19-9 and led by young gun Phillip Fischer (6-1, 2.04 era). Rickey Vance is 15 for 18 in save opps so the backend is good for now. As to the offense, it just hasnt fired like it has in the past. Sure BC Parent has 19 and 45; Julian Pena 15 and 47; but Suzuki-san and Little Steven Wilson havent got untracked yet. Like Fargo the division is all but finished so the Bullet will have time to work out a plan for the playoffs. But he might just be the worst playoff manager in all of HBD. Super Hero Comparison - BATMAN. Odds to win title: 6 to 1.

5) Anahiem Natural Disasters (30-18)

Like San Antonio, Zack has quietly built a powerhouse in Anaheim. The Natural Disasters are stacked everywhere you look - great bats, great gloves, terrific pitching. However, like Chicago, they have been miserable in the playoffs having not advanced past the DCS in four consecutive playoff bids. We like this addition as the array of young talent has to click at some point. D'Angelo Ramirez is a monster; Jude Lindsey has the stuff of an excellent young set-up guy. We dont like Redding at the end (take a look at his career numbers) but Zack will find a way to make it work. Super Hero Comparison - CAPTAIN AMERICA. Odds to win title: 3-1

6) Louisville Legionnaires (30-17)

When your year-end win totals for the last six years are 67, 57, 72, 63, 52, and 75 you have to be a bit lightheaded with THIRTY wins at the quarterpole. And perhaps that is mlhutch's problem as he just complained about ihis team's performance in the league chat. The Legionnaires are the last of the early "Supers" and they are fueled by one thing and one thing only: a terrific offense. Bob Jenkins has finally lived up to some of his promise, Colin and Davenport (stolen from Toronto) have been terrific. We like their pitching better than its current results but it is not dominant by any stretch. They will hang in the race for a Wild Card but we dont see them anywhere close to the Missons at the end. Super Hero Comparison - THE FLASH. Odds to win title: 25 to 1.

7) Wichita Weed (32-16)

We refuse to analyze the 'weed until we hear from oldave and an explanation about his minor league machinations. Super Hero Comparison - NONE; Odds to win title - N/A

8) Iowa City Shuckers (28-19)/Jacksonville Jackals (29-18)

We couldnt find anyway to separate these two so the divisional rivals will be the first dual entry in our countdown. We like the makeup of both of these squads and would suggest that good things are on the horizon for both. The Jackals got off to a slow start for this NABCL powerhouse. Jose has been trying to find a way to infuse some much needed younger talent onto the roster. The offense has been surprisingly quiet for a Jackal squad. As to the Shuckers, there is a lot to like (Gonzales, Valdes, Herges, etc...) but for now we are going to focus on finances as the Shuckers have really mucked up their flexibility by poor budgeting. Early leader for Bernie Madoff award is Sportznut...Super Hero Comparison - Iowa INCREDIBLE HULK; Odds to win title 25 to 1; Super Hero Comparison Jacksonville: GREEN LANTERN. Odds to win title 16 to 1.

10) Richmond Poor Men (26-22)

Could have gone to Charlotte or Trenton to fill this slot but there is more to like in Richmond. Richmond hails from the same divison as Iowa and Jacksonville so the AL South is easily our pick for the league's most competitive divison (El Paso isnt shabby either). Richmond's offense has been very good led by the reliable John Barkley. But the pitching hasnt been up to snuff and it looks like the Poor Men miss longtime ace and team poet Hamlet Mercedes, who posted 135 wins in a Richmond uniform. Pitching will need to improve to battle Iowa and Jax. Super Hero Comparison - AQUAMAN. Odds to win title 50-1.

Bottom Five:

28 - Pawtucket Patriots (21-27)

Though the record isnt deserving of a bottom five placement, we add Pawtucket to this list as our most disappointing team to date (Charlotte was a close second). Fletchkid has assembled a terrific, if precious, roster of talent and for whatever reason they arent playing loose and easy in the early going. This team can and should win its division by ten games.

29 - New Orleans Crawdads (19-29)

Not a lot to love in the Big Easy. This team has the look and smell of Hurricane Katrina four years later. There are some attractive parts on the ML roster that we would expect to be moved to improve the organzation.

30 - Las Vegas Devils (15-32)

Drutes has a rebuild on his hands from top to bottom. He has some talent in the minors but needs more. His big problem is that his best players carry huge contracts that will take a lot for other teams to absorb (see Anton Burks at 13MM)

31 - Toronto Flare (13-35)

This team really should garner the 32nd ranking because it does have talent. We cant figure out keith,here, as we regard him as a very good owner. But the Flare havent been very good in the NABCL for a long time. I am sure there is a plan just cant see it right now.

32 - Washington Federals (10-37)

Ouch! We never thought this team was a world beater but it is just two years removed from a LCS berth so we certainly expect more. AI setting has to hurt Shal alot at the ML level and we strongly advise him to take control. Oddly Washington is only 11.5 out in the horrid AL East, so some improvements could get this club to the postseason (did I just say that?)

Season 12 - Salty Dogs Lineup

Seattle - Here is a rundown of Seattle's lineup heading into S12.

1. 2B -

Paul Martin Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 25 B/T: L/R Born: Cleveland, OH Position(s): 2B/1B/COF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- Management is hoping he can cut down on those K's and improve the OBP. He takes over full time for Brett Siddall (Type A signed with Fargo) at 2B. With over 700 Plate Appearances last year he batted .296/.364/.364. So while there isn't much pop there (especially in Safeco), they just want him to get on base for Bum and Willie!

2. RF -

Donaldo Lee Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 23 B/T: R/R Born: Valverde, DO Position(s): SS/IF/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- Lee made a late season appearance last year and struggled. An infielder while coming up thru the farm system, he'll start the year out in RF with the injury to Alex Randolph and should be just fine defensively. Hitting in front of Bum Stocker should enable him to see some more fastballs. Seattle needs him to also get on base in front of Bum.

3. 3B -

Bum Stocker Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 26 B/T: L/R Born: San Jacinto, CA Position(s): 3B/IF/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- Stocker had his best season by far last year with 51 HR's, setting a team record. He also hit .325/.381/.637, which in Safeco is no small feat. He was offered on the market to see if the team could bring back a bounty of pitching, but nothing was realized so he'll once again anchor the lineup. It could be tough to repeat last years performance, but Seattle will need something close if they ever want to contend, as well as some production from other places as well.

4. 1B -

Guillermo "Willie" Ortiz Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 24 B/T: L/L Born: Providence, RI Position(s): 1B View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- With prodigious power, Seattle is hoping Ortiz can be their answer to B.C. Parent. They'll need him to make the leap in order to contend. Last years 39 HR's and 107 RBI's, to go along with his .260/.343/.503 were certainly nice for a 1st full season, but they'll need more from him if he is to be compared with Parent.

5. C -

Carlos Colon Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 33 B/T: R/R Born: Tela, HN Position(s): C/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- A free agent signee, he was brought in for one reason - to get on base. While certainly won't be confused with any Gold Glovers, he is about equal to what the 'Dogs had last year behind the dish, but should be a HUGE improvement over last years offensive #'s from a Seattle catcher. He was signed for 2 years for $2.1M per, and if he continues to get on base close to his career OBP of .394 then it will have been worth it.

6. LF -

Bronson Grey Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 24 B/T: L/R Born: Dawson Springs, KY Position(s): LF/CIF/2B/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- This youngster has been a slow starter in each of his big league seasons. They will try to get him more AB's in Spring Training to get him into mid season form faster. He hovered just above the Mendoza line last year till almost the All Star break. Due to injuries they kept running him out there and he flashed enough potential to hand him the job to lose this year. A big step forward is needed from Grey.

7. CF -

Dante Baek Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 28 B/T: S/R Born: Kyoto, JP Position(s): CF/IF/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- Surprisingly, his career line has trended downward, and last year was a complete loss. It may be a case of too much pressure placed upon him, but the Salty Dogs definitely need him to improve his bat. His defense still remains solid so he does provide value there. Baek will be hitting 7th most of the year in an attempt to keep the pressure off.

8. SS -

Glen Duvall Seattle Salty Dogs Age: 28 B/T: R/R Born: Owen, WI Position(s): SS/IF/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

- Was brought to Seattle a few seasons back for 1 reason - DEFENSE. Last year he committed the most errors of his ML career (17). Lucky for him they don't have many other options defensively for SS and they expect a return to normal.

OTIS PAVLOV INTERVIEW

Hardball Dynasty's

Otis Pavlov

Following his interview the other day with B.C. Parent, Frank DeFord sat down with 2-time National League Most Valuable Player, Mr. Terrible Two, Otis Pavlov.

Frank: This is a different team of Two's this year. For the first time in a while familar names like Albert Piper, Vinny Granger, and Zephyr Johnson are gone. How do you think the new team stacks up and has the departure of the veterans led to the Two's end of year struggles?

OP: First, I realize this is a business, and veterans make a lot of money. Those guys are great players but I understand managements need to cut salary. The players we brought in made us a lot younger and we will be better for the long haul. Although I miss those guys, anytime you can trade players in 30's for players in their early to mid 20's, you are bound to get better.

Frank: And as far as the teams end of the year struggles?

OP: Well, these guys are young and some of them this is their first full major league season, and there are going to be ups and downs. Also, when the team changes as much as ours has, it takes time to gel and build the continuity that makes teams great.

Frank: You mentioned the veteran salary cuts, next year is the last on your contract, and rumor has it that negotiations have been slow to re-sign you long-term. Do you think you will be a Two at the end of next year? Or the beginning for that matter?

OP: I love Sacramento, and I love this team. I would like to stay a Two forever and finish my career here. On my end, I would like to sign an extension, but at this point we are trying to nail down a first round bye and all my attention is focused on that goal.

Frank: You currently sit at 451 home runs, would it mean more to you to hit your 500th home run in a Terrible Two's uniform?

OP: Like I said, I would like to be a Two forever.

Frank: Obviously, steroids and peformance enhancing drugs have been the talk of baseball recently. Have you ever used steroids or been tempted to?

OP: I have never used steroids. To be honest, and I am not saying anyone does, but when you hit 50 home runs like I did for a couple of seasons, and then you see guys hitting 60 and 70, it crosses your mind. You wouldnt be human if you didnt think about it. If I hit 50 but could add 15 or 20 more bombs, and 10 wins for my team, you have to think about the possibilities. But in the end, the long term health projections are something I dont want to deal with.

Frank: So are you saying that players you know are using and have offered you steroids?

OP: No, that is not what I am saying. I wouldnt know the first place to look even if I did want to use them. And I dont think that many guys are actually using, outside of B.C. Parent in Chicago...okay, I am joking with my boy B.C.. That man can rake with the best of them and is simply a naturally gifted athlete.

Frank: How would you feel about some of the records that are out there if you found out those players were enhanced "chemically?"

OP: Honestly, you can put whatever PED you want in your body, and it wont help you hit a baseball, it may allow you to hit it farther, but the skill is already there. You can't take any Joe Blow off the street, give him steroids, and turn him into a .300 hitter or a 40 home run per year player. So I am not sure how much they help anyway.

Frank: Do you say that because you have experimented at some point?

OP: I think I already answered that question Frank, I have never used any form of steroid or PED! Come on Frank, your better than the Dan Patrick's of the world (said in a joking manner).

Frank: How important is the first round bye? It has been a long time since the Two's have played a first round series. Is it worth playing guys down the stretch in lieu of resting the to secure at top seed?

OP: I think it is extremely important. We are 1-game behind Chicago with 10-games left for the #2 seed. That first round is such a crap shoot. In such a short series anything can happen regardless of a teams record. We would much rather not have to deal with that if possible. But on the other hand, with the top of our rotation with Albert Boone, Fausto Bennett, and Alex Schmidt, we are set up nicely for a short series.

Frank: What is it like around the organization to have had such amazing regular season success, but to have only 1 appearance in the World Series? Although you did win the championship.

OP: Well obviously you play to win a ring, and no matter what happens no one can ever take that ring away. But obviously we would have liked to have won a few more. Again, the playoffs are set up for the current hot team, if you're not the hot team, a 114-win team like the one we had 2 years ago doesnt stand a chance. That's just the way baseball is.

Frank: How do you like your chances this year?

OP: I always like our chances in the playoffs, I think you have to have a positive mind-set going in. But there are some great teams out there. Chicago can mash with anyone, San Antonio has a great pitching staff, Honolulu has Lenny Singleton, and the list just keeps on going. It won't be easy for whoever comes out of the National League.

Frank: Well, thanks for your time Otis, and good luck in the playoffs.

OP: Thanks, anytime Frank.

The beauty of the Beast

Longtime sports essayist, Frank Deford, recently sat down with Chicago Beast superstar, BC Parent, for an interview on his explosive season, performance enhancing drugs, and the team's chances in the upcoming playoffs. Parent's unvarnished answers offer a unique look into the life of one of the most prolific players in the NABCL.

Hardball Dynasty's

B.C. Parent

Deford: With 13 games to play, you are within five homers of the NABCL's all-time single season record of 70. What does that mean to you?

Parent: Raking is my thing, Mr. Deford. The good lord blessed me with the power to hit it a long way and when I do it usually goes out of the park. I like going yard 'cause it means I get to "trot" instead of busting it around the bases.

Deford: Craig Hooper holds the record at 70. Any thoughts on his mark and career?

Parent: Hoop? The thing about him is he is a little dude...I got him by about six inches and 40+ pounds. But the man can stroke it. When I came up he was still playing in Scranton and I would see him a lot. Somebody told me he is closing in on 500 career taters. That's a lot of pop. He sent me a text the other day and wished me luck on getting to 69. I didnt know if he was talking about with my girl or home runs.

Deford: In today's sports world, no good deed goes unpunished. Detractors say that you and others in the game are prospering through performance enhancing drugs? What do you say to that?

Parent: Look, Mr. Deford, I pee in a cup seven times a season and it comes back clean each time. I cant control what someone else is going say or do. I been balling for 5+ years in the NABCL bigs and I been doin' it the right way since I got up. If I am guilty of anything its eating too much red meat but a man's got to have his pleasures.

Deford: You hail from Plaquemine, Louisiana. You are a long way from the Mississippi arent you?

Parent: I learned to hit along the banks of the mighty 'Sipp. Some say that my power comes from trying to hit it over the river. But Mama would say it comes from her biscuits and chicken gravy. Either way, you should know that Plaquemine is indian for persimmon - Strong wood.

Deford: Talk about the Beast and their chances in the playoffs; can you help reverse the failure of post-seasons past?

Parent: Damn - that's cold. Look when I got called up in season 6, our club missed the playoffs, in the year after going to the World Series. Since then we have ripped off five straight division crowns. Now, we know that divison titles aint all that and so we are gonna go down swinging this season. But take note, this team rakes like no other I've been on; Suzuki-san, Little Steven Wilson, Virgil, Melvin, Pena and me all have 30+ dongs. You down with that? Six guys that can take it long at any moment. Bam!

Plus our pitching is much stronger than people give us credit for (dont forget we play at Wrigley; check out my hurlers record away from home) and we pick it with just about anybody but San Antonio. Go ask Mr. X and anybody else in the NL if they are looking forward to facing BC and friends this year.

Deford: Well, the hearts and minds of the Second City will be glued to your fortunes. You got a lot of criticism for hanging around Jay-z and Beyonce during last seasons one and done versus Portland. Any plans to do something different this year?

Parent: (gets out of chair)...Mr. Deford, I hang with who I want, when I want. Jay and Beyonce are my peeps. They didnt have nothing to do with Portland rolling us last year. So no I aint doing nothing different. Tiger and 'Bron already been hittin me up for ducats for our first playof game. As for my babes, I just got off the horn with a couple of my galz and we are looking to tear this mother down, especially if we can go all the way. Thanks for the talk but I got go, got some rippin' to do.

Down the Stretch They Come- NABCL Top 10/Bottom 5

With less than 20 games left in the season, it seems like a perfect time for at Top 10/Bottom 5 update!

1. Anaheim Natural Disasters (94-53) – AL West

Still the team to beat in the AL, despite holding the #2 seed at the moment. Anaheim boasts the best pitching in the AL, a top 10 offense, and a top 5 D. SS Tony Wanatabe (.322/48HR/135RBI) is somehow not on the MVP list; SP Felipe Redondo (18-5, 2.95 ERA) and SP Harry Pena (15-7, 3.42 ERA) are Cy Young finalists, and young RP Jude Lindsey is in the running for the ROY award. The most well rounded team in the AL is poised for a deep playoff run.

2. San Antonio Missions (Viva the Puffy Taco) (94-53) – NL South

The Missions might not be as flashy as Honolulu or Sacramento, but they are currently the best team in the NL. They lead the majors in ERA and team defense, and have a solid if unspectacular offense; led by MVP candidate 1B Milt Brock (.322/36HR/110RBI). The pitching staff is anchored by Mark McNamara (17-5, 3.10 ERA) and Marvin Turner (17-5, 3.65 ERA), with top notch closer Arthur Donnels there to close the door when handed a lead. The team is on a 9-1 run, giving them great moment rolling into the postseason.

3. Fargo Roughriders (98-49) – AL North

More of the same ol’ same ol’ from Fargo, with a slight twist this season. The offense is again leading the majors in runs, and the defense is serviceable, but it’s the top 5 pitching staff that has lead the team to the best record in the league. SP Felipe Matos (20-4, 3.00 ERA) is enjoying arguably his finest season, while rookie Juan Goya (19-6, 3.56 ERA) and innings eater Luis Melendez (17-11, 3.90 ERA) give Fargo 3 of the 5 AL Cy Young candidates. The reason this squad is behind Anaheim and SA is simple, their 3/4 hitters (Mac Grey and Rudy Simms) are both on the DL, as is staring SS Bart Fiore. Fargo still has a solid team, but replacing 97 HR and 286 RBI is no easy task.

4. Sacramento Terrible Two’s (89-58) – NL West

The Two’s are perennial playoff contenders, and this year is no exception. Led by a top notch pitching staff and a rock solid defense that more than makes up for a slightly above average offense, this team is built for the postseason. Veteran SP’s Albert Boone (19-7, 3.24 ERA) and Fausto Bennett (16-4, 2.33 ERA) lead a deep and talented pitching staff, while CF Otis Pavlov (.295/40HR/107RBI) and ROY candidate Kris Ramirez help key the offense. Mr. X once again has this team poised to make a deep run in the playoffs, if the offense can contribute.

5. Chicago Beast (90-57) – NL North

The Beast have run away with the NL North, largely on the strength of the NL’s best offense. The team pitching is just OK, and the D is below average, but with bats like this, who needs anything else? Stud OF B.C. Parent (.329/63HR/157RBI) is mauling NL pitching, and 3B Steve Wilson (.297/38HR/116RBI) is playing a very impressive Robin to Parent’s Batman. This team will score runs on anyone in the postseason, it remains to be seen whether they can get enough pitching to be a factor in the playoffs.

6. Honolulu Anteaters (85-62) – NL West

The Anteaters are the antithesis of the Beast, their offense and defense are average at best, but their pitching is top notch, and they have used it to give Sacramento all they can handle in the NL West. This team is more dependent on a single player than any other team in the league; good thing that player is NABCL royalty. Lenny Singleton (20-9, 2.37 ERA) is producing his usual Cy Young worth season, and he makes this a team no one wants to see in the playoffs. If LF Derrick Stanley (.318/45HR/114RBI) can manage to bring the offense along for the ride, Honolulu has a very good chance to make a return trip to the World Series this season.

7. Richmond Poor Men (88-59) – AL South

Richmond is basically Chicago Lite, a top notch offense carrying below average pitching and defense. Closer Dan Powell (26/28 SV, 3.43 ERA) is doing a solid job finishing games for the team, but it’s MVP candidates 1B John Barkley (.301/46HR/136RBI) and 2B Bing Simms (.354/28HR/159RBI) that have put this team in a position to claim the AL South crown. It remains to be seen if they will be enough to push Richmond to the division title.

8. Iowa City Shuckers (85-62) – AL South

It stands to reason that the team chasing Richmond in the standings is right behind them in the top 10, too. Iowa City is a virtual mirror image of Richmond, with a slightly worse offense offsetting a slight better pitching staff. CF Rickey Valdes (.317/27HR/80RBI) and C Damaso Montana (.306/21HR/72RBI) give the Shuckers top notch bats at two premium positions, and closer Rip Christenson (36 SV, 2.47 ERA) are keeping this team in the division hunt, and currently leading the AL Wild Card race.

9. Wichita ‘weed (81-66) -- NL East

Top 10 pitching and defense have the ‘weed on the cusp of the franchise’s first division title, despite their current 5 game losing streak. The somewhat unconventional pitching staff is lead by Zephyr Johnson (14-7, 2.61 ERA, 17 SV), Derrick McPherson (15-3, 4.08 ERA, 4 SV) and Joe Rhodes (15-4, 2.60 ERA); while young SS Tony Trinidad (.292/22HR/78RBI/27SB) leads the offense. The ‘weed will need to hold off Charlotte to claim the division title, but if they can, they could surprise come playoff time.

10. tie- New Britain Blockheads (82-65) – AL North and Jacksonville Jackals (82-65) AL South

It is only fitting that these two teams share the final spot in the top 10, as both seem to be doing their best to NOT grab the final WC spot in the AL. New Britain was nipping at Fargo’s heels only 2 weeks ago, but after a crippling 13 game losing streak, they now find themselves in a tie for the aforementioned WC spot. As for the defending WS champs, they are 3-7 in their past 10, and are “riding” a 4 game losing skid. Either team can spring an upset if it can get to the postseason, and there is still a chance that the both can get in (knocking Iowa out of the playoffs), but they will need to right the ship quickly to claim their postseason berth.

On the Cusp: Charlotte Queen’s Men, Trenton Thrashers, Philadelphia Dead Milkmen, Seattle Salty Dogs, Los Angeles Robins

Bottom 5 (Cliff Note’s Version)

28. Washington D.C. Federals (62-85) – AL East

29. San Diego Storm (54-93) – AL West

30. Las Vegas Dust Devils (54-93) – NL West

31. Salem Gangbangers (54-93) – AL West

32. Boston Colonials (56-91) – AL East

Review of NABCL #1 Draft Picks

Season 1 - Scott Harang

Scott Harang San Antonio Missions (Viva the Puffy Taco) Age: 31 B/T: R/R Born: Oakdale, MN Position(s): 3B/IF/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Harang is a three-timer All-Star 3B for Frazz’s San Antonio Missions. Scott has been a Mission throughout his fine career, starting out as a SS in a bit of a forced fit but now much more comfortabel at the hot corner. He’s been hobbled this season by a bum hamstring and he hasn’t reached his full potential as a hitter. His best season was #9 when he hit 30 homers, scored 101 runs, knocked in 111 runs more and broke .900 OPS for the first time in his career. Not a superstar, but a good pick who has been a San Antonio mainstay.

Season 2 - Tomas Villano

Tomas Villano Trenton Thrashers Age: 27 B/T: R/R Born: Brookville, IN Position(s): 2B/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

A longtime Thrasher, Villano has been the Trenton starting 2B for the last five seasons. A three-time All-Star and former MVP (for season 7), Tomas has amassed a very nice .938 career OPS and he brings a fine balance of hitting and power along with better than average eye, glove and wheels. His MVP season was his best, amassing 47 homers, 124 runs, 129 RBIs and an impressive 1 .098 OPS. Since cracking the ML lineups, Villano has led tmf12’s team to the playoffs in three of four seasons. One of the better 2B in the NABCL and a good first pick in the season 2 draft.

Season 3 - Mikey Knotts

Mikey Knotts New Britain Block Heads Age: 26 B/T: R/R Born: Winter, WI Position(s): 1B/COF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

After a horrendous first season with the New Britain franchise, Verd selected slugging 1B Knotts with the first pick of the season 3 draft. A former All-Star, Mikey is a better athlete than your garden variety first bagger, with excellent baserunning skills and a little speed to boot. He is a fine fielder as well, but he makes his living as a hammer an he averages just under 50 dingers a season. While not one of the elite power hitters in the NABCL, Knotts has been remarkably steady and durable, once going four straight seasons without missing a game. Forced to pick his best season and we’ll lean toward #9, wher e he even swiped 13 bases to go along with 61 HRs, 128 runs scored, 143 Ribeyes and a .927 OBS. Mikey’s consistency marks him as a very good number 1 pick.

Season 4 - Rob McConnell

Rob McConnell Charlotte Queen's Men Age: 25 B/T: R/R Born: Dardanelle, AR Position(s): RF View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Poised to become a premier NABCL slugger, Queen’s Man McConnell is now in his third big league season and he continues to show the steady year over year progress that is the hallmark of the best players in the game. Erran’s brought the Rfer along slowly with season long stops at every minor league tier before making the jump to the Show in season 9. Last season;s was Rob’s best so far, with 48 longballs, 105 RBIs and three more runs scored. He is a better than average runner but his glove work is a bit of a concern as is his overall health; no DL trips so far but his time will come. He is tracking this season to a 1.058 OPS and he should do even better in the next few legs. If he stays healthy, he looks lile a top notch draft pick.

Season 5 - Devon Russell

Devon Russell Norfolk Loyalists Age: 24 B/T: R/R Born: Gilroy, CA Position(s): SS/IF/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

A former All Star in season 9, this shortstop has been a bit of a disappointment for a number 1 overall pick. Russell has been the rodent’s starting SS for three seasons now, but a long DL stay last year for a (wince with me) torn groin slowed down Devon’s progress. An average fielder at best, Russell makes more bad plays than good ones. He seems to have leveled off as a hitter, consistently around a .860 OPS, a decent enough number for most players, but a tad underwhelming for a player of his assumed promise. At 24, there is still time to mature, but we aren’t liking all the signs we are seeing.

Season 6 - Tony Trinidad

Tony Trinidad Wichita 'weed Age: 27 B/T: L/R Born: Haledon, NJ Position(s): SS/IF/OF/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

After a lengthy minor league career, 27 year old Trinidad has finally made it to the Big Time and he is just now getting comfortable in his second ML season. Tony has played 2B and 3B in addition to his natural position of SS in the Bigs, suggesting that he hasn’t really settled into a home quite yet. Wisaprentice selected the local boy for his NY Empire franchise, so oldave inherited him and moved him and the rest of the crew to Witchita in season 7. That first season in NY was brutal, with a rapid progression through the minors to AAA level, where he was stuck for three and a half-seasons. In 111 games last season, he enjoyed a decent but not great .863 OPS while stealing 27 homers and mashing 22 dingers. Still, he’ll need to step up big-time if he wants to reach his potential.

Season 7 - Kenny Herges

Kenny Herges Iowa City Shuckers Age: 25 B/T: S/R Born: Stillwater, MN Position(s): SS View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Season 7 saw a shortstop taken number 1 for the third season in a row and like Russell and Trinitad before him, Iowa City’s Herges is still a work in progress (albeit one that is a bit further along than his predecessors). More of a hitter than a fielder, Kenny was rushed to the Shuckers ML roster after only 47 games in Hi A ball and the rush to produce took an initial toll on the young Shucker. But his progress has been steady and he is currently playing the best ball of his young career, tracking a .960 OPS and hitting at a very productive .346 clip. Herges can run a little bit too but he remains a bit of a defensive liability with 51 errors. Still, his steady progress suggests an up and comer who may yet see a few All Star games and other accolades.

Season 8 - Victor Fernandez

Victor Fernandez Pawtucket Patriots Age: 23 B/T: R/R Born: Onalaska, WI Position(s): P (SP2) View Hardball Dynasty Profile

The first pitcher ever taken with the first pick in a NABCL draft, the pride of Onalaska, Wisconsin has been a bit of a bust so far in two ML seasons. Fernandez is primarily a two pitch pitcher – fastball and slider – and he averages a homer a game as well as two free passes each time out. His stamina is fine but the durability is too low for a workhorse-type and we’re a bit concerned with his health ratings too. Still, his WHIP is dropping nicely even if the dingers keep his ERA going in the wrong direction (5+ and counting). Fletchkd and his Patriots of Pawtucket havehit some rough times over the last five seasons and so far Victor hasn’t been the secret to a winning season. But season 11 has started a lot better for them and we’re hoping Fernandez turns out well.

Season 9 - Damon Wolf

Damon Wolf Wichita 'weed Age: 21 B/T: R/R Born: West Simsbury, CT Position(s): P (LRA) View Hardball Dynasty Profile

A tough season 8 gave the Wichita franchise another shot at a #1 pick and oldave went for pitching this time around. The Wolf looks like someone who may have staying power. Dave is bringing him along slowly – he’s only in Hi A ball right now – but his game is getting better all the time and his stats get better at every higher level, not worse. Right now, he’s tossing a .83 WHIP and a measley 1.15 ERA. His K/BB ratios have been insanely good and he doesn’t give up many long balls. For now, Dave is getting him plenty of work (and lots of wins) as a long reliever but he projects as a #1 ML starter in a few seasons.

Season 10 -Stan Redman

Stan Redman Pawtucket Patriots Age: 21 B/T: L/R Born: Camden, SC Position(s): C/DH View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Pawtucket was back picking #1 in the season 10 draft and settled on catcher Redman, a fearsome hitter who is already looking studly in the ML level in his second season of pro ball. Truth be told, we don’t see Stan the Man as a great game caller but his bat should help make up for any minimal impact he may have to the Patriots’ team ERA. In this, his first season in the Bigs, he already has 26 dingers in 58 games and he average a little more than a ribeye per game. Posessing a great batting eye to go along with all that power, this rookie is already clubbing at a 1.058 OPS clip and he is a major reason fletch and the gang are competing in the AL East. We like Redman to be a force for many years to come (though maybe as a first bagger or DH rather than a backstop). A great #1 pick for fletch.