2108 Playoffs

Pacific Series
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This is Galveston’s first official playoff appearance, however, if you remember in 2101 Galveston played Cheyenne in a game 163, which sort of is like a playoff game. This time they are heavy favorites. Not just because they won 14 more games, but Cheyenne is still dealing with major injuries. C Eric Titus and 2 starters (Jose Serrano and Chris Keon). But Cheyenne also has a lot more experience having been in this situation multiple times before. Limping into the playoffs before pulling magical upsets to get a ring. It’s almost a yearly tradition in the Rockies. Galveston won the season series but with a close 11-9 record, giving extra reason for a potential new Pacific rivalry. 
Game 1: CHY Ahmed Mathis (12-9, 4.00) vs GAL Nick Lambert (20-7, 2.70)
In the Launch’s first ever real playoff game, they went off for 10 runs, thanks to home runs from Moran and Caron. While Lambert holds the Buffalo to only 1 run. Taking an easy 1-0 series lead. 
CHY 1 - 10 GAL

Game 2: CHY Luis Hernández 19-10, 3.37) vs GAL Rich Platte (16-15, 4.48)
Galveston would take the lead early, but Cheyenne would claw back with a clutch 2 run inning in the 8th to tie the game. But a Jose Orozco 2-run go ahead home run would close out game 2 easily for Galveston.
CHY 3 - 5 GAL

Game 3: GAL Nelson Encarnación (16-14, 3.88) vs CHY Jeffrey Simon (19-12, 3.67)
Back in the rocky mountain air would prove to be what the doctor ordered for the Buffalo. As their offense would ‘explode’ (score more than 3 runs). While the veteran Simon would dominate, giving up only 5 hits in a complete game. Simon is easily the least talked about ace amongst all the great pitchers Cheyenne has had so far. He’s really only had 2 semi-major injuries but has pitched every season and in each of the Buffalo’s playoff appearances (while all their other stars were often too injured to play). A borderline hall of famer that truly deserves more praise. 
GAL 1 - 7 CHY

Game 4: GAL Paolo Barreau (20-8, 3.26) vs CHY Mike Tijerina (3-2, 3.63)
A battle of rookies (well, Barreau isn’t a rookie but this is his first full season). Barreau has been touted as one of the top prospects ever since he joined the squad in 2101. While Tijerina was a supplemental round draft pick in 2106 and has been considered a top 30 prospect since. Naturally, these prospects would have a pitching duel. Both would only allow 2 runs through 8. But the Launch manager would make a gutsy decision letting Barreau stay out for the 9th, this would prove a bad decision as Hisato Horio would hit a lead-off triple and easily be scored 2 batters later by Meyer for a walk-off win to tie the series. 
GAL 2 - 3 CHY

Game 5: GAL Nick Lambert (20-7, 2.70) vs CHY Ahmed Mathis (12-9, 4.00)
Mshangama would hit a 2-run home run in the first to set the stage. The Buffalo would use their classic small-ball techniques to score 2 more later on. While their bullpen would lock things down, making a 1 run ballgame feel insurmountable. 
GAL 3 - 4 CHY

Game 6: CHY Luis Hernández 19-10, 3.37) vs GAL Rich Platte (16-15, 4.48)
Back in Texas with the series on the line. Outside of Brinley, none of the Launch players truly knew what to expect. While even the banged up Buffalo had done this multiple times before. Cheyenne would score 5 in the first 3, Galveston would eventually be able to pull in 1. But once McMurphy and Hilger came in, there was nothing they could do. Going hitless in the final 3 innings. Leaving the Buffalo to go back to the Championship Series to rematch the Harfang. 
CHY 5 - 4 GAL. The Buffalo win the series 4-2, Dan Harbin wins MVP. 



Atlantic Series

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The more things change, the more things stay the same. Despite 5 teams being in playoff contention going into the last month, we end up with the same 2 that have faced each other in 4 of the 8 NABF seasons. Germantown won the first matchup, which was the only one that they had home field advantage. Which they have again this time. Will it be the difference maker? The Pretzels also won the season series 12-8, with George Powers absolutely lambashing them, with an 1.178OPS and 6 home runs in those 20 games. This doesn’t faze Harfang fans who continue to believe they own the Atlantic and especially the Pretzels, who have not been able to best them since 2101. 
Game 1: TR Gary Hamilton (9-6, 3.81) vs GER Steven Dorsey (9-6, 3.38)
The game would be high scoring but quite close throughout. But a 5 run 5th inning from Trois would be insurmountable for the Pretzels who would lose game 1. 
TR 8 - 6 GER

Game 2: TR Jorge Franco (15-13, 3.29) vs Vince Benbow (21-7, 3.88)
Franco would dominate for the entire game, Germantown would struggle to get anything going. But were only down 3 as Reed and Latorre would lock down the final 4 innings. In the 8th, Cooper would be on base with 2 outs. Then back-to-back-to-back singles from Ammann, Huseinovic, and Kurtz would score 2 before rookie pinch hitter Jimmy Tellman would launch a 2RBI double to score both pinch runners to take the late lead. Latorre would be out again (pitched the 8th) and would not give up a base runner in either inning to tie the series. 
TR 3 - 4 GER

Game 3: GER Bernie Rosado (12-13, 3.95) vs TR Tim Jackson (15-12, 4.63)
A pitching duel, which was not expected of this matchup. Trois’ only runs would come from solo home runs from Delli Santi, Barthélémy, and Lemon. While Germantown were able to generate 2 runs off of Lamm’s 2 triples. But unfortunately that was all they could muster, as the Quebec squad takes the series lead. 
GER 2 - 3 TR

Game 4: GER Sean Gentry (15-12, 5.05) vs TR Julio Sánchez (10-10, 5.12)
Another strange matchup that would turn into a pitching duel as no one could muster any traction throughout the game. All the runs would score on smart base running and small ball. It would end up being the Harfang would stand atop the close game. 
GER 2 - 3 TR

Game 5: GER Steven Dorsey (9-6, 3.38) vs TR Gary Hamilton (9-6, 3.81)
Germantown felt the pressure early as Harfang fans were lined out the stadium and crowded the streets 5 blocks down. The team bus would take over an hour to wade through the fans. Quebec natives Mott and Powers were heckled and had to practice in the changing room as fans were throwing debris on them prior to the game. Once the game started things only got worse, as Dorsey would load the bases and walk in a run in each of the first 2 innings. Everything culminated in an absolutely crushing defeat for the Pretzels. Fans shouting “nous possédons l'Atlantique” (we own the Atlantic) was heard throughout the entire nation as the team would soon play in their 7th straight Championship Series. 
GER 4 - 12 TR. The Harfang win the series 4-1, Barthélémy winning MVP. 


Championship Series

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A rematch of last season, and the 3rd time these 2 meet in the championship. With Trois winning both previous matchups. Both teams split the season series 3-3 and feature essentially the opposite teams. Cheyenne, amazing pitching and bullpen with a weak offense. Trois with a monster of an offense but a weak pitching core. Both teams have also dealt with injuries throughout the season. But the main story would not just be the rematch, but the chance of Trois having the first ever ‘three-peat’ in the championship. The entire continent would be cheering for Cheyenne, even their rivals in Dakota, Galveston, and Eureka chimed in for support. Every game will be sold out with people on the streets just to listen to the crack of the bat. 
Game 1: CHY Jeffrey Simon (19-12, 3.67) vs TR Jorge Franco (15-13, 3.29)
Both teams would score 2 early. But both pitchers would lock it down from there. Simon would come back into the 8th, giving up a lead-off double and a single. Manager Roland Griffin would keep the veteran Simon in against Andy Rico, who has struggled the last few seasons. But Rico would come out on top with a 2-run double to give the Harfang the lead and lead to their game 1 win. 
CHY 2 - 4 TR

Game 2: CHY Ahmed Mathis (12-9, 4.00) vs TR Gary Hamilton (9-6, 3.81)
Barthélémy and Nickolaus would hit solo home runs, while Cheyenne would use small-ball to tie the game in the 8th. In the 9th, Trois would bring in closer Dale Patterson, who would lock down the first 2 batters, but Kevin Meyer would hit a solo home run to give Buffalo the lead. Cheyenne’s Mike Hilger would come in and strike out 2 and ground out the final out to tie up the series. 
CHY 3 - 2 TR

Game 3: TR Tim Jackson (15-12, 4.63) vs CHY Luis Hernández (19-10, 3.37)
AGame 3 would be a cold and windy night, with a feels like below freezing which would cause outcry from fans and media critiquing the decision to play the game as scheduled. Perhaps due to the cold, not much offense would get going. Trois would have to resort to the Buffalo strategy of small-ball, getting 2 stolen bases and sacrifice hits to score 2, while Cheyenne could only get 1. 
TR 2 - 1 CHY

Game 4: TR Julio Sánchez (10-10, 5.12) vs CHY Mike Tijerina (3-2, 3.63)
Due to some of the complaints, Game 4 would be moved up to start at 5pm rather than the usual 7pm. It would also be a slightly warmer day, which was showcased by a 3-run 1st inning from Trois. Highlighted by home runs from Dubois and Delli Santi. Cheyenne would be scoreless until the 6th when Mshangama would hit a 2-run triple. In the 7th Dan Harbin would score off of good base running after an error after 1B Delli Santi would throw an erratic ball attempting a double play. The game would go into extras, both teams switching in their closers hoping to have a quick answer. Hilger would strike out the side in the top, while Juarez would get an early out before Fraser hitting a first pitch single. Romain Larcher (Eric Titus’ replacement) would rocket a single in the gap moving Fraser to third. 3B John Hunter would walk on a full count leaving the bases loaded. Up for the Buffalo would be Hisato Horio, who seems to always be up in the clutch counts. The stress would get to Dale Patterson and would throw 4 straight balls to walk in the winning run for the Buffalo to tie the series again. The fourth straight 1-run game in this series. 
TR 5 - 4 CHY

Game 5: TR Jorge Franco (15-13, 3.29) vs CHY Jeffrey Simon (19-12, 3.67)
A close, extra-inning pitching duel would follow the previous close, extra-inning pitching duel. Except this time it would go 14 innings! The longest NABF playoff game. Both teams would have to go deep into their bullpen. Cheyenne would go from Simon, to Hilger, McMurphy, then Burford who combine for 7 Gervais awards. While Harfang would go from Franco to Juarez (a very underrated closer) but then have to rely on pitchers I have not actually heard of yet. Surprisingly both teams would lock down their opponents. Cheyenne’s bullpen went 6 innings with only 1 hit. While the Harfang would go 5 with only 2 hits. Unfortunately for the Harfang, one of those hits would be a solo home run by hometown hero, Kevin Meyer. The hit goes down as the biggest play in Cheyenne history-and one of the most famous hits in NABF history.
TR 1 - 2 CHY

Game 6: CHY Ahmed Mathis (12-9, 4.00) vs TR Gary Hamilton (9-6, 3.81)
A third extra inning game? Sure, why the hell not. This is clearly shaping up to be one of the greatest Championship Series of all time. Cheyenne’s Jon Magallanes would hit a 3-run homer in the first to give them one of their rare early leads in the series. Trois would be on the back foot-eventually being behind by 1 in the bottom of the 9th. Mike Hilger would be on the mound. It wouldn’t take long for Trois to tie the game as Barthélémy would hit a lead-off home-run to send the game into extras. The Buffalo offense would be held out in the top half. Hilger would be out again in the bottom half. Some small-ball would leave runners on the corners with 1 out. Barthélémy would be up to bat again. And he would do it again! A game tying homer in the 9th and a game winner in the 10th. No one could believe what they saw. 
CHY 4 - 7 TR

Game 7: CHY Luis Hernández (19-10, 3.37) vs TR Tim Jackson (15-12, 4.63)
I’m at a loss for words for this series. Every game decided by 1-run or the final out, 3 straight extra innings, and multiple all-time moments. So how about some more? Cheyenne would score 2 in the 5th. Trois would take the lead after another Barthélémy home run. In the 9th the Buffalo would tie thanks to a Sheridan double. Now into extras for the 4th time in a row. Both teams would have several men stranded in scoring positions for 3 straight innings. It wasn’t until the 13th when someone finally scored. A man named Pelfrey who came on as a replacement for the aforementioned pinch hitting Sheridan, would hit an RBI game leading double to take the lead! Fraser would score 2 more on a double of his own. Giving reliever Burford a 3-run cushion for the bottom of the 13th. Almost immediately looked to be in jeopardy. Phelan and Buckley would both get singles. But some clutch groundouts from defensive replacements Louis and L’Amour would get it down to the final out. With catcher Josh Lemon to the plate. Lemon would ground a ball to second base for an easy out. The juggernauts have finally been dethroned! The Buffalo win an absolutely insane Championship Series. The commentators and all the home Harfang fans were left speechless. During the trophy ceremony, the Buffalo would bring out the injured Serrano, Titus, and Keon to each get a touch with the trophy as the Buffalo claim their 2nd title in team history. 
CHY 6 - 3 TR. The Buffalo win the series 4-3, with Barthélémy winning MVP despite being on the losing end.

Last edited by BDoof (5/15/2024 12:25 pm)

2108 Off-Season Summary

I’ve also introduced a Rule 5 Draft, though I will likely not highlight it during the off-season summary. 

Awards:

Jean Frey Awards (silver slugger equivalent)
Pacific:
C EUR Ismael Méndez, .298/.371/.419, 9HRs, 121wRC+
1B BR Jake Herold, .338/.417/.662, 47HRs, 138RBIs, 3rd in career
2B GAL Ian Brinley, .299/.412/.492, 22HRs, 105RBIs, 4th in career
3B BR Jayden Royal, .300/.366/.442, 14HRs, 25SBs, 123wRC+, 2nd consecutive
SS AK Leland Abbott, .259/.334/.335, 21SBs, 86wRC+
LF DAK Trevor Reardon, .330/.444/.492, 39SBs, 135Runs, 158wRC+, 4th in career
CF GAL Katsumi Canio, .349/.389/.480, 75SBs, 139wRC+, 7th consecutive
RF BR Ben Black, .309/.378/.444, 12HRs, 48SBs, 124wRC+
DH AK Paul Butler, .287/.399/.467, 24HRs, 135wRC+, 3rd in career

Atlantic:
C GER Bernward Kurtz, .266/.370/.462, 14HRs, 124wRC+, 2nd in career
1B FLA Oscar Morales, .306/.408/.530, 29HRs, 112RBIs, 2nd in career
2B HUR Fernando Criado, .295/.401/.488, 20HRs, 146wRC+, 3rd in career
3B TR Christian Dubois, .333/.403/.498, 21HRs, 23SBs, 140wRC+, 2nd consecutive
SS HUR Mike McClary, .296/.360/.394, 24SBs, 109wRC+, 6th in career, 3rd consecutive
LF TR Hervé Barthélémy, .297/.411/.629, 47HRs, 116RBIs, 7th in career, 2nd consecutive
CF PLY Jonathan Parsons, .291/.372/.393, 44SBs, 112wRC+
RF FLA Adam Beyer, .345/.432/.542, 15HRs, 164wRC+, 2nd consecutive 
DH GER George Powers, .309/.426/.587, 38HRs, 120RBI, 4th in career


Laurent Gervais Award (reliever award)
Pacific: GAL Greg Cone, 39 of 43 Saves, 1.57ERA, 10.4K/9, 271ERA+, 11 first place votes
CHY Mike Hilger, 32 of 36 Saves, 1.85ERA, 13.1K/9, 230ERA+, 2 first place votes
DAK Pat Dow, 29 of 33 Saves, 2.38ERA, 13.4K/9, 179ERA+, 3 first place votes

Atlantic: GER Anton Latorre, 43 of 45 Saves, 0.86ERA, 17.1K/9, 489ERA+, Unanimous, 4th Gervais of career


Dimitri Deshayes Awards (gold glove equivalent)
Pacific
P Bobby Brooks DAK 
C Ryan Croston GAL
1B Bob Heath AST
2B Patrick Moreau BR
3B Jayden Royal BR 4th consecutive
SS Dean Monahan CHY 5th consecutive
LF Joseph Wallace BR 2nd in career
CF Katsumi Canio GAL 8th consecutive
RF Yekuna-Amlak Mshangama CHY 2nd consecutive

Atlantic:
P Bernie Rosado GER 3rd consecutive
C Bernward Kurtz GER 3rd consecutive
1B Ray Tolbert ROM 4th in career
2B Jason Martin FLA 4th consecutive
3B Christian Dubois TR 3rd in career
SS Douggie Clarke CHS 4th consecutive
LF Aaron Ruggiero CHS 4th consecutive
CF Gary Urbanczyk CHS 6th in career
RF Jeremy Cooper GER 3rd consecutive


Raul Hernandez Award (platinum glove award)
Pacific: CHY SS Dean Monahan, 5th consecutive award, still the only player to win multiple
Atlantic: TR C Josh Lemon, first catcher to win the award


Pedro Castaneda Award (rookie award)
Pacific: EUR Orlando Lazzarini, .344/.406/.467, 141OPS+ in 72 games, 15 first place votes
DAK Scott Szczur, 16-11, 4.06ERA, 175Ks, 105ERA+, 1 first place vote

Atlantic: PLY Masashi Miyahara, .271/.320/.371, 17SBs, 90OPS+, 9 first place votes
TR Philippe Lemaître, 10-2, 2.66ERA, 125 innings, 76Ks, 161ERA+, 7 first place votes


Matt Taylor Award (pitcher award)
Pacific: 
1 GAL Nick Lambert, 20-7, 2.70ERA, 233Ks, 1.08WHIP, 157ERA+, triple crown, unanimous
2 DAK Fritz Bresson, 18-8, 3.46ERA, 225Ks, 1.31WHIP, 123ERA+
3 GAL Paolo Barreau, 20-8, 3.26ERA, 188Ks, 1.11WHIP, 130ERA+

Atlantic: 
1 PLY Mike Kulbeth, 16-13, 2.78ERA, 362Ks (record), 0.97WHIP, 11.3K/BB, 153ERA+, 12.2WAR, 11 first place votes
2 GER Anton Latorre, 43 of 45 Saves, 0.86ERA, 17.1K/9, 489ERA+, won Gervais award, 5 first place votes
3 FLA Leon López, 16-11, 3.27ERA, 288Ks, 1.17WHIP, 131ERA+


Willie Baxter Award (hitter award)
Pacific: 
1 BR Jake Herold, .338/.417/.662, 47HRs, 114Runs, 138RBIs, 195OPS+, 7.4WAR, 8 first place votes, 2nd in career, won the 2101 Baxter
2 GAL Katsumi Canio, .349/.389/.480, 114Runs, 222Hits, 75SBs, 139OPS+, 8.5WAR, 8 first place votes
3 GAL Ian Brinley, .299/.412/.492, 105RBI, 22HRs, 150OPS+, 7.1WAR
(1 point separated Herold and Canio)

Atlantic:
1 TR Hervé Barthélémy, .297/.411/.629, 47HRs, 113Runs, 116RBIs, 183OPS+, 7.8WAR, 12 first place votes, 2nd in career, won the 2103 Baxter
2 TR Christian Dubois, .333/.403/.498, 126Runs, 210Hits, 21HRs, 23SBs, 147OPS+, 7.4WAR, 4 first place votes
3 GER George Powers, .309/.426/.587, 38HRs, 114Runs, 120RBIs, 180OPS+, 7.0WAR

2108 Rookie Draft: (only first round)

1st Overall, Rome Gladiators select SS Nikolaus Wallauer, from Susquehanna out of high school. Scout Grade of 65. 
2nd Overall, Alaska Avalanche select RHP Bryen Beckstrom, from Arctic Circle out of college. 
3rd Overall, Chesapeake Admirals select CF Jake Rogers, from Virginia out of college. Scout Grade of 60. 
4th Overall, Astoria Osprey select RHP Jeremy Miron, from The Dakotas out of college. Scout Grade of 60. 
5th Overall, Baton Rouge Cajuns select SS Mennac Shamakani, from Georgia out of college. Scout Grade of 60. 
6th Overall, Eureka Redwoods select LHP Ben Ford, from Great Lakes out of college. Scout Grade of 55. 
7th Overall, Huron Gryphons select C Charlie Baldwin, from Maritimes out of high school. Scout Grade of 55. 
8th Overall, Florida Flamingos select C Greg Llyod, from Quebec out of college. Scout Grade of 55. 
9th Overall, Plymouth Pilgrims select CF Pete Ranes, from Louisiana out of college. Scout Grade of 50. 
10th Overall, Dakota Eagles select RF Nicolas Gérard, from Quebec out of college. Scout Grade of 45. 
11th Overall, Cheyenne Buffalo select UT Jason Weissman, from Rocky Mountains out of college. Scout Grade of 50. 
12th Overall, Harfang de Trois-Rivières select SS Njoroge Holway, from Gabon/Georgia, out of college. Scout Grade of 45. 
13th Overall, Germantown Pretzels select OF Phil Propst from Rocky Mountains out of college. Scout Grade of 50. 
14th Overall, Galveston Launch select IF Ben Medina from Texas out of high school. Scout Grade of 50. 
15th Overall, Escorpiones de Durango select RHP Scott Craig, from Maritimes out of high school. Scout Grade of 60. 
16th Overall, Halifax Voyageurs select SS Billy Griffin from Rocky Mountains out of college. Scout Grade of 50. 
 

2108 International Rookie Signings: (just top 7)
1B Conceição Arruda, from Brazil. Scout Grade of 60. Signs with Trois-Rivières
OF Juan Balladares, from Cuba. Scout Grade of 55. Signs with Cheyenne
C Luis Aguilera, from Dominican Republic. Scout Grade of 50. Signs with Alaska
C Kazunori Hirabayashi, from Japan. Scout Grade of 50. Signs with Plymouth
SS Eddie Martínez, from Cuba. Scout Grade of 50. Signs with Cheyenne
SS Jose Sánchez, from Colombia. Scout Grade of 50. Signs with Cheyenne
1B Xiao-yan Hsieh, from Taiwan. Scout Grade of 50. Signs with Durango


Roster Moves:
"Short List" of biggest FAs: RF Ben Black, SP Matt Kenney, and LF Trevor Reardon.  

Losses: none of importance
Trades ace LHP Josh Newcomer to Germantown for #70 prospect IF Mark Murphy and unranked RHP T.J. Stevenson. Newcomer had struggled since he came to Alaska 3 seasons ago.

Biggest news in Alaska was that they would be getting a new owner already. They were bought out by Bill Murray, who was the potential owner attempting to lure a team to Juneau. Murray is one of the co-owners of the main BioSphere company, simply called BioSphere. He is known for his vast money and being extremely harsh and impatient. However, his first change (being the Newcomer trade) I say really wasn’t that bad. The team was going nowhere and they got Mark Murphy who is part of the new prototype infielder that is dominating the minor leagues. Plus a great draft with 2 good prospects acquired including 2 domestic pitchers. Still a long way to go for the Avs. 

Losses: SP Jose Orozco 3.7, SP Ricky McDonald 2.4
Extends OF David Westfall, 4 years with AAV of $56k. Westfall has shown flashes but hasn’t put it all together yet. 
Extends OF Dave Sharpes, 3 years with AAV of $137k. Sharpes has had a great last 2 seasons and this buys out 2 years of free agency. 
Trades reliever Tyler D’Orio to Germantown for prospects RHP Eddie Castillo, RHP Manny Heredia, and OF Joey Keller, all unranked. 

Not a lot to say, Asstoria is in full swing. 

Losses: RF Ben Black 4.3, RP Jason Walker 0.9
Extended OF Joseph Wallace, 3 years with AAV of $168k. Wallace is a big part of the young core they built and has been the most consistent player out of them. 
Extended 3B Jayden Royal, 1 year $190k. While it’s only 1 year, it shows that both are talking and may sign long term. 

They saved at least 1 of their big 3 and are holding out hope for a big extension with Royal next year. What they really need is pitching, but this was a pretty lackluster pitching market this year. 

Losses: none of importance

This season was so utterly disappointing there aren’t even words. Good news is it was mostly injuries and the team is still extremely young and likely can turn around… not sure if a full runback is the right call though. 

Losses: LF Hisato Horio 1.0 and RHP Jose Serrano (did not play last season, 3.1WAR in 2107)
Extends SP Luis Hernández, 4 years with AAV of $90k. After a horrible start to his career, the 34-year old broke out with his best season yet. 
Extends RF Yekuno-Amlak Mshangama, 5 years with AAV of $257k. The Zambian has been quite the surprise since getting a starting job as he wasn’t a highly touted prospect. But has put up some incredible seasons, posting a 122OPS+ with 2 Frey and Deshayes awards. 
Signs RHP Matt Kenney, 4 years with AAV of $198k. Former 2nd overall pick, was rushed to the majors by Plymouth and struggled mightily, but over the last 2 seasons has seemingly put things together. 
Extends RHP Jeffrey Simon, 4 years with AAV of $222k. Simon has been the rock in Cheyenne rotation for 8 years. 122-71 record, 3.26ERA, and 127ERA+ and likely a Buffalo for life. 

Best pitcher on the market and extended several players? Another dub for the champions. 

Losses: LF Trevor Reardon 6.6, IF Jose Zarate 4.4, C Mike Wautlet 1.0
Re-signs LF Trevor Reardon, 4 years with AAV of $236k. It just wouldn’t look right to see him anywhere else (though he did play the inaugural season with Huron). Currently leads the NABF in career stolen bases. 
Trades IF Carlos Dominguez to Rome for 1B Ray Tolbert. Tolbert is 12 years older than Dominguez and only has 1 year of control compared to 3. 

The Tolbert trade is strange since they’re supposed to be in a rebuild yet they trade for a 38-year old veteran who only has 1 year left? Veteran Larry Adair also decided not to retire, despite the huge push the team did last season. However, Adair has not been signed to any team yet. 

No notable free agent signings. 

Losses: CF Ryan Lowery 1.9, RP Rogelio Victoria 0.7
Trades SS Jamie Tipton to Galveston for prospects OF Jim Rivers and RHP Julio Gonzalez, both unranked. 

Tipton makes room for McClean at short… but he’s just a few years younger, really don’t see a big difference there. They did suffer from many injuries last year so they are hoping for an easy runback. With extended playoffs it should be easier as well. 

Losses: 1B Tyler Hammerich 1.3, CF Savion Jones 0.9

Hammerich was one of my favorite lowkey players, sucks that he is still unsigned. Many reporters in Florida say the team is waiting for 3B Royal in next year's Free Agency.

Losses: C Ryan Croston 3.0, CL Greg Cone 2.7, SS Eric Gilbo 2.5, SP Brian Van Winkle 1.8
Extends C Ryan Croston, 5 years with AAV of $112k. Croston won the starting job in Galveston shortly after arriving last season and put up his best season. 108OPS+ while being great defensively. Should be a good return on investment for the Launch. Except they left him unprotected in the expansion draft and he was selected by Halifax. 
Extends SP Paolo Barreau, 6 years with AAV of $130k. Had a breakout year and is looking to be a true ace, buys out 3 years of free agency. 
Extends 2B Josh Peppers, 4 years with AAV of $80k. While not a house-hold name, Peppers has had an OPS over 100 in 3 of his first 4 seasons. 
Trades for SS Jamie Tipton from Eureka for 2 unranked prospects. Tipton has 1 year left on his contract. 
Re-signs RHP Brian Van Winkle, 3 years with AAV of $162k. While hasn’t always been sunny in Texas, the Texan did put together a solid 2108. 

They nearly lost both Croston and Peppers in the expansion draft despite extending them. I have no idea what they are thinking anymore. The Barreau signing is a huge discount, I doubt Lambert will go for that cheap. They finally tasted some success and are likely to continue that success for several seasons. 

Losses: SP Bernie Rosado 3.6, SP Vince Benbow 2.2, OF Ernest Mott 1.4, RP Nick Hartle 0.9
Trades 3 unranked prospects to Astoria for reliever Tyler D’Orio. D’Orio only has 1 year guaranteed left on his contract. 
Trades #70 prospects IF Mark Murphy and unranked RHP T.J. Stevenson to Alaska for LHP Josh Newcomer. Newcomer has 2 more years on his contract and has a 124ERA+ in his career. 
Extends OF/DH George Powers, 5 years with AAV of $280k. Has been the face of the Pretzels franchise since the beginning. Still in the middle of his prime. 

Newcomer becomes their new ace. Losing Mott sucks but they needed space in the outfield. They also signed a bunch of more relievers on top of the D’Orio trade. Definitely surprising that they’d let Rosado and Mott both be taken, but so far their GM hasn’t been wrong.

 

Signs CL Roberto Cruz out of Cuba from the Caribbean League to a 3 years $80k offer. 
Signs 1B Rodolfo Valentín from Guatemala. The 31-year old posted a 135OPS+ in the South American League last season. 

Personally I like the team that Halifax built, I know they will suck but still with many underrated and overlooked players

Losses: RF Tom Mackey 1.0
Extends RF Jeremy Richey, 5 years with AAV of $72k. While it only voids 2 years of free agency, Richey has shown great promise already. 

This must be the year of the runback. Granted it was a relatively small free agent class. 

Losses: SP Matt Kenney 5.0

Year of the runback. Many experts were saying they would be fine with Kenney due to the prospects of Tim Troke and Dan Richard having great, but short, seasons last year. But Richard has already been ruled out of all of 2109

Losses: CF Jonathan Humphrey 2.9, 3B Chris Bachert 2.5, 2B Juan Torres 2.1, RP Benjamin Platt 0.7
Extended SS Kyle Belew, 8 years with AAV of $94k. A huge deal, buys out several years of free agency for quite cheap. If Belew develops as he should this could go down as one of Rome’s best signings. 
Trades 1B Ray Tolbert to Dakota for 2B Carlos Dominguez. Dominguez is 12 years younger and has 2 more years of control, a great trade for Rome. 
Signs RF Ben Black, 6 years with AAV of $214k. While he is a Georgia native, I actually was not expecting him to sign here. Is considered the biggest free agent this year. 

This may be a bit presumptuous. But if all things work out they will have an infield of Carrethers, Belew, Sparrowhawk, and Wallauer. Plus Black and Kilbarger in the outfield. Granted Sparrowhawk and Wallauer need another season or two to marinate in the minors. But the Belew contract guarantees he will be around until then. That could easily turn into the greatest infield of all time if they fully develop. If only they could actually acquire some pitching. 

Losses: SP Danny Avila 1.0, RP Angelo Juarez 0.9
Extends 2-way Gary Hamilton, 5 years with AAV of $104k. So far as a 2-way he’s been quite iffy. He’s at least an above average pitcher and has shown signs of being great offensively, just hasn’t put them both together. 

I’m not even going to doubt Trois’ management. 8 straight playoffs, 7 straight Championship appearances, just played in the greatest Championship Series of all time, signed the biggest International Rookie, and have won 7 of the 8 Baxter awards. They still look poised to continue their hot streak for many years. 

Retirements

Last edited by BDoof (4/20/2024 7:25 pm)

2109 Pre-Season Preview

Along with the new expansion teams in Halifax and Durango, the playoffs will also be expanded now with 2 wild card teams in each Conference which will play in a best of 5 wild card series to make it to the Conference Series.


last season 65-97, 7th in the Pacific. 
8th ranked farm system (RHP Bryen Beckstrom #6, 1B Carlo Ramírez #17, RHP Dana Dorey #42)
Payroll $1,136,521 - 14th
Lineup and Pitching

C 23, Czar Artemenko, Arctic Circle, .229/.294/.343, 75OPS+
1B 25, T.J. Nasta, Texas, .256/.315/.340, 29SBs, 81OPS+
2B 24, Jose Álvarez, Rocky Mountains, .260/.289/.319, 68OPS+
3B 27, Ryan Storch, Arctic Circle, .251/.343/.347, 91OPS+
SS 26, Leland Abbott, Quebec, .259/.334/.335, 21SBs, 85OPS+ won Frey award
LF 27, Tim Brown, Georgia, .241/.323/.306, 44SBs, 75OPS+
CF 24, Oscar Solís, Florida, .241/.284/.319, 66OPS+ in 67 games
RF 25, Kyle Miller, Susquehanna, .245/.307/.321, 22SBs, 73OPS+
DH 34, Paul Butler, Rocky Mountains, .287/.399/.467, 24HRs, 138OPS+ won Frey award

1 26, John Gillingham, Arctic Circle, 7-9, 3.70ERA, 115ERA+
2 24, Zane Dubos, Quebec, 3-12, 5.29ERA, 81ERA+
3 25, Angelo Vega, Puerto Rico, 6-6, 3.24ERA, 132ERA+
4 23, Victor Martínez, Rocky Mountains, 2.21ERA in 20 innings last year
5 22, Roth Reiter, Germany, Rule 5 pick from Baton Rouge
CL 24, John Sweet, The Dakotas/Arctic Circle, 9 Saves, 2.28ERA, 188ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms: Jonathan Masden and prospect Luc Villain


The expansion woes continue, though I find it interesting that they are building more towards pitching while other expansion and rebuilding teams tend to go after batters. They will also now have to compete with Halifax and Durango in the tank.

last season 71-91, 6th in Pacific
10th ranked farm system (RHP Brad Winters #23, LF Jeremy Miron #41, LHP Kelan McPherson #47)
Payroll $1,667,877 - 10th
Lineup and Pitching

C 28, Joaquin Nuñez, Susquehanna, .237/.345/.351, 93OPS+
1B 26, Bob Heath, Quebec, .306/.357/.477, 129OPS+ won Deshayes award
2B 22, David Stephens, Georgia, made 9 appearances last year
3B 25, Fred Randolph, Texas, .266/.330/.380, 96OPS+
SS 30, Kevin Jones, The Dakotas, .249/.325/.352, 87OPS+
LF 27, Dustin Coghill, Virginia, .243/.349/.342, 92OPS+
CF 23, David Westfall, Texas, .293/.321/.388, 34SBs, 96OPS+
RF 28, Dave Sharpes, Great Lakes, .281/.376/.382, 40SBs, 110OPS+
DH 36, Antonio Garza, Dominican Republic, .278/.377/.520, 34HRs, 147OPS+

1 33, Andrew Redepenning, Virginia, 16-15, 4.30ERA, 220Ks, 99ERA+ (will miss at least 1 month due to injury)
2 23, Josh Detamore, New England, 5-6, 4.95ERA, 86ERA+
3 24, Justin Morris, Susquehanna, 1-5, 7.83ERA, 54ERA+
4 30, Dusty McCord, Cascadia, 7-15, 6.85ERA, 62ERA+
5 24, Kieron Dale, New England, rookie season, no stats. 2107 2nd overall pick. But currently an unranked prospect. 
CL 39, Ryan Nixon, Cascadia, 2.51ERA in 28.2 innings with Germantown
Other notable bullpen arms: Mitch Null, Nick Ashley, and prospects Brad Winters and Jorge Urrutia. 

Heath was a massive surprise last season. He was really the only bright spot on the team as many players, especially pitchers regressed. Also they have possibly the worst drafting record ever. Out of just their first round picks (not counting Miron this off-season). 2 have not reached the majors and are unranked, plus Dale is unranked. Reichert and Pettaway are doing pretty good in Plymouth. Kevin Jones is a below-average shortstop. Westfall still has some years left but hasn’t posted a season with above 100OPS+. I have no hope for Miron.

last season 78-84, 5th in Pacific
2nd ranked farm system (RHP Sergio Montes #4, RHP Mike Belcher #9, LF Juan Castillo #16, SS Mennac Shamakani #26, RHP Igone Sánchez #37)
Payroll $1,614,311 - 12th
Lineup and Pitching

C 30, Andrew Vandivier, California, 2 games played last season
1B 35, Jake Herold, California, .338/.417/.662, 47HRs, 196OPS+ won Baxter award
2B 26, Patrick Moreau, Quebec, .218/.293/.298, 26SBs, 64OPS+, won Deshayes award
3B 26, Jayden Royal, Florida, .300/.366/.442, 25SBs, 124OPS+, won Deshayes and Frey awards
SS 24, Arthur Ducklow, Quebec, .210/.239/.292, 47OPS+
LF 25, Kyle Weber, Great Lakes, only played 37 games last season
CF 29, Joseph Wallace, Rocky Mountains, .249/.330/.383, 53SBs, 97OPS+ won Deshayes award
RF 27, Milt Scovell, Great Lakes, .240/.345/.390, 37Sbs, 104OPS+
DH 36, Nick Parsons, Louisiana, .285/.388/.440, 130OPS+

1 25, Wayne Hamel, Arctic Circle, 10-12, 3.93ERA, 108ERA+
2 23, Ruben Cabrales, Mexico, 8-11, 5.29ERA, 80ERA+
3 23, Daniel Ojeda, Mexico, 3.80ERA in 42.2 innings
4 25, David Stone, Texas, 11-18, 5.02ERA, 85ERA+
5 25, Jim Vogel, Susquehanna, 16-15, 5.33ERA, 80ERA+
CL 24, Adam Gibson, Virginia, 33 Saves, 3.76ERA, 113ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms: Jason Walker, Ryan Hoskins, Léo Marie, and Dennis Quintal

After an amazing start to the season last year the Cajuns sputtered and ended up finishing below .500. They lost Ben Black and a few depth pieces so I don’t see them particularly finishing well, but the main questions lie in Jayden Royal and Jake Herold. Both are free agents after this season and fan interest has waned incredibly poorly. While it hasn’t dipped to as bad as it was a few years ago, there is talk that the Royal Mississippi River Company may leave the ownership. The RMRC has made up the majority of their backing over the years (and paid for their state of the art stadium). Even if that happens, there aren’t many other cities in Louisiana to move to. The only larger cities in Louisiana are Springfield and Little Rock (Cahokia is marginally smaller). Is there a chance they straight up leave the country? Sioux City, Oceanside, and Albuquerque are the largest cities in the Pacific without a team, as well as plenty in the Atlantic.

last season 67-95, 6th in the Atlantic, their first losing season since 2103 despite never making the playoffs. 
12th ranked farm system (CF Jake Rogers #21, LHP Bobby Merryman #29, LHP Teruo Onoda #34)
Payroll $1,806,378 - 9th
Lineup and Pitching

C 29, Mike Wautlet, Virginia, .251/.339/.312, 82OPS+ with Dakota
1B 30, Chris Conway, Virginia, .243/.329/.338, 82OPS+
2B 24, Jason Gibson, Texas, no stats, rookie season, unranked prospect
3B 23, Dan Nichols, The Dakotas, .198/.290/.274, 55OPS+
SS 27, Douggie Clarke, Virginia, .298/.356/.408, 108OPS+ won Deshayes award
LF 27, Aaron Ruggiero, Cascadia, .204/.308/.299, 26SBs, 66OPS+ won Deshayes award
CF 31, Gary Urbanczyk, Susquehanna, .195/.323/.374, 24HRs, 90OPS+ won Deshayes award
RF 29, Kevin Campeau, Maritimes, .254/.346/.386, 100OPS+
DH 22, Benjamin Whitford, Australia, no stats, rookie season, formerly #34 prospect (not sure why he isn’t considered a rookie this year)

1 26, Nick Grueneich, Virginia, 15-16, 3.43ERA, 125ERA+
2 27, Keith Badey, Great Lakes, 12-14, 3.08ERA, 139ERA+
3 26, Matt Frizzell, Cascadia, 13-15, 3.98ERA, 108ERA+
4 26, Thomas Legros, Quebec, 8-15, 4.42ERA, 97ERA+
5 24, Carlos Flores, Dominican Republic, 85ERA+ in 68 innings
CL 23, Chris McCready, Rocky Mountains, 81ERA+ in 57.2 innings
Other notable bullpen arms: Geoff Bolen, Jeremy Peerenboom, C.J. Clymer, Jonathan Latham, and Rodolfo Rodriquez

Despite a lot of promise, their 2108 was absolutely awful. Everyone played well below what was expected, especially their offense and Gary Urbanczyk in particular. The center fielder posted his single season lowest home run and steal total (first time not having at least a 20-20 since 2101 where he was injured). Pitching wise they just keep getting better. They may have one of the best bullpens in the league and all of their pitchers are extremely young and ready to prove themselves. If the offense can get things running again they could easily make the playoffs for the first time.

 last season 89-73, 2nd in Pacific and won NABF Championship Series
6th ranked farm system (RHP Tim Cote #5, LF Nassir Sheikh #35, C Eddie Marrero #43)
Payroll $2,358,121 - 3rd
Lineup and Pitching

C 31, Eric Titus, Great Lakes, only 40 games due to injury
1B 23, Valentin Pernot, Louisiana, .271/.318/.354, 36SBs, 86OPS+
2B 28, Dan Harbin, New England, .270/.345/.363, 97OPS+
3B 25, Nick Fraser, Susquehanna, .242/.351/.322, 87OPS+
SS 27, Dean Monahan, Cascadia, .226/.337/.263, 68OPS+ won Hernandez and Deshayes award
LF 25, Eddie Sheridan, Virginia, only played 38 games
CF 21, Bill Bonjour, Rocky Mountains, only played 32 games
RF 24, Yekuno-Amlak Mshangama, Zambia, .291/.384/.424, 56SBs, 124OPS+ won Deshayes award
DH 37, Kevin Meyer, Rocky Mountains, .265/.380/.456, 43SBs, 131OPS+ 

1 27, Matt Kenney, Rocky Mountains, 14-12, 3.47ERA, 123ERA+ with Plymouth
2 23, Chris Keon, Cascadia, 9-9, 3.48ERA, 122ERA+
3 33, Jeffrey Simon, 19-12, 3.67ERA, 116ERA+
4 23, Carlos Padilla, Mexico, 4-4, 5.09ERA, 84ERA+
5 22, Tim Cote, Maritimes, no stats, rookie season. #5 ranked prospect
CL 33, Mike Hilger, Rocky Mountains, 32 Saves, 1.85ERA, 230ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms: Kyle McMurphy, Mike Kohn, Ahmed Mathis, Alex García, and prospect Mike Tijerina

Despite winning the Championship the Buffalo sport a few new faces, mainly youth getting starting jobs such as Sheridan, Bonjour, Keon, Padilla, and Cote. While Mathis was moved to the bullpen in a surprisingly move. The 2107 Taylor winner had an off 2108 but still appeared to be reliable. But a horrid spring training and a potential ligament injury is likely to keep him out of the rotation. Eric Titus is also hoping for a healthy season as he has spent much of the last 2 seasons injured. I still expect them to be one of the top teams in the Pacific and potentially make another run if they can stay healthy.

last season 86-76, 3rd in Pacific. 
1st ranked farm system (LHP Alex Fortin #3, 3B Rüdiger Martin #8, LF Yin-reng Fa #14, RHP John Lacoste #40) 
Payroll $1,998,092 - 7th
Lineup and Pitching

C 25, Danny May, Louisiana, played 10 games last season
1B 39, Ray Tolbert, Cascadia, .270/.399/.366, 109OPS+ with Rome
2B 27, D.W. Manning, Georgia, .327/.450/.445, 149OPS+ 
3B 24, Phil Butler, Florida, .292/.370/.421, 119OPS+
SS 24, René Gaultier, Louisiana, .222/.301/.285, 63OPS+
LF 25, Brian McCrary, Susquehanna, only played 15 games last season
CF 36, Ron Young, The Dakotas, .254/.324/.369, 92OPS+
RF 38, Scott Purkis, The Dakotas, .278/.359/.397 110OPS+
DH 34, Trevor Reardon, The Dakotas, .330/.444/.492, 39SBs, 160OPS+ won Frey award

1 26, Fritz Bresson, Quebec, 18-8, 3.46ERA, 225Ks, 123ERA+
2 23, Scott Szczur, Cascadia, 16-11, 4.06ERA, 105ERA+
3 28, Bobby Brooks, Texas, 14-13, 4.89ERA, 87ERA+
4 22, Ryan Reimann, New England, 12-7, 5.38ERA, 79ERA+
5 27, Wiley McFayden, Arctic Circle, 83ERA+ in 52.2 innings
CL 28, Greg Cone, The Dakotas, 39 Saves, 1.57ERA, 172ERA+ won Gervais award
Other notable bullpen arms: Nick Hartle, Pat Dow, Aaron Odle, and Ben Keddy

A somewhat surprise run last season ended a few games shy of a playoff spot. OOTP continues to think poorly of them but I could easily see another above .500 season for the Eagles and with the extended playoffs they could easily snag their first playoff appearance since 2103. Despite being a ‘rebuilding’ team they can easily still put up quite the fight for the playoffs which is quite unique.

last season did not exist
11th ranked farm system (LHP Scott Craif #20, RHP Jon Pascual #27, RHP Javy Alvarez #33)
Payroll $1,075,974 - 15th
Lineup and Pitching

C 27, Greg Stout, Florida, 46 games with Chesapeake
1B 26, Phil Irizarry, Rocky Mountains, 97OPS+ with Huron’s AAA team
2B 24, Gherardo Chili, Venezuela, from the South American League
3B 29, Jose Pera, Mexico, from the Caribbean League
SS 27, Tom Helms, Rocky Mountains, 46 games with Trois-Rivières
LF 27, D.J. McDougal, Georgia, 101OPS+ with Baton Rouge’s AAA team
CF 26, Jose Pérez, Venezuela, from the South American League
RF 26, Manny Guzman, Puerto Rico, .211/.302/.314, 71OPS+ with Dakota
DH 27, Justin Driscoll, 29 games with Baton Rouge

1 29, Jose Serrano, Dominican Republic, did not play last season injured, will miss 2-3 months this season. 
2 36, Bernie Rosado, Susquehanna, 12-13, 3.95ERA, 107ERA+ with Germantown
3 26, Alex Carrillo, Mexico, 3-4, 3.66ERA, 117ERA+ with Alaska
4 26, Justin Loeser, California, 10-13, 5.77ERA, 74ERA+ with Eureka
5 26, Lee Kowalchuk, Maritimes, from Caribbean League
CL 36, Bill Van Auken, Susquehanna, 182OPS+ in South American League 
Other notable bullpen arms: prospects Cesar Romo, Oscar Noriega, and Kelalani Aloiki

Classic expansion team struggles. Easily the worst offense I have ever seen. A few years ago their rotation would’ve been considered quite good, plus Van Auken is a great reliever. Noriega could easily take over a starting job as during his “cup of coffee” last season with Florida he had a 286ERA+. Still not sure why they didn’t protect him in the expansion draft.

last season 78-84, 4th in Pacific
3rd ranked farm system (LHP Ben Ford #10, CF Bart Gallagher #12, LHP Jorge Peña #22, RF Bill Sutherland #31, SS William García #38, RHP Pedro Campos #49) 
Payroll $2,064,779 - 5th
Lineup and Pitching

C 23, Ismael Méndez, Puerto Rico, .298/.371/.419, 119OPS+ won Frey award
1B 36, Kyle Thompson, California, .273/.370/.564, 46HRs, 156OPS+ 
2B 32, Jorge Rodríguez, Dominican Republic, .227/.321/.394, 98OPS+
3B 21, Orlando Lazzarini, Venezuela, .344/.406/.467, 141OPS+ in 71 games, won Castaneda award
SS 24, Tyler McClean, Great Lakes, .224/.295/.294, 33SBs, 64OPS+
LF 34, Jesse Haskins, California, .258/.378/.390, 113OPS+
CF 24, Jim Rivers, Susquehanna, played 27 games with Galveston
RF 29, Ken Kachmar, Maritimers, only 38 games due to injury
DH 28, Savion Jones, Louisiana, .239/.289/.384, 45SBs, 82OPS+ with Florida

1 24, Tillmam Tamayo, Brazil, 6-6, 3.00ERA, 142ERA+
2 36, Ben Denman, Florida, 14-13, 3.63ERA, 117ERA+
3 27, Dustin Cloud, The Dakotas, 14-18, 5.10ERA, 83ERA+
4 33, Antonio Madrigal, Colombia, 12-9, 4.28ERA, 100ERA+
5 24, Dave Valencia, Spain/Florida, 6.26ERA in 27.1 innings
CL 33, Jake Pawlowski, 28Saves, 2.06ERA, 207ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms: Trent Pullin and Harold Sykes

A complete collapse towards the end of last season. Though they did deal with some injury issues that may have hampered them. With the expanded playoffs I could easily see them bouncing back, but they have possibly the least amount of depth of the playoff candidates. There’s really not a lot to say about them.

 last season 84-78, 3rd in Atlantic
15th ranked farm system (C Greg Lloyd #32)
Payroll $1,815,650 - 8th
Lineup and Pitching

C 25, Tadao Aono, California, 53 games last season
1B 35, Oscar Morales, Florida/Puerto Rico, .306/.408/.530, 29HRs, 154OPS+, won Frey award
2B 33, Jason Martin, Susquehanna, .304/.366/.411, 112OPS+, won Deshayes award
3B 24, Nelson Cabrera, Mexico, .251/.279/.319, 63OPS+
SS 23, Max Smith, Georgia, 28OPS+ in 71 games
LF 26, David Castillo, Texas, .321/.396/.524, 149OPS+ (2-way)
CF 24, Philippe Lefebvre, Quebec, no stats, rookie season. 22nd overall pick in 2106
RF 27, Adam Beyer, Florida, .345/.432/.542, 164OPS+, won Frey award
DH 24, Ezequiel Gomes, Brazil, .282/.373/.405, 112OPS+

1 31, Leon López, Puerto Rico, 16-11, 3.27ERA, 288Ks, 131ERA+
2 31, Rafael Santa Cruz, Florida, 19-10, 3.55ERA, 121ERA+
3 24, Dan Miles, Texas, 6-5, 4.88ERA, 88ERA+
4 27, Cyrille Vincent, Quebec, 15-12, 4.08ERA, 249Ks, 105ERA+
5 26, David Castillo, Texas, 14-16, 4.56ERA, 94ERA+ (2-way)
CL 24, Manny Julia, Florida, 16 Saves, 2.17ERA, 198ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms: Bill Mowry

Biggest change for the Flamingos came in the middle of last season when they promoted Julia to the closer. After they appointed him the closer he only allowed 4 runs in the last 2 months. The rest of the bullpen has some interesting names, mostly from unproven youths like Ted Bass and Ikuo sh-t. But the rotation is devastating, 5 Taylors between López and Santa Cruz, plus former #1 prospect Dan Miles and Vincent who is slowly becoming a strikeout leader. Offensively they have a few gaps, however they filled them perfectly with top defenders in Aono, Smith, and Cabrera. With the latter of those being perhaps the best defender I’ve seen (possibly better than Royal and Monahan???). If there was ever a year for the Flamingos, it is 2109.

last season 103-59, 1st in Pacific but lost Pacific Series to Cheyenne
9th ranked farm system (2B Thierry Charles #24, LHP Jalen Wilson #28, 1B Humphrey Grant #44)
Payroll $2,047,415 - 6th
Lineup and Pitching

C 28, John Allinger, New England, minor league deal, was backup for Baton Rouge in 2107
1B 37, David Moran, Texas, .290/.371/.443, 125OPS+
2B 38, Ian Brinley, Texas, .299/.412/.492, 22HRs, 151OPS+ won Frey award
3B 28, Jose Orozco, Dominican Republic, .261/.311/.451, 21HRs, 110OPS+
SS 28, Jamie Tipton, California, .229/.311/.313, 40SBs, 73OPS+ with Eureka
LF 27, Matt Gilroy, Quebec, .269/.347/.349, 31SBs, 94OPS+
CF 29, Katsumi Canio, Japan/Brazil, .349/.389/.480, 75SBs, 140OPS+, won Deshayes and Frey awards
RF 25, Melvin Navarrete, California, .277/.353/.408, 56SBs, 111OPS+
DH 26, Chris Caron, Texas, .262/.375/.474, 23HRs, 135OPS+

1 27, Nick Lambert, Georgia, 20-7, 2.70ERA, 233Ks, 157ERA+ won Taylor and triple crown
2 24, Paolo Barreau, Quebec, 20-8, 3.26ERA, 130ERA+
3 28, Rich Platte, New England, 16-15, 4.48ERA, 95ERA+
4 25, Nelson Encarnación, Rocky Mountains, 16-14, 3.88ERA, 220Ks, 109ERA+
5 36, Brian Van Winkle, Texas, 12-15, 3.26ERA, 130ERA+
CL 28, Alain Thomas, Quebec, 6.12ERA in 25 innings
Other bullpen arms: Johnny Martínez and Joey Nuttle

After a dominant 2108 and a playoff run that was cut short, the Launch continue to repeat their dominance. 1 year deals for Tipton as well as Martínez and Nuttle to bolster the bullpen in expectation of a playoff push. Plus potential debuts of top prospects Charles, Wilson and Cryer (ranked 66th) could add more fuel to the fire. This off-season will also be interesting as Platte, Moran and the aforementioned Tipton become free agents as well as Brinley has a player option. Leaving several potential question marks.

last season 95-67, 1st in Atlantic but lost Atlantic Series
4th ranked farm system (RHP Fepiku Nekeare #11, C Han-seung Park #13, RHP Julio Then #18, RHP Adelbert Miller #19, 3B Luis Laboy)
Payroll $2,385,292 - 2nd
Lineup and Pitching

C 26, Bernward Kurtz, Susquehanna, .266/.370/.462, 130OPS+, won Frey and Deshayes
1B 25, Roger Huseinovic, Louisiana, .202/.304/.335, 77OPS+ in 41 starts
2B 33, Ritter Ammann, Susquehanna, .293/.375/.394, 114OPS+
3B 24, Craig Lamm, Susquehanna, .262/.319/.362, 55SBs, 89OPS+
SS 31, Ben Cintron, California, .243/.291/.373, 24SBs, 83OPS+
LF 24, Ivan Nájera, Dominican Republic, .231/.306/.314, 47SBs, 72OPS+
CF 27, Jeremy Cooper, Georgia, .267/.386/.444, 27SBs, 130OPS+ won Deshayes award
RF 23, David Brito, Rocky Mountains, made 1 start last year, unranked prospect
DH 31, George Powers, Quebec, .309/.426/.587, 38HRs, 179OPS+ won Frey award

1 31, Josh Newcomer, Great Lakes, 10-14, 3.72ERA, 115ERA+ with Alaska
2 29, Steven Dorsey, Susquehanna, 9-6, 3.38ERA, 125ERA+
3 22, Heath Victory, Arctic Circle, 9-10, 5.64ERA, 75ERA+
4 23, Sean Gentry, Louisiana, 15-12, 5.05ERA, 84ERA+
5 30, Charlie Symmonds, Susquehanna, 7-5, 5.20ERA, 82ERA+ with Plymouth
CL 35, Anton Latorre, Dominican Republic, 43 Saves, 0.86ERA, 178Ks, 489ERA+, won Gervais award
Other notable bullpen arms: Eric Reed, Kevin Taylor, Josh Burford, Tyler D’Orio, and Benjamin Platt

They finally won the Atlantic for the first time since 2101 but got demolished in the Atlantic Series against Trois. This time they redo much of their rotation, trading for Newcomer and promoting prospects Victory and Gentry to full-time starters. (also Symmonds). Their bullpen is as good as ever and their offense continues to develop with Kurtz, Cooper, and Lamm all continuing to show great signs. Plus top prospects Park and Miller could make their debuts and immediately be impact players. Other news is Kurtz showed up to spring training with at least 30 pounds of added weight, he stated that it was all muscle but many questioned if it truly was. Some were saying if he can’t shed the weight that he should be moved to first base (as it would also make room for Park at catcher).

last season did not exist. 
16th ranked farm system (RHP Evan Peterson #50)
Payroll $1,074,569 - 16th
Lineup and Pitching

C 28, Ryan Croston, California, .259/.374/.376, 109OPS+, won Frey
1B 33, Dave Chatwin, Maritimes, last time in NABF, 111OPS+ with Alaska in 2106
2B 23, Corey Shufelt, Great Lakes, no stats, rookie season.
3B 26, Pascal Roux, Quebec, no stats, rookie season.
SS 27, Eric Gilbo, Cascadia, .198/.292/.329, 34SBs, 72OPS+ with Galveston
LF 27, Ernest Mott, Quebec, .257/.352/.372, 30SBs, 101OPS+ with Germantown
CF 30, Jonathan Humphrey, California, .238/.341/.330, 58SBs, 83OPS+ with Rome
RF 25, Mat Romo, Texas, no stats, rookie season.
DH 31, Rodolfo Valentín, Guatemala, 135OPS+ in the South American League

1 28, Jose Guerrero, Florida, 5.12ERA in 89.2 innings with Cheyenne (knuckleballer)
2 22, Evan Peterson, Susquehanna, no stats rookie season.
3 22, Matt Thurston, Cascadia, no stats, rookie season. 
4 23, Bobby Whitener, Cascadia, no stats, rookie season. 
5 26, Matt French, New England, no stats, rookie season. 
CL 29, Roberto Cruz, Cuba, no stats, rookie season.
Other notable bullpen arms: Steve Francen

Their offense has some interesting pieces, Croston and Mott have both had great pasts with good potential, Humphrey and Gilbo have great defense and speed but lack contact, Andy Rico was once the best third baseman in the league (and has one of the worst contracts), while Dave Chatwin makes his triumphant return to the NABF. But the pitching is awful, Guerrero in classic knuckleball fashion cannot tie together good seasons in a row and Cruz was the only true FA signing by Halifax as he came from the Caribbean League. Other than that, really not much going. If Rome and Alaska are any indication, it will take them quite a bit before becoming competitive.

last season 80-82, 5th in Atlantic
7th ranked farm system (LHP Mike Cervantes #15, C Charlie Baldwin #36, OF/1B Danny Thomas #46, RHP Alex Baltierrez #48)
Payroll $2,324,272 - 4th
Lineup and Pitching

C 25, John Alcock, Quebec, .299/.381/.370, 108OPS+
1B 26, Charlie Winningham, Virginia, only started 35 games
2B 33, Fernando Criado, California, .295/.401/.488, 20HRs, 144OPS+, won Frey award
3B 24, Julio Manzo, Dominican Republic, played only 50 games
SS 26, Philip Brawner, Arctic Circle, .288/.355/.431, 21SBs, 116OPS+
LF 31, Matthew Wagoner, Great Lakes, .248/.347/.453, 24HRs, 119OPS+
CF 26, Jared Myers, Susquehanna, .266/.346/.338, 63SBs, 89OPS+
RF 24, Jeremy Richey, Arctic Circle, .259/.312/.427, 37SBs, 102OPS+
DH 34, Mike McClary, Texas, .296/.360/.394, 24SBs, 108OPS+, won Frey award

1 32, Marty Hodge, Australia, 15-6, 2.85ERA, 149ERA+
2 35, Adam Minke, Susquehanna, 13-15, 3.42ERA, 124ERA+
3 27, Brad Vedder, Great Lakes, 16-11, 4.35ERA, 221Ks, 98ERA+
4 31, Ricky McDonald, Great Lakes, 11-15, 4.43ERA, 96ERA+ with Astoria
5 24, Hao Huan, California, 7-15, 5.84ERA, 73ERA+
CL 25, Ivan Ramírez, Virginia, 35 Saves, 3.70ERA, 115ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms: Bill Clark and Marty Díaz 

Huron has consistently had some of the best teams on paper… yet they haven’t finished above .500 since 2104. This time they are essentially running it back hoping that their young talent can develop in order for the Gryphons to succeed. Which could work, Myers and Alcock were surprises last year, Clark and Díaz had good seasons in the bullpen and could likely take over Huan or McDonald’s spots. Plus the Arctic duo of Brawner and Richey who make a great lead off pair. Let alone future Hall of Famers Criado, Wagoner, McClary, and Hodge. But that’s basically what they had last year and the year before that…

84-78, 4th in Atlantic
14th ranked farm system (3B Joseph Bruns #39 and C Kazunori Hirabayashi #45)
Payroll $1,616,632 - 11th
Lineup and Pitching

C 31, Isaac Gettingby, Australia, .260/.318/.392, 95OPS+
1B 23, Matunde Simai, Gabon, .264/.405/.481, 23HRs, 143OPS+
2B 23, Victor Cabral, Brazil, only 35 games played
3B 28, Matt Bentz, Virginia, .303/.375/.453, 127OPS+
SS 20, Masashi Miyahara, Japan, .271/.320/.371, 90OPS+
LF 24, Justyn Cox, New England, .294/.347/.397, 105OS+
CF 28, Jonathan Parsons, Great Lakes, .291/.372/.393, 44SBs, 111OPS+, won Frey award
RF 25, Russ Pettaway, Georgia, .212/.299/.351, 79OPS+
DH 25, Aaron Novak, The Dakotas, .312/.359/.372, 101OPS+ in 68 games

1 27, Mike Kulbeth, Louisiana, 16-13, 2.78ERA, 362Ks, 153ERA+, won Taylor award
2 26, Chad Reichert, Cascadia, 12-11, 5.16ERA, 83ERA+
3 22, Tim Troke, Arctic Circle, 9-9, 3.77ERA, 113ERA+
4 22, Felike Ipo, Hawaii, 6.55ERA in 44 innings, 65ERA
5 35, Jake Hale, California, 5.09ERA in 23 innings
CL 28, Roberto Corral, Curaçao, 7-7, 4.58ERA, 93ERA+ (first time in closer role)
Other notable bullpen arms: Phil Palmer, Nick Christiana, and Sebastian Moore

Extremely young and mostly unproven team (well, outside of Kulbeth and Bentz). The expanded playoffs help them the most. While they probably can’t compete year in and year out with Trois and Germantown (as seen as they couldn’t replicate their success last year). But they can contend with Huron, Florida, and Chesapeake. And of course, once in the playoffs, anything can happen. Though should trade for a closer during the trade deadline.

last season 61-101, 7th in Atlantic (4th consecutive 100 loss season)
5th ranked farm system (3B Jimmy Sparrowhawk #1 and SS Nikolaus Wallauer #2)
Payroll $1,339,362 - 13th
Lineup and Pitching

C 26, Kun Niu, Cascadia, only 49 games started
1B 26, Harry Reader, Maritimes, only 11 games started
2B 27, Carlos Dominguez, Louisiana, only 38 games started with Dakota
3B 23, Ed Shea, New England, no stats, rookie season. Unranked prospect
SS 25, Kyle Belew, Susquehanna, .260/.347/.367, 94OPS+
LF 26, Samuel Binns, Australia, .273/.334/.418, 24SBs, 104OPS+
CF 35, Tyler Kilbarger, Susquehanna, .320/.363/.453, 121OPS+ in injury shortened season
RF 26, Ben Black, Georgia, .309/.378/.444, 48SBs, 128OPS+ won Frey award with Baton Rouge
DH  24, Jonathan Carrethers, Georgia, .284/.372/.597, 42HRs, 160OPS+

1 27, Tomas Pereda, California, 10-17, 4.88ERA, 88ERA+
2 25, Matt Atkinson, Georgia, 11-16, 5.32ERA, 81ERA+
3 27, Alfredo Jimenez, Cuba, 10-14, 7.43ERA, 58ERA+
4 27, Jacob Wood, New England, 8-11, 6.01ERA, 72ERA+
5 27, Mike Barton, Susquehanna, 5.32ERA in 88 innings
CL 26, Kyle Magnani, Georgia, 26 Saves, 5.80ERA, 74ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms; Marshall Elkan and Bob Molina

A promising offensive core with Georgia natives Black and Carrethers along with veteran Kilbarger and youths Belew, Binns, and Dominguez (let alone studs Sparrowhawk and Wallauer once they make the show). However, they lack basically any semblance of pitching... Magnani isn’t as bad as he seems, but is still on the bottom of the list of closers. Elkan and Molina are good set-up men but they can’t even be used effectively as their franchise record for lowest ERA in a season was Pereda’s 4.88 last year… and with only 1 pitching prospect ranked in the top 100 (Brian Gurley sitting at #92) it will likely stay horrible in Rome.

last season 93-69, 2nd in Atlantic, lost in Championship Series to Cheyenne
13th ranked farm system (C Hairama Nalanie #7 and 1B Conceição Arruda #30)
Payroll $2,408,143 - 1st
Lineup and Pitching

C 29, Josh Lemon, Great Lakes, .295/.360/.410, 111OPS+, won Hernandez award
1B 29, Joe Delli Santi, Virginia, .264/.361/.501, 39HRs, 134OPS+
2B 33, Tom Phelan, Quebec, .333/.390/.415, 121OPS+
3B 29, Christian Dubois, Quebec, .333/.403/.498, 21HRs, 23SBs, 146OPS+, won Frey and Deshayes awards
SS 26, Jimmy Nickolaus, Virginia, .251/.342/.344, 24SBs, 88OPS+
LF 32, Hervé Barthélémy, Quebec, .297/.411/.629, 47HRs, 182OPS+, won Frey and Baxter awards
CF 28, Jon Buckley, Great Lakes, .212/.287/.359, 61SBs, 76OPS+
RF 26, Gary Hamilton, Quebec, 74OPS+ in 49 games started (2-way player)
DH 30, Ron Peterson, Arctic Circle, only 48 games started due to injury (137 career OPS+ but only started more than 75 games once)

1 29, Jorge Franco, Panama, 15-13, 3.29ERA, 130ERA+
2 26, Gary Hamilton, Quebec, 9-6, 3.81ERA, 112ERA+ (2-way player)
3 28, Tim Jackson, Great Lakes, 15-12, 4.63ERA, 92ERA+
4 22, Philippe Lemaître, Quebec, 10-2, 2.66ERA, 161ERA+
5 34, Julio Sánchez, Dominican Republic, 10-10, 5.12ERA, 83ERA+
CL 27, Dale Patterson, Florida, 34 Saves, 3.20ERA, 133ERA+
Other notable bullpen arms: Warren Bourdon, Juan Huitz, and prospects Brian Gray, Ryan Hyde, and Eddie Salazar

2108 was the first time finishing below 100 wins since 2102 (including the shortened 2105 where they managed a 100-38 record). While they lack a true ace since López left, they instead feature a devastating lineup and overall balanced pitching rotation and bullpen (really no holes besides Sánchez and Jackson who are fluky). The main story this season is about how some ‘experts’ saw last season as a failure simply because Germantown won more games than them in the regular season (despite Trois beating them in the Atlantic Series). With plenty of expectations to get above the 100 win mark again. Which I see as highly likely as their team really has no holes besides the lack of an ace.

OOTP Predictions
Pacific: 
Eureka Redwoods 102-60
Galveston Launch 98-64
Cheyenne Buffalo 96-66
Alaska Avalanche 77-85
Dakota Eagles 76-86
Baton Rouge Cajuns 75-87
Astoria Osprey 63-99
Durango Escorpiones 51-111

Atlantic:
Trois-Rivières Harfang 103-59
Florida Flamingos 93-69
Germantown Pretzels 91-71
Chesapeake Admirals 90-72
Plymouth Pilgrims 84-78
Huron Gryphons 83-79
Rome Gladiators 68-94
Halifax Voyageurs 50-112

not a lot of action here, but I will say I really like the little uniform pogs. definitely a lot better at presenting the identity than just a wall of text lol. one question: is the font a league standard, or was that just something you did for the presentation?

2109 Playoffs

Wild Card Series' (First time for the WCS, these will be best of 5 game series similar to the Division Series’ in MLB)

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A classic playoff rivalry. Cheyenne comes in with their devastating pitching core. Led by Matt Kenney, Jeffrey Simon, and Carlos Padilla who have been strong all season. They also continue to have one of the strongest bullpens ever with Mike Kohn, Kyle McMurphy, and Mike Hilger who have 8 Gervais awards between them. Plus plenty of young arms with Chris Keon, Time Cote, Jesus Ortega, and Mike Tijerina. They do struggle offensively with C Eric Titus being the only players to have an OPS above .740. Though 1B Valentin Pernot and RF Yekuno-Amlak Mshangama still put up decent numbers throughout the season. They will be without star CF Kevin Meyer for the series as he is still on the IL from a broken rib he suffered a few weeks ago. Eureka is almost the opposite. With a strong offense, led by 1B Kyle Thompson, C Ismael Méndez, and recently promoted DH Cor John. With good surrounding players with LF David Ruíz, CF Tyler Noble, RF Savion Jones, and last year’s Castaneda winner, 3B Orlando Lazzarini. Pitching has been a little rough for the Redwoods this year. As the aging Ben Denman seemed to regress while both Tillmam Tamayo and Dustiin Cloud put up numbers below their standard. Closer Jake Pawlowski in the bullpen continued to dominate, but Trent Pullin and Dave Meisel could not keep up, leading to the 4th ranked pitching in the Pacific. But with a huge gap between them and Cheyenne who is first. In the season series Cheyenne came out on top 10-7. 

Game 1: EUR Tillmam Tamayo (15-11, 3.87ERA) vs CHY Matt Kenney (19-10, 2.52)
1B Pernot would hit a leadoff home run for the Buffalo. They would slowly tack on 2 more throughout the game but none of it would be needed as Matt Kenney threw the game of his life, a complete game shutout giving up only 4 hits and no walks. 
EUR 0 - 3 CHY 

Game 2: EUR Jeff Caron (9-4, 3.65) vs CHY Carlos Padilla (20-7, 3.39)
Despite having a down year, RF Mshangama would personally take game 2 into his hands, with a 3-run home run in the first and a 2-run single in the second. He would get another hit and a stolen base enroute to an all-time performance. The rest of Cheyenne’s lineup would also do well, highlighted by multi-hit games from 1B Pernot, LF Magallanes, and 3B Sheridan. Eureka would score 4 in the loss off of 11 hits (compared to Cheyenne’s 12) but outside of a 2B Rodríguez home run could not get much moving. 
EUR 4 - 9 CHY

Game 3: CHY Jeffrey Simon (17-8, 3.19) vs EUR Dustin Cloud (16-14, 4.16)
Game 3 appeared initially to be a pitching duel as only 1 run was scored a piece through 8. Then in the 9th both would score another run (by way of RF Mshangama double for Cheyenne and a DH Cor John double for Eureka). Heading into extra innings, Cheyenne called for Mike Hilger matched by Jake Pawlowski for Eureka. Easily 2 of the greatest closers in the sport, 5 Gervais awards between the 2. However, today both would have terrible performances as both teams would score 3 runs to go back and forth with the lead until the 13th where 1B Kyle Thompson would hit a walk-off RBI double to win game 3. 
CHY 5 - 6 EUR

Game 4: CHY Chris Keon (16-17, 4.54) vs EUR Ben Denman (12-10, 4.48)
Keon despite a horrible end to the season, was considered a Taylor candidate early in the season. And in game 4 he showed why. Going 8 scoreless innings allowing only 4 hits. But the Buffalo only scored 1 throughout those innings. Veteran and future Hall of Famer Ben Denman would still be on the mound. But the Buffalo would finally get to him as both RF Mshangama and SS Monahan would get RBIs off of him in a big 9th inning. Cheyenne would call on McMurphy (another Gervais winner in the bullpen). He would shut the Redwoods down with 3 strikeouts on 10 pitches. The Buffalo advance to the Pacific Series for a rematch against Galveston. RF Yekuno-Amlak Mshangama would win Series MVP for his great series. 
CHY 3 - 0 EUR. The Buffalo win the series 3-1, and advance to the Pacific Series.


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One is making their first postseason appearance ever and the other the first time after a disappointing drought. Florida showed out last year posting their first above .500 season before going off for much of this year as well. Their starting duo of Leon López and Rafael Santa Cruz get most of the spotlight but starters Cyrille Vincent and David Castillo are no slouches either, even putting up similar numbers. Offensively, led by 2B Jason Martin, LF David Castillo, RF Adam Beyer, and DH Tyler Hammerich, who was let go by Florida last season but signed a minor league deal part-way through 2109 and finished as one of their best hitters and even got a nice 4-year extension. The main issue will be their bullpen as closer Manny Julia is day-to-day and likely won’t pitch in the wild card series (as well as 1st baseman Oscar Morales will miss all of the playoffs). Huron is a similarly balanced team. Making their first playoff appearance since 2103. They will be without ace Marty Hodge, but still have a solid rotation with Adam Minke, Hao Huan, and Brad Vedder. Which will be relied on heavily as their bullpen is quite lackluster. Their main strength lies on their offense. Or at least, it should be on paper. Despite fielding SS Mike McClary, RF Jeremy Richey, LF Matthew Wagoner, 2B Fernando Criado, and 3B Philip Brawner. However, none of them can play up to their hall of fame potential and is a big part of why they haven’t been able to be back to the postseason since 2103. As said core only finished with the 5th best offense in the Atlantic (behind Florida’s, which is worse on paper). 

Game 1: FLA Cyrille Vincent (16-8, 3.78ERA) vs HUR Brad Vedder (15-12, 3.77)
Florida would start the series with homegrown talent of Vincent, and more homegrown talent would show off as DH Tyler Hammerich hit a 2-run home run in the first inning. Vincent would cruise until the 6th where RF Brawner and rookie 1B Danny Thomas would hit run scoring doubles to tie the game. Florida would then substitute Vincent for Mowry. The next batter, CF Jared Meyers, would hit a weak ground ball out to Mowry who would throw wide, allowing 1B Thomas to score. The Flamingos couldn’t answer back in the 9th as the Gryphons take game 1. 
FLA 2 - 3 HUR

Game 2: FLA Rafael Santa Cruz (13-15, 3.70) vs HUR Adam Minke (12-13, 4.35)
Both would score in the first, while Huron would tack on another via a rbi single from 1B Charlie Winningham in the second. Florida would immediately answer back with a 7-run third inning and a 5-run fourth. Every Flamingo would get a hit while Santa Cruz would throw a complete game. A great showing to tie the series before heading back to Florida. 
FLA 14 - 2 HUR

Game 3: HUR Hao Huan (13-10, 3.27) vs FLA Leon López (16-14, 3.20)
The young Huan would do the opposite of Minke and pitch a great game. 7 innings only allowing 1 run. López would match (albeit with 10Ks compared to 2). Ivan Ramírez and Dan Miles would take it into extra innings. Wherein, hometown hero RF Adam Beyer would launch a first pitch nuke in the bottom of the 10th for a huge walk-off home run for Florida as they take the series lead. 
HUR 1 - 2 FLA

Game 4: HUR Brad Vedder (15-12, 3.77) vs FLA David Castillo (12-11, 3.60)
Huron, in an elimination game would rely on Vedder who was off only 4 days rest to tie up the series. The short rest would turn out to be awful as Florida would put up 5 in the first, Huron would sub him out for Nick Preston who could not contain the Flamingos as DH Hammerich hit a home run in the second to take a commanding lead. The Gryphons attempted a comeback with 2 home runs by RF Jeremy Richey but could not muster any more offense. RF Adam Beyer would win series MVP
HUR 3 - 9 FLA. Flamingos win the series 3-1, advance to their first Atlantic Series. 

Pacific Series

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Rematch of last year’s Pacific Series. This time, Cheyenne is fully healthy along with ace Matt Kenney. Instead Galveston is the one with the injuries as pitchers Nelson Encarnación and Paolo Barreau will be out along with 1B David Moran. Luckily they have many youth players that have stepped up like pitcher Jalen Wilson and 1B Chris Caron. During the regular season Galveston controlled the matchup winning 12-5 in their games against Cheyenne. Despite this, Cheyenne is considered the odds on favorite due to their historic dominance and health. 
Game 1: CHY Matt Kenney (19-10, 2.52) vs GAL Nick Lambert (21-6, 2.69)
Many were suspecting that this matchup would also decide the Taylor award as both starters were ‘tied’ amongst fan votes. It appeared early to belong to Lambert and Galveston as Cheyenne could not touch him. However in the 7th, he began to fall apart after a throwing error by himself caused the bases to be loaded. Maru Kalamka and Johnny Metzler (both pinch hitters) would hit 2-run singles to turn into a big 6-run inning for the Buffalo. Following this the infamous Cheyenne bullpen would come on and only allow 1 base runner for the final 2 innings. 
CHY 6 - 4 GAL

Game 2: CHY Carlos Padilla (20-7, 3.39) vs GAL Rich Platte (18-12, 3.40)
Both would take turns scoring in the first 5 innings, then great base-running from CF Bonjour would allow Cheyenne to tie the game up. Nothing would be going in the 9th to force extra innings. In the 11th, DH Hisato Horio, now a member of Galveston, would hit a pinch-hit lead–off double. 3B Peppers would ground out before LF Gilroy would fly out to advance Horio to third. With 2 outs, 2B Orozco would come up and barely get a blooper past 2B Harbin at second to score the game winning run to tie the series. 
CHY 6 - 7 GAL

Game 3: GAL Brian Van Winkle (16-9, 4.29) vs CHY Jeffrey Simon (17-8, 3.19)
Cheyenne’s C Eric Titus would hit a home run in the first and the Buffalo would keep the lead the entire game thanks to home runs from LF Magallanes and CF Bonjour. Galveston would only score in the 9th, which was too little too late as they could only get 4 hits off of Simon. 
GAL 2 - 5 CHY

Game 4: GAL (6-4, 4.15) vs CHY Chris Keon (16-17, 4.54)
I can’t say anything about this game except complete domination. Keon would throw a complete game shutout. While the usually low-scoring Buffalo offense would go off for 12 runs (without hitting a home run). Galveston now sits 1 loss away from being eliminated by Cheyenne for the second straight season. 
GAL 0 - 12 CHY

Game 5: GAL Nick Lambert (21-6, 2.69) vs CHY Matt Kenney (19-10, 2.52)
Galveston would immediately score a run in the first, with Cheyenne following them up in the 2nd. Then the Taylor candidates would lock things down as no more runs were scored until the 12th inning. Wherein, the Buffalo bullpen once again came in clutch as they have seemingly endless options while the Launch could only stick with Alain Thomas. He would quickly get 2 outs to start the twelfth before 1B Pernot got a single. He would immediately attempt a steal but C R.J. Pope would throw into center allowing 1B Pernot to get to third. Then he intentionally walked McShane to face Fraser, both pinch hitters. The veteran Fraser would make him pay as he would hit a ball right above second to win the series for the Buffalo!
GAL 1 - 2 CHY. The Buffalo win the series 4-1 with 2B Dan Harbin winning series MVP

Atlantic Series

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Florida’s first Atlantic Series after a decade of incompetence. And basically all NABF fans are cheering for them to take down Trois. The Harfang not only won 21 more games than Florida, but also beat them 11-6 in their matchups. They are looking for their 8th straight Championship appearance, which would be such an insane record. This year they tied their record for most wins (108) and led the entire NABF in runs against while being 2nd in runs scored. Truly a matchup of David and Goliath. 
Game 1: FLA Rafael Santa Cruz (13-15, 3.70) vs TR Jorge Franco (17-15, 3.75)
The Harfang would jump out to an early lead thanks to a 2-run single from RF Peterson. But Florida would come back with a 2-run homer by 1B Newman. The game would stay tied at 3 until the 8th when Florida closer Manny Julia would completely capitulate, giving up 7 runs in only 2/3rds of an inning. Giving Trois a dominating game 1 victory. 
FLA 3 - 11 TR

Game 2: FLA Cyrille Vincent (16-8, 3.78) vs TR Gary Hamilton (17-8, 3.80)
Florida would actually score first thanks to big hits from DH Hammerich and CF Toman. But Trois would take it back thanks to a 3-run homer from rookie CF Luis de Anda. Then in the 6th, Vincent and reliever Groh would give up a combined 8 runs, ending the game with a nearly identical score to game 1. 
FLA 2 - 12 TR

Game 3: TR Philippe Lemaître (16-11, 3.00) vs FLA Leon López (16-14, 3.20)
Back in Florida, the Flamingos offense would finally get going scoring 5 runs in the first (the same amount as they scored in the first 2 games combined). The Flamingos would tack on 2 more with RBIs from DH Hammerich and RF Beyer in the 5th. López would struggle a bit in his matchup against his old team, but was able to keep the Harfang to only 4 runs. Julia would give up 1 in the 9th, but would lock it down after that to give Florida their first win. 
TR 5 - 7 FLA

Game 4: TR Tim Jackson (19-7, 2.82) vs FLA David Castillo (12-11, 3.60)
2B Phelan would go off for 5 hits and a triple shy of a cycle, along with RBIs from LF Barthélémy would make up most of the Harfang’s offense. However, Florida would match them through 7 thanks to a home run from C Ethan King to tie the game. However, once again Florida’s bullpen would fail them as Dan Miles would walk the bases loaded and give up 4 runs in the 8th, leaving the Flamingos 1 loss away from elimination. 
TR 8 - 4 FLA

Game 5: TR Jorge Franco (17-15, 3.75) vs FLA Rafael Santa Cruz (13-15, 3.70)
Santa Cruz would be hit around the first 2 innings as Trois batters later revealed that he was tipping his pitches. The Florida bullpen would only allow 2 runs in the following 6 innings. But regardless none of it would matter as DH Hammerich’s double in the 5th would be the only hit and only baserunner all game as Franco would pitch the greatest game of his career to send the Harfang to their 8th straight Championship Series!
TR 7 - 0 FLA. Harfang win the series 4-1, 2B Tom Phelan wins series MVP

2109 Championship Series

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This will be their 3rd consecutive time facing each other in the Championship Series and the 4th time overall. It's hard to even describe this matchup between 2 goliaths. The incredible pitching and defense of Cheyenne vs the incredible depth and power of Trois meeting for the 3rd time. Both have won 1 of the previous matchups, making this a sort of tie-breaker of sorts. In the regular season, Trois won the series 5-1, but many are expecting this to go down to the wire just like the previous season. 
Game 1: CHY Carlos Padilla (20-7, 3.39) vs TR Gary Hamilton (17-8, 3.80)
Homeruns from 3B Dubois and 1B Delli Santi would give the Harfang a lead and easily allow closer Dale Patterson to collect the save for game 1. 
CHY 2 - 4 TR

Game 2: CHY Jeffrey Simon (17-8, 3.19) vs TR Philippe Lemaître (16-11, 3.00)
Cheyenne would take the lead in the first, but 2-run home runs from RF Hamilton and 1B Delli Santi in the 6th and 7th would swap leaders. Once again, Patterson would come in the 9th for the save. However, he would load the bases after hitting 2 batters. He would work to get it to 2 outs before walking RF Mshangama. Then CF Bonjour would score 1 from a single before star C  Eric Titus would launch a 3-run double to take the lead. LF Magallanes would score C Titus for insurance as 4-time Gervais winner, Mike Hilger would take the mound and not give Trois a chance, tying the series. 
CHY 8 - 5 TR

Game 3: TR Jorge Franco (17-15, 3.75) vs CHY Matt Kenney (19-10, 2.52)
There would be nothing doing through 5 as both pitchers were putting on clinics. In the 7th both would score 2 off of smart baserunning. No one else would score as relievers came out leading the game to extra innings. In the bottom of the 10th, Trois’ Cameron Broome who has been having a great rookie season would face LF Eddie Sheridan, who like many of the Buffalo is not considered a great hitter. But he’d take the first pitch he sees deep to straight center field for an extra inning walk off home run for the Cheyenne crowd. 
TR 2 - 3 CHY

Game 4: TR Tim Jackson (19-7, 2.82) vs CHY Chris Keon (16-17, 4.54)
In 2 previous post-seaosn starts, Keon has not allowed a run through 17 innings. While his streak would end in the first inning, he would keep the runs manageable only allowing 3 runs. But the story of the game would be the Harfang’s control issues as they would hit 4 batters. Despite that, they would be in the lead 3-2 in the 9th with Patterson once again on the mound. He would get 3B Fraser and PH McShane out to start. But RF Mshangama would get an easy single up the middle. CF Bonjour would hit an easy roller to third that should’ve ended the game but former Hernandez winning 3B Christian Dubois would lose the ball in transition allowing Baxter winning C Eric Titus to once again get a potential game winning at-bat. Titus would hit the ball hard down the first base line, getting past 1B Delli Santi and RF Mshangama would easily score while the speedy CF Bonjour would get sent home. Trois RF Michael Baxter is known for his arm and would take a chance by not hitting the cut-off and it would be just wide as catcher Lemon could not get back to tag CF Bonjour before he would cross the plate and win a close game. 
TR 3 - 4 CHY 

Game 5: TR Gary Hamilton (17-8, 3.80) vs CHY Carlos Padilla (20-7, 3.39)
After 3 straight chokes, Trois would not give Cheyenne a chance with LF Barthélémy hitting 2 home rubs for 4RBIs on the day while C Lemon and 2B Phelan would have multiple hits and RBIs as Padilla could not contain the Harfang batters. Cheyenne would score 4, with a home run from C Titus, who missed their 2 previous Championship matchups due to injuries. 
TR 9 - 4 CHY

Game 6: CHY Jeffrey Simon (17-8, 3.19) vs TR Philippe Lemaître (16-11, 3.00)
The series would head back to Quebec where Trois looks to win the final 2 games in order to overcome a 3-1 deficit. They held a lead in every game and have only lost due to chokes from their relievers or fielding errors. Many of their diehard fans would be very vocal leading up to the game, however, many more pointed their frustration and passion towards heckling the Buffalo players on their way to the park, with nearly an entire police envoy needed to get the team bus to the park. The heckling seemingly worked as they would score 5 through the first 3 innings thanks to RBIs from CF de Anda, 1B Delli Santi, and SS Nickolaus. Cheyenne would answer back as SS Monahan would get a 2RBI double to pull within 2. The Harfang bullpen would call upon Brian Gray, Juan Huitz, and Dale Patterson. Who would combine to only give up 1 hit as the Harfang would comeback to force a game 7. 
CHY 3 - 5 TR

Game 7: CHY Matt Kenney (19-10, 2.52) vs TR Jorge Franco (17-15, 3.75)
If you thought game 6’s pre-game was bad, game 7 took the cake. First pitch would be delayed almost an hour after fans broke through a gate and poured out onto the field during batting practice. Quebec natives Hamilton, Dubois, and Barthélémy would be needed to calm down the crowds. It would be announced after the game that the city would create a special police force just for home playoff games as events had gotten too out of hand the past few seasons. In the first Cheyenne’s LF Kevin Meyer would hit a 2-run home run to the dismay of the crowd as the Buffalo scored 3 in the inning. Meyer would appear to say something to the pitcher Franco as he touched home plate, which would lead him to get hit by a pitch each of his next 2 at-bats in the game until the umpires stepped in. Trois would get back as CF de Anda would hit a home run, along with a RF Hamilton RBI double would tie the game. In the 6th, 1B Delli Santi would get his 3rd home run of the series to take the lead. Patterson would come out to pitch in the 9th, as every Trois fan held their breath. SS Monahan would reach base after SS Nickolaus would bobble the catch and would be ruled an error. 3B Fraser would strike out after a long at-bat. Pinch hitter, Romain Larcher would hit a double but Monahan would be held up at third. CF Bonjour would strike out, leaving C Eric Titus to once again come up to bat in a game deciding situation. He would turn over a grounder to SS Nickolaus who would make the throw this time to get the out and win the series after being down in the series 3-1! This is the 4th Championship for the Harfang de Trois-Rivières.
CHY 3 - 6 TR. Harfang win the series 4-3, 1B Joe Delli Santi wins series MVP.