Parity is on the rise in Plumpy! With roughly 25 games to go, 11 NL teams are within at least 6 games of a play-off berth, while 8 AL teams maintain realistic hopes of reaching post-season play. Let's take a look at where we're at now, and how things are looking for the rest of the season for the teams still in contention.
First the NL (current ranked in order of play-off seeds if the season ended today, 12/24 as of the PM cycle.)
1.) Syracuse Magma (93-42) *NL North Champion (With a 17 game lead, the Magma taking the division, and the number one seed, is all but a formality at this point.)
2.) Scranton Boll Weevils (80-55) *NL East Champion (A one game lead has never looked so precarious. Four games is all that separates the Boll Weevils from a first round bye, and watching the play-offs from home. 10 games remain against the three closest teams chasing Scranton, and 17 are against opponents with winning records. Mexico's peskiest export has it's work cut out for them.)
3.) Montgomery Burns (71-64) *NL South Champion (Burns holds a three game lead over rival Charlotte. Burns has been ravaged by injuries and has made a couple plays that signal their focus is shifting towards the future, including the trade of four time MVP Roger Conroy. However, the return of Ace Shelley Olson from injury, combined with a very strong ML core still makes this team dangerous. A big series with Charlotte looms in 10 days.)
4.) Boise Basturds (68-67) *NL West Champion (Barring something shocking, the Basturds will be back to back division champions.
5.) Louisville Surveyors (79-56) *NL Wild Card 1 (Here's where things get interesting. Despite having the third best record in the NL, things are far from comfortable in Surveyor country. All but four of Louisville's remaining games are against teams above .500, including a 4 game series against Syracuse. Despite the recent injury to SP J.T. Jones, the Surveyors have beaten quality opponents all season, and will their destiny in their own hands, so long as they can take care of business against Scranton, Hartford and Chicago (NL). The road is long, but the team is good. Stay tuned.)
6.) Chicago Boomers (76-59) *NL Wild Card 2 (The Boomers are tied with Hartford, but won the season series 6-4 and therefore will win any tie-breaker. The next three series are against Scranton, Boise and Louisville, so if the Boomers can go on a tear now, that will make the season ending series against Syracuse less anxiety inducing.)
7.) Hartford Submarines II (76-59) (While presently, Hartford is the first team out, 14 of their remaining games are against teams more than 15 games below .500, and 6 of the others are against the two teams right in front of them in the NL East.)
8.) Pittsburgh Wannabes (71-64, 5 games back of Wild Card) (No team will be clamoring harder at the Winter Meetings for divisional realignment than Pittsburgh, as their record is currently identical to 3 seed, Montgomery. That said, the Plumpy Originals have remaining series against both Louisville and Chicago, and are far from out of contention.)
9.) Baltimore Sparkle Ponies (70-65, 6 games back of Wild Card) (The resurgent Sparkle Ponies have quietly crept back into the post-season discussion. While the odds are not necessarily in their favor, if Baltimore can make some noise in its three remaining series against their divisional rivals, Scranton, Louisville, and Hartford, the Ponies may prance into the post-season after all.)
10.) Charlotte Nature Boys (68-67, 3 games back in NL South, 8 games back of Wild Card) (While a Wild Card berth seems unlikely, if Charlotte can sweep the upcoming three game series in Montgomery, Woooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!)
11.) Charleston Chews (65-70, 6 games back in NL South) (The Chews would realistically need to sweep both Montgomery and Charlotte to have a chance
And now for the American League!
1.) Durham Dirt Dogs (87-48) *NL South Champion (A 7 game lead should be safe, though nobody likes having San Juan in their rear-view mirror.)
2.) Omaha Settlers (84-51) *NL West Champion (With an 11 game lead in the division, the primary focus for the Settlers is on securing the 2 seed/first round bye in the play-offs.)
3.) Chicago Fatties (77-58) *NL East Champion (The Fatties have a 13 game lead, and while hopes remain for going on a run and stealing the 2 seed, Chicago's more rotund fake baseball team is likely focused on fending off Columbus and securing the 3 seed.)
4.) Columbus Dodger Blue (76-59) *NL North Champion (Despite a recent run by Ottawa, the Dodger Blue have maintained a four game cushion, thanks in no small part to winning their recent series against Durham. Keep your eyes on this one folks, should be a great race.)
5.) San Juan Elephant Seals (80-55) AL Wild Card 1 (SPEAKING of divisional realignment, the defending champions are no stranger to the AL's first Wild Card, and won the league last year from that exact position. The E-Seals have a 7 game cushion between them and being bereft of the post-season, and are a near lock to go back to the Dance.)
6.) Little Rock 'n Roll (75-60) AL Wild Card 2 (Little Rock was certainly Rock 'n Rolling when they acquired Roger Conroy shortly before the trade deadline earlier this month. Little Rock has their work cut out for them, as 20 of their remaining games are against teams with winning records, including a huge seven game series that begins tonight against...)
7.) Oakland Hammers (73-62, 2 games back of AL Wild Card) (Oakland's destiny lies largely in how well it comes out of this 7 game series against Little Rock. Beyond those seven games, only one series remains for the Hammers against a team with a winning record. A solid showing against 'n Roll will put them in the driver's seat for the final AL Wild Card berth.)
8.) Ottawa Eh's (72-63, 3 games back of AL Wild Card, 4 games back of NL North) (The season concludes with a three game series at Columbus. Until then, a four game series against San Juan is the only series the Eh's have against a team with a winning record. Ottawa has just as good a chance as any AL team to improve their standing in the... standings before the play-offs begin.)
Merry Christmas everyone, and good luck to all in your respective post-season races!
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: Daweiproject
Today's interview is with Daweiproject, General Manager of the Season 27 World Champion Chicago Fatties and Plumpy owner since season 4!
1.) What do you do in real life?
I'm a resident physician in pathology.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
I was pretty big into Hoops Dynasty. When HBD was first introduced, a bunch of the HD coaches created several worlds for crossover coaches and Plumpy was one of them. I recognized some of the names in the league, so I thought I would give it a shot. I quickly gave up on HD and focused all of my time on HBD.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Philip Gardner. I'm a big fan of moneyball and this dude could flat out get on base. He's currently ranked #2 all-time in walks and his OBP is just outside the top 5. Plus, he had a little pop (8 years of 20+ homers).
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Definitely when I finally won the world series. It was my 24th season and by then, I figured that it might not ever happen. My team was already getting old and my prior ace, Zephyr Evers, was on the decline. I made a big gamble by going all in for Shigetoshi Jang in free agency and it luckily worked out.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Most of my best players have been acquired through trades or international signings. Many of the good players that I did draft ended up getting traded away. Frank Wagner was probably the best player that I drafted that actually played a significant amount of time for the Fatties. He was a rock in center field who in his best years could put up 35+ homers. Unfortunately, he never received much attention outside of two all-star games.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Overall, I've been pretty lucky with injuries. Probably the most devastating was to Lucas Johnson in season 23 in which he lost 4 points overall. He was never the ace of the staff, but he was a solid SP2 or SP3. I always thought that he might get over the hump and get one or two all-star nods, but the injury put the end to that. He quickly declined following that year.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
I'm probably in the minority here, but I think speed is overrated. Until they let me control base stealing and base running aggressiveness for each player individually, it's not that helpful to have one really fast guy with a bunch of slowpokes.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
I was going to say durability or makeup, but it seems like a lot of people picked those, so maybe they're not underrated. I'll go with simple lefty versus righty. For players with the same ratings, the handedness makes a significant difference in the numbers that they produce, just because there are more right-handed players in the league. Along with that, switch hitting provides an extra boost for production that can often be overlooked.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Sordie. Too bad he's no longer around. If you look at my record over the years, you'll see that though I made the playoffs a decent number of times, I rarely won the division. Sadly, my world series win was when his team was already on the decline. It would have been great to finally overcome the needlefish during their prime, but it just wasn't meant to be.
10.) As one of Plumpy's veteran owners, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think it's pretty good the way it is. Though many of us long-time owners initially opposed them, I think the minimum win requirements were a good thing for the league. The best part of this league is that everyone (or most everyone) realizes that this is game and is meant to be fun. It's an enjoyable place to visit after a long hard day of work. Most of the owners try to be fair in trades and reasonable in communication. I think what really stands out for me about this league (compared to other HBD or HD leagues I've been in) is that people here really treat others as real people and not just random internet names. Though there have been occasional spats, they have been short-lived and everyone quickly moved on.
1.) What do you do in real life?
I'm a resident physician in pathology.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
I was pretty big into Hoops Dynasty. When HBD was first introduced, a bunch of the HD coaches created several worlds for crossover coaches and Plumpy was one of them. I recognized some of the names in the league, so I thought I would give it a shot. I quickly gave up on HD and focused all of my time on HBD.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Philip Gardner. I'm a big fan of moneyball and this dude could flat out get on base. He's currently ranked #2 all-time in walks and his OBP is just outside the top 5. Plus, he had a little pop (8 years of 20+ homers).
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Definitely when I finally won the world series. It was my 24th season and by then, I figured that it might not ever happen. My team was already getting old and my prior ace, Zephyr Evers, was on the decline. I made a big gamble by going all in for Shigetoshi Jang in free agency and it luckily worked out.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Most of my best players have been acquired through trades or international signings. Many of the good players that I did draft ended up getting traded away. Frank Wagner was probably the best player that I drafted that actually played a significant amount of time for the Fatties. He was a rock in center field who in his best years could put up 35+ homers. Unfortunately, he never received much attention outside of two all-star games.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Overall, I've been pretty lucky with injuries. Probably the most devastating was to Lucas Johnson in season 23 in which he lost 4 points overall. He was never the ace of the staff, but he was a solid SP2 or SP3. I always thought that he might get over the hump and get one or two all-star nods, but the injury put the end to that. He quickly declined following that year.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
I'm probably in the minority here, but I think speed is overrated. Until they let me control base stealing and base running aggressiveness for each player individually, it's not that helpful to have one really fast guy with a bunch of slowpokes.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
I was going to say durability or makeup, but it seems like a lot of people picked those, so maybe they're not underrated. I'll go with simple lefty versus righty. For players with the same ratings, the handedness makes a significant difference in the numbers that they produce, just because there are more right-handed players in the league. Along with that, switch hitting provides an extra boost for production that can often be overlooked.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Sordie. Too bad he's no longer around. If you look at my record over the years, you'll see that though I made the playoffs a decent number of times, I rarely won the division. Sadly, my world series win was when his team was already on the decline. It would have been great to finally overcome the needlefish during their prime, but it just wasn't meant to be.
10.) As one of Plumpy's veteran owners, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think it's pretty good the way it is. Though many of us long-time owners initially opposed them, I think the minimum win requirements were a good thing for the league. The best part of this league is that everyone (or most everyone) realizes that this is game and is meant to be fun. It's an enjoyable place to visit after a long hard day of work. Most of the owners try to be fair in trades and reasonable in communication. I think what really stands out for me about this league (compared to other HBD or HD leagues I've been in) is that people here really treat others as real people and not just random internet names. Though there have been occasional spats, they have been short-lived and everyone quickly moved on.
Monday, December 9, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: Bcpbcp7
Today's interview is with our defending champion, bcpbcp7, general manager of the Elephant Seals of San Juan!
1.) What do you do in real life?
I'm a legislative aide for a U.S. Congressman. I work on health care, disability, crime, and simulated baseball issues.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
From tlally43, who correctly predicted that I would quickly become addicted.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Although I've had unhealthy love affairs with many pretend men, my all time favorite is definitely Pedro Campos (Vote Campos for HOF in 2014!). When I took over, my farm system was a barren wasteland, and Campos was my big money IFA signing my first season. He taught me the value of switch-hitting, offensive production at skill defensive positions, and how to love a woman.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Although finally winning the World Series after going 0-7 in the ALCS was the most relieving moment, I think my proudest moment was winning the division for the first time after learning the game and building a foundation for 3 seasons.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Probably Rondell Wise. He's been my no. 3 starter on several playoff teams, and I got him with the 29th pick. He had the stuff I like and just enough flaws to slip down to me.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
UUUUGGGHH. Sherman Fick, a promising young SP at the time. I got him in my first ever trade and groomed him patiently through 4 minor league seasons. After about 18 minor league days, I rested him in anticipation of his ML debut, but I forgot to also take my AAA pitching staff off of autopilot. He pitched one more game, blew out his elbow. Some owners have had much worse luck than I in suffering tough injuries to legitimate superstars, but going from a potential no. 2-3 starter to a mopup/swing starter was a bummer. Clearly I'm not over it.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
I'm always changing my opinion on which ratings matter most and are over/undervalued by the league, but I have always thought the temper rating for hitters was almost inversely valuable. I swear the guys with low tempers just get plunked more (and get tossed twice a season or whatever), which is fine with me!
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
I'm going to say the whole defensive spectrum. I just think defense in general is undervalued...or maybe it's just me.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
I've been lucky enough to have two very good nemeses. At first, I was always battling the stupidly named Atlanta Shockers - owned by a perfectly nice, effective owner named taz21 - in the division and seemingly always in the first round of the playoffs. Then of course, came the extremely polite, extremely competent utahjazz88 and the preposterously stacked Memphis Problems dynasty. I think multiple times I finished 2nd in the AL, once 2nd in the entire ML, only to get the 5 seed. Loved battling those teams.
10.) As one of our most seasoned owners, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I'm going to echo pretty much every interview so far: 1) improved mentoring for new owners, especially new owners who don't have friends in the league already; 2) monitoring the minimum win requirements, which are definitely a positive step, to make sure we're striking the right balance for anti-tanking, new owners, and allowing effective rebuilds; 3) nothing is broken, the league is awesome - very competitive, awesome retention and rollover numbers, good community. Plumpeeerulez!!111!1#$%#^%&8-/./,/,><> is my favorite league by far.
1.) What do you do in real life?
I'm a legislative aide for a U.S. Congressman. I work on health care, disability, crime, and simulated baseball issues.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
From tlally43, who correctly predicted that I would quickly become addicted.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Although I've had unhealthy love affairs with many pretend men, my all time favorite is definitely Pedro Campos (Vote Campos for HOF in 2014!). When I took over, my farm system was a barren wasteland, and Campos was my big money IFA signing my first season. He taught me the value of switch-hitting, offensive production at skill defensive positions, and how to love a woman.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Although finally winning the World Series after going 0-7 in the ALCS was the most relieving moment, I think my proudest moment was winning the division for the first time after learning the game and building a foundation for 3 seasons.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Probably Rondell Wise. He's been my no. 3 starter on several playoff teams, and I got him with the 29th pick. He had the stuff I like and just enough flaws to slip down to me.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
UUUUGGGHH. Sherman Fick, a promising young SP at the time. I got him in my first ever trade and groomed him patiently through 4 minor league seasons. After about 18 minor league days, I rested him in anticipation of his ML debut, but I forgot to also take my AAA pitching staff off of autopilot. He pitched one more game, blew out his elbow. Some owners have had much worse luck than I in suffering tough injuries to legitimate superstars, but going from a potential no. 2-3 starter to a mopup/swing starter was a bummer. Clearly I'm not over it.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
I'm always changing my opinion on which ratings matter most and are over/undervalued by the league, but I have always thought the temper rating for hitters was almost inversely valuable. I swear the guys with low tempers just get plunked more (and get tossed twice a season or whatever), which is fine with me!
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
I'm going to say the whole defensive spectrum. I just think defense in general is undervalued...or maybe it's just me.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
I've been lucky enough to have two very good nemeses. At first, I was always battling the stupidly named Atlanta Shockers - owned by a perfectly nice, effective owner named taz21 - in the division and seemingly always in the first round of the playoffs. Then of course, came the extremely polite, extremely competent utahjazz88 and the preposterously stacked Memphis Problems dynasty. I think multiple times I finished 2nd in the AL, once 2nd in the entire ML, only to get the 5 seed. Loved battling those teams.
10.) As one of our most seasoned owners, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I'm going to echo pretty much every interview so far: 1) improved mentoring for new owners, especially new owners who don't have friends in the league already; 2) monitoring the minimum win requirements, which are definitely a positive step, to make sure we're striking the right balance for anti-tanking, new owners, and allowing effective rebuilds; 3) nothing is broken, the league is awesome - very competitive, awesome retention and rollover numbers, good community. Plumpeeerulez!!111!1#$%#^%&8-/./,/,><> is my favorite league by far.
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: indiansrck27
Due to popular demand, we will be continuing our series of interviews with veteran Plumpy owners. Our next owner is indiansrck27, General Manager of the Minnesota Killer Land Whales, and a Plumpy owner since season 10!
1.) What do you do in real life?
I am in the US Army, I have been for 4 years now. I am a former Combat Engineer but I just finished schooling for my new job in the Army which is Psychological Operations.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
I googled simulation sports, discovered WIS and started with HD, then tried the rest of the games. I had a rough going my first few seasons of HBD, but eventually it became a massive addiction, still is.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Damaso Delgado hands down, signed him my 2nd full season in Plumpy and he is still going strong. Defintiely a future HOFer.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Since I dont have a WS win its not that. Pretty proud of my season 20 playoff run as a 89 win team. I pulled of B2B2B upsets of 3 104+ win teams only to lose in the WS to frankum.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
This is really tough. Ive just realized although ive drafted well ratings wise, ive traded a lot of guys away, and overall the guys i have drafted havent performed well. I hope to say in the future Fritz Walsh and Bryant Wirth are my proudest. But right now Bruce Kohlmeier is he was just very consistent and anchored my lineup the whole time.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Del Moya early on in his career was injured 2 seasons in a row really hurting his development of what I thought he could have been. He still rebounded since they were early on but missing all of season 17 but 3 games really hurt.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
Many many many people will disagree with me on this but IMO by far most over rated is the health rating. Too many times have high health guys been injured multiple times and low health guys never get hurt once.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Durability. Having a slugger with 90 compared to 70 is a huge deal in the amount of 100% games played. Same goes for pitchers.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Frankum was definitely a nemesis not really because of our games vs each other just because of WC and TC interactions.
10.) As one of our most seasoned owners, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
If it aint broke, dont fix it. I think Plumpy is one of the best worlds in all of HBD hands down.
1.) What do you do in real life?
I am in the US Army, I have been for 4 years now. I am a former Combat Engineer but I just finished schooling for my new job in the Army which is Psychological Operations.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
I googled simulation sports, discovered WIS and started with HD, then tried the rest of the games. I had a rough going my first few seasons of HBD, but eventually it became a massive addiction, still is.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Damaso Delgado hands down, signed him my 2nd full season in Plumpy and he is still going strong. Defintiely a future HOFer.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Since I dont have a WS win its not that. Pretty proud of my season 20 playoff run as a 89 win team. I pulled of B2B2B upsets of 3 104+ win teams only to lose in the WS to frankum.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
This is really tough. Ive just realized although ive drafted well ratings wise, ive traded a lot of guys away, and overall the guys i have drafted havent performed well. I hope to say in the future Fritz Walsh and Bryant Wirth are my proudest. But right now Bruce Kohlmeier is he was just very consistent and anchored my lineup the whole time.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Del Moya early on in his career was injured 2 seasons in a row really hurting his development of what I thought he could have been. He still rebounded since they were early on but missing all of season 17 but 3 games really hurt.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
Many many many people will disagree with me on this but IMO by far most over rated is the health rating. Too many times have high health guys been injured multiple times and low health guys never get hurt once.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Durability. Having a slugger with 90 compared to 70 is a huge deal in the amount of 100% games played. Same goes for pitchers.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Frankum was definitely a nemesis not really because of our games vs each other just because of WC and TC interactions.
10.) As one of our most seasoned owners, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
If it aint broke, dont fix it. I think Plumpy is one of the best worlds in all of HBD hands down.
Friday, December 6, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: Grecianfox
The fifth and final installment of our series of interviews with Plumpy's remaining original owners!
1.) What do you do in real life?
I am an administrative hearing officer (attorney) at a state agency.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
WIS advertising and a forum post entitled HBD for HDers.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Miguel Rojas. Don't get me started on why he hasn't gotten more HOF run.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Winning over 100 games in season one followed by losing twice in the World Series.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Joey Niese
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Cyrus Castillo in season 25. Started 6-1 with a 2.59 ERA through 12 starts and then hurt his elbow. Was never the same after the surgery.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
In terms of offense I think contact can be overrated especially if the player has a lot of power or good splits. For pitching I think it is groundball/flyball ratio.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Durability
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
In terms of an owner it is Jerico since he is an original owner who has been in the same division since the start. Plus he is Canadian.
No particular player since Todd Ford retired. I always had to remember to change my intentional walk settings when playing Montgomery,
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think the minimum win rules were a step in the right direction. Perhaps some of the more experienced owners can help mentor some of the new owners as the game is deep and can be frustrating.
1.) What do you do in real life?
I am an administrative hearing officer (attorney) at a state agency.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
WIS advertising and a forum post entitled HBD for HDers.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Miguel Rojas. Don't get me started on why he hasn't gotten more HOF run.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Winning over 100 games in season one followed by losing twice in the World Series.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Joey Niese
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Cyrus Castillo in season 25. Started 6-1 with a 2.59 ERA through 12 starts and then hurt his elbow. Was never the same after the surgery.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
In terms of offense I think contact can be overrated especially if the player has a lot of power or good splits. For pitching I think it is groundball/flyball ratio.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Durability
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
In terms of an owner it is Jerico since he is an original owner who has been in the same division since the start. Plus he is Canadian.
No particular player since Todd Ford retired. I always had to remember to change my intentional walk settings when playing Montgomery,
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think the minimum win rules were a step in the right direction. Perhaps some of the more experienced owners can help mentor some of the new owners as the game is deep and can be frustrating.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: TTjackson
The fourth in the series of interviews with the original Plumpy owners!
The third installment!
TTJackson- General Manager: Montgomery Burns
1.) What do you do in real life?
I'm a community organizer working on getting congregations & faith communities to work for economic and racial justice.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
Learned about HBD through Hoops Dynasty. the original members of this league all played HD first.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Without a doubt, Todd Ford.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Finally breaking through for a World Series title, and having a consistent top team the first 15 or so seasons before my team went off the rails.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Proudest draft pick is probably Roger Conroy. I've never gotten any great later round picks. I've swung and missed a lot in the draft.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
I continue to believe Sandy Mieske was the best pitcher I ever had after Lofton, but he got devastated by multiple injuries despite a great health score.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
The ratings I think I've put too much stock in are contact rate and pitch calling. I still have trouble having players who don't do well in those categories. but I'm not sure if they matter as much as I think they do.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
I've learned the hard way that overlooking health is a big mistake. I try to avoid guys with health scores under 70, and avoid under 60 at all costs.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
No real nemesis at this point. I enjoy the league and the personalities.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I do think the new rules are helpful over the past few years around minimum wins, etc. The thing that has almost led me to quit a few times is that some people take this game way more seriously than others. The assignment of motive to bad seasons has bugged me a lot. My deal is that my life is twice as busy now as it was when I first started playing this game. For instance, I didn't even prep for the draft that just happened (that is a first). This is a diversion and we pay money to play it, so I would like to do away with the vitriol and name calling and simply abide by the rules that we all agree to.
The third installment!
TTJackson- General Manager: Montgomery Burns
1.) What do you do in real life?
I'm a community organizer working on getting congregations & faith communities to work for economic and racial justice.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
Learned about HBD through Hoops Dynasty. the original members of this league all played HD first.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Without a doubt, Todd Ford.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Finally breaking through for a World Series title, and having a consistent top team the first 15 or so seasons before my team went off the rails.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Proudest draft pick is probably Roger Conroy. I've never gotten any great later round picks. I've swung and missed a lot in the draft.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
I continue to believe Sandy Mieske was the best pitcher I ever had after Lofton, but he got devastated by multiple injuries despite a great health score.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
The ratings I think I've put too much stock in are contact rate and pitch calling. I still have trouble having players who don't do well in those categories. but I'm not sure if they matter as much as I think they do.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
I've learned the hard way that overlooking health is a big mistake. I try to avoid guys with health scores under 70, and avoid under 60 at all costs.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
No real nemesis at this point. I enjoy the league and the personalities.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I do think the new rules are helpful over the past few years around minimum wins, etc. The thing that has almost led me to quit a few times is that some people take this game way more seriously than others. The assignment of motive to bad seasons has bugged me a lot. My deal is that my life is twice as busy now as it was when I first started playing this game. For instance, I didn't even prep for the draft that just happened (that is a first). This is a diversion and we pay money to play it, so I would like to do away with the vitriol and name calling and simply abide by the rules that we all agree to.
Friday, November 22, 2013
Annual Triangle Cup Announced
Written by William Blythe III, Editor Emeritus, North Little Rock Times
HOPE, ARKANSAS The only way to get to Indianapolis is through Nashville or is it the only way to get to Little Rock is through Nashville? I guess it’s a matter of perspective which is something clearly missing from the ownership of the three baseball franchises in these fine cities. A planned three-team press conference had been planned to announce the creation of an annual challenge series, tentatively called the Triangle Cup, but the ultra-competitive owner from Little Rock jumped the gun by releasing a statement to the press well before nearly all the details were finalized. “What’s the big deal? Once it was clear the other guys wouldn’t go for hookers and blow it was obvious we’d be playing for the usual: beer, money and pride.” said N Roll’s surly owner, RoundFrog.
The Triangle Cup itself debuted on ABC’s new hit sitcom the Goldbergs. Modeled after the Ball Ball trophy, it is a Styrofoam soup bowl taped to a plastic Champaign glass. Cost played a factor. “We can simply write the winners name each year in pen on the Styrofoam , saving engraving costs. Plus, the thing ways next to nothing so shipping it will be very cheap. Its small size will allow young children to hold it while having their pictures taken as it tours the winner’s city. And if it gets dropped, no big deal, it’s pretty hard to break Styrofoam and plastic.” said pragmatic owner JQuick1. JQuick2 was unavailable for comment.
Should they ever win the Triangle Cup, both Nashville and Indianapolis plan to display the Cup in their respective namesake restaurant. Yes, their teams are named for restaurants. No definitive word on where N Roll would display. “I figure it’ll mainly be located in Little Rock, like all the time, so we’ll probably move it around. After all, there are a lot of restaurants in Little Rock.” said the burly RoundFrog.
At the time of writing, the series stood at Little Rock 3 wins 4 losses, Indianapolis 4 wins 3 losses and Nashville 3 wins and 3 losses. “One thing is certain, this thing is gonna be a bitch to tabulate each year. We’re thinking all-powerful commissioner, Zeus, should take this on.” said Slippery Noodles owner, equick.
WIS has expressed concern over the Challenge Cup because winning the Cup and its associated rewards may actual become more appealing than winning the WIS World Series. “There’s certainly more gold at the end of that rainbow” said Merchant’s owner JQuick1, who’s never met a trade he’d accept. RoundFrog added, “If I was WIS, I’d be more concerned about improving the game or maybe a release now and then, what’s it been, like January since the last one?” This reporter asked WIS for comment and is waiting to hear back from Customer Service.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: jerico18
The third installment!
jerico18- General Manager: Vancouver Mounties
1.) What do you do in real life?
I support adults and children with developmental disabilities throughout their days. I work in both schools and homes. I really enjoy it. I just wish it paid better.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
Back in the day I was pretty big into HD and I spent a lot of my day on the HD and WIS message boards. I think that is how I found out about HBD and also Plumpy. A group of people that were playing HD thought it would be fun to have an HBD league filled with guys that were playing HD as well. I beieve Plumpy was the person who started the original league thread in the forum. It turned out that Plumpy decided not to join the league and be part of the original owners unfortunatly but we all respected so much that we decided to name the league after him.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Carlos Alonso, he is the only Mountie in the Hall. Also I still remember how excited I was when I was looking through my original roster and saw him.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
As commish I was able to recruit The Plumpy to join the league. Unfortunatly he only stayed for one season.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
I think it was more of a draft class then one pick. Season 7 I had 8 picks in the first two rounds. My third round pick turned out to be a good one with a great name too. Mac Mack
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
I try not to remember all of my injuries so I would have to say my most recent one which was to SP Dallas Hendrickson. I am hopeful to win my division this season and without him to got a lot tougher.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
bunting, I don't bunt that often. I don't think there is much of a concern of me giving up any competitive advantage. I think given my record it is pretty clear that I don't have one.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Maybe makeup. I think looking at makeup gives an indication of how likely a player is to reach his potential
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Grecianfox. I wonder if he knows that. He is in my division is an original owner as well. Also he has pretty well dominated the division since the start of the league. That being said I would be very disapointed if he left the league.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think one of the most important things to remember is that we are all here to have fun and we all of lives outside of WIS that are more important. I think trying to keep the arguing out of the league chat and getting along makes the league more enjoyable.
jerico18- General Manager: Vancouver Mounties
1.) What do you do in real life?
I support adults and children with developmental disabilities throughout their days. I work in both schools and homes. I really enjoy it. I just wish it paid better.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
Back in the day I was pretty big into HD and I spent a lot of my day on the HD and WIS message boards. I think that is how I found out about HBD and also Plumpy. A group of people that were playing HD thought it would be fun to have an HBD league filled with guys that were playing HD as well. I beieve Plumpy was the person who started the original league thread in the forum. It turned out that Plumpy decided not to join the league and be part of the original owners unfortunatly but we all respected so much that we decided to name the league after him.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Carlos Alonso, he is the only Mountie in the Hall. Also I still remember how excited I was when I was looking through my original roster and saw him.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
As commish I was able to recruit The Plumpy to join the league. Unfortunatly he only stayed for one season.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
I think it was more of a draft class then one pick. Season 7 I had 8 picks in the first two rounds. My third round pick turned out to be a good one with a great name too. Mac Mack
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
I try not to remember all of my injuries so I would have to say my most recent one which was to SP Dallas Hendrickson. I am hopeful to win my division this season and without him to got a lot tougher.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
bunting, I don't bunt that often. I don't think there is much of a concern of me giving up any competitive advantage. I think given my record it is pretty clear that I don't have one.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Maybe makeup. I think looking at makeup gives an indication of how likely a player is to reach his potential
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Grecianfox. I wonder if he knows that. He is in my division is an original owner as well. Also he has pretty well dominated the division since the start of the league. That being said I would be very disapointed if he left the league.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think one of the most important things to remember is that we are all here to have fun and we all of lives outside of WIS that are more important. I think trying to keep the arguing out of the league chat and getting along makes the league more enjoyable.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: Goodtymes
The second of five interviews with the remaining original owners of Plumpy.
Goodtymes, General Manager of the Pittsburgh Wannabes.
1.) What do you do in real life?
I am a district manager for an import car manufacturer. Living in Pittsburgh right now.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
Was an early Hoops Dynasty addict, but baseball has been my passion. Jumped at the chance to join an HBD world with veteran HD coaches.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Not sure why, but I have an attachment to my early players. I'll go with Brett Stewart, he was the anchor in hype lineup of my early teams.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Making WS in season 6 (haven't been able to bring the title home yet). Was busy wheeling and dealing early trying to figure game out, and managed to put together a pretty good squad.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Either Stewart, or my 1st draft pick ever, Rob Pote. Even though at the time,we had very little influence in who we drafted.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
I've been pretty fortunate, but probably the knee injury Tike Burks suffered. Great bat, but was a SS with no range preinjury, and became a 1B/DH after.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
I don't know that any are overrated. You definitely have to be aware of how certain ratings play off each other, and don't think you can really ignore any of them.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
To me, it's makeup. The ability to have players that maximize their potential, and extend their careers is big.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
I don't, though with 3 of the other original owners in the NL (Jerico, grecianfox, and ttjackson), I'm always more interested in results when I play those guys.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
It is my favorite league right now. It seems most owners in the league see it as the game it is, and doesn't take it too seriously, and is just what I think a good league needs.
Keep your eyes open for tomorrow's interview featuring the original Plumpy Commish, Jeri
Goodtymes, General Manager of the Pittsburgh Wannabes.
1.) What do you do in real life?
I am a district manager for an import car manufacturer. Living in Pittsburgh right now.
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
Was an early Hoops Dynasty addict, but baseball has been my passion. Jumped at the chance to join an HBD world with veteran HD coaches.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Not sure why, but I have an attachment to my early players. I'll go with Brett Stewart, he was the anchor in hype lineup of my early teams.
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Making WS in season 6 (haven't been able to bring the title home yet). Was busy wheeling and dealing early trying to figure game out, and managed to put together a pretty good squad.
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
Either Stewart, or my 1st draft pick ever, Rob Pote. Even though at the time,we had very little influence in who we drafted.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
I've been pretty fortunate, but probably the knee injury Tike Burks suffered. Great bat, but was a SS with no range preinjury, and became a 1B/DH after.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
I don't know that any are overrated. You definitely have to be aware of how certain ratings play off each other, and don't think you can really ignore any of them.
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
To me, it's makeup. The ability to have players that maximize their potential, and extend their careers is big.
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
I don't, though with 3 of the other original owners in the NL (Jerico, grecianfox, and ttjackson), I'm always more interested in results when I play those guys.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
It is my favorite league right now. It seems most owners in the league see it as the game it is, and doesn't take it too seriously, and is just what I think a good league needs.
Keep your eyes open for tomorrow's interview featuring the original Plumpy Commish, Jeri
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Know Your Plumpy History: Bob Squad
The owners of Plumpy have become very consistent over the past few seasons, which is great. Throughout the past 29 seasons, we have seen a lot of turnover, but five owners who are with us today were also here for Plumpy's inception 29 seasons ago. I thought it would be fun to do a little Q & A with these five owners, all of whom have graciously agreed to answer my questions. I'll be releasing the posts one at a time over the next 7-10 days. Thank you to the five owners who agreed to answer questions for this post!
Bob Squad, General Manager of the Boise Basturds.
1.) What do you do in real life?
The exciting fast paced life of a Project Manager (basically a goofy nerd)
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
I saw a forum post for HD coaches starting an HBD league.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Randy Edwards
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Getting to the World Series in the first season, it was mostly luck (we really did not know what we were doing those first few seasons).
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
I do not have one that I can remember. I am not your typical owner, I tend to depend on Free Agency as opposed to building thru the draft.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Al Linebrink, Free-Agent Pitcher, just signed him, all sorts of potential, he goes down for the season during his first game.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
The last 3 ratings on the top right. Has anyone really noticed a benefit to high numbers?
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Not really sure
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Not really, I am glad Edge Yount is in the AL.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think we are on the right track, as long as you have good owners, things should be ok. In the end it is just a game.
Bob Squad, General Manager of the Boise Basturds.
1.) What do you do in real life?
The exciting fast paced life of a Project Manager (basically a goofy nerd)
2.) How did you learn about HBD?
I saw a forum post for HD coaches starting an HBD league.
3.) Who is your all time favorite ballplayer in Plumpy?
Randy Edwards
4.) What is your proudest moment in Plumpy?
Getting to the World Series in the first season, it was mostly luck (we really did not know what we were doing those first few seasons).
5.) Which player is your proudest draft pick?
I do not have one that I can remember. I am not your typical owner, I tend to depend on Free Agency as opposed to building thru the draft.
6.) What is the most devastating injury one of your players incurred?
Al Linebrink, Free-Agent Pitcher, just signed him, all sorts of potential, he goes down for the season during his first game.
7.) What is the most overrated rating on a player card?
The last 3 ratings on the top right. Has anyone really noticed a benefit to high numbers?
8.) What is the most underrated rating on a player card?
Not really sure
9.) Do you have a nemesis in the league (either another owner or a particular player?)
Not really, I am glad Edge Yount is in the AL.
10.) As one of five owners who was here on day 1 of the league, how do you think Plumpy could improve going forward?
I think we are on the right track, as long as you have good owners, things should be ok. In the end it is just a game.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
San Juan Elephant Seals vs. Montgomery Burns: Season 28 World Series Preview
For months, 32 teams have battled it out for the right to be called the champ. After three grueling rounds of play-offs, the Burns of Montgomery and the Elephant Seals of San Juan have won the pennant, and are set to square off in the best of seven show down known only as the World Series. For Burns, this marks a long awaited return to glory. After making the play-offs 14 out of 16 seasons and winning two World Championships, Monty underwent a long period of rebuilding centered around uber star, Roger Conroy. Now in it's fourth consecutive play off appearance, Alabama's finest look to take home Plumpy gold for a third time. In San Juan, the eight time was finally the charm, as the E-Seals finally got over the LCS hump and are in the World Series for the first time in 27 seasons. Both squads feature potent offenses and homer friendly home ballparks, so the pitchers will have their work cut out for them come first pitch at 11:07am (EST) Wednesday morning. Let's see how these two squads measure up head to head.
Lineups
San Juan Elephant Seals (vs. RHP, no DH)
1.) Einar Rivera-CF .319/.392/427
2.) James Rooney-LF .319/.413/.639
3.) Bret Moore-RF .283/.377/.579
4.) Giomar Estrada-1B .324/.427/.568
5.) Fred Piper-2B .233/.310/.447
6.) Anibal Franco-3B .253/.328/.418
7.) Bo Cerda-C .253/.303/.449
8.) William Park-SS .248/.273/.515
Keep your on Pedro Flores. Manager bcpbcp7 did not start him against RHP in interleague play, but his bat may be too strong to keep out of the lineup in the World Series.
Montgomery Burns (vs. RHP, no DH)
1.) Roger Conroy-LF .311/.409/.613
2.) Giomar Bonilla-SS .288/.341/.508
3.) Esteban Diaz-1B .304/.360/.528
4.) Ricardo Bravo-RF .331/.378/.547
5.) Dock Mercedes-3B .339/.396/.534
6.) Jack Hammonds-C .316/.386/.428
7.) Victor Padilla-2B .295/.360/.541
8.) Tito Baldwin-CF .262/.329/.427
As you can see, these are two offensive powerhouses. Let's look at the SP rotations.
San Juan Pitching Rotation (ERA/WHIP/K:BB)
1.) Rondell Wise .365/1.26/119:48
2.) Miguel Gonzalez 3.73/1.22/162:66
3.) Lloyd Brock 4.67/1.39/116:61
At this point it appears San Juan will be going with a three man rotation, though Alex Romo would likely get the nod if they choose to use four starting pitchers.
Montgomery Burns Pitching Rotation
1.) Ezdra Nunez 3.34/1.28/147:52
2.) Shelley Olson 3.10/1.21/176:66
3.) Ismael Park 4.30/1.41/158:55
It also appears Burns will be running a three man rotation, though Pasqual Perez would likely get the call should an extra arm be needed for a start.
Prediction:
These teams are very evenly matched. Burns has the slight edge on offense, while the E-Seals have the slight edge of pitching. In the end, I expect the veteran bat of James Rooney to come through for San Juan, giving the Elephant Seal their first championship in franchise history
Elephant Seals in 7.
Lineups
San Juan Elephant Seals (vs. RHP, no DH)
1.) Einar Rivera-CF .319/.392/427
2.) James Rooney-LF .319/.413/.639
3.) Bret Moore-RF .283/.377/.579
4.) Giomar Estrada-1B .324/.427/.568
5.) Fred Piper-2B .233/.310/.447
6.) Anibal Franco-3B .253/.328/.418
7.) Bo Cerda-C .253/.303/.449
8.) William Park-SS .248/.273/.515
Keep your on Pedro Flores. Manager bcpbcp7 did not start him against RHP in interleague play, but his bat may be too strong to keep out of the lineup in the World Series.
Montgomery Burns (vs. RHP, no DH)
1.) Roger Conroy-LF .311/.409/.613
2.) Giomar Bonilla-SS .288/.341/.508
3.) Esteban Diaz-1B .304/.360/.528
4.) Ricardo Bravo-RF .331/.378/.547
5.) Dock Mercedes-3B .339/.396/.534
6.) Jack Hammonds-C .316/.386/.428
7.) Victor Padilla-2B .295/.360/.541
8.) Tito Baldwin-CF .262/.329/.427
As you can see, these are two offensive powerhouses. Let's look at the SP rotations.
San Juan Pitching Rotation (ERA/WHIP/K:BB)
1.) Rondell Wise .365/1.26/119:48
2.) Miguel Gonzalez 3.73/1.22/162:66
3.) Lloyd Brock 4.67/1.39/116:61
At this point it appears San Juan will be going with a three man rotation, though Alex Romo would likely get the nod if they choose to use four starting pitchers.
Montgomery Burns Pitching Rotation
1.) Ezdra Nunez 3.34/1.28/147:52
2.) Shelley Olson 3.10/1.21/176:66
3.) Ismael Park 4.30/1.41/158:55
It also appears Burns will be running a three man rotation, though Pasqual Perez would likely get the call should an extra arm be needed for a start.
Prediction:
These teams are very evenly matched. Burns has the slight edge on offense, while the E-Seals have the slight edge of pitching. In the end, I expect the veteran bat of James Rooney to come through for San Juan, giving the Elephant Seal their first championship in franchise history
Elephant Seals in 7.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Season 28 Play-off Preview
Season 28 culminates this week with the beginning of the Plumpyville play-offs! Here’s a look at the twelve teams in the dance, the reasons why they will each win the World Series, the reasons why they each won’t, and what you need to keep your on as the first round unfolds..
National League (In order of seeding)
1.) Syracuse Magma (116-46)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays winner of Boise vs. Pittsburgh
Why they’ll win it: The defending NL Champs look stronger than ever. Frank Leonard will be back from injury in time for the second round, when the Magma will be fresh off a first round bye. The trio of Julio Rijo-Leonard and Tim Corino is as lights out as they come. The offense is lead by MVP candidates Lariel Cubillian and Pedro Martin, while the defense is solid across the board.
Why the won’t: Rijo struggled in the play-offs last season, perhaps due in part to his young age. Underperformance and small sample size bad luck are the main factors concerning the Magma. They remain the favorites by a substantial margin.
Keep your eye on: Patrick Gehrig. His awful durability doesn’t make him much of a factor in the regular season, but in the play-offs, he’s an incredibly valuable commodity.
2.) Montgomery Burns (95-67)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays winner of Hartford vs. Scranton
Why they’ll win it: “Seeeee myyyyy best, see my best, all around player who stomps the rest.” 4 time MVP Roger Conroy is as good as the come in Plumpy, and he’s still in his prime at the tender age of 27. His left handed bat and Monty’s homer friendly park make him an incredibly dangerous weapon, especially in a hypothetical best of seven match up against Syracuse’s right handed trio of doom. The pitching staff, lead by Shelley Olson, is solid, and the lineup lead the NL in AVG/OBP/SLG. This team is dangerous.
Why they won’t: Montgomery Burns version 2.0 has been filled with upside, but also disappointing play-off results, having failed to make it past the Wild Card round in each of the past three seasons. This season Burns has a first round bye, and will meet the winner of the Hartford-Scranton series.
Keep your eye on: Who Burns tabs as its third starter for October (the play-offs really are in October this year. Neat!) Ezdra Nunez has had the best season, Carmine Lucas has the strongest track record, while Ismael Park has struggled the past two post-seasons.
3.) Hartford Submarines (92-70)
Round 1 opponent: Scranton Boll Weevils
Why they’ll win it: Offense. Offense. Offense. This team was designed to rip the cover off the ball. At home, they boast the highest team OPS in the NL at .819. On the road however, they drop by more than 100 points to just .711. That said, does anyone want to see Ramon Lin in their opponents’ lineup come play-off time?
Why they won’t: Pitching. The team lacks a true Ace who they can rely on in the post-season. The bullpen is improved, but if the offense gets contained by a strong arm, it’s going to be a short stay in the “Dance.”
Keep your eye on: Which position Andrew Frasor plays. He’s logged at least two starts at every spot except Catcher and Pitcher this season.
4.) Boise Basturds (77-85)
Round 1 opponent: Pittsburgh Wannabes
Why they’ll win it: Um... well, here goes. Craig Winston keeps things close enough to eek out a 2-1 win against Midre Tarrasco in game 1, game 2 goes to Pitt, game 3 the bats get going and they eek out another W, game 4 Winston come back on short rest and shuts the door. In the NLDS, Frank Leonard has an injury relapse, Tim Corino has drug relapse, and Julio Rijo gets deported. In the NLCS, well... just you wait and see. Then in the World Series Winston goes all Sandy Koufax, wins three of the seven games and brings the title home to Boise. There, that doesn’t sound so ridiculous.
Why they won’t: Okay, maybe that was a bit harsh. Despite this team’s losing record, it boasts a good starting staff, a solid lineup, and a great defense. It’s just tough to imagine anyone getting through the Tarrasco-Louie Sanchez duo and THEN the Magma Trio of Doom.
Keep your eye on: Mitch Mercedes. That guy is just plain good at fake baseball.
5.) Pittsburgh Wannabes (94-68)
Round 1 opponent: Boise Basturds
Why they’ll win it: They boast the second strongest rotation in the NL. After a very disappointing Season 27, this team is right back where we all expected them to be, in the thick of the post-season race. The offense is also littered with run creators.
Why they won’t: Boise also boasts enough big bats that they’re twin Aces might struggle more than usual, especially in the long ball friendly air at the Basturds Memorial Stadium. While they have one of the only SP rotations that can hang with Syracuse, the offense has a couple more holes than the Magma. Still, this team has as good a chance as any of dethroning the NL Champs.
Keep your eye on: Geraldo Rosado. The dude has had an awesome rookie season that few predicted him to have. Will his lower control become a factor in the play-offs?
6.) Scranton Boll Weevils (90-72)
Round 1 opponent: Hartford Submarines 2.0
Why they’ll win it: Luck, folks. Good old fashioned luck.
Why they won’t: This team has a bright future, but there are too many missing pieces for the B-Weevs to make a deep run this post-season.
Keep your eye on: Mack Wells versus the potent Hartford lineup. Will his elite control be enough to fool the creatine ridden Submarines 2.0 bats?
American League (In order of seeding)
1.) Durham Dirt Dogs (117-45)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays winner of Ottawa vs. San Juan
Why they’ll win it: A regime change did not alter the M.O. of the four time champs: winning. They finish with the best record in the A.L.... by a lot. Their core remains intact for this season (Brian Lewis contract negotiations have reportedly stalled out) and they stand as good a chance as any team of taking home Plumpy gold. The pitching staff has struggled, somewhat this season, with the exception of Bubbles Franco who has run his record to an astonishing 28-4, and is the clear anchor of the Dirt Dogs rotation.
Why they won’t: The A.L. is loaded and ready for action. While Durham remains the favorite, San Juan or Ottawa stands in the way in the ALDS, both of whom are formidable opponents. Last season San Juan defeated Durham, and Ottawa is having the best season in franchise history.
Keep your eye on: Brian Lewis. He’s slugged 22 post-season bombs in his career, but will he be able to fend of the distraction of his impending free agency?
2.) Omaha Settlers (101-61)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays the winner of Chicago vs. Oakland
Why they’ll win it: The Settlers boast an impressive 1-2-3 SP punch in Vic Pena, Del Moya, and Roger Jameson, all free agent acquisitions that have paid off tremendously. They have a lineup that boasts Silver Sluggers at SS and 3B. The sheep traders also have a strong combination of veteran leadership and young up and comers just entering their prime. Omaha is very well rounded, boasting the A.L’s 4th best team ERA, 3rd best team OPS, while accumulating the third most plus plays on defense.
Why they won’t: Relief pitching remains a question mark. The SPs will give the Settlers a chance to win every game, but will the bullpen be able to firmly close the door when the best bats in the league come to town?
Keep your eye on: Desi Pena. The young slugger has been cold lately, but he has the potential to lead the wagon train to the A.L. pennant.
3.) Chicago Fatties (98-64)
Round 1 opponent: Oakland Hammers
Why they’ll win it: The defending champs retain perhaps the most dangerous weapon in Plumpy, back to back Cy Young award winner Shigetoshi Jang. Though we have seen the first chinks in his thus far impenetrable armor against regression, he remains the SP to beat in post-season play. Jang leads a pitching staff that boasts the second best team ERA in the Junior Circuit.
Why they won’t: The offense has struggled at times this season, and has just the 11th best OPS in the A.L. The team is vulnerable against right handed pitching, but it’s good enough to put at least a few runs across in every game, which might be all the Fatties pitching staff needs to keep the hardware in the Second City.
Keep your eye on: Cristobal Guzman. The guy went 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA and nearly a 3:1 K:BB ratio in last season’s post-season run to glory.
4.) Ottawa Eh’s (92-70)
Round 1 opponent: San Juan Elephant Seals
Why they’ll win it: The Eh’s go into post-season play riding their greatest strength: run prevention. Did you know... the boys now turned men from Ottawa lead the A.L. in team ERA AND in fielding percentage? If you’re going to Ottawa, make sure to bring a shut down ACE because your team is going to have a hard time scoring many runs.
Why they won’t: The Eh’s have power, but they have struggled to get on base, ranking 12th in OBP in the A.L., but 7th in SLG. The home runs are going to come, but who will be on base for them? They also got a very difficult draw, getting the Elephant Seals and round one, with Durham waiting to take on the winner.
Keep your eye on: Esteban Ferrer. The reigning Silver Slugger in CF has missed most of the season with a torn hamstring, but should be recovered in time for some if not all of the ALDS, should the Eh’s make it past San Juan.
5.) San Juan Elephant Seals (100-62)
Round 1 opponent: Ottawa Eh’s
Why they’ll win it: This team is due. James Rooney had the best season of his career (at an astonishing age 34!) and harpooned the greatest show on pixles to the Major League lead in Homeruns and OPS. The starting pitching staff is solid, top to bottom, but lacks the true Ace that left with the disintegration of Einar Pena. Still, the Elephant Seals can put up 8 runs on anyone, and have the pitching to keep opponents bats quiet.
Why they won’t: The E-Seals have lost a devastating SEVEN American League Championship Series over the past thirteen seasons, a number that seems almost impossible to believe. One of these seasons, Hiram Bithorn’s finest will crack through and take home the A.L. crown, but they’ll have to get through three very good teams, including arch rival Durham, in order to do it.
Keep your eye on: James Rooney, because he’s boldly going where no fake baseball player has gone before.
6.) Oakland Hammers (96-66)
Round 1 opponent: Chicago Fatties
Why they’ll win it: Brian Clinton has been outstanding, holding opponents to an AVG of .245 while limiting hitters to just 19 dingers. His durability makes him a weapon that can be used frequently. Harry Bautista and Omar Franco are capable of multiple HR games off of even the league’s best pitchers. This team is well rounded.
Why they won’t: The A.L., as previously documented, is stacked. While the pitching staff is strong, the Hammers will likely face Shigetoshi Jang twice in the opening round. Will the big bats be enough to carry the three time champs to victory once more?
Keep an eye on: Jerome Hayes. The Oakland closer doesn’t strike a lot of guys out, but his nasty repertoire held opposing batters below .200 on the season.
-Written by zeustis01
National League (In order of seeding)
1.) Syracuse Magma (116-46)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays winner of Boise vs. Pittsburgh
Why they’ll win it: The defending NL Champs look stronger than ever. Frank Leonard will be back from injury in time for the second round, when the Magma will be fresh off a first round bye. The trio of Julio Rijo-Leonard and Tim Corino is as lights out as they come. The offense is lead by MVP candidates Lariel Cubillian and Pedro Martin, while the defense is solid across the board.
Why the won’t: Rijo struggled in the play-offs last season, perhaps due in part to his young age. Underperformance and small sample size bad luck are the main factors concerning the Magma. They remain the favorites by a substantial margin.
Keep your eye on: Patrick Gehrig. His awful durability doesn’t make him much of a factor in the regular season, but in the play-offs, he’s an incredibly valuable commodity.
2.) Montgomery Burns (95-67)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays winner of Hartford vs. Scranton
Why they’ll win it: “Seeeee myyyyy best, see my best, all around player who stomps the rest.” 4 time MVP Roger Conroy is as good as the come in Plumpy, and he’s still in his prime at the tender age of 27. His left handed bat and Monty’s homer friendly park make him an incredibly dangerous weapon, especially in a hypothetical best of seven match up against Syracuse’s right handed trio of doom. The pitching staff, lead by Shelley Olson, is solid, and the lineup lead the NL in AVG/OBP/SLG. This team is dangerous.
Why they won’t: Montgomery Burns version 2.0 has been filled with upside, but also disappointing play-off results, having failed to make it past the Wild Card round in each of the past three seasons. This season Burns has a first round bye, and will meet the winner of the Hartford-Scranton series.
Keep your eye on: Who Burns tabs as its third starter for October (the play-offs really are in October this year. Neat!) Ezdra Nunez has had the best season, Carmine Lucas has the strongest track record, while Ismael Park has struggled the past two post-seasons.
3.) Hartford Submarines (92-70)
Round 1 opponent: Scranton Boll Weevils
Why they’ll win it: Offense. Offense. Offense. This team was designed to rip the cover off the ball. At home, they boast the highest team OPS in the NL at .819. On the road however, they drop by more than 100 points to just .711. That said, does anyone want to see Ramon Lin in their opponents’ lineup come play-off time?
Why they won’t: Pitching. The team lacks a true Ace who they can rely on in the post-season. The bullpen is improved, but if the offense gets contained by a strong arm, it’s going to be a short stay in the “Dance.”
Keep your eye on: Which position Andrew Frasor plays. He’s logged at least two starts at every spot except Catcher and Pitcher this season.
4.) Boise Basturds (77-85)
Round 1 opponent: Pittsburgh Wannabes
Why they’ll win it: Um... well, here goes. Craig Winston keeps things close enough to eek out a 2-1 win against Midre Tarrasco in game 1, game 2 goes to Pitt, game 3 the bats get going and they eek out another W, game 4 Winston come back on short rest and shuts the door. In the NLDS, Frank Leonard has an injury relapse, Tim Corino has drug relapse, and Julio Rijo gets deported. In the NLCS, well... just you wait and see. Then in the World Series Winston goes all Sandy Koufax, wins three of the seven games and brings the title home to Boise. There, that doesn’t sound so ridiculous.
Why they won’t: Okay, maybe that was a bit harsh. Despite this team’s losing record, it boasts a good starting staff, a solid lineup, and a great defense. It’s just tough to imagine anyone getting through the Tarrasco-Louie Sanchez duo and THEN the Magma Trio of Doom.
Keep your eye on: Mitch Mercedes. That guy is just plain good at fake baseball.
5.) Pittsburgh Wannabes (94-68)
Round 1 opponent: Boise Basturds
Why they’ll win it: They boast the second strongest rotation in the NL. After a very disappointing Season 27, this team is right back where we all expected them to be, in the thick of the post-season race. The offense is also littered with run creators.
Why they won’t: Boise also boasts enough big bats that they’re twin Aces might struggle more than usual, especially in the long ball friendly air at the Basturds Memorial Stadium. While they have one of the only SP rotations that can hang with Syracuse, the offense has a couple more holes than the Magma. Still, this team has as good a chance as any of dethroning the NL Champs.
Keep your eye on: Geraldo Rosado. The dude has had an awesome rookie season that few predicted him to have. Will his lower control become a factor in the play-offs?
6.) Scranton Boll Weevils (90-72)
Round 1 opponent: Hartford Submarines 2.0
Why they’ll win it: Luck, folks. Good old fashioned luck.
Why they won’t: This team has a bright future, but there are too many missing pieces for the B-Weevs to make a deep run this post-season.
Keep your eye on: Mack Wells versus the potent Hartford lineup. Will his elite control be enough to fool the creatine ridden Submarines 2.0 bats?
American League (In order of seeding)
1.) Durham Dirt Dogs (117-45)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays winner of Ottawa vs. San Juan
Why they’ll win it: A regime change did not alter the M.O. of the four time champs: winning. They finish with the best record in the A.L.... by a lot. Their core remains intact for this season (Brian Lewis contract negotiations have reportedly stalled out) and they stand as good a chance as any team of taking home Plumpy gold. The pitching staff has struggled, somewhat this season, with the exception of Bubbles Franco who has run his record to an astonishing 28-4, and is the clear anchor of the Dirt Dogs rotation.
Why they won’t: The A.L. is loaded and ready for action. While Durham remains the favorite, San Juan or Ottawa stands in the way in the ALDS, both of whom are formidable opponents. Last season San Juan defeated Durham, and Ottawa is having the best season in franchise history.
Keep your eye on: Brian Lewis. He’s slugged 22 post-season bombs in his career, but will he be able to fend of the distraction of his impending free agency?
2.) Omaha Settlers (101-61)
Round 1 opponent: BYE, plays the winner of Chicago vs. Oakland
Why they’ll win it: The Settlers boast an impressive 1-2-3 SP punch in Vic Pena, Del Moya, and Roger Jameson, all free agent acquisitions that have paid off tremendously. They have a lineup that boasts Silver Sluggers at SS and 3B. The sheep traders also have a strong combination of veteran leadership and young up and comers just entering their prime. Omaha is very well rounded, boasting the A.L’s 4th best team ERA, 3rd best team OPS, while accumulating the third most plus plays on defense.
Why they won’t: Relief pitching remains a question mark. The SPs will give the Settlers a chance to win every game, but will the bullpen be able to firmly close the door when the best bats in the league come to town?
Keep your eye on: Desi Pena. The young slugger has been cold lately, but he has the potential to lead the wagon train to the A.L. pennant.
3.) Chicago Fatties (98-64)
Round 1 opponent: Oakland Hammers
Why they’ll win it: The defending champs retain perhaps the most dangerous weapon in Plumpy, back to back Cy Young award winner Shigetoshi Jang. Though we have seen the first chinks in his thus far impenetrable armor against regression, he remains the SP to beat in post-season play. Jang leads a pitching staff that boasts the second best team ERA in the Junior Circuit.
Why they won’t: The offense has struggled at times this season, and has just the 11th best OPS in the A.L. The team is vulnerable against right handed pitching, but it’s good enough to put at least a few runs across in every game, which might be all the Fatties pitching staff needs to keep the hardware in the Second City.
Keep your eye on: Cristobal Guzman. The guy went 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA and nearly a 3:1 K:BB ratio in last season’s post-season run to glory.
4.) Ottawa Eh’s (92-70)
Round 1 opponent: San Juan Elephant Seals
Why they’ll win it: The Eh’s go into post-season play riding their greatest strength: run prevention. Did you know... the boys now turned men from Ottawa lead the A.L. in team ERA AND in fielding percentage? If you’re going to Ottawa, make sure to bring a shut down ACE because your team is going to have a hard time scoring many runs.
Why they won’t: The Eh’s have power, but they have struggled to get on base, ranking 12th in OBP in the A.L., but 7th in SLG. The home runs are going to come, but who will be on base for them? They also got a very difficult draw, getting the Elephant Seals and round one, with Durham waiting to take on the winner.
Keep your eye on: Esteban Ferrer. The reigning Silver Slugger in CF has missed most of the season with a torn hamstring, but should be recovered in time for some if not all of the ALDS, should the Eh’s make it past San Juan.
5.) San Juan Elephant Seals (100-62)
Round 1 opponent: Ottawa Eh’s
Why they’ll win it: This team is due. James Rooney had the best season of his career (at an astonishing age 34!) and harpooned the greatest show on pixles to the Major League lead in Homeruns and OPS. The starting pitching staff is solid, top to bottom, but lacks the true Ace that left with the disintegration of Einar Pena. Still, the Elephant Seals can put up 8 runs on anyone, and have the pitching to keep opponents bats quiet.
Why they won’t: The E-Seals have lost a devastating SEVEN American League Championship Series over the past thirteen seasons, a number that seems almost impossible to believe. One of these seasons, Hiram Bithorn’s finest will crack through and take home the A.L. crown, but they’ll have to get through three very good teams, including arch rival Durham, in order to do it.
Keep your eye on: James Rooney, because he’s boldly going where no fake baseball player has gone before.
6.) Oakland Hammers (96-66)
Round 1 opponent: Chicago Fatties
Why they’ll win it: Brian Clinton has been outstanding, holding opponents to an AVG of .245 while limiting hitters to just 19 dingers. His durability makes him a weapon that can be used frequently. Harry Bautista and Omar Franco are capable of multiple HR games off of even the league’s best pitchers. This team is well rounded.
Why they won’t: The A.L., as previously documented, is stacked. While the pitching staff is strong, the Hammers will likely face Shigetoshi Jang twice in the opening round. Will the big bats be enough to carry the three time champs to victory once more?
Keep an eye on: Jerome Hayes. The Oakland closer doesn’t strike a lot of guys out, but his nasty repertoire held opposing batters below .200 on the season.
-Written by zeustis01