I agreed with what lobman had previously written on the blog about minors. So to make sure everyone gets a little context, here is what lobman and “the Brain” (ironic) have written about this before.
Minors
The Minor League system will be self policed by Fantrax. You will be required to roster 10 minor leaguers that fall under the rookie max of 130 at-bats or 50 innings pitched, as it always has been.
Under our system, you can still keep your “high minors” players. However, since Fantrax does not allow us to automatically police them, to accrue stats, you would need to move the player to your active roster and replace him with an eligible player to your minor league stable. This will likely mean dropping a Major League player. Alternately, the player may stay in your minor league system, but not accrue stats. You can do this to your liking as needed. This is the “taxi” system discussed in the chat.
June is in the books and it is time to do the monthly power rankings for the start of July. To take a more objective approach, I tried to quantify the category rankings to help with the Power Rankings. I did this by simply adding up a team’s rank in all the categories and dividing by the number of categories to find what I am going to call a team’s rating, just so I don’t use the word ranking 600 times in this blog entry. I did this new rating system through the categories for offensive, pitching, and overall. Obviously, the lower number rating the better, since every team would want to be first in every category. This is by no means a perfect system, but if teams are close in record, their overall rating will be looked at to give a more objective approach to how they are ranked in the Power Rankings. All stats for the rating system were done as of the afternoon of Monday, July 1, so week 14 stats will not be counted toward the rating system.
Well the reigning champion Backdoor Sliderz remain undefeated and have clinch the number 1 seed for the playoffs before the all-star break. As you can see by the category ratings, this is no fluke. This is a complete, well balanced team that is rated first in offense and first in pitching in the league. Their team has been known to devastate opponents to the point that they need to call out of work. There’s a lot of young talent on this roster that should help them compete and make people call out of work for years to come, that is if they don’t break the league this season. They already have 4 players with over 20 HRs (Bellinger, Freeman, Bregman, Acuna). Albies and Domingo Santana are 2 other young hitters having themselves real nice seasons. Santana has over 60 RBIs.
We already saw what some of the young prospects they have can do last year in Soto, Albies, and Acuna, now we are seeing what Tatis Jr. and to a smaller sample size Keston Hiura can do. Tatis Jr. looks legit if you ask me, which makes me love the Altuve trade for him and Bellinger even more. A trade that caught Dochney some flak last year from most, not all though.
The pitchers don’t quite have as much youth as the hitters on Dochney’s Diaper Dandies. They are led by the ageless wonder Justin Verlander as well as veterans like Greinke and deGrom. Walker Buehler is the young gun of the group who is putting together a nice season with his 3.43 ERA and 104 Ks in 97 IP. Robbie Ray is very serviceable because of his K rate but not quite as heralded as the rest because of his inconsistencies and inability to go deep into games. I am sure everyone around the league would take a guy with 129 Ks in 98.2 IP.
Relievers look solid for the Sliderz. Osuna, Holland, and Colome all have firm control over their closer roles while putting up good numbers. D Backs and White Sox need to hang around those Wild Card spots long enough for Holland and Colome not to get traded into setup roles at this year’s MLB deadline though, which is a lot to ask for.
The Fishing Club currently sit tied for 4th place in the standings but they make it to number 2 in the Power Rankings. This is the first team that gets bumped up in the Power Rankings based on their ratings from the new imperfect system that was just created. They are only a half game out of 2nd place anyway so it’s not a huge leap. They have the 3rd rated offense and the 3rd rated pitching, but overall, they are the second rated team. We all know what their core of can do. I am talking about Trout, Betts, Rizzo, and Bryant, who is having himself a nice little come back campaign. They also have some young players who are breaking out in a big way like Josh Bell, who has 25 HRs, 77 RBI, and 65 Runs as of July 2. Austin Meadows is also enjoying himself a nice little breakout season as well, although he has been plummeting down to Earth over his last 30 days with 0 HRs and .267 OBP over that span. Heroy may have missed his chance to trade Meadows at this point, especially now that I am blasting his last 30 on the blog. The rookies are looking solid. Senzel is doing just fine in his first taste of the big leagues, while Yordan Alvarez and Eloy Jimenez look like they will be legit power threats for a long time in this league. Eloy
The pitching was a question mark heading into the season for Ocean Gate, but they have been phenomenal. Luis Castillo has bounced back in a big way with a 2.56 ERA and 115 Ks in 98.1 IP. We all knew Gerrit Cole was a stud, he has 161 Ks in 109.2 IP. Tyler Glasnow was looking like another breakout star before being going down with a forearm injury. Heroy probably won’t get him back before the end of the Backyard season, but I guess there’s still hope.
His bullpen is solid with Iglesias, Vazquez, and Hader. Hader hates to give up hits to minorities so he decides to strike them all out instead with his. He is probably the best reliever in all of baseball and has a ridiculous 16.8 K/9. Iglesias and Vazquez are prime trade candidates if the Reds and Pirates fall out of that Wild Card Contention, so the Fishing Club better be rooting for the Pirates and Reds to stay relevant in July.
R Mac has put together a nice a little squad for himself. When I first came into this league, he was a pitching first team, but now he has a lot of young stud hitters while his pitching staff is more than formidable. Let’s get Yelich talk out of the way since he is challenging Trout as best baseball player on the planet currently. Yelich only has 30 HRs, 65 Runs, 66 RBIs, 18 SBs, and a .428 OBP this season so far. Still has a week to pad those stats prior to the all-star break. He just traded for Rhys Hoskins in what I thought was a great move for R Mac. Sold high on Ketel Marte in that move, good job. Gleyber Torres is a stud buried down at the bottom of the Yankees stacked lineup but that’s ok because there’s still plenty of run producing opportunities down there. Javier Baez continues to carry over his success from last year. Yoan Moncada is finally playing up to his potential as well. Saying finally seems harsh when he’s only 24 years old, but that’s what he gets for signing a huge contract at 19.
On the pitching side of things, the Kings look great on paper. They have Paxton, Kershaw, Berrios Strasburg, and Syndergaard. Paxton and Syndergaard have been mildly disappointing though, especially Thor for me personally being a Mets fan. You can throw 99 all you want but when you leave it down the middle, big leaguers are going to catch up on it. If the pitching stays healthy and clicks like they are supposed to, this will be a very dangerous team come playoff time. Let’s not forget 2-way player Brendan McKay just getting called up by the Rays ready to contribute minors eligible innings and at bats for the Kings.
In the bullpen, Doolittle and Hand are good options that I do not think stand to much a risk to be traded. Kimbrel finally signed with the Cubs and that is great place for him to be and R Mac could not be happier after enduring those 2 long months of dead space on his roster.
The IsoDOPES just had their impressive 7 game win streak snapped by the top team in the league and fell to 4th in the Power Rankings despite being tied for 2nd in the standings and just getting Judge back from injury. T might have a legitimate gripe with the blog for his 4th place ranking, especially considering they were just in the championship game like I don’t know, 10 months ago. But screw it, I have the rankings power now, and I am putting too much stock in my nowhere near perfect rating system, a system in which T is rated 5th in offense, pitching, and overall. So, don’t @ me with your gripes bro, if anything you’re overrated in the power rankings.
The Topes have some good hitting. Mike Moustakas, who I have a personal bias against I guess because I don’t think he is that good, has an Isotopes leading 23 HRs before the all-star break. Those 23 HRs make me look real silly for making my previous statement. Arenado and Blackmon have been a dynamic 1-2 punch as the Colorado edition of the Isotopes. Each have 20 HRs, and OBPs north of .380. DJ LaMahieu may be the hottest hitter in all of baseball currently, he has over 60 runs and RBIs before the all-star break. He is another player I once doubted and questioned how he would hit away from Coors Field. I am eating my words once again on that one. Matt Olson has 16 HRs while missing the first like 6 weeks of the season or something like that, which is impressive. This team’s offense is just going to get deadlier as they are just getting Judge back.
Pitching is just so-so on paper for the Topes. Chris Sale is a stud, I don’t feel like talking about him. Mike Minor is a revelation this season with his 2.40 ERA and 110 Ks in 112.2 IP. They have the ever-valuable SP eligible pitchers picking up saves for them in Sergio Romo and Ian Kennedy. Both of which could be traded and out of closers roles by the end of the month though, because the teams they play for stink.
Rojo Rojo Rojo. Fan favorite of the league. Winner of the superlative “most likely to not start 12 in a week.” I probably should have given him a lower rank for his lack of commitment, but I was more impressed that he sits in a playoff spot even with that lack of commitment. He doesn’t exactly go by the Rays Ways philosophy that Odom does, but he does go by the full line changes and I do not need a closer philosophy. Don’t leave the league Rojo!!! You’re the only non asshole out of your group of friends, don’t leave me with all these other losers next year.
Let’s start off by talking about another player I have openly ripped in the chat or blog before. Eric Hosmer has a Force leading 60 RBI this season. That just upsets me, because I guess I have a personal bias for no good reason against the guy because I always say he stinks and I guess I was wrong, again. Rafael Devers having himself a fine season in Boston. Joey Gallo is not shocking anyone with his 20 HRs, but he has a .426 OBP!!!!!! Goldschmidt has been slightly disappointing, while Chavis has been a rookie sensation. Also, Springer is a stud, but we knew that. And Shohei shoheiing us that he is valuable even when he is not being a 2-way player.
On the pitching side of things, Ryu has been a boss (1.83 ERA, 94 Ks, 103 IP, 13 QS, 9 Ws). Bumgarner looking to have a Verlander like resurgence if he could get traded to a contender by the end of the month. But I know Bummy has a weird no trade list that I do not feel like looking up right now but recall there being some contenders on that list. Maybe just a ploy to get them to commit long term to Bummy before trading for him. Let’s not forget about fan favorite Charlie Morton, who has been unstoppable for Tampa this year (100 IP, 120 Ks, 2.43 ERA).
The Slugs currently are tied for 6th place with the Island Beach Bears. I have no idea who would win the tie breaker if the season ended today, but we have a few weeks until we need to worry about that junk, if we need to worry about it by then. This Slugs team is built on their pitching. They are rated 4th currently, and sport quite an impressive rotation. Simply put Max Scherzer is the best pitcher in the game and he is doing it again this year. He owns a 2.43 ERA to go along with 170 Ks in 122.1 IP, 15 QS, and 8 Ws. Yeah…. Um, he’s good. The pitching doesn’t end with Scherzer, Trevor Bauer has 134 Ks while Patrick Corbin and Jon Gray each have 111. Rookie sensation Chris Paddack looks very legit and being sent down to the minors for those few weeks might have been the best thing to happen for the Slugs if he avoids being shut down for the Backyard playoffs. Oh yeah, there’s this other guy named Severino sitting on the IL for the Slugs. Unfortunately, he may not be healed in time to make in a difference this year in the Backyard. Also, Kirby Yates has 27 saves for the Padres, that’s good for most in the league by the way.
The Slugs offense is a work in progress. They are 10th in the category ratings, which basically equates to them being hot garbage (if you put stock in the irrelevant ratings that is). Not ideal, but there’s potential here. Luke Voit and Eddie Rosario both just landed on the IL, fortunately it doesn’t appear to be serious for either player. Story, Eugenio Suarez and Jorge Polanco are all having good years as well. Puig’s 17 HRs and 13 SBs are pretty good despite a .289 OBP and only 35 runs scored (this is considered having a monster season if you have a team with a shitty offense like the Slugs do). Vlad Jr. has big time potential and we certainly haven’t seen him anywhere near his best.
As previously stated, the Island Bears are currently tied with the Slugs for the final playoff spot. They rated 9th in all 3 of the categories. Gary Sanchez is the best fantasy catcher in baseball with his 23 HRs. Altuve has been banged up a bit and disappointing in general during his Bears tenure, but who knows, he could be healthy and back to his MVP like form any day now. Edwin Encarnacion is another ageless wonder as he just keeps hitting bombs everywhere he goes and is now part of a modern-day Murderer’s Row. Max Muncy and Dan Vogelbach have been having very good years as both have 20 HRs so far. Possibly their good play and three mashers with first base eligibility is why the Bears traded Hoskins for Ketel Marte.
Aaron Nola is the Bears best pitcher and set a pretty high bar for himself last year. So, his 4.22 ERA this year is disappointing to say the least. He still has 110 Ks in 96 IP, and he will be fine over the long run. After Nola the Bears staff gets a little dicey. Domingo German was amid a breakout season before getting injured. Started pitching like dogshit in his last 3 starts before landing on the IL, but the Bears are hoping he gets back to his form in the first 10 starts when he comes back this week.
Shane’s 5 wins so far is the same amount of wins Shane had in his first 2 seasons in the league. In fact, Shane’s squad is sitting a half game out of the final playoff spot with 5 weeks left in the Backyard season. A playoff birth is very attainable for the fan favorite Leviathans. He is rated 10th overall in the category ratings, but that rating is probably meaningless anyway.
My main man Carlos Santana having a hell of a season back in Cleveland (55 Runs, 18 HRs, 50 RBI, .411 OBP). Adalberto Mondesi is leading the league in SBs with 27 and 3Bs with 8. Grandal is one of the few catchers worth rostering and has 18 HRs this year with a .379 OBP.
Pitching hasn’t gone quite according to plan for the Leviathans. Soroka has been a stud with a 2.13 ERA and 9 Wins for the Braves, but his 67 Ks in 84.2 IP is unimpressive. Jack Flaherty’s 94 Ks in 85.1 IP is impressive, but his 6 QS and 4.75 ERA is not. Matthew Boyd having a great year for Shane’s favorite team and I feel his 129 Ks is slightly out of nowhere. His 11.4 K/9 is a dramatic increase from his career 8.4 K/9 and he’s not sacrificing control with a 1.8 BB/9 on the year.
Another team that has been struck by some bad luck this season. The category ratings justify the Rays Ways philosophy that Odom has implemented as they are the 3rd overall rated team in the league, even though their record has them tied for last. They throw bulkers at you on a regular basis, constantly get to the 100 K mark during a week and have tied the Ks record twice this year. The saves and stolen bases are there, just like every year for the Rays, but now their RBI numbers are way up to 3rd in the league. 6th in ERA is not bad either considering he’ll throw any bulker at you seemingly going against any team.
Tough to talk about individuals on a team that has literally made 1243 moves so far this year. Lourdes Gurriel Jr and Austin Riley each look like they’re sticking around, and each have 14 HRs in under 200 at bats this season. Jose Ramirez is supposed to be their best player but has struggled a whole lot this season, at least he has 18 SBs. Speaking of steals, I know Odom is happy about rostering Mallex Smith these days and his 21 SBs.
The pitching side of things is tough to track as well for the X-Rays. They love to stream their bulkers, especially their Tampa Bay Rays bulkers. Outside of the bulkers, Snell has taken a step back, but still has an insane 117 Ks in 85 IP. Lucas Giolito has been a stud this season for the White Sox with his 115 Ks in 96 IP with a 2.72 ERA and 11 wins. They also grab a lot of saves out of Chapman, Greene, and even Edwin Diaz. Diaz is now a Met though so naturally his ERA has gone up 2 runs.
This is a very unfair ranking for the Bad Dudes, the category ratings say he’s much better than last in the league. Lobman and Odom should both probably be in the top 6 and not the bottom like they currently sit in the standings. Lobman has been struck with a lot of bad luck this year if you ask me. His lineup has a ton of power and run producing evidenced by his recent record setting 28 HR and 87 RBI week, but he was only rated the 4th best offense because it does lack some speed. This lineup boasts the likes of Pete Alonso, Manny Machado, and Matt Chapman who all have at least 20 HRs. Bryce Harper and Willson Contreras are both good players, although it could be said Harper, the former prodigy and MVP has been disappointing this season. All this is forgetting to mention that Giancarlo Stanton only has 31 at bats this season. In a Stanton related note, I heard Stanton just signed a sponsorship deal with Herr’s to name a potato chip after him…. AJ Pollock has a deal with Lay’s.
The pitching is where this team seems to fall apart. Alex Reyes is currently wasting a roster spot with his 53 career IP currently sitting in the minors. Brandon Woodruff is really the only pitcher of note for this team with his 3.79 ERA and 120 Ks in 102 IP. The Bad Dudes have a few prospect pitchers who can not make it to the majors soon enough for Lobman.
Dedicated to Tyler Skaggs after his untimely passing.
Week 13 is in the books and we saw one impressive winning
streak end to an even more impressive winning streak. We already have the first seed for the
playoffs clinched and we’re not even at the all-star break. This clinching of the first seed means nothing,
because all that matters is just getting into the playoffs, record doesn’t matter
once in the playoffs.
We also saw 2 teams flirt with breaking the Ks record, the HR
beaten, and RBI record getting demolished, albeit in a losing effort. Most of the matchups ended up not being that
close except for 2.
Unfortunately, there are no Jerichos to report this week either. This is sad news because of the newly found interest in the distinction with the name change which everyone around the league seems to agree is a much better name.
East
Coast Kings silence Rojo’s Renegade Force 8-2-4
MVP
Nelson Cruz 5 Runs 2 2Bs, 3 HRs, 10 RBI, .500 OBP
In an interesting strategic decision, Rojo decided it would be best to only make 7 out of 12 starts this week. Bold strategy Cotton! The move did not pay off as this matchup wasn’t particularly close, I am sure Rojo had numerous empty lineup spots as well if he only started 7 pitchers this week. 48 Ks might be an all-time low, but I don’t feel like fact checking that. One must start questioning how long Rojo is going to stick around the Backyard or if he is just too cool for us losers.
R Mac won the battle of the chat mutes with relative ease this week. He himself only made 11 starts, but that was still 4 more than the other Ryan in the league. Nelson Cruz had a big week on his way to matchup MVP honors. I guess I’ll make mention of Rafael Devers’ 7 2Bs this week, because that is impressive whether his GM was paying attention to him or not.
Next week
RRF (6-6-1) v IBB (5-7-1)
ECK (7-6) v RAYS (3-7-3)
Pacific
Beach X-Rays bulk their way to victory against Ocean Gate Fishing Club 9-3-2
Lourdy Lourd, Gurriel had himself a week with his 7 Runs, 5
HRs, and 8 RBI. He gets the MVP of the
matchup despite The X-Rays tying the Ks record this week. He got a lot of Ks from a lot of guys
including like 16 or something from Snell, but his other stats weren’t the most
impressive considering he had 1 so-so start out of his 2 this week. Kevin Newman was another big bat for the Rays
chipping in 3 HRs and 7 RBIs. X-Rays may
be tied for last, but do not mistake them for an easy win. The no light days and bulking philosophy
makes this team very dangerous. They may
have suffered from a bit of bad luck this season as well when you look at where
they rank on the year in all the categories, but we’ll expand on that more in
the July Power Rankings.
Greg’s team is pretty good in their own right. He got big strike out performances from pitchers Bieber (17 Ks), Cole (13 Ks), and Fried (14 Ks), but unfortunately, he was playing the guy who seems to get 100 Ks every week. The Fishing Club disappointed on offense this week which is a shame considering some of those guys they have. They look to bounce back against the Isotopes in the extended Week 14.
Next Week
RAYS (3-7-3) v ECK (7-6)
OGFC (6-6-1) v TOPES (7-6)
Barnegat
Banana Slugs out pitch the slugging Bad Dudes 7-6-1
***MVP OF THE WEEK***
Max Scherzer 16 IP, 24 Ks, 2 QS, 2 W, 1.29 ERA
87 RBI for the now last place Bad Dudes. This shattered the previous RBI record which
was established in the BD era, so who really cares about that old record anyway. His 28 HRs were also an all-time Backyard
record. All this was done with Stanton
landing back on the IL. And you can forget
about the 60/60 club, Lobman just established 60/80 club. Most impressive part about these records is
how Lobman still didn’t win the matchup.
He’s still a loser, even with his 62 Runs, 28 HRs, 87 RBI, and .388 OBP.
Lobman only has a few more weeks to trade
for some pitching. He may be sitting in
last place currently, but he is by no means out of this playoff race.
Breaking News. Mad Max is pretty good. 24 K week is no joke no matter how many starts you have. He was simply dominant and helped bring the Slugs to 1 K away from tying the all time K record with Odom’s Rays this week. Trevor Bauer also pitched in 12 Ks over 6.2 innings. This matchup was a classic pitching vs hitting battle and pitching won. All the other team had to do was win 1 category on their weak side and the Slugs were able to win doubles. Luke Voit only hitter of note for the Slugs as he chipped in 5 2Bs.
Next Week
BBS (5-7-1) v LTBS (13-0)
RCBD (3-7-3) v LAKE (5-8)
Island
Beach Bears beat Lakehurst Leviathans 7-2-5
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – JUNE 09: Max Muncy #13 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates as he trots around the bases after hitting a solo home run against the San Francisco Giants in the top of the first inning of a Major League Baseball game at Oracle Park on June 9, 2019 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Well this was an ugly matchup looking at the surface stats, so much so that I really do not want to spend to much time on it. Bears won the category of ERA for the week with a hideous 5.65 ERA to Shane’s 6.00. Max Muncy was good, 12 RBI weeks are very impressive. To the Bears credit, 51 RBIs is pretty good, but .317 OBP is not. The only teams that both these teams would have beat beside each other was probably the 7 start Renegades.
Next Week
IBB (5-7-1) v RRF (6-6-1)
LAKE (5-8) v RCBD (3-7-3)
***MATCHUP
OF THE WEEK REVIEW***
Lacey
Township Backdoor Sliderz stay undefeated with Sunday night magic to beat Astoria
Isotopes 7-5-2
MVP
Ronald Acuna Jr 11 Runs, 2 2Bs, 2 HRs, 2 RBI, 4 SBs, .469
OBP
The matchup of the week did not fail to deliver. The rematch from last year’s championship
came down to the wire as Dochney was able to lean on the Baby Braves stirring
up Sunday night magic in order to capture a victory. It was Acuna’s home run that solidified the win
for the REIGNING, DEFENDING, UNDISPUTED BACKYARD CHAMPION OF THE WOOOOOOOOORLD,
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSEAAAAAN DOCHNEY! (imagine Paul Heyman delivering that). T’s winning streak ended at 7 while Dochney’s
streak is now at 18 dating back to last season.
Dochney has clinched the top seed and it’s not even the ASB.
Dochney did everything he could do to lose this matchup by having
empty lineup spots on full days with players sitting in their respected MLB
lineup. Missed out on a DeGrom QS
because I was sleeping at the wheel and left him on the bench. But the Sliderz were able to produce just
enough while I was on auto pilot. Pitching
was awful for the Backdoor Sliderz. Seems
like they just have not been that sharp over the last few weeks, which is not a
good sign going into an 18-start week against the Slugs.
T had a tough loss in this one as he lost a Sunday lead to Dochney’s squad down in Lacey. T was so emotionally crippled and traumatized from #DochWeek that he had to take off work Monday. Can anybody get LaMahieu out right now btw? He was dominant once again with 8 Runs, 3 2Bs, 1 3B, 2 HRs, 10 RBIs, .654 OBP. Charlie Blackmon is also back folks as he had himself one hell of a week as well (11 Runs, 2 HRs, 7 RBI, .452 OBP).
Next Week
LTBS (13-0) v BBS (5-7-1)
TOPES (7-6) v OGFC (6-6-1)
A LOOK AHEAD
Next week will be the extended 2-week matchup because of the all-star break. Each team will be able to start 18 pitchers. The biggest storyline will be how many starts will Rojo throw out there?
***Matchup of the week in week 14 East Coast Kings (7-6)
vs Pacific Beach X-Rays (3-7-3)***
This is a shocking turn of events as I stated that Dochney
will be getting every matchup of the week until his streak ends, but it was
decided that R Mac and Odom getting it this week. Odom is fighting to keep his playoff hopes
alive as he goes against a formidable foe in R Mac. Odom is sitting tied for last, but I do not
believe his team is a last place team when looking at his stats compared to the
rest of the league. He may be victim to
some bad luck according to the new rating system that means nothing that was
just created by Dochney. This will be expanded
upon further in the July Power Rankings
Week 12 is in the book folks. There were some tight matchups that went down to the wire. A few teams stayed hot; one team in particular stayed undefeated. Five players were added to the ever popular and fan favorite List of Jericho.
Island Beach Bears are out pitched and lose to the Barnegat Banana Slugs 6-5-2
These teams are tied for 7th place with each
having a record of 4-7-1, only a half game behind Shane’s Leviathans for the 6th
and final playoff spot who sit at 5-7.
It was the pitching that led the Slugs to victory as they dominated the
pitching categories 5-0-2. Of course,
this means they lost the hitting categories 1-5-1, only winning steals in a
close 5-4 battle.
Gary Sanchez continues to mash as he had 3 HRs and 9 RBI on
the week and now has 23 home runs on the year for the Bears. That Yankees lineup going to be fun to watch
as they are starting to get healthy. The
Bears pitching continues to struggle on the season, their team ERA was 5.45
this week. The Bears are ranked 10th
in team ERA and QS on the season. Doesn’t
help when Aaron Nola is pitching a gem from the bench on
Yasiel Puig recorded a Jericho on his way to earning the MVP of the matchup. His 2 steals proved to be the most important of his stats recorded this week. Steals were the only offensive category that the Slugs narrowly won this week. It was all they needed though, because the Bears pitching is just not very good. Strong pitching performances this week from Lance Lynn (15 Ks in 2 starts), Max Scherzer (10 Ks), and Patrick Corbin (8 Ks) for the slugs. Shout out to Adam Ottavino and his 3 holds for the Slugs who won the holds category 3-2.
JERICHOs
Puig – BBS
NEXT WEEK
BBS (4-7-1) v RCBD (3-6-3)
IBB (4-7-1) v LAKE (5-7)
Isotopes stay
hot by beating off the Bad Dudes 7-6-1
Another closely contested Backyard matchup. There’s a new DJ taking over the infield in
the Bronx. LaMahieu had himself a damn
good week with 10 runs and 10 RBI and OBP over .500. He also had himself the only triple of the
matchup. He was only a double short of
the prestigious Jericho, that every hitter so desires to get every week. This was the 7th straight victory
for the Isotopes who now sit in second place after starting the season 0-5. Ian Kennedy had 2 saves with SP eligibility.
Kennedy is over 30 and a former Yankee, this is the only reason why T knows his
name.
The Bad Dudes offense is pretty good. 51 runs and 54 RBIs for the week. Peter Alonso continues to rake .548 OBP, 7 runs, 8 RBIs, 4 HRs, 3 2Bs. Chapman, Mazara, and Machado all had big weeks on their own. This offense is just getting Stanton back too, who will find his groove and start crushing home runs soon enough. Maybe they should think of trading a bat for a pitcher, I know I’d be willing to take Alonso off his hands. 6.25 team ERA for the Bad Dudes this week. Their best pitcher on the season has been Brandon Woodruff (114 Ks in 94.1 IP, 7 QS, 9 Ws, 4.01 ERA). Pretty solid year for Woodruff I will admit, but they need some more weapons out there. Shout out to Alex Reyes sitting at 53 IP in his career. Alex just left a AAA start with pectoral discomfort this week (cue the San Andreas “ah shit, here we go again” meme). He has been struggling in the minors this year anyway, but it would sure be nice for that guy to stay healthy.
NEXT WEEK
RCBD (3-6-3) v BBS (4-7-1)
TOPES (7-5) v LTBD (12-0) ***Matchup of the Week***
Ocean Gate Fishing Club dominate the East Coast Kings 10-2-2
It appears Greg doesn’t love R Mac anymore after this week (or whatever Greg’s name was for a couple of those weeks). This one wasn’t even close. The Fishing Club’s staff was excellent with 9 QS, 2.42 ERA, 6 Saves, 4 Holds. Cole Hamels, Gerrit Cole, and Shane Bieber strong weeks, while Castillo racked up 13 Ks in an otherwise mediocre 2 start week. Trout was just a monster as he shows us why he is the best baseball player on the planet. Heroy got good performances from other spots on the offense as well. Alvarez had 3 HR and 8 RBI, while Betts was a 2B away from a Jericho. Amed Rosario was motivated by my words last week and showed he has a pulse (.458 OBP, 4 runs, 3 2Bs, 2 RBI, 3 SB). Get your trade offers in while you have a chance folks!
Berrios was impressive in a 2-start week for the Kings 15 IP, 13 Ks, 2 QS. Christian Yelich is keeping up with his usual insanity and hit another 3 dingers this week bringing his season total 29. Yeah, he’s pretty good too and in contention for this whole best baseball player on the planet thing (63 Runs, 29 HRs, 63 RBIs, 17 SB, .435 OBP). The Kings are looking to bounce back this week against the Renegades.
NEXT WEEK
OGFC (6-5-1) v RAYS (2-7-3)
ECK (6-6) v RRF (6-5-1)
Lakehurst Leviathans beat Rojo’s Renegade Force 9-3-2
The Leviathans pull out their 5th victory on the
season, which is the total they had in their first 2 seasons combined. Nice little turn around going on here for
Shane as they currently sit in the 6th and final playoff spot. The groin injury to Mondesi hurts this squad
a bit, but it doesn’t appear to be too serious, hopefully he is back out there
recording Jericho’s soon. Carlos Santana
is a stud while wearing an Indians uniform.
One of the more underrated players around the league had himself quite a
week with 7 Runs, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 1 SB .500 OBP.
He is having a great season so far for a Cleveland team that is suddenly
hot in June (Santana has 53 Runs, 14 2Bs, 1 3B, 17 HRs, 47 RBIs, 3 SB, .417 OBP). Sticking with the Indians theme, Oscar
Mercado had a nice little Jericho as well for Lakehurst this week.
Overall this matchup was a little underwhelming when comparing to the other scores around the league. Rojo and his Gades are sitting in the 4th playoff spot currently. Elvis Andrus chipped in a Jericho. Rojo will look to bounce back next week in a tough matchup against the East Coast Kings.
JERICHOs
LAKE – Oscar Mercado
RRF – Elvis Andrus
NEXT WEEK
LAKE (5-7) v IBB (4-7-1)
RRF (6-5-1) v ECK (6-6)
***MATCHUP
OF THE WEEK REVIEW***
Backdoor Sliderz hold off X-Rays 7-6-1 to stay undefeated
MVP
Walker Buehler CG, 2 ER, 16 Ks, 1 W
The matchup of the week lived up to its hype as it came down
to the wire Sunday night. Dochney fell 1
RBI short of the elusive 60/60 club for the second straight week. With the X-Rays needing a steal Sunday night,
Yadier Molina took second base for a defensive indifference in the 9th
while Cards were trailing. If that had
been ruled a steal this matchup would have ended in a tie. There were plenty of storylines going on in
this close matchup. These were the only
2 teams to reach the 100 K mark this week. Odom’s squad finished first or second around
the league in the categories of runs, 2Bs, steals, Ks, wins, and saves. X-Rays probably would have won against any
other team this week.
With steals up for grabs going into Sunday, that underdog
team in Lacey streamed the long time X-Rays cornerstone and former Backyard
champion Billy Hamilton. Billy would go
on to have 2 SBs Sunday, helping to keep the category tied at 10 which was
critical for the win for those underdog champion good guys residing in Forked
River. Domingo Santana and Freddie
Freeman had themselves a big week, each with 10 RBIs and OBP north of .440. Buehler was absolutely dominant in his 16 K
complete game, which avoided extra innings with a Matt Beaty walk off. Nobody wants to be on the receiving end of
their pitcher tossing a 9-inning gem without getting a CG…. Nobody! Verlander and DeGrom brought it in their 2
start weeks with Verlander having 17 Ks and DeGrom 19. Big time Jericho for Childish Bambino (4 Runs,
2 2Bs, 2 3Bs, 1 HR, 7 RBIs, 2 SBs, .500 OBP).
X-Rays put up one hell of a fight. As stated before, he probably would have won any other matchup. #NoLightDays was in full effect, attacking you with bulk pitchers seemingly every day. Felix Pena was especially effective in this role having 10 Ks for the week without eating up a start for the X-Rays. X-Rays also got a good performance out of Zach Plesac in a 2-start week (2 QS, 8 Ks, 2 Wins, 1.29 ERA). Jose Ramirez showing signs a life, picking up a Jericho this week. It feels like the Indians have been all over this recap, right? Mallex Smith continues to hit since his call up, 8 Runs and 3 SBs this week.
JERICHOs
Juan Soto – LTBS
Jose Ramirez – RAYS
NEXT WEEK
LTBS (12-0) v TOPES (7-5) ***MATCHUP OF THE WEEK***
RAYS (2-7-3) v OGFC (6-5-1)
A LOOK AHEAD
The first and second place teams square off in week 13. A rematch from last years championship. Topes are riding a 7-game winning streak while
the Backdoor Sliderz are 12 and 0 to start the year and have won 17 straight
going back to last season. T will be
looking to get his vengeance by handing Dochney his first loss on the season. Oh, and Dochney secures the first-place seed
with a win this week. I am going to make
up this stat and say this would be the earliest the 1 seed has ever been clinched
in the Backyard. I have no evidence to
back this claim up but let’s roll with it anyway.
Oh yea, there are 4 other matchups that I’m sure have some
implications too. The playoff picture
may begin to take shape this week. Rays
looking to remain alive in a must win against Heroy’s Fishing Club. Shane, the current 6th seed,
facing off against Sean’s Bears who sit in 7th. Bad Dudes vs Slugs will be interesting as
they both are looking at the playoffs from the outside for the first time in
the AD era of the Backyard. And the battle
of the chat mutes with R Mac and Rojo squaring off. Who will break the silence first!?
WEEK 11 RECAP BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE NEW AND IMPROVED BLOG ADMINISTRATION!!!
Week 11 is in the books and the Backyard Blog is getting a much-needed facelift. It is about time the people get what they want. For weeks people have been complaining about lazy writing and the journalistic integrity of the blog with all the biased writing that has been going on. By popular demand, our last blog editor has been fired and replaced by a reputable journalist who has experience in providing the type of writing this blog has been lacking.
Before we get to the Week 11 recap, we must address another issue with the blog. Many people around the league have been complaining about the name of the weekly recognition that goes to a hitter who fills every stat category. This has been called the J-Roll for years, but everyone knows that this name was just not any good for this recognition. This has been especially true considering the on-field issues that Jimmy Rollins has had, those issues mainly consist of him playing for the Phillies and being guilty by association of being half the double play tandem with Chase Utley for so many years. This blog holds itself in more respect now and will not be associated with a man who would make slides so dirty that they end a man’s career like Utley has in the past. Sorry Jimmy, I am sure you are a nice enough guy, but the prestigious stat filler recognition has a black eye because of your association with a guy like Utley.
So, without further ado.…. I present to you……
The Jericho
We are breaking down the walls here at the blog, so drink it in maaaaaaaaan. You know what happens to people who do not like the new name for those who get a run, RBI, double, triple, home run, and steal throughout the week? You know what happens to those who are not down with Jericho? THEY MAKE THE LIST!
Jericho is the perfect namesake for the new prestigious recognition. The Ayatollah of Rock-n-Rolla has accomplished so much in his life and is a role model to all. Jericho is recognized by many as the G.O.A.T. He was the first ever Undisputed WWF Champion, held the WCW World Championship twice, the World Heavyweight Championship three times, the Intercontinental Championship a record nine times, he’s a Tag Team Champion, United States Champion, WCW Cruiserweight Champion and World Television Champion. He is the man of 1,004 holds, a Triple Crown Champion and Grand Slam Champion. The Alpha has authored New York Times Bestseller books as well as have roles in legendary films such as MacGruber. He has had success wherever he goes including the music industry with his band Fozzy, who’s song Judas has reached as high as 7th on the US hard rock charts. This man truly is a jack of all trades and is the new gold standard of filling the stat sheet in a given week in the Backyard.
The Backyard is Jericho!
Now that we have the long overdue renaming to the Jericho out of the way, let’s get down to recapping Week 11.
The Pacific Beach X-Rays and River City Bad Dudes are kissing their sisters with another tie this week at a score of 6-6-2
Doch Thoughts
This is the second time these teams have tied each other this season. This may a Backyard first, certainly the first time it has happened in the AD era. Pretty solid weeks all around from both teams except for ERAs. Odom had yet another 100 plus k week on the back of his bulkers. He throws a lot of volume out there with his no light day’s mentality. Sometimes ERA will suffer but no denying he racks up the counting stats. Also, Mallex Smith (2 home runs this week) is a power hitter now, maybe the greatest power hitter of our generation, only time will tell.
Shout out to my man David Dahl as he racked up a Jericho for the Bad Dudes (7 Runs, 1 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 1 SB, .452 OBP)
MVP of this matchup could have easily gone to Manny Machado for the Bad Dudes (11 runs, 2 2Bs, 3 HRs, 6 RBIs, .500 OBP). Those 11 runs are impressive, but the Bad Dudes lost the run category 63-56. Losing that category plus losing the home run category by 1 dinger while Kingery had 1 more home run than Machado this week solidifies the MVP of the matchup for Kingery. Kingery sure is making the best of his time in centerfield for the Phillies with Herrera being out having his off-field issues. He was a stolen base shy of getting the ever-prestigious Jericho. Kingery will probably be dropped by Odom the next game he doesn’t start if he is still even on this team by the time of this writing. Who can keep up with Odom’s roster and his Rays Ways philosophy? A philosophy that is built on riding hot players and they picked a good time to ride with Kingery.
LVP
Ewin Diaz (XYZ) – 3 IP, 4 ER, 2 Ks, 1 SV, 12.00 ERA
There were players with much higher ERAs on both teams, but Edwin is LVP this week because Odom lost the saves category by 1 and Diaz blew a save for the Mets on Thursday. If that save isn’t blown, Odom wins the matchup instead of the tie. There might be people more deserving of the LVP award, but I am also a little bitter about that blown save myself. Edwin, get it together, because old man Cano stinks and you’re the prize of that trade.
Jericho’s
Dahl (RCBD)
Next week
XYZ (2-6-3) vs LTBS (11-0) *****MATCHUP OF THE WEEK*****
RCBD (3-5-3) vs T (6-5)
The Banana Slugs (3-7-1) outlast the Lakehurst Leviathans (4-7) 7-5-2
Doch Thoughts
This was a close matchup with about 8 categories that could have easily swung in the opposite direction. Runs were separated by 1, RBI by 2, Steals by 1, and tied in doubles. I’m sure there was some Sunday anxieties being expressed in the chat that I may have missed. Brian was able to hold on though with his pitching leading the way winning the pitching categories 5-1-1. Some of the offensive categories really came down to the wire.
MVP
Trevor Bauer (BBS) – 16.2 IP, 1 ER, 14 Ks, 2 QS, 1 CG, 1 W, 0.54 ERA
This was one hell of a 2-start week for Trevor Bauer that the previous blog administrator may have ignored because of personal biases against Bauer. The Sunday CG shutout against the Tigers was a major factor in the victory for the Slugs this week, which is why he gets the MVP over guys like Scherzer, Story, or even the surprise Jericho from Trey Mancini
LVP
Leviathans Pitching Staff – they stunk
6.78 ERA is not very good for the week. That team down in Barnegat are known for their pitching over their hitting but they were not completely lights out this week when compared to their standards. Slugs only had a 4.50 ERA, which is very beatable in a given week, but they still won the pitching categories 5-1-1. Credit to the Slugs for their 90 Ks which will always be solid, but the Leviathans pitching needed to show up more and steal a category or 2 here to give themselves a chance. I’ll highlight the Sunday stream of Ariel Jurado who gave up 7 runs against the Reds in 3 innings without recording a single K.
Jericho’s
Trey Mancini (LAKE)
Next Week
BBS (3-7-1) vs BEARS (4-6-1)
LAKE (4-7) vs RRF (6-4-1)
Astoria Isotopes pitch slap Island Beach Bears 10-2-2
Doch Thoughts
At one point on Sunday I am pretty sure I saw the Bears being shut out. This matchup was by far the most lopsided of the week. Isotopes stay the second hottest team in the league with their 6th straight victory after their 0-5 start. T told that Island Beach sweathog to keep the noise down while he took his robe off to show all the ladies what a real man is supposed to look like. I wish I could think of more Rick Rude quotes for T at this time, but that is going to have to do for now. Win again next week and you get some more Rick Rude love T.
Chuck was scorching hot this week and was a steal away from the Jericho. I’ll say he led the Topes to victory, but in all reality, T could have left Blackmon’s spot in his lineup open all week and still would have won with ease. Only runs would have flipped in the Bears favor without Blackmon in the lineup, while triples and home runs would have been tied. That just shows how much the Topes dominated the Bears this week. Shout out to the resurgent Hunter Pence as well. Don’t feel like going back and listing his stats but trust me when I say he was good this week and fantasy relevant again. Early leader for comeback player of the year.
LVP
Joc Pederson (IBB) – 0/15, 1 BB, .063 OBP
Ummmmm yea, ugly week for Joc. At least he made a nice catch, I think that was this week anyway but could have been last week. ‘Nuff said, moving on.
Next Week
T (6-5) vs RCBD (3-5-3)
BEARS (4-6-1) vs BBS (3-7-1)
Rojo’s Renegade Force with the clean victory over Ocean Gate Fishing Club 6-3-5
Doch Thoughts
The Renegade Force did not have to cheat to earn this victory. They also started 12 pitchers this week which is a nice change of pace for this squad. The Renegade force were led by their hitting as they received 4 out of their 6 category wins from the hitters on the squad. There were 3 Jericho’s in this matchup between Ohtani, Trea Turner, and Mookie Betts. I wonder if the Fishing Club watched the season finale of Wicked Tuna last night. If he didn’t, let’s just say I will be more then disappointed and be requesting he change his name yet again, because it stinks and Wicked Tuna rocks. The Fishing Club did get a combined 8 home runs out of the trio of rookies Alvarez, Senzel, and Jimenez. Something to watch out for moving forward as these guys all look legit. Brendan Rodgers on the other hand can’t buy any consistent playing time out in Colorado.
Did Eric Freaking Hosmer just have 12 RBI this week? I was about to give this honor to Ohtani for his Jericho, or to one of the 3 pitchers Rojo had that had themselves nice little 2 start weeks. But Hosmer gets it because a 12 RBI week is impressive for anyone. I’ll tell you guys what that was the quietest 12 RBI week I have ever seen. The San Diego first baseman only had 3 extra base hits and none of them left the yard. It was well documented in the chat the scoring that was going on in the San Diego and Colorado series, so perhaps I shouldn’t be so surprised. Hosmer is a man who I thought got overpaid by San Diego and a guy I thought should be bouncing around the waiver wire in fantasy circuits, but perhaps ROJO knows something I don’t. Either way, there is no denying his 12 RBIs were huge in the contest that was neck and neck in that category. 1 2
Not a good week for a guy who has been on the block for the Fishing Club. This Fishing Club narrowly lost out in runs and RBI this week and could have used anything from Meadows. This award could have also gone to Amed Rosario, who Heroy still insists is good and worth a roster spot when just about every Mets fan in the league (only 2 at this point) disagrees with that assessment. Nobody wants Rosario to be good more than me, but I am afraid he just isn’t. The Fishing Club offense is still very good even with the blackhole known as Rosario in the lineup every day. Oh, and uh yea back to LVP Meadows, you’ll bounce back I’m sure, no doubt you’re better than Rosario.
Jericho’s
Ohtani (RRF)
Betts (OGFC)
Turner (OGFC)
Next Week
OGFC (5-5-1) vs ECK (6-5)
RRF (6-4-1) vs LAKE (4-7)
Fan favorite underdogs from Lacey put up another gritty win against the East Coast Kings 8-4-2
Doch Thoughts
The good guys of the league from Lacey keep on trucking as they were able to overcome adversity once again for another victory, improving their record to 11-0. This makes 16 straight victories dating back to the infamous ROJO tie late last season. The man behind the team in Lacey does everything right and should be looked at as a role model to the rest of the league. A league that should aspire to be more like him when they grow up, even though he is the youngest member of the Backyard. He is charitable, humble, charismatic, handsome, and overall just a terrific guy. Women want him and men want to be him. The chat could not be happier that such an outstanding person keeps pulling out victories in the Backyard. But there’s more to life then the Backyard, and the chat wishes nothing but the best in life to that handsome devil down in Lacey. He deserves it for his hard work and dedication day in and day out.
Oh, yea there was a matchup here…. Huge performance by Ketel Marte and his 5-homer week for the Kings. Marte now has like 20 home runs or some shit which doesn’t seem right. Freeman keeps raking, Bellinger keeps hitting homers, Tatis Jr had a Jericho and Verlander keeps defying father time. Backdoor Sliderz were 2 RBIs away from the 60/60 club this week. The Kings were also impressive with their 64 runs, but fell a little short this week.
This one almost went to Tatis Jr with his 3 3Bs while picking up a Jericho, but the RBIs separated Albies from Tatis this week. Albies was a 3-bagger shy of a Jericho himself, which is often the stat that eludes the Jericho hopefuls out there. The Braves are one of the hottest teams in baseball currently, which is good for the Backdoor Sliderz who roster about a third of their lineup.
LVP
David Price (ECK) – 1.1 IP, 6 ER, 2 Ks, 40.50 ERA
Not a good start at home against Texas for Price. Paxton was also disappointing for the Kings this week, but nothing looks uglier than an ERA north of 40! Price still is pitching well this year with his 71 Ks and 3.52 ERA even after his horrific start. He’ll bounce back, if his elbow doesn’t flare up again, which seems to happen every year.
Jericho’s
Tatis Jr (LTBS)
Next Week
LTBS (11-0) vs XYZ (2-6-3) ****MATCHUP OF THE WEEK*****
Dochney’s matchups will stay matchup of the week until he is beaten.
ECK (6-5) vs OGFC (5-5-1)
And that’s all folks. Thanks for tuning in to check out the highly anticipated debut of the new blog administration. Unlike the old guard, we will be taking notes and suggestions from fans out there to continue improving the blog for everyone to enjoy. Hope you have enjoyed your read and good luck in your matchups.
Backyard Views 