The Show Must Go On
Going Mobile
Biloxi GM Harry Connick III had a somewhat disappointing recruiting season during the past winter, unable to sign the middle infielder or starting pitcher solution for the next few years during free agency or during trading. Cane management kicked in Plan B, resigning aging David Washington for another year from the free agent market and going with a modified 4 man rotation during the first half of the season.
The problem becomes compounded next season, as 3 starters in the infield, one of the league's prime closers, and longtime Cane favorite Terry Warkentin are looking at the end of their contacts, and in some cases the end of their current employment. Connick needs to decide who will return and who will be left to test the market as the majority of these potential free agents are well into their mid-thirties.
Hitless Wonders
Despite hitting less than .250 during the first half of the season and having less than overwhelming power, Biloxi has managed to lead the Feller during the entire season thus far. Most recently the lead has been extended to 5 games, surprising the Cane front office and delighting the fans.
It's the starting pitching and the closer that have carried the load. Doug Crossen and Manny Espinosa both have 9 wins, all 4 major starters already have 100 K's, and 3nd year starter Chad Nieman is second in the WL with 132 whiffs. The 4 man rotation with a heavy spot starter experiment is working so far, along with the support of James Gaston, continuing in his form from last season. Rookie callup John Billips is setting well into a setup roll as well.
Halfway Reporting
Approaching the all-star break, GM Connick is negotiations with several teams, as the faith in Plan B only goes so far, and the assumption is that 42 wins in 77 games is the best that this current lineup could ask for, and is unlikely to repeat in the second half of the season.
Maldonado Watch
Current Supes Level - Not Wolverine - Having a good season but missed a month with a broken hand.