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April 3, 2008
1980 Playoff matchups set
FRANKFORT, IN - A most heart felt congratulations goes out to our four division winners of the 1980 season! Some hard fought battles won here, in 3 instances, with only one team doing a cakewalk. ;)
In the hard fought N.L. West, we found one of our closest contests, with only a single game separating the 1st place & 2nd place finishers!
Greg Stillwagon, is the initial winner as his Montezuema Revenge edged out the
Wabash Revolvers of Bill Lanke by securing 93 wins over Bill's 91 wins! Talk about close!
In the N.L. East, we find the Frankfort Firebugs, led by Gary
Plunkitt, winning 98 games to finish a scant 2 games ahead of the
Toledo Mud Hens, managed by Rich Applegate. Honorable mention goes to
Mike Boling as his Kansas City Barons finished in 3rd, just 7 games off the pace. Mike was the only team to finish less than 10 games out and not take 2nd place. :(
For the NLCS series it will be the Montezuema Revenge taking on the
Frankfort Firebugs!
In the A.L. West, Steve Ehresman piloted the West Lafayette Snow Bears to 99 wins, taking a close race from
Jim Wheeler's Pocono Oaks by only 4 games! Still a pretty close division race here between two veteran SPB managers!
In the N.L. East, we find Mike See's Louisiana Lightning taking the most wins of 1981 (112!)
The Lightning was the only team to win 100 games this season! They made a mockery of the race too, finish 20 games ahead of
Dave Lauer's Kenosha Comets. (92 wins and 20 games out, WOW!) The
Edmonton Magpies get an honorable mention, as Chris Williams nailed down 91 wins, but have to settle for 3rd place, just one game behind the Comets.
In the ALCS series we will have the Lafayette Snow Bears matching up against the
Louisiana Lightning!
There you have it! Our initial division winners for the SPB IV - 1980 season. Congratulations guys on a job well done!
March 21, 2008
1980 Final Stats posted
DAYTON, OH - The stats and power rankings for September 1980 are now posted.
Pending review of usage and potential violations, the division champions look to be Mike See’s Louisiana Lightning, who ran away with the A.L East by 20 games over two 90-win competitors; in the A.L. West, Steve Ehresman’s Lafayette Snow Bears; Gary Plunkitt’s Frankfort Firebugs in a tighter race in the N.L. East over the runner-up Mud Hens; and, in the tightest race of all, Greg Stillwagon’s Revenge eked out a tight campaign against Bill Lanke’s Wabash Revolvers.
August 28, 2007
Original SPB-4 manager steps down
FRANKFORT, IN - An original member of SPB IV is dropping this league, as he
endeavors to take some of his free time for some more life achieving goals. Rick Ryan has resigned his post as manager of the Rossville Ramblers in SPB IV. Rick is wanting to devote some more of his time to a new boat, and flying lessons. These are two things he has wanted for years. I hate to see Rick cut back in
SPB, but he assures me he will be remaining in several SPB Leagues. So I take stock in that. ;)
Meanwhile it is in our good fortune that.....MORE
August 21, 2007
Change to Phase 2 draft procedures
FRANKFORT, IN - There will be a new twist to the Phase II drafts
starting with the SPB II draft in November. When protected rosters
are called for, all teams with over 38 rostered players (including
both protected and unprotected) will have the option of .....MORE
August 14, 2007
Change of ballpark
FRANKFORT, IN - Jim Wheeler is moving his Pocono team. He is leaving Anaheim Stadium and taking up residence in the
dead ball era Houston Astrodome.
The available stadiums are now California's Anaheim and Montreal's Olympic Stadiums in SPB IV.
July 4, 2007
1980 draft date set
FRANKFORT, IN - Votes are in and as Commissioner of SPB IV, it is my duty to announce that the 1980 Rookie & Phase II drafts will be held on Saturday, August 11 at my home. Draft will start promptly at 11AM Eastern time.
I always go with the popular vote on the date favored most by managers votes. This is the way SPB League drafts are usually decided. I hope that all of you will consider any chance of attending this summer draft in person. Thanks to everyone for your participation. I'm always very sorry that I cannot please everyone on the dates, but that is the way it goes.
I hope everyone has a great draft. There are plenty of good players coming in this one.
June 8, 2007
1979 Awards results announced
FRANKFORT, IN - 1979 Managers, Lafayette's star RF Dave Winfield captured the
A.L. MVP award to take top honors. In the N.L., it was LF Don Baylor winning the MVP with his sterling performance. Both players easily outdistanced the rest of the field in the balloting.
In the Cy Young voting, the A.L. winner was Louisiana's Tom Seaver taking the prize as the top moundsmen of 1979. Rick Wise, of
Montezuema, seen his heavy duty hurling for the Revenge take the honor in the
N.L. Again, both pitchers handily outdistanced their competition to take this prize.
The Firemen of the year were hotly contested though, unlike the above two awards, but it was Cedar Rapids Sparky Lyle copping the
A.L. Award, while Worcester's Jim Kern nailed down the N.L. version.
Top rookies of the A.L. were Gotham City's young secondsacker Joe Strain taking the hitting version, and Baroda's Rick Sutcliffe nailing the top rookie hurler. In the
N.L., Fairfax's young LF Rickey Henderson won the batting top rookie honors, and Hawaii's Pat Underwood took the rookie pitching prize.
The Managers of the year are: A.L. Mike See of the Louisiana Lightning, and
N.L. skipper Greg Stillwagon of the Montezuema Revenge winning the prizes.
For the full detail of every vote cast, be sure to check out the results in the Voting Booth on the RH side of the page.
June 8, 2007
1979 All-Star results
FRANKFORT, IN - Thanks to every manager for voting! Now that the voting has been completed several days ago, it is my pleasure to announce the teams:
1979 American League All-Stars
C - Brian Downing, Rossville Ramblers
1B - Keith Hernandez, Baroda Serranos
2B - Julio Cruz, Barstow Rough Riders
3B - Bill Madlock, Rossville Ramblers
SS - Alfredo Griffin, Cedar Rapids Hired Guns
LF - Joel Youngblood, Rossville Ramblers
CF - Willie Wilson, Rossville Ramblers
RF - Dave Winfield, Lafayette Snow Bears
SP - Tom Seaver, Louisiana Lightning
RP - Sparky Lyle, Cedar Rapids Hired Guns
AL Close Races -
RF - Ramblers Youngblood won over Ken Singleton of the Edmonton Magpies 88-76.
RP - Hired Guns Lyle took the nod over the Ramblers Kent Tekulve by a scant 88-81.
2B- Closest Race in AL saw Rough Riders Cruz take the vote over Cedar Rapids Phil Garner by a mere 3 points!
1979 National League All-Stars
C - Johnny Bench, Hawaii 5-0's
1B - Rod Carew, Toledo Mud Hens
2B - Dave Lopes, Montezuema Revenge
3B - Larry Parish, Astoria Zoo Crew
SS - Roy Smalley, Worcester Grays
LF - George Foster, Toledo Mud Hens
CF - Chet Lemon, Montezuema Revenge
RF - Don Baylor, Toledo Mud Hens
SP - Rick Wise, Montezuema Revenge
RP - Jim Kern, Worcester Grays
NL Close Races -
RP Grays Kern won a very close one over Bruce Sutter of the Revenge by an 87-80 margin.
1B - An unbelievable close nudge saw Carew take the nod over the Revolvers Cecil Cooper by a single point. Man, talk about close!
For the full story and a complete look at every vote cast, be sure to check out the results in the SPB Voting Booth. 1979 All-Star results are on the right side of the voting screen.
April 29, 2007
New manager for 1980
FRANKFORT, IN - It is with some regret that I have to announce that
Greg Woertz, manager of the Barstow Rough Riders for the the last few seasons has resigned from SPB IV. Greg has taken over as
Comish in another league he was in, and no longer has time to devote to managing the Riders. He did a good job during his time in SPB IV, and is to be commended for that.
On the flip side, I am glad to announce that Jim Wheeler will be returning to the league as manager of this team. He will rename the team as the
Pocono Oaks, and will continue to use Anaheim Stadium as his home park. Welcome back to SPB IV, Jim! Jim also manages teams in SPB II, & SPB NOW. He assumes command of this team as of today
April 29, 2007
1979 Champion Crowned!
FRANKFORT, IN - Congratulations are in order to Greg
Stillwagon, manager of the Montezuema Revenge for his World Series win over
Steve Ehresman's Lafayette Snow Bears. The Revenge bested the Snow Bears in a 5 game series, that saw them over come the Bears lead twice in the final innings of games 4 & 5. Greg has been on a roll in his comeback to the SPB Leagues. Better luck next year Steve!
The Series was played this morning, and the results will be posted to the SPB IV
web page later this week. Be sure to keep an eye out for the exciting reports and stats of this series.
March 23rd, 2007
Overusage and Use or Lose players
FRANKFORT, IN - Another season gone, and another set of players to
take care of. Listed in bold is the OVERUSAGE
report, and the USE
OR LOSE players for 1979.
March 23rd, 2007
Congratulations to 1979 Division
Winners!
FRANKFORT, IN - Congratulations to the following divisional
winners:
In the American League East,
Mike See's Louisiana Lightning punished everyone by winning 109 games and walking away with the crown. Rick Ryan had the grim knowledge of finishing 9 games out with "ONLY" 100 wins! Tough luck Rick!
In the American League West, Steve Ehresman's Lafayette Snow Bears romped all the way home, while winning 95 games and taking this division crown rather easily. Greg Woertz had his Barstow Rough Riders finishing a very distant 2nd, 15 games behind the White Bears.
In the National League East, Rich Applegate drove the
Toledo Mud Hens to the top with 95 victories, winning the only "close" division this season. Mike Boling had the Kansas City Barons in the race all the way, but ended up settling for a close 2nd, just 4 games out of the running.
Finally the National League West had Greg Stillwagon's Montezuema Revenge rolling up an amazing 104 wins, while cruising to a this pennant! Hugh McElaneys Worcester Grays rolled in with a very respectable 2nd place finish, winning 94 games, but that was 10 games off the pace this year!
Congratulations to each of our championship teams for 1979!
March 23rd, 2007
1979 Final stats posted
DAYTON, OH. - The final stats and power rankings for 1979 are now posted.
The article above from Gary Plunkitt outlines the upcoming
playoffs. The playoff pages are posted and ready to go. Good
luck to all involved for another great season!
March 4th, 2007
Petry No-Hitter #49
DAYTON, OH. - Dan Petry, of the Hawaii 5-O's tossed a gem of a
game vs. the Revolvers. See link above or the boxscore
section for accounts of this game.
July 29th, 2006
Manager Change
FRANKFORT, IN. - It is my pleasure to announce that we have a new manager in place for the Oakland Oaks. He is
Hugh McElaney from Massachusetts. Hugh has stepped right in to take over for former manager Jim Hekel. Hugh currently manages other SPB teams in SPB NOW and SPB 100. He will be reviewing the team and send me his protected roster very soon. In the meantime I am also holding through the weekend for P2 picks from a couple of managers who were on vacation, and are due back this weekend sometime. It was my fault for not remembering these guys were gone yesterday. But not to worry, the P2 files will be out no later than Monday morning though, so hold on just a bit longer.
Hugh will be renaming the team to the Worcester Grays.
Please take a few minutes to welcome Hugh to SPB IV!
July 26th, 2006
Ballpark Change
FRANKFORT, IN. - The Lafayette Snow Bears are pulling up stakes in the Astrodome and
abandoning the premises for the lovely waterfall in Royals Stadium in
K.C. So now the available ballparks are the Astrodome (Hou), and Olympic Stadium (Mon). Notify me if you want one of these two parks as your home
July 26th, 2006
Call for protected rosters
FRANKFORT, IN. - Now that I have released the 1979 database, it is time to call for protected rosters for your team. Remember, once your protected rosters are submitted, only players on your protected roster can be traded
until after the drafts are completed. We are only a week and a half away from draft day, so please submit your protected rosters within the next 3 days. This means the deadline for your protected list is Friday, July 28th.
Here is the list of how many players each time may protect:
20 protected players
Fairfax Canaries (Peterson)
Rossville Ramblers (Ryan)
Lafayette Snow Bears (Ehresman)
Iron City Rovers (Robinson)
Cedar Rapids Hired Guns (Cada)
19 protected players
Kenosha Comets (Lauer)
Edmonton Magpies (Williams)
Barstow Rough Riders (Woertz)
Dorsey Lemmings (Bendik)
Baroda Serranos (Galbreath)
Toledo Mud Hens (Applegate)
Astoria Zoo Crew (DeZarlo)
Bronx Storm (Johnson)
Anok Island Gnomes (Brunner)
Oakland Oaks (Hekel)
Wabash Revolvers (Lanke)
Montezuema Revege (Stillwagon)
Kansas City Barons (Boling)
Spirit Mountain Volcanoes (Hollingsworth)
18 protected players
Wright-Patt Plainsmen (Turnbull)
Louisiana Lightning (See)
Frankfort Firebugs (Plunkitt)
Hawaii 5-0's (Baxter)
Gotham City Ghosts (Cusack)
July 24th, 2006
Team name changes
FRANKFORT, IN. - Just an update for all managers, the following 4 team names, have changed since 1978:
Last years Kansas City Barons are now the Wabash Revolvers (they have also changed parks from Royals Stadium (KC) to Fulton Co. Stadium
(ATL).
Last years Lafayette Generals are this years Kansas City Barons.
Last years Pocono Scouts are this years Lafayette Snow Bears.
Last years Possum Lake Beavers are this years Fairfax Canaries.
The two available parks in SPB IV at this time are: Royals Stadium (KC) and Exhibition Stadium
(TOR). if anyone wants one of these parks, you must have played at least two full seasons in your current park (unless your a teams new manager, then you can switch now). Let me know if your interested in switching home parks.
July 20th, 2006
Manager replacement
FRANKFORT, IN. - Just a couple of lines to let you know of a change of managers for the coming 1979 season. Jim Wheeler has resigned due to time
constraints from his SPB IV team, the Pocono Scouts. Jim will be staying on in all the other SPB Leagues he belongs too though.
Steve Ehresman is returning to SPB IV as the man who will take over this team. However, he will be changing the team name to the
Lafayette Snow Bears. I am sorry to see Jim leave this league, but glad that we have Steve back in place as the manager of the team.
May 24th, 2006
1979 Rookie Draft venue selected
DAYTON, OH - I am pleased to announce that the 1979 rookie draft
will be held here in Dayton OH on Saturday August 5th. We
will be attending a post-draft double header for the Columbus
Clippers as they take on the Indianapolis Indians. Let me
know as soon as possible if you will be able to make it, and if
you can go to the game so I can get tickets in
advance.
May 18th, 2006
New manager announced
FRANKFORT, IN - Now with the 1978 season finished up, I would like to take the time to announce a change of managers for the coming 1979 season. First of all, my thanks goes out to Dave Schubert, who stepped in during mid stream when we needed him last season to take over as manager of the Possum Lake Beavers. Dave finished up the season, and then informed me that due to the added
responsibilities of his new job, he will not be able to continue as a manager with this team. He will concentrate his efforts on SPB NOW where he is also a manager.
I am glad to announce the appointment of Ron Peterson as the new manager of this team. Ron is new to
SPB, but is a veteran manager from other DMB leagues, including the HBC deadball league, where I got to know him. He is really looking forward to managing in SPB IV. He has decided to give the team a new
moniker. The former Beavers will now become the Fairfax Canaries. They will remain in Arlington Stadium. Please take a minute to welcome Ron at:
RonPeterson1@cox.net.
May 8th, 2006
1978 All-Star teams announced
FRANKFORT, IN - Voting has just been completed and tallied and will be posted the SPB IV webpage very soon by esteemed webmaster, John Turnbull. Be sure to check it out soon for the total voting results. Thanks to those managers who participated!
Here are the best of the best from 1978:
American League
C Ted Simmons, Plainsmen (.279 - 26 HR - 92 RBI - 39 2B - 65 BB)
1B Eddie Murray, Lemmings (.315 - 30 HR - 84 RBI - 100 R)
2B Lou Whitaker, Comets (.315 - 1 HR - 33 RBI - 68 BB)
3B Pete Rose, Ghosts (.291 - 14 HR - 66 RBI - 45 2B)
SS Paul Molitor, Rough Riders (.274 - 11 HR - 68 RBI - 44 SB)
LF Fred Lynn, Rough Riders (.273 - 20 HR - 93 RBI - 62 BB)
CF Gene Richards, Lemmings (.305 - 9 HR - 51 RBI - 16 3B - 36 SB)
RF Dave Parker, Lightning (.332 - 32 HR - 110 RBI -96 R - 15 SB)
SP Ron Guidry, Lightning (24-8 - 2.10 ERA -267 K - 22 CG)
RP John Hiller, Plainsmen (6-3 - 1.78 ERA - 32 SV)
National League
C Gary Alexander, Firebugs (.293 - 26 HR - 80 RBI)
1B Jason Thompson, Firebugs (.314 - 29 HR - 105 RBI - 92 R - 77 BB)
2B Davey Lopes, Revenge (.290 - 13 HR - 66 RBI - 107 R - 41 2B - 51 SB)
3B Buddy Bell, Revenge (.322 - 15 HR - 94 RBI - 38 2B - 10 3B)
SS Roy Smalley, Oaks (.304 - 28 HR - 107 RBI -77 BB - 35 2B)
LF George Foster, Mud Hens (.290 - 34 HR - 111 RBI - 97 R)
CF Larry Hisle, Revenge (.284 - 38 HR - 115 RBI - 96 R - 11 SB)
RF Ellis Valentine, Firebugs (.313 - 27 HR - 111 RBI - 94 R - 16 SB)
SP Dennis Lamp, 5-0's (25-6 2.43 ERA - 16 CG)
RP Mike Marshall, Firebugs (7-4 - 1.82 ERA - 33 SV)
Some great performers all the way around! Congrats to this group of outstanding players in 1978!
May 8th, 2006
1978 Awards announced
FRANKFORT, IN - The following players captured the top Awards from our recent 1978 season. Be sure to see the SPB IV League webpage for a full breakdown of the voting, including all votes received.
American League
MVP - Dave Parker, of Louisiana Lightning
CY YOUNG AWARD - Ron Guidry, Louisiana Lightning
FIREMAN of the Year - John Hiller, Wright - Patt Plainsmen
Rookie Hitter - Paul Molitor, Barstow Rough Riders
Rookie Pitcher - Don Robinson, Barstow Rough Riders
MANAGER of Year - John Turnbull, Wright-Patt Plainsmen
National League
MVP - Jason Thompson, 1B Frankfort Firebugs
CY YOUNG AWARD - Dennis Lamp, Hawaii 5-0's
FIREMAN of Year - Mike Marshall, Frankfort Firebugs
ROOKIE Hitter - Taylor Duncan, Hawaii 5-0's
Rookie Pitcher - Larry McWilliams, Toledo Mud Hens
Manager of Year - Terry Baxter, Hawaii 5-0's
NOTES: John & Terry won their respective Manager titles, and both went down in 4 games during the LCS series! Tough luck for a couple of great managers who led their teams to their leagues best records during the season. They deserved better!
Jason Thompson was followed closely in the MVP voting by teammate Ellis Valentine, perhaps this is an SPB
Ist!
Closest contested spot was when rookie pitcher McWilliams edged out Mark Lee of the Beavers by a single point 63-62 for
RPOY. Man that was a battle!
May 7th, 2006
Firebugs topple Ghosts in 78 World
Series
DAYTON, OH - In an exciting 6-game series with John Turnbull
covering for John Cusack, the Frankfort Firebugs outlasted the
Gotham City Ghosts for the 78 crown. The boxscores have been
posted, with the writeups soon to follow.
April 29th, 2006
Manager replacement for Larry Schilling
FRANKFORT, IN - It is my duty to announce a return to the manager ranks in SPB IV by someone most of you are very familiar with.
Greg Stillwagon will be taking over the reigns as manager to lead the
Montezuma Revenge. Greg has also rejoined SPB in SPB 100, & SPB V. He will be assuming command of the team immediately. This is because of the recent passing of long time SPB manager Larry Schilling. Larry had taken over the Revenge early in the 1978 season.
Greg will be keeping the same team name, as he says it is a name he has always liked. He also will be remaining in Fenway Park with the team. It is great to have Greg back in the ranks. You can reach him at:
stillwagon@m33access.com. Welcome back to SPB IV Greg! :-)
April 23rd, 2006
1978 World Series set
FRANKFORT, IN - My congratulations to the two winning teams from the 1978 LCS series, which concluded recently. These two teams will soon meet in the 1978 Worlds Series.
In the ALCS John Cusack's Gotham City Ghosts pulled off an upset when the beat John Turnbull's Wright Patt Plainsmen. The Plainsmen had won 110 games during the regular series, more than any other team! The Ghosts won 3 of 4 games for the surprising win, proving they are a team to be reckoned with.
In the NLCS Gary Plunkitt's Frankfort Firebugs also scored an victory over Terry Baxter's Hawaii 5-0's in four games. Both teams had won 101 in the regular series.
For the full line look at each LCS game, be sure to check out the SPB IV webpage for all results including boxscores, linescores, game stories, scoresheets, and play by play for all 8 LCS games.
Congratulations to the winners, the Gotham City Ghosts & Frankfort Firebugs.
So the World Series for 1978 is all set up now. The Firebugs will open the series at home taking on the Ghosts for the championship of 1978.
April 6th, 2006 **Updated ***
1978 Voting booth now open
DAYTON, OH - The voting booth for the 1978 season is now
open. Commissioner Gary Plunkitt has announced a deadline of
April 16th.
March 26, 2006
1978 Overusage and Use or lose reports
FRANKFORT, IN - A tradition at seasons end is to announce those
teams who have players departing for various reasons, and to divvy
out the overusage penalties. Click the appropriate link for USE
OR LOSE and OVERUSAGE
March 26, 2006
Playoffs for 1978 set
FRANKFORT, IN - Congratulations are in order for the following teams and managers on capturing their division titles during the season;
1. The Wright-Patt Plainsmen of John Turnbull, captured the A.L. Eastern flag with an extremely close win over Mike See's Louisiana Lightning. Just one game separated these two power house teams. Further the division winner here came down to the last series, and even the last game of that series!! The Plainsmen ended with a league leading 105 wins, while the Lightning captured 104 wins. Those Lightning wins would have been good enough to capture any of the other divisional crowns!
2. The Gotham City Ghosts, lead by John Cusack, nailed down the
A.L. Western flag by a rather easy margin of 12 games over Greg Woertz's Barstow Rough Riders. John's team nailed 94 wins, which is the least amount of wins for any winner this year.
3. The Frankfort Firebugs, with Gary Plunkitt as manager, managed to hold off the Mike Boling team, the Lafayette Generals with a 7 game margin win in the
N.L. Eastern division. The Firebugs scored 101 wins on the season.
4. The Hawaii 5-0's, featuring Terry Baxter at the helm, also won 101 games in capturing the
N.L. Western divisional title. Terry scored a rather convincing win over the 2nd place Anok Island Gnomes of Steve Brunner, with a 12 game lead.
So hats off to all these managers, our top finishers of the 1978 season. The ALCS & NLCS battles will be unfolding soon. The winners of those two events will meet in the 1978 World Series in the shootout for the Worlds Championship. Stay tuned!
February 22, 2006
August stats posted
DAYTON, OH - The stats and power rankings for August 1978 are now
posted. The NL East and AL East still boast close races as we head
into the last month of the season. One of the two best records in
the league may not even make the playoffs!
January 8, 2006
New Manager for Possum Lake Beavers
DAYTON, OH -
It makes me very happy to announce that we have a new manager already for the Possum Lake Beavers.
Dave Schubert is taking the reigns of this team from Stan Skawinski right away. He will have his MP's out for this team very quickly. Mike Boling (Generals) and I (Firebugs) are his road opponents this month.
Tim Johnson, Joe DeZarlo, and Rich Applegate will need to send their July MP's out once again, this time to Dave, ASAP, so that he can play his 3 July home series this month against the Zoo Crew, Mud Hens, and Storm. Guys, let me know you took care of this, please.
Thanks very much to Dave for stepping right in with this team. Dave is already involved in SPB, having a team in the SPB NOW league. His email address is:
deschubert@verizon.net. Feel free to welcome Dave to SPB IV.
December 23, 2005
June stats posted
DAYTON, OH - The stats and power rankings for June 1978 are now
posted. The NL East boasts the closest race where the #1 and 2
ranked teams in the power rankings are battling it out for a
division crown.
December 14, 2005
New manager stepping in
FRANKFORT, IN - I am very happy to announce the appointment of another Indiana member to our league.
Jim Hekel will be taking over the leadership of the Oakland Oaks team for the balance of the 1978 season. He will taking care of the team starting in January with the play of the month of July. His email address is:
jhekelspb@yahoo.com. Please welcome Jim to our League. He is brand new to SPB so it might take a bit for him to get into the swing of things. Also taking a team over in mid stream is always a challenge. So thanks Jim for stepping right in.
December 11, 2005
Temporary change in statistician
FRANKFORT, IN - Please send all your June stats for 1978 to Chris
Williams, who is taking over the job from Greg Stillwagon on a temporary basis. So be sure to send all June results to Chris when you finish up your games.
November 6, 2005
Another new manager on board
FRANKFORT, IN - This is just a note to inform you that we do have a new manager today for the Montezuma Revenge. Veteran SPB manager
Larry Schilling will be taking over the team. He will be sending out his MP's for the month of May 1978 very soon. This is our current month we're playing in November, of course. If you have an away series with the Revenge this month, and you already sent your MP's out to former manager Bill Linn, please resend those MP's to Larry ASAP. That way we will remain on schedule for this months play.
My thanks goes to Larry for taking on yet another SPB League!! Welcome to SPB IV Larry!
October 28, 2005
New manager on board
FRANKFORT, IN - I am happy to welcome back to SPB former manager
Mike Boling. He will be taking over the reigns of the Lafayette Generals immediately. Please send your MP's out to Mike for May's play. I think Mike will do a great job with this team and he is a welcome addition to our league. His info will be posted to the managers page very shortly by John T. For those of you who need it now, here is Mike's email address:
mboling@kc.rr.com . Welcome aboard again Mike!
September 15, 2005
Team swap....an SPB first!
FRANKFORT, IN - Jim Wheeler has traded the team Vin had to Greg
W. for his Rough Riders team. They will also switch team names; the Rough Riders are now the Pocono Scouts, and the Scouts now become the Barstow Rough Riders. Reason was the old Rough Riders were Jim's former team in 1977
September 14, 2005
Jim Wheeler rejoins SPB-4
FRANKFORT, IN - All SPB IV Managers, Jim Wheeler has decided to return to the fold as an SPB IV manager and will be taking over the former East Detroit Shamrocks team of Vin Onstott. Jim will be ready to begin season play with this team on Oct. 1st, of course. He is renaming the team as the
Pocono Scouts. Remember also that Sunday, September 25th is the trading deadline for the 1978 season. Please have all trades reported by 8 PM. CST by this date!
August 21, 2005
78 Free agent claims
FRANKFORT, IN - The following players have been claimed on
waivers by the following teams:
Cedar Rapids (Cada)
George Zeber, 2b
Tim Nordbrook, inf
Rossville (Ryan)
Joe Lahoud, of
Edmonton (Williams)
John Caneira, sp
Terry Cornutt, mr
Larry Lintz, 2b
Kansas City (Lanke)
Bob Coluccio, of
Jerry Tabb, 1b
The following players went unclaimed and have been released from the player files of 1978. All of these guys are
finito.
Rob Belloir, ss
Don Collins, p
Steve Grilli, p
Sam Perlozzo, 2b
Gary Wheelock, p
August 21, 2005
78 Pink slip babies
FRANKFORT, IN - The following players have been given their walking papers by various teams. If you should want to put in a claim for any of these prizes, please let me know by Sunday at 6 P.M. CST. Any players claimed will be awarded to the team finishing lowest in the standings that submits the claims. Any players not claimed will be released in retirement from
SPB.
Rob Belloir, ss
John Caniera, sp
Don Collins, p (1980)
Bob Coluccio, of
Terry Cornutt, mr
Steve Grilli, p (1979)
Joe Lahoud, of
Larry Lintz, 2b
Tim Nordbrook, ss
Sam Perlozzo, 2b (1979)
Jerry Tabb, 1b
Gary Wheelock, sp (1980)
George Zeber, 2b
That's it guys. Pretty slim pickins!!
August 16, 2005
78 Players recommended for release
FRANKFORT, IN - Now that all the drafts are completed, it is that time when I call for all managers to check their teams for players they will have no use of during the coming season.
Any manager can release any player that you deem will be of little or no use to you in playing the 1978, or any future SPB seasons. Your not restricted to release just the following listed players, but can release anyone who you deem to be just a "roster
clutterer".
In checking through the files, I have came up with the following players to be
recommended to be released as they have little or no stats for 1978, or for any future seasons to come. I will list the players by name, 1978 main position, and team. Please respond to me by Friday if you have ANY player or players on this list, as to whether or not you will need to keep them. Then on Saturday, I will send out the list of released "free agents", allow a couple of days for teams to claim them if they really are needed, and then I will release (delete) all players that go unclaimed. This is an annual event once drafts are complete, for every SPB season. Here are this years players for release:
Gary Wheelock P, Gnomes
Gary Sutherland, 2b Serranos
George Zeber, 2b Serranos
Mike Gordon, c Hired Guns
Steve Grilli, p Hired Guns
Clay Carroll, p Lemmings
Larry Lintz, 2b Firebugs
Rob Belloir, ss Rovers
Larry Haney, c Comets
Sam Perlozzo, 2b Generals
Bob Coluccio, of Generals
John Caniera, p Generals
Jerry Tabb, 1b Oaks
Tim Nordbrook, ss Beavers
Enzo Hernandez, ss Volcanoes
Don Collins, p Volcanoes
Terry Curnutt, p Volcanoes
Danny Walton, 1b Mud Hens
Mike Davey, p Mud Hens
Again, let me know if you want to release these players, or not. These are the absolute "bottom of the barrel" players with little stats left for their
M.L. careers. You may also release any other players who you judge to be of no help to your team now or in the future. I need to know by Friday, so please respond on time.
August 14, 2005
Paul Molitor first 78 draft pick
 DAYTON,
OH - Paul Molitor was chosen by Vin Onstott's East Detroit
Shamrocks. The first round results are on the right, with
complete draft coverage available in the DRAFT CENTRAL section.
August 1, 2005
Phase 2 protected players due
FRANKFORT, IN - To All SPB IV 1978 Managers, Now is the time to send me your protected rosters to prepare for the 1978 Phase II draft. Here is the number of players each team is allowed to protect:
20 Players
Rossville Ramblers (R. Ryan)
Barstow Rough Riders (G. Woertz)
East Detroit Shamrocks (V. Onstott)
Possum Lake Beavers (S. Skawinski)
Gotham City Ghosts (J. Cusack)
Iron City Rovers (M. Robinson)
19 Players
Edmonton Magpies (C. Williams)
Wright-Patt Plainsmen (J. Turnbull)
Cedar Rapids Hired Guns (J. Cada)
Baroda Serranos (M. Galbreath)
Spirit Mountain Volcanoes (M. Hollingsworth)
Frankfort Firebugs (G. Plunkitt)
Lafayette Generals (S. Ehresman)
Astoria Zoo Crew (J. DeZarlo)
Bronx Storm (T. Johnson)
Montezuma Revenge (B. Linn)
Anok Island Gnomes (S. Brunner)
Hawaii 5-0's (T. Baxter)
18 Players
Louisiana Lightning (M. See)
Toledo Mud Hens (R. Applegate)
Kansas City Barons (B. Lanke)
Oakland Oaks (G. Stillwagon)
Kenosha Comets (D. Lauer)
Dorsey Lemmings (J. Bendik)
Please have your lists to me by the end of the day on Wednesday, August 3rd. I will then send out all the updated files with every teams roster that will note the protected and unprotected players. PLEASE BE PROMPT WITH THESE LISTS. Thanks to each of you for doing this.
July 23, 2005
Ballpark Change
FRANKFORT, IN - Steve Ehresman, manager of the Lafayette Generals has abandoned Montreal's Olympic Stadium and is moving into the confines of
Toronto's Exhibition Stadium. The two available parks are now Montreal (Olympic Stadium) and Atlanta (Fulton County Stadium).
June 24, 2005
Manager Change
FRANKFORT, IN - Another manager change has been made for the coming 1978 season. First off, Randall Reilly, a very short time manager, has decided to give up the Mad City Isthmus team because of work issues. Marc Robinson, will return to SPB IV to take over the team. He will be renaming the team as the Iron City Rollers. He will give up Atlanta's Fulton County Stadium and move into Comiskey Park. The team last year was the Harrisville Mountain Men. I have attached an updated set of 1978 files with these changes in place. Welcome back to SPB IV Marc!
June 9, 2005
78 Rosters posted
DAYTON, OH - The first set of rosters for the 78 season are now
posted. This will aid greatly in scouting teams to look for
potential traders. Enjoy!
June 9, 2005
Sayonara to the following players
FRANKFORT, IN - As I am readying the first files for 1978 for release, I thought I would let you know the players that have ended their careers in SPB IV with their 1977 roster appearances. Quite a mix of well known players ended their careers in 1977, as you will see.
Also many little known players hit the road after their brief MLB seasons too.
I will list them with all batters first, pitchers 2nd with their last team played for in '77.
Click HERE
for the complete article and list.
May 3, 2005
1978 draft order announced
DAYTON, OH - The official draft order for the 1978 draft to be
held in August is now posted. The draft order includes all
past trades involving 1978 draft picks.
April 30, 2005
Another Park change
FRANKFORT, IN - Joe DeZarlo has decided to move into
Shea Stadium and is giving up Old Comiskey Park. So now the available parks are
Comiskey & Toronto's Exhibition.
April 30, 2005
New Statistician for SPB-4
FRANKFORT, IN - It is my duty to gladly announce that Greg
Stillwagon will be taking over the position of League Statistician in SPB IV. He will assume his duties with the beginning of the 1978 season in October. Greg has long wanted to serve SPB in another capacity, other than manager. So thanks Greg for taking this job over
April 30, 2005
Ballpark change for 1978
FRANKFORT, IN - New manager Marc Hollingsworth has changed parks with his team and is leaving Shea Stadium and moving into the
Oakland Colliseum. Available parks in SPB IV are now Toronto's Exhibition Stadium and New York's Shea Stadium
April 30, 2005
New Manager on board for 78
FRANKFORT, IN - I would like to announce the appointment of veteran SPB Manager
Marc Hollingsworth into our ranks for the coming 1978 season. He will taking over the fore Brooklyn Buccaneers franchise, and renaming the team the
Spirit Mountain Volcanoes. Welcome to SPB IV Marc! My thanks goes out to former manager Peter Reoch for his many years in this league!
April 4, 2005
Mud Hens best lightning for 77 Crown
FRANKFORT, IN - Congratulations to Rich Applegate and his Toledo
Mud Hens for winning the 77 World Series in decisive fashin
against the #1 seed Louisiana Lightning. See the WORLD
SERIES link for complete coverage and excellent write-ups on both
sides.
March 29, 2005
77 World Series set
FRANKFORT, IN - The lights are on for the 1977 World Series. The National League will be represented by the Toledo Mud Hens, managed by Rich Applegate. The American League will have the Louisiana Lightning of Mike See matching up in these Big Games.
The Mud Hens took Bill Lanke's Kansas City Barons down in 4 games in the
NLCS. The Lightning rocked Jim Bendik's Dorsey Lemmings in 3 straight for the ALCS title. The Lemmings were last years World Champs in 1976.
Good luck to Rich & Mike as they will soon meet for the Championship of 1977! This years series will open in Louisiana for the first two contests.
March 24, 2005
Six Stadium changes to announce
FRANKFORT, IN - The dominoes start falling, as several managers
decide to increase their city taxes and move into new digs.
Here are the details:
TEAM
OLD
STADIUM
NEW STADIUM
Oaks
Fulton Cty. Stadium San Diego
Stadium
Ghosts
Candlestick
Park
Riverfront Stadium
Isthmus
Three
Rivers
Fulton County Stadium
Magpies
Anaheim
Stadium
Candlestick Park
Lightning
Exhibition Stadium Three
Rivers
Rough Riders Oak
Coliseum
Anaheim Stadium
SEE MANAGERS PAGE FOR AVAILABLE
STADIUMS
March 24, 2005
Replacement for Scouts named
FRANKFORT, IN - It is my pleasure to announce that
Greg W. of California will be taking over the former Pocono team for the 1978 season. He will be renaming the team to the Barstow Rough Riders. He will be moving his home park as well dropping the Oakland Coliseum and moving into Anaheim Stadium with his new team. So welcome aboard Greg. We're glad to have you in league! If you want to welcome Greg, he can be reached at:
gregwoertz@yahoo.com.
March 24, 2005
Replacement for Mountain Men named
FRANKFORT, IN - It is my privilege to announce a new manager for the coming 1978 season.
Randall Reilly of Wisconsin will be taking over the former Harrisville team. He is renaming the team the
"Mad City Isthmus" and will be leaving Three Rivers Stadium behind and taking over the recently vacated Fulton County Stadium. His bio info will be posted soon to our managers page. He is anxious to put his own stamp on this team in an effort to rebuild.
Please welcome Randall to SPBIV. He can be reached at: roreilly@merr.com.
March 22, 2005
Two Managers resign
FRANKFORT, IN - There will be two new managers, to be announced at a later time, taking over the teams of two veteran SPB IV managers who will not be returning for the 1978 season. Jim Wheeler announced to me a short while back that he would no longer be an SPB IV manager of the Pocono Scouts due to a shortage of time. Also Dave Parsons is not returning in 1978 as the manager of the Harrisville Mountain Men. Jim is still aboard in SPB in 5 of our other leagues. Dave has now left all SPB leagues. Thanks to both of these men for their long time service in SPB IV!
March 22, 2005
1977 over usage
FRANKFORT, IN - Click HERE
for info concerning over usage penalties for the 1977 season.
March 22, 2005
1977 50% use or lose
FRANKFORT, IN - The following players are lost to their teams because of failure to use them the required 50% during the 1977 season:
These players will be returning in the 1978 rookie draft, or a later rookie draft, as they have some stats left for coming seasons. I list the year they will reappear in a draft, only if it is later than next season (1978):
John Vukovich, 3b (Gnomes) 1979
Bob Davis, c (Zoo Crew)
Art Gardner, of (Zoo Crew)
Benny Ayala, of (Zoo Crew) 1979
Dennis Lewallyn, p (Serranos)
Doug Ault, 1b (Shamrocks)
Randy Elliott, of (Firebugs) 1980
Andres Mora, of (Firebugs)
Sam Mejias, of (Firebugs)
Fran Healy, c (Mountain Men)
Dan Warthen, p (Mountain Men)
Jerry Tabb, 1b (5-0's)
Keith Smith, of (5-0's) 1980
Dan Briggs, 1b (Comets)
Jerry Terrell, inf (Generals)
Larry Murray, of (Generals)
Glenn Burke, of (Lightning)
Danny Goodwin, 1b (Oaks)
Tom Bruno, p (Beavers)
Steve Burke, p (Beavers)
Marty Perez, ss (Plainsmen)
Dave Rosello, inf (Plainsmen) 1979
Dell Alston, of (Plainsmen)
The following players were lost because of the 50% rule too. But they did not have anything left after 1977 anyway, and would not have appeared in future SPB seasons.
Pedro Garcia, 2b (Shamrocks)
Jerry Davanon, inf (Magpies)
Doug Griffin, 2b (Magpies)
Craig Robinson, ss (Firebugs)
Luis Delgado, of (Firebugs)
Vic Bernal, p (Mountain Men)
Bob Johnson, p (Mountain Men)
Jim Fuller, of (5-0's)
Terry Harmon, inf (Generals)
Rick Baldwin, p (Generals)
Jeff Terpko, p (Generals)
Ed Goodson, 1b (Revenge)
Gil Patterson, p (Revenge)
Jimmy Wynn, of (Oaks)
Chuck Hartenstein, p (Oaks)
Bob Adams, 1b (Beavers)
Luis Rosado, 1b (Beavers)
Joe Lis, of (Plainsmen)
Ken Boswell, 2b (Plainsmen)
Danny Thomas, of (Plainsmen)
Larry Demery, p (Plainsmen)
February 20, 2005
August 1977 Stats now posted
DAYTON, OH - The August 1977's Stats and Power Rankings are posted. Looks
like only 1 race is yet to be decided between the Barons and the
Oaks in the NL West.
January 8, 2005
1978 Draft location
FRANKFORT, IN - All SPB IV Managers, Due to a lack of interest, Mike See has decided this August's draft will not be held in Las Vegas after all. Too many managers responded that they would not be available on the first weekend.
So we both agreed that it would be best just to have the SPB IV draft here in Frankfort. It will be on Saturday, August 13th, since many guys had the previous weekend booked. No hurry on this one though, plenty of time to let me know. I do hope to see several of you here later this summer for these 1978 drafts
October 24, 2004
1977 Win Share Predictions
DAYTON, OH - Thanks to Tim Johnson, you can view his win-share
predictions by clicking HERE.
Thanks Tim for a great job and service!
September 30, 2004
Replacement manager named
FRANKFORT, IN - I am very happy to announce that veteran SPB V Manager
Bill Lanke will be in the drivers seat for the former K.C. Barons as we get underway for the 1977 season. Bill's email address is:
lanke@yahoo.com. Be sure to give Bill a welcome! I thank him for stepping up and taking over this team!
September 29, 2004
1977 Free agent claims
FRANKFORT, IN - Surprisingly there were several takers among our paltry free agent group this year. Here are the players selected and the team that won their lottery! Listed in order of winning teams.
Plainsmen - Joe Lis,
Beavers - Felix Millan
Mountain Men - Gene Locklear, Dennis Blair (80).
Bucs - Enzo Hernandez, Mike Cuellar, & Ray Bare.
Magpies - Jerry DaVanon, Doug Griffin.
Ramblers - Mike Wallace, Frank MacCormack.
Hired Guns - Rich Folkers
Scouts - Pepe Mangual.
Mud Hens - Danny Walton.
Those free agents not getting any bids were: Steve Luebber (79), Luis Melendez, Nyls
Nyman, Danny Walton, Mark Wiley (78). & Oscar Zamora (79). These 6 players have been deleted from SPB 1977.
September 29, 2004
1977 Free agent list
FRANKFORT, IN - The following players have been released from the list of possible cuts last evening. The 8:00 deadline is past and so you have 24 hours to claim any of the following players for your teams. Remember, do not draft these bums unless you really have a need for them, if at all possible. :-)
Ray Bare, SP
Dennis Blair, (80) SP
Mike Cuellar, SP
Jerry Davanon, INF
Rich Folkers, MR
Doug Griffin, 2B
Enzo Hernandez, SS
Joe Lis, 1B
Steve Luebber, (79) MR
Frank MacCormack, SP
Pepe Mangual, OF
Luis Melendez, OF
Felix Millan, 2B **
Nyls Nyman, PH
Mike Wallace, MR
Gene Locklear, OF
Danny Walton, 1B
Mark Wiley, (78) MR
Oscar Zamora (78) MR
**Millan has value to those needing a 2B. He was the only released player not on the original list. He would be a worthwhile pick to those needing legitimate help in the INF.
If you want to claim a player, have your claim to me by 8:00 P.M. Wednesday night. At that time I will adjust all claims, and release the players not claimed outright from the league. I will then send out the official files to begin play for 1977. Thanks for your patience.
September 27, 2004
Players to release.....new procedure
FRANKFORT, IN - If you wish to retain any, or all of these players for your team roster, you must respond to me no later than 8:00PM Tuesday night September 28 with the name of each player you wish to keep. No need to respond at all if you want the players dropped. I will release all players at the deadline tomorrow night if there has been no request from you to keep the player. Of course, you can release any other player not on this list if you do not see them getting any playing time for your team. Just send me their names by the deadline on tuesday night (8:00). Note: All of these players listed have very little value or stats for this or any other season. Please respond ASAP.
Tomorrow night I will send a quick note out to all after the deadline has been reached with each player dropped from the league. There will then be a 24 hour period to claim a player for your team. However, most of these guys are pretty pathetic, but it seems there are always a few who get claimed. Do not claim these players unless you actually believe you will need them, please!
Here is the total list I have come up with:
TOLEDO (R. Applegate)
Luis Alvarado, 3b
Roric Harrison, mr (78)
Jack Heidemann, ss
CEDAR RAPIDS (J. Cada)
Larry Anderson, mr
Doug Griffin, 2b
Ray Sadecki, mr
Danny Walton, 1b
Oscar Zamora, mr (78)
ASTORIA (J. DeZarlo)
Ray Bare, SP
Enzo Hernandez, ss
DORSEY (J. Bendik)
Mike Beard, mr
Luis Melendez, of
ANOK ISLAND (S. Brunner)
Dennis Blair, sp (80)
Don Carrithers, mr
Mike Wallace, mr
Mark Wiley, mr (78)
POCONO (J. Wheeler)
Mike Cuellar, sp
Nyls Nyman, ph
HAWAII (T. Baxter)
Jerry DaVanon, inf
OAKLAND (G. Stillwagon)
Rich Folkers, mr
ROSSVILLE (R. Ryan)
Joe Hoerner, mr
Phil Roof, c
BROOKLYN (P. Reoch)
Randy Hundley, c
EDMONTON (C. Williams)
Rick Krueger, mr
Brent Strom, mr
POSSUM LAKE (S. Skawinski)
Joe Lis, 1b
Frank MacCormack, sp
KANSAS CITY (M. Boling)
Steve Luebber, mr (79)
MONTEZUMA (B. Linn)
Pepe Mangual, of
EAST DETROIT (V. Onstott)
Gene Locklear, of
Other teams not listed have no recommended players to release, but you can release anyone you will not use. Just send me the names.
August 19, 2004
Stadium Change
FRANKFORT, IN - The Louisiana Lightning GM Mike See has pulled up stakes and moved the team from Riverfront Stadium in Cincy to Toronto and taken up residence in Exhibition Stadium there.
That leaves Riverfront and San Diego Stadium as the available parks in
SPBIV.
July 31, 2004
Protected Player call
FRANKFORT, IN - In readying for the quickly approaching drafts of 1977, I am now calling for all protected rosters from each current 1977 manager. Here is a list of how many players each team may protect, based on teams 1976 W-L records:
18 Players to Protect:
K. C. Barons (Mike Boling)
Edmonton Magpies (Chris Williams)
Oakland Oaks (Greg Stillwagon)
Hawaii 5-0's (Terry Baxter)
Lafayette Generals (Steve Ehresman)
19 Players to Protect:
C. R. Hired Guns (Jerry Cada)
Dorsey Lemmings (Jim Bendik)
Kenosha Comets (Dave Lauer)
W. P. Plainsmen (John Turnbull)
Louisiana Lightning (Mike See)
Brooklyn Buccaneers (Peter Reoch)
Baroda Serranos (Mike Galbreath)
G. C. Ghosts (John Cusack)
Toledo Mud Hens (Rich Applegate)
Bronx Storm (Tim Johnson)
Frankfort Firebugs (Gary Plunkitt)
A. I. Gnomes (Steve Brunner)
20 Players to Protect:
Rossville Ramblers (Rick Ryan)
Astoria Zoo Crew (Joe DeZarlo)
Montezuma Revenge (Bill Linn)
Wetumpka Scouts (Jim Wheeler)
Harrisville Mountain Men (Dave Parsons)
PLEASE HAVE THESE LIST TO ME NO LATER THAN SUNDAY NIGHT BY 11 P.M. CST. I will then send out the P2 ready files on Monday morning. Shortly after that John T. can have the available P2 players posted to the SPB IV
webpage. Thanks for your promptness in this matter.
I have lists already for the Lightning, Firebugs, and Mud Hens!
July 28, 2004
Manager swap
FRANKFORT, IN - It is my privilege to announce that Joe DeZarlo, very much the veteran SPB manager, is returning to SPB IV after a 3 year absence while he was "in the books". Joe is coming in as the replacement manager for the recently departed Marc Robinson, as manager of the former Ruppert Mundys team. Joe is renaming the team as the Astoria Zoo Crew, and he will remain in Comiskey Park for his home games.
Please welcome Joe back to SPB IV! It's good to know the team continues in good hands. Welcome back Joe! I'm sure you will have the Mundys in the thick of the race very soon.
Meanwhile, Marc Robinson will remain a member of the SPB Leagues with franchises in both SPB Now & SPB V.
May 31, 2004
New Expansion Manager
FRANKFORT, IN - It is time to announce the replacement for Dave Baldwin, an expansion manager, who had to resign due to other
commitments. The new manager taking over for Dave will be Vin
Onstott, who has played in SPB V for two years previous. Vin is a solid manager in SPB V, and I'm sure he will do a great job in SPB IV too. So welcome to the 1977 season
Vinny!!!
He has decided to rename the team which was the former Las Vegas Bombers. The new team name will be the East Detroit Shamrocks, and they also will adapt a new home park. They are abandoning the San Diego park, and will take Houston's pitchers paradise, the Astrodome as their home park. Send Vin a welcome if your so inclined.
May 20, 2004
1977 Stadium Change
FRANKFORT, IN - John Turnbull, manager of the Wright-Patt Plainsmen has decided to dump the Astrodome and is moving into Seattle's Kingdome for the 1977 season.
May 2, 2004
1977 Draft order announced
FRANKFORT, IN - The official draft order complete with traded
picks is now on the website. Look under Draft
order 1977 in the Draft section.
April 28, 2004
1976 Expansion managers officially on board
FRANKFORT, IN - Welcomes go out to both Stan Skawinski and Dave Baldwin as they officially come aboard in SPB IV with their expansion teams for 1977.
Dave has the Los Vegas Bombers ready for entry, and Stan is bringing the Possum Lake Beavers into existence. These managers, as well as all other managers, can now be included for trading in getting your teams ready for the 1977 season.
To check out, or review the rosters of these expansion teams, please refer to the rosters on the SPB IV webpage under the News note dated August 24, 2003. Please take a minute to welcome both Dave and Stan to the league, if you want to.
WELCOME TO SPB IV!!
April 27, 2004
1976 World Series complete!
FRANKFORT, IN - Congratulations are in order for the Dorsey Lemmings, managed by Jim
Bendik, as he has soundly defeated the Lafayette Generals of Steve Ehresman in the 1976
W.S., by taking 4 straight games from Lafayette. The first two were played in Lafayette, and the final 2 at Dorsey. So a solid job of managing by Bendik brings the Lemmings the championship.
March 30, 2004
1976 End of season player reports
DAYTON OH - With the finish of the 1976 season, please click on
the highlighted word for player over usage
and use
or lose players.
March 28, 2004
1976 Final Stats posted, Playoffs set
DAYTON OH - That stats for the final month of 1976 are now posted
in Version 9 format. I will have the playoff page posted
soon. Please play the playoffs in version 8 format.
Congratulations to Mike Boling, Chris Williams, Steve
Ehresman, and Jim Bendik for making the final four.
December 20, 2003
1976 June Stats posted
DAYTON OH - The stats for June 1976 season is
now posted. Monthly awards will be posted shortly. All but one
division seems to be within reach. A.L. East looks to be a
5-team race!
October 13, 2003
1976 Win-Shares predictions
DAYTON OH - Thanks to Tim Johnson for providing us this keen
insight to the possible outcome of the 1976 season. It
proves that I have a target on my back!! Good luck! You can
view his predictions by clicking HERE.
September 28, 2003
1976 Spring Training stats posted
DAYTON OH - Thanks to Greg Stillwagon for playing some spring
training games. Hopefully some of you were able to fine-tune
your lineups because of them. Season play starts October
1st. Good luck to all of you! The stats are located at
the bottom of the SPB4 links section on the left.
Aug 25, 2003
3 Free agents claimed for 76.
FRANKFORT, IN -The following 3 free agent players were awarded to these teams:
Jerry Cram, p Harrisville Mountain Men
Ed Sprague, p Harrisville Mountain Men
Rick Austin, p Edmonton Magpies
The other free agents, Jim Burton, Ed Crosby, and Eric Raich have been dropped from the 1976 SPB files since no claims were submitted.
Aug 24, 2003
SPB-4 1977 Expansion draft completed.
FRANKFORT, IN -The drafted roster for the Las Vegas Bombers has
been announced. You can access the Bombers roster by
clicking HERE.
The Beavers roster can be accessed HERE.
Aug 23, 2003
SPB-4 1976 Free Agent....come and get 'em
FRANKFORT, IN -You have untill Sunday night at 8:00 CST to put in a claim for any of these, or they will be released from the 1976 files. So let me know ASAP if you want any of these players:
Jim Burton (77) p (1 game)
Jerry Cram, p (4 games)*
Ed Sprague, p (3 games)*
Eric Raich, p (1 game)*
Ed Crosby, 3b (2 AB)
Rick Austin, p (3 games)*
Aug 19, 2003
SPB-4 1976 Players eligible for release
FRANKFORT, IN -Now that the season is nearing, the drafts are over, and we are
ensconced in trading, this would be a good time to bring up those players who can be released from your teams before the 1976 season starts.
In reviewing all rosters, I have spotted the following players who could easily be released by their teams. These players have little if any present or future value. All players have very few appearances left in their
M.L. careers.
Of course this list is subject to your approval. You can keep any of the players listed if you wish to do so, but you must notify me to retain them. However, if you choose to release them they will become free agents. I will then publish a list of all free agents later this week, and as always any manager can claim them, (if you really need them) and have them placed on your current roster. These free agents will then be awarded to the teams with the worst records in 1975, in the rare case of any dual claims.
The reason for this action is basically to clear your rosters of any unwanted or unneeded players who you consider as fodder on your roster. Of course, you may release any other players not on this list as well. If your never going to consider using them, and they have no current or future value to your team, feel free to let me know ALL additional players you wish to cut.
Here is the suggested list: (name, pos, year, stats, present team roster, mgr.)
Mark Wiley, p (1978) (6 games, 1 start 6.10 ERA in 78) Anok Island Gnomes (Brun)
Jim Burton, p (1977) (1 game, 0.00 ERA in 77) Bronx Storm (Johnson)
Rick Austin, p (1976) (3 games, 5.06 ERA in 76) Brooklyn Bucs (Reoch)
Larry Anderson, p (1977) (6 games, 9.35 ERA in 77) Cedar Rapids H.G. (Cada)
Jerry Cram, p (1976) (4 games, 6.23 ERA in 76) Dorsey Lemmings (Bendik)
Tom Dettore, p (1976) (4 games, 10.29 ERA in 76) Goth. City Ghosts (Cusack)
Ed Sprague, p (1976) (3 games, 7.04 ERA in 76) K.C. Barons (Boling)
Jim York, p (1976) (3 games, 5.59 ERA in 76) Lafayette Generals (Ehresman)
Roger Nelson, p (1976) (3 games, 2.08 ERA in 76) Oakland Oaks (Stillwagon)
Eric Raich, p (1976) (1 game, 16.88 ERA in 76) Pocono Scouts (Wheeler)
Harry Parker, p (1976) (3 games, 0.00 ERA in 76) Rossville Rambs. (Ryan)
Roric Harrison, p (1978) (9 games, 7.50 ERA in 78) Toledo Mud Hens (Applegate)
Ed Crosby, 3b (1976) (1 game, 2 at bats in 76) Hawaii 5-0's (Baxter)
Strangely this year only 1 batter appears on this list.
So, if you have a player listed here, please reply within 48 hours ONLY if you wish to retain the player. Otherwise, they will be removed from your roster and placed on a free agent list. This is a little different
procedure than used in the past, but since most players do get the axe, I thought this might save you a note. Remember too, if you wish to give any other rostered players, besides the above suggestions, their pink slip, be sure to let me know who they are within 48 hours.
Thanks for your co-operation. A list of all released free agents will be sent out later this week with a chance for any team to claim them. If they go unclaimed, they will be released from the SPB files into oblivion!
Thanks for your patience and attention to this matter.
Aug 16, 2003
SPB-4 Expansion on the horizon
FRANKFORT, IN - I am now beginning the process of bringing in two new managers for the two expansion teams we will be adding in the 1977 season. Now that all our 1976 drafts are over, there is no reason to wait any longer.
I have already came up with the two new managers from our backup list. Our first new manager will be
Dave Baldwin, and the other will be Stan Skawinski. They have both been on our list for a while, and I feel that both will be responsible managers in SPB IV.
Next on the agenda, will be having them choose their parks, and their team names. Then it will be on to the actual drafting of the 2 expansion teams rosters from among all the players who played for the actual 1977 Blue Jays and Mariners. It only takes one game of appearing for either team, for a player to be eligible for the draft. Then when the draft is complete, all of us will know exactly which players will be taken from our teams, well ahead of the beginning of the '77 season. This will allow each manager to prepare for his losses in advance.
The two expansion managers will each draft 34 players onto their roster, and these players will become their property at the close of the 1976 season. The expansion teams will participate 1 -2 in both the 1977 rookie draft, and the Phase II drafts as well. Also their players will not be available to be selected in the Phase II draft. This gives an already weak team (expansion teams) the opportunity to build into a stronger team. These breaks are only in effect for their initial season. In 1978 they will draft in the normal order, and have their unprotected players exposed for Phase II.
I will keep you posted as we work through these expansion items.
Aug 2, 2003
Correction to draft order
FRANKFORT, IN - Due to an oversight in the constitution, the
second round of the 76 draft order has been corrected, to include
the divisional winners occupying the 3rd and 4th spots in the
draft order for round 2. The updated order is now
posted.
July 29, 2003
New Divisional Allignments
FRANKFORT, IN - It is my duty to inform all of you that there will be a total shift of teams into different leagues and divisons for 1976. This was done because originally we set up SPB IV with a somewhat geographical closeness that would allow members to play in person. Now with the coming advent of Version 9 that will allow this at all times, and with the current up swing of many managers already doing this by using Net Meeting to play their series, I think it is time to make the change.
Besides that there was always the matter of two of our divisions with 5 teams and 2 with 6 teams in each league, which gave some of you more opponents to try and beat.
Also the fact that you were always playing the same teams a different number of games if you were in the other divisions, or leagues, was a factor in making this realignment decision.
To accomplish this I merely place the team names in a random number order and had them distributed much like the random round of our rookie draft is done. So all this said, here is the new setup for SPB IV's 1976 season:
NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST
Ruppert Mundys (M. Robinson)
Pacific Storm (T. Johnson)
Harrisville Mountain Men (D. Parsons)
Toledo Mud Hen (R. Applegate)
Lafayette Generals (S. Ehresman)
Frankfort Firebugs (G. Plunkitt)
NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST
Hawaii 5-0's (T. Baxter)
Oakland Oaks (G. Stillwagon)
Fayetteville Gnomes (S. Brunner)
Kansas City Barons (M. Boling)
Montezuma Revenge (B. Linn)
AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST
Cedar Rapids Hired Guns (J. Cada)
Wright Patt Plainsment (J. Turnbull)
Louisiana Lightning (M. See)
Rossville Ramblers (R. Ryan)
Edmonton Magpies (C. Williams)
Kenosha Comets (D. Lauer)
AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST
Brooklyn Bucaneers (P. Reoch)
Pocono Scouts (J. Wheeler)
Gotham City Ghosts (J. Cusack)
Baroda Serranos (M. Galbreath)
Dorsey Lemmings (J. Bendik)
Enjoy your new surroundings! Should liven up the former match ups a bit. Good luck with your Divisions. These changes will be reflected on the next set of files.
July 29, 2003
1976 Player positional losses
FRANKFORT, IN - Due to the recent rule changes, there have been several inquiries from managers concerned about their teams. For your
convenience, I am listing all players with over 400 at bats that will loose marginal positions that were formerly available. This way all of you will know in advance just what positions the players will no longer be able to play.
One note; outfielders were just considered for their total games in the OF, not their individual games at each OF position.
I plan on releasing the updated files soon with all recent trades in place, and with the protected players highlighted as soon as the last two managers respond with their protected lists.
I will list the players first & last name and the marginal positions removed. Here is the list in total:
Sal Bando ss,
Roger Metzger 2b,
Joe Rudi 1b,
Lenny Randle 3b,
Don Kessinger 3b,
Al Oliver 1b,
Chris Speier 2b - 3b
Jay Johnstone 1b,
Bobby Grich 3b,
George Brett ss,
Toby Harrah 3b,
Rob Andrews ss,
Johnny Bench of,
Enos Cabell 1b,
Ron Jackson 2b - of,
Mike Ivie c - 3b,
Buddy Bell 1b,
Tim Foli 3b,
Rennie Stennett ss,
Doug DeCinces ss,
Duane Kuiper 1b,
Jerry Royster ss,
Rod Carew 2b,
Ted Simmons 3b - of,
Rico Carty of,
Marty Perez 3b
This list contains the 26 players that were affected by the new rule. No other player were affected by the changes.
July 26, 2003
1976 Protected roster limits
FRANKFORT, IN - Here are the number of protected players each team may have for 1976:
20 Protected Players
Ruppert Mundys (Marc Robinson)
Gotham City Ghosts (John Cusack)
Harrisville Mountain Men (Dave Parsons)
Louisiana Lightning (Mike See)
Pacific Storm (Tim Johnson)
19 Protected Players
Edmonton Magpies (Chris Williams)
Wright Patt Plainsmen (John Turnbull)
Cedar Rapids Hired Guns (Jerry Cada)
Rossville Ramblers (Rick Ryan)
Baroda Serranos (Mike Galbreath)
Frankfort Firebugs (Gary Plunkitt)
Kenosha Comets (Dave Lauer)
Kansas City Barons (Mike Boling)
Fayetteville Gnomes (Steve Brunner)
Lafayette Generals (Steve Ehresman)
Montezuma Revenge (Bill Linn)
Wetumpka Scouts (Jim Wheeler)
18 Protected Players
Dorsey Lemmings (Jim Bendik)
Oakland Oaks (Greg Stillwagon)
Toledo Mud Hens (Rich Applegate)
Brooklyn Bucaneers (Peter Reoch)
Hawaii 5-0's (Terry Baxter)
Please have your lists to me ASAP, but no later than Friday, August 1st.
May 29, 2003
1975 Voting results in
FRANKFORT, IN - All SPB IV Managers, The 1975 season Awards
voting has now been tabulated, and it is my privilege to announce
the winners of these Annual League Awards. Thanks to all who
voted. Sorry for the problems encountered with the
Bravenet voting site. I know it was a hassle to have to go
back and revote. Rest assured these problems will be
addressed by next season. Click HERE
for the rest of the article. Click HERE
for Awards results. Click HERE
for All-Star results.
May 20, 2003
1981 Strike year player limits posted
DAYTON OH - Gentlemen...for those of you who do advance planning
on your players, I have posted the full-season
extracted/extrapolated player limits for each hitter and pitcher
for the 1981 strike-shortened season. It is located on the left
bar under OTHER. Enjoy!
May 20, 2003
1975 Voting deadline extended
FRANKFORT, IN - The voting booth deadline has been extended until
the 24th of May at 10PM.
May 17, 2003
1976 Rosters and Rookies posted
FRANKFORT, IN - The first installment of 76 rosters and Rookies
have been posted for the 1976 season. Gentlemen, start your
scouting!
May 12, 2003
1975 Final year players
FRANKFORT, IN -Click HERE
for a listing of those players who saw their SPB careers come to
an end with the 1975 season.
May 12, 2003
1976 Draft order announced
FRANKFORT, IN -Draft order for the 1976 draft has been announced.
The link is on the left bar, with the first round listed on the
right. All draft order picks have been updated through trade
# 269.
May 9, 2003
1976 Draft date set
FRANKFORT, IN -The date has been set, and the gala event has
already attracted many inquiries ahead of time, from managers
wanting to attend the 1976 rookie & Phase II drafts. Saturday,
August 9th, at my place in Frankfort, Ind. will be the place to
be. I encourage all of you to attend this annual bash! If you've
never made it here for a draft before, or if you attend as many as
possible, then this draft will be the one you don't want to miss.
Frankfort is just 45 minutes away from the Indianapolis airport,
or I am certainly willing to give driving instructions to all.
Free shuttle to an from airport, free room and board, whatever
more can you ask for? :-)
Some of the managers already saying they will be here on August
9th are: Rick Ryan, Marc Robinson, John Turnbull, Steve Ehresman,
Mike Galbreath, Greg Stillwagon, Terry Baxter, Dave Parsons, Mike
See, and myself. Those who are trying to get it worked out to
attend are: Dave Lauer, Chris Williams, Steve Brunner, and Jerry
Cada.
If your not on either of these lists, please let me know ASAP that
you either will attend, or stand a good chance of trying to be
here on that day, or have no chance of getting here for this
draft.
We will go out as a group for dinner on Friday evening, so be sure
to arrive in plenty of time to kick off our 1976 draft weekend
with a bang!! There is plenty of room to stay at either Hotel
Plunkitt or Hotel Ryan. If those accomodations are not what your
looking for, Frankfort has a very nice Holiday Inn Express, and
Motel 6, just a mere 10 minutes away from draft central. I hope
you will consider this event, and mark it on your calenders now. I
look forward to hearing from all of you.
Best,
Gary
May 5, 2003
1975 Voting booth now open
FRANKFORT, IN -This is to let you know that the voting booth for
the SPB V 1975 Awards & All-Stars has now been added to the
webpage. Please be sure and submit your ballots for BOTH of these
areas as soon as you can. The deadline date for having these votes
in will be Sunday MAY 18th by 6:00 P.M. Don't forget to
imput your name and team for each of these ballots.
Both Rod Witten & Mike Boling are eligible to vote for these
awards. Rod managed the Lumberjacks through 1975, and Mike can
also vote as a new manager of this team in 1976.
April 18, 2003
5-O's vs. Mud Hens in 75 Series
DAYTON, OH -The Hawaii 5-O's and the Toledo Mud Hens face off in
the SPB-4 1975 World Series. There is an extra added bonus
in the scores for this series, with the BASE 3.0 Play by Play
added on to the end of each boxscore. Enjoy!
April 5, 2003
New manager for 76
FRANKFORT, IN -Now that the leagues play-offs are finished, and
the W.S. has not yet began, this should be a good time to announce
a manager change that is effective officially once the 1975 World
Series is finished.
The new manager is Mike Boling, who is taking over for long time
SPB manager Rod Witten. Rod notified me some time ago that he
would be leaving at the close of this season, and we wish him the
best, now that he is officially leaving.
Mike can be reached at the following email address, in case you
wish to welcome him to the league: mboling@planetkc.com. He has
decided to rename the team and move into one of the vacant
stadiums. The team name beginning with the 1976 season will be the
Kansas City Barons, and they will play their home games in KC's
Royals Stadium. I personally welcome Mike to our league, and hope
he spends many seasons with us in SPB. Mike will become manager
upon completeion of the 75 W.S., and will be able to bring the
team through all drafts and trading periods in preparation for the
1976 season.
The Leagues vacant stadiums are now: Fulton County Stadium (Atl-NL),
and Metropolitan Stadium (Minn-AL).
Now back to the preparation for the 1975 W.S.
Best,
Gary
March 30, 2003
1975 Under usage / Use or lose
FRANKFORT, IN - Click HERE
to find out if your team has any players affected.
March 24, 2003
1975 Final stats posted
DAYTON, OH - The final stats for the 1975 season are now posted.
Congratulations goes out to the four division winners Jim Bendik,
Rich Applegate, Chris Williams and Terry Baxter. The playoff page
will be posted next week.
January 19, 2003
New manager for the Oaks
FRANKFORT, IN - Greg Stillwagon will be taking over as manager for
the Oakland Oaks replacing long time SPB manager Tom Falduto, who
passed away suddenly on Friday night. Thanks to Greg for speaking
up promptly and taking this team.
Be sure to send all May manager profiles for the Oaks to Greg at:
Stillwagon@M33Access.com . Be sure to make this change for May's
play ASAP.
December 24, 2002
1975 June stats posted
TUCSON, AZ - The 1975 June stats and power rankings are now
posted. Sorry for the delay this month. Happy
Holidays!!
October 31, 2002
A.P.B. out for Barry Foote's bat
KENOSHA, WI - Here's something you won't find on the 1975 leaders
board:
Fully 50% of Comets' catcher Barry Foote's hits have been doubles!
That's the good news.
The bad news is that he has only 1 double in his first 61 AB's!
Yes, fans: 2-for-61 to start the season. That's .033 for those
weak in math. In clutch situations, PITCHERS bat for him. He's
even walked ONCE in those 62 trips to the plate! An .047 OBP! My
85-year-old mother could do better. I knew not to expect much out
of a .194 hitting catcher except at bats, but I didn't expect
ZERO!
If anybody finds a Barry's bats, please forward them to the Comets
home office.
Dave Lauer
September 24, 2002
75 Predictions by Tim Johnson
TUCSON, AZ - Tim was gracious enough to put together a set
predictions based on Bill James' Win-shares theory. You can
access the predictions by clicking HERE.
Thanks again to Tim for his hard work, and maybe we can make this
a regular occurrance.
August 24, 2002
75 Trade deadline set
FRANKFORT, IN - The trading deadline for the 1975 season will
occur at 10P.M. EST on Saturday, September 28th. By this time you
must be sure to have all your pitching starts by then as well as
your relief appearances. Also be sure to cover your at bats for
every position. It is SPB recomendations that you have 625 at bats
for all 8 positions. Pitching usage rules are still the same.
But remember, when figuring player at bats now, any player batting
.250 or above is limited to exact at bats. Further, any player
below the .250 mark can make up to the next exact 100 of his at
bats. Example: Joe Blow hits .247 with 108 real life at bats, he
can now make up to 200 SPB at bats since his average is below
.250. His brother Jim Blow hits .233 with 385 at bats, he can now
have up to 400 SPB at bats. Players unlucky enough to have exactly
200, 300, etc. real life at bats do not get the extras. They must
have 101, or 201, etc. to qualify for the increase.
August 19, 2002
75 Free agent claims
FRANKFORT, IN - All SPB 1975 Managers, 11 of the 22 free agents
were signed by other teams, and will remain in SPB-IV for the 1975
season. 11 also went unclaimed and will be released (deleted) from
SPB-IV.
The players signed are as follows:
Mike Adams, (76) 3b-of - Firebugs
Luis Alvarado, (76) 2b - Mud Hens
Hal Breeden, 1b - Lemmings
Bob Gallagher, of - Lemmings
Tom Heintzelman, (77) inf - Firebugs
Bob Johnson, rp (77) - Mountain Men
Dal Maxvill, ss - Comets
Dick McAuliffe, 3b - Comets
Rich McKinney, 1b - Firebugs
Jimmy Rosario, (76) of - Firebugs
Herb Washington, pr - Mountain Men
The 11 released (deleted players) are:
Dick Billings
Billy Grabarkawitz
Bob Hansen
Dave Hilton
Jim Nettles
Horacio Pina
Gaylen Pitts
Charlie Sands
Jim Shellenback
Earl Stephenson
Frank Tepedino
Say good by to these players. Only Hansen will return for 1976.
All others are finished.
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