We Got Wood - 44.28 - Franco Edges Out as Top Pitcher

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The trend of not doubling up on any awards continues in Portland. While many around the organization felt rookie Gusby Pinkerton's staff leading WAR was enough to give him the edge as the team's top pitcher, not to mention he led the team in wins with 13, it appears the organization will give the award to sophomore starter Francisco Franco instead.

Despite a losing record at just 9-12, Franco did lead the team in ERA, Strikeouts, WHIP, and Innings pitched during the 2044 season. While it was mentioned in the previous TN than Pinkerton set the pitching record for WAR in a single season, Franco set the record for ERA, WHIP, and strikeouts in a single season for the franchise. Franco also fell just 1 inning short of Hector Amaral's single season record for innings pitched a season ago.

"We could have gone either way with this award" said team owner David Wallace. "We actually talked with both players prior to the announcement and both said give it to the other guy. Franco said Gusby should get it. Pinkerton said the same to Francisco. We couldn't go wrong either way."

"I"ll just get it next year" Pinkerton chimed in with a laugh.

What it does appear in Portland is the franchise has two top of the rotation starters who could really help propel Portland to the next level if all the pieces keep falling right.