That's What Cheesehead - 00.17 - Keep Rolling

[7teen]

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Yet again, while the rest of the league continues to scurry and wheel and deal, the Madison Wolves continue to stick to what we've got and roll on. By keeping things within the organization and not making any major moves, the club still posted a 19-7 mark in July to inch within a half game of the best record in the Johnson League. The club has still managed to stay competitive, despite some injuries, thanks to some rather unkowns stepping up and filling some big shoes.

The biggest surprise to this season has been the play of Ty Coon. The club's "5th outfielder" has managed to hit .360/.412/.528 in 89 at-bats this season. He's played only sparingly of late, but was used often when injuries struck both Bolt Vanderhugen and Guam Fantomhorsfli.

Relievers John Rhoades and Damario Poso have been nice pieces to the Wolves bullpen. Rhoades, a throw in with the Steadman trade due to salary reasons, has been outstanding in a Wolves uniform. In 17 games, Rhoades has logged 17 innings and posted a 2.12 ERA and 0.88 WHIP. He has struck out 21 and been damn near unhittable, surrendering only 9 base hits. Poso, the man that cost us a first round pick when we signed him in free agency, has logged 29.2 innings of relief, posted a 3.03 ERA and 1.08 WHIP. He isn't a strikeout guy, but has gotten it done with pinpoint control and keeping batters off balance. He's only walked 3 in his 29.2 innings.

While these role guys continue to get it done, don't be confused. The main reason this team is where it is is because of the overpowering offense. The same group of guys that have done it in Madison now for 3-4 seasons are still getting it done. The club ranks in the top 3 in pretty much all offensive stats.

As the season winds down and the playoffs approach, it does appear as though the team's major weakness will be the top of the rotation. The club doesn't have a #1 ace they can march out to guarantee them a win in game 1. This team appears built for the marathon, which perhaps explains why the club can't win the sprint at the end of the season...

[recte44]

You could win 110 games and still lose in the playoffs due to the lack of "playoff aces".

[7teen]

You could win 110 games and still lose in the playoffs due to the lack of "playoff aces".

I know. I'm expecting a similar fate as last season because of it...