Pitcher of the Year
RP Brian Sykes
This one hurts. It's not like the 27-year-old journeyman pitcher from Virginia doesn't deserve the award. He posted a strong 2.94 ERA, 3.68 FIP, and struck out 84 batters in 107 innings for the Churchills. The problem is the Bismarck team was full of California's best pitching prospects, profiled by Eustace Tilley and Miguel González. When a minor league free agent out-pitches everyone else on the squad, it can be a bitter pill to swallow.
"You know, good for Brian," GM Shoeless said. "He went out and earned it. Would I prefer to be giving the small placard and $20 gift certificate to Applebees that come with the award to one of our developing prospects instead? Of course. But, that's not the case today."
Sykes, who pitched for the BBA's Charm City squad in parts of both 2038 and 2039, will get another opportunity to shine in AAA Black Hills next season.
"I was honest with Brian when he signed with us this past offseason," GM Shoeless continued. "He needs to either pitch out of his ass ... I guess he kind of did that this year ... or we'll need a ton of injuries for him to be called up to the big squad. It's a wait and see game for him again next year."
When asked about Shoeless' comments, Sykes had this to say: "I believe I can pitch at the highest level, but, hell, even Bismarck is better than flipping burgers in Arlington (VA)."
