Here's a quick review of some of the high points.SP Amen Mitrani had a career year. He came up short in the FL Steve Nebraska Award voting to a very deserving Allen Izatt, but that should take nothing away from his 1999 campaign. He struck out an astounding 321 batters (led MBBA) while posting an eye-popping 24-4 record with a 2.82 ERA. He carried this team on his shoulders, we hope to expect nothing less for the remainder of his tenure in Buffalo.
Melvin Ripken the closer turned starter performed brilliantly in his new role. He was able to post a little over 5 IP per start, but amassed 13 wins along the way. As long as he is pitching behind Mitrani, the bullpen should have enough rest and able to take the game home from Ripken.
Jeremy Hunter performed very well as the anchor of the lineup. He went 341/393/529 in the 141 games he played. We hope to expect a little more form his power stroke as he only went yard 24 times. At the tender age of 23, there is plenty of time to develop.
Félix 'Melody' Padilla came up in late August to help out after an injury. He performed beautifully in his 24 regular season games getting a save while posting a 2.19 ERA along with a WHIP of 1.09. In the postseason, he better those figures, with a 1.86 ERA and a 0.76 WHIP. Much greater things are expected from this youngster.
GM Chris Ramsey was voted the top manager in the FL for 1999. With the best record in the FL at 99-63, the team made it all the way to Landis Memorial Series where they fell to the surging Vancouver Mounties. Buffalo looks to repeat as the FL Champs in 2000.
