KT 65.12—Exciting D-Lab News!

[JRamirez]

Six guys are "on track" to improve their defense (four players) or baserunning as the D-Lab programs conclude over the next two weeks, as spring training fades into the regular season of 2065 BBA play. And, jeepers, are the fans ready for that!

Let's look and see who's on track.

In the Improve Outfield Defense category, Jon Scaife, who was at one point "excelling" in the program, focusing on his skills in center field, the position he started 35 games for Marriott Hops in 2062 and 39 in 63. The 6'6" slugger drafted first by Des Moines in the 63 amateur draft started only four games in center his rookie year as a Kernel last season; he also started 31 game in left and 21 in right. If my math is right, that gave him 99 starts as designated hitter. He was second in the FRick League last season with 42 homers.

Next, Chandler Larkman is just on point to graduate successfully from training in center field. By contrast, native centerfielder António Hernández is struggling in the same program.

At improve Infield Defense, 21-year-old Juan Sierras (2062 No.1 by DMO) is on track to improve and is expected to be starting middle infielder in 2065. Kevin Hough, 23, who is more likely to play third base, especially with this week's injury to Santiago Quintanilla which may keep the .340 hitter out for 4-5 months, is also doing well.

JRamirez likes his players to represent threats to steal, and both Manuel Gutiérrez—who may be the starting dh this season (2065)—and Alfredo Gonzáles (a more natural speedster than Gutiérrez and who also successfully completed training to improve his strength and conditioning) are working to up their game on the basepaths.

This team news has been sponsored by the Deli Section of Kum N Go, where in emergencies the string cheese can double as shoelaces for your cleats.

[RonCo]

If Scaife can be dependable in center, that's huge.