CAN’T STOP WON’T STOP REDUX
March 12, 2038
Long Beach, CA
In an offseason reminiscent of the Tucson Cactus’ spending spree of 2028 the Surfers announced what is likely the final significant signing of the 2038 offseason. Catcher Hotha Popo signed with the club on a one-year $8 million-dollar deal. Though it appeared that they were already set at the catcher position, the opportunity to snag a 3-WAR catcher coming off of a .397 OBP season was too good to pass up.
Popo would appear to have the inside track on the every day job, and with Jesus Ayala having minor league options left, he will likely start the year in AAA. Despite a solid 2037 campaign, Ayala is by far the weakest receiver on the roster. The acquisition of Sean Smith on a three-year deal in December signaled a renewed commitment to catcher defense in an offseason where two premier free-agent pitchers were signed.
The 26-year-old Popo is a native of Nairobi, Kenya and is coming off of a 3.7 WAR year split between Vancouver and Madison. Best known for his eye, he walked 84 times in 128 starts last season, with just 68 strikeouts. He has a career caught stealing percentage just under 30% and last year had a CERA of under 4.00. Though he’s never hit more than 9 HR in a season, we could see that total approach 12-15 this year playing in Long Beach, which is a much better park for HR than Vancouver (1.04 vs. 0.90).
With this upgrade at catcher, the Surfers have solidified their status as a serious contender in the ultra-competitive Frick League Pacific. Home to the back to back FL champion San Fernando Bears, and the California Crusaders, the division could have three teams over 90 wins. According to the OOTP offseason report, the Surfers added 15 wins compared to last year’s team. Just a straight addition to last year’s 86 wins puts them at 101 wins for 2038. Of course it’s never that simple, but the Surfers clearly have the talent and depth to make a run at a league championship.
2038.06 - The Long Beach Independent - It Feels Like 2028 All Over Again
Moderator: Lane
- Lane
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2038.06 - The Long Beach Independent - It Feels Like 2028 All Over Again
Stephen Lane
Vice Commissioner / Historian
General Manager, Long Beach Surfers
Since 2026
Ex-GM, Amsterdam Neptunes, 2025 EBA Champions
Vice Commissioner / Historian
General Manager, Long Beach Surfers
Since 2026
Ex-GM, Amsterdam Neptunes, 2025 EBA Champions
- RonCo
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Re: 2038.06 - The Long Beach Independent - It Feels Like 2028 All Over Again
Wow. Another big move by the surfers.
- Lane
- GB: Vice Commissioner
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Re: 2038.06 - The Long Beach Independent - It Feels Like 2028 All Over Again
Was honestly surprised he took my offer. Thought for sure someone would come in with a multi year offer.
Payroll is now right up against the cap and I'm gonna have some tough decisions for the 27 man roster. Feeling good about this year for LBC.
Stephen Lane
Vice Commissioner / Historian
General Manager, Long Beach Surfers
Since 2026
Ex-GM, Amsterdam Neptunes, 2025 EBA Champions
Vice Commissioner / Historian
General Manager, Long Beach Surfers
Since 2026
Ex-GM, Amsterdam Neptunes, 2025 EBA Champions
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