2025 London Bishops Preview

[danwh]

2025 Preview - London Bishops

2024 Results 68W-94L .420 (3/4 in the Western Alliance)

The London Bishops time is getting closer and closer. Other than a strong performance three years ago, the Bishops have had a losing record over the last decade. Tides, though, are shifting as the team continues to improve from their disappointing 2023 season.

The Bishops have built a strong group of potentials in their farm system, and they have three of the top ten prospects in the EBA, making them the league's top system. Their most exciting player has already been playing with the Bishops and big things are expected from 19 year old Jesus Alvarado for years to come. Last year in AAA with the Weeting Power, he was good for a .311/.381/.453 and a WAR of 1.7. The hope is that he can continue to develop and become one of the league's premier first basemen. It remains to be seen whether GM Tim Meseck will put the youngster on the main squad, or have him condition for a bit with the Budapest Cannons. Given London's current options at first base, the former option is looking to be the most likely.

With a developing Alvarado, the Bishops have a decidedly average infield at first blush. A peak behind the curtains displays a core group of defensively focused players. The hope is that MBBA newcomer, Paul McKinney can bring some of his experience to shortstop to further improve the clubs chances. 21 year old second baseman, Dave Rodriguez, is also expected to improve this year, with a strong glove and phenomenal base running.

London's outfield is their strength, and they are led by exciting CF Adilmar Hoffman. At 23, Hoffman is already considered one of the best centerfielders in the EBA and London fans are excited to see him continue to lead the team's outfield. At right, German Lafranco is expected to provide some stability while GM Meseck waits for prospect Diego Colon to develop.

As the Bishop's fielding and batting continue to improve, there is some concern with their rotation and bullpen. As they wait for #3 prospect and 17 year old Taisuke Suzuki to develop, the Bishops will likely continue to have some struggles with their pitching. In the tougher Western Alliance, a stronger group of arms might be the edge that can help them move towards the top of their division. For the time being, pitchers Suarez, Jovine and Guzman should be enough to keep the Bishops competitive in most games.

The prediction for 2025 is that the Bishops will move four games above .500, but that will only good enough for third in their division.

[trmmilwwi]

Great preview Dan! You are right with all of your assumptions... I am hoping to find a veteran 1B so that Alvarado can be a mid season callup but if not he'll be the guy this year. McKinney suffered an injury in ST so he'll be on the shelf for 8 weeks. Pitching and defense is my key... I am halfway there. Good stuff!

[danwh]

Thanks - I still can't believe the detail this league goes into. Just trying to keep up...

[trmmilwwi]

Thanks - I still can't believe the detail this league goes into. Just trying to keep up...

lol, yeah I hear ya!! The saber guys blow me away with their knowledge of the stats, ratings and details of the league. Just stay active and have fun... it seems to work for me and I know next to nothing!