Defending champs off to a rough start in 2003.

[palmolive44]

The defending European Cup Champions Mauchen Brauers have had some struggles out the gate with a 11-11 month of April, which currently puts the Brauers 1.5 games behind first place Rome. The pitching rotation, a strength last season, led by new staff ace Charlie Smith has gotten off to a rough start to the 03 campaign. New closer Duane Ward has closed out 7 of the Brauers 11 wins so far and is thus far has shown to be a capable replacement for David van Dongen. However, there is a growing concern within the organization over Antonio Moret’s 1-2 11.57 start to the year. Pitching coach Archibald Kapp noted in a recent press conference that Moret did pitch well in Spring Training and that he believes Moret will be fine.

The Brauers bats have been quite effective so far, especially new signee Rye Kelly who has shown the 2 years he was out of baseball have not effected his skills. 3B David Knoppert has gotten off to a torrid start hitting .347 with one home run and 11 RBI. The "Bensted Brauer" CF Brad Bensted has also started well for Munchen, hitting at a .295 clip with 2 homers and a team leading 14 RBI. The infield depth will be tested with the loss of Nicolas Rossignol of 6-7 months with a torn labrum. But new GM Scott Murphy seems confident that team has the right players in place and it is only a matter of time before they start producing.

[recte44]

Awesome, Brauer news!!!

[Al-Hoot]

[LambeauLeap]

Good read, I like the EBA stuff.

[nverhoev]

Good to see Mr. Corey Haim enjoying his time (and money) in Europe after Baltimore released him (with 24 million left on his deal) last season .