THE BBL BUZZ

January, 1999 Newsletter

v.1, #2

Batters Whine About Expansion

The BBL has experienced a drop in batting average and earned run average. Certain members of the players' union have demanded to expand to at least 16 teams next year. A breakdown of the last two years' totals follows:
CATEGORY 1996 1997
Batting Average .271 .259
On Base Percentage .338 .329
Home Runs (Per Team) 205 176
(proj.)
Earned Run Average 4.75 4.57

The Wood Sweepstakes Has Begun

The Texas Rangers appear to have the edge in bringing home native Texan, Kerry Wood. If the Rangers continue on and end up in last place, they would appear to have the first pick in the draft (depending on expansion rules). One thing's for sure: Kerry Wood could definitely help a pitching staff that hasn't been able to bring its ERA under 6.00 for most of the season.

Murray to Call It Quits

With no teams showing interest this season for his services, Eddie Murray has decided to retire. After hitting .285 with 23 Home Runs last year for the Baltimore Orioles of the BBL, he was uncerimoniously waived at the beginning of the season. Murray will wait out the season, hopefully trying to latch on to a BBL team that could use him as a drawing card to put some fans in the seats.

Mettler Retires

Unfortunately, John Mettler has relinquished control of his Pittsburgh Pirates club. John has apparently had many physical problems that have prevented him from continuing on in the league. I'm sure I speak for the league, when I wish John well. He is a good manager, but was especially famous for bringing Andres Galarraga to Pittsburgh. Good luck, John.

Take me home.

Any questions on this site, contact Larry Korb