Final Standings, Awards, and Finances

Here are the final stats and comments. Below them you will find the awards presentation and the payouts. Thanks for playing everyone - it was definitely and interesting season!



1) (1) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 44; Uggla (HR) 19; Cabrera (RBI) 139 [69.5] = 132.5

Having Cabrera in a two slots during a Triple Crown season ended up being too much to beat in the end. Still, these guys didn't run away with it, which shows how important having three quality players is. Congrats Bill!


2)(2) Rob: Fielder (HR) 30; Granderson (HR) 43; Pujols (RBI) 105 [52.5] = 125.5

The R.R.'s squad hung tough till the end. Just a little more production from Fielder and/or Pujols and these guys could easily have taken it all.


3)(3) Kevin: Beltran (HR) 32; Jones (HR) 32; Gonzales (RBI) 108 [54] = 118

Injuries and some bad-luck replacements derailed what could (and maybe should) have been a championship season. Still, a strong third is nothing to be ashamed of.


4)(4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 32; Pena (HR) 19; Fielder (RBI) 108 [54] = 105

Trumbo's late-season vanishing act and Pena's dismal showing doomed this squad, which was still a solid competitor.


5)(5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 30; Reynolds (HR) 23; Texiera (RBI) 84 [42] = 95

Injury and under-performance squashed these guys early. However, they managed to fight back and put down respectable numbers.


6)(6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 41; Konerko (HR) 26; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 81

Death by Injury here. No Kemp, no bueno.

7)(7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 24; Utley (HR) 11; Jeter (RBI) 58 [29] = 64

Massive injury issues doomed these guys from day one. It could have happened to any of us ...



AWARDS PRESENTATION

Victor Zahn Jr. Memorial Championship Trophy - Bill

This one goes to Bill of course. Once again, great job!

The Lead Sombrero (A.K.A. The Jason Bay Award) - Eric

This goes to the owner who made the worst draft choice. There were two finalists for this one. I was tempted to give it to Bill for for choosing Uggla (it would be so weirdly cool for the league champ to also have the worst draft pick), but he's still a relatively young player coming off a number of really good seasons. So Eric gets it for Pena, an oldster who has been showing signs of decline for a couple years at least. Congrats Eric! You earned this one ...

The Mike Trout Award - Eric

This award is for best mid-season replacement choice. Eric also gets this one for picking Trumbo. Jumbo Trumbo fell down seriously at the end, but he was still an astute pick worthy of this award.



FINANCES

For everyone but Kevin I will collect at Thanksgiving (I'll send out a reminder notice when the date gets closer).

Bill:  + $75.00

Rob:   $0.00

Kevin:  - $5.00

Eric:  - $10.00

Vic:  - $15.00

Bonnie:  - $20.00

Mark:  - $25.00

Standings Thru Tuesday, September 25 (2:30 PM)

Cabrera's BIG week-plus has probably clinched it for Bill.  Everyone else is now likely just fighting to pay out as little as possible. 



1) (1) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 42; Uggla (HR) 19; Cabrera (RBI) 133 [66.5] = 127.5

Bill's to lose. The ghost of Freddie Mercury is warming up his voice ...
 

2) (2) Rob: Fielder (HR) 28; Granderson (HR) 40; Pujols (RBI) 101 [50.5] = 118.5

Fighting for the silver most likely, with an outside shot at the gold. Weirder things have happened ...

3) (3) Kevin: Beltran (HR) 30; Jones (HR) 32; Gonzalez (RBI) 104 [52] = 114

Solid shot at second. Hard to see first as an outcome here.


4) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 31; Pena (HR) 18; Fielder (RBI) 103 [51.5] = 99.5

Fighting with Vic for Miss Congeniality. 


5) (5) Pujols (HR) 30; Reynolds (HR) 22; Texiera (RBI) 40.5 = 92.5

See above.


6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 40; Konerko (HR) 25; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 79

Nieuwen-death ...


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 23; Utley (HR) 11; Jeter (RBI) 57 [28.5] = 62.5

Elvis has left the building ...

Standings Thru September 16 (3:15 PM)

Cabrera keeps chugging along. Big Granderson week moves Rob a little closer.

1) (1) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 37;  Uggla (HR) 18; Cabrera (RBI) 120 [60] = 115

Same old song and dance here. 55/45 chance right now that Bill takes it all - in other words, it's really close.


2) (2) Rob: Fielder (HR) 26; Granderson (HR) 39; Pujols (RBI) 96 [48] = 113

Granderson rocks, not enough help elsewhere. Still, these guys could easily sneak their way into a championship.


3) (3) Kevin: Beltran (HR) 29; Jones (HR) 29; Gonzalez (RBI) 102 [51] = 109

The math is simple here: if Kevin's HR guys start hitting again he can win it. If not, it's probably the bronze.


4) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 31; Pena (HR) 17; Fielder (RBI) 98 [49] = 97

Stuck in a 4th place bog ...


5) (5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 30; Reynolds (HR) 21; Texiera (RBI) 81 [40.5] = 91.5

A very gimpy Tex could keep this resurgent squad from moving up.


6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 40; Konerko (HR) 23; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 77

Spinning her wheels.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 23; Utley (HR) 10; Jeter (RBI) 55 [27.5] = 60.5

Beyond dead: decomposing ...

Standings Thru Sunday, September 9

It's likely down to three now. Big Reynolds week pushing Vic into the outer mix. Blowing taps for Trumbo and Eric?


1) (1) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 35; Uggla (HR) 18; Cabrera (RBI) 116 [58] = 111

Cabrera's RBIs are really beginning to make themselves felt. A  little four-point lead has been opened up. At this late date this might be a championship move.


2) (2) Rob: Fielder (HR) 25; Granderson (HR) 35; Pujols (RBI) 94 [47] = 107

A couple from Grandie. Little else going on. Still hanging very tough. This squad could still easily take it all.


3) (3) Kevin: Beltran (HR) 29; Jones (HR) 29; Gonzales (RBI) 96 [48] = 106

Same as above. A little HR surge and these guys could easily leap into first.


4) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 30; Pena (HR) 17; Fielder (RBI) 95 [47.5] = 94.5

Trumbo's strange demise says it all. They still have an outside shot, but it's getting less likely everyday.


5) (5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 29; Reynolds (HR) 21; Texiera (RBI) 81 [40.5] = 90.5

7 HRs in 7 days from Reynolds shoot these guys into the mix. Could easily take fourth. Any higher will be tough, though, especially since Tex has now got a gimpy leg ...

6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 38; Konerko (HR) 22; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 74

Kemp's folly ...


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 23; Utley (HR) 10; Jeter (RBI) 50 [25] = 58

Chopin's funeral march is being heard in the distance ...

Standings Thru Friday, August 31 (3:15 PM)

Strangely dead week or so around the Derby: very few points were added by anyone. Things continue to tighten up, though, with just a point and a half separating 1st from 3rd. It could be a wild September.


1) (1) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 32; Uggla (HR) 16; Cabrera (RBI) 107 [53.5] = 101.5

Is it possible to win with  one of your HR guys putting out less than 20? Bill's boys might very well prove that it is.


2) (2) Rob: Fielder (HR) 23; Granderson (HR) 33; Pujols (RBI) 90 [45] = 101

Better balance here than with Bill, but still not a enough HRs from Fielder. Can the Rawhide Raconteur's guys overcome Cabrera's RBIs?

3) (3) Kevin: Beltran (HR) 28; Jones (HR) 26; Gonzalez (RBI) 92 [46] = 100

Kevin's replacement HR guys are still treading water. Gonzo's L.A. move might pay off - his RBI numbers are finally looking like they should. The R.R. still thinks this could be the team to beat.


4) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 30; Pena (HR) 16; Fielder (RBI) 93 [46.5] = 92.5

Trumbo's strange and comprehensive late-season face plant might have taken these guys out of it; 8.5 points is starting to look like a lot of ground to make up so deep into things. Still, Trumbo's so explosive when he's on that it would foolish to count these guys out. 

5) (5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 29; Reynolds (HR) 12; Texiera (RBI) 81 [40.5] = 81.5

Vic's slow climb to respectability might have stalled. Still 4th is a possibility. A big September by this whole squad is probably necessary for them to go any higher.

6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 36; Konerko (HR) 21; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 71

This team is the real tragedy of the league. If Kemp had stayed healthy they might be running away with things. Power Derby can be a harsh mistress ...

7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 23; Utley (HR) 9; Jeter (RBI) 45 [22.5] = 54.5

Still a slight shot here of getting out of the cellar, but it's looking grim. I think the CHUDS will eventually get Mark in the end.

Standings Thru Thursday, August 23 (8:00 PM)

Kind of a flat week-plus all around. Vic's finally within striking distance. Pujols and Texiera a little gimpy. Kevin's new HR guys are stalled.



1) (1) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 31; Uggla (HR) 15; Cabrera (RBI) 105 [52.5] = 98.5

Bill continues to hold first, but this is almost a one-man team and it has little margin for error.


2) (3) Rob: Fielder (HR) 22; Granderson (HR) 32; Pujols (RBI) 86 [43] = 97

The  RR's squad somehow manages to rise a spot despite an off spell. I've said it before, but it's all going to come down to Fielder, me thinks.


3) (2) Kevin: Beltran (HR) 28; Jones (HR) 24; Gonzalez (RBI) 86 [43] = 95

Beltran and Jones have done nothing but tread water so far. But there are no real weaknesses here. These guys could come roaring back at any time.


4) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 30; Pena (HR) 16; Fielder (RBI) 89 [44.5] = 90.5

Trumbo's dead in the water. If he gets hot this team could easily win it all. If not ...


5) (5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 28; Reynolds (HR) 12; Texiera (RBI) 80 [40] = 80

More ground made up by this squad. They're suddenly one hot week away from being amongst the leaders.

6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 34; Konerko (HR) 21; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 69

Nieuwenchamacallit is no longer even a regular player. Despite good HR numbers it's pretty much over here.

7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 23; Utley (HR) 8; Jeter (RBI) 43 [21.5] = 52.5

If Mark stays subterranean much longer the Chuds will surely come after him.

Standings Thru August 14 - 9:15 PM

Interesting times in Power Derby. The top three slots have become a vicious dog fight. Eric's a bit stuck. Vic's footsteps are finally beginning to heard by the top four ...



1) (3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 29; Uggla (HR) 14; Cabrera (RBI) 101 [50.5] = 93.5

Cabrera's number are starting to vanish into the stratosphere. Because of this this squad has finally moved into first. Can they hold it?


2) (2) Kevin: Beltran (HR) 28; Jones (HR) 24; Gonzalez (RBI) 80 [40] = 92

Kevin's new look squad is still strong. Some question marks, but the Rawhide Raconteur predicts he'll still be in it until the bitter end.


3) (1) Rob: Fielder (HR) 20; Granderson (HR) 30; Pujols (RBI) 82 [41] = 91

Slowish week from Pujols knock this team down a couple of notches. The RR doesn't mean to toot his own horn, but he now thinks the best is yet to come for his guys.


4) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 29; Pena (HR) 15; Fielder (RBI) 84 [42] = 86

Trumbo has suddenly vanished, which, when combined with the Pena issue, keeps these guys mired in fourth. As goes Jumbo, so goes this team ...


5) (5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 26; Reynolds (HR) 11; Texiera (RBI) 77 [38.5] = 75.5

Reynolds is finally showing up. Everything else looks good. The RR still predicts this squad will be a factor come September.


6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 29; Konerko (HR) 18; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 61

No RBIs, no where to go but down. Things are looking grim here.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 23; Utley (HR) 8; Jeter (RBI) 38 [19] = 50

Mark's been in the cellar so long he's thinking of having it re-carpeted. Utley's helping, though. The RR is going to go out on a limb and predict this team will make it out of the cellar before it's all over.

Line-Up Change

Kevin has replaced the injured Juan Bautista with the Cardinals' Carlos Beltran.

Standings Thru Thursday, August 2

BIG changes this update. Kevin has finally been knocked off his perch -- by Rob? The top four is incredibly tight and shows no signs of changing. Vic might end up being a  factor as well.



1) (4) Rob: Fielder (HR) 17; Granderson (HR) 29; Pujols (RBI) 73 [36.5] = 82.5

Pujols' huge run propels this team into the top spot, at least for the moment. Granderson still kicking hard. Fielder chipping in.


2) (1) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 27 DL; Jones (HR) 24; Gonzalez (RBI) 62 [31] = 82

Hanging onto Bautista may have hurt this team. But then there's a long way to go ...
 

3) (2) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 26; Uggla (HR) 12; Cabrera (RBI) 87 [43.5] = 81.5

Same old story: can these guys overcome the Uggla factor? Only one point out in August probably says yes.


4) (3) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 28; Pena (HR) 15; Fielder (RBI) 73 [36.5] 79.5

A Slightly flat stretch for Trumbo means this team fall slightly off the pace. These guys won't be going away, though, anytime soon.

5) (5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 22; Reynolds (HR) 8; Texiera (RBI) 71 [35.5] = 65.5

Reynold's disaster season might be too big of an anchor here. The Rawhide Raconteur still thinks they can be a factor, though.


6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 29; Konerko (HR) 17; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 60

A drowning team. Could still move up, though.


7) (7): Texiera (HR) 20; Utley (HR) 5; Jeter (RBI) 32 [16] = 41

Utley trying his best to pile some points up for these guys. Moving out of the cellar is possible if he rocks the last two months of the season.

Lineup Change / Standings Thru Tuesday, July 24

Kevin has replaced the injured Big Papi with Baltimore's Adam Jones. Big week for Cabrera. Texiera still hot. Granderson is apparently not going to go away ...

1) (1) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 27 DL; Jones (HR) 23; Gonzalez (RBI) 58 [29] = 79

Ortiz out and Jones in without a loss of points. Kevin's sticking with the injured Bautista for the moment, though. Interesting to see how this all will play out.


2) (3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 24; Uggla (HR) 12; Cabrera (RBI) 81 [40.5] = 76.5

Cabrera's dragging Uggla's under-performing ass along. Can he drag it all the way to the top?
 

3) (2) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 27; Pena (HR) 14; Fielder (RBI) 68 [34] = 75

Flat week here scuttles (for the time being) the Rawhide Raconteur's prediction of true greatness for this team. Pena has gone back to sleep.


4) (4) Fielder (HR) 15; Granderson (HR) 27; Pujols (RBI) 61 [30.5] = 72.5

It's become apparent that Fielder's the issue here - he's having a good season overall, but isn't hitting that many HRs. This squad's hopes ride on his last couple months.


5) (5) Vic: Pujols (HR) 18; Reynolds (HR) 8; Texiera (RBI) 67 [33.5] = 59.5

Without a Reynold's surge this team can't make the jump up to the big boys. Everything else is slowly falling into place, though.


6) (6) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 27; Konerko (HR) 16; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 28 [14] = 57

Nieuwenwhat? Nuieuwenwho? Enough said.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 19; Utley (HR) 4; Jeter (RBI) 27 [13.5] = 36.5

The fat lady isn't yet singing, but she's warming up her voice back stage ...

Injury Update - Ortiz on DL

Since my last post David Ortiz has been placed on the 2-week DL.

Standings Thru Tuesday, July 17 / Injury Report

Big injury news this week. Juan Bautista went on the DL and could be gone a long time. Ortiz is hurt as well, though is not yet officially on the DL. (Wow, I was just joking about that Nancy Kerrigan thing). Kevin has at least one big choice to make. Suddenly his grip on 1st is beginning to look very shaky. The heartbreak of Power Derby ...


Things are still very tight among the top four. Eric's looking very strong. Vic's moved into the five slot.



1) (1) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 27 DL; Ortiz (HR) 23; Gonzalez (RBI) 51 [25.5] = 75.5

A solid week by Gonzo might be negated by the injuries in the HR slots. Things are now looking murky for this once mighty squad.


2) (2) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 26; Pena (RBI) 14; Fielder (RBI) 65 [32.5] = 72.5

Trumbo's a beast and Fielder is now tied for 3rd in the American League in RBIs. Even Pena's HRs are creeping up there. This team's looking scary. The Rawhide Raconteur predicts this group will take over first by next update.


3) (3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 20; Uggla (HR) 12; Cabrera (RBI) 74 [37] = 69

The Cabrera express is still rolling over everything in its path. The Uggla anchor is becoming more and more apparent, though. Hard to see this team moving up or down much in the coming weeks.


4) (4) Rob: Fielder (HR) 15; Granderson (HR) 25; Pujols (RBI) 56 [28] = 68

The R.R.'s squad is somehow hanging on, despite two under performers. This team could go either way.


5) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 16; Reynolds (HR) 8; Texiera (RBI) 65 [32.5] = 56.5

Watch out for these guys. Thanks to a big week by Texiera, they're moving out of the shadows. The R.R. predicts them to be a factor by the time August rolls a round.


6) (5): Bonnie: Braun (HR) 26; Konerko (HR) 14; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 27 [13.5] = 53.5

Tough times in Bonnie town. Kemp's loss was this team's demise.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 18; Utley (HR) 2; Jeter (RBI) 27 [13.5] = 33.5

Nice to see a few points finally being added here. Hard to see much happening for this team in the long run, though.

Standings Thru Tuesday July 10 / Mid-Season Predictions

Like I mentioned in my email, sorry for the lack of updates recently. There's been some interesting movement in the standings since the last update, with Eric suddenly looking very strong. 

This roundup includes the Rawhide Raconteur's mid-season predictions. Just calling 'em as I see 'em ...


1) (1) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 27; Ortiz (HR) 22; Gonzales (RBI) 45 [22.5] = 71.5

Gonzo's poor first half is the only thing keeping this squad from ascending into the stratosphere. There's no reason to think that Bautista or Ortiz will slow down, so it really comes down to Gonzo's 2nd half. Baring major injury, this is the team to beat (did someone say Nancy Kerrigan?). 


2) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 22; Pena (HR) 13; Fielder (RBI) 63 [31.5] = 66.5

Eric's Trumbo move has paid off nicely and could be the season's pivotal moment. The R.R. predicts an even better 2nd half for Jumbo. This combined with a surging Fielder could win it all for this team. Pena's a BIG issue, though. He may be done. If so, this team will struggle to stay in the top three.


3) (2/3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 18; Uggla (HR) 12; Cabrera (RBI) 71 [35.5] = 65.5

Cabrera almost guarantees this group a top-three finish. Uggla, though, appears to be faltering badly (his not-overly-high HR total is a bit of a fluke, given his low average and slugging percentage--he could easily have only, say, 5 at this point). Unless he has a good 2nd half this team probably won't be able to take over the top spot. Still a very tough squad.
 

4) (2/3) Rob: Fielder (HR) 15; Granderson (HR) 23; Pujols (RBI) 51 [25.5] = 63.5

The R.R's squad is a bit of a puzzle. Pujols and Fielder are both good 2nd half players and should end with solid numbers. Pujols, though, needs to become the beast he once was for this team to have a legit shot at the number 1 slot. Granderson is worrisome too. His numbers look great, but he's really slowed down of late--he may not truly belong up there with the big boys. Top three finish likely. Higher than that? Well ...


5) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 24; Konerko (HR) 14; Nieuwenhuis (RBI) 25 [12.5] = 50.5

Kemp's loss may have done this team in. If he would have been replaced earlier this squad could be in much better shape. Braun's looking great, but Konerko's high average isn't translating into a ton of HRs. Nieuwenhuis will really have to surprise for these folks to be something other than 2nd tier.


6) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 14; Reynolds (HR) 7; Texiera (RBI) [27] = 48

The R.R.'s dark-horse pick for the top 3. Though they've been languishing in 6th seemingly forever, this squad has slowly been climbing up to respectability point wise. Tex is a great 2nd halfer, as is Pujols. Reynolds injuries seem to be behind him and his HR numbers should rise considerably. Look for these guys to move up. How far is the only question.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 15; Utley (HR) 2; Jeter (RBI) 12.5 = 29.5

This team was devastated by injuries out of the gate, to the point where the R.R. is thinking of proposing a rule change for next season so this can't happen again. This group could possibly move out of the cellar, but it's hard to see them doing much beyond that. This is a classic case of truly bad luck that could have happened to any of us.

Lineup Change

Bonnie had dropped the injured Matt Kemp for Kirk Nieuwenhuis of the Mets.

Lineup Changes

Mark has traded out Ryan Howard for Chase Utley and Troy Tulowitski for Derick Jeter. Utley got his first homer just hours after this change was made.

Standings thru Sunday, June 24

A Bautista/Ortiz power surge has allowed Kevin to suddenly open up a nice lead. He was helped by a pretty slow week for pretty much everyone else.


1) (1) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 23; Ortiz (HR) 18; Gonzalez (RBI) 38 [19] = 60

A slow week from Bill and the Rob's squads and a little uptick from Kevin's boys and suddenly he's pulled away. Is this a sign of things to come?


2/3) (2) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 15; Uggla (HR) 11; Cabrera (RBI) 56 [28] = 54

A down week here means things are tightening up near the top.


2/3) (3) Rob: Fielder: (HR) 11; Granderson (HR) 21; Pujols (RBI) 44 [22] = 54

Tied for second! The highest this team's been all year.


4) (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 17; Pena (HR) 10; Fielder (RBI) 45 [22.5] = 49.5

C'mon Pena! Just a bit more. You're still dragging these guys down.


5) (5) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 20; Konerko (HR) 13; Kemp (RBI) 28 [14] DL = 47

No Kemp, nowhere to go but down.


6) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 11; Reynolds (HR) 6; Texiera (RBI) 40 [20] = 37

Another one from Reynolds. Are these guys slowly rising from the dead?


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 12; Howard (HR) 0 DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 27 [13.5] DL = 25.5

Make sure my grave is kept clean ...

Standings thru Monday (9:30 PM), June 18

Still waiting for someone to have a true breakout week. Bautista's officially back. Maybe Braun was clean after all. Trumbo paying off already. Gonzo's stuck in the mud. Reynolds is off life support. 


Note: There was an error in last weeks stats. Fielder was listed at 11 HRs, but actually had only 10. It did not have any effect on the standings.



1) (2) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 20; Ortiz (HR) 16; Gonzalez (RBI) 35 [17.5] = 53.5

Bautista blast this crew back into first, despite Gonzo.


2) (1) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 14; Uggla (HR) 11; Cabrera (RBI) 54 [27] = 52

Still looking for just a touch more HR power. Drops a slot.


3) (3) Rob: Fielder (HR) 10; Granderson (HR) 21; Pujols (RBI) 39 [19.5] = 50.5

Entrenched in third. The Rawhide Raconteur hates to admit it, but unless Fielder or Pujols breaks out his team will probably rise no further.
 

4/5 (4) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 16; Pena (HR) 8; Fielder (RBI) 44 [22] = 46

Jumbo Trumbo offers no mumbo jumbo (OK, I'm really sorry about that).  Pena's dismal season is keeping this squad out of the top three.


4/5 (5) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 19; Konerko (HR) 13; Kemp (RBI) 28 [14] DL = 46

A slight uptick in the standings despite Kemp being on the DL. If she hangs close till he comes back she has a chance.


6) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 10; Reynolds (HR) 5; Texiera (RBI) 40 [20] = 35

Tex looking pretty decent. These guys need some HRs - and quick!


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 12; Howard (HR) 0 DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 27 [13.5] DL = 25.5

Closing time ...

Standings Thru Sunday, June 10

Things are getting hot and heavy amongst the top three and Eric's Trumbo move could make that the top four within a couple weeks. It's getting to the point in the season where the importance of RBIs is starting to become clear (did someone say Cabrera?).



1) (2) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 13; Uggla (HR) 11; Cabrera (RBI) 51 [25.5] = 49.5

Cabrera's starting to pull away in the RBI department, an event that has pushed this squad into first for the first time this season. The Rawhide Raconteur expects them to hold this slot on multiple occasional over the following weeks.  


2) (1) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 17; Ortiz (HR) 14; Gonzalez (RBI) 32 [16] = 47

Depspite Bautista's power surge the K-man drops a slot. Not enough Gonzo, which could become a big problem if it continues.


3) (3) Rob: Fielder (HR) 11; Granderson (HR) 18; Pujols (RBI) 36 [18] = 46

Good week from Pujols and a little more help from Fielder keeps this team in third.
 

4) (5) Eric: Trumbo (HR) 14; Pena (HR) 8; Fielder (RBI) 40 [20] = 42

Fielder's clicking now and Trumbo could be a monster. Will they overcome Pena's potentially disastrous season? Time will tell ...


5) (4) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 15; Konerko (HR) 12; Kemp (RBI) 28 [14] DL: 41

Sticking with Kemp is a very risky move. Solid everywhere else.


6) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 9; Reynold (HR) 3; Texiera (RBI) 36 [18] = 30

Looking for Reynolds (like the week before and the week before that ...). 


7 (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 11; Howard (HR) 0 DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 27 [13.5] DL = 24.5

"In my time of dying ..."

Lineup Change

Eric has just replaced the injured Kemp, one of his HR guys, with the Angels Mark Trumbo. The Rawhide Raconteur is flattered that his suggestion had an impact.

Standings Thru Sunday, June 3

Lots of shuffling near the top. Bonnie sinks like a stone. The big news, though, is still the injury situation. The Rawhide Raconteur strongly suggests that the owners of Kemp and Tulo consider making a change before it's too late, while there are still some quality players with lower HR/RBI totals out there. Trumbo for Kemp? Just a suggestion ... 


1) (3) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 14; Ortiz (HR) 13; Gonzalez (RBI) 29 [14.5] = 41.5

As predicted by the Rawhide Raconteur, this squad has made their move. Expect them to be in the top three all the way.


2) (2) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 11; Uggla (HR) 8; Cabrera (RBI) 44 [22] = 41

Holding steady. A little more in the HR department and these folks might move into first with points to spare.


3) (4) Rob: Fielder (HR) 9; Granderson (HR) 17; Pujols (RBI) 29 [14.5] = 40.5

Pujols' return is helping, but it's really Granderson who's leading the way. It's hard not to see Fielder and Pujols improving, and when they do--watch out.


4) (1) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 14; Konerko (HR) 11; Kemp (RBI) 28 [14] DL = 39

A big drop here. Kemp's hamstring has got this group hamstrung (sorry, I couldn't help myself). This team's future is suddenly murky.
 

5) (5) Eric: Kemp (HR) 12 DL; Pena (HR) 8; Fielder (RBI) 35 [17.5] = 37.5

Same problem as above. Without Kemp or a decent replacement this team is going nowhere.


6) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 8; Reynolds (HR) 3; Texiera (RBI) 32 [16] = 27

Reynolds is back, but is it already too late? Pujols and Tex have to get hot for this group to move up.


7) (7) Texiera (HR) 9; Howard (HR) 0 DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 27 [13.5] DL = 22.5

Do I hear the sound of taps faintly blowing ...

Standings Thru Sunday May 27

Interesting goings on this week. Bonnie's weathered the storm and Kemp will be back next  week. Same with Eric (though not as well). Konerko's rocking. But the big story is that Pujols is off life support. Look for him to have a huge impact over the next month, says the Rawhide Raconteur. 


1) (1) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 13; Konerko (HR) 11; Kemp (RBI) 28 [14] = 38

Not only has she held onto first minus a player, but she actually gained ground this week. Bravo, Bonnie. Bravo.


2) (3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 9; Uggla (HR) 7; Cabrera (RBI) 40 [20] = 36

A little help from Uggla and up a place they go. As long as Cabrera's playing this squad is a force.


3) (2) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 12; Ortiz (HR) 10; Gonzalez (RBI) 26 [13] = 35

 A little more help from Gonzo and these guys will be in the hunt till the bitter end.


4) (4/5) Rob: Fielder (HR) 7; Granderson (HR) 14; Pujols (RBI) 26 [13] = 34

Pujols is coming. Watch out everyone: things are about to get very interesting here.


5) (4/5) Eric: Kemp (HR) 12; Pena (HR) 7; Fielder (RBI) 28 [14] = 33

When Kemp comes back so will this squad. Minus him they still have been hanging near the top. This says a lot about this team.


6) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 7; Reynolds (HR) 2 DL; Texiera (RBI) 29 (14.5) = 23.5

With Pujols back it just Reynolds waiting time. Still a tough road for this team to go anywhere.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 8; Howard (HR) 0 DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 25 [12.5] = 20.5

See last week's comment (and the week's before, etc.).

Standings Thru Sunday, May 20th

Some shifting in the standings. So far, though, the season is mostly marked by under performance and injury. A couple of breakout weeks from a number of players could completely scramble everything.
 

1) (1) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 11; Konerko (HR) 8; Kemp (RBI) 28 [14] = 33

With Kemp standing still everyone is starting to catch up to him. The Rawhide Raconteur predicts this squad will fall at least one position by next update. Oh the twists and turns of the long season ...
 

2) (4) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 11; Ortiz (HR) 9; Gonzalez (RBI) 21 [10.5] = 30.5

As predicted this team is making their move. Bautista's getting back to normal, the new-look Ortiz is solid, and Gonzo, despite a slow start, is still contributing. These guys might be the team to beat before it's all over.


3) (2) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 8; Uggla (HR) 5; Cabrera (RBI) 34 [17] = 30

Cabrera's driving in the runs but is in a bit of a HR drought. I hard to believe he won't start up again soon, though. Uggla's faltering. He needs to surge for this group to stay near the top.


4/5 (5) Rob: Fielder (HR) 7; Granderson (HR) 13; Pujols (RBI) 18 [9] = 29


A nice little uptick for the Rawhide Raconteur's squad. They won't content for real, though, until either Pujols or Fielder starts to earn their money.


4/5 (3) Eric: Kemp (HR) 12; Pena (HR) 5; Fielder (RBI) 24 [12] = 29

 So far a decent Fielder performance and semi-disaster one from Pena. Without Kemp these guys are probably also rans.


6 (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 3; Reynolds (HR) 2 DL; Texiera (RBI) 20 [10] = 15

Disabled and under performing. Pujols and/or Tex needs to break out for this group to have a chance.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 5; Howard (HR) 0 DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 18 [9] = 14

Tex and Tulo having subpar starts. Where for art thou Howard?

Standings Thru Sunday, May 13, 2012 (9:45 PM)

Weird goings on this week. a lot of players have stalled, while a few others show minor signs of life. Kemp may be out for a while, which could be a big problem for a couple of owners. Lot's of big names under performing. It's hard to see where things are going.


1) (1) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 10; Konerko (HR) 6; Kemp (RBI) 28 [14] = 30

If Kemp's down watch for this team to drop at least a couple of slots in the next week or so. They might drop anyway: Kemp seems to have stalled out a bit.


2) (3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 7; Uggla (HR) 5; Cabrera (RBI) 29 [14.5] = 26.5

Still going strong. Uggla had a good week. A slight uptick in the Cabrera HR departments and it's first place or this troupe.


3) (2) Eric: Kemp (HR) 12; Pena (HR) 5; Fielder (RBI) 16 [8] = 25

Kemp hurt. Fielder and Pena under-performing. Someone's got to pick it up or it's down the rankings they go.


4) (4) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 8; Ortiz (HR) 7; Gonzales (RBI) 19 [9.5] = 24.5

Everyone here has under-performed so far yet they're still in within striking distance. Top three by next week if Bautista's HR uptick keeps going.


5) (5) Rob: Fielder (HR) 5; Granderson (HR) 11; Pujols (RBI) 11 [5.5] = 21.5

No Pujols no chance. Granderson can't keep this group afloat forever.


6) (6) Vic: Pujols (HR) 1; Reynolds (HR) 2; Texiera (RBI) 17 [8.5] = 11.5

Dead in the water until at least one player gets on track.


7) (7) Mark: Texiera (HR) 4; Howard (HR) 0 15-DAY DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 13 [6.5] = 10.5

No Howard and everything else now going wrong as well. Tough days for this squad.

Standings Thru Sunday, May 6 (4:20 PM)

Hi everyone. Little movement this week. Braun's the only standout (along with Kemp, of course). Pujols now breathing. The Rawhide Raconteur predicts big doings over the next month or so, for just about every team here - there are a lot of players just on the verge of breaking out.

Oh yeah, the number in parenthesis after a team's current position is their place the update before.

1) (1) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 8; Konerko (HR) 6; Kemp (RBI) 27 [13.5] = 27.5

Is Bonnie already opening up a lead here? Braun's hot week says so. So does Konerko's consistency and Kemp's kemping along. The rest of the league sighs ...


2) (2) Eric: Kemp (HR) 12; Pena (HR) 5; Fielder (RBI) 13 [6.5] = 23.5

Lost a little ground, but still breathing down the Bonnie's neck. It's mostly Kemp, though - can this hold?


3) (3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 7; Uggla (HR) 3; Cabrera (RBI) 22 [11] = 21

Cabrera express still looking good. The Rawhide Raconteur is not yet impressed with Uggla. 


4) (4) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 5; Ortiz (HR) 6; Gonzales (RBI) 15 [7.5] = 18.5

Ortiz is looking (and playing) like a new man. Hard to see Gonzo and Bautista not having at least solid years. The Rawhide Raconteur predicts this team making a move into the top three within a couple weeks tops.


5) (5) Rob: Fielder (HR) 4; Granderson (HR) 9; Pujols (RBI) 7 [3.5] = 16.5

Pujols is on the board! Could mean nothing could mean everything. Fielder oh Fielder where art thou's overpaid ass?


6) (7) Vic: Pujols (HR) 1; Reynolds (HR) 2; Texiera (RBI) 16 [8] = 11

Reynold's and Pujols coming to life (sort of). Texiera's RBIs solid. Out of the cellar and perhaps on to greater things ...


7) (6) Mark: Texiera (HR) 4; Howard (HR) 0 15-DAY DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 13 [6.5] = 10.5

Little hope till Howard's back, which could be a while. Only a fool would count these guys out with so much season to go - Howard hits em in bunches and everyone else here is more than solid.

Standings Thru Sunday, April 29

Typical early season weirdness going on. With the exception of Kemp and to a lesser extent Cabrera nobody's really lighting it up. Other than Pujol's and Reynold's' troubles there's no real patterns yet emerging.

1) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 4; Konerko (HR) 5; Kemp (RBI) 24 [12] = 21

The Kemp machine is rolling. If she gets a bit more help from her HR guys she will be really tough.


2) Eric: Kemp (HR) 11; Pena (HR) 4; Fielder (RBI) 11 [5.5] = 20.5

 Same issues as with Bonnie. Potentially a very rugged crew.


3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 7; Uggla (HR) 3; Cabrera (RBI) 20 [10] = 20

Cabrera's a serious beast. If Uggla chips in enough in watch out.


4) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 3; Ortiz (HR) 4; Gonzales (RBI) 15 [7.5] = 14.5

Waiting for Bautista. If he shows up this team will be in the hunt all season.


5) Rob: Fielder (HR) 3; Granderson (HR) 8; Pujols (RBI) 4 [2] = 13

Pujol's UNBELIEVABLE early season collapse is sinking this squad. Can this go on much longer?  Granderson keeping this gang in it.


6) Mark: Texiera (HR) 3; Howard (HR) 0 15-DAY DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 11 [5.5] = 8.5

These guys aren't going to be a factor until Howard comes back. Then they could be a force (Provided Texiera's traditional slow start is just that).


7) Vic: Pujols (HR) 0; Reynolds (HR) 0; Texiera (RBI) 12 [6] = 6

Everything has gone wrong here so far. Two of the worst starts in in baseball combined with Texiera's always slow emergence from the box. Tough times in V-Land.

Standings - As of Sunday, April 22

Here we go. Remember that RBIs are worth 1/2 a point and home runs one point.


1) Eric: Kemp (HR) 9; Pena (HR) 3; Fielder (RBI) 8 [4] = 16

Eric looking strong. If Pena has a good year this team could be a monster.


2) Bonnie: Braun (HR) 2; Konerko (HR) 2; Kemp (RBI) 22 [11] = 15

The Kemp machine gets the Bonninator off to a great start, despite losing Elsbury out of the gate.


3) Bill: Cabrera (HR) 4; Uggla (HR) 2; Cabrera (RBI) 12 [6] = 12

The risky double-slotted player strategy could pay off. But can Uggla  keep up?


4) Rob: Fielder (HR) 2; Granderson (HR) 6; Pujols (RBI) 4 [2] = 10

Granderson drew some groans at the draft, but he's looking great so far. Pujols power outage a serious concern.


5) Kevin: Bautista (HR) 2; Ortiz (HR) 2; Gonzalez (RBI) 9 [4.5] = 8.5

No weaknesses here. Rawhide Raconteur predicts great things with this crew. 


6) Mark: Texiera (HR) 3; Howard (HR) 0 15-DAY DL; Tulowitski (RBI) 9 [4.5] = 7.5

Howard's injury means a tough start here. Still a good looking team, if Tulowitski can stay healthy.

7) Vic: Pujols (HR) 0; Reynolds (HR) 0; Texiera (RBI) 11 [5.5] = 5.5

Serious power issues here. Can't believe they'll go on long, though.

Welcome

Welcome to Power Derby 2012. Sorry it's taken me so long to get to this page, but then again it takes a month or so before any real patterns start to appear in a long season such as this. ALL of the lineups are potentially very strong. Here's to hoping for a season where everyone has a shot until at least the last couple weeks! Look for my first official standing post before the weekend is out (maybe even later today, if I can get the time).

-- The Rawhide Raconteur