by Legend_Of_Joey
Norfolk Tide: Yeah, about them…17.5 out, 2 games from being eliminated from playoff contention. They were just as bad last year but held on until near the end. Their pitching has been horrible.
Bowie Baysox: Bowie is 6 games over .500 but in first place right now. They are 1 game up in their division, which is a war of attrition. It’ll be a fight to the end, but if they can hold on, they can do some damage. The emergence of Wynns and Marin, the additions of Rodriguez, Hays, and Mullins, along with their pitching has helped out. The pitching has been inconsistent, which has led to issues, but the offense has been solid.
Frederick Keys: Despite a slightly horrible season (or at least, less than what was expected due to their pitching staff), the Keys are only 1 game back from being tied for the Wild Card. While “officially” in 3rd place, the team in first already won the division in the 1st half, so the playoff spot now goes to whoever is in second. They didn’t lose a step when Hays and Mountcastle were promoted, as Chris Clare has actually filled in nicely. The return of Jomar Reyes helped and Glynn Davis has been decent. Rifaela continues to abuse Carolina League pitching when he hits it. So does Mercedes, though to a lot lesser degree from last year. Could sneak in and pull a surprise.
Delmarva Shorebirds: 8.5 back, 9 from elimination. If they could clone Alex Wells and have him pitch every game, they might have a shot. Otherwise, they will be out soon. Not too much was expected of them and they lived up to it. Jake Ring was a nice story to start and the resurgence (or emergence) of Preston Palmeiro was a nice surprise. Wells turning the league into his over video game was a hot story, but it can’t cover up the smell of Delmarva.
Aberdeen Ironbirds: 4 games back in the division, but first in the Wild Card. Pitching has been a good surprise and they have been outstanding at the plate. A league leading (I believe) 7 All Stars gives fans some hope, not only for the playoffs but for the future too. Breazeale has been on fire, Ryan Ripken has surpassed what almost everyone on this site thought when he was signed, Jaylen Ferguson has been good in his second year, and the pitching has been coming around very well. This could be a good core of players in the next few levels, even if some drop off to the just be org guys
