WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC XXIV - LYCRABON

[Shadowbourne]

Below is the most-clicked on headline from Shadowbourne's most popular sports website, snsn.sdb, from 28-November, 2012.
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Shadowbourne On Verge of Advancing
By: Jacques Kov | SNSN
28-November, 2012


Achmed Krongberg, Shadowbourne's star shortstop, at a post-game press conference following last night's win

Shadowbourne's pulled out yet another win in a 4 -1 pitcher's duel against the Free Swiss States. Shadowbourne's stars struggled against their opponents' impressive pitching, but for the bench was a key factor in their victory. From the first pitch, Manager RasmusRamadan was very aggressive, swiping bases and calling hit-and-runs. The new strategy worked extremely well, as Shadowbourne's fearless running put a massive amount of pressure of the FSS defense, who had a whopping 4 errors on the day. Starter Zola Charifi was superd, going for 8.1 innings and allowing a single run in the fourth inning. Bournean Manager Rasmus Ramadan was once again thrilled with his team's performance, but stressed that the tournament was from from over, saying, "If everything goes as planned, we'll be playing well into December." The team takes the field once again tonight against Maklhoi Vai The game is a must win for Shadowbourne; if they win, they will advance to the play-offs, but if they lose, they will be headed home due to their H2H record. Srdjan Szili will start on the mound for Shadowbourne. The game will be televised live on SNSN, and will be available for streaming on snsn.sdb and on our mobile app.

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2 Comments

bevo11 - 116 up |9 down
playoffs here we come!

shyguy11 - 64 up | 23 down
MAKLOHI VAI IS GOING DOWN!

[Yesopalitha]

A tiebreaking single at the bottom of the ninth off the bat of Katherine Smathers allowed the Yesopalitha Assassins to escape from the clutches of Kintratar to produce an upset, and, coupled with the loss of Cyborg Holland at the hands of group-leaders The Kytler Peninsulae, clinched a playoff spot for the Assassins.

Mohammed Boisse had a strong outing of six innings before being pulled, just to observe the bullpen blow the lead again as Kintratar tied the game at the top of the seventh. It seemed like the game would go to extra innings, but Katherine Smathers hit a bloop single to left that scored Valentin Sorin to give the Assassins a much-needed win that ended their two-game losing streak.

At the rate that the bullpen is giving up runs, the probability of the Assassins going far in this competition isn't very high; but timely runs and defensive plays may be enough to overcome this deficiency.

Manager DeMarco:

"We're going through a rough stretch with the bullpen, but the starters, the closer, and the offense is doing very well. Hopefully, the bullpen will come around in time for the playoffs, otherwise we're going to be in a bit of a pickle."

[Allinlia]

Lycrabon Clinches!
Host Nation cinches Group 6 and a top 10 slot in the next round with lopsided win over Allinlia

Allinlia              100 100 001 - 3			
Lycrabon              104 120 00X - 8

Many in Allinlia had a feeling that this game would be a struggle for the imperial all-star team, and they were right. Once again Allinlia's hitters were held at bay and couldn't capitalize on any opportunities scoring only 3 runs as Lycrabon's starter went 8 innings only allowing 2 runs and a few hits.

Bonser Aidrun meanwhile struggled even more against Lycrabon's batters which seemed to benefit from a home crowd excited over the prospect of clinching the group. Lycrabon's campaign started with a scare as they suffered from a shocking upset at the hands of Raxillion in their debut.

Aidrun allowed 6 runs before being pulled from the game after 4 innings. Travis Patterson came in to relieve him and was quickly hit with a 2 run homer lasting another inning before being relieved by Tommy Vickers and Boof Mendoza who both didn't give up any runs in their innings.

After the game Aidrun said, "The thing with big pitchers like me is when you're good, they call you 'powerful,' when you're bad, they call you 'fat.' I feel pretty dang fat right now."

Allinlia started out with a quick solo home run from Aiden Stairs, but would lose the lead for good courtesy of Lycrabon's huge 4 run 3rd. Allinlia would cut into the deficit with a solo homer from Crowder Grimes but would be blanked for 5 more innings while the host nation continued to score in bunches.

Conan Marteen was ejected from the game after throwing his back to the ground in anger following an 0-3 strikeout when he came in to pinch hit. He did not seem happy about the no-DH rule that Allinlian baseball payers have experienced for the first time in this tournament. "It's bull***t. Who the hell actually wants to see pitchers try to hit anyway? Most nonsense way to play this game that I have ever seen in my life." He said post game.

Gus Farllai would be called off the bench to pinch hit later in the game and would blast a long solo homer to bring the game to its final score of 8-3

"We weren't able to squash the rumors that we would be at a severe disadvantage in road games without the DH." said Ron Gardner "Our offense did not look lively or comfortable in either of the games we played without it so we all clearly needed more experience with this situation and our non DH lineup. This was the first time in thier lives these players have played without one and we were clearly relying too heavily on Aiden having the protection of Marteen in that 4th spot I think." Aiden would record no other base hits beside the solo home run.

Lycrabon's pitching and defense showed alot of poise as Allinlia got into scoring position a couple of times but were shut down with doube pays and key strikeouts. They now fall to 3-7 and only have a final game against New Montreal States who is eager to secure victory in the group with a win over Allinlia.

The Imperial Allstar team however is just as eager to play the spoiler and ruin New Montreal's bid to survive the group stage, a loss to the Allinlians would open the door wide open for Sicountromont should they win their match.

"We're bitter, and I think we aim to take our bitterness out on New Montreal States. They better be ready for us." laughed Crowder Grimes. The team did not seem too disheartened after the loss pushing each other aside and cracking jokes, even Aidrun seemed to be in good spirits.

"We really want to beat a world ranked team in this tournament and put people on notice. We really want to ruin New Montreal's day tomorrow. We're very eager to try and close out this thing with an exciting win for our fans back home." said Eli Wells who will be pitching against New Montreal tomorrow.

It is the best we can hope for but tomorrow's game should still be exciting to see, we'll see you there when we find out if Allinlia will be a second team's ticket to the playoffs.

AESN PowerStats(tm)
Stairs: 6HR 12RBI
Marteen: 3HR 6RBI
Levins: 2HR 4RBI
Majuwitz 1HR 4RBI
Grimes 1HR 4RBI
Hunter 1HR 3RBI
Silver 0HR 3RBI
Gordo 0HR 3RBI
Farllai 1HR 1RBI
Reece 0HR 1RBI

[Maklohi Vai]

"Why didn't you write it yourself?"
"It was used by historic Margaret worshipers. That should have worked."
"No, you have to write it yourself."
This was the conversation Nomolo had with himself. It was during the few moments of calm before the storm, before he was bombarded with countless phone calls asking him what had gone wrong. Then there was the bombardment, after the news broke, asking why he hadn't put in the time to write his own. Was he lazy? Did he not care anymore? Then there were the worst calls, from the elders. The calls that asked for his resignation were painful, but the worst ones were his longtime friends, surprised by his catastrophic failure and disappointed in him. This was what made Nomolo feel the worst. Letting down his friends was one of the worst things he could think of. This slowly compounded to that he had let down the country. It was almost too much to bear.
But then Lomnai called.
"Sorry about that, father."
"Thank you."
"Say, you putting on another one tonight?"
"Well, I'm not sure..."
"Nonsense. You know what you did wrong. Go and flush it. You need to start again, you know it."
"I do not have the strength."
"Well, with that attitude, you certainly won't. Your country needs you to do this. You know that. We'll be on the field at midnight. Think it over."
*click*

Nomolo struggled with this thought for as long as he could bear it. A failure would turn him into a despondency he didn't think he could handle. Victory, on the other hand, would restore his vigor. Nomolo prayed for several hours, contemplating his choice. He asked the divine for direction and guidance. At 20 'til midnight, he finally reached an epiphany. "This deed is for the country. To not perform it would be selfish." Nomolo raced out to his car, and then to the field. He had to compose his prayer on the way there.
There, waiting for him, was the team, steadfast in their support. And 10,000 rubber chickens, and the necessary implements. Nomolo exchanged a nod with Lomnai. "Glad you could come, father."
And so he began.

Margaret, we beg of you on this day for your forgiving spirit, and for your compassion.
We have done you a great wrong, a wrong we shall never repeat.
We took the words of others and made them our own. We wee not truly from our souls.
But now we see our mistakes. We see that we must be true to you, Margaret, by telling you what we feel directly.
And so we pray to you from the bottom of our hearts tonight, in our natural language, in our natural custom.
Margaret, you have done many great deeds for our people.
You have been the guiding hand for our team; this hand that has led them to victory.
But victory is not what is important as the primal goal.
The goal we present for your gracious consideration and hopeful filling is that to make our people, and our country, happy.
For their joy is priceless, while a victory on its own does no effect.
But their joy is controlled by the success of this team. And success is measured, for them, in victories.
It is for this reason that we pray to you for a victory. You are the guiding force behind all that may become.
Your spirit and compassion are what can guide us to this state of joy; no other can do this.
We have done you a great wrong, but we vow to you that we shall forever remain in your servitude.
Margaret, we pray to you because you are the prime mover of our world. You make the decisions, decisions which affect all.
Therefore, Margaret, we ask you to use your unearthly powers to guide our beloved team to a victory.
We are grateful many times over for your patience in listening to our prayers. Thank you.

And it felt right.




(OOC: Summary added for statistical purposes)
Maklohi Vai Scoring Summary
3rd: After Uilnai singled, Mae'ao hit a two run homer to left.

Stat update:
HR: Mae'ao 17, Arnao 2, Koilani Ruputuo 1, Moalna’akai Lai 1, Ri'ino Ulnai 1, Iao Laina 1, Wolo Rakinalmanai 1, Aputo Roma’ai 1
RBI: Mae'ao 41, Arnao 6, Moalna’akai Lai 4, Aputo Roma'ai 4, Wolo Rakinalmanai 3, Koilani Ruputuo 1, Iao Laina 1, Ri'ino Ulnai 1

[Lycrabon]

Final scores for forty teams shortly.....which twenty return to Lycrabon for a shot at glory (and 550 million elwoods - oops, that's the Quicksphere jackpot)?


OOC: Shortly is about ten minutes from now...

[Powersith]

Powersith Wins In a 4-3 Win

Willie Ways III ended the losing streak as he earned the win. He was the only one with a 2-0 record. Lei Wingo starts tonight in the final game of group play. Though we are eliminated from contention, we are still going to try to win, and we SHALL return for WBC XXV!

Pitcher's Update:
Mentov Rislo - 42 - L - L #1 Record: 0-1 6.5 ERA
Willie Ways - 52 - L - L- #22 Record: 0-1 8.5 ERA
Willie Ways Jr. - 34 - R - R #12 Record: 1-1 2.5 ERA
Willie Ways III - 16 - L - L # 33 Record: 2-0 1.5 ERA
Lei Wingo - 32 - L - L #13 Record: 0-0 6.0 ERA
Closers :
Joseph Wasco - 33 - L - L #2 Saves: 1
Jermey Les - 21 - R - R- #3 Saves: 1
Relief:
Kivnov Reknov - 22 - R - R #5 Record: 0-1 1.0 ERA
Nino Rodriguesz- 27 - L - L #7 Record: 0-1 4.0 ERA
Michael Mendez - Age 40 - L - L #10 Record: 0-1 3.0 ERA

[Lycrabon]

Final group stage cutoff.......who punches tickets?

Group 1

The Tidal Wake        000 241 010 - 8			
Ko-oren               100 111 000 - 4			
			
			
Byfugland             101 130 000 - 6			
The Jahistic Unified  010 201 000 - 4			
			
			
Saugeais              100 110 010 - 4			
Pathogeria            030 000 011 - 5

Group 2

Riyahda               000 010 100 - 2			
Cyborg Holland        800 121 10X - 13			
			
			
The Kytler Peninsula  100 210 040 - 8			
Kintratar             000 020 000 - 2			
			
			
Yesopalitha           212 310 000 - 9			
Pugh                  011 000 110 - 4

Group 3

Shadowbourne          000 000 000 - 0			
Maklohi Vai           230 110 00X - 7			
			
			
Karditan              203 110 301 - 11			
Kerblaekistan         000 001 202 - 5			
			
			
Milchama              100 110 000 4 - 7			
Free Swiss States     101 100 000 0 - 3

Group 4

Unified Hyrule        000 090 000 - 9			
Torisakia             100 111 000 - 4			
			
			
Sakurakoku            300 110 010 - 6			
Branta Island         005 001 03X - 9			
			
			
Darmen                111 121 022 - 11			
Ezryel                311 201 100 - 9

Group 5

STORMCHASE            012 100 000 - 4			
Super-Llamaland       100 251 20X - 11			
			
			
THRILLEDGE            103 110 100 - 7			
Mapletish             010 312 01X - 8			
			
			
Civil Citzenry        100 131 000 000 - 6			
Madsen                003 001 002 001 - 7

Group 6

Raxillion             100 000 002 - 3			
Sicountimont          100 210 20X - 6			
			
			
New Montreal States   301 123 000 - 10			
Allinlia              220 000 010 - 5			
			
			
Lycrabon              101 111 000 - 5			
Powersith             121 000 000 - 4

Group 7

Weatherdon            110 017 000 - 10			
Equestrian States     100 110 120 - 6			
			
			
Tyneala               100 221 002 - 8			
Backyard Sports       001 101 000 - 3			
			
			
Zwangzug              205 110 400 - 13			
Lunar Republic Islan  101 000 020 - 4

Group 8

Slembana              000 130 100 - 5			
Cosumar               101 111 01X - 6			
			
			
Michael VII           200 110 000 - 4			
Westros               002 000 000 - 2			
			
			
Western cuba          100 210 003 - 7			
The Royal Kingdom of  000 000 000 - 0

Group 9

Zandistan             010 001 010 - 3			
Free South Califas    101 110 00X - 4			
			
			
Homelands our         102 110 000 - 5			
Belshaw and Peveness  010 000 000 - 1			
			
			
Qazox                 102 110 101 - 7			
Pacificus             002 000 000 - 2

Group 10

Wyztrkstan            000 100 000 - 1			
Lymantia              310 111 02X - 9			
			
			
West Guiana           201 120 120 - 9			
Birolika              010 000 000 - 1			
			
			
Taeshan               201 370 000 - 13			
Estope                003 200 102 - 8

[Lycrabon]

After deciphering the qualifiers from Group Three....going to H2H RD for both the winner AND runner-up:

Group 1				W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Byfugland               	8-2	63-49	14
y-Saugeais			7-3	91-52	39
Ko-oren	                	5-5	70-71	-1
Pathogeria			4-6	50-69	-19
The Jahistic Unified Republic	3-7	55-73	-18
The Tidal Wake                	3-7	55-70	-15

The Jahistic Unified Republic is fifth due to H2H sweep.

Group 2			W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-The Kytler Peninsulae	9-1	65-30	35
y-Yesopalitha		8-2	79-52	27
Cyborg Holland		6-4	80-61	19
Kintratar		4-6	45-50	-5
Riyadh			3-7	44-74	-30
Pugh			0-10	37-83	-46

Group 3			W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Milchama		6-4	58-32	26
y-Maklohi Vai		6-4	72-62	10
Shadowbourne		6-4	42-53	-11
Kerblaekisistan		5-5	51-67	-16
Karditan		4-6	72-60	12
Free Swiss States	3-7	41-57	-16

- Milchama wins group due to H2H (all 2-2; MIL +10; MKV -3; SHD -7)

- Maklohi Vai is second due to H2H RD (split; +6 to -6)

Group 4		W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Darmen	9-1	82-43	39
y-Sakurakoku	6-4	70-48	22
Torisakia	4-6	62-63	-1
Unified Hyrule	4-6	60-74	-14
Ezryel		4-6	67-95	-28
Branta Island	3-7	58-76	-18

- Torisakia is third due to H2H RD (all 2-2; TOR +7; UNH +5; EZY -12)

- Unified Hyrule is fourth due to H2H RD (split; +1 to -1)

Group 5			W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Civil Citizenry	9-1	87-49	38
y-THRILLEDGE           	7-3	77-46	31
Super-Llamaland		6-4	65-60	5
STORMCHASE		3-7	53-73	-20
Madsen			3-7	48-72	-24
Mapletish		2-8	45-72	-27

- STORMCHASE is fourth due to H2H RD (split; +1 to -1)

Group 6			W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Lycrabon		9-1	70-39	31
y-New Montreal States	7-3	68-51	17
Sicountimont		7-3	74-51	23
Powersith		3-7	49-57	-8
Allinlia		3-7	47-69	-22
Raxillion		1-9	31-72	-41

- New Montreal States is second due to H2H RD (split; +1 to SCT's -1)

- Powersith is fourth due to H2H RD (+1 to ALL's -1)

Group 7				W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Tyneala			7-3	67-49	18
y-Zwangzug			6-4	82-56	26
Weatherdon			6-4	47-50	-3
Equestrian States		5-5	60-74	-14
Lunar Republic Islands		3-7	49-68	-19
Backyard Sports			3-7	54-62	-8

- Zwangzug is second due to H2H RD (+6 to WEA's -6)

- Lunar Republic Islands is fifth due to H2H sweep.

Group 8			W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Western cuba		10-0	75-35	40
y-Michael VII		7-3	61-51	10
Cosumar			6-4	63-57	6
Westros			3-7	58-57	1
Royal Kingdom of Quebec	3-7	36-62	-26
Slembana		1-9	40-67	-27

- Westros is fourth due to H2H sweep

Group 9	                W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Homelands our		8-2	69-41	28
y-Qazox			6-4	71-49	17
Free South Califas	6-4	62-74	-8
Zandistan		4-6	53-65	-12
Pacificus		3-7	67-77	-10
Belshaw and Pevenessy	2-8	50-72	-22

- Qazox is second due to H2H RD (split; QZX +8; FSC -8)

Group 10	W-L	RS-RA	RD
x-Taeshan	7-3	60-41	19
y-Estope	6-4	53-64	-9
West Guiana	6-4	53-35	18
Lymantia	5-5	61-45	16
Wyztrkstan	4-6	40-57	-17
Birolika	2-8	40-65	-25

- Estope is second due to H2H sweep.

x-clinched group title
y-clinched playoff berth




Give me about an hour, and I'll have the first round/Round of sixteen pairings.

[Qazox]

Eagles survive and advance

A 7-2 win over Pacficius clinched Qazox a trip to Lycrabon for the playoff stage of WBC 24; but based on most projections, the Eagles will be the 18th seed, and will have to play in an extra play-in stage to make the round of 16. Ramon McDonald won his 3rd start of the 1st round, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits in 8 innings. The good news is Qazox made the playoffs, but with McDonald not availible for the playoffs until Qazox' 4th game, it might be a short trip for the Eagles.

Qazox                 601 000 000 - 7 14 0
Pacificus             002 000 000 - 2  5 0

SCORING SUMMARY

Qazox 1st: Hodgman singled to right. Jimenez singled to center, Hodgman to second. Hamilton struck out. Dodge 434ft HR to right-center, Hodgman, Jimenez and Dodge scored. Zimmerman doubled to right. Espinoza singled to left, Zimmerman to third. Lee singled to center, Zimmerman scored, Espinoza to second. Bryant doubled to left, Espinoza and Lee scored. McDonald grounded out to pitcher, Bryant to third, Hodgman struck out. 6 runs on 7 hits, 1 LOB 6-0 Qazox

Qazox 3rd: Zimmerman flied out to center. Espinoza doubled to left. <PITCHING CHANGE: RP#1 in for SP#5>. Lee singled to right, Espinoza to third. Bryant flied out to right, Espinoza scored. McDonald grounded out to first. 1 run on 2 hits, 1 LOB 7-0 Qazox

Pacificus 3rd: SS singled to left. 3B doubled to center, SS to third. RP#1 struck out. CF doubled to right, SS and 3B scored. 2B singled to left, CF to third. 1B grounded into (5-4-3) double play, 2B out at second. 2 runs on 4 hits, 1 LOB 7-2 Qazox

[Lycrabon]

As promised, the rankings of the twenty who qualified:

1-10
1. Western cuba (10-0)
2. Darmen (9-1)
3. Civil Citizenry (9-1)
4. The Kytler Peninsulae (9-1)
5. Lycrabon (9-1)
6. Homelands our (8-2)
7. Byfugland (8-2)
8. Taeshan (7-3)
9. Tyneala (7-3)
10. Milchama (6-4)

11-20
11. Yesopalitha (8-2)
12. Saugeais (7-3)
13. THRILLEDGE (7-3)
14. New Montreal States (7-3)
15. Michael VII (7-3)
16. Zwangzug (6-4)
17. Sakurakoku (6-4)
18. Qazox (6-4)
19. Maklohi Vai (6-4)
20. Estope (6-4)

All play-in Round games will be at one of four stadiums:

20 Estope vs. 13 THRILLEDGE at Walker Stadium, New Alexandria
- Walker Stadium, New Alexandria, East Nampa (sometimes referred to as "The Chuck"):251 down the left field line (the shortest of the eight; however, the wall in left is 45 feet high), 300 to right, 420 straight away center, 320/380 to left and right-center respectively. Grass surface.
Umpires (Tendencies): HP- Joel Stein (Middle of the Road); 1B- Kenneth Dickson (Rules-Oriented); 2B- Sam McClain (Patient); 3B- Chester Gonzalez (Spot On)

19 Maklohi Vai vs. 14 New Montreal States at North Coast Stadium, Westlake
- North Coast Stadium, Westlake, North Cuyahoga:
Crazy winds make even the easies pop-up an adventure (a la the old Municipal Stadium in Cleveland). 322 down the lines, 385 to the gaps, 400 to deep center. Grass surface.
Umpires: HP- Carson Abbott (Rules-Oriented); 1B- Oscar Newman (Spot-On); 2B- Terry Lyons (Spot-On); 3B- Adan McMillan (Patient)

18 Qazox vs. 15 Michael VII, at Tiger Stadium, Dravosburg
- Tiger Stadium, Dravosburg, Centralia:
380 down the lines, 425 to deep center, 392 in the left field gap, 406 to the right field gap. Highway 12 is behind the left field corner, bringing about random gusts to right. Grass Surface.
Umpires: HP- Tyler Colon (Rules-Oriented); 1B- Dan Alvarez (Patient); 2B- Robby McFarland (Erratic); 3B- Corey Wilson (Patient)

17 Sakurakoku vs. 16 Zwangzug at Veterans Stadium, Grantsville
- Veterans Stadium, Grantsville, Eagleton:
Traffic-wise, one of the best stadiums for access (Highways 14 and 71 intersect nearby). The facility is somewhat spartan in amenities, but a beautiful minor-league feel. 292 to left, 308 to right, 346 in the gaps, and 399 to deep center.
Umpires: HP- Chad Woods (Patient); 1B- Ryan Santana (Patient); 2B- Russell Norton (Middle of the Road); 3B- Lawrence Wiggins (Argumentative)

The umpires will rotate around clockwise the bases for games two and three. The bases listed are for game one assignments.

[Estope]

Even with the loss to Taeshan, Estope is in the playoffs! Estope is the only unranked team to qualify and they made it in as the 20th seed, which is last for those at home who are unaware. The road will be tough and it will start Friday against #13 Thrilledge. In the play in round, it will be a series out of three which may be a drag on Estope, after all it is hard to beat a talented team once let alone twice in a three day stretch. The series will be played at Walker Stadium in New Alexandria, Lycrabon. The field is very short which will play in favor of Thrilledge who plays very offensively and will make it harder for Estope's pitching staff. The starters are already struggling as it is and a short field will not help especially if they get ahead early it could destroy their confidence. The bullpen should be fine as they have performed outstanding the entire tournament and the batters have performed well and can hopefully get it going against a tough opponent. Thrilledge is also experience in high pressure situations like these. They made it past this round last year but lost in the round of 16. Obviously they will be focused and prepared to win again and make a deeper run. Estope on the other hand is participating in their first tournament so there is not much experience in big games like this. The first game is probably the most important. If Estope can get a win it will boost their confidence and propel them forward but a loss would deflate them and cause them to give up and get swept. We are all proud of how Estope has done so win or lose they will return home as winners, of course if they win this series they could return home as heros.

[Homelands our]

Round of 16 Awaits

After two impressive victories in the final qualifying games Homelands Our have bagged the #6 seed for the playoffs, which start tomorrow. Our campaign however won't be getting underway until Tuesday, when the first games of the round of 16 get started. Early predictions using the rankings from deep inside a windowless conference room in Harloop is that we will face #11 Yesopalitha who also went 8-2 in their group, and are the best of the runners up. They will be the hardest team we have came up against yet, as they are ranked 8th and were top seeds in their group. They are however probably best heard of because they are in outer space, could this have some sort of 'gravity sickness' and play into our hands?  

In other baseball news from that conference HBF have decided in a 14 - 3 vote that due to the success of the national team that a new league should be set up. This is will be the first truly national baseball league this country has ever seen. In the new year and after this classic is finished it is planed that the two conferences will feature these teams:
Forest Conference
Napio Bulldogs
Newland Tsunami
Choup Dynamo
Greenville Packers
Penzor Pirates
Vanparpoll Vampers

Beach Conference
Harloop Capitals
East Kilbride Birds
Jersey Jaguars
Hamilpon Hammers
Breatford Dolphins
Apfol Apes

Those two conferences roughly divide the league into northern and southern sections. Each team plays it's conference in a quadruple round-robin and the other conference in a double round-robin. For example Apfol Apes would play Hamilpon Hammers 4 times a year but the Napio bulldogs just twice a season. The top two in each conference would then proceed to the playoffs.

[Maklohi Vai]

Nomolo looked out of his car window, driving to Lomnai's office after the game. He could see people celebrating in the streets, all happy, all joyous over the win. For the second consecutive year, Maklohi Vai was going to the play-in round, this time to face NMS, a team deep in tradition. Nomolo was truly beginning to believe in Margaret's power, and her compassion. It was so often, through his research of Margaret-worship, that he found instances of curses, or disappointment. Perhaps, Nomolo thought, the people of the past had tried to experiment with that. But what he knew now was that praying to Margaret must entail thanks and praise, for Margaret is doing this for us, not for her own benefit. The standard procedures would be followed, but Nomolo wanted the prayer tonight to be special. He wanted it to be personal, and from his own heart, while still being directed at the larger purpose.

And so at midnight on the field, Nomolo gathered with the team and Lomnai. 10,000 chickens, as usual. Nomolo felt that this prayer would help him understand himself, and why he was truly doing this.

"Margaret, we gather tonight to thank you for your gracious acts.
The guidance you have showed our team has been prophetic and awe-inspiring.
I know it has been so for me. I am a man of the cloth in the country where I come from.
There was initially much uprising and reproachfulness, but I kept with the task at hand.
You see, Margaret, your divine presence is what has saved our team, and the spirits of our people.
Once I saw that, I could not turn away. I try to do what I can to help the people.
But I must confess I was not yet totally inspired. After the loss to Karditan, I fell into a depression.
I was not sure of your worth. But after that game, in the win against Milchama, I saw.
I saw then, and as I present to you now, that your powers over the game are legendary.
They are indescribable by mortal words, but they are ever present in our minds.
I have come to see how much we need you, Margaret, and so that is why we gather.
We humbly ask you for all-powerful guidance to our beloved team in their upcoming game.
You surely know they need it. Only your presence, your power, can do this. No other can.
We thank you for your precious time, Margaret, and for your compassionate consideration."

Nomolo realized, at that moment, that Margaret was who could help his team the most. He kept his head bowed for a few extra seconds, in respect. Only time would tell if she had heard.






(OOC: Summary added for statistical purposes)

Shadowbourne          000 000 000 - 0			
Maklohi Vai           230 110 00X - 7

Maklohi Vai Scoring Summary
1st: With two outs, Ri'ino Uilnai hit a double to left. Mae'ao then followed up with a home run down the right field line.
2nd: Arnao and Moalna’akai Lai hit back to back singles to lead off. Then, Wolo Rakinalmanai hit a triple to drive both of them in, and Aputo Roma’ai hit a sac fly to drive Lai in.
4th: With one out, Mae'ao hit a solo shot to left.
5th: With one out, Aputo Roma’ai hit a triple to left. After Iao Laina walked, Ri'ino Uilnai struck out. Mae'ao then drove Roma'ai in with a single to left.

Stat update:
HR: Mae'ao 19, Arnao 2, Koilani Ruputuo 1, Moalna’akai Lai 1, Ri'ino Ulnai 1, Iao Laina 1, Wolo Rakinalmanai 1, Aputo Roma’ai 1
RBI: Mae'ao 45, Arnao 6, Aputo Roma'ai 5, Wolo Rakinalmanai 5, Moalna’akai Lai 4, Koilani Ruputuo 1, Iao Laina 1, Ri'ino Ulnai 1

[THRILLEDGE]

"Welcome back to Thrilledge Baseball Network Radio as we look ahead to the play-in round of World Baseball Classic 24. The Dreads will take on Estope as the teams get their first glimpse of Lycrabon. The game which pits two group runner ups will be held at Walker Stadium in East Nampa. The Dreads finished group play second in Group 5 with an acceptable record of 7-3 with the losses coming to Civil Citizenry (two) and Mapletish. Estope finished second in Group 10 with a record of 6-4 but with a negative run differential.

Of course, the ace will be going for the Dreads tonight. Ryan Raymond, well known for his consistency and strong fastball, has shown us his slider a lot this Classic. The star performer of the tournament so far has to be Duncan Armstrong, who is leading the team in RBI, batting average, and OPS. He has really stepped up and he looks like he is blossoming into the next Sandy Alvarez but with a little more power.

Here with us is head coach of the Dreads, Matthew Haering. Now Matt, what are you looking for in tonight's game against Estope.

"Well it has to be the same thing you look for in every game, offense and pitching. I want to see our guys jump out to an early lead and keep putting runs up on the board. They have a tendency of keeping games close and I want to make sure that they're out of it before they know what hits them.

"Anything worry you about Estope?"

"It has to be the bullpen. They do not give up too many late game runs, but like I said before, if we can score early, I don't think it should be a problem."

"Okay last question coach: Speaking of bullpens, how do you think ours will hold up?"

"There are a lot of young guys in the 'pen and there isn't too much experience to go around. Don't be surprised to see Volbert come in or for Ryan to stay in longer than normal. Again, if we can score some runs and get the ball in the hands of Ashwood, I won't be worried."

"Alright thanks for your time coach, I'll let you get back to the team now. Head coach of the Dreads Matthew Haering just with us. He seems to want to get runs on the board and quickly. I'm sure Alvarez can help him with that. Alright that's all the time we have here today. This report was brought to you by Galnorris Whiskey, the right beverage to choose while drinking away memories of playoff failure. Good night Thrilledge."

[Zwangzug]

I should be relieved. Not in the sense of taken out of the game. Just, glad we're through.

Maybe I am. It's hard to tell.

Boipelo got the start today. Well, after Tikva yesterday...I'll say this for Cobara, when she makes plans, she sticks with them. None of this "well, we'll see if we get there" business. I guess maybe she's just following in the footsteps of other Zebras managers, which suggests that she doesn't really care, knows where her bread is buttered, and so on. Or maybe it's just to build up the confidence of those at the bottom of the rotation? This might not be the best strategy when Tikva is involved Who knows.

Anyway, for all we make fun of him, Boipelo is actually a really good pitcher. The Mustangs offense-wise haven't been that good, and because they have Sawyer against most of us, we haven't seen him as much as he deserves. He was great--nasty slider. Well, I think it's a slider, he's not telling. The point is, Lunar Republic Islands had no idea what he was throwing either. After we batted around in the third (and he helped his own cause with a double), Cobara stuck with him through another wobbly bottom half.

For the rest of us, it meant scoreboard watching. Tyneala knocked off Backyard Sports, which was fine by us as it left the latter out of contention. And Weatherdon beat Equestrian States, which worked out, since we'd beaten Weatherdon by more than they'd beaten us we got to go through. Hiroto had to remind us all of the tiebreakers, oh, once an inning or so by the end.

So why aren't I more excited? Well, I really don't think we're any better than last tournament's team. 6-4. Tiebreakers. Sure, we got lucky, but I can't say it's much more than that.

And ahead, Sakurakoku. Now that we've gone ahead and gotten rid of the last members from the championship team...well, let's just say this'll be a clean slate. If we get through, then maybe we'll actually look like a good team. But I'm not too confident, yet.

Still, I'm very grateful to be here. No way I'm taking this for granted.

[Yesopalitha]

Assassins Secure Bye Into Round of 16

An 8-3 win against Pugh, led by Melody Johanson, who pitched the complete game, gave the Assassins the #1 spot among all second place teams, granting the side a bye into the Round of 16 instead of having to play a Play-In series. Johanson gave up seven hits in the complete game.

Valentin Sorin continued his hot hitting streak hitting two home runs and obtaining five RBI's.

The Assassins will have Johanson pitch Game 1 of their Round of 16 series, as she has enough days to rest before that.

[Lycrabon]

Game 1 of the play-in round cutoff......who inches closer to the sweet sixteen??

at Walker Stadium, New Alexandria

Estope                100 010 000 - 2			
THRILLEDGE            104 110 00X - 7

THRILLEDGE leads 1-0

at North Coast Stadium, Westlake

Maklohi Vai           021 100 000 - 4			
New Montreal States   100 122 10X - 7

New Montreal States leads 1-0

at Tiger Stadium, Dravosburg

Qazox                 001 102 000 - 4			
Michael VII           000 030 000 - 3

Qazox leads 1-0

at Veterans Stadium, Grantsville

Sakurakoku            100 000 000 - 1			
Zwangzug              102 212 00X - 8

Zwangzug leads 1-0

[Zwangzug]

Here we are in Grantsville!

This is the new capital of their province. Not the largest city around, but I guess a lot of that is a matter of perspective. There are a couple big highways with cars on them by the stadium so that's a little freaky. And I don't think I want to know why there were veterans to name the stadium after--maybe the messy transition from the old Barnettsville?

Oh well. We're all in good moods after the win today--Peter was wobbly at first, giving up a run when Furukawa drove in Kaneko. But after that, our hitters really did well. It's quite short to left field so even we got to hit for power; Tyler Ruska and Charlie Skriand both pulled homers out to left. Very fun day.

Really, Peter was on cruise control, which was fine for all of us...and boring for Christopher, the backup catcher who sometimes warms us up when we need to. Today he was hanging out here and almost bored because things were so one-sided. So of course he tries to make conversation with Aminda, ask her how she's feeling. And the operative word there is "tries" because she starts listing off all her superstitions now that we're in the knockout stage. If she was as vigilant about her health as she is about which order to put her socks on Well anyway that spooked him for a while. To say nothing of Boipelo and anyone else in earshot

Danny was pleasantly quiet, busy studying the Wolves for next time. The good news is that the umpires rotate clockwise so Lawrence Wiggins won't have to do balls and strikes for us. Wiggins threw Hayato Kojima out of the game after a close play at third base went Leonora Tander-Call's way (we were right, on the replay), but by that time it was probably too late for their management to change the game around well, given our bullpen history...

Anyway, point is, Wiggins will just be at second tomorrow. So as long as Danny doesn't start talking politics hopefully we'll be fine.

[Qazox]

Eagles steal Game One against Michael VII.

Qazox tied a team record with 6 stolen bases as the bullpen, for once, didn't implode and the Eagles took game one against the Falcons of Michael VII 4-3 and now need 1 win to get to the round of 16. 3 of those stolen bases came from Ian Jimenez, which also tied a team record. Only a 3-run HR by Norman Fuerte in the 5th off of Mark Hummel spoiled the day. But the bullpen went 2 solid innings, allowing just 1 hit, a broken-bat single to third in the 9th by Rohan Kashmir off of Greg Adams, who picked up only his 3rd save of this WBC.

In game two it'll be David Christian, who's been rocked in both his starts, against Carl Bonseph for the Falcons.

Qazox                 001 102 000 - 4 10 0			
Michael VII           000 030 000 - 3  8 0

SCORING SUMMARY

Qazox 3rd: Bryant singled to right. Bryant stole second. Hummel struck out. Hodgman doubled to right, Bryant scored. Jimenez singled to left, Hodgman to third. Hamilton popped out to short. Jimenez stole second. Dodge flied out to right. 1 run on 3 hits, 2 LOB 1-0 Qazox

Qazox 4th: Zimmerman doubled to left. Espinoza grounded out to first, Zimmerman to third. Lee flied out to center, Zimmerman scored. Bryant flied out to left. 1 run on 1 hit, 0 LOB 2-0 Qazox

Michael VII 5th: Kashmir flied out to right. Yales doubled to left. Pferdner singled to third. Fuerte 410ft HR to right, Yales, Pferdner and Fuerte scored. Lyle struck out. Hertz singled to center. Dako grounded out to third. 3 runs on 4 hits, 1 LOB 3-2 Michael VII

Qazox 6th: Hamilton hit-by-pitch. Dodge singled to left-center, Hamilton to second. Zimmerman flied out to right. Espinoza doubled to right-center, Hamilton and Dodge scored, Espinoza stole third. Lee struck out. Bryant grounded out to pitcher. 2 runs on 2 hits, 1 LOB 4-3 Qazox

[Lycrabon]

10 minutes to cutoff......will there be any game three's?

[Maklohi Vai]

(OOC: Short one because of RL. Sorry)

"You self-centered piece of junk!"
"You have no respect!"
"Do you even care?"
"Do you even believe?"

To these angry messages and many more, Nomolo had no excuse except his own ignorance of Margaret. He had thought there could be benefits to providing a personal story to Margaret, but that was not the case. Margaret wants prayers that have large implications, implications that can have an effect on an entire country. Nomolo had no choice but to try again.

At the appointed hour, the crew gathered. 10,000 rubber chickens, once again. Lomnai was his normal silent self.

"Margaret, you have so many great things for this nation. We ask of you just one more thing. A win.
Our nation loves baseball, and our great team. You are the guider of their fate.
Therefore, we pray to you tonight for a win. Our nation's fervor rests on the team's success, and their success rests on you.
We give you such a short prayer tonight because of the magnitude of the issue.
The sparseness of our words, we hope, emphasizes the vitality of the situation.
Thank you for your patience and your consideration, Margaret."

(OOC: Summary added for statistical purposes)

Maklohi Vai           021 100 000 - 4			
New Montreal States   100 122 10X - 7

Maklohi Vai Scoring Summary
2nd: Mae'ao led off with a homer, a feat repeated by Arnao two batters later.
3rd: With two outs Iao Laina hit a solo shot.
4th: To lead off the inning, Mae'ao hit a home run.

Stat update:
HR: Mae'ao 21, Arnao 3, Koilani Ruputuo 1, Moalna’akai Lai 1, Ri'ino Ulnai 1, Iao Laina 2, Wolo Rakinalmanai 1, Aputo Roma’ai 1
RBI: Mae'ao 47, Arnao 7, Aputo Roma'ai 5, Wolo Rakinalmanai 5, Moalna’akai Lai 4, Iao Laina 2, Koilani Ruputuo 1, Ri'ino Ulnai 1

[Lycrabon]

And now, our answers:

New Montreal States   101 210 000 - 5			
Maklohi Vai           400 000 013 - 8

Series tied 1-1

Michael VII           001 000 000 - 1			
Qazox                 000 310 30X - 7

Qazox wins series 2-0

Zwangzug              200 110 002 - 6			
Sakurakoku            001 000 000 - 1

Zwangzug wins series 2-0

THRILLEDGE            100 520 003 - 11			
Estope                000 038 01X - 12

Series tied 1-1

[Qazox]

Eagles blast past Michael VII and into Round of 16.

Two 3-run blasts, one from Ryan Dodge and one from pinch-hitter Martin Santos gave David Christian has first win in his last 4 WBC starts as Qazox win game two against Michael VII 7-1. David Christian went 7 innings, allowing just 1 run on 5 hits, but early on it looked like Qazox wouldn't win the game as the first 10 batters were sent down in order by Carl Bonseph, until Ian Jimenez' infield single in the 4th that started the rally.

With an extra day off before the next series, it allows Ramon McDonald, who is 3-0 in this WBC to start Game 1, most likely against #2 Seeded Darmen. Marie Darby, the scheduled Game 3 starter for the opening round will start Game 2.

Michael VII           001 000 000 - 1  7 0
Qazox                 000 310 30X - 7 12 0

SCORING SUMMARY

Michael VII 3rd: Hertz doubled to left. Dako singled to left, Hertz to third. Bonseph struck out. Marsch singled to right, Hertz scored, Dako to second. Kashmir flied out to right. Yales grounded into fielder's choice (6-4), Marsch out at second. 1 run on 3 hits, 2 LOB 1-0 Michael VII

Qazox 4th: Hodgman popped out to third. Jimenez single to third. Hamilton singled to left-center, Jimenez to third. Dodge 411 ft HR to left, Jimenez, Hamilton and Dodge scored. Zimmerman struck out. Espinoza flied out to center. 3 runs on 3 hits, 0 LOB 3- Qazox

Qazox 5th: Lee lined out to short. Bryant doubled to left. Christian grounded out to pitcher, Bryant to third. Hodgman singled to right, Bryant scored. Jimenez singled to center, Hodgman out advancing to third (8-5). 1 run on 3 hits, 1 LOB 4-1 Qazox

Qazox 7th: Espinoza singled to center. Lee singled to left, Espinoza to second. Bryant reached on fielder's choice (5-4), Espinoza to third, Lee out at second. <PINCH HITTER: Santos batting for Christian>. Santos 432ft HR to left-center, Espinoza, Bryant and Santos scored. <PITCHING CHANGE:Bauchmann in for Bonseph> Hodgman singled to left. Jimenez grounded into 4-6-3 double play, Hodgman out at second. 3 runs on 4 hits, 1 LOB 7-1 Qazox

[Estope]

Estope rallied to take a lead and then held off a fierce Thrilledge rally to win an exciting 12-11 game. Up by 4 going into the ninth inning, Estope's bullpen allowed 3 rare runs by was able to come up when it mattered most to secure the game for Estope. Estope battled back after starting off very poorly and being down as much as 8-0. A 3 run 5th inning followed by a huge 6th inning where Estope scored 8 runs was the turning point as Estope gained the lead and never looked back. This was by far the biggest win in the history of Estope baseball. Thrilledge is ranked 13 so it is the highest ranked team to get beat by Estope but it is so significant because of the stage of the tournament it is in. This win though does not secure a spot in the next round, the decisive game 3 will be played tomorrow. Estope's batters have continued to perform well in this tournament and although the pitchers are giving up a lot of runs, they are able to get stops when they need to. Estope is in the midst of a remarkable run to even make the playoffs as they entered the tournament unranked and with very low expectations by the international community. Manager Felipe Sweigart was the only person who really saw the potential this team had. He coached them to a victory in the Maklohi Vai Baseball Tournament and knew they could perform well, even against the best in the world. Not only is Estope the only unranked team to advance, they were the only team to do so with a negative run differential. Once again critics looked down on Estope and said an easy group was what allowed Estope to make the playoffs, not their talent. Estope was given the last seed and not expected to compete in any game let alone win one. However, all the hard work by the team and all the memorable moments, will be forgotten if Estope does not win tomorrow. A loss would make Estope just another team that got lucky and won a few games. But a win would show the world that Estope is for real and can compete with the best of the world. A win would continue that magical run Estope has had so far. A win would prove all the critics wrong and provide a source of national pride. Yes a win tomorrow would be a big deal. Of course winning tomorrow will not be easy but it is not impossible.

[Homelands our]

A New Era

Welcome to Lycrabon is what the airport sign bore and Homelandian sport is welcoming in a whole new era. Over the next few tournaments, in everything but the world cup, we hope to place ourselves so that soon we can really step up to the international stage. After Christmas or before, if possible, when all the hype around the team has died down, we'll look at the state we're in. After hosting and winning our first minor tournament, just two months ago we are ready to break near to the top 10 in a sport for the first time ever. This is the reformation and the renaissance all rolled into one. But what does this mean for the main backers of sport, the fans, will their day out change?

In short no. Most of this new found ranks/wins/whatever will be seen behind the scenes. Less semi-pro teams, new leagues in new sports the people have never heard of inside these boarders. The one thing that will stay the same is the fans sitting in the park or standing on the terraces. They will always be the main backers of this industry but sponsorship money, prize money, tv deals will all increase. What I mean by 'always be the main backers' is that teams and governing bodies need to be careful not to franchise the leagues and rip clubs from their heart, and turn fans away forever. These last days of 2012 are the start of crossroads which sport here has to pass, can HOFA, HBF, HOG and IHHO make the right chooses and keep the fans in a new successful sporting arena. 

Today is also the day the team arrived in Lycrabon and for the first time ever the fans have a team to cheer in the final 16 of a major tournament. Only 2,000 faithful have made the trip but they will be out to have a excellent time in Lycrabon's cities. After the mandatory photo stop on the plane's steps our manager gave his views on the coming weeks:
'We aren't looking to go and lift the cup on christmas eve, were just testing this. Yeso are a good team, one of the top 10 and any win next week will be good. If however our stay here is prolonged then just a lot of great teams face us. Baseball is at the dawn of a golden age back home in my view. WBC 25 (the next one) champions hopefully, but no not this year, we're just Qazox beaters, not world beaters.'
An optimistic yet pessimistic view from our manager with a nice reference to our biggest win in our baseball history. Be sure to tune in for an exciting week or maybe a few.