Month: November 2024

Ten Worst Teams Ever in MLB

Tom Knuppel Baseball History

Covering the ten worst Major League Baseball (MLB) teams from 1900-1924 is a journey through some tough seasons. Baseball was solidifying its place as America’s pastime during these years, but many teams struggled to find success. For each of these teams, I’ll include the team owner’s name, manager, season record, and the names and statistics of the five best players on each roster.

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### 1. **1904 Washington Senators (38-113)**

**Owner:** Thomas C. Noyes
**Manager:** Malachi Kittridge and Patsy Donovan

The 1904 Washington Senators had one of the worst records in baseball history, finishing 38-113. They were well out of contention in the American League, as other teams left them behind in both pitching and hitting.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Jimmy Ryan (OF)** – .278 AVG, 4 HR, 50 RBI
2. **George McBride (SS)** – Known for his fielding, not his bat, with a .195 AVG but solid defense.
3. **Casey Patten (P)** – 5-22 record, 4.25 ERA
4. **Roy Patterson (P)** – 6-18 record, 3.35 ERA
5. **Charlie Hickman (1B/OF)** – .256 AVG, 1 HR, 42 RBI

The Senators had minimal pitching depth, and their offensive lineup struggled, leading to their abysmal finish.

—

### 2. **1909 Boston Doves (45-108)**

**Owner:** George Dovey
**Manager:** Frank Bowerman

The 1909 Boston Doves (precursors to the Braves) struggled immensely, going 45-108. Their issues stemmed from both a lack of hitting power and a pitching staff that allowed runs with ease.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Johnny Bates (OF)** – .293 AVG, 4 HR, 52 RBI
2. **Bill Sweeney (2B)** – .258 AVG, 2 HR, 48 RBI
3. **George Ferguson (P)** – 6-23 record, 3.58 ERA
4. **Al Mattern (P)** – 7-25 record, 3.71 ERA
5. **Beals Becker (OF)** – .257 AVG, 0 HR, 32 RBI

The Doves had a weak lineup, with Johnny Bates and Bill Sweeney providing most of the offense. Their pitching rotation was overmatched against stronger National League teams.

—

### 3. **1916 Philadelphia Athletics (36-117)**

**Owner:** Connie Mack
**Manager:** Connie Mack

Connie Mack’s Athletics were infamous for this season, ending with a 36-117 record. Mack, who also owned the team, sold off his star players to reduce costs, resulting in a historically poor performance.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Wally Schang (C)** – .266 AVG, 2 HR, 33 RBI
2. **Amos Strunk (OF)** – .316 AVG, 1 HR, 41 RBI
3. **Elmer Myers (P)** – 14-23 record, 3.64 ERA
4. **Joe Bush (P)** – 15-24 record, 2.57 ERA
5. **Jack Nabors (P)** – 1-20 record, 3.47 ERA

Despite the poor team record, Bush and Myers were reliable starters, while Schang and Strunk were the rare bright spots in the lineup.

—

### 4. **1919 Philadelphia Phillies (47-90)**

**Owner:** William Baker
**Manager:** Jack Coombs

The Phillies’ 1919 season was marked by weak pitching and inconsistent hitting. Their 47-90 record put them well behind the competition, even in a year that saw many other teams also struggle.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Cy Williams (OF)** – .303 AVG, 15 HR, 72 RBI
2. **Irish Meusel (OF)** – .279 AVG, 8 HR, 78 RBI
3. **Art Fletcher (SS)** – .275 AVG, 0 HR, 38 RBI
4. **Lee Meadows (P)** – 11-20 record, 2.83 ERA
5. **Eppa Rixey (P)** – 6-12 record, 3.08 ERA

Cy Williams emerged as a power hitter, but the rest of the team struggled to keep up offensively or on the mound.

—

### 5. **1920 Detroit Tigers (61-93)**

**Owner:** Frank Navin
**Manager:** Hughie Jennings

The Tigers in 1920 had one of the worst seasons in franchise history, going 61-93. The team was inconsistent, with minimal pitching and an offense that lacked depth behind Ty Cobb.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Ty Cobb (OF)** – .334 AVG, 4 HR, 63 RBI
2. **Bobby Veach (OF)** – .303 AVG, 9 HR, 88 RBI
3. **Harry Heilmann (1B)** – .309 AVG, 4 HR, 77 RBI
4. **Hooks Dauss (P)** – 13-21 record, 3.82 ERA
5. **Howard Ehmke (P)** – 11-17 record, 4.08 ERA

Cobb was still dominant, but Detroit’s lack of quality pitching cost them a competitive season.

—

### 6. **1909 Washington Senators (42-110)**

**Owner:** Thomas C. Noyes
**Manager:** Joe Cantillon

The Senators again struggled in 1909 with a record of 42-110. They suffered from lackluster pitching and an offense that couldn’t keep up with the American League.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Bob Unglaub (1B)** – .267 AVG, 2 HR, 50 RBI
2. **Clyde Milan (OF)** – .252 AVG, 0 HR, 30 RBI
3. **Doc Gessler (OF)** – .268 AVG, 1 HR, 43 RBI
4. **Charlie Smith (P)** – 6-17 record, 2.84 ERA
5. **Walter Johnson (P)** – 13-25 record, 2.22 ERA

Though the team struggled, Walter Johnson showcased his talent, hinting at the Hall of Fame career that was to come.

—

### 7. **1911 Boston Rustlers (44-107)**

**Owner:** John P. Harris
**Manager:** Fred Tenney

The Boston Rustlers (soon to become the Braves) endured a 44-107 season in 1911. Poor pitching and a lack of offensive firepower plagued them all year.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Johnny Kling (C)** – .271 AVG, 2 HR, 47 RBI
2. **Doc Miller (OF)** – .333 AVG, 2 HR, 70 RBI
3. **Bill Sweeney (1B)** – .288 AVG, 4 HR, 56 RBI
4. **Cliff Curtis (P)** – 4-18 record, 4.48 ERA
5. **Al Bridwell (SS)** – .258 AVG, 0 HR, 38 RBI

Doc Miller was a solid hitter, but the pitching staff struggled mightily against National League competition.

—

### 8. **1906 Boston Americans (49-105)**

**Owner:** John I. Taylor
**Manager:** Jimmy Collins and Bob Unglaub

The 1906 Boston Americans, who later became the Red Sox, suffered through a 49-105 season. The team struggled with both offense and pitching, leading to the franchise’s worst-ever record.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Freddy Parent (SS)** – .260 AVG, 0 HR, 38 RBI
2. **Jimmy Collins (3B)** – .226 AVG, 1 HR, 37 RBI
3. **Cy Young (P)** – 13-21 record, 3.19 ERA
4. **Jesse Tannehill (P)** – 13-15 record, 2.53 ERA
5. **Bill Dineen (P)** – 8-19 record, 3.53 ERA

The great Cy Young was past his prime, but still led the rotation, although he had little support.

—

### 9. **1915 St. Louis Browns (63-91)**

**Owner:** Robert Hedges
**Manager:** Branch Rickey

The St. Louis Browns in 1915 finished 63-91 under Branch Rickey’s leadership. They were among the weaker American League teams with an anemic offense.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Del Pratt (2B)** – .288 AVG, 3 HR, 77 RBI
2. **Burt Shotton (OF)** – .281 AVG, 0 HR, 41 RBI
3. **George Sisler (P/1B)** – .285 AVG, 3 HR, 55 RBI
4. **Bill James (P)** – 11-15 record, 2.64 ERA
5. **Ernie Koob (P)** – 10-17 record, 3.21 ERA

Rickey’s innovative thinking would shape baseball’s future, but the Browns struggled this season.

—

### 10. **1912 Cincinnati Reds (58-94)**

**Owner:** August Hermann
**Manager:** Hank O

’Day

The 1912 Cincinnati Reds finished 58-94, one of their lowest points in the decade. They struggled to hit and lacked a strong pitching core.

**Top 5 Players:**
1. **Dick Hoblitzell (1B)** – .292 AVG, 3 HR, 73 RBI
2. **Bob Bescher (OF)** – .281 AVG, 1 HR, 59 RBI
3. **Heinie Groh (3B)** – .282 AVG, 2 HR, 45 RBI
4. **Art Fromme (P)** – 11-15 record, 3.07 ERA
5. **Rube Benton (P)** – 18-20 record, 3.08 ERA

Bescher’s and Groh’s contributions helped, but Cincinnati’s lineup was otherwise unimpressive.

—

Each of these teams faced significant struggles, whether due to roster turnover, weak pitching, or offensive inadequacy. In many cases, these seasons led to significant changes within the franchises, ultimately helping some of them improve over time. However, their records from this era serve as a testament to how challenging baseball success can be.

Best Baseball Players in the 19th Century

Tom Knuppel Baseball History ,

Professional baseball in the 19th century was defined by remarkable players whose skills and statistics laid the foundation for America’s pastime. Players in this era competed under challenging conditions, with less advanced equipment and rudimentary training methods, yet many still posted impressive numbers that would be notable even in later eras. Here are some of the best professional baseball players of the 19th century, along with their statistics and the teams they played on.

1. Cap Anson (Chicago White Stockings/Colts)
Adrian “Cap” Anson is often regarded as the first true superstar of professional baseball. Playing from 1871 to 1897, primarily with the Chicago White Stockings (now the Chicago Cubs), Anson was known for his incredible consistency as a hitter. He became the first player to achieve 3,000 hits, a milestone that wasn’t surpassed until decades later. Anson’s career batting average was an impressive .334, and he amassed 2,075 RBIs, a record at the time. He also hit 97 home runs, which was notable in the dead-ball era when homers were rare. As a manager and player, Anson led the White Stockings to five National League championships.

2. King Kelly (Chicago White Stockings, Boston Beaneaters)
Mike “King” Kelly was a charismatic and versatile player known for his hitting, base running, and innovation in strategy. Kelly’s baseball career began in 1878, and he played for teams such as the Chicago White Stockings and the Boston Beaneaters. He had a career batting average of .308 and was especially famous for his ability to steal bases, even pioneering strategies like the delayed steal. In 1886, Kelly led the National League in both batting average (.388) and runs scored (155), showcasing his prowess as a leadoff hitter. He was also known for his antics, which included distracting opposing players and calling his own plays, making him a fan favorite and a trailblazer for showmanship in the game.

3. Cy Young (Cleveland Spiders, St. Louis Perfectos)
Cy Young’s career spanned both the 19th and 20th centuries, but his impact in the 19th century was substantial. He began his career with the Cleveland Spiders in 1890 and later played for the St. Louis Perfectos (Cardinals) and the Boston Red Sox. Known for his powerful fastball and impeccable control, Young accumulated 511 career wins, still the all-time record in baseball. In the 1892 season alone, he posted a 1.93 ERA and had a 36-12 win-loss record. His dominance led to the eventual naming of the Cy Young Award, given annually to the best pitchers in the Major Leagues.

4. Hoss Radbourn (Providence Grays, Boston Beaneaters)
Charles “Old Hoss” Radbourn was a legendary pitcher known for his durability and iron will on the mound. In 1884, while playing for the Providence Grays, Radbourn had what is arguably the greatest pitching season in history. He won 59 games, a record that still stands, and completed 73 of his 75 starts with an ERA of 1.38. Over his career, he amassed 309 wins and 1,830 strikeouts. Radbourn’s 1884 season secured his place as one of the most dominant pitchers of the 19th century, and his achievements remain iconic.

5. Buck Ewing (New York Giants, Cincinnati Reds)
Buck Ewing is widely considered one of the best all-around players and one of the greatest catchers of the 19th century. Playing from 1880 to 1897, primarily with the New York Giants and later with the Cincinnati Reds, Ewing was known for his defensive skills behind the plate and his strong throwing arm. He also excelled as a hitter, posting a .303 career batting average with 883 RBIs. In 1883, Ewing hit .303 with 10 triples, which was rare power for a catcher in that era. His versatility allowed him to play other positions, and his influence on the field was unmatched, making him a cornerstone of early professional baseball.

6. Ed Delahanty (Philadelphia Quakers/Phillies, Cleveland Infants)
Ed Delahanty was one of the best hitters of his era, playing primarily for the Philadelphia Quakers (Phillies) and briefly with the Cleveland Infants. Over his career, Delahanty posted a .346 batting average, ranking him among the top hitters in baseball history. Known for his power, he led the league in batting multiple times and hit over .400 in three separate seasons. In 1899, he batted .410 with 55 doubles and 137 RBIs. Delahanty’s power hitting, including a five-home run game in 1896, made him one of the most feared batters in the 19th century.

7. Roger Connor (Troy Trojans, New York Giants**
Roger Connor, who played from 1880 to 1897, was the all-time home run leader before Babe Ruth, with 138 career homers—a staggering total in the dead-ball era. Connor, a left-handed slugger, played for teams including the Troy Trojans and the New York Giants, and he was known for his consistent hitting and power. He had a .316 career batting average, with 1,322 RBIs, and was a strong fielder at first base. His presence as a leader and his ability to hit for both average and power earned him a place as one of the top hitters of his generation.

These players were pioneers who set records, elevated the sport’s standards, and influenced how baseball is played and celebrated today. Their legacy remains evident, as many of their accomplishments continue to be celebrated and compared to modern players’ achievements.

Way too Early 2025 Kentucky Derby Hopefuls

Tom Knuppel The Horse Guy
Way too Early 2025 Kentucky Derby Hopefuls

 

 

The 2025 Kentucky Derby is shaping up to be an exciting race, with a competitive field of contenders aiming for victory. Among the hopefuls, several horses are standing out due to strong performances in key prep races, and many have posted impressive Beyer Speed Figures, which gauge a horse’s performance over time. Here’s an overview of some of the top prospects, their trainers, and recent Beyer figures:

Sierra Leone – Trained by Todd Pletcher, Sierra Leone has consistently impressed, emerging as a favorite in early betting with odds of 3-1. Known for his speed and endurance, Sierra Leone has posted Beyer Speed Figures that reinforce his place as a top contender in the Derby lineup. Pletcher’s guidance is expected to prepare him well for the mile-and-a-quarter distance​

Mystik Dan – Mystik Dan, trained by Brad Cox, is another strong contender, with notable wins in preliminary races. Known for a powerful close in the stretch, he has a Beyer Speed Figure that marks him as a possible dark horse in the Derby, even with higher odds of 20-1. Mystik Dan’s performance will be one to watch, especially given Cox’s history of success in Triple Crown races​

Dornoch – Trained by Chad Brown, Dornoch has shown consistent improvement and adaptability across various tracks, with Beyer figures indicating steady progress. Brown, a highly respected trainer with a reputation for conditioning top turf horses, has been working on Dornoch’s speed on dirt in preparation for the Derby, where he’s entering with favorable odds of 20-1​

Catching Freedom– Phil D’Amato’s Catching Freedom is among the faster horses, with a Beyer that has caught the attention of bettors and analysts. His recent performances in preparatory stakes races, where he’s demonstrated both speed and stamina, have placed him among the top contenders with 8-1 odds​

 

Fierceness – Trained by Kenny McPeek and among the early favorites, Fierceness has a Beyer Speed Figure that reflects his speed and agility, especially over long distances. With odds currently at 5-2, Fierceness’s recent wins and McPeek’s training expertise make him a prime candidate for a strong finish in the Derby​

Just a Touch – Under Danny Gargan’s training, Just a Touch has maintained steady form, with a solid Beyer figure that makes him a 10-1 contender. Gargan’s approach to Just a Touch has focused on developing his endurance, which could prove essential over the Derby’s demanding distance​

T O Password (JPN) – This Japanese import, trained by Steve Asmussen, has odds of 30-1 but brings international experience and a strong Beyer figure from his performances overseas. His potential as a longshot may surprise fans as he faces American competition on the Churchill Downs track​

Track Phantom – Trained by D. Wayne Lukas, Track Phantom is another noteworthy entry with 20-1 odds. Lukas’s experience with Derby horses is legendary, and his guidance could bring out the best in Track Phantom, whose Beyer Speed Figures show potential​

Honor Marie – With Michael McCarthy as the trainer, Honor Marie rounds out the field with respectable odds of 20-1. His consistent Beyer figures signal readiness for a competitive performance, as McCarthy’s methods often yield results in high-stakes environments​.

 

 

These horses, with experienced trainers and strong Beyer figures, represent a field that is both talented and unpredictable. The Road to the Kentucky Derby races, including the Florida Derby, Wood Memorial, and Blue Grass Stakes, will continue to shape the lineup and test these contenders’ endurance and speed. The Derby’s outcome is as unpredictable as ever, promising an exhilarating start to the 2025 Triple Crown season.

Be sure to follow the Horse Guy right here as we follow all of the races that will impact the field for the 2025 Kentucky Derby. Next up is the Kentucky Jockey Club race at the end of November.

 

 

“The Snake Tatoo” Book Review

Tom Knuppel Book Nook ,
“The Snake Tatoo” Book Review

 

The award-winning author Linda Barnes, rekindles her 61 redheaded female private eye, Carlotta Carlyle, in a rivetingly well-told story. Her old friend, Lieutenant Mooney of the Boston police, is under investigation for excessive brutality and Carlyle is trying to track down the lone witness who can clear his name, a blonde hooker with a snake tattoo. While on surveillance in Boston’s Combat Zone, Carlyle (who drives a cab to make ends meet) accidentally gets a fare and a second case; a troubled teenage boy, freshly rolled for his wallet, tumbles into her cab and involves her in his search for a missing classmate. The boy’s case takes Carlyle to the Emerson School, a mini-Harvard prep school, whose putting-green grass and stately buildings seem worlds removed from the Combat Zone’s alleys and three-story flophouses.

But after she discovers the body of Emerson’s drama teacher, Carlyle realizes the spotless image is a facade. There are surprises at the finish, made all the more potent by the novel’s unforced paced and charm. Mystery Guild main selection

This is an excellent read.

College Baseball Now 2025

Tom Knuppel college baseball 2025 , , ,
College Baseball Now 2025

                                    College Baseball Now

                                                              issue 1 for 2025

The new season isn’t far away so let’s begin our off-season talk about College Baseball. First, I will give my early Top 25 poll. Of course, things will change before the first pitch of the season is here but for now…..

 

                      (25) Kentucky Wildcats

Head coach Nick Mangione hopes to go deeper into the 2025 World Series with experience along with experience through the transfer portal. Returning from last year’s squad is a slew of arms for the pitching with right handed senior hurlers Robert Hogan and Cooper Robinson, along with a  junior Jacob Price, and a trio of sophomores from the right side in Jake Titus, Tommy Skelding and Raynond Saatman. These pitcher only return with a handful of wins from 2024.

The left-handed pitching returns senior Jackson Nove and sophomores Even Hart, Ben Cleaver and Evan Byers. A few new recruits are expected to step in and find success from the mound. This include lefties Logan Grubb from Lawrenceburg , Kentucky and Leighton Harris out of Lexington high school.

Pitching may be a source of problems for the Wildcats.

Handling the duties behind the dish is Devin Burkes. Last season his batted .239 with 3 homers and 55 runs batted in

Coming back for he Wildcats on the infield we have Patrick Herrera, Landon Franklin (So.), Ethan Hindle (So.) and Hudson Brown (So.)

A couple of outfielders will help solidify the defense with James McCoy (RJr.) and  Griffin Cameron (So.) and then add in utility players Kyuss Garget and Eli Small, both will 3 years left.

A slew of transfers could prove to be fortuitous for coach Mangione with sophomore righty hurler Oliver Boone from Cal, also we have Indiana State right-handed pitcher Simon Gergerson. Designated hitter from Columbia Cole Hage should help the offense along Carson Hansen a  junior outfielder from Milwuakee that batted .315 last year. Illinois State transfer is infielder Luke Lawrence that drove in 40 runs and hit .338 in the Missouri Valley in 2024.

The Wildcats re looking forward to College baseball in 2025.  They open the season March 14-16 on the road against Georgia and then come home for three games against Auburn before returning to the road against Texas A&M. The SEC schedule is brutal and I don’t see them staying in the College Baseball Top 25 for very long.

 

TOP TEN PLAYERS in College Baseball for 2025

Let’s take a look at the top players returning and likely the upperclassmen to get drafted in the MLB.

  1. Jace LaViolette (Texas A&M
  2. Ethan Petry (South Carolina)
  3. Chase Shores ( LSU)
  4. Ike Irish (Auburn)
  5. Devin Taylor (Indiana)
  6. Cam Cannarella ( Clemson)
  7. Jack O’Connor (Virginia)
  8. Cade Fisher (Florida)
  9. Jackson Cheeks ( Kennesaw State
  10. Nolan Schubert ( Oklahoma State)

 

Tourneys

Las Vegas Classic with Texas Tech, Texas, Washington, Illinois

from Feb 28-March 1-2

Top Places to Play College Baseball

Olsen field -Texas A&M

Baum Stadium- Arkansas

Alex Box Stadium- LSU

Dudy-Noble field- Miss State

Goss Stadium- Oregon State

Alex Rodriguez Park-Miami

Hi Corbett Field-Arizona

Dan Law Field- Texas Tech

 

Top 15  College Players to be Drafted in 2025

1, Jace LaViolette

2, Jamie Arnold

3. Tyler Bremmer

4. Cam Leiter

5. Dean Taylor

6. Noah Schubert

7. Ike Irish

8. Kyson Witherspoon

9. Gavin Kilen

10. Caden Boone

11. Henry Ford

12. Zach Root

13. Andrew Fischer

14. Mason White

15.Trent Callaway

 

 

College Baseball Coaching Changes for 2025

First column is the date it became official -scone column is the College or University

Third Column is the NEW coach and last is the coach that was replaced

9/14/2024 Bellarmine Ben Reel Chris Dominguez
9/3/2024 Morehead State Chris Rose (Interim) Braeden Ward
9/3/2024 Delaware State Pedro Swann Jean-Paul Blandin
8/22/2024 UT @ Arlington Mike Trapasso Clay Van Hook
8/8/2024 Alcorn State Carlton Hardy Reginald Williams
7/22/2024 VCU Sean Thompson Bradley LeCroy
7/22/2024 California State University-Bakersfield Jordon Banfield Jeremy Beard
7/17/2024 Oakland Blake Nelson (Interim) Jordon Banfield
7/15/2024 Liberty Bradley LeCroy Scott Jackson
7/12/2024 Utah Valley Nate Rasmussen Eddie Smith
7/10/2024 Campbell Chris Marx Justin Haire
7/9/2024 Washington Eddie Smith Jason Kelly
7/7/2024 Southern Indiana Chris Ramirez Tracy Archuleta
7/3/2024 Arkansas at Pine Bluff Logan Stout Carlos James
7/2/2024 Texas A & M Michael Earley Jim Schlossnagle
6/28/2024 Youngstown State Trevor Charpie Dan Bertolini
6/28/2024 Pacific Reed Peters Chris Rodriguez
6/28/2024 Niagara Matt Spatafora Rob McCoy
6/26/2024 Nicholls State Brent Haring Mike Silva
6/26/2024 Longwood Ray Noe Chad Oxendine
6/25/2024 Texas Jim Schlossnagle David Pierce
6/24/2024 Dayton Scott Loiseau Jayson King
6/21/2024 West Virginia Steve Sabins Randy Mazey
6/21/2024 Ohio State Justin Haire Bill Mosiello
6/21/2024 Long Beach State T.J. Bruce Bryan Peters (interim)
6/21/2024 Indiana State Tracy Archuleta Mitch Hannahs
6/20/2024 William and Mary Rob McCoy Mike McRae
6/19/2024 The Citadel Russell Triplett Tony Skole
6/19/2024 Stephen F Austin Matt Vanderburg Johnny Cardenas
6/14/2024 Winthrop Mike McGuire Tom Riginos
6/14/2024 South Carolina-Upstate Kane Sweeney Mike McGuire
6/14/2024 Pepperdine Tyler LaTorre Rick Hirtensteiner
6/11/2024 South Carolina Paul Mainieri Mark Kingston
6/11/2024 Houston Christian Clay Vanderlaan Lance Berkman
6/11/2024 Charleston Southern Karl Kuhn Marc McMillian
6/11/2024 Arkansas State Mike Silva Tommy Raffo
6/10/2024 Coastal Carolina Kevin Schnall Gary Gilmore
6/8/2024 South Florida Mitch Hannahs Billy Mohl
6/4/2024 Missouri State Joey Hawkins Keith Guttin
6/3/2024 Manhattan Steven Rosen (Interim) David MIller
5/22/2024 Minnesota Ty McDevitt John Anderson
5/15/2024 Eastern Kentucky Walt Jones Chris Prothro

 

Check out College Baseball 2024 articles HERE