One of the most important things a team can do in league is to learn and reflect. This article examines each team and what type of success they have had in league thus far. While discussing both positive and negative elements for each team, it is meant to motivate each player to step up for their respective team. This serves as a guide for each team as they continue to quest for a playoff spot.

TechEast (2-1)

Next 2 Games: At FlightAL, vs D Rays

TechEast is having a very nice season thus far. Only in their first elite league season, TechEast has seen solid performances in both pitching and offense. Sandman7 has carried the team in pitching, keeping opponents under double-digit runs in three games this season. Offensively, the combination of Baptiste, ABSmoke, and Stoneberg have given Sandman7 just enough support to squeeze out a win.

“No one expected Sandman7 to be this good,” said TechEast right fielder ABSmoke. “Some people said that we didn’t have any pitchers capable of stepping up and emerging, but so far he has proven that he can hang in the elite league. He can also swing the bat and help his own cause. Holding the vaunted Bombers offense to less than 10 runs was his most impressive feat so far, but unfortunately we didn’t give him any support.
Sandman is confident in the defense behind him and so far we have been very solid. I look for him to continue his fantastic pitching through the rest of the season and to continue swinging a hot bat.”

However, TechEast came off a shocking loss last week against Bombers, scoring 0 runs. It seems the strongest part of TechEast (their offense) is collapsing and pitching is what is enabling this team to win.

Player to Watch For: Baptiste needs to figure out what his team is doing wrong offensively. Offense was TechEast’s initial strong point but that has now shifted to pitching. If Baptiste can correct his team’s mistakes offensively, look for TechEast to continue winning.

Roto NL (0-3)

Next 2 Games: vs D Rays, at Ambition

Roto NL is having a rough start to the season, losing to TechEast, Bombers, and Lynx in three games this season. Its difficult to decide what exactly is wrong with Roto NL since both the offense and pitching have struggled. The combo of nubXPRESS and Pesto is not working out at all as they have combined to give up 39 runs in 18 innings of work-an average of 13 runs per game. With these type numbers, it is close to impossible to win against any opponent.

“We’ve got to step it up. Pitching has been ugly, but yet our offense hasn’t done much, either,” said Roto NL pitcher nubXPRESS. “I wouldn’t count Roto NL out because we certainly have the talent and the tools necessary to win on any given Sunday (too bad we play on Tuesdays). Taking a glass half full approach to this BiGSwolL seems to be in heat and we haven’t even seen HrPower yet. On a good night pitching wise I know we’ll produce (sexually and offensively on the baseball field). And no one forget about my rusty Scooter. Everyone likes a ride on that Scooter.”

As if pitching was not bad enough, the heavily-favored offense of Roto NL has struggled as well. HaZed has not done much at all this season and HrPower, Ozzy, and Tunagob have yet to show up for a game. Therefore, Roto NL is forced to solely rely on manager Day and pitcher nubXPRESS for offensive production. Roto NL needs more than 2 hitters for offensive production and they better hope things change soon as they face D Rays Tuesday in a very crucial matchup.

Player to Watch For: It is essential for HaZed to start bringing in more runs for Roto NL and bat more consistantly. He will need to somehow manage to lead the team and hope the rest of the team can feed of his production.

Lynx (1-2)

Next 2 games: vs Ambition, at BigHeros

Some people might say the Lynx squad has underperformed this season. While their first loss was against a very tough Bombers team, their second loss was a fairly close game that was mainly decided by pitching.  Part of the problem with Lynx has in fact been with pitching and defense. Lynx currently has only xXBravoXx pitching this league. While giving up 10 runs in each of the first two games, Bravo showed improvement last week against Roto NL, giving up only 5 runs. Defense has also been shaky for Lynx, as they have committed some errors and missed some crucial plays in each game this season. In order for Lynx to be a playoff team, the pitching and defense needs to strengthed in order to give Lynx’s offense a chance to score.

“I think we were a little nervous the first two games. Our defense was very sloppy and we had inconsistent hitting. There was usually only one or two batters that carried the team,” said EWade, current mananger of Lynx. “Last week was a different story. Everyone contributed in some way whether it being on offense, defense, or pitching.” He went on to say “I believe that if we keep our entire team consistent at the plate, we are a force to be reckoned with. Bravo and Tubby’s pitching is more than efficient to get us through, and our defense is very good when we are on a roll.”

It is also clear Lynx has underperformed offensively as well. While EWade has had a consistant bat each week, it seems the rest of the Lynx offense cannot perform at his intensity. LSU21, Hugebat, and Wendigo are all hitters that have the potential to perform at a very high level and should do better over the next couple of weeks.

Player to Watch For: Hugebat is the only player on Lynx that has had previous elite experience. If he can somehow manage to gain some timely hits and play solid defense, he might be able to lead Lynx to a couple of wins.

Bombers (3-0)

Next 2 Games: At BigHeros, vs FlightAL

Bombers are shaping up to be the best team in the East League. The only undefeated team in the East, the Bronx Bombers has exploded offensively each and every week. Averaging close to 11 runs per week, the Bombers have seen contributions from nearly all of their players including BigJuddd, gimmepie, Jiraiya, and Roguee.

“Honestly, I don’t think we have a best player,” said TheMan, current manager of Bombers. “There isn’t just one guy on the Bombers team that stands out from the rest. Everyone has a bad day but its just so great that when one person has a bad game, theres always somebody else that steps up.”

Bombers also has a solid trio of pitchers as well. ChungFX, ThePope, and iPwn have all been outstanding this season, combinining to hold opponents to a grand total of 11 runs-an average of a little less than 4 runs per game.

The latest pitching performance by ThePope included a complete game shutout against the power hitting lineup of TechEast. Bombers have a very legitimate chance to not just make the playoff, but to go on and win league mainly because of their amazing talent on both offense and pitching.

Player to Watch For: Cunning is probably the only player that has underperformed for Bombers. While his defense is solid as always, his bat has not adjusted well to the pressures of elite league. If Cunning can somehow catch on fire, look for Bombers to certify they are indeed a championship team.

FlightAL (2-1)

Next 2 games: vs TechEast, at Bombers

FlightAL has had a fairly easy schedule so far in league, facing both D Rays and Ambition in their first two games. But now it seems that this experienced roster is about to be tested for the next two weeks and possibly the rest of the regular season.

On paper, it looks like FlightAL is a solid team. The team is full of proven elite hitters including Puddles, ZachAtack, Kentucky, and Rbush. The team exploded against D Rays in the first two games, scoring a stunning 29 runs in those two games. But why does FlightAL manager still feel the weakest part of FlightAL right now is the offense?

“At this point, the weakest part of our team has been offense,” said Kentucky, who is managing FlightAL for the first time this league season.  “Sure we had an explosion against Ambition, but from past elite experience, it takes double digit runs to win almost every game. In our only loss to BigHeros we fell behind 6 runs with only 2 innings left and the deficit was too much to make up. We need to get out early and if we do that, our pitching and defense is going to end up finishing the game out.”

Pitching may indeed be the strength of this team. DrDeath is showing once again he can dominate elite league even without max arm strength. Although it might be too early to say, DrDeath is still a potential candidate for an All-Aces Award. And as always, his bat has been solid, helping himself in each game.

Player to Watch For: ZachAtack entered this league with many people favoring him to lead the FlightAL offense. Unfortunately, Zach has not lived up to this statement and will need to do better over the next couple of weeks. He does have a lot of potential and no one will be surprised if he ends up having multiple homerun games against TechEast and maybe even Bombers.

D Rays (1-2)

Next 2 games: At Roto NL, At TechEast

The D Rays have had a rough start to the season but things could be changing very soon. Their main concern this league was with pitching, mainly because they did not have one. Now that MASIMO has been cleared to play, expect things to change very soon for this team.

“I think we have performed below our capabilities, said KeenanG, who is leading the D Rays squad in RBIs.   “A lot of drama and lack of activity before games.  Masimo is back and we will feed off of that.”

Offensively, D Rays is fairly solid. Mananger HAVERFORD has been consistent every game, getting on base and smashing home runs. KeenanG leads the team in homeruns and RBIs and is without a doubt, the best hitter on that team right now. In order for D Rays to be successful, they need to see more steady production from Tyrrel and Borrelli. Despite averaging only 7 runs per game, the D Rays offensive production should increase over the next couple of weeks.

Player to Watch For: Borrelli certainly has the bat that can get some timely hits against tougher teams. If he can manage to do so against a struggling Roto NL and perhaps TechEast, he could lead the team to a W.

Ambition (1-2)

Next 2 Games: At Lynx, vs RotoNL

Ambition gained their first win last week against D Rays, putting on a show with 14 runs. While their first two losses were at the very least disappointing, Ambition is anything but a weak team. Offensively, they are lead by manager h0w and Nos, who have both had previous elite experience. Canada has been a beast in PUG, and if his performance can carry on to league, he could be a very dangerous hitter come playoff time. Mattman13 and ConMan have also had solid seasons as well.

On paper, many would guess the problem with Ambition is with pitching. NLaLoosh is the sole pitcher on Ambition currently and is actually doing a very good job when you consider he is only a major pitching in elite league.

“I feel that most of my team would be a great fit into many elite teams,” said h0w in a well-written paragraph. “I have been getting approximately eight members to show up every game. Even many elite teams do not have those type numbers. As for our performance we do have to step up our all around performance. Our team has been particularly strong at the plate scoring 7, 6, and 14 runs in the first three games. Our pitching may seem weak to many, but NLaLoosh shows a lot of hope to keep the ball in the park, and that is the main goal of pitching. Our Fielding, has been our poison. Our pitching and hitting has kept us in games while errors in the field nullify our hitting and pitching performance. I think that for our team to be successful we need to step up our defensive performance. Everyone in the league makes the playoffs, the season is just time for my team to get chemistry. In the beginning i really didn’t who to play where, and who did well in league. I am starting to learn these key things about my team, and in my opinion we could be the dark horses in the playoffs. keep an eye out for us.”

Player to Watch For: Mattman13 will need to step up for his team if he wants to keep winning. He will need to continue to play solid defense and knock in some runs.

BigHeros (2-1)

Next 2 Games: vs Bombers, vs Lynx

The BigHeros have surprised some teams this elite league, beating FlightAL last week in a close game. While that game did bring some controversy over someone lagging, they are still credited with a win and will look to bring that momentum against Bombers Tuesday.

“Our hitting [is the strongest part of our team] when everyone is active and on target,” said manager Her0. “Nhr is on pace for 14 hr this season. so anywhere around that and league mvp isn’t out of the question.”

BigHeros have not been necessarily a powerhouse on offense but they have done enough to start the season with two wins. Scoring an average of 8 runs per game, the only lose that BigHeros suffered was against D Rays in week two which was embarrasing. However, they successfully used this as momentum against FlightAL and pulled off the upset.

Player to Watch For: SupaNova will need to continue to be a solid pitcher in order to give BigHeros a chance to win. He will have to bring his A game Tuesday against the power-hitting Bombers.

DwH (0-3)

Next 2 Games: At Rotowire, vs TechWest

DwH simply does not seem to care much about RBO anymore. A majority of their players are inactive and by speaking to the manager of the squad, Luckyme89, it seems most of them have actually quit RBO.

“Well [our season] has sucked pretty big donkey balls,” said ensferum, who is the only member of DwH that agreed to do an interview. “No one really plays much anymore.” When asked what he was expecting out of his team for the rest of the season, ensferum simply replied by saying “for them to show up.”

DwH has without a doubt suffered very disappointing losses this season. When they faced Carnage in Week Two, they lost to a walkoff homerun by BlindMan. And against Rage in Week Three, they also lost by one run. Pitching has been the bright side for DwH. RUGJUICE has only given up 22 runs this season-an average of about 7 runs per game-which is very good when you consider he is the only one pitching for DwH right now. If this team actually got active, they could develop into better hitters that can pick up RUGJUICE.

Player to Watch For: I cannot name only one player on DwH that needs to step up. It is not only their offense that needs work but also team chemistry and unity in general that needs work. This team is by far the weakest team in league currently and that does not look like it will improve any time soon.

FlightNL (3-0)

Next 2 games: vs TechWest, at Insanity

FlightNL remains the only undefeated in the West League, and only one of two teams that is undefeated thus far in league (Bombers). One of the main reasons for FlightNL’s success this league is their lights out pitching. The deadly 1-2 punch of SmokeOut and ElDuque has been spectacular each week this league, holding opponents to an amazing 3 runs per  game.

“Having two established MVP league pitchers ready to go at any time throws a big curveball at our opponents every week,” said Papi. “I enjoy having the versatility to be able to switch them between the starter and reliever roles and have confidence they can both adapt to each role. SmokeOut has given up just 1 run through 9 innings so far, and Duque had an amazing complete game against Carnage holding the highly touted offense to 3 runs.”

Offense might be the only concern for FlightNL but they have been very consistant each week, scoring early in each game. Veteran hitters including Crede24 and Ebola strike fear into the pitcher’s heart every week and GATECH, ST3WERT, and Corv have all had solid seasons as well.

Player to Watch For: SmokeOut should continue his dominance over the next couple of weeks. Giving up 1 ER over 9 innings of work will make winning a whole lot easier for your team and look for SmokeOut to improve that stat against TechWest and Insanity.

Carnage (2-1)

Next 2 Games: vs Insanity, At Empire

Carnage started this season off hot but with the disappointing last week against FlightNL, their weakness has been exposed. Without HeadAke, Carnage is forced to rely solely on the Swedes (ToyBoy and GAWD) for offense. While both players have been exposed to elite league before, they will have to bring in runs each week in order for Carnage to claim victory.

“Obviously with HeadAke out, we look to Wiggy to set the tone for us offensively,” said Megatron who is managing Carnage in only its second elite season. “As far as stepping up their game and really taking this team by the horns, I would have to hold out hope that xXbnUtzXx can be that person, if he doesn’t it won’t be for lack of talent.”

Carnage has experienced some disappointment with pitching as well. While Megatron is doing the best he can as a starter, the long-awaited Sparkie has retired from RBO. While this move might not be that surprising, it certainly hurts Carnage. Megatron will have to hope he can get some help from ToyBoy nad Blindman.G

Player to Watch For: Just like Megatron said, Carnage will need to rely more on Wiggy to get runs. Wiggy is the only active member on Carnage that was part of the team’s run to the finals in Carnage’s first elite season. If Wiggy can use this experience to help him on the field, Carnage will have a fighting chance to make the finals yet again.

Rage (1-2)

Next 2 Games: At Empire, vs Rotowire

Rage is a team, though very unlikely, that can surprise some teams and pull off some upsets. Though the team is weak in batting, pitching, and defense, the team itself is trying to develop some team chemistry as many players are playing elite for the first time. They do have players that are experienced in league including manager rUafraid and RomeyC. The younger players, including GoHome96, Duster, and GoldGlvr is what obviously needs some work on both offense and defense.

“This team was developed a day or 2 before league actually started, and the dedication from some of the players just isn’t there. I say we can pull 3 wins if the team puts their minds to it. This is a practice season for us. Just want to see how things go,” said rUafraid who is managing an elite team for the first time.

rUafraid has also said he has some problems with defense. That is obviously expected with these new players but you never know: these players could develop into elite batters, playing solid defense while smashing homeruns. It might be too early to say but do not be surprised if Rage becomes a better team by the end of the season.

Player to Watch For: For offense, Rage will have to continue to depend on RomeyC to bring in runs.

Rotowire (1-2)

Next 2 Games: vs DwH, at Rage

Rotowire came an unacceptable loss against Empire last week. Leading 4-2 going into the top of the sixth, Rotowire pitcher Skoal blew the small two run lead and allowed Empire to tie it. FIRE911 would hole Rotowire in the bottom of the sixth and Empire would score one in the top of the seventh to take the lead. FIRE911 would close it out, giving up two hits in three innings of work.

The loss is beyond disappointing for Rotowire, who is in now serious jeopardy in not making the playoffs. On the surface it looks like pitching is what is failing for Rotowire. However, according to Skoal offense is whats wrong with Roto.

“To make the playoffs, we need to hit the fucking ball,” said Skoal who is pitching in his first elite season. “Getting SpliF and MiiG back will help, and I hope myself to put game 3 behind me, and go back to game 1/2 form.”

The season is looking rough for Rotowire but one must not forget how dominate this team once was. They have the experience and the veterans to make a late season run.

Player to Watch For: Boget pitched spectacular against Empire, proving that he is still possibly the “greatest of all-time.” If Boget can continue to pitch in Boget-form, it will be easy for Rotowire to defeat DwH and Rage.

TechWest (2-1)

Next 2 Games: At FlightNL, at DwH

TechWest, similar to their sister team TechEast, is also having a strong start to the season. Their offense has been fairly good. Led by Sandman16, the TechWest offense has managed to average 8 runs per game this season. TechWest also managed to pull off an upset against Empire in Week Two but they themselves were upsetted by Insanity in Week Three.

Pitching has been a little sloppy. With the exception of that Week Two game against Empire, the TechWest pitching staff has at least 8 runs each game. Pitching needs to improve for this team in order for them to make a run for the playoffs.

“We need to be more consistent with both offense and defense,” said TechWest manager Manny73, who did a fantastic job adding some power bats and consistent pitchers just before the season started. “I like to let everyone play so we all feel like we contribute to wins, not everyone plays the same, therefore you have different skill sets that work with some teams and some that don’t. As long as our pitching can hold the teams we are going to face from here I think we will be in good shape for a playoff spot.”

Player to Watch For: TechWest needs WCKDPERK to pitch a gem against FlightNL Tuesday. This task should not be too arduous for WCK if he can pitch just like he did against Empire.

Insanity (1-2)

Next 2 Games: At Carnage, vs FlightNL

Insanity was able to claim victory last week against TechWest, the club’s first win of the season. Part of the reason was Killerboy’s fantastic pitching. In 6 innings, he managed to hold TechWest to just one run. Killerboy has pitched consistantly all season, only having one game where he has given up more than double-digit runs (Week Two against Rotowire). Sadly, it has been the defense that has cost Insanity some games.

“Weakest part [of our team] is defense. We can”t afford small errors on the field. We know little errors can cost us a game. We will have team practices before games to warm up and be ready! As a team manager, i tell my players to have fun and play smart!” said Killerboy, manager of Insanity, in a hopeful and positive tone.

Insanity also has some hitters that can soon become the premier of elite batters. Simm and BATMANN are two young hitters that should continue to develop as the rest of the season progresses, RickyD and Dual have played elite league before and know what it takes to win. However, the person that stands out the most from Insanity is Colacino2. Colacino can play solid defense in right field and can change the game with just one swing. Colacino should also continue to develop throughout the season and have some big games in the process.

Players to Watch For: Killerboy will need to continue to set the tone for Insanity. By continuing to dominate on the mound, Killerboy will give his team a chance to win every week if he can hold opponents under double digit runs.

Empire (2-1)

Next 2 Games: vs Rage, vs Carnage

Empire came off a convincing win against Rotowire last week. That does not mean that this veteran has not had its share of problems. Offensive production has been without a doubt Empire’s weakness. Empire has struggled week after week to put runs on the board and have had to solely rely on the pitching trio of KMAN, Death, and FIRE911 to lead them to victory.

“When I made rosters for this league, I knowingly, purposely, stacked the Bombers offense,” said team manager MelkyNYY. “My expectations were to get my former MVP Kidnasty back on track, and rely on strong pitching and defense to lead the way. Unfortunately, D1Nonly2 is having personal problems, along with Frogger. KidNasty is playing Gunz and hitting like Scott925 and Pete998 has been inconsistent with his connection. That all adds up to a streaky and inconsistent unreliable offense. To improve, we just have to all show up and play the best we can.”

However, pitching has been amazing for Empire this season. With the exception of Week Two, Empire’s pitchers have held opponents under 5 runs. It is Empire’s offense that refuses to pick up Empire’s pitching staff. In no game this season has the offense given Empire’s pitchers a comfortable lead. This needs to change fast if Empire wants to make the playoffs.

Player to Watch For: KidNasty really needs to step up for this team. He must stop playing Gunz and become active in RBO again. He must discover what exactly is wrong with his timing and needs practice in order to perfect his timing. Most importantly, he needs to show his teammates why exactly he has 3 MVPs.