RBRL Angels making all the right moves with a hot (5-0) start

The Angels were one of the pre-season favorites and so far they have solidified that target on their back while running off five straight wins to start the season. What has been most impressive is not only the two shutouts and some long ball heroics but the defense and timely strategic baseball maneuvers that have paid off in the clutch.  Leading the way from the hill have been veterans Graham Boudette, Joe Bradley, Adam Joos and Dan Sletterink. At the plate Joos has hit some bombs including one that just fell short of the Symonds scoreboard. RBRL Player of the Week Will Sabatino has contributed all over the outfield, on the bases, and at the plate.  Rookies have been a big part of the success with Enzo Galletta shutting down the Astros bats for two innings, Patrick Conroy ending a one run victory over the Mariners with a diving tag play at third base and Nick Ventullo making an early impression. 

Overall low scoring tight games have highlighted the first week which is promising for the early going which often features the pitching arms still working into form. Clearly the extra week of pre-season made a difference this year. 

In other AL highlights the defending champ White Sox are getting strong play from the Fischer brothers Ben and Sean. Last year’s consensus league MVP (Ben) Fisher is showing a lot of vocal leadership while getting on-base 11 times in 12 plate appearances. Jack Monahan of the A’s played a big part on the mound and at the plate in their win and tie this week. Ronnie Bartalini came out strong over the weekend with a three hit game versus the A’s and holding the Angels to one run over three innings while striking out five in a tough one run defeat. 

In the NL the Phils undefeated start has been fueled by a stalwart staff that has belied the Manager’s gloomy predictions.  Liam O’Neil, Mike Rainone, Zac Sahagian, AJ Ucci and Dan Baker make up a formidable force. The Marlins are piecing together a deep and solid team with two nice division wins. Second year player Andrew Bruckner has potential to be one of the top handful of players in the league with his shut down pitching and hard hitting to date. The Pirates started off 2-0 before two close losses. Ed Stack is quite pleased that newcomer to town Zac Lahlou fell into his lap before the season. Lahlou has been a force at the plate with 9 hits already and a strikeout pitcher with eight in just four innings. Rookie Matt McLaughlin has thrown four scoreless innings and struck out six combined in both wins. 

DYNAMIK SPORTS ROOKIE OF THE WEEK

Matt Tighe (Mariners)

The highly touted rookie is already turning some heads. Starting both the Mariners contests from the mound, he held two teams with a combined record of 8-0 to just two runs in each outing while throwing four scoreless innings. At the plate he is 3 for 6 while also commanding a strong presence behind the plate and keeping base stealing attempts to a minimum. 

Honorable Mention:    Patrick Conroy (Angels)   Matt McLaughlin (Pirates) 

OLDE REDDING BUTCHER SHOPPE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Will Sabatino (Angels)

Will has been a huge part of the Angels early success going 6 for 10 in the first 5 games, with 2 triples and 2 doubles, 6 RBIs, and 8 runs scored. Will has also been solid on the defensive end roaming center field for Angels with ease as well as making two spectacular diving catches.  

Honorable Mention:    Ben Fischer (White Sox)   Zac Lahlou (Pirates)