Boston Cardinals Review - August 2020

In August the Cardinals claimed first place in the Earl Weaver Division by posting a 17-11 record and, while doing so, overpowering the rival Jacks and Toreros during an eight-game stretch in which the Cardinals notched seven wins. Although the marquee players performed as expected, numerous role players stepped up and, collectively, provided invaluable contributions.

At bat, first baseman Jose Escobar clubbed seven big flies and knocked in 25 runs in 21 games. During a recent interview, Escobar confided that "when Coach Summers dropped me from clean-up to fifth in the order early in the season, my confidence suffered for a few weeks. Then I realized that batting behind 'Holmesy' and Hayes is even more fun." He has responded with 21 homers and 89 runs batted in through the end of August. In addition, his slugging percentage has hovered around .500 and his OPS has exceeded .800 throughout the season. It appears that Jose has, indeed, adjusted to the change.

Rookie Maxime Gras, called up in July to beef up the catcher position, was outstanding during August. He played in only eleven games, but when he played he delivered at bat and behind the plate. He batted .438 with a .471 OBP, and a .500 SLG in 32 at bats. In the field he exhibited a strong, accurate arm as he nailed about 35% of hopeful burglars on the base paths. Signed to a minor league contract by the 'Quakes in 2012, Maxime has played for minor league teams associated with four ABL franchises. In March 2020 Todd Roberts, scouting director for the Cardinals, signed him as a free agent. During the first half of the season Maxime played well enough for Las Vegas and Springfield to catch the eye of other experts in the organization. When Maxime received the call, he was ready. Since then, he has not disappointed anyone. What a backup he is becoming! 

Second baseman Kazutoshi Samurakami is another unsung hero wielding a hot bat. In August Kaz delivered in his part-time role by batting .366 in 41 at bats, registering a .970 OPS, launching two, towering home runs, and driving home 13 base runners.

On the mound, the middle relievers continued to shine. Four of them combined to log a 1.74 ERA, record three wins, and save two contests in 51.2 innings pitched. After two down seasons, veteran Mark Huber has surprised the front office this season. Through August he has a 5-1 record, four saves, and a 2.18 ERA. "With two good years under my belt I expected more out of myself than I showed during the last two seasons. So, in the winter I worked my tail off following a conditioning program that seems to have paid off big time for me. I am happy to be a key member of our awesome pen. It's not who starts, man, it's who finishes that counts."

Let's hope the magic continues through late October!