2004 Predictions: Part 4
The fourth in a 6-part series analyzing the divisional races.
By Solonor Rasreth
MIDDLE EARTH - Heading to the Mordor Conference, MESN takes a look at the Orc Division.
Mordor Conference - Orc Division
Misty Mountain
Last year's Mordor Conference Wild Card team, the Hops look to win their division outright in 2004--without the horrible start and dramatic finish. Returning stars include shortstop Kyrion Myrthar (.272, 33 HR, 115 RBI) and center fielder Denar Axecutter (.316, 22 HR, 81 RBI). But pitching is the team's strong suit this season as in 2003. "The Witch King", Elrilmer Elriawyn (17-15, 2.97), winner of the Gandalf Pitcher Award, returns, as does Eralak Bugbearripper (15-7, 3.70). They are joined by free agents Pimra Galas (15-18, 4.67, 222 K), formerly of Wilderland, Celiahil Celeoman (12-11, 3.69), formerly with Palantir, and Legolas Fielder winner Dejaseen Belandir (8-6, 3.97).
Grey Havens
The Stars match up against the Hops bat-for-arm. Returning sluggers include Golilman Garon (.269, 38 HR, 87 RBI), Arweowyn Belawen (.297, 32 HR, 99 RBI), Grukak Dwarfcrawler (.293, 32 HR, 102 RBI), and Perian Moraden (.269, 33 HR, 92 RBI). But Grey Havens can't match Misty Mountain's pitching staff, despite boasting some pretty good arms in Phanth Fiwyn (15-15, 3.92), Friagrin Elur (13-7, 3.25) and Glosil Foerender (11-9, 3.43).
Dunharrow
The Devils made some acquisitions in the off season that should keep them in contention right up until September. Vsuurbag Swordtorturer (13-15, 3.78) and Deniamer Earylas (16-8, 3.43) join Fabur Beardcutter (13-11, 3.67) to form the core of a pretty good pitching staff. Dunharrow is a little light in the hitting department, however. A couple of good sluggers in Gandaugrin Gamaiborn (36 HR, 80 RBI) and Seathor Radithor (.283, 31 HR, 102 RBI) don't mask the fact that the team had a very low batting average last season.
Dead Marshes
Last season's division champs, the Uruk-hai, have pitching and hitting problems to work out before they will be able to make another run at the title. Beyond starter Karin Grudgesmelter (15-8, 3.74) and closer Guugor Earthjuggler (8-3, 31 saves, 2.99 ERA), they don't have anyone on the pitching staff with a lot of ability. Their bats have power, as in star outfielder Higor Elfdrinker (.286, 34 HR, 94 RBI), just not a lot of high averages.