Hops Start New Season with High Hopes

By Frerin Rockear
Caradhras Courier-Journal
Misty Mountain Hops Baseball

MISTY MTN - It's been an off-season of rebuilding on the Misty Mountain Hops, seeing a number of changes in the organization geared toward pushing the team into the next tier of contenders, if not this year, then next. First and foremost is the enormous trade of ace starting pitcher Elrilmer "The Witch King" Elriawyn to the Bywater Bounders for two minor league pitching prospects. A perennial fan favorite at The Gap of Rohan Park at Caradhras™, the Witch King's departure is softened by the arrival of Aragorn Anänd, picked up from the Dagorlad Disaster during free agency. It was Anänd's addition to the rotation that led management to believe that the aging Witch King was, indeed, a tradeable commodity.

Witch King's Loss met with derision
His loss, however, was met with disdain by the Bleacher Creatures, those inimitable season-ticket holders who sit by the bullpen. Said Mosey Plushbottom, a life-long Hops fan, "What in the name of the Valar are those idiots doing? The Witch King's a hall of famer, and they trade him for some kids who may never develop? (Team owner) Baron and (team coach) Smahsh Enh'Bahsh must go, the lousy bums!" Said Plushbottom, "If they think the addition of Anänd is enough to ease the pain, they got another thing comin'! That guy ain't got what it takes t' survive in the Orc Division!"

Elvér, Orckiller make the team
In other team news, two bright, young prospects have made the team this season. At first base, Galeoman Elvér will now offer his monstrous bat to the lineup, hopefully pushing up the team's batting average. Elvér came to the Hops organization last season in the big trade that saw reliever B. Babe Belülith head to Bree for four players. Mefur Orckiller, signed as a free agent two seasons ago, has progressed well as a utility infielder, and it's hoped his bat and glove will contribute well to the team.

Don't forget that opening day at The Gap of Rohan Park at Caradhras™ is on Thursday, April 7th, which will also be Wizard Staff Day. Come out and support the team as it starts its season at home and begins its drive to the playoffs!

Posted at January 25, 2004 07:24 PM | more from Misty Mountain