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While all teams have their sprinkling of stars, they can't do without their hard grafting lesser lights. Each month we pick the hardest grafters who might not get the recognition they deserve but play like the stars around them. In fact we here at the Owen Sound Sun Times say "that man ... yeah him ... get that man a beer".
FISHERMEN LEAGUE
Pitcher: Gordie Taboada Blackwater Kolts
Blackwater GM Steve McCoyne has given Taboada a spot in the starting rotation and with that a new lease of life. Taboada has always been a much better pitcher when he starts the game, something which McCoyne has obviously acknowleged. Taboada arrived in Blackwater during April 2007 along with fellow pitchers Scout Horoshack and Grey Bonnett in a trade which sent the Kolts first round pick in the 2007 draft and 14th overall to Toronto. While Horoschak, now retired, and Bonnett both didn't quite live up to expectations, Taboada has more than made up for it. This May he was is in the kind of form which three seasons ago, while playing for the then Toronto Lightning, saw him produce figures of 183.2 IP, 15 W, 3 L and a 2.35 ERA.
Batter/Fielder: Ace Galimore Guelph Storm
A GM with an eye for a deal is Guelphs' Eric Radcliffe. Brought to the Storm on July 4th 2007 in a trade that caused more than a few worries amongst the other Fishermen West teams, Galimore settled quickly into the right field and has been producing the goods ever since. The trade sent two exciting prospects, 2nd base Richard Miller and pitcher Mike Tipton to Charlottetown in return for Galimore along with the proven short stop Slats Stoff, and the pitcher Buddy getting good real fast Corcoran. Galimore's work with the bat and in the outfield this May puts him on track for a huge season. The staff here at the OSST kindly request that Ace be rested while playing the Crusaders.
FARMERS LEAGUE
Pitcher: Freedy Casso Regina Pirates
A product of the Pirates farm system, Casso has risen to the challenge in 2008 and cemented his spot in the starting rotation. Casso's development stalled last season while moving between the rotation and the bullpen and his confidence duly fell away. After being given the opportunity to start this season back in the rotation, Casso has responded by clearly sending the message to the Regina management that this is where he belongs. Given his present form he shouldn't be heading back to the bullpen anytime soon.
Batter/Fielder: Ossee Meluso Yellowknife Bluenotes
Meluso might not be the most recognisable of players but the Bluenotes management knew his potential when the traded big for him in June of 2006. The deal was a straight swap, a package of the 16th, 35th and 63rd draft picks to Quebec for Meluso who was in the middle of his most productive season when he averaged .318 with the bat. In the first month of this season Meluso has blasted his way to 11 HRs and 24 RBIs all the while displaying vastly improved discipline at the plate. While the talent scouts are consistently cool on his ability and playing in an outfield full of stars, Meluso continues to shine. He looks to be on track for yet another season of 'over achievement'.
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