September 10, 2001: The Mississippi Screaming Eagles are proud to announce that they have clinched the first playoff berth in OEL history with their victory today over the Cairo Leveeman.

“And we clinched it in style, with a no-hitter at that,” yelled the champagne-soaked Owner/General Manager Mack Shultz. “Of course, with our pitching staff, we give up a run even when we throw a no-hitter, but let’s focus on the positive today.”

With a 12.5 game lead over second-place Seattle, Mississippi has not yet clinched the division title. “Yet,” stressed Shultz. But their 15.5 game lead over the third-place Boston Red Sox is sufficient to guarantee the Eagles a place in the postseason.

“And the great thing,” claimed Shultz as he swung from the ceiling with a stripper in each arm, “is that we get to celebrate again when we clinch the division title. Party! Woo hoo!”

1. Starting Monday we’re returning to our normal MWF sim schedule. That should keep things moving at a good clip to the playoffs.
2. Except that, whichever of us is handling the Sim that crosses September 1 will stop the sim there to allow for September promotions. Then we’ll dive straight for the end of the season.

Any questions?

In a classic now for future deal Marietta has sent its #1 prospect Justin Bailey along with minor league third baseman Francisco Moncayo to Winnipeg for 1B star William Nunez, Closer Jose Alvarado, and Winnipeg’s second round pick in next year’s amateur draft.

“Yes,” said Marietta owner Nate Wooley, “We’re aware we already had a fairly good first baseman in Albert Ramer but a player like Nunez doesn’t come available all that often. We hope to take William to the title and feel like we have a strong chance to re-sign him in the second half.”