MONTGOMERY BURNS 1930 PREVIEW

The Burns couldn't piece together a run at the title, although a trade in the waning months could have made 
the difference. This year, however, the Burns are poised for the title. 

DRAFT
The Burns didn't get who they really needed in the 1930 draft (someone like Berger or Cuccinello), but they 
still managed to fill some long-term needs. First round RHP Tommy Bridges will give the Burns a durable arm 
in the future. Two second round picks from last year's trade of Bill Terry allowed the Burns to draft for the 
future (1B Joe Kuhel) as well as the immediate present (RHP Roy Mahaffey). LHP Bud Teachout could be a low-round steal. 
Grade: B


CATCHING
DBS batting champion Mickey Cochrane (.341 12 68) is the best receiver in the league. The All-Star backstop's 
ability to call a game is matched only by his clutch hitting and strong leadership. Veteran Pinky Hargrave 
(.274 2 7) ably backs up Cochrane to offer well-deserved rest. 
Grade: A


INFIELD
Last year's first round pick and rookie of the year runner-up Dale Alexander handles the chores at first. 
Alexander's (.303 28 89) offensive ability allowed the Burns to trade Bill Terry, and they expect him to get 
even better in 1930. At the other corner, All-Star Pie Traynor (.303 6 54) suffered a drop in production but 
was rewarded with a world's championship. Competition exists this year over the shortstop position between 1929 
starter Woody English (.295 6 63) and 1928 starter Glenn Wright, who was out nearly all of last season with an 
injury. 2B Fresco Thompson (.270 7 53) had a career year in 1929 and is backed up by Bill Regan (.252 2 12). 
The infield is strong, but the unresolved shortstop situation may provide the Burns with lineup headaches. 
Grade: B+


OUTFIELD
The outfield has historically been the Burns strongest area. LF Heine Manush (.296 6 72) saw his numbers drop 
off considerably from 1928, but he also suffered from a variety of nagging ailments, and should return to form in 1930. Considerable concern exists over an off-season injury to CF Lloyd Waner (.302 8 54), who led the Burns in at-bats, hits and stolen bases. At press-time it is uncertain if Lloyd will be able to produce a full season, although the Burns are optimistic. Older brother Paul Waner (.252 6 47) returns to right field, looking to rebound from a subpar 1929. If injuries or slumps hinder the Burns for a long stretch, look for Taylor Douthit (.319 2 20), Bing Miller (.253) or even rookie Smead Jolley to get a fair number of at-bats. The effects of the injury to Lloyd Waner will be the biggest concern of the Burns offense in 1930. 
Grade: B+


STARTING PITCHING
The Burns starting rotation suffered a major blow when LHP Jake Miller (17-6 2.45) tore a rotator cuff while 
barnstorming last fall. Miller's career may be in jeopardy due to the injury, and leaves the Burns with no 
proven left-handed starter. Replacing Miller may be rookie Phil Collins, and if he fails, look for Sheriff 
Blake (8-1 1.11) to take his turns. The remainder of the rotation is solid, led by Cy Young winner Pat Malone 
(19-5 2.07), Firpo Marberry (15-4 2.20) and Wes Ferrell (12-10 2.85). Look for Ferrell to have a breakout 
season in 1930. He and the other members of the Burns staff will need to perform just as well as 1929 to make 
up for the loss of Miller. 
Grade: B+


BULLPEN
Team MVP Willis Hudlin (17-4 18 saves) was the workhorse, appearing in a league-record 101 contests. LHP Jesse 
Petty was Hudlin's counterpart saving anadditional 17 games, but his career suggests that a similar performance 
in 1930 is unlikely. Look for rookie LHP Bud Teachout to play a role in the pen as well as fellow rookies Ray 
Benge and Roy Mahaffey. Graybeard Jesse Haines (0-3 7.72) offers experience and a few spot starts, as does 
Ed Morris (6-10 3.00) who tossed the only no-hitter in the league last season. With the exception of Hudlin, 
there are many question marks in the Burns pen. 
Grade: B-


OUTLOOK
The defending champions will do just that in 1930, but this team is riddled with injuries and question marks. 
Even their great resilience will not be enough to repeat, as Mississippi appears too strong. 
PROGNOSIS: Second Place