FREMONT FURTRADERS 1933 PREVIEW
32 RECAP
The Furtraders rode two blockbuster trades to win their first World Championship. The addition of
Riggs Stephenson, Tony Cuccinello, Ed Brandt and Charlie Root gave Fremont the depth and resilience
they had previously been without. Similarly, the addition of rookie Arky Vaughn solidified a long
time hole at shortstop. Their worst-to-first transformation proved to be one of the best stories in the
five-year history of the DBS.
DRAFT
With their lowest draft seeding ever, Fremont raised some eyebrows with the selection of shortstop Bill Knickerbocker.
In a thin draft year, they later added outfielder Mel Almada and pitcher Jack Knott. None of those selected figure to be
part of the Fremont defense of the crown in 1933.
Grade: B-
CATCHING
Last year's starter Shanty Hogan (.212 4 47) was slowed last season by a series of nagging injuries and there was
speculation that he wasn't quite healthy when camp broke. Al Lopez (.196) hit the ball well in spring training and
may see some extra playing time in 1933. Defensively, both have shown to be excellent receivers and Hogan's
handling of the pitching staff down the stretch last season was invaluable.
Grade: B
INFIELD
The same cast returns for an encore in 1933, led by MVP candidate, second baseman Tony Cuccinello (.292 19 85).
Few expected Cooch to replace former All-Star Charlie Gehringer as well as he did and his booming bat took some
of the pressure off of first baseman Lou Gehrig (.249 23 68). Gehrig has been an institution in Fremont and although
his batting average has dipped the last two seasons, remains the best first baseman in the division. Rookie Arky Vaughn
(.270 9 45) delivered on his promise and looks to add many more impressive seasons to his resume. Johnny Vergez
(.225 7 23) should return as the starter at third, although his ongoing competition with Mark Koenig (.207 2 13) continues.
Tommy Thevenow, Harvey Hendrick and Jackie Hayes are solid backups.
Grade: B+
OUTFIELD
The trade that brought Riggs Stephenson (.265 12 51) to Fremont brought DBS career .300-hitter into the
fold and he provided immediate dividends with his timely bat. He will return in right as will franchise
player Earl Averill (.273 18 46) in center. Averill was the team leader in Fremont's championship run and
is slowly establishing himself as one of the premier players in the game. Unheralded Wally Berger (.246 12 33)
resumes his position in left field. Backups are George Watkins (.315 DBS career), Gee Walker and Danny Taylor.
Long-time favorite Lance Richbourg has retired.
Grade: A-
STARTING PITCHING
World Series MVP Dazzy Vance (16-8 2.07) has requested a move to the bullpen and manager Jack Quinn will honor
the 42-year old's wish. Replacing him in the rotation will be Oral Hildebrand (3-6 2.15 7 SV) who was very
effective in relief last season. Brandt (15-6 2.38) and Root (8-14 3.74) will resume their roles in the
rotation, with Brandt receiving the added distinction of staff ace. Rookie standout Sugar Cain has also
earned a berth in the starting rotation due to his impressive 1932 and spring training. Paul Derringer
(7-7 2.55) may return to the rotation or Quinn may once again rely on Chief Hogsett (10-6 2.30).
Grade: A
BULLPEN
With Vance in the pen joined by player-manager Quinn, may form a very solid, yet questionable bullpen due to
their age. If Derringer spends the season in the pen, Fremont will have a very solid triumvirate.
Rube Walberg (14-13 3.17) may begin the season in the bullpen, and can be an effective spot starter/swing man.
Carl Fischer and Dick Coffman round out a unheralded group.
Grade: B
OUTLOOK
The defending champions will have their work cut out for them, as they will undoubtedly face a rush against
Harlem. This same crew was able to pull off a miracle in their worst-to-first season with several career
years from key players. While the Furtraders are a solid ballclub, it is unlikely that the miracle can be repeated.
PROGNOSIS: Second Place
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