The Australian League starts today. More accurately, it started today, as with the time difference, the first game of the season has already been completed. To keep things straight, we'll report on it tomorrow when we report on "Games of November 16", which is what it actually was.

Anyway, there are still six teams in the ABL, although there has been some talk of expansion. They play ten "rounds", a round being a four-game series that usually runs from Thursday through Sunday. Monday through Wednesday are off-days unless they need to make up a rainout.

Each team, then, plays forty games, eight against each of the other five teams. They are all in one league--no divisions--but there are still playoffs. The second place team takes on the third place team in what appears to be a three-game series. The winner then takes on the first place team in what appears to be another three-game series.

There are usually a few Twins who play in this league. It's fun to follow. I hope you enjoy it.

Keeping Track

Twins in the Australian League

February 13, 2017 Jeff A

With the Australian League season over, I thought we'd take a quick look at how Twins players there did.

Aaron Whitefield had a big year for Brisbane, batting .338/.379/.490 in 157 at-bats. He was also 20-for-23 in stealing bases.

Logan Wade batted .280/.312/.402 for Brisbane. He had 164 at-bats.

Todd Van Steensel appeared in seven games for Sydney, pitching 6.1 innings. He was 0-1. 1.42, 1.58 WHIP with eight strikeouts and four walks. He was 3-for-4 in save chances.

This concludes this year's winter baseball posts. Minor league seasons begin April 6. God willing, we will be back recapping those games at that time.

Remodeled basement. Same half-baked taste.