Can the OCWA's Lil Pens Crack the Top 10?
Elvis Morales
04.24.10

The OCWA is one of the new leagues to join the NWLA this season .One of their teams, Lil Pens, have started the season among the top 20 and are currently ranked 12th in the rankings. The Lil Pens' record is 0-0 and their season opener doesn't start until May 22. Why so high?

The Lil Pens are in an eight team league. They are the defending 2009 OCWA champions. They have stiff competition from the likes of BT Blue Storm and Southern Nevada 96ers which should make winning the league difficult. Their roster consists of a three man team: Doug Bush, Nate St. Ours and Anthony Mandrino. A possible obstacle of keeping this team from greatness may come down to Doug Bush's knee surgery that was performed late last year. Two of their players were featured on OCWA's column called Get to Know your OCWA Player.

Doug Bush is the oldest player in the league. He is also in large part a league sponsor, and technically owns Bush Grapes Park. He is the statistical leader of the 2009 OCWA Champion Lil Pens, and this season, he looks to continue his dominance. His pitching is astounding, he has shut down hitters for his entire career. His hitting skills leave a bit to be desired, but last year's Pitcher of the Year and Manager of the Year can throw heat, and locate it, like no other. Last year, during the regular season, he posted a 2.43 ERA, leading his team to a 13-2 record. He is also known for his consistency, in the playoffs his ERA was 2.71, and they won that championship.

Nate St. Ours is the hardest-working player in the league. He can beat you with any part of his game. He throws well, he hits well, and most importantly, he fields well. St. Ours had a .356 average during the regular season, and led his team in home runs with 9. St. Ours had a 6.43 ERA last season, and had 28 stirkeouts. His nasty curveball compliments his fastball well. St. Ours also won the Golden Glove, as he is easily the fastest player in the league, and can catch up to ground balls from forever away. St. Ours is also clutch in the playoffs, he batted .316 and had 5 homers. He also pitched well, dominating teams as his team won the chip. He posted a 6.00 ERA and had 16 strikeouts with his baffling curveball.