Congratulations to the 6th seeded Livonia Lynx, managed by Tom Kusch, who defeated rookie manager Nick Dorn and his 5th seeded Dublin Ducks, in a back-and-forth 6 game series. The series was knotted at 2 games apiece, before Livonia came on to take the final 2 games. Since we adopted our 3 division setup and new playoff format in 2000, this is the first matchup of #5 and #6 seeds in the World Series. The games were played via phone, as, once again, this season all playoff games were contested via either a phone or chat connection. Thanks to all playoff managers for completing games promptly.
For Livonia manager Kusch, in his 28th season in the NABC and 11th at the helm of the Lynx, this was the 3rd World Series title in 8 WS attempts, including 2 of 5 with the Lynx, plus the 18th appearance in the playoffs, and 7th with the Lynx. Tom’s previous titles were won in 1988 and 2007. For manager Nick Dorn, in his rookie year, this was his first playoff and finals appearance. The Dublin franchise, now has 18 playoff appearances overall, plus 6 World Series titles in 8 tries, with the most recent title in 1998.
In the series, Livonia won the last 2 games, including a 14-6 romp in game 6. Over the course of the post-season, the Lynx offense was led by Rafael Furcal (.364, 28 for 77, 7 doubles, 15 runs and 12 RBI). Magglio Ordonez (.303, 20-66, 3 homers, 13 RBI) and Albert Pujols ( a disappointing .216, but 8 doubles and 14 RBI) helped the Livonia cause. Daniel Hudson posted a 6-1 record with a 2.77 ERA in 7 post-season starts, including victories in the clinching game of both the second round and the final series. For Dublin, Miguel Cabrera (.288, 17-59, 4 homers, 10 runs, 11 RBI) and Billy Butler (.319, 22 for 69, 7 doubles, 7 RBI) were the most consistent hitters, while Matt Kemp (.226, but 6 homers and 14 RBI) had his moments, as well. Ubaldo Jimenez went 5-1 with a 3.35 ERA in 6 starts, but came up short in the finale.
Congratulations to both Tom and Nick for making it to the finals, and thanks to all NABC managers for another great year!