It's that time of year again! Baseballs are hitting mitts all across this great land and many are already on Amazon ordering their masage gun for the summer. It’s also time to break out your crystal balls, tarot cards, and magic bones, as we make predictions for the 2025 Federal League upcoming season with the Preseason Poll. The results from 100 Federal League players, managers and fans were polled online anonymously over a 24 hour period. Just a fun little something to satisfy your baseball itch before Opening Day, which is about a month away. Last year's poll predicted four out of six division winners and correctly identified one class winner (Minnoka Grays), although it swung and missed on everything else. Let’s see how we do this season—let's get right to it!

Who will win the Federal East?
East Metro Mammoth (44 Votes)
Rosemount Pipers (32 Votes)
Apple Valley A's (18 Votes)

That’s a tough top three to crack. East Metro was also last year’s favorite, winning the East but falling in the playoffs with a 1-2 record. New management has taken over the Mammoth, and with Matt Grill running things, we can expect a more streamlined Mammoth attack. The Fed public thinks highly of the Pipers’ Cliff Christopherson and Alex Mack—both receiving MVP votes for 2025. Is it enough to push them ahead of the Mammoth or make a deep AAA run? Newcomer Mark Hanson will help bolster the Pipers' pitching depth. Speaking of pitching depth, the Apple Valley A’s struggled offensively last summer and sought more pitching to help. That's a bold strategy, Cotton. Hey, you can never have enough pitching! New additions Zach Goodwin and Tyler Nawrocki will support Tim Scott, Josh Stoll, and Pat DeLaHunt, adding to a gritty staff that was showcased during the A's triumphant run to win the AA Championship. Creeping under the surface are the South Metro Saints, with a plethora of fresh arms, including former St. Anthony starter Adam West and ROY favorite Ross Ricci. The Jim Block-less St. Paul JTs are always a formidable opponent, and is Colin Warren back for the Rockets? The division rounds out with our two Wisconsin neighbors and the Senators, who are just a few seasons removed from the B Championship. The East will be a challenging slugfest this summer, and whoever emerges will hopefully have enough left in the tank for a playoff run.

Who will win the Federal West?
Saint Louis Park Snappers (38 Votes)
Waconia Islanders (21 Votes)
Minnetonka Saints (19 Votes)

What a difference an off-season makes. The Snappers found a new home in St. Louis Park and watched as most of New Market's starting lineup from last year's AAA Championship game left the Fish Bowl for the West End, becoming Turtles. At this time last year, the Snappers were on life support, but after Jeff Wilson scotch taped a team together with random players, he guided the Snappers to the A Championship game through an impressive run in the losers’ bracket. Now Wilson has the talent to compete at the AAA level with arms like Matt Germar and Rian Heaslip, and MVP favorites Chris Duda and Pete Fuller, add a healthy Ryan Marshall, and that’s one tough team. The Waconia Islanders enjoyed their first season in the Fed by qualifying for the AAA bracket, but they had a quick 0-2 exit. Jeremy Salden has been highlighted by his peers as someone to watch this season; the Islanders will be ultra-competitive again with a solid staff and a lineup capable of putting up runs. The reborn Minnetonka Saints made the AAA last summer and have the potential to improve with a stacked lineup. With a rubber arm in Brandon Casa de Calvo, they are a favorite to win the AAA if they can navigate the loaded West. The Burnsville Bulldogs boast a strong 1-2 punch with Trent Larson and Joshua Loewen, who have combined for 91 innings pitched. They made the AA Championship through the winners’ bracket, only to lose twice to Apple Valley in the title games. Don't overlook Burnsville. Metro has emerged as a popular choice for "surprise team" to watch out for this year, as the Loons are always a tough out in the playoffs. This team can generate runs and has been one of the top offensive teams for the past few seasons. But can they make defensive plays and limit walks? If they can address one of these issues, the Loons could easily find themselves in the AAA bracket. Many also believe Eden Prairie will build off its B Championship run from last summer and be the "surprise" team in the Federal. Predictions forecast tough times for both Chaska teams, the Diamonds and Voyageurs, but both are current favorites to win the 2025 B Championship.

Who will win the Federal North?
Tonka Bay Lakers (51 Votes)
Minnoka Grays (41 Votes)
Rockford Rail Splitters (3 Votes)

Tonka Bay has left the West to join the North Division. The Grays have won their division for four consecutive years, but many predict that Tonka Bay will end that streak. The Lakers are led by MVP favorite Jim Brower and Brandon Wolf on the mound. The yacht club has brought in some big bats and gold gloves in Jeff Clabots, Tim Mettert, and Nick Drews to address last summer's defensive - and offensive - issues. This major move, bringing in seven new deckhands, has made them the runaway favorites to win the AAA, according to the pollsters. The Grays, back-to-back AAA champs, are receiving little love from the Federal poll masses this offseason but are returning a full squad that dealt with injuries last season and still won it all. Just imagine a healthy Jack Nelson and Nick Larson in 2025. They also added more pitching depth with Taylor Nelson and Ben Schroeder. As for Minnoka, I guess they’re the underdog—err, wolf. Rockford is back in the North after an impressive run in the AA playoffs last season and winning the Old Hickory Tournament. The Rail Splitters have some momentum for the new year, but with nine players retiring this winter, will Rockford have the depth? As long as Todd Haag, Jeremy Loretz, TJ Aalid, and Ben Fontana are in the lineup, they won’t be an easy out. Dan Pluff received just as many MVP votes as Brower and hopes to lead St. Michael to a cup after a deep run in the A playoffs last summer. Many are picking the Angels as the "surprise" pick this season; with Pluff, Shawn Motl, and Derek Snell, they have the arms to do it. As always, Capital City can win if they show up—but they rarely bring a full team. One night they can beat the Mammoth, the next they fall to Red West. Confusing. St. Anthony is back in the North after nearly folding during the off-season, and big question marks surround this club. It’s always a joyful sight to watch Tony Brown puff a heater in the bullpen and then go out and throw seven innings for the Mustangs; it’s a fun middle finger to Father Time. Red West can hit, but pitching, fielding, and everything else related to the game of baseball might pose challenges this summer. They are still among the favorites to win the B Championship, though.

Who will win the Federal South?
Lakeville Lobos (49 Votes)
Hastings Hurricanes (31 Votes)
Milltown Outlaws (9 Votes)

Nothing too dramatic here; many predict a three-way race between Lakeville, Hastings, and Milltown. With Webster folding and New Market completely rebuilding, the South has lost some of its luster but is still packed with drama. Lakeville is favored to win both the division and the AAA this season. The question for the Lobos is attendance. Expect Lakeville to have another strong regular season, returning most of their team from last year, including key players Don Erdall, Jamie Steinberg, and Brett Larsen, who received some pre-season MVP votes. Hastings enters its new division as an early favorite among many pollsters. The Hurricanes lost both of their playoff games by one run in the AAA bracket and have brought in new players to bolster their lineup. Inning-eater Fritz Coyro from the Grays will provide pitching depth and Alex Harrington will provide a much-needed bat to complement Steve Bahl. Derrick Pfeffer was the ace last summer and needs support for the Hurricanes to make a splash again in the AAA bracket. The Milltown Outlaws quietly had a great off-season, acquiring South legend Tony Rome and big hitter Brett Hoffmann. Along with Scott Paulson and Nick Davis, the Outlaws have a lineup full of hitters to go with their solid pitching staff. Look for the Outlaws to cause some heartaches in the South this summer if teams aren’t careful. You could even see the Outlaws in the AAA bracket. Lonsdale, known for giving Lakeville fits, and Elko, the reigning Class A Champion, could spoil some nights this summer. Welcome back to the league, St. Patrick Shamrocks, and to beautiful Bonin Field—now with lights! The Irish are one of the favorites to take the A title from Elko. New Market lost its entire starting core from a Northerns squad that was the AAA runner-up for the last two years. How they rebuild remains a mystery, but they have the resources to do so. It should be an interesting story this summer. Veseli is still adding players and is inspired under new management, while Northfield has opted to stay pat.
 

Who will win the Federal Class AAA?
Saint Louis Park Snappers (31 Votes)
Tonka Bay Lakers (24 Votes)
East Metro Mammoth (20 Votes)

According to the pollsters, the influx of talent in St. Louis Park has made the Snappers the favorites to win Class AAA this summer. Tonka Bay, with its impressive off-the-dock catch, has also become a strong contender among the Federal faithful. The Snappers’ new core featured in the last two AAA Championship games but fell short. Can a change in scenery finally help Germar and Heaslip hoist the cup? East Metro will also be in contention, along with Minnetonka Saints, Apple Valley A's, and Lakeville Lobos, who have all received substantial votes to win the Louie. Pitching depth and reliable arms are crucial for success in this bracket, and most of these teams have that luxury now. But hey...something is missing?

Who will win the Federal Class AA?
Minnoka Grays (15 Votes)
South Metro Saints (8 Votes)
Burnsville Bulldogs (8 Votes)

Ope! Found them! According to the pollsters, the back-to-back AAA Champs are forecasted to take quite a fall this season and end up winning the two A cup. Is that still considered a three-peat? The Spirits Having Flown for South Metro and the new Jesus-inspired Barry Gibb logo may be taking them on an unexpected journey—as they search from here to Massachusetts to stay alive in the competitive East. With all the late parking spots, South Metro could develop a "Night Fever," which prompts Wade to ask his players, "How deep is your love for the game of baseball?" The Burnsville Bulldogs also received some votes, but sorry, trying to work Bee Gees references into this summary was exhausting. Let’s move on.

Who will win the Federal Class A?
St. Patrick Shamrocks (10 Votes)
St. Michael Angels (8 Votes)
St. Paul JTs (6 Votes)

Welcome back, St. Patrick! The pollsters believe you will capture your sixth Class A title this summer. Not much is known about the Shamrocks, but you can't argue with five banners. The St. Michael Angels are also a favorite, featuring a solid pitching staff and having won the A just four years ago. The new-look St. Paul JTs also received votes; they came fresh off a B Championship in 2023 and an AA Championship in 2021. Again, not much is known about the Jim Block-less JTs, but anyone who has watched this team in the playoffs over the years knows they fight to the end.

Who will win the Federal Class B?
Chaska Voyageurs (19 Votes)
Chaska Diamonds & Red West Legends (7 Votes)

It appears the Federal masses love both Chaska teams for the B Championship, as the Voyageurs and Diamonds are both picked to host the unnamed Cup. The Voyageurs took a hard hit this offseason with half of their team departing to Tonka Bay, but players can now relax and expect a more fun dugout this summer. They still have a pair of solid arms in Andrew Berenguer and Andy Dauwalter. Plus, big bopper and TCMABL legend John Denhartog is back for the mean green. People are unsure how this group will perform since they also received votes in the A and AA categories. Red West has experienced a couple of tough seasons, with players jumping to other teams; it seems like a never-ending rebuild. However, they consistently rank high in hitting with bashers like Dave Sorenson—who received some MVP votes—Scott Buettner, Isaac Wales, and CT Harris. Larry Gessler’s club also garnered some votes to hoist the cup this August; they were runners-up for the B Championship in 2023. Whoever wins the Class B title is an automatic feel good story in the making. 



Who will be the "surprise" team this season?
RC Rockets (10 Votes)
Chaska Voyageurs (7 Votes)
Metro Loons (4 Votes)

This is all guesswork for most teams, as many haven't even posted their new rosters yet, but it seems the RC Rockets are favorites to surprise. It was somewhat puzzling to let Zach Reidberger and his 54 strikeouts go; one can always use pitching. But was that roster move a sign that fan-favorite Colin Warren is back on the mound for the Rockets? I heard murmurs that the Rockets were impressive and improved at this past Old Hickory with some new Rockets blasting off. The Voyageurs aim to surprise with their old school roster, featuring names like Denhartog, Aaron Kim, and John Ewing—players we haven't seen in a while. Many in the league will be rooting for the trailblazers after their rough off-season. The Loons have the talent to make some noise, aiming for big seasons from Jason Bujold and Matt Brekke. 

Who will have an MVP season?
Jim Brower - Tonka Bay (18 Votes)
Dan Pluff - St. Michael (12 Votes)
Alex Mack - Rosemount (8 Votes)

You’ve spoken, and you think a former major league pitcher is going to be this year's MVP—makes sense! Voters love pitchers, with Dan Pluff also receiving MVP votes. Alex Mack, the infielder from the Pipers, shines on the offensive side. Other players who received votes include Brett Larsen from Lakeville, Dave Sorenson from Red West, and Chris Duda and Pete Fuller from Saint Louis Park, rounding out the multitude of votes. Brower had a 5-1-2 record last season with a 1.02 ERA and 62 strikeouts in 41 innings pitched. 

Who will be the hot new "rookie" in the Fed this year?
Ross Ricci - South Metro (11 Votes)
Kelvin Nelson - Lakeville (8 Votes)
Tony Manville - St. Louis Park (6 Votes)

Many believe longtime TCMABL Irish player Ross Ricci will have an immediate impact in the Federal League with the South Metro Saints. Pitcher Kelvin Nelson, who pitched for Waseca, can step into the ace role when other Lobos need a rest or are unavailable. Tony Manville is a part of a loaded lineup for the Snappers. It’s impressive how much knowledge exists about rookies this season. Also receiving multiple votes were Ben Schroeder and Taylor Nelson from Minnoka.

Best Manager in the Federal League?
Jeff Wilson - St. Louis Park (21 Votes)
Paul Jesh - Milltown (16 Votes)
Josh Stoll - Apple Valley (14 Votes)

Are you not entertained? It seems the Federal masses were captivated by the work Jeff Wilson did with the Snappers last season. On the brink of folding, he led the team to the Class A Championship in one summer. Perhaps they were also impressed with his John Calipari-like skills in recruiting a whole new team to join the Turtles. Whatever the case, Jeff Wilson has been managing in adult leagues for decades, and it must feel good to receive recognition. Paul Jesh of Milltown is a nice guy, and nice guys win. With the off-season the Outlaws have had, we are quite confident that the orange and black will win more games this summer. The current host of Fed Up! is getting some love for managing an Apple Valley A's team to a Class AA title after losing one of the league's top pitchers, Tim Scott. Another impressive feat was navigating what has likely been the toughest AA bracket in recent memory, which Stoll and Apple Valley managed to conquer. Others receiving votes included Tori Holt from Lakeville and Matt Grill, who took over the East Metro Mammoth this off-season and has yet to manage a Federal League game. No love for the manager who won back-to-back AAA titles—tough crowd! Are you not entertained?

Best (and worst) Field in the Federal League?

BEST FIELD
Memorial Park in Dudas - Milltown Outlaws (31 Votes)
Lions Field - Waconia Islanders (26 Votes)
Castle Field - Minnoka Grays (24 Votes)

This was a positive category, with voters leaving notes along with their selections. Voters preferred natural grass (sorry, River Falls), as well as good concession stands, PA music, and entertainment. All three fields listed excel in these amenities and do it better than anyone else. As one voter wrote, “If I'm going to drive 45 minutes to an hour for my game, I better hear good music at the park, have a clean bathroom to take a dump, and be able to grab a hot dog for the way home.” Couldn’t sum it up better myself. Chaska Athletic Park also received votes, but voters expressed disappointment that everything is closed when playing there. Come to this year's Federal League Hall of Fame/All-Star Game and experience the full magic and history of Chaska Athletic Park, when all amenities should be open. 

WORST FIELD
Greenfield Park - Capital City Cannons (33 Votes)
Killebrew Field at Pearl Park - RC Rockets (22 Votes)
Big Willow - Various Teams (17 Votes)

This category was plagued with strong opinions and heated debates among voters; all the pent-up frustrations were funneled into this poll. I apologize to the victims, but I’ll do my best to summarize the feedback. Sorry, Cannons, but voters overwhelmingly believe Greenfield bites the big one. Players don't appreciate the bike trail that literally runs through the 3rd base dugout. It’s hard to concentrate when Lance Bongstrong zooms through your dugout on his quest, taking out your backup catcher in the process. Pitchers dislike the mound and the short fences (260 and 305 down the lines), and players are wary of the broken concrete in the First Base dugout, just waiting to tear up a 35+ achilles. Improvements are on the way, but it feels like putting lipstick on a pig. At least your field is mowed and somewhat maintained—unlike Killebrew Field, which becomes an outdoor biodome once Washburn wraps up their season in June. Knee-high dandelions invade the overly grown grass, clouds of gnats randomly appear and a literal pond forms in left-center where you might spot snapping turtles and frogs taking a bath. It’s also challenging for older players trying to navigate their equipment up and down a hill with no steps—not quite as bad as McMurry, though—keep a defibrillator handy just in case. The best quote of the entire poll was that “Big Willow feels like a used condom that everyone keeps sharing.” Gross. Game time should be cut short at sundown, as every flying bug in the western metro area shows up at night to annoy the fielders and spectators. Players also engage in “parking wars” with baseball moms and DeMarini degenerates. Likewise, King Park in Lakeville, Hawks Field in Hastings, and Harding High School in St. Paul received fair criticism.
 

___________________________________________________________________

CANNONS/SAINTS ENJOY FLORIDA

Once again the Capital City Cannons and Minnetonka Saints shared luggage and frequent flyer miles to hit the Florida gulf coast and participate in the Roy Hobbs Sunshine Classic. They finished a perfect 6-0 which included winning the "premier" game by taking down the South Florida Eagles 4-1. This is the third straight year they have participated in the premier game. For some weird Roy Hobbs rule or reason we can't call the Minnesota Bruins Sunshine Classic Champions - but Top Finishers. Hey, do you Roy Hobbs. But three straight Champio...I mean Premier Games in three years is pretty impressive. The Bruins were dominant with a 54-39 run differential. Congratulations to the Minnesota Bruins, another Federal League linked team doing well in 35+ National Tournaments. 

___________________________________________________________________

Managers please send in your schedules ASAP as we are only a month away from Opening Day. Also don't forget to add your roster to the new website. If you need assistance please contact me. Thanks.