PLAYBALL

A new season, a big deception to overcome. For the second time in 3 years, the Jokers went to the final and for the second time, they loose. The last one hurt, a lost in the final and deciding 7 games. But what the Jokers can do except forget all this and play the game like they can? And that's exactly what they did in this first week, winning all 7 games against rival K-C and Mile High. Maurice Gould seems on a mission, winning 2 and still didn't conceide a run, striking 23 opponents in that span. Only one word... WOW. The gouldenboy didn't like the lost in final and neither the fact that he didn't won the Cy Young, so he decide that 2015 will not become another nightmare. James Dooley, a 30 years old southpaws won his first two games in Vegas uniform to help a rotation a bit thin, specially since coach McGee decide to put Barrett back in bulpen. O'Connor and Lopez didn't get younger so they'll need help if they want to finish stronger this year.

On the diamond, two changes over the winter. Mitch Lyon takes the 1B duty with the retirement of Kevin Carey. Carey, a fan favorite, showed sign of his age last year and the organisation didn't want to embarass him so retirement arrive in a perfect timing. Lyon, a young hitter arrive from nowhere. He wasn't a super prospect but develop well each year to finally grab the 1B job. He can add some pop to a strong lineup. The other change is at the other side of the diamond, Veton Zhugli will take 3B spot. Management think he can get better in his hitting but the fact that he play so well defensively help him to win the job. Last year, defense was poor at the hot spot, an upgrade will surely please the pitcher.

So, it may be the last hourrah for this bunch of players. With Ramirez who become free agent at the end of season and St.John, Tracy and Thornton, all in their 30... it's Jokers Time now or maybe never for this group.

Gould:the Las Vegas phenom...