Despite all the changes with a new PDC and a new stadium, some things had not changed.
Fan favorites such as former Detroit Tigers' Hack Miller (25 2B, 7 HR, .299)
and Alfred Carr (29 2B, 16 3B, 17 HR, .366) returned to the franchise after
the 3 year war hiatus. The Hubbers also saw Leonard Heinz (18-7, 3.16) return
as their ace of staff after having been with the team from 1940-1942. Even Boyd
Watkins (20 2B, 7 HR, .317) who had been with the team since 1938 was back. Everything
seemed great with the world. Along with these former players a few newcomers
would make waves here as well… especially Eugene Hodge (29 2B, 9 HR, .374)
who finished just 2 points under the league lead in batting average. Lubbock
had a great run from 1938-1940… making the Championships three times and winning
two of those back to back. Would they have what it takes to return to the big
stage, now that the war was over? It wasn't a great season as Lubbock spent all
year trying to get some solid footing for themselves again. With a 71-70 finish
however, it was just enough to get back to the playoffs where Lubbock had plenty
of experience. They drove right through Abilene taking down the 1st place
Blue Sox 4 games to 1. When it came time to take on Pampa, the Oilers were seeking
revenge as Lubbock took the trophy from them last time they met in the finals
together. That revenge would be a sweet victory for Pampa as the Oilers denied
Lubbock a trophy in their 1st series back from the war, winning the series
4 games to 2. |