Eureka has disappointed some in the early going, with a 21-18 record and falling to 5 games behind the division leader. However, the team is really playing to its current talent level. The young starting rotation is actually doing well overall, led by current #1 Royce Butterfield. Despite some early-season struggles, he is 3-3 with a 4.40 ERA. Future #1 or #2 Anthony Atkinson is 4-2 with a 3.89 ERA in his first full season in the rotation, and the other future #1 or #2, Jake Nelson, won his first start with 6 innings of 2-hit ball.
The bullpen, on the other hand, has been a disappointment so far. Closer Brad Austin has an uncharacteristically-high 3.55 ERA. Middle reliever Brad Austin, a stalwart in his first two seasons, is scuffling terribly so far, with a 6.89 ERA. So is Ambrosio Cuco, with a higher WHIP and 4.63 ERA.
The offense continues to be potent, 3rd in the league in runs scored and home runs, and Eureka is 2nd in defensive efficiency.
The elements seem to be there for another playoff run, but the results have to be more impressive in the remaining 3/4 of the season or the Hornets will be on the outside-looking-in again after a one-year appearance in the championship series.
