MISSISSIPPI MISFITS 1929 PREIVEW The Misfits are the defending league champions. However, an upheaval in the front office has brought in new ownership, so there could be a transition period. DRAFT The selection of 40 year old Hank Gowdy was, well, awful. Steve Swetonic and Mike Cvengros will aid the staff in the short term, but more long term solutions are needed. Sammy Burd is a cabale outfielder, but Mississippi should have taken a few more players. Yes, they had a bad draw, but there were better players to take. Grade: D CATCHING Gabby Hartnett had a productive season last year. The problem? He is expected to be out the entire season due to a knee injury. His replacements? Wally Schang, who at 39 is past his prime, and Hank Gowdy, who is way, way past his prime. Grade: D- INFIELD You can't argue with a team that has George Sisler at first, Frankie Frisch at second, and Freddie Lindstrom, last year's MVP, at third base. This infield was a main reason the Misfits won the title. Red Kress is expected to take over shortstop full-time, regulating '28 World Series hero Jackie Tavener to 2nd string duties. Grade: A- OUTFIELD Another solid outfield for the league. Goose Goslin, Riggs Stephenson and Hack Wilson. Not to mention that Adam Comorosky and Rube Bressler are coming off the bench. A lot of punch here. Grade: A STARTING PITCHING Starting pitching is a question mark, as Eppa Rixey and Ray Kremer near their 40's. Even Burleigh Grimes, last year's Cy Young winner, is 35, and one must wonder how much longer he will last. Grade: C BULLPEN Lefty Stewart and Tommy Thomas are the showboats of this bullpen, and hopefully Steve Swetonic and Mike Cvengros can help out, should the starters not be effective. Grade: B- OUTLOOK Everyone wants a shot at the defending champs. They definitely have the hitting to take down anyone they want, but the key is pitching. If their pitching prevails, the chances of repeat are good. PROGNOSIS: Second Place