Leagues set to get under way on Monday, last year's runners-up in the fast pitch Men's Division, Young Men's Social Club Blue Sox, have been hard hit by the transfer bug that has seen them lose former Bermuda national team players Dean A. Williams, Dean Douglas and Richard Basden.

Also joining in the exodus were centre-fielder John Ray and Dave Hill, both of whom have latched on with Hornets.

However, they did pick up the explosive bat of well-known cricketer James Pace to go along with that of fellow power-hitter Braxton Stowe in the meat of the batting order.

In addition the Blue Sox still possess arguably the Island's number one pitcher in Robert Dill -- who can also hit as seen by .472 average last year -- and are solid on defence.

Apart from the aforementioned pick-ups, Hornets return virtually the same nucleus, which last year grabbed the title ahead of Social Club, who have dominated over the years.

Elliott and Steve Perinchief once again form the one-two combination on the mound with last year's batting title winner Allen Richardson (.533) most likely to take up the position behind the plate. Slugger Harold Minors and contact hitter Austin John (.462) also must play key roles if Hornets are to repeat.

While the others rely on power and pitching, North Village Devils will be out there manufacturing runs and making use of their speed on the basepaths.

Gilbert Beek, Antonio Clark, Williams and Douglas are all proven base stealers who are sure to give opposing pitchers fits.

The only problem the Devils may face is blending in their newly acquired talents, but if they are successful in doing so it should be a battle down to the wire among the top three.

Canadians, in their last year as a member of the league, and Warwick are not likely to challenge much for honours although they may spring a few surprises along the way.

Jets ran away with things amongst the women in 1991, but will have to do without sparkplug Nicole Jones this time around. Jones is presently in Florida studying to be an architect and is not expected to play much, if at all this year.

If Jets do slip, Royals are the most likely to be there to take advantage.

Deborah DeShields had 22 hits to go along with a .500 average and, in she and Penny Moore (.408), Royals possess potential game-breakers.

Jets have the more consistent pitching in veteran Suzie Clark although Royals can come with the hard-throwing but sometimes wild Dawnette Daniels.

Slow pitch figures to have Bud (formerly known as Wharf) dominate the `A' Division after a great 1991 season, while PM containing the likes of home-run hitters Johnathan Smith and George Jackson may receive a push from Casualties in the `B' Division.

Bud's sister team Bud Lite (formerly Tavern) return as favourites in `C' Division and based on past performances BPSA Simbas should emerge as the team to beat in the `D' Division.

ALLEN RICHARDSON -- Leading hitter for men's champions Hornets.