Unless you count the drought between Mike Aquilina’s World Championships (Pappas league Season 4 until never), the longest drought in Strato history occurred between the Rocky Point league and the start of what is now known as “The Modern Strato Era.”  These were indeed the Dark Ages of Strato.  Sure, everyone went on with their lives.  There was work and school; there were marriages and the births of children; not to mention life’s other minor details.  But true meaning in the lives of the boys was sorely lacking.  Deep down they all understood that true meaning could only be achieved, indeed would only be achieved, by once again resuming their divine calling: playing Strat-O-Matic baseball.  It is with this in mind that Mike decided it was time for a new era of Strato to begin.  He knew that Dan and Joe were trying to fill the void in their lives by getting together in the barn where Joe and his family had taken up residence, and playing some silly made-up variation of basketball.  Mike knew that the success or failure of his brain-child existed in the dedication of these two men.  A meeting was arranged, and on that fateful afternoon, the idea was presented to Joe and Dan.

Several ideas, gleaned from the failures of the previous leagues, were presented.  In order for this league to succeed, where previous leagues had failed, there would be one night per week designated “Strato Night.”  In the past, the game was played whenever two of the participants felt like it (which usually was as much as possible).  This always led to a great disparity between the number of games played, and wreaked havoc with pennant races.  It was also determined that, in order to prove the viability of this new league, an “experimental” season would be held.  The four teams would play ten games against each opponent.  This prototype would prove whether or not the idea of a new league was feasible.

Dan and Joe enthusiastically agreed to be pioneers in this exciting venture.  A call was made to Louis.  The idea was presented.  Lou laughed and said he’d do it.  All the pieces were now in place.  Nothing would stop this league from being a success.  Or would it?