The two went on to play for the Rochester Royals in 1945, pocketing $1,000 a month for a five-month season.

He insisted on promoting California as a country of seven-month rainy seasons and five-month dry seasons.

"Churchill could have a five-month season, instead of the current four-month season."

A big-league salary would help," added Montgomery, who makes $8,000 to $10,000 a month for a five-month season.

Tiller, the crew chief, is making $2,400 a month - for a five-month season.

In a normal five-month growing season, an oyster can add up to an inch after being transplanted.

She had her doubts about returning, but she said the relatively short five-month season and the good money were persuasive.

The beginning salary for a junior umpire is about $9,500 for the five-month season, hardly a living wage.

An inaugural five-month season ensued using a double round-robin format, followed by playoffs.

Others faired well, too, tapping into the league's disappearing well for an average salary of $80,000 for a five-month season.