Saturday, May 18, 2013
Newest Head Case
The headlines took a deep header when Little Rock signed Al Infante for a the minute sum of $10.2M. How he went for so little is beyond me cried several owners that did not see him. His defense should easily give him many attempts at a Gold Glove for the catcher position. Hitting rates him up there with several of the big power hitters as he can blast the right handed pitchers. Only dent in his armor is the lack of speed but then who cares. Many are comparing him to Johnny Bench.
Friday, May 17, 2013
History Abound
I was looking through the old posts looking for something when I ran across the old Draft history analysis. I thought it might be nice to see how some players held up under early projections. The bad part, the first ones didn't have player links in their card yet. But here is season 7.
1. Everett Hill: He lived up to my predictions rather easily and has enough hardware to open his own museum and is still playing. I said he would hit 50+ Home Runs and steal 40+ bases and hit .320. Sounded a bit optimistic huh? Well he hit 50+ 8 times and stole 40+ 8 times but only hit .320 or better 3 times. Not bad for a future HoFer who holds the Home Run record at 850 and counting at the moment. He wasn't a good fielder in LF as predicted.
2. Rick Hill: I somewhat failed at this one. He only hit 40+ Home Runs a couple times and even though he had the speed, didn't know how to use it. I expected his avg to be over .330, he only did that 5 times. He played an uninspired 2B (before they changed the fielding rules) before being moved to LF.
3. Dom Tabaka: My write up wasn't all that enthusiastic but did accomplish my goals for him. He currently has 570 Saves and counting which will probably go over 600 before he retires which will put him second all time. Not bad for a lefty.
4. Claude Wallace: He actually panned the write up but he wasn't a bad player. He was consistent throughout his career though, what can you say, he was a 5 time All-Star and 4 time Silver Slugger in 12 seasons.
5. Bey Lynch: Truthfully he got caught up in a power vacuum and never got to live up to his billing other than the fact he was a terrible catcher as reported.
6. Ismael Azocar: Has won 200 games in his career but write up was actually spot on.
10. Tim Loewer: Quietly became one of the best starting pitchers in the league with a 226-87 record and still compiling. His write up didn't disappoint.
1. Everett Hill: He lived up to my predictions rather easily and has enough hardware to open his own museum and is still playing. I said he would hit 50+ Home Runs and steal 40+ bases and hit .320. Sounded a bit optimistic huh? Well he hit 50+ 8 times and stole 40+ 8 times but only hit .320 or better 3 times. Not bad for a future HoFer who holds the Home Run record at 850 and counting at the moment. He wasn't a good fielder in LF as predicted.
2. Rick Hill: I somewhat failed at this one. He only hit 40+ Home Runs a couple times and even though he had the speed, didn't know how to use it. I expected his avg to be over .330, he only did that 5 times. He played an uninspired 2B (before they changed the fielding rules) before being moved to LF.
3. Dom Tabaka: My write up wasn't all that enthusiastic but did accomplish my goals for him. He currently has 570 Saves and counting which will probably go over 600 before he retires which will put him second all time. Not bad for a lefty.
4. Claude Wallace: He actually panned the write up but he wasn't a bad player. He was consistent throughout his career though, what can you say, he was a 5 time All-Star and 4 time Silver Slugger in 12 seasons.
5. Bey Lynch: Truthfully he got caught up in a power vacuum and never got to live up to his billing other than the fact he was a terrible catcher as reported.
6. Ismael Azocar: Has won 200 games in his career but write up was actually spot on.
10. Tim Loewer: Quietly became one of the best starting pitchers in the league with a 226-87 record and still compiling. His write up didn't disappoint.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Errfdogg Memorial League History Series - Owner Tenure
My recent post regarding owner's winning percentages got me thinking about the history of this world. I'm going to try to post some articles over the next few weeks talking about some of the history of this world, but I figured I should start at my beginning in this world.
I joined this world in season 8, having never played HBD before. Like many owners at WIS, I had read an article by the Sports Guy talking about Sim Baseball and I had checked that out, but I didn't love it. HBD sounded more like something I would really like, having played Rotisserie Baseball and fantasy football and basketball since 1991. I saw a post in the forums by Erffdogg for the MLB world and asked him if I could join. He was reticent to take a newbie, but I gave him my history of fantasy sports and that I was a long-time commissioner of my fantasy baseball league. He let me join and although I've played in other worlds, this world has always been my favorite. It is the camaraderie of the owners that make this world great. Erffdogg passed away in the middle of season 16. We renamed the world in his memory and I really think that continuing this world in a positive way is a motivation for the owners who played with Erffdogg. Like most people, I didn't know Erff outside of this game, but his passion for the game is his legacy to this world.
If you look at the tenure of the current owners in this world, it breaks down as follows:
As you can see, since Erffdogg's passing, 21 of the owners that were a member of this world continue to play. I may have missed an owner that moved from one franchise to another. I knew Yoker did that and accounted for that in the chart.
The world has been very stable. A lot of the stability can be credited to Dilo, who, after Erffdogg, is the best commissioner of any world in which I have played. I think the rest of the credit should be given to the owners in general, especially Firesign for his incredible work on the blog, and owners like Josepaco, SJR, VL, mal247, kpmarti, brucehearse, and Dilo, who make the chat board the best chat board in HBD. I honestly intend to keep playing in this world for the rest of my life, as long as this core group of owners stays. In my opinion, it's the best group of owners on WIS.
I look forward to putting together some interesting articles about the history of this world in the coming weeks. If anyone would like to suggest a topic, send it to me via trade chat.
I joined this world in season 8, having never played HBD before. Like many owners at WIS, I had read an article by the Sports Guy talking about Sim Baseball and I had checked that out, but I didn't love it. HBD sounded more like something I would really like, having played Rotisserie Baseball and fantasy football and basketball since 1991. I saw a post in the forums by Erffdogg for the MLB world and asked him if I could join. He was reticent to take a newbie, but I gave him my history of fantasy sports and that I was a long-time commissioner of my fantasy baseball league. He let me join and although I've played in other worlds, this world has always been my favorite. It is the camaraderie of the owners that make this world great. Erffdogg passed away in the middle of season 16. We renamed the world in his memory and I really think that continuing this world in a positive way is a motivation for the owners who played with Erffdogg. Like most people, I didn't know Erff outside of this game, but his passion for the game is his legacy to this world.
If you look at the tenure of the current owners in this world, it breaks down as follows:
| Owner | Season Joined |
|---|---|
| dilo | 1 |
| northerngaul | 1 |
| josepaco * | 2 |
| dpj0122 | 2 |
| VegasBombers | 2 |
| SLOBS | 2 |
| sjr456 | 4 |
| cmchristians | 4 |
| edham55 | 4 |
| firesign34 | 5 |
| yoker70 | 6 |
| boydndahood/KJD | 6 |
| chase39 | 7 |
| wholck * | 8 |
| thomas36is | 8 |
| davisbrian | 9 |
| dhyatt1080 * | 9 |
| mal247 | 12 |
| dakar * | 13 |
| tylermathias | 14 |
| pfontaine | 14 |
| kpmarti | 17 |
| wrecks | 18 |
| robertbaron | 18 |
| aireball3 | 19 |
| sjpratt | 19 |
| luckystrike | 20 |
| brucehearse | 23 |
| jrockers | 23 |
| lemmiwinks | 25 |
| brianj000013 * | 25 |
| victoryava | 26 |
As you can see, since Erffdogg's passing, 21 of the owners that were a member of this world continue to play. I may have missed an owner that moved from one franchise to another. I knew Yoker did that and accounted for that in the chart.
The world has been very stable. A lot of the stability can be credited to Dilo, who, after Erffdogg, is the best commissioner of any world in which I have played. I think the rest of the credit should be given to the owners in general, especially Firesign for his incredible work on the blog, and owners like Josepaco, SJR, VL, mal247, kpmarti, brucehearse, and Dilo, who make the chat board the best chat board in HBD. I honestly intend to keep playing in this world for the rest of my life, as long as this core group of owners stays. In my opinion, it's the best group of owners on WIS.
I look forward to putting together some interesting articles about the history of this world in the coming weeks. If anyone would like to suggest a topic, send it to me via trade chat.
Half Way point
Well, for some anyway it is the half way point, others still have a game to go. For most, the All-Star break as halfway though things seem to change at that point. Just think, three days rest then it is the division mad house coming to a ball park near you.
NL North
The Cubs are ahead in the NL by 3 games. The owner has been questioning whether they are really that good. To me they haven't been playing like the winner they are. The Pirates are in second and are keeping up like a sneaky cat lying in wait. Truthfully I look for their demise in the second half. On paper the Reds are the better team and I think it is just a matter of time for them to reach second place where I think they will end up. The Brewers on the hand have played well but me thinks they are not going to catch anyone sleeping.
AL North
Montreal has taken everyone in the division by surprise I think. I said they were contenders in my opening analysis and I believe they will stay in first. The Twins hold second place at the moment but 7 games back and the inability to win at home doesn't look like a winning combination for them. The Tigers look good on paper but just can't win, had a horrendous start they overcame but really can't sustain momentum. The Blue Jays and their new stars just aren't gelling but there is next season when they will. Maybe they need to see Dr. Scholls.
NL East
The Mets have sneaked their way to a two game lead. For those in the know, this is probably the best Mets team ever assembled here but play like their predecessors. I thought at the beginning the Braves were still the team to beat but are experiencing the problem of not winning at home which doesn't bode well. The Fabulous Fillies are playing better than they really are so don't get your hopes up. The Colonels don't get any chicken wing jokes, they just aren't playing to their potential and a dismal 13-26 at home doesn't help their cause in the least.
AL East
Red Sox fans are fortunate they are in first place by two games. Haven't actually seen an entire division under .500 in a long time here at this stage of the game. One day it is Dover the next it is Boston. Baltimore looks out of it one day and then in the thick of things the next. What will happen here seems to be who gets hot and when, flip a coin..oh wait will have to be I Ching. The Senators are under-performing on offense but letting Castilla go to FA may have been a mistake.
NL South
Florida Marlins looked like they were gonna run away with the division and the #1 seed before halftime but the common struggle at home has kept them within reach. Mexico City has struggled to get to second place and keep their hopes alive. Houston was rather lively at the beginning of the season but the brutal punishment of the season has taken its weary toll I think. The Cards are better than their record indicates maybe but they are not ready to compete with their brethren.
AL South
The Royals are being a pain as I foretold but I really expected them to have more than a 5 game lead at this point. Tampa Bay is probably playing better than they should in all reality, look on the bright side, RJ has a winning record. Most thought that the Texas TardTankos was gonna play dead this season. News Flash: that rumor was false and a wild card spot is still the hot item on their agenda. The Heads look forlorn as things just didn't pan out the way they were suppose to.
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers looked to run away with things early like the Marlins but have come back to earth. Arizona is the surprise to me, are they playing over their heads or are they actually that good. Me thinks they are that good. The San Francisco Giants are good if you ask me but may need some luck before the season is over. The Padres have actually made a couple delightful moves that have made them streaky and dangerous.
AL West
The Halos had their wings clipped from their early start and only hold a 3 game lead.
Colorado Springs had a season start they would like to forget and it looks like they have put it behind them. Seattle kept pace early but has been pulling back slowly. Helena has some very cold pockets as the microwave is on the fritz.
NL North
The Cubs are ahead in the NL by 3 games. The owner has been questioning whether they are really that good. To me they haven't been playing like the winner they are. The Pirates are in second and are keeping up like a sneaky cat lying in wait. Truthfully I look for their demise in the second half. On paper the Reds are the better team and I think it is just a matter of time for them to reach second place where I think they will end up. The Brewers on the hand have played well but me thinks they are not going to catch anyone sleeping.
AL North
Montreal has taken everyone in the division by surprise I think. I said they were contenders in my opening analysis and I believe they will stay in first. The Twins hold second place at the moment but 7 games back and the inability to win at home doesn't look like a winning combination for them. The Tigers look good on paper but just can't win, had a horrendous start they overcame but really can't sustain momentum. The Blue Jays and their new stars just aren't gelling but there is next season when they will. Maybe they need to see Dr. Scholls.
NL East
The Mets have sneaked their way to a two game lead. For those in the know, this is probably the best Mets team ever assembled here but play like their predecessors. I thought at the beginning the Braves were still the team to beat but are experiencing the problem of not winning at home which doesn't bode well. The Fabulous Fillies are playing better than they really are so don't get your hopes up. The Colonels don't get any chicken wing jokes, they just aren't playing to their potential and a dismal 13-26 at home doesn't help their cause in the least.
AL East
Red Sox fans are fortunate they are in first place by two games. Haven't actually seen an entire division under .500 in a long time here at this stage of the game. One day it is Dover the next it is Boston. Baltimore looks out of it one day and then in the thick of things the next. What will happen here seems to be who gets hot and when, flip a coin..oh wait will have to be I Ching. The Senators are under-performing on offense but letting Castilla go to FA may have been a mistake.
NL South
Florida Marlins looked like they were gonna run away with the division and the #1 seed before halftime but the common struggle at home has kept them within reach. Mexico City has struggled to get to second place and keep their hopes alive. Houston was rather lively at the beginning of the season but the brutal punishment of the season has taken its weary toll I think. The Cards are better than their record indicates maybe but they are not ready to compete with their brethren.
AL South
The Royals are being a pain as I foretold but I really expected them to have more than a 5 game lead at this point. Tampa Bay is probably playing better than they should in all reality, look on the bright side, RJ has a winning record. Most thought that the Texas TardTankos was gonna play dead this season. News Flash: that rumor was false and a wild card spot is still the hot item on their agenda. The Heads look forlorn as things just didn't pan out the way they were suppose to.
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers looked to run away with things early like the Marlins but have come back to earth. Arizona is the surprise to me, are they playing over their heads or are they actually that good. Me thinks they are that good. The San Francisco Giants are good if you ask me but may need some luck before the season is over. The Padres have actually made a couple delightful moves that have made them streaky and dangerous.
AL West
The Halos had their wings clipped from their early start and only hold a 3 game lead.
Colorado Springs had a season start they would like to forget and it looks like they have put it behind them. Seattle kept pace early but has been pulling back slowly. Helena has some very cold pockets as the microwave is on the fritz.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Meanwhile at the IHOP
The Montreal Expos spent their life savings on Deven Wilfredo to the tune of $25M. Purportedly a RF OBP monster hitter with tons of speed. he was a bit reluctant to sign as he wanted to compete in the Olympics. Not sure about being a GG candidate in RF as his glove looks faulty but does have the arm and range. Getting him out at the plate could be a very tough thing to accomplish by any pitcher. Outstanding buy in my estimation.
Eliezer Bennett was tagged by the St. Louis Cardinals to hopefully be a future starter and offered $7.5M. I know my scouting isn't wonderful but something must definitely be amiss if a pitcher that looks decent doesn't make double figures. Can that fourth pitch get dropped?
The St. Louis Cardinals also made another foray into the market for Don Chen. A possible shutdown closer that does have good potential at a mere $4.6M. He may have slipped by the radar because of .....
Pascual James and his whopping $11.7M bonus to play future closer with the Little Rock Heads. He definitely looks like a shutdown closer in my books.
Eliezer Bennett was tagged by the St. Louis Cardinals to hopefully be a future starter and offered $7.5M. I know my scouting isn't wonderful but something must definitely be amiss if a pitcher that looks decent doesn't make double figures. Can that fourth pitch get dropped?
The St. Louis Cardinals also made another foray into the market for Don Chen. A possible shutdown closer that does have good potential at a mere $4.6M. He may have slipped by the radar because of .....
Pascual James and his whopping $11.7M bonus to play future closer with the Little Rock Heads. He definitely looks like a shutdown closer in my books.
Draft Review
I don't have the greatest scouting so I is a winging it a bit. With only 4 pitchers taken in the first 13 picks suggests that there wasn't great quality at that position. Many took the hard to fill positions early which has been the trend for a while.
1. Todd Terry, CF - Helena Hot Pockets: I do think he will be able to play CF though I don't think he will be a GG at the position. One very tough out at the plate with some power and a little speed to go with it. His biggest drawback is durability that I think will only make the low to mid 70's.
Grade: A
2. Herb Watson, 2B - Houston Astros: Yes he finally signed so the anguish has finally abated and a good nights rest is in order. Can he play an effective 2B is on the fans mind, most of me says yes but the scouts say there is an off chance it may not be the greatest thing since sliced bread. If his eye comes around at the plate, getting him out could be by total accident. Has some base stealing speed also which makes it even tougher. Where to put him in the lineup could take some high level collaboration, too much or not enough power for the first five slots which leaves the 6th spot which is actually too low maybe.
Grade: A+
3. Santo Trinidad, P - Houston Astros: For a Starting Pitcher, may lack control and possibly splits but looks to have some very good pitches to round out the ground ball flame thrower.
Grade: B
4. Chance Coleman, SS - San Diego Padres: The scouts and I have argued as to whether he can actually play SS to a degree of confidence, it will be close. Eye, contact and decent splits with useable speed which should be a good fit for the Padre faithful.
Grade: A
5. Don Coke, P - Philadelphia Phillies: The bad part before we start he is a lefty. He could be a super lefty or a premier lefty, only time will tell. Either way, pitching was a premium in this draft.
Grade: A
Ooops - Dentist intervention
6. Troy LeBlanc, P - Toronto Blue Jays: I was thinking exceptional closer at first but low off speed gives me a little doubt but should have the control, splits and pitches to do the job as a setup man at the very least.
Grade: A
7. Bo Murphy, P - Little Rock Heads: Could be an interesting one once he matures a bit and gains confidence. Doesn't have the great control but the splits and pitches will be very good now if he just had some velo to go with it.
Grade: A
Ooops: Yard intervention
8. Michael Polcovich, CF - Louisville Colonels: The second CF taken in the draft already which makes this a bit scarey and they were both lefties so no 2B backup plan either. Which was the better pick? By my scouts the answer is rather simple, this guy is a decent power hitter with GG potential and speed. Could he be a 5 tool bust?
Grade: A+
9. Otis Mancuso, RF - St. Louis Cardinals: Good eye and contact at the plate with above average splits and enough speed to steal a base here and there. Could be a good #2 hitter with the hit and run sign on. Fielding isn't all that bad but not GG quality.
Grade: A
10. Matthew Hermsen, SS - San Francisco Giants: SS may or may not be a starring role for him as the glove has a long way to go. My scouts tell me his hitting looks unrefined as I really can't make heads nor tails out of it in a truthful manner. Taking a swag though I think it could be a good fit in the Bay area.
Grade: B
11. Homer Miller, CF - Baltimore Orioles: True to his name it looks like he can power the ball out of the park, how well remains to be seen. Good eye, splits just above average in the end and contact better than I am seeing I think. CF is a possibility and secondary at 2B easily enough with maybe some 3B thrown in. His Makeup could be problematic developing those skills.
Grade: A
Oops..intermission break for Doctor Who and Orphan Black...
12. Terrence Hernandez, SS - Milwaukee Brewers: If his arm strength comes around, he could be the best defensive SS in the draft. Good eye and contact with some power and above average splits makes for a good SS no matter what.
Grade: A
13. Steven Day, CF - Dover Dung Beetles: Another CF and I imagine fourth down the list doesn't sound very compelling. Throws left-handed so the outfield it is for sure but as a quality CF might be a close stretch. In simple terms I am not ruling it out but seems quite thin. Hitting is not all that great but above average. I am not enthralled by this pick.
Grade: B
14. Cookie Posada, P - Tampa Bay Rays: I have to disagree with my scouts on this guy. If his projected ratings are better than I am seeing which really isn't much then he could easily be a good #2 or #3 starter.
Grade: A
15. Spike Walker, P - Seattle Mariners: Now how did the best looking pitcher in the draft fall so low, oh yeah he's a lefty..do'h! That vsr could be better than I am seeing by a few points and it will make all the difference.
Grade: A
16. B.C. Vazquez, RF - Minnesota Twins: Really rough with the ability to play RF with any quality and almost overly qualified for 1B, one ugly glove. Hitting is good with a very good eye and splits with some pop but will probably lack the good contact.
Grade: B
17. Sandy Brock, RF - Pittsburgh Pirates: Again RF could be a stretch and may end up be relegated to 1B. Big power and contact with the eye and vsr good enough to reek havoc at the plate especially in Pittsburgh.
Grade: A
18. Pat O'Toole, 1B - Washington D.C. Senators: My scouts say he may not have the range for an adequate 1B as I see no growth but if he does it would be boon over the DH position. At the plate he has it all and could be the Home Run king soon enough. Now, just how did he slip this far?
Grade: A+
19. Billy Ramsey, SS - Montreal Expos: Not so sure about being a quality SS but simple enough to make it to 2B or 3B. Good eye and splits with average power and above average contact makes him a good pick.
Grade: A
20. Henderson Myers, P - Kansas City Royals: I have never been much of a fan with pitchers whose control is slated to be below average though I think he might make it to just above average. Everything else looks hunky-dory though I'm no sure he is a good fit in KC.
Grade: B
21. Vasco Aguilera, CF - Florida Marlins: His range may make up for inadequate glove but nothing will make up for his poor health (slight injury already from jacking off me thinks). Hitting suits the Marlins though with the great eye and splits with everything else being average.
Grade: B
22. Jimmie Lombard, P - Arizona Diamondbacks: Even with his first two pitches looking better than I see the quality is marginal at best.
Grade: B
23. Carter Teut, P - Washington D.C. Senators: The Senators strike again with a possible shutdown closer. I say possible depending on whether his stamina increases like it should. Me thinks I would take the chance also.
Grade: A
24. Vladimir Cruz, P - Mexico City Diablos Rojos: Luckily he is a reliever as his control might be outstanding with a good vsr as he is off speed with some whacky pitches. Hopefully with prejudice the 5th pitch gets dropped.
Grade: B
25. Eswalin Feliz, 2B - Boston Red Sox: To me 2B is going to be a huge stretch and might be more intuned to LF. Durability not making it into the 70's could also be a damper. Hitting isn't all bad which helps his value tremendously as he has a good eye, above average splits, some power and good contact.
Grade: B
26. William Bonham, SS - Boston Red Sox: At least their consecutive pick looks much better. It looks like a doable ride in the SS position to me if he develops well. Not a real big hitter which is a motif of most SS but he will hold his own rather well.
Grade: A
ooops..tiring break
27. Marvin Allen, P - Philadelphia Phillies: Could be a quite nice pick up if the end pitches are better than what I am seeing.
Grade: A
28.Bengie Franco, P - Anaheim Angels: Must be nice to have an older brother put you through college. Will that 5th pitch get dropped and will the control look like a ML pitcher surround this prospect however.
Grade: B
29. Don Naquin, P - Cincinnati Reds:
30. Lou Brown, P - Colorado Springs Sky Sox: Hard finding a quality starting pitcher this late in the first round but it looks like the Sky Sox accomplished it very well.
Grade: A
31. DJ Kennedy, P - Atlanta Braves: Could be a project player that turns into a bust if the pitches don't develop.
Grade: B
32. Ron May, SS - Los Angeles Dodgers: I really don't see this guy venturing above the 3B realm defensively which isn't all that bad. Hitting could definitely be an adventure and may never make it beyond mediocre.
Grade: B
33. Rey Sellers, SS - Boston Red Sox:
34. Trevor Perkins, CF - Chicago Cubs: Took a while for him to sign for some reason. Could be a GG star in CF but then they already have one that doesn't want a GG. Good eye and decent contact with power just don't ask him to hit against lefties. Then again that can help him as he isn't the most durable.
Grade: A
1. Todd Terry, CF - Helena Hot Pockets: I do think he will be able to play CF though I don't think he will be a GG at the position. One very tough out at the plate with some power and a little speed to go with it. His biggest drawback is durability that I think will only make the low to mid 70's.
Grade: A
2. Herb Watson, 2B - Houston Astros: Yes he finally signed so the anguish has finally abated and a good nights rest is in order. Can he play an effective 2B is on the fans mind, most of me says yes but the scouts say there is an off chance it may not be the greatest thing since sliced bread. If his eye comes around at the plate, getting him out could be by total accident. Has some base stealing speed also which makes it even tougher. Where to put him in the lineup could take some high level collaboration, too much or not enough power for the first five slots which leaves the 6th spot which is actually too low maybe.
Grade: A+
3. Santo Trinidad, P - Houston Astros: For a Starting Pitcher, may lack control and possibly splits but looks to have some very good pitches to round out the ground ball flame thrower.
Grade: B
4. Chance Coleman, SS - San Diego Padres: The scouts and I have argued as to whether he can actually play SS to a degree of confidence, it will be close. Eye, contact and decent splits with useable speed which should be a good fit for the Padre faithful.
Grade: A
5. Don Coke, P - Philadelphia Phillies: The bad part before we start he is a lefty. He could be a super lefty or a premier lefty, only time will tell. Either way, pitching was a premium in this draft.
Grade: A
Ooops - Dentist intervention
6. Troy LeBlanc, P - Toronto Blue Jays: I was thinking exceptional closer at first but low off speed gives me a little doubt but should have the control, splits and pitches to do the job as a setup man at the very least.
Grade: A
7. Bo Murphy, P - Little Rock Heads: Could be an interesting one once he matures a bit and gains confidence. Doesn't have the great control but the splits and pitches will be very good now if he just had some velo to go with it.
Grade: A
Ooops: Yard intervention
8. Michael Polcovich, CF - Louisville Colonels: The second CF taken in the draft already which makes this a bit scarey and they were both lefties so no 2B backup plan either. Which was the better pick? By my scouts the answer is rather simple, this guy is a decent power hitter with GG potential and speed. Could he be a 5 tool bust?
Grade: A+
9. Otis Mancuso, RF - St. Louis Cardinals: Good eye and contact at the plate with above average splits and enough speed to steal a base here and there. Could be a good #2 hitter with the hit and run sign on. Fielding isn't all that bad but not GG quality.
Grade: A
10. Matthew Hermsen, SS - San Francisco Giants: SS may or may not be a starring role for him as the glove has a long way to go. My scouts tell me his hitting looks unrefined as I really can't make heads nor tails out of it in a truthful manner. Taking a swag though I think it could be a good fit in the Bay area.
Grade: B
11. Homer Miller, CF - Baltimore Orioles: True to his name it looks like he can power the ball out of the park, how well remains to be seen. Good eye, splits just above average in the end and contact better than I am seeing I think. CF is a possibility and secondary at 2B easily enough with maybe some 3B thrown in. His Makeup could be problematic developing those skills.
Grade: A
Oops..intermission break for Doctor Who and Orphan Black...
12. Terrence Hernandez, SS - Milwaukee Brewers: If his arm strength comes around, he could be the best defensive SS in the draft. Good eye and contact with some power and above average splits makes for a good SS no matter what.
Grade: A
13. Steven Day, CF - Dover Dung Beetles: Another CF and I imagine fourth down the list doesn't sound very compelling. Throws left-handed so the outfield it is for sure but as a quality CF might be a close stretch. In simple terms I am not ruling it out but seems quite thin. Hitting is not all that great but above average. I am not enthralled by this pick.
Grade: B
14. Cookie Posada, P - Tampa Bay Rays: I have to disagree with my scouts on this guy. If his projected ratings are better than I am seeing which really isn't much then he could easily be a good #2 or #3 starter.
Grade: A
15. Spike Walker, P - Seattle Mariners: Now how did the best looking pitcher in the draft fall so low, oh yeah he's a lefty..do'h! That vsr could be better than I am seeing by a few points and it will make all the difference.
Grade: A
16. B.C. Vazquez, RF - Minnesota Twins: Really rough with the ability to play RF with any quality and almost overly qualified for 1B, one ugly glove. Hitting is good with a very good eye and splits with some pop but will probably lack the good contact.
Grade: B
17. Sandy Brock, RF - Pittsburgh Pirates: Again RF could be a stretch and may end up be relegated to 1B. Big power and contact with the eye and vsr good enough to reek havoc at the plate especially in Pittsburgh.
Grade: A
18. Pat O'Toole, 1B - Washington D.C. Senators: My scouts say he may not have the range for an adequate 1B as I see no growth but if he does it would be boon over the DH position. At the plate he has it all and could be the Home Run king soon enough. Now, just how did he slip this far?
Grade: A+
19. Billy Ramsey, SS - Montreal Expos: Not so sure about being a quality SS but simple enough to make it to 2B or 3B. Good eye and splits with average power and above average contact makes him a good pick.
Grade: A
20. Henderson Myers, P - Kansas City Royals: I have never been much of a fan with pitchers whose control is slated to be below average though I think he might make it to just above average. Everything else looks hunky-dory though I'm no sure he is a good fit in KC.
Grade: B
21. Vasco Aguilera, CF - Florida Marlins: His range may make up for inadequate glove but nothing will make up for his poor health (slight injury already from jacking off me thinks). Hitting suits the Marlins though with the great eye and splits with everything else being average.
Grade: B
22. Jimmie Lombard, P - Arizona Diamondbacks: Even with his first two pitches looking better than I see the quality is marginal at best.
Grade: B
23. Carter Teut, P - Washington D.C. Senators: The Senators strike again with a possible shutdown closer. I say possible depending on whether his stamina increases like it should. Me thinks I would take the chance also.
Grade: A
24. Vladimir Cruz, P - Mexico City Diablos Rojos: Luckily he is a reliever as his control might be outstanding with a good vsr as he is off speed with some whacky pitches. Hopefully with prejudice the 5th pitch gets dropped.
Grade: B
25. Eswalin Feliz, 2B - Boston Red Sox: To me 2B is going to be a huge stretch and might be more intuned to LF. Durability not making it into the 70's could also be a damper. Hitting isn't all bad which helps his value tremendously as he has a good eye, above average splits, some power and good contact.
Grade: B
26. William Bonham, SS - Boston Red Sox: At least their consecutive pick looks much better. It looks like a doable ride in the SS position to me if he develops well. Not a real big hitter which is a motif of most SS but he will hold his own rather well.
Grade: A
ooops..tiring break
27. Marvin Allen, P - Philadelphia Phillies: Could be a quite nice pick up if the end pitches are better than what I am seeing.
Grade: A
28.Bengie Franco, P - Anaheim Angels: Must be nice to have an older brother put you through college. Will that 5th pitch get dropped and will the control look like a ML pitcher surround this prospect however.
Grade: B
29. Don Naquin, P - Cincinnati Reds:
30. Lou Brown, P - Colorado Springs Sky Sox: Hard finding a quality starting pitcher this late in the first round but it looks like the Sky Sox accomplished it very well.
Grade: A
31. DJ Kennedy, P - Atlanta Braves: Could be a project player that turns into a bust if the pitches don't develop.
Grade: B
32. Ron May, SS - Los Angeles Dodgers: I really don't see this guy venturing above the 3B realm defensively which isn't all that bad. Hitting could definitely be an adventure and may never make it beyond mediocre.
Grade: B
33. Rey Sellers, SS - Boston Red Sox:
34. Trevor Perkins, CF - Chicago Cubs: Took a while for him to sign for some reason. Could be a GG star in CF but then they already have one that doesn't want a GG. Good eye and decent contact with power just don't ask him to hit against lefties. Then again that can help him as he isn't the most durable.
Grade: A
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Owner Statistics
I always find the opinions of other owners to be interesting. If I read an opinion from an owner, often I take a look at the owner's accomplishments and if I see they never make the playoffs, I minimize their statements. Vice-versa, if an owner with significant accomplishments, like Dakar or Josepaco, has something to contribute, I'm all ears. With today's various thoughts about budgeting, I began to take a look at the records of the people offering opinion and that got me thinking about the records of our owners. I then analyzed the records of all owners and have some numbers to share. Please note, I excluded any owner with less than 20 seasons played. The number may be arbitrary, but I felt it was fair. Here is a list of regular season winning percentages:
You'll note I added erffdogg's numbers as a point of reference, as I had previously referenced his success. Of course, some people may believe win percentage doesn't tell the whole story. Some people play to win the WS and if you can't do that, you need to rebuild, which involves a lot of losing. I put myself into that group. Consequently, here are some numbers that show the percentage of times an owner made it to the playoffs.
Guess what, these lists look pretty similar, but that makes sense. You win more games, you make the playoffs more. Well, what about winning the big one. Here are those numbers:
This chart is a little different, but I think the numbers speak volumes. Other than this league's namesake, Dakar is clearly the winningest owner in this world and we all need to listen when Dakar speaks. Chase39's advice from earlier today should be given a very close analysis. Josepaco is a proven winner and pfontaine just needs to add one or two more WS trophy's to join Dakar as the elite owner in Erffdogg.
Lastly, I'd like to point out that I am better than average using these metrics, which is the only time I've ever been better than average.
| Owner | Seasons | Win pct |
|---|---|---|
| dakar * | 63 | 0.550 |
| pfontaine | 60 | 0.550 |
| chase39 | 61 | 0.545 |
| erffdogg | 114 | 0.541 |
| josepaco * | 48 | 0.535 |
| SLOBS | 50 | 0.532 |
| mal247 | 47 | 0.529 |
| northerngaul | 40 | 0.528 |
| wrecks | 30 | 0.525 |
| wholck * | 54 | 0.522 |
| sjr456 | 31 | 0.516 |
| cmchristians | 40 | 0.515 |
| boydndahood/KJD | 45 | 0.511 |
| edham55 | 76 | 0.510 |
| VegasBombers | 78 | 0.509 |
| tylermathias | 94 | 0.498 |
| dilo | 60 | 0.494 |
| firesign34 | 82 | 0.491 |
| yoker70 | 179 | 0.490 |
| davisbrian | 78 | 0.478 |
| thomas36is | 34 | 0.474 |
| dhyatt1080 * | 24 | 0.464 |
| robertbaron | 22 | 0.455 |
| aireball3 | 20 | 0.444 |
| dpj0122 | 25 | 0.408 |
You'll note I added erffdogg's numbers as a point of reference, as I had previously referenced his success. Of course, some people may believe win percentage doesn't tell the whole story. Some people play to win the WS and if you can't do that, you need to rebuild, which involves a lot of losing. I put myself into that group. Consequently, here are some numbers that show the percentage of times an owner made it to the playoffs.
| Owner | Seasons | Playoffs | Playoffs as a % of seasons played |
|---|---|---|---|
| dakar * | 63 | 39 | 0.619 |
| sjr456 | 31 | 18 | 0.581 |
| chase39 | 61 | 34 | 0.557 |
| pfontaine | 60 | 33 | 0.550 |
| northerngaul | 40 | 22 | 0.550 |
| wrecks | 30 | 16 | 0.533 |
| mal247 | 47 | 25 | 0.532 |
| erffdogg | 114 | 60 | 0.526 |
| boydndahood/KJD | 45 | 23 | 0.511 |
| josepaco * | 48 | 24 | 0.500 |
| SLOBS | 50 | 24 | 0.480 |
| wholck * | 54 | 24 | 0.444 |
| edham55 | 76 | 32 | 0.421 |
| VegasBombers | 78 | 30 | 0.385 |
| thomas36is | 34 | 13 | 0.382 |
| cmchristians | 40 | 15 | 0.375 |
| yoker70 | 179 | 64 | 0.358 |
| tylermathias | 94 | 27 | 0.287 |
| robertbaron | 22 | 6 | 0.273 |
| dilo | 60 | 16 | 0.267 |
| firesign34 | 82 | 20 | 0.244 |
| dhyatt1080 * | 24 | 5 | 0.208 |
| davisbrian | 78 | 15 | 0.192 |
| aireball3 | 20 | 0 | 0.000 |
| dpj0122 | 25 | 0 | 0.000 |
Guess what, these lists look pretty similar, but that makes sense. You win more games, you make the playoffs more. Well, what about winning the big one. Here are those numbers:
| Owner | Seasons | WS | World Series as a % of seasons played |
|---|---|---|---|
| erffdogg | 114 | 12 | 0.105 |
| dakar * | 63 | 6 | 0.095 |
| VegasBombers | 78 | 5 | 0.064 |
| mal247 | 47 | 3 | 0.064 |
| josepaco * | 48 | 3 | 0.063 |
| yoker70 | 179 | 10 | 0.056 |
| boydndahood/KJD | 45 | 2 | 0.044 |
| wholck * | 54 | 2 | 0.037 |
| wrecks | 30 | 1 | 0.033 |
| chase39 | 61 | 2 | 0.033 |
| sjr456 | 31 | 1 | 0.032 |
| northerngaul | 40 | 1 | 0.025 |
| SLOBS | 50 | 1 | 0.020 |
| pfontaine | 60 | 1 | 0.017 |
| dilo | 60 | 1 | 0.017 |
| tylermathias | 94 | 1 | 0.011 |
| cmchristians | 40 | 0 | 0.000 |
| edham55 | 76 | 0 | 0.000 |
| firesign34 | 82 | 0 | 0.000 |
| davisbrian | 78 | 0 | 0.000 |
| thomas36is | 34 | 0 | 0.000 |
| dhyatt1080 * | 24 | 0 | 0.000 |
| robertbaron | 22 | 0 | 0.000 |
| aireball3 | 20 | 0 | 0.000 |
| dpj0122 | 25 | 0 | 0.000 |
This chart is a little different, but I think the numbers speak volumes. Other than this league's namesake, Dakar is clearly the winningest owner in this world and we all need to listen when Dakar speaks. Chase39's advice from earlier today should be given a very close analysis. Josepaco is a proven winner and pfontaine just needs to add one or two more WS trophy's to join Dakar as the elite owner in Erffdogg.
Lastly, I'd like to point out that I am better than average using these metrics, which is the only time I've ever been better than average.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)