The Baltimore Orioles announced the signing of Alving Parra with a whopping $19.5M signing bonus. Alving finds himself in a fanciful role as a power hitting SS. Well, SS might be a little iffy but has a decent chance to play the position. His hitting style had the Orioles eyes beaming however as he should be a wonderous addition in the lineup.
Rating: B+
Friday, July 1, 2011
Thursday, June 30, 2011
The International Market
My Scouting at the International level is not so hot as I decided not to partake this season. So far there hasn't been much to crow about so it appears. so this should be rather short.
Enrique Iglesias has been paid the most so far by the Charlotte Knights at $6.1M. Fancies himself as a 2B but a very weak one if you ask me, might be better suited in RF. Has the speed and contact if he can get on base which could be a trifle tricky.
Rating: C
Lariel Melendez was nabbed by the Dover Dung Beetles for $3.8M. Has the arm for the 3B position if things work out but the range and glove just may not be there. Could wind up being a decent hitter however. Many were scared off by his lack of health.
Rating: C+
Kevin Woo was overtly wooed by the chirping of the Dung Beetles also at $3.4M. Could be decent at the SS position but his hitting style might not be ML material in the end.
Rating: C
Max Galvez was picked up rather cheaply by the Texas Rangers for $2.1M. The range for 1B might be a bit below standards. Hitting could be a power positive however. Many were scared off by the lack of durability.
Rating: C+
Enrique Iglesias has been paid the most so far by the Charlotte Knights at $6.1M. Fancies himself as a 2B but a very weak one if you ask me, might be better suited in RF. Has the speed and contact if he can get on base which could be a trifle tricky.
Rating: C
Lariel Melendez was nabbed by the Dover Dung Beetles for $3.8M. Has the arm for the 3B position if things work out but the range and glove just may not be there. Could wind up being a decent hitter however. Many were scared off by his lack of health.
Rating: C+
Kevin Woo was overtly wooed by the chirping of the Dung Beetles also at $3.4M. Could be decent at the SS position but his hitting style might not be ML material in the end.
Rating: C
Max Galvez was picked up rather cheaply by the Texas Rangers for $2.1M. The range for 1B might be a bit below standards. Hitting could be a power positive however. Many were scared off by the lack of durability.
Rating: C+
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
AL Preview
AL North
Has things flipped in this division again? This should prove to be an interesting division as Toronto, Minnesota and Seattle could all be first place at the end of the season. Oh, lets no leave out Detroit either. Don't let the early season antics fool anyone, Seattle has the better team on paper.
Then again paper teams don't always win and I like Toronto's chances. Followed closely by Seattle and the Twinkies.
AL East
Last season I made a wild prediction in this division, not this year. Boston all the way. I do believe Washington will wind up second along with Atlanta. Dover just doesn't have the oomph in my belief.
AL South
Little Rock zoomed out to an early lead but has settled down to earth already. I have always liked Tampa Bay in this division but have always been disappointed. Will this season be any different?
I still like Tampa Bay (glutton for punishment on this prediction) to win the division with everyone else a close second. Watch out for those Texans however, can never rule out a team under this management guru.
AL West
Oh umm..I hate this division, anyone can win even with 10 games to go. This division will be as interesting as the rest of the AL. All four teams are equal one way or another and to give one a slight edge would be tough. I like Helena personally but the Slobs are candidates also, not to slight the other two.
Odds on favorites to win their divisions
1. Helena Hot Pockets
2. Seattle Mariners
3. Boston Red Sox
4. Tampa Bay Rays
Wild Cards hopefuls (not in any particular order)
5. San Diego Padres
6. Anaheim Angels
7. Toronto Blue Jays
8. Las Vegas Slobs
9. Minnesota Twins
10. Texas Rangers
Has things flipped in this division again? This should prove to be an interesting division as Toronto, Minnesota and Seattle could all be first place at the end of the season. Oh, lets no leave out Detroit either. Don't let the early season antics fool anyone, Seattle has the better team on paper.
Then again paper teams don't always win and I like Toronto's chances. Followed closely by Seattle and the Twinkies.
AL East
Last season I made a wild prediction in this division, not this year. Boston all the way. I do believe Washington will wind up second along with Atlanta. Dover just doesn't have the oomph in my belief.
AL South
Little Rock zoomed out to an early lead but has settled down to earth already. I have always liked Tampa Bay in this division but have always been disappointed. Will this season be any different?
I still like Tampa Bay (glutton for punishment on this prediction) to win the division with everyone else a close second. Watch out for those Texans however, can never rule out a team under this management guru.
AL West
Oh umm..I hate this division, anyone can win even with 10 games to go. This division will be as interesting as the rest of the AL. All four teams are equal one way or another and to give one a slight edge would be tough. I like Helena personally but the Slobs are candidates also, not to slight the other two.
Odds on favorites to win their divisions
1. Helena Hot Pockets
2. Seattle Mariners
3. Boston Red Sox
4. Tampa Bay Rays
Wild Cards hopefuls (not in any particular order)
5. San Diego Padres
6. Anaheim Angels
7. Toronto Blue Jays
8. Las Vegas Slobs
9. Minnesota Twins
10. Texas Rangers
NL Preview
NL North
The Pirates have dominated for quite a few seasons now and have jumped out to an early 4 game lead. I believe the Brewers have a better team overall but their starting pitching rotation is lacking. The Reds will fight and play their hearts out but will probably end up third. The Cubs are still rebuilding and looks to have another dismal year in the cellar.
Can the Brewers overcome a slow start to breath down the necks of the Pirates is the big question.
NL East
The Browns jumped out to the early lead just like last year, but here comes the Phillies closing the gap before the first turn again. The Mets fixed their offensive woes in the off-season but the pitching staff has been luckless so far. The Orioles made an opening series statement but has been very lackluster since.
If the Phillies win, it will be because of the starting pitching staff. Expect the Browns and Orioles to fade away once again. That leaves the Mets to challenge if they can get things in sync.
As a side note, this could be the last season in old Shea Stadium as the lure of the Bronx is overwhelming as the new stadiums loom but will still be called the Mets.
NL South
The Marlins have dominated for some time because of one player in all reality. The Red Devils are making a showing this season so far while the Astros and Knights have lingering effects.
Don't be fooled by the early season goings on in this division. Look for the Marlins to win but the Astros will wake up and challenge while the Red Devils will remain formidable. The Knights are under a learning experience curve and will get better.
NL West
The Dodgers have jumped out to an early lead and don't expect them to give it up so easily. The Super Sequoias are still a force to be reckoned with. The D'Backs aren't shabby along with the Giants.
This division should be the one to watch as they all have a shot. When it is all said and done however Salem should be on top with with the other three a close second.
Odds on favorites to win their divisions
1. Salem Super Sequoias
2. Florida Marlins
3. Pittsburgh Pirates
4. Philadelphia Phillies
Wild Cards hopefuls (not in any particular order)
5. Houston Astros
6. Milwaukee Brewers
7. Mexico City Diablos Rojos
8. Arizona Diamondbacks
9. New York Mets
10. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Pirates have dominated for quite a few seasons now and have jumped out to an early 4 game lead. I believe the Brewers have a better team overall but their starting pitching rotation is lacking. The Reds will fight and play their hearts out but will probably end up third. The Cubs are still rebuilding and looks to have another dismal year in the cellar.
Can the Brewers overcome a slow start to breath down the necks of the Pirates is the big question.
NL East
The Browns jumped out to the early lead just like last year, but here comes the Phillies closing the gap before the first turn again. The Mets fixed their offensive woes in the off-season but the pitching staff has been luckless so far. The Orioles made an opening series statement but has been very lackluster since.
If the Phillies win, it will be because of the starting pitching staff. Expect the Browns and Orioles to fade away once again. That leaves the Mets to challenge if they can get things in sync.
As a side note, this could be the last season in old Shea Stadium as the lure of the Bronx is overwhelming as the new stadiums loom but will still be called the Mets.
NL South
The Marlins have dominated for some time because of one player in all reality. The Red Devils are making a showing this season so far while the Astros and Knights have lingering effects.
Don't be fooled by the early season goings on in this division. Look for the Marlins to win but the Astros will wake up and challenge while the Red Devils will remain formidable. The Knights are under a learning experience curve and will get better.
NL West
The Dodgers have jumped out to an early lead and don't expect them to give it up so easily. The Super Sequoias are still a force to be reckoned with. The D'Backs aren't shabby along with the Giants.
This division should be the one to watch as they all have a shot. When it is all said and done however Salem should be on top with with the other three a close second.
Odds on favorites to win their divisions
1. Salem Super Sequoias
2. Florida Marlins
3. Pittsburgh Pirates
4. Philadelphia Phillies
Wild Cards hopefuls (not in any particular order)
5. Houston Astros
6. Milwaukee Brewers
7. Mexico City Diablos Rojos
8. Arizona Diamondbacks
9. New York Mets
10. Los Angeles Dodgers
Friday, June 17, 2011
More FA News
It was the normal FA frenzy this season as 21 Type B and 9 Type A players changed franchises. Owners were careful as only 4 first round picks were given up.
Johnny Collier was a sought after prize that was won by the Los Angeles Dodgers.
David Encarnacion gave up his services to further help the Charlotte pitching staff.
Edgard Espinosa was signed by Texas hoping to improve their beleaguered pitching staff.
Maverick Duran was often criticized in Dover but Toronto thinks he can be a winner.
Gene Podsednik was over looked by many because of his fielding abilities, but it seems the Dodgers wanted an OBP type player, now where to play him?
Rob Holzemer was cheaply acquired by Boston to strengthen the rotation.
Barney Byrne dealt with Texas as they needed a defensive center-post in the outfield.
Omar Garrido was the best power hitting non-1B available but it seems no one was willing to start a bidding war. Pittsburgh decided to give a huge bonus up front and a peanut contract to hit home runs for the kiddies making up for their huge loss.
Shaggy Stratton was highly prized by many teams as Tampa Bay won the bidding war for his pitching services at a staggering price.
Juan Carrasquel was coveted by most teams and the war ensued. Anaheim shelled out the biggest contract of the season.
Doug Cambridge and his old arm was given a breath of fresh air, err smelly air, as he joined the Dover Dung Beetles
Don Gong was given a chance to prove his worth in Arizona.
Elrod Daley moved his somewhat gregarious catching abilities to Anaheim in the hopes of besting left handed pitchers.
Harry Sanchez moved his newly acquired World Series ring to Atlanta who was looking for a lead-off batter and could play the hot corner.
Groucho Rogers was an unlikely candidate for middle relief duties at Florida but was tagged to fill out the pitching roster.
Clarence Valentin was the latest signing by the New York Mets. Overlooked by everyone it seems, the two time Gold Glove winner at 3B brings his services to the Big Apple who needed an every day infielder/outfielder.
Johnny Collier was a sought after prize that was won by the Los Angeles Dodgers.
David Encarnacion gave up his services to further help the Charlotte pitching staff.
Edgard Espinosa was signed by Texas hoping to improve their beleaguered pitching staff.
Maverick Duran was often criticized in Dover but Toronto thinks he can be a winner.
Gene Podsednik was over looked by many because of his fielding abilities, but it seems the Dodgers wanted an OBP type player, now where to play him?
Rob Holzemer was cheaply acquired by Boston to strengthen the rotation.
Barney Byrne dealt with Texas as they needed a defensive center-post in the outfield.
Omar Garrido was the best power hitting non-1B available but it seems no one was willing to start a bidding war. Pittsburgh decided to give a huge bonus up front and a peanut contract to hit home runs for the kiddies making up for their huge loss.
Shaggy Stratton was highly prized by many teams as Tampa Bay won the bidding war for his pitching services at a staggering price.
Juan Carrasquel was coveted by most teams and the war ensued. Anaheim shelled out the biggest contract of the season.
Doug Cambridge and his old arm was given a breath of fresh air, err smelly air, as he joined the Dover Dung Beetles
Don Gong was given a chance to prove his worth in Arizona.
Elrod Daley moved his somewhat gregarious catching abilities to Anaheim in the hopes of besting left handed pitchers.
Harry Sanchez moved his newly acquired World Series ring to Atlanta who was looking for a lead-off batter and could play the hot corner.
Groucho Rogers was an unlikely candidate for middle relief duties at Florida but was tagged to fill out the pitching roster.
Clarence Valentin was the latest signing by the New York Mets. Overlooked by everyone it seems, the two time Gold Glove winner at 3B brings his services to the Big Apple who needed an every day infielder/outfielder.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Hall of Fame Voting
A look at who I think deserves voting consideration.
Jesus Cruz has a very nice resume if you ask me and yes I voted for him.
Juan Castro had 522 Home Runs (85 in season 5) and 345 stolen bases and was rarely caught and really deserves to be in the Hall even with his somewhat low average.
Posiedon Warden was a constant threat to be on the pads during his hey day. In his last season it was decided he would be put on every team, does that ever bring back memories. Yes, he deserves to be in the Hall.
James Kim seemed to always get on base. Other than his batting average however leaves him kind of in the cold.
Ramon Dong was like Kim, always on the base pads. Everyone needs a big Dong on their team, DJ's sister lusted after him.
Charles Kinney wasn't great but made teams he played for great as he could get them to the 6th or 7th inning and be in contention. 142-56 is not a laughing stat. Yes I voted for him.
Frank Gates was one of the best hitting catchers I have ever seen with over 3300 hits. What a resume and Yes I voted for him.
Andrew Spencer does deserve consideration but too many others that were better.
Chad Sanders deserves to be there also, a Cy Young and 5 World Series rings proves it.
Billy Ulrich was an all around good catcher, but Gates was better.
Bryan McDowell was a great closer, the 6 fireman awards in a row proves that.
Mel Wagner deserves heavy consideration, 226 wins proves it. Yes I voted for him.
Mitchell Ray like McDowell was one of the best closers and went head to head a few times. 5 fireman awards! I voted for him because of the 454 saves.
Randy Lamb was a bit over the top but still had 627 Home Runs and for the most part on a bad team.
Jesus Cruz has a very nice resume if you ask me and yes I voted for him.
Juan Castro had 522 Home Runs (85 in season 5) and 345 stolen bases and was rarely caught and really deserves to be in the Hall even with his somewhat low average.
Posiedon Warden was a constant threat to be on the pads during his hey day. In his last season it was decided he would be put on every team, does that ever bring back memories. Yes, he deserves to be in the Hall.
James Kim seemed to always get on base. Other than his batting average however leaves him kind of in the cold.
Ramon Dong was like Kim, always on the base pads. Everyone needs a big Dong on their team, DJ's sister lusted after him.
Charles Kinney wasn't great but made teams he played for great as he could get them to the 6th or 7th inning and be in contention. 142-56 is not a laughing stat. Yes I voted for him.
Frank Gates was one of the best hitting catchers I have ever seen with over 3300 hits. What a resume and Yes I voted for him.
Andrew Spencer does deserve consideration but too many others that were better.
Chad Sanders deserves to be there also, a Cy Young and 5 World Series rings proves it.
Billy Ulrich was an all around good catcher, but Gates was better.
Bryan McDowell was a great closer, the 6 fireman awards in a row proves that.
Mel Wagner deserves heavy consideration, 226 wins proves it. Yes I voted for him.
Mitchell Ray like McDowell was one of the best closers and went head to head a few times. 5 fireman awards! I voted for him because of the 454 saves.
Randy Lamb was a bit over the top but still had 627 Home Runs and for the most part on a bad team.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Player Fatigue
Fatigue is a common issue that happens to players in this game just like the real world. They need to be rested from time to time. The biggest complaints takes place in the minors with pitchers. The objective is to have them play at 100%. Minor rosters have 25 active players just like the majors but can have 10 or more on the inactive roster. Two or three extra pitchers is always helpful regardless of how ugly they are. This allows you to swap players out if needed for a rest. Position players also get tired so it isn't just the pitchers. Fatigue on players run a higher risk of injury and his playing abilities diminishes.
For a pitcher, Stamina is the driving factor as to how many pitches can be thrown in an outing but differs between the different types of pitchers. Durability is used as the rate of recovery. The lower the Durability the slower the recovery. Most of your time will entail going through each pitching roster and resting pen pitchers after each game. Tweaking the TPC and MPC usually eliminates the need for extra days for starters. For a newbie it is tough until you get the hang of it. But be warned, if a pitching staff gets to 0%, recovery is very tough.
Fatigue on position players is different. It is based on the number of AB's. The formula: 730 x Durability% gives the number of AB's a player can roughly have in a season without fatigue being an issue. Basically they use a formula that projects a players number of AB's with his batting slot and when the number is exceeded fatigue sets in. Roughly, a player with a 70 durability needs about 15 to 20 games off throughout the season where an 80 durability needs about 12 to 15 games off. Usually you don't have to worry that much about position players with a durability above 85. Also remember that players in the first 4 slots in the batting order will get more AB's in a season.
It was noticed last season in both of my worlds that certain young players at the ML level never fatigued, not sure why.
For a pitcher, Stamina is the driving factor as to how many pitches can be thrown in an outing but differs between the different types of pitchers. Durability is used as the rate of recovery. The lower the Durability the slower the recovery. Most of your time will entail going through each pitching roster and resting pen pitchers after each game. Tweaking the TPC and MPC usually eliminates the need for extra days for starters. For a newbie it is tough until you get the hang of it. But be warned, if a pitching staff gets to 0%, recovery is very tough.
Fatigue on position players is different. It is based on the number of AB's. The formula: 730 x Durability% gives the number of AB's a player can roughly have in a season without fatigue being an issue. Basically they use a formula that projects a players number of AB's with his batting slot and when the number is exceeded fatigue sets in. Roughly, a player with a 70 durability needs about 15 to 20 games off throughout the season where an 80 durability needs about 12 to 15 games off. Usually you don't have to worry that much about position players with a durability above 85. Also remember that players in the first 4 slots in the batting order will get more AB's in a season.
It was noticed last season in both of my worlds that certain young players at the ML level never fatigued, not sure why.
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