With the new rules on IFA signings, the awarding of MLB contracts is rarely used anymore. A good reason is that an 18 year old IFA will use up all his options before he is ready for ML action. So now MLB contracts are more or less used for older IFA signings that may need only one year in the minors.
For those that do not know and since I was asked, signing an IFA to a 5 year MLB minimum deal was common practice. The Players Union got involved in this signing concept and decided it was an unfair labor practice costing players money in future years. The reason is that a player could possibly miss out on Free Agency altogether. To solve this problem it was decided that an IFA could only be signed to a 3 year minimum MLB contract thus burning his options with the contract. A contract longer than 3 years can only be initiated by the IFA and the money could get down right preposterous, though I have yet to see one except when the coding was wrong to start with. There has been some backlash from the new rules as few MLB contracts are given out during a season now and has actually driven the price down.
Emil Flores, SS, Oklahoma City Kevin Durants - Scouts say he is a power hitting SS that likes to hit to CF. Defensively a little weak but should not stop him from playing the position. Physically fine and a bit of a base stealing threat. Excels in the hitting department.
A good buy for $15.5M but the MLB contract may not have been.
Tony Nakamura, P, Philadelphia Athletics - Scouts say he has everything one would look for in a lefty relief pitcher. The question is how will the Athletics use him. He could be a very good 3 pitch shut down closer or setup A.
A relatively cheap buy at $10M.
Tomas Martinez, P, Santa Fe Good Will - Scouts say he is over rated a little but can go the distance every 5 days. A lefty power starting pitcher with a good out pitch and 3 good pitches, control but splits could be a little weak.
Still a good buy for $9.6M
Orlando Fernandez, 3B, Omaha Lancers - Hopefully scouting didn't say he was a SS as that was grossly mistaken. But what my scouts say is a power GG 3B that hits up the middle. Has the power for that deep CF shot but could be a strike out victim quite a bit. Health could be a bit of an issue at some point.
Possibly a bit of a steep price at $8.8M.
Benito Villarreal CF, Las Vegas Slobs - Scouts say he could be a GG CF with ease and could be a bit of a base stealing threat. Hitting won't exactly wow anybody but won't be terrible. Makeup could be a problem.
Maybe a bit high at $8M.
Albie Cordero, P, Las Vegas Slobs - Scouts are huddling on this guy as they are not exactly sure what to expect. Has the stamina and control, splits are a tad light but not bad. The pitches are what is throwing everything as the second pitch is better than the out pitch which makes a good start pitch but pitch three and four are weak. With a weak setup pitch and a throw away pitch going into a somewhat weak out pitch, at least it will be on the ground somewhere.
Maybe a bit high at $8M.
Alex Vanguri, P, Austin Fightin' Armadillos - Scouts say he has outstanding control, good splits and three very good movement pitches. Everything one wants in a shut down closer.
I say good buy at $7.8M
Lorenzo Astacio, P, Austin Fightin' Armadillos - Another closer type for the 'Dillos! Scouts tell me good control, good splits and outstanding pitches. Whom will setup whom in the end?
Good buy at $5.3M, did his patience drive the price down?
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Meet the New Injuns
My last top 5 prospect just signed, so it is time to introduce the future stars. Well, stars could be a loose term for sure.
Deivi Silva - Listed as a 2B in the draft but doesn't stand a chance to play that position what so ever and will one day find him shagging balls at a COF position, hopefully. Reason for drafting - best power hitter available on my board.
Albert Valenzuela - Listed as a catcher and should be a good backup to Bart when the time is right. Not as defensive as I like my catchers but his power numbers will make up for it. I consider him the steal of the 2nd round as I expected him to be taken in the supplemental at the very latest. Reason for drafting - power and defensive numbers capability at the catcher position.
Pascual Zapata - Listed as a SS but will never play there, 3B is gonna be his assigned position. I am hoping he will have what it takes to be a lead off hitter if his temper doesn't get in the way. Reason for drafting - Can play 3B and keep other 3B's busy with his hitting style.
Lonnie Dipoto - Listed as a SP in the draft. Could make the ML roster in the pen, will at least get to projections if all goes well and make AAA. Reason for drafting - probably was best pitcher left on my board.
Brendan Connelly - Listed as a 3B in the draft and will be great in the minors chasing fly balls at a COF spot. Has very little chance at making my ML roster but will help out minor league pitchers with his power numbers. AA is probably as far as he will advance. Reason for drafting - Crucial need for power hitters in the minors.
Enrique Rosario - Listed as a 1B in the draft. Normally I don't hold much hope after the 5th pick, but he has a chance to find a bench spot somewhere if not with the Indians. Reason for drafting - best player on my board at the time.
The next 6 or 7 picks will probably make it to AA at the least. IMO that makes my draft A-1 in my books.
Not to be out done, while everyone was getting over signing their picks and what not, the Injuns snuck in an IFA to go along with the draft. How this happened I am not sure.
Virgil Lee - Listed as a 1B, with his addition, makes the Rookie team pretty impressive in the position department. Not a true power hitter or speed guy but does have the qualifications to be a very good singles and doubles hitter as he hits to the defensive gaps and could very well hit #2 in anyones lineup. Did he get away because his power was light making his OVR low? If he had Enrique Rosario's power, he would easily been listed as an upper 70's or low 80's and that won't stop him from finding a ML spot.
Deivi Silva - Listed as a 2B in the draft but doesn't stand a chance to play that position what so ever and will one day find him shagging balls at a COF position, hopefully. Reason for drafting - best power hitter available on my board.
Albert Valenzuela - Listed as a catcher and should be a good backup to Bart when the time is right. Not as defensive as I like my catchers but his power numbers will make up for it. I consider him the steal of the 2nd round as I expected him to be taken in the supplemental at the very latest. Reason for drafting - power and defensive numbers capability at the catcher position.
Pascual Zapata - Listed as a SS but will never play there, 3B is gonna be his assigned position. I am hoping he will have what it takes to be a lead off hitter if his temper doesn't get in the way. Reason for drafting - Can play 3B and keep other 3B's busy with his hitting style.
Lonnie Dipoto - Listed as a SP in the draft. Could make the ML roster in the pen, will at least get to projections if all goes well and make AAA. Reason for drafting - probably was best pitcher left on my board.
Brendan Connelly - Listed as a 3B in the draft and will be great in the minors chasing fly balls at a COF spot. Has very little chance at making my ML roster but will help out minor league pitchers with his power numbers. AA is probably as far as he will advance. Reason for drafting - Crucial need for power hitters in the minors.
Enrique Rosario - Listed as a 1B in the draft. Normally I don't hold much hope after the 5th pick, but he has a chance to find a bench spot somewhere if not with the Indians. Reason for drafting - best player on my board at the time.
The next 6 or 7 picks will probably make it to AA at the least. IMO that makes my draft A-1 in my books.
Not to be out done, while everyone was getting over signing their picks and what not, the Injuns snuck in an IFA to go along with the draft. How this happened I am not sure.
Virgil Lee - Listed as a 1B, with his addition, makes the Rookie team pretty impressive in the position department. Not a true power hitter or speed guy but does have the qualifications to be a very good singles and doubles hitter as he hits to the defensive gaps and could very well hit #2 in anyones lineup. Did he get away because his power was light making his OVR low? If he had Enrique Rosario's power, he would easily been listed as an upper 70's or low 80's and that won't stop him from finding a ML spot.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Push or Pull?
The Push/Pull rating is probably the least most looked at rating of any position player. What does it mean exactly? The information says that a 0 is a dead pull hitter, so 100 would mean the exact opposite or dead opposite field. Basically, it is a hitters tendency and determines where the ball goes when contact is made about 80% of the time.
Chart for right handed hitter vs right handed pitcher
0-49 is hit to left side
50 is hit up the middle
51-100 is hit to right side
Chart for right handed hitter vs left handed pitcher
0-49 is hit to right side
50 is hit up the middle
51-100 is hit to left side
Note: This chart is in a simplistic form and can be broken down even further to determine which fielder will be involved in most cases. Like 15 is 3B, 35 is SS, 65 is 2B and 1B is 85. Power alleys would be 40 and 60. Just a guess.
For switch hitters and left handed hitters all you need to do is think opposite or watch the box scores as to where they hit the ball against different pitchers to get the hang of where it is going to go.
Whether the ball is on the ground or is in the air depends on several factors but mainly depends on the hitters power and the pitchers FB/GB ratings.
Does this really matter all that much? Actually I am not sure myself. It might if you have aggressive on hit and run. The object of hit and run is to hit behind the runner, doesn't help if your always hitting in front.
Here is a question that everyone can debate: Why is the range and glove of a 3B need to be so great while that of a 1B is so little?
Chart for right handed hitter vs right handed pitcher
0-49 is hit to left side
50 is hit up the middle
51-100 is hit to right side
Chart for right handed hitter vs left handed pitcher
0-49 is hit to right side
50 is hit up the middle
51-100 is hit to left side
Note: This chart is in a simplistic form and can be broken down even further to determine which fielder will be involved in most cases. Like 15 is 3B, 35 is SS, 65 is 2B and 1B is 85. Power alleys would be 40 and 60. Just a guess.
For switch hitters and left handed hitters all you need to do is think opposite or watch the box scores as to where they hit the ball against different pitchers to get the hang of where it is going to go.
Whether the ball is on the ground or is in the air depends on several factors but mainly depends on the hitters power and the pitchers FB/GB ratings.
Does this really matter all that much? Actually I am not sure myself. It might if you have aggressive on hit and run. The object of hit and run is to hit behind the runner, doesn't help if your always hitting in front.
Here is a question that everyone can debate: Why is the range and glove of a 3B need to be so great while that of a 1B is so little?
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Power Rankings Part 3
1. Cincinnati Reds - Back atop the power rankings once again after an impressive 11 game winning streak.
Record: 47 - 23
Previous Ranking: 2
2. Santa Fe Goodwill - Great season thus far. I really thought their poor pitching would catch up to them, but their impressive defense and offense have them atop the AL South with the best record in the AL.
Record: 46 - 24
Previous Ranking: 4
3. Atlanta Pork N Beans - Leagues best record, but struggling as of late. A series against the minor league team from Austin should help.
Record: 48 - 22
Previous Ranking: 1
4. Chicago Cubs - Neglected in the power rankings all season long. The Cubs made a nice high risk, high reward trade that added Albert Johnson to their line up. This trade could very well propel the Cubs to the top of the NL.
Record: 44 - 26
Previous Ranking: UR
5. St. Louis Barracudas - Impressive 13 - 2 over their last 15 games.
Record: 44 - 26
Previous Ranking: 7
6. Houston Astros - I think KJD broke Dan Hitchcock and Mel Wagner.
Record: 45 - 25
Previous Ranking: 6
7. Toronto Blue Jays - Never expected the Jays to be this good after losing Javier Santayana for the season.
Record: 42 - 28
Previous Ranking: 9
8. Colorado Rockies - Offense is really carrying the Rockies right now. Really impressive lineup that appears to be benefiting from the move to Colorado. Pitching has been weak all season. Maybe its the thin air.
Record: 40 - 30
Previous Ranking: 5
9 (tie). Cleveland Indians - Impressive pitching, but they need to find a way to score some more runs. If they find a way to start scoring some runs they would likely close that gap on the PnBs.
Record: 39 - 31
Previous Ranking: UR
9 (tie) Las Vegas Slobs - Tough inter-league that included the Reds, Cubs, and Pirates. Like the Indians their pitching has been impressive, but they need to find a way to score more runs.
Record: 39 - 31
Previous Ranking: UR
10. Florida Marlins - The Marlins impressive (impressive is the word of the day) 11 game win streak moves them above a few teams with better records. Currently 9 games bacl of the Astros in the NL South, but their is plenty of time left in the season.
Record: 36 - 34
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 47 - 23
Previous Ranking: 2
2. Santa Fe Goodwill - Great season thus far. I really thought their poor pitching would catch up to them, but their impressive defense and offense have them atop the AL South with the best record in the AL.
Record: 46 - 24
Previous Ranking: 4
3. Atlanta Pork N Beans - Leagues best record, but struggling as of late. A series against the minor league team from Austin should help.
Record: 48 - 22
Previous Ranking: 1
4. Chicago Cubs - Neglected in the power rankings all season long. The Cubs made a nice high risk, high reward trade that added Albert Johnson to their line up. This trade could very well propel the Cubs to the top of the NL.
Record: 44 - 26
Previous Ranking: UR
5. St. Louis Barracudas - Impressive 13 - 2 over their last 15 games.
Record: 44 - 26
Previous Ranking: 7
6. Houston Astros - I think KJD broke Dan Hitchcock and Mel Wagner.
Record: 45 - 25
Previous Ranking: 6
7. Toronto Blue Jays - Never expected the Jays to be this good after losing Javier Santayana for the season.
Record: 42 - 28
Previous Ranking: 9
8. Colorado Rockies - Offense is really carrying the Rockies right now. Really impressive lineup that appears to be benefiting from the move to Colorado. Pitching has been weak all season. Maybe its the thin air.
Record: 40 - 30
Previous Ranking: 5
9 (tie). Cleveland Indians - Impressive pitching, but they need to find a way to score some more runs. If they find a way to start scoring some runs they would likely close that gap on the PnBs.
Record: 39 - 31
Previous Ranking: UR
9 (tie) Las Vegas Slobs - Tough inter-league that included the Reds, Cubs, and Pirates. Like the Indians their pitching has been impressive, but they need to find a way to score more runs.
Record: 39 - 31
Previous Ranking: UR
10. Florida Marlins - The Marlins impressive (impressive is the word of the day) 11 game win streak moves them above a few teams with better records. Currently 9 games bacl of the Astros in the NL South, but their is plenty of time left in the season.
Record: 36 - 34
Previous Ranking: UR
Hall of Fame Nominees
- Each franchise gets 3 votes.
- A minimum of 2 players will be inducted. If less than 2 players receive the minimum number of votes the two players receiving the most number of votes are inducted.
- Trade chat me your votes.
- Any player receiving from 70% or more of the franchises is inducted.
- You can vote for any player including your own.
Abraham Jordan
Career Stats:
13 ML seasons - .318 Avg, .434 OBP, 1721 Hits, 412 HR, 1271 RBI, 1185 Runs
Awards/Accomplishments:
1 MVP
4 time All Star
4 Silver Slugger
1 Home Run Derby Champ
Javier Santayana
Career Stats:
9 ML seasons - .313 Avg, .378 OBP, 1875 Hits, 251 HR, 1029 RBI, 1242 Runs, 455 SB
Awards/Accomplishments:
4 time All Star
1 Gold Glove
1 Silver Slugger
5th All Time in Hits
5th All Time in Runs
Career Leader in Stolen Bases
Frank Gates
Career Stats:
10 ML seasons - .384 Avg, .504 OBP, 2216 Hits, 206 HR, 1151 RBI, 1295 Runs, 455 SB
Awards/Accomplishments:
2 MVPs
10 time All Star
8 Silver Sluggers
Rookie of the Year
Career Leader in Hits
Career Leader in Batting Average
Roosevelt Stevenson
9 ML seasons - .300 Avg, .379 OBP, 1894 Hits, 513 HR, 1427 RBI, 1281 Runs
Awards/Accomplishments:
3 time All Star
2 Silver Slugger
1 All Star Game MVP
2nd All Time in Homeruns
2nd All Time in RBIs
3rd All Time in Runs
Max Crede
9 ML seasons - .267 Avg, .331 OBP, 1099 Hits, 303 HR, 862 RBI, 655 Runs
William Hernandez
12 ML seasons - .315 Avg, .385 OBP, 2037 Hits, 462 HR, 1427 RBI, 1250 Runs
Awards/Accomplishments:
1 MVP
4 time All Star
4 Silver Slugger
1 Gold Glove
1 All Star Game MVP
1 WS Ring
3rd All Time in Homeruns
3rd All Time in Hits
Career Leader in RBIs
Dallas Payton
9 ML seasons - .318 Avg, .414 OBP, 1671 Hits, 423 HR, 1329 RBI, 1141 Runs
Awards/Accomplishments:
1 MVP
5 time All Star
4 Silver Slugger
1 Gold Glove
1 Home Run Derby Champ
Posiedon Warden
13 ML seasons - .324 Avg, .443 OBP, 1826 Hits, 224 HR, 967 RBI, 1333 Runs, 206 SB
Awards/Accomplishments:
4 time All Star
1 Silver Slugger
2 WS Rings
2nd All time in Runs
Ramon Dong
10 ML seasons - .331 Avg, .420 OBP, 1996Hits, 228 HR, 1056 RBI, 1320 Runs, 124 SB
Awards/Accomplishments:
5 time All Star
2 Silver Slugger
1 Gold Glove
1 WS Ring
4th All Time in Hits
4th All Time in Runs
Pitchers:
Bryan McDowell
Career Stats:
12 ML seasons - 2.95 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 21 Wins, 348 Saves
Awards/Accomplishments:
7 time All Star
6 time Fireman of the Year
1 WS Ring
Career Leader in Saves
Britt Swindell
Career Stats:
8 ML Seasons - 3.49 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 148 Wins, 1627 SO
Awards/Accomplishments:
3 CY Youngs
5 time All Star
4 WS Rings
4th All Time in Strikeouts
Yamil Pulido
Career Stats:
8 ML Seasons - 2.37 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, 177 Wins, 1786 SO
Awards/Accomplishments:
5 CY Youngs
8 time All Star
1 Fireman of the Year
2 WS Rings
Career Leader in Wins
Career Leader in Strikeouts
Career Leader in Shutouts
Dwight Johnson
Career Stats:
12 ML Seasons - 3.68 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 158 Wins, 1589 SO
Awards/Accomplishments:
1 CY Young
4 time All Star
Rookie of the Year
3 WS Rings
4th All Time in Wins
5th All Time in Strikeouts
Mel Wagner
12 ML Seasons - 4.00 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 167 Wins, 1756 SO
Awards/Accomplishments:
1 CY Young
3 time All Star
2nd All Time in Wins
2nd All Time in Strikeouts
4th All Time in Shutouts
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Season 11 Draft Crop
When I first saw the board I thought it was a very good draft board for some. I really thought there would be a good mix of College and High School players for once. However, judging from the first round picks, the draft actually favored college in a way. I went for a 16/10 split favoring College this year for and I didn't even come close to the players I thought I might get because 11 of the first 15 picks came out of the college ranks. I do like the split as I don't see many High School players but they are a bit hard to judge where they belong sometimes. I did figure out that most HS players have a projected overall that is at least 4 points high in most cases and can't be trusted at all because it could swing 5 to 10 points in any direction on any rating. The bad part is that a draft could lean to the best prospects being High School as opposed to College.
This year I am grading the draft picks a little differently than in the past. I have always dinged players with poor health in the physical ratings but this year I will be judging the physical ratings more harshly. The reason is they seem to be used more and more in in-game performance if you haven't noticed. I have always graded the defensive ratings harshly so no news there and will be graded as to the position that shows up on the draft history report. Pitchers will be graded much more harshly as I have set criteria but won't be picking on left handed pitchers as much. So, without further ado:
18 Pitchers taken
4 SS taken
5 2B taken
1 1B taken
1 3B taken
1 RF taken
1 CF taken
1 C taken
1. Greg Woods, SS, Oklahoma City Kevin Durants - The first pick of the draft and a damn good one at that.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Could end up being a little light for SS
Hitting: What a monster at the plate to deep CF, pitchers just may flat out walk him
Pitching: N/A
Organization: ungraded with 2 unknown
2. Josh Towers, P, Washington D.C. Senators - Scouts say he could be good but has problems with weak pitches after the first one
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
3. Alfredo Henriquez, 2B, Omaha Lancers - A good defensive power hitting 2B and light CF.
Physical: Good, has poor makeup
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: Good, will try to take advantage of the SS/3B gap and LF wall.
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B could be higher if 2nd round pick signs and is worth it
4. Jim Matthews, P, Helena Hot Pockets - A very good pitcher and will be quick to the ML level with outstanding stamina, control and splits but pitches are another story. May not be an ace but very close. A PC catcher will help.
Physical: Good but durability will cause a 6 man rotation
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Pitch 2 and 4 are whimpy
Organization: A freaking plus - that is what he wanted for a draft well done
5. Harry Cora, RF, Florida Marlins - A great offensive and defensive pick.
Physical: Very Good and a base stealing threat
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: A monster power gap hitter, could be a bit weak against lefties
Pitching: N/A
Organization: A+ got a good pitcher in the 2nd round
6. Andy Fassero, SS, Santa Cruz Caballeros - Scouts says he is a true power hitting SS but could have problems attaining projections with a poor patience.
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
7. Pepper Inge, P, New York Mets - A very good pitcher with outstanding stamina, control and splits, pitches could be a problem. A PC catcher will be needed.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: First two pitches a bit light
Organization: C+ as there are some possibilities
8. Cookie Eyre, P, Philadelphia Athletics - Good control, splits,and out pitch
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Good, bad 2nd and 3rd pitch
Organization: C+ valiant attempt at trying to find ML pitching that came up margeinal
9. Turner Ferrell, P, Detroit Detroit - A very good pitcher with outstanding stamina, control and splits. Pitches are a bit awkward as his setup pitch is his best and his throw away pitch could be a little too good. Will probably get lit up in the minors for a while and a PC catcher may be needed.
Physical: Good, make up and durability is light but adequate
Defense: Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Out pitch is light
Organization: B+ decent draft overall
10. Johnny Collier, P, Vancouver Canadians - The first pitcher that actually projects to be an actual ace pitching wise.
Physical: Bad health and patience.
Defense: Outstanding, he could play COF if he could hit
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Could be slow to attain and maintain late in young career
Organization: B+ hope on the first pick but the rest were pretty decent
11. Neil Rigdon, C, Austin Fightin' Armadillos - Always like good catchers in the first round. He is no Bart Ross but he will be good.
Physical: Good, makeup a little light but adequate
Defense: Glove is weak
Hitting: Monster power pull hitter to LF and RF
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B not bad at all
12. Bernard Shelley, CF, Pittsburgh Pirates - CF/2B doesn't matter as his defensive skills should be quick to attain ML levels and GG status.
Physical: Good, patience a little light
Defense: Outstanding
Hitting: Mainly heavy doubles and singles hitter through 2B or SS
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B followed up with plausible pen help
13. Matty Rijo, P, Tampa Bay Rays - Unknown
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
14. Mel White, P, Dover Dung Beetles - Scouts give a two thumbs up for this shut down closer
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
15. Kane North, SS, Salt Lake City Multiple Spouses - Scouts say he is a true power hitting SS but hitting style may not provide sought after power numbers.
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
16. Deivi Silva, 2B, Cleveland Indians - Power hitting LF in the end
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Bad for 2B
Hitting: Power hitting CF
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B will go up to an A+ if 3rd round pick signs, 2nd round was a coup with maybe the 2nd best catcher
17. Javy Nunez, 1B, Trenton Ball Hogs - The last big power hitter on the board already.
Physical: Good, Health a little light and patience is lacking
Defense: Weak and would make better DH
Hitting: Power pull hitter to RF or LF and a bit weak against lefties
Pitching: N/A
Organization: C+ not all that bad really, it was that ugly 5th pick
18. Victor Grieve, P, Salem Volcanoes - A long reliever with very good control and splits with pitches being so so. Could be tough to make projections given durability and stamina.
Physical: Good but durability very light
Defense: weak range
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: pitches not so hot
Organization: C mainly because I didn't care much for the first pick
19. Abraham Hart, P, Toronto Blue Jays - Great stamina, splits and pitches for a power pitcher.
Physical: Very good
Defense: Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Control could cause problems
Organization: C all those picks and not a real good return on investment
20. John Lennon, P, Texas Rangers - Great stamina, control and splits, but some awful pitches. Maybe Yoko can help.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Weak
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: A PC catcher will be a must
Organization: C not an exciting first pick but there are a couple after that show promise.
21. Pedro Vazquez, P, Santa Fe Good Will - Good stamina and control but some really weak pitches.
Physical: Good but makeup light
Defense: Adequate
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Not a first round pick
Organization: C- Not good when a couple closers look better than the first pick
22. Tarrik Jenkins, 3B, New York Yankees - too weak to play 3B but can play COF but is a decent hitter with light stealing capabilities
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Poor for 3B
Hitting: Most singles and doubles to 1B/2B gap
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B+ went young and found a nice trove of talent
23. Lou Corey, SS, St. Louis Barracudas - A good hitting defensive SS is hard to come by and this one almost fills the bill. 2B and 3B is not out of the question.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Weak accuracy
Hitting: An up the middle singles hitter
Pitching: N/A
Organization: C after the first pick things turned for the worse when the 2nd pick wanted more than he is worth.
24. Felipe Ozuna, P, Louisville Swingers - Good stamina, somewhat good control, good splits and a good out pitch.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Good if he doesn't try throwing to second on a bunt
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Weak secondary pitches, A PC catcher is order
Organization: B- some are good some are bad in all those picks
25. Daryl Young, P, Milwaukee Brewers - Good Stamina, control and adequate splits and two decent enough pitches. Setup or long closer.
Physical: Durability is good, patience is very bad
Defense: Can't use a glove
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Second pitch is a little light to be shut down power closer and a slow PC catcher will help. How do ya find one of those..huh? huh?
Organization: C- Looking for pitching help and coming up empty
26. Alfredo Guerrero, 2B, Las Vegas Slobs - Not a 2B by a long shot but could be a COF with ease. Too bad his IQ doesn't match his speed or one might have a decent power lead off hitter.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Poor
Hitting: average eye and average vsR but power up the middle hitter.
Pitching: N/A
Organization: C failed trying to fill pitching late but 3rd rounder looks good
27. T.J. O'Brien, 2B, Chicago Cubs - Unknown
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
28. Milt Aldridge, P, Houston Astros - Great control, splits and pitches
Physical: Bad, poor durability could be tough to make projections
Defense: Adequate
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Would have made a good setup or closer
Organization: Back to draft school
29. Cesar Cortez, P, Toronto Blue Jays - Good Stamina and control but that is where things stop.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Weak splits and pitches for first round
Organization: C it looks bad when the 3rd and 4th round picks look better than the 3 supplementals
30. Brandon Miles, P, Atlanta Pork-N-Beans - Great Stamina, Control and Pitches. Good ingredients for a pen pitcher.
Physical: Good but patience and makeup a little light
Defense: Weak range
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Maybe the best pitcher in the draft overall
Organization: B- Stayed away from pitchers and got some nice talent
31. Toby Sefcik, 2B, Monterrey Corn Dogs - 2B is not the place for him, but where to put him could be a problem with his weak glove, maybe RF.
Physical: Good
Defense: Weak glove
Hitting: A singles and doubles hitter that will hit the 1B and 3B gap.
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B- Corn Dogs got shafted on the 2nd pick..WIS draft guru doesn't like you.
32. Ronnie Anderson, P, Cincinnati Reds - Ok, how does erff do it? Good stamina, control, splits and somewhat good pitches.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Weak range
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: At least pitch 2 is weak
Organization: A+ How about finding that much talent with late picks.
Analysis: It seems to have been a pitchers draft, but just about all the pitchers had a severe flaw somewhere in the pitching ratings. To go with that, there were only 4 or 5 super hitters but not much more.
This year I am grading the draft picks a little differently than in the past. I have always dinged players with poor health in the physical ratings but this year I will be judging the physical ratings more harshly. The reason is they seem to be used more and more in in-game performance if you haven't noticed. I have always graded the defensive ratings harshly so no news there and will be graded as to the position that shows up on the draft history report. Pitchers will be graded much more harshly as I have set criteria but won't be picking on left handed pitchers as much. So, without further ado:
18 Pitchers taken
4 SS taken
5 2B taken
1 1B taken
1 3B taken
1 RF taken
1 CF taken
1 C taken
1. Greg Woods, SS, Oklahoma City Kevin Durants - The first pick of the draft and a damn good one at that.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Could end up being a little light for SS
Hitting: What a monster at the plate to deep CF, pitchers just may flat out walk him
Pitching: N/A
Organization: ungraded with 2 unknown
2. Josh Towers, P, Washington D.C. Senators - Scouts say he could be good but has problems with weak pitches after the first one
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
3. Alfredo Henriquez, 2B, Omaha Lancers - A good defensive power hitting 2B and light CF.
Physical: Good, has poor makeup
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: Good, will try to take advantage of the SS/3B gap and LF wall.
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B could be higher if 2nd round pick signs and is worth it
4. Jim Matthews, P, Helena Hot Pockets - A very good pitcher and will be quick to the ML level with outstanding stamina, control and splits but pitches are another story. May not be an ace but very close. A PC catcher will help.
Physical: Good but durability will cause a 6 man rotation
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Pitch 2 and 4 are whimpy
Organization: A freaking plus - that is what he wanted for a draft well done
5. Harry Cora, RF, Florida Marlins - A great offensive and defensive pick.
Physical: Very Good and a base stealing threat
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: A monster power gap hitter, could be a bit weak against lefties
Pitching: N/A
Organization: A+ got a good pitcher in the 2nd round
6. Andy Fassero, SS, Santa Cruz Caballeros - Scouts says he is a true power hitting SS but could have problems attaining projections with a poor patience.
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
7. Pepper Inge, P, New York Mets - A very good pitcher with outstanding stamina, control and splits, pitches could be a problem. A PC catcher will be needed.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: First two pitches a bit light
Organization: C+ as there are some possibilities
8. Cookie Eyre, P, Philadelphia Athletics - Good control, splits,and out pitch
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Good, bad 2nd and 3rd pitch
Organization: C+ valiant attempt at trying to find ML pitching that came up margeinal
9. Turner Ferrell, P, Detroit Detroit - A very good pitcher with outstanding stamina, control and splits. Pitches are a bit awkward as his setup pitch is his best and his throw away pitch could be a little too good. Will probably get lit up in the minors for a while and a PC catcher may be needed.
Physical: Good, make up and durability is light but adequate
Defense: Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Out pitch is light
Organization: B+ decent draft overall
10. Johnny Collier, P, Vancouver Canadians - The first pitcher that actually projects to be an actual ace pitching wise.
Physical: Bad health and patience.
Defense: Outstanding, he could play COF if he could hit
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Could be slow to attain and maintain late in young career
Organization: B+ hope on the first pick but the rest were pretty decent
11. Neil Rigdon, C, Austin Fightin' Armadillos - Always like good catchers in the first round. He is no Bart Ross but he will be good.
Physical: Good, makeup a little light but adequate
Defense: Glove is weak
Hitting: Monster power pull hitter to LF and RF
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B not bad at all
12. Bernard Shelley, CF, Pittsburgh Pirates - CF/2B doesn't matter as his defensive skills should be quick to attain ML levels and GG status.
Physical: Good, patience a little light
Defense: Outstanding
Hitting: Mainly heavy doubles and singles hitter through 2B or SS
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B followed up with plausible pen help
13. Matty Rijo, P, Tampa Bay Rays - Unknown
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
14. Mel White, P, Dover Dung Beetles - Scouts give a two thumbs up for this shut down closer
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
15. Kane North, SS, Salt Lake City Multiple Spouses - Scouts say he is a true power hitting SS but hitting style may not provide sought after power numbers.
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
16. Deivi Silva, 2B, Cleveland Indians - Power hitting LF in the end
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Bad for 2B
Hitting: Power hitting CF
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B will go up to an A+ if 3rd round pick signs, 2nd round was a coup with maybe the 2nd best catcher
17. Javy Nunez, 1B, Trenton Ball Hogs - The last big power hitter on the board already.
Physical: Good, Health a little light and patience is lacking
Defense: Weak and would make better DH
Hitting: Power pull hitter to RF or LF and a bit weak against lefties
Pitching: N/A
Organization: C+ not all that bad really, it was that ugly 5th pick
18. Victor Grieve, P, Salem Volcanoes - A long reliever with very good control and splits with pitches being so so. Could be tough to make projections given durability and stamina.
Physical: Good but durability very light
Defense: weak range
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: pitches not so hot
Organization: C mainly because I didn't care much for the first pick
19. Abraham Hart, P, Toronto Blue Jays - Great stamina, splits and pitches for a power pitcher.
Physical: Very good
Defense: Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Control could cause problems
Organization: C all those picks and not a real good return on investment
20. John Lennon, P, Texas Rangers - Great stamina, control and splits, but some awful pitches. Maybe Yoko can help.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Weak
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: A PC catcher will be a must
Organization: C not an exciting first pick but there are a couple after that show promise.
21. Pedro Vazquez, P, Santa Fe Good Will - Good stamina and control but some really weak pitches.
Physical: Good but makeup light
Defense: Adequate
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Not a first round pick
Organization: C- Not good when a couple closers look better than the first pick
22. Tarrik Jenkins, 3B, New York Yankees - too weak to play 3B but can play COF but is a decent hitter with light stealing capabilities
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Poor for 3B
Hitting: Most singles and doubles to 1B/2B gap
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B+ went young and found a nice trove of talent
23. Lou Corey, SS, St. Louis Barracudas - A good hitting defensive SS is hard to come by and this one almost fills the bill. 2B and 3B is not out of the question.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Weak accuracy
Hitting: An up the middle singles hitter
Pitching: N/A
Organization: C after the first pick things turned for the worse when the 2nd pick wanted more than he is worth.
24. Felipe Ozuna, P, Louisville Swingers - Good stamina, somewhat good control, good splits and a good out pitch.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Good if he doesn't try throwing to second on a bunt
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Weak secondary pitches, A PC catcher is order
Organization: B- some are good some are bad in all those picks
25. Daryl Young, P, Milwaukee Brewers - Good Stamina, control and adequate splits and two decent enough pitches. Setup or long closer.
Physical: Durability is good, patience is very bad
Defense: Can't use a glove
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Second pitch is a little light to be shut down power closer and a slow PC catcher will help. How do ya find one of those..huh? huh?
Organization: C- Looking for pitching help and coming up empty
26. Alfredo Guerrero, 2B, Las Vegas Slobs - Not a 2B by a long shot but could be a COF with ease. Too bad his IQ doesn't match his speed or one might have a decent power lead off hitter.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Poor
Hitting: average eye and average vsR but power up the middle hitter.
Pitching: N/A
Organization: C failed trying to fill pitching late but 3rd rounder looks good
27. T.J. O'Brien, 2B, Chicago Cubs - Unknown
Physical:
Defense:
Hitting:
Pitching:
Organization:
28. Milt Aldridge, P, Houston Astros - Great control, splits and pitches
Physical: Bad, poor durability could be tough to make projections
Defense: Adequate
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Would have made a good setup or closer
Organization: Back to draft school
29. Cesar Cortez, P, Toronto Blue Jays - Good Stamina and control but that is where things stop.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Very Good
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Weak splits and pitches for first round
Organization: C it looks bad when the 3rd and 4th round picks look better than the 3 supplementals
30. Brandon Miles, P, Atlanta Pork-N-Beans - Great Stamina, Control and Pitches. Good ingredients for a pen pitcher.
Physical: Good but patience and makeup a little light
Defense: Weak range
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: Maybe the best pitcher in the draft overall
Organization: B- Stayed away from pitchers and got some nice talent
31. Toby Sefcik, 2B, Monterrey Corn Dogs - 2B is not the place for him, but where to put him could be a problem with his weak glove, maybe RF.
Physical: Good
Defense: Weak glove
Hitting: A singles and doubles hitter that will hit the 1B and 3B gap.
Pitching: N/A
Organization: B- Corn Dogs got shafted on the 2nd pick..WIS draft guru doesn't like you.
32. Ronnie Anderson, P, Cincinnati Reds - Ok, how does erff do it? Good stamina, control, splits and somewhat good pitches.
Physical: Very Good
Defense: Weak range
Hitting: N/A
Pitching: At least pitch 2 is weak
Organization: A+ How about finding that much talent with late picks.
Analysis: It seems to have been a pitchers draft, but just about all the pitchers had a severe flaw somewhere in the pitching ratings. To go with that, there were only 4 or 5 super hitters but not much more.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Injun Draft Board Strategy
With the 16th pick of the Season 11 draft the Cleveland Indians select? The answer to that question lies in the answer to another question. What do the Indians need most in this draft? Normally it is pitching but after really looking at the minors and the ML roster I have determined the answer is a power hitting 2B or 3B. Egads, after looking at the board the pickings are slim for that need. I have tagged 8 position players in the first 8 slots. The first 3 are top 5 picks, though with all the pitching available on my board and I am not seeing many High School players due to the way the budget is set, they could drop a little. After doing several drafts with these budget settings you get the hang of where to put HS players and none of these on my board are worth getting excited over. So I did a little mock draft.
My #1 should go to OKC if they don't take the best pitcher on their board. Otherwise he could fall to Helena at #4 but that would be the lowest he should go.
My #2 is not really all that fantastic but should not pass no further than the Mets with the 7th pick.
My #3 is iffy, I originally had him out of my board but put him back in due to needs. I doubt he will fall past the 12th pick anyway.
My #4 could fall to me at 16, he isn't the 3B I want but is a 2B/CF which is a plus. Not exactly the hitter I want but will do.
My #5 is iffy and should really fall to the mid 20 picks.
My #6 is iffy and should really fall to the mid 20's also.
My #7 is a gap singles hitter and could easily fall to me but not what I am looking for.
My #8 is the best catcher on my board and is really more of a supplemental pick than a first round pick.
My #9 thru #16 are pitchers and most should be picked before 16 but somehow I very seriously doubt it.
I have an hour before the draft and after doing the mock draft, I am debating on whether to change the positions of a few players. Pick 16 is the cut off for a starting pitcher in most drafts. The pitchers have good control and splits and a good out pitch but not real good second pitches. This is the oddest draft board of all of them I have had recently. The only constant is the player I really want is not on the board or has no way of falling to me.
So after the mock draft I moved #5 thru #8 down the board behind 3 pitchers that make sense. And moved #4 up to #3. Normally I would say I would get two players in my top 10 and I am still banking on that but which ones is a mystery.
#1 - Greg Woods - projected #1
#2 - Harry Cora - projected no lower than 8
#3 - Bernard Shelley - I am hoping
#4 - Andy Fassero - iffy stock could let him drop to me if #3 not there
#5 - Josh Towers
#6 - Jim Matthews
#7 - Pepper Inge
#8 - Deivi Silva
#9 - Albert Valenzuela
#10 - Pascual Zapata
#11 - David Palacios
#12 - Turner Ferrell
Hopefully I will get two of these players in the draft. I should get 2 because I am not seeing any top 25 HS players and I kicked out 6 top 25 picks that I didn't like their physical stats or bios, so in all that makes about 36 players I am not seeing in the top 25 that would normally be there or spread on other boards. I say that because I think everyone has a chance to draft an actual top 10 player on their board, you just have to figure out who it is. After my 16th ranked player, there isn't much of anything really great and not even anything I would call marginal ML bench players. Ok it is about 20 minutes to draft time, I am out of cherry Twizzlers and the tea glass is empty. TTFN
My #1 should go to OKC if they don't take the best pitcher on their board. Otherwise he could fall to Helena at #4 but that would be the lowest he should go.
My #2 is not really all that fantastic but should not pass no further than the Mets with the 7th pick.
My #3 is iffy, I originally had him out of my board but put him back in due to needs. I doubt he will fall past the 12th pick anyway.
My #4 could fall to me at 16, he isn't the 3B I want but is a 2B/CF which is a plus. Not exactly the hitter I want but will do.
My #5 is iffy and should really fall to the mid 20 picks.
My #6 is iffy and should really fall to the mid 20's also.
My #7 is a gap singles hitter and could easily fall to me but not what I am looking for.
My #8 is the best catcher on my board and is really more of a supplemental pick than a first round pick.
My #9 thru #16 are pitchers and most should be picked before 16 but somehow I very seriously doubt it.
I have an hour before the draft and after doing the mock draft, I am debating on whether to change the positions of a few players. Pick 16 is the cut off for a starting pitcher in most drafts. The pitchers have good control and splits and a good out pitch but not real good second pitches. This is the oddest draft board of all of them I have had recently. The only constant is the player I really want is not on the board or has no way of falling to me.
So after the mock draft I moved #5 thru #8 down the board behind 3 pitchers that make sense. And moved #4 up to #3. Normally I would say I would get two players in my top 10 and I am still banking on that but which ones is a mystery.
#1 - Greg Woods - projected #1
#2 - Harry Cora - projected no lower than 8
#3 - Bernard Shelley - I am hoping
#4 - Andy Fassero - iffy stock could let him drop to me if #3 not there
#5 - Josh Towers
#6 - Jim Matthews
#7 - Pepper Inge
#8 - Deivi Silva
#9 - Albert Valenzuela
#10 - Pascual Zapata
#11 - David Palacios
#12 - Turner Ferrell
Hopefully I will get two of these players in the draft. I should get 2 because I am not seeing any top 25 HS players and I kicked out 6 top 25 picks that I didn't like their physical stats or bios, so in all that makes about 36 players I am not seeing in the top 25 that would normally be there or spread on other boards. I say that because I think everyone has a chance to draft an actual top 10 player on their board, you just have to figure out who it is. After my 16th ranked player, there isn't much of anything really great and not even anything I would call marginal ML bench players. Ok it is about 20 minutes to draft time, I am out of cherry Twizzlers and the tea glass is empty. TTFN
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Injun Update
It has been a great season for the Injuns so far. As SJR said, the Injuns always come out on the warpath looking great early. It really frustrated me last year and I expect the same thing to happen again this year. There is a reason for it and I am not sure I have the guns to fix the problem this year. Though, with Rodrigo Gonzales out with an ankle sprain, at least I get to hold tryouts for a couple open pen positions. Jose Lopez has been temporarily called up. We are worried about his durability being able to fit the system. But after a 13 inning game, we needed long help in the pen and he was the only one close to being ready.
I had to put the last three seasons together to understand the problem. After All-Star break and division rivalry week, the Injuns quit playing. It has happened every year after I put two and two together. The change in ballparks didn't change the problem what so ever like I thought it might. I might have been better off going to a plus park instead of a mostly neutral park but that is even doubtful. The problem has been two fold and completely deals with the schedule. For one, I can't win in New York, but they can't win in Cleveland so that evens itself out along the way. But this year I don't get to play the Yanks at home and the Mets already rattled me a little. This year I get the AL South and Austin for 6 games home and away series. What is up with that anyway, think the team has enough money to visit Tampa. Not sure of the effect that playing the South will bring.
The biggest problem after the All-Star break and the reason for the great start is I don't face the power house teams early. It has been short 3 game series only here and there. Normally I might win 1 or 2 of three which tells me I can compete with them. Normally it deals with where the rotations fall on both teams on how I do early. But after All-Star break I face each of those teams 7 times. That means I have 20 division games and normally 42 power house games in the span of 71 games. That doesn't leave any breathing room. Now ya know why I can't win 30 games to break 500 and go on long frustrating losing streaks. The only solution is to get better, but how can you tell if everything seems kosher? Player wise I believe I have the team that can compete, though I know I could use two to four players. All of those players are in the minors but one. I am hoping to draft that one player this year. The bad part is they won't be ready for at least 2 years. So I am not going to rush them and will make do with what I got. So you won't hear any rumblings out of Cleveland this year on that matter.
I had to put the last three seasons together to understand the problem. After All-Star break and division rivalry week, the Injuns quit playing. It has happened every year after I put two and two together. The change in ballparks didn't change the problem what so ever like I thought it might. I might have been better off going to a plus park instead of a mostly neutral park but that is even doubtful. The problem has been two fold and completely deals with the schedule. For one, I can't win in New York, but they can't win in Cleveland so that evens itself out along the way. But this year I don't get to play the Yanks at home and the Mets already rattled me a little. This year I get the AL South and Austin for 6 games home and away series. What is up with that anyway, think the team has enough money to visit Tampa. Not sure of the effect that playing the South will bring.
The biggest problem after the All-Star break and the reason for the great start is I don't face the power house teams early. It has been short 3 game series only here and there. Normally I might win 1 or 2 of three which tells me I can compete with them. Normally it deals with where the rotations fall on both teams on how I do early. But after All-Star break I face each of those teams 7 times. That means I have 20 division games and normally 42 power house games in the span of 71 games. That doesn't leave any breathing room. Now ya know why I can't win 30 games to break 500 and go on long frustrating losing streaks. The only solution is to get better, but how can you tell if everything seems kosher? Player wise I believe I have the team that can compete, though I know I could use two to four players. All of those players are in the minors but one. I am hoping to draft that one player this year. The bad part is they won't be ready for at least 2 years. So I am not going to rush them and will make do with what I got. So you won't hear any rumblings out of Cleveland this year on that matter.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Power Rankings Part 2
1. Atlanta Pork N Beans - 18 - 2 over the last 20. All because of one player - Richard Mitchell.
Record: 34-12
Previous Ranking: 7
2. Cincinnati Reds - The Reds have been struggling a bit. I know they lost a few guys to short term injuries, including Yamil Pulido, so their struggles are more than likely temporary.
Record: 30-16
Previous Ranking: 2
3. Salem Volcanoes - If you haven't noticed yet the Volcanoes are pretty good. Currently on a 5 games winning streak. Recently took 3 of 4 against the Astros. The AL West, which was previously relatively mediocre, has developed into one of the stronger divisions in the league.
Record: 29-17
Previous Ranking: 2
4. Santa Fe Good Will - Offense and defense have been superb, but their pitching will need to improve of they want to hold off the Corn Dogs atop the AL South.
Record: 28-18
Previous Ranking: 4
5. Colorado Rockies - Currently leading the league in runs scored. Pitching isn't quite there though. If they can find some pitching they will be an extremely good team.
Record: 28-18
Previous Ranking: 3
6. Houston Astros - Another that is scoring runs, but needs their pitching to improve. This team has the potential to be scary good if their rotation improves.
Record: 27-19
Previous Ranking: 8
7. St. Louis Barracudas - The Barracudas make their 1st appearance in the rankings. One the hottest teams in the league over the past 20 games.
Record: 26-20
Previous Ranking: UR
8. Santa Cruz Caballeros - The Caballeros make their 1st appearance in the rankings. Currently on an 8 game winning streak. Pulled within 3 games of Salem. Off to a great start after a disappointing season 10.
Record: 26-20
Previous Ranking: UR
9. Toronto Blue Jays - The Blue Jays make their 1st appearance in the rankings. The Blue Jays are having good season thus far. Especially considering the loss season 10 all star Javier Santayana.
Record: 26-20
Previous Ranking: UR
10. Monterrey Corn Dogs - The Corn Dogs seem to be back on track after a slow start to the season. Only 3 games back of the Good Will in the AL South.
Record: 25-21
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 34-12
Previous Ranking: 7
2. Cincinnati Reds - The Reds have been struggling a bit. I know they lost a few guys to short term injuries, including Yamil Pulido, so their struggles are more than likely temporary.
Record: 30-16
Previous Ranking: 2
3. Salem Volcanoes - If you haven't noticed yet the Volcanoes are pretty good. Currently on a 5 games winning streak. Recently took 3 of 4 against the Astros. The AL West, which was previously relatively mediocre, has developed into one of the stronger divisions in the league.
Record: 29-17
Previous Ranking: 2
4. Santa Fe Good Will - Offense and defense have been superb, but their pitching will need to improve of they want to hold off the Corn Dogs atop the AL South.
Record: 28-18
Previous Ranking: 4
5. Colorado Rockies - Currently leading the league in runs scored. Pitching isn't quite there though. If they can find some pitching they will be an extremely good team.
Record: 28-18
Previous Ranking: 3
6. Houston Astros - Another that is scoring runs, but needs their pitching to improve. This team has the potential to be scary good if their rotation improves.
Record: 27-19
Previous Ranking: 8
7. St. Louis Barracudas - The Barracudas make their 1st appearance in the rankings. One the hottest teams in the league over the past 20 games.
Record: 26-20
Previous Ranking: UR
8. Santa Cruz Caballeros - The Caballeros make their 1st appearance in the rankings. Currently on an 8 game winning streak. Pulled within 3 games of Salem. Off to a great start after a disappointing season 10.
Record: 26-20
Previous Ranking: UR
9. Toronto Blue Jays - The Blue Jays make their 1st appearance in the rankings. The Blue Jays are having good season thus far. Especially considering the loss season 10 all star Javier Santayana.
Record: 26-20
Previous Ranking: UR
10. Monterrey Corn Dogs - The Corn Dogs seem to be back on track after a slow start to the season. Only 3 games back of the Good Will in the AL South.
Record: 25-21
Previous Ranking: UR
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Greatest Team Ever - Season 3 Deuce Droppers vs Season 10 Reds
These two teams were chosen because they were the two championship teams with the best regular season records. Amazingly close but the Deuce Droppers takes the win.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Power Rankings Part 2
It is early but some big name teams are missing including teams like the Cubs, Blue Jays, Corn Dogs, Yankees, Caballeros and Brewers. Pretty cool to see some new teams moving up.
1. Cincinnati Reds - Currently 6 games up on the Pirates in the NL North. Off to hot start. Rocky Spencer is on fire right now. Recently got swept in a 3 game series against the PnBs. Losing Miguel Rodrigo for 15 days isn't going to help.
Previous Ranking: 1
Record: 19-7
2. Salem Volcanoes - Currently 2 games up on the Caballeros in the NL West. Probably the biggest surprise of the season so far. I completely overlooked them, but they have a very talented rotation and lineup. Although they did win their division last season they still could the Rays or Cardinals of MLB this season.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 17-9
3. Colorado Rockies - Probably the most potent lineup in the league. Rockies pitching will need to improve though. If their pitching improves they will be tough to beat.
Previous Ranking: 4
Record: 16-10
4. Santa Fe Good Will - Best record in the AL and leading the very competitive AL South (even the Fightin Armadillos aren't half bad). Pitching will need to improve if they want to stay on top of the AL South, but they aren't having any problems scoring runs.
Previous Ranking: 10
Record: 17-9
5. Cleveland Indians - The Injuns are off to a hot start this season. Very similar to season 10 start. Their pitching has been superb but they need to find a way to score some runs. Currently they are tied with the PnBs in the NL East.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 16-10
6. Las Vegas Slobs - Currently sitting in 2nd in the AL West one game back of the #5 ranked Rockies. The Slobs are better than their record. Offense has been solid. Their leading the league in team era. At this point defense seems to be their only real weakness.
Previous Ranking: 6
Record: 15-11
7. Atlanta Pork N Beans - Offense is off to slow a slow start. Bullpen has already blown a league high 7 saves. Once these problems are fixed this may be a halfway decent team.
Previous Ranking: 7
Record: 16-10
8. Houston Astros - Currently 1 game up on the Swingers in the NL South. Pitching is probably their biggest weakness at this point. That should be reassuring to the Astros because guys like Dan Hitchcock, Mel Wagner, and Jared Herrera are all quality pitchers. Omar Elcano has been extremely impressive this season. Looks like he really wants to win another CY Young.
Previous Ranking: 3
Record: 15-11
9. Omaha Lancers - The Lancers are currently 1 game back of the Rockies in the AL West. My compliments to Chaz for a great start to the season. The Lancers really came out nowhere.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 15-11
10. Tampa Bay Rays - Currently 3 games back of the Good Will in the AL South. The Rays have a great rotation. Ken Shumpert has the potential to be one of the best starters in the league. Their lineup is solid but not quite to the level of their pitching.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 14-12
1. Cincinnati Reds - Currently 6 games up on the Pirates in the NL North. Off to hot start. Rocky Spencer is on fire right now. Recently got swept in a 3 game series against the PnBs. Losing Miguel Rodrigo for 15 days isn't going to help.
Previous Ranking: 1
Record: 19-7
2. Salem Volcanoes - Currently 2 games up on the Caballeros in the NL West. Probably the biggest surprise of the season so far. I completely overlooked them, but they have a very talented rotation and lineup. Although they did win their division last season they still could the Rays or Cardinals of MLB this season.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 17-9
3. Colorado Rockies - Probably the most potent lineup in the league. Rockies pitching will need to improve though. If their pitching improves they will be tough to beat.
Previous Ranking: 4
Record: 16-10
4. Santa Fe Good Will - Best record in the AL and leading the very competitive AL South (even the Fightin Armadillos aren't half bad). Pitching will need to improve if they want to stay on top of the AL South, but they aren't having any problems scoring runs.
Previous Ranking: 10
Record: 17-9
5. Cleveland Indians - The Injuns are off to a hot start this season. Very similar to season 10 start. Their pitching has been superb but they need to find a way to score some runs. Currently they are tied with the PnBs in the NL East.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 16-10
6. Las Vegas Slobs - Currently sitting in 2nd in the AL West one game back of the #5 ranked Rockies. The Slobs are better than their record. Offense has been solid. Their leading the league in team era. At this point defense seems to be their only real weakness.
Previous Ranking: 6
Record: 15-11
7. Atlanta Pork N Beans - Offense is off to slow a slow start. Bullpen has already blown a league high 7 saves. Once these problems are fixed this may be a halfway decent team.
Previous Ranking: 7
Record: 16-10
8. Houston Astros - Currently 1 game up on the Swingers in the NL South. Pitching is probably their biggest weakness at this point. That should be reassuring to the Astros because guys like Dan Hitchcock, Mel Wagner, and Jared Herrera are all quality pitchers. Omar Elcano has been extremely impressive this season. Looks like he really wants to win another CY Young.
Previous Ranking: 3
Record: 15-11
9. Omaha Lancers - The Lancers are currently 1 game back of the Rockies in the AL West. My compliments to Chaz for a great start to the season. The Lancers really came out nowhere.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 15-11
10. Tampa Bay Rays - Currently 3 games back of the Good Will in the AL South. The Rays have a great rotation. Ken Shumpert has the potential to be one of the best starters in the league. Their lineup is solid but not quite to the level of their pitching.
Previous Ranking: UR
Record: 14-12
Friday, March 6, 2009
Trade Details Analyzed
I haven't made up my mind about this trade quite yet. It is kind of an odd one, like some of mine, so lets examine it closely and see what results I come up with.
Mets:
Dale Stevenson - Could be a closer or Setup B type pitcher at the ML some day. A slow progress player until now because of his control. With 5 years experience, it will take the rest of this year in the minors under a good pitching coach and about 60+ IP's to help his splits and control. He does have 3 good pitches, but having success at the ML this season would be a real long shot. A good ML career may or may not happen.
Vancouver:
Manny Castillo - Actually this pitcher has control and some pitches but the splits are barely above average. The key problem is defined in his stats. He gives up the long ball because of his 3rd pitch being out of whack. If he was moved to the pen and a good PC catcher may evade this problem and become a good 2 inning reliever. This could be the only chance solution as he would never succeed as a starter. Bad salary to take a chance.
Miguel Lee - Listed as a 2B, a position he could never play at the ML level. COF/1B is about the only positions he could really play. Could be decent hitter with a little power. Biggest drawback is his health as he has hit the DL once and would take training and medical to keep him from losing as his makeup isn't the greatest to forestall loss.
Billy Montgomery - On the surface to me he is ML ready and is stalled out and unhappy about the situation. COF is about the only thing he could play. Doesn't have great power but will give left handed pitchers fits but controlled by most right handed pitchers.
Teams: Scouting is very deficient on both sides.
Analysis: Plain and simple it is a salary dump with Montgomery as a prize and Lee as somewhat of a bonus. I wouldn't really call this a trade rape either. But two prospects for a long shot nothing pitcher is a little over the top even if one of the prospects is a risk.
Mets:
Dale Stevenson - Could be a closer or Setup B type pitcher at the ML some day. A slow progress player until now because of his control. With 5 years experience, it will take the rest of this year in the minors under a good pitching coach and about 60+ IP's to help his splits and control. He does have 3 good pitches, but having success at the ML this season would be a real long shot. A good ML career may or may not happen.
Vancouver:
Manny Castillo - Actually this pitcher has control and some pitches but the splits are barely above average. The key problem is defined in his stats. He gives up the long ball because of his 3rd pitch being out of whack. If he was moved to the pen and a good PC catcher may evade this problem and become a good 2 inning reliever. This could be the only chance solution as he would never succeed as a starter. Bad salary to take a chance.
Miguel Lee - Listed as a 2B, a position he could never play at the ML level. COF/1B is about the only positions he could really play. Could be decent hitter with a little power. Biggest drawback is his health as he has hit the DL once and would take training and medical to keep him from losing as his makeup isn't the greatest to forestall loss.
Billy Montgomery - On the surface to me he is ML ready and is stalled out and unhappy about the situation. COF is about the only thing he could play. Doesn't have great power but will give left handed pitchers fits but controlled by most right handed pitchers.
Teams: Scouting is very deficient on both sides.
Analysis: Plain and simple it is a salary dump with Montgomery as a prize and Lee as somewhat of a bonus. I wouldn't really call this a trade rape either. But two prospects for a long shot nothing pitcher is a little over the top even if one of the prospects is a risk.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Rule 5 Hall of Fame
Records before Season 5 are not available so we will pick it up from there. Players that are still active are the only ones that will make the list. From Season 5 through Season 8 over 50% of Rule 5 players are no longer active. Many get put back in the minors after a season or less, some get bounced between the minors and trades. Some get a second chance at a ML career after a year or so. Most fulfill a bench role and do not get a big chance to play and their intrinsic value is not seen or has not been seen. But here is a list of the best that has made it and stuck with a ML team. There are a couple players that have been drafted more than once in Rule 5.
Season 5
Mendy Hughes - Currently with Vancouver, has had a good career in the pen with a 29-14 record with 10 saves out of 19.
Season 6
Stephen O'Brien - Currently with St. Louis, has a 10-6 record working out of the pen.
Tommy Mailman - Currently with Las Vegas, has had a good career as a backstop with a .282 average.
Season 7
Grant Simon - Currently with St. Louis and has compiled a 37-26 record.
Reggie Kreuter - Currently with Santa Cruz and has maintained a .312 average.
Matt Wise - Currently with Pittsburgh and has maintained a .303 average.
Season 8
John Prinz - Currently with Salt Lake City and has maintained a .309 average.
Ned Grebeck - Currently with Monterrey and has a record of 18-9 with 22 saves in 25 opportunities.
Lawrence Dawkins - Currently with Cleveland with a record of 12-6 and 10 saves in 16 opportunities.
Kory Governale Currently with Cleveland with a record of 8-10 and 42 saves in 52 opportunities.
Season 9
Andres Coronado - Currently with Pittsburgh and has compiled a 5-5 record with 48 saves in 54 tries.
Season 10
Stephen O'Brien - Currently with St. Louis has a record of 10-6 with 2 complete games.
Season 5
Mendy Hughes - Currently with Vancouver, has had a good career in the pen with a 29-14 record with 10 saves out of 19.
Season 6
Stephen O'Brien - Currently with St. Louis, has a 10-6 record working out of the pen.
Tommy Mailman - Currently with Las Vegas, has had a good career as a backstop with a .282 average.
Season 7
Grant Simon - Currently with St. Louis and has compiled a 37-26 record.
Reggie Kreuter - Currently with Santa Cruz and has maintained a .312 average.
Matt Wise - Currently with Pittsburgh and has maintained a .303 average.
Season 8
John Prinz - Currently with Salt Lake City and has maintained a .309 average.
Ned Grebeck - Currently with Monterrey and has a record of 18-9 with 22 saves in 25 opportunities.
Lawrence Dawkins - Currently with Cleveland with a record of 12-6 and 10 saves in 16 opportunities.
Kory Governale Currently with Cleveland with a record of 8-10 and 42 saves in 52 opportunities.
Season 9
Andres Coronado - Currently with Pittsburgh and has compiled a 5-5 record with 48 saves in 54 tries.
Season 10
Stephen O'Brien - Currently with St. Louis has a record of 10-6 with 2 complete games.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Falling Rocks!
The Rockies continue to purge their previously solid rotation for young players and cap relief. With 3/5ths of the Rotation gone in deals, the Rockies will be hard pressed to return to the playoffs a third year.
Gm KB is on the hot seat after pushing the budget to the limit and finding he had nothing left for promotions or call ups in case of injuries. With Dali, Sanders, Perry & CF Kotsay headed out of town, the Rockies will have their hands full trying to fill those holes.
Thanks to some earlier trades the Rockies should be able to replace Kotsay without missing a beat. Cf will be manned by Lackey, Adams, & Thurman. The pitching on the other hand is going to be a patchwork of Reed, Benson, & borderline ML players. Its a good thing the bullpen is strong with Veterans Bunch, Roth, Owen, & Marte. The Rockies hope Frank Kim is ready for a Full time starting job and it looks like Halladay, the long reliever will get a chance to start also. Should be a lot of 10-8 scores on the horizon and the playoffs are no longer assured.
With a lesson learned and a barren minors slightly restocked, the news is not all bad. The Rockies hope they can find a way to return to the playoffs in spite of the bumbling moves of their GM. Playing in Colorado, anything can happen. If all else fails, watch your heads!
Gm KB is on the hot seat after pushing the budget to the limit and finding he had nothing left for promotions or call ups in case of injuries. With Dali, Sanders, Perry & CF Kotsay headed out of town, the Rockies will have their hands full trying to fill those holes.
Thanks to some earlier trades the Rockies should be able to replace Kotsay without missing a beat. Cf will be manned by Lackey, Adams, & Thurman. The pitching on the other hand is going to be a patchwork of Reed, Benson, & borderline ML players. Its a good thing the bullpen is strong with Veterans Bunch, Roth, Owen, & Marte. The Rockies hope Frank Kim is ready for a Full time starting job and it looks like Halladay, the long reliever will get a chance to start also. Should be a lot of 10-8 scores on the horizon and the playoffs are no longer assured.
With a lesson learned and a barren minors slightly restocked, the news is not all bad. The Rockies hope they can find a way to return to the playoffs in spite of the bumbling moves of their GM. Playing in Colorado, anything can happen. If all else fails, watch your heads!
Monday, March 2, 2009
Salt Lake City Multiple Spouses Preview
As usual the Sposes' offense should score a good amount of runs, and unfortunately, also as usual, the pitching staff should give up a bunch of runs...
Team Song: Bad Boys
C - Catching duties will be split between Danny Kinney and Don Lee, who last season combined for 32 HRs and 126 RBIs. Management will be very happy with that kind of production again
1B - John Prinz - Prinz had a very nice season with 200 + hits , a batting average over .300 and close to 100 RBI. If he falters this season, Jorge Melendez, who came over in a trade from Toronto, is waiting in the wings.
2B - With the trade of last seasons' starting 2B, Yamis Maranon, the position is up for grabs. Dizzy Lilly (gotta love the name) and Clarence McEnroe are fighting it out for the position in ST. Currently it looks like Lilly has the edge.
3B - Hayes Carasone - if he can stay healthy he'll get most of the innings at 3B. If he can't, Fred Wilson will get most of the innings. With 93 HRs and 250 RBI in the last 2 seasons, Wilson needs to be in the lineup somewhere. It will usually be either 3B or RF.
SS - Juan Barajas - defensively reliable, Brajas had a fantastic season at the plate last year. Management will be thrilled if he comes anywhere close to matching those numbers this season
LF - Marshall Hunter - after a splendid rookie season, Hunter had a severe case of the sophomore slump. His offensive numbers fell off in almost every category. The Spouses need Hunter to get the offense started and look for a bounce back season from him.
CF - Jeff Brooks - Brooks has averaged 25 2B, 6 3B, 44 HRs and 123 RBIs per season with .284/.367/.611 numbers to go along with his gold glove defense. Another season of those numbers would be fine.
RF - Zephyr Roosevelt - Roosevelt seems to be breaking down and slowing down as he ages. IF he can't stay heal;thy and perform well, the afore mentioned Fred Wilson will probably get most of the RF playing time.
Starting Pitching - The staring rotation still has not been set, which is probably not a good sign this late in ST. Fighting for spots in the rotation are Samuel Martin , Dizzy Austin, Justin Sadler, A.J. Davis, R.J. Molina, Alex Garza, Rob Cambridge, and Clay Griffith. The bullpen has closer Earl Miller and Rigo Pineiro, Che Shigetoshi, Victor Blanco, rule V pickup Matt Shaw and who ever doesn't make the starting rotation. The real problem here is all the starters can keep the team in a game, but the Spouses need that ace/stopper and have been unable to trade for one or sign a free agent.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
3 Suspects Charged in Tomato Case
Three over zealous Indian fans charged in the tomato assault of Hub Strange. Hub immediately asked for a trade from Cleveland where fans have been less than friendly toward him. He has since dropped assault charges against the unruly fans, but the hanging judge in the case sentenced them to 15 days jail, 81 days community service as court food only vendors at the stadium and their season tickets forfeited to orphanage services for the season. "This should warn other unruly fans that the law will intercede and take away their stadium game watching privileges." said the judge with consternation. Defense lawyers immediately filed for an appeal stating the punishment was too harsh.
Cleveland management immediately received several offers upon hearing of the situation, but nothing definite until the Good Will stepped in and offered the unwanted and refurbished Bart Ross. Cleveland's advanced scouting liked Ross so much they parlayed with management to throw in Courtney Haynes to make the deal more enticing. Management agreed though half heartedly, as Haynes was well on his way of becoming the much needed 4th or 5th starter of the future.
Cleveland management immediately received several offers upon hearing of the situation, but nothing definite until the Good Will stepped in and offered the unwanted and refurbished Bart Ross. Cleveland's advanced scouting liked Ross so much they parlayed with management to throw in Courtney Haynes to make the deal more enticing. Management agreed though half heartedly, as Haynes was well on his way of becoming the much needed 4th or 5th starter of the future.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)