1. Alex Guille: P,
Oakland A's - Was he worth the risk? Chances of signing look bleak.
Grade: A-
2. Mark Darling: P, Los Angeles Dodgers: A good looking lefty starter, maybe. Has a long way to go to be good, great is one of conjecture at this point.
Grade: A-
3. Vince Corbin: P, Tampa Bay Rays: Umm, the cost is astronomical if you ask me. Will he sign? How good is he, I am not sure.
Grade: ?
4. Martin Gao: C, Toronto Blue Jays: Yup, he was my #1 pick on my board and didn't make it to pick 5. What can you say, he is a decent catcher and can hit, may not be the power monger but is still good enough at the plate to wreck things. Could be better than Black Bart! I wonder though, calls Moss Point home, and went to school over fifty miles away.
Grade: A
5. Jaret Heath: P, New York Mets: He has the potential to be very good. How good remains to be seen.
Grade: A-
6. Geovany Viciedo: 2B, Pittsburgh Pirates: 2B is probably out but COF is definite. If he was on my board, he wouldn't have made it this far. Power, hitting power, lots of it.
Grade: A+
7. Robin Gross: P, Boston Red Sox: Boston may be hoping he won't sign. He is a good lefty, but the splits may end up horrible, making him nearly useless.
Grade: B+
8. Wes Rhodes: CF, Texas Rangers: Has the range but the glove looks pretty awful in CF. Decent power hitter but has terrible luck making contact.
Grade: B+
9. Bubba Stoddard: SS, San Diego Padres: SS is doubtful and 3B is probably the best idea in the infield. Is the prototypical hitter the Padres search for, decent pop and and almost always puts the ball in play.
Grade: A+
10. Jeff Hawkins: CF, Arizona Diamondbacks: CF is a maybe but Arizona has the right idea at 2B though a defensive gamble. He can hit and hit with very good pop. makeup looks bad but I think he is good enough to be very good anyway.
Grade: A-
11. Chief Poole: 2B, Vancouver Canadians: I think he would be outstanding in RF as 2B looks like a long shot. Can hit and hit with power and could be really good if that contact comes alive.
Grade: A-
12. Charlie Sosa: 1B, Milwaukee Brewers: Brewers still trying to make a DH play 1B. Well, this time I might try that scenario with this guy. The long balls, down to his knees, will be flying out. Not as good as Viciedo at the plate maybe but damn close.
Grade: A-
13. Nick Harding: P, Dover Dung Beetles: A closer in the making? A lefty closer that looks real good but that right split will need to be in the mid sixties. Can he?
Grade: A-
14. Greg Jameson: P, Minnesota Twins: May not have the great control but the potential is there to be a great starter.
Grade: A-
15. Clay Blackley: P, Detroit Tigers: Could be a boon or a bust, depends if he can stay healthy Lacks the good control and has some awkward pitches but those splits look very good.
Grade: B+
16. Christy Purcey: P, Washington D.C. Senators: This late in the draft and a good starter available. A great pick if you ask me. May not be a show stopper but has good value in a rotation.
Grade: A-
17. Chris Parris: SS, Florida Marlins: A wet dream for Florida in a way. Not so sure about playing SS, but 3B looks mighty fine. Hits well for power but, always a but. How many games can he play in a season?
Grade: B+
18. Arthur Carter: RF, Colorado Springs Sky Sox: Okay, who let the dog loose? RF?, 1B is more like it. great hitting abilities, if only he could hit the ball. Gee willikers! He over swings at every pitch.
Grade: B-
19. Derrin Wesson: P, Anaheim Angels: That shit eating smile says it all. Now if we knew what he really looked like instead of a picture of Mal.
Grade: ?
20. Woody Sauerbeck: SS, San Diego Padres: The Pads second foray to find a SS. Well, we know this is a picture of Bruce as well, The hallow blood shot eyes gives it away from his latest bender.
Grade: ?
21. Omar Lloyd: 2B, Atlanta Braves: Well, he can play 2B or CF, no doubt in my mind. He just isn't a Braves hitter and maybe no one elses either.
Grade: B-
22. Haywood Ellis: RF, Chicago Cubs: RF is doubtful, ML might be doubtful to be truthful. 1B is probably the best he could be. Has eye and contact and some minor pop, but very little luck. Second rounder if you ask me.
Grade: C-
23. Jerry Thomas: SS, St. Louis Cardinals: I will give him the props! He can play SS which is a huge plus. Hitting well, not so hot but enough to make it to the show.
Grade: B
24. Storm Mazzaro: RF, Houston Astros: He really wanted to be in a Dodgers uniform, close to Hollywood. However, close to La is good enough to learn from Steven Seagal, Kelly LeBrock fantasies, who he is named after.
Grade: ?
25. Pat Redman: 2B, Memphis RedBirds: 2B is not out of the question. Hitting is good, not robust. Still, a good pick.
Grade: B+
26. Al Jepsen: P, Baltimore Orioles: Rockers creamed in his speedos over this pick. How did such a good pitcher fall so far? May not reach starter status but the pen is not a bad place.
Grade: A+
27. Phillip Conti: SS, Little Rock Heads: SS is highly doubtful, but 3B isn't. Makes contact well, but his seeing eye hits will probably be disastrous. Might just have a short career in the majors.
Grade: C+
28. Curtis Boyle: P, Minnesota Twins: Score one for the twinks! A very good lefty closer by the books I think.
Grade: A+
29. Ross Engle: P, Philadelphia Phillies: Another good closer type! I am not sure he would be outstanding as a closer but a daily short guy definitely.
Grade: A-
30. Aramis Silva: CF, Mexico City Diablos Rojos: He actually has promise playing out in the middle. Hits the right handed pitchers well as a significant boon. Now, if he can just stay alive long enough to play.
Grade: B+
31. Andrea Sparks: 2B, St. Louis Cardinals: What can you say, he played for a womans softball team. That is evident as he fields like a girl. LF isn't all bad. Does have an interesting approach to hitting as well, which is good.
Grade: B+
32. Toby Siddall: P, Kansas City Royals: He is smiling because he was drafted in the first round. Not all bad either, depends if he develops. Has designs on becoming a quality pen pitcher though, we will give him an E for effort.
Grade: B
33. Johnny Garret: P, New York Mets: So we win a few and we lose quite a few. Chances of this pitcher making the majors is slim at the moment.
Grade: C
34. Jeff Ferguson: LF, Cincinnati Reds: What can one say, not much.
Grade: C
35. Eliezer Tejeda: P, New York Mets: An extra one just because I can. Actually, he has a better chance making the majors than my other pick at #33.
Grade: B
Best Pick: Baltimore.
Worst Pick: Tie between the Cubs and Little Rock.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Yes, It Is That Time Again
Don't ask I don't know what time it is either. Dilo didn't like my name of this seasons book, so....In the form of Castle we need a new title. Sorry Cretins, All Dogs go to Heaven has been taken. Need to make another stab at it to prove yourself.
Sorry Mal, I laid down to watch Mega Shark vs Mega Octopussy and fell asleep, I couldn't figure out who to root for. Evidently, Mega Shark won because he was facing Super Mega Shark in the next movie.Umm, didn't watch that one either as an old rerun of Castle was more exciting and interesting.
Wholck, just because you might have found a mega shark is no reason to celebrate just yet. Have another beer and join Bruce in his frustration with the Pads vs Giants sic Dodgers.
John is happily plotting revenge already in Texas. He was pissed when he found out that they used a New York mega structure again instead of Texas. He got real excited about the idea they are pulling the core in TP. He things it will gentler on his holder even, the girlfriend and wife winked leaking that tidbit of information. Luckystrike is already campaigning for the removal in Brawny. You know, it is the quicker picker upper.
Meanwhile, back at the Oasis.
Just as predicted in the AL so far, northerngaul and Dakar are having a faceoff already. It could go down to the wire as to which has the ugliest face in the neighborhood.
I didn't predict the fall of KC though I said it was going to be tough, the season ain't over yet.
Nope, I declare the Angels ain't that good.
The NL North is shaping up. Maybe I can give the Pirates a little added octane, I told ya so.
I was worried about 1-run games, grrrrr..I have a bunch of them but damn wholck. Hey we are 4-1 in extra inning games, see why I like an extra pitcher. How do the Giants survive so many 1-run scares?
Mexico City? Say it ain't so, come on boys make him pay for the next round of Quervo! Cretins make that two rounds!
Go Bruce, make sick pay for his #statements umm...sorry svick. Ahh shit, lets just get drunk the erffdog way! Yes, go away I am crying thinking about it.
Sorry Mal, I laid down to watch Mega Shark vs Mega Octopussy and fell asleep, I couldn't figure out who to root for. Evidently, Mega Shark won because he was facing Super Mega Shark in the next movie.Umm, didn't watch that one either as an old rerun of Castle was more exciting and interesting.
Wholck, just because you might have found a mega shark is no reason to celebrate just yet. Have another beer and join Bruce in his frustration with the Pads vs Giants sic Dodgers.
John is happily plotting revenge already in Texas. He was pissed when he found out that they used a New York mega structure again instead of Texas. He got real excited about the idea they are pulling the core in TP. He things it will gentler on his holder even, the girlfriend and wife winked leaking that tidbit of information. Luckystrike is already campaigning for the removal in Brawny. You know, it is the quicker picker upper.
Meanwhile, back at the Oasis.
Just as predicted in the AL so far, northerngaul and Dakar are having a faceoff already. It could go down to the wire as to which has the ugliest face in the neighborhood.
I didn't predict the fall of KC though I said it was going to be tough, the season ain't over yet.
Nope, I declare the Angels ain't that good.
The NL North is shaping up. Maybe I can give the Pirates a little added octane, I told ya so.
I was worried about 1-run games, grrrrr..I have a bunch of them but damn wholck. Hey we are 4-1 in extra inning games, see why I like an extra pitcher. How do the Giants survive so many 1-run scares?
Mexico City? Say it ain't so, come on boys make him pay for the next round of Quervo! Cretins make that two rounds!
Go Bruce, make sick pay for his #statements umm...sorry svick. Ahh shit, lets just get drunk the erffdog way! Yes, go away I am crying thinking about it.
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Opening IFA Market Picks
David Beltre became the first IFA to sign in the new season with a $2.1M bonus from the San Diego Padres. My scouts aren't exactly enamored with this pick for the money. Going by what I see, RF might be the best place for him instead of the SS he is purported to be. Hitting is less than so-so for that matter. If you put him in the draft, he might be a late second rounder at the earliest. However I do see the possibility of him being better than he looks. So I am on the fence about whether it was a good signing or not.
Cookie Pena was the first of the new season with a rather large contract, $12M by Montreal. Maybe my scouts are blind as well. SS is a possibility though I worry about the arm and maybe the glove a bit. There are definitely other key spots he could play, like 2B/CF for instance. Hitting isn't exactly robust but for a decent SS is pretty good. His health scares me off the most. Montreal only has a consolation pick in the first round so you could consider him their first round pick. For the slot he might have been chosen in the draft, I would put him somewhere around mid to late first round easily enough. By my standards, maybe overpaid by a couple million unless the health is better than I am seeing.
Cookie Pena was the first of the new season with a rather large contract, $12M by Montreal. Maybe my scouts are blind as well. SS is a possibility though I worry about the arm and maybe the glove a bit. There are definitely other key spots he could play, like 2B/CF for instance. Hitting isn't exactly robust but for a decent SS is pretty good. His health scares me off the most. Montreal only has a consolation pick in the first round so you could consider him their first round pick. For the slot he might have been chosen in the draft, I would put him somewhere around mid to late first round easily enough. By my standards, maybe overpaid by a couple million unless the health is better than I am seeing.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Fun with Random Stats
While pondering the question of who was the best hitter ever, Albert's Johnson or Everett Hill, I spent some time digging through player records for no particular reason. Specifically, I wanted to see what some of the stat records for players were while with one team. Some random stats:
Teams Without a Player with 300+ HRs In Their Uniform
Anaheim
Memphis
Montreal
San Francisco
St. Louis
San Francisco 'wins' the category with Edgar Montero sitting at 207. No active player has cracked the 136 mark (5th on their all time list).
Players with the Most HRs in One Uniform
Joey Tracy, Cubs - 734
Nomar Cloud, Minn - 668
Harry Cora, Tampa Bay - 661
Colin Kirkland, Minn - 631
Omar Nixon, Cinn - 627
Minnesota is the only team on the list with 2 guys over 500+ HRs, at least as far as I could tell.
Teams Without a Player Winning More than 100 Games In Their Uniform
Anaheim
Boston
Detroit
Texas
Vancouver
Washington
I didn't write down who won this category, but multiple teams have no active guy in the top 5, meaning they wont get a shot at cracking 100 for several seasons (although they have active players on the list playing for other teams)
Players with the Most Wins in One Uniform
Ivan's Johnson, Tampa Bay - 402
Alex Matos, Tampa Bay - 257
Pedro DeSoto, Philadelphia - 235
Tim Loewer, Pitt - 224
Yamil, Cinn - 224
Teams Without a Player with 300+ HRs In Their Uniform
Anaheim
Memphis
Montreal
San Francisco
St. Louis
San Francisco 'wins' the category with Edgar Montero sitting at 207. No active player has cracked the 136 mark (5th on their all time list).
Players with the Most HRs in One Uniform
Joey Tracy, Cubs - 734
Nomar Cloud, Minn - 668
Harry Cora, Tampa Bay - 661
Colin Kirkland, Minn - 631
Omar Nixon, Cinn - 627
Minnesota is the only team on the list with 2 guys over 500+ HRs, at least as far as I could tell.
Teams Without a Player Winning More than 100 Games In Their Uniform
Anaheim
Boston
Detroit
Texas
Vancouver
Washington
I didn't write down who won this category, but multiple teams have no active guy in the top 5, meaning they wont get a shot at cracking 100 for several seasons (although they have active players on the list playing for other teams)
Players with the Most Wins in One Uniform
Ivan's Johnson, Tampa Bay - 402
Alex Matos, Tampa Bay - 257
Pedro DeSoto, Philadelphia - 235
Tim Loewer, Pitt - 224
Yamil, Cinn - 224
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
NL Predictions
NL North
Chicago Cubs: Power house as always with Chatwood and Suzki. The pitching staff has some wear and tear but should be effective. Harry Ramos is chomping at the bit to become the all time Saves leader before the end of the season and we see it probably happening by All-Star break.
Cincinnati Reds: The only team to hit the 100 win total last season in the NL. The core stars are there from last season and starting pitching looks good. The pen is their downfall and could be a show stopper.
Milwaukee Brewers: They look great on paper and compare to both the Reds and Cubs well. Will it come together for them this year is the question. I have doubts about the pitching staff being effective.
Pittsburgh Pirates: They have been rebuilding quietly and quickly. Playing thieves in the FA market made everyone take notice even adding the lefty dynamo I was drooling over in Luis Perez. Pitching could be their downfall as there isn't enough to go round me thinks. They went all in like Toronto once and we saw what happened there.
NL East
Atlanta Braves: A tough cookie to understand and they do it just about every year. This year is a different story as I don't know where it will come from. They will have their moments is about all I will say.
Florida Marlins: A very solid team in the division and could easily scare anybody.
Philadelphia Phillies: They have been the team to beat. This year is no exception.
New York Mets: They are improved over last year providing cheapness to quality vets and adding quality youngsters. Lack of offensive leadership could hurt as there are no stars in the lineup anymore. A good team that thinks they can compete with the rest in the divisiion. The first twenty games will tell the tale.
NL South
Mexico City Diablos Rojos: They have been a power to be reckoned with the last few seasons. A very solid team ready to do battle once again. The armor on the pitching staff is starting to rust through however and could become problematic.
St. Louis Cardinals: The Cards are a younger version of Mexico City if you ask me. It will be a battle between the two as to ends up on top.
Houston Astros: The Astros make the division race a gruesome threesome just like last year. If something goes bad with the Cards and Devils, they will be there to cleanup the mess for sure. Of course there is the possibility they will out distance those two easily.
Tampa Bay Rays: I would call the team still in rebuild. There are some bright spots but not enough to compete at the moment.
NL West
San Francisco Giants: While everyone one dithering about in FA, the Giants were getting the players they wanted. They are probably stronger than last season.
Arizona Diamondbacks: Always a good team that for some reason can't win. I can't explain that fact whatsoever. This year they look solid once again until you get deep into the the pitching staff and it becomes somewhat so-so.
San Diego Padres: The Giants better be good as the Pads might easily be there in the end. I am not sure it is enough but this division has always had some whacky things happen.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Strong enough to harass anybody and everybody. I don't think they are ready to compete for the title by a long shot. however.
This is a tough one for a pick six, the lottery is easier. The four teams in the North could easily win 90 games and three in the South for that matter add at least one from the West and that doesn't leave much to go around. Someone is going home mad at the end of the season.
1. Cincinnati Reds: I like them as the Cubbies tend to lose a key piece along the way.
2. Mexico City Diablos Rojos:: Just because the Cards are going to fall short again.
3. San Francisco Giants:: Just because they look the best on paper.
4. Florida Marlins:: They just look better in my opinion.
5. Chicago Cubs: Too much power not to be considered.
6. Five teams could easily be in this spot and a toss up that I can't even guess. Pirates, Card, Astros, Brewers, Padres, OH MY!
Chicago Cubs: Power house as always with Chatwood and Suzki. The pitching staff has some wear and tear but should be effective. Harry Ramos is chomping at the bit to become the all time Saves leader before the end of the season and we see it probably happening by All-Star break.
Cincinnati Reds: The only team to hit the 100 win total last season in the NL. The core stars are there from last season and starting pitching looks good. The pen is their downfall and could be a show stopper.
Milwaukee Brewers: They look great on paper and compare to both the Reds and Cubs well. Will it come together for them this year is the question. I have doubts about the pitching staff being effective.
Pittsburgh Pirates: They have been rebuilding quietly and quickly. Playing thieves in the FA market made everyone take notice even adding the lefty dynamo I was drooling over in Luis Perez. Pitching could be their downfall as there isn't enough to go round me thinks. They went all in like Toronto once and we saw what happened there.
NL East
Atlanta Braves: A tough cookie to understand and they do it just about every year. This year is a different story as I don't know where it will come from. They will have their moments is about all I will say.
Florida Marlins: A very solid team in the division and could easily scare anybody.
Philadelphia Phillies: They have been the team to beat. This year is no exception.
New York Mets: They are improved over last year providing cheapness to quality vets and adding quality youngsters. Lack of offensive leadership could hurt as there are no stars in the lineup anymore. A good team that thinks they can compete with the rest in the divisiion. The first twenty games will tell the tale.
NL South
Mexico City Diablos Rojos: They have been a power to be reckoned with the last few seasons. A very solid team ready to do battle once again. The armor on the pitching staff is starting to rust through however and could become problematic.
St. Louis Cardinals: The Cards are a younger version of Mexico City if you ask me. It will be a battle between the two as to ends up on top.
Houston Astros: The Astros make the division race a gruesome threesome just like last year. If something goes bad with the Cards and Devils, they will be there to cleanup the mess for sure. Of course there is the possibility they will out distance those two easily.
Tampa Bay Rays: I would call the team still in rebuild. There are some bright spots but not enough to compete at the moment.
NL West
San Francisco Giants: While everyone one dithering about in FA, the Giants were getting the players they wanted. They are probably stronger than last season.
Arizona Diamondbacks: Always a good team that for some reason can't win. I can't explain that fact whatsoever. This year they look solid once again until you get deep into the the pitching staff and it becomes somewhat so-so.
San Diego Padres: The Giants better be good as the Pads might easily be there in the end. I am not sure it is enough but this division has always had some whacky things happen.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Strong enough to harass anybody and everybody. I don't think they are ready to compete for the title by a long shot. however.
This is a tough one for a pick six, the lottery is easier. The four teams in the North could easily win 90 games and three in the South for that matter add at least one from the West and that doesn't leave much to go around. Someone is going home mad at the end of the season.
1. Cincinnati Reds: I like them as the Cubbies tend to lose a key piece along the way.
2. Mexico City Diablos Rojos:: Just because the Cards are going to fall short again.
3. San Francisco Giants:: Just because they look the best on paper.
4. Florida Marlins:: They just look better in my opinion.
5. Chicago Cubs: Too much power not to be considered.
6. Five teams could easily be in this spot and a toss up that I can't even guess. Pirates, Card, Astros, Brewers, Padres, OH MY!
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Rule 5 Overview
Many bowed out with nothing really available. I changed my mind several times before deciding myself.
Svick got the first choice as the A's didn't see anything that would help and choseVic Mahomes. A starting pitcher that would be nothing more than a filler for a season. An upgrade somewhere? We don't see it personally and probably a quick waiver wire casualty to AAA.
Jeffrey Thebeau was chosen by the Mets after many deliberations. If the FI does his job and improves his glove which I am sure will happen. He could turn into a Carl Browning look alike. May not look like much in the hitting department but Browning won a Gold Glove and the hitting wasn't all that bad. Besides, I wasn't sure Bob Hayes wouldn't go on the DL with a splinter in his ass.
Alfonso Baerga was chosen by Boston and made me laugh. Why? They let Thebeau go in the first place. Alfonso may be better defensively at the moment but Thebeau would have been the better hitter.
The Canadians got their fingers on Shawon Schmidt. I consider him better than Mahomes as he has some potential upside. Will it help? Spring Training might answer that if there is a little improvement.
I think the Twinkies lucked out with the addition of Patsy Garko. A good spring and there is possibility. Then to convince the engine to put him in to get out of an inning.
Detroit needed a lot of help and Miguel Espinoza was a good selection.
Eric Barry by Washington could be a long shot based on Makeup. They were looking for a backup SS apparently.
Miles Jones taken by Florida. There is potential but that is the oddest fifth pitch I have ever seen, maybe it can be dropped again.
Hod Long in a Braves uniform doesn't seem to fit but Atalanta needs players. I think.
Houston was hoping and it fell through I think as Shane Sappington looks like a burger flipper to me in the end.
Baltimore was guessing as they chose Vicente Merced and probably off to the showers rather quickly.
Little Rock hasn't learned anything about names yet. Spud Holt will be back on the farm raising taters for McDonalds soon enough.
Brent Robinson is a deep dig but could be on the roster at the start of the season for Memphis.
.
Svick got the first choice as the A's didn't see anything that would help and choseVic Mahomes. A starting pitcher that would be nothing more than a filler for a season. An upgrade somewhere? We don't see it personally and probably a quick waiver wire casualty to AAA.
Jeffrey Thebeau was chosen by the Mets after many deliberations. If the FI does his job and improves his glove which I am sure will happen. He could turn into a Carl Browning look alike. May not look like much in the hitting department but Browning won a Gold Glove and the hitting wasn't all that bad. Besides, I wasn't sure Bob Hayes wouldn't go on the DL with a splinter in his ass.
Alfonso Baerga was chosen by Boston and made me laugh. Why? They let Thebeau go in the first place. Alfonso may be better defensively at the moment but Thebeau would have been the better hitter.
The Canadians got their fingers on Shawon Schmidt. I consider him better than Mahomes as he has some potential upside. Will it help? Spring Training might answer that if there is a little improvement.
I think the Twinkies lucked out with the addition of Patsy Garko. A good spring and there is possibility. Then to convince the engine to put him in to get out of an inning.
Detroit needed a lot of help and Miguel Espinoza was a good selection.
Eric Barry by Washington could be a long shot based on Makeup. They were looking for a backup SS apparently.
Miles Jones taken by Florida. There is potential but that is the oddest fifth pitch I have ever seen, maybe it can be dropped again.
Hod Long in a Braves uniform doesn't seem to fit but Atalanta needs players. I think.
Houston was hoping and it fell through I think as Shane Sappington looks like a burger flipper to me in the end.
Baltimore was guessing as they chose Vicente Merced and probably off to the showers rather quickly.
Little Rock hasn't learned anything about names yet. Spud Holt will be back on the farm raising taters for McDonalds soon enough.
Brent Robinson is a deep dig but could be on the roster at the start of the season for Memphis.
Fearless..errr. Fearful Prediction Time
It may be too early to actually judge but real life situations may preclude me to get it done on time.
AL North
Montreal Expos: They will be clicking on all cylinders and a tough cookie to beat once again. Should have one of the best pitching staffs in the league. With the addition of Marc Redman gives them a good lead off hitter. SS might be their hitting weakness but not in the power department or defense. Worst player on the team is the backup CF hitting wise but could be a GG on defense.
Minnesota Twins: The Twinkies need to make some moves as it appears they may have been shut out in the FA market. A solid nucleus but has some holes to fill for sure and I am wondering where it will come from.
Detroit Tigers: They are more worse off than the Twinkies and pitching will be their downfall. At least it should be cheap filling all the holes they have.
Toronto Blue Jays: How they tanked to a fourth place overall finish last year is beyond me. They are close to being as good as the Expos but not quite. I consider them a wild card playoff team.
AL East
Baltimore Orioles: They have won the title for three straight years and have actually been in a divisional dog fight for all three.They are good enough to win a fourth but I am not penciling them in just yet.
Dover Dung Beetles: Could give the O's fits, more than they can handle maybe. Our commish should try and sweet talk dhyatt1080 into Yankee stadium. It is a rather young team that will probably be led by a new MVP candidate in Geovany Gregorius, it is a lot of pressure for the youngster.
Boston Red Sox: They made a lot of moves trying to bring back the glory years. I don't see it happening, it is Boston however and whacky things do happen.
Washington D.C. Senators: I thought they might be on the way to a dynasty myself. Good players, just not enough to go around and overcome the other three in this division.
AL South
Kansas City Royals: Still the team to beat I think though cracks are forming big time. Solid pitching goes a long way.
Memphis RedBirds: A very solid team and will give KC fits as they have in the past. Age is their enemy however and this season could wear them down even further. Is their enough in the tank to contend is the question.
Little Rock Heads: Last year I said they were too young and got a lot of grief from that statement. They made the playoffs but ousted in the first round. This year I predict they will win the division and play Montreal for the AL Title. I am not buttering up Robert either, that is my prediction. They are just as equal on paper this season as the Expos. Now let's see it happen!
Texas Rangers: Silent Ed left a good team behind he was rebuilding once again. John has returned and inherited a pretty good team. Remember, this is not Detroit and hitters love the hot dry air. It will be a close call but could manage their way into the playoffs especially if a couple other teams falter which could easily happen.
AL West
Anaheim Angels: Mal shit a brick last year when the Angels tanked on their own but came out smelling like a rose by the slimmest of margins. The team is good but there are a lot of unknowns out there.
Colorado Springs Sky Sox: Truthfully, the Sky Sox look a lot like the Mets. Good and solid but lack a true leader on offense. I don't think they are good enough to make the playoffs. They have a way of hounding Mal to no end and makes it fun.
Oakland A's: I was disappointed with their play last year and a bit of a surprise. No surprises this year but you should see the minors and what is going to happen.
Vancouver Canadians: We have been waiting for the rebuild to push over the top. It is getting closer and closer. Soon, the A's and this team from up North will be fighting over the top spot I think.
So the final six should look like this:
1 - Montreal
2 - Little Rock
3 - Dover
4 - Anaheim
5 - Kansas City
6 - Baltimore/Toronto/Texas
Saturday, July 12, 2014
The "A" Deals So Far
First things first. The Mets made their final transition early this morning. We got to thank Vick for keeping his grubby little paws off the waiver wire for once and putting a decent little lefty pitcher in the mix.
The Dodgers gave up on Neil Montague and I snagged him for one of those ailing youngsters in the pen.
Babe Hayes was also picked up as a better jack of all trades defensively. He can hit and field better though he seems to be weaker overall. Actually, he would be just as good with 10 points in his health or power. My AAA team will be better though, that is not saying much.
There must be one hell of a fight over Pablo Solano. I am wondering if he is actually worth it myself. It is a boon to other teams who don't seem to be taking much advantage of the cheap leftovers.
Wilt Pagan became the first type A to sign and did so quickly. Frisco saved $2M easily but did they get a decent return remains to be seen.
Wesley Hewson hit the money market next with a whopping $10M contract for two years. A good buy for Texas? Debatable.
Frisco seems to be playing money ball with picking up Vladimir Bennett. At least the contract is livable.
Larry Overbeck hit the ground running off to hide in Vancouver. Signing him for a third year may have been a cheaper and better idea. What is it with the need for good lefty closers?
Texas picked up Ralph Jackson as well for a lot less money mind you. Must have a real need for short relievers.
While the wait continues, Montreal must have given up on the big bidding war and sank a small fortune for Marc Redman. Almost half price of his starting position. The Mets thank you by the way.
Johnnie Good made out like a fat rat picking up option money then going home to Milwaukee. He can hit but defensively he isn't much. Maybe he will play 1B or RF while drinking the suds down.
Zeke English makes his way to Boston as they pick up another cheap fallout signing. He could be a big help in Fenway.
Boston, being skinflintish also signed Arthur Donatello for another tour in a Red Sox uniform.
Yunel Mendez also got caught with his pants down with a meager contract in Toronto. Boots Rivera joined Yunel in the same cheap money feud as the Blue Jays must have gotten out of the race.
The Type "B's" made out like fat rats though I question the deal for Reagan Mathews. Marty must be sitting back stroking and hoping she is a beauty.
It took a few cycles but Arizona finally won out over me in the Kris Sisler war. I made them pay from the looks of things. I took my chances with a young Alex Mesa on the sly, just wish his splits were better.
Funny, I don't remember Elrod Cedeno showing up on my list. Is that possible? I would have paid him that kind of money for two years.
Okay, I get the fact Bruce signed Hank Kennedy as he is a better 1B defensively. I think for a few grand less, Luis Perez would have been a better option.
Hey, if I could move Leo Rodney for a decent PC catcher and free up some money, I would make another grab off the FA market. There I go dreaming again, like I would actually trade my hero. Sentimental fool!
So, who is in the running for Solano? Too many teams not heard from in the FA wars.
The Dodgers gave up on Neil Montague and I snagged him for one of those ailing youngsters in the pen.
Babe Hayes was also picked up as a better jack of all trades defensively. He can hit and field better though he seems to be weaker overall. Actually, he would be just as good with 10 points in his health or power. My AAA team will be better though, that is not saying much.
There must be one hell of a fight over Pablo Solano. I am wondering if he is actually worth it myself. It is a boon to other teams who don't seem to be taking much advantage of the cheap leftovers.
Wilt Pagan became the first type A to sign and did so quickly. Frisco saved $2M easily but did they get a decent return remains to be seen.
Wesley Hewson hit the money market next with a whopping $10M contract for two years. A good buy for Texas? Debatable.
Frisco seems to be playing money ball with picking up Vladimir Bennett. At least the contract is livable.
Larry Overbeck hit the ground running off to hide in Vancouver. Signing him for a third year may have been a cheaper and better idea. What is it with the need for good lefty closers?
Texas picked up Ralph Jackson as well for a lot less money mind you. Must have a real need for short relievers.
While the wait continues, Montreal must have given up on the big bidding war and sank a small fortune for Marc Redman. Almost half price of his starting position. The Mets thank you by the way.
Johnnie Good made out like a fat rat picking up option money then going home to Milwaukee. He can hit but defensively he isn't much. Maybe he will play 1B or RF while drinking the suds down.
Zeke English makes his way to Boston as they pick up another cheap fallout signing. He could be a big help in Fenway.
Boston, being skinflintish also signed Arthur Donatello for another tour in a Red Sox uniform.
Yunel Mendez also got caught with his pants down with a meager contract in Toronto. Boots Rivera joined Yunel in the same cheap money feud as the Blue Jays must have gotten out of the race.
The Type "B's" made out like fat rats though I question the deal for Reagan Mathews. Marty must be sitting back stroking and hoping she is a beauty.
It took a few cycles but Arizona finally won out over me in the Kris Sisler war. I made them pay from the looks of things. I took my chances with a young Alex Mesa on the sly, just wish his splits were better.
Funny, I don't remember Elrod Cedeno showing up on my list. Is that possible? I would have paid him that kind of money for two years.
Okay, I get the fact Bruce signed Hank Kennedy as he is a better 1B defensively. I think for a few grand less, Luis Perez would have been a better option.
Hey, if I could move Leo Rodney for a decent PC catcher and free up some money, I would make another grab off the FA market. There I go dreaming again, like I would actually trade my hero. Sentimental fool!
So, who is in the running for Solano? Too many teams not heard from in the FA wars.
Another New Season Underway
Yup, season 32 kicks into high gear. I have to laugh as there hasn't really been much to write about as of yet. I still like to hear you all gripe about coach hiring. I did too for a long time and so many changes but still a mess. I have a plan to fix it for the most part but is long and detailed. Basically it involves freezing coaches to the type they are and allow development within the organization but need to add the other type of coaches to the minors as well and not zoom the money concern at the same time.
The biggest gripe I have ever had was the Bench Coach at the ML level. A position every coach wants to be truthfully in real life but nothing more than a gopher for the most part here. Why spend more than the minimum on a guy that might coach five to ten games during a season at the ML level? The help section says he is about worthless at the ML level but important in the minors, so why pay a fortune on one. If I don't have an adequate guy in the minors or find one in the minors, I wait to near the end and find something rather cheap to throw in the slot.
Speaking of being near the end of the coach hiring cycle, I looked over what is available at the ML level. Some good cheap coaches available already. Makes me wish I didn't rehire my Bull Pen Coach as I could have made an upgrade for an extra 500K, oh well. I only allocated 10M for coaching and I got one of the best staffs I have had in years. I wondered where I was gonna find a 3B Coach, it took some effort as I found him wanting a BC job. Yeah, I had to overpay to get him at 3B but I think it was worth it.
I thought hiring coaches was going to be difficult but somehow I think allocated money dictates who looks for a new job sometimes. My returning BC wanted big bucks he didn't get and no one else wanted him either. So long, so sad...lol! My Hitting Coach decided to look around, I met his offer and he took it right off the bat. Hey, he brings a lot of good attributes to the plate, puns intended. I do wonder if Loyalty plays a roll.
Marco Allen was jacking off in AA and I decided he would make the perfect BC. Not as disciplined as I like but can't have everything in a gopher, at least he has a good understanding of pitching.
If you ask me, the most important coach at the ML level is the FI and good ones are usually in short supply.
The bad part about coach hiring, if one is snagged for a BC job, he is going to take it no matter what. Has anybody tried to offer less money than their asking price for another position and they take it?
The Mets are still in a bit of flux as of yet. I am rather optimistic about our chances at the moment. I am working on the defense aspect as I was dissatisfied with last years performance. Then again, some of it was my fault caused by an injury and wanting a bat in the lineup that didn't work out. It may have caused a few losses but nothing to help get to the playoffs. We had 25 minus plays last year, most of those caused by the pitching staff, not much I can do about that. 98 errors could have been avoided and been in the low 80's easy enough. We led the league in passed balls, big deal as the offense generated overcame those.
I normally go with defensive catchers to help the pitchers be their best. Last year I had a tandem that are rather so-so defensively but together equal a good power hitter. Give and take I suppose.
I haven't actually decided on an actual lineup as of yet but pretty much have the starters down pat.
C - Terry Constanza and Chip Knepper. May not be the best defensive pair but together are a pretty nice hitting force.
1B - Leo Rodney. Age hasn't exactly been kind this year but it is the last year of his contract.
2B - Jim Conner. I am hoping he has a better season at the plate. I was rather surprised at his defense however.
3B - Brutus Mora or Jamie Beltre. I haven't made up my mind. Probably Beltre and Mora will play RF.
SS - Carlos DeSoto. Defensive minded and does a good job, just wish he could hit something with a bat other than the mascot. This where I got in trouble last year when Valentin went down with an injury.
LF - Paul Chiba. I acquired him in FA for this position as Ronny Gant has lost the ability somewhat. This does present a problem however.
CF - Eric Wheat. He proved he could play the position after he was acquired in a trade late last season.
RF - Ronny Gant. He is penciled in at the position but there is little chance he will play there as he doesn't have the ability to play OF anymore in all reality. There is a good chance he will play 1B and Rodney offered for trade. I haven't made up my mind as of yet.
Darryl Palmer. He is left to play jack of all trades and on the hot seat if someone better shows up.
Pitching on the other hand is a myriad of fielding incompetence. Their pitching isn't really all that much better most of the time and I just sit around shaking my head.
Harry Rodriguez. Can be good or lousy, not bad for a lefty though.
Matthew Ford. If he just had some better pitches his red hair wouldn't look so comical.
Nicholas Weaver. Better control would help but a better PC catcher could be the answer.
Rich Faulk. Should be the ace of the staff but bad luck always rears its ugly head.
Joaquin Romano. What can you say, he is at best a AAAA player with a short life span. Isn't exactly horrible though.
Fausto Castillo. We cringe anytime a lefty comes to the plate.
Brian Grim. Has been a stalwart in the pen.
Ubaldo Rijo. He isn't as bad as he looks. Do need an inning eater at times.
Alex Mesa. Acquired in FA just to prove the last guy isn't that bad.
Max Galarraga. Claimed off waivers, why? Your guess is a good as mine. Maybe we needed some one to roll the ball over the plate to fool the hitters. We hope he survives the season because he is cheap.
Fausto Candelaria. We are hoping he turns out to be the mid relief shut down guy.
Matt Wallace. We have hopes, he has dreams. Now if he doesn't trip over the rosin bag we will see what he has to offer.
Leon Clements. We really wanted to keep him the minors for another season but... We really needed another short guy in the pen.
F.P. Creek. He has lived in Sherm Brock's shadow long enough and Sherm was asking for too much to stay, ask Bruce.
There is a good chance that one or two of these guys will find their way back to the minors or the waiver wire before the season starts.
The biggest gripe I have ever had was the Bench Coach at the ML level. A position every coach wants to be truthfully in real life but nothing more than a gopher for the most part here. Why spend more than the minimum on a guy that might coach five to ten games during a season at the ML level? The help section says he is about worthless at the ML level but important in the minors, so why pay a fortune on one. If I don't have an adequate guy in the minors or find one in the minors, I wait to near the end and find something rather cheap to throw in the slot.
Speaking of being near the end of the coach hiring cycle, I looked over what is available at the ML level. Some good cheap coaches available already. Makes me wish I didn't rehire my Bull Pen Coach as I could have made an upgrade for an extra 500K, oh well. I only allocated 10M for coaching and I got one of the best staffs I have had in years. I wondered where I was gonna find a 3B Coach, it took some effort as I found him wanting a BC job. Yeah, I had to overpay to get him at 3B but I think it was worth it.
I thought hiring coaches was going to be difficult but somehow I think allocated money dictates who looks for a new job sometimes. My returning BC wanted big bucks he didn't get and no one else wanted him either. So long, so sad...lol! My Hitting Coach decided to look around, I met his offer and he took it right off the bat. Hey, he brings a lot of good attributes to the plate, puns intended. I do wonder if Loyalty plays a roll.
Marco Allen was jacking off in AA and I decided he would make the perfect BC. Not as disciplined as I like but can't have everything in a gopher, at least he has a good understanding of pitching.
If you ask me, the most important coach at the ML level is the FI and good ones are usually in short supply.
The bad part about coach hiring, if one is snagged for a BC job, he is going to take it no matter what. Has anybody tried to offer less money than their asking price for another position and they take it?
The Mets are still in a bit of flux as of yet. I am rather optimistic about our chances at the moment. I am working on the defense aspect as I was dissatisfied with last years performance. Then again, some of it was my fault caused by an injury and wanting a bat in the lineup that didn't work out. It may have caused a few losses but nothing to help get to the playoffs. We had 25 minus plays last year, most of those caused by the pitching staff, not much I can do about that. 98 errors could have been avoided and been in the low 80's easy enough. We led the league in passed balls, big deal as the offense generated overcame those.
I normally go with defensive catchers to help the pitchers be their best. Last year I had a tandem that are rather so-so defensively but together equal a good power hitter. Give and take I suppose.
I haven't actually decided on an actual lineup as of yet but pretty much have the starters down pat.
C - Terry Constanza and Chip Knepper. May not be the best defensive pair but together are a pretty nice hitting force.
1B - Leo Rodney. Age hasn't exactly been kind this year but it is the last year of his contract.
2B - Jim Conner. I am hoping he has a better season at the plate. I was rather surprised at his defense however.
3B - Brutus Mora or Jamie Beltre. I haven't made up my mind. Probably Beltre and Mora will play RF.
SS - Carlos DeSoto. Defensive minded and does a good job, just wish he could hit something with a bat other than the mascot. This where I got in trouble last year when Valentin went down with an injury.
LF - Paul Chiba. I acquired him in FA for this position as Ronny Gant has lost the ability somewhat. This does present a problem however.
CF - Eric Wheat. He proved he could play the position after he was acquired in a trade late last season.
RF - Ronny Gant. He is penciled in at the position but there is little chance he will play there as he doesn't have the ability to play OF anymore in all reality. There is a good chance he will play 1B and Rodney offered for trade. I haven't made up my mind as of yet.
Darryl Palmer. He is left to play jack of all trades and on the hot seat if someone better shows up.
Pitching on the other hand is a myriad of fielding incompetence. Their pitching isn't really all that much better most of the time and I just sit around shaking my head.
Harry Rodriguez. Can be good or lousy, not bad for a lefty though.
Matthew Ford. If he just had some better pitches his red hair wouldn't look so comical.
Nicholas Weaver. Better control would help but a better PC catcher could be the answer.
Rich Faulk. Should be the ace of the staff but bad luck always rears its ugly head.
Joaquin Romano. What can you say, he is at best a AAAA player with a short life span. Isn't exactly horrible though.
Fausto Castillo. We cringe anytime a lefty comes to the plate.
Brian Grim. Has been a stalwart in the pen.
Ubaldo Rijo. He isn't as bad as he looks. Do need an inning eater at times.
Alex Mesa. Acquired in FA just to prove the last guy isn't that bad.
Max Galarraga. Claimed off waivers, why? Your guess is a good as mine. Maybe we needed some one to roll the ball over the plate to fool the hitters. We hope he survives the season because he is cheap.
Fausto Candelaria. We are hoping he turns out to be the mid relief shut down guy.
Matt Wallace. We have hopes, he has dreams. Now if he doesn't trip over the rosin bag we will see what he has to offer.
Leon Clements. We really wanted to keep him the minors for another season but... We really needed another short guy in the pen.
F.P. Creek. He has lived in Sherm Brock's shadow long enough and Sherm was asking for too much to stay, ask Bruce.
There is a good chance that one or two of these guys will find their way back to the minors or the waiver wire before the season starts.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Just Something To Write About
You know I was thinking the other day about all kinds of things to write. I decided that it wasn't all that funny, well could be. Like Dakar moving from Seattle to Montreal because his old lady got tired of his Puget Sound in bed, so much better in French. I liked Tyler admitting he was born on Flag Day, that makes him a back to school special delivery. I saved a bundle switching insurance companies by the way, no car, no house and my gas budget is a hell of a lot cheaper. Need to build a a gazebo or something, it is hell grilling in the rain.
Oh well, time to get to the nitty-gritty. I was looking my team over and pondering the fate of my players. A little funny in a way as I started looking at their stats and found them quite equal to their ratings. I scratched my head at the preponderance and wondered why the team stunk the Big Apple up. I looked over the rest of the teams in my division and had no answer to be truthful.
The Mets as a whole are better than Atlanta in my books, the standings don't show it however. Philly might be better here and there but not a real powerhouse. I like the Marlins overall in comparison but their weakness resides in starting pitching. The Braves fail because the bull pen isn't good enough. I am debating my own short sightedness as I think the Mets were three players short of contending. I have been putting one player in the wrong place in the lineup for several seasons. Not finding the right player is my own stupidity and actually not so easy, maybe next year. Could that one player make a thirty game difference?
I am at a loss in Arizona as well, yeah I leaned toward the Giants in the preseason. There are certain factors that I base my predictions on and not a player by player breakdown comparrison unless it is so tight when I make my choice. I am still waiting on new stadiums to be updated, I can't figure out what the hold up is there. Would be nice getting out of Shea, just the name change and dimensions would be satisfying.
It wouldn't be right not picking on Bruce...close enough for once.
Pratt and Brian are having a hoe-down fighting over first place and the #2 seed. Um, maybe they should pay more attention to the Phils, they could sneak into the second round unmolested. Cubs missing the playoffs? How?
Dakar is sleeping through the rest of the season and Vegas just needs to make sure there isn't a collapse. Several dingle berries holding on for those wild card spots in the AL. Nothing guaranteed in the NL wild card either, though the South in both divisions have the K-Y ready just in case.
.
Oh well, time to get to the nitty-gritty. I was looking my team over and pondering the fate of my players. A little funny in a way as I started looking at their stats and found them quite equal to their ratings. I scratched my head at the preponderance and wondered why the team stunk the Big Apple up. I looked over the rest of the teams in my division and had no answer to be truthful.
The Mets as a whole are better than Atlanta in my books, the standings don't show it however. Philly might be better here and there but not a real powerhouse. I like the Marlins overall in comparison but their weakness resides in starting pitching. The Braves fail because the bull pen isn't good enough. I am debating my own short sightedness as I think the Mets were three players short of contending. I have been putting one player in the wrong place in the lineup for several seasons. Not finding the right player is my own stupidity and actually not so easy, maybe next year. Could that one player make a thirty game difference?
I am at a loss in Arizona as well, yeah I leaned toward the Giants in the preseason. There are certain factors that I base my predictions on and not a player by player breakdown comparrison unless it is so tight when I make my choice. I am still waiting on new stadiums to be updated, I can't figure out what the hold up is there. Would be nice getting out of Shea, just the name change and dimensions would be satisfying.
It wouldn't be right not picking on Bruce...close enough for once.
Pratt and Brian are having a hoe-down fighting over first place and the #2 seed. Um, maybe they should pay more attention to the Phils, they could sneak into the second round unmolested. Cubs missing the playoffs? How?
Dakar is sleeping through the rest of the season and Vegas just needs to make sure there isn't a collapse. Several dingle berries holding on for those wild card spots in the AL. Nothing guaranteed in the NL wild card either, though the South in both divisions have the K-Y ready just in case.
.
Friday, May 23, 2014
The All-Star Break
No Brian, Bruce didn't hack my account. I love Bruce for so many reasons besides being easy to pick on...he is my hero. Oh to be young and drunk again with what I know now. Oh wait, I probably wouldn't waste my money getting drunk... there are far much better pleasures to be had theses days. ;)
The season has shaped up to be boring in a few ways. Erf most generally went with zero in the international fund. I asked him about that once. He said he didn't want to fight over them and got tired of the mail. Though I got confused when it was time to rebuild and he started putting cash toward the International sector. He always seemed to snag a good prospect in the draft with a last first round pick. Of course there is no way to actually prove it. I think if you spend 12M in scouting you are guaranteed a good top five to ten pick from your board even if you draft last. Just have to get the board right.
AL North
Expos are cruising to the title. 22 more wins and the Twinks and Blinks would need to win seventy percent of their games just to catch up.
AL East
This was a muddled mess for much of the early season. Okay, so nothing has changed and it looks like the last team standing will win.
AL South
I thought this was going to be a four team race. KC and Memphis are gonna duke it out it appears. Like I said, the Heads are young and could struggle. I expected the Ranger to be a lot closer than they are.
AL West
Wondrous surprise seeing the Sky Sox challenging instead of that team from the upper north country.
Overall, it could be one gigantic melee for the final wild card spot.
NL North
Will another injury put a flat in the Reds this season? The Cubs will need it.
NL East
Braves made a statement early but their tomahawk got chopped. Wholck is out stroking his boys everyday to the last drop. Lookout, his arm is getting tired. Go Marlins Go!
NL South
Enough of Mexico City and the water, Brian wants in on the act this season.
NL West
Who is your daddy? Davis has his big gun buried in three girlfriends and they are all past due. The Big Daddys are cheerin for him though.
Two wild cards and five possible teams, looks like a wild finish here as well.
Johnnie Motte, remember him? Well, the Rangers finally got him signed. Might be a weak SS but there is no denying he is a big dick..ooops I mean stick. He gets the A+ grade from me.
The Blue Jays spent $14M on a lefty closer in Jimmie Baez. A bit much if you ask me but looks well worth the money.
Ernesto Romero yanked $13M however from Milwaukee. Maybe the right amount, he is no superstar that is for sure.
Harry Rincon was signed by the Pirates for $13M. Romero may have been the better choice for the money. Rincon is a sure starter though just not great.
The Pirates also picked up Pasqual Arcia for $8.1M. Don't look now, the Pirates spent a boatload less and got a better player I think.
The season has shaped up to be boring in a few ways. Erf most generally went with zero in the international fund. I asked him about that once. He said he didn't want to fight over them and got tired of the mail. Though I got confused when it was time to rebuild and he started putting cash toward the International sector. He always seemed to snag a good prospect in the draft with a last first round pick. Of course there is no way to actually prove it. I think if you spend 12M in scouting you are guaranteed a good top five to ten pick from your board even if you draft last. Just have to get the board right.
AL North
Expos are cruising to the title. 22 more wins and the Twinks and Blinks would need to win seventy percent of their games just to catch up.
AL East
This was a muddled mess for much of the early season. Okay, so nothing has changed and it looks like the last team standing will win.
AL South
I thought this was going to be a four team race. KC and Memphis are gonna duke it out it appears. Like I said, the Heads are young and could struggle. I expected the Ranger to be a lot closer than they are.
AL West
Wondrous surprise seeing the Sky Sox challenging instead of that team from the upper north country.
Overall, it could be one gigantic melee for the final wild card spot.
NL North
Will another injury put a flat in the Reds this season? The Cubs will need it.
NL East
Braves made a statement early but their tomahawk got chopped. Wholck is out stroking his boys everyday to the last drop. Lookout, his arm is getting tired. Go Marlins Go!
NL South
Enough of Mexico City and the water, Brian wants in on the act this season.
NL West
Who is your daddy? Davis has his big gun buried in three girlfriends and they are all past due. The Big Daddys are cheerin for him though.
Two wild cards and five possible teams, looks like a wild finish here as well.
Johnnie Motte, remember him? Well, the Rangers finally got him signed. Might be a weak SS but there is no denying he is a big dick..ooops I mean stick. He gets the A+ grade from me.
The Blue Jays spent $14M on a lefty closer in Jimmie Baez. A bit much if you ask me but looks well worth the money.
Ernesto Romero yanked $13M however from Milwaukee. Maybe the right amount, he is no superstar that is for sure.
Harry Rincon was signed by the Pirates for $13M. Romero may have been the better choice for the money. Rincon is a sure starter though just not great.
The Pirates also picked up Pasqual Arcia for $8.1M. Don't look now, the Pirates spent a boatload less and got a better player I think.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Season 31 Draft
1, Johnnie Motte, SS, Texas - He was the first pick but I haven't a clue. If the picture means anything I can sue the Rangers for my watch stopping.
Grade:
2. Theodore Watten, P, Los Angeles Dodgers - As far as pitching goes, he is a complete gamer in the old style and could turn a staff into four rotation. How good he will be remains to be seen, has upper tier splits but the rest may lag. Still, he was the best starting pitcher on the board maybe.
Grade: A
3. Junior Rolls, P, Little Rock Heads - What is not to love for the price? So what if he is as good as my long dead grandmother who wasn't a lefty. Faster than a speeding lightening bug and has trouble eating his coffee and drinking his donut. Who knows as he does look good.
Grade: A
4. Henry Jacob, P, Oakland A's - He looks like a maybe to me. Righty with lefty splits. Let him play football....waah
Grade: A-
5. Addison Altuve, 3B, Vancouver Canadians - 3B looks like a stretch as well as the listed SS, RF looks likely if you ask me. Hitting isn't bad but don't expect a trove of home runs.
Grade: A
6. Hiroki Iwazaki, P, New York Mets - I had him as my #1. Um, so my scouts lied about his health making it to the low seventies. If he stays alive and not stub his toe too many times, he could be good.
Grade: A
7. Don Garcia, RF, Pittsburgh Pirates - There is a lot to like about this critter as well as the oh shit factor. Hitting should be good with power. Can steal a few bases, he is better at stealing knickers. Put a glove on his hands and it is like playing hacky sack.
Grade: A
8. Jack Graham, CF, San Diego Padres- Once again Bruce goes outside the realm of baseball to draft.The bartender from the Revere? We will get back to everyone on this guy.
Grade: ?
9. Joe Borchard, RF, Tampa Bay Rays: A Garcia look alike in many ways and hacky sack partner. Which is better might be hard to tell in the end.
Grade: A
10. Arnold Wilkins, SS, Detroit Tigers - My scouts love this kid, too bad they were blind in scouting him in the draft. SS is questionable, 3B has all-star written all over him and maybe 2B also. His not so great eye might hinder him, but gets the bat on the ball.
Grade: A
11. Les Golub, 2B, Minnesota Twins - Maybe not great at 2B but I wouldn't rule him out just yet. A very good hitter and will make a manager think about the lineup. Lead off walk or hit as opposed to hit and run in the second spot, tough decision.
Grade: A+
12. Kurt Sheets, P, Atlanta Braves - SJR did a jig when he saw this pick. Now if his health stays potent for a few years he will be really happy. He would rate better with me if his other two pitches were better.
Grade: A
13. Otis Tannehill, 2B, Dover Dung Beetles - I really, really like his potential.2B or CF is a possibility. Hitting isn't bad with a little pop.
Grade: A+
14. Ken Blank, P, Colorado Springs Sky Sox - It is the fourteenth pick already. What can you say, he is good not great.
Grade: A
15. Davey Lima, 3B, Arizona Diamondbacks - Yup, the slide has to begin somewhere. Iffy at 3B as RF is likely, nothing really grand in the hitting department other than he gets lucky. Luck has nothing to do with his grade as I think he could be iffy to make a ML roster.
Grade: B
16. Cookie Romero, SS, Milwaukee Brewers - SS? Scouts say nay but 3B is all-star positive. Could be good enough to be a lead off hitter as well, especially against righties. We will need to wait and see. Dilo playing the name game with Cookie?
Grade: A
17. Jordan Webster, 2B, Boston Red Sox - Boston gambled on this pick. Might be gambling as to whether he signs as well. They won't be heartbroken either way I think. Can't play 2B if you ask me and probably wind up in LF. Does have some intrinsic value hitting the green monster with power.
Grade: A
18. Ed Vernon, P, Pittsburgh Pirates - If this kid develops could make a nice two inning impact player in the pen. I don't think he has enough for a starter.
Grade: A
19. Davy Hausmann, C, Florida Marlins - I debated taking this player with the sixth pick and probably should have. Scouts didn't like his defensive abilities and I finally relinquished. Not often you can find a 162 game catcher, one that can hit with enough defense to be satisfactory. Bad news, he is in my division...groan.
Grade: A+
20. Pedro Tavarez, P, Oakland A's - Jack Pot! A well placed bet whether for cash or weed. The first closer or setup man taken and he brings the heat.
Grade: A+
21. Eduardo Sosa, RF, St. Louis Cardinals - Another big gamble that may or may not turn out well regardless how it goes. Another hacky sack player involved with Garcia and Borchard. Who said they broke the mold.AA Being a lefty is a plus, he can hit right handed pitchers with some pop and sit against his own ilk. 1B looks more likely but that health is really a let down.
Grade: A-
22. Donovan McAnaney, SS, Washington D.C. Senators - SS is defensively possible but doubtful for a gold glove at SS. Hitting doesn't look all that bad but no dynamo either. I still give a thumbs up on the pick.
Grade: A
23. Archie Litsch, 2B, Memphis Red Birds - I think he would be a gold glove candidate in RF and butter fingers at 2B. Has some power, not great and falters heavily against righties. A somewhat good pick.
Grade: B+
24. Raymond Krivda, P, Baltimore Orioles - The O's want to sign him bad but doesn't look good at the moment. A very good everyday closer that can bring the heat.
Grade: A
25. Arthur Titan, 2B, Philadelphia Phillies - Where to play him is the problem, too good and not so good at the same time. 2B doesn't look good at all so that leaves corner outfield. Good hitter with power.
Grade: A
26. Timo Kelly, P, Houston Astros - A good setup man for an inning as I am not sold on him being the go to closer.
Grade: A
27. Bret Randall, SS, Cincinnati Reds - Another of those iffy picks where the Reds won't be all that heartbroken if he doesn't sign. One of those players that could be decent but not great. Would really need to develop well to have a chance.
Grade: B
28. Einar DeRojas, P, Atlanta Braves - Let my scouts at him...
Grade: ?
29. Trever Browne, P, Mexico City Diablos Rojos - I think he is a reach as a 5th starter. Then again he could be a reach period, a tough one to really place. Might be good in the pen but not always. Not a terrible pick this late.
Grade: B+
30. Joey Giovanola, CF, Kansas City Royals - I haven't a clue
Grade: ?
31. Jorel Jefferson, P, Boston Red Sox - A good looking lefty with more problems than you can shake a stick at. Toss a coin if he might pitch at the ML level as it is that iffy.
Grade: B
32. Burke Service, P, Anaheim Angels - Things have really been picked over and it is starting to show. Setup man with some very shaky attributes.
Grade: B
Grade:
2. Theodore Watten, P, Los Angeles Dodgers - As far as pitching goes, he is a complete gamer in the old style and could turn a staff into four rotation. How good he will be remains to be seen, has upper tier splits but the rest may lag. Still, he was the best starting pitcher on the board maybe.
Grade: A
3. Junior Rolls, P, Little Rock Heads - What is not to love for the price? So what if he is as good as my long dead grandmother who wasn't a lefty. Faster than a speeding lightening bug and has trouble eating his coffee and drinking his donut. Who knows as he does look good.
Grade: A
4. Henry Jacob, P, Oakland A's - He looks like a maybe to me. Righty with lefty splits. Let him play football....waah
Grade: A-
5. Addison Altuve, 3B, Vancouver Canadians - 3B looks like a stretch as well as the listed SS, RF looks likely if you ask me. Hitting isn't bad but don't expect a trove of home runs.
Grade: A
6. Hiroki Iwazaki, P, New York Mets - I had him as my #1. Um, so my scouts lied about his health making it to the low seventies. If he stays alive and not stub his toe too many times, he could be good.
Grade: A
7. Don Garcia, RF, Pittsburgh Pirates - There is a lot to like about this critter as well as the oh shit factor. Hitting should be good with power. Can steal a few bases, he is better at stealing knickers. Put a glove on his hands and it is like playing hacky sack.
Grade: A
8. Jack Graham, CF, San Diego Padres- Once again Bruce goes outside the realm of baseball to draft.The bartender from the Revere? We will get back to everyone on this guy.
Grade: ?
9. Joe Borchard, RF, Tampa Bay Rays: A Garcia look alike in many ways and hacky sack partner. Which is better might be hard to tell in the end.
Grade: A
10. Arnold Wilkins, SS, Detroit Tigers - My scouts love this kid, too bad they were blind in scouting him in the draft. SS is questionable, 3B has all-star written all over him and maybe 2B also. His not so great eye might hinder him, but gets the bat on the ball.
Grade: A
11. Les Golub, 2B, Minnesota Twins - Maybe not great at 2B but I wouldn't rule him out just yet. A very good hitter and will make a manager think about the lineup. Lead off walk or hit as opposed to hit and run in the second spot, tough decision.
Grade: A+
12. Kurt Sheets, P, Atlanta Braves - SJR did a jig when he saw this pick. Now if his health stays potent for a few years he will be really happy. He would rate better with me if his other two pitches were better.
Grade: A
13. Otis Tannehill, 2B, Dover Dung Beetles - I really, really like his potential.2B or CF is a possibility. Hitting isn't bad with a little pop.
Grade: A+
14. Ken Blank, P, Colorado Springs Sky Sox - It is the fourteenth pick already. What can you say, he is good not great.
Grade: A
15. Davey Lima, 3B, Arizona Diamondbacks - Yup, the slide has to begin somewhere. Iffy at 3B as RF is likely, nothing really grand in the hitting department other than he gets lucky. Luck has nothing to do with his grade as I think he could be iffy to make a ML roster.
Grade: B
16. Cookie Romero, SS, Milwaukee Brewers - SS? Scouts say nay but 3B is all-star positive. Could be good enough to be a lead off hitter as well, especially against righties. We will need to wait and see. Dilo playing the name game with Cookie?
Grade: A
17. Jordan Webster, 2B, Boston Red Sox - Boston gambled on this pick. Might be gambling as to whether he signs as well. They won't be heartbroken either way I think. Can't play 2B if you ask me and probably wind up in LF. Does have some intrinsic value hitting the green monster with power.
Grade: A
18. Ed Vernon, P, Pittsburgh Pirates - If this kid develops could make a nice two inning impact player in the pen. I don't think he has enough for a starter.
Grade: A
19. Davy Hausmann, C, Florida Marlins - I debated taking this player with the sixth pick and probably should have. Scouts didn't like his defensive abilities and I finally relinquished. Not often you can find a 162 game catcher, one that can hit with enough defense to be satisfactory. Bad news, he is in my division...groan.
Grade: A+
20. Pedro Tavarez, P, Oakland A's - Jack Pot! A well placed bet whether for cash or weed. The first closer or setup man taken and he brings the heat.
Grade: A+
21. Eduardo Sosa, RF, St. Louis Cardinals - Another big gamble that may or may not turn out well regardless how it goes. Another hacky sack player involved with Garcia and Borchard. Who said they broke the mold.AA Being a lefty is a plus, he can hit right handed pitchers with some pop and sit against his own ilk. 1B looks more likely but that health is really a let down.
Grade: A-
22. Donovan McAnaney, SS, Washington D.C. Senators - SS is defensively possible but doubtful for a gold glove at SS. Hitting doesn't look all that bad but no dynamo either. I still give a thumbs up on the pick.
Grade: A
23. Archie Litsch, 2B, Memphis Red Birds - I think he would be a gold glove candidate in RF and butter fingers at 2B. Has some power, not great and falters heavily against righties. A somewhat good pick.
Grade: B+
24. Raymond Krivda, P, Baltimore Orioles - The O's want to sign him bad but doesn't look good at the moment. A very good everyday closer that can bring the heat.
Grade: A
25. Arthur Titan, 2B, Philadelphia Phillies - Where to play him is the problem, too good and not so good at the same time. 2B doesn't look good at all so that leaves corner outfield. Good hitter with power.
Grade: A
26. Timo Kelly, P, Houston Astros - A good setup man for an inning as I am not sold on him being the go to closer.
Grade: A
27. Bret Randall, SS, Cincinnati Reds - Another of those iffy picks where the Reds won't be all that heartbroken if he doesn't sign. One of those players that could be decent but not great. Would really need to develop well to have a chance.
Grade: B
28. Einar DeRojas, P, Atlanta Braves - Let my scouts at him...
Grade: ?
29. Trever Browne, P, Mexico City Diablos Rojos - I think he is a reach as a 5th starter. Then again he could be a reach period, a tough one to really place. Might be good in the pen but not always. Not a terrible pick this late.
Grade: B+
30. Joey Giovanola, CF, Kansas City Royals - I haven't a clue
Grade: ?
31. Jorel Jefferson, P, Boston Red Sox - A good looking lefty with more problems than you can shake a stick at. Toss a coin if he might pitch at the ML level as it is that iffy.
Grade: B
32. Burke Service, P, Anaheim Angels - Things have really been picked over and it is starting to show. Setup man with some very shaky attributes.
Grade: B
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Mets and the Draft
So the Mets needed pitching in the worst way. With the sixth pick I was hoping for a decent starter. I didn't have much to go on either, worthy of the sixth pick. Watten went with the second pick, that left Iwazaki and Blank left on the board. Somewhere along the line I didn't pay attention or messed up the ranking and chose wrong. Well, that is what my ML scouts and team doctor say anyway, I was hoodwinked by the future heath rating. I should have went with option two, Davy Hausmann, may not be great behind plate but looked like he could handle a bat. My ML scouts says he is much better than predicted behind the plate. Well, shyt!!!! Fire those fucking scouts and find someone who knows talent. The only talent they can find is the bimbo bitches they sleep with, oh wait, egads! Have you seen some of them? At least the rest of my top picks look decent enough, some might have a future even.
Pittsburgh struck hard at rebuilding snagging Harry Rincon off the market for $13M. We will need to flip a coin if he will be real successful as he may need a good offense to go with him. Must be why a somewhat talented starter went on the cheap side.
Does Dakar know something we don't? Signing Neftali Perez for $3.1M seems a bit much for a possible AA pitcher, well maybe AAA if he is lucky. Maybe my scouts have had too many Coronas or is it the Calgon funding they keep requesting. What is a Calgon anyway?
Pittsburgh struck hard at rebuilding snagging Harry Rincon off the market for $13M. We will need to flip a coin if he will be real successful as he may need a good offense to go with him. Must be why a somewhat talented starter went on the cheap side.
Does Dakar know something we don't? Signing Neftali Perez for $3.1M seems a bit much for a possible AA pitcher, well maybe AAA if he is lucky. Maybe my scouts have had too many Coronas or is it the Calgon funding they keep requesting. What is a Calgon anyway?
Friday, May 9, 2014
News Time
Rodrigo Diaz made headlines with his $17.5M signing with Pittsburgh. I found the buy interesting. Could he be the next Ivan the Terrible? There are possibilities but depends on development which looks good at this point.
Speaking of Ivan, it appears the Boston scandal might have started with Ivan. The now nicknamed pussy ball has hit some new highs. Ivan was getting high on the mound from sniffing and we thought it was a new form of the spitter. It was carried over into the AL with none other than Black Bart. We still don't know how it helped him hit so well, studies are still underway to the delight of a few ball girls.
A look at the standings at this time shows what was expected for the most part. The surprise is the Braves in the NL East who declared themselves rebuilding at the beginning of the season. The Giants building a commanding lead in the west as well. The sudden destruction of the Dodgers made every ones head shake in confusion. The AL is a little different, Montreal is stroking themselves as the competition dwindles. The Dung Beetles are poking their heads up out of a pile of donkey shyt. The Canadians at five hundred has the West shaking in their cleats.
News just for Knuck maybe, he might get a kick out of this thought. It was primary day not long ago, who really cares actually unless something was there to annoy people. The one that annoys me the most is schools and their want for more and more money and they just keep asking and asking until people give in. Most generally threatening and lying to get their way anymore. Have they figured out what lies in wait for them? I have, basically out of existence to an extent, privatized. A trillion dollar a day fortitude done away with. Most people don't see it coming either, kids don't need to leave the house to attend school anymore. Hmmm, food for thought as I think that initiative has been underway and hidden for quite a few years now. Colleges have figured it out.
Speaking of Ivan, it appears the Boston scandal might have started with Ivan. The now nicknamed pussy ball has hit some new highs. Ivan was getting high on the mound from sniffing and we thought it was a new form of the spitter. It was carried over into the AL with none other than Black Bart. We still don't know how it helped him hit so well, studies are still underway to the delight of a few ball girls.
A look at the standings at this time shows what was expected for the most part. The surprise is the Braves in the NL East who declared themselves rebuilding at the beginning of the season. The Giants building a commanding lead in the west as well. The sudden destruction of the Dodgers made every ones head shake in confusion. The AL is a little different, Montreal is stroking themselves as the competition dwindles. The Dung Beetles are poking their heads up out of a pile of donkey shyt. The Canadians at five hundred has the West shaking in their cleats.
News just for Knuck maybe, he might get a kick out of this thought. It was primary day not long ago, who really cares actually unless something was there to annoy people. The one that annoys me the most is schools and their want for more and more money and they just keep asking and asking until people give in. Most generally threatening and lying to get their way anymore. Have they figured out what lies in wait for them? I have, basically out of existence to an extent, privatized. A trillion dollar a day fortitude done away with. Most people don't see it coming either, kids don't need to leave the house to attend school anymore. Hmmm, food for thought as I think that initiative has been underway and hidden for quite a few years now. Colleges have figured it out.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Umm....
You know, I think the Sterling case is interesting. What he did was wrong and the action justified so don't get me wrong. I am not that up to date with the bylaws of the NBA as a whole, matter of fact I don't even like basketball. I know they want him to sell the team but it is apparent they can't force him it seems. Which leads me to believe he could actually cause a huge revenge factor if desired to prove a point, several ways matter of fact. All of which the NBA would win in court probably and bankrupt him in the end possibly but by the time it was settled they could be without the team making the win a moot point. I could even see a scenario where all the existing players are sold and replaced by street ball players for cheap, interesting laugh. Some of them could be better than some play with big salaries now by the way. So anybody have some insight?
On to our league woes and other news around our world.
I don't think the Dodgers are a bad team and not out of it. The Mets I can't figure out. They split with the Cubs In Chicago pounding out two wins and letting them escape in the other two. Mexico City squeaked by in three loses. The two wins in LA were not pretty and the loss horrible. Fielding should be better than the stats indicate in my mind. Pitching isn't exactly great but not horrible either. Hitting, well, it just isn't there in the top of the lineup but is smoking at the bottom. I trade for Terry Constanza and acts like the best player on the team along with his plate mate that hasn't hit a home run even. The bench sits around jerking off for the ball girls amusement.
Then there is the Brew Ha Ha's, maybe they should remove the hookers from the locker room. Oh wait, they can't, they wouldn't have a team. Dilo is scratching his balls anyway, oh crabs again? Your guess is actually as good as mine. The only other thing I find surprising at the moment is the AL West but I think it will normalize.
Yup, time to assess the first Internationals that hit the scene money wise.
Edinson Cora signed the first big deal at $10M with Oakland. He is a solid lefty starter and probably why he went rather cheap. I don't think he will be superstar but the ML is in his future. My feeling is he might have been overrated but priced right.
Victor Astacio was snagged by Boston for $13.5M. My scouts indicate he may never attain SS potential, 3B is likely or maybe even a strong arm 2B. Has power at the plate but has problems putting the bat on the key pitches. His durability is very lackluster to boot. My feeling he was overpriced by three to five million maybe if my scouts are right.
On to our league woes and other news around our world.
I don't think the Dodgers are a bad team and not out of it. The Mets I can't figure out. They split with the Cubs In Chicago pounding out two wins and letting them escape in the other two. Mexico City squeaked by in three loses. The two wins in LA were not pretty and the loss horrible. Fielding should be better than the stats indicate in my mind. Pitching isn't exactly great but not horrible either. Hitting, well, it just isn't there in the top of the lineup but is smoking at the bottom. I trade for Terry Constanza and acts like the best player on the team along with his plate mate that hasn't hit a home run even. The bench sits around jerking off for the ball girls amusement.
Then there is the Brew Ha Ha's, maybe they should remove the hookers from the locker room. Oh wait, they can't, they wouldn't have a team. Dilo is scratching his balls anyway, oh crabs again? Your guess is actually as good as mine. The only other thing I find surprising at the moment is the AL West but I think it will normalize.
Yup, time to assess the first Internationals that hit the scene money wise.
Edinson Cora signed the first big deal at $10M with Oakland. He is a solid lefty starter and probably why he went rather cheap. I don't think he will be superstar but the ML is in his future. My feeling is he might have been overrated but priced right.
Victor Astacio was snagged by Boston for $13.5M. My scouts indicate he may never attain SS potential, 3B is likely or maybe even a strong arm 2B. Has power at the plate but has problems putting the bat on the key pitches. His durability is very lackluster to boot. My feeling he was overpriced by three to five million maybe if my scouts are right.
Friday, April 18, 2014
The NL
NL North
This division just got FUBARed!!!
I still pick Chicago if they stay healthy and only if. The reason is Mr Baseball, Pat Suzuki. I still like the Reds and Brewers to be in the hunt even if they fall. This goes back to the old days when the mighty threesome played each other to death. Notice I didn't mention the Pirates?
NL East
Atlanta declared themselves out of the picture already. That leaves the Phils, Marlins and Mets to pick up the brunt. The Mets aren't happy in the pitching department so that leaves the fight with the remaining two. Someone flip a coin as it looks dead even between the two. I am siding with the Marlins just because.
NL South
This one is actually tougher than it seems. Mexico City looks great on paper but looks are deceiving most times but I give them the nod on pitching alone.
Houston has an offense but pitching may cost them in the pen.
I really like the Cards. All around good, just no pizazz if ya know what I mean.
Tampa Bay falls into the same graces as the Cards.
NL West
Truthfully the West is an odd bunch. Getting over .500 has been a struggle and I don't understand that at all. The Giants are good on paper, so is Arizona. The stadium actually favors Arizona if you ask me. Bruce struggles with a rather good team in San Diego and low and behold the Dodgers don't look as bad as the record indicates. What gives?
The Giants are the better team with Arizona a very close second, the Pads and Dodgers not very far behind. This could flip flop easily with a key player on his backside.
Here comes a list that could easily be wrong in the end.
1. Mexico City
2. Chicago
3. San Francisco
4. Florida
5. Cincinnati
6. Milwaukee
The heartbreak in Arizona on the last week of the season again. Houston crying foul or fowl, can't decide. Bruce being sober and paying the suddenly Happy Hooker instead. Atlanta, Pittsburgh and New York trying to stay out of the cellar?
This division just got FUBARed!!!
I still pick Chicago if they stay healthy and only if. The reason is Mr Baseball, Pat Suzuki. I still like the Reds and Brewers to be in the hunt even if they fall. This goes back to the old days when the mighty threesome played each other to death. Notice I didn't mention the Pirates?
NL East
Atlanta declared themselves out of the picture already. That leaves the Phils, Marlins and Mets to pick up the brunt. The Mets aren't happy in the pitching department so that leaves the fight with the remaining two. Someone flip a coin as it looks dead even between the two. I am siding with the Marlins just because.
NL South
This one is actually tougher than it seems. Mexico City looks great on paper but looks are deceiving most times but I give them the nod on pitching alone.
Houston has an offense but pitching may cost them in the pen.
I really like the Cards. All around good, just no pizazz if ya know what I mean.
Tampa Bay falls into the same graces as the Cards.
NL West
Truthfully the West is an odd bunch. Getting over .500 has been a struggle and I don't understand that at all. The Giants are good on paper, so is Arizona. The stadium actually favors Arizona if you ask me. Bruce struggles with a rather good team in San Diego and low and behold the Dodgers don't look as bad as the record indicates. What gives?
The Giants are the better team with Arizona a very close second, the Pads and Dodgers not very far behind. This could flip flop easily with a key player on his backside.
Here comes a list that could easily be wrong in the end.
1. Mexico City
2. Chicago
3. San Francisco
4. Florida
5. Cincinnati
6. Milwaukee
The heartbreak in Arizona on the last week of the season again. Houston crying foul or fowl, can't decide. Bruce being sober and paying the suddenly Happy Hooker instead. Atlanta, Pittsburgh and New York trying to stay out of the cellar?
The AL
AL North
I thought it would be easy starting here this year with my undetermined way of predickshuns or is that premature ejaculations. Oh well, I did figure out who the leader of the pack was going to be.
Montreal - The rest of the pack is envious. The only reason I say that is the pitching staff.
The Twinkies, Blue Jays and Tigers all have good teams and are in the hunt for a playoff spot. The Twinkies with the best shot if the DL doesn't destroy their chances. The Tigers suffer from stadium envy most of the time. I am just not sold on the Jays pitching staff, especially the pen.
AL East
Baltimore - They thought all they had to do was to keep Boston in the rear view mirror. Um, well, that is a start at least. I say they are the team to beat still but will need to beat down a vile competitor.
That vile competitor surprised everyone last season when the boys from DC voted themselves into the playoffs for the first time. There were several seasons way back when I thought they had a winning team only to see them roll over and play dead. They are a contender for a wild card once again at the very least.
Dover is marshaling forces but just aren't there as of yet and the Red Sox seem to be rebuilding for their next dynasty.
AL South
OH SHIT!!!! I thought this was going to be simple.
Kansas City - I choke out..cough, splutter, wheeze. Not because the Red Birds are the only team that have given them fits. They are that good.
Oh, yuuuuuhoooo KC! Like my legs?! My youngsters are gonna kick your ass or at least talk your heads off. That is right, Little Rock is all in and look like they can compete with the rest of these tough hombres.
We know Memphis doesn't sing the blues very often as they love jazz. I would call them an outside underdog this season and the Rangers and Heads are why.
Silent Ed made some surprising acquisitions in the off season for Texas and this team doesn't look to bring up the rear of the pack. However, they aren't playoff material yet in my estimation, so no high fives.
AL West
Anaheim - Here are the keys to the West, the rest of the pack folded with all the aces showing and trophy on display.
Vancouver is making strides so be on the lookout Mal, not this year but.....
I slept thru the review of Oakland and Colorado, someone wake me I might be dreaming.
Now for the fearless prediction part. My feeling is the division winners might have identical records. Wouldn't that frost every ones balls?
1. Kansas City
2. Anaheim
3. Montreal
4. Baltimore
5. Minnesota
6. Washington
I really like Little Rock also but it is hard to put a young team in the playoffs. This prediction could actually be the hardest, Red Sox and A's for the worst in the AL?
I thought it would be easy starting here this year with my undetermined way of predickshuns or is that premature ejaculations. Oh well, I did figure out who the leader of the pack was going to be.
Montreal - The rest of the pack is envious. The only reason I say that is the pitching staff.
The Twinkies, Blue Jays and Tigers all have good teams and are in the hunt for a playoff spot. The Twinkies with the best shot if the DL doesn't destroy their chances. The Tigers suffer from stadium envy most of the time. I am just not sold on the Jays pitching staff, especially the pen.
AL East
Baltimore - They thought all they had to do was to keep Boston in the rear view mirror. Um, well, that is a start at least. I say they are the team to beat still but will need to beat down a vile competitor.
That vile competitor surprised everyone last season when the boys from DC voted themselves into the playoffs for the first time. There were several seasons way back when I thought they had a winning team only to see them roll over and play dead. They are a contender for a wild card once again at the very least.
Dover is marshaling forces but just aren't there as of yet and the Red Sox seem to be rebuilding for their next dynasty.
AL South
OH SHIT!!!! I thought this was going to be simple.
Kansas City - I choke out..cough, splutter, wheeze. Not because the Red Birds are the only team that have given them fits. They are that good.
Oh, yuuuuuhoooo KC! Like my legs?! My youngsters are gonna kick your ass or at least talk your heads off. That is right, Little Rock is all in and look like they can compete with the rest of these tough hombres.
We know Memphis doesn't sing the blues very often as they love jazz. I would call them an outside underdog this season and the Rangers and Heads are why.
Silent Ed made some surprising acquisitions in the off season for Texas and this team doesn't look to bring up the rear of the pack. However, they aren't playoff material yet in my estimation, so no high fives.
AL West
Anaheim - Here are the keys to the West, the rest of the pack folded with all the aces showing and trophy on display.
Vancouver is making strides so be on the lookout Mal, not this year but.....
I slept thru the review of Oakland and Colorado, someone wake me I might be dreaming.
Now for the fearless prediction part. My feeling is the division winners might have identical records. Wouldn't that frost every ones balls?
1. Kansas City
2. Anaheim
3. Montreal
4. Baltimore
5. Minnesota
6. Washington
I really like Little Rock also but it is hard to put a young team in the playoffs. This prediction could actually be the hardest, Red Sox and A's for the worst in the AL?
Friday, April 11, 2014
Rule 5
So much for my fumbling ways once again. I am bummed. LA made the needed pick after Texas bowed out with no slots on the 40. He wasn't the prize of the draft however.
Chip Milton was probably the pick everyone wanted. He looks good with bad splits however. Is it enough to be in the majors? We will just have to wait and see.
Pittsburgh was probably the happiest team around who picked 4th and got the prize of the draft in my estimation. He would have been my pick but I felt he would have been snapped up before I got a shot. Clayton Jordan was the only player in the draft I thought should have been protected. Iffy as a closer maybe but has the ability to get out of a sticky wicket when needed.
Chip Milton was probably the pick everyone wanted. He looks good with bad splits however. Is it enough to be in the majors? We will just have to wait and see.
Pittsburgh was probably the happiest team around who picked 4th and got the prize of the draft in my estimation. He would have been my pick but I felt he would have been snapped up before I got a shot. Clayton Jordan was the only player in the draft I thought should have been protected. Iffy as a closer maybe but has the ability to get out of a sticky wicket when needed.
The Season 31 Mets
The Mets did some strange things this off season. Maybe I should have stayed in bed. Surely I improved the team but as things played out, I could kick myself from day 1.
The first thing I did was go find a catcher. I didn't care what he looked like as long as he swung at fast balls and have a tendency to park them. Okay, our first choice was spirited away from us for more than I was willing to pay. Chip Knepper became the target as the starter and joins Jeff Porter as his very capable late inning replacement.
Leo Rodney remains the primary 1B for another year or so and will probably retire with his entire career here. He has lost some steam and really has muddled thru most of his career and we don't know why.
Jim Conner was stolen from under the radar. he is young and we think he can do the job at 2B for a couple years.
Brutus Mora was moved to 3B last year after I fumbled things at that position without realizing it. He was happy and was the best player on the team last year.
Carlos DeSoto proved he was the best SS on the team last year. We hope so as he is our hope there. We just wish he could hit.
Ronny Gant has been a fixture in LF for several years now. Reconstructive elbow surgery didn't help his throwing motion but his swing remains.
Jimmie Valentin gets the call in CF this season. He was sort of exiled here last season and hoped he could move to 2B.
Marc Redman gets lost in RF again as his antics at 2B are for the birds. Now if he would just be the lead off hitter he should be.
Jamie Beltre was a last second FA signing because we had no backup hitters on the bench. He can fill in at most positions but we are really trying to figure out how to make him an everyday player.
Darryl Palmer returns as our everyday handy man and prankster. Keep those girlfriends and wives close, he does have a sneaky way with them.
Mariano Diaz is just happy about being in the majors. His only English, "I hit ball long way." We just wish it was more than once every 50 AB's.
The pitching staff is a mystery to everyone, including the opposition. Hot one day and can't find their ass for a week. Well, we made some changes. We don't know why either.
Rich Faulk has been named the opening day starter already. That didn't go over well with someone.
Fausto Castillo was named second in the rotation and shit his pants.
Matthew Ford was named the third starter even though he is the new guy. The reason, he winked at Bruce shyly.
Harry Rodriguez was moved down to the fourth spot. It will the first time since, I can't remember, that he isn't the opening day starter. Yeah, he is pissed at the demotion but after last year it is a wonder he isn't frying hamburgers in the stands.
Nicholas Weaver also shit his pants, he hasn't started a game since he was considered the chosen one in Houston and that was at AAA.
Brian Grim actually got a promotion in the pen as we are gonna do things differently this year. How it will work is a mystery to every one.
Ubaldo Rijo actually apologized fro his lackluster job last season. His payday proved that point so we kept him.
Mike Jenkins is a mystery to everyone including himself. He really thought of finding a new job and giving up his dream. Maybe next season.
Joaquin Romano is sinister looking. It has its plus side, just hope it works again this season.
Ted Maxwell is the glue in the pen. We just need to get him in the game at the right time. That has been a problem.
F.P. Creek was the heir apparent to the Closers job this season. He was caught jerking off on the mound between innings to the disgust of the ump. I think he was trying out a new spit ball if you ask me. He failed and gets stuck getting fucked.
Sherm Brock gets the chance to be fireman of the year if the rest of the team is in agreement.
The first thing I did was go find a catcher. I didn't care what he looked like as long as he swung at fast balls and have a tendency to park them. Okay, our first choice was spirited away from us for more than I was willing to pay. Chip Knepper became the target as the starter and joins Jeff Porter as his very capable late inning replacement.
Leo Rodney remains the primary 1B for another year or so and will probably retire with his entire career here. He has lost some steam and really has muddled thru most of his career and we don't know why.
Jim Conner was stolen from under the radar. he is young and we think he can do the job at 2B for a couple years.
Brutus Mora was moved to 3B last year after I fumbled things at that position without realizing it. He was happy and was the best player on the team last year.
Carlos DeSoto proved he was the best SS on the team last year. We hope so as he is our hope there. We just wish he could hit.
Ronny Gant has been a fixture in LF for several years now. Reconstructive elbow surgery didn't help his throwing motion but his swing remains.
Jimmie Valentin gets the call in CF this season. He was sort of exiled here last season and hoped he could move to 2B.
Marc Redman gets lost in RF again as his antics at 2B are for the birds. Now if he would just be the lead off hitter he should be.
Jamie Beltre was a last second FA signing because we had no backup hitters on the bench. He can fill in at most positions but we are really trying to figure out how to make him an everyday player.
Darryl Palmer returns as our everyday handy man and prankster. Keep those girlfriends and wives close, he does have a sneaky way with them.
Mariano Diaz is just happy about being in the majors. His only English, "I hit ball long way." We just wish it was more than once every 50 AB's.
The pitching staff is a mystery to everyone, including the opposition. Hot one day and can't find their ass for a week. Well, we made some changes. We don't know why either.
Rich Faulk has been named the opening day starter already. That didn't go over well with someone.
Fausto Castillo was named second in the rotation and shit his pants.
Matthew Ford was named the third starter even though he is the new guy. The reason, he winked at Bruce shyly.
Harry Rodriguez was moved down to the fourth spot. It will the first time since, I can't remember, that he isn't the opening day starter. Yeah, he is pissed at the demotion but after last year it is a wonder he isn't frying hamburgers in the stands.
Nicholas Weaver also shit his pants, he hasn't started a game since he was considered the chosen one in Houston and that was at AAA.
Brian Grim actually got a promotion in the pen as we are gonna do things differently this year. How it will work is a mystery to every one.
Ubaldo Rijo actually apologized fro his lackluster job last season. His payday proved that point so we kept him.
Mike Jenkins is a mystery to everyone including himself. He really thought of finding a new job and giving up his dream. Maybe next season.
Joaquin Romano is sinister looking. It has its plus side, just hope it works again this season.
Ted Maxwell is the glue in the pen. We just need to get him in the game at the right time. That has been a problem.
F.P. Creek was the heir apparent to the Closers job this season. He was caught jerking off on the mound between innings to the disgust of the ump. I think he was trying out a new spit ball if you ask me. He failed and gets stuck getting fucked.
Sherm Brock gets the chance to be fireman of the year if the rest of the team is in agreement.
Final Free Agent Ticker
After the last post everything quieted down as everyone must have been fighting over the big boys. I was waiting for the prices to drop for the unattended myself.
Wesley Hewson mustered a decent 1 year contract in Minnesota. I still think he has what it takes even though the last two years have looked a bit muddled.
T.J. Cota makes his way to the nations capital. I am a little amused or confused by this move as there were younger and better players available for a cheaper price.
Luis Martinez is smiling heavily once again. He was approached by the Phils who was looking for a sure handed infielder. Not sure this is a good fit for him but will be helpful to the team I think.
Les Gabriel makes his way to Toronto along with Calvin Jung. Contracts aren't overwhelming as Toronto is trying the Mal-feasance way of putting a team together. It just might work at that.
Emil Flores brings his somewhat fiasco style of baseball to Boston. The unassuming player has collected over 2300 hits in his career without flaunting it.
George Atkins gets another chance at stardom in Texas. He wasn't thinking along the lines of money, more like a chance to play and redeem himself after last years debacle.
Apollo Metzger got mega bucks that made him squint. One of the biggest underachievers the last few seasons. KC is hoping for more than a money pit I am sure.
Rafael Pulido won the lottery in Chicago. Lot of money spent on the pen this year. You almost have to with the starting pitching being what it has become.
Clark Parrish finally signed his mega deal. Milwaukee was the winner or could that be loser also? They are serious about winning this year I think.
The Expos even got in the act of dropping big bucks on the pen with Ramon Nakajima. I wonder what the plans are, long short or closer...hmmm.
Mel White got a new lease on life in the majors. Toronto strikes it rich if you ask me.
Minnesota won the mega war for Javier Jimenez. Okay, he was good south of the border but now we will have to wait and see if the Twins can be a winner again.
Osvaldo Reynoso has that holy fuck look for a reason. Chicago, e-fuckin-gads. He had been booted out of worse cities I suppose. At least it wasn't a bad contract.
Buster Kaufman isn't glowing with pride. His smirk is crying out "I am back fuckwads and I have a score to settle!" Jose better be watching his back during practice, someone painted a target on his jersey.
Vasco Rivera is smiling because someone believes in him as he was unceremoniously let go in Chicago. Well, it might have been his initial asking price but Boston jumped on the right deal.
Luis Sanchez in Vancouver? He still can't skate on thin ice. For the price, seems like a great idea to me.
Yunel Mendez is actually pissed by the way, not because he is a Padre. He has a score to settle and not happy he is in the NL. Only way to get even however is to win...uh oh.
Jamie Beltre was happy someone was interested. He likes the Broadway lights by the way. The Mets needed a dependable bench player especially at 3B. We courted Souta Song but couldn't agree to terms no matter what. It ended in a choice between Darr and Beltre and went with speed, it could be a killer in this instance.
Wesley Hewson mustered a decent 1 year contract in Minnesota. I still think he has what it takes even though the last two years have looked a bit muddled.
T.J. Cota makes his way to the nations capital. I am a little amused or confused by this move as there were younger and better players available for a cheaper price.
Luis Martinez is smiling heavily once again. He was approached by the Phils who was looking for a sure handed infielder. Not sure this is a good fit for him but will be helpful to the team I think.
Les Gabriel makes his way to Toronto along with Calvin Jung. Contracts aren't overwhelming as Toronto is trying the Mal-feasance way of putting a team together. It just might work at that.
Emil Flores brings his somewhat fiasco style of baseball to Boston. The unassuming player has collected over 2300 hits in his career without flaunting it.
George Atkins gets another chance at stardom in Texas. He wasn't thinking along the lines of money, more like a chance to play and redeem himself after last years debacle.
Apollo Metzger got mega bucks that made him squint. One of the biggest underachievers the last few seasons. KC is hoping for more than a money pit I am sure.
Rafael Pulido won the lottery in Chicago. Lot of money spent on the pen this year. You almost have to with the starting pitching being what it has become.
Clark Parrish finally signed his mega deal. Milwaukee was the winner or could that be loser also? They are serious about winning this year I think.
The Expos even got in the act of dropping big bucks on the pen with Ramon Nakajima. I wonder what the plans are, long short or closer...hmmm.
Mel White got a new lease on life in the majors. Toronto strikes it rich if you ask me.
Minnesota won the mega war for Javier Jimenez. Okay, he was good south of the border but now we will have to wait and see if the Twins can be a winner again.
Osvaldo Reynoso has that holy fuck look for a reason. Chicago, e-fuckin-gads. He had been booted out of worse cities I suppose. At least it wasn't a bad contract.
Buster Kaufman isn't glowing with pride. His smirk is crying out "I am back fuckwads and I have a score to settle!" Jose better be watching his back during practice, someone painted a target on his jersey.
Vasco Rivera is smiling because someone believes in him as he was unceremoniously let go in Chicago. Well, it might have been his initial asking price but Boston jumped on the right deal.
Luis Sanchez in Vancouver? He still can't skate on thin ice. For the price, seems like a great idea to me.
Yunel Mendez is actually pissed by the way, not because he is a Padre. He has a score to settle and not happy he is in the NL. Only way to get even however is to win...uh oh.
Jamie Beltre was happy someone was interested. He likes the Broadway lights by the way. The Mets needed a dependable bench player especially at 3B. We courted Souta Song but couldn't agree to terms no matter what. It ended in a choice between Darr and Beltre and went with speed, it could be a killer in this instance.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Free Agent Thinking
Unusual year if you ask me in the Free Agent market place. Lot of good players, no one really outstanding if you ask me. Is that the reason for the rather moribund signings so far?
Clark Parrish thinks he is hot shit!. His $9M asking price hasn't dropped which means he probably has several suitors. He is hot shit by the way, few players out there that can play 2B/CF and hit with consistent power. He is 30 however and the inevitable decline will begin soon, so he will be hot for two maybe 3 years before that number 10 washtub has a rusty hole.
Apollo Metzger is next on the money trail at $6.8M. He might be just as good as Parrish at the plate, Metzger actually has an arm and can play 3B quite well. Which is more valuable for the price other than needs?
Derek Rodgers, Jim Conner and Yunel Mendez chime in with middle tier modest contract asking prices. None of them can play the position assigned which is problematic. All three are good in their own way and hard to separate in all reality.
Calvin Jung is the first lefty that shows up on the list. Well, he hits left handed anyway. He is young and deserves a fight to be signed if you ask me, mainly because he can play almost anywhere. Though that health rating isn't promising.
The market really makes me laugh. Osvaldo Reynoso thought he could make some money and opened high. he must be disappointed as his opening asking price has almost been cut in half already. Shame that he really never showed he could actually play baseball, the commiserate underachiever.
Rafael Pulido heads the pitching armory with a $6.3M asking price. I like him over the Milwaukee choice as a ready Freddy and probably much cheaper.
Javier Jimenez is asking the same amount but me thinks it could end up outlandish as the best starter on the market. That isn't saying much and a whole lot at the same time if you think about it.
Clark Parrish thinks he is hot shit!. His $9M asking price hasn't dropped which means he probably has several suitors. He is hot shit by the way, few players out there that can play 2B/CF and hit with consistent power. He is 30 however and the inevitable decline will begin soon, so he will be hot for two maybe 3 years before that number 10 washtub has a rusty hole.
Apollo Metzger is next on the money trail at $6.8M. He might be just as good as Parrish at the plate, Metzger actually has an arm and can play 3B quite well. Which is more valuable for the price other than needs?
Derek Rodgers, Jim Conner and Yunel Mendez chime in with middle tier modest contract asking prices. None of them can play the position assigned which is problematic. All three are good in their own way and hard to separate in all reality.
Calvin Jung is the first lefty that shows up on the list. Well, he hits left handed anyway. He is young and deserves a fight to be signed if you ask me, mainly because he can play almost anywhere. Though that health rating isn't promising.
The market really makes me laugh. Osvaldo Reynoso thought he could make some money and opened high. he must be disappointed as his opening asking price has almost been cut in half already. Shame that he really never showed he could actually play baseball, the commiserate underachiever.
Rafael Pulido heads the pitching armory with a $6.3M asking price. I like him over the Milwaukee choice as a ready Freddy and probably much cheaper.
Javier Jimenez is asking the same amount but me thinks it could end up outlandish as the best starter on the market. That isn't saying much and a whole lot at the same time if you think about it.
Free Agents
Carl Mattingly became the first FA to sign. A three year deal with the Reds may seem a bit much considering his decline from last year. He still has the bat however though going rather silent in Atlanta the last two seasons. I find it a good signing if the needs were 1B/LF with backup duties in RF.
Ebenezer Munoz became another casualty of Atlanta after signing a three year deal with Milwaukee. Still a very good hitter just don't ask him to be anywhere close to a gold glove candidate at 1B.
Walt Rivera signed one of those tough to dump five year contracts with the Giants and the first type A to sign. I was confused by this singing as the Mets offered more money. Did a couple clubs end the war and Frisco get the cleanup?
Dover snagged Josh Franco with a four year deal. I was interested because he is CF material and isn't a slouch at the plate. A very good four year deal.
The big surprise so far was the signing of Marino Vizcaino by Milwaukee. I am not sure he is that good a closer for the money paid.
Little Rock went shopping in the nations capital and went home with Ray Shunick. A $55M five year deal for a lefty? Ummm, I am speechless.
Russell Lewis became the push pull toy in a tug of war. Texas ended up wining the prize and someone else might have gotten the Cracker Jacks. Should have some good success in Texas however as the Rangers are rather young and hungry and needed a key vet.
Emilio Pichardo became a surprise signing to me, money wise anyway. Montreal needed a Jack but not sure this is a good fit.
Chip Knepper signed a cheap deal with the Mets. What can ya say...Cheap, Cheap, Cheap. Not a prototypical Mets catcher either.
Patrick Towers got a big payday to play in Philadelphia. Somehow I smell burnt pork down the road from this deal.
I cried fake tears when Andres Carrasquel signed his life away in Florida. I was hungrily waiting for his price to drop of course. He was good enough to me to overlook his durability issues.
Texas strikes again signing a veteran short pen helper in Esteban Cubillan. Makes more sense cost wise than Vizcaino.
Ebenezer Munoz became another casualty of Atlanta after signing a three year deal with Milwaukee. Still a very good hitter just don't ask him to be anywhere close to a gold glove candidate at 1B.
Walt Rivera signed one of those tough to dump five year contracts with the Giants and the first type A to sign. I was confused by this singing as the Mets offered more money. Did a couple clubs end the war and Frisco get the cleanup?
Dover snagged Josh Franco with a four year deal. I was interested because he is CF material and isn't a slouch at the plate. A very good four year deal.
The big surprise so far was the signing of Marino Vizcaino by Milwaukee. I am not sure he is that good a closer for the money paid.
Little Rock went shopping in the nations capital and went home with Ray Shunick. A $55M five year deal for a lefty? Ummm, I am speechless.
Russell Lewis became the push pull toy in a tug of war. Texas ended up wining the prize and someone else might have gotten the Cracker Jacks. Should have some good success in Texas however as the Rangers are rather young and hungry and needed a key vet.
Emilio Pichardo became a surprise signing to me, money wise anyway. Montreal needed a Jack but not sure this is a good fit.
Chip Knepper signed a cheap deal with the Mets. What can ya say...Cheap, Cheap, Cheap. Not a prototypical Mets catcher either.
Patrick Towers got a big payday to play in Philadelphia. Somehow I smell burnt pork down the road from this deal.
I cried fake tears when Andres Carrasquel signed his life away in Florida. I was hungrily waiting for his price to drop of course. He was good enough to me to overlook his durability issues.
Texas strikes again signing a veteran short pen helper in Esteban Cubillan. Makes more sense cost wise than Vizcaino.
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