It has been a season of another big adjustment as owners and GM's find the right mix. So far how has the early predictions gone.
NL North
The Pirates and the REDS! Who would have thought that but the season is early. The Cubs are floundering a bit. Bringing up the rear is the Brewers.
NL East
Tight-knit group. The Mets have had their early success as usual and have fallen off the pace.
NL South
Florida looks real good so far but Texas will challenge if they can figure out the home woes. St Louis will play ball and don't underestimate them. Houston has been hurt by injuries but trying out a new strategy.
NL West
Vancouver has to believe as a mentor put it. Colorado is very dangerous while Arizona is very lucky. Salem is still hampered by pitching but can't be taken lightly.
AL North
Blue Jays and Twins, wasn't hard to figure out from the start. Seattle looks to be an upstart. Detroit is Detroit, with ole Tuck probably in his inglorious last season.
AL East
Three horse race as predicted, which of the three will make it to the photo-finish first? Don't count Washington out yet, could they find the one player they need the most?
AL South
Durham still has the ability to out hit everyone at home. Kansas City has still got to realize home park strategy. Tampa Bay still struggles at home along with Austin.
AL West
Another three team horse race, which of these three will break a leg coming around the bend? Omaha struggles.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Things I Have Learned-Post Steroid
Whether the intention was right or wrong it did have some very unwanted effects when the steroid era ended. It left GM's and skippers scrambling to find a more reasonable way to do business. Many probably didn't pay attention to what was happening and left them scratching their head and ass trying to figure out what to do.
What really happened? All those 80 and 90 power guys that didn't have the matching ratings didn't produce the Home Runs they used to. Those big bat marginal power 1B's actually became a hindrance instead of a help. Many of the 40 and 50 Home Run range saw their production cut in half. The focus became one of defense and pitching or should have.
So what now? How do I fix things? That is entirely up to you. Many teams are left with big contract players that are next to useless to some extent. Who was the big beneficiary? The AL that is who. They have they luxury to get some very good DH's if the money is available and sometimes cheap. However, there is a rumor floating around that in real life this could be the last year of the DH. How big a change would that be to HBD? One could only guess.
Ok, what I have seen throughout my Worlds.
1B - A marginal 1B, one that has ratings below the minimums is actually a hindrance to the rest of the infield. It used to be the thinking that a big power bat at this position would override his deficient fielding ratings. Not anymore as his deficiencies are spreading to the rest on the infield. The 40's across the board as the chart shows is bare minimum and is really marginal, I would consider 50's minimum myself these days.
2B/3B/SS - This hasn't really changed much unless you have a weak fielding 1B. Though I would highly recommend one that exceeds the minimum in range. You can fudge a little on glove by a couple points but the range better exceed. Under ranged players won't see errors or even minus plays in most instances but can lead to a slew of hits getting by.
RF - The minimums are ok, but you can't fudge on them anywhere. If you put in a high range/glove, you can get away with a weaker arm without to much consequence. My answer to this is to use a marginal 3B or better at this position. If you think you can hide that marginal 1B here think again. This position has fewer opportunities than before until you try to fudge the position.
CF - This one actually becomes a bit complicated. Under range/glove is ok if you have very over ranged RF/LF with good gloves and arms. I wouldn't go too drastic here with that statement though, I am only talking about 5 points short at the most. If your CF has a 90 range and 75 or better glove that is adequate these days, won't win him any awards. I have seen decent CF play from a 80 range but the RF/LF range needs to be 75 or better.
LF - Definitely can't hide the marginal 1B here anymore either as more opportunities are way up. Matter of fact I recommend 60's across the board in defense to start.
C - Can you hide your deficient 1B here? If you have a good starting pitching staff then it is possible but I wouldn't go below 45 in pitch calling for a starting catcher. A solid hitting starting catcher is not a bad idea. His defense can be a little less than minimal..errr in some cases a lot less, I am not saying horrific btw. Stolen Bases are way up, see what I mean. However, when it becomes late in the game, 7th inning, you better have that defensive PC catcher ready to come in. I really mean ones that don't allow the passed balls, stop the SB's and the PC should be 80+.
Basically the defense has got to be much better to succeed these days, marginal or minimum just won't cut it. The days of his offense will overrule his bad defense is over. You also have to think smarter with the management settings.
The pitching has changed also. Did anyone notice? I doubt it. There should be more emphasis put on control and pitches than splits. This where a a very good defensive PC catcher comes into play. I am not saying the Cy Young pitchers will suffer any harm, but marginal pitchers will enjoy a better life. Pitchers that have an 85 or better control with two pitches in the 80's or 90's/70's with a third decent pitch, can have splits in the low 50's and be successful. Actually a pitcher with 75 plus control and good pitches can be very good if the splits aren't too bad.
As far as hitting goes in general, I find that those marginal and lousy hitters that play good defense have a tendency to get that all important hit to win games.
One last thing, when was the last time you read the HELP screens? There is good info in there but you have to put 2 and 2 together and read between the lines sometimes.
Coaches - I have run into an anomaly dealing with a 1B coach. Had one with good strategy, base running in the 60's with pitching skills in the 50's and 40's hitting skills. Before you ask, he asked to be the Bench coach the next season. What I thought originally was happening was a failed hit and run attempt as runners kept getting thrown out with 75 speed and below. I finally caught on when a 55 speed guy got thrown out with a low contact hitter at the plate. Yes I had SB's set to average with Hit and Run to aggressive. I had to change the SB setting to infrequent and Hit and Run to average and Base Running to aggressive to counter.
Other things I have finally determined about coaches: Major rating at their skill of course and a high loyalty helps if you want to keep them for more than two seasons is a good idea. But discipline and patience is dependent on your team chemistry. A younger team you will want a high patience. A more mature team needs a high discipline. Of course it always helps to get all three or four but seldom is that the case. A high patience works well in the instructional leagues while more discipline needs to be added in the minors. I have heard that one will override the other but I don't see that happening. I still think a bench coach is the most useless thing at the ML level but I could be wrong. I have had good ones and bad ones recently in terms of ratings and in all reality after the season was over you couldn't tell the difference by the way the team played or progressed.
If your wondering, I had 6 teams that pretty much ran on the same schedule. Out of the 6, all were .500 and above, two missed the post season by 1 game, three made the playoffs, two went to the LCS (now I just need to get one over the hump). This time around I only have four teams and three are in ST. Real life will be interfering heavily starting in May and I plan to drop two more because I won't have the time like I do now. This is one I plan on keeping just so I can be a pain to everyone else..lol. But if you see the AI on and I haven't signed in for 10 or more days don't go finding a replacement.
What really happened? All those 80 and 90 power guys that didn't have the matching ratings didn't produce the Home Runs they used to. Those big bat marginal power 1B's actually became a hindrance instead of a help. Many of the 40 and 50 Home Run range saw their production cut in half. The focus became one of defense and pitching or should have.
So what now? How do I fix things? That is entirely up to you. Many teams are left with big contract players that are next to useless to some extent. Who was the big beneficiary? The AL that is who. They have they luxury to get some very good DH's if the money is available and sometimes cheap. However, there is a rumor floating around that in real life this could be the last year of the DH. How big a change would that be to HBD? One could only guess.
Ok, what I have seen throughout my Worlds.
1B - A marginal 1B, one that has ratings below the minimums is actually a hindrance to the rest of the infield. It used to be the thinking that a big power bat at this position would override his deficient fielding ratings. Not anymore as his deficiencies are spreading to the rest on the infield. The 40's across the board as the chart shows is bare minimum and is really marginal, I would consider 50's minimum myself these days.
2B/3B/SS - This hasn't really changed much unless you have a weak fielding 1B. Though I would highly recommend one that exceeds the minimum in range. You can fudge a little on glove by a couple points but the range better exceed. Under ranged players won't see errors or even minus plays in most instances but can lead to a slew of hits getting by.
RF - The minimums are ok, but you can't fudge on them anywhere. If you put in a high range/glove, you can get away with a weaker arm without to much consequence. My answer to this is to use a marginal 3B or better at this position. If you think you can hide that marginal 1B here think again. This position has fewer opportunities than before until you try to fudge the position.
CF - This one actually becomes a bit complicated. Under range/glove is ok if you have very over ranged RF/LF with good gloves and arms. I wouldn't go too drastic here with that statement though, I am only talking about 5 points short at the most. If your CF has a 90 range and 75 or better glove that is adequate these days, won't win him any awards. I have seen decent CF play from a 80 range but the RF/LF range needs to be 75 or better.
LF - Definitely can't hide the marginal 1B here anymore either as more opportunities are way up. Matter of fact I recommend 60's across the board in defense to start.
C - Can you hide your deficient 1B here? If you have a good starting pitching staff then it is possible but I wouldn't go below 45 in pitch calling for a starting catcher. A solid hitting starting catcher is not a bad idea. His defense can be a little less than minimal..errr in some cases a lot less, I am not saying horrific btw. Stolen Bases are way up, see what I mean. However, when it becomes late in the game, 7th inning, you better have that defensive PC catcher ready to come in. I really mean ones that don't allow the passed balls, stop the SB's and the PC should be 80+.
Basically the defense has got to be much better to succeed these days, marginal or minimum just won't cut it. The days of his offense will overrule his bad defense is over. You also have to think smarter with the management settings.
The pitching has changed also. Did anyone notice? I doubt it. There should be more emphasis put on control and pitches than splits. This where a a very good defensive PC catcher comes into play. I am not saying the Cy Young pitchers will suffer any harm, but marginal pitchers will enjoy a better life. Pitchers that have an 85 or better control with two pitches in the 80's or 90's/70's with a third decent pitch, can have splits in the low 50's and be successful. Actually a pitcher with 75 plus control and good pitches can be very good if the splits aren't too bad.
As far as hitting goes in general, I find that those marginal and lousy hitters that play good defense have a tendency to get that all important hit to win games.
One last thing, when was the last time you read the HELP screens? There is good info in there but you have to put 2 and 2 together and read between the lines sometimes.
Coaches - I have run into an anomaly dealing with a 1B coach. Had one with good strategy, base running in the 60's with pitching skills in the 50's and 40's hitting skills. Before you ask, he asked to be the Bench coach the next season. What I thought originally was happening was a failed hit and run attempt as runners kept getting thrown out with 75 speed and below. I finally caught on when a 55 speed guy got thrown out with a low contact hitter at the plate. Yes I had SB's set to average with Hit and Run to aggressive. I had to change the SB setting to infrequent and Hit and Run to average and Base Running to aggressive to counter.
Other things I have finally determined about coaches: Major rating at their skill of course and a high loyalty helps if you want to keep them for more than two seasons is a good idea. But discipline and patience is dependent on your team chemistry. A younger team you will want a high patience. A more mature team needs a high discipline. Of course it always helps to get all three or four but seldom is that the case. A high patience works well in the instructional leagues while more discipline needs to be added in the minors. I have heard that one will override the other but I don't see that happening. I still think a bench coach is the most useless thing at the ML level but I could be wrong. I have had good ones and bad ones recently in terms of ratings and in all reality after the season was over you couldn't tell the difference by the way the team played or progressed.
If your wondering, I had 6 teams that pretty much ran on the same schedule. Out of the 6, all were .500 and above, two missed the post season by 1 game, three made the playoffs, two went to the LCS (now I just need to get one over the hump). This time around I only have four teams and three are in ST. Real life will be interfering heavily starting in May and I plan to drop two more because I won't have the time like I do now. This is one I plan on keeping just so I can be a pain to everyone else..lol. But if you see the AI on and I haven't signed in for 10 or more days don't go finding a replacement.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
With a Calculated Guess
First the AL where things might be easier. Well maybe.
AL North
The big thing here is whether the move from St. Louis to Minnesota is good or bad. Did Toronto solidify their team enough in the off season? Seattle is hard to judge at the moment and Detroit got better. But this is how I see it.
I am picking the Minnesota Twins by a smudge again, with Toronto in their hip pocket all season long. Seattle will contest this but I don't think they have the pitching/hitting to win on the road. Back to Detroit after a very dismal season in Toledo but it may not help.
AL East
This will be a fight between Boston and Syracuse and could come down to a dead heat. Look for Dover to be in contention but a close third again while Washington brings up the rear.
AL South
The heated rivalry gets hotter as it will be between Kansas City and Durham once again or maybe not. Believe it or not I pick Kansas City to rule the roost this season even in a new City and under new management. It is possible that Durham winds up in the cellar from my point of view with Tampa Bay and Austin fighting it out for 2nd.
AL West
This is still the most contentious division in the AL. I think Helena takes it this year with an above .500 record with Las Vegas, Anaheim and Omaha all tied for second.
This is how I see the playoffs at the beginning of the season.
1. Kansas City
2. Boston
3. Minnesota
4. Helena
5. Austin
6. Syracuse
NL North
The once toughest division in MLB is now left with Pittsburgh and perhaps another challenge from Chicago. Cincy and Milwaukee will fight it out for 3rd place.
NL East
Trenton is now in Philly but the scenery may change heavily in this division. The fight will be between Cleveland, Atlanta and Philly once again. Cleveland may have the best offense in the division and possibly the best defense in the NL but is the pitching up to the task? Will Atlanta find themselves in third where they think they belong? Will the Mets play wonderball this year? So I guess the scenery won't change that drastically except for the team on top. I like Cleveland myself, but that is prejudice speaking. Will all three make the playoffs? That would be a good bet to make.
NL South
Texas more or less bought a contender this season. Will it help? I think there could be some disappointment in the air as that was tried in real life and failed miserably, but this HBD! I think Florida remains the team on top but Texas a strong second with Houston and St. Louis rounding it out.
NL West
The big question, does Colorado win all its preseason games? If they do, will it be more than their home record in the regular season? Ok, enough poking fun aside. Believe it or not this division could really be topsy-turvy, especially how I am going to pick them. I like Vancouver this season followed by an annoying Salem's Lot. I actually pick Colorado to wind up in third if they behave themselves with Arizona last. Is that odd enough?
My best guess.
1. Pittsburgh
2. Florida
3. Cleveland
4. Vancouver
5. Texas
6. Philly
AL North
The big thing here is whether the move from St. Louis to Minnesota is good or bad. Did Toronto solidify their team enough in the off season? Seattle is hard to judge at the moment and Detroit got better. But this is how I see it.
I am picking the Minnesota Twins by a smudge again, with Toronto in their hip pocket all season long. Seattle will contest this but I don't think they have the pitching/hitting to win on the road. Back to Detroit after a very dismal season in Toledo but it may not help.
AL East
This will be a fight between Boston and Syracuse and could come down to a dead heat. Look for Dover to be in contention but a close third again while Washington brings up the rear.
AL South
The heated rivalry gets hotter as it will be between Kansas City and Durham once again or maybe not. Believe it or not I pick Kansas City to rule the roost this season even in a new City and under new management. It is possible that Durham winds up in the cellar from my point of view with Tampa Bay and Austin fighting it out for 2nd.
AL West
This is still the most contentious division in the AL. I think Helena takes it this year with an above .500 record with Las Vegas, Anaheim and Omaha all tied for second.
This is how I see the playoffs at the beginning of the season.
1. Kansas City
2. Boston
3. Minnesota
4. Helena
5. Austin
6. Syracuse
NL North
The once toughest division in MLB is now left with Pittsburgh and perhaps another challenge from Chicago. Cincy and Milwaukee will fight it out for 3rd place.
NL East
Trenton is now in Philly but the scenery may change heavily in this division. The fight will be between Cleveland, Atlanta and Philly once again. Cleveland may have the best offense in the division and possibly the best defense in the NL but is the pitching up to the task? Will Atlanta find themselves in third where they think they belong? Will the Mets play wonderball this year? So I guess the scenery won't change that drastically except for the team on top. I like Cleveland myself, but that is prejudice speaking. Will all three make the playoffs? That would be a good bet to make.
NL South
Texas more or less bought a contender this season. Will it help? I think there could be some disappointment in the air as that was tried in real life and failed miserably, but this HBD! I think Florida remains the team on top but Texas a strong second with Houston and St. Louis rounding it out.
NL West
The big question, does Colorado win all its preseason games? If they do, will it be more than their home record in the regular season? Ok, enough poking fun aside. Believe it or not this division could really be topsy-turvy, especially how I am going to pick them. I like Vancouver this season followed by an annoying Salem's Lot. I actually pick Colorado to wind up in third if they behave themselves with Arizona last. Is that odd enough?
My best guess.
1. Pittsburgh
2. Florida
3. Cleveland
4. Vancouver
5. Texas
6. Philly
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
News From Indian Towne
The Indians recently acquired Pablo Castro from the FA market. His role is still in question however. Apparently the coaches did not like what they saw from Matt Brooks and demoted him to make room. Coaches are also not impressed with Ivan Blasco so far in the preseason. The coaches are giddy about the preseason that Posiedon Marte has had, but still are cautious as to whether it will spill into the regular season. Kory Governale has also made a few rumbles this year after getting into the coaches dog house a season or so ago. The biggest surprise however is the way Lonnie Dipoto is pitching and could actually oust another of the short leash pitchers.
There are rumors flying around camp that a possible change in the configuration of the lineup and pitching staff could be eminent. Normally the Indians enter the season with 12 position players and 13 pitchers, rumor has it that it might abruptly change before or during the season. If so, will they wait to call up Felix Higashioka or recall B.C. Bennett. Will Marte or Blasco be sent down or both? Will Kory or Lonnie be called up to replace them? Or will it be a combination? Guess those are some questions that will have to wait and see how things develop.
There are rumors flying around camp that a possible change in the configuration of the lineup and pitching staff could be eminent. Normally the Indians enter the season with 12 position players and 13 pitchers, rumor has it that it might abruptly change before or during the season. If so, will they wait to call up Felix Higashioka or recall B.C. Bennett. Will Marte or Blasco be sent down or both? Will Kory or Lonnie be called up to replace them? Or will it be a combination? Guess those are some questions that will have to wait and see how things develop.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Pirates Season 15 Preview
The Pirates are back up off the mat after losing to the Marlins in last season's playoffs. The Pirates made a few changes to their team to shore up their bullpen.
Additions: Emil Sosa, Jaime Philips, Jake Owens, David Gomez and Wilfredo Belliard
Departures: Bruce Kinney and Javy Urbina
Losing Urbina hurts. The Pirates couldn't get rid of Kinney fast enough. Waiving Kinney saved 16.7 million this season. This allowed the Pirates to sign Phillips, Owens, re-sign Albert Villafuerte and trade for Sosa. I honestly think had the Pirates resigned Kent Heredia instead of signing Kinney last season, we might be talking about a different world series winner.
The Pirates Season 15 opening day roster:
1B: Juan Carrasquel moves to first full time this season.
2B: Luis Cruz Mr.consistency
SS: Don Gong not flashy but gets the job done
3B: Clarence Valentin started last season slow with the bat but finished strong. Should've won the gold glove last season, he was robbed.
LF: David Gomez a late season call up last season.
CF: Bernard Shelley nice rookie season
RF: Alex Richardson has had a good career so far, but has yet to have that MVP type of season, he's capable of. Maybe season 15 will be his year.
Bench: Max Fuentes he could start for other teams
Juan Bonilla nice work filling in at CF last season when Shelley was injured
Happy Hayes didn't hit much last season, hoping for a rebound this season.
Tim Roberts another player who could start for other teams, anyway he had a heck of season filling in for the starters last year
Wilfredo Belliard free agent signing, will get some playing time at 2B, RF, and LF
Pitching Staff:
SP1: Tim Loewer enough said
SP2: Omar Elcano he wins 25 games, a Cy young and his season was a disappointment. The Pirates didn't sign him for regular season success, he was brought in for the playoffs. So far he's been a bust.
SP3: Jimmie Torres the trade for Sosa moves Torres back to a starter.
SP4: Don Benson started off last season in the bullpen, and was moved into the rotation wound up winning 15 games.
SP5: Alex Espinoza gets a chance to start this season. He will be on a short leash, as Owens and Felix Carter are ready to start the first chance they get.
Bullpen:
Long Relief: Jake Owens will get some starts too, when Loewer needs some extra rest
Setup: Emil Sosa, Albert Villafuerte, Brandon Walton, Jaime Philips, and Geraldo Rosa
Closer: Andres Coronado
Hard to make predictions for the Pirates this season. The Marlins have improved at 1B and in the bullpen. Nevertheless, anything short of winning the world series, would be a disappointment. The Pirates need Elcano to step it up in the playoffs and for the bats not to go silent, like they did last season against the Marlins.
Additions: Emil Sosa, Jaime Philips, Jake Owens, David Gomez and Wilfredo Belliard
Departures: Bruce Kinney and Javy Urbina
Losing Urbina hurts. The Pirates couldn't get rid of Kinney fast enough. Waiving Kinney saved 16.7 million this season. This allowed the Pirates to sign Phillips, Owens, re-sign Albert Villafuerte and trade for Sosa. I honestly think had the Pirates resigned Kent Heredia instead of signing Kinney last season, we might be talking about a different world series winner.
The Pirates Season 15 opening day roster:
1B: Juan Carrasquel moves to first full time this season.
2B: Luis Cruz Mr.consistency
SS: Don Gong not flashy but gets the job done
3B: Clarence Valentin started last season slow with the bat but finished strong. Should've won the gold glove last season, he was robbed.
LF: David Gomez a late season call up last season.
CF: Bernard Shelley nice rookie season
RF: Alex Richardson has had a good career so far, but has yet to have that MVP type of season, he's capable of. Maybe season 15 will be his year.
Bench: Max Fuentes he could start for other teams
Juan Bonilla nice work filling in at CF last season when Shelley was injured
Happy Hayes didn't hit much last season, hoping for a rebound this season.
Tim Roberts another player who could start for other teams, anyway he had a heck of season filling in for the starters last year
Wilfredo Belliard free agent signing, will get some playing time at 2B, RF, and LF
Pitching Staff:
SP1: Tim Loewer enough said
SP2: Omar Elcano he wins 25 games, a Cy young and his season was a disappointment. The Pirates didn't sign him for regular season success, he was brought in for the playoffs. So far he's been a bust.
SP3: Jimmie Torres the trade for Sosa moves Torres back to a starter.
SP4: Don Benson started off last season in the bullpen, and was moved into the rotation wound up winning 15 games.
SP5: Alex Espinoza gets a chance to start this season. He will be on a short leash, as Owens and Felix Carter are ready to start the first chance they get.
Bullpen:
Long Relief: Jake Owens will get some starts too, when Loewer needs some extra rest
Setup: Emil Sosa, Albert Villafuerte, Brandon Walton, Jaime Philips, and Geraldo Rosa
Closer: Andres Coronado
Hard to make predictions for the Pirates this season. The Marlins have improved at 1B and in the bullpen. Nevertheless, anything short of winning the world series, would be a disappointment. The Pirates need Elcano to step it up in the playoffs and for the bats not to go silent, like they did last season against the Marlins.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
The FA Market So Far
How has my top 15 FA players fared so far? 12 of 12 cycles
The Pitchers:
1. Dan Hitchcock signed by Texas for a $61M deal for 4 years. Guess we will find out whether he pitches better with good catchers.
2. Xavier Hart singed by Texas for a $39.5M deal for 3 years.
3. Howard Barkley signed by St. Louis for a $13.5M deal for 2 years. Best deal so far I think
4. Chad Sanders has yet to sign, wow! he could fall into Indian territory yet.
5. Mike Roberts signed by Las Vegas for a 9.2M deal for 2 years.
The Relievers:
1. Willard Farley signed by Florida for a $18.1M deal for 3 years.
2. Doug Cambridge signed by Florida for a $11.3M deal for 2 years.
3. Heath O'Brien has been left in the cold.
4. Shane Kelly has yet to sign, fired his agent and lowered his demands. OH Yooohoo Florida!!!!
5. Philip Nelson signed by Florida for $9.2M deal for 2 years.
The Hitters:
So far the ranked hitters are still in negotiations but teams filling holes has struck.
1. Lonny Waltman was signed by Las Vegas for a whopping $85M deal for 5 years.
2.Nigel Lennon was signed by Austin for a $35M deal for 5 years.
3. Miguel Franco has yet to sign and was last seen at the local pub crying in his beer.
4. Douglas Crudale finally signed with Toronto for a $32M 4 year deal.
5. Douglas Purcell has yet to sign due to the lack of interest.
Hole Fillers:
A. Raymond Strong signed by Las Vegas for a $23.6M deal for 4 years.
B. Yorvit Veras signed by Minnesota for a $11M deal for 2 years.
C. Vin Wilkins signed by Chicago for a $3.2M deal for 1 year.
D. Danny Hennessey signed by Durham for a $9M deal for 2 years.
E. Victor Bonilla signed by Florida for a $8M deal for 2 years. My question is why.
F. Jesus Quixote was signed by Anaheim for a $2.5M deal for 1 year. Cheap skates
G. Earl Miller signed with Kansas City for a $28M deal for 5 years.
H. Ralph Erickson signed with Atlanta for a $14.4M deal for 2 years.
I. Jose Benitez signed with Omaha for a $5.8M deal for 2 years. Talk about cheap.
J. Ned Grebeck signed with Dover for a $8.8M deal for 2 years.
K. Louis Hiljus signed with St. Louis for a $6.2M deal for 2 years. Ok, this one didn't make sense as Purcell was available for a cheaper deal.
So who won on the extra pick deal? Well, when it all said and done, Anaheim will have the most picks. But when it comes to quality, probably Tampa Bay will come out on top in the end.
Expect a few more players to be signed as the Rule V draft looks like one big joke! Ok, so there is a defensive bench warmer here and there but only 1 player stands out and that is Orlando Fernandez who probably showed up as #1 on every ones chart but one. As for pitching, Daryl Young may spark some interest. Five teams are sitting out the Rule V draft for sure, make that six as Cleveland will be sitting pat. Will it be a large draft? That remains to be seen, it usually is though and many wind up on the WW the next day.
The Pitchers:
1. Dan Hitchcock signed by Texas for a $61M deal for 4 years. Guess we will find out whether he pitches better with good catchers.
2. Xavier Hart singed by Texas for a $39.5M deal for 3 years.
3. Howard Barkley signed by St. Louis for a $13.5M deal for 2 years. Best deal so far I think
4. Chad Sanders has yet to sign, wow! he could fall into Indian territory yet.
5. Mike Roberts signed by Las Vegas for a 9.2M deal for 2 years.
The Relievers:
1. Willard Farley signed by Florida for a $18.1M deal for 3 years.
2. Doug Cambridge signed by Florida for a $11.3M deal for 2 years.
3. Heath O'Brien has been left in the cold.
4. Shane Kelly has yet to sign, fired his agent and lowered his demands. OH Yooohoo Florida!!!!
5. Philip Nelson signed by Florida for $9.2M deal for 2 years.
The Hitters:
So far the ranked hitters are still in negotiations but teams filling holes has struck.
1. Lonny Waltman was signed by Las Vegas for a whopping $85M deal for 5 years.
2.Nigel Lennon was signed by Austin for a $35M deal for 5 years.
3. Miguel Franco has yet to sign and was last seen at the local pub crying in his beer.
4. Douglas Crudale finally signed with Toronto for a $32M 4 year deal.
5. Douglas Purcell has yet to sign due to the lack of interest.
Hole Fillers:
A. Raymond Strong signed by Las Vegas for a $23.6M deal for 4 years.
B. Yorvit Veras signed by Minnesota for a $11M deal for 2 years.
C. Vin Wilkins signed by Chicago for a $3.2M deal for 1 year.
D. Danny Hennessey signed by Durham for a $9M deal for 2 years.
E. Victor Bonilla signed by Florida for a $8M deal for 2 years. My question is why.
F. Jesus Quixote was signed by Anaheim for a $2.5M deal for 1 year. Cheap skates
G. Earl Miller signed with Kansas City for a $28M deal for 5 years.
H. Ralph Erickson signed with Atlanta for a $14.4M deal for 2 years.
I. Jose Benitez signed with Omaha for a $5.8M deal for 2 years. Talk about cheap.
J. Ned Grebeck signed with Dover for a $8.8M deal for 2 years.
K. Louis Hiljus signed with St. Louis for a $6.2M deal for 2 years. Ok, this one didn't make sense as Purcell was available for a cheaper deal.
So who won on the extra pick deal? Well, when it all said and done, Anaheim will have the most picks. But when it comes to quality, probably Tampa Bay will come out on top in the end.
Expect a few more players to be signed as the Rule V draft looks like one big joke! Ok, so there is a defensive bench warmer here and there but only 1 player stands out and that is Orlando Fernandez who probably showed up as #1 on every ones chart but one. As for pitching, Daryl Young may spark some interest. Five teams are sitting out the Rule V draft for sure, make that six as Cleveland will be sitting pat. Will it be a large draft? That remains to be seen, it usually is though and many wind up on the WW the next day.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
The Season 15 Clevelnad Indians
The Indians management has been very busy this off season already. So far the Indians have upgraded their offense and defense with the acquisition of Matt Pierce and solidified the pen by acquiring Mendy Hughes. We are still actively searching for another pitcher as an upgrade but we doubt that will happen at this time because money is in short supply now.
After last season Kris Sherman (owner) and I sat down and talked about how to get this team into the playoffs after several almost seasons the last few years. We think the Pierce trade solved one of the problems we have had for a long time, a solid hitting and fielding CF. We had several plans coming into the season but the trade changed things drastically.
We also discussed a couple mistakes that was made last season. The Blackwell trade for one, as he wasn't keen on the idea. It wasn't a bad idea really, but it did leave a hole in the pen that we couldn't fix until this season. Boomer Thomson did a great job filling in as the closer, but it left us without a short reliever to get that one or two outs when needed. It did clear cap space for this season as intended. The trade of Albert Tapies for Roy Little gave us a starter that we desperately needed and after that trade the team perked up. Though we were still searching for a fifth starter all season long and came up empty handed. The late season trade for Pascual Berroa was the biggest positive in a season that went downhill at the end. The WW pickup of B.C. Bennett was also a boon at the time. However, this season B.C. has been the forgotten man with no slot position, so it was off to AAA. He could be called up at any time though if an injury hits the team, not a bad insurance policy.
The biggest mistake was the handling of Albert Valenzuela, everyone thought it was a great idea at the time, the perfect backup for Black Bart. However, after the season was over and had the time to analyze, it was a very wrong move. Albert didn't do anything wrong, he played great. He was just the wrong guy for the job. He will be in Vacouver this season as a very happy starting catcher I hope.
So this is how the Season 15 Indians stack up:
C - Bart Ross - If his glove ever comes around he will be one of the best in the biz. Jose Blanco will be his backup and it is his job to lose as there are several that are chomping at the bit to replace him if things go badly.
1B - Deivi Silva gets the job with several bench players to back him up if needed. He should be a candidate for a GG here.
2B - Eswalin James was asked which position he wanted to play and finally decided here. Another GG cndidate.
SS - Sean Smalley will get to play the entire season here as his backup is at AA gaining skill. GG is another possibility.
3B - Karim Quevedo gets the nod as he is experienced with the position. Another GG possibility.
LF - Pascual Berroa was happy to be traded to the Indians last season as he finally gets to play a position he is capable of. Can we say another GG contender.
CF - Matt Pierce knows we gave up half the farm to bring him here, the pressure is on. We are not expecting a GG candidate though, just solid hitting and fielding.
RF - Giovanni Jackson finds himself surrounded by very good talent on the field and in the lineup and seems to be jubilant about the situation. Is a third straight GG ready for his shelf?
Bench
Pascual Zapata - 3B/1B/COF
Trace Wallace - 3B/1B/COF
Mickey Greer - 2B/CF
The bench is very deep and won't have problems resting players.
We have high expectations that this will be one of the best defensive teams in the NL. Hopefully the hitting shows up like we think it should this year. Yes, it looks like we have a backup SS hole, but that is easily remedied with some shuffling.
Starting Pitchers:
Tito Gao hopefully another 15+ win season.
Brant Brede has been a bit of a disappointment but is 15+ win capable.
Anthony Riley was picked up last year for a job in the pen where he failed miserably but pitched well as a starter.
Pedro Roque failed at just about everything last season, but has come to camp rejuvenated this year.
Roy Little did well as a starter early last year but fell from grace in the "Dog Days".
If the starters can win 60+ games like they should, the pen should pick up the other 25-30 and the saves needed for a playoff run.
The Pen
Ross Bland veteran that tried to hold the pen together last year, hopefully this years plans help.
Jose Crespo desperately wanted to come back after he saw the changes being made.
Johnny Zeile is the "spark plug" in the pen.
Matt Brooks is on a short leash this year.
Posiedon Marte is even on a shorter leash.
Ivan Blasco is on a work-release program.
Boomer Thomson our one to two out specialist.
Mendy Hughes is the CLOSER!
After last season Kris Sherman (owner) and I sat down and talked about how to get this team into the playoffs after several almost seasons the last few years. We think the Pierce trade solved one of the problems we have had for a long time, a solid hitting and fielding CF. We had several plans coming into the season but the trade changed things drastically.
We also discussed a couple mistakes that was made last season. The Blackwell trade for one, as he wasn't keen on the idea. It wasn't a bad idea really, but it did leave a hole in the pen that we couldn't fix until this season. Boomer Thomson did a great job filling in as the closer, but it left us without a short reliever to get that one or two outs when needed. It did clear cap space for this season as intended. The trade of Albert Tapies for Roy Little gave us a starter that we desperately needed and after that trade the team perked up. Though we were still searching for a fifth starter all season long and came up empty handed. The late season trade for Pascual Berroa was the biggest positive in a season that went downhill at the end. The WW pickup of B.C. Bennett was also a boon at the time. However, this season B.C. has been the forgotten man with no slot position, so it was off to AAA. He could be called up at any time though if an injury hits the team, not a bad insurance policy.
The biggest mistake was the handling of Albert Valenzuela, everyone thought it was a great idea at the time, the perfect backup for Black Bart. However, after the season was over and had the time to analyze, it was a very wrong move. Albert didn't do anything wrong, he played great. He was just the wrong guy for the job. He will be in Vacouver this season as a very happy starting catcher I hope.
So this is how the Season 15 Indians stack up:
C - Bart Ross - If his glove ever comes around he will be one of the best in the biz. Jose Blanco will be his backup and it is his job to lose as there are several that are chomping at the bit to replace him if things go badly.
1B - Deivi Silva gets the job with several bench players to back him up if needed. He should be a candidate for a GG here.
2B - Eswalin James was asked which position he wanted to play and finally decided here. Another GG cndidate.
SS - Sean Smalley will get to play the entire season here as his backup is at AA gaining skill. GG is another possibility.
3B - Karim Quevedo gets the nod as he is experienced with the position. Another GG possibility.
LF - Pascual Berroa was happy to be traded to the Indians last season as he finally gets to play a position he is capable of. Can we say another GG contender.
CF - Matt Pierce knows we gave up half the farm to bring him here, the pressure is on. We are not expecting a GG candidate though, just solid hitting and fielding.
RF - Giovanni Jackson finds himself surrounded by very good talent on the field and in the lineup and seems to be jubilant about the situation. Is a third straight GG ready for his shelf?
Bench
Pascual Zapata - 3B/1B/COF
Trace Wallace - 3B/1B/COF
Mickey Greer - 2B/CF
The bench is very deep and won't have problems resting players.
We have high expectations that this will be one of the best defensive teams in the NL. Hopefully the hitting shows up like we think it should this year. Yes, it looks like we have a backup SS hole, but that is easily remedied with some shuffling.
Starting Pitchers:
Tito Gao hopefully another 15+ win season.
Brant Brede has been a bit of a disappointment but is 15+ win capable.
Anthony Riley was picked up last year for a job in the pen where he failed miserably but pitched well as a starter.
Pedro Roque failed at just about everything last season, but has come to camp rejuvenated this year.
Roy Little did well as a starter early last year but fell from grace in the "Dog Days".
If the starters can win 60+ games like they should, the pen should pick up the other 25-30 and the saves needed for a playoff run.
The Pen
Ross Bland veteran that tried to hold the pen together last year, hopefully this years plans help.
Jose Crespo desperately wanted to come back after he saw the changes being made.
Johnny Zeile is the "spark plug" in the pen.
Matt Brooks is on a short leash this year.
Posiedon Marte is even on a shorter leash.
Ivan Blasco is on a work-release program.
Boomer Thomson our one to two out specialist.
Mendy Hughes is the CLOSER!
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