Position
1. Omar Andujar - The 20-year old Andujar has all the talent to be a superstar at the major league level. He’s not going to hurt a team defensively as he has a strong arm, good accuracy and can call a game with the best of them. He’s going to hit for a high average, good power, and work the count very well. He will struggle to get 450 plate appearances in a season though as well as struggle somewhat against righties. His bat is too good to be relegated to a platoon role, and his defense is too strong to relegate to a full-time DH. May be able to get more plate appearances by DH’ing against righties. (AA)
2. Steve D'Amico - 19-year old Steve D’Amico could be a very interesting case study. He has the arm strength and accuracy to be a decent catcher, but has very little ability to call a game. He’s got great durability and will hit for a very high average. He will likely be at or near the top of the league in OBP with a great eye. He hits righties very well. Doesn’t hit for a lot of power, but does have enough power to crank out a lot of doubles. Doesn’t possess the capability to play even adequate defense at first, but his offensive prowess may be enough to offset that. (LoA)
3. Odalis Velazquez - The 20-year old Velazquez has real potential to be an MVP in the near future. He really doesn’t struggle at anything as he can hit for average, power, against both righties and lefties and will garner 600+ plate appearances. Is he continues to be a SS, he will struggle getting to some balls, but if he can get to them, should be able to make the play. Not an exceptional defender by any means, the main question when he comes up is whether or not his offense is good enough to outweigh his defense at SS or does he become a sensational 2B or 3B. (AAA)
4. Ray King - Not much for calling games, this 23-year old definitely has the arm to be a plus defensive catcher. Lacks the durability to be a major factor throughout the season, but could definitely help a team in the playoffs. Could be a great platoon candidate since he dominates lefties thoroughly. Hits for a high average and will work the count for walks. (AAA)
5. Ebenezer Zimmerman - A superior defender at the hot corner, the 22-year old Zimmerman should be up very soon and ready to some damage in the bigs. He’s got a shot at being a perennial gold glover, and with his hitting ability a potential MVP & Silver Slugger. He’ll hit for plenty of power against righties and lefties, will give a team about 550 plate appearances a year. His offensive capabilities could allow him to play SS and get away with having subpar range. Will steal some bases, and could go for 35+ HRs and 35+ 2Bs. (AAA)
Pitchers
1. Homer Konerko> - The 20-year old Konerko projects to have amazing control, be dominant against all batters, great velocity, and 4 “plus” pitches. Without a doubt, the only thing potentially preventing him from fulfilling his promise is a lack of stamina. He should be able to get to the 6th inning in most starts, but probably not too far past that. His durability should allow him to rack up a couple extra starts a season. He’s got scary-good splits, velocity, and control and could very well be a multiple time Cy Young award winner, the only question is when does he start that march since he’s dominating AAA batters right now. (AAA)
2. Mark Glover - Another 20-year old, Glover possesses more stamina than Konerko and is better against lefties. He will struggle somewhat to get righties out, but should more than make up for that with the quality of his pitches. Has 3 “plus” pitches, one average, and one bad. Doesn’t throw hard enough to strike out a lot of batters, but definitely has the talent to be among the elite pitchers in the world. (AA)
3. Jeremy Livingstone - Solid durability and stamina charactize yet another 20-year old on this list. Livingstone has 3 “plus” pitches, as well as tremendous control, is great against righties and lefties, and has solid enough velocity to get the strikeout when necessary. Should be a shutdown closer when he reaches the majors in 2-3 seasons. Should be a perennial fireman of the year candidate and be at the top of the league in saves every season. (HiA)
4. Fausto Gimenez - The fourth 20-year old on the list, Gimenez will provide Charlotte with a top-notch starter once he reaches the majors. 3 high-quality pitches, and an ability to locate the ball with the best of them characterize this prize pitcher. Should see some complete games. Will struggle some with keeping the ball in the park, although his ability to handle both hitters, albeit lefties better than righties, should help to mitigate the damage the home runs inflict. (HiA)
5. Brandon Gragg - 19-year old Gragg posessess a lighting quick fastball, 2 above average pitches and one average pitch. Great control will prevent his inability to coax a groundball from hurting him too much. He will dominate righties and hold his own against lefties, and will be able to average around 7.0 innings per start while starting 35 games. Not an injury threat. Should be able to compete with the best of the best each season.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
NL South Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Texas
2. Huntington
3. Austin
4. Memphis
Memphis
Key Players Added: Aaron Downing 1B/OF , Dernell Cameron1B/OF , Jimmie Daniels SP/RP , Randy Gabriel RP
Key Players Lost: Jonathan Maduro C, Wascar Bennett 3B/OF
Key Transactions: N/A
Rookies: Chipper Brown C, Thomas O'Neil IF/OF
Outlook: After finishing 4th in the NL South for the second straight season, the Tigers decided to hit the FA market during the off-season and spend a little. The Tigers subsequently shelled out some big bucks to sign 3-time silver slugger Downing and 5-time allstar Cameron, in hopes of upgrading an otherwise mediocre offense. As for pitching, which finished last in the NL during season 9, the Tigers were unable to obtain a big gun they were in search of. They did however sign Daniels and Gabriel, both veterans with soild career numbers, to provide leadership and otherwise solidify an average pitching staff. Rookies Chipper Brown and Thomas O’Neil look to see plenty of playing time with the big league club in season 10, with Brown primarily backing up and relieving Wille Baez, while seeing plenty of opportunities to start. The Tigers, looking to take advantage of O’Neil’s speed, look to him to be the opening day CF despite a subpar arm.
The Season 10 outlook in Memphis is modest. The Tigers failed to add all the pieces they were hoping to in the off-season, but no one is sure how things will unfold. Will the offense rally around two of the games better hitters? And can the pitching staff keep it close enough so the offense has a chance? The Tigers probably didn’t do enough to be serious playoff contenders, but stranger things have happened. Memphis just hopes to bring a better brand of baseball to its fans than it has the last two seasons. They are looking for a winning record and more importantly, to finish out of the cellar ahead of ……..
Austin
Key Players Added: C Chico Duran, 3B Terrence Washington, SP Bob Elster, SP Douglas Flynn. None of these signings will knock your socks off, but we hope the totality of them will help the team.
Key Players Lost: 3B Delino Marquez, RF Chuck Andrews. Not huge losses, but do represent some changes in the lineup.
Key Transactions: Moves in free agency. We were looking to improve through the free agent market this season. Additionally, LF Graham Wilson was signed to a long-term contract that will keep him in Austin through Season 14.
Rookies expected to contribute: No huge contributions are expected from rookies, although we hope Dom Douglas will give us some good innings in long relief and the occasional spot start.
Outlook: Last season was the first in the past four that the 'Horns did not win the NL South. Austin finished 10th in both runs scored and runs allowed in the National League. Our goal in the off season was to bring in some players to have changed that, and we think we've done that. Our season goal is to return to the top of the NL South, and the playoffs. We think we have the pieces to do it. On a side note, we're VERY happy to have locked up Graham Wilson long term.
Huntington
Key Additions:
Signings: C Virgil Infante, CF James Lee, SP Gus Field, SP Bernie Tresh, SP Chad Simmons
Traded for: RP Vic Redmond, RP Ray Hansen, RP Timo Brinkley, 2B Hank Acosta, 1B/PH Vinny Li, SP Cristobal Cruz, RP Alfonso Escobar (AAA), SP Clayton Carson (AA), RP Jeremy Livingstone (hiA)
Key Losses:
Free Agency: RP Vinny Shigetoshi, C Stephen Wynn, RP Peter Ryan, SP Jimmie Daniels
Traded: OF/1B Gene Stowers, SS Mark Shaw, RP Hulk Vaughn, 1B/OF Kid Torre, SP Daniel Mullens, SP Howie Hawkins, CF Kent Matheny, C Ewell Henderson
Key Transactions:
Re-Signed OF Rex Allen
Promoted IF Josh Hunter
Promoted P Roger Karnuth
Rookies:
IF Josh Hunter, SP Cristobal Cruz, RP Timo Brinkley
Outlook:
Despite missing out on their top 2 targets, the Thundering Herd look to build off of a season which saw them finish 7 games out, despite finishing the season with a 5 game winning streak. With the switch to a 4-man rotation the pitching staff boasts 2/3 new members. The bullpen looks to improve upon a dreadful season and starting staff will see at least 3 new members, and maybe a 4th. Closer Alex Lopez (27/33, 4-13, 5.35 ERA) looks to return to his season 8 form. MVP Dante Thompson (69 HR, 148 RBI, .321/.437/.728) looks to continue his dominance of NL pitching while this starting lineup could potentially see 6 players hit 30+ home runs. With James Lee, Marty Wayne, and Josh Hunter or Hank Acosta patrolling the middle of the field, the defense should be a good defense yet again. Getting to the playoffs is the only barometer of success for Huntington this season.
Texas
Key Players Added: Went out and got setup help in the offseason with the additions of Kenneth Banks and Graham Post.
Key Players Lost: None, although a couple of long relief guys were not brought back in order to clear room for the setup guys.
Key Transactions: Ned French got paid. $9MM over the next 3 years to be exact. This is for a 25HR 104RBI cleanup guy that protects the young phenom Seneca in the lineup and makes the offense go.
The Mustangs' goal for this season (90+ wins season and a playoff berth) is to match last season's division title while setting up the roster for long term success. Several vetrans will need to be dealt during the season to make room for 3-4 position players currently in AAA like Chico Tavares, Bernard Springer, and Felix Bernero. So teams needing to replace an injured player or load up for a divisional race will have Texas as a place to look for talent.
1. Texas
2. Huntington
3. Austin
4. Memphis
Memphis
Key Players Added: Aaron Downing 1B/OF , Dernell Cameron1B/OF , Jimmie Daniels SP/RP , Randy Gabriel RP
Key Players Lost: Jonathan Maduro C, Wascar Bennett 3B/OF
Key Transactions: N/A
Rookies: Chipper Brown C, Thomas O'Neil IF/OF
Outlook: After finishing 4th in the NL South for the second straight season, the Tigers decided to hit the FA market during the off-season and spend a little. The Tigers subsequently shelled out some big bucks to sign 3-time silver slugger Downing and 5-time allstar Cameron, in hopes of upgrading an otherwise mediocre offense. As for pitching, which finished last in the NL during season 9, the Tigers were unable to obtain a big gun they were in search of. They did however sign Daniels and Gabriel, both veterans with soild career numbers, to provide leadership and otherwise solidify an average pitching staff. Rookies Chipper Brown and Thomas O’Neil look to see plenty of playing time with the big league club in season 10, with Brown primarily backing up and relieving Wille Baez, while seeing plenty of opportunities to start. The Tigers, looking to take advantage of O’Neil’s speed, look to him to be the opening day CF despite a subpar arm.
The Season 10 outlook in Memphis is modest. The Tigers failed to add all the pieces they were hoping to in the off-season, but no one is sure how things will unfold. Will the offense rally around two of the games better hitters? And can the pitching staff keep it close enough so the offense has a chance? The Tigers probably didn’t do enough to be serious playoff contenders, but stranger things have happened. Memphis just hopes to bring a better brand of baseball to its fans than it has the last two seasons. They are looking for a winning record and more importantly, to finish out of the cellar ahead of ……..
Austin
Key Players Added: C Chico Duran, 3B Terrence Washington, SP Bob Elster, SP Douglas Flynn. None of these signings will knock your socks off, but we hope the totality of them will help the team.
Key Players Lost: 3B Delino Marquez, RF Chuck Andrews. Not huge losses, but do represent some changes in the lineup.
Key Transactions: Moves in free agency. We were looking to improve through the free agent market this season. Additionally, LF Graham Wilson was signed to a long-term contract that will keep him in Austin through Season 14.
Rookies expected to contribute: No huge contributions are expected from rookies, although we hope Dom Douglas will give us some good innings in long relief and the occasional spot start.
Outlook: Last season was the first in the past four that the 'Horns did not win the NL South. Austin finished 10th in both runs scored and runs allowed in the National League. Our goal in the off season was to bring in some players to have changed that, and we think we've done that. Our season goal is to return to the top of the NL South, and the playoffs. We think we have the pieces to do it. On a side note, we're VERY happy to have locked up Graham Wilson long term.
Huntington
Key Additions:
Signings: C Virgil Infante, CF James Lee, SP Gus Field, SP Bernie Tresh, SP Chad Simmons
Traded for: RP Vic Redmond, RP Ray Hansen, RP Timo Brinkley, 2B Hank Acosta, 1B/PH Vinny Li, SP Cristobal Cruz, RP Alfonso Escobar (AAA), SP Clayton Carson (AA), RP Jeremy Livingstone (hiA)
Key Losses:
Free Agency: RP Vinny Shigetoshi, C Stephen Wynn, RP Peter Ryan, SP Jimmie Daniels
Traded: OF/1B Gene Stowers, SS Mark Shaw, RP Hulk Vaughn, 1B/OF Kid Torre, SP Daniel Mullens, SP Howie Hawkins, CF Kent Matheny, C Ewell Henderson
Key Transactions:
Re-Signed OF Rex Allen
Promoted IF Josh Hunter
Promoted P Roger Karnuth
Rookies:
IF Josh Hunter, SP Cristobal Cruz, RP Timo Brinkley
Outlook:
Despite missing out on their top 2 targets, the Thundering Herd look to build off of a season which saw them finish 7 games out, despite finishing the season with a 5 game winning streak. With the switch to a 4-man rotation the pitching staff boasts 2/3 new members. The bullpen looks to improve upon a dreadful season and starting staff will see at least 3 new members, and maybe a 4th. Closer Alex Lopez (27/33, 4-13, 5.35 ERA) looks to return to his season 8 form. MVP Dante Thompson (69 HR, 148 RBI, .321/.437/.728) looks to continue his dominance of NL pitching while this starting lineup could potentially see 6 players hit 30+ home runs. With James Lee, Marty Wayne, and Josh Hunter or Hank Acosta patrolling the middle of the field, the defense should be a good defense yet again. Getting to the playoffs is the only barometer of success for Huntington this season.
Texas
Key Players Added: Went out and got setup help in the offseason with the additions of Kenneth Banks and Graham Post.
Key Players Lost: None, although a couple of long relief guys were not brought back in order to clear room for the setup guys.
Key Transactions: Ned French got paid. $9MM over the next 3 years to be exact. This is for a 25HR 104RBI cleanup guy that protects the young phenom Seneca in the lineup and makes the offense go.
The Mustangs' goal for this season (90+ wins season and a playoff berth) is to match last season's division title while setting up the roster for long term success. Several vetrans will need to be dealt during the season to make room for 3-4 position players currently in AAA like Chico Tavares, Bernard Springer, and Felix Bernero. So teams needing to replace an injured player or load up for a divisional race will have Texas as a place to look for talent.
AL North Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Fargo
2. Minnesota
3. Portland
4. Cincinnati
Fargo
key additions:bernard townsend-will definately help at the back end of my bullpen. rookies:edgardo bonilla and rafael liriano. i expect to win the north after a really underachieving season by basically the entire team last year.
Portland
Key Player Added: I would say Chris Knight (SP).
Key Player Lost: None
Key Transaction: None
Rookies: Alvin Barnes, Boots Lundquist
Outlook: Since or division is very week, I'm looking to win the title this year. There is some work to do throught the season, but If the Ducks avoid injuries, it's possible.
Also, we are still waiting for Dave Ramsay to contribute more with his big contract. With all that money spend on him, this guy have to do more than the others.
We could see Bingo Speier increase his numbers. He may become the lead off even if Ernie Helton has stolen more bases last year.
On the bullpen side, Portland has a solid rotation with Gene Wise, Del Martinez, Einar Arias, new comer Chris Knight and rookie Alvin Barnes.
Richard Vanguri will still be the closer this season unless desastrous numbers at mid season.
Cincinnati
Losses: T. O'Keefe (c), Don Powell (2b), Peter Stankiewicz (1b), Graham Post (P), King Chamberlain (P), Bob Elster (P), Geoff Morgan (P)
Additions: Tony Paniagua (ss), Howard Smith (ss), Mac Douglas (P), Freddy Tanaka (P), Juan Da Silva (P), Howie Palmer (P)
Rookie: Trent Huff (LF), other good youngsters need more seasoning.
Outlook: The first season of a three or four season rebuilding program.
Minnesota : Did not submit
1. Fargo
2. Minnesota
3. Portland
4. Cincinnati
Fargo
key additions:bernard townsend-will definately help at the back end of my bullpen. rookies:edgardo bonilla and rafael liriano. i expect to win the north after a really underachieving season by basically the entire team last year.
Portland
Key Player Added: I would say Chris Knight (SP).
Key Player Lost: None
Key Transaction: None
Rookies: Alvin Barnes, Boots Lundquist
Outlook: Since or division is very week, I'm looking to win the title this year. There is some work to do throught the season, but If the Ducks avoid injuries, it's possible.
Also, we are still waiting for Dave Ramsay to contribute more with his big contract. With all that money spend on him, this guy have to do more than the others.
We could see Bingo Speier increase his numbers. He may become the lead off even if Ernie Helton has stolen more bases last year.
On the bullpen side, Portland has a solid rotation with Gene Wise, Del Martinez, Einar Arias, new comer Chris Knight and rookie Alvin Barnes.
Richard Vanguri will still be the closer this season unless desastrous numbers at mid season.
Cincinnati
Losses: T. O'Keefe (c), Don Powell (2b), Peter Stankiewicz (1b), Graham Post (P), King Chamberlain (P), Bob Elster (P), Geoff Morgan (P)
Additions: Tony Paniagua (ss), Howard Smith (ss), Mac Douglas (P), Freddy Tanaka (P), Juan Da Silva (P), Howie Palmer (P)
Rookie: Trent Huff (LF), other good youngsters need more seasoning.
Outlook: The first season of a three or four season rebuilding program.
Minnesota : Did not submit
AL South Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Little Rock
2. Jackson
3. Nashville
4. New Orleans
New Orleans
Key Additions: switch hitting RF Wascar Bennett signed as a free agent
Key Losses: Decided against bidding for departing free agent and native Louisiana RF Larry Jackson
Key Transactions: mid-season 9 trade of 3B Tim Fox and closer Hugh Moss for 1B/RF/DH Albert Marichal brought some needed LH power to the lineup and he answered with 30 HR in only 358 AB.
Impact Rookies: late season callup LH closer Bart Pellow, only 22 entering this season, converted 14 of 15 save opportunities with a 1.13 whip. LHP Dennis Jones will battle for the #5 starter position in spring training, and will likely serve in a long relief role at the very least.
Outlook: The Bayou Bengals surprisingly led their division for much of season 9 before fading badly late. Despite the lack of quality starters most clubs have in their first two spots in the rotation, all are solid. Other than veteran RH Allen Guererro, the face of the franchise (who should notch his 300th career victory this season), all induce a lot of ground balls, which is a plus in hitter friendly Zephyr Field. The defense is solid, and the bullpen is among the best in the majors. The Bengals' goal is to return to the playoffs for the first time since their wild card berth in season 4, and they believe it may take 92-94 wins to do that.
Little Rock
Key Players Added: Added Clay Lavarnway to replace Lewis Hoyt in LF. Clay should be an upgrade and provide more power at LF than Hoyt. Added Duffy Curtis to replace Bubble Haynes at 1B who left via Free Agency. Added Michael Maddux to give the lineup more power.
Key Players Lost: IF Rico Benitez, 1B Bubbles Haynes via Free Agency , LF Lewis Hoyt via Free Agency, IF/OF Kurt Rolls, RP Nap Hollins via Trade
Key Transactions: Acquired LF Clay Lavarnway, 1B Duffy Curtis, 1B Michael Maddux via Trade. Acquired 2B Oscar Purcell, SP Anthony Jenkins via Free-Agency.
Rookies: You won't see many rookies for the Razorbacks this year. Catcher Welington Calderone will be starting his 1st full season at the ML level after spending half of Season 9 at the ML level playing in 79 games. Calerdone hit .290 with 11 HRs and 30 RBIs last season. He will split time with Sergio Martin behind the plate. 2B/OF Douglas Schultz will also be playing his 1st full season at the ML level after appearing in 75 games last season at a variety of positions. Schultz hit .256 with 0 HRs and 17 RBIs last season. He will start the year as a reserve 2B/OF. SP Matt Faulk looks to make the team out of spring training after starting 8 games last season posting a 1-3 record and a 7.20 ERA. He'll need to improve upon that number if he wants to make the 25 man roster out of spring training.
Outlook: The Razorbacks came up 4 games short of winning the division last season and made plenty of moves to improve their team. They added 3 power hitters to the lineup in Lavarnway, Curtis and Maddux and signed SP Anthony Jenkins to give them a 1-2-3 punch in the starting rotation with Carr and Lofton. In order to contend, the Razorbacks are going to need SS Anthony Lombard to improve upon his .235 batting average from last season. Lombard is a career .272 hitter and owner miggyt4 is hoping to protect Lombard better in the lineup with the addition of Lavarnway, Curtis and Maddux. Also, much of the team's success will depend upon the Catcher position with Sergio Martin and Welington Calderone combining to hit 28 HRs and 83 RBIs last season. On the mound, the Razorbacks signed SP Anthony Jenkins which will provide depth to a rotation that includes Clinton Carr and Red Lofton. The final 2 rotation spots should be filled by Morris Morgan and Matt Faulk. Morgan was 2nd on the team last season in wins with 10 and posted a respectable 3.70 ERA. In the bullpen, the Razorbacks are going to rely on Benji Cairo or Willie Sabathia to close games. That decision will be made out of spring training. The Razorbacks are also hoping that Jerome Leonard can provide some help to the bullpen after a horrendous season 9. It appears that minor league sensation Clyde Jodie will be moved to the bullpen to hopefully turn his career around. After going 23-1 in his final 2 seasons in the minor leagues, Jodie has posted back-to-back losing seasons of 9-13 and 8-13. The Razorbacks hope they did enough in the offseason to make up the 4 games that kept them out of the playoffs last season. If the Razorbacks are unable to contend in the AL South, it will be a very disappointing season considering the talent they traded in order to get the players they needed to contend.
Jackson
Key players added: None
Key Players Lost: RF Ricardo Fernandez, CF Wilt Curtis
Key Transactions: Signed John Inouoe..promoted as defense specialist, promoted P Brett Snyder to somewhat stabilize the bullpen
Rookies expected to contribute: OF Heinie Heredia..expecting big things from Heredia..very good baserunner, a cheaper version of Fernandez, but with better contact. Hit .313 in a brief stay at the ML level at the end of last season.Having Heredia ready to hit the bigs made Fernanez expendable.
Outlook: Expecting my pitching staff to bounce back from last season..Dwight Dempster is still my ace, although he is starting to age. My offense should be productive led by team MVP Torey Vallarata..Scooter Dillon, Micah Mitchell and Heredia should be able to provide ample support. Expect a lot of running with this team..236 stolen bases last season, led by Vallarata's 54..with Fernandez's 53 steals gone, Heredia will step in nicely as he had 55 at AAA. I'm looking at least a .500 season, if not better.
Nashville: Did not submit
1. Little Rock
2. Jackson
3. Nashville
4. New Orleans
New Orleans
Key Additions: switch hitting RF Wascar Bennett signed as a free agent
Key Losses: Decided against bidding for departing free agent and native Louisiana RF Larry Jackson
Key Transactions: mid-season 9 trade of 3B Tim Fox and closer Hugh Moss for 1B/RF/DH Albert Marichal brought some needed LH power to the lineup and he answered with 30 HR in only 358 AB.
Impact Rookies: late season callup LH closer Bart Pellow, only 22 entering this season, converted 14 of 15 save opportunities with a 1.13 whip. LHP Dennis Jones will battle for the #5 starter position in spring training, and will likely serve in a long relief role at the very least.
Outlook: The Bayou Bengals surprisingly led their division for much of season 9 before fading badly late. Despite the lack of quality starters most clubs have in their first two spots in the rotation, all are solid. Other than veteran RH Allen Guererro, the face of the franchise (who should notch his 300th career victory this season), all induce a lot of ground balls, which is a plus in hitter friendly Zephyr Field. The defense is solid, and the bullpen is among the best in the majors. The Bengals' goal is to return to the playoffs for the first time since their wild card berth in season 4, and they believe it may take 92-94 wins to do that.
Little Rock
Key Players Added: Added Clay Lavarnway to replace Lewis Hoyt in LF. Clay should be an upgrade and provide more power at LF than Hoyt. Added Duffy Curtis to replace Bubble Haynes at 1B who left via Free Agency. Added Michael Maddux to give the lineup more power.
Key Players Lost: IF Rico Benitez, 1B Bubbles Haynes via Free Agency , LF Lewis Hoyt via Free Agency, IF/OF Kurt Rolls, RP Nap Hollins via Trade
Key Transactions: Acquired LF Clay Lavarnway, 1B Duffy Curtis, 1B Michael Maddux via Trade. Acquired 2B Oscar Purcell, SP Anthony Jenkins via Free-Agency.
Rookies: You won't see many rookies for the Razorbacks this year. Catcher Welington Calderone will be starting his 1st full season at the ML level after spending half of Season 9 at the ML level playing in 79 games. Calerdone hit .290 with 11 HRs and 30 RBIs last season. He will split time with Sergio Martin behind the plate. 2B/OF Douglas Schultz will also be playing his 1st full season at the ML level after appearing in 75 games last season at a variety of positions. Schultz hit .256 with 0 HRs and 17 RBIs last season. He will start the year as a reserve 2B/OF. SP Matt Faulk looks to make the team out of spring training after starting 8 games last season posting a 1-3 record and a 7.20 ERA. He'll need to improve upon that number if he wants to make the 25 man roster out of spring training.
Outlook: The Razorbacks came up 4 games short of winning the division last season and made plenty of moves to improve their team. They added 3 power hitters to the lineup in Lavarnway, Curtis and Maddux and signed SP Anthony Jenkins to give them a 1-2-3 punch in the starting rotation with Carr and Lofton. In order to contend, the Razorbacks are going to need SS Anthony Lombard to improve upon his .235 batting average from last season. Lombard is a career .272 hitter and owner miggyt4 is hoping to protect Lombard better in the lineup with the addition of Lavarnway, Curtis and Maddux. Also, much of the team's success will depend upon the Catcher position with Sergio Martin and Welington Calderone combining to hit 28 HRs and 83 RBIs last season. On the mound, the Razorbacks signed SP Anthony Jenkins which will provide depth to a rotation that includes Clinton Carr and Red Lofton. The final 2 rotation spots should be filled by Morris Morgan and Matt Faulk. Morgan was 2nd on the team last season in wins with 10 and posted a respectable 3.70 ERA. In the bullpen, the Razorbacks are going to rely on Benji Cairo or Willie Sabathia to close games. That decision will be made out of spring training. The Razorbacks are also hoping that Jerome Leonard can provide some help to the bullpen after a horrendous season 9. It appears that minor league sensation Clyde Jodie will be moved to the bullpen to hopefully turn his career around. After going 23-1 in his final 2 seasons in the minor leagues, Jodie has posted back-to-back losing seasons of 9-13 and 8-13. The Razorbacks hope they did enough in the offseason to make up the 4 games that kept them out of the playoffs last season. If the Razorbacks are unable to contend in the AL South, it will be a very disappointing season considering the talent they traded in order to get the players they needed to contend.
Jackson
Key players added: None
Key Players Lost: RF Ricardo Fernandez, CF Wilt Curtis
Key Transactions: Signed John Inouoe..promoted as defense specialist, promoted P Brett Snyder to somewhat stabilize the bullpen
Rookies expected to contribute: OF Heinie Heredia..expecting big things from Heredia..very good baserunner, a cheaper version of Fernandez, but with better contact. Hit .313 in a brief stay at the ML level at the end of last season.Having Heredia ready to hit the bigs made Fernanez expendable.
Outlook: Expecting my pitching staff to bounce back from last season..Dwight Dempster is still my ace, although he is starting to age. My offense should be productive led by team MVP Torey Vallarata..Scooter Dillon, Micah Mitchell and Heredia should be able to provide ample support. Expect a lot of running with this team..236 stolen bases last season, led by Vallarata's 54..with Fernandez's 53 steals gone, Heredia will step in nicely as he had 55 at AAA. I'm looking at least a .500 season, if not better.
Nashville: Did not submit
Player Rankings Report - Season 10 by hurricane384
NCAA Player Rankings
Season 10
HITTERS
1. 1B Dante Thompson (HUN)
2. 1B Michael Seay (SYR)
3. 1B Haywood Bryant (PHI)
4. 1B Alex Costilla (BUF)
5. LF Dave Ramsay (POR)
6. 1B Craig Sanders (KC)
7. 1B Bill Morton (SAL)
8. LF David Sierra (ARI)
9. RF Harry Minor (NY2)
10. DH Cy Santurria (FAR)
PITCHERS
1. Mateo Henriquez (KC)
2. Michael Shumpert (TEX)
3. Domingo Servet (PHI)
4. Johan Ramsay (NY2)
5. Joaquin Nunez (ARI)
6. Esteban Cedeno (CH1)
7. Otis Damon (DOV)
8. Nicky Drew (DOV)
9. Miguel Barcelo (SEA)
10. Ajax Goldstein (FAR)
OVERALL
1. P Mateo Henriquez (KC) 86.1
2. 1B Dante Thompson (HUN) 82.0
3. LF Dave Ramsay (POR) 80.3
4. P Michael Shumpert (TEX)80.1
5. 1B Michael Seay (SYR) 79.8
6. P Domingo Servet (PHI) 79.6
7. P Johan Ramsay (NY2) 79.4
8. P Joaquin Nunez (ARI) 79.4
9. P Esteban Cedeno (CH1) 78.9
10. P Otis Damon (DOV) 78.6
Season 10
HITTERS
1. 1B Dante Thompson (HUN)
2. 1B Michael Seay (SYR)
3. 1B Haywood Bryant (PHI)
4. 1B Alex Costilla (BUF)
5. LF Dave Ramsay (POR)
6. 1B Craig Sanders (KC)
7. 1B Bill Morton (SAL)
8. LF David Sierra (ARI)
9. RF Harry Minor (NY2)
10. DH Cy Santurria (FAR)
PITCHERS
1. Mateo Henriquez (KC)
2. Michael Shumpert (TEX)
3. Domingo Servet (PHI)
4. Johan Ramsay (NY2)
5. Joaquin Nunez (ARI)
6. Esteban Cedeno (CH1)
7. Otis Damon (DOV)
8. Nicky Drew (DOV)
9. Miguel Barcelo (SEA)
10. Ajax Goldstein (FAR)
OVERALL
1. P Mateo Henriquez (KC) 86.1
2. 1B Dante Thompson (HUN) 82.0
3. LF Dave Ramsay (POR) 80.3
4. P Michael Shumpert (TEX)80.1
5. 1B Michael Seay (SYR) 79.8
6. P Domingo Servet (PHI) 79.6
7. P Johan Ramsay (NY2) 79.4
8. P Joaquin Nunez (ARI) 79.4
9. P Esteban Cedeno (CH1) 78.9
10. P Otis Damon (DOV) 78.6
Thursday, August 12, 2010
AL West Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Salem
2. Anaheim
3. Oakland
4. Seattle
Oakland
Key Players Added: SP Daniel Mullens (R), SP Dusty Johnstone (L) (signed as FA), LF Kid Torre, FA signings of solid, all-around utility guys Stu Ford and Carlos Park ... Mullens and Johnstone are key as they provide much needed IP for a staff lacking true SP (originally built as tandem starters)
Key Players Lost: RF Cal Riggan, 2B Jung Lee
Key Transactions: get $15.9M SU Howie Grim back from season-long DL last season (if for nothing else so I'm getting something for that ridiculous contract); trade with Huntington to bring in Mullens and Torre in exchange and I could afford salary hit (Torre is $9M but in his last year of contract) and still sign FAs I was targeting.
Rookies expected to contribute: none (remember this organization has no minor league system whatsoever); possibly C/DH Jonathan Rauch might get a call-up; SU/CL Corey Rosen could be ready, but have a deep bullpen including Season 9 Fireman of the Year Bo Clark (49 saves, .239 OAV, 1.14 WHIP) so Rosen will spend another season in AAA and we'll see what happens for Season 11 ... or maybe trade bait?
Outlook: with losses at the plate from Riggan and Lee, but significant gains on the mound (moves plus another year experience for already great bullpen - Season 9 NCAA ERA leaders) and a vastly improved and (hopefully) stalwart defense to go with the pitching, hoping to repeat last season's run to the ALCS, but maybe take it step further, eh? ... would take a 90+ win season and a playoff berth
Anaheim
Key Additions: Darrin Williams will push Groucho Duncan at 1B, David Cordero will start at LF, SP Paul Fujiwara joins the rotation, RPs Adrian Kendall and Lawrence Wilson will try to ease the pain of losing Townsend, and Harry Turner will be the new starting SS.
Key Losses: SP Dusty Johnstone, Closer Bernard Townsend, RFer Rafael Nieves, and 1B/DH Otto Crosby. Loss of Townsend hurts the most, as he's one of the best closers in the game...I just wasn't willing to pay his asking price
Rookies: Allie Plesac steps in to start for Nieves in RF.
Outlook: The Trojans look to get back to the playoffs and compete for the AL pennant. Playing in arguably the best division in baseball, they felt the need to be major players in the FA market in order to compete and get back to the top of the division. Anything less than 90 wins and a playoff birth will be a huge disappointment.
Salem
Players added: Cal Riggan OF (FA), Shawn Walker OF (FA)
Players lost: Terrence Washington 3B (FA), Joe Campbell OF,3B (FA), Jolbert Rosado CF (FA), Miguel Hernandez 1B,DH (FA), Mel Brock IF (FA), Freddy Tanaka CL (FA), Eduardo Guerrero SP (FA)
Rookies Expected to contribute: Willis Lowry CF, Jose Sierra CL, Dante Li SP
Outlook: The team should again compete for the division, and AL best record. It however has never won a playoff series, and there is no reason to expect that to change as this years squad is less talented than last years.
Seattle
After failing to protect #1 pitching prospect in the rule 5 draft, the Mariners #1 position prospect, Kevin Xaio, went down with a torn ACL and will miss 360 days (lucky it wasn't a year!). The Mariners should spend the year looking up at their division rivals once more as they patiently wait for younger players to break out.
1. Salem
2. Anaheim
3. Oakland
4. Seattle
Oakland
Key Players Added: SP Daniel Mullens (R), SP Dusty Johnstone (L) (signed as FA), LF Kid Torre, FA signings of solid, all-around utility guys Stu Ford and Carlos Park ... Mullens and Johnstone are key as they provide much needed IP for a staff lacking true SP (originally built as tandem starters)
Key Players Lost: RF Cal Riggan, 2B Jung Lee
Key Transactions: get $15.9M SU Howie Grim back from season-long DL last season (if for nothing else so I'm getting something for that ridiculous contract); trade with Huntington to bring in Mullens and Torre in exchange and I could afford salary hit (Torre is $9M but in his last year of contract) and still sign FAs I was targeting.
Rookies expected to contribute: none (remember this organization has no minor league system whatsoever); possibly C/DH Jonathan Rauch might get a call-up; SU/CL Corey Rosen could be ready, but have a deep bullpen including Season 9 Fireman of the Year Bo Clark (49 saves, .239 OAV, 1.14 WHIP) so Rosen will spend another season in AAA and we'll see what happens for Season 11 ... or maybe trade bait?
Outlook: with losses at the plate from Riggan and Lee, but significant gains on the mound (moves plus another year experience for already great bullpen - Season 9 NCAA ERA leaders) and a vastly improved and (hopefully) stalwart defense to go with the pitching, hoping to repeat last season's run to the ALCS, but maybe take it step further, eh? ... would take a 90+ win season and a playoff berth
Anaheim
Key Additions: Darrin Williams will push Groucho Duncan at 1B, David Cordero will start at LF, SP Paul Fujiwara joins the rotation, RPs Adrian Kendall and Lawrence Wilson will try to ease the pain of losing Townsend, and Harry Turner will be the new starting SS.
Key Losses: SP Dusty Johnstone, Closer Bernard Townsend, RFer Rafael Nieves, and 1B/DH Otto Crosby. Loss of Townsend hurts the most, as he's one of the best closers in the game...I just wasn't willing to pay his asking price
Rookies: Allie Plesac steps in to start for Nieves in RF.
Outlook: The Trojans look to get back to the playoffs and compete for the AL pennant. Playing in arguably the best division in baseball, they felt the need to be major players in the FA market in order to compete and get back to the top of the division. Anything less than 90 wins and a playoff birth will be a huge disappointment.
Salem
Players added: Cal Riggan OF (FA), Shawn Walker OF (FA)
Players lost: Terrence Washington 3B (FA), Joe Campbell OF,3B (FA), Jolbert Rosado CF (FA), Miguel Hernandez 1B,DH (FA), Mel Brock IF (FA), Freddy Tanaka CL (FA), Eduardo Guerrero SP (FA)
Rookies Expected to contribute: Willis Lowry CF, Jose Sierra CL, Dante Li SP
Outlook: The team should again compete for the division, and AL best record. It however has never won a playoff series, and there is no reason to expect that to change as this years squad is less talented than last years.
Seattle
After failing to protect #1 pitching prospect in the rule 5 draft, the Mariners #1 position prospect, Kevin Xaio, went down with a torn ACL and will miss 360 days (lucky it wasn't a year!). The Mariners should spend the year looking up at their division rivals once more as they patiently wait for younger players to break out.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
NL East Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Syracuse
2. Louisville
3. Buffalo
4. Charlotte
Syracuse
Key Players Added: None
Key Players Lost: None
Key Transactions: Signing Michael Seay and Frank Jenkins to long term contract extentions though Season 15.
Outlook: Taking nothing away from a league with very strong competition.... but nothing less than a championship after winning 114 and 102 games will be considered good
Buffalo
Key Players Added: Bulls got signing Jung Lee from the free-agents market. We think he is the last piece of the puzzle we waiting for a long time. He will start the season at CF.
Key Players Lost: Unfortunatly, we lost a old but very good SP in Paul Fujiwara. But we could dry our tears because we will get a first round pick in exchange.
Rookies: Walt Stone and Lorenzo Ontiveros will probably be add to the startup rotation. Buffalo are very confident that Harry Guillen could give a second good season at SP. We are sure that he will do so for many years.
Outlook: The prime and only goal possible for this year will be the playoff. Nothing less. The perfect mix of youngsters and veterans will be the key of our succes. Go Bulls Go!
Charlotte:
Key Players Added: None really, some small additions here or there
Key Players Lost: Josh Becker (CF), although management is contemplating bringing him back since we he is still unsigned.
Rookies: John Kramer (SP) will make his long awaited debut. Possibly a couple other pitchers. Tough decision to make on Tomas Olmedo (RF). If he isn’t brought up this season, it will definitely happen next season.
Outlook: Management believes the Tar Heels underperformed last season in finishing 73-89. Injuries hit the team pretty hard while the healthy guys didn’t perform up to the levels they had in the past. As Rube Baker mentioned in his remarks, the Heels have a plethora of SP prospects just on the horizon that starts with Kramer. The Heels are tired of losing and would love for this next season to be the season it takes steps forward. Honestly, we have no idea what the heck is going to happen.
Louisville
Key Players Added: Kurt Rolls SS
Key Players Lost: Clay Lavarnway LF
Key Transactions: Clay Lavarnway LF for Kurt Rolls SS and Edgardo Rosado RP
Rookies: Dwight Howell SS – Bench role and Tripp Brooks CF – Bench role
Outlook:
I believe the pitching staff will hold its own. The offense will determine how far we go. I hope to be in the wild card race this fall.
1. Syracuse
2. Louisville
3. Buffalo
4. Charlotte
Syracuse
Key Players Added: None
Key Players Lost: None
Key Transactions: Signing Michael Seay and Frank Jenkins to long term contract extentions though Season 15.
Outlook: Taking nothing away from a league with very strong competition.... but nothing less than a championship after winning 114 and 102 games will be considered good
Buffalo
Key Players Added: Bulls got signing Jung Lee from the free-agents market. We think he is the last piece of the puzzle we waiting for a long time. He will start the season at CF.
Key Players Lost: Unfortunatly, we lost a old but very good SP in Paul Fujiwara. But we could dry our tears because we will get a first round pick in exchange.
Rookies: Walt Stone and Lorenzo Ontiveros will probably be add to the startup rotation. Buffalo are very confident that Harry Guillen could give a second good season at SP. We are sure that he will do so for many years.
Outlook: The prime and only goal possible for this year will be the playoff. Nothing less. The perfect mix of youngsters and veterans will be the key of our succes. Go Bulls Go!
Charlotte:
Key Players Added: None really, some small additions here or there
Key Players Lost: Josh Becker (CF), although management is contemplating bringing him back since we he is still unsigned.
Rookies: John Kramer (SP) will make his long awaited debut. Possibly a couple other pitchers. Tough decision to make on Tomas Olmedo (RF). If he isn’t brought up this season, it will definitely happen next season.
Outlook: Management believes the Tar Heels underperformed last season in finishing 73-89. Injuries hit the team pretty hard while the healthy guys didn’t perform up to the levels they had in the past. As Rube Baker mentioned in his remarks, the Heels have a plethora of SP prospects just on the horizon that starts with Kramer. The Heels are tired of losing and would love for this next season to be the season it takes steps forward. Honestly, we have no idea what the heck is going to happen.
Louisville
Key Players Added: Kurt Rolls SS
Key Players Lost: Clay Lavarnway LF
Key Transactions: Clay Lavarnway LF for Kurt Rolls SS and Edgardo Rosado RP
Rookies: Dwight Howell SS – Bench role and Tripp Brooks CF – Bench role
Outlook:
I believe the pitching staff will hold its own. The offense will determine how far we go. I hope to be in the wild card race this fall.
AL East Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Philadelphia
2. New York
3. Charleston
4. Chicago
Philadelphia
Key Players Added : Candy Thomas and Joe Campbell
Key Players Lost : Duffy Curtis, Tommy Campbell, P.T. Gryboski and Victor Melo
Key Transactions : A seven players trade including Thomas, Campbell and Gryboski plus 2 minor trades to make space on my payroll.
Rookies expected to contribute: None.
After a great season 9, Owls are expecting to repeat this season and hopefully do much better in playoffs.
Arrival of Candy Thomas and Joe Campbell added to the return of MVP and ROY Haywood Bryant at first base, RBI machine Miller Kotsay at second and All-Star catcher Darrell Dyer, should lead the offense to an even better season than season 9, where they finish 4th in Hr and Avg and 1rst in RBIs and Runs.
With the return of everybody, from 2 times Cy young award winner Domingo Servet to season 8 FOY Ismael Rios,
pitching shouldn't be a problem and we can expect this team to repeat last season success where they finish 1rst in WHIP and 3rd in ERA.
Of course all that will be possible if everyone stay healthy.
Big changes, big expectations.
Charleston
The Charleston Cougars will be rebuilding this year after letting Aaron Downing and Chico Duran depart via free agency and gaining Type A compensation picks in return. The Cougars will continue to rely on Jared Stricland to anchor the pitching staff, and hope to see continued improvement from relievers Patrick Lamb and Andre Fauquhar. Rule 5 selection Bernie Timmons and Alving Rivera will also contribute to the staff. On the offensive side, Freddie Upshaw and Steve Meadows will lead the way. Young players such as Lefty Griffin and and Greg Padden may make their major league debuts this seasion. Overall, the Cougars are likely to struggle this year and are likely to finish in the bottom half of their division.
Chicago – out of the country
New York
Key players added: Norman Borders, RP
Lost: none, I think/hope
FA signing: Borders
Rookies expected to contribute: just some bullpen arms, and pinch hitter types
Outlook: The Red Storm were good enough to get to the playoffs in season 9, they merely tried to stay as good this year.
1. Philadelphia
2. New York
3. Charleston
4. Chicago
Philadelphia
Key Players Added : Candy Thomas and Joe Campbell
Key Players Lost : Duffy Curtis, Tommy Campbell, P.T. Gryboski and Victor Melo
Key Transactions : A seven players trade including Thomas, Campbell and Gryboski plus 2 minor trades to make space on my payroll.
Rookies expected to contribute: None.
After a great season 9, Owls are expecting to repeat this season and hopefully do much better in playoffs.
Arrival of Candy Thomas and Joe Campbell added to the return of MVP and ROY Haywood Bryant at first base, RBI machine Miller Kotsay at second and All-Star catcher Darrell Dyer, should lead the offense to an even better season than season 9, where they finish 4th in Hr and Avg and 1rst in RBIs and Runs.
With the return of everybody, from 2 times Cy young award winner Domingo Servet to season 8 FOY Ismael Rios,
pitching shouldn't be a problem and we can expect this team to repeat last season success where they finish 1rst in WHIP and 3rd in ERA.
Of course all that will be possible if everyone stay healthy.
Big changes, big expectations.
Charleston
The Charleston Cougars will be rebuilding this year after letting Aaron Downing and Chico Duran depart via free agency and gaining Type A compensation picks in return. The Cougars will continue to rely on Jared Stricland to anchor the pitching staff, and hope to see continued improvement from relievers Patrick Lamb and Andre Fauquhar. Rule 5 selection Bernie Timmons and Alving Rivera will also contribute to the staff. On the offensive side, Freddie Upshaw and Steve Meadows will lead the way. Young players such as Lefty Griffin and and Greg Padden may make their major league debuts this seasion. Overall, the Cougars are likely to struggle this year and are likely to finish in the bottom half of their division.
Chicago – out of the country
New York
Key players added: Norman Borders, RP
Lost: none, I think/hope
FA signing: Borders
Rookies expected to contribute: just some bullpen arms, and pinch hitter types
Outlook: The Red Storm were good enough to get to the playoffs in season 9, they merely tried to stay as good this year.
NL West Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Arizona
2. Boise
3. Kansas City
4. Helena
Helena
Key additions: SP Terry Simmons, SP Marlon Hegan and RP Carlos Castro
Key losses: Type A FA David Cordero, Type B FA Darrin Williams
Rookies that could make in impact: 1B Julio Nunez and RP Victor Valdes
Goal: .500 season
The Grizzlies are in full rebuilding mode, but are still trying to maintain a competitive ML product. Coming off a season that saw them come 4 games short of .500 has motivated the team to hit that mark in season 10. Moe Hermanson is the face of the franchise and will be the player the line up is built around, while Oswaldo Diaz, Jaret House and Rico Olmeda attempt to provide the protection that David Cordero and Darrin Williams did last season.
Last season, the team's biggest weakness was Relief pitching, but we are hoping the addition of FA Carlos Castro and Rule 5 pick up Todd Corey will be enough to bridge the gap to our closer Candy Ryan. 21 year old Victor Valdes is waiting in the wings if the bullpen displays the same stuggles as last season. Terry Simmons and Marlon Hegan where also acquired to bolster the starting rotation.
Arizona
All starting position players and all 5 starting pitchers return this season. The only big addition is [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1771775]Nap Hollins[/URL]. The biggest player lost was [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1877809]Michael Maddux[/URL], he was stuck on the bench except for road games in the WS and pinch hitting opportunities, so he was traded for a strong prospect and some pitching. On the rookie front there is good news for [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1772978]Arlie Butler[/URL], he has spent the past nine seasons in AAA where he has amassed 1594 hits and 243 home runs while averaging .321 with an OPS of .933. At the age of 29 his time in the majors has finally arrived.
The Sun Devils will continue their practice of only starting fully rested pitchers and resting key players throughout the season. The team has its sight set on another World Series title and will accept nothing less.
Kansas City
I did not add any free agents I did not see anyone I really wanted. I did not make any trades. My team did not lose any key players just one free agent pitcher Carlos Castro who was my 6th starter. I am going replace him with rookie pitcher P.T. Mercado.My goal for the season is to win the division (finished 2nd the last 3 years) and or make the playoffs. I don't have any superstars on offense who can carry my team so I need my starting pitchers to get a lot of quality starts so my strong bullpen can close out the game.
Boise
The Boise Broncos are looking to compete for a playoff spot this year. Obviously, we’re going to need some of our younger players to continue their development. Specifically, we need Daley to start to become the dominant SP we hope he will be and Sheffield to carry the closer duties.. We believe our bullpen is a strength, so Sheff will have some help. We’re real happy with our rule 5 pickups. We think Lopez can develop into a nice starter for the back end of the rotation and Russell should turn out to be a solid #2 catcher with a good eye who makes good contact. Our free agent pick up of Parrish should give the rotation some needed depth. His durability is a question, but he throws quality stuff with control, so hopefully he will be a good 4th or 5th starter for us. The other key young guys have to continue to get better and if that happens, we’ll be fine.
1. Arizona
2. Boise
3. Kansas City
4. Helena
Helena
Key additions: SP Terry Simmons, SP Marlon Hegan and RP Carlos Castro
Key losses: Type A FA David Cordero, Type B FA Darrin Williams
Rookies that could make in impact: 1B Julio Nunez and RP Victor Valdes
Goal: .500 season
The Grizzlies are in full rebuilding mode, but are still trying to maintain a competitive ML product. Coming off a season that saw them come 4 games short of .500 has motivated the team to hit that mark in season 10. Moe Hermanson is the face of the franchise and will be the player the line up is built around, while Oswaldo Diaz, Jaret House and Rico Olmeda attempt to provide the protection that David Cordero and Darrin Williams did last season.
Last season, the team's biggest weakness was Relief pitching, but we are hoping the addition of FA Carlos Castro and Rule 5 pick up Todd Corey will be enough to bridge the gap to our closer Candy Ryan. 21 year old Victor Valdes is waiting in the wings if the bullpen displays the same stuggles as last season. Terry Simmons and Marlon Hegan where also acquired to bolster the starting rotation.
Arizona
All starting position players and all 5 starting pitchers return this season. The only big addition is [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1771775]Nap Hollins[/URL]. The biggest player lost was [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1877809]Michael Maddux[/URL], he was stuck on the bench except for road games in the WS and pinch hitting opportunities, so he was traded for a strong prospect and some pitching. On the rookie front there is good news for [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1772978]Arlie Butler[/URL], he has spent the past nine seasons in AAA where he has amassed 1594 hits and 243 home runs while averaging .321 with an OPS of .933. At the age of 29 his time in the majors has finally arrived.
The Sun Devils will continue their practice of only starting fully rested pitchers and resting key players throughout the season. The team has its sight set on another World Series title and will accept nothing less.
Kansas City
I did not add any free agents I did not see anyone I really wanted. I did not make any trades. My team did not lose any key players just one free agent pitcher Carlos Castro who was my 6th starter. I am going replace him with rookie pitcher P.T. Mercado.My goal for the season is to win the division (finished 2nd the last 3 years) and or make the playoffs. I don't have any superstars on offense who can carry my team so I need my starting pitchers to get a lot of quality starts so my strong bullpen can close out the game.
Boise
The Boise Broncos are looking to compete for a playoff spot this year. Obviously, we’re going to need some of our younger players to continue their development. Specifically, we need Daley to start to become the dominant SP we hope he will be and Sheffield to carry the closer duties.. We believe our bullpen is a strength, so Sheff will have some help. We’re real happy with our rule 5 pickups. We think Lopez can develop into a nice starter for the back end of the rotation and Russell should turn out to be a solid #2 catcher with a good eye who makes good contact. Our free agent pick up of Parrish should give the rotation some needed depth. His durability is a question, but he throws quality stuff with control, so hopefully he will be a good 4th or 5th starter for us. The other key young guys have to continue to get better and if that happens, we’ll be fine.
NL North Divisional Preview
Predictions:
1. Dover
2. Detroit
3. Columbus
4. Iowa City
Iowa City
Key Additions- 3B Monte Hall and LF Steven Foster will add some much needed pop to the lineup
Key Losses- Starting Pitchers Anthony Jenkins and Midre Lopes, Aging LF Rico Alvarado
Transactions- Tom Hawkins, Rule 5 pickup
Rookies- Pitchers Tom Hawkins and Bernie Gonzalez
Outlook- After a disappointing 57-105 record last season the Hawkeyes are looking to bounce back in a major way. The team has gotten younger in the rotation and added some much needed bats on offense. Last Years team lost 32 games by one run and they are looking to take care of that by scoring more runs. Hall and Foster will go into a lineup that includes stud Catcher Juan Nunez, and solid young hitters in 2B Kimera Quinn and RF Nate Fitzgerald. The pitching rotation is solid despite not having an Ace, and the Bullpen will hold its own. Haywood Young will become a 2 inning closer in an effort to win more of the close ballgames.
Dover
Key Players Added: FA C Hawk Mathews was signed during the Rule 5 freeze to compete with Jeffrey Capra for the starting catching job. Mathews is an 88-rated pitch caller with an okay bat. Reacquired RP Jose Sosa from Fargo.
Key Players Lost: Defensive C Al Guerrero.
Key Transactions: Allowed RP Randy Gabriel to become a type B free agent in order to add another high draft pick. With the return of RP Jose Sosa, Dover will continue to boast one of the stronger bullpens in the majors.
Rookies: 1B Mark Starr still qualifies as a rookie, and if he steals enough at bats from Juan Melendez, could challenge for rookie of the year. Starr hit .347 in his 124 major league at bats last season. RP Deion Neal, acquired in the Rule 5, will probably make a positive contribution right away even though that is rare from a Rule 5 pick. 2b Rigo Gandarillas should be one of the first call-ups if he doesn’t make the team out of spring training.
Outlook: After winning the NL North in his first two full seasons as manager, byers61 is more confident this year than last. Returning all of the key components of last year’s division winner, the Blue Hens should be able to insert a couple of rookie bats who are now ready to make Dover even stronger in season 10. Dover will need to add one more good starter (more likely a trade than a rookie stepping up) to clinch the division and advance in playoff competition.
Detroit
Key Players Added: Mark Shaw - SS, will help with defensive at that position.
Eddie Sanford - 1B, lost him to season ending injury last season but he's back and healthy this season.
Key Players Lost: Christopher Jones - LF
Rookies: May see Johnny Fossum - P and Harry Medrano - P both called up from AAA at some point this season.
Outlook: Win the divison and try to proceed farther than 2nd round of playoffs this season.
Columbus
Key Players Added: RP Zip Stratton to bolster the bullpen
Key Players Lost: SP Torey Torres via Free Agency; 1B Henry Konerko via demotion (to assist in the development of his phenom little brother SP Homer Konerko)
Key Transactions: Resigned our own FAs P Philip Kennedy and the venerable clubhouse leader C Jamie Martin
Key Returns: LF Max Peterson who missed 94 games last season due to shoulder surgery.
Rookies: RP Zip Stratton
Outlook: The Buckeyes climbed up to 3rd in the division last season and look to hold on to that spot and hopefully hit that elusive .500 mark this season. Anchored by hurricane384 Top 3's CF Miguel Concepcion and SS Ben Jackson along with Gold Glove 2B Eduardo Arias, 1B Joshua Hall, and LF Max Peterson the offense should be solid. The pitching staff led by Mike Nevin and Adam DeJean finished around the middle of the pack in most categories last season and should do as well this season. In a case of addition by subtraction, the departure of gopher ball server Torey Torres should help. If ROY candidate Zip Stratton comes anywhere close to matching his AAA stats, the bullpen should be improved also. The Bottom Line is this team has potential but is not really not close to being a contender unless everyone has career years.
1. Dover
2. Detroit
3. Columbus
4. Iowa City
Iowa City
Key Additions- 3B Monte Hall and LF Steven Foster will add some much needed pop to the lineup
Key Losses- Starting Pitchers Anthony Jenkins and Midre Lopes, Aging LF Rico Alvarado
Transactions- Tom Hawkins, Rule 5 pickup
Rookies- Pitchers Tom Hawkins and Bernie Gonzalez
Outlook- After a disappointing 57-105 record last season the Hawkeyes are looking to bounce back in a major way. The team has gotten younger in the rotation and added some much needed bats on offense. Last Years team lost 32 games by one run and they are looking to take care of that by scoring more runs. Hall and Foster will go into a lineup that includes stud Catcher Juan Nunez, and solid young hitters in 2B Kimera Quinn and RF Nate Fitzgerald. The pitching rotation is solid despite not having an Ace, and the Bullpen will hold its own. Haywood Young will become a 2 inning closer in an effort to win more of the close ballgames.
Dover
Key Players Added: FA C Hawk Mathews was signed during the Rule 5 freeze to compete with Jeffrey Capra for the starting catching job. Mathews is an 88-rated pitch caller with an okay bat. Reacquired RP Jose Sosa from Fargo.
Key Players Lost: Defensive C Al Guerrero.
Key Transactions: Allowed RP Randy Gabriel to become a type B free agent in order to add another high draft pick. With the return of RP Jose Sosa, Dover will continue to boast one of the stronger bullpens in the majors.
Rookies: 1B Mark Starr still qualifies as a rookie, and if he steals enough at bats from Juan Melendez, could challenge for rookie of the year. Starr hit .347 in his 124 major league at bats last season. RP Deion Neal, acquired in the Rule 5, will probably make a positive contribution right away even though that is rare from a Rule 5 pick. 2b Rigo Gandarillas should be one of the first call-ups if he doesn’t make the team out of spring training.
Outlook: After winning the NL North in his first two full seasons as manager, byers61 is more confident this year than last. Returning all of the key components of last year’s division winner, the Blue Hens should be able to insert a couple of rookie bats who are now ready to make Dover even stronger in season 10. Dover will need to add one more good starter (more likely a trade than a rookie stepping up) to clinch the division and advance in playoff competition.
Detroit
Key Players Added: Mark Shaw - SS, will help with defensive at that position.
Eddie Sanford - 1B, lost him to season ending injury last season but he's back and healthy this season.
Key Players Lost: Christopher Jones - LF
Rookies: May see Johnny Fossum - P and Harry Medrano - P both called up from AAA at some point this season.
Outlook: Win the divison and try to proceed farther than 2nd round of playoffs this season.
Columbus
Key Players Added: RP Zip Stratton to bolster the bullpen
Key Players Lost: SP Torey Torres via Free Agency; 1B Henry Konerko via demotion (to assist in the development of his phenom little brother SP Homer Konerko)
Key Transactions: Resigned our own FAs P Philip Kennedy and the venerable clubhouse leader C Jamie Martin
Key Returns: LF Max Peterson who missed 94 games last season due to shoulder surgery.
Rookies: RP Zip Stratton
Outlook: The Buckeyes climbed up to 3rd in the division last season and look to hold on to that spot and hopefully hit that elusive .500 mark this season. Anchored by hurricane384 Top 3's CF Miguel Concepcion and SS Ben Jackson along with Gold Glove 2B Eduardo Arias, 1B Joshua Hall, and LF Max Peterson the offense should be solid. The pitching staff led by Mike Nevin and Adam DeJean finished around the middle of the pack in most categories last season and should do as well this season. In a case of addition by subtraction, the departure of gopher ball server Torey Torres should help. If ROY candidate Zip Stratton comes anywhere close to matching his AAA stats, the bullpen should be improved also. The Bottom Line is this team has potential but is not really not close to being a contender unless everyone has career years.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Around the Horn with Rube Baker (by miggyt4)
Around the Horn with Rube Baker
In my first installment, I decided to travel to Charlotte, NC to get a glimpse of the Tar Heels organization. I landed at Charlotte Douglas International around 9:30AM yesterday morning and picked up a coffee and a bagel at Starbucks before catching a taxi to downtown Charlotte. My taxi driver was more than pleasant although with Charlotte being the home of NASCAR, my driver felt the need to break all speed laws and ignore multiple warning signs of sharp curves and hidden driveways.
After arriving in downtown Charlotte, I tried to walk off my taxi ride and started to scope a place to eat lunch before heading to Knights Castle to meet with Tar Heels owner hopkinsheel. I'm a big fan of brewery's and after talking to a few of the locals, they recommended Hops Grill and Brewery. Unfortunately, Hops is located south of the city so I hopped in another taxi and made my way to Hops.
It's finally lunch time and I was more than ready for a burger and a beer. I decided on the Bacon Cheddar Burger and a tall Lightning Bold Gold. Both were absolutely delicious. I still had about an hour before I had to meet with hopkinsheel so I decided to have another Lightning Bold Gold while catching up on spring training action on the TV above the bar.
I arrived at Knights Castle to see a beauitful ballpark. I was quite impressed with the setup. It's a little far from downtown Charlotte but overall I was very impressed. While touring the ballpark I was pleasantly suprised by the OMB Beer Garden. OMB stands for Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and was founded in 2007. They partnered with the Tar Heels for Season 10 and the garden is located along the third base line next to the grill.
Tar Heels owner hopkinsheel met me while I was walking through the stadium trying to digest the burger and two beers I had just had at Hops. We made our way to the owner's box to talk about the upcoming season and what kind of talent the Tar Heels have.
We started with the Big League club. The Tar Heels are coming off a 73-89 season in which they finished last in their division. Their two best players return for Season 10 in Ron Montgomery and Vin Horton. Montgomery hit .294 last season with 27 HRs and 87 RBIs. Horton his .288 with 26 HRs and 78 RBIs. It also looks like Roger Herndon, the Tar Heels 1st-round pick of Season 6 will have a big impact at the Big League level after hitting .295 with 13 HRs and 52 RBIs in his 1st full season with the Big League club. He worked with Hitting Coach T.J. Fisher during the offseason and I predict a 20 HR, 80 RBI year out of Herndon.
On the mound, Pedro Ramirez returns as the teams Wins leader from Season 9. Ramirez finished the Season 11-11 with a 4.23 ERA. Buddy Daniels also returns and after a disappointing 9-15 record last season, I expect a much better season from Daniels after going 16-11 in Season 6 and 12-9 in Season 8. He seems to perform well in even-numbered seasons so expect a better record from Daniels. Merv Witt was the closer last season and looks to keep the job but he has some tough competition in the bullpen. Witt saved 22 games last season with a 4.02 ERA.
Looking down on the farm, I am very excited to see John Kramer pitch in Spring Traing. The guy is a stud. If he can meet his potential, the guy has the ability to be a 15-18 game winner at the ML level. The past two seasons at High A and AA, John has posted 19-3 and 21-4 records with a sub-3 ERA each season. He has great control and 4 average to above average pitches that include a sinker, chane up, curveball and a cutter. His velocity might be a little low but that never stopped Greg Maddux from dominating hitter after hitter.
Looking a little further I found Tomas Olmedo. Olmedo is an International Prospect with tons of potential. He can hit for average and power and has great speed to go along with it. He has performed well in the minors so far however we haven't seen the power outburst like many are expecting. I think with a little more seasoning and some work with the coaches Olmedo can be a 20-20 player. Olmedo also sports a fantastic eye at the plate which with his speed and power will make him very dangerous once he arrives at the ML level.
The last prospect I want to focus on is not one prospect, but 3. All 3 are pitchers and all 3 have huge upside. The first is Dallas Parrott. Dallas is currently in Low A and has excellent control and good velocity. Better than Dallas is Erubiel Ordaz. Erubiel also has excellent control and velocity and posted a 19-4 record last season at Low A. Erubiel is a International Prospect and some have questioned whether he has the makeup to meet the high expectations set for him. He pitched very well in the Dominican Republic but some question his motivation. The last of the group is Fausto Gimenez. Fausto is another International Prospect from Cuba who didn't attract the same type of money Erubiel did, however, is a much better pitcher in my opinion. Fausto is going to dominate left-handers with his slider and also sports great control that will go well with his fastball, change-up combination. Fausto went 20-3 last season in Low A with a 2.58 ERA. What is even more impressive is his 1.03 WHIP.
Charlotte definitely has a great future if they decide to keep the talent they have sitting in the minor leagues. With Kramer, Parrott, Ordaz and Gimenez, the staff of the Tar Heels in seasons to come could include multiple Cy Young award winners. I'm very impressed with the way the organization is ran and although the last two seasons have not been great for the Tar Heels, there is definitely reason to be excited in Tar Heel country.
Check in next week as I head to Jackson to check out the Rebels and meet with owner Iceman67.
In my first installment, I decided to travel to Charlotte, NC to get a glimpse of the Tar Heels organization. I landed at Charlotte Douglas International around 9:30AM yesterday morning and picked up a coffee and a bagel at Starbucks before catching a taxi to downtown Charlotte. My taxi driver was more than pleasant although with Charlotte being the home of NASCAR, my driver felt the need to break all speed laws and ignore multiple warning signs of sharp curves and hidden driveways.
After arriving in downtown Charlotte, I tried to walk off my taxi ride and started to scope a place to eat lunch before heading to Knights Castle to meet with Tar Heels owner hopkinsheel. I'm a big fan of brewery's and after talking to a few of the locals, they recommended Hops Grill and Brewery. Unfortunately, Hops is located south of the city so I hopped in another taxi and made my way to Hops.
It's finally lunch time and I was more than ready for a burger and a beer. I decided on the Bacon Cheddar Burger and a tall Lightning Bold Gold. Both were absolutely delicious. I still had about an hour before I had to meet with hopkinsheel so I decided to have another Lightning Bold Gold while catching up on spring training action on the TV above the bar.
I arrived at Knights Castle to see a beauitful ballpark. I was quite impressed with the setup. It's a little far from downtown Charlotte but overall I was very impressed. While touring the ballpark I was pleasantly suprised by the OMB Beer Garden. OMB stands for Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and was founded in 2007. They partnered with the Tar Heels for Season 10 and the garden is located along the third base line next to the grill.
Tar Heels owner hopkinsheel met me while I was walking through the stadium trying to digest the burger and two beers I had just had at Hops. We made our way to the owner's box to talk about the upcoming season and what kind of talent the Tar Heels have.
We started with the Big League club. The Tar Heels are coming off a 73-89 season in which they finished last in their division. Their two best players return for Season 10 in Ron Montgomery and Vin Horton. Montgomery hit .294 last season with 27 HRs and 87 RBIs. Horton his .288 with 26 HRs and 78 RBIs. It also looks like Roger Herndon, the Tar Heels 1st-round pick of Season 6 will have a big impact at the Big League level after hitting .295 with 13 HRs and 52 RBIs in his 1st full season with the Big League club. He worked with Hitting Coach T.J. Fisher during the offseason and I predict a 20 HR, 80 RBI year out of Herndon.
On the mound, Pedro Ramirez returns as the teams Wins leader from Season 9. Ramirez finished the Season 11-11 with a 4.23 ERA. Buddy Daniels also returns and after a disappointing 9-15 record last season, I expect a much better season from Daniels after going 16-11 in Season 6 and 12-9 in Season 8. He seems to perform well in even-numbered seasons so expect a better record from Daniels. Merv Witt was the closer last season and looks to keep the job but he has some tough competition in the bullpen. Witt saved 22 games last season with a 4.02 ERA.
Looking down on the farm, I am very excited to see John Kramer pitch in Spring Traing. The guy is a stud. If he can meet his potential, the guy has the ability to be a 15-18 game winner at the ML level. The past two seasons at High A and AA, John has posted 19-3 and 21-4 records with a sub-3 ERA each season. He has great control and 4 average to above average pitches that include a sinker, chane up, curveball and a cutter. His velocity might be a little low but that never stopped Greg Maddux from dominating hitter after hitter.
Looking a little further I found Tomas Olmedo. Olmedo is an International Prospect with tons of potential. He can hit for average and power and has great speed to go along with it. He has performed well in the minors so far however we haven't seen the power outburst like many are expecting. I think with a little more seasoning and some work with the coaches Olmedo can be a 20-20 player. Olmedo also sports a fantastic eye at the plate which with his speed and power will make him very dangerous once he arrives at the ML level.
The last prospect I want to focus on is not one prospect, but 3. All 3 are pitchers and all 3 have huge upside. The first is Dallas Parrott. Dallas is currently in Low A and has excellent control and good velocity. Better than Dallas is Erubiel Ordaz. Erubiel also has excellent control and velocity and posted a 19-4 record last season at Low A. Erubiel is a International Prospect and some have questioned whether he has the makeup to meet the high expectations set for him. He pitched very well in the Dominican Republic but some question his motivation. The last of the group is Fausto Gimenez. Fausto is another International Prospect from Cuba who didn't attract the same type of money Erubiel did, however, is a much better pitcher in my opinion. Fausto is going to dominate left-handers with his slider and also sports great control that will go well with his fastball, change-up combination. Fausto went 20-3 last season in Low A with a 2.58 ERA. What is even more impressive is his 1.03 WHIP.
Charlotte definitely has a great future if they decide to keep the talent they have sitting in the minor leagues. With Kramer, Parrott, Ordaz and Gimenez, the staff of the Tar Heels in seasons to come could include multiple Cy Young award winners. I'm very impressed with the way the organization is ran and although the last two seasons have not been great for the Tar Heels, there is definitely reason to be excited in Tar Heel country.
Check in next week as I head to Jackson to check out the Rebels and meet with owner Iceman67.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
2 more trades by tk21775
Sorry guys, I don't have the time right now to link to player names, but wanted to get these up.
The Dover Fightin Blue Hens, current divison winner of the NL North, make their first deal of S10, landing 34 year old pitcher Jose Sosa and sending 25 year old pitcher Tracy Rowe to the Fargo Bison. This is the exact opposite trade that the two teams made in S9 with each other. Sosa is in the last year of a $4.6M contract and brings to the mound two great pitches and is tough against righties and can hold his own against lefties. He has a 3.11 career ML era with a 1.23 WHIP and a nice 214 save s out of 241 opportunities (89%). He struggled in Fargo and should be glad to return to Dover.
Owner byers61 commented: “The Blue Hens welcome back RP Jose Sosa, who boasts a career 3.11 era and has logged 214 saves. Although he is 34, Sosa has not seen a ratings decrease in the last 7 seasons, other than a drop in velocity and one tic off from his 1st and 2nd pitches. Sosa was shipped to Fargo for the end of last season to help the Blue Hens out of a budget crunch.”
Owner mikejuggalo on the trade: “We moved Sosa to make room for our type A FA acquisition to the bullpen. We wish him well in Dover!”
The Fargo Bison’s stayed busy on the trade front, this time getting together with the Anaheim Trojans to swap 27 year old SS Harry Turner for 23 year old 1B Al Navarro. Navarro will begin his Bison career at AAA where he’ll bring a solid all around bat and some speed. The last two seasons in AAA he’s hit 49 HR, 230 RBI and hit for a .333 avg. Turner looks to be the Trojans ML SS and has the ratings defensively for it. He spent S9 in AAA but did manage to get 98 ML games played in S8 for the Bison.
Anaheim owner ajwalton: “Turner provides an upgrade defensively at ss. I like Navarro, but he was stuck behind a couple first basemen at the ML level.”
Fargo owner mikejuggalo: “Navarro is an above average offensive player that can contribute here, all it took to get him was a good defensive player that had no chance here to play at the ML level.”
The Dover Fightin Blue Hens, current divison winner of the NL North, make their first deal of S10, landing 34 year old pitcher Jose Sosa and sending 25 year old pitcher Tracy Rowe to the Fargo Bison. This is the exact opposite trade that the two teams made in S9 with each other. Sosa is in the last year of a $4.6M contract and brings to the mound two great pitches and is tough against righties and can hold his own against lefties. He has a 3.11 career ML era with a 1.23 WHIP and a nice 214 save s out of 241 opportunities (89%). He struggled in Fargo and should be glad to return to Dover.
Owner byers61 commented: “The Blue Hens welcome back RP Jose Sosa, who boasts a career 3.11 era and has logged 214 saves. Although he is 34, Sosa has not seen a ratings decrease in the last 7 seasons, other than a drop in velocity and one tic off from his 1st and 2nd pitches. Sosa was shipped to Fargo for the end of last season to help the Blue Hens out of a budget crunch.”
Owner mikejuggalo on the trade: “We moved Sosa to make room for our type A FA acquisition to the bullpen. We wish him well in Dover!”
The Fargo Bison’s stayed busy on the trade front, this time getting together with the Anaheim Trojans to swap 27 year old SS Harry Turner for 23 year old 1B Al Navarro. Navarro will begin his Bison career at AAA where he’ll bring a solid all around bat and some speed. The last two seasons in AAA he’s hit 49 HR, 230 RBI and hit for a .333 avg. Turner looks to be the Trojans ML SS and has the ratings defensively for it. He spent S9 in AAA but did manage to get 98 ML games played in S8 for the Bison.
Anaheim owner ajwalton: “Turner provides an upgrade defensively at ss. I like Navarro, but he was stuck behind a couple first basemen at the ML level.”
Fargo owner mikejuggalo: “Navarro is an above average offensive player that can contribute here, all it took to get him was a good defensive player that had no chance here to play at the ML level.”
Monday, August 2, 2010
Trade Analysis by tk21775
Trade #1
Huntington Receives: Vic Redmond
Philadelphia Receives: Gene Stowers
Analysis: The Huntington Thundering Herd, no strangers to the trading table as they executed
11 trades in S9, start off S10 in the same fashion. They’ll be looking to add a key
player or two in attempts to catch Texas, who won the division by 7 games over the
Thundering Herd, and the first move is by obtaining 32 year old pitcher Vic Redmond
from the Philadelphia Owls for 24 year old RF Gene Stowers. Stowers will begin
his Owls career in Double-A ball, where he looks more suited for 1B, and brings
to the plate great contact and batting eye along with nice splits and some power.
Redmond takes his $4M contract straight to the Big Leagues where he’ll be extremely
tough against RH batters with his pin point control. He’ll look to rebound from a
disappointing S9 performance (40 appearances for 28.1 innings with a 7.94 era) and
he’ll have to do it in a tougher pitching ballpark than Philadelphia was but Huntington needed help in their bullpen as they finished below the ML avg. for team era.
When asked about the deal, owner hurricane384 commented: “Redmond solidifies the
back-end of the bullpen since we let Peter Ryan and Vinny Shigetoshi leave in free
agency. Stowers did not have a chance at making the major league team, so it was a
win-win.”
Owner jeanpaul22 on his take of the trade: “Redmond, who was not in the Owls plan for the future, has been dealt for a minor league RF who could be used in the future as DH in the ML.”
Trade #2
Huntington Receives: Ray Hansen and Timo Brinkley
Charlotte Receives: Hulk Vaughn
Analysis: Of course the Thundering Herd was far from done on the trading front, this time shaking hands with owner hopkinsheel and the Charlotte Tar Heels. The Heels take 19 year old closer Hulk Vaughn who will begin in Low A where he looks to be tough against LH batters and brings great control. Vaughn was a 1st Round draft pick (46th) in S9.
The Thundering Herd receives 29 year old pitcher Timo Brinkley and 27 year old
pitcher Ray Hansen. Both pitchers were obtained to help out in the major league
bullpen for the Herd although this will be Brinkley’s 1st season in the bigs. He played the last five seasons in AAA where he put up nice numbers. Hansen brings 3 years ML experience to the mound, appearing in 118 games for the Heels for 133 innings with a career 5.48 era.
Owner hurricane384 on the trade: “My pitching staff was a weakness last season, both
in the bullpen and the starting staff. Hansen will be able to handle the 6th and 7th
innings and Brinkley will help out in spot starts as well as bridging the gap when
starters do not perform as expected.”
Owner hopkinsheel was tracked down to give his take on the trade: "Hansen has been a
nice piece to the puzzle in our bullpen the last few seasons, but has been relegated
to the 4th "short" arm out of the bullpen...once we had the opportunity to move him
and Brinkley for a guy named Hulk, we couldn't pass it up. Typically the Heel's front office stays away from sub 20 stamina players, they took a shot here....b/c his name is Hulk"
Trade #3
Little Rock Receives: Duffy Curtis
Philadelphia Receives: Gaylord Burke
Analysis: The Philadelphia Owls were also back to the trading game, a team that captured 110 wins in S9 for the ML best record, sending 29 year old 1B Duffy Curtis to the Little Rock Razorbacks in exchange for 23 year old C Gaylord Burke. Burke will begin in AAA where defensively he’ll be an avg. C but he brings an all around solid bat to the plate, especially dominate against RH pitchers. Curtis comes to the Razorbacks with his $5.2M/ 4 yr. contract as they look to add some power to help bridge the 4 game gap that was between them and the division leader, Nashville Commodores.
As a team last year, the Razorbacks hit below the ML avg. in HR (196) and batting avg. (.263). Curtis went deep 27 times last year while knocking in 80 rbis. With their HR and rbi leader Bubbles Haynes leaving for free agency, this was a solid trade for the Razorbacks to add Curtis.
Owner jeanpaul22 during the press conference: “With the emergence of Haywood
Bryant, Curtis had no place to play anymore for the Owls. In return, they get a nice
offensive catcher that could reach the major in a season or two. Of course both trades
Owner miggyt4 was tracked down to give a comment: “In my trade for Duffy Curtis, I lose Gaylord Burke. I have been grooming Gaylord to be my ML catcher ever since I drafted him in Season 7. However, when the opportunity came up to add some more power and speed to my lineup, I couldn't pass it up. Knowing that I have Sergio Martin and Welington Calderone as my catchers this year also helped as they both were very productive last year. Sergio and Welington combined for 28 HRs with 83 RBIs and a 287 AVG. Due to that, I was willing to trade Burke for Curtis who will bring much needed power along with more speed to my lineup. I'm not crazy about how much he strikes out and that's something we hope to work on, however, I'm very excited to have Curtis in my lineup.”
Trade #4
Little Rock Receives: Michael Maddux
Arizona Receives: Saul Garrido, Cristobal Cruz, Nap Hollins, and 2 million
Analysis: The Razorbacks weren’t just done obtaining Curtis, meeting up with owner lpa2a and the Arizona Sun Devils who sent 27 year old 1B Michael Maddux to Little Rock in exchange for 19 year old 2B Saul Garrido, 25 year old pitcher Cristobal Cruz, 31 year old pitcher Nap Hollins and $2.0M in cash. Hollins, in the last year of a $2.0M contract, brings to the mound a ML career 3.64 era out of the bullpen to help out the Sun Devils.
Arizona will be a little tougher ballpark than what he’s use to in Seattle
and Little Rock. Cruz will start out in AAA although he could be called up to the
majors this season if needed. He brings great control and nice splits and has seen a
little ML action already in Little Rock (30 appearances, 30 games started for a 5.29
era). Garrido will be sent to Low A for this season as the LH batter, RH thrower
develops his defense to handle the 2B position in the future for the Sun Devils. He
has the potential with the glove and high batting splits to become an all-star 2B for the Sun Devils.
They landed 2 very nice prospects that will perform well in the majors
some day for them in this deal, although in order to do so they had to let Maddux go. He’ll take his cheap ML contract to the bigs, surprising as he’s been to arb 3 times in his career, where his ratings look to make him one of the top hitters in the league, with 84 contact, 90 power, 79vR and an 81 batting eye, although his stats wouldn’t show that. In 5 ML seasons he’s never hit 20+ HR or 60+ RBI (although his 1st 2 seasons were only ½ seasons in his defense). He was in a more hitter friendly ballpark in Arizona so only time will tell if Little Rock’s hitting coach can get him to show his full potential.
Owner lpa2a at the press conference: “I traded away Michael Maddux for Saul Garrido , Nap Hollins (cash), and Cristobal Cruz . This trade got a lot of buzz on the world
chat. I was rather surprised. My best guess is that a few people don't realize how good Maddux is, probably b/c they just look at the overall ratings.”
Owner miggyt4 on his side of the trade: “As for the questionable deal made for Michael Maddux, I gave up Saul Garrido, Cristobal Cruz and Nap Hollins. Saul was my first-round draft pick from last season. He has some decent projected ratings however he was worth trading to add Maddux to my lineup. Cruz was a international prospect from Season 7 and his projected ratings showed some promise. However, he has the work ethic of Andre Smith and hasn't quite met those projected ratings. At the age of 25, I didn't see much more growth in Cruz and he has performed poorly at the ML level for me. There was a strong chance we was going to start the season in AAA. Nap Hollins was one of my most reliable relief pitchers last season and he will be missed. He was the hardest player to part with and I'm still wondering how I'm going to replace his arm in the bullpen. However, I was suffice giving up Hollins for Maddux knowing that I have my first-round pick from Season 8 in Bill Perez on the verge of making the big league club. He dominated at High A last year striking out 91 in 71 innings. I'm hoping to give him one more year in the minors to continue working on his pitching before bringing him up to the ML level. However, if I find myself in contention early and my bullpen is struggling, you may see Perez sooner than later. Overall, I add a huge bat to my lineup that I'm very happy with. As a added bonus he's still young and only comes with a 360,000 dollar price tag.”
Trade #5
Little Rock Receives: Clay Lavarnway
Louisville Receives: Kurt Rolls and Edgardo Rosado
Analysis: Little Rock made their 3rd deal of S10 and all 3 have landed them a 1B/LF position player. This time it’s with the Louisville Cardinals who send over 30 year old LF Clay Lavarnway and his $6.8M contract (2nd arb year signing) in exchange for 26 year old SS Kurt Rolls and 20 year old closer Edgardo Rosado. Rosado will start out in Double-A for the Cardinals where he’ll develop his avg. control and nice splits against both LH and RH batters. Rosado was signed by Little Rock in S8 as an Int’l free-agent for $2.0M. Rolls goes straight to the majors where he’s been for the last 2 seasons in Little Rock, hitting for an avg. of .251 and also bringing solid defense to the SS, CF, and RF positions. Lavarnway will once again bring a power bat to Little Rock and has the stats to back it up, hitting 43 HR and batting in 117 RBI last season alone. For his ML career he’s knocked 164 out of the park while bringing in 421 rbi in 4 seasons with a solid .280 batting avg. He was the 11th pick in S2 draft and we’ll have to see how Little Rock gets all these power bats onto the field at the same time as they also have 25 year old Grant Dickerson at the majors as well.
Owner joekendall on the trade: "Clay Lavarnway is a good hitter, but we needed a SS.
We felt like we could cover his position internally but did not have any good options
at short."
Owner miggyt4: “With my trade for Clay Lavarnway, I lost Kurt Rolls and Edgardo Rosado. I lose Rolls defensive ability to play pretty much anywhere in the field along with some decent power. Rosado has a good future however I worry that his stamina will hurt him more than it will help. I gained Clay, who has averaged over 40 homers per year in his 4 ML season and has produced over 100 RBIs in 3 of the 4 seasons. He's a major upgrade in LF for me.”
Trade #6
Huntington Receives: Jeremy Livingstone, Vinny Li, and Hank Acosta
Oakland Receives: Kid Torre, Daniel Mullens, and 5 million
Analysis: Once again the Thundering Herd has managed to work out another deal, this time it’s with owner tdvy31 and the Oakland Golden Bears. Oakland sends over 31 year
old 2B Hank Acosta, 20 year old pitcher Jeremy Livingstone, and 24 year old DH
Vinny Li in exchange for 32 year old LF Kid Torre, 31 year old pitcher Daniel
Mullens and $5.0M cash. Acosta just went through arb for his 2nd time, bringing 3+
seasons of ML experience to Huntington where he batted .252 avg. in 420 games
along with a .990 fielding % at 2B. Livingstone looks to start out in AA, although
he’s unassigned at this point, where he could very well develop into a top closer in
the world of NCAA. If he reaches his projections he’ll be lights out for Huntington
against both types of batters although he carries some risk with his low health. Li
with be a nice DH against LH pitchers. Torre is in the last year of a $9.0M contract
he’s put up the numbers to earn that contract. He’s hit 30+ HR’s in each of the last
3 seasons while driving in 100+ ribs’ during that same stretch. He’ll be playing in a tougher hitter’s park this season in Oakland but that will only help the other guy in the trade, Daniel Mullens. He’s got 2 years left on his $5.6M contract and has won at least 10 games in the last 5 seasons. He brings to the mound a ML career 3.86 era and 1.29 WHIP.
Owner tdvy31 thoughts on the trade: “Was interested in Mullens last year, but couldn't get anything worked out down the stretch. Remember, I took over the team who bailed because of the new "tandem" rule so SP with stamina is a huge issue in
Oakland (and something Mullens solves). Also needed a LF and someone who
could hit RHP, but believed I could get someone in FA market for much less. On the
giving end, I'm pretty set at 1B at ML level for a few more years, hated giving up
Livingstone but know you have deal value for value. Acosta was hard to let go since
I'm without 2B this season and could have used him as stopgap until better solution,
but when hurricane and I worked on deal, found a way to make it all happen.”
Owner hurrican384 on his side of the trade: “Livingstone gives me a great closer prospect who is 2-3 seasons away, while Acosta is going to compete for the starting 2B job and Li gives me a very good pinch hitter to face lefties. Mullens didn't fit with my pitching philosophy transition, and Torre was frustrating with his high salary, high strikeouts and poor defense.”
Huntington Receives: Vic Redmond
Philadelphia Receives: Gene Stowers
Analysis: The Huntington Thundering Herd, no strangers to the trading table as they executed
11 trades in S9, start off S10 in the same fashion. They’ll be looking to add a key
player or two in attempts to catch Texas, who won the division by 7 games over the
Thundering Herd, and the first move is by obtaining 32 year old pitcher Vic Redmond
from the Philadelphia Owls for 24 year old RF Gene Stowers. Stowers will begin
his Owls career in Double-A ball, where he looks more suited for 1B, and brings
to the plate great contact and batting eye along with nice splits and some power.
Redmond takes his $4M contract straight to the Big Leagues where he’ll be extremely
tough against RH batters with his pin point control. He’ll look to rebound from a
disappointing S9 performance (40 appearances for 28.1 innings with a 7.94 era) and
he’ll have to do it in a tougher pitching ballpark than Philadelphia was but Huntington needed help in their bullpen as they finished below the ML avg. for team era.
When asked about the deal, owner hurricane384 commented: “Redmond solidifies the
back-end of the bullpen since we let Peter Ryan and Vinny Shigetoshi leave in free
agency. Stowers did not have a chance at making the major league team, so it was a
win-win.”
Owner jeanpaul22 on his take of the trade: “Redmond, who was not in the Owls plan for the future, has been dealt for a minor league RF who could be used in the future as DH in the ML.”
Trade #2
Huntington Receives: Ray Hansen and Timo Brinkley
Charlotte Receives: Hulk Vaughn
Analysis: Of course the Thundering Herd was far from done on the trading front, this time shaking hands with owner hopkinsheel and the Charlotte Tar Heels. The Heels take 19 year old closer Hulk Vaughn who will begin in Low A where he looks to be tough against LH batters and brings great control. Vaughn was a 1st Round draft pick (46th) in S9.
The Thundering Herd receives 29 year old pitcher Timo Brinkley and 27 year old
pitcher Ray Hansen. Both pitchers were obtained to help out in the major league
bullpen for the Herd although this will be Brinkley’s 1st season in the bigs. He played the last five seasons in AAA where he put up nice numbers. Hansen brings 3 years ML experience to the mound, appearing in 118 games for the Heels for 133 innings with a career 5.48 era.
Owner hurricane384 on the trade: “My pitching staff was a weakness last season, both
in the bullpen and the starting staff. Hansen will be able to handle the 6th and 7th
innings and Brinkley will help out in spot starts as well as bridging the gap when
starters do not perform as expected.”
Owner hopkinsheel was tracked down to give his take on the trade: "Hansen has been a
nice piece to the puzzle in our bullpen the last few seasons, but has been relegated
to the 4th "short" arm out of the bullpen...once we had the opportunity to move him
and Brinkley for a guy named Hulk, we couldn't pass it up. Typically the Heel's front office stays away from sub 20 stamina players, they took a shot here....b/c his name is Hulk"
Trade #3
Little Rock Receives: Duffy Curtis
Philadelphia Receives: Gaylord Burke
Analysis: The Philadelphia Owls were also back to the trading game, a team that captured 110 wins in S9 for the ML best record, sending 29 year old 1B Duffy Curtis to the Little Rock Razorbacks in exchange for 23 year old C Gaylord Burke. Burke will begin in AAA where defensively he’ll be an avg. C but he brings an all around solid bat to the plate, especially dominate against RH pitchers. Curtis comes to the Razorbacks with his $5.2M/ 4 yr. contract as they look to add some power to help bridge the 4 game gap that was between them and the division leader, Nashville Commodores.
As a team last year, the Razorbacks hit below the ML avg. in HR (196) and batting avg. (.263). Curtis went deep 27 times last year while knocking in 80 rbis. With their HR and rbi leader Bubbles Haynes leaving for free agency, this was a solid trade for the Razorbacks to add Curtis.
Owner jeanpaul22 during the press conference: “With the emergence of Haywood
Bryant, Curtis had no place to play anymore for the Owls. In return, they get a nice
offensive catcher that could reach the major in a season or two. Of course both trades
Owner miggyt4 was tracked down to give a comment: “In my trade for Duffy Curtis, I lose Gaylord Burke. I have been grooming Gaylord to be my ML catcher ever since I drafted him in Season 7. However, when the opportunity came up to add some more power and speed to my lineup, I couldn't pass it up. Knowing that I have Sergio Martin and Welington Calderone as my catchers this year also helped as they both were very productive last year. Sergio and Welington combined for 28 HRs with 83 RBIs and a 287 AVG. Due to that, I was willing to trade Burke for Curtis who will bring much needed power along with more speed to my lineup. I'm not crazy about how much he strikes out and that's something we hope to work on, however, I'm very excited to have Curtis in my lineup.”
Trade #4
Little Rock Receives: Michael Maddux
Arizona Receives: Saul Garrido, Cristobal Cruz, Nap Hollins, and 2 million
Analysis: The Razorbacks weren’t just done obtaining Curtis, meeting up with owner lpa2a and the Arizona Sun Devils who sent 27 year old 1B Michael Maddux to Little Rock in exchange for 19 year old 2B Saul Garrido, 25 year old pitcher Cristobal Cruz, 31 year old pitcher Nap Hollins and $2.0M in cash. Hollins, in the last year of a $2.0M contract, brings to the mound a ML career 3.64 era out of the bullpen to help out the Sun Devils.
Arizona will be a little tougher ballpark than what he’s use to in Seattle
and Little Rock. Cruz will start out in AAA although he could be called up to the
majors this season if needed. He brings great control and nice splits and has seen a
little ML action already in Little Rock (30 appearances, 30 games started for a 5.29
era). Garrido will be sent to Low A for this season as the LH batter, RH thrower
develops his defense to handle the 2B position in the future for the Sun Devils. He
has the potential with the glove and high batting splits to become an all-star 2B for the Sun Devils.
They landed 2 very nice prospects that will perform well in the majors
some day for them in this deal, although in order to do so they had to let Maddux go. He’ll take his cheap ML contract to the bigs, surprising as he’s been to arb 3 times in his career, where his ratings look to make him one of the top hitters in the league, with 84 contact, 90 power, 79vR and an 81 batting eye, although his stats wouldn’t show that. In 5 ML seasons he’s never hit 20+ HR or 60+ RBI (although his 1st 2 seasons were only ½ seasons in his defense). He was in a more hitter friendly ballpark in Arizona so only time will tell if Little Rock’s hitting coach can get him to show his full potential.
Owner lpa2a at the press conference: “I traded away Michael Maddux for Saul Garrido , Nap Hollins (cash), and Cristobal Cruz . This trade got a lot of buzz on the world
chat. I was rather surprised. My best guess is that a few people don't realize how good Maddux is, probably b/c they just look at the overall ratings.”
Owner miggyt4 on his side of the trade: “As for the questionable deal made for Michael Maddux, I gave up Saul Garrido, Cristobal Cruz and Nap Hollins. Saul was my first-round draft pick from last season. He has some decent projected ratings however he was worth trading to add Maddux to my lineup. Cruz was a international prospect from Season 7 and his projected ratings showed some promise. However, he has the work ethic of Andre Smith and hasn't quite met those projected ratings. At the age of 25, I didn't see much more growth in Cruz and he has performed poorly at the ML level for me. There was a strong chance we was going to start the season in AAA. Nap Hollins was one of my most reliable relief pitchers last season and he will be missed. He was the hardest player to part with and I'm still wondering how I'm going to replace his arm in the bullpen. However, I was suffice giving up Hollins for Maddux knowing that I have my first-round pick from Season 8 in Bill Perez on the verge of making the big league club. He dominated at High A last year striking out 91 in 71 innings. I'm hoping to give him one more year in the minors to continue working on his pitching before bringing him up to the ML level. However, if I find myself in contention early and my bullpen is struggling, you may see Perez sooner than later. Overall, I add a huge bat to my lineup that I'm very happy with. As a added bonus he's still young and only comes with a 360,000 dollar price tag.”
Trade #5
Little Rock Receives: Clay Lavarnway
Louisville Receives: Kurt Rolls and Edgardo Rosado
Analysis: Little Rock made their 3rd deal of S10 and all 3 have landed them a 1B/LF position player. This time it’s with the Louisville Cardinals who send over 30 year old LF Clay Lavarnway and his $6.8M contract (2nd arb year signing) in exchange for 26 year old SS Kurt Rolls and 20 year old closer Edgardo Rosado. Rosado will start out in Double-A for the Cardinals where he’ll develop his avg. control and nice splits against both LH and RH batters. Rosado was signed by Little Rock in S8 as an Int’l free-agent for $2.0M. Rolls goes straight to the majors where he’s been for the last 2 seasons in Little Rock, hitting for an avg. of .251 and also bringing solid defense to the SS, CF, and RF positions. Lavarnway will once again bring a power bat to Little Rock and has the stats to back it up, hitting 43 HR and batting in 117 RBI last season alone. For his ML career he’s knocked 164 out of the park while bringing in 421 rbi in 4 seasons with a solid .280 batting avg. He was the 11th pick in S2 draft and we’ll have to see how Little Rock gets all these power bats onto the field at the same time as they also have 25 year old Grant Dickerson at the majors as well.
Owner joekendall on the trade: "Clay Lavarnway is a good hitter, but we needed a SS.
We felt like we could cover his position internally but did not have any good options
at short."
Owner miggyt4: “With my trade for Clay Lavarnway, I lost Kurt Rolls and Edgardo Rosado. I lose Rolls defensive ability to play pretty much anywhere in the field along with some decent power. Rosado has a good future however I worry that his stamina will hurt him more than it will help. I gained Clay, who has averaged over 40 homers per year in his 4 ML season and has produced over 100 RBIs in 3 of the 4 seasons. He's a major upgrade in LF for me.”
Trade #6
Huntington Receives: Jeremy Livingstone, Vinny Li, and Hank Acosta
Oakland Receives: Kid Torre, Daniel Mullens, and 5 million
Analysis: Once again the Thundering Herd has managed to work out another deal, this time it’s with owner tdvy31 and the Oakland Golden Bears. Oakland sends over 31 year
old 2B Hank Acosta, 20 year old pitcher Jeremy Livingstone, and 24 year old DH
Vinny Li in exchange for 32 year old LF Kid Torre, 31 year old pitcher Daniel
Mullens and $5.0M cash. Acosta just went through arb for his 2nd time, bringing 3+
seasons of ML experience to Huntington where he batted .252 avg. in 420 games
along with a .990 fielding % at 2B. Livingstone looks to start out in AA, although
he’s unassigned at this point, where he could very well develop into a top closer in
the world of NCAA. If he reaches his projections he’ll be lights out for Huntington
against both types of batters although he carries some risk with his low health. Li
with be a nice DH against LH pitchers. Torre is in the last year of a $9.0M contract
he’s put up the numbers to earn that contract. He’s hit 30+ HR’s in each of the last
3 seasons while driving in 100+ ribs’ during that same stretch. He’ll be playing in a tougher hitter’s park this season in Oakland but that will only help the other guy in the trade, Daniel Mullens. He’s got 2 years left on his $5.6M contract and has won at least 10 games in the last 5 seasons. He brings to the mound a ML career 3.86 era and 1.29 WHIP.
Owner tdvy31 thoughts on the trade: “Was interested in Mullens last year, but couldn't get anything worked out down the stretch. Remember, I took over the team who bailed because of the new "tandem" rule so SP with stamina is a huge issue in
Oakland (and something Mullens solves). Also needed a LF and someone who
could hit RHP, but believed I could get someone in FA market for much less. On the
giving end, I'm pretty set at 1B at ML level for a few more years, hated giving up
Livingstone but know you have deal value for value. Acosta was hard to let go since
I'm without 2B this season and could have used him as stopgap until better solution,
but when hurricane and I worked on deal, found a way to make it all happen.”
Owner hurrican384 on his side of the trade: “Livingstone gives me a great closer prospect who is 2-3 seasons away, while Acosta is going to compete for the starting 2B job and Li gives me a very good pinch hitter to face lefties. Mullens didn't fit with my pitching philosophy transition, and Torre was frustrating with his high salary, high strikeouts and poor defense.”
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