(Chicago - Associated Press) The Beast registered another victory today but fans and management alike were stunned by the misfortune that beset franchise icon B.C. Parent , who torn a knee ligament catching a spike when startled by Wichita SS Bono Garcia fake of an incoming relay throw after a Steven Wilson single. Beast management had been criticized last week for dangling Parent in trade deals across the league in an effort to rally the team from its poor start. Parent was nonplussed by the trade talk; going a tear that had fueled the team's 8-2 run over the last ten games. Bullet6464 will now have to dig deep into his magic bag to keep the Beast competitive until Parent returns around the trade deadline. Chicago prospects would be wise not to invest in any local property for the forseeable future.
written by bullet6464
Monday, September 29, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
Top 10/Bottom 5 - Season 10 - 25 Games In
1.
- The Two's have shaken things up with an eye towards the future. Any other team that makes bold trades like that (within the division no less) would not get the top spot. However, they did get plenty of talent back, plus they didn't break up their top 4 in their rotation. Their staff is dominant, the only question is will losing Albert Piper mess up the chemistry for this season? Apparently management thought it was worth the risk, and in the long run I would agree. Until they get bumped from their perch they belong at #1.
2.
- As expected Tony Wanatabe is leading the offense. They have gone with a 4 man rotation which has been quite successful so far despite the fact that Gene Pavano and Victor Garces have losing records. If Pavano can contain his walks he'll be fine, but teams are teeing off on Victor 'No relation to Rich' Garces. Still the 4 man allows them to have a longer pen which is a weapon for them.
3.
- Look who is out of the basement and into the penthouse. Apparently the Weed like the view from the top, and methinks they should let all the young talent play. We like the promotion of Cookie Milton even despite not starting him. We're still awaiting the arrival of The Tiger , who could easily start on any Major League team, yet the Weed may have taken one too many hits from the bong in deciding to keep him in the minors. I know you can avoid the arbitration year by 1, but you could increase the chances of winning with him (although please note he doesn't belong at SS). Congrats to the Weed on finally climbing out of the bottom 5, which we think is for good.
4.
- Where in the heck did that winning streak come from? They started off 1-6 and quietly won their next 14 straight, jumping them up high. Will it last? Good question, I really don't know, but with Chicago having a down run and looking to panic (see B.C. Parent trade rumors) they have probably the best shot of taking over that division. I wouldn't be surprised to see them run away with it considering the talent they've acquired in the last few years.
5.
- Looks like that maybe the word out of San Antonio is false, Felipe Matos is not the root of all evil. According to reports he's helped turn Kurt Lewis into a star.
6.
- The defending NL Champs have got off to a slow start but still lead the division. They'll turn it on any minute now, just wait.
7.
- I know what you're thinking, but there are other teams ahead of them in their own division that aren't even on this list. Well to that I say "you are correct, but they aren't the defending world champs". But be warned, the slack is being shortened.
8.
- Wasn't it nice to see Shooter Farrell hit his 500th career Home Run? You think he might have benefitted from that stadium?
9.
- Brian Martin and Geraldo Guardado have led this team, and they've needed it with their staff getting roughed up to the tune of a 5.02 team ERA. Still I expect that to come down a bit and even out.
10.
- At first glance they didn't make the top 10. I figured their pitching staff was helped immensely by playing in Petco (which it is). They also have a respectable .801 team OPS, which just squeaks them into the 10 spot, over some stiff competition (sorry Portland, New Britain, Colorado Springs, Trenton, and Memphis).
Bottom 5
28.
- Something needs to be done to light a fire, because I don't think there as far away as many people think.
29.
- Looks like that 9 years and running streak for not making the playoffs is safe.
30.
- They were supposed to challenge for the division crown. Being in Norfolk "Bombs Away" has new meaning.
31.
- A 6.27 Team ERA is simply not going to cut it.
32.
- They are here for obvious reasons, though to no fault of the current ownership.
 |
| ||||||
2.
 |
| ||||||
3.
 |
| ||||||
4.
 |
| ||||||
5.
 |
| ||||||
6.
 |
| ||||||
7.
 |
| ||||||
8.
 |
| ||||||
9.
 |
| ||||||
10.
 |
| ||||||
Bottom 5
28.
 |
| ||||||
29.
 |
| ||||||
30.
 |
| ||||||
31.
 |
| ||||||
32.
 |
| ||||||
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Poll Results for 4 Teams yet to make playoffs (Seattle, New Orleans, Las Vegas, New Britain)
Poll results are in for the Playoff poll. The results are as follows:
Does Seattle or New Orleans finally reach the NL Playoffs?
Nope Neither - 8 votes
Seattle wins the division - 3 votes
Seattle gets a Wild Card - 5 votes
New Orleans wins the division - 1 vote
New Orleans gets a Wild Card - 0 votes
Both win their division - 0 votes
Both get a Wild Card - 0 votes
Seattle division winner, New Orleans Wild Card - 0 votes
New Orleans division winner, Seattle Wild Card - 0 votes
17 votes total
Does New Britain or Las Vegas finally reach the AL Playoffs?
Nope Neither - 11 votes
Las Vegas gets in winning the division - 0 votes
Las Vegas gets a Wild Card - 0 votes
New Britain gets in winning the division - 2 votes
New Britain gets a Wild Card - 2 votes
Both win the division - 0 votes
Both get a Wild Card - 1 vote
Las Vegas Division Winner, New Britain Wild Card - 0 votes
New Britain Division Winner, Las Vegas Wild Card - 1 vote
17 votes total
Does Seattle or New Orleans finally reach the NL Playoffs?
Nope Neither - 8 votes
Seattle wins the division - 3 votes
Seattle gets a Wild Card - 5 votes
New Orleans wins the division - 1 vote
New Orleans gets a Wild Card - 0 votes
Both win their division - 0 votes
Both get a Wild Card - 0 votes
Seattle division winner, New Orleans Wild Card - 0 votes
New Orleans division winner, Seattle Wild Card - 0 votes
17 votes total
Does New Britain or Las Vegas finally reach the AL Playoffs?
Nope Neither - 11 votes
Las Vegas gets in winning the division - 0 votes
Las Vegas gets a Wild Card - 0 votes
New Britain gets in winning the division - 2 votes
New Britain gets a Wild Card - 2 votes
Both win the division - 0 votes
Both get a Wild Card - 1 vote
Las Vegas Division Winner, New Britain Wild Card - 0 votes
New Britain Division Winner, Las Vegas Wild Card - 1 vote
17 votes total
Monday, September 22, 2008
Poll Results for Lenny Singleton's quest for 300
The Poll results are finished. The questions was "Does Lenny Singleton win 300 games in his career?" The results are as follows:
2 Voted "Yes"
19 Voted "No he falls short"
4 Voted "Maybe with a LOT of luck and good health"
2 Voted "Yes"
19 Voted "No he falls short"
4 Voted "Maybe with a LOT of luck and good health"
 |
| ||||||||||||||
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Jacksonville Jackals Season 10 Preview (the short version)
Ladies and Gentlemen, your season 10 Jacksonville Jackals Starting Lineup:
Leading off for the Jackals is Rodrigo “Soul Patch” Fernandez, Jacksonville’s steady if unspectacular second bagger. Soul Patch does a few things well, but not much great: he’s a serviceable hitter with limited pop and he’s not that fast and he’s not that great a baserunner. All of which begs the question: why is this guy leading off? We have no idea.
In the pivotal number 2 spot in the lineup, we find five-time All-Star and former AL MVP Ray “Don’t Call Me Ray” Riley. The Alabama Whamma, as he yearns to be known, is in the top 5 all-time in several key NABCL records, including Caught Stealing and Runs (as in Times Crossing Home Plate Safely and Nights Spent Hugging the Porcelain Throne after finishing off the Habanera Poppers at the Post-Game Buffet at El Paso’s Citibank Ballpark). The Whamma doesn’t walk that much and can’t bunt to save his life, so you see why he’s in the 2 hole. He does play a decent LF, however, which is handy on a team woefully short of OFers.
Batting third is the Pride of Mitchell, SD, Brian “The Midget” Martin. (Young Brian supplanted Mona Herschberg, the former Pride of Mitchell, SD, who owned the Guinness World Record for Sucking a Ping Pong Ball Through Fifty Feet of Garden Hose.) The vertically challenged yet horizontally friendly Martin wields some mighty lumber, hitting for average and power and able and willing to lay off the many pitches that sail above his head. The former ROY is slow and round but when you can rake like he can, who gives a flying handshake?
Cleaning up is Geraldo Guardado, aka Shades, aka Captain Cool, aka The Baby-Maker, the devastatingly handsome masher and prototypical DH. Captain Cool is known for his trademark and seriously outdated sunglasses, an accessory that seems completely superfluous given how few times he is allowed to actual field a position. Guardado, like many sluggers before him, is the master of the late inning solo blast, usually when the Jackals are having their collective asses handed to them, a skill that Geraldo has developed to such a state of art that he has a chance to be the first hitter in NABCL and MLB history whose single season home run total exceeds his RBI total. Tough to do. Geraldo is a former Iowa City property, which is noteworthy only if it pisses off Shuckers owner sportznut11.
“Maroth, Maroth, Maroth is On Fire!” That is the predictable and annoying chant that will break out if promising young slugger CFer Earl Maroth ever succeeds in hitting his weight. (Recently, Jacksonville fans were invited to create and vote for a nickname for Maroth on Roget Thesaurus Night – the finalists included “The Truth”, “Aloof”, “Saysooth”, “Baby Ruth”, “Uncouth” and “Jacksonville Area Independently Owned and Operated Red Roof”. Sadly, the contest was canceled by the end of the third inning due to a near total lack of interest.) Young Maroth owns a strikeout to walks ratio that is the envy of many a big league hurler. Another in a series of Jacksonville first round draft picks on the big league roster, the dim bulb from Rosemead, CA was told that his job this season was to provide protection for All-Star DH Guardado so he promptly went out and bought Captain Cool a case of Trojan Magnums. (Team ownership ultimately donated the condoms to the Jacksonville Home for Hot Teenage Orphans.) Maroth is the big dumb piece of meat that he appears to be, nothing more, nothing less.
Jacksonville fans are hoping for a breakout year from second year RFer Curt “the Skirt” Sherman, one of the few openly gay players in the NABCL and its most fashionable cross dresser. Sherman was forced out of the closet during his rookie season when he requested a day off in Pawtucket because the Patriots’ Ivy, Lime and Robin’s Egg color scheme was “just too tacky to bear”. Curt led the NABCL last season in Eyebrow Waxing. The Skirt has a monster crush on Jackals’ senior and sexy fielding instructor Rico Nieves, but as Rico has consistently told the poor fielding sophomore, “No glove, no love.” Where are those Trojan Magnums when you need them?
Jacksonville management and fans alike have high hopes for charismatic future superstar Derrek “I Never Met a Pitch I Didn’t Like” Clinton, the speedy and prolific hitter who impressed one and all in a half season of work last year. Along with SS Midre Martin, the slick fielding third bagger is part of one of the best left infield sides in the NABCL. Sadly, Clinton’s near total lack of hitting discretion dooms him to bottom half of the lineup status where his afterburner speed is largely wasted.
The aforementioned Midre “Mama’s Boy” Martin is notable for his unique contract provision which calls for his madre to travel with the team because he isn’t quite off the teat yet. The voracious young Martin can frequently be found in the trainer’s room between innings “re-fueling”. Midre looks great on paper and in the field but fails regularly at the plate, a fact that has Jackals’ hitting coach Raul Fernandez wondering if Mrs. Martin can better handle the filthy breaking stuff that frequently confounds her son. As the highest paid Jackal, Midre is beginning to smell like week-old fish, that is, like bait. Perhaps someone out there has a hole in their lineup that can be filled by an underachieving gloveman and a 63-year old Dominican housewife with really, really saggy breasts.
The nine hole is filled by the serviceable backstop duo of Tori “Pliny” Elder and Louis “Sweet Lou” Romero. And that’s all I care to say about that.
Looking ahead to next week, check back for a profile of the Jacksonville pitching staff, or as we call them, “What the #$^$@! Did Ebby Think He Was Doing?”
Leading off for the Jackals is Rodrigo “Soul Patch” Fernandez, Jacksonville’s steady if unspectacular second bagger. Soul Patch does a few things well, but not much great: he’s a serviceable hitter with limited pop and he’s not that fast and he’s not that great a baserunner. All of which begs the question: why is this guy leading off? We have no idea.
In the pivotal number 2 spot in the lineup, we find five-time All-Star and former AL MVP Ray “Don’t Call Me Ray” Riley. The Alabama Whamma, as he yearns to be known, is in the top 5 all-time in several key NABCL records, including Caught Stealing and Runs (as in Times Crossing Home Plate Safely and Nights Spent Hugging the Porcelain Throne after finishing off the Habanera Poppers at the Post-Game Buffet at El Paso’s Citibank Ballpark). The Whamma doesn’t walk that much and can’t bunt to save his life, so you see why he’s in the 2 hole. He does play a decent LF, however, which is handy on a team woefully short of OFers.
Batting third is the Pride of Mitchell, SD, Brian “The Midget” Martin. (Young Brian supplanted Mona Herschberg, the former Pride of Mitchell, SD, who owned the Guinness World Record for Sucking a Ping Pong Ball Through Fifty Feet of Garden Hose.) The vertically challenged yet horizontally friendly Martin wields some mighty lumber, hitting for average and power and able and willing to lay off the many pitches that sail above his head. The former ROY is slow and round but when you can rake like he can, who gives a flying handshake?
Cleaning up is Geraldo Guardado, aka Shades, aka Captain Cool, aka The Baby-Maker, the devastatingly handsome masher and prototypical DH. Captain Cool is known for his trademark and seriously outdated sunglasses, an accessory that seems completely superfluous given how few times he is allowed to actual field a position. Guardado, like many sluggers before him, is the master of the late inning solo blast, usually when the Jackals are having their collective asses handed to them, a skill that Geraldo has developed to such a state of art that he has a chance to be the first hitter in NABCL and MLB history whose single season home run total exceeds his RBI total. Tough to do. Geraldo is a former Iowa City property, which is noteworthy only if it pisses off Shuckers owner sportznut11.
“Maroth, Maroth, Maroth is On Fire!” That is the predictable and annoying chant that will break out if promising young slugger CFer Earl Maroth ever succeeds in hitting his weight. (Recently, Jacksonville fans were invited to create and vote for a nickname for Maroth on Roget Thesaurus Night – the finalists included “The Truth”, “Aloof”, “Saysooth”, “Baby Ruth”, “Uncouth” and “Jacksonville Area Independently Owned and Operated Red Roof”. Sadly, the contest was canceled by the end of the third inning due to a near total lack of interest.) Young Maroth owns a strikeout to walks ratio that is the envy of many a big league hurler. Another in a series of Jacksonville first round draft picks on the big league roster, the dim bulb from Rosemead, CA was told that his job this season was to provide protection for All-Star DH Guardado so he promptly went out and bought Captain Cool a case of Trojan Magnums. (Team ownership ultimately donated the condoms to the Jacksonville Home for Hot Teenage Orphans.) Maroth is the big dumb piece of meat that he appears to be, nothing more, nothing less.
Jacksonville fans are hoping for a breakout year from second year RFer Curt “the Skirt” Sherman, one of the few openly gay players in the NABCL and its most fashionable cross dresser. Sherman was forced out of the closet during his rookie season when he requested a day off in Pawtucket because the Patriots’ Ivy, Lime and Robin’s Egg color scheme was “just too tacky to bear”. Curt led the NABCL last season in Eyebrow Waxing. The Skirt has a monster crush on Jackals’ senior and sexy fielding instructor Rico Nieves, but as Rico has consistently told the poor fielding sophomore, “No glove, no love.” Where are those Trojan Magnums when you need them?
Jacksonville management and fans alike have high hopes for charismatic future superstar Derrek “I Never Met a Pitch I Didn’t Like” Clinton, the speedy and prolific hitter who impressed one and all in a half season of work last year. Along with SS Midre Martin, the slick fielding third bagger is part of one of the best left infield sides in the NABCL. Sadly, Clinton’s near total lack of hitting discretion dooms him to bottom half of the lineup status where his afterburner speed is largely wasted.
The aforementioned Midre “Mama’s Boy” Martin is notable for his unique contract provision which calls for his madre to travel with the team because he isn’t quite off the teat yet. The voracious young Martin can frequently be found in the trainer’s room between innings “re-fueling”. Midre looks great on paper and in the field but fails regularly at the plate, a fact that has Jackals’ hitting coach Raul Fernandez wondering if Mrs. Martin can better handle the filthy breaking stuff that frequently confounds her son. As the highest paid Jackal, Midre is beginning to smell like week-old fish, that is, like bait. Perhaps someone out there has a hole in their lineup that can be filled by an underachieving gloveman and a 63-year old Dominican housewife with really, really saggy breasts.
The nine hole is filled by the serviceable backstop duo of Tori “Pliny” Elder and Louis “Sweet Lou” Romero. And that’s all I care to say about that.
Looking ahead to next week, check back for a profile of the Jacksonville pitching staff, or as we call them, “What the #$^$@! Did Ebby Think He Was Doing?”
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Sacramento Terrible Two's (Season 10 Preview)
The Sacramento Terrible Two's are getting in the habit of having succesful years turn unsuccesful very quickly. In Season 9, the Two's won the NL West for the 6th consecutive season, only to once again lose in the NLCS; one step from the World Series. During this amazing run, the Two's have only 1 World Series win (in its only appearance) to show for their work. The team is getting older, salaries are rising, and the fans are beginning to get restless as the rest of the NL West (and the National League in general) are catching (or caught) up.
Offseason Changes
There were two notable changes in the offseason as long-time Two Vinny Granger was allowed to leave via free agency. Vinny was a former All-Star, Silver Slugger winner, and a popular player with the fans. He hit .306 during his career with the Two's and carried a obp above .380+. Unfortunately, at 31 years old, and his trips to the DL coming more frequently, he was expendable. He had 4 DL trips in his career, but 2 in the last 3 seasons, with last years trip costing him most of the season. He also lost his range in CF and there was simply no place to play him. Enjoy the bitter cold in Fargo Vinny.
The other significant Two to leave was Danys Ortiz. Acquired before season 9 from Boston, he was an intregal piece to last years team. He played CF and 2B, covering most of the year for the aforementioned Vinny Granger, and was very productive with the bat. Again, we needed to cut costs a bit, and with his age creeping into the mid-30's, it was a one and done for Ortiz.
Additions
The Two's, normally very active in the Trade Market were quiet this offseason; although rumors abound they are working on several deals as we speak. The two main additions in the Capital City are rookies Cyrus Curtis, and the highly touted Harry Paleaz (pronounced just like a 4 year old begging Mom for 15 more minutes of TV before bed...Puuuuuuulllleeeeeeeeeeeeeezzzzzzzz). But more on them later.
Lineup
2B-Dario Moran: As a rookie in his 1st full year in Sacramento he put up eye popping numbers. In 325 ab's, he hit for a .335 average with a .390 obp, while scoring 63 runs in only 79 games. He also showed developing "pop" as he hit 9 hr's in the pitcher friendly Raley Field. The 2B job is his and he will lead off and provide the top of the order spark for the Two's.
C-Mitchell Drew/Brandon Nixon: The two spot in the lineup will be held down temporarily by the catcher tandem of Brandon Nixon and Mitchell Drew. Both are studs, but with the Two's yet to make a deal for CF (or to move one of them), they will platoon. In the end, it is a rare spot in the lineup for a slow moving catcher, and the will hit lower in the order as well, but for now they will get on base and give the meat of the order plenty of rbi opportunities. Nixon is a 4-time All-Star and a 2-time winner of the Catcher's Silver Slugger award. Drew is only 25 but is a .315 career hitter with a .397 obp in 3 full seasons.
RF-Albert Piper: Along wth Otis Pavlov, Piper is the face of the franchise. After a devastating injury during his first year in the bigs (season 3) that threatened his career, he has done nothing but shine on and off the field. On the field he is a 6-time All-Star, has won the Silver Slugger in LF and RF, and was the season 5 NL MVP. He turns 30 this season but shows no signs of decline, putting up a .324 average last year to go along with a .390 obp, 42 hr's, 129 rbi, and 115 runs scored. One of the best #3 hitters in the game. Period. Rumors are also circulating that Piper's name has been mentioned in talks with other teams, but at press time no deal has been made or any rumors substantiated.
1B(LF)-Dave Glaus: When Glaus was taken with the 17th pick in the season 4 draft, the organization was excited, but little did they know what a gem they had truly found. In only his 2nd full season in the majors, Glaus won the Silver Slugger for LF. In season 7, he hit 34 hr's as he began the year in AAA. His "sophomore slump" in season 8 produced a 55 hr season, and last year he hit 48 bombs while driving in 136. This is great, we know he has power, but what really has the Two's excited is the fact that his batting average has risen each year in the bigs from .261, to .272, to .294 last season. The sky is the limit for Mr. Glaus.
3B-Otis Pavlov: Otis Pavlov won his 2nd NL MVP (season 6) last year and is ready to tear up the National League this season. The Two's were cruising towards the NL Pennant when he suffered an injury which ended his season. His absence versus San Antonio was one of the reasons the offense sputtered and the team never recovered. He has the credentials, a 7-time All-Star, 5-time Silver Slugger, and a Gold Glove, and he also has two 50/30 (hr's/sb's) seasons and a 40/40 season. He can do it all, but what he really wants is for the Two's to hang another World Series championship banner in Raley Field. He also shows no signs of slowing down as his .314/.364, 51 hr, 147 rbi, 134 runs scored, 24 sb season was one of his best.
LF-Harry Pelaez: The rookie phenom is here!!! The fans, as well as the organization, have placed a lot on the shoulders of the 22-year old potential 40/40 man. He played well during his "cup of coffee" with the team in season 9 hitting a whopping .340, with a .436 obp, while hitting 3 hr's and driving in 6 in 13 games (47 ab's). He retained his rookie status and should contend for Rookie of the Year honors. He is hitting 6th so the pressure will be minimized a bit, and with the big boppers in front of him, he should have many opportunities to drive in runs, and should see great pitches to hit.
CF-Vicente Soto: After spending most of 7 seasons in the minors, he was a utility man off the bench last year and put up very respectable numbers. In 132 ab's, he hit .288/.369 while stealing 12 bases (only 1 cs) and scoring 25 runs. He is the starter by default since Sactown was unable to make a move for an established young star, but he is the starter nonetheless; for now at least.
SS-R.J.Lee: R.J. won a gold glove at every stop he made throughout the minor leagues, and the Major Leagues were no different. He won his first SS Gold Glove last year and he is a true wiz with the leather. The Two's are firm believers in defense first at the SS position, and in turn, that is all they get out of Mr. Lee. Even with his .207 average last year, the Two's still score over 900 runs as the rest of their offense is potent. He will once again be the man in the 8th spot, if there is such a thing. Another rumor is out there floating that the Two's are looking at a low level minor league SS who hits for average, power, and has the glove of Lee. Time will tell if the rumor is a rumor, or there is more to it.
Bench
The bench is solid with Roger Gonzalez (C) the first bat up in clutch situations, no one will ever forget his walk-off single to give the Two's their World Series Championship in Season 7. He could start for many teams around the league. Felix Drew is a another defense only SS and will come in for defensive replacement late in games. Dan Washington is a former Rule V pick who has another potent bat, and Byron Swan (a Rule V pick this year) can play CF and 2B and should provide a nice pinch hit option. The Two's will also have one of either Mitchell Drew or Brandon Nixon on the bench as the other platoons each night which will really help in critical game situations.
Rotation
Albert Boone: The unquestioned ace of the staff, and one of the all-time best pitchers in the NABCL. He gets better with each passing year and his 165 wins are tied with Lenny Singleton for the most in history. He is coming off of 3 straight 20-win seasons posted his best career ERA last year. He also is coming off of 3 straight 300+ inning seasons. He will continue to give the Two's a quality start every 4th day and hopefully lead them into the postseason for the 7th year in a row.
Fausto Bennett: He doesn't get a lot of publicity, but National League hitters know who he is. The 3-time All-Star is coming off a 17-7 campaign with a 2.84 ERA and .167 OAV. He has 2 20-win seasons on his resume already and with this offensive lineup behind him he may take over as the Two's ace anyday. His 230+ innings will be counted on greatly this season.
Alex Schmidt: Schmitty will always hold a spot in fan's hearts as he was the Two's first ever draft pick (#2 overall) in season 1. In season 8 he had a 24-win campaign and slipped last year to 17 wins, but he is another innings eater who keeps his team in games and gives up less hits than innings. He is the ace on most staffs but in Sacramento he is the #3 starter. He dislocated his shoulder (clean...no ligament or rotator cuff damage) in spring training trying to put sun tan lotion on his back, but will only miss 3 starts during the regular season.
Cyrus Curtis: The #4 spot in the rotation goes to rookie Cyrus Curtis. The season 6 1st round pick was acquired in a trade early in season 9 and is highly regarded within the organization. In 26 starts in AAA last year he posted a 3.22 ERA and in 4 starts with the big club during a September call-up he went 3-0. His splits (82/88) and pinpoint control (87) should make him the next in line of great Two's pitchers. He could very easily join teammate Harry Pelaez in consideration for Rookie of the Year honors at seasons end.
Miguel Polanco: Rumor has it that Mr. Polanco is on the trade block but nothing has happened yet. Until then, he will man the backend of the rotation and put up solid numbers. Acquired in the Danys Ortiz deal with Boston before last season, Miguel put up solid numbers going 13-5 with a 3.60 ERA. He was signed to a 2-year extension at the beginning of the season but year two is a player option.
Bullpen
The bullpen is not used as much as normal bullpens but when they do pitch they are among the best. Closer Zephyr Johnson is a 2-inning closer (very rare nowadays) and he has 84 saves the last 3 years. His 10-win, 28 save season last year had up in the top 5 for the Cy Young Award at the end. He can pitch over 100-innings and is a rock the Two's lean on heavily. The setup men are led by crowd favorite Billy Ray Politte. He was once a dominant closer, and could be again, but in Sacramento his role is to set up Big Z. Many teams have inquired about his availability and he would put up huge save numbers elsewhere. But he doesnt complain, which is a testament to his desire to do whatever the team needs to win. Cy Dillon and Juan Martin are the other setup men and they do a fantastic job as well, giving up less hits than innings and keeping the ball in the park and men off the bases. The long men are led by Randy Delucci, who would start anywhere else in the league. He will eventually start for the Two's as players move on or get traded, but for now the bullpen calls; but to have a great #3 starter as your long man can only help you win games. Duke Myers is the long B and Rule V pick Jose Rivera round out the 'pen.
Outlook
The Two's look like the favorite to win the NL West again, but the gap has certainly gotten smaller. Honolulu has a great young team, and the best pitcher in the game, and will give a huge push. Portland is the Two's main rival and they are always in the playoffs, and Colorado Springs won 90-games and was the 3rd NL West team to make the playoffs. Ultimately, the window is closing on the team, how fast it is closing is yet to be determined, but the organization is beginning to make moves to secure the long term health of the team. I would look for a few subtle moves throughout the season and the offseason to be a busy one as the team is reshaped and made younger. For now, our sights are set for one thing and one thing only. The World Series and the franchises second championship ring. Anything else would be a disaster.
Offseason Changes
There were two notable changes in the offseason as long-time Two Vinny Granger was allowed to leave via free agency. Vinny was a former All-Star, Silver Slugger winner, and a popular player with the fans. He hit .306 during his career with the Two's and carried a obp above .380+. Unfortunately, at 31 years old, and his trips to the DL coming more frequently, he was expendable. He had 4 DL trips in his career, but 2 in the last 3 seasons, with last years trip costing him most of the season. He also lost his range in CF and there was simply no place to play him. Enjoy the bitter cold in Fargo Vinny.
The other significant Two to leave was Danys Ortiz. Acquired before season 9 from Boston, he was an intregal piece to last years team. He played CF and 2B, covering most of the year for the aforementioned Vinny Granger, and was very productive with the bat. Again, we needed to cut costs a bit, and with his age creeping into the mid-30's, it was a one and done for Ortiz.
Additions
The Two's, normally very active in the Trade Market were quiet this offseason; although rumors abound they are working on several deals as we speak. The two main additions in the Capital City are rookies Cyrus Curtis, and the highly touted Harry Paleaz (pronounced just like a 4 year old begging Mom for 15 more minutes of TV before bed...Puuuuuuulllleeeeeeeeeeeeeezzzzzzzz). But more on them later.
Lineup
2B-Dario Moran: As a rookie in his 1st full year in Sacramento he put up eye popping numbers. In 325 ab's, he hit for a .335 average with a .390 obp, while scoring 63 runs in only 79 games. He also showed developing "pop" as he hit 9 hr's in the pitcher friendly Raley Field. The 2B job is his and he will lead off and provide the top of the order spark for the Two's.
C-Mitchell Drew/Brandon Nixon: The two spot in the lineup will be held down temporarily by the catcher tandem of Brandon Nixon and Mitchell Drew. Both are studs, but with the Two's yet to make a deal for CF (or to move one of them), they will platoon. In the end, it is a rare spot in the lineup for a slow moving catcher, and the will hit lower in the order as well, but for now they will get on base and give the meat of the order plenty of rbi opportunities. Nixon is a 4-time All-Star and a 2-time winner of the Catcher's Silver Slugger award. Drew is only 25 but is a .315 career hitter with a .397 obp in 3 full seasons.
RF-Albert Piper: Along wth Otis Pavlov, Piper is the face of the franchise. After a devastating injury during his first year in the bigs (season 3) that threatened his career, he has done nothing but shine on and off the field. On the field he is a 6-time All-Star, has won the Silver Slugger in LF and RF, and was the season 5 NL MVP. He turns 30 this season but shows no signs of decline, putting up a .324 average last year to go along with a .390 obp, 42 hr's, 129 rbi, and 115 runs scored. One of the best #3 hitters in the game. Period. Rumors are also circulating that Piper's name has been mentioned in talks with other teams, but at press time no deal has been made or any rumors substantiated.
1B(LF)-Dave Glaus: When Glaus was taken with the 17th pick in the season 4 draft, the organization was excited, but little did they know what a gem they had truly found. In only his 2nd full season in the majors, Glaus won the Silver Slugger for LF. In season 7, he hit 34 hr's as he began the year in AAA. His "sophomore slump" in season 8 produced a 55 hr season, and last year he hit 48 bombs while driving in 136. This is great, we know he has power, but what really has the Two's excited is the fact that his batting average has risen each year in the bigs from .261, to .272, to .294 last season. The sky is the limit for Mr. Glaus.
3B-Otis Pavlov: Otis Pavlov won his 2nd NL MVP (season 6) last year and is ready to tear up the National League this season. The Two's were cruising towards the NL Pennant when he suffered an injury which ended his season. His absence versus San Antonio was one of the reasons the offense sputtered and the team never recovered. He has the credentials, a 7-time All-Star, 5-time Silver Slugger, and a Gold Glove, and he also has two 50/30 (hr's/sb's) seasons and a 40/40 season. He can do it all, but what he really wants is for the Two's to hang another World Series championship banner in Raley Field. He also shows no signs of slowing down as his .314/.364, 51 hr, 147 rbi, 134 runs scored, 24 sb season was one of his best.
LF-Harry Pelaez: The rookie phenom is here!!! The fans, as well as the organization, have placed a lot on the shoulders of the 22-year old potential 40/40 man. He played well during his "cup of coffee" with the team in season 9 hitting a whopping .340, with a .436 obp, while hitting 3 hr's and driving in 6 in 13 games (47 ab's). He retained his rookie status and should contend for Rookie of the Year honors. He is hitting 6th so the pressure will be minimized a bit, and with the big boppers in front of him, he should have many opportunities to drive in runs, and should see great pitches to hit.
CF-Vicente Soto: After spending most of 7 seasons in the minors, he was a utility man off the bench last year and put up very respectable numbers. In 132 ab's, he hit .288/.369 while stealing 12 bases (only 1 cs) and scoring 25 runs. He is the starter by default since Sactown was unable to make a move for an established young star, but he is the starter nonetheless; for now at least.
SS-R.J.Lee: R.J. won a gold glove at every stop he made throughout the minor leagues, and the Major Leagues were no different. He won his first SS Gold Glove last year and he is a true wiz with the leather. The Two's are firm believers in defense first at the SS position, and in turn, that is all they get out of Mr. Lee. Even with his .207 average last year, the Two's still score over 900 runs as the rest of their offense is potent. He will once again be the man in the 8th spot, if there is such a thing. Another rumor is out there floating that the Two's are looking at a low level minor league SS who hits for average, power, and has the glove of Lee. Time will tell if the rumor is a rumor, or there is more to it.
Bench
The bench is solid with Roger Gonzalez (C) the first bat up in clutch situations, no one will ever forget his walk-off single to give the Two's their World Series Championship in Season 7. He could start for many teams around the league. Felix Drew is a another defense only SS and will come in for defensive replacement late in games. Dan Washington is a former Rule V pick who has another potent bat, and Byron Swan (a Rule V pick this year) can play CF and 2B and should provide a nice pinch hit option. The Two's will also have one of either Mitchell Drew or Brandon Nixon on the bench as the other platoons each night which will really help in critical game situations.
Rotation
Albert Boone: The unquestioned ace of the staff, and one of the all-time best pitchers in the NABCL. He gets better with each passing year and his 165 wins are tied with Lenny Singleton for the most in history. He is coming off of 3 straight 20-win seasons posted his best career ERA last year. He also is coming off of 3 straight 300+ inning seasons. He will continue to give the Two's a quality start every 4th day and hopefully lead them into the postseason for the 7th year in a row.
Fausto Bennett: He doesn't get a lot of publicity, but National League hitters know who he is. The 3-time All-Star is coming off a 17-7 campaign with a 2.84 ERA and .167 OAV. He has 2 20-win seasons on his resume already and with this offensive lineup behind him he may take over as the Two's ace anyday. His 230+ innings will be counted on greatly this season.
Alex Schmidt: Schmitty will always hold a spot in fan's hearts as he was the Two's first ever draft pick (#2 overall) in season 1. In season 8 he had a 24-win campaign and slipped last year to 17 wins, but he is another innings eater who keeps his team in games and gives up less hits than innings. He is the ace on most staffs but in Sacramento he is the #3 starter. He dislocated his shoulder (clean...no ligament or rotator cuff damage) in spring training trying to put sun tan lotion on his back, but will only miss 3 starts during the regular season.
Cyrus Curtis: The #4 spot in the rotation goes to rookie Cyrus Curtis. The season 6 1st round pick was acquired in a trade early in season 9 and is highly regarded within the organization. In 26 starts in AAA last year he posted a 3.22 ERA and in 4 starts with the big club during a September call-up he went 3-0. His splits (82/88) and pinpoint control (87) should make him the next in line of great Two's pitchers. He could very easily join teammate Harry Pelaez in consideration for Rookie of the Year honors at seasons end.
Miguel Polanco: Rumor has it that Mr. Polanco is on the trade block but nothing has happened yet. Until then, he will man the backend of the rotation and put up solid numbers. Acquired in the Danys Ortiz deal with Boston before last season, Miguel put up solid numbers going 13-5 with a 3.60 ERA. He was signed to a 2-year extension at the beginning of the season but year two is a player option.
Bullpen
The bullpen is not used as much as normal bullpens but when they do pitch they are among the best. Closer Zephyr Johnson is a 2-inning closer (very rare nowadays) and he has 84 saves the last 3 years. His 10-win, 28 save season last year had up in the top 5 for the Cy Young Award at the end. He can pitch over 100-innings and is a rock the Two's lean on heavily. The setup men are led by crowd favorite Billy Ray Politte. He was once a dominant closer, and could be again, but in Sacramento his role is to set up Big Z. Many teams have inquired about his availability and he would put up huge save numbers elsewhere. But he doesnt complain, which is a testament to his desire to do whatever the team needs to win. Cy Dillon and Juan Martin are the other setup men and they do a fantastic job as well, giving up less hits than innings and keeping the ball in the park and men off the bases. The long men are led by Randy Delucci, who would start anywhere else in the league. He will eventually start for the Two's as players move on or get traded, but for now the bullpen calls; but to have a great #3 starter as your long man can only help you win games. Duke Myers is the long B and Rule V pick Jose Rivera round out the 'pen.
Outlook
The Two's look like the favorite to win the NL West again, but the gap has certainly gotten smaller. Honolulu has a great young team, and the best pitcher in the game, and will give a huge push. Portland is the Two's main rival and they are always in the playoffs, and Colorado Springs won 90-games and was the 3rd NL West team to make the playoffs. Ultimately, the window is closing on the team, how fast it is closing is yet to be determined, but the organization is beginning to make moves to secure the long term health of the team. I would look for a few subtle moves throughout the season and the offseason to be a busy one as the team is reshaped and made younger. For now, our sights are set for one thing and one thing only. The World Series and the franchises second championship ring. Anything else would be a disaster.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Season 10 Rookie Class: Part 1 - Top AL Rookies
Each new season sees a new group of young players bust onto the seen in the North American Baseball Champions League - highly touted rookies that are bringing the promise of youth, talent, and fresh legs, arms, and minds to their parent big league clubs. The NABCL has a great history of these rookies who have transformed their first seasons' success into league stardom. This group of AL rookies is hoping it can follow in the footsteps of the the greats like Ray Riley, Ricardo Johnson and Walker Wilkins.
7 AL rookies to watch for season 10:
Michael Chiba, 2B - Pawtucket. Michael Chiba burst onto the scene in the NABCL in season 9 and announced his presence with authority. That rare International Free Agent that comes stateside ML ready, Chiba - from Kobe, Japan - hit 3 HR and posted an 1.183 OPS in his 7 game audition in late September of season 9 with the Patriots big club and entered season 10 with the starting 2B position all but locked up. All Chiba does is hit line drives all over the park and only swing at strikes while showing impressive range around second base for such a young player. Chiba must be considered the favorite to win the ROY award in the AL this season as he is penciled into the #3 spot in the lineup for the up and coming Patriots.
Victor Fernandez, SP - Pawtucket. Chiba isn't the only rookie expected to do big things this season for the Patriots. Season 8's #1 overall pick, 22 year old right handed starter Victor Fernandez makes the jump from AA to the Big Club this season. Fernandez commanded a $4m signing bonus after Pawtucket picked him #1, but has proven to be worth it so far winning 20 of 32 decisions in the minor leagues while striking out better than a hitter an inning (283 K's in 273 IP). Fernandez is one of four rookie hurlers on Pawtucket's staff, but the biggest expectations of the bunch are obviously on him. Exiting Spring Training as the #2 pitcher in the rotation, we should see just what he's made of soon enough.
Earl Lincoln, Closer - Philadelphia. It isn't often that a rookie comes out of Spring Training with the closers job at the ML level, but that's just what Philadelphia's 22 year old righty Earl Lincoln is doing. Lincoln, a supplemental 1st round pick for the Milkmen back in season 6 out of Northeast Guliford High in McLeansville, NC, has breezed through Philly's minor league system posting cumulative numbers that impress: 2.87 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 112 saves in 127 save opps, 130 K's in 135 IP, 4 Reliever of the Year awards and 3 All-Star appearances. He showed great velocity and control of all 4 of his pitches (4-seam fastball, slider, curve and change up) this spring - though he primarily relies on his fastball and slider - and heads into the regular season as the anchor of the bullpen for a Philadelphia team that has won their division 3 of the past 5 seasons.
Norman Harris, Catcher - Boston. The 24 year old Harris came to Boston in a pre season trade in season 9 and quickly proved his worth in AAA, earning a promotion to the big club even before rosters expanded on September 1. In 29 games and110 ABs, Harris showed the promise at the plate that the Colonials had been sorely lacking over the past few seasons, hitting .336/.365/.464 while doing a passable job handling the young Boston pitching staff. Being a RH hitter in Fenway definitely helps his stock, as does his status as the starter for Boston.
Al Mendez, 2B - El Paso. former 3rd round pick Al Mendez has that one skill that scouts always say "you can't teach" - speed. And lots of it. Mendez was fast in High School and has always showed promise on the basepaths as a Pro, but he took it a step further last season in AAA as he swiped an amazing 165 bags. No, that isn't a type. Though that pure number alone is astounding, the 3 stats that are even more amazing are that Mendez's steal total actually bested his HIT total (154), he was only caught FOUR times, and that he stole those 165 bases in 127 games. Mendez wisely doesn't try to do too much at the plate and usually slaps the ball around (only 118 career XBH and 9 career HR), but he has used that technique to accumulate a .332 career average in the minor leagues. Look for him to burn around the bases for the Ultraviolence this season.
Mo McFeely, RP - Washington D.C. The defending AL East Champs, the D.C. Federals, have a few new faces on the ballclub this season, but perhaps none will prove as important as the former 1st round pick from Chicago, righty reliever Mo McFeely. McFeely has a good fastball and slider, very good control, and a rubber arm. No doubt Washington will lean on this rookie heavily in the late innings as they aim to improve on their 4.83 team ERA and 15 blown saves from a season ago.
Tex Leach, 1B - Norfolk. We stay in the East to find another young impact player - potential power bat Tex Leach. This 2nd round pick from season 6 hit 123 HR in his 4 minor league stops winning a minor league MVP and 3 Silver Slugger awards along the way. Leach pairs a great batting eye with his power and Norfolk is counting on him to be a big presence in their lineup this season.
7 AL rookies to watch for season 10:
 |
| ||||||||||||||
Michael Chiba, 2B - Pawtucket. Michael Chiba burst onto the scene in the NABCL in season 9 and announced his presence with authority. That rare International Free Agent that comes stateside ML ready, Chiba - from Kobe, Japan - hit 3 HR and posted an 1.183 OPS in his 7 game audition in late September of season 9 with the Patriots big club and entered season 10 with the starting 2B position all but locked up. All Chiba does is hit line drives all over the park and only swing at strikes while showing impressive range around second base for such a young player. Chiba must be considered the favorite to win the ROY award in the AL this season as he is penciled into the #3 spot in the lineup for the up and coming Patriots.
|
| ||||||||||||||
Victor Fernandez, SP - Pawtucket. Chiba isn't the only rookie expected to do big things this season for the Patriots. Season 8's #1 overall pick, 22 year old right handed starter Victor Fernandez makes the jump from AA to the Big Club this season. Fernandez commanded a $4m signing bonus after Pawtucket picked him #1, but has proven to be worth it so far winning 20 of 32 decisions in the minor leagues while striking out better than a hitter an inning (283 K's in 273 IP). Fernandez is one of four rookie hurlers on Pawtucket's staff, but the biggest expectations of the bunch are obviously on him. Exiting Spring Training as the #2 pitcher in the rotation, we should see just what he's made of soon enough.
Earl Lincoln, Closer - Philadelphia. It isn't often that a rookie comes out of Spring Training with the closers job at the ML level, but that's just what Philadelphia's 22 year old righty Earl Lincoln is doing. Lincoln, a supplemental 1st round pick for the Milkmen back in season 6 out of Northeast Guliford High in McLeansville, NC, has breezed through Philly's minor league system posting cumulative numbers that impress: 2.87 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 112 saves in 127 save opps, 130 K's in 135 IP, 4 Reliever of the Year awards and 3 All-Star appearances. He showed great velocity and control of all 4 of his pitches (4-seam fastball, slider, curve and change up) this spring - though he primarily relies on his fastball and slider - and heads into the regular season as the anchor of the bullpen for a Philadelphia team that has won their division 3 of the past 5 seasons.
Norman Harris, Catcher - Boston. The 24 year old Harris came to Boston in a pre season trade in season 9 and quickly proved his worth in AAA, earning a promotion to the big club even before rosters expanded on September 1. In 29 games and110 ABs, Harris showed the promise at the plate that the Colonials had been sorely lacking over the past few seasons, hitting .336/.365/.464 while doing a passable job handling the young Boston pitching staff. Being a RH hitter in Fenway definitely helps his stock, as does his status as the starter for Boston.
Al Mendez, 2B - El Paso. former 3rd round pick Al Mendez has that one skill that scouts always say "you can't teach" - speed. And lots of it. Mendez was fast in High School and has always showed promise on the basepaths as a Pro, but he took it a step further last season in AAA as he swiped an amazing 165 bags. No, that isn't a type. Though that pure number alone is astounding, the 3 stats that are even more amazing are that Mendez's steal total actually bested his HIT total (154), he was only caught FOUR times, and that he stole those 165 bases in 127 games. Mendez wisely doesn't try to do too much at the plate and usually slaps the ball around (only 118 career XBH and 9 career HR), but he has used that technique to accumulate a .332 career average in the minor leagues. Look for him to burn around the bases for the Ultraviolence this season.
Mo McFeely, RP - Washington D.C. The defending AL East Champs, the D.C. Federals, have a few new faces on the ballclub this season, but perhaps none will prove as important as the former 1st round pick from Chicago, righty reliever Mo McFeely. McFeely has a good fastball and slider, very good control, and a rubber arm. No doubt Washington will lean on this rookie heavily in the late innings as they aim to improve on their 4.83 team ERA and 15 blown saves from a season ago.
Tex Leach, 1B - Norfolk. We stay in the East to find another young impact player - potential power bat Tex Leach. This 2nd round pick from season 6 hit 123 HR in his 4 minor league stops winning a minor league MVP and 3 Silver Slugger awards along the way. Leach pairs a great batting eye with his power and Norfolk is counting on him to be a big presence in their lineup this season.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Philadelphia Dead Milkmen: Season 10 Outlook
Season 9 saw the Dead Milkmen post a solid campaign, winning 90 games and recording their third AL North pennant in the last five years. Unfortunately, Philadelphia fell short in the playoffs, losing a tough series to the Anaheim Natural Disasters in five games.
Philadelphia will field a potent offense once more in the decennial NABCL season, with veteran first baseman Shooter Farrell soon to become the first ever 500-home run hitter in the league and a deep lineup led by perennial MVP candidate Walker Wilkins. Pitching, as always, will be a question mark in the bandbox that is Citizens Bank Park however. The Milkmen have to expect another playoff appearance in S10, and falling short would be painful.
Lineup
Gone from the Milkmen lineup for S10 are several big names. Third baseman Bernie Uribe (225 AB, .240/.302/.378, 6 HR, 27 RBI, 32 RS) was released instead of being offered arbitration; he had recently lost his regular role as a third baseman and couldn't crack the lineup anywhere else. Designated hitter Homer Buddie (561 AB, .285/.367/.556, 42 HR, 117 RBI, 103 RS) led the team in RBI last season and was a great value signing for two years, hitting 88 homers and driving in 231 runs, but Philadelphia decided to go in another direction for S10. Catcher Rolando Belliard (351 AB, .282/.350/.504, 20 HR, 74 RBI, 51 RS) had an excellent 7-year career in Philadelphia, hitting 160 home runs and posting an .891 OPS, but was considered too expensive as only a platoon player. The final, and perhaps most significant despite his short stay in Philadelphia, departure was second baseman Teddy Fischbach (270 AB, .319/.364/.463, 4 HR, 21 2B, 28 HR, 50 RS in PHI). Acquired midseason after previously playing for both San Diego and Boston during S9, Fischbach's presence leading off the Milkmen lineup was a major factor in the team's playoff push. His weak playoff performance (.534 OPS, 3 RS) and doubts about his ability to play a full 162 games led to his departure.
Two veteran free agents were brought in to plug these holes: second baseman Steve Rivers (503 AB, .231/.304/.306, 8 HR, 51 RBI, 63 RS) from San Antonio and first baseman/designated hitter Bennie Castillo (464 AB, .291/.359/.498, 23 HR, 91 RBI, 62 RS) from Las Vegas.
Rivers, despite his struggles last season, is almost certain to be leading off on opening day. Coaches think he can regain the All-Star form he flashed in S5-6, when he scored 101 runs in back-to-back seasons, posting .380 and .390 OBPs. Rivers has little power, but is a patient hitter who makes good contact. Coaches also like his defense, and consider him a significant upgrade compared to recent Milkmen 2Bs.
Hitting second for Philadelphia is phenom right fielder Walker Wilkins (605 AB, .342/.421/.549, 25 HR, 42 2B, 113 RBI, 124 RS). A perennial All-Star, Silver Slugger, and MVP finalist, last year was no exception for the 27-year-old superstar. Wilkins is among the most dominant hitters in the AL, and Philadelphia is counting on another dynamic season.
The middle of the lineup is slightly in flux, with three potential candidates, each filling a slightly different role. Third-year third baseman Jacob Dunn (491 AB, .303/.359/.544, 27 HR, 87 RBI, 96 RS) had a breakthrough sophomore season, and at his best offers a good power and speed combination. Catcher Sean Thomson (.299/.365/.548, 26 HR, 88 RBI, 64 RS) will take over primary catcher duties with Belliard's departure; he's never played more than 120 games but will have a much more significant role in S10.
Newly signed Bennie Castillo, likely to serve as designated hitter, doesn't have exceptional power, but with his great contact should easily hit 25 bombs at CBP. Finally, veteran first baseman Shooter Farrell (626 AB, .270/.353/.514, 42 HR, 106 RBI, 108 RS) continued to post good numbers last year, recovering from a .238 average in S8. Farrell, the NABCL's most prolific and durable slugger, has played 162 games in six consecutive seasons and knocked in at least 100 runs every year of his career. He'll hit his 500th home run early this season, and should score his 1,000th run around the All-Star break.
Erstwhile shortstop Benito Sosa (531 AB, .228/.295/.437, 30 HR, 82 RBI, 74 RS) transitioned to centerfield last season after an injury affected his arm strength. Sosa is a free-swinger with good power and, therefore, wildly fluctuating numbers, but is a reliable 25-30 HR threat at the bottom of the lineup. Replacing Sosa at short was trade acquisition Eric Rigby (393 AB, .300/.352/.425, 8 HR, 57 RBI, 56 RS), a light-hitting defensive specialist. Rigby exceeded expectations by posting career numbers last year, but should still hit enough to justify his glove.
Occupying the bench are veteran minor league catcher (and S1 6th-round draft pick) Clay Webster (310 AB, .323/.405/.490, 12 HR, 49 RBI, 46 RS at AAA), a career .319 hitter in the minors with fair defense; 2B/CF Geoff Riedling (228 AB, .241/.312/.268, 21/24 SB), last year's Rule 5 pick and a pinch-running specialist; COF Victor Costilla (207 AB, .357/.420/.565, 7 HR, 31 RBI, 49 RS), a quintessential fourth outfielder who's hit exceptionally well in limited duty the last two seasons; and rookie COF Kurt Benjamin (541 AB, .277/.353/.449, 16 HR, 35 2B, 73 RBI, 86 RS at AAA), a 3rd-round draft pick in S5 who'll get a chance to stick at the majors as a switch-hitting utility bat.
Pitching
Philadelphia said goodbye to three starters and two relievers after S9 as the team continues to try to find a successful pitching strategy for CBP. Al Badilla (158 IP, 12-11, 1.58 WHIP, 5.75 ERA) started the season well but will ultimately be remembered for his momentum-killing 2 IP/6 R performance in the playoffs. Allan Philips (39 IP, 2-4, 1.46 WHIP, 6.13 ERA for PHI) was acquired midseason by trade, but spent most of his time in Philadelphia on the DL and was generally unimpressive.
Rubber-armed reliever Billy Robinson (84 IP, 6-3, 5/7 SV, 1.51 WHIP, 5.34 ERA) was unable for the second-straight season to recover the form that made him so effective in S6-7. Clarence Sears (70 IP, 4-4, 15/19 SV, 1.31 WHIP, 3.60 ERA), a veteran FA pickup last year, pitched better than anticipated and even served as a solid emergency closer but was showing age-related decline.
The only notable free agent pickup for S10 is veteran Ralph Decker (173 IP, 10-11, 1.61 WHIP, 5.35 ERA for Fargo), who has never pitched particularly well over his career but was considered worth a shot as a long reliever or emergency starter. Also returning to Philadelphia is 39-year-old fan favorite Gordon Justice (144 IP, 1.39 WHIP, 3.87 ERA), the once-dominant Milkmen starter. Justice missed all of S8 to injury and is far from his heyday, but can still pitch a little and will close out his long pro career in the friendly confines of CBP.
Starting his second opening day will be 29-year-old Haywood Jodie (211 IP, 16-10, 1.36 WHIP, 4.85 ERA), who has developed into a reliable workhorse, starting 96 games and pitching 622 innings over the last three seasons. Fellow 16-game winner Louis Durham (194 IP, 16-10, 1.42 WHIP, 4.58 ERA) looks to improve in his second full major league season. At only 25, Durham still has room to improve but has pitched effectively in his year and a half in Philadelphia.
After Jodie and Durham, the rotation essentially consists of whoever's pitching well at the moment. The two most likely starters are Rafael Moreno (183 IP, 13-12, 1.55 WHIP, 5.34 ERA), who improved from consecutive 7.50+ ERA seasons but remains a serviceable pitcher at best, and Ronald Cota (92 IP, 4-4, 1.58 WHIP, 5.24 ERA), who started only ten games and was demoted during S9. Geraldo Nunez (24 IP, 1-2, 1.88 WHIP, 9.00 ERA) and William Simpson (41 IP, 3-2, 1.44 WHIP, 5.05 ERA), who both pitched most of the season at AAA but had short stints in the majors, are other possibilities, as is the free agent Decker. Finally, 23-year-old rookie southpaw Candy Titan (208 IP, 16-8, 1.26 WHIP, 3.80 ERA at AAA) will make his major league debut some time this season. Titan has compiled a solid 58-28 record over five minor league seasons, but there are questions about how well he'll pitch in Philadelphia.
The back of the bullpen is anchored by Derrek Jensen (22 IP, 14/16 SV, 0.82 WHIP, 2.86 ERA), who missed most of last season to injury but still looks to have some gas in the tank at age 36. Darrell Buckley (53 IP, 1.37 WHIP, 4.73 ERA) was picked up in a trade last season and pitched effectively, as did five-year veteran Bret Jackson (77 IP, 1.31 WHIP, 4.40 ERA). Julio Rosado (62 IP, 3/3 SV, 0.95 WHIP, 3.03 ERA) had an excellent season cut short by injury last year; he returns as a much less dominant but hopefully still effective reliever.
The Milkmen are particularly excited about 22-year-old rookie Earl Lincoln (37 IP, 32/34 SV, 0.76 WHIP, 1.22 ERA at AAA; All-Star and Fireman of the Year), the potential star closer of the future making his major league debut. Lincoln will get at least a shot at closing for the Milkmen this year, although the veterans in the bullpen will be available if he struggles.
Top Pitching Prospects
Last season's top 5: Valentin, Lincoln (ML), Titan (ML), Boone, Brennan.
5 RHP Alex Ibanez (21, HiA): 57 IP, 3-2, 1.24 WHIP, 3.30 ERA at Rk. ETA S12+
4 LHP Curtis Brennan (22, AAA): 122 IP, 9-8, 1.16 WHIP, 2.95 ERA at AAA. ETA as needed
3 LHP Victor Canseco (20, AA): 20 IP, 14/17 SV, 1.48 WHIP, 4.87 ERA, Fireman of the Year at Rk. ETA S12
2 RHP Rob Boone (22, AAA): 68 IP, 33/35 SV, 1.24 WHIP, 3.71 ERA, All-Star, Fireman of the Year at AA. ETA as needed
1 RHP Del Valentin (22, AAA): 158 IP, 16-5, 1.32 WHIP, 3.97 ERA, All-Star, All-Star Game MVP at AA. ETA S11
Top Position Prospects
Last season's top 5: Phillips, Spivey, Machado, Estrada, Benjamin (ML).
5 LF Trenidad Estrada (21, AAA): 496 AB, .357/.443/.601, 23 HR, 50 2B, 121 RBI, 115 RS, All-Star at AA. ETA as needed
4 LF Rolando Machado (20, AA): 429 AB, .336/.421/.569, 22 HR, 93 RBI, 90 RS at LoA. ETA S11
3 CF Shane Spivey (20, AA): 472 AB, .347/.432/.597, 22 HR, 48 2B, 87 RBI, 126 RS, All-Star, Silver Slugger at LoA. ETA S11
2 2B Billy Ratliff (23, AA): 298 AB, .372/.452/.758, 23 HR, 34 2B, 114 RBI, 81 RS at LoA. ETA S11
1 RF Hughie Phillips (22, AAA): 562 AB, .327/.414/.625, 35 HR, 56 2B, 149 RBI, 128 RS, All-Star, Silver Slugger, Gold Glove at AA. ETA as needed
Philadelphia will field a potent offense once more in the decennial NABCL season, with veteran first baseman Shooter Farrell soon to become the first ever 500-home run hitter in the league and a deep lineup led by perennial MVP candidate Walker Wilkins. Pitching, as always, will be a question mark in the bandbox that is Citizens Bank Park however. The Milkmen have to expect another playoff appearance in S10, and falling short would be painful.
Lineup
Gone from the Milkmen lineup for S10 are several big names. Third baseman Bernie Uribe (225 AB, .240/.302/.378, 6 HR, 27 RBI, 32 RS) was released instead of being offered arbitration; he had recently lost his regular role as a third baseman and couldn't crack the lineup anywhere else. Designated hitter Homer Buddie (561 AB, .285/.367/.556, 42 HR, 117 RBI, 103 RS) led the team in RBI last season and was a great value signing for two years, hitting 88 homers and driving in 231 runs, but Philadelphia decided to go in another direction for S10. Catcher Rolando Belliard (351 AB, .282/.350/.504, 20 HR, 74 RBI, 51 RS) had an excellent 7-year career in Philadelphia, hitting 160 home runs and posting an .891 OPS, but was considered too expensive as only a platoon player. The final, and perhaps most significant despite his short stay in Philadelphia, departure was second baseman Teddy Fischbach (270 AB, .319/.364/.463, 4 HR, 21 2B, 28 HR, 50 RS in PHI). Acquired midseason after previously playing for both San Diego and Boston during S9, Fischbach's presence leading off the Milkmen lineup was a major factor in the team's playoff push. His weak playoff performance (.534 OPS, 3 RS) and doubts about his ability to play a full 162 games led to his departure.
Two veteran free agents were brought in to plug these holes: second baseman Steve Rivers (503 AB, .231/.304/.306, 8 HR, 51 RBI, 63 RS) from San Antonio and first baseman/designated hitter Bennie Castillo (464 AB, .291/.359/.498, 23 HR, 91 RBI, 62 RS) from Las Vegas.
Rivers, despite his struggles last season, is almost certain to be leading off on opening day. Coaches think he can regain the All-Star form he flashed in S5-6, when he scored 101 runs in back-to-back seasons, posting .380 and .390 OBPs. Rivers has little power, but is a patient hitter who makes good contact. Coaches also like his defense, and consider him a significant upgrade compared to recent Milkmen 2Bs.
Hitting second for Philadelphia is phenom right fielder Walker Wilkins (605 AB, .342/.421/.549, 25 HR, 42 2B, 113 RBI, 124 RS). A perennial All-Star, Silver Slugger, and MVP finalist, last year was no exception for the 27-year-old superstar. Wilkins is among the most dominant hitters in the AL, and Philadelphia is counting on another dynamic season.
The middle of the lineup is slightly in flux, with three potential candidates, each filling a slightly different role. Third-year third baseman Jacob Dunn (491 AB, .303/.359/.544, 27 HR, 87 RBI, 96 RS) had a breakthrough sophomore season, and at his best offers a good power and speed combination. Catcher Sean Thomson (.299/.365/.548, 26 HR, 88 RBI, 64 RS) will take over primary catcher duties with Belliard's departure; he's never played more than 120 games but will have a much more significant role in S10.
Newly signed Bennie Castillo, likely to serve as designated hitter, doesn't have exceptional power, but with his great contact should easily hit 25 bombs at CBP. Finally, veteran first baseman Shooter Farrell (626 AB, .270/.353/.514, 42 HR, 106 RBI, 108 RS) continued to post good numbers last year, recovering from a .238 average in S8. Farrell, the NABCL's most prolific and durable slugger, has played 162 games in six consecutive seasons and knocked in at least 100 runs every year of his career. He'll hit his 500th home run early this season, and should score his 1,000th run around the All-Star break.
Erstwhile shortstop Benito Sosa (531 AB, .228/.295/.437, 30 HR, 82 RBI, 74 RS) transitioned to centerfield last season after an injury affected his arm strength. Sosa is a free-swinger with good power and, therefore, wildly fluctuating numbers, but is a reliable 25-30 HR threat at the bottom of the lineup. Replacing Sosa at short was trade acquisition Eric Rigby (393 AB, .300/.352/.425, 8 HR, 57 RBI, 56 RS), a light-hitting defensive specialist. Rigby exceeded expectations by posting career numbers last year, but should still hit enough to justify his glove.
Occupying the bench are veteran minor league catcher (and S1 6th-round draft pick) Clay Webster (310 AB, .323/.405/.490, 12 HR, 49 RBI, 46 RS at AAA), a career .319 hitter in the minors with fair defense; 2B/CF Geoff Riedling (228 AB, .241/.312/.268, 21/24 SB), last year's Rule 5 pick and a pinch-running specialist; COF Victor Costilla (207 AB, .357/.420/.565, 7 HR, 31 RBI, 49 RS), a quintessential fourth outfielder who's hit exceptionally well in limited duty the last two seasons; and rookie COF Kurt Benjamin (541 AB, .277/.353/.449, 16 HR, 35 2B, 73 RBI, 86 RS at AAA), a 3rd-round draft pick in S5 who'll get a chance to stick at the majors as a switch-hitting utility bat.
Pitching
Philadelphia said goodbye to three starters and two relievers after S9 as the team continues to try to find a successful pitching strategy for CBP. Al Badilla (158 IP, 12-11, 1.58 WHIP, 5.75 ERA) started the season well but will ultimately be remembered for his momentum-killing 2 IP/6 R performance in the playoffs. Allan Philips (39 IP, 2-4, 1.46 WHIP, 6.13 ERA for PHI) was acquired midseason by trade, but spent most of his time in Philadelphia on the DL and was generally unimpressive.
Rubber-armed reliever Billy Robinson (84 IP, 6-3, 5/7 SV, 1.51 WHIP, 5.34 ERA) was unable for the second-straight season to recover the form that made him so effective in S6-7. Clarence Sears (70 IP, 4-4, 15/19 SV, 1.31 WHIP, 3.60 ERA), a veteran FA pickup last year, pitched better than anticipated and even served as a solid emergency closer but was showing age-related decline.
The only notable free agent pickup for S10 is veteran Ralph Decker (173 IP, 10-11, 1.61 WHIP, 5.35 ERA for Fargo), who has never pitched particularly well over his career but was considered worth a shot as a long reliever or emergency starter. Also returning to Philadelphia is 39-year-old fan favorite Gordon Justice (144 IP, 1.39 WHIP, 3.87 ERA), the once-dominant Milkmen starter. Justice missed all of S8 to injury and is far from his heyday, but can still pitch a little and will close out his long pro career in the friendly confines of CBP.
Starting his second opening day will be 29-year-old Haywood Jodie (211 IP, 16-10, 1.36 WHIP, 4.85 ERA), who has developed into a reliable workhorse, starting 96 games and pitching 622 innings over the last three seasons. Fellow 16-game winner Louis Durham (194 IP, 16-10, 1.42 WHIP, 4.58 ERA) looks to improve in his second full major league season. At only 25, Durham still has room to improve but has pitched effectively in his year and a half in Philadelphia.
After Jodie and Durham, the rotation essentially consists of whoever's pitching well at the moment. The two most likely starters are Rafael Moreno (183 IP, 13-12, 1.55 WHIP, 5.34 ERA), who improved from consecutive 7.50+ ERA seasons but remains a serviceable pitcher at best, and Ronald Cota (92 IP, 4-4, 1.58 WHIP, 5.24 ERA), who started only ten games and was demoted during S9. Geraldo Nunez (24 IP, 1-2, 1.88 WHIP, 9.00 ERA) and William Simpson (41 IP, 3-2, 1.44 WHIP, 5.05 ERA), who both pitched most of the season at AAA but had short stints in the majors, are other possibilities, as is the free agent Decker. Finally, 23-year-old rookie southpaw Candy Titan (208 IP, 16-8, 1.26 WHIP, 3.80 ERA at AAA) will make his major league debut some time this season. Titan has compiled a solid 58-28 record over five minor league seasons, but there are questions about how well he'll pitch in Philadelphia.
The back of the bullpen is anchored by Derrek Jensen (22 IP, 14/16 SV, 0.82 WHIP, 2.86 ERA), who missed most of last season to injury but still looks to have some gas in the tank at age 36. Darrell Buckley (53 IP, 1.37 WHIP, 4.73 ERA) was picked up in a trade last season and pitched effectively, as did five-year veteran Bret Jackson (77 IP, 1.31 WHIP, 4.40 ERA). Julio Rosado (62 IP, 3/3 SV, 0.95 WHIP, 3.03 ERA) had an excellent season cut short by injury last year; he returns as a much less dominant but hopefully still effective reliever.
The Milkmen are particularly excited about 22-year-old rookie Earl Lincoln (37 IP, 32/34 SV, 0.76 WHIP, 1.22 ERA at AAA; All-Star and Fireman of the Year), the potential star closer of the future making his major league debut. Lincoln will get at least a shot at closing for the Milkmen this year, although the veterans in the bullpen will be available if he struggles.
Top Pitching Prospects
Last season's top 5: Valentin, Lincoln (ML), Titan (ML), Boone, Brennan.
5 RHP Alex Ibanez (21, HiA): 57 IP, 3-2, 1.24 WHIP, 3.30 ERA at Rk. ETA S12+
4 LHP Curtis Brennan (22, AAA): 122 IP, 9-8, 1.16 WHIP, 2.95 ERA at AAA. ETA as needed
3 LHP Victor Canseco (20, AA): 20 IP, 14/17 SV, 1.48 WHIP, 4.87 ERA, Fireman of the Year at Rk. ETA S12
2 RHP Rob Boone (22, AAA): 68 IP, 33/35 SV, 1.24 WHIP, 3.71 ERA, All-Star, Fireman of the Year at AA. ETA as needed
1 RHP Del Valentin (22, AAA): 158 IP, 16-5, 1.32 WHIP, 3.97 ERA, All-Star, All-Star Game MVP at AA. ETA S11
Top Position Prospects
Last season's top 5: Phillips, Spivey, Machado, Estrada, Benjamin (ML).
5 LF Trenidad Estrada (21, AAA): 496 AB, .357/.443/.601, 23 HR, 50 2B, 121 RBI, 115 RS, All-Star at AA. ETA as needed
4 LF Rolando Machado (20, AA): 429 AB, .336/.421/.569, 22 HR, 93 RBI, 90 RS at LoA. ETA S11
3 CF Shane Spivey (20, AA): 472 AB, .347/.432/.597, 22 HR, 48 2B, 87 RBI, 126 RS, All-Star, Silver Slugger at LoA. ETA S11
2 2B Billy Ratliff (23, AA): 298 AB, .372/.452/.758, 23 HR, 34 2B, 114 RBI, 81 RS at LoA. ETA S11
1 RF Hughie Phillips (22, AAA): 562 AB, .327/.414/.625, 35 HR, 56 2B, 149 RBI, 128 RS, All-Star, Silver Slugger, Gold Glove at AA. ETA as needed
Chicago Beast - Season Ten Preview - Living on the Edge
If nothing else, the Second City's entry in the NABCL is always entertaining. As the franchise that once called the Fritter and much maligned Felipe Matos their own, Chicago fans are accustomed to a team built arround dynamic and inscrutable talent. Heading into Season Ten (wanted to call it Season X but couldnt because of our distaste for the Sacramento owner - wink, wink), the Beast once again feature a team that will contend for the National League Pennant.
However the burden of a decade of near misses has frayed the nerves of management and anxious fans in Chicago look after their team with an almost NASCAR like mentality (You want them to win but the fiery crash into the wall would be cool, too).
Like past editions, the Beast sport another offensive juggernaut led by the best one-two punch in the National League, starting with the consumate and oft-overlooked professional James Suzuki and coverboy phenom B.C. Parent, who has yet to garner any league wide recognition for his breakout seasons the past two years. The two 27 year olds have averaged almost 90 hrs and 270rbi the past three years and there is every reason to think they will continue to improve. Add Steven Wilson, Virgil Wilkerson, and young lion Julian Pena to the supporting mix and this lineup can and should once again scare the 1000 run threshhold.
Yet, the offense rarely wins anything but a kiss from a bridesmaid and the Beast's fortunes will rest squarely on the shoulders of the men on the bump. Fans are encouraged by management's ability to reshape the collective age of its staff and the full season contributions of Livan Flores and Tito Katou should give Beast faithful some hope. Though enigmatic relievers Adrian Shave, Chin-Feng Cheng, and Dan Redding will likely dictate the ultimate fate of Chicago's NABCL entry.
So there you have it, there are really only two outcomes. A fiery crash and burn or, on the brighter side, a sixth division crown and a deep run into always competive playoff landscape. Your guess is as good as mine as to which will occur...(I am betting on the Earrnhardt ending...)
C - Furio Ramsey, Ozzie Martin
1b - James Suzuki
2b - Johnny Root
3b - Stephen Wilson
SS - Virgil Wilkerson
LF - BC Parent
CF - Bruce Dawkins
RF - Julian Pena (rookie)
Bench - PT Martin, Domingo Mota, Freddie Williams, Billy Byrnes
SP - Livan Flores, Torey Alvarado, Roberto Fernandez, Tito Katou (rookie), Randy Corey
Long - Ugeuth Neruda, John Lee, Dann Tollberg
Set-up - Chin-Feng Cheng, Adrian Shave, Jeremy Damon
Closer - Dan Redding
Prediction - 94-68 1st place NL North
MVP for BC Parent
Runner-up Rookie of the Year Julian Pena
All-Stars Parent, Suzuki, Flores, Redding
However the burden of a decade of near misses has frayed the nerves of management and anxious fans in Chicago look after their team with an almost NASCAR like mentality (You want them to win but the fiery crash into the wall would be cool, too).
Like past editions, the Beast sport another offensive juggernaut led by the best one-two punch in the National League, starting with the consumate and oft-overlooked professional James Suzuki and coverboy phenom B.C. Parent, who has yet to garner any league wide recognition for his breakout seasons the past two years. The two 27 year olds have averaged almost 90 hrs and 270rbi the past three years and there is every reason to think they will continue to improve. Add Steven Wilson, Virgil Wilkerson, and young lion Julian Pena to the supporting mix and this lineup can and should once again scare the 1000 run threshhold.
Yet, the offense rarely wins anything but a kiss from a bridesmaid and the Beast's fortunes will rest squarely on the shoulders of the men on the bump. Fans are encouraged by management's ability to reshape the collective age of its staff and the full season contributions of Livan Flores and Tito Katou should give Beast faithful some hope. Though enigmatic relievers Adrian Shave, Chin-Feng Cheng, and Dan Redding will likely dictate the ultimate fate of Chicago's NABCL entry.
So there you have it, there are really only two outcomes. A fiery crash and burn or, on the brighter side, a sixth division crown and a deep run into always competive playoff landscape. Your guess is as good as mine as to which will occur...(I am betting on the Earrnhardt ending...)
C - Furio Ramsey, Ozzie Martin
1b - James Suzuki
2b - Johnny Root
3b - Stephen Wilson
SS - Virgil Wilkerson
LF - BC Parent
CF - Bruce Dawkins
RF - Julian Pena (rookie)
Bench - PT Martin, Domingo Mota, Freddie Williams, Billy Byrnes
SP - Livan Flores, Torey Alvarado, Roberto Fernandez, Tito Katou (rookie), Randy Corey
Long - Ugeuth Neruda, John Lee, Dann Tollberg
Set-up - Chin-Feng Cheng, Adrian Shave, Jeremy Damon
Closer - Dan Redding
Prediction - 94-68 1st place NL North
MVP for BC Parent
Runner-up Rookie of the Year Julian Pena
All-Stars Parent, Suzuki, Flores, Redding
Monday, September 15, 2008
They’ve fallen, and they can’t get up! Unless….
The Fargo Roughriders, Year One NABCL Champs and the AL’s only World Series rep for the first 3 seasons of the worlds’ existence, have fallen on hard times. The team has failed to make the postseason for 5 years in a row, never exceeding 84 wins in that time frame. After carefully weighing it’s options, the team discarded the idea of a full rebuild, instead turning to the free agent market to bolster its chances at a playoff run. Almost 85 million dollars later, the following team emerged, phoenix-like, from the ashes. Presenting your Year 10 Fargo Roughriders!
Offense
Fargo boasted the best offense in baseball last season, led by Year 8 AL MVP Rudy Simms and ROY candidate Mac Gray. Fargo slugged it’s way to over 1000 runs, the only NABCL team to break that mark. However, glaring holes at 3B and CF left room for improvement; and Fargo was quick to pounce on two former Sacramento stalwarts to fill out its lineup.
1- CF Danys Ortiz (33 years old)- Ortiz signed a 3 yr/$20M deal to play CF and 2B for Fargo. A proven .300 hitter with speed, he has the skills to embrace Fargo’s walk-conscious approach at the plate, which would make him a top notch leadoff man for the team.
2- SS Kurt Lewis (27)- Lewis has played CF for Fargo to this point in his career, but the team feels that his bat is good enough to carry his slightly below average glove at SS. Lewis has averaged 111 runs and 45 SB in his 3 year ML career, a return to his season 8 #’s (.290/21 HR/116 runs) is very reasonable.
3- 3B Vinny Grainger (31)- A playoff vet who wore out his welcome in Sacramento, Grainger was signed to a 4 year/$30M deal and is being counted on to anchor the Fargo infield D, while maintaining his .300 batting average and healthy batting eye. In this offense, Grainger could score and drive in 120 runs from the #3 spot.
4- 1B Larry Flores (25)- Coming off back to back All Star appearances at DH to start his young career, Flores transitions to 1B this season. He has hit .338/.442/.569 in his 2 ML seasons, averaging over 100 runs, RBI and walks in that time. Even a small step forward would make him an MVP candidate this season.
5- DH Rudy Simms (28)- Season 8’s MVP “fell” to a .273 average, with 44 HR and 115 RBI last season; a far cry from his .349, 49 HR, 150 RBI season of two seasons ago. There’s no reason to believe Simms won’t return to form, if he does, this former 4th round draft pick could have a truly monstrous stat line in Year 10.
6- LF Mac Gray (24)- Last season, rookie Gray got better as the season progressed, and ended his first season with 44 HR, 107 runs, 114 RBI, and a .312 average. Gray lost out to Bump Boucher of El Paso for the ROY award; with a quick start, his first All Star appearance could help quell his disappointment.
7- C Max Amaro (28) and C Josh Peters (28)- This platoon accounted for 43 HR’s and 135 RBI last season; not the most gifted pitch callers, but you can count on stellar offensive production from this duo for the next few seasons.
8- 2B Raul Estrada (28)- Released in the offseason, Estrada talked his way back onto the team at the last minute, the team will happily take a repeat of his 39 HR, 102 RBI season this low in the lineup.
9- RF Rex Atkins (27)- a 27 year old rookie, Atkins will be counted on to field his position and hit a few HR’s from the #9 spot. If his AAA season was any indication, he’s very capable of doing just that, with 37 HR’s and a Gold Glove in RF.
The bench will be filled by defensive SS Bart Fiore (25), recently acquired DH Tony Zurbaran and multi-skilled CF Daniel Wheeler (26); plus whatever C is off that day. Not a stellar bench, but good enough to fill in when called on.
Assuming the offense can stay reasonably healthy, this team could easily score 1100 runs this season, while playing league average defense behind the pitching staff. Therein, as they say, lays the rub....
Pitching
Historically, this has been the Achilles heel for Fargo; in the 9 previous seasons of the NABCL, they have never been in the top half of the league in pitching. Last year was no exception, the bullpen was lights out in the first half of the season, before wearing down under the constant pressure of a subpar starting staff in the 2nd half. Knowing there had to be some improvement in this area to make a playoff run, Fargo went out and signed FA Felipe Matos to a 3 yr/$35M deal to be the first ace in franchise history. Felipe's travails have been well documented, but the Fargo doctors did a full psych eval and left comfortable enough to give the tumbs up to team management. Felipe's signing means the Fargo staff looks like this:
SP1- Felipe Matos (38)- Say what you will about his age, strange personal fetishes, etc, but the man has a chance to win 20 games with this offense behind him, and a Cy Young award wouldn't be completely unrealistic. Some question Fargo's intelligence in offering him this kind of money, but if he can lead them back to the postseason, it will be worth every penny.
SP2- Luis Melendez (24)- Was thrust into the SP1 role last season, where he showed promise (14 wins, 171 K's) and room to grow (32 HR's allowed, 4.45 ERA). Luis showed plenty of talent, without the pressure of being the ace, his 2nd year could be very impressive.
SP3- Randall O'Keefe (27)- Acquired from Hon at midseason least year, he was solid, but unspectacular in his 19 starts with the team. Fargo hopes his high strikeout rate is a sign of things to come this season.
SP4- Mack Goldstein (33)- The veteran is in the last year of his deal with Fargo, he's had one great year (1.10 WHIP, 3.75 ERA) and one mediocre one (1.55 WHIP, 4.82 ERA) for Fargo; the team will be happy with something in between from their #4 starter.
SP5- Christian Chang (29)- Acquired with O’Keefe, he’s nothing fancy, but if he can eat some innings with a 5.00 ERA while holding down the fort until young Juan Goya is ready, Fargo would be thrilled.
Closer- Norm Johnson (24)- The team turns to rookie Johnson to give them their first lights out closer since Al Timmons in years 1-3. Johnson saved 20 games for the AAA squad last year, and could save twice that for the big squad this season.
Setup- Dicky Ma (29), Travis Biddle (27) and Phillip Sanford (27)- Ma is a low stamina shutdown reliever, capable of getting 1-2 guys out when needed. Biddle and Sanford are hittable, but make the best of their stuff, and between them, they logged 200 very effective innings last season.
Long Relief- Paul Huang (31), Matt O’Leary (29), Pedro Crespo (27)- Huang is a converted starter who can fill in if needed. O’Leary and Crespo should be able to eat some innings, but aren’t true shut down relievers.
Minors
Many of Fargo’s current stars are home grown, and there are a few more bright spots left in the system. The top ten prospects in the Roughrider system:
1- SP Juan Goya- The jewel of the system, Goya looks like a future ace. He looks to be a year away, but by Year 11, should be a fixture in the Fargo rotation.
2- LF Junior Kwon- Fargo rolled the dice last year to select the talented but raw Kwon in the first round. He’s got the skills to develop into a MVP type hitter, but he’s got a ways to go to meet that potential.
3- 1B Victor Carrasco- with 1B and DH blocked in Fargo, Carrasco is biding his time; but his power bat and top notch BA potential mean he’ll find a role on the big league level soon enough.
4- SP Frank House- moving up with Goya, he’s good enough to play Robin to Goya’s Batman for years.
5- SP- Sean Sterns- If House/Goya are Batman/Robin; Goya/Sterns/House might be the Three Musketeers.
6- CF Edgardo Sivilla- Top notch defender with a power bat, a rare combo for a CF.
7- Victor Martin- Future ML closer, could be us as soon as mid-season.
8- LF Morrie Hall- His glove is mediocre, but his power/eye combo, along with workable contact and splits, project him as a 40 HR, 100 walk OF in the bigs.
9- 2B- Sadie Washington- solid little leadoff guy, should hit .300 with a good glove in the majors one day.
10- SS Luis Martinez- Solid defense, good contact, future ML starter.
Prognosis
Despite being one good SP and one shutdown RP away from being completely happy with the team, management is convinced that this squad can win the AL North. If they can complete that task, and if the bats get hot at the right time, this team has a shot as something no Fargo team since Year 3 has done; represent the AL in the World Series.
Offense
Fargo boasted the best offense in baseball last season, led by Year 8 AL MVP Rudy Simms and ROY candidate Mac Gray. Fargo slugged it’s way to over 1000 runs, the only NABCL team to break that mark. However, glaring holes at 3B and CF left room for improvement; and Fargo was quick to pounce on two former Sacramento stalwarts to fill out its lineup.
1- CF Danys Ortiz (33 years old)- Ortiz signed a 3 yr/$20M deal to play CF and 2B for Fargo. A proven .300 hitter with speed, he has the skills to embrace Fargo’s walk-conscious approach at the plate, which would make him a top notch leadoff man for the team.
2- SS Kurt Lewis (27)- Lewis has played CF for Fargo to this point in his career, but the team feels that his bat is good enough to carry his slightly below average glove at SS. Lewis has averaged 111 runs and 45 SB in his 3 year ML career, a return to his season 8 #’s (.290/21 HR/116 runs) is very reasonable.
3- 3B Vinny Grainger (31)- A playoff vet who wore out his welcome in Sacramento, Grainger was signed to a 4 year/$30M deal and is being counted on to anchor the Fargo infield D, while maintaining his .300 batting average and healthy batting eye. In this offense, Grainger could score and drive in 120 runs from the #3 spot.
4- 1B Larry Flores (25)- Coming off back to back All Star appearances at DH to start his young career, Flores transitions to 1B this season. He has hit .338/.442/.569 in his 2 ML seasons, averaging over 100 runs, RBI and walks in that time. Even a small step forward would make him an MVP candidate this season.
5- DH Rudy Simms (28)- Season 8’s MVP “fell” to a .273 average, with 44 HR and 115 RBI last season; a far cry from his .349, 49 HR, 150 RBI season of two seasons ago. There’s no reason to believe Simms won’t return to form, if he does, this former 4th round draft pick could have a truly monstrous stat line in Year 10.
6- LF Mac Gray (24)- Last season, rookie Gray got better as the season progressed, and ended his first season with 44 HR, 107 runs, 114 RBI, and a .312 average. Gray lost out to Bump Boucher of El Paso for the ROY award; with a quick start, his first All Star appearance could help quell his disappointment.
7- C Max Amaro (28) and C Josh Peters (28)- This platoon accounted for 43 HR’s and 135 RBI last season; not the most gifted pitch callers, but you can count on stellar offensive production from this duo for the next few seasons.
8- 2B Raul Estrada (28)- Released in the offseason, Estrada talked his way back onto the team at the last minute, the team will happily take a repeat of his 39 HR, 102 RBI season this low in the lineup.
9- RF Rex Atkins (27)- a 27 year old rookie, Atkins will be counted on to field his position and hit a few HR’s from the #9 spot. If his AAA season was any indication, he’s very capable of doing just that, with 37 HR’s and a Gold Glove in RF.
The bench will be filled by defensive SS Bart Fiore (25), recently acquired DH Tony Zurbaran and multi-skilled CF Daniel Wheeler (26); plus whatever C is off that day. Not a stellar bench, but good enough to fill in when called on.
Assuming the offense can stay reasonably healthy, this team could easily score 1100 runs this season, while playing league average defense behind the pitching staff. Therein, as they say, lays the rub....
Pitching
Historically, this has been the Achilles heel for Fargo; in the 9 previous seasons of the NABCL, they have never been in the top half of the league in pitching. Last year was no exception, the bullpen was lights out in the first half of the season, before wearing down under the constant pressure of a subpar starting staff in the 2nd half. Knowing there had to be some improvement in this area to make a playoff run, Fargo went out and signed FA Felipe Matos to a 3 yr/$35M deal to be the first ace in franchise history. Felipe's travails have been well documented, but the Fargo doctors did a full psych eval and left comfortable enough to give the tumbs up to team management. Felipe's signing means the Fargo staff looks like this:
SP1- Felipe Matos (38)- Say what you will about his age, strange personal fetishes, etc, but the man has a chance to win 20 games with this offense behind him, and a Cy Young award wouldn't be completely unrealistic. Some question Fargo's intelligence in offering him this kind of money, but if he can lead them back to the postseason, it will be worth every penny.
SP2- Luis Melendez (24)- Was thrust into the SP1 role last season, where he showed promise (14 wins, 171 K's) and room to grow (32 HR's allowed, 4.45 ERA). Luis showed plenty of talent, without the pressure of being the ace, his 2nd year could be very impressive.
SP3- Randall O'Keefe (27)- Acquired from Hon at midseason least year, he was solid, but unspectacular in his 19 starts with the team. Fargo hopes his high strikeout rate is a sign of things to come this season.
SP4- Mack Goldstein (33)- The veteran is in the last year of his deal with Fargo, he's had one great year (1.10 WHIP, 3.75 ERA) and one mediocre one (1.55 WHIP, 4.82 ERA) for Fargo; the team will be happy with something in between from their #4 starter.
SP5- Christian Chang (29)- Acquired with O’Keefe, he’s nothing fancy, but if he can eat some innings with a 5.00 ERA while holding down the fort until young Juan Goya is ready, Fargo would be thrilled.
Closer- Norm Johnson (24)- The team turns to rookie Johnson to give them their first lights out closer since Al Timmons in years 1-3. Johnson saved 20 games for the AAA squad last year, and could save twice that for the big squad this season.
Setup- Dicky Ma (29), Travis Biddle (27) and Phillip Sanford (27)- Ma is a low stamina shutdown reliever, capable of getting 1-2 guys out when needed. Biddle and Sanford are hittable, but make the best of their stuff, and between them, they logged 200 very effective innings last season.
Long Relief- Paul Huang (31), Matt O’Leary (29), Pedro Crespo (27)- Huang is a converted starter who can fill in if needed. O’Leary and Crespo should be able to eat some innings, but aren’t true shut down relievers.
Minors
Many of Fargo’s current stars are home grown, and there are a few more bright spots left in the system. The top ten prospects in the Roughrider system:
1- SP Juan Goya- The jewel of the system, Goya looks like a future ace. He looks to be a year away, but by Year 11, should be a fixture in the Fargo rotation.
2- LF Junior Kwon- Fargo rolled the dice last year to select the talented but raw Kwon in the first round. He’s got the skills to develop into a MVP type hitter, but he’s got a ways to go to meet that potential.
3- 1B Victor Carrasco- with 1B and DH blocked in Fargo, Carrasco is biding his time; but his power bat and top notch BA potential mean he’ll find a role on the big league level soon enough.
4- SP Frank House- moving up with Goya, he’s good enough to play Robin to Goya’s Batman for years.
5- SP- Sean Sterns- If House/Goya are Batman/Robin; Goya/Sterns/House might be the Three Musketeers.
6- CF Edgardo Sivilla- Top notch defender with a power bat, a rare combo for a CF.
7- Victor Martin- Future ML closer, could be us as soon as mid-season.
8- LF Morrie Hall- His glove is mediocre, but his power/eye combo, along with workable contact and splits, project him as a 40 HR, 100 walk OF in the bigs.
9- 2B- Sadie Washington- solid little leadoff guy, should hit .300 with a good glove in the majors one day.
10- SS Luis Martinez- Solid defense, good contact, future ML starter.
Prognosis
Despite being one good SP and one shutdown RP away from being completely happy with the team, management is convinced that this squad can win the AL North. If they can complete that task, and if the bats get hot at the right time, this team has a shot as something no Fargo team since Year 3 has done; represent the AL in the World Series.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)