In an up-and-down season, Philadelphia enters the All-Star break on a seven-game win streak, standing two games behind the AL North-leading New Britain Block Heads. Early in the season, the Milkmen looked lost after a 3-13 stretch left them in fourth place at 10-16. But immediately after that skid, Philadelphia reversed course and tore off a 13-3 stretch; since their nadir, the team has played .630 ball and posted a 41-24 record.
Offense remains Philadelphia's strength. The Milkmen lead the AL in slugging, OPS, and runs, and rank near the top in many other categories. Pitching has been more problematic: Philadelphia's 5.01 ERA is sixth-worst in the AL. The rotation has improved drastically with the addition of several key rookies, but the bullpen is still a major weakness.
Midseason grades:
CATCHER Sean Thomson (.287/.339/.498, 12 HR, 54 RBI): C+
CATCHER Rolando Belliard (.303/.353/.453, 4 HR, 27 RBI): B-
Belliard has torched lefties (.897 OPS) while Thomson has done well against RHP (.853).
FIRST BASE Shooter Farrell (.255/.345/.593, 35 HR, 71 RBI, 67 RS): B-
Farrell has struggled at times this season, but continues to mash.
SECOND BASE Everett Griffiths (.274/.343/.373, 32 SB, 65 RS): B
Leadoff hitter Griffiths is on pace to set a franchise record for stolen bases with 57.
THIRD BASE Jacob Dunn (.268/.326/.481, 24 2B, 21 SB, 50 RBI, 52 RS): B+
Rookie Dunn has mostly delivered on his promising minor league career.
THIRD BASE/SHORTSTOP Bernie Uribe (.298/.318/.552, 16 HR, 46 RBI): B
Despite an alarming lack of patience, Uribe has filled in for the injured Sosa fairly well.
SHORTSTOP Benito Sosa (.260/.325/.435 in 35 G): INCOMPLETE
Sosa's injury ended a fairly good season; only time will tell if he can return to form.
LEFT FIELD Jim Jenkins (.296/.373/.443, 13 HR, 44 RBI, 41 RS): C+
The veteran Jenkins started out very strong, but has faded in recent weeks.
CENTER FIELD Bobby Ellis (.237/.309/.303, 15 SB, 43 RS): D-
Ellis' play both at the plate and in the field has been a major disappointment this season.
RIGHT FIELD Walker Wilkins (.342/.424/.591, 20 HR, 66 RBI, 69 RS) : A.
Wilkins, Philadelphia's lone All-Star, is among the top players in the AL.
DESIGNATED HITTER Homer Buddie (.279/.362/.540, 24 HR, 64 RBI, 63 RS): B+
Free agent Buddie has provided the middle-of-the-lineup presence Philadelphia needed.
BENCH: Victor Costilla (.327/.397/.519 in 52 AB) has provided a spark in recent weeks, while Carlos Bennett's sure glove has been invaluable with the injury to Sosa.
STARTER #1 Rafael Vidal (125 IP, 11-4, 1.22 WHIP, 3.53 ERA): A-
At age 40, Vidal continues to pitch well, and could have merited an All-Star nod.
STARTER #2 Haywood Jodie (108 IP, 4-3, 1.27, 3.98): B+
The only blemishes on Jodie's season are a lack of run support and a minor injury.
STARTER #3 Miguel Almanza (39 IP, 3-2, 1.59, 6.46): C-
Acquired by trade, Almanza has been disappointing.
STARTER #4 Geraldo Nunez (69 IP, 3-8, 1.21, 4.00): B+
A poor win-loss record belies how essential the rookie Nunez has been to the rotation.
STARTER #5 Louis Durham (49 IP, 7-1, 1.41, 4.22): B+
Won his first five starts and is second on the team in wins despite making only 8 appearances.
LONG RELIEF Billy Robinson (50, 1.80, 7.28): D-; Ronald Cota (50, 1.79, 6.97): D-; Jamie Hunter (57, 1.54, 5.21): D+
Robinson has completely lost his touch, while Cota and Hunter have lost their starting jobs and struggled in relief.
SETUP Bret Jackson (56, 1.31, 5.24): C-; Julio Rosado (78, 1.30, 4.46): B-
Jackson has been victimized by the long ball; Rosado has made an acceptable rookie debut.
CLOSER Derrek Jensen (19/19 SV, 1.50, 4.95): C+
While Jensen has not pitched particularly well, he has yet to blow a save opportunity.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Season 8 Draft Grades
The newest addition to the blog is the Draft Grades. I have graded every team's draft picks in the first 10 rounds by looking at the players' projections and listing them as All-Star caliber, Major League worthy, borderline ML/AAA player, or career minor leaguer. I assigned point values to these designations and came up with a total score per team which was used to determine a letter grade. Without further ado, here are my draft grades!
A+
San Antonio Missions (Viva The Puffy Taco) frazzman80- The Missions led my grading in points with 2 All-Stars, 4 MLers, and 6 ML/AAA players in their 12 picks. Led by pitchers Sean Gross and Alex Edwards, The Puffy Taco also drafted top reliever Chip Rakers in the 2nd round. The Missions had12 picks in the first 10 rounds.
A+
Jacksonville Jackals examinerebb- The Jackals led all teams with 3 All-Star caliber draftees, also adding 2 MLers and 1 ML/AAA player. 1st round 3B Bret Darwin and 2nd round DH/C Travis Matthews lead the Jackals with SS Dale Mann and reliever Timo Adams helping out the grade. The Jackals had 14 picks in the first 10 rounds.
A
Fargo Roughriders carpediem33- Top pick Sean Sterns gets the fanfair, but a couple key relievers were drafted including Garland Stevens. Solid all-around C Artie Newhouser was snagged in the 10th round. Fargo selected 2 All-Stars, 3 MLers, and 2 ML/AAA guys.
A
Vancouver Loonies cosmicblob- Top pick Dustan Stechschulte looks to be a stud, followed by 5 solid not spectacular ML quality guys including Ugueth Martinez, Juan Peron, and Jim Ashley. The Loonies ended up with 1 All-Star, 5 ML guys and 2 borderline prospects.
A-
Louisville Legionnaires mlhutch- The Legionnaries solid group with one All-Star, 4 ML, and 2 ML/AAA players consists of SP Eugene Roberts and Olmedo Lopez who has closer type stuff.
A-
Richmond Poor Men mdonegan- Also drafting 1 All-Star, 4 MLers, and 2 ML/AAA guys, the Poor Men are happy to have future Fireman of the Year in Alex Alonso, as well as soilid starter Dan Matthews. Would have a better draft if 3rd round pick Woody Finley would sign, who looks to be a bottom of the rotation starter.
B+
El Paso Ultraviolence reaperpgh- Top pick Andrew Lankford is a very good hitter who should challenge for the league batting title year after year. El Paso also drafted 4 other ML quality players with 1 ML/AAA guy.
B+
Wichita 'weed oldave- The 'weed are the highest ranked team without an All-Star selected, but did add 5 ML quality players and 4 borderline prospects including solid SS/3B Stevie Cepeda and defensive whiz Vin Giovanola who should end his career with 10 Gold Gloves, if his owner can handle his poor hitting.
B
Colorado Springs Coyotes drutes- The Coyotes are very happy with their draft haul, picking All-Star quality closer Mark Wilson and catcherTony Woods. While Colorado Springs had a good top of the draft, it's ratings were hurt by a lack of depth with only 2 other MLers and 0 borderline prospects. Still, a good draft class.
B
Anaheim Natural Disasters zackaryl- The Natural Disasters did well by selecting rubber-armed Jude Lindsey, along with [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1725152]Terry Langerhans[/URL] and Ronnie Ligtenberg. Their class had 1 All-Star, 3 MLers, and 2 borderline guys.
B
Los Angeles Robin's bronco2rings- The Robins scored the same with 1 All-Star, 3 MLers, and 2 borderline prospects lead by 2B/CF Edgardo Sivilla and solid defensive SS Albert Pena.
B
Seattle Salty Dogs donaldkey- Also with 1 All-Star, 3 MLers, and 2 borderline prospects, the Salty Dogs look for big things from professional hitter, Paul Martin. A pair of catchers including Garret O'Keefe make this a pretty good class.
B
Charlotte Queen's Men Erran- Quality pitching was brought in by the Queen's Men, led by starter Ed Gregg and reliever Nick Stewart, plus a solid SS Yamil Cabrera.
B
Kansas City Kangaroos csherwood- The Kangaroos brought in a couple of quality guys, and it's surprising to find them this low. One of the best pure hitters in this crop, Keith Davidson fell to pick #22 due to concerns about his health, while quality hitting catcher Mandy Michaels looks to be a good pickup in round 2. Ozzie Smith Jr., I mean Frank Glauber, who may be better than Vin Giovanola defensively, and can hit a little. Great SS prospects this year.
B
Norfolk Loyalists squirrel1014- The Loyalists had a very top-heavy draft with pitchers Bill Wulf, Cristobal Velazquez, and Dan Damon being about the only true prospects in this draft class.
B-
Las Vegas Muckers nordawg- The Mucker draft board was filled with pitchers, ending up with Rolando Velazquez, Del Clements, and Macbeth Matthews.
C+
Pawtucket Patriots fletchkd- Basically a one man draft class, but what a man it is! Star ace Victor Fernandez catapaulted the Patriots into this spot, with just one other MLer drafted and signed. The class would be much better if 2nd rounder Dee Dee Benard would sign, but getting Fernandez is good enough.
C
Helena Misfits rugrat- John Sanders and Morgan Crosby are the top to prospects from the Misfits draft that resulted in only 1 All-Star, 2 MLers, and 1 borderline prospect.
C
Sacramento Terrible Two's Save_Mr_X- Top pick Marvin Vernon is good, but not quite All-Star quality. Chris Vina is great defensively, but not much of a threat with the bat. Okay, but a C grade.
C
Memphis Maniax gerald007- Top pick Henry Jones is a great slugger, while Rondell Barrett is a good defensive SS. Add 3 borderline prospects, and you have the Maniax' draft.
C
Boston Colonials randallball- Pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching. Unfortunately, just not good enough pitching. The best of the lot is 1st rounder Alex Lo and Sammy Carreon.
C
Chicago Beast bullet6464- Chicago also went pitching heavy, with the best 2 being relievers Dick Magee and J.J. Willis.
C
New Britain Block Heads Verd- The Block Heads got some pretty good relievers in Phil Moreno and Apollo O'Halloran to go with top pick Steven Crosby.
C
Trenton Thrashers tmf12- The Thrashers drafted a good hitter in Bud Evans and a solid defensive SS in Chris Allen.
C
Washington D.C. Federals Shalmelo- Luther Gordon looks to be a soild starter, while my next jersey purchase may be that of Patrick Zoltan. What a great name!
C-
Iowa City Shuckers sportznut11- The Shuckers got a good starter in David Sierra with the 3rd pick overal, while getting a decent hitting and fielding Mario Halter in the 3rd round. Grade would be better if 2nd rounder Lew Poole would sign.
C-
Scranton Screwballs keith1995- The Screwballs got good hitting 3B Oswaldo Cortez in the 4th round to go with top pick Dweezil Elliott. The lack of a 2nd round pick hurt their rating.
D
New Orleans Crawdads wonka1- The Crawdads drafted starter Sergio Hinske and RFWillie Ruffin, but not much else. 3rd rounder LF Dan Faulk has yet to sign.
D
San Diego Storm davesanchez- The Storm were hurt by not having a 2nd or 3rd rounder, but basically only drafted sweet hitting DH Aramis Melendez.
D
Philadelphia Dead Milkmen newarkwilder- The Dead Milkmen drafted 2 ML hitters in Shane Spivey and Damian Goodwin, but 3rd rounder Denny Magadan has yet tot sign.
D-
Portland Jacks dtrain34- Missing a 1st round pick definitely hurt the Jacks, but ony drafted a defensive SS (although he can hit righties) in Jeremy Wilkinson and a borderline LF/1B Al Santos.
F
Salem Timberhawks buffalowade- Based on ratings, the Timberhawks should be in the middle of the pack with a C, drafting All-Star caliber SS Benito DaSilva, 3B Trevor Kendall, and Dale Lary. Unfortunately not one pick in the first 10 rounds has been signed, so as of right now, the grade has to be an F.
I hope everyone enjoyed the first annual draft grades and I look forward to your comments!
A+
San Antonio Missions (Viva The Puffy Taco) frazzman80- The Missions led my grading in points with 2 All-Stars, 4 MLers, and 6 ML/AAA players in their 12 picks. Led by pitchers Sean Gross and Alex Edwards, The Puffy Taco also drafted top reliever Chip Rakers in the 2nd round. The Missions had12 picks in the first 10 rounds.
A+
Jacksonville Jackals examinerebb- The Jackals led all teams with 3 All-Star caliber draftees, also adding 2 MLers and 1 ML/AAA player. 1st round 3B Bret Darwin and 2nd round DH/C Travis Matthews lead the Jackals with SS Dale Mann and reliever Timo Adams helping out the grade. The Jackals had 14 picks in the first 10 rounds.
A
Fargo Roughriders carpediem33- Top pick Sean Sterns gets the fanfair, but a couple key relievers were drafted including Garland Stevens. Solid all-around C Artie Newhouser was snagged in the 10th round. Fargo selected 2 All-Stars, 3 MLers, and 2 ML/AAA guys.
A
Vancouver Loonies cosmicblob- Top pick Dustan Stechschulte looks to be a stud, followed by 5 solid not spectacular ML quality guys including Ugueth Martinez, Juan Peron, and Jim Ashley. The Loonies ended up with 1 All-Star, 5 ML guys and 2 borderline prospects.
A-
Louisville Legionnaires mlhutch- The Legionnaries solid group with one All-Star, 4 ML, and 2 ML/AAA players consists of SP Eugene Roberts and Olmedo Lopez who has closer type stuff.
A-
Richmond Poor Men mdonegan- Also drafting 1 All-Star, 4 MLers, and 2 ML/AAA guys, the Poor Men are happy to have future Fireman of the Year in Alex Alonso, as well as soilid starter Dan Matthews. Would have a better draft if 3rd round pick Woody Finley would sign, who looks to be a bottom of the rotation starter.
B+
El Paso Ultraviolence reaperpgh- Top pick Andrew Lankford is a very good hitter who should challenge for the league batting title year after year. El Paso also drafted 4 other ML quality players with 1 ML/AAA guy.
B+
Wichita 'weed oldave- The 'weed are the highest ranked team without an All-Star selected, but did add 5 ML quality players and 4 borderline prospects including solid SS/3B Stevie Cepeda and defensive whiz Vin Giovanola who should end his career with 10 Gold Gloves, if his owner can handle his poor hitting.
B
Colorado Springs Coyotes drutes- The Coyotes are very happy with their draft haul, picking All-Star quality closer Mark Wilson and catcherTony Woods. While Colorado Springs had a good top of the draft, it's ratings were hurt by a lack of depth with only 2 other MLers and 0 borderline prospects. Still, a good draft class.
B
Anaheim Natural Disasters zackaryl- The Natural Disasters did well by selecting rubber-armed Jude Lindsey, along with [URL=http://www.whatifsports.com/hbd/Pages/Popups/PlayerProfile.aspx?pid=1725152]Terry Langerhans[/URL] and Ronnie Ligtenberg. Their class had 1 All-Star, 3 MLers, and 2 borderline guys.
B
Los Angeles Robin's bronco2rings- The Robins scored the same with 1 All-Star, 3 MLers, and 2 borderline prospects lead by 2B/CF Edgardo Sivilla and solid defensive SS Albert Pena.
B
Seattle Salty Dogs donaldkey- Also with 1 All-Star, 3 MLers, and 2 borderline prospects, the Salty Dogs look for big things from professional hitter, Paul Martin. A pair of catchers including Garret O'Keefe make this a pretty good class.
B
Charlotte Queen's Men Erran- Quality pitching was brought in by the Queen's Men, led by starter Ed Gregg and reliever Nick Stewart, plus a solid SS Yamil Cabrera.
B
Kansas City Kangaroos csherwood- The Kangaroos brought in a couple of quality guys, and it's surprising to find them this low. One of the best pure hitters in this crop, Keith Davidson fell to pick #22 due to concerns about his health, while quality hitting catcher Mandy Michaels looks to be a good pickup in round 2. Ozzie Smith Jr., I mean Frank Glauber, who may be better than Vin Giovanola defensively, and can hit a little. Great SS prospects this year.
B
Norfolk Loyalists squirrel1014- The Loyalists had a very top-heavy draft with pitchers Bill Wulf, Cristobal Velazquez, and Dan Damon being about the only true prospects in this draft class.
B-
Las Vegas Muckers nordawg- The Mucker draft board was filled with pitchers, ending up with Rolando Velazquez, Del Clements, and Macbeth Matthews.
C+
Pawtucket Patriots fletchkd- Basically a one man draft class, but what a man it is! Star ace Victor Fernandez catapaulted the Patriots into this spot, with just one other MLer drafted and signed. The class would be much better if 2nd rounder Dee Dee Benard would sign, but getting Fernandez is good enough.
C
Helena Misfits rugrat- John Sanders and Morgan Crosby are the top to prospects from the Misfits draft that resulted in only 1 All-Star, 2 MLers, and 1 borderline prospect.
C
Sacramento Terrible Two's Save_Mr_X- Top pick Marvin Vernon is good, but not quite All-Star quality. Chris Vina is great defensively, but not much of a threat with the bat. Okay, but a C grade.
C
Memphis Maniax gerald007- Top pick Henry Jones is a great slugger, while Rondell Barrett is a good defensive SS. Add 3 borderline prospects, and you have the Maniax' draft.
C
Boston Colonials randallball- Pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching. Unfortunately, just not good enough pitching. The best of the lot is 1st rounder Alex Lo and Sammy Carreon.
C
Chicago Beast bullet6464- Chicago also went pitching heavy, with the best 2 being relievers Dick Magee and J.J. Willis.
C
New Britain Block Heads Verd- The Block Heads got some pretty good relievers in Phil Moreno and Apollo O'Halloran to go with top pick Steven Crosby.
C
Trenton Thrashers tmf12- The Thrashers drafted a good hitter in Bud Evans and a solid defensive SS in Chris Allen.
C
Washington D.C. Federals Shalmelo- Luther Gordon looks to be a soild starter, while my next jersey purchase may be that of Patrick Zoltan. What a great name!
C-
Iowa City Shuckers sportznut11- The Shuckers got a good starter in David Sierra with the 3rd pick overal, while getting a decent hitting and fielding Mario Halter in the 3rd round. Grade would be better if 2nd rounder Lew Poole would sign.
C-
Scranton Screwballs keith1995- The Screwballs got good hitting 3B Oswaldo Cortez in the 4th round to go with top pick Dweezil Elliott. The lack of a 2nd round pick hurt their rating.
D
New Orleans Crawdads wonka1- The Crawdads drafted starter Sergio Hinske and RFWillie Ruffin, but not much else. 3rd rounder LF Dan Faulk has yet to sign.
D
San Diego Storm davesanchez- The Storm were hurt by not having a 2nd or 3rd rounder, but basically only drafted sweet hitting DH Aramis Melendez.
D
Philadelphia Dead Milkmen newarkwilder- The Dead Milkmen drafted 2 ML hitters in Shane Spivey and Damian Goodwin, but 3rd rounder Denny Magadan has yet tot sign.
D-
Portland Jacks dtrain34- Missing a 1st round pick definitely hurt the Jacks, but ony drafted a defensive SS (although he can hit righties) in Jeremy Wilkinson and a borderline LF/1B Al Santos.
F
Salem Timberhawks buffalowade- Based on ratings, the Timberhawks should be in the middle of the pack with a C, drafting All-Star caliber SS Benito DaSilva, 3B Trevor Kendall, and Dale Lary. Unfortunately not one pick in the first 10 rounds has been signed, so as of right now, the grade has to be an F.
I hope everyone enjoyed the first annual draft grades and I look forward to your comments!
Thrashers Struggle as Starting Pitching Wanes
The Trenton Thrashers are currently in a sixteen game funk. With the All Star break looming, the mighty Kansas City Kangaroos have turned a double digit deficit into a 3 game deficit.
The last 16 games have been a struggle for the young Thrashers. Over this time they are 4 - 12, including losing streaks of six and five games. The starting pitching has been miserable over this period. They have combined for an ERA of 9.14 with a record of 1 win and 12 losses and only 3 quality starts. But it gets worse, recent acquisition Kevin Martin has been the best of the bunch, going 0 and 2 with an ERA of 2.59 and producing 2 quality starts. Taking his numbers out, Derrick McPherson (3 GS, 5.3 IP, 16 ER, 27.17 ERA), Bono Wilson (4 GS, 16.5 IP, 17 ER, 9.27 ERA), Junior Sanchez (3 GS, 15.5 IP, 19ER, 11.03 ERA), and Pep Feng (3 GS, 16.2 IP, 15 ER, 8.33 ERA) have a combined ERA of 11.27. Feng and Wilson were All Star candidates at one point. McPherson has been chased from two games without seeing the 3rd inning and Sanchez, a potential All Star, has had a below par season from the beginning.
The Thrashers don't rely on starting pitching to win games, but they do rely on them to not lose games. The guys have been getting into big holes early and not giving their hitters a chance to win the game. Soon changes will need to be made and perhaps the answers lie in the bullpen.
As a result of the short appearance by the starting pitchers, the long relievers have picked up significant innings. Over this time, Joey Kent has pitched 10.4 innings without giving up an earned run. Bo Forbes has 14.7 IP with a 1.22 ERA and Ozzie Stanley has 13.9 IP with a 4.53 ERA. It is possible we could see some starting pitching demotions soon.
The last 16 games have been a struggle for the young Thrashers. Over this time they are 4 - 12, including losing streaks of six and five games. The starting pitching has been miserable over this period. They have combined for an ERA of 9.14 with a record of 1 win and 12 losses and only 3 quality starts. But it gets worse, recent acquisition Kevin Martin has been the best of the bunch, going 0 and 2 with an ERA of 2.59 and producing 2 quality starts. Taking his numbers out, Derrick McPherson (3 GS, 5.3 IP, 16 ER, 27.17 ERA), Bono Wilson (4 GS, 16.5 IP, 17 ER, 9.27 ERA), Junior Sanchez (3 GS, 15.5 IP, 19ER, 11.03 ERA), and Pep Feng (3 GS, 16.2 IP, 15 ER, 8.33 ERA) have a combined ERA of 11.27. Feng and Wilson were All Star candidates at one point. McPherson has been chased from two games without seeing the 3rd inning and Sanchez, a potential All Star, has had a below par season from the beginning.
The Thrashers don't rely on starting pitching to win games, but they do rely on them to not lose games. The guys have been getting into big holes early and not giving their hitters a chance to win the game. Soon changes will need to be made and perhaps the answers lie in the bullpen.
As a result of the short appearance by the starting pitchers, the long relievers have picked up significant innings. Over this time, Joey Kent has pitched 10.4 innings without giving up an earned run. Bo Forbes has 14.7 IP with a 1.22 ERA and Ozzie Stanley has 13.9 IP with a 4.53 ERA. It is possible we could see some starting pitching demotions soon.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Quicker Than A Ray of Light
Jacksonville (AP) - Ray Riley became the first Jackal to score 900 career runs this afternoon. A mainstay of the lineup since the league's inception, Riley has no plans to slow down. "I think 1,500 runs is something I'd like to have before my career is over." All evidence is that he'll get it before all is said and done.
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Thursday, April 10, 2008
Boston Drops Out of First Behind Poor Pitching
BOSTON, MA - Nearing the mid point of the NABCL regular season, the troubles in Boston are once again obvious - and, once again, the troubles center around the pitching.
While the new face of the offense, namely cleanup hitter Chad Broadhurst, has adapted well to Fenway Park, both new pitching faces and old are struggling at holding down Colonials' opponents.
#3 starter Stuart Nicholson was an All-Star for Boston last season, posting a career best 15 wins, 200 1/3 IP and a 4.13 ERA. This season, Nicholson is not only having trouble allowing hits (.269 opponents AVG), but also keeping those hits in the yard - he has yielded 17 HR in 95 IP so far. That has led to his inflated ERA (5.31) and poor Win/Loss record (4-7). In the bullpen, Boston is getting a great effort from new Darrell Buckley (2.45 ERA, 1.09 WHIP in 36 2/3 IP) while fellow newcomer Lee Bolick has struggled mightily (6.94 ERA, 1.46 WHIP). Colonial
"I can't explain it," said Bolick, "I feel like my stuff is good, but it seems like everytime I run out there I get myself into trouble."
8th year Boston setup man Julio Valentin is the worst of the group, having seen his ERA skyrocket to 7.45 this season. Valentin - who was the horse of the Boston 'pen for each of the last 6 seasons - has seen his appearances and IP drop as a result of his ineffectiveness.
"It's really frustrating, especially since we felt coming into the season like this was the best group we have had in the pen." said Valentin.
Boston Pitching Coach Blake Fischer, in his first season leading the staff after being the Bullpen Coach for the past 2 seasons for the ML squad, thinks he knows part of the problem, "The guys talk about it too much, if you ask me. It's like the shortcomings this season are always in the back of their minds when they head out to pitch - they need to shake it, get it out of their heads, and the results will follow."
Fans in Boston - now fans of a 2nd place team - sure hope he's right.
Boston is off of last season's offensive pace by just a hair over .2 runs/game, but the pitching staff has seen few bright spots.
While the new face of the offense, namely cleanup hitter Chad Broadhurst, has adapted well to Fenway Park, both new pitching faces and old are struggling at holding down Colonials' opponents.
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"I can't explain it," said Bolick, "I feel like my stuff is good, but it seems like everytime I run out there I get myself into trouble."
8th year Boston setup man Julio Valentin is the worst of the group, having seen his ERA skyrocket to 7.45 this season. Valentin - who was the horse of the Boston 'pen for each of the last 6 seasons - has seen his appearances and IP drop as a result of his ineffectiveness.
"It's really frustrating, especially since we felt coming into the season like this was the best group we have had in the pen." said Valentin.
Boston Pitching Coach Blake Fischer, in his first season leading the staff after being the Bullpen Coach for the past 2 seasons for the ML squad, thinks he knows part of the problem, "The guys talk about it too much, if you ask me. It's like the shortcomings this season are always in the back of their minds when they head out to pitch - they need to shake it, get it out of their heads, and the results will follow."
Fans in Boston - now fans of a 2nd place team - sure hope he's right.
Boston is off of last season's offensive pace by just a hair over .2 runs/game, but the pitching staff has seen few bright spots.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Kevin Martin to start for Seattle
Seattle - With LH SP Michael Lee sent to the DL with a sore groin, Seattle has decided to call up top prospect Kevin Martin.
Doing their best Terry Francona impersonation, both Pitching Coach Joey Weaver and Bench Coach Damaso Molina stressed that it is only until Lee comes off the DL then he'll head right back to AAA, it doesn't matter if he were to throw a no hitter. Expect Martin to be up for good later in the season or next year at the latest.
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Doing their best Terry Francona impersonation, both Pitching Coach Joey Weaver and Bench Coach Damaso Molina stressed that it is only until Lee comes off the DL then he'll head right back to AAA, it doesn't matter if he were to throw a no hitter. Expect Martin to be up for good later in the season or next year at the latest.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
NABCL Rankings
TOP 10
1. Sacramento (44-21...9-1 in last 10...L1...Last ranking #9 )- How can they not vault to #1? I mean with a current 18-0 streak plus the fact they are only 1 game behind Memphis for the best record in baseball, plus being the defending champs, plus they have current Player of the Week (Albert Piper) and Pitcher of the Week (Fausto Bennett), plus previously holding the #1 ranking, plus they haven't bitched too much about Billy Ray(although I must admit I really miss the Billy Ray Chronicles). What do all those plus' add up to, my money says an early playoff exit, no way they repeat. You heard it here first. (note i did this before the streak was broken)
2. KC Kangaroos (40-26...9-1 in last 10...L1...Last ranking #8)- They look like they may end up making this prognosticator eat his words of falling short of the playoffs. That 7 straight games they played Seattle really breathed some life into this team, as they were able to rip off 7 straight wins and they've been humming since, including a current 8 game winning streak. Trenton better watch their backs.
3. Memphis Maniax (46-19...8-2 in last 10...W1..Last ranking #7) Funny how you can have the best record in baseball and still be #3. Thats just more of the other top teams being extremely hot right now. Memphis just keeps rolling along, steady as ever. There division is tough, but they aren't even a little scared. They just dealt Edgardo Plata even though he was having a great season so far. Looks like they knew what they were doing though because he's stunk in Seattle.
4. Chicago Beast (41-25...6-4 in last 10...W1...Last ranking #2) They often feel like they get no respect, and love to play the underdog, but this team is legit. Somehow they'll use being ranked #4 as a motivator, but i think the reason they often get little respect is that they play in a ridiculously weak division. Their slipping in the standings is more a testatment to the teams ahead of them being HOT right now. The offense just mashes, lead by BC Parent. As long as the pitching keeps them close in most games they'll be just fine.
5. New Britain (40-26...6-4 in last 10...L1...Last ranking #5) Finally a team from the AL. I'll be honest, I'm not really sure how to make out the AL competition, but this may be the best of the bunch, and adding Craig Hooper will certainly only make them stronger. They remain at #5 even if all the teams around them have changed.
6. Trenton (45-21...4-6 in last 10...W2...Last ranking #1) They are finally starting to stumble after that White Hot start. It was certainly inevitable and the sky may seem like its falling, but not enough to keep them out of the playoffs. Just need to get things back in order in their roll to the playoffs.
7. Norfolk (38-28...6-4 in last 10...W1...Last ranking Unranked) They have caught up to Boston, and this once cellar dweller should be a force to be reckoned with.
8. Richmond (37-28...7-3 in last 10...L1...Last ranking Unranked) They are getting solid pitching and hitting, however, Jacksonville will not be down all season long. They better put some more distance between the Jackals and themselves while the Jackals are down or else they will be looking at the playoffs from the outside.
9. Los Angeles Robins (39-26...5-5 in last 10...L2...Last ranking #4) They have stumbled by their standards, but its just a blip on the screen. The real reason they've slipped in the standing is due to the other teams up above getting real hot. This perrenial contender will be in the party at the end.
10A. Boston (38-28...5-5 in last 10...W1...Last ranking #6) They may be aging but they aren't going down without a fight. Still the slipping hasn't gone unnoticed. I still think they have enough keep up with Norfolk unless that pesky injury bug hits.
10B. Anaheim (37-28...4-6 in last 10...W1...Last ranking #3) This young team has started to show its youth. But the talent warrants mentioning and if they can right the ship should be making a trip to the playoffs.
10C. San Antonio (39-26...7-3 in last 10...L2...Last ranking - unranked) This team routinely gets overlooked. They have been good, but not great. Put them in the AL though and they may be much higher. We thought it was time to show them some love and put them on the list, because right now they'd be in the playoffs, albeit there is still plenty of time for a big nosedive.
Dropped Out
Jacksonville
Bottom 5
Iowa City Shuckers
Las Vegas Muckers
PS I was a little busy this time so I didn't delve into the #'s as I would have liked to. I did half of it last night and the rest this morning. Enjoy!
1. Sacramento (44-21...9-1 in last 10...L1...Last ranking #9 )- How can they not vault to #1? I mean with a current 18-0 streak plus the fact they are only 1 game behind Memphis for the best record in baseball, plus being the defending champs, plus they have current Player of the Week (Albert Piper) and Pitcher of the Week (Fausto Bennett), plus previously holding the #1 ranking, plus they haven't bitched too much about Billy Ray(although I must admit I really miss the Billy Ray Chronicles). What do all those plus' add up to, my money says an early playoff exit, no way they repeat. You heard it here first. (note i did this before the streak was broken)
2. KC Kangaroos (40-26...9-1 in last 10...L1...Last ranking #8)- They look like they may end up making this prognosticator eat his words of falling short of the playoffs. That 7 straight games they played Seattle really breathed some life into this team, as they were able to rip off 7 straight wins and they've been humming since, including a current 8 game winning streak. Trenton better watch their backs.
3. Memphis Maniax (46-19...8-2 in last 10...W1..Last ranking #7) Funny how you can have the best record in baseball and still be #3. Thats just more of the other top teams being extremely hot right now. Memphis just keeps rolling along, steady as ever. There division is tough, but they aren't even a little scared. They just dealt Edgardo Plata even though he was having a great season so far. Looks like they knew what they were doing though because he's stunk in Seattle.
4. Chicago Beast (41-25...6-4 in last 10...W1...Last ranking #2) They often feel like they get no respect, and love to play the underdog, but this team is legit. Somehow they'll use being ranked #4 as a motivator, but i think the reason they often get little respect is that they play in a ridiculously weak division. Their slipping in the standings is more a testatment to the teams ahead of them being HOT right now. The offense just mashes, lead by BC Parent. As long as the pitching keeps them close in most games they'll be just fine.
5. New Britain (40-26...6-4 in last 10...L1...Last ranking #5) Finally a team from the AL. I'll be honest, I'm not really sure how to make out the AL competition, but this may be the best of the bunch, and adding Craig Hooper will certainly only make them stronger. They remain at #5 even if all the teams around them have changed.
6. Trenton (45-21...4-6 in last 10...W2...Last ranking #1) They are finally starting to stumble after that White Hot start. It was certainly inevitable and the sky may seem like its falling, but not enough to keep them out of the playoffs. Just need to get things back in order in their roll to the playoffs.
7. Norfolk (38-28...6-4 in last 10...W1...Last ranking Unranked) They have caught up to Boston, and this once cellar dweller should be a force to be reckoned with.
8. Richmond (37-28...7-3 in last 10...L1...Last ranking Unranked) They are getting solid pitching and hitting, however, Jacksonville will not be down all season long. They better put some more distance between the Jackals and themselves while the Jackals are down or else they will be looking at the playoffs from the outside.
9. Los Angeles Robins (39-26...5-5 in last 10...L2...Last ranking #4) They have stumbled by their standards, but its just a blip on the screen. The real reason they've slipped in the standing is due to the other teams up above getting real hot. This perrenial contender will be in the party at the end.
10A. Boston (38-28...5-5 in last 10...W1...Last ranking #6) They may be aging but they aren't going down without a fight. Still the slipping hasn't gone unnoticed. I still think they have enough keep up with Norfolk unless that pesky injury bug hits.
10B. Anaheim (37-28...4-6 in last 10...W1...Last ranking #3) This young team has started to show its youth. But the talent warrants mentioning and if they can right the ship should be making a trip to the playoffs.
10C. San Antonio (39-26...7-3 in last 10...L2...Last ranking - unranked) This team routinely gets overlooked. They have been good, but not great. Put them in the AL though and they may be much higher. We thought it was time to show them some love and put them on the list, because right now they'd be in the playoffs, albeit there is still plenty of time for a big nosedive.
Dropped Out
Jacksonville
Bottom 5
28. Seattle Salty Dogs (26-40...4-6 in last 10...W1...Last ranking UNRANKED)
29. Scranton Screwballs (25-41...4-6 in last 10...L1...Last ranking UNRANKED)
30. Vancouver Loonies (25-41...4-6 in last 10...L2...Last ranking #29) Normally I make a comment on each team separately. But in this case these 3 teams are so closely terrible that I thought I'd group them together since they are in the same division. I could have flipped a coin to rank them but instead went with their current streaks, as it really doesn't make a difference. They are making it quite easy for the Beast to run away with the division. Seattle management was foolishly hoping to compete, thats not happening, at least not this year. Scranton has a 'FOR SALE' sign around most of its players of value at the Major League level(at least whats left) after trading Craig Hooper. Although in fairness they did get quite the bounty for Hooper. And as for Vancouver, they're just as bad as the other 2, just depends on what day as to say who is the best/worst of the trio.
31. Pawtucket Patriots (19-47...0-10 in last 10...L11..Last ranking #30) While an 0-11 run usually gets you the last spot, Wichita has that position locked up right now. Looking for positives, they should have another high draft choice next year, and they picked up Victor Fernandez in the recent draft, who should really help sooner rather then later.
32. Wichita Weed ( 13-53...3-7 in last 10...W3...Last ranking #32) Hey lookie here, a 3 game win streak. Thats the good news, bad news is they still have a lock on the #1 pick. Other info is that they picked up SS Stevie Cepeda in the recent draft(would like to tell you something about him but I have no data on him). Still all that puffing that other teams have been doing on the Weed will end in the next year or 2.
Climbed outIowa City Shuckers
Las Vegas Muckers
PS I was a little busy this time so I didn't delve into the #'s as I would have liked to. I did half of it last night and the rest this morning. Enjoy!
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Thrashers Acquire Cy Young Winner
The Trenton Thrashers have acquired Season 7 AL Cy Young co-winner, Kevin Martin today from the Washington D.C. Federals. A right handed starting pitcher has been desperately needed as right handed hitters have been having an easy time with the left handed heavy starting rotation. Martin was signed to a one year contract extension in the offseason and has been having a terrible season to date. His 3-8 record and 5.42 ERA need to improve if this trade is to be deemed as successful.
The Thrashers give up setup guy, Rex Trombley and minor leaguers, Rondell Robinson and Giomar Vazquez.
Trombley has been a disappointment in his past four seasons and has never lived up to his potential. To take his place, Tony Martin will move to setup role and Joey Kent will move to the bullpen, as Kevin Martin will take his place in the starting rotation. Kent has been disappointing as a starter this season and it is hoped a move to the bullpen can revitalize his confidence.
Robinson was a 1st round pick in season 4 and was acquired in the offseason by the Thrashers to add organizational depth at CF, but the play of Clarence Bonds at AAA and the recent additions at the amateur draft, made him expendable. Vazquez was signed as a international free agent and was viewed as a career minor league set up guy. He his having a solid season at LoA.
Martin is expected to bring a veteran presence to the clubhouse and help stabilize the youthful pitching staff. It is also key to note that he is 2-2 with a 2.19 ERA in post-season play, as this is the ultimate goal of the organization.
The Thrashers give up setup guy, Rex Trombley and minor leaguers, Rondell Robinson and Giomar Vazquez.
Trombley has been a disappointment in his past four seasons and has never lived up to his potential. To take his place, Tony Martin will move to setup role and Joey Kent will move to the bullpen, as Kevin Martin will take his place in the starting rotation. Kent has been disappointing as a starter this season and it is hoped a move to the bullpen can revitalize his confidence.
Robinson was a 1st round pick in season 4 and was acquired in the offseason by the Thrashers to add organizational depth at CF, but the play of Clarence Bonds at AAA and the recent additions at the amateur draft, made him expendable. Vazquez was signed as a international free agent and was viewed as a career minor league set up guy. He his having a solid season at LoA.
Martin is expected to bring a veteran presence to the clubhouse and help stabilize the youthful pitching staff. It is also key to note that he is 2-2 with a 2.19 ERA in post-season play, as this is the ultimate goal of the organization.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Philadelphia Dead Milkmen: A Fix for Pitching Woes?
While Philadelphia's pitching staff is slowly climbing back to respectability, a 5.30 team ERA (11th in the AL) doesn't look like it will get the currently 27-26 Milkmen back to the postseason. The rotation has run through a laundry list of pitchers: Ronald Cota and Jamie Hunter had 7.75 and 8.53 ERAs before losing their spots, and the since-demoted William Simpson and Rafael Moreno couldn't do better than 7.09 and 6.16 ERAs. The bullpen isn't much better: the usually reliable Bret Jackson and Billy Robinson have 5.61 and 5.66 ERAs while closer Derrek Jensen sports an incredible 9.28 ERA and 2.06 WHIP (yet somehow has managed to convert all 9 save opportunities). Since the earliest days of the season, managers have been struggling to find an answer for the pitching woes.
Two new arrivals this week are expected to give the team a shot in the arm, so to speak. After dominating AAA ball in 10 starts with a 9-1 record and 2.64 ERA, 23-year-old star prospect Louis Durham will make his way to the majors ahead of schedule, debuting in Philadelphia against Las Vegas this week. And arriving in the city of brotherly love only days after Durham is veteran workhorse Miguel Almanza, 83-76 on his career and 4-2 with a 4.45 ERA for Vancouver this season. Philadelphia drew on some of its prospect pitching depth, sending AA starter Hamlet Darr, a 21-year-old southpaw to the Loonies for Almanza. Almanza is expected to take the place of rookie Julio Rosado, whose pitches seemed to play better in relief (4.05, 1.23, 32:8 K:BB) than in the rotation (5.48, 1.48). Fellow rookie and emergency callup Geraldo Nunez has responded well to a starting role despite poor run support and will stick in the rotation (for now).
Management has cautioned fans to remain confident despite the Milkmen's early struggles. At just above .500, Philadelphia still has an excellent chance to return to the postseason, especially with the offense performing at a high level. Future changes haven't been ruled out either. Nobody wants to squander the talent currently playing in Philadelphia on a third-place finish.
Two new arrivals this week are expected to give the team a shot in the arm, so to speak. After dominating AAA ball in 10 starts with a 9-1 record and 2.64 ERA, 23-year-old star prospect Louis Durham will make his way to the majors ahead of schedule, debuting in Philadelphia against Las Vegas this week. And arriving in the city of brotherly love only days after Durham is veteran workhorse Miguel Almanza, 83-76 on his career and 4-2 with a 4.45 ERA for Vancouver this season. Philadelphia drew on some of its prospect pitching depth, sending AA starter Hamlet Darr, a 21-year-old southpaw to the Loonies for Almanza. Almanza is expected to take the place of rookie Julio Rosado, whose pitches seemed to play better in relief (4.05, 1.23, 32:8 K:BB) than in the rotation (5.48, 1.48). Fellow rookie and emergency callup Geraldo Nunez has responded well to a starting role despite poor run support and will stick in the rotation (for now).
Management has cautioned fans to remain confident despite the Milkmen's early struggles. At just above .500, Philadelphia still has an excellent chance to return to the postseason, especially with the offense performing at a high level. Future changes haven't been ruled out either. Nobody wants to squander the talent currently playing in Philadelphia on a third-place finish.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Seattle Lands Plata
Seattle - In an effort to improve the pitching staff, and more specifically the rotation, Seattle made a trade for Edgardo Plata today. Plata will actually make his Salty Dog debut against...you guessed it, the team that traded him, the Memphis Maniax.
Despite a dreadful stretch where the Salty Dogs went 4-15 (including 7 straight to KC at one point), GM Donald Key refuses to raise the White Flags and proved with this move that he has confidence that the club has a chance to get back in the race. In giving up Damian May and Glen Dunn Seattle feels the playoffs are within reach if they can get some good breaks. May, a former 1st round pick (4th Overall) in the Season 2 draft, never quite lived up to expectations. Injuries helped derail the once stud prospect. Dunn was a former 2nd round pick who is still at least a year away from helping the big club so Key decided to roll the dice and see what comes up.
It has been rumored that in just about every set of trade discussions that Seattle has, Kevin Martin is the prospect most asked for, and that so far Key has refused to even consider discussing him. Martin could see action at the end of this year when rosters expand.
Its finally good to see Seattle trying to unload prospects for veterans rather then the opposite. Management felt this was a good deal that could provide huge dividends and that the price was not too steep.
Despite a dreadful stretch where the Salty Dogs went 4-15 (including 7 straight to KC at one point), GM Donald Key refuses to raise the White Flags and proved with this move that he has confidence that the club has a chance to get back in the race. In giving up Damian May and Glen Dunn Seattle feels the playoffs are within reach if they can get some good breaks. May, a former 1st round pick (4th Overall) in the Season 2 draft, never quite lived up to expectations. Injuries helped derail the once stud prospect. Dunn was a former 2nd round pick who is still at least a year away from helping the big club so Key decided to roll the dice and see what comes up.
It has been rumored that in just about every set of trade discussions that Seattle has, Kevin Martin is the prospect most asked for, and that so far Key has refused to even consider discussing him. Martin could see action at the end of this year when rosters expand.
Its finally good to see Seattle trying to unload prospects for veterans rather then the opposite. Management felt this was a good deal that could provide huge dividends and that the price was not too steep.
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