New Orleans Brass Season Preview

1. Jackie Wagner 2nd 22 yr, one of the Brass ROY favorites. The Brass are looking for .320 AVG, .400 OBP, 20 homers and 40 steals. His glove is a little weak, but his bat will more then make up for it. Originally slated to be in AAA the Pablo Morales deal pushed his arrival date to this season rather then next.
2. Wallace Ojeda 3rd 26 yr, Wally is just in his 2nd major league season but will be looked upon to hit in the important number 2 spot. Good speed, good eye and decent pop will open up things for Wagner on the bases. .280 AVg, 370 OBP, 18 homers 20 steals…possible Gold Glove at 3rd.
3. Rabbit Patrick LF 23 yr, another ROY possibility. He is going to hit for great average and solid power. Has good speed and his defense is about average for LF’ers. .330 AVG 25 Homers, 12 steals.
4. Jumbo Morales RF 25 yr, his name is perfect for the bat that he carries. The Brass are counting on him to hit homers and hit them often. .320 AVG 40 Homers, 10 Steals.
5. Curt Snyder CF 26 yr, A seasoned Vet as far as this lineup goes. Starting his 3rd season in the bigs. Curt is a well rounded player that will be counted on for big numbers and to help set the table for some of the big mashers further down in the order. .280 AVG, 35 Homers 10 steals.
6. Peter Takahasi DH 29 yr, signed late to bring some extra pop to the lineup. Peter will hit his fair share of homers and gather an equal amount of strikeouts and base on balls. .270 AVG .365 OBP, 30 homers.
7. James Gong 1st 35 yr, The bargain basement signing of Gong should add even more umph to this lineup. A smart player who wont hit for high avg but is very adept at moving runners any way possible. .260 avg, 30 homers.
8. Hideo Meng C 25 yrs/ Oleg Cassidy C 27 yrs, A solid one two punch. Meng is more of the bats man and Cassidy the glove man. Meng will play against righties and Cassidy will play lefties and come in as a late inning defensive replacement. .275 AVG, .350 OBP, 15 homers.
9. Sandy Allen SS 27 yr, Sandy is a flashing SS with some solid pop and great speed. He may be the best all around number 9 hitter in the league. .255 AVG, 25 Homers, 20 Steals.


Bench

Lefty Harding CF/2nd 25 Yr, The kid from Dearborn will be 2nd baseman defensive sub and pinch runner.

Kent Hefner 3rd/RF/LF 32 Yr, Just here to pinch hit when a homer is needed and to rest the COF and CIF.

Ozzie Parker 2nd/3rd 22 Yr, picked up in the waiver draft. The Brass will give him a few months and see if he is able to perform as part time player.



Pitchers

SP1. Crash Shirley 31 yr, the big lanky rightie was dealt for in the Terry Torres deal. With this offense behind him he should be a front runner for the Cy Young. 20-8 220 inning 3.40 ERA 190 K’s.

SP2. Albert Davey 28 yr, another pitcher acquired in a trade. Davey is a more then capable number two. 18-10 230 innings, 3.80 ERA, 170 k’s.

SP3. Jerry White 32 yr, White is a crafty vet who will be counted on to win more then he losses. 15-12, 190 innings, 4.25 ERA, 110 k’s

SP4. Geoff Guerrero 24 yr, Wild Workhorse??? That is how Geoff is described. He will hopefully eat innings and not get roughed up to much. 12-12 200innings, 4.95 ERA 120 k’s.

SP5. Kenneth Knight 31 yr, Ken has some great pitches but has trouble finishing batters. Look for him to not pitch in big games. 8-12 165 innings 5.25 ERA 100 k’s.

MOP: David Thielman 24 yr, David is battling hard for the last spot in the rotation. If Knight should stumble he will be first in line for a shot at starting.

LRA: Ben Person 33 yr, One of 4 lefties in the pen. Ben should be good for a couple of innings every time out. He has three years on his contract and is playing to prove he deserves them.

LRB: Eduardo Baez 36 yr, Baez is going to be counted on to eat innings and keep games close. He has great control and a whole lot of experience.

SUA: Tomas Henriquez 30 yr, One of the big contract guys from old management. Tomas has excellent stuff and could go back into the closers role is needed.

SUB: Midre Decker 33 yr, hard throwing leftie is a little wild but can still be counte don to get a few outs when needed.

SUB: Merv Jacobs 27 yr, Jacobs will be pitching for more playing time has great stuff and is one of the few righties in the pen.

Closer: Archie Carroll 24 yr, The young pup has two great pitches and excellent control and is tough on righties. If he struggles early look for Henriquez to take back the job

Report:Osvaldo Castilla signs with Patriots

The first International player of the season was signed today, with the New York Patriots inking Dominican catcher Osvaldo Castilla to a minor league contract, which includes a signing bonus of $3.0 million. The 6'3" 21 year old will eventually provide steady defense behind the plate, and has powerful stroke. He should develop into a solid hitter, although the switch hitter has traditionally struggled against lefties.

With two other young catchers in the farm system, look for the Patriots to start talkng trade to fill in some other gaps.

-rugrat

Chicago Capone Bootleggers Season Preview

Chicago has generated intense excitement from the fans. Most games are already sold out as this potent lineup gets ready for the homeower. Currently in Spring Training, all roster spots are cemented except 1. The coach has stated that this last spot is wide-open between the remaining pitchers and position players. "The 25th player is not going to be crucial to us."

C-Ray Winn An average catcher and pitch caller; this should be offset by his high BA and OBP. Expect him to bat in the bottom part of the order. Cam Stockton will back him up and primarily be used as a late inning defensive/pitch calling catcher.

1B-Larry Turner This rare 5 tool firstbaseman does it all. He hits for power, contact, steals bases, plays good defense, and is only 23 years old. Turner is expected to redefine the leadoff position.

2B-Ismael Guillen This 23 year old second baseman has future MVP written all over him. He will be a fixture for the next 10 years at the cleanup position.

3B-Adam Snavely This All-Star 3B signed a 5 yr/7.2 mil contract in the offseason. He brings gold-glove defense and all-star offense. A traditional #4 hitter, he will be batting in the 3,5, and 6 spots. Terry Durham was picked up on waivers and will back up 3B, 1B, LF, and RF. Durham is disappointed to not be starting, but is very excited about the playoff outlook for the team.

SS-Damian Song This 23 year old SS has been handed the starting spot. He was highly touted coming out of Korea and is a major impact player. A future #3 and #4 hitter when he fully develops; he will be batting in the #2, and 5-8 spots. R.J. Guerrero, the past starter will be the back up, able to play every position defensively and an average bat.

LF-Cristobal Ozuna The 29 y.o. LF signed a 4 yr/6.3 mil. contract extension in the offseason. He could have been a superstar on most other teams, but chose to stay in Chicago and win the World Series. Ozuna should be a middle of the lineup hitter, but will be relegated to the bottom of the order.

CF-Davey Shultz The veteran 31 y.o. CF is the leader of the team. He is an above average hitter but he is known for his shutdown defensive ability and superstar diving catches.

RF-Junior Bennett The 28 year old has been handed the starting RF position. After 2 MVP season in the minors, this late bloomer will be batting in the bottom of the order. He is not spectacular in one given skill, but is easily above average in every catagory.

Veteran Stu Jordan is the odd man out. Age has caught up to him. Still a great hitter, he is suited more to a DH role now. Jordan has formally requested a trade and Management is actively trying to oblige. If a trade doesn't happen, them Jordan will be the first pinch hitter off the bench.

The pitching staff is weak after the first 2 starters, but is backed up by a quality relief staff.

SP #1-Danny Borland the highly acclaimed All-American makes his ML debut and will be the ace of the staff. This high control flamethrower will be a major fixture for Chicago.

SP #2-Vladimir Figureoa is also making his major league debut at 22. He could end up being a staff ace, but will have to overcome his nagging injuries.

SP #3-Brent Sheffield the veteran left hander hopefully will bring some stabilty to the #3 spot in the rotation.

SP #4-Craig Durbin occupies the #4 spot. This veteran is strong against lefties, but can falter when facing right-handed batters.

SP #5-Andy Bagley will be starter #5. He has outstanding control and will be expected to not win games, but pitch well enough for the potent lineup to power the team to victory.

MR-Nate Trammell will be one of the top middle relievers. A great minor league career as a starter was ruined by an arm injury. Trammel has rebounded; although he does not have the stamina to go 7+ innings, he can easily pitch 4-5 innings.

Setup-Jimmie Alfonzo will be the primary setup man. This wily 33 year old veteran will anchor the bullpen until they can get to the closer.

Closer-Steve Shaw is new to Chicago and new to the majors. Chicago traded their low A highly touted SS/3B for this shutdown closer. Shaw must do well from the start, or he might be sent down to AAA for more seasoning.

Florida Swamp Monsters Season Preview

In season 1 of their eventual dominance, here's what the LeppyKahn era in Florida
held...


Lineup:
C - "Fumin" Kent Hume - With his great arm, "The Fume" is known to be one of the best defensive catchers in baseball.

1B - Vicente "The Murderer" Mercado - Known for his ability to swat the ball wherever it needs to go, the Murderer is known for his keen ball-hitting prowess.

2B - Nipsey "Is it cold in here" Peterson - He is known for his streakiness, an average player in every regard.

SS - Terry "Tender" Torres - Has a weak spot in his heart... and every other place on his body. But, he sure can hit, both the DL and the ball.

3B - Enrique "Lover" Lopez - Known for doing everything similarly well... Except for putting on the condom. Alleged to be the offspring of Jennifer and Mr Iglesias.

LF - Jumbo "Rabid" Matos - He gets worked up into a fury when you discuss his simple inability to hit a longball. He is pretty solid on the basepaths though.

CF - Jose "Jo Bent" Bennett - Speeding around the basepaths, he is known for the motion that someone does when watching something moving at a high rate of speed past them. Lesser cameramen have died.

RF - Juan "Too Tree Fo" Gandarillas - Another speedster, we likes him.


The Pitching...

Ace - Karim "Of Wheat" Iglesias - His line of commercials imitating the "Tastes Great, Less Filling" commercials has fans responding to every mention of his name with "Of Wheat."

Numma 2 - Bobby Ray "Apes of" Rath - Known for his ability to throw the sinker, right off the catcher's head.

Captain Closer - Joe "3 Wives" Smith - Known for founding a religion that is friendly towards a harum. Revolutionized religious marketing with a requirement that everyone wear special undergarments to be allowed into the religion.

San Francisco Amoebas Season Preview

The inaugural season for the San Francisco Amoebas holds out hope for a .500 season, and maybe better. Despite trading two veterans for a gaggle of depth and some promising youngsters for the farm system, the core of the team is decent enough to give the fans a little reason to hope. Just a little…
C – Waiting in the wings is SF’s top prospect, Ivan Sierra. Sierra, 23, should be a mainstay of the Amoeba offense for years to come, however General Manager rugrat thinks he could use another year of seasoning, so two veterans, Esteban and Philip Tebeau will hold down the position this year. Both call a great game, and with a young pitching staff, their veteran presence will be essential to a successful Amoeba season.
1B – Grizzled veteran Richie Acosta is getting a last look this spring, but has already cleared waivers and is battling for a job in the organization. As of this writing, this is one of several position battles that will be determined by spring training performance, with the eventual starter likely to be backup 3B Yamid Garces. Garces provides solid defense and a well rounded game at the plate.
2B – This is another battle, and it’s between Jamie Matsuzaka, free agent acquisition William Bates and 24 year old Marcus Jeffries. Among the veterans, Matsuzaka is more consistent at the plate, while Bates struggles against LHP, but Bates’ glove often makes up for his other deficiencies. Matsuzaka’s defensive struggles are well known to fans in SF, and last season saw the plucky but iron handed veteran given the Iron Glove award for worst fielder in a key position. Jeffries will probably start the year in AAA, but will be waiting and ready if needed.
SS – Bates will back up, but the position belongs to glove wizard Sam Brown. Brown, best known for his rocket arm, will hopefully hold his own with the bat, but even if he doesn’t, he will help a young staff mature with his vaccuum glove.
3B – Youngster Francisco Blasco is being asked to carry an offensive load this season. A steady fielder, with above average power, Blasco will have to work on his on base skills to make the move to the elite of the league’s third basemen. At 25, that improvement could happen this season.
LF – The star of the team, Alex Hasegawa, will be called upon to hit 40+ HRs and show leadership in the dugout. Brittle in the past, Hasegawa promised to work out in the offseason to increase his playing time, and has looked good this spring. Waiting in the wings for a chance to play is Bernard Vernon, who’s free swinging ways works with the women, but not on the ballfield.
CF – Veteran Terry Stone is being given one more chance, and is likely to hit leadoff. Stone has some speed, and gets to lots of balls in the OF, but sometimes makes the routine play look spectacular with his below average glove in CF. The team traded for young flychaser Edgar Oliva in the offseason, but at 19, Oliva is at least 2 or 3 years away from sniffing the majors.
RF – Top prospect Vern Romero is getting a look this spring, but at 21 could use another year or two in the minors, especially to work on his fielding. Assuming Romero won’t stick, RF could become the domain of Bernard Vernon.
SP – There are two or three spots open in the Amoeba starting rotation, which will be anchored by Dick Linden. Linden, only 25, is a candidate to win 20 games. Another likely starter is Woody Jenkins. Jenkins tested the free agent waters in the offseason, but decided to re-sign with SF. He’s one of a number of pitchers on the staff that should be good for 6 innings a start, but doesn’t have the stamina to go deep. Damian Heffner is another pitcher who is being counted on to give the Amoebas 5-6 solid innings per start. The other slots are up for grabs.
Bullpen – The relief corps of the Amoebas is sure to be called on a lot, so the long relief guys and set up men are sure to see a lot of work. The bullpen is still in a state of flux, but there are some solid young arms that are looking for their chance. Among the better candidates are Ken Collier, Tony Franco, and Vin Candelaria,.
Outlook - .500 is within reach, and if some things go right, this team could do better. The Amoebas just need to resist temptation and not rush their young players to the big leagues before their ready for the show. If they can do that, they should be a solid franchise for years to come.

Atlanta Sprawl Season Preview

The Sprawl project to be a 90-94 win team in a division that doesn’t have a clear front runner (though New Orleans looks tough). They are built for a division title, though not a playoff run.

The Good

Hi, Jerry: 1B FA acquisition Hi Rivers and DH Jerry Daly give the Sprawl a mashing 3-4 combo that rivals any other duo in the league

.“You down with OBP?”: The Sprawl lineup prides itself on taking pitches and drawing walks and will undoubtedly rank among the top in the ‘original Moneyball category: OBP. Rivers and Daly induce walks simply through intimidation of the pitcher, while CF sparkplug Erik Hinske, 2B leadoff man (and FA acquisition) Kevin Jones and platoon masher RF Lariel Sosa all demonstrate commendable patience and plate discipline.

Grand Theft Atlanta: While fans may be bored with ubiquitous 10-pitch at bats, once the Sprawlers are on base it’s ‘go time’. They boast 3 or 4 burners who will be given a perpetual greenlight from smallball manager Ronn Evans.

A Bullpen named Voltron: The club made a number of shrewd acquisitions in the offseason, building an 8-man bullpen that, combined, is a force to be reckoned with. Chan Bong, Pete Brooks, John Fujiwara, Albert Cueto and Andy Betemit will all share closing and setup duties, depending on the ballpark and who has the hot hand, though none it is doubtful any will surpass 60 innings in the year.

The D gets an A: The Sprawl hope to compensate for a solid but certainly unspectacular rotation with outstanding team defense. They boast plus defenders at SS, 3B, 2B, RF, and CF, and carry a couple of defensive specialist for later innings.

The BadLast

Charge of the Grayhairs: There’s no beating around the bush - the Sprawl field five 30+ position players and three 30+ starters. At the same time, though, they field four talent youngsters under 25 and their #1 starter, Ross Ramirez, is a babyfaced 23. Taking a page from a Barack Obama speech, Sprawl management is selling it as “a diverse coalition of young and old Americans.” Except for Hi Rivers, of course, he’s a Canuck.

The Ugly

A Bunch of Delicate Daisies: The Sprawl’s season hinges upon the team’s combined health. The downside of the balls-to-the-wall play of young 3B Alberto Alcantera has resulted in a series of frustrating injuries, while the – ahem – veteran nature of the club has opened them up for a variety of strains, pulls and tweaks. Management is keeping its fingers crossed that, with a bit of duck tape and a lot of luck, the Sprawl can keep its core healthy and productive.

A barren (minor league) cupboard: The Sprawl GM has never pretended to have much interest in prospects. He’s cut from an impatient, win-now fabric, and believes that the true challenge is to build up a minor league system white remaining competitive. “Anybody can tank for three or four years, acquire top draft picks and internationals, and be competitive in Season 5. The true challenge is to be competitive year in and out, while plugging holes and building a foundation through ingenuity and wit.” Full disclosure: This GM has recently been lampooned for moving bushels of prospects for one year rentals of marginal veterans.

Texas Leaguers Season 1 Preview

Texas enters Season-1 as a bad team posed to get worse before they get better. The major league roster is not without talent, but, substantial flaws in the roster have prevented management from adopting a win now mentality. And with virtually all the club’s talent in the big leagues, Texas is hardly in a rebuild mode.

The Leaguers look to have an average line-up, above average defense, a decent bullpen and a staff comprised of an ace, a projected #4 and a bunch of journeymen.

The Line-up:
1.Ernie Cooke (24) CF- projects to be an above average CF and lead off hitter with a plus batting eye. He is one of the building blocks for the future.
2.Gus Meyers (28) 2nd- a veteran second baseman who will likely help the team remain competitive during the transition.
3.Evan Hollins (29) is an All-Star caliber SS with a decent bat.
4.Jason McDonald (23) RF- may be the 3rd baseman of the future. Projects to be a 5th through 7th hitter on a strong offensive club.
5.Placido Duran (28) 3rd baseman is the clubs former CF. Not a high average hitter, he rates to hit 20+ homers though.
6.Jay Heath (32)- a vet 1st baseman signed to an inexpensive FA deal. He is a high power batting-eye player who looks to hit for a nice OPS, but with a lot of K’s, a low average, and no defensive skills
7.Banana Gibson (23) LF- Gibson’s big league future is uncertain. He has a good batting eye, base running and speed, and lefty split. But he also has average contact, power and righty split. He could be a nice #2 hitter or a lefty platoon/ pinch runner type.
8.Willie Lampert (31)- is a poor mans version of Jay Heath being forced to Catch for the first time since grade school. If the Texas Leaguers flirt with disaster, this will be the most scrutinized decision. Note, minor league options are available should this experiment go awry.

The Rotation:
1.Harold Waters (30) is a legit ace or #2 with strong control, splits and decent pitches.
2.Davey Sosa (23) projects to be a number four or five on a good team. He features good control and five strong pitches with average splits. He is likely to be in this rotation a long time.
3.Alfredo Hall (32) a vet, claimed off the WW, with three strong pitches, mid sixties control and average splits. Hopefully, he will provide steady, if unspectacular, starts.
4.JJ Barber (23)- with below average control, Barber is not a big league SP. He does however have nice splits and five above average pitches. Texas hopes to find a better long-term solution, and soon.
5.Anthony Baker is a 34-year-old Long Reliever who will be making spot starts as needed.

Bullpen:

CL- Larry Black (35) a vet with decent stuff. Hopefully he can provide some stability in the closer role during the team’s transition to younger options.

Setup A- Chris Hamilton (28) one of the teams strength is its set up pitchers. Hamilton features great control, good split and two plus pitches.

Setup A- Andres Manuel (30)- great control, mid seventies splits and three pitches between 77-66 make Manuel a nice option out of the pen.

Long A- Tomas Mercedes (21)- the best pitching prospect in the organization, he features decent control, better splits and five pitches. That said, he will never have the stamina to start and his limited durability means he wont be an every day BP guy.


Outlook:

Texas GM, New, recently answered some questions about the club he inherited. When asked about the teams out look he said, “we are cautiously optimistic.” He continued, “We believe we can build for the future while still providing a decent product for our fan base. Unfortunately, the club has flaws, but with the economics of the market place our options for addressing those flaws were limited. However, better times are ahead. We now have a winning organizational philosophy which has successfully been implemented elsewhere. Given time, that philosophy will translate into players and more importantly wins and loses.”

A local radio personality said the other day, “he better know what he’s doing, this is one of the worst organizations, top-to-bottom, in the whole league!”

Cincinnati Chickenhawks Season Preview

Cincinnati hopes are pinned on the future. It is a bright future, and should get even brighter after a draft where they get picks #2, #18, #33, and #50. The quantity of high picks in the draft is certainly unparalleled. Continuing to focus on the future Cincy traded their 26 year old ace SP, but got a 19 year old Mo Kirby who looks to be a perennial all-star SP. The other big trade cost them a bevy of quality SS’s, but netted them DH Donald Jang. Only 24, but his current bat ratings of 83/89/96/95/90 put him on par with the best bats in the league, he compares well to a Jeff Bagwell type guy.

If Jang compares to Bagwell he is complimented in the lineup by 2B Javy Palmeiro, who is a Craig Biggio clone. Oddly enough though the recent signing of Dan Russell might indicate that ownership is willing to trade Palmeiro since they have a suitable (though not nearly as good) replacement. Palmeiro hasn’t been happy since he saw the contract Kyle Thomas got, since outside of hitting 10-15 less HRs a year should be every bit as good as the $110M man.

Switching hitting 3B Marc Morris reminds ownership of Terry Pendelton. CF Bryan Butler might as well be the son of former all-star Bret Butler. Butler has superior range, and for the foreseeable future should contend for the lead league in SBs. Two inexpensive FA acquisitions are switch hitting power hitters, won’t hit for average but could each get 45+ HRs and their gloves are good enough to cover 3^rd base.

Ownership did not have a SS with baseline defensive numbers currently on the team, so they had to sign a Walt Weiss type defensive gem in Bip Doyle. Obviously nobody named Bip Doyle would strike fear in any pitcher, but he’s there to help out pitchers.

The lineup is not dominant, but is playoff caliber. Well rounded with both speed and power, a lineup could include three switch hitters and a lefty with a mixture of youth and vets.

What will keep this team from competing in the next couple of seasons is the pitching staff. From the beginning this staff really only had 3 SPs at the ML/AAA rosters currently worthy of being on an ML staff, and just one average ML RP. They traded away some offensive weapons to get some young bullpen help, then they hit free agency looking for those rare bargains. Joseph Saitou was their star FA pickup. For a modest salary he will be their Ace the next couple of seasons. Two other FA RP acquisitions Kingsale and Lowell have average pitching skills, but at least their high DUR and decent STA should help ensure fully rested RPs are available. Along with a rule 5 draft pick the bullpen which was non-existent to start the season could be a strength. They will probably go with the hot hand and do a closer by committee. One more SP is probably needed, and a long term injury to an SP could sink this team.

Cincinnati is happy with their FA pickups, they avoided bidding wars and got good value. Overall this team is hoping that a decent lineup, and better than average defense at most positions is enough to get the team around .500 mark.

Cleveland Rockstars Season Preview

Cleveland’s newest Major League baseball franchise starts the season with extremely high expectations. With two perennial cy young candidates in the rotation, and a lineup filled with young power hitters, the possibility of Cleveland’s first professional sports championship in generations has the city buzzing. Position by position, here is the outlook for Season One:

Catcher: Marco Sheldon at 22, is one of the best young hitters in baseball. In his third full year in the majors, Marco’s emergence allowed the Rockstars to trade Jerry Ryan for Lonny Vallarta, who is expected to put up unbelievable power numbers as well. Due to Marco’s lack of range and speed, he is expected to DH, since the presence of the best defensive catcher in baseball, Walt Wells, is behind the plate.

First Base: The last minute signing of 35 year old Enrique Trinidad gives the team an experienced, professional hitter who should still hit around .300 with decent power this year. This team is anxiously anticipating Mendy Shinjo’s progression to the major leagues, but feels he would benefit greatly from another year or two of dominating the minor leagues.

Second Base: This is Yorvit Aquino’s job to lose. A solid contact hitter, and valuable defensive talent, Yorvit was thought to have been the heir apparent at shortstop. However, the inability to sign or trade for a top second baseman has opened this position up for Aquino to firmly establish himself as a quality major league player. He’ll have to be, as help from the minors will not be there, and only role players are on the roster besides him.

Shorstop: Jose Manzinillo will be solid again at shortstop this season. A dynamic fielder who makes unbelievable throws from deep in the hole, Jose has worked on his base stealing, and hopes to steal more than 30 bases again this season. The challenge, with Jose has been to keep the off field distractions to a minimum. The further away he stays from Lindsey Lohan, the better. If not, Rule 5 signee Javier Pujols will step up from quality utility infielder and dugout cheerleader and assume the role.

Third Base: Cleveland said no to several unsolicited offers to Hersh Hartman in the offseason. The 26 year old team leader, and dominant power hitter, took countless ground balls in the offseason and is ready to add gold gloves to his impressive resume. 60 home runs plus is again the goal for this superstar.

Left Field: Lonny Vallarta was one of the major offseason acquisitions which Cleveland made with an eye on the championship, but also an eye on the long term future. Lonny, at 25 is a rookie who appears to be a left handed version of Hersh Hartman. A dangerous hitter against left handers, Lonny dominates right hand pitchers, and is one of the top strongest hitters in all of baseball. Having been an average minor league third baseman, Lonny should be a very good left fielder, and has the speed to be a dangerous base runner. Expect him to be amonst the league leaders in most offensive categories this season. He is backed up by veteran outfielder Randall Holiday, who is on a year deal, and is mostly known for his strong defensive play.

Center Field: The trade of closer prospect Billy Ray O’Donnell for 27 year old rookie Sammy Gomez caused shockwaves throughout the league. Sammy gives Cleveland a legitimate leadoff threat to steal 60 bases, and generally cause havoc on the basepaths in front of their plethora of power hitters. Sammy also has the range and glove to be one of the best center fielders in all of baseball. He is backed up by dangerous pinch runner and excellent defensive outfielder Andres Amezaga, if he is not traded prior to the season. He became expendable with the Gomez trade.

Right Field: Power Hitting prospect Garrett Henley was thought to have been the opening day starter, and likely will be the starter for most of the season. Garrett twisted his knee, but the injury is minor and only required 3 weeks on the sidelines. Power hitters Desi Perez, Junior Raines, and Jake Sullivan will jockey for the position with other utility men options in the interim. Rumor has it out of Cleveland they may make a move for a player, and opt to leave Henley in AAA for another season, but general manager david575 would not confirm nor deny those rumors.

Starting Pitching: Guillermo Salinas and Michael Browning lead this talented rotation. At 28 years old, Salinas is again challenging for the Cy Young and has grown into a leadership role in Cleveland. Browning, at 33, is still a dominant power pitcher who will also contend for the Cy Young and strikeout total, and has been thrilled to see his friend Salinas, whom he mentored, grow into a fellow ace. Free Agency steal Frank Waters, who at 29 brings his worm killing style of pitching and feisty demeanor into an infield stocked with exceptional gloves. 27 year old, highly sought after Donaldo Gutierrez should benefit from Walls exceptional pitch calling and blossom into a solid 4th or 5th starter. The 5th spot is wide open, being fought for by veteran Vinny Lee, top prospect Shane Cook, and a variety of minor leaguers who are trying to catch the attention of Rockstar coaches. At this point, it appears Lee has the edge.

Relief Pitching: Virgil Munoz is still 2 years away from being the next dominant closer in baseball, and Clevleand let two top relief man get away in free agency due to age and salary demands. Eric Hamlin and Jerry Becker are currently fighting for the closer role. Both are solid relief pitchers, while not exceptional. The loser likely becomes a solid setup man. Youngsters Hulk Sheldon and Russell Christenson are likely to make the team, and both figure to be part of a very good bullpen rotation for a long time. Free agent signing Curtis Hall has the tough demeanor of a closer and throws ground balls, but has been inconsistent against right handers and may be best served as a setup man or lefty specialist.
Overall: Cleveland should win at least 90 games, and challenge for the division championship. Finding the right combination of relief personnel, effective pitching out of the back end of the rotation, and solid play out of first base and right field makes could make this team the most dangerous in the league. Presuming they make the playoffs, Salinas, Browning and Waters are a strong enough 3 man rotation to win a championship. If the other pieces fall in place, this year may be the year of the Cleveland

Montreal Maroons Season Preview

Although Montreal had trade talks with around 10 teams involving pitcher Ricky Ellis, the notoriously hesitative GM jaywil08 refused to pull the trigger. Montreal has been in need of starting pitching throughout the offseason, so it seemed strange that Ellis was even considered being traded.

Lineup

1. CF Cesar Montanez- Montreal gave away their first round draft pick to sign a desperately needed lead-off hitter to a 5 year contract worth up to $37 Million

2. 2B Harry Rivera- This 23 year old second basemen has projected splits around 100 each. With his current contact rating at 90 and batting eye at 82, Rivera should be able to get on base, and often.

3. 1B Bennie Cruz- The 32 year old slugger should hit over 40 homeruns, if his health allows it.

4. RF Luis Borges- The 22 year old outfielder is expected to step in right away and succeed.

5. DH Alton Lidge- After Montanez was signed, some wondered whether the 34 year old outfielder was on his way out, but jaywil08 has insisted Lidge remains in their plans.

6. LF Carlos Ortiz- Ortiz may not last long with Montreal as a starter, expect a prospect to be brought up mid-season.

7. C Pep Kaufman- Montreal has several good C prospects, but Kaufman was the one chosen to step in this year. Kaufman will have to exceed expectations to keep his starting job for S2.

8. SS Albert Restovich- Montreal hopes that Restovich can put up decent fielding numbers to go with what should be a reliable bat.

9. 3B Tim Brown/Dave Blackwell- Blackwell will play mostly against righties, and should provide some pop to the bottom of the lineup.

Pitching:
Starters: 3 spots are up for grabs in spring training, only Rick Ellis and R.J. Medrano are guaranteed spots in the rotation.

Bullpen: A lot up for grabs here too, Mario Clay will be the closer and William Randolph wil likely be the featured setup man.

Outlook: If Montreal finds consistent pitching, they should be able to win over 90 games, otherwise it's possible Montreal will hover around .500.

Nashville Season Preview

Nashville Tennessean fans have no idea who any of the players are on this team following the 15 trade massacre that was the team's off season. The team is now left with a strong farm system and players that GM ThaCEO thinks will succeed in their roles.

Lineup

1.RF Sterling "Turtle" Roberts

Roberts should be the slowest leadoff hitter in baseball. The hope is that he will be able to get on base, so that the team's 3 and 4 hitters can knock him in when they drive the ball out of Nashville's HR hitting park.

2.LF Dude Pryce

Pryce may have the least power of any LF in the entire league,but he brings a solid line drive swing that should be able to knock Roberts over. A former CF, Pryce could bring home a gold glove as well in the corner

3 vs Righties:1B Norberto Martin

Martin brings his power stroke from Chicago to Nashville. He should be able to bat runners in, but has had problems in the past striking out. He will start against righties, but will be benched against lefties due to past struggles

3 vs Lefties 1B Miguel Alvarez

When Alvarez is not starting, he should be used as a later game pinch hitter. Alvarez is a similar hitter to Martin with a little less pop. The two will combine for a lot of home runs out of the 3 spot.

4. DH Apollo "13" Griffin

Griffin was the biggest pickup for the ML team this off season. He should hit a lot of homeruns in the 4 spot, batting a lot of runners in. Don't expect Griffin to play C, as he played miserably there is San Diego last season. That is why he was traded to the AL

5. C Daniel Percival

Percival will bring his solid bat to the five spot in the lineup. He should help with a solid batting average and could hit a home run every once and a while. Percival is also an above average defender behind the plate

6. 2B Kevin Smith

The converted CF brings an above average bat to the 6th spot in the lineup. He should get an occasional RBI, but his biggest contributions will likely be defensively

7. 3B Frank Fasano

The Tennesseans decided that Fasano would play better at 3B then SS, signing him at the end of FA. Fasano should play solid defense and will steal more bases then any other 3B on the league. Though he will start batting 7th, he may be moved up to the top of the order if Roberts and Pryce are uneffective.

8. SS Scott Martin

Martin's ETA comes earlier then expected after the Tennesseans failed to find another option in FA or the Rule V Draft. Martin's defense should be below average, but his bat will be ML ready. If Martin does not develop into a solid SS by s3, a move to 3rd base could be in his future

9. CF Heath Cassian

As one reporter said, "Cassian will be the league's best #9 hitter". Cassian brings one of the best gloves in league history. The reigning gold glove winner should have no problem cobering a shallow CF in Nashville

Bench

C Don Wade

Wade will finally stick this team after being waved by Cleveland and Chicago. His solid defense avility will make him a late inning defensive replacement. he will also occasionally start against lefties

UTIL Dustin Stahoviak

Stahoviak will see time a lot of of positions. Can play everywhere except C,SS and 3B

OF Aaronm Goldstein

Should be the team's top pinch runner. Could be the fastest jewish baseball player in league history

OF Zoltan Baker

The Rule V pick will bring solid defense at the end of games. Could win a starting spot in s2.

Pitching

SP 1 Billy Frazier

Frazier should make a solid ace, but will have issues making it to the 7th inning. The key piece to the Johnstone deal, Frazier may be the only long term pitcher on the Tennessean staff.

SP 2 Curtis Crandall

Crandall was used as a closer in Salt Lake last season, but will be the #2 starter for Nashville. Some question how he will convert, but he should ultimately prosper at the beging of games.

SP 3 Miguel DeLeon

DeLeon waived his no-trade clause to pitch in Nashville. The 34 year old vet should prove to be useful in the middle of the rotation. He still has something left in him and he is motivated to show it

SP 4 Chris Keffe

This should be Keffe's last year with the team. He is motivated to pitch will in a contract year and should prove to be one of the better back of the rotation starters in the league

SP 5 Marcus Valentin

The vet returns home for his last years in the majors. The hope is that he will not embarass himself. Nashville will go with a wait and see approach on him

LR- Adam Hutchinson

A bad contract left from the former GM, Hutchinson will be used in long relief

LR-Johnnie Hodges

Hodges will be the next in line to start if someone goes down. He has all the tools to be a great pitcher, but struggles with control

LR- Flash Kinney

Another overpaid reliever. He should do a nice job eating up innings out of the pen

Su:Lenny Munoz

The 22 year old should struggle initially, but with his strong fastball-slider combo, he should be lights out in the 7th and 8th by s3

Su:Andres Gomez

The veteran RP should be the teams top setup man. He can be a two inning reliever and will be called upon in important setup situations

Cl:Dennys Kim

People tossed around the nickname K-Kim and realized they were better off calling him Mr.K. His 4-Seamer is devasting and should leave hitters walking back to the dugout empty handed

Outlook: The Tennesseans should hover around .500 this season, but with a strong cast of minor leaguers to be ready in season 3, a dynasty could be on the horizon. For now, AA games will be broadcasted throughout Nashville.

Los Angeles Cherubs Season Preview

The Los Angeles Cherubs entered the offseason on the short list of World Series contenders, but critics questioned some of the moves made by GM travisg. The team made a handful of trades, including the controversial deal that sent potential ace Vasco Rodriguez and CF Quinn Spencer to Portland for three young SP, and signed only one FA, a minor league pitcher, due to payroll issues.

C J.J. "Jimmy Jam" Jefferies is one of the best all-around players in the game, and will contend for a batting crown and Gold Glove.
1B Veteran Chief Adcock has lost most of his HR power but remains a fine middle-of-the-order hitter and a great teammate.
2B Marty Butler, entering what is likely to be his last year with the club, will bat second and provide solid defense up the middle.
3B The Cherubs acquired veteran Craig Blake from Seattle to provide some much-needed pop from the cleanup spot, and club officials believe he could be one of the better defenders at his position.
SS Team officials aren't sure what kind of offense to expect from George Cradle, who some scouts believe could thrive as a singles hitter in Dodger Stadium, but his glove is the reason Los Angeles acquired him in a trade with New Orleans.
LF Fan favorite Pepe "The Priest" Prieto is no longer the HR threat he once was and both his range and arm have slipped considerably, but he can still mash lefties. Prieto will forever be remembered by fans for his elaborate routine between each pitch and for blowing kisses to fans as he takes his position in the field.
CF Trade rumors swirled throughout the offseason about Turk Casanova, who needs no nickname because his name sounds made-up, but the club instead dealt his heir apparent. Club officials said Casanova's age and salary were an impediment, but many scouts believe his defense is worth the money. He's no slouch at the plate, either, and holds the all-time record for most mentions at gossip blog On The DL.
RF Clarence Downs will move from 3B, where he's average, to RF, where he's outstanding. Some scouts believe he's better off with a platoon mate who can hit righties, but most scouts believe Downs can consistently hit .300. He's not a burner, but his baserunning is among the best in the league.

SP1 If it's possible for a pitcher as good as Les Mills to be underrated, then he's underrated. None of his talents jump out, but he does everything well and gives his team a chance to win in every start.
SP2 Although Jake Joseph is the same age as Mills, he's yet to put it all together at the ML level. The team betrayed its lack of confidence by declining to offer him a long-term contract and taking him once more to arbitration.
SP3 D'Angelo Marin, recently acquired from Portland, has the potential to become a very good pitcher, but control is a concern. The team hopes Jefferies can help him behind the plate and that his walks, combined with stellar IF defense, will lead to double plays. Still, that's a gamble.
SP4 The team will likely enter the season with one of a pair of talented, but erratic, veterans as its fourth starter. Slick Friend nor Tim Ray have each found occasional success in the ML, but their control issues will likely push one or both of them into mopup work, if not the minor leagues.
SP5 The last spot in the rotation will likely go to either soft-tossing youngster Kevin Henderson or recently acquired Sid "Yes, Master" Bates. Both pitchers are talented and project well, but neither has pitched in the ML.

The bullpen is among the league's best, with veterans Don Clifton and Pedro Manto setting up closer Gary DiFelice, acquired from Kansas City. Rookies J.C. Crawford and Hipolito Cendeno will gain valuable experience as long relievers.

The Cherubs' bench will be largely determined during ST, with a number of jobs up for grabs and no money to bring in reinforcements. The team obviously didn't feel that young SS Gary Martin was ready to hold down a full-time starting role, but he's a fine backup for now. CF Delino Diaz could start for many teams, but he'll back up Casanova and keep the seat warm for prospect Albert Torres. Rule 5 pick James Ray will back up Blake and Downs, and team must decide whether to go with defense or offense for their backup C. Los Angeles appears to need a power bat and backup DEF 2B going into the season.

Two comically large question marks are blinking where a fourth and fifth SP should be and the Cherubs' bench is thin, but Los Angeles boasts a dynamic offense, three fine SP and a quality bullpen. A lack of depth may eventually catch up with them, but for now they still look like a contender.

Las Vegas Sun

The Flying Elvises have announced their Season 1 roster:
Catcher: Miguel Elvis Villa - a solid hitter with great eye (80) and even better contact (100). This guy simply will not be striking out.
First Base: R.J. Elvis Ransom - great eye (98) and incredible power (100) make Ransom an extremely dangerous batter.
Second Base: Neifi Elvis Laker - while he has a weak eye, Laker has solid contact, blazing speed (98) and is an excellent baserunner. He may end up the team's leadoff hitter.
Third Base: Efrain Elvis Koskie - Huge power from both corner infielders is the name of the game in Vegas. Koskie boasts a 99 power rating.
Shortstop: Bob Elvis Buckley - While not much of a hitter, Buckley has an incredible glove and should challenge for the Gold Glove Award.
Left Field: Trent Elvis Shelley - The highly prized rookie is a 5 tool player.
Center Field: Bill Elvis Towers - Towers may be one of the league's top defensive center fielders. He also has blazing (99) speed and is a solid but not spectacular hitter.
Right Field: Tony Elvis Cruz - This guy may be one of the best pure hitters in the entire league. He is a converted center fielder, which means he may be able to win a Gold Glove in right. he has speed (83), power (97), and great ratings across the board.
Backup Catcher: Randy Elvis Bradshaw - With 71/71 splits, he should be able to hold his own offensively when called on.Infielder: Morrie Elvis Sheffield - A solid hitter who can play any position except catcher or shortstop
Infielder: Vicente Elvis Silva - Very good defensively, he can play any position except catcher and hits lefties very well.
Outfielder: Houston Elvis Plesac - Plesac is a decent hitter and has fairly good speed. He is weak defensively though and will probably be limited to pinch hitting and pinch running duties.
Infielder: Dom Elvis Junge - Junge has a very good bat and can play any position other than catcher or shortstop. His position on the roster is not yet confirmed, but he is the odds on favorite for the 25th player.
Starting Pitcher: Giomar Elvis Encarnacion - While he doesn't have incredible stuff, he is a pure groundball pitcher (97 GB) and will pitch a ton of innings (100 STA).
Starting Pitcher: Peter Elvis Corbett - Corbett has great control, though a low stamina and only 3 pitches are his drawbacks.
Starting Pitcher: Sean Elvis McKnight - Sean has great stuff and is the second starter with 100 stamina. However, his control is weak which may cost him.
Starting Pitcher: Bono Elvis Dreifort - very similar to McKnight, a guy with a very high stamina and very good stuff, but will struggle with control.
Starting Pitcher: Chipper Elvis Miller - Miller has solid control, splits and stamina, but his pitches are not on par with the rest of the staff. He could end up in long relief if he struggles.
Long Relief: Del Elvis Johnson - Johnson is a solid pitcher and could see starts if Miller struggles.L
ong Relief: Hector Elvis Sanders - Sanders will struggle against lefties, but otherwise he is a solid pitcher who can give the team innings when needed.
Setup: Lewis Elvis O'Connor - Young leftie with great control and closer quality stuff.
Setup: Jesus Elvis Estrella - Another pitcher whose only drawback is a low control rating.
Setup: Steve Elvis Winn - Rookie who should pitch a fair amount of innings and has all the tools to be successful.
Setup: Jim Elvis Moore - 33 year old is the oldest player on the team and has mediocre stuff at best. Got the final bullpen spot when the Rule 5 draft failed to produce a usable pitcher.
Closer: Herbert Elvis Sherman - May be one of the best in the league, with great (99) control, solid splits, 2 great pitches, and great DUR/STA combo (94/24). he tends to give up a lot of fly balls which could hurt.

Team outlook: Offensively, this team should be among the best, with some huge power bats, great speed, and Tony Elvis Cruz to lead the way. Defensively, they should be among the best in the league, as only Efrain Elvis Koskie at third does not have Gold Glove potential. The starting pitching is good enough to keep the team in games, but it wil be up to the bats to win games. The bullpen is solid as well but not spectacular. The Flying Elvises, despite the second lowest payroll in baseball, hope to contend for a division title in their first season.

Seattle Sanguine Season Preview

After an offseason where management blasted the entire roster, the Seattle Sanguine went through a striking makeover. A team that was nearly devoid of talent in the lineup and even worse off in the rotation shuffled some chairs around on the deck of the Titanic, and managed to actually put together a roster that could be competitive this year.

One reason that the qualifier "almost" was used in reference to devoid of talent, was probably perennial MOP candidate Vincent Olivares. Even in Seattle, Olivares is a lock for 40 HR and 100 RBI, and most likely will have an OPS of over 1.000 for his career.

Most of the rest of the lineup was put together for the roles they will be able to fill, except for two players -- Dustin Brown and Germany Heving. Brown was called up from the AA squad, as he was certainly ready to play, and his promotion allowed for the dealing of some other promising prospects (more on that later). Heving was probably the steal of free agency, a legitimate 5-hole hitter that signed for just a hair under five million per year for the next three. Though Heving's durability is a little low, with limited spring training at bats, he still should be good for between 120 and 130 games. with Olivares, Heving and Brown, the offense should be in good hands, and produce enough runs to power the Sanguine to some wins.

The pitching staff, which was set to be one of if not the league's worst has become something of a strength through promotion and mostly trades. The two aces of thhe staff will be David Barrios and Luther Rivera. Barrios came over shortly before the end of FA, and is locked up for the ridiculously low rate of 2 million per season, making him probably the best starting pitching value to change hands this offseason. Rivera was a gift in AAA, but has low health. And that's all that I'm going to say about that to avoid any jinxing.....

The bullpen is not that good. Not much that can be said in all honesty. There's help on the horizon, and some players that will improve that currently are there, but for the most part, we're hoping for the starters to throw in the neighborhood of 1100 innings to reduce the need for the 'pen to be out there much at all.

Projected record: 82-80, and if the offense and bullpen are better than I think they are, we could actually be better than that.

Portland Star Preview for the Season 1 Brewtopians

A strong top half of the order and an exceptional bullpen coupled with a solid rotation has Portland aiming high this season.

LINEUP

C Harry Cabeza - The power hitting backstop will hit 5th this year, his high splits and excellent eye have some experts predicting a .450+ obp

1b Earl Spradlin - "The Looker" as hes become affectionitely known in Portland will hold down the 7 spot in the lineup and should be good for 30+ hrs and despite his tendency to wiff hes likely to post a .400+obp due to his incredible eye.

2b Kent Titan - The 21 year old phenom should contend for ROY honours while posting 35+ hrs and 50+ sbs out of the 2 spot.

SS Duffy Thielman - The lone proven star on this young team will anchor the lineup out of the 3 spot.

3b Still Looking??

LF Brad Hart/Jayson Malloy - Hart and Malloy will battle it out for the starting spot during spring training. Hart brings great basestealing ability and a dominance of lefties although his stamina and health problems make the more consistent Malloy the front runner to take the job.

CF Quinn Spencer - The 24 year old was recently aquired from LA. He will provide the spark at the top of the lineup batting leadoff.

RF Kyle Stynes - The 23 year old rookie could very well be named the top prospect in all of baseball when Prospect Rankings are released. He will challenge for the batting title and the MVP award this year while being the frontrunner for ROY, batting out of the cleanup spot.

DH Domingo Flores - The Rookie catcher will hold down the DH spot and bat 6th.

ROTATION

SP1 Vasco Rodriguez - Aquired along with Quinn Spencer from LA, Vasco should be good for 250+ innings along with all star numbers.

SP2 Bernie Fernandez - The Soft Tossing Fernandez throws 5 above average pitches along with pin point control and a rubber arm.

SP3 Geronimo Reynoso - Geronimo is entering the back end of his career but he continues to have great control of his pitches and a dominance of righties. Should put up well above average numbers for #3.

SP4 Jackie Melton - An innings eater with a love of throwing and a passionate hatred of pitching "Sometimes i just close my eyes and let it fly" he says. "I quite often forget to pick up the signs".

SP5 Shooter Perez - With 4 starters in front of him that are all capable of 35-40 starts, Perez projects to get around 10-15 starts along with long relief work out of the bullpen.

BULLPEN

Gregg Truman, Tony Gonzalez, Dale Garcia and JJ Mason all have Closers stuff but in Portland they will take over Setup roles before handing the ball over to 25 year old Closer Frank Lim.

A division title and contention for a title is what this young team is aiming for, a very realistic goal.

Washington Post Season Preview for the DC Whistling Bagers

The team looks really strong this season and should be an immediate division and world series contender. The owner is extremely excited about the good possibility of a first round bye. Here's an in depth look and position by position breakdown:
C: Livan Feliz. With his 100 durability, Feliz projects to be an everyday 2 hitter and an excellent backstop behind the plate. His 89 pitch calling and good arm behind the plate will be a real life saver on the defense and young starting pitchers.
1B: Heathcliff Cameron. Cameron will be the team's 4 hitter because of his 87 power and a particular force against righties with his 95 vs R and 90 BE combo.
2B: Cliff Bonilla. Bonilla was acquired for a projected 2 starter. He will most likely bat 3, but with the added benefit of playing solid defense and providing excellent speed. Despite below average durabilty, Bonilla could end up a 30 HR, 30 SB player.
SS: Heath Baez. Baez plays spectacular defense and provides a completely average bat out of the 8 spot. Baez lacks the sexiness of a power hitter, but his excellent defense and passable bat are extremely valued by the team.
3B: Placido Gonzalez. The team payed a hefty price to acquire 90 overall Placido Gonzalez. He has excellent ratings for a SS, so he should be a strong contender for a gold glove. He also brings a 70 CN 88 PW 85 BE to the team and projects to be a 40 HR candidate out of the 5 or 6 spot.
LF: Fernando Blanco. A 24 year old whose true position is 1B moves out to left. While his defense is neither great nor awful, his strong bat more than makes up the difference. He will hit out of the 5 or 6 spot and could also challenge the 40 HR mark.
CF: Gary Waters. Water's will bat leadoff due to 92 speed and average bat. His glove is well below average for a CF, but hopefully his SB will make up for any errors he makes.
RF: Turner Harding. A 3B with slightly belowe average range, Harding will bat 7, despite very good power and good splits, and should be a gold glove contender in RF.
Bench:Emil Dale will be the bench 2B and CF because of his excellent D, 92 speed, and ability to hit righties. He should see good playing time backing up Bonilla and Waters.Daniel Busby is the backup SS and top defensive specialist.

Nate Hynes will backup at 3B and again provides amazing D. His bat is decent too. Hynes could start on most teams, so we may struggle to get him all the ABs we want to.

Octavio Veras is the bench bat and COF. He's another borderline starter, but the team feels much more comfortable with him as a pinch hitter and bench player. Still looking to unload his contract.

Christopher Goldstein is the backup catcher who should only see limited ABs against righties.

SP1: Santiago Navarro. Ace. Nuff said.
SP2: Pedro Zapata. He's only 23 and more of a 3 starter. He has great pitches, stamina and control. His vs R is only above average but the team believes in him.
SP3: Paul Stahoviak. Paul is a near clone of Pedro Zapata. Both should put up nice numbers this year.
SP4: Anthony Byrne. Another pitcher with strong ratings in every category except for average splits. Hopefully the experiment will work out.
SP5: Jimmie Sheets. A slightly poorer version of Anthony Byrne. If he doesn't work out as a 5 starter, the team only spent 3.6 million on him and will feel fine about moving him to the LRA spot.

The bullpen is the teams strong point with 4 or maybe even 5 SuA guys. We are willing to deal one in exchange for a LRA guy.

I expect the team to win 90+ games and compete for a title. Anything less will be a dissapointment.

Rule V Review

Rule V Review

Round 1

1.Houston-SP Peter Montgomery(Philadelphia)

Montgomery, at one time known to be one of the team's to prospects, was surprisngly not protected by the Phanatics. Officals in the organization say that they let Montgomery go because he had a negative attitude and was a cancer in the clubhouse. Anyhow, Montgomery should be a solid addition to an already improving Houston rotation. If Montgomery improves his control and gets a little more movement on his pitches he could have a solid career as a middle of the rotation starter

Chances to Stick: Lock

2.Cincinati-RP Luis Nunez(Anaheim)

Nunez was one of the more high profile names in the draft after spending the past 2 seasons in the majors with Anaheim. Nunez brings a solid Fastball,Slurve combo with a solid splitter as a 3rd pitch. Of all the rule V draftees, Nunez will likely contribute the most the season. Expect him to have a big role in Cincy's Bullpen

Chances to Stick:Lock

3.Pittsburgh-SP Matty Guerrero(Philadelphia)

Pittsburgh was estatic to get Guerrero at #3. He has great control with 4 solid pitches. He is probobly the safest pick of all the SPs in the Rule V. Guerrero has logged 5 years in the minors and at 25, he is ready to contribute. He has almost reached his peak, but should be near the top of a weak Pagans rotation this season

Chances to Stick:Lock

5.Buffalo-2B Ramiro Prieto(Toronto)

At #5 Buffalo decided to take a chance on Nicaraguan native Ramiro Prieto. Prieto brings a solid bat to the lineup, but needs a little work on defense. He has the potential to be an everyday second basemen, but could begin the year coming off the bench.

Chances to stick:Near Lock

6.Saint Louis-SS Gerald Trammell(Anaheim)

Trammell was probobly one of the more high profile players in the draft class. At one time thought to be the Blue Waves' SS of the future, Trammell's stock has lowered after struggling at short in the minors. Trammell could play either 2nd or 3rd base and may start out an a utility role with the Switchmen

chances to stick:High

8.Detroit-RP Reid Titan(Montreal)

Titan will have a good chance to earn a spot in the Steelhead bullpen. He comes with two good pitches, but some scouts question his effectiveness. He rarely gives up the longball and his velocity is below average.

Chances to stick:Depends on spring training performence and other options

UPDATE:Offered Back

9.San Diego-PH Andrew Riggs(Houston)

It is interesting that an NL team would take a player that can not play a defensive position. Riggs should be the team's top pinch hitting option of the bench and could be used as trade bait later in the season.

Chances to stick:High

10.Boston-C Les Rhodes(Anaheim)

Les Rhodes can not do with his bat, but was known to be one of the better game callers in the minors last season. Expect Rhodes to be a dependable backup for the the Bulldogs this season

Chances to Stick:High

13.Oklahoma City-C/1B/PH Butch Burnitz(Montreal)

Burnitz does not awe anyone with his power or catching ability. However, Burnitz has amazing discipline at the plate and should put up a solid OBP. Burnitz has a chance to be the most productive hitter in this draft. Oklahoma City will have to find a role for him in Spring Training.

Chances to Stick:Lock

14.Cleveland-SS Javier Pujols(Toronto)

Pujols is similar to Trammell in the sense that he has been a bust a SS. He is decent hitting the ball and could be carried as a 2B,3B,LF,RF or UTIL player.

Chances to stick:Depend on Spring Training Performence

17.Florida-SP Patsy Garcia(Montreal)

Patsy Garcia is a long shot to make the Swamp Monsters. Generally players who are not effective ine the minors do not play well in the majors. It is possible that Montreal will not accept Garcia back and allow him to play for Florida's AAA team.

Chances to Stick:Low

18.Toronto-RF Chul Chen(DET)

Chen is one of the safer picks in the draft. Chen brings solid power and plays somewhat below average D in right field. Chen should stick with the team, but his poor plate discipline should carry over from the minors

Chances to stick:High

20.New York AL-RP Tim Baker(TOR)

Yet another player to be drafted from the Argonauts. Baker is one of the more interesting picks of the draft. He comes with a knuckleball/fastball combo that has been effective in the minors. His two big problems are his velocity and GB/FB ratio. Expect him to give up a lot of Home Runs as batters should get plenty of time to see the ball. He should make a rebuilding Empires team

Chances to stick:High

21.Las Vegas- RP Wascar Izturis(Los Angeles)

LA was likely happy to get 50 grand for Izturis. One positive is that Izturis has high durability and could make a great ML mop up guy.

Chances to Stick:Expect to see him in games with a big run differencial is he makes the team

UPDATE:Offered Back

22.Anaheim-SP Morgan James(Seattle)

Morgan James has more potential then any pitcher in this draft. However, he will not have much success unless he can get the ball over the plate.

Chances to stick:Likely will be sent down at some point in the season

23.Los Angeles-3B James Ray(Texas)

Ray has already logged one major league season so he does have some experience in the big leagues. He is a no better than average defender and hitter, but can play everyday. He could see time at 3B,LF,and RF if he makes the team

Chances to stick:50/50

24.Seattle-RP Juan Borbon(Minnesota)

Borbon now 34 should be a great addition to Seattle's bullpen. One of the more expensive salaries in the draft(1.2 mil), Borbon should prove to be very useful in a weak Sanguine bullpen

Chances to stick:Lock

28.Nashville-RP Terry Hasselman(Buffalo)

Offered Back,obviousbly did not impress

29.New Orleans-CF Ozzie Parker(Minnestota)

Ozzie Parker has been a complete bust in the minors after being drafted as a 2nd rounder by Minnesota in s-4. If he makes the team, it will be in a bench role

Chances to stick:Low

30.Kansas City-SP "Give me"Victor "or Give me death" Piatt(Las Vegas)

At 42 years old Piatt is completely washed up. He provides experience, but would be of more use if he were not on the 25 man roster.

Other picks

HOU

Iago Jenkins PR(Nashville)

Signed a few days ago by Nashville Jenkins should make the Fantasticos as a pinch runner

chances to stick:high

CIN

C Seth Leary(Washington)

Leary is mediocre on both defense and offense, it will be a surprise if he makes the team

STL

SP Javier Diaz(Philadelphia)

Diaz should stick as a LR. Great value in rd 2

SD

3B Pedro Mondesi(Pittsburgh)

Mondesi was also a ncie value pick. He plays below average D at 3rd, but has a good enough bat to stick in the majors

CLE

SP/RP Damaso Trevino(Toronto)

Yet another Toronto player. If Trevino can somehow find the plate he could prove to be a good pickup. VERY high risk/high reward

SEA

RP Richie Hansell(Las Vegas)

Hansell is completely washed up. He will get hammered if he pitches in the majors this year. He will likely be offered back and rejected. Hansell, who had an incredible knowledge of the game, could be a good mentor in AAA

NAS

2B Dustin Stahoviak(New York NL)

Stahoviak is a solid defender that could start some games against lefties. Should make the Tennesseans as a bench player

CF Zoltan Baker(Las Vegas)

Baker should make a solid pinch runner/4th outfielder. The last pick in draft shoukd make the final roster. His competition Iago Jenkins was taken earlier in the draft by Houston.

Top Free Agents

A rare collection of superstars hit free agency in Moneyball's inaugural offseason. No matter what your team needs, you're likely to find a difference maker -- if you've got the cash. Let's take a look at the top 10 available free agents:

1. 2B Kyle Thomas The bidding starts at four years, $42 million for this 29-year-old MVP candidate, who's arguably the most complete player in either league. He'll likely crack 100 extra-base hits per season over the life of that contract, steal 30 bases a year and play Gold Glove-caliber defense. One talent evaluator voted him most likely to be a $20 million LF at age 35, but another scout wasn't so sure. "He's just jealous his team can't afford Thomas," he sniffed. "Even if he loses some range and has to move to the OF, he still has the quickest wrists and strongest forearms in the game." Thomas is building a solid resume for a Hall-of-Fame career, and he'll be paid handsomely to do it.

Update: Kansas City made the winning bid for this superstar's services, lavishing five years, $110 million and a full no-trade clause on Thomas, with a player option for his age-33 season. Agent Scott Boras strutted through his offices afterward, barking, "I'm the wiz. Nobody beats me."

2. 3B Seth Brush The best pure hitter on the open market also plays above-average defense at the hot corner. The 31-year-old works hard at his game, so any age-related decline would likely be minimal, and his power is legendary. "I heard Brush knocked the ball past the SS one time on a hit-and-run play, and the dude was bunting," said one scout. "He's incapable of light contact." The bidding starts at four years, $25.55 million for this beast, but his agent said he expects to get five years, $50 million. Amazingly, that could be a bargain.

Update: Toronto outlasted numerous suitors to land the market's most coveted bat with an offer of four years, $77.6 million, a full no-trade clause and a $20 million player option for a fifth year.

3. LF Bo Forrest It seems strange that a perennial contender for the batting crown could go unnoticed, but Forrest somehow slips under the radar. Maybe it's his low-key, lunchpail demeanor, but this guy works hard at his game, and there's nothing he doesn't do well. He's asking for three years and $25.75 million, and if he signs for anywhere near that, someone is getting a steal. "I would sign this guy in a heartbeat," said one scout. "He's exactly the sort of guy you want on your team."

Update: Forrest returns to Minnesota, who brought him back to the fold for his asking price of three years, $25.8 million, with a team option on the third year.

4. 1B Hi Rivers This perennial All-Star is asking for five years and $31.1 million, and most likely someone will pay him all that and more. But that might not be a good idea, according to some talent evaluators. "He's a heck of a hitter, but he's a 30-year-old 1B with declining power and no speed," one scout said. "Whoever signs him is going to be begging someone to take that contract off their hands as soon as next season." But even his detractors admit he'll knock in 100 runs and contend for the batting title this season and possibly the next.

Update: Atlanta dives into Rivers for five years and $41 million.

5. RP Bubbles McCallum Suitors are expected to pay exorbitant amounts for the services of super closer Bubbles McCallum, a colorful character and intense competitor. "He's on the downside of his career, but the guy can close out games," said one GM. "I wouldn't give him more than two, possibly three, years, but I'd pay him dearly for his time." The veteran's asking for two years and $14.6 million, but many executives expect the bidding to hit $30 million. The only question will be whether that will be for two or three years.

Update: Houston backed up the Brinks truck and dumped five years, $38.2 million on Bubbles.

6. SP Humberto Martin The bidding starts at three years, $22.5 million for the top SP on the market, but some observers think the rubber-armed Dominican could get a much richer contract. "It wouldn't shock me if someone gave him $40 million for five years," said one team executive. "I'm not sure it's a good idea, but it wouldn't shock me." Martin's agent has strongly denied an Internet report that his client suffered a groin injury during a nightclub fracas, but some teams were scared off by lurid photos of the incident which hit the tabloids.

Update: As free agency winds down, Martin remains unsigned as teams apparently shied away from his injury risk and questionable lifestyle choices.

7. SP Turk Melheuse Opinions are varied on the left-handed strikeout machine. "That dude's a stud," said one GM. "I'd break the bank on him, if ownership would let me spend the kind of scratch he'll get." Bidding starts at three years, $24.75 million and is certain to climb higher, but another GM said he wouldn't make any calls to Melheuse's agent. "He gives up a lot of bombs, and his stuff is surprisingly mediocre," the GM said. "I can't help but think he gets by on luck, and that runs out eventually." It only takes one team to make Melheuse a very rich man, and someone undoubtedly will do that.

Update: San Diego signs Meleuse to four-year, $38.2 million contract that includes a $5 million bonus and a mutual option on the fourth year.

8. SP Paul Stahoviak Rumors swirled over the offseason linking Stahoviak with unfair training practices (cough: PEDs), but the 33-year-old left-hander will still draw interest from a number of clubs tempted by his still-considerable talents and modest two-year, $13.5 million demands. "That guy has some good stuff, and he can pitch just a ton of innings," said one scout. "I wouldn't worry about the new testing program with a guy like 'The Stovepipe.' He's a tireless worker and fierce competitor. He'll be good for a few more years, at least." Some observers think he could get $20 million, but $16 million for two years and an option for a third is the guess here.

Update: Washington looks past the controversy and picks up the Stovepipe on a relatively modest two-year, $15.6 million deal that could prove to be the biggest steal in FA.

9. CF Cesar Montanez The top leadoff man on the market is poised to make a lot of money. At just 28 years old, Montanez possesses outstanding range and a cannon arm, but his real value is getting on base and wreaking havoc on the basepaths. "This guy is just what you want at the top of your lineup," said one scout. "He's got the power to hit doubles and the speed to turn them into triples. He gets the best jumps of anyone I've seen." Bidding starts at four years, $26 million, but most observers think he'll get twice that amount.

Update: Montreal gets their man on a five-year, $37 million contract that includes a mutual option on the last year.

10. Joseph Saitou The Japanese right-hander might not post some of the eye-popping numbers as some of the flashier FAs, but he still has his admirers. "This guy gives you a chance in every ballgame he starts," said one GM. "He probably won't win any Cy Youngs, but I think he's the FA who's most likely to pitch for a World Champion." He'll cost that team at least $24 million for four years, but some executives think he could be the highest-paid FA pitcher this season.

Update: Cincinnati snags Saitou for his asking price of four years and $24 million, sweetened with a $3 million signing bonus and a mutual option on the last season.

St. Louis unveils logo

1/19/08: The St. Louis Switchmen are proud to distribute preliminary drawings of their new logo!

PEDs, HBDPA make for wild conclusion to off-season

(AP) CINCINNATI, OH - Major news breaking with wide-reaching impacts.

That was the feeling when the news broke that WIS-HBD will be taking its lead from Major League Baseball in a new, stronger, unified stance on performance-enhancing drugs. The reprecussions will surely be felt with this news coming on the eve of the first season in Moneyball.

With dozens of aging stars suddenly exceeding the numbers they put up in their prime, there was little outcry from owners, but a small rumbling finally gained enough steam to catch the eyes and ears of the WIS-HBD offices.

However, the one-year contracts that typically caused aging vets to consider various performance-enhancing drugs have also recently been publicly chastized by the player's union, and the players themselves are increasingly turning down the short-term security to test the FA market.

How these major changes to the landscape for 30-something players will affect GM decisions remains unclear, but with the cutthroat rules of Moneyball should provide us with a good idea of how the prevailing winds will start to blow.

Steelheads Reveal SE Uniform Designs

DETROIT, Michigan -- The Detroit Steelheads of the newly commissioned Moneyball League debuted their Special Event uniform designs today. In addition to the standard issue WIS (home & away) whites, the NL North cornerstone revealed SE Spring Training and SE Road Alternate designs.






The SE ST is made up of a basic Majestic Premium Pro Mesh Pullover featuring the Steelhead team name across the chest, and a basic Majestic baseball pant in hometown Detroit White, Blue & Orange.












The SE RA uniform is a unique design commissioned by Steelhead ownership through elusive custom artist Fukijama. The team name is repeated in Olde English across near-half the front of the jersey and all of the cap. Replica's of the Fukijama jersey and cap design will be given out to the first 1000 fans on Opening Day (opponent TBA).

I can't contain myself anymore.....

Tampa Bay Citrus Announce Uniform Design

Home:

Road:

Alternate:

ps. In the comments section, can someone please expain to me why you can't copy and paste things into the main blog window.  Also, why did it just randomly make one of my words ("road") blue?  Thanks for the help.