MoneyBlog

Power Rankings 8/16/08

2008-08-16T16:04:00.001-04:00

National League

1.

Los Angeles Cherubs (NL)
travisg
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22(3)

2.

Houston Yeehaw Fantasticos (NL)
tinmanpb
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16

3.

Memphis Orchestra (NL)
threester
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15

4.

Detroit Steelheads (NL)
hatt11
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10

5.

Las Vegas Flying Elvises (NL)
csherwood
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7

6.

Washington D.C. Whistling Badgers (NL)
jgoblue152
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7(1)

Others w/ votes: FLA 4 PHI 3

American League

1.

Portland Brewtopians (AL)
nzballa
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18(3)

2.

Atlanta Sprawl (AL)
jakaitis
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11

3.

Charlotte Scarlet Harlots (AL)
pb15
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10

4.

Pittsburgh Pagans (AL)
cjlancaster
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9

5.

New Orleans Brass (AL)
bbqjason
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6

6.

Seattle Sanguine (AL)
tropicana
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4

Others w/ votes: MON 2 CLE 2 NY 1

Moneyball Ranked #1

2008-08-14T14:44:00.002-04:00

In a recent statistical study, Moneyball has come in as the #1 world in HBD. Keep up the good work guys!

GMs Poll: Preseason

2008-08-06T13:25:00.006-04:00

The AL did not come out big in the first poll with only 3 voters, while the NL had a stronger showing with 7. Hopefully more votes will be submitted as this becomes a bigger part of the world.

National League

1.

Washington D.C. Whistling Badgers (NL)
jgoblue152
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35(6)

2.

Chicago Capone Bootleggers (NL)
dbgmpd
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27(1)

3.

Detroit Steelheads (NL)
hatt11
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20

4.

Kansas City Shuffle (NL)
dudejustice
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19

5.

Houston Yeehaw Fantasticos (NL)
tinmanpb
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7

6.

Las Vegas Flying Elvises (NL)
csherwood
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6

Others recieving votes: NY 1 MEM 1

American League

1.

Portland Brewtopians (AL)
nzballa
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15(1)

2.

Atlanta Sprawl (AL)
jakaitis
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14(2)

3.

New York Empires (AL)
jabronidan
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11

4.

Cleveland Rockstars (AL)
david575
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10

5.

New Orleans Brass (AL)
bbqjason
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5

6.

Anaheim Blue Waves (AL)
crabman26
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Others receiving votes: STL 3 PIT 1

Blue Waves Season Preview

2008-08-06T13:13:00.000-04:00

The Blue Waves are looking to make it back to the playoffs. With 4 of their top prospects making their ML debut in game 1, this team and their fans are excited to get the season started!

Here is how their team is going to look:

C- Luke McCartney - McCartney, a rookie, is really in there for his PC and defense. He has an 82 rating for power so he is going to hit some dingers, but the Blue Waves are sacrificing offense for defense with Luke, as they have enough offensive firepower to do so.

1b- Mac Booker - Booker, another rookie, is looking to vie for a shot at the Rookie of the Year award. He has excellent contact, power, and eye to go along with above average speed. He is more suited for left field but that position is going to be occupied so Booker may become a gold glover 1b.

2b- Yank McConnell - Much has been said about McConnell, and the Blue Waves hope he can live up to the great expectations this kid has. While his defense is less than desirable at 2b, the Blue Waves are hoping he can make up for it with his offense ala Jeff Kent. McConnell also has incredible speed (99 rating), which will help him turn those singles into possible doubles. If he can stay healthy, he should be expected to win the Rookie of the Year Award

SS- Evan Hollins - Evan was aquired in a trade last season and had a great Season 2 where he batted .314 with 24 HR's, 124 RBI's, and 35 SB's. His range is weak for a SS but his glove is great. The Blue Waves are expecting the same kind of production out of him as he is only 31 years old.

3b- Thom Reagan - Aquired in the Vince Morgan deal, Reagan is another Blue Wave who could win the Rookie of the Year award. He has above average power and splits, and will play average defense and 3b. His average batting eye may hurt him.

LF- Mike Peterson - Having played last season in CF, Mike is a bit disappointed he has to move to LF, his range is too weak to play CF but he should be a gold glover out in LF. Mike is a speedster who hit .288 with 95 SB's last season.

CF- Donald Lee - Lee is he 4th rookie on this team to make his debut, and he should be impressive. He has great power and batting eye,along with great speed. His only flaw, which is a big one, is his rating vs righties (35). The Blue Waves are hoping he can overcome this flaw with his power and speed. His glove is weak for a CF (70), but his range is great (93). If he doesnt work out defensively in CF you may see a switch between him and Peterson.

RF- Timothy Franco - Franco is the rock in this lineup, he has great contact, splits, and batting eye, and above average power. He hit .316 with a .394 OBP, 20 HR, and 111 RBI's last season and the Blue Waves are hoping he can improve on those numbers this year.

DH- Sal Ligtenberg - Sal is an above average player, in 600 AB's last season he hit .317, with a .390 OBP, and 28 HRs. He was the 1b last year but will be moved to DH as Booker is a better defender. The Blue Waves are execting the same production out of him.

Bench- Tony Randall (OF) - Great speed, and above average offensive numbers make him a great guy to fill in and start the occasional game without losing much. He was a starter on this team last year.Alan Baker (2b, OF) - Another guy who started last year that can rest the guys this year. He has struggled at the plate the previous 2 seasons despite having decent offensive ratingsCesar Martinez (3b, OF) - A great power guy who posts great OPSBen Jacobson (C) - A great defensive PC catcher.

Pitching Rotation:1. Jeff Rhodes - Can pitch a CG every now and then, not a true ace but will give you solid numbers over a year.2. Heath Carter - Similar to Rhodes in that he is not a great pitcher, but a solid one.3. Albert Castro - Aquired in the offseason, the Blue Waves are hoping he can develop into a future #2 pitcher and can have a solid first season in Anaheim.4. Nigel Sugawara - Making his ML debut this season, only has 3 pitches but his first pitch is rated 91, so the Blue Waves are hoping he can use that pitch alot to strikeout opposing batters.5. Jared Porter - Struggled last season in his rookie year but made decent improvements in the offseason. The Blue Waves are hoping he is one of the better #5 pitchers in the league.

Bullpen:Still being constructed. Clifton, Montero, and Worrell are the current Setup A's, while Beckett (a fireman of the year nominee the past 2 seasons), and Castillo will form the Setup B squad.

Closer:Chief Cunningham - While not having great ratings, he has above average ratings in almost every category. The Waves are expecting him to be a decent shutdown closer with the occasional hiccup.

Its pretty clear that the Waves are a young team. With 5 positional rookies and 1 rookie in the starting rotation the future looks bright. Pitching is going to be the weak point of this team so the Waves are hoping to outscore opponents and if they can get average pitching, they should be fine.

All that being said, they are expected to make the playoffs by their owner, and anything less will be considered a failure for a season.

Breaking News: Portland Signs Molina, Martin likely headed out of town

2008-08-06T03:44:00.002-04:00

Felipe Molina
Portland
Brewtopians
Age: 18	B/T: R/R
Born: Laguna Verde, DO
Position(s): SS
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Brewtopians GM nzballa believes that Molina will be a future all star.

The Brewtopian’s today signed top shortstop prospect Felipe Molina to a 5 year ML deal with a franchise record $22 million bonus. The Dominican teenager projects as an above average defender at shortstop with 40 homer, 40 stolen base potential and the ability to hit for a very high average. The Molina signing almost certainly signals the end of Ramon Martin’s short stint in the Brewtopian’s farm system. Martin, the Brewtopian’s #3 prospect, currently in AA, will most certainly be dealt in the near future for an ML starting pitcher.

Amoebas Team Preview

2008-08-06T03:42:00.001-04:00

As the Amoebas head into their third season, the prospects for a .500 record are increasing. While much of the team from season 2 remains intact, some key acquisitions in the free agent market and rookies getting the call should make for an interesting season.

The starting lineup:

C – Ivan Sierra – Sierra hit .282 with 21 dingers last season, his first in the bigs. While his defense can use some work, Sierra figures to be in the middle of the Amoebas lineup for years to come. He’s backed up by vet Phil Thebeau, who hits lefties well and provides a veteran presence behind the plate.

Corner Infielders – Anchored by vets Ron Williams and Francisco Blanco, the Amoebas expect league average production out of both spots. Both are steady, unspectacular players who can be counted on to put in their 550 Abs and not hurt the team. Both are backed up by Jack Watson, a slugger with the potential to hit 30+ HRs if given regular playing time. Watson will be working on other facets of his game this season in serving a back up role. Also avaiable to back up is Donnie Herzog, a Rule V draftee in season 2 who stillhas some learning to do.

Middle Infielders – Free Agent pickup Bob Buckley takes over at SS. While challenged with the bat, Buckley has a steady glove and rifle arm, and should provide a steady hand up the middle. 2nd base will be handled again by Marcus Jeffries. Jeffries was a disappointment in his first full big league season last year, and could be playing for his job this year. They will be backed by super utility player Sam Brown and Herzog.

OF – Two new players are the key: rookie Vern Romero could be a contender for Rookie of th eYear, while free agent signee Javier Javier (yes, you read that right – it was part of the reason I signed him!) should steady the defense in CF. They’ll be joined by Alex Hasegawa, whose production slid last season and could be part of a mid-season package if the Amoebas are out of contention for a playoff berth. Speedster Mo Quinn will back them up.

Pitchers: Always a strength of the Amoebas, it should be a similar story this season. A veteran A veteran rotation is lead by Dick Linden,late season arm injury the year before. A Cy Young candidate in season 1, but a bit of a disappointment last year as he was recovering from a late season arm injury the year before. The rest of the rotation is short of stamina, but had all the other attributes of a league leading staff. The bullpen is also strng, with rookie Nicky Bell being the primary long man, and Ken Collier providing reasonable 9th inning relief.

The prospects: With some younger players acquired in previous deals coming to the big league club soon, the future looks bright in SF.

Top prospects include 2B Dan Messmer, a 1st round pick last year and someone who could be with the big club in 2 years. The OF of the future is set to start the season in AAA, with Earnest Nye in LF, Edgar Oliva in CF and Alex Javier in RF. All have the promise to be solid ML players. And waiting in the wings should any fail is 19 year old International signing Orber Contreras. The pitching in the minors is headed up by Denny Olson, a 22 year old who is nearly ready for the majors. Turner Miller, acquired in a season 1 trade, also should be ready by next season. Other prospects include IF Doyle Perttyjohn, OF Gil Stephenson, and P Louie Rivera.

Outlook: .500 is a realistic goal, and with some luck, this team could go further than expected. And with a minor league system that is starting to fill with solid prospects, the outlook is is good in San Francisco.

Argonauts Season Preview

2008-08-05T15:39:00.002-04:00

Toronto remains a mixed bag of free agent pickups, unwanted players from other teams and released players. Toronto traded their two best players in Wright and Brunnette for minor league depth. Their mediocre pitching staff relies on the top pitch calling abilities of Kent Hume and Lou Hawkins behind the plate. 1B Eric Leskanic, a cousin to former ML Pitcher Curt Leskanic was resigned for his bat.2nd base will be manned by Phillip Serrano and SS by the waiver pickup Albert Restovich. 3B will be manned by Rule 5 Pick Darrell Ad****. The outfield will have Sugawara in CF, FA Peter Takahashi in left and Home Run leader Javy Almanzar in Right.

Pitching will be Woods a waiver wire transaction, former 20 game winner coming off a injury, Ramirez, and the Cairo brothers rounding out the rotation. A mixed bag of journeyman types will fill the bullpen.

It is very sad that nearly all of the top prospects were aquired in trades made by mid year replacement Axtell. Axtell was quoted as saying that this is the most misguided franchise in HBD history and I will have to start at the bottom and rebuild this team into a dynasty.

Top prospects by Rank:

1 - HiA SP - Emmanual Ferrer
2 - AA LF - Lou Holtz
3 - AA SS - Lou Holtz
4 - AA RF - Daniel Dobson
5 - AAA 2B - Alexander Henley
6 - AAA SP - Elston Curtis
7 - AAA 3B - Brooks Franco
8- AA C - Bingo McCall
9 - AA SP - Nigel Case
10 - LoA RP - Reagen Devereaux

Superchargers Season Preview

2008-08-05T13:38:00.000-04:00

Entering Season 3, the SuperChargers are getting closer to competing but even with a franchise-record 83 wins last year, are still probably another season away from serious contention in the NL West.

The offense is led by 20/20 man Luis Lee who aptly mans the hot corner, while vets Blaine Harris and Alex Abbey will be counted on to provide some offensive punch from the RF and 1B positions, respectively.

The teams strong defense is anchored by the outstanding Pedro Candelaria at SS and Gold Glove winner Rudy Martin at 2B. New aquisition Delino Diaz will push incumbant Sid Bellhorn in CF, but either one will provide stellar D and a legitimate threat on the basepaths at the top of the order.

The steady Ignacio Servet will be pushed by rookie defensive whiz Aaron Duncan behind the plate. Either will receive from a strong, if inexperienced, staff led by 11-game winner Vince Bell, who coaches are hoping can take the "Ace" mantle from now departed Cy Young candidate Teddy Tomberlin. Last year's Rule 5 surprise Bill Riggan hopes for another strong year, while new acquisition Al Mantalban and rookie Mike Powell are likely to round out the starting staff.

The bullpen will be a bit of a patchwork of Rule 5s and other young arms, but depth should breed success in the cavernous Petco Park.

Another 80+ win season is the hope here in Southern California, but if the season starts off strong, we can surely expect a few of the highly touted youngsters down on the farm to make an appearance to bolster a potential playoff run.

Top 10 Prospects (in alpha order):

2B - Rod Anderson
SP - Julian Cairncross
SS - Rod Darwin
1B - Danny Duran
SS - Matt Henry
SP - Archie Killebrew
SP - Michael McEnroe
SS - Sting Meusal
2B - Victor Park
SP - Lucas Perry

Los Angeles Cherubs S3 Preview

2008-08-05T13:12:00.002-04:00

The Cherubs are a riddle wrapped inside of an enigma, which is then tossed into the trash. Considered strong favorites in S1, they instead started slow but finished strong for a 75-87 second-place finish in the NL West. The club surprised many by starting S2 at a blistering 16-3 pace, but a lethargic offense doomed Los Angeles to finish 50-93 on the way toward a last-place finish. This season, fans and the media alike have no expectations for a somewhat improved Cherubs club that's likely a year away from contention.

LF John Lush appeared overmatched during most of his rookie campaign, notching a paltry .230/.308/.354 line, but management continues to view him as a potentially elite table-setter and future contender for a batting crown.

Underrated 2B Steve Kirwan led the Cherubs in OBP for the second straight season, at .356, and he'll be counted on to provide Gold Glove-caliber defense and step in as the leadoff man should Lush falter again. The steady Kirwan could be the team's lone All Star representative if the Cherubs start slow.

The Cherubs signed veteran Jorge Lee to pair with 1B Felix Hoffman, who has been unable to correct the hole in his swing versus right-handers. "It's a bit unorthodox and risky to expect two guys to contribute in the most important lineup spot, but we felt it was a low-cost, high-upside way to improve a glaring weakness," said GM travisg. "If it works, I'll look like a genius, and if it doesn't, my successor won't be on the hook for much money next season."

3B Craig Blake was somewhat miscast last season as a No. 3 hitter, but he still managed to hit .258/.322/.529 with 38 HR and 80 RBI. The team feels he can be even more productive from the cleanup spot, particularly if he gets more chances to face pitchers throwing from the stretch.

Rookies Dave Blackwell and Billy Jacome form the RF platoon that's expected to protect Blake in the lineup and improve RBI production from the No. 5 spot, which has seen a revolving door of declining veterans try their luck in each of the past two seasons. "Their development might be the key to our success, even more than the Hoffman-Lee battery," travisg said. "I'm excited to see what they can do there."

C Courtney Fox will bat sixth and provide steady stewardship for the pitching staff, but some scouts doubt his arm strength and ability to hit righties. If he falters, the Aussie journeyman Lloyd Thompson will be given a chance to claim the job.

The Mexican SS Carlos Palacios stepped in as the team's starter last season, after only 37 games at AA. He posted a respectable .273/.325/.403 line over 107 games, but durability issues forced him to bench for much of season's last two months. He'll be backed up by a pair of very raw Rule 5 pickups, Trevor Reed and Andres Tejada.

CF Jack Callaway didn't sign until the end of spring training last season, but he paced the Cherubs' fast start from the SS position and played a capable CF even as his bat cooled off at midseason. The decision to pick up his option was an easy one, and he could be signed to an extension if rookie backup Albert Torres struggles or is traded.

A question mark looms over the Los Angeles pitching staff, which is headed by steady veteran Les Mills and a pair of wild fireballers, Jose Martin and D'Angelo Marin. Journeyman Gabe Douglas was signed to provide more consistency than fan favorite Slick Friend, who was not resigned, and the club hopes Davey Ramos can repeat last season's 1.40 WHIP performance as the fifth starter. If anyone falters, ace-in-waiting Norm Ducey could get the call.

The bullpen is a mixed bag, with the unflappable Gary DiFelice closing out games and ably set up by Pedro Mantos, but the talented lefty Matty Lorenzo struggled mightily as a rookie and his relief mates lack his talent, if not his bloated ERA.

Top Prospects: (1) 3B Juan Gonzalez, 20, AA (2) RHP Norman Ducey, 23, AAA (3) OF Earle Wallace, 19, High A (4) LHP Matt Turner, 20, AA (5) LHP Dan Linak, 19, Low A (6) LF Charlie Kelly, 22, AAA (7) LF Pete Wise, 24, AAA (8) RHP Derrick Christensen, 23, AA (9) 3B Davy Beckett, 19, Low A (10) 2B Abdullah Sherman, 21, Low A

Brewtopians Season Preview

2008-08-05T02:11:00.002-04:00

The Brewtopians last year fell one win short of the World Series losing to eventual champions Cleveland in 7 games despite being without 2-time MVP Kyle Stynes and former 20 game winner Jackie Melton for the entire post-season.
LINEUP

1. LF Stump WasdinThe 25 year old rookie was acquired from Memphis for SP prospect Edgard Romo. Stump was one of, if not the best hitters during his last two years in AAA posting a combined .374avg and 100+ sbs. It remains a mystery to many that hes only now being brought up.

Projection .330avg .410obp 10hrs 40sbs

2. 2B Kent TitanTitan finished 5th in the MVP voting last year and still didn’t play to his full capability. Kent carried a .340+ batting average into the All-Star break before tapering off and finishing just under .300. The acquisition of Stump Wasdin will allow Titan to move down in the order and put his power to better use. He will also be moving back to 2B where he started his ML career.

Projection .315avg .375obp 35hrs 110rbi 65sbs

3. C Harry CabezaCabeza will be back behind the plate for another year and the Brewtopians leading OBP man can be counted on for another Silver Slugger season.

Projection .300avg .420obp 30hrs 120rbi

4. RF Kyle StynesMr Stynes speaks for himself : 2 ML years, 2 ML MVPs. Hell be back in RF fully recovered from nerve damage in his forearm.

Projection .330avg .400obp 55hrs 160rbis 25sbs

5. 1B/DH Noberto MartinNoberto is coming off another fine season and will be relied upon to protect Kyle Stynes.

Projection: .270avg .340obp 50hr 135rbi

6. DH Hulk Brow/ 1B Trent HernandezBrow was in the running for the batting title at the All-Star break before his well documented fatigue problems kicked in. This year it should be no bother for the Brewtopians as Hernandez, who will start the year in AAA, will be called up to take over as Brows fatigue dictates.Brow Projection: 350abs .280avg .350obp 24hrs 60rbis

Hernandez Projection: 300abs .290avg .350obp 30hrs 65rbis

7. 3B Vic SosaVic has earned the starting job through potential only. If he struggles as he did in his rookie year expect the hot corner to be taken over by Keith Sutton.

Projection: .290avg .340obp 15hr 70rbi

8. SS Daniel GoodwinDaniel struggled mightily with the bat last season but remained one of the leagues best defensive SS as he posted a .984 FPC in 144 games. When he posts offensive numbers like the ones he did in S1, hes one of the better all round SS in the game.

Projection: .260avg .310obp 20hr 75rbi

9. CF Noberto SanchezNoberto made more + plays on his own last season then the majority of the teams in the league. The gold glove winning CF is progressing with the bat and any production from him on the offensive side is a plus.
Projection: .270avg .320obp 10hr 50rbi

ROTATION

Vic Rodriguez:For the second straight year Vic put up Cy Young calibre numbers and dominated during the post season. With the Brewtopians added offense a breakout season is in order.
Projection: 24-10 300 innings 220k 3.10era

Bernie Fernandez:Bernie has evolved into one of the best #2s in the game and will be expected to continue his All-Star form.
Projection: 20-9 260 innings 185k 3.50era

Jackie Melton:Despite Jackie’s “Throw don’t pitch” policy he has enjoyed great success at the ML level as an effective innings eater. An excellent #3 starter by any standards.
Projection: 18-12 285 innings 200k 4.15era

Bronson Wang:Bronson has trouble lasting a full game but his consistent 5-6 innings of quality pitching will be very valuable to the Brewtopians.
Projection: 12-11 180 innings 120k 3.85era

SetUp

JJ Mason and Dale Garcia:The Brewtopians have the luxury of using two guys with closers stuff to hold down the 7th and 8th innings.
Mason Projection: 100 innings 3.20era
Garcia Projection: 65 innings 3.50era

Closer
Frank Lim:2-Time All-Star Frank Lim finished 3rd last year in the Reliever of the Year voting. With Portlands offense this year he will likely be given more save opportunities.
Projection: 40/45 Saves 3.00era

The Portland team is championship calibre as is and they have the prospects and drive to go out and add a top flight starter before the trade deadline arrives. Nothing less than a World Series ring will be accepted in Portland.

Top Prospects
1. Ron Hackman
2. Trent Hernandez
3. Ramon Martin
4. Vern York
5. Slick Eyre
6. Les Truman
7. Herb Rice
8. Sarma Little
9. Neifi Renteria
10. Kane Rollins

Season 3 Chicago Capones Preview

2008-08-05T00:26:00.003-04:00

The team essentially stays the same with a few minor changes. Mgmt is hoping the return of injury prone V. Figuereoa will be enough to win a world series. Anything less than a championship will be disappointing. 2008 prediction-100 wins.

Lineup:

C: E. Roberts-This rookie was a AAA all-star and will be taking over the starting job. He is above average defensively and should hit for a high average and ops.Season 2 AAA stats: .369 avg, .442 obp, .647 slg.

1B: D. Hunter-Another rookie called up from AAA (AA All star, season 1), a great hitter for both avg and power.Season 2 AAA stats: .297 avg, .333 obp, .558 slg.

2B: I. Guillen-Season 2 MVP and only 25. Enough said.Season 2 ML stats: .313 avg, .383 obp, .713 slg.

SS: D. Song-All star and Silver Slugger 2 years in a row.Season 2 ML stats: .312 avg, .370 obp, .616 slg.

3B: A. Snavely-Season 2 Silver Slugger. At '31' one of the veterans and clubhouse leaders.Season 2 ML stats: .305 avg, .367 obp, .528 slg.

OF: C. Ozuna-Splits time in LF and also backup 1B. Had a subpar season, but looking to bounce back.Season 2 ML stats: .254 avg, .339 ops, .463 slg.

OF: D. Schultz-Starting CF. 2 time All Star, 1x Gold Glove. This 33yo veteran is showing no signs of slowing down.Season 2 ML stats: .303 avg, .347 obp, .517 slg.

OF: J. Bennett-Full time starter in RF and LF. He is a consistent, steady performer.Season 2 ML stats: .291 avg, .365 obp, .435 obp.

OF: R. Cook-Part time LF/RF. He only sees action against RH or as a pinch runner. Is the best/fastest baserunner on the team.Season 2 ML stats: .305 avg, .386 obp, .335 slg.

Reserves/Bench:

C: C. Stockton-Defensive catcher

2B: G. Myers-New F/A backup 2B.

3B: T. Finley-Rookie
3B/SS: P. Calderon-Veteran that can play any position

Pitchers

Starting Rotation:

#1 D. Borland-Ace. 2 time all star that won 20 games last season.Season 2 ML stats: 20-10, 3.59 era, 1.13 whip.

#2 G. Salinas-Season 2 midseason pickup. Strong #2 pitcher. Only played 1/2 season with Chicago.Season 2 ML stats: 13-5, 3.26 era, 1.15 whip. (with Chicago)

#3 R. Medrano-Trade pickup. A former top pitcher that now can only go 6 innings. Hopefuly will offer some quality innings.Season 2 ML stats: 9-14, 5.41 era, 1.40 whip. (with Montreal)

#4 V. Figureoa-The new Rich Harden. Great when he pitches but has had 2 elbow surgeries. Dominate when healthy.Lifetime ML stats: 16-3, 3.22 era, 1.10 whip. (2 seasons)

#5 B. Sheffield-Dependable back of the rotation pitcher. Won 18 games in season 1. Missed half of season 2 with injury.Season 2 ML stats: 6-5, 4.76 era, 1.39 whip.

Bullpen:

S. Perez-Mopup/6th Starter

N. Trammel-Long Relief A

C. Durbin-Long Relief B

E.Waters-Setup A. Closer if Shaw falters or gets injured.

L. Gurrero-Setup A.

S. Cunningham-Setup B.

S.Shaw-Closer. 2x All Star.

Baseball America Top 10 Organizational Prospects.

1. B. Monroe (AAA) has seen time in majors; #3 starter.

2. E. Guzman (AAA) future CF.

3. D. Knotts (Hi A) #3 starter, 1st Round pick.

4. M. Minor (Hi A) Big bat C, 1st Round pick.

5. B. Jennings (AAA) #3/4 Starter.

6. A. Tatis (AAA) Future Closer??

7. D. Caruso (AAA) LF that is great against RHP.

8. B. Heving (AAA) #5 pitcher that can eat up innings.

9. E. Lockwood (AAA) backup SS.

10. F. Silva (AA) #5/LR/MOP high control pitcher.

The system has alot of average to above average prospects; but no future superstars.

NY Patriots Season Preview

2008-08-05T00:18:00.002-04:00

Season 3 brings hope for a possible playoff appearance for New York Patriot fans. Fans have been introduced to theirseason 3 ballclub and most like what they see. The Patriots struggled thru season 2 with an inability to hit for average.One of the few bright spots was William Maurer. Maurer led the club in hitting with a .294 batting average. The bad news isthat his average dropped off from season 1 of .330. When your best player has an off year and leads the club in hittingsomething has to change. And change it has. The Patriots went out and got 3 quality infielders off the free agent market.New Patriots Max Maxwell, Glen Lowe & Duffy Thielman have been brought in to put some pop into the batting order. Thefollowing is a breakdown by position of last years club and this years club.

1B Danys Galarraga remains at first for the Patriots. Danys had an of year in season 2 hitting .240 with 31 home runs. His home run out put was down considerbly from his season 1 total of 47. Patriot fans can live with his carear average of .240 but are expecting him to regain his season 1 power numbers.

2B Clint Governale was the Patriots 2B last season hitting .262 with 12 home runs. Duffy Thielman takes over at 2B thisseason. Despite only hitting .269 last season with 17 round trippers Patriot fans consider this an improvement and arehoping for improved production this year.

3B Max Maxwell takes over the hot corner duties from fan favorite William Maurer. This will enable Maurer to utilize hisrange in CF. Despite only hitting .260 with 17 homers Patriot fans are expecting this to be a big season for Max.

SS Ed Helton was a disapointment with both the glove and bat last season. He will be replaced by Glen Lowe. Patriot fanshope the brass new what they were doing when they brought in Glen. An obvious improvement with the glove fans arehoping Glen bounces back to season 1 form with the bat.

LF King Browning got most of the playing time in LF last year but this year he will be platooning with Nick Morgan. Neither has showed the ability to win the positionas of yet. It will remain a L/R platoon unless one of these guysgets hot.

CF William Maurer takes over the CF duties from now Philadelphia Citi Quaker Scooter Eldred. Patriot fans are excitedabout watching the graceful Maurer patrol the outfield. Maurer will probably be one of the slower CF's in the leaguebut not many will cover as much ground.

RF Jason Bullinger entertained the fans with the long ball the last 2 seasons but the fans were not amused with his highstrikeout ratio and his fielding antics. Jason was let go in the off season and the Patriots are giving Clint Governalea chance to win the position. Patriot brass are hoping to see Clint continue to get stronger with the stick.

C Another platoon will see Louie Cruz utilized for his bat and Damian Gentry utilized for his handling of the young arms.

SP1 Jerry Franco at 24 years old is coming off of a disapointing 5 - 18 rookie season. Patriot brass think good thingsare right around the corner.

SP2 Dennis Wanatabe will be starting his 3rd season in the bigs. Dennis showed considerable improvement in his secondseason and the Patriots think the 25 year old is ready to have a break out season.

SP3 Patriot fans are hoping Andrea Merrick bounces back from a devastating injury to his forearm in season 2. The clubshigh hopes for Andrea have been replaced with the optimism that he can regain his pre injury form.

SP4 Willard Yeager will start the season as the Patriots 4th starter. His results will determine if and when Barry Meadows& or Rudy O'Neil get the call up from AAA.

Pen Bull pen by commitee. Steve Elarton, Ronald Gold, George Mlicki, Emil Ugueto, Mark Wagner & Scott Wright will share thepen duties. If anyone gets hot than that will be the go to guy.

As spring always brings hope to baseball fans for their club, this year is no different for Patriot fans. Now the fans can onlysit and wait to see if their hopes for some post season baseball come to pass.

Whistling Badgers Season 3 Preview

2008-08-05T00:17:00.000-04:00

Washington DC Preview

After 2 consecutive of losing in the World Series, these Badgers have blue balls. It's essentially the same starting team as last year, with a slightly different bench. The middle of the order is once again very strong with Cliff Bonilla, Heatchcliff Cameron, Fernando Blanco, Placido Gonzalez, and Alan Connelly. The team expects a little more out of catcher Livan Feliz this year and feels if they do, they won't be beat. Gary Waters should again be a 20/20 guy at leadoff and could push 30/30 with some luck. Heath Baez remains as the 8th hitter, but don't sleep on him as he hit .270 last year.

The pitching staff traded for Daisuke Aoki, hoping he can improve a middle relief that was stastically solid, but came up short in some key situations. He will set up Fireman Chip Wingo, who did not allow an earned run through the all-star break and challenged Bob Thigpen's real life record of 58 saves. Twice defending Cy Young winner Santiago Navarro still plans on kicking ass, but can the team find a dominant 2. Various players have temporarily stepped into that role, then stepped out. Though only 23, Marvin Blank appears ready to fill that role allowing Pedro Zapata to slide back into a more natural third starter role. Hopefully Anthony Byrne can recapture some season 1 magic and Paul Stahoviak will live up to his new contract. If one falters, expect them to be replaced by the surprisingly effective Jimmie Sheets. Sheets has shined out of the back of the rotation and long reliever spots.

The team may make a trade mid-season if it feels it's still a bit short, but the hopes are very high in Washington once again.

Baysox Report

2008-08-02T19:08:00.001-04:00

Boston was a middle of the road franchise the first two seasons and realistically will be again in season three. “This is gonna take a few seasons to get it right,” new owner Brad Davis reports. “Not enough in the majors to win it now and not enough yet in the minors to win it in the future.” Sitting at his desk in the damp bowels of Fenway Park, with the classic tunes of his uncle Miles playing in the background, Davis gave this reporter a breakdown of his new organization by area:

Catching – As a catcher, Lenny Pickering makes a good DH. Light-hitting Gerald Lynch is the starter for now based on his strong defense. “We don’t have the catcher of the future in the organization yet,” said Davis as he opened up a cold Sam Adams Boston Ale. “Our minor leagues are strong on catchers who can call a game and throw runners out, and that’s good, but none of ‘em can hit a lick.”

First base – 23-year-old Gabe McEnerney is poised for a breakout year. “Our scouts say his bat has dramatically improved since last season,” claimed the new owner. “He should put up great numbers in Fenway this year.” Boston also has former first round pick Milton Killebrew tearing the cover off the ball in the minors. “We love Killebrew’s bat,” Davis mentioned, “But with McEnerney on the roster, Killebrew could be had in the right trade.” The Baysox also have veteran Pete Barr on the major league roster, another player who might be on the trade block this season.

Middle infield – “We’re really thin at the major league level,” complained Davis while popping open another Boston Ale. Elroy Daniels is the second baseman of the future, but the team doesn’t want to rush him to the majors too soon. Scott Fisher is probably the starter for now. More of a third baseman than a second sacker, the team hopes Fisher will make up in power what he lacks in range. Shortstop is more of a problem. “I wish we could keep Hersh Harris in the minors for a couple more seasons,” burped Davis. “He’s only 21, ferpetesakes. But he’s all we’ve got right now.” Aging SS Darin Barclay has lost too much range in the field to make up for his weak hitting, added Davis.

Third base – Javier Pujols, Bill Walker, and Brent Wood have a close, three-way Spring Training competition going for the starting third base job. “But heck, Walker and Wood are Rule 5 guys, so that kinda tells ya where we’re at with that position!” exclaimed Davis. Veteran Maximo Hitchcock is also on the roster, but is strictly a reserve at this point in his career.

Outfield – “Rocky Curtis would be our second sacker if we had a real CF guy,” quipped Davis while knocking down yet another Sam Adams. “But we don’t, so he’ll be out there in CF everyday this season.” After that, the organization is woefully thin when it comes to flychasers. Rookie Chris Maddux will likely start the year in left, though he has a reputation for being injury prone. “Whichever guy finishes second in the 3B derby will start the year in right,” sighed Davis. “We don’t have anyone else.” The future doesn’t look much brighter as the organization has no top OF prospects in the minors either.

Pitching – Craig Walsh, Al Delgado, Clyde Prokopec, Junior Perez, Milton Hernandez, Tony Sanchez, and Scooter Coco give the Baysox a solid, if unspectacular, rotation. “Hey, we’d even trade one of those guys for a good outfielder,” Davis blurted while reaching for the mini-fridge. “They’re all solid guys.” The bullpen is thin, featuring no stars, and Davis says that is one of his biggest worries for season three and beyond. “We don’t have many arms in the minors either,” Davis muttered while chugging the last bottle of ale. “Another area we’ll have to work on over the next season or two.”

G.M. – So what about Davis, the new owner/G.M.? “Usually I’m Trader Brad, but couldn’t do much of that here yet,” confessed Davis, lurching slightly as he rose from his desk. “I believe the best trades are made from surplus, otherwise you’re just opening up one hole while you fill another. Didn’t have much surplus here yet, so I decided to be quiet and build for a couple of seasons.” With that, he stumbled slightly and headed for the door. “Which way you headed?” he asked, flipping off the lights.

Nashville Season 3 Preview

2008-08-02T16:55:00.001-04:00

A day before the S2 Amateur draft, a new ownership group headed by waste disposal tycoon bajoraa, swooped in to purchase the abandoned Nashville Tennesseeans. At the time, the team was bobbing around the dreaded .400 mark and sported league-worst ERA and OPS. With little relief in the minors and a defunct college scouting program unable to provide near-term talent, bajoraa embarked on a series of aggressive trades to bring an infusion of arms to the Music City. Of these, the most notable included dealing fan favorite Duffy Theilman to San Diego for SP Russ Benard and Sammy Escobar, who arguably became the teams two best pitchers in the rotation, along with near ML-ready relief prospect Trevor Rigby. The moves allowed Nashville to play above .500 ball over approximately the last third of the season, pulling to a 72-win total and a game short of third place.

In the off-season leading into S3, bajoraa again pursued starting pitching by signing veteran Orber Sosa. In addition, Nashville also sought to address team needs including question marks surrounding the catcher and shortstop positions. The newly re-named Fruit Jar Drinkers dealt 3 veterans to Montreal for catching prospect Aaron Brooks and acquired slick-fielding SS Gary Martin from the Cherubs. Whether these moves will help build upon Nashville’s late-season success remains to be seen in Season 3.

Top Prospects – Nashville

1. Lyle Kipling
2. Ivan Leon
3. Julio Bonilla
4. Aaron Crane
5. Ronn Morgan
6. John Cameron
7. Barry Carpenter
8. Larry Stovall
9. Branch Kerr
10. Trevor Rigby

2008-08-02T13:31:00.000-04:00

Pittsburgh Pagans Season 3 Preview

2008-08-02T02:10:00.003-04:00

Season 3 Pittsburgh Pagan Preview

After a surprising season where the upstart Pagans drove the eventual World Champion Cleveland Rockers into the 11th inning of Game 162 to decide the division winner, the Pagans look to build on last year's success. The major offseason move was the dealing of uberprospect Devon Andrews for a package of players from the Minnesota Screaming Beavers. In a division with the World Champs and the young powerhouse Empires, the Pagans will need to mature quickly to contend. the future is bright for the Pirates, as every position player and starting pitcher is 27 or younger.

C J.J. Jefferies did not disappoint in his first full season as the Pagan' backstop. Jeffries posted a .780 OPS will providing top-notch defense from the catcher's position. The young Pagan's staff developed well under his tutelage. More will be expected of JAred with the fleet of young pitchers expected to make their ML debut this season.

1B Reid Washington Washington provided a solid bat hitting .275 with 100 RBIs last season. An off-season weight program should yield dividends in the dinger department this season.

2B Fernando Sosa Sosa starts the season at 2B after being shopped in the off-season. Don't expect Sosa to stay in the starting lineup long, as stud prospect Max Seanez should be up after the first 20 games or so. Mad Max provides a shortstops glove with a DH bat and should remain in the lineup for as long as his health allows.

SS Sam Goldman Sam Goldman was one-third of the haul from the sale of Andrews. Sam plays solid SS defense and contributed a .282 average and 26 HRs last season for Minnesota. Goldman won a Gold Glove last season for Minnesota and his defensive prowess should rub off on these young Pagans. Sam takes over for fan favorite Max Maxwell, who was not resigned in the off-season.

3B Lee Clifton Another piece of the Andrews trade, Clifton was an enigma in his tenure as a Screaming Beaver. Blessed with extraordinary talent, Clifton rarely managed to put it all together at the plate, hitting .283 with 19HRs and 70 Rbis last season. A talent such as Lee will be expected to contribute much more on the Pagans. Lee did display fine glovework last season. Last year's starter Max Silva backs him up.

LF Chul Maeda Chul had a rough Season 2, spending three different stints on the DL. Though not considered a fragile player, Maeda was not much o a factor last year. Expect more from him this season as the leadoff role falls to him.

CF Bill Hendrickson Last season's big in-season acquisition (along with pitcher Howard Rigney) assumes the role of team leader in Season 3. Bill played a fine CF and hit 32HRs and drove in 100 runs last season. Expect Hendrickson to man this spot well for the next 5 years.

RF Vitas Clayton Vitas fell a little short of his lofty goal of a .300/30HR/100 rbi season, posting a .298/19/93 year. Still only 25 years of age with more opportunity for improvement ahead of him as well as better hitters around him, Clayton should improve on those numbers this year.

DH Virgil King/Big Butter Jesus Park King and Park shared DH duties last year with a modicum of success. King was acquired mid-season when a critically slow start by Park resulted in a sub-Mendoza average at the All-Star break. Park recovered nicely, and the Pagans are please to ahve added another strong hitter to their stable.

The Pitching Staff

SP1 Emmanuel Bottenfield

SP2 Willie Colon

SP3 Howard Rigney

SP4 Angel Mendez

SP5 Matt Lee

Bottenfield was forced to learn on the job with the woeful staff of the Pagans. He responded well in his first complete year as a starter posting 12 wins. His continued development is one of the keys to this staff.

Colon possesses excellent control and is very effective against both lefties and righties. A 13-6 record last year as a 23 year old foreshadows great things for Willie. Pagan management expect 15 wins this season.

Howard Rigney was acquired in the same trade that netted CF Hendrickson. I protracted stint on the DL with elbow surgery cut short a fine season where he won seven games a Pagan. All of us in Pittsburgh are hoping for a healthy return to that form.

Angel Mendez was one of the prize pitchers of the Pagan prospects. He posted 16 wins last year in AA. A wicked 4 seamer has propelled him to success at every level. Though he will start the season at AAA, expect an early season call-up.

The 5th starter is expected to be Pagan farmhand Matt Lee. Matt won the AA Cy Young and Rookie of the year last season, posting a 20-6 record. Lee is also expected to be part of the early season callups from AAA.

Closer Cristian Davis made the All-Star team Season 2 posting 41 saves.

The rest of the bullpen should consist of last years starters Trevor Evans and Mike Vitello. Also making the squad are two rule 5 pickups from last season Tommie Leonard and Tsuyoshi Kim. All are young and possessing potenital.

The Pagans expect to contend for a Division title here in Season 3. The keys will be their ability to stay healthy and the development of their young roster.

Montreal Maple Leaves Season Preview

2008-08-01T19:05:00.002-04:00

The Montreal Maple Leaves worked hard over the off season to stock their farm system with new talent while putting a more competitive major league team on the field. While this was a challenging task, it is felt that it was very well accomplished. I spent most of the off season focusing on other team's aquisitions, knowing that I could explain all the pickups in this post.

So here I introduce you to the season 3 Montreal Maple Leaves,featuring groundball pitching and 22 new faces.

C vsR Danny Haynes(Aquired via FA)

Haynes bringing great defense behind the plate while bringing a solid bat verse right handed pitching. He is someone I was tracking the entire FA period, and was able to bring in at a nice price. He should make all of my pitchers better and will have no problem throing guys out when stealing.

C vs L David Fernandez(Aquired via FA)

Similar to Haynes defensively, Fernandez is a better hitter vs lefties, so he will start whenever a southpaw is on the mound. He will help keep Haynes at 100% all season.

1B Bernie Cruz

Cruz was one of two guys that was untouchable. He will bat 3rd and create a strong prescence every time he steps in the batter's box. Cruz hit an impressive .341/.405/.575 last season for Montreal. He should continue to produce runs for the Maple Leaves.

2B Walt Hinske(Aquired via trade)

Hinske should bring GG defense behind a pitching staff that should put a lot of balls on the ground. Hisnke is also a legitimate leadoff bat, who will put strong speed and plate discipline in front of a solid middle of the order.

SS Adam LaRue(Aquired via FA)

Playing with his 3rd team in 3 years, LaRue ended up with the Maple Leaves due to lack of a better option. He will play good D at short, but should not do much with his bat.

3B Ivan Cornejo(Aquired via trade)

Aquired in the Rivera trade, Cornejo will be the starting third basemen and bat 6th. He brings the bat that hit 60 HRs over the past 2 seasons in AA. Some believe he should get time at AAA, but the front office thinks he is the best 3B option for now and the future.

LF Charlie Wallace(Aquired via trade)

Coming from a pitchers park, Wallace should see a nice boost in numbers this season. He is a nice pure hitter for has a chance to score a lot of runs in front of Cruz and Borges. We have high expectations for Charlie this season

CF Clay Canseco(Aquired via FA)

Canseco was non-tendered by HOU after playing great D for the Fantasticos last season. He is expected to provide similar stellar D for MON while bringing solid speed and baserunning skills to the basepaths.

RF Luis Borges

The 2nd stud that was not going to be moved this off season. Borges is one of the best young bats in the game. He knocked 53 bombs as a 23 year old last season. He is the face of the franchise and will be counted on to lead the Maple Leaves to a divisional title

DH Ray Winn(Aquired via trade)

Winn will also be the team's third catcher, but will likely not see time at the position this year. Winn has a solid eye, with an OBP over .400 in the last 2 seasons for Chicago. He should provide a lot of offense in what is a contract year for the solid hitter.

Bench

UTIl RJ Guerrero(Aquired via FA)

If Guerrero proves that his arm will hold up at SS, he may end up getting more starts than LaRue as his bat against righties is far superior

LF/1B Andre Erstad(Aquired via trade)

A solid hitter the team aquired for a cheap price. He will try to bounce back after an off year and will see starts at 1B/LF/DH against righties.

OF Aaron Goldstein(Aquired via trade)

A favorite of GM thaceo, "jewish lightning" was brought to MON. he should see occasional starts at all 3 OF positions, mostly in right and center

RF Danny Branson(Aquired via FA)

After having an OPS over .900 for BUF last season, Branson was a value pickup that could not be passed up. He is nothing more than insurance.

Projected Lineup

1. Walt Hinske 2B
2. Charlie Wallace LF
3. Bernie Cruz 1B
4. Luis Borges RF
5. Randy Winn DH
6. Ivan Cornejo 3B
7. Danny Haynes C
8. Adam LaRue SS
9. Clay Canseco CF

Pitching

SP1 Terrance Moore(Aquired via FA)

Probobly the most talked about FA pickup of the off season, Moore will head the Maple Leaves rotation. His style is one the Maple Leaves hope will be emulated by other pitchers in the rotation. He should be watched closely all season

SP2 Willis Kirk(Aquired via FA)

"Captain" Kirk was hurt last season, but when he played he was electric going 10-5 with a 3.22 ERA. Kirk signed with MON after they were willing to give him a 5 yr deal. Some call him a bargain, others call him a risk. We will see how he pitches coming back from a shoulder injury.

SP3 Phillip Campbell

Maybe the only MON pitcher to have a solid season last year, Campbell has apparently improved over the off season, and now has 2 solid pitchers in front of him. With better run support, defense, and being a year older, Campbell is primed for a breakout season.

SP4 Nelson Fasano(Aquired via FA)

Fasano was one of the most questionable pickups of the off season, but brings some of the world's best stuff and MON believes he will have a breakout season. Whether he is a great pickup or a waste will be seen this season.

SP5 Deivi Moraga(Aquired via trade)

Another pitcher coming off injury, Moraga was a bargain pickup for the Maple Leaves(salary drop included he is about 4.4 mil per year for the next 2 seasons). It will be seen if Moraga will be able to return to his old dominance after being hurt half of last season

Mop/LHS Joaquin Felix(Rule V Draft)

Felix was maybe the wierdest pick of the rule V. He has a great GB/FB ratio and nice pitches and the team needed another lefty in the bullpen. He could end up being a steal, but if he ends up busting, its just 50,000 lost

LRP Nicholas Huff(Aquired via Trade)

Huff has great control and was electric when he pitched for KC last season. His great GB/FB will be very useful in MON. Could enter the rotation with an injury/if someone is pitching poorly.

LRP/RHS Ray Malloy(Aquired via FA)

MON is hoping Malloy can finally have his break out year with a stronger defense behind him and a great catcher calling the game. He will probobly exclusively pitch against righties out of the pen until an opportunity becomes available in the rotation. He is signed cheap through his 3 arb years

SU Felipe Navarre(Aquired via FA)

High potential pitcher the Maple Leaves signed for 4 yrs with the hope that he will be better out of the pen than he was in the rotation for SEA. Hopefully they will be proved right during the season

SU/CL Alfredo Rosa(Aquired via Trade)
The first of two pitchers competing for the closer role, thaceo signed Rosa to be a closer in NAS last season. Rosa got 10 saves in all 10 of his opportunities last season and could be put back in the role this year.

SU/CL Nick Helton(Rule V)

Rosa was the sure closer until Helton was aquired in the rule V. Despite not having an impressive ERA Helton saved 24 games in 28 opportunities for AAA WAS last season. He will be given every chance to keep the job with a GB/FB and high velocity ideal for the role

Top 10 Prospects

1. SP Seth Randall Low A
2. SP Phil Thomas Low A
3. C Phillip Henry AAA
4. 2B/OF Bill Brower AA
5. LF Wally Christenson AAA
6. 3B Ivan Cornejo ML
7. SP/RP Clarence Daal AAA
8. SP BC Samuel AAA
9. SP Luis Romero AAA
10. CF Lewis Freeman AAA

New York makes splash in the FA Market--comes to terms with 3 big infielders

2008-07-29T03:34:00.004-04:00

In the past few days, NY has made a splash in the FA Market signing 3 big infielders 2B Duffy Thielman, SS Glen Lowe, and 3B Duffy Thielman

Hardball Dynasty's

Duffy Thielman

Thielman batted .269/.348/.425 in 150 games between Nashville and San Diego last season. He signed a 5 yr/55 million dollar contract with the Patriots

Hardball Dynasty's

Max Maxwell

Maxwell has hit .275/.354/.397 in 319 games for the Pagans in the past 2 seasons. He signed a 3 yr/26.4 mil contract

Hardball Dynasty's

Glen Lowe

Lowe hit .279/.342/.372 for the Switchmen in 234 games over the past 2 seasons. He signed for 4 years and 25 million

Patriots GM pollet070 was available for comment

he said,

"New York Patriot fans will be watching a whole new ballgame this season. While maintaining the 6th lowest payroll in all of baseball Patriots owner "The Chief" made a big splash in the FA pool this off season. The Patriots earmarked 24 million for free agents. Coming off a season were the club had a dismal team batting average of .242, "The Chief" set about getting 3 quality position players. First to sign was former Switchman SS Glen Lowe. Glen will take over the SS duties that were shared last year between Ed Helton & Adam Larue.Second to put his John Hancock on a Patriot contract was former Pagan SS Max Maxwell. Max will be handling the hot corner for the Patriots this season. This means fan favorite William Maurer will be moving to CF.The third and last FA signing for the Patriots was Duffy Thielman. This will be Duffy's 4th club in 3 seasons. Most of Duffy's playing time was at SS but he will be sliding over to 2B when he puts on a Patriot uniform. This means last years regular 2B Clint Governale will be moving to RF.Diehard Patriot fans will definately need a scorecard when they enter the ballpark this season as they will be watching a whole new ballgame."

We will see if New York's aggressive approach improves the team's record in season 3

What is Boston doing?

2008-07-29T03:29:00.002-04:00

New GM braddavis has been silent this off season, and people around the world wonder what he is up to. Moneyblog was able to check in with brad for some comments on his plans for the off season, as he planned to spend time picking the right coaches instead of moving around players.

When asked if any big moves would be coming brad said

"well maybe not - i'm conservative by nature so i'd rather build a solid team w/out free agency - never have signed a free agent in any world - and haven't seen any really good trade ops so far - this org is really thin & winning trades are usually made from surplus, which i don't have - so might just stand pat in s3, get a feel for the league & my team, then be a lot more active in s4!"

He went on to say

"put a lot into the coaching derby tho - would rather maximize what i have now while waiting for the right moves to make themselves known"

We should get to know brad better in his first season as GM of the Baysox after having a very successful run with the Kansas City Monarchs in Wailing Onions World. Boston ownership recruited him to bring victories, but they will be patient, as they have plenty of confidence in teh rookie GM.

Atlanta Aquires Brunette,Wright comments on off season

2008-07-29T03:18:00.002-04:00

AP--Atlanta

Hardball Dynasty's

Patrick Brunette

Brunette was the Sprawl's biggest pickup this off season

The Sprawl aquired Patrick Brunette and stud leadoff hitter Rick Wight in exchange for 2B Alexander Henley(AAA), RP Juan Tavarez(AAA),SP/RP Ross Ramirez(ML),SP Davey Diaz(High A), and RP Reagan Devereaux(Low A) who was probobly the centerpiece of the deal. Toronto did not want to pay Brunette's future salary and felt they added a lot of depth to their minor league system. While the trade may be a benefit to them, it just means 2 more threats added to the world juggernaut, the Atlanta Sprawl.

GM jakaitis had time to comment on the Sprawl offseason earlier today. He said the following

mortgaged the farm to get him[Brunette], but the team is built for now. in for a penny, in for a pound... Right Wight was the guy I pursued first and I think he could score 150 runs as a vR platoon man... The guy I'll really miss going back to Toronto was Henley; he picked 2B Alexander Henley over the better looking 1B Danny Duran and I can't blame him... Brunnette came within a hairsbreadth if being dealt for New Orleans LF Jackie Wagner,
jakaitis but he wouldn't include an SP in the deal so it fell apart... There are grumblings within the syetm that Brunnette doesn't have the stuff of a top tier starter despite the fact he'll be one of the top 3-4 paid SPs in two years.... Sprawl got a Type A and a Type B in this draft to restock the farm. (already traded four players from the S1 draft)"

We should be hearing more buzz about the Sprawl soon, as they look to add a 2nd WS title to their trophy case

Bo Doesnt Know?

2008-07-24T00:56:00.004-04:00

Bo Forrest
Minnesota
Screaming Beavers
Age: 33	B/T: L/L
Born: Mandan, ND
Position(s): 1B/COF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Forrest hit .300/.381/.497, playing all 162 games last season

In a very active off season, the headline story is 2 time all star and s1 silver slugger Bo Forrest being shopped around the world. We caught up with Bo "knows" Forrest, who has no clue where he will be next year. Bo said,"The team talked to me and said they may change things up. Id obviously love to play in Minnesota,but I would just like to play for a contender". If Bo is indeed traded, he will most definetly be dealt to a team looking to make that push. One anonymous Gm quoted,"The asking price is high. Bo is the kind of player that can change your lineup. If a deal is made, both sides will benefit".

-More updates will be given on Forrest throughout the off season

Today in Moneyball 7/23

2008-07-24T00:13:00.006-04:00

Portland is shoppping Quinn Spencer,Trent Hernandez,Ramon Martin,Ron Hackman,and Edgard Romo in hopes of finding an ace

Hardball Dynasty's

Trent Hernandez

Trent Hernandez has amazing power potential in CF the 22 year old hit .301/.387/.729 in AA last season

Nashville is shopping 3B Marc Morris

Toronto is shopping numerous veterans and obviously Rick Wight is drawing lots of interest. Stud pitcher Patrick Brunette is said to be available

Hardball Dynasty's

Patrick Brunette

At 24, Brunette was 12-12 with a 4.48 ERA last season in Toronto

St.Louis is looking for a power hitting 2B and is willing to part with pitching prospects

Atlanta is shopping stud 1B prospect Danny Duran

Salt Lake City wantes prospects for Andre Erstad

Anaheim has made Michael McKinley and Tony Randall available

Trades

Report:Jeff Poole was the minor leaguer aquired in the Montanez deal
Report:Kansas City dealt C Darren Lewis for C Valerio Borbon
Report:Kansas City aquired C Oleg Cassidy for 1B Hector Prieto
Montreal aquired Alfredo Rosa,Aaron Goldstein,and Al Nunez for catching prospect Adam Brooks
Report:The Empires aquired SP Rickey Ellis,RP William Randolph and RP Anthony Gibson for SP Seth Randall,SP Marshall Spooneybarger,and 2B Bill Brower
Report:The Maple Leaves aquired SP Tommy Ray and 3B Benito Ramirez for RF Jimmy Smith
Report:CHawks aquired 2B Harry Rivera for SP Phil Thomas and 3B Ivan Cornejo
Report:Buffalo aquired P Sal Daniels for CL Harold Cook

Hardball Dynasty's

Harold Cook

Cook had a 2.00 ERA and 10 SVs in 63 IP last season

Around Moneyball 7/22

2008-07-23T00:55:00.006-04:00

-The Maple Leaves are shopping 2B Harry Rivera,SP Rickey Ellis and RP Mario Clay. They have recieved inquires from multiple teams.

Hardball Dynasty's

Harry Rivera

-Chicago will part with C Oleg Cassidy for next to nothing. He is reportedly asking for 3 mil per year

-Charlotte is shopping 3B Mark Perez. Just one season ago, Perez hit 40 HRs, but he slumped last season

-Minnesota wants to deal C Valerio Borbon, 2B Eli Espinosa and SP Julian Hancock
-The Cherubs are shopping CF Delino Diaz and SS Gary Martin

-SP Milton Hernandez will be available

Hardball Dynasty's

Milton Hernandez

-SS Bob Buckley will be going to FA

Report:Maple Leaves argree to 3 seperate deals

2008-07-23T00:16:00.005-04:00

AP--Montreal

Today, an inside source reports that the Montreal Maple Leaves have agreed to three seperate deals on Tuesday, prior to the opening of the off season. The first deal will send CF Cesar Montanez to Salt Lake City for an undisclosed minor league player. The 2nd deal will send SP R.J. Medrano to Chicago in exchange of C Ray Winn. Winn is a solid on base catcher with above average pitch calling skills and a below average arm. Medrano was a big FA signing who has not panned out for Montreal. Both owners were looking to shed the respective salaries, and are hoping the players will benefit from a change in scenery.
The big deal of the day should come as somewhat of a surprise. TheMontreal Maple Leaves will aquire 2B Walt Hinske ina deal inclduing C Jason Leach and 2B Alexander Henley. Leach is a stud hitting catcher with below average defense while Henley is a below average defender with a strong stroke that should translate well in Atlanta. Why anyone would be dumb enough to trade with jakaits is unknown,but this should not come as a surprise. Montreal's owner responded to criticisim of previous GM jaywil08 not making enough moves, so he hired former Nashville GM thaceo, who had a falling out with Nashville's owner mid season, who was still bitter that he traded 1B Terry Johnstone. Expect these to be the first of many moves from thaceo this offseason.

Walt Hinske
Atlanta
Sprawl
Age: 27	B/T: R/R
Born: Caledonia, MS
Position(s): CF/CIF/2B/OF/DH
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

Will Christ-Cross make fans jump?

2008-02-22T11:20:00.002-05:00

It's barely a third of the way through the season, and it seems San Diego is already running up the proverbial white flag. Off-season vetran aquisition Sammy Lee has already worn out his welcome in the starting rotation, and is being shipped off to Seattle along with dependable bullpen arm Leo Wakeland. Serious talks are also in the works with Cincinnati to move longtime 'Charger starter Teddy Tomberlin, but he has yet to waive his no-trade clause, so that deal is still somewhat up in the air.

In both cases, while San Diego is having to take contracts back to make the deals work under the salary cap, the main parts of the deal from management's perspective are the young arms they are getting back. More specifically, reports out of the SuperCharger offices are that scouts are raving about the stuff of Ryan Christman, the 20-year-old righthander from De Plaines, IL. While Christman has struggled in AAA this season, his two top pitches, a hard-breaking forkball and a "plus" changeup, go with an above average 4-seamer which should keep hitters guessing.

However, what really gets the 'Charger scouts all worked up is the idea of pairing Christman with their own minor league pitching gem, the big 6'-5" lefty Julian Carincross. Both have shown the potential to have dominating stuff, though both have also shown a tendancy to get a bit wild now and then. The hope is that while they should both profit greatly from another season in the minors, sometime over the next season or two they'll be integrated into the big league rotation, slotted behind big-money vet Turk Melhuse, and 24-year-old rookie lefthander Bronson Wang, who is taking the league by storm. The club is hoping Melhuse's vetran presence will be able to keep the precocious youngesters in line, but Wang should be able to bridge the gap to the younger guys and help them grow.

So while the outlook for the rest of this season may not match the bright sunshine surrounding Petco Park, the future should be more than up to the challenge.

St. Louis: Bullpen Responds to Criticism

2008-02-15T20:30:00.004-05:00

St. Louis, 2/15/08: The same day that St. Louis manager schedule1 called out the bullpen to reporters, two relievers combined to shut down the Boston Bulldogs in the 8th and 9th innings to secure a Switchmen victory.

"I have faith in these kids. They're learning on the fly. But when the rotation is clicking and the bats are producing, they've got to take the blame for our .500 record," schedule1 said before the game. He cited the ERAs of the four starters, which were all "hovering around 3.00", and also said that he would continue to rely heavily on the young bullpen to protect leads despite its recent struggles.

Starter Grover Sikorski pitched 7 innings, giving up 3 runs (2 earned), and left the game trailing by a run. Schedule turned to Rich Klesko (2-2) to keep the Switchmen in the game, and he did, retiring three straight batters after a leadoff single. The Swtichmen, aided by a two-out error by Boston shortstop Darrin Barclay, rallied for 3 in the 8th, and Derek Brock earned his 4th save, striking out 2.

"They're a great bunch. They're young," said schedule after the game. Our 6 setup guys have 5 years of big-league experience between them. If they can turn it around-- and I believe that they can-- we'll be in good shape."

Klesko, the youngest member of the team at 20, indicate an increasing comfort level. "This is a lot different from what I'm used to. The older pitchers have been great at helping us adjust, and I'm finally getting used to the big-league treatment." His numbers corroborate his statement; Klesko hasn't given up a run in his last four appearances.

Shuffling all the way to the bank

2008-02-15T19:37:00.000-05:00

One of the biggest splashes this past offseason was the monster $130M contract signed by Kyle Thomas to play LF for the Kansas City Shuffle.

Now, Thomas has been earning his money with a .386 average to go with 12 HRs and 40 RBI through 36 games, but even his other-worldly 1.268 OPS hasn't been able to keep the Shuffle out of last place in the NL North.

Kyle Thomas
Kansas City
Shuffle
Age: 29	B/T: R/R
Born: Atoka, OK
Position(s): LF
View Hardball Dynasty Profile

That's not to say the Oklahoma native hasn't enjoyed his move to Missouri.

"Everyone here in KC has been great. Very nice, and they know that even if we haven't shown it, this team has the chance to be great! With some of the kids they're bringing up, I've just got to go out there and produce, show them how to be professionals. The rest should fall into place."

With a slow start, the Shuffle are hoping that the youth movement can start showing what they think they're capable of, and with Kyle Thomas leading the way, they hope that will include challenging for a division title in the near future.

PHILADELPHIA ENQUIERERER

2008-02-15T19:34:00.000-05:00

*Philly glad it will take at worst "115-47" to stick around next year*

Having inherited a team so puzzlingly bad, new owner sickchangeup is just glad of one thing: "I've gone 117-45 in the Negro Leagues before, so even if things go completely sour, and we end this season on a 126 game losing streak, I feel like we're still in it. 115-47 is not out of the question for season 2, I've seen worse".

While clearly delusional, one probably should question why a team in dire need of wins, and mostly devoid of talent, would go ahead and move it's two best players at the ML level for prospects. "He knows he needs to win .400 right?" asked commish csherwood of owner thaceo at the latest veterans committee meeting. "Definitely" theceo replied, "perhaps maths isn't his thing?".

Indeed, maths is NOT his thing. But when questioned on the trade, he said it was simply too good to pass on, even if some other owner stands to reap the rewards "Anytime you get to trade an overperforming 33 year old injury risk and two low DUR closers for your future catcher AND a lefty closer with triple digit split potential, you gotta take it - Billy Wagner doesn't grow on trees".

Ah yes.... A Philly owner using a Billy Wagner analogy... and trying to make that a GOOD THING. Clearly baseball history isn't his "forte" either. So what's the plan for this franchise? "Well, we signed some guy who's name I don't recall off the trash heap last week. He went a solid five and two thirds, giving up a solid 7 runs", adding "We lost that one unfortunately".

Solid indeed. And just as clearly this team is gonna be diving deep into Free Agency next season, or praying the waiver wire brings something otherworldy some day soon. Or Season 2 could be this owners first, and last, full season in moneyball.

Reporting from Philadelphia, I'm Bill "Large" Colon.

Screaming Beavers aquire Eli Espinosa

2008-02-15T19:33:00.000-05:00

SCREAMING BEAVER RADIO

Looking to boost an under-achieving offense, the Minnesota Screaming Beavers dealt veteran CF Louie Lopez to Florida for Eli Espinosa. Espinosa will immediately take over full time 2B duties and hit at the top of the order. His batting eye, tremendous speed and running ability should provide the spark the Beavers have been needing all season. He also fits in nicely with the Beavers pitching & defense first philosophy with above average range and glove.Rookie 3B Lee Clifton will split time at the hot corner with displaced IF Sam Goldman. Neither player was very happy with the news but understood management's decision to make a move.

GM Tropicana Shakes things up a bit in Seattle

2008-02-15T19:32:00.000-05:00

SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER

Between 10:30 am and 11:30 pm, Seattle Sanguine GM tropicana changed the entire shape of the franchise.

The team looked to be headed towards a .500 record, with a very up and down season on the horizon. The offense was obviously an area of deep concern, with 4 hitters managing averages around the mendoza line, highlighted by Victor Olivares' anemic .180 average. With all four hitters forming the 4-7 part of the lineup, at times, Seattle's offense would become non-existent. Then came Saturday.

Tropicana made three huge trades, and together, they give the Sanguine a now scary lineup, while at the same time shoring up their bullpen.

The first deal was looked on with some curiosity, as the Sanguine dealt potential superstar arm Fritz Corino for two sluggers, David Coombs and minor leaguer Willie Chantres. While many looked on Coombs as someone with talent, most thought it wasn't enough return for Corino.

The last two deals set the Sanguine up to be contenders the rest of this season. In the first, Seattle sent possible late-season rotation candidate Al Caballero to Nashville for Apollo Griffin and Max Grebeck.

"Where we were dealing Corino for some depth, we sent out Caballero to give this team some much needed punch," tropicana said. "Griffin is going to provide Victor some protection in the lineup, and we're hoping that that will allow him to see some better pitches as Apollo asserts himself."

The final trade of the day sort of came out of nowhere, as new owner of Philly sickchangeup and tropicana had been talking on and off the whole evening and came up with a blockbuster of a deal. Though Seattle had to part with Billy Ray O'Donnell, a potential closer in the future, the return that the received was huge, netting Chris Knoblauch from Philly (giving them a legit closer), Richie Nicholson (who will provide another, solid middle of the lineup bat), and future ML reliever Branch Kerr, who will most likely slot in at AA.

"All in all, the third trade, the one with Philly, that was the one that just might put this team over the top," tropicana said. "Nicholson will be a great contributor for us this season, and should slot into our into our outfield, providing us both with better defense as well as more offense."

"The key really was Knoblauch, which I told everyone in our organization and sickchangeup, as well," tropicana continued. "We needed him to shore up our bullpen, which was our new biggest weakness, and I told him I was pretty much willing to give him whatever to make the deal work. Billy Ray, though we liked him a lot, was what he settled on."

Knoblauch will almost certainly take over the closer's role from Brent Portugal, who though he was 7 for 7 in save opportunities, had been shaky at times.

Moneyball Power Rankings #1

2008-02-15T19:31:00.001-05:00

#1 Atlanta Sprawl, AL South (14-6; Run dif: +87)The Sprawl exploded out of the gate, winning their first seven games in convincing fashion… Atlanta leads the league in runs, walks, stolen bases and OPS, while boasting the 2nd best team ERA at 3.22… A couple of ninth inning meltdowns from a talented bullpen has the club shuffling the cards in their closer-by-committee approach… In his first 20 games, DH/1B Jerry Daly has posted an obnoxious .412/.488/.853 line with 37 Rbis… The club recently acquired SS Harry Olerud from Oklahoma with the intention of rectifying some ill-advised early-season defensive positioning…. SP Louis Mahler went 4-0 with a 1.69 to win the first Pitcher of the Week award.

#2 Las Vegas Flying Elvises, NL West (14-6; Run dif: +27)The Elvises have mashed their way to the best record in the NL, with ROY favorite Tony Cruz (.324/.437/.662) and slugger Efrain Koskie (.319/.405/.797 with 27 Rbis; riding a 10-game hitting streak) rallying the club… The team boasts a balanced attack, ranking 10th in runs scored and 7th in ERA… The club has gotten stellar starting pitching performances from the top 4 starters and closer Herbert Sherman (6 for 6 in save opps, with a .57 whip and 1.29 ERA). The rest of the bullpen has struggled at times… CF Bill Towers is collecting triples and HBP at a breakneck pace.

#3 Portland Brewtopians, AL West (12-8; Run dif: +34)At first glance, teams may write off Portland’s league-leading 2.94 ERA to playing in cavernous PGE Park, but amazingly, the Brewtopians’ road ERA (2.40) is superior to their home ERA (3.23)… 9 of the 10 Brew pitchers to toss an inning this season have ERAs under 4, while bullpen trio Frank Lim (8 saves), JJ Mason and Gregg Truman all sport whips of .90 or better… The offense has yet to click, falling the middle of the pack in most categories. ROY favorite Kyle Stynes has done his part (.293/.330/.732 with 9 homers and 28 rbis), and Kent Titan and C Harry Cabeza have held their own, but the rest of the lineup provides little support: four starters carry OPS’ under .600.

#4 Cleveland Rockstars, AL East (13-7; Run dif: +27)Cleveland’s prodigious offense leads the league in home runs and slugging percentage. Lonny Vallarta has been everything the club hoped he would be when they acquired him from Atlanta, smacking AL pitching around to the tune of .294/.55/.794… Hersh “The Hitman” Hartman is not one to be outdone, though: .337/.367/.706 and 22 Rbis… One statistic of note: Cleveland’s team ERA is a respectable 4.29, good for 12th in the league, but their Whip is an atrocious 1.54, tied for second worst in Moneyball, and suggests that the club may have caught a few breaks up until this point.

#5 Houston Yeehaw Fantasticos, NL South (13-7; Run dif: +19)Houston features a prolific offensive attack, ranking in the top 5 of most offensive categories, buttressed by a middling pitching staff that has blown it’s share of leads early this season… It hasn’t been pretty at times, but expensive FA acquisition Bubbles McCallum is 4 for 4 in save opportunities… 34 year old Charles Chang has enjoyed some sup[rising success early on, sporting a 1.82 ERA, while going 2-0 in 4 starts and even saving a game… Offensive Player of the Week Heinie Ross hit .397/.516/.712 over the first 20 games of the season, while partner in crime (and off-season acquisition) Javy Palmeiro is holding his own with an impressive .347/.424/.520 line…. The club has to be pleased with the 9 home runs and 28 Rbis they’ve gotten out of lunchpail 1B Carl Thomas.

#6 Washington D.C. Whistling Badgers, NL East (12-8; Run dif: +24)The Badgers have been carried this far by dominant performances by starters Pedro Zapata, Anthony Byrne and Santiago Navarro, as well as an 8-for-8 performance from closer Mark Palmer, but the rest of the staff – particularly the bullpen – has struggled mightily… 1B Heathcliff Cameron and LF Fernando Blanco have carried the offense this far, but off-season acquisition Cliff Bonilla (.236/.329/.444) has yet to pay dividends.

#7 Oklahoma City Orchestra, NL South (10-10; Run dif: +25)Oklahoma brings a top-tier offense to the plate, batting .296 as a team and scoring the third most runs through the first 20 games of the year, but the pitching has struggled: the four-man rotation has three ERAs over 5… The bullpen, however, has been spectacular: Closer Barry Yeager has yet to surrender a run, and the club boasts four other setup men with Whips under 1.00… Leadoff man Cooper Alexander has managed 30 hits in 20 games, but only one extra base hit… Barry Jacobsen is playing way beyond his ability, raking a .348/.411/.864 line in the early going…. The .350/.441/.563 line that Nigel Nakajima is posting? That might continue.

#8 Minnesota Screaming Beavers, AL North (10-10; Run dif: +20)The Beavers have been doing it with pitching, flaunting a 3.38 team ERA… The strength of the club thus far has been the bullpen, though the starting combo of Gabe Douglas and Julian Hancock have been better than their 1 combined win might suggest… Closer Matty Gregg got shelled earlier and often, and the shutdown duties have been dispersed with more promising results… FA signing Bo Forrest has been spectacular (.432/.511/.753), while trade acquisition Patsy Wynn (.284/.304/.511) has provided a little pop to a subpar offense.

#9 Chicago Capone Bootleggers, NL North (12-8; Run dif: +7)The Bootleggers have been doing it with smoke and mirrors thus far, posting a 12-8 record despite a +7 run differential and few individual standouts… Davey Schultz has batted a sneaky .353 out of the 8 hole while 1B Larry Turner (23 rbis) has held down the middle of the lineup… Staff ace Danny Borland has been leaned on heavily in the early going, posting an impressive 2.25 ERA in 35 innings.

#10 Detroit Steelheads, NL North (11-9; Run dif: +15)A handful of bullpen implosions (1 for 5 in save opportunities thus far) have sullied the perfect game that began the Steelheads’ season, but their league-leading 1.18 whip and solid run differential suggest they will be a force in the NL as the season progresses… It’s not surprising that Detroit has given Matty Norton and Benito Granados such long leashes on the mound, the bullpen arms have made every game an adventure thus far… Norton is 1-3 despite a 2.91 ERA and 1.01 whip… Trade acquisition Ozzie Takada has been everything the club hoped for, smacking a .370/.474/.531 line with 11 steals thus far… CF George Ward has been a disappointment in the early going, and the Steelheads have rotated a number of players in and out of the lineup to find a mix that can best support their pitching.

International Signing Report

2008-02-15T19:30:00.000-05:00

The thrice owned Philapelphia Citi Quakers under previous owner mitchrapp broke the bank in signing P Emmanuel Ferrer to a major league contract with a record bonus of $21 million. Ferrer looks to be a top line starter down the line, as long as he stays healthy. With 4 above average pitches, Ferrer should be able to keep hitters off balance as he moves up the ladder. Currently in LowA, look for new ownership in Philly to show a little patience as Ferrer gets better with age.

The Cleveland Rockstars signed C Al Belliard to a major league deal, with a $4mil bonus thrown in. While not the greatest defensively, Belliard should be solid with a bat in his hands, and might end up spending plenty of time in the majors as a DH.

Also signed to a major league contract was P Russ Cox by the New York Empires. Figuring that you can't call yourself an Empire without have a top notch pitching prospect, the Empires blew away the competition by offering Cox a major league deal and a $20 million bonus. While not quite in Ferrer's class in terms of dominating pitches, Cox is more well rounded in other ways, and should be a top of the rotation guy in New York.

The last remaining International signed to a major league deal as of this writing is LF Ivan Leon, who starts his career in AA for the Nashville Tennesseans. Leon is the best hitter to come from the International curcuit thus far, with solid power and a good eye that should allow him to look for his pitch. That $15.1 million bonus should keep him in Grand Ol' Oprey tickets for awhile too.More later...

-rugrat

AL East Awards Favs

2008-02-07T15:26:00.001-05:00

Boston Bulldogs

MVP: Murray Foxx, Murray is as solid as they come. 6’3 220 lbs of switch hitting power. That being said the lineup around him his rather average and it will take something unexpected for him to make a play for the MVP. 40 homers, .300 AVG/.400 OBP 115 RBI. On a more offensive minded team he could post better numbers. A long shot for the MVP.

Cy Young: Craig Walsh, solid but not spectacular. Has amazing control and does a good job of keeping the ball in the park. Beyond that he is only known for being a workhorse.
35 starts-250 innings, 16 wins 180 k’s ERA around 4.00. If the moons align…maybe.

ROY: Rocky Curtis a lot of the Bulldogs success hinges on this 22 yr old Cf’er. Nothing great with the glove and playing in Fenway CF is very important, he is however a dynamo with the bat. Look for 30 steals and 20+ homers. His average will be helped by his blazing speed and a strong eye. .320avg/ .400obp. A good shot at ROY if voters can get past his shaky defense.

Cleveland Rockstars

MVP: Hersh Hartman Long and lean Hersh Hartman, Cleveland has a very strong offense centered around their 3rd baseman. He is a strong fielder and in just his 5th season in the majors he is still getting better. Looking for 45 homers 120 rbi, .330 avg/.400 obp and maybe a gold glove. As long as the Rockstars play well he will be a front runner for the MVP.

Cy Young: Guillermo Salinas Salinas has 3 top notch pitches and solid 4th with is cut fastball. With the Rockstar offense behind him and his ability to pitch late into games he is going to get a great chance at winning many games. Look for him to get close to 20 wins in his 35+ starts/225 innings, 175k’s and a solid 3.50 ERA. He has a great chance at being nominated.

ROY: Lonny Vallarta the 5 tool rookie is going to be so good this year he may actually get close to an MVP nom. Great speed, great fielding, Amazing power and the ability to hit for average as well. Cleveland will be in contention as long as he is playing for them. .335 avg 40 homers, 20 + steals.
My personal pres-season ROY pick.

New York Empires

MVP: Yorrick Parrish I had a lot of troubling writing this one, the Empires offense is almost nill. Parrish has a fair amount of pop, but unless everyone in front of him has a great season he wont get near enough rbi’s to warrant real consideration. .265 AVG/ 350 OBP, 38 homers 100 rbi. MVP dreamer and nothing more.

Cy Young: Pat Lynch Pat is a fine pitcher in the last few seasons of his career. Without much run support behind him he may wish he retired this past off season. Good control and 2 solid pitches and the ability to get lefties and righties out equally well. 32 starts 200 innings, 12-13 wins, 140 k’s with a respectable 4.00 ERA. Maybe on another team his chances would be better.

ROY: Oswaldo Rodriguez its not all doom and gloom in the big apple. 23 yr old Rodriguez is a future All-star at 2nd base. He wont get much attention for the ROY this season but is growing into a star. Great fielder, speed baserunning and a solid bat. Look for .275 avg, 15 homers 25 steals this season. ROY long shot but a keeper for sure.

Pittsburgh Pagans

MVP: Max Maxwell more flash then bash. Maxwell is a smooth fielding consistent hitting SS. Pittsburgh doesn’t have the most explosive offense, but they are very fast and very smart. Look for Maxwell to lead that charge. .300 avg/ .380 obp, 18 homers/85 rbi, 30 steals. A true team player but not a real MVP.

Cy Young: Cristian Davis Davis is by no means a great closer, but then again Pittsburgh doesn’t have any great starters. He has a great arm that bounces back day after day and he will need it as the Pagans will be calling on him constantly this season. Look for 35 saves 70 games 100 innings 4.25 ERA, 80k’s and no real chance of winning the Cy Young. PS he is a rookie, but wont win that award either.

ROY: Reid Washington Washington is a solid 24 yr old 1st baseman who is a perfect example of a Pagan type player. Smart and dependable. He is a good fielder for 1st and a fairly avg hitter, expect .280 avg 22 homers 85 rbi. Probably not a ROY but a solid season none the less.

Pitcher Perfect

2008-02-06T11:28:00.000-05:00

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- To paraphrase erstwhile Durham Bull "Nuke" Laloosh, last week 25-year-old Dick Linden of the San Francisco Amoebas announced his presence in San Diego's Petco Park with authority.

While Linden's performance early in his third major league season resembled the dominance implied by the 18 strikeout debut of Tim Robbins' flamethrowing character, the 18 walks that went with them were nowhere to be seen.

And neither were any hits.

In fact, Linden was the epitomy of dominance with an economical 98 pitches to dispatch of every 'Charger batter he faced.

The pride of Becker, MN, the 6'-4" 199 pound Linden has adjsuted slowly to life in NorCal. With an unsteady rookie campaign, followed up by a sophomore season where he showed flashes of brilliance, the righthander seems to be coming into his own after spending his offseason in the San Francisco area training with teammates. That's not to say that Linden, an avid hunter, didn't make it back for big chunks of deer season, but staying in a warmer climate seems to have helped him stay focused on his summertime profession through the long offseason.

"It was great! Me and some of the guys went up through Sausalito, to Santa Rosa one weekend, stopping in a few of the wineries. Now, we're not wine guys, but it was nice to get out and see some parts of the area other than the stadium and the practice facilities, you know?"

It was on this trip that Linden started to appreciate the fanatical nature of many of the fans: "Man, we got to see how much they wanted us to kick ass this season. You get to see how the rivalries with the guys down south [like Los Angeles and San Diego] are big deals around here."

Of course, this made the fact that his Perfect Game was in San Diego against the SuperChargers even sweeter, said Linden, "Yeah, you know a lot of those guys, and with all the talk about LA being the top dog in the state, and the 'Chargers landing Melhuse in the offseason, you start to think: Hey! We've got a pretty good staff up here, too! It was special for me, and I'm sure it was special for the fans, too, to be able to walk in there and throw down the gauntlet.... they can't take games against 'Frisco lightly!"

Youthful exuberance aside, the Amoebas are probably a bat or two from being real contenders for the division with pre-season favourite Los Angeles or current NL West-leading Las Vegas, but with a few more performances like Linden's, it will be very hard to take any future trips to San Francisco lightly at all.

AL North Award Favs

2008-02-05T14:58:00.001-05:00

Cincinnati Alektorophobiac Chickenhawks

MVP: Brian Kim this hard hitting Left Fielder carries a lot of the offensive load in Cincinnati. Is some what prone to injury but if he can stay healthy look for him to hit about .320/.400OBP with 30+ hrs and 40 doubles and drive in about 110 runs. A smart baserunner but has below average speed. A gold glove in LF is not out of the question. A long shot for MVP consideration.

Cy Young: Joseph Saitou a crafty Japanese right hander. Singed a big 4 year deal and now needs to prove he is worth all that money. 2 very good fastballs without a great 3rd pitch he will have to rely on defense to get out of innings. He is a work horse so look for 35+ starts 230+ innings, 16-18 wins, 125+k’s and ERA around 3.50. Top ten Cy Young candidate.

ROY: Nick Morgan the Rookie 2nd baseman moves to RF and to the cleanup spot after playing primarily INF positions and batting in the 3 hole during his climb to the majors. His weak arm may be better suited for LF or at best 2nd base. There is no denying his bat though. He will get lots of chances to drive in runs. Look for a solid 280 avg/.350obp, 25 homers 100 rbi and 5-8 steals. A definite ROY front runner.

Minnesota Screaming Beavers

MVP: Patsy Wynn probably the most complete 1st baseman in either league. Was acquired in a blockbuster deal this off-season to anchor the screaming beavers attack. Solid defense, great baseunning smarts, above average speed and powerful stick. .335 avg/ 400 obp, 40+ homers 125 RBI, 20 steals. Top 5 MVP hopefull.

Cy Young: Don Averill with Minnesota not yet naming a closer the position is still open. Many peg the job to go to young hard throwing Canuck Don Averill. Not to often do Closers get Cy Young attention but with a fairly average starting rotation the bullpen will get plenty of work. 65 games, 80 innings 35 saves, 90+ k’s, 2.50 ERA. Cy Young Long shot.

ROY: Tony Wright Skokie Illinois has a new favorite son. Wright slides into the 3 spot in the Beavers rotation. Has an incredible knuckle ball and a hard slider to keep batters off-balance. With the beavers offense and bullpen he could see lots of W’s. 32 Starts, 190 innings 13-15 wins, 120 k’s, ERA around 3.90-4.20. Middle of the pack for ROY.

Montreal Maroons

MVP: Bernie Cruz a solid 1st baseman with great leadership qualities. Pretty much a hitter as he is nothing special with the glove or on the bases. Should get lots of RBi with a solid lineup in front of him…40+homers, 120 rbi. 330 avg/ .410 obp. Top Ten MVP hopefull.

Cy Young: Rickey Ellis at 6’1 and 177lbs he doesn’t look like much. But he is one of the hardest hurlers in the league. An amazing slider and a splitter that he doesn’t throw enough. Tough on righties and terrific control. With run support could contend for the Pitching triple crown. 35 starts-230 innings, 20 wins 200 k’s, 3.00 ERA. Cy Young front runner.

ROY: Luis Borges tough call between Borges and 2nd baseman Harry Rivera
But with Luis incredible power he is hard to ignore. Should hit close to .300 and knock out over 35 homers. A gold glove in RF is probably in his future as well. Top 5 candidate for the ROY.

St. Louis Switchmen

MVP: Robinson Callaway Wow, the beast from the East. He posses all the tools to win a MVP. Power, Defense, AVG and speed to burn. Very disciplined and patient he is an early favorite to win the MVP. Expect 40 homers, 320 AVG 125 RBI 15 steals and maybe a Gold Glove. His name is already penciled in on my ballot.

Cy Young: Grover Sikorski another Canuck who should be in the running for an Award. Sikorski has impeccable control and fastball with great movement. His lack of a standout second pitch and his proneness to the long ball may hold him back. 35 starts- 200 innings, 16-18 wins, 3.75 era, 130 k’s and an outside look at the Cy Young.

ROY: David Martin a testament to the St. Louis pitching staff id that David Martin the hulking rookie from Springfield Mass is their number 4. Great control and serious heat. At only 22 he looks to only get MUCH better in the years to come. 32 starts 180 innings, 13-15 wins, 155 k’s 4.00 ERA. Strong ROY candidate, needs work on 3rd and 4th pitch.

Today in Moneyball

2008-02-03T17:44:00.000-05:00

2/2 PM2

In a 10 inning nail biter the ChickenHawks beat the Maroons on a William Sewell walk off home run

The New York Empires played 20 innings vs the Boston Bulldogs, but came out with a 12-4 win after a big 20th,following the ejection of manager jabronidan.

2/3 AM

The Yeehaw Fantasticos pulled past the Oklahoma City Orchestra after 2B Jack Callaway drove in the game winning run

Erubiel Segui drove in the game-winning run in a 3-2 Buffalo win over Philadelphia.

Josh Glanville was placed on the 15 day DL with a shoulder strain

2/3 PM2

Recently traded Terry Torres drove in the game winning run in a 4-2 win over the Texas Leaguers. The Leaguers begin the season 0-3.

Alan Baker hit 2 Homers in a 6-3 win over the Seattle Sanguine

Vic Austin drove in the game winning run in a 8-7 Argonaut win over Kansas City

Alton Ridge knocked 2 longballs in a 5-4 win over the ChickenHawks.

The Bulldogs signed bonus international SP D'Angelo Almanzar to a 2.7 million dollar signing bonus

Matty Norton No-Hits the Bootleggers!

2008-02-02T17:33:00.000-05:00

Detroit 4, Chicago 0

DETROIT, Michigan (AP) -- With only half the league in action, Opening Morning had no shortage of excitement, especially at spacious Comerica Park. Matty Norton threw the first ever no-hitter of the 1/2 day old Moneyball World, as the Detroit Steelheads topped the Chicago Capone Bootleggers 4-0.

The 26 year old ace was unshaken by the feat, and when asked how he felt about Moneyball's first no-no he said, "I was just happy to get my first major league hit in the 7th!" It only took Norton 93 pitches, and he was only a 6th inning walk of Davey Schultz away from the Perfect Game.

St. Louis Switchmen Season Preview

2008-02-02T14:17:00.001-05:00

Lineup:

2B Phillip Serrano #16 82/24/42/68/59 Contact/Power/vs.L/vs.R/Eye.
CF Walt Forsch # 8 94/50/84/72/75
RF Robinson Callaway #11 51/89/85/80/58
LF Geoff Bigbie #43 74/81/49/49/72
3B Bill McBride #15 44/94/63/50/52
DH Ramon Sano # 7 70/66/73/88/86
1B Aaron Young #25 52/92/54/63/61
C Vic Archer 67/41/49/41/68
SS Glen Lowe (vs.R) #10 62/36/54/70/73
SS Dustan Rolls (L) # 2 45/31/71/35/41

Rotation:
DUR/STA CON/ L/ R/VE GB Pitches
Willis Kirk 25/84 74/82/75/90 61 81/72/58/68
Grover Sikorski 31/73 100/60/70/43 29 93/66/47/34
David Martin 29/68 78/60/77/87 41 88/65/41/39
Gary Piazza 32/73 78/52/55/84 80 78/61/38/44/25

(to be continued)

The '85 Club'

2008-02-01T16:55:00.000-05:00

(With apologies to some other HBD blogs.)

RF Tony Cruz (27) Las Vegas 95/95

LF Kyle Thomas (29) Kansas City 93/93

RF Timothy Franco (27) Anaheim 92/92

SP Santiago Navarro (27) Washington 91/91

LF Heinie Ross (26) Houston 90/95

SS Placido Gonzales (30) Washington 90/90

SS Max Maxwell (30) Pittsburgh 90/90

RF Kyle Stynes (23) Portland 89/96

2B Ozzie Takada (29) Detroit 89/89

CF Curt Snyder (26) New Orleans 87/92

SP Vasco Rodriguez (26) Portland 87/91

SP Rickey Ellis (28) Montreal 87/87

LF Bo Forrest (31) Minnesota 87/87

SP Andrew Mitchell (33) Charlotte 87/87

2B Javy Palmeiro (29) Houston 87/87

2B Ismael Guillen (23) Chicago 86/91

SP Wilt Camilli (26) Houston 86/91

SP Matty Norton (26) Detroit 86/90

SS Terry Torres (26) Florida 86/90

SP Les Mills (29) Los Angeles 86/86

RP Barry Yeager (30) Oklahoma City 86/86

SS Duffy Thielman (28) Portland 86/86

SP Craig Walsh (29) Boston 86/86

RF Ned Watson (29) Kansas City 86/86

LF Eric Schalk (31) Detroit 86/86

SP Patrick Brunette (23) Toronto 85/91

LF Lonny Vallarta (25) Cleveland 85/88

SP Guillermo Salinas (28) Cleveland 85/85

2B Cliff Bonilla (29) Washington 85/85

SP Michael Browning (33) Cleveland 85/85

CF Walt Forsch (28) Saint Louis 85/85

SS Evan Hollins (29) Texas 85/85

SP Jake Joseph (29) Los Angeles 85/85

SP Turk Melhuse (31) San Diego 85/85

Four teams have three members, three teams have two, 15 have one and 10 teams have none.

Report: Brewtopians to aquire Morris in 3 player deal

2008-02-01T00:03:00.000-05:00

PORTLAND STAR

The Brewtopians, today acquired 3b Marc "Tiny" Morris from Cincinnati in a 3 player deal: "Some feel that we are taking a big risk in taking on a 4 year contract for a 31 year old" said GM Nzballa, "But in Marc we get a great hitter who should hit well above .300 with 20/20 capabilities and an exceptional glove" he added, "We feel that adding a bat of his calibre makes our lineup as good as anybodies in the league".

Report: Seattle and Portland Agree on Trade

2008-02-01T00:02:00.000-05:00

The Sanguine and the Brewtopians came together on a trade prior to spring training, and just now executed it after working out all of the particulars.

Though not a blockbuster, many in the Sanguine organization are very excited about the deal, which sends nearly ready 3B prospect Vic Sosa to Portland for starting pitcher Royce Parrott.

"We like Vic here in Seattle, but I don't foresee a situation where he gets to the majors any time soon," Seattle GM tropicana said. "It made sense to move Vic -- as a favor to him -- since he's nearly ready to go right now."

Though quick to compliment Sosa, tropicana was very obviously happy about Parrott, who should be an immediate contributor for the Sanguine.

"We knew that we needed to get something pretty valuable to us to make a deal that would send Sosa out, not only for us but for our fan base -- The obvious question they would have is, 'Why are we sending out prospects when we're trying to rebuild things?'" tropicana observed. "When the opportunity came to us, we stuck to our company line of needing starting pitching -- and in Royce I really think we got that. At the ML level, we didn't have a lot of depth in the rotation, and Royce will immediately step in and start."

Parrott threw in long relief for the Brewtopians this season, and was decidedly unimpressive, compiling a 7.59 ERA and 1.69 WHIP in 10 2/3 innings. The Sanguine, however, expect to give Parrott avery long leash in the rotation, mainly due to lack of other roptions.

New Orleans Brass Season Preview

2008-01-30T10:11:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-29T00:20:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-29T00:18:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-28T19:24:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-27T20:55:00.001-05:00

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

2008-01-27T20:52:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-27T20:51:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-27T16:34:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-27T15:22:00.001-05:00

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

2008-01-27T12:46:00.001-05:00

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

2008-01-27T01:46:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-27T01:34:00.001-05:00

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

2008-01-27T01:33:00.004-05:00

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

2008-01-27T01:33:00.003-05:00

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

2008-01-27T01:33:00.001-05:00

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

2008-01-27T01:32:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-26T00:15:00.000-05:00

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

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

2008-01-21T13:03:00.000-05:00

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

2008-01-19T16:35:00.001-05:00

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

2008-01-16T14:28:00.000-05:00

(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

2008-01-11T01:09:00.000-05:00

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.....

2008-01-10T11:29:00.000-05:00

Tampa Bay Citrus Announce Uniform Design

2008-01-01T14:40:00.000-05:00

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.

Press Release

2007-12-11T13:54:00.000-05:00

Word has just leaked that the owners elected to the Vetran Committee for the band new Moneyball World are TheJester74, pb15 and ck1909 in the American League, while over in the National League threester, jgoblue152 and brickyard9 get the nod.

It has also recently been whispered that csherwood has been named the league's first ever Commissioner.

There are a lot of championships on the table here, and a lot of experience in running other leagues, so hopefully everyone will be able to put their respective egos aside, and concentrate on getting down to business.

VETERANS COMMITTEE ELECTIONS UNDERWAY!

2007-12-03T23:49:00.000-05:00

G.M.s Converge on the Music City!

By Dick O'Toole/ MBL.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- December brings that special time of the year where the owners and GMs of the newly created Moneyball Baseball League will take over the lobby and conference rooms of the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. But before the trade rumors start brewing, important business must be voted on in the 1st few days. First on the agenda is the election of both the N.L. & A.L. Veteran committees in addition to the official announcement of a 1st time Commissioner of this upstart league. The heavy favorites to be elected include highly respected NL owners Threester (Oklahoma City), CSherwood (Las Vegas) & Hatt11 (Detroit) and AL owners theJester74 (Cincinatti) & ck1909 (Salt Lake City). Rumor has it that after elections are held, several owners will head to the first of many watering holes, the WildHorse Saloon. This should be a very interesting winter.

EDIT (iain): For up-to-the-minute news regarding both formal and informal candidate statements, check here!

A quick note for commenters...

2007-11-26T17:09:00.000-05:00