Monthly Archives: June 2011
2011 MLB All-Star Game: Current Vote Totals Before Final Rosters Announced
Thursday, June 30, 2011
MLB reports: The All-Star rosters for the MLB All-Star game will be announced this Sunday, July 3rd. With the polling stations set to close shortly, we are nearing the end of the voting process. After weeks of fan voting on-line and at all MLB stadiums, decision day is upon us in three short days. But for those of you that don’t like to wait, we have the current vote totals for the AL and NL All-Star rosters by position. We also prognosticate based on the current numbers as to who will win out and make the final squads. Let’s begin in the NL, where some open races still exist:
2011 NATIONAL LEAGUE ALL-STAR BALLOTING (as of June 26)
CATCHER
Brian McCann, Braves: 3,062,884
Yadier Molina, Cardinals: 2,271,887
Buster Posey, Giants: 1,849,984
Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers: 1,451,280
Carlos Ruiz, Phillies: 1,392,944
Prediction: Brian McCann kept his lead and deserves this spot. He will be behind the plate in Arizona for the NL squad. Despite missing most of the season due to injury, Buster Posey still sits in 2nd place. The state of NL catching is weak this year to say the least. With no competition in the field, McCann is your first named starter.
FIRST BASE
Albert Pujols, Cardinals: 3,358,432
Prince Fielder, Brewers: 2,903,584
Joey Votto, Reds: 2,832,857
Ryan Howard, Phillies: 1,881,711
Freddie Freeman, Braves: 702,911
Prediction: Despite his injury and guarantee to miss the game, Albert Pujols will be voted in as a starter (in name only). Prince Fielder has been enjoying a remarkable season and deserves a better fate. While Prince will go to Arizona, it will be as a substitute for Pujols. The lead is just too large and Pujols has too strong of a name recognition for Prince to overcome.
SECOND BASE
Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 2,869,583
Brandon Phillips, Reds: 2,791,186
Chase Utley, Phillies: 2,406,965
Dan Uggla, Braves: 1,223,812
Freddy Sanchez, Giants: 1,184,145
Prediction: This one is very close to call. Based on his late push, our money is on Rickie Weeks winning out over Brandon Phillips. A recent return by Chase Utley has created a mini-push for him as well. In any other year this position would be Utley’s position to lose. But clearly fans have determined that Utley has missed too much time and Weeks is deserving of his recognition.
THIRD BASE
Placido Polanco, Phillies: 3,261,718
Chipper Jones, Braves: 2,040,594
Pablo Sandoval, Giants: 1,584,671
David Wright, Mets: 1,497,778
Scott Rolen, Reds: 1,417,248
Prediction: The Phillies fans have spoken and Placido Polanco will be starting at the All-Star game. David Wright’s free fall from stardom has paved the way for new/old faces to emerge. This has been Polanco’s spot to lose from the beginning and has steady play has been enough to win out. Sometimes slow and steady does win the race.
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 2,955,609
Jose Reyes, Mets: 2,710,777
Jimmy Rollins, Phillies: 1,724,166
Alex Gonzalez, Braves: 1,142,470
Yuniesky Betancourt, Brewers: 1,131,078
Prediction: Another very close race that is difficult to handicap. The gut feel on this one is that Jose Reyes has received enough publicity and media attention to garner the necessary votes to beat out Troy Tulowitzki. Reyes has enjoyed quite the comeback year and a starting role in Arizona would be the icing on the cake.
OUTFIELD
Ryan Braun, Brewers: 3,932,100
Lance Berkman, Cardinals: 3,208,183
Matt Holliday, Cardinals: 2,935,965
Matt Kemp, Dodgers: 2,743,927
Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 2,264,640
Jay Bruce, Reds: 2,119,267
Shane Victorino, Phillies: 1,742,128
Carlos Beltran, Mets: 1,639,362
Jason Heyward, Braves: 1,302,127
Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies: 1,253,728
Raul Ibanez, Phillies: 1,239,678
Corey Hart, Brewers: 1,217,629
Justin Upton, D-backs: 1,141,296
Carlos Gomez, Brewers: 1,016,685
Martin Prado, Braves: 1,012,084
Prediction: Ryan Braun and Lance Berkman have been foregone conclusions for some time. It is the battle for the 3rd and final outfield position that remains. For a while it was Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier on the heals of Matt Holliday. While Ethier has bowed out essentially, Kemp continues to get his push. But will it be enough? MLB reports says yes. In his breakout year, Kemp is getting the respect and attention he deserves. It appears that the fans would agree as well.
2011 AMERICAN LEAGUE ALL-STAR BALLOTING (as of June 28)
CATCHER
Russell Martin, Yankees: 2,779,592
Alex Avila, Tigers: 2,345,065
Joe Mauer, Twins: 1,699,604
Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Red Sox: 1,505,143
Yorvit Torrealba, Rangers: 1,309,802
Prediction: Detroit fans have made a solid plea for the inclusion of Alex Avila as the starting catcher for the AL squad. But the Yankee faithful have spoken otherwise and continue to lead, together with the Boston Red Sox in most spots. Catcher is one of them, with Russell Martin looking to be a lock for Arizona. The one item of note is that Joe Mauer will not be voted in. Mauer when healthy is one of the best, if not the best catchers in baseball. But this year has been a nightmare for Mauer health wise. It looks to be a chance for more new/old blood to shine.
FIRST BASE
Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox: 4,014,722
Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 3,077,242
Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 2,184,480
Mitch Moreland, Rangers: 1,209,258
Paul Konerko, White Sox: 932,422
Prediction: Taking a look at the numbers, 3 million votes for Mark Teixeira and 2 million votes for Miguel Cabrera is very respectable. But 4 million+ votes takes the cake in this race for Adrian Gonzalez. The current leading candidate for AL MVP according to many MLB followers has earned his start in Arizona. The Red Sox faithful are certainly not complaining.
SECOND BASE
Robinson Cano, Yankees: 4,724,816
Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 2,979,181
Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 1,896,259
Orlando Cabrera, Indians: 1,127,840
Ben Zobrist, Rays: 963,481
Prediction: Looking at the numbers, it is all Robinson Cano in this one. No AL second baseman has come close to matching his production and it shows in the voting. A well-earned spot for the maturing Cano who is graduating to complete superstar status in New York.
THIRD BASE
Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 3,735,406
Adrian Beltre, Rangers: 2,935,373
Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox: 2,724,286
Evan Longoria, Rays: 2,000,379
Brandon Inge, Tigers: 633,519
Prediction: Alex Rodriguez will have yet another All-Star game appearance. While Adrian Beltre got a sudden surge, it is the popularity and steadiness of A-Rod that will win out.
SHORTSTOP
Derek Jeter, Yankees: 3,392,128
Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians: 2,885,778
Elvis Andrus, Rangers: 1,971,514
Jhonny Peralta, Tigers: 1,178,114
Marco Scutaro, Red Sox: 1,099,744
Prediction: Another fairly weak field, similar to that of third base in the NL. Derek Jeter has slumped and/or been injured all season long. But the name will win out and Yankee fans are excited to see their future hall of fame shortstop going to the All-Star. Does Jeter deserve this spot this year? Probably not. But without a strong Indians base to campaign for Cabrera, the Yankees captain will start. Just too much of a lead at this point.
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz, Red Sox: 4,237,014
Michael Young, Rangers: 2,235,504
Jorge Posada, Yankees: 1,453,385
Victor Martinez, Tigers: 1,234,879
Johnny Damon, Rays: 1,028,366
Prediction: When you think DH, think David Ortiz. He is his own universe in voting this year. The DH market is starting to thin out and Ortiz has stood head and shoulders above the rest this year.
OUTFIELD
Jose Bautista, Blue Jays: 5,263,840
Curtis Granderson, Yankees: 4,582,419
Josh Hamilton, Rangers: 3,173,000
Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox: 3,051,675
Carl Crawford, Red Sox: 2,294,337
Nelson Cruz, Rangers: 1,912,783
Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners: 1,912,062
Nick Swisher, Yankees: 1,648,599
Brett Gardner, Yankees: 1,499,367
J.D. Drew, Red Sox: 1,428,367
Matt Joyce, Rays: 1,226,439
Jeff Francoeur, Royals: 1,061,445
David Murphy, Rangers: 1,057,887
Grady Sizemore, Indians: 1,033,014
Shin-Soo Choo, Indians: 924,326
Prediction: The first two spots in the AL outfield have been set for some time. Jose Bautista leads all All-Stars in voting and together with Curtis Granderson will definitely be in Arizona on July 12th. Josh Hamilton has held onto the 3rd spot for some time, despite missing part of the season due to injury. Jacoby Ellsbury has narrowed the gap significantly in the last couple of weeks and looks to be a starter by the time the rosters are announced on Sunday. Ellsbury has enjoyed a solid campaign this year and Red Sox nation is making the push for his inclusion in the big game. That is usually a recipe for success.
Get ready for July 12th, as the New York Red Sox (aka the AL All-Star team) takes on the NL squad on Tuesday July 12th to determine home field advantage for the World Series. The rosters will be announced this Sunday July 3rd and MLB reports will bring you all the final details. Stay tuned!
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E-MAILBAG: Ask the Reports, Wednesday June 29th
Thank you for reading the E-mailbag. Please send all your questions to mlbreports@gmail.com and please include your first name and City/Country.
We will be compiling a list of your questions from our e-mailbag and posting the responses on Wednesdays.
Wednesday June 29, 2011
Q: Money aside, who do you sign Prince or Pujols? From: Barry, New York.
MLB reports: The debate that has been raging from the last off-season continues. Going into the year, most would have chosen Albert Pujols. Great track record, monster numbers to the point of being a cut above Prince Fielder. Now with the Pujols injury and Fielder strong season, many are starting to lean towards Prince. Regardless of money, if I had a crack at either superstar first baseman, I would go with Pujols. Despite being older and having to come back from injury, Pujols is still Pujols. He is this generation’s Babe Ruth in my estimation and at his peak, brings a higher level of play than Fielder. Both will get their money, no doubt. Based on historical performances, I expect Pujols to still receive the higher payday unless he cannot return successfully from injuries. The ironic part is that the Cardinals will most likely retain Pujols, while Fielder will depart Milwaukee as a free agent. But if I had to choose one, Pujols on my team please.
Q: Will my Orioles ever contend? You live in Toronto so you know what I mean. From: Gary, Baltimore.
MLB reports: I hear ya Gary. I hear the moans and groans throughout the Rogers Centre on many nights about the inability of the Toronto Blue Jays to compete with the money of the Yankees and Red Sox. But often lost in the discussion is the Tampa Bay Rays. Last I checked, the Rays have been contenders for some time on a minimal budget. Yes, your Orioles can compete, even in the AL East. But the team will need to be built around strong homegrown prospects. With all the young Orioles players coming up and in place, the future is bright. Matt Wieters, Manny Machado and company will complement Adam Jones and Nick Markakis well. Plus you have young pitching coming up in every level. The future is bright in Baltimore and the team is being built the right way. Give it time, hope is there.
Q: When are the All-Star team rosters announced? I can’t wait! From Liz, Toronto.
MLB reports: The All-Star game will be played in Arizona on Tuesday July 12th. The rosters for the AL and NL squads will be announced on Sunday July 3rd. Then from July 3-7, fans will be able to vote on-line for the final player for each squad. Ballots need to be in by tomorrow so make sure to vote for your favorite players soon!
Q: Are you a Phillies fans? You talk about the team ALOT on twitter! From: Mary, Florida.
MLB reports: Hi Mary. Thanks for the question. I am a baseball fan in general (thus the “MLB reports” name). As far as favorite teams, as most of the readers know, I tend to lean towards the Tigers. I also show the Jays love as well. I talk about the Phillies quite a bit because they are very good. Look at their record. From there, I tend to focus on Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee. What the two of them could accomplish in the playoffs together is scary. I have never seen a 1-2 punch at the top of a rotation like this ever. Halladay may be the best pitcher of our time and Lee is unhittable when he is on. My heart may not be in Philadelphia, but my respect surely is.
Q: How do I join MLB Reports? I love baseball and writing. Please help! From Catherine, Seattle.
MLB reports: Thank you for the inquiry Catherine. We have people contributing to MLB reports in many ways. We are looking at taking on a couple of Interns. Click here to learn about the position and to apply. We also encourage readers to e-mail us about writing guest spots. As part of the MLB reports mandate, we look to help develop and assist young baseball writers in developing their craft. You can also “like” us on Facebook and contribute posts/pictures on our wall. We love our readers to get involved, as the Reports should be for the fans and by the fans. Let me know and we will get you involved! If any readers are also interested in applying for the Intern positions or contributing to MLB reports, please see our contact information below.
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Dillon Gee, Mets: The Toast of New York
Tuesday June 28, 2011
MLB reports: Our last feature was on Danny Espinosa, the Nationals rookie second baseman who is taking Washington by storm. For all the talk of Espinosa’s strong play, many readers wrote in to suggest that Dillon Gee should be at the top of the National League Rookie of the Year talk. For many MLB fans, the first question will be: Who the heck is Dillon Gee?
Dillon Kyle Gee was born and raised in Texas. The 25-year old right-handed pitcher went to high school and university in Texas. The New York Mets drafted the 6’1″ pitcher in the 21st round of the 2007 draft. That is where the story should begin and end. Most players chosen beyond the 2nd round have a very small chance of ever making it to AAA, let alone the majors. This is the not the case though for Dillon Gee, who as a 21st round selection has beaten the odds to make it to the show.
Before joining the Mets full-time this year, here is a snapshot look at Dillon Gee’s career numbers in the minors:
| Year | Tm | Lev | W | L | ERA | IP | H | BB | SO | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Brooklyn | A- | 3 | 1 | 2.47 | 62.0 | 57 | 9 | 56 | 1.065 |
| 2008 | 2 Teams | A+-AA | 10 | 6 | 2.92 | 154.1 | 135 | 24 | 114 | 1.030 |
| 2008 | St. Lucie | A+ | 8 | 6 | 3.25 | 127.1 | 117 | 19 | 94 | 1.068 |
| 2008 | Binghamton | AA | 2 | 0 | 1.33 | 27.0 | 18 | 5 | 20 | 0.852 |
| 2009 | Buffalo | AAA | 1 | 3 | 4.10 | 48.1 | 47 | 16 | 42 | 1.303 |
| 2010 | Buffalo | AAA | 13 | 8 | 4.96 | 161.1 | 174 | 41 | 165 | 1.333 |
| 2011 | Buffalo | AAA | 1 | 1 | 4.63 | 11.2 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 1.029 |
| 5 Seasons | 28 | 19 | 3.78 | 437.2 | 420 | 95 | 385 | 1.177 | ||
| AAA (3 seasons) | AAA | 15 | 12 | 4.76 | 221.1 | 228 | 62 | 215 | 1.310 | |
| AA (1 season) | AA | 2 | 0 | 1.33 | 27.0 | 18 | 5 | 20 | 0.852 | |
| A- (1 season) | A- | 3 | 1 | 2.47 | 62.0 | 57 | 9 | 56 | 1.065 | |
| A+ (1 season) | A+ | 8 | 6 | 3.25 | 127.1 | 117 | 19 | 94 | 1.068 | |
Dillon Gee was good, but not great in his minor league career based on the above numbers. While he was stellar in the lower minors, Gee was not exactly “lights out” in AAA. In 221.1 innings pitched in Buffalo over parts of three seasons, Dillon Gee had a 4.76 ERA and 1.310 WHIP. By failing to dominate in AAA, one would have realistically expected Gee to require more seasoning before coming to New York or end up running the risk of getting lit up in the majors.
As you can see from Gee’s Mets numbers, quite the opposite has occurred:
| Year | Tm | W | L | ERA | G | GS | IP | H | HR | BB | SO | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | NYM | 2 | 2 | 2.18 | 5 | 5 | 33.0 | 25 | 2 | 15 | 17 | 1.212 |
| 2011 | NYM | 8 | 1 | 3.32 | 15 | 12 | 76.0 | 60 | 5 | 30 | 51 | 1.184 |
| 2 Seasons | 10 | 3 | 2.97 | 20 | 17 | 109.0 | 85 | 7 | 45 | 68 | 1.193 | |
| 162 Game Avg. | 18 | 6 | 2.97 | 37 | 31 | 200 | 156 | 13 | 83 | 125 | 1.193 | |
Dillon Gee’s numbers speak for themselves. 8-1 record, 3.32 ERA and 1.184 WHIP. While he walks a shade too many batters (30/51 BB/K), he gives up far fewer hits than innings pitched. Based on his minor league numbers, I do not expect him to keep up his current pace. The 2nd and 3rd times through the league, I expect NL batters will have a better book on Gee. As the amount of innings pitched increases as well in the hot summer months, Gee will likely wear down. In 2009, Gee missed most of the season due to a shoulder injury. The Mets will likely wear kid gloves with him to some extent and not over extend his arm or risk causing further injury.
The New York Mets currently sit at 39-39, a .500 record with almost half a season completed. Not much was expected of a team with a great deal of scandal and turmoil surrounding it. One of the few bright spots though, in addition to the strong play and resurgent seasons by Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran, has been the emergence of Dillon Gee. The patchwork pitching of the staff is nothing to write home about. Jonathon Niese, Mike Pelfrey, Chris Capuano and R.A. Dickey have combined with Gee to keep the Mets afloat and the team competitive in ball games. Chris Young fell early in the season and Johan Santana remains out following shoulder surgery. If not for the play of Dillon Gee, the Mets could have found themselves in the basement of the NL East. Instead, the team is in striking distance of the Braves for 2nd place in the division.
We should know by August if we have a possible Rookie of the Year in New York or another hot-shot prospect that had a couple of good months in Dillon Gee. With so much misery surrounding the Mets, it is a pleasure to see a bright hope emerge within its pitching staff. Dillon Gee this year evolved from an unknown minor leaguer that was considered a middle-of-the-road prospect to top starter status. Mets fans are hoping they have caught lightning in a bottle in Gee for the long-term success of its team. In the meantime, Gee will continue to pitch every fifth day in New York and give his team the best chance to succeed. That is really all the Mets can ask for at the end of the day.
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*** As a special note, the Dillon Gee feature represents the 100th article in the history of MLB reports. We wanted to thank you, the readers, for all your support. We hope that you enjoy reading our articles as much as we enjoy writing them. At the end of the day, it all comes down to one love for all of us: Baseball. ***
Danny Espinosa,Washington Nationals: Hidden National Treasure
Monday June 27, 2011
MLB reports: With the shortage of quality second basemen in baseball, teams are always on the prowl for the next Roberto Alomar or Ryan Sandberg. We often hear the names Dustin Ackley and Neil Walker thrown around. Sitting quietly in Washington though is one of the better all-around second basemen in the game. With each home run, the secret is starting to get out of the bag. The Nationals keep winning games and building towards the Bryce Harper and Stephen Strasburg era. But before the next can’t miss prospects make their mark, Washington already has a rookie assaulting the MLB record books. His name: Danny Espinosa.
The 24-year old Espinosa was born in California and selected by the Nationals in the 3rd round of the 2008 draft. He made his major league debut last year and retained rookie eligibility in 2011. The heir apparent to the shortstop position from once incumbent Christian Guzman, Espinosa moved to second for 2011, took a hold of the job and ran with it. Considering he had to learn a new position on the fly, Espinosa’s production is that much more impressive.
Here is a look at Espinosa’s numbers during his time in the minors:
| Year | Tm | Lev | AB | R | H | HR | RBI | SB | CS | BB | SO | BA | OBP | SLG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Vermont | A- | 64 | 8 | 21 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 17 | 17 | .328 | .476 | .359 |
| 2009 | Potomac | A+ | 474 | 90 | 125 | 18 | 72 | 29 | 11 | 74 | 129 | .264 | .375 | .460 |
| 2010 | 2 Teams | AA-AAA | 481 | 80 | 129 | 22 | 69 | 25 | 11 | 41 | 116 | .268 | .337 | .464 |
| 2010 | Harrisburg | AA | 386 | 66 | 101 | 18 | 54 | 20 | 8 | 33 | 94 | .262 | .334 | .464 |
| 2010 | Syracuse | AAA | 95 | 14 | 28 | 4 | 15 | 5 | 3 | 8 | 22 | .295 | .349 | .463 |
| 3 Seasons | 1019 | 178 | 275 | 40 | 145 | 56 | 24 | 132 | 262 | .270 | .365 | .455 | ||
Now let’s take a look at what Danny Espinosa has produced in the majors:
| Year | AB | R | H | 2B | 3B | HR | RBI | SB | CS | BB | SO | BA | OBP | SLG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 103 | 16 | 22 | 4 | 1 | 6 | 15 | 0 | 2 | 9 | 30 | .214 | .277 | .447 |
| 2011 | 277 | 39 | 67 | 12 | 4 | 14 | 47 | 9 | 2 | 22 | 70 | .242 | .323 | .466 |
| 2 Seasons | 380 | 55 | 89 | 16 | 5 | 20 | 62 | 9 | 4 | 31 | 100 | .234 | .311 | .461 |
| 162 Game Avg. | 581 | 84 | 136 | 24 | 8 | 31 | 95 | 14 | 6 | 47 | 153 | .234 | .311 | .461 |
In addition to have a top-rated glove defensively, Espinosa has produced quite well offensively in the majors. He is on pace for an outstanding 30+ home runs with close to 100 RBIs. Middle-of-the order type numbers are what we are projecting, not the standard second base type production. As with many rookies, Espinosa still has a difficult time making contact and his BB/K ratio will require substantial improvement for him to develop into a batting champion one day. But the numbers in the minors show a great deal of promise. The power has come at an early stage for Espinosa, it is the balance of his offensive game that needs to be rounded into form.
As with any young players, it is difficult and somewhat unfair to have comparisons to establish major league players, let alone ones of the Hall of Fame variety. But Danny Espinosa is showing some Ryan Sandberg type qualities at the plate at an early age with his strong power bat. Second basemen traditionally have strong gloves and any production offensively would be considered a bonus. Players of the Danny Espinosa variety do not come along very often. Washington currently sits with a 40-39 record, above .500 as we near the All-Star break. With the team playing explosive baseball (7-3 in last 10, 22-13 at home), the baseball world is starting to turn its attention to Washington. At the forefront is rookie Danny Espinosa. A possible All-Star come next month, expect to see Espinosa in many All-Star games to come. Come one October soon, we expect to see Espinosa, Harper and Strasburg competing for a World Series title. The word is out on Danny Espinosa, who will form a core for the next decade in building Washington into the next powerhouse team.
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From Riggleman to Johnson: Davey is the New Sheriff in Washington
Saturday, June 25, 2011
MLB reports: According to several sources, the Nationals are set to announce the hiring of their new manager. Less than twenty-four hours after the abrupt resignation of Jim Riggleman (see yesterday’s feature), Mike Rizzo has apparently found the man for the job within the Nationals organization. Ex-Mets skipper, Davey Johnson is set to move from the front office to the dugout. Nationals fans couldn’t be happier.
| Year | Tm | Lg | G | W | L | W-L% | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 90 | 72 | .556 | 2 |
| 1985 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 98 | 64 | .605 | 2 |
| 1986 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 108 | 54 | .667 | 1 |
| 1987 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 92 | 70 | .568 | 2 |
| 1988 | New York Mets | NL | 160 | 100 | 60 | .625 | 1 |
| 1989 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 87 | 75 | .537 | 2 |
| 1990 | New York Mets | NL | 42 | 20 | 22 | .476 | 2 |
| 1993 | Cincinnati Reds | NL | 118 | 53 | 65 | .449 | 5 |
| 1994 | Cincinnati Reds | NL | 115 | 66 | 48 | .579 | 1 |
| 1995 | Cincinnati Reds | NL | 144 | 85 | 59 | .590 | 1 |
| 1996 | Baltimore Orioles | AL | 163 | 88 | 74 | .543 | 2 |
| 1997 | Baltimore Orioles | AL | 162 | 98 | 64 | .605 | 1 |
| 1999 | Los Angeles Dodgers | NL | 162 | 77 | 85 | .475 | 3 |
| 2000 | Los Angeles Dodgers | NL | 162 | 86 | 76 | .531 | 2 |
| New York Mets | 1012 | 595 | 417 | .588 | 1.7 | ||
| Cincinnati Reds | 377 | 204 | 172 | .543 | 2.3 | ||
| Baltimore Orioles | 325 | 186 | 138 | .574 | 1.5 | ||
| Los Angeles Dodgers | 324 | 163 | 161 | .503 | 2.5 | ||
| 2038 | 1148 | 888 | .564 | 1.9 |
Unlike his predecessor, Davey Johnson is a proven winner. Johnson managed four teams in his career before accepting the Nationals position. As a big league manager, Johnson has a career record of 1148 wins and 888 losses, good for a .564 winning percentage. Johnson has finished 11 of his 14 seasons above .500. He won a World Series title in 1986 with the New York Mets. Looking further at the numbers, Johnson’s teams have finished first in their division five times and in second place on seven different occasion. Johnson wins everywhere he goes and the same will be expected as the new face of baseball in the nation’s capital.
With Stephen Strasburg on the mend and Bryce Harper slowly making the climb to the big leagues, the Nationals will have a strong talent base for Johnson to mold. The Nationals will be looking for its team to play “Daveyball” and try to recreate some of the Mets magic from 1986. That team was filled with young prospects that gelled together at the same time, sprinkled with key veterans. As Mike Rizzo continues to tinker with the roster, we could very well be seeing a Nationals playoff run by 2013. Coincidently, that will also be the year that new manager Davey Johnson’s contract is set to expire. Provided Johnson’s teams perform to expectations, his run in Washington will be far longer than that of Jim Riggleman.
Davey Johnson is known as a gamer. A man who played with his heart on his sleeve back in his playing days and as an intense competitor behind the bench. This is a man who refuses to lose. For an organization that seemingly refuses to win, Johnson is a breath of fresh air and should turn out to be the voice of a reason for an organization in dire need of direction. Bobby Valentine would have been a good choice as well (given the rumors surrounding him in the media). But the Nationals have their man. A former Manager of the Year (AL 1997) and World Series winner. Welcome to the new Nationals manager, Davey Johnson. Get ready to see a lot of W’s in Washington during the next few seasons.
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Jim Riggleman Resigns from the Nationals: Treason in Washington
Friday, June 24, 2011
MLB reports: June has apparently become the month in baseball to fire your coach if you are a MLB General Manager, or to quit your team if you are a manager. Follow along the coaching carousel:
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June 8th: Texas Rangers fire hitting coach Thad Bosley and replace him with Scott Coolbaugh
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June 9th: Florida Marlins fire hitting coach John Mallee and replace him with Eduardo Perez
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June 10th: Oakland Athletics fire manager Bob Geren and replace him with Bob Melvin
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June 14th: Houston Astros fire pitching coach Brad Arnsberg and replace with him Doug Brocail
-
June 17th: Cleveland Indians fire hitting coach John Nunnally and replace him with Bruce Fields
It looks like where there is smoke, there is fire. A lot of it apparently in the coaching ranks of baseball. Teams were getting nervous and to help jump-start their slumping players, several teams decided to change a coach rather than making wholesale roster moves, or let go of the manager and/or General Manager. On June 19th, the baseball world was stunned as manager Edwin Rodriguez of the Florida Marlins resigned and was replaced with 80-year old ex-Marlins manager Jack McKeon. Then yesterday, Jim Riggleman, manager of the Washington Nationals, got the same itch from the “quit bug” suffered by Rodriguez and announced that he was resigning his post. The captain jumped ship in Washington but unlike the Florida situation, Riggleman made his decision for all the wrong reasons. As a result, he may never coach again in baseball.
The inside story behind Riggleman leaving the Nationals was that he requested some sort of meeting from General Manager Mike Rizzo to discuss his long-term future in Washington. When Rizzo refused to discuss his contract status, Riggleman departed from the team and resigned his position as manager. Essentially Riggleman did not like the rules of the game, so in a childlike manner he took his ball and went home, so to speak.
“It’s been brewing for a while,” said Riggleman. “I know I’m not Casey Stengel, but I do feel like I know what I’m doing. It’s not a situation where I felt like I should continue on such a short leash.”
No Jim. You are certainly not Casey Stengel. Let’s take a look shall we, at Riggleman’s career managerial record:
| Year | Age | Tm | Lg | G | W | L | W-L% | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 | 39 | San Diego Padres | NL | 12 | 4 | 8 | .333 | 3 |
| 1993 | 40 | San Diego Padres | NL | 162 | 61 | 101 | .377 | 7 |
| 1994 | 41 | San Diego Padres | NL | 117 | 47 | 70 | .402 | 4 |
| 1995 | 42 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 144 | 73 | 71 | .507 | 3 |
| 1996 | 43 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 162 | 76 | 86 | .469 | 4 |
| 1997 | 44 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 162 | 68 | 94 | .420 | 5 |
| 1998 | 45 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 163 | 90 | 73 | .552 | 2 |
| 1999 | 46 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 162 | 67 | 95 | .414 | 6 |
| 2008 | 55 | Seattle Mariners | AL | 90 | 36 | 54 | .400 | 4 |
| 2009 | 56 | Washington Nationals | NL | 75 | 33 | 42 | .440 | 5 |
| 2010 | 57 | Washington Nationals | NL | 162 | 69 | 93 | .426 | 5 |
| 2011 | 58 | Washington Nationals | NL | 74 | 37 | 37 | .500 | 3 |
| San Diego Padres | 291 | 112 | 179 | .385 | ||||
| Chicago Cubs | 793 | 374 | 419 | .472 | ||||
| Seattle Mariners | 90 | 36 | 54 | .400 | ||||
| Washington Nationals | 311 | 139 | 172 | .447 | ||||
| 1485 | 661 | 824 | .445 |
Jim Riggleman in his twelve-year managerial career has a record of 661-824, .445 winning percentage. During his three years in Washington, Riggleman finished with a 139-172 record. Riggleman’s best year was 1998 with the Cubs, where he had a 90-73 record and his team finished second in their division. He had a 73-71 record in 1995 with the Cubs and was floating at .500 this year, with a Nationals team sitting at 37-37. The man is clearly no baseball Houdini. While some may argue that Riggleman was not given much to work with at each of his stops for the most part, the man clearly was not able to get much out of his teams at most stops. A great manager should be able to turn out something out of nothing. But alas, this was not one of Riggleman’s gifts as a manager.
The reality of baseball is that coaches and managers get let go by teams all the time, as evidenced by the amount of activity among teams this month. Managers and coaches also quit sometimes. Rodriguez left his position in Florida, as did Riggleman in Washington. But when a coach leaves a team, the intention and circumstances behind the resignation are crucial. For it is the story behind the announcement that will ultimately dictate if and when said manager receives another crack at a big league post. Gonzalez left his position for the better of his team. The Marlins were floundering and in the interests of having his team recover, Gonzalez felt that a change was needed. While that should have been up to the team to decide, at least Gonzalez acted in what he felt was best for his team. His compassion and sentiments to the organization means that Gonzalez should continue coaching in baseball. In the case of Jim Riggleman, that door has been shut close in my opinion.
The Nationals were not happy to say the least with the news. “I was always taught that one of the cardinal rules of baseball was that no individual can put
his interests before those of the team,” was the sentiments expressed by Mike Rizzo. The GM is right in this case. Many MLB managers are on one-year contracts like Jim Riggleman was in 2011. Some have a chance at long careers with their teams, while others are seen as more temporary solutions. In Riggleman’s case, he was likely more of the temporary variety. But players, coaches and managers are in this position all the time. Many veteran players sign for one-year deals, knowing full well that they will not be with a team beyond the period. The same goes for managers, who can often be brought in to manage a young team and eventually be replaced with a fresh voice as the team looks to grow and change direction. That is the rules of the game and Jim Riggleman is not better than the system. If a player was to leave his team mid-season due to contractual issues, he would be seen as selfish. Jim Riggleman as manager is no different. He let his organization, players and fans down, by jumping ship. He put his own financial and security needs ahead of those of the people around him. So Riggleman wanted a long-term contract? The best way to do it was to right the ship and lead the Nationals to their strongest possible record this year. Instead, Riggleman has likely blacklisted himself from the game and lost the chance to manage again.
The 58-year old Riggleman does not have any excuses in my book. He was a bench coach for several years, including stints with the Dodgers and Mariners following his departure from the Cubs in 1999. He did not receive another managerial opportunity until 2008, where he was an interim manager with the Mariners. Again Riggleman received an interim managerial job with the Nationals the following year, but stayed on with the team until yesterday. Was he a lame-duck manager so to speak? Probably. But that had more to do with his managerial skills and overall record than anything else. Sure many people want job security, especially in baseball. But let’s keep this in perspective. There are only thirty MLB manager jobs out there. Period. Jim Riggleman had one but he threw it away. He wanted to be a long-term manager but yet was not prepared to do what it takes to get there. Nobody should be above the system. I would not expect the Nationals to give Riggleman a strong recommendation, or any sort of reference in that regard. Teams have long memories and will likely be very cautious with Riggleman, who is today seen as having acted as a “jilted lover.”
In looking to the future, it is interesting to read Riggleman’s take. “I’m not sure if I’ll get another opportunity,” Riggleman said. “But I’ll promise you I’ll never do a one-year deal again. I’m 58. I’m too old to be disrespected.” His comments show that he clearly does not get “it”. This is not a question of respect. There is no entitlement. The Nationals did not owe you a thing Jim. They named you manager by removing the interim label. You were working year-to-year. Your lifetime managerial record did not entitle you to more. You were very lucky to have a MLB manager’s position. Your actions were selfish and disrespectful. The truth is that the Nationals team and its fans are better off for this move. They did not want to have a manager in the dugout who did not want to be there. That would not benefit anyone and a fresh voice and style could prove to be beneficial in the long-term. There are rumors that team is looking at Davey Johnson for the position. Personally, I think that Bobby Valentine should be considered for the job. But no matter who the Nationals hire, the team will be heading in a new direction. Jim Riggleman has committed baseball treason. For that reason, it is time for him to walk the plank and plunge into the waters of baseball oblivion.
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Latest AL and NL Vote Totals: 2011 MLB All-Star Game
Thursday, June 23, 2011
MLB reports: With the MLB All-Star Game less than three weeks, the race to finalize the lineups is starting to tighten up. The majority of the starters have fairly significant leads and will be in Arizona, barring injury or declining the invitation. However, some of the races have started to tighten up, with the positions up for grabs until the final votes are in. Let’s take a look at the current leading vote getters per league and position:
AMERICAN LEAGUE ALL-STAR (as of June 21)
CATCHER
Russell Martin - Yankees: 2,226,797
Alex Avila - Tigers: 1,730,511
Joe Mauer - Twins: 1,341,474
Jarrod Saltalamacchia - Red Sox: 1,135,617
Yorvit Torrealba - Rangers: 980,697
Verdict: Martin is in unless Avila gets a huge spike in votes at the end. While many are pushing for Avila to get the nod, Martin has the numbers and the fan base to likely win out.
FIRST BASE
Adrian Gonzalez - Red Sox: 3,017,960
Mark Teixeira - Yankees: 2,407,665
Miguel Cabrera - Tigers: 1,771,893
Mitch Moreland - Rangers: 890,468
Paul Konerko - White Sox: 676,194
Verdict: A-Gonz will be starting in Arizona. Take it to the bank. He has been one of the best players in the AL this season and plays in Boston. The fans will continue to vote for him until he is announced as the winner.
SECOND BASE
Robinson Cano - Yankees: 3,664,498
Dustin Pedroia - Red Sox: 2,239,172
Ian Kinsler - Rangers: 1,452,880
Orlando Cabrera - Indians: 910,941
Ben Zobrist - Rays: 828,771
Verdict: Cano continues to lead the pack by a country mile. His season totals justify his position.
THIRD BASE
Alex Rodriguez - Yankees: 2,876,537
Adrian Beltre - Rangers: 2,307,380
Kevin Youkilis - Red Sox: 2,025,438
Evan Longoria - Rays: 1,639,405
Brandon Inge - Tigers: 490,734
Verdict: A-Rod is still A-Rod. Beltre is getting closer though and could make this one interesting.
SHORTSTOP
Derek Jeter - Yankees: 2,654,040
Asdrubal Cabrera - Indians: 2,242,157
Elvis Andrus - Rangers: 1,513,929
Jhonny Peralta - Tigers: 875,371
Marco Scutaro - Red Sox: 813,888
Verdict: Jeter, the New York Yankees captain, continues to lead the way. However, an injury and poor play this season have led Cabrera to get closer in the voting. If Cabrera has a few more strong games, there is a chance he could be in Arizona as the starter. Either way, expect Cabrera to represent the Indians at the All-Star game.
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz - Red Sox: 3,116,578
Michael Young - Rangers: 1,760,195
Jorge Posada - Yankees: 1,120,830
Victor Martinez - Tigers: 932,711
Johnny Damon - Rays: 864,535
Verdict: Papi picked a great year to have a strong campaign. A free agent at year’s end, he is a worthy All-Star pick.
OUTFIELD
Jose Bautista - Blue Jays: 4,156,940
Curtis Granderson - Yankees: 3,473,227
Josh Hamilton - Rangers: 2,400,408
Jacoby Ellsbury - Red Sox: 2,249,323
Carl Crawford - Red Sox: 1,789,097
Ichiro Suzuki - Mariners: 1,537,101
Nelson Cruz - Rangers: 1,462,426
Nick Swisher - Yankees: 1,271,843
Brett Gardner - Yankees: 1,120,179
J.D. Drew - Red Sox: 1,112,720
Matt Joyce - Rays: 1,038,098
Jeff Francoeur - Royals: 906,983
Grady Sizemore - Indians: 867,281
David Murphy - Rangers: 785,630
Shin-Soo Choo - Indians: 764,817
Verdict: Bautista and Granderson continue to lead the AL outfielders in voting and deservedly so. Hamilton and Ellsbury are battling it out for the final spot in a competition of what have you done for me lately vs. last year’s statistics. Depending on where you sit in the debate, the 2010 MVP Hamilton or the 2011 resurgent Ellsbury should be the third AL outfielder. With Hamilton banged up and Ellsbury playing so well for a first place Boston squad, expect Ellsbury to win out.
NATIONAL LEAGUE ALL-STAR (as of June 20)
CATCHER
Brian McCann - Braves: 2,301,252
Yadier Molina - Cardinals: 1,836,490
Buster Posey - Giants: 1,573,484
Jonathan Lucroy - Brewers: 1,098,507
Carlos Ruiz - Phillies: 1,095,081
Verdict: McCann is the best catcher in baseball, not just the NL. He has received the justified votes and will be starting for the NL squad.
FIRST BASE
Albert Pujols - Cardinals: 2,806,864
Joey Votto - Reds: 2,270,211
Prince Fielder - Brewers: 2,066,327
Ryan Howard - Phillies: 1,477,478
Freddie Freeman - Braves: 559,762
Verdict: Pujols was the leader and remains so despite being placed on the shelf recently. With Pujols out of the picture, Votto and Fielder will continue to duke it out for top spot. The power and flash of Prince will likely rule over the steadiness of Votto.
SECOND BASE
Brandon Phillips - Reds: 2,286,378
Rickie Weeks - Brewers: 2,094,502
Chase Utley - Phillies: 1,827,194
Dan Uggla - Braves: 1,012,370
Freddy Sanchez - Giants: 987,606
Verdict: Phillips and Weeks are neck-in-neck in one of the closest positional battles. Based on Weeks recent play, my money is on him to get the starting role.
THIRD BASE
Placido Polanco - Phillies: 2,599,925
Chipper Jones - Braves: 1,558,895
Pablo Sandoval - Giants: 1,302,098
David Wright - Mets: 1,228,710
Scott Rolen - Reds: 1,102,626
Verdict: Polanco of the NL leading Philadelphia Phillies appears to have this one locked up. Without much in the way of competition, Polanco has been the best of the bunch according to the fans.
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki - Rockies: 2,385,991
Jose Reyes - Mets: 1,972,820
Jimmy Rollins - Phillies: 1,354,896
Alex Gonzalez - Braves: 928,992
Yuniesky Betancourt - Brewers: 860,163
Verdict: Reyes of the Mets is making a late charge but Tulo might have too big of a lead to overcome. Expect this one to go to the wire as Reyes has been getting much of the press and attention in the past few days.
OUTFIELD
Ryan Braun - Brewers: 3,034,057
Lance Berkman - Cardinals: 2,562,428
Matt Holliday - Cardinals: 2,390,118
Matt Kemp - Dodgers: 2,062,667
Andre Ethier - Dodgers: 1,889,298
Jay Bruce - Reds: 1,681,613
Shane Victorino - Phillies: 1,357,115
Carlos Beltran - Mets: 1,261,308
Jason Heyward - Braves: 1,059,581
Raul Ibanez - Phillies: 982,046
Justin Upton - D-backs: 950,047
Carlos Gonzalez - Rockies: 944,666
Corey Hart - Brewers: 910,550
Martin Prado - Braves: 830,105
Alfonso Soriano - Cubs: 804,303
Verdict: Braun has the top spot locked up with Berkman almost guaranteed a starting spot in Arizona as well. The third outfield position will come down a battle between Matt Holliday, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier. Kemp is narrowing the margin but based on the vote numbers, St. Louis will likely have 2/3 of the starting All-Star outfield come July 12th.
MLB reports will continue to keep you up-to-date as the voting for the MLB All-Star game comes to a close. We will announce the starting lineups and rosters as they are made available and let you know on any injury replacements. This year’s field will be a competitive one and we look forward to catching all the action in Arizona, as the American League and National League battle for home field advantage in the World Series.
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A Tribute to Chad Cordero: Retired MLB Closer
Wednesday June 22, 2011
MLB reports: The man with the straightest brim in baseball, Chad Patrick Cordero formally announced his retirement from baseball on Monday, at the tender age of 29. Cordero originally suffered a torn labrum and missed most of the 2008 season. He was never able to return back to full health and form following the injury and his 2010 season with the Mariners will remain his last in the majors.
Chad Cordero was originally drafted by the San Diego Padres in the 26th round of the 2000 draft, and later was a 1st round pick of the Montreal Expos, 20th overall, in 2003. Cordero was one of the rare college closers who graduated to the same role in the majors. He attended Cal State Fullerton and made it all the way to a College World Series title. Cordero made his major league debut the same year he was drafted and stayed with the Expos/Nationals organization for the majority of his career.
Here are Chad Cordero’s final major league numbers:
| Year | Tm | W | L | ERA | SV | BB | SO | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | MON | 1 | 0 | 1.64 | 1 | 3 | 12 | 0.636 |
| 2004 | MON | 7 | 3 | 2.94 | 14 | 43 | 83 | 1.343 |
| 2005 | WSN | 2 | 4 | 1.82 | 47 | 17 | 61 | 0.969 |
| 2006 | WSN | 7 | 4 | 3.19 | 29 | 22 | 69 | 1.105 |
| 2007 | WSN | 3 | 3 | 3.36 | 37 | 29 | 62 | 1.387 |
| 2008 | WSN | 0 | 0 | 2.08 | 0 | 3 | 5 | 2.077 |
| 2010 | SEA | 0 | 1 | 6.52 | 0 | 5 | 6 | 1.552 |
| 7 Seasons | 20 | 15 | 2.89 | 128 | 122 | 298 | 1.208 | |
| 162 Game Avg. | 4 | 3 | 2.89 | 28 | 26 | 65 | 1.208 | |
| WSN (6 yrs) | 20 | 14 | 2.78 | 128 | 117 | 292 | 1.198 | |
| SEA (1 yr) | 0 | 1 | 6.52 | 0 | 5 | 6 | 1.552 | |
| NL (6 yrs) | 20 | 14 | 2.78 | 128 | 117 | 292 | 1.198 | |
| AL (1 yr) | 0 | 1 | 6.52 | 0 | 5 | 6 | 1.552 | |
The year 2005 will always stand out as Cordero’s best, as he led the Majors
with47 saves that year. Cordero was taken out of baseball in his prime and the game has lost one of its top relievers much too early. Cordero played with teamUSAin the inaugural edition of the World Baseball Classic in 2006. After departing from the Nationals in 2008, Cordero went on to play in the minors and majors for the Seattle Mariners. He also played in the minors for the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays organizations. Cordero was released by the Jays on May 17th and was last playing for the St. Paul Saints, an independent baseball team, before announcing his retirement on Monday.
In addition to his baseball injuries, Chad Cordero has also suffered from personal tragedy. In December 2010, Cordero and his wife lost an eleven-week old baby daughter. The cause was Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Cordero is quoted as saying, “I’m just using her as motivation, trying to find strength. Because I know, now, she’ll always be with me, no matter what.” From the time of his daughter’s passing, Cordero has been active in raising awareness for SIDS. It is very uplifting to hear that despite all the adversity suffered by Cordero, that he could still work so hard to try to continue his baseball career, while assisting with SIDS awareness. SIDS is a subject that must be very difficult for Cordero and his family to discuss and deal with, but he still fights on to continue the memory of his dear daughter.
A true fighter in every sense of the word, Chad Cordero gets our sympathies and respect. Cordero has faced many roadblocks and hills to climb and he has continued to see through all the hardships that life has handed to him. Still young, there is always a chance that Cordero could try to make a return to organized baseball. The torn labrum that he suffered though is not a “fixable” injury in the same category as Tommy John surgeries, which has become very common in baseball circles. It is unlikely that we will ever see the Chad Cordero of old on the mound and if he never returns to baseball, we will always remember him for the competitor he was on the mound. But given the circumstances surrounding his family, baseball and sports takes a back seat to the human element of life. We wish all the best to Chad Cordero and his family. For everyone that can go purchase a baseball hat today and leave the brim unfolded, wear your hat this week as a tribute to one of the best relievers in the game: Chad Cordero.
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***Note: The Wednesday E-mailbag is on hiatus this week so that we can bring you this tribute. The E-mailbag will return next week. Please feel free to continue to send all your baseball questions***
McKeon, Valentine and Guillen: The Loria Marlins Manager Roller Coaster
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
MLB reports: In the world of Jeffrey Loria, nothing is ever boring. Loria, who orchestrated an Expos to Marlins trade-in back in 2002, already owns two World Series rings. The first championship ring was courtesy of manager Jack McKeon, who came on board to manage the Marlins in 2003 and won it all in his initial Florida campaign. McKeon was successful in turning around a Marlins team that started off slowly and picked up steam after his selection. The Marlins currently sit after today’s game with a 33-41 record. They are in last place in the NL East, 12.5 games behind the division leading Philadelphia Phillies. Losers of 11 out of their last 12 games, the Marlins have a 16-23 record at home and 17-18 record on the road. Something had to give and manager Edwin Rodriguez resigned abruptly yesterday. Indicating that change was in the best interest of the team, Rodriguez was out and the Marlins quickly replaced him with former manager Jack McKeon. Out with the “old” and in with the “new”.
John Aloysius (Jack) McKeon will be 81 in November of this year. A veteran manager for sixteen seasons, McKeon managed five teams in his manager league career. His record in the dugout speaks for itself, as we take a look at the numbers:
|
Year |
Tm |
Lg |
G |
W |
L |
W-L% |
| 1973 | Kansas City Royals | AL |
162 |
88 |
74 |
.543 |
| 1974 | Kansas City Royals | AL |
162 |
77 |
85 |
.475 |
| 1975 | Kansas City Royals | AL |
96 |
50 |
46 |
.521 |
| 1977 | Oakland Athletics | AL |
53 |
26 |
27 |
.491 |
| 1978 | Oakland Athletics | AL |
123 |
45 |
78 |
.366 |
| 1988 | San Diego Padres | NL |
115 |
67 |
48 |
.583 |
| 1989 | San Diego Padres | NL |
162 |
89 |
73 |
.549 |
| 1990 | San Diego Padres | NL |
80 |
37 |
43 |
.463 |
| 1997 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
63 |
33 |
30 |
.524 |
| 1998 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
162 |
77 |
85 |
.475 |
| 1999 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
163 |
96 |
67 |
.589 |
| 2000 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
163 |
85 |
77 |
.525 |
| 2003 | Florida Marlins | NL |
124 |
75 |
49 |
.605 |
| 2004 | Florida Marlins | NL |
162 |
83 |
79 |
.512 |
| 2005 | Florida Marlins | NL |
162 |
83 |
79 |
.512 |
| Kansas City Royals |
420 |
215 |
205 |
.512 |
||
| Oakland Athletics |
176 |
71 |
105 |
.403 |
||
| San Diego Padres |
357 |
193 |
164 |
.541 |
||
| Cincinnati Reds |
551 |
291 |
259 |
.529 |
||
| Florida Marlins |
448 |
241 |
207 |
.538 |
||
|
1952 |
1011 |
940 |
.518 |
McKeon comes with some terrific credentials. He is a two-time National League Manager of the Year, winning the award in 1999 originally with the Reds and again with the Marlins in his championship 2003 season. McKeon has done it all and seen it all. But the question on everyone’s mind is whether he will have a strong impact on the Marlins and turn around their season. From there, the Marlins will need to choose their long-term manager for the 2012 season. There is much discussion and debate surrounding the Marlins, as they complete the 2011 season and move next year to their new stadium and become the “Miami Marlins.”
As much as the Marlins seemed to take a step forward this season as an organization, they are apparently still stuck at square one in some ways. Take their managerial candidates. Back in their last offseason, the Marlins were looking at Bobby Valentine and Ozzie Guillen to become their next manager. Valentine, an analyst with ESPN, could not come to terms with the team and as a result was not hired. The team inquired as well on the availability of Chicago White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen, a former coach with McKeon’s 2003 championship team. When the White Sox required a return of either super prospects Logan Morrison or Mike Stanton, the Marlins said thanks, but no thanks. Edwin Rodriguez ended up receiving the post and did not last even half a season in Florida. With the team in disarray and a fresh voice needed, the Marlins turned to their past in naming Jack McKeon their interim manager for the remainder of the season.
The cigar chomping McKeon, one of the most old-school baseball men you will ever meet, is seen as having a no-nonsense type of approach to the game. As
his first move as manager, McKeon benched franchise superstar Hanley Ramirez yesterday. Reports indicate that tardiness was the cause, while others have viewed the move as a wake-up call for the team. Either way, McKeon has clearly shown that he is in charge and is not prepared to accept the Marlins losing ways. Unfortunately, as the years have progressed, baseball has become more and more of a ”young man’s game.” Todays young players, part of the me-first generation, don’t often take kindly to veteran coaches that are seen as being out of touch with today’s times. This was evident before in Florida, where McKeon originally lasted only three seasons. McKeon was seen as a very stern and tough manager and had lost much of the attention of the clubhouse by the end of his tenure. Now the Marlins have gone back to the barrel to see if McKeon has one more strong season of managing in him.
In accepting the Marlins’ position, McKeon has become the second oldest manager in baseball history, just behind Connie Mack. While a great feat for McKeon, it will remain to be seen the impact that he will have on the Marlins 2011 fortunes. My gut is that the Marlins will be lucky to get much more out of the team, even with McKeon in charge. The team is dangerously close to knocking themselves out of contention by the All-Star break and anything short of a miracle at this point will change that. With most MLB teams hiring young, dynamic managers to lead the way, its surprising in some ways that Loria has gone backwards in his approach. But given Loria’s track record, he rarely does anything by the book.
After Jack McKeon completes his second tenure in Florida, the decision will still remain as to whether Bobby Valentine or Ozzie Guillen will be at the helm come 2012. Both are still in contention for the job according to reports, but neither appears in my estimation to be a great fit. Valentine and Guillen are both fiery individuals with strong wills and personalities. After watching the Joe Girardi fiasco in his battles with owner Loria, many managerial candidates have since been scared off from taking the manager’s job with the Marlins. Valentine and Guillen would both have difficult times being placed in a puppet type role as a manager and for that reason, I cannot see a either working out long-term in Florida. Loria would be well served selecting a strong baseball man for the job, but one that has extreme patience and ability to take the directions that would come from the top of the pyramid. Loria has shown in the past to be a man of little patience and self-control when it comes to the personnel of his ball club. If Bobby V or Ozzie do eventually take the job, watch out for the fireworks that will likely come in Miami. While Ozzie is signed for the 2012 season, insiders have indicated that the White Sox may grant permission for the Marlins to speak to him, if the ballclub does not return to contention by season’s end. My bet is that Ozzie will be headed one day to Miami to rejoin the Marlins as their manager. Until then, Jack McKeon will be captain of the Marlins ship.
I guess its true what they say. Everything old really is new again. The magic was there in 2003. Let’s see if the Marlins and McKeon can rekindle some of their spark eight years later.
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Interview with Baseball Columnist Danny Knobler: CBSSports.com
Monday June 20, 2011
MLB reports: We introduce today on the Reports Danny Knobler, Baseball Columnist for CBSSports.com. While we all enjoy Danny’s work, today’s feature allows everyone to learn about the man behind the columns. Danny’s bio from CBSSports.com is as follows:
“After 18-plus seasons of watching the Detroit Tigers lose, Danny Knobler joined CBSSports.com in May 2008 as a national baseball writer, thankful that he can finally write about winners as well as losers. He’s teaming with Scott Miller, who once covered the Minnesota Twins through six consecutive losing seasons.
The Tigers went 1,285-1,598 in Knobler’s time on the beat, although to be fair they did make it to the 2006 World Series. It’s not like they were the Royals.
Before moving to Michigan, Knobler worked for 5½ years at Baseball America, and later covered baseball for Sport magazine, which isn’t around anymore. He also wrote for the Los Angeles Herald-Examiner and the Santa Monica Evening Outlook, neither of which is around anymore, either.
Knobler graduated from UCLA, and just to prove that he likes some winners, he still follows UCLA basketball.”
We now present Danny Knobler: Baseball Columnist for CBSSports.com:
MLB reports: Thank you for your time as part of this interview. You currently cover Major League Baseball for CBSSports.com. How long have you been with CBS and how did you originally come to work in baseball?
Knobler: I joined CBSSports.com in May 2008, after 18-plus years covering the Detroit Tigers for Booth Newspapers. Before that, I worked at Baseball America, a job I got right out of college at UCLA. At UCLA, I worked in the Sports Information Office, handling baseball PR. While I’d followed all sports, I always gravitated towards baseball, and since I’ve been in the business, I’ve always told people that baseball is the most fascinating game to write about, because of the nature of the game, because it is played every day, and because of the characters involved.
MLB reports: Being a part of the media must be very exciting. Please give our readers a glimpse as to what your job entails and the highlights of working in media.
Knobler: I love my job. I enjoy being at the ballpark, and I enjoy talking about baseball. There’s no doubt that there are times when it is a grind, but the game keeps drawing you in.
MLB reports: What teams have you found have the greatest buzz surrounding them this season? Have any particular “popular” teams seen a drop in publicity and media attention this season in your attention?
Knobler: The Yankees and Red Sox always are going to generate the biggest buzz, because they have the biggest followings. The Phillies have moved up in recent years, but they still fall slightly behind the other two in national buzz. I’m not saying I want this to be true, just that it is true. When you write about the Yankees or Red Sox, more people read it. That doesn’t mean people don’t care about other teams, not at all. All you need to do is look at the number of All-Star votes that Jose Bautista is getting to see that’s not true. As for the team that has seen its profile drop the most, it has to be the Mets. That could change in the next few weeks, depending on how serious they are about trading Jose Reyes, but the interest in the Mets now is really down.
MLB reports: How much interaction do you have with the players on a given team? Do you keep in contact with many even after they leave the team by trade, retirement, release etc.? Are there particular teams that you cover specifically or do you report on all of baseball?
Knobler: I report on all of baseball. Obviously, by spending 18-plus years covering the Tigers, I’m closer to more ex-Tigers than to other players, but I know players on every team. And yes, I keep in touch with some players after they retire. Many of them I don’t see as often, but sometimes I’ll run into a player I covered years ago. It happened last year during the playoffs, when I saw Tony Phillips at a Reds-Phillies game (Halladay’s no-hitter, as it turned out). I saw Eric Davis just last week at the draft.
MLB reports: Where did you work and study before you joined CBS Sports? How did education and previous experiences help you to your current role?
Knobler: I went to school at UCLA, and that gave me my first real inside look at baseball. And some of the players who were classmates at UCLA went on to play in the big leagues, including Mike Gallego, who still works in the big leagues as Oakland’s third-base coach. Later, at Baseball America, I covered Team USA through the 1987 Pan Am Games and the 1988 Olympics. The relationships built there with players like Robin Ventura, Tino Martinez and Jim Abbott carried on through their big-league careers and beyond.
MLB reports: What are the main departments of CBS Sports that you work with on a day-to-day basis? Do you have much interaction with the rest of the CBS squad and do you travel much as part of your role?
Knobler: At CBSSports.com, I work with a great team, the best I’ve ever been around. I work most closely with Scott Miller, our other Senior Baseball Writer, who does a great job and is maybe the nicest guy in the business. We also have a great staff in the office. I travel some, but not nearly as much as I did when I was on the beat. Living in New York helps, because with teams in both leagues, every team in baseball plays here at least one time a year.
MLB reports: What is your job like comparing the baseball season and off-season? Does the role change much and can you give our readers the insight as to what the two different times of the year are like in reporting.
Knobler: The job does change some. People always ask, “What do you do in the offseason?” Baseball isn’t played year-round, but baseball goes on year-round. There is news basically every day of the year. The big difference is that during the season, a significant amount (but not nearly all) of the news is at the ballpark. In the winter, most of the news is gathered by phone, email and text. You spend a lot more time sitting around, but you work just as hard.
MLB reports: If you could have your future dream job, what would it be? Would it be in baseball? Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
Knobler: I have my dream job. I don’t want to work for a team. I love doing what I do right now, and hope to do it for a lot longer.
MLB reports: In the situation where a college graduate comes to you and asks you to give them advice on how to “work in baseball”, what would be your response? Any tips that you can give our readers would be appreciated.
Knobler: If by “work in baseball,” you mean work for a team, I would say be prepared to work long hours for very low pay, especially at the start, and in some not-so-glamorous jobs. I know people who went on to be general managers in the big leagues who talk about the time they spent in the minors, and about the days they had to go pull the tarp when it rained. Ask yourself if you’re that dedicated. If you are, then get in touch with anyone you know in the game. Baseball also sets up a job-seekers event every year at the winter meetings.
MLB reports: How has your life changed since working in baseball? Looking back, is there anything that you would have done differently? What have been the best parts of the job?
Knobler: I don’t really think of myself as working “in baseball.” But any job involved with the game, be it writer, broadcaster, team executive, coach or player has huge pluses and also some minuses. Baseball can consume your life, whether you play it, talk about it for a living or write about it. The games are at night, and on weekends. I remember Travis Fryman telling me once that a friend in Pensacola asked him, “When you’re in Detroit, what do you do on weekends?” It was a normal question you might ask any friend who moved somewhere for work, but of course, in the case of a baseball player, the answer was, “We play on weekends.” Well, we write on weekends, too, although not as often as I did as a beat writer.
MLB reports: Do you have favorite interviews that you can share and some that were more regrettable? Details Danny, details!
Knobler: Too many good ones to name. Bad ones, sure. Jason Johnson once told me, “I feel sorry for your paper.” And no, it didn’t bother me that he felt that way.
MLB reports: Who are your picks to meet in the World Series this year and why?
Knobler: When the season began, I picked the Red Sox and Braves. I’ll stick with that, although for obvious reasons I’m a little more confident about the Red Sox than the Braves right now. I never worry about picks that don’t turn out. I’m not putting money on any of my picks, and I would hope no one else would put any money down based on who I pick.
MLB reports: Thank you again for your time Danny and joining us today on MLB reports. It has been a pleasure speaking with you and we look forward to continuing to enjoy your fine work on CBSSports.com.
***A special thank you to Danny Knobler for his time and effort as part of being interviewed for this article. You can follow Danny on Twitter and click here to read Danny on CBSSports.com. To view the man in action, click on this YouTube link of Danny speaking with Reds Manager, Dusty Baker***
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