Author Archives: Jonathan Hacohen
Michael Schlact Guest Blog: Preparation for Uncertainty
Wednesday February 1st, 2012
MLB reports: It took us a year. A long…long year. Begging. Pleading. We literally tried every trick in the book. Fortunately we did not have to resort to bribery. But it came close! 😉 When you are one of the most popular baseball players on social media, time becomes a precious commodity for interviews and blogs. He is a busy man with many time commitments. But finally he is here. For your reading pleasure today, we have the one and only, Michael Schlact joining us with a guest blog.
In a recent article feature, the top 30 Must-Follow Baseball Players, Analysts and Writers were named. #8 on the list? MLB reports! Quite flattering and we were very humbled to receive the honor. Now…who came in #2 you ask? You guessed it: our dear Mr. Schlact. Michael plays Twitter like a fiddle. The man is smooth. 10,644 Followers as of this article and counting. The people LOVE this guy…and quite frankly, who can blame them? Michael is 26-years of age, stands 6’7″ and is a baseball pitcher. He is living the American dream! With his beautiful wife Jillian by his side, Michael is fighting and battling everyday to achieve his dreams of playing in the big leagues.
Originally a third round pick by the Rangers in 2004, Michael pitched for seven seasons in the Texas system. He returns for his second season this year pitching in the Atlantic League for the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. Michael definitely has inspirations for his journey. Looking at a pitcher like Jerome Williams for example, he rose in 2011 from the Atlantic League (pitching for Lancaster) all the way to cementing a rotation spot for the Anaheim Angels. Dreams can come true and Michael Schlact looks forward to being the next baseball success story. He is young and just entering his prime. Good looking. Stable family man. Driven. Popular with the fans. Michael Schlact is the complete baseball pitching package. Plus did we mention that he is a talented writer?
Exclusively today on MLB reports, we feature Michael Schlact- with his Guest Blog titled “Preparation for Uncertainty”. Enjoy!
Michael Schlact (Guest Blogger): First, I’d like to thank MLB reports for asking me to contribute to their website. I appreciate the opportunity and I’m honored they chose me to write a piece. A common question that I’m asked is regarding the preparation for the season. As a free agent yet signed with an independent ball team, how does that affect my off-season conditioning and strength program? How does not knowing what your future holds affect the throwing that you do? I will answer these questions and more as we continue.
For those of you that follow me on social media, I’m sure you saw my announcement last week that I have recently signed with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs of the Atlantic League. I am honored to be a part of that organization and playing with those guys again in 2012. I want to make it clear however, that just because I signed with an independent ball team does not mean I can’t be signed by a MLB team as well. Until I throw my first pitch with the Blue Crabs in 2012, I can be signed by a MLB team without them having to buy out my contract. Once I’ve thrown a pitch in independent ball, the MLB team that wants to sign me must buy me out of my contract. Having that option available makes the future still uncertain even though I have signed to play somewhere. Having gone through this scenario last year, I’ve been able to fine tune my off-season workouts and conditioning to best suit my needs as I move forward.
There is one thing that’s certain at this point. Come April, I’ll head up to Maryland to begin the 2012 season. What is uncertain, however, is when or if a MLB team will come calling and need me to report to their spring training in February or March. This makes the throwing program and workout program very difficult to fine tune. I’ve figured out that if I work out and throw based on a MLB team’s spring training schedule, I’ll be ready for anything. The worst thing that would happen is that I’ll be beyond ready come April when I have to report to Maryland for the independent ball season. I’ve found that preparing for the earliest possible scenario motivates me and drives me to work hard and hope for the best.
My workouts are well-rounded, and I enjoy keeping my muscles guessing. I try to change it up often. Not only does this help with boredom,
it keeps your muscles “thinking” and doesn’t allow them to become used to the same routines. A big focus for me is conditioning. I do a workout called Turbo Fire, which is a mix of high intensity training and kickboxing. I also run and ride the bike. My running is usually more sprints than long distance, but that all depends on the workout that I had and the amount of throwing that I’ve done the previous day. I work out my legs and core a lot, and because of my shoulder surgery, I do a lot of rotator cuff maintenance. Putting your body through a 140-160 game schedule demands that you keep your body in top condition.
I’ve been throwing since December, and that’s usually when I begin my program. I feel that it’s very important to slowly work up to long tossing, and building arm strength over an extended period of time tends to work better for me than jumping right in and trying to get game ready quickly. Once I have long tossed enough and my arm feels strong, I’ll hop on a mound. Personally, I get 5-6 bullpen sessions in before heading off for Spring Training. There is a fine line between being ready to go for Spring Training and being game ready too early. The latter tends to cause players to burn out in August.
As always, thank you all for the support that you show me at the stadium, in person, or on social media. I sincerely appreciate each and every one of you. Thanks to MLB reports for allowing me to give you a sneak peek into my off-season workouts, regardless of my destination. My hope is that I’ll play in a town near you and we can meet at the stadium. Make sure to come and say Hi if you see me! You can find me on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/michael_schlact or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/michaelschlact
Thank you to Michael Schlact for preparing today’s MLB Guest Blog. Please feel free to “like” Michael on Twitter and follow him on Facebook. You can follow Michael’s journey on his blog titled “The Schlact Stories”. Michael loves interacting with his fans (and giving away game used goodies)- so be sure to say hello and tell him that MLB reports sent you!
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Assessing the Value of Baseball’s 5th Starter
Tuesday January 31st, 2012
Peter Stein (Fantasy Baseball Analyst – MLB reports): People often downplay the value of a fifth starter. For one, they are frequently skipped over, and they are also often prospects or just a temporary solution. However, security at the fifth spot in the rotation can have a huge impact on a team’s success. What I look for from a fifth starter is a guy who can give me 6 innings a game and yield an ERA near 4.50. After all, a start consisting of 6 innings and 3 runs qualifies as a quality start. An ideal fifth starter will eat innings and keep the team in the game.
One of the reasons I am optimistic of the New York Yankees chances in 2012 is due their recently added starting pitching depth. Clearly their weakness in 2011, the Yanks now has a rotation that is seven-deep, with Burnet and Garcia looking to be the odd men out. However, with Burnett’s struggles and Garcia’s durability issues, this is the right place for them to start the 2012 season. Burnett in particular will benefit form less pressure and chances are injuries will present an opportunity for both of these veterans to step up. The best-case scenario for the Yankees is that they don’t need these two and that the top five (Sabathia, Pineda, Kuroda, Nova, and Hughes) thrive. What makes the Yankees so dangerous is that it’s even hard to identify their fifth starter, as Kuroda, Nova, and Hughes are more of the number three type. Given Kuroda’s advanced age, I expect him to hold down the fifth spot with great consistency.
For rebuilding teams, it is understandable if the number 4 and 5 pitching slots rotate like revolving door. This allows prospects to get a chance to shine and the organization has the opportunity to see who is for real. But for a team that wants to be a true competitor, like the Yankees, it is essential that the fifth spot is locked down and that there is insurance within the organization.
People will often overlook the value of a fifth starter because they argue that they will not be needed come playoffs. However, a team better have an adequate fifth starter to position themselves to not only be in the postseason but also be in the strongest and healthiest form during October. Looking deeper into the subject, what really makes a quality fifth starter and pitching depth important for a team? First and foremost, it allows for a bullpen that can be fresher and also more strategically used. Nothing masks weaknesses in the bullpen like strong starting pitching. Furthermore, in the instances where a fifth starter is skipped, a quality arm can be added to the bullpen.
In fantasy baseball, the same concept about the fifth starter (or depth in general) is just as relevant. Even with three aces on your staff, you will need to find innings elsewhere. That’s why it is important to have several options and strong depth, allowing you to pick and choose wise starts based on matchups, ballparks, etc. True for major league and fantasy teams, the back-end starters won’t win you a championship alone. However, they are essential for the team to thrive and realize the value provided by the top of the rotation studs.
***Today’s feature was prepared by our Fantasy Baseball Analyst, Peter Stein. We highly encourage you to leave your comments and feedback at the bottom of the page and share in the discussion with our readers. You can also follow Peter on Twitter (@peterWstein).***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan onFacebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Time is Ticking for the Toddfather: Todd Helton Approaching Retirement
Tuesday January 31st, 2012
Bryan Sheehan (MLB reports Intern Candidate): At age 38, it’s a wonder how Rockies’ first baseman Todd Helton is still going. His .302 batting average and 70 RBIs in 2011 are impressive considering his age, not to mention his .997 fielding percentage being second best in the league. On the other hand, his .466 slugging percentage and 14 home runs leave more to be desired from the once ferocious hitter. After the recent retirements of Pat Burrell and Jorge Posada, the question must be asked: How much does Helton have left in the tank? Helton, who was drafted number eight overall in the 1995 draft (which now boasts only three active players – Helton, Roy Halladay and Kerry Wood – from its first round), came into the league with a bang in 1998. In his first full MLB season, Helton hit .315 with 97 RBIs and a .530 slugging percentage. Since then he’s compiled a .323 lifetime batting average, 554 doubles (ties for 24th all time), 347 home runs and 2,363 hits.
But, like most older players, Helton has been having back troubles. To be fair, his back problems started as early as 2002, and his stats were never really affected until 2008, when he hit under .300 (.264) for the first time in his career. His stats may not tell the whole story, as he hit well in 2009 and 20011, but Helton is nearing the end. Last February Helton claimed that he wanted to play baseball through the 2013 season, when his contract with the Rockies is up.
With Michael Cuddyer waiting in the wings, it’s unlikely that Colorado will re-sign Helton after 2013. By that time Todd will, barring a miracle, be unable to play everyday, and he’s not the type of hitter than can perform off the bench: in 47 at bats as a pinch hitter, Helton has struck out 15 times and holds a batting average of .149. It should also be noted that other than his one hit in 2009, the Toddfather hasn’t hit safely as a pinch hitter since 1999.
As much as Helton and many longtime Rockies fans would love to see #17 play forever; it’s not going to happen. If he plays like he did in 2011, Todd will live to see another day and finish out his contract in the Mile High City. But, if he plays like he did in 2010 or his injuries get the best of him, 2012 will be the last year Helton will be wearing the purple pinstripes. From there, the Cooperstown debate will begin on Helton. Will he get in? If Larry Walker is any indication, Helton may have to wait some time until his name is called at the Hall of Fame inductions.
Today’s feature was prepared by our Intern Candidate, Bryan Sheehan. You can follow Bryan on Twitter (@Sheehan99), read his interviews with Phillies’ minor league prospects at PhightingOn.com, and catch him writing the occasional article for BleacherReport.com (search his name). Tweet him about this article and he will follow you back!
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan onFacebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Your Baseball Questions Answered – Sunday January 29th, 2012
Sunday January 29th, 2012
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Q: Hey guys; How close do y’all think Mr. Selig is to getting his 2nd Wild Card team hooked up to the ’12 season? Old Man Mack
MLB reports: Back again on Ask the Reports. Congrats OMM! Great question as always. This one is one of my favorite topics: the MLB playoffs. Bud Selig wants to a second Wild Card team to each league, starting this season. What Bud wants, Bud usually gets. Given that Selig just signed a contract extension, he is definitely not going anywhere for a long time. With the owners and union recently agreeing to their new agreement, baseball is truly functioning in one of its golden ages. Despite economy issues in the US, baseball popularity has never been higher. To capitalize on that fandom and increase the stakes, Selig should be able to put through the added Wild Cards (I give it a 92% chance of happening). The way it will work is simple. Each league will have two Wild Card teams. To start the playoffs, the Wild Card teams will face-off in a one-game, sudden death elimination game. Winner moves on to the playoffs (same format otherwise), with the loser going home. The Wild Card playoffs will be two of the most exciting games of the year. Yes, it should happen, it will likely happen and I fully expect it to happen. At the very least, it will give two more teams a chance to win the World Series and make August/September that much more interesting for more cities and fans.
Q: Will Tyler Pastornicky‘s solid contact skills and plate discipline shape up enough to secure a lead-off slot? Justin
MLB reports: That is what the Braves are claiming. Their website shows Pastornicky pencilled in as the starting shortstop. Will he? Should he? That is debatable. The 22-year old Pastornicky was acquired by the Braves from the Jays in the 2010 Yunel Escobar swap. A 5th round pick in 2008, Pastornicky was considered a fringe prospect at the time of the trade. A .250-.260 hitter with .330 OBP capabilities was his story. The number that jumps out is the stolen bases. 57 steals in 2009 (in 75 attempts) and 35 steals in 2010 (in 44 attempts). He could steal some bags, but was definitely not a refined baserunner. Somewhat raw, good tools and upside is how he was seen going into 2011. Last year, his first full one in the Braves organization- Tyler broke out. While the steals still needed work (27 in 38 attempts), the rest of his game started to jump. .314 AVG, ..359 OBP and .414 SLG. 32 walks/45 strikeouts in 117 games. While he still was not walking enough, he was clearly starting to hit while keeping the k’s down. With the glove, the number that jumps out is 26 errors last year. I am very nervous about Pastornicky as a starting shortstop in the majors. Spring training will determine if he graduates to the opening day lineup, but my gut is that the Braves will bring in a veteran between now and April to play shortstop. If he regresses back to his .250 AVG ways, with little power, inconsistent base stealing and errors in the field, this could be a recipe for disaster. I think Pastornicky needs time to develop, to play under a veteran that can mentor him and bring up his game. He is still young and clearly has the tools and potential. But if you throw him to the wolves too early, you can shatter his confidence. He may get there, but I don’t think he is ready yet. Especially on a playoff contender like the Braves, that relies on pitching and defense, this is one gamble that they are not likely to make. Great question- thank you for sharing!
Q: How do I get players to sign cards through the mail? Joe
MLB reports: Thanks for the question Joe. Fans love autographs, it is a big part of the game. If you are looking to meet your favorite player, there is a variety of way to get signed items. If you can make it down to spring training, that is an autograph hound’s paradise. Players are very accessible and accommodating in the spring. During the year, hanging out early in batting practice in the outfield, by the lines or near the dugouts are usually great spots. Teams often host autograph events and promotions before and after games, plus around local cities. Be sure to check the website of your favorite team to see their promotion schedule. If mail is your preferred route: here is what you do. Pull off the address for the team stadium that your chosen player plays at. Send that person a letter enclosing the item that you would like signed with a nice personalized letter. Be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope inside for the return of your signed item. They may be well paid, but don’t expect the players/teams to pay for your postage- they get too many requests! Some tips: be polite, send a nice letter, be reasonable in your request (what you would like signed and send only 1-2 items) and be patient. Players get hundreds of requests per week and returning mail back to you can take time. Some are more likely to send back than others. My expectation: if you send out 20 requests, you may get 3-4 back. Reading the internet and watching games, you should get an idea on which are the “nice” players and likely to respond back. Good luck and let us know how your autograph hunts go! If any readers have other autograph tips for Joe, please feel free to include them in the comments section below, with your stories.
Q: Wouldn’t landing Oswalt make the Cards rotation even better than the famed Phillie crew? N.P.
MLB reports: When I first read that question, I almost choked on my breakfast. But then the more I thought about it, you are actually not that far off. The “famed” Phillie Fab-Four were Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels and Roy Oswalt. Assuming Oswalt lands in St. Louis (which is likely to happen at this point, great fit based on NL Central), Oswalt/Oswalt balance out. That means we are left with the Phillie Three Aces against Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright and Jaime Garcia. It’s not far off as it may appear, but it involves many “ifs”. Will Carpenter stay healthy? Can Wainwright come back from surgery and a year missed time and re-establish himself as an ace? Will Jamie Garcia continue to evolve into a top starting pitcher and returning to his 2010 form…or his is 2011 regression a sign of things to come? Too many ifs for my liking. At their best, the Cardinals rotation could come close to the Phillies rotation, if all the pitchers pitch to their peak potential and 1-2 of the Phillies pitchers have off-years. Otherwise, the answer is no. Taking them one by one: I take Halladay over Carpenter. I know Carpenter won the famed 1-0 game in the NLDS, but that is one game. Overall, Doc is healthier, more consistent and one of the best of all-time. Cliff Lee is Cliff Lee. He is as solid as them come. Wainwright if he comes back might be close to Lee, but still won’t be Lee in my opinion. Lee is just on another planet and Wainwright just needs to prove health, let alone be an ace. Hamels is due to be a free agent at season’s end. He may end up signing an extension (likely), but regardless of his contract situation- he is far superior to Garcia. The Cards should have a great rotation overall. But the Phillies staff…they still ain’t. But consider Dave Duncan is on a leave of absence and may not be back this season and I give the Phillies advantage in the rotation.
Q: Where do you see Edwin Jackson landing? Sox Wamp
MLB reports: This one is easy. If it boils down to money and years, he will land in Baltimore or a city like Seattle. If he wants to contend, Jackson may have to take a 1-year deal from the Red Sox. I am not an Edwin Jackson guy. Never have been. Never will be. Well…never say never never (hey Justin Bieber). At 28-years of age, Jackson may figure it out. It feels like he has been around forever, considering he has played 9 major league seasons. That shows you how young he was when he came to the bigs. If he was allowed to refine himself in the minors and learn control and the true art of pitching, Jackson could be one of the best on the planet. His stuff is that good. But with a 1.476 lifetime WHIP (1.437 in 2011), he is far from a control ace pitcher. The funny thing is that he doesn’t even strike out enough people. A pitcher who doesn’t strike out many, gives up too many hits and walks????!!!! No thank you. Someone will pay and give him a 3-year, $30 million contract. Or he may go to Boston and try to build up value. Jackson though would be smart to take the guaranteed money. He is a ticking time bomb that could go off at any time. Good luck to the team that signs him, I hope they have a strong pitching coach and lots of video to coach this quasi-project still.
Last Question (this is a biggie): No lefty has hit more than 14 HR at Comerica in one season. If that is the Avg do you see him (Prince Fielder) hitting 24 on the road? Steve Karsay
MLB reports: Yes folks, this is THE Steve Karsay appearing on Ask the Reports. A good friend of ours, we appreciate Steve taking the time to write in with his inquiry. Firstly, thank you Steve for the question. A great one…one that many fans have been asking since the big signing. As you and I have talked before on Prince, you know that I am a believer of the big man. I like the move for the Tigers on many levels (check out my top 10 reasons why the Prince signing will work, my recent feature on the Reports. There are some factors to consider. Carlos Pena back in the day had those 14 bombs. Other than Pena and maybe Granderson, have the Tigers ever had a left-handed power-hitting machine like Prince? I would say no. Maggs? Righty. Juan Gonzalez? Righty. Miggy? Righty. So in fairness to Prince, we don’t have a scale of players to compare him against. Also in 2003, the park dimensions changed and it became easier to hit balls out of Comerica. I have attended many many many games in Comerica in my day. I have seen approximately 2 home runs per game on the average. Now that may not be the biggest sample size (50-75 games), but large enough that I would say that park is far from a pitcher’s haven. I can see Prince hitting 24 home runs on the road, yes. But I see him hitting at least 20 home runs per year at home. Maybe not every year, but it will happen. The great thing about records, is that they are meant to be broken. That is part of Prince’s object to coming to Detroit. To establish new records and become “the man” in Motown. Fans are excited to see what a Prince/Miggy combination can do in Detroit. For your Indians Steve, it means the road to the playoffs just got that much tougher. Thank you for the question and you are welcome anytime back on the Reports!
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Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen) Follow @mlbreports
Mike Murray Interview: Giants Slugging Prospect – Baseball Runs in the Family
Sunday January 29, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Welcome to the world of Mike Murray! You think we love baseball? This guy grew up in the game! From a father that played pro ball, a brother who was drafted and a sister who captained her university softball team- to say baseball is in his genes is an understatement. Murray is a catcher in the Giants organization. To be a catcher and control a baseball game, you know that he has baseball smarts. He came to the Giants in 2010, playing in two different levels. Last year, Murray played the entire season with the Salem-Keizer Volcanos in the Northwest League. How are the numbers you ask? Good. Really…really…good! In the field, Murray has proven to be a solid defensive catcher. A .980 fielding percentage, to go along with a 33% caught stealing in his career thus far. But the real magic has been at the plate. A .331 lifetime BA. .394 OBP. Last year, Mike had close to a 1:1 walk/strikeout ratio (28/37). A lifetime .460 SLG. Last year, he popped 6 home runs in only 63 games. At the age of 23, we expect to see Mike Murray in AA Richmond very soon (how does 2012 sound?)
An intelligent young man beyond his years, I can tell that Mike has received a great education. Both in the college classroom (Wake Forest Dean’s List!), as well as at home. He is grounded, yet confident. He has shown great potential, yet continues to want to learn. If baseball smarts and determination were the 6th tool, Mike Murray would rate an 80 on my scale. Watch out Buster Posey, there is yet another talented catcher rising up the Giants ranks! Mike is showing that San Francisco really knows how to scout and develop solid all-around catchers. With stories of Buster Posey moving to another position one day a real possibility, San Francisco is ready to groom the next top starting catcher from its farm. It might be behind the plate, first base or outfield. But with his slugging bat, Mike Murray is making a statement that he deserves his shot one day- regardless of position.
When all is said and done, to top it all off: Mike will one day be heading to law school and eventually work his way up to a GM role in baseball. The future Billy Beane in the making? We will have to wait to find out, as Mike still has many years left of grinding left on the diamond. Today on MLB reports, meet one of the brightest prospects coming up the San Francisco Giants system – Mike Murray:
MLB reports: Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Mike Murray: Growing up I was a huge fan of Paul O’Neill. I loved the passion and intensity he had when he played. I always felt as a fan that you knew you were always getting his best, which is something I try to think about when I play. As a hitter, I loved the way he used the whole field and never took at bats off. My first MLB game growing up was in 1995 when he received his batting title from the strike shortened season at Yankee Stadium.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Mike Murray: Derek Jeter. I was 8 years old when he broke in, and was very lucky to grow up in baseball through his career. I appreciate how seriously he takes himself, the game, and his role in baseball. I believe that one of the most important things about being a player is being reliable for your teammates. You always know that Jeter is going to be prepared and will go through a wall to help win games.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Mike Murray: In the summer of 2002 my dad took my siblings and me up to Cape Cod for a vacation to see a few Cape League games. The first night we found the Chatham vs. Orleans game. I remember my dad talking to me about the league and how cool it would be to get to play in it. In 2009 my dad and siblings got to come to Fenway and watch me represent Chatham in the All-Star game. That night was special for me.
On the pro side, my first night in the Northwest league in 2010, I hit a home run in the ninth with two outs that was the game winner. It was my first professional home run, one that I will always remember.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Mike Murray: My first goal going into camp is to break with the San Jose club. Many of the Giants high round picks from last spring and top performers from the Sally league will already be slated to SJ, so competition to make the club will be for a few spots. As a hitter my goals always stay the same, to keep my approach consistent and produce runs. I have been working a bit more this off-season on getting consistent power and backspin. As I defender, I have been working out a lot at first base and also doing some outfield work. It is still an adjustment not doing a ton behind the plate, but I’ll be prepared to get at-bats wherever I can and wherever in the field that means.
MLB reports: What was the process like signing with the Giants in 2010?
Mike Murray: I felt like coming off of a real good summer in the Cape League and following it up with a really solid senior campaign at Wake Forest that I had positioned myself pretty well for the draft. As it worked out, the teams that showed the most interest in me ended up taking catchers earlier in the draft and it didn’t work out on draft day. About 4 or 5 days later, I got a call from Giants’ area scout Jeremy Cleveland with a contract offer. That phone call was a relief knowing I was going to get the opportunity to play professionally. It was also a challenge to prove the Giants right and a whole lot of other people wrong. It drives me each day I am on the field.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Mike Murray: My best skill on the field I have is what I do in the batter’s box. Everybody that plays professional baseball has some talent as a hitter, and I do believe I am a talented hitter as well. What I think is more important is that I have a good understanding of my swing, my approach, and how to adjust those things at bat to at-bat, game to game. I try to think like a catcher when I hit, thinking of how I would try to get myself out if I were calling pitches. So much of hitting is your approach and confidence, and whether it is true or not, I always believe I am going to win that battle with the pitcher each at-bat.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Mike Murray: I am working at a couple of new positions for me. I have been a catcher primarily for my whole life, and I feel extremely comfortable and understand the nuances of catching from experience. As I am learning first base and the corner outfield, it is all about the repetition for me in learning the intricacies of the positions I am learning now. Getting acclimated at first base especially has been a focus of my offseason.
MLB reports: How do strikeouts and walks figure into your game? Do you see any of these items changing over time and to what degree?
Mike Murray: I have always absolutely hated striking out. The high school stat I was most proud of was that I only had 12 strikeouts in over 350 plate appearances in my career. I think I hate striking out to the point that I won’t even give up a few more strikeouts to hit more home runs. One of the adjustments I have tried to make as a hitter is being ok striking out a few times more if it translates into more extra base hits. Our player development staff always preaches that 50% of all at-bats come with two strikes, so you better have a good approach with two strikes.
I think that a good approach with two strikes and a good amount of walks are stats directly correlated to how good a hitter is in his pitch selection. The pitchers we face are too good to help out. I never go into a game trying to walk, as I think that takes away from how aggressive you need to be successful, but you have to make sure you are aggressive at pitches in the zone. If I can be consistent doing that, I will be happy with where my walk and strikeout numbers end up.
MLB reports: Long term do you see yourself staying behind the plate considering Buster Posey is the current starting catcher? How do you view your role in the organization?
Mike Murray: Piggybacking on what I mentioned earlier, I see my career moving forward more as a part-time catcher and more so in first base, DH, left field roles. Even deeper then Buster, the Giants have done an outstanding job getting great catching depth in the minor leagues. Hector Sanchez, Tommy Joseph, Jeff Arnold, Dan Burkhart are all guys I have worked with and played with that do a great job behind the dish. I haven’t gotten to see any of second round pick Andrew Susac, but all I hear is great things.
I’ll help out whenever I need to or can behind the plate, but I know my role in the organization is to hit my way through it, and work to become a solid enough defender wherever there is a spot available.
MLB reports: How do you see defense as part of your overall game?
Mike Murray: I always took a lot of pride in being a reliable backstop for my pitchers and my teams in college and summer ball. As I mentioned, the Giants catching depth hasn’t provided for a ton of opportunities behind home plate, so my focus is on taking the same amount of work ethic from behind the plate into becoming a better defender elsewhere on the field.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Mike Murray: I would love to have an answer to this question other than I have no idea… but no idea is about as honest as I can be. One of the things about being a Free Agent and not being a huge bonus guy is that you have to prove yourself each and every day and each and every season. I don’t think I would want it any other way.
I understand that signing for more money or in a higher round buys you opportunities and that those types of guys have more equity to cash in if they have a below average year. I don’t have that luxury and that drives me to produce each and everyday. I have no plans of having a down year at any point. I will grind my way to really productive offensive seasons and see where that lands me.
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far?
Mike Murray: Pro ball has been mostly what I expected. There are certainly nights where you are sleeping on a bus floor that you ask yourself if you are crazy. But you usually wake up knowing you are where you are supposed to be and appreciate the opportunity.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball? Best friend(s) on the team that you most hang out with and what do you guys like to do to chill?
Mike Murray: In the offseason I chase around my dog, pick shows to catch up on Netflix, do a lot of reading, and spend a good bit of time in New York City.
I have been fortunate to have some great pro ball teammates. The great thing about pro ball is that your teammates come from such broad backgrounds. As a four-year college guy and graduate, my perspective is different from a JC guy, HS guy, or an international sign that is in the country for the first or second summer.
Now that we all have twitter, we are able to keep in pretty good touch over the offseason. I spend most of off-season texting back and forth with Garrett Buechele over our fantasy sports troubles and recently headed down to Philly with Joe Panik for the Winter Classic to root on the Blue Shirts.
MLB reports: A .331 lifetime average going into the season. A .394 OBP last year. You can hit and you can take walks. We are intrigued- what has been the secret to your success thus far?
Mike Murray: Being a college senior sign after four years presents its challenges as a prospect. You go in with less investment from the Club and a bit older than people may like for prospects. However, my college career in the ACC, Cape Cod, NECBL, and Valley League have prepared me well to succeed in pro ball. I had over 800 at bats in those four years against big leaguers, first rounders, and really talented guys. The experience I have as a hitter has made the transition to pro ball that much easier.
I talk a lot with some of our younger hitters in the organization about approach, staying positive, learning their swings, and I always tell them how much respect I have for them making the jump from High School or after a year of college. My experiences in college really taught me how to fail and succeed and the best way to put myself in a position to be more successful. I don’t know if I would be the same hitter if I didn’t have those experiences where I did.
MLB reports: Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Mike Murray: The favorite pre-game meal has everything to do with where I am. When I was in the NWL this past summer, my roommates and I made a habit of finding our way to Big Town Hero for our pre-game meal. When in Scottsdale, there is no better place to start your day then at the Breakfast Club.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
Mike Murray: Just figured I’d give you a little more personal information in final thoughts…
I graduated in 2010 from Wake Forest university with a degree in Political Science and History. I was an ACC Honor Roll and Dean’s List student, and captain of the Wake Forest baseball team. I deferred admission into law school when I signed to play professional baseball. When I am done playing I am going to go to law school, with the hopes of eventually getting into the front office and becoming a GM.
My dad played minor league ball in the Chicago White Sox organization. My younger brother was drafted last year by the Houston Astros, but decided instead to enroll at Georgia Tech. He is a freshmen catcher there and was last year’s New Jersey Gatorade Player of the Year. My younger sister was the Captain of the University of Maryland’s softball team last year and also is a catcher.
Thank you MLB reports! M.M.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
The Top Ten Reasons Why Prince Fielder Signing with the Tigers will Work
Saturday January 28, 2012
Jonathan Hacohen: On Thursday it became official. January 26, 2012 will forever be known as the day that Prince Fielder came home. We all know the story. Hitting home runs out of Tiger Stadium at the age of 12, Prince Fielder was a baseball legend from a very tender age. The former Brewers slugger hit the jackpot though, as the Tigers inked him to a 9-year, $214 million contract. At the age of 27, Prince already has 230 career home runs. Think about that one. Six full seasons in the big leagues. Close to forty home runs average per year. A man who has taken 100+ walks each of the last three years. Career .282 AVG. .390 OBP. .540 SLG. Plus he is still 27-years of age. The time in a player’s life when they are just entering their prime. If Prince has not hit his full stride yet…then watch out American League pitchers!
For a homecoming that seemed forever in doubt, the end result was a signing that felt right. Given the strained relationship between father and son, most suspected that Prince would not want to come to Detroit. The connections and comparisons to his dad would just be too much for him to handle. For a man who seemed to be very private and low-key, a Detroit signing seemed to contradict what he was seeking. But yesterday, Prince’s childhood dream did come true. Father and son according to reports are repairing their relationship. While it would have been nice to have seen Cecil at today’s press conference, it was not to be. Once Victor Martinez got injured, the Tigers came calling. Mike Ilitch, who knew Prince from when he was a young boy, wanted the young slugger in Detroit. After missing Prince by 1 selection in the 2002 draft, Ilitch was not going to let Prince escape again. The result was the cleanup hitter behind Miguel Cabrera that the team has dreamed of and the lifetime contract of security that Fielder and his agent, Scott Boras sought.
With a contract of this magnitude, there will always be debates, speculation and doubt. To help shed some light and clear up the confusion, I went ahead and prepared my top-ten list of reasons why the Prince Fielder Contract will work in Detroit.
I see this as a very smart signing by the Tigers and here are my reasons why:
1) Health and Durability: In six full seasons, Prince has missed a total of thirteen games. That’s it. For all the talk of weight, this is the modern-day Cal Ripken. Prince is a lot stronger and athletic than people give him credit for. Some consider a contract to be paid based on past experiences, while some believe it should be on future potential. In five years, Prince will only be 32. Based on his track history, it is expected that he should continue his iron-man type legacy for at least half of his contract…maybe more. Until proven otherwise, Prince is reliable and comes to the park to play everyday. There is value in durability, especially in a slugger of this magnitude.
2) The Power Bat: As shown earlier, the numbers are there. Averaging close to 40 home runs per year for his first six seasons. With more to come. Looking at his home/road splits over the years, he varied year to year. I am not sold that Prince was entirely dependant on Miller Park, as he hit well most years away from home. While Comerica is a less hitter friendly park, it surely will not hold Prince back much. Playing in front of the home town crowd, Prince should thrive in Detroit as well. Prince could very well hit 400+ home runs over the next 9-years. Time will tell. But from what he has shown so far, there is no slowing down. Heck, even Cecil hit 17 home runs in his last season at the age of 35. Clearly it can be done.
3) Age: Prince will be 28 in May 2012. For a power hitter of his stature, we should still see 5-6 prime years from him, with the potential to put up strong numbers right up until the end of the contract. While many stars still sign big contracts well into their 30’s, Prince is still in the prime of his life. Compared to Albert Pujols (even without the age uncertainty), Prince is a young slugger playing in his key years. Perfect for a team that plans to make a playoff runs for the next few years.
4) Consistency: Look at Prince’s numbers every year since he started to play full-time in the majors. The numbers speak for themselves, he has been as consistent as they come with no signs of slowing down.
5) Legacy: Many felt Prince would not sign with the Tigers, with the rationale that he wanted nothing to do with his father and to as separated from him as possible. My theory is that Prince actually craves the notion of going onto his father’s turf and breaking all of his records. To become the #1 Fielder in Tigers’ history. The Fielder name on the back of a Tigers jersey is legendary. To have Prince in Detroit now, he will be cementing his place in major league history. Success in Detroit will lead to endorsements beyond Prince’s wild imagination and a greater chance at the hall of fame. Not many people would have remembered Washington once Prince retired, had he played there. But after his career is done in Detroit, few will likely remember him as a Brewer. That is how powerful the Detroit and Fielder connection is.
6) Father and Son: If you haven’t done it already, check out the video at the top of this article to view the full press conference. Notice something interesting? Prince has his son with him the whole time. Remind you of anyone? That’s right. Prince and Cecil. The two were inseparable. I like this signing on a personal level for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it allows Prince to come home and play for the team and city that he spent much of his childhood with. Prince will be able to share the same experiences with his own son that he got to experience as a youngster. But mostly, I can only see this move as a strong indication of the progress and repair to the relationship between Prince and his own father. Considering that his dad raised him, taught him the game and made him into the player and man that he is today, in a perfect world it would have been a beautiful moment to see Prince and Cecil together at the Tigers’ press conference. While that may not have happened, I expect to see the day when the two will be hanging out together at Comerica Park. Three generations of Fielders in Detroit. The way it was meant to be.
7) Miguel Cabrera: Probably the only person happier about this signing besides Prince, Scott Boras and Cecil, would be Miguel Cabrera. While he did enjoy good protection in the lineup from Martinez last year and Ordonez in previous years, having Prince hit behind him will take Miggy to another level. Miggy’s walks have been jumping like mad in the last couple years, given that he has been the Tigers main offensive threat and fave choice of pitchers to pitch around. With Fielder in Detroit, Miggy has the potential to put up even greater numbers if that is possible. Look at what Prince did for Braun. With Miggy and Prince batting 3-4, teams will definitely have difficult choices to make.
8) V-Mart and Alex Avila: Avila, who will turn 25 tomorrow (happy birthday Alex!) had a season for the ages in 2011. The Tigers pitchers were on fire and loved how he called games. Blocked pitches. Threw out runners. Then there was the offense. .389 OBP. .506 SLG. 19 home runs. 82 RBIs. If he wasn’t the best catcher in baseball, he was at the very least top three. This was all done for the most part batting near the bottom of the Tigers lineup. Now imagine him batting 2nd next year. Batting in front of Miggy and Prince, Avila could have a .450 OBP or higher. Avila, like much of the Tigers hitters will greatly improve by having Prince in the lineup. Then come 2013, when V-Mart is in the lineup, the Tigers lineup will become nearly unstoppable. Miggy, Prince, Avila and V-Mart…all in the same lineup? I am practically drooling.
9) The Price is Right: Once upon a time, Vernon Wells signed a 7-year $126 million contract. Approximately $18 million per season. Jayson Werth with nearly the same deal. Pujols signed for 10 years $240 million. Pujols is also 32 (in Dominican years). Even if he is only 32, when Pujols turns 36 he will only be 5 years into his deal. At age 36, Prince will be done his. Werth will be 38 when his deal is done. Wells will be 36. The point is that there are many worse contracts out there. Compared to Wells and Werth, Prince is younger and far more consistent and productive. While Pujols is Pujols, you have to feel a bit edgy about his chances of completing his monster deal. Prince is a slugger and still has many more key years left. Considering what some of the other top contracts looked like, Prince money is not far off to what the elite are supposed to receive. At least in the case of Prince, compared to Werth and Wells, he had the track record to earn what he received. Relatively to the other “stars” I mean.
10) World Series: The Detroit Tigers of 2006 and 2011 really stick out in my mind. Two ballclubs that really needed an injection of runs to get over the hump. Especially last year’s edition. The squad had Verlander and Fister to start, with Valverde and the bullpen to keep the team close in games. But the team needed far more pop, other than Cabrera, Avila and V-Mart. Now with Prince, the team has the potential to challenge for baseball supremacy for the next 5+ years. Few players are difference makers. Prince is one of those players. Look at the Giants with Barry Bonds in the lineup. They always a had a chance. That is the biggest reason I saw the Giants being the team to grab Prince. I got the orange color right, but not the league. With such a high payroll and great band of stars and supporting players, the Tigers were seemingly one piece away from going to the World Series last year. Now hopefully, Prince is that missing piece to complete the Tigers playoff puzzle.
Without a doubt, some people have concerns about this signing. Most of the criticism falls around the dollars involved, length of contract, Prince’s weight and defensive questions. Let me answer those questions quickly. Firstly, the pay is the pay. The going rate for an elite superstar hitter is $20+ million per season. The number is still rising believe it or not. Remember, Prince will be only 28 this season. If he became a free agent in say 3 years, what would the market price be then? The dollars per year is market rate, whether we like it or not. As far as length of contract, by year 6- Prince will still be 33. Still very young in baseball terms. So the question for me is not the total length of contract, but the production the Tigers will receive in years 7-9. But even in the worst case and the Tigers get superstar numbers for approximately 6 years and decent numbers for the last 3, the contract will still make sense. If the Tigers win it all in any of those years, then nobody will even remember the contract. All they will remember is the ring and trophy.
As far as Prince’s weight and defense, I will say this. I have already shown in this article Prince’s durability. Not one issue was made of Prince’s weight in the press conference or by the team. Prince is a big man, no doubt. But he is a good athlete who is in much better shape than he is given credited for. As long as he is not missing games and his production is of an elite level, people should not be concerned. We are not trying to sell jeans people…we are trying to win ballgames. Lastly, I think Prince gets an unfair label from a defensive standpoint. While he may never win a gold glove and has the occasional lapse, for the most part he does the job. He works hard on the defensive aspect of his game. Moving Miggy to 3B or the OF is not a reflection on Miggy being an inferior 1B candidate. Rather, Miggy has experience at other positions and is still young enough to conquer them again. Prince did not sign this deal to be a DH. Yes, it will be an advantage to have him DH in back-to-back night/day games and for occasional breathers. But Prince is still young and capable. Like most young players, you don’t want them to strictly DH, since it takes them off the field and out of the game in many cases (see Adam Dunn). Prince will get the job done and having him at his natural position will make him most comfortable and likely productive. That is a good thing for the Tigers. At the end of the day, I have one last message for any last doubters left. Mike Ilitch just spent $214 million of his money, without hurting his ballclub. It’s his money and he can afford it. At the end of the day, this is not my money or yours. It’s the Tigers cash. If they want to spend it on Prince, all the power to them. This article addresses why the signing will work and makes sense. But ultimately, the Tigers wanted Prince from the time he was 12 and now he is home. Welcome back to Detroit Prince. Enjoy him Tigers fans…you are getting a bona fide superstar coming to your town.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ryan Strausborger Interview: Texas Rangers Prospect
Saturday January 28, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Ryan Strausborger is today’s featured interview on MLB reports. A 16th round pick of the Texas Rangers in 2010, Ryan is entering his 3rd professional season. He completed last season with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans of the Carolina League (High-A ball). What to expect from this up-and-coming baseball prospect? There are three aspects to his game: speed, getting on base and defense. Ryan stole 21 bases in 25 attempts in his first pro season and followed it up with 31 stolen bases last year. He has shown good doubles power (29 doubles in 126 games) and chipped in 9 triples. It may be difficult to replicate Rickey Henderson, but perhaps we are looking at the next Tim Raines? I’m sure Ryan will take that! He can play all three outfield positions, although center is his primary spot. For a team that plays in a well-known hitters’ park, Ryan Strausborger could be setting the table and scoring many runs for the future Rangers boppers. At 23-years of age, Ryan is still developing and working his way up to the majors. But if his two first pro seasons have shown us anything, the potential and tools are there. Get to know one of the next wave of Texas Rangers players, as we introduce you to Ryan Strausborger, outfield prospect:
MLB reports: First question Ryan: Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Ryan Strausborger: Growing up I never really tried to be just like anyone, but I was always a fan of the Cubs.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Ryan Strausborger: Michael Young, just because I have been around him now a couple of times. He is obviously very good, yet he is also one of the most humble and professional guys I have ever seen.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Ryan Strausborger: To win the league championship and to better myself as a hitter and overall player.
MLB reports: Did you play any other sports growing up? Why did you choose baseball as your sport?
Ryan Strausborger: Basketball. It was my goal as soon as I started playing baseball to become a pro someday.
MLB reports: When you first found out you were drafted, what were your reactions? What made you decide to sign with the Rangers?
Ryan Strausborger: They drafted me out of college as a senior and gave me the chance I was looking for.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Ryan Strausborger: My speed and determination are my two most important skills.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Ryan Strausborger: Just continue to make strides to being a more consistent hitter like I did last year.
MLB reports: How do home runs, stolen bases and walks figure into your game? Are you a speed, power guy or both?
Ryan Strausborger: Home runs are not important, while stolen bases and walks are. I am a speed guy with a little bit of gap to gap power and my job is to get on base and score runs.
MLB reports: I see that you have played all three outfield positions, but mostly center. Where do you think you will ultimately end up?
Ryan Strausborger: I would like to end up in center field. But i am a role player and would play anywhere they need me.
MLB reports: Strausborger: Ever get razzed about the long name on the jersey? Ever get mistaken for a certain pitcher in Washington?
Ryan Strausborger: Always get razzed about the long name, but no, Ii haven’t been mistaken for him. But people do like to make jokes about the names being so similar.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Ryan Strausborger: I need to just prove that I can be consistent and get the job done. As for the arrival, we will just wait and see what happens.
MLB reports: If you were not playing professional baseball, you would be ____________
Ryan Strausborger: Finishing my college degree.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun away from the ballpark?
Ryan Strausborger: Just hang out with my teammates and try to take advantage of all of the very few off days we get.
MLB reports: Have you ever been to Texas? Is it all cowboy hats and boots?
Ryan Strausborger: Only been there for a short stay a couple of times. No, Ii didn’t see any cowboy hats or boots on anyone.
MLB reports: Final thoughts?
Ryan Strausborger: Appreciate you allowing me to be featured!!
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Johnny Anderson Interview: The Baseball Comeback Kid… “Never Say Never”
Thursday January 26, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Get ready for the complete baseball ride tonight, as we jump into the world of Johnny Anderson. The Blue Jays pitching prospect was born in Pleasanton, California (ever see the movie Pleasantville? Same idea.) The left-handed starting pitcher was drafted by the Jays back in 2008. Only 23 years-of-age, the sky should be the limit for Anderson. He has big dreams. Owning a collection of fancy rides. Getting acquainted with the women of Toronto. The Blue Jays prospect wants it all! But as is the case with many young pitchers, a road bump presented itself. Here is the video (beware, it is not for the faint of heart):
I will give you a hint. The surgery that followed has the intials T.J. in it and involves a certain famous doctor in Alabama. If you follow baseball closely, you know what I am talking about. Dr. James Andrews and Tommy John surgery. The good news in the case of Johnny Anderson is that he is feeling great and well on the road to recovery. Facing adversity has not slowed down Johnny Anderson. It has only made him stronger. Today we learn about the Jays prospect, from the draft to his experiences in professional baseball. You can call him John Anderson. Or call him Johnny. Get ready to laugh. Get ready to cry. Get ready to sigh. Get ready to cheer. Today on MLB reports, we present our interview with Blue Jays prospect, Johnny Anderson:
MLB reports: Welcome to MLB reports! Our fave starting question: who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Johnny Anderson: Being a kid growing up in the greater California Bay Area, I always was within a stones throw from Candlestick and the Oakland Coliseum. Seeing the A’s “Big 3” was quite the treat. I modeled my pitching after Zito, which might be why I got hammered around when I was younger. There was also another soft-tossing lefty that some may remember; Noah Lowry (Editor’s Note: BIG Lowry fan. Nice call Johnny!) We pitched almost identically to each other, so it was always a treat to see him throw.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Johnny Anderson: With the Blue Jays graduating so many pitchers over the last couple years, it’s pretty cool to see guys I’ve played with over the years in the Show. With me being in and out of action the past couple years, I’ve been in the training room with a lot of pitchers that have been well established at the major league level. I’ve spent time around guys like Brandon Morrow, Shaun Marcum, Doc Halladay and others. It’s always fun to pick their brain and hear what they have to say.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Johnny Anderson: Over all the years I’ve played, I’ve never won many awards or accolades. I’ve been the guy that’s always flown under the radar… and I’m completely content with that. I played 2 years at the Junior College level and without a doubt, they were the most memorable. We were so close to winning a State Championship, but one strike away each year. I was Conference Pitcher of the Year in 2008 and I cherish that honor more than anything thus far.
MLB reports: When you first found out you were drafted, what were your reactions?
Johnny Anderson: I previously held a commitment with Oklahoma State University before the draft in 2008. I knew I had a shot at getting selected pretty high, but had no clue what was about to take place. I had an agent/advisor that helped me with the whole draft process so that I’d be prepared if the right deal was in place. The day before, I had close to 20 different teams call me asking me if I’d sign. I gave all of them my agent’s number and let him do the negotiations. If the price and opportunity was there, teams were supposed to know that I was more than willing to forego school and sign. Lo and behold, my agent asks for an outrageous number and I slide to the 28th round. The Jays called my name and I was ecstatic. I knew my life was about to change FOREVER!
MLB reports: You have gone through a very difficult and long baseball road. Tell us about your journeys through your various surgeries…and what is Dr. Andrews really like?
Johnny Anderson: When I was younger I wasn’t much of an athlete. I was the chubby kid that was just happy to be out there playing. I didn’t make any all-star teams or blow anyone away, I just had the love for the game. I’ve always had a pretty decent arm. I started pitching when I was 12. I played my first 3 years of high school ball and then didn’t even have the opportunity my Senior year. Yes, you read that right. I’m no MIchael Jordan. The next year I walked on to the local Junior College and I made the team. After two outstanding seasons, I signed with the Blue Jays in 2008. Two years later, I show up for Spring Training ready to compete for a job at the Hi-A level. First game of spring, the unthinkable happens. I feel a pop, and I hit the ground. I knew it as soon as it happened. I was going to need Tommy John surgery and be out for the season. I thought to myself “Ok, I’ll get a brand spanking new elbow and I’ll be ready to rock and roll next year.”
I rehabbed for a year and I felt stronger than ever. My velocity was off the charts, and I felt like a completely different pitcher. The Jays sent me to Lansing last year and after a couple of games, I began to have the symptoms that it was going to happen again. Tenderness, loss of range of motion and unusual soreness. I worked hard to get back to a healthy state and then…it happened again. I was in complete shock. I fly out to Pensacola to see the famed Dr. James Andrews. He’s your typical Southern gentleman. He has a thick cajun accent and is definitely the best in the business. He sees my MRI results and looks dumbfounded. He tells me he’s hasn’t seen a tear of this magnitude in years. To quote him, he said “it was a 1 in one million” type of injury. Not only was my UCL replacement completely disintegrated, but I had torn my Flexor-Pronator tendon as well. It was going to be a long road ahead. As of now, I’m 7 months out of surgery and feeling stronger than ever. I’m feeling extremely confident about the upcoming season and ready to compete for a job.
MLB reports: Tell us about your current offseason? How is the rehab going?
Johnny Anderson: To state it frankly, I’m in the best shape of my life! (editor’s note: music to my ears. Always a great sign!) I’ve been throwing for close to 3 months pain-free. If all goes well I should be ready to join a squad before the All-Star break.
MLB reports: Your 2011 season was very encouraging based on the numbers. It must give you great hope for the future.
Johnny Anderson: I was pretty satisfied with how my season went, even considering how short-lived it was. I took the mound with a bulldog mentality and knew that I could blow the hitters away with my stuff. If I can keep the same mindset- the sky is the limit.
MLB reports: What do you have in your bag of pitching tricks- what do you throw?
Johnny Anderson: I guess you can say I’m the prototypical lefty. I throw both a 2 and 4-seam fastball and complement it with a straight change-up and 12-6 curveball. The renowned Mel Queen (RIP) taught me how to throw a cutter. The same one he taught Halladay when he had his early career woes. It’s a tough pitch to master, but I’ve been working on it over the years.
MLB reports: Any plans on going the knuckleball route? A lefty knuckler would be sweet.
Johnny Anderson: As a matter of fact, I think I have a pretty decent knuckle. The rule of thumb is that you only use a knuckleball if you don’t have a fastball. So, as long as I can hit 90 I’ll stick with the fastball. We’ll see what happens down the road…
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Johnny Anderson: I always like to be challenged. I’d love to play at a higher level, as I only have one game of experience at Hi-A. I want to show everyone that I can compete with the big boys. I may not be a high-acclaim prospect, but if given the opportunity I know I can perform at any level.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball? Best friend(s) on the team that you most hang out with and what do you guys like to do to chill?
Johnny Anderson: During Spring Training me and Kevin Ahrens spend our off time confined in the team hotel playing Call of Duty. Yes, I’m quite the video game nerd. In the offseason, I enjoy working out and seeing concerts. There are tons of venues in the San Francisco area to see live shows. I love all sorts of music especially Electronic stuff. Not quite sure if this “dubstep” thing is a fad…for now I’ll listen.
MLB reports: Have your visited Toronto the city yet? Have you met Alex Anthopoulos? How have you found the city and their GM thus far?
Johnny Anderson: No! As a matter of fact I’ve never even left the States before. I’ve heard nothing but great things about Toronto and Canada. Especially the women (wink wink). I met AA in 2008 at our Instructional League. He knows more about the game than just about anyone I’ve ever met. Jays fans must be pretty excited about the future. This team is going up and up.
MLB reports: What do you think of Toronto Blue Jays fans?
Johnny Anderson: I’ve spoken to many through various social media outlets and I love them all. They are extremely passionate about their team and interact with all the players. What more could you ask for?
MLB reports: If you hadn’t picked baseball- what would you be doing today?
Johnny Anderson: Baseball will always be around me, I love this game more than anything. In the offseason, I teach pitching to younger kids with a couple of other minor league guys from the area. I could definitely see myself being a coach sometime in the future. Also, my father is a recently retired Police Officer. My Plan B is to finish my degree and follow in his footsteps.
MLB reports: Dream car?
Johnny Anderson: Anything fast and loud. I’ve driven a couple super cars in my time, and I can definitely say that I want one for myself. So if I ever make it to Toronto, you can count on me having a couple of Mercedes’ and American Muscle cars in my garage.
MLB reports: If you could look into a crystal ball- where do you see yourself in five years?
Johnny Anderson: Hopefully still lacing up the cleats! If my time has come, I can definitely see myself being a Police Officer and a High School pitching coach.
MLB reports: Final thoughts?
Johnny Anderson: I’d like to thank MLBreports.com giving me the opportunity to share my story and the Blue Jays for sticking with me, even after everything I’ve gone through. I love all of my fans (the few I have) and interacting with them. I’ve become quite the Twitteraholic as of late and I can be followed at @jma32. I enjoy interacting with everyone, so give me a follow!
***Thank you to Johnny Anderson for taking the time today to speak with us on MLB reports (and the pictures/video used in todays’ feature)! Johnny LOVES Twitter- so follow him ASAP!!! 2012 is a big year for Johnny as he continues on his road to recovery. Best of luck Johnny: we’re proud of ya!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
The Maggie McCracken Interview: One on One with the Star of Baseball Wives
Thursday January 26, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Today on MLB reports, we break new ground. First we started in Hollywood. I have enjoyed many opportunities to speak to actor Casey Bond, who portrays Chad Bradford in the hit movie Moneyball. Now we move from the baseball big screen to your television set, as I share my conversation with Maggie McCracken. The VH1 show “Baseball Wives” is a huge hit and I am excited to be speaking to one of its cast mates (our first, wink). Maggie is married to former major league outfielder, Quinton McCracken. Quinton played 12 major league seasons for 6 different clubs. He was known for hitting for a solid average, his ability to get on base and of course, dynamite defense. Quinton is still very active in the game of baseball, as a member of the Arizona Diamondbacks front office. According to Maggie, he also reads MLB reports on a daily basis. You know that means we love ya Q!
Today, I reveal my interview with Q’s better half. Maggie is an absolute bundle of energy. It has been uplifting to get to know Maggie and learn her baseball story. What we all see on television is one thing. But sometimes there is more to the story than meets the eye. While the Maggie McCracken we see on television is her…there are other sides of the Baseball Wives star that we wanted to reveal to our readers. Maggie’s family, including her precious little boy Isaiah. Maggie is a passionate mom. She founded the charity “Miracles Do Happen” and is very social conscience in making a difference. Did I mention that she is an avid boxer as well? From marrying Quinton to joining the baseball reality television world and everything in between, this is the Maggie McCracken story. Where she came from and where she is going. Today we learn all!
Get ready for a great baseball story as we proudly present our interview with the one and only, Maggie McCracken:
MLB reports: Maggie- it is a pleasure to be speaking with you and thank you for joining us today on MLB reports. Let me start off with our favorite topic: Baseball. What does the sport mean to you?
Maggie McCracken: Thank you for having me, I am honored. Quinton and I have been together for 11 years and Baseball has been a part of our life for our entire relationship. That being said, my feelings for the sport have changed over time. In the beginning it was fairly new to me. It was exciting to watch the games from a different view. Over time, your world starts to revolve around every game and then the game is over. Q has changed gears and is now in the front office. So now I see the other side of the sport which is tough. It’s hard to see the stress and agony in Q’s face when he has to make those hard decisions, when a guy doesn’t make the team it affects his entire world. That’s hard. So it has been a roller coaster. But Baseball has been good to Q and our Family and there’s a bond in Baseball that can never be broken.
MLB reports: Prior to entering the world of reality television, tell us about the life of Maggie McCracken. Mother, wife- what was life like before Baseball Wives?
Maggie McCracken: My life was already very busy. We have a two-year old son, Isaiah, who was born at just 23.6 weeks. Isaiah is the youngest baby born in Scottsdale to survive. Viability is 24 weeks, so my life before the show consisted of being Isaiah’s Mommy and trying to find ways to pay it forward. I became an Advocate and an Ambassador for The March of Dimes. In those roles, I help bring awareness and education to the community and mentor families going through the same thing our family went through. During my work with the March of Dimes, I founded our Charity, Miracles Do Happen. Our largest event, which is held every year in April, is a silent auction and raffle; all proceeds benefit the March of Dimes. As you can see, before the show, I was still very busy conquering the world with Isaiah and taking care of our family!
MLB reports: How did you meet Quinton? What was the wedding like and how would you describe Quinton McCracken the husband?
Maggie McCracken: A mutual friend introduced us and at first Q told me he was a shoes sales man (LOL), so I thought well if it doesn’t work out, I could always get a discount on shoes. What woman wouldn’t want that? He eventually told me the truth and I believe I said “so no free shoes?” Q is exactly who you see on TV and on the field! He is loving, passionate, caring and a lot of fun. He is also very quiet and methodical, he thinks everything out. He loves deeply and there isn’t anything he wouldn’t do for his family. Our wedding was at Duke University (Which is where Q went to school). It was beautiful; it was fun and full of love. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing!
MLB reports: You just mentioned that Quinton is now working with the Diamondbacks front office. How has life changed for the both of you since his career switch?
Maggie McCracken: Yes! Q is back with the Dbacks in the front office and he loves it! It is something I knew he would enjoy and be great at. He knows so much about his craft and he is also very compassionate. It can be hard at times; we went from having him home every day for almost two years to him now being so busy that we don’t see him very much. But he is happy and we are a team- so you just make it work.
MLB reports: Did you ever have any doubts or reservations about becoming a Baseball Wife? What were your expectations when you became a Baseball Wife?
Maggie McCracken: I had reservations about marrying an athlete period. I heard all the same stories everyone else has heard: the groupies, the traveling, the ego’s…etc. But I married Q the man- not the baseball player and it was the best thing I could have ever done.
MLB reports: What did you study growing up? What was your career vision as youngster?
Maggie McCracken: I studied Early Childhood Education. I love kids of all ages, there’s an honesty about them that you rarely see from adults anymore. They are our future and I love being a part of teaching them about the world and watching them soar. When I was younger I wanted be a doctor, but holy cow- that’s a lot of school! If I am being honest, I went to school to be with my friends so eight years of school seemed like way too much (giggle).
MLB reports: How did you first find out about Baseball Wives: Did VH1 approach you or did you approach them?
Maggie McCracken: Tanya Grace (who is on the show) asked if I was interested. I said why not, I will shoot one scene and see what it is all about. I did a shoot for a lunch scene with Tanya, Erika Williams and Brooke Villone. After that shoot, the producers asked me to shoot again so I did. When they asked for a third time, I said “we need to talk about a contract”, as I have learned from Q’s career. I felt it was a reasonable request seeing that I was putting my life out there and all. At first I was told to just “hang in there” and sooner or later they would offer me a contract. I stood my ground and said I wouldn’t continue without one. All of a sudden “poof”: on my fax machine was a contract! I had a trip planned to go to Miami with one of my best friends. I decided I would take that time to really think about what this all would mean.
MLB reports: Was it a difficult decision to decide to do the show? What were your husband’s thoughts on the subject?
Maggie McCracken: The decision to do the show was extremely difficult; if I only had myself to think about ,I am positive it would have been an easier one. But I have my family to think about and any decision I make from here on out affects them as well. I remember thinking if I decide to do the show, the world gets to see our ups and downs, our highs and lows. Above all, by making the decision to be on TV I am now a role model, like it or not. The only decision I had left was what type of role model I wanted to be. That decision was simple! I promised my family, friends and myself that I would continue to stand up for what I believed to be right, to only be involved in “fights” that involved conversation and not the stereotypical fights you see on Reality TV (such as hair pulling and putting your hands on another woman). I wanted other women and young girls who watch these shows to see that courage is being able to speak up for others even when you may be the only person doing so, to be secure and confident in what you have to say – to see that what you have to say matters and it should be heard. I wanted women to see that there actually are women on Reality TV who don’t feel it necessary to call another woman out just to get a point across and who are secure in themselves to help build other women up and help them succeed. As long as I stayed true to myself and what I believed, Quinton was by my side the entire way.
MLB reports: How well did you know any of your cast mates before the show?
Maggie McCracken: I was very good friends with Tanya Grace and Erika Williams before the show. I really wish they would have shown more of those friendships. Tanya and Erika are very involved in my charity work. Erika emceed last year’s Miracles Do Happen event. We shot some great scenes that focused on our friendships and life’s hardships, but unfortunately the viewers didn’t get to see that. I knew Brooke from when we were with the Mariners, but I got to know more of her during the show. The rest of the women I met during filming.
MLB reports: Who are your friends/enemies from the show? Do you really like/dislike each other?
Maggie McCracken: I have to say this question/s is the number one question asked (LOL)! I hold the word “friend” close to my heart. I work hard to be the GREATEST FRIEND I can be to those extraordinary people in my life that I do call a “friend”. I don’t have enemies. If I think of you as an enemy, that would mean I would actually let you affect my life and life is just too short. That being said, I took something away from each of these Ladies that I can honestly say made me a better person. Erika has this unspoken grace and sophistication about her, Tanya has an unconditional love for others, Anna has a way to get you to laugh at life when you have the worst of days, Brooke helped me realize that I could sometimes listen more and talk less (chuckle), Jordana takes the time to stop and appreciate life and what it has to offer, Cheri has a huge giving heart and Chantel has an unbreakable courage about her. Yes, we actually do talk, text and hang when the cameras are off!
MLB reports: Knowing what you know now- would you still have decided to appear on Baseball Wives?
Maggie McCracken: Without question I would do the show all over again, because I stayed true to who I am.
MLB reports: How do you feel that you are portrayed on the show? Are you the same Maggie off-screen?
Maggie McCracken: I was portrayed on the show exactly how I am in real life! I was portrayed that way because I NEVER said anything just for the show and I NEVER did anything just for the show. Some may say I should have been more dramatic or done this or said that and I would have gotten more air time. I have never blamed others for what may have gone right or wrong in my life, or for not going the way I wanted it to go. I take responsibility for who I am, what I say and how I treat others. Who you watched on TV is who you will meet in real life!
MLB reports: How have you found reactions generally to the show? From the public and media perspectives.
Maggie McCracken: The reactions vary from episode to episode. If the episode is Brooke and I not getting a long for five minutes then the next thing you know I am getting tons of tweets from Brooke’s fans attacking me for something I said… and vice versa I am sure. Overall, it seems like the public enjoys a fresh new show that doesn’t show women physically attacking each other, although there is some verbal attacking going on, I guess that is unfortunately the nature of reality TV. I do have to say I enjoy the feedback from fans, the good, the bad and the ugly (grin).
MLB reports: How has your life changed since the premiere of Baseball Wives?
Maggie McCracken: I feel like the timing of the show couldn’t have been better. At this time in my life I am surrounded by such wonderful, supportive people who I am so honored to call my family and friends. What makes this crazy ride so much fun is being able to share it with all of them! It has opened doors for our charity (Miracles do Happen) and given us a bigger platform to speak from. I am so grateful for that!
MLB reports: What do you do for fun in your spare time?
Maggie McCracken: I enjoy spending my spare time with Isaiah, we play, we laugh, we dance, and this little boy has moves, let me tell you! I love being at home, I love cooking for my family and trying out new dishes on my lovies (my best girlfriends). Lately the McCracken Casa has been the hangout for us girls, we cook and drink wine. We have girl talk and solve the world problems, or just each other’s (big smile). I enjoy being a part of different causes like the Multiple Sclerosis Society. One of my best friends has MS and we walk every year and help her raise money for the cause. I am also involved in MASK (Mothers Awareness of School Aged Kids). Isaiah is in school now so when he is there and it’s just me, I go and see my trainer Rico Hoye at his gym in Scottsdale and hit the bags (BOXING)! Boxing is my passion, I love learning the craft, I love watching it on TV and it’s where I can let it all out!
MLB reports: What is the future for Maggie McCracken- where do you see your life heading? Will we see another reality show, movies, television, book….?
Maggie McCracken: I am open to the possibilities. We have one shot at this thing we call life and I am blessed to be here and blessed to be where I am. For that I will make the most of it and do my very best. So bring IT!
MLB reports: What does it take at the end of the day to be a successful “Baseball Wife”? With so many demands on your time, how do you juggle everything?
Maggie McCracken: Well, first and foremost, I have to be a successful me before I can be a good wife, mother or friend. I try to always keep my priorities in line, to me that is very important. Yes, I enjoy hanging out and having fun. I enjoy traveling and I also enjoy just being at home. But certain things come first in my life and if those things are not taken care of me first, then I feel unbalanced and I don’t feel good about myself. It frustrates me to hear people always complain about the troubles in their life and all they have to really do is look at themselves and prioritize.
MLB reports: What advice would you give to a young lady dating a baseball player and aspiring to be a Baseball Wife?
Maggie McCracken: Most importantly, I would say NEVER ASPIRE TO BE A BASEBALL WIFE or any title wife for that matter! It’s so easy to lose yourself in a relationship, to lose who you are, what you want, where you’re going etc. That comes with any relationship. More so in one that requires the other to travel a lot. I lost myself for a short period while Q and I were dating. I always wanted to be whereever he was; it was fun and exciting and I was young and in love. When this happens, life has a funny or harsh way of reminding you that you’re an individual. Maintain your own goals and dreams, believe in them and in yourself. The rest will happen.
MLB reports: Tell us about your charity and son Isaiah. We would love to hear about his story.
Maggie McCracken: Isaiah was born at just 23.6 weeks viability is 24 weeks. At just 1.7 lbs and less than a 10% chance of surviving he did and he is thriving. He is a miracle and he is my Hero. I adore him and I worship the ground he walks on. He inspired me to create our Charity (Miracles Do Happen), benefiting the March of Dimes AZ Chapter. Each year we have an event that is open to the public. We hold a silent auction, raffle items from boutiques, restaurants, local businesses, etc. There is great food, drinks and entertainment. Local celebrities come out to support and it just keeps getting bigger and better every year. This year it will be on Saturday April 7th at The Rock Bar in Old Town Scottsdale.
MLB reports: Any final words to all the Maggie McCracken fans?
Maggie McCracken: Thank you!!!! Thank you to all of you who have been so supportive and who continue to support me, my family, my friends, and our causes. Thank you for being a part of my life my journey and Miracles Do Happen. Thank you for joining me in making a difference. If you see me out and about- please say hello. Give me ideas and feel free to express your opinions. I love hearing from you! Most of all, be you and stay true!
Maggie
*** It has been a pleasure getting to know Maggie McCracken and we thank Maggie for her time and effort as part of being interviewed for this feature. You can follow Maggie on Twitter (@MagMcCracken) and tell her MLB reports sent you…she could follow you back! Also you can “like” her fanpage on Facebook. Maggie is a wonderful person and we simply can’t get enough of her! We look forward to Maggie returning to MLB reports in a recurring role…. Stay tuned!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
On the Verge: Talking Baseball with Jays Prospect Dwight Smith Jr.
Tuesday January 24, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Being based in Toronto, we have heard the name Dwight Smith Jr. discussed frequently this year. Smith, drafted 53rd overall by the Jays in the recent 2011 draft, has Jays fans excited about him patrolling the Rogers Centre outfield one day soon. I was able to catch up with Dwight recently to discuss his offseason and future goals. As a second generation baseball player, Dwight enters the professional ranks with expectations already attached to him. The benefit/curse of being a high draft pick and carrying on a famous baseball name. But Dwight is ready to take on those challenges and make his name in the game.
Like many young players, Dwight grew up admiring Ken Griffey Jr. Probably one of the best all-around talents this game has ever seen, Griffey is a great player to look up to. Interestingly though, it was Albert Pujols who Dwight favorites today. “He has so much success and yet he is still humble.” If every baseball prospect could keep that approach, the game would definitely have more future stars in its ranks! In addition to baseball, Dwight played basketball. Many top athletes are involved in multiple sports based on their high athleticism. When asked why he chose baseball, Dwight replied, “I played basketball until my senior year, but I chose baseball because I always loved it.” With Dwight Smith as his father, I have no doubt that Jr. grew up around the game and developed a deep love for the sport. But it’s not like Smith did not have choices. If he hadn’t signed with the Jays, he would have attended Georgia Tech and played college ball. When I asked Smith if he expected to go the Jays in the draft, he said that he did not…but “was grateful they picked me.” The baseball gods smiled down on draft day upon this outfield prospect, as I see a very good fit between the player and organization. With his strong tools and power/speed potential, Smith could be in Toronto one day very soon.
I actually grew up watching his father, Dwight Smith (Sr.) and outfield partner Jerome Walton patrolling the Wrigley outfield for the Cubs. While his dad was not a hall of famer, he was a good overall player who did everything right. He played solid defense and contributed timely hits with the bat. I asked Dwight about the influence that his dad had on his career. Talking about his dad, Dwight replied that “he was a huge influence on me and the reason why I picked up a glove and bat. I learned so much from him not only about baseball but about life that helps me each everyday perform.” I was glad to see the strong bond between father and son. But it led to me wonder how being a “jr” affected Dwight and the type of pressure it put on him as a player. Dwight responded that “…it’s a blessing and a curse because being a 2nd generation ballplayer, so much is expected from you early and when you succeed they say it’s because your dad. Which isn’t fair to anybody because my dad never played a game for me but life isn’t fair. However, I never really felt much pressure because I have to play my game.” I found it very refreshing that Dwight could so clearly conceptualize the reality of being a 2nd generation player, but still stay focused and keep his position in the game in perspective. It is this type of thinking that I believe will lead Dwight far in the game of baseball.
Whenever I talk to a young player, I always ask them when they expect/hope to make the big leagues. Most are unwilling to put a timetable on their progress, while trying to work hard and hope that everything works out for them in the end. Dwight was a little different, as he set the goal for himself to make the show in 2-3 years. The secret for his success will be “hard work, dedication and if the good lord keeps him healthy.” Dwight cannot wait for the 2012 season to begin, as he is looking forward to his first year of professional baseball. After this year though, life will never be the same for him. Imagine the changes. One minute he was playing the high school ball…the next he is a member of the Toronto Blue Jays! Life can change in an instant. At the end of the day, his great baseball tools got Dwight Smith Jr. drafted and part of a Major League team. But it is focus and ambition that will carry him at the end of the day. For a team longing for more stars on its roster, help is on the way.
The Toronto Blue Jays have one of the best farm systems in all of baseball. Dwight Smith Jr. is definitely part of the new-look Jays prospects. He wants to work hard on every facet of his game until he becomes a complete player. Will we see the next Ken Griffey Jr. or Albert Pujols? Time will tell. But he definitely set the bar high for himself. Getting to know Dwight Smith Jr., he wouldn’t have it any other way.
***Thank you to Dwight Smith Jr. for taking the time to speak with MLB reports! You can follow Dwight on Twitter (@dsmith25blujay). Dwight enjoys speaking with his fans, so please feel free to send him any questions/comments you have. Or just wish him good luck on the season!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Omar Vizquel to the Jays: Toronto Adds Future Hall of Famer to the Mix
Tuesday January 24, 2012
Jonathan Hacohen: The Blue Jays signed today a backup infielder to a minor league contract with an invite to spring training. But not just any infielder. Omar Vizquel. Yes, the same Omar Vizquel that will be turning 45 years of age this coming April. Entering his 24th major league season. The ageless wonder. The infield answer to Jamie Moyer. Vizquel and his 11 gold gloves will be coming to Toronto in an attempt to earn a spot on the major league roster for the coming season.
I like this move by the Jays on many levels. With a current infield including Yunel Esobar, Kelly Johnson and Brett Lawrie, Vizquel provides depth and insurance. He is still strong defensively and can be a quality late-inning replacement. Believe it or not, he can also still hit and chip in the occasional stolen base. With Yunel Escobar still maturing on and off the field, Vizquel could prove to be the role model and mentor that the young shortstop needs to be able to take his game to the next level. Vizquel in essence would be a quasi-player-coach on the Jays, helping Lawrie and Johnson tighten their games as well. Every championship caliber team needs strong role players, regardless of the sport. For the Jays to jump to the next level, they will need Omar Vizquel type players on its roster. There are no guarantees that Vizquel will make the team out of spring training, or last a full season. But if he does, Jays fans will enjoy what they see from the Venezuelan fielding magician.
This article is as much about appreciating what value Vizquel brings to a baseball team today, as a reflection of his career to-date. I remember meeting Omar in the early 1990’s. He was a skinny guy on the Mariners and still hadn’t come into his own. I will never forget the t-shirt he was wearing during batting practice that day. It was an “Omar Vizquel” shirt, with his name and picture. This great fielding and no-hit shortstop stood at the first base line and signed autographs for over 30 minutes. He literally did not leave until every fan was looked after. Fast forward to the Vizquel today…and nothing has changed. Sure, the “Omar Vizquel” t-shirt is long gone. But he is the same Omar, engaging the fans and proud to be a major league baseball player. For a guy that has won 11 gold gloves and had a fairly good bat for a shortstop- I only have one question. Why are we not discussing him more as a future hall of famer?
Omar Vizquel is built in the mold of many superior fielding Venezuelan shortstops before him. Luis Aparicio and Dave Conception are the most famous examples that come to mind. I always have a comparison though that I throw in every time the words Vizquel and Cooperstown are said in the same sentence. Ozzie Smith. The Wizard of Oz. I watched both players for the majority of their careers and I am at a loss for words. By no means do I want to take anything away from Ozzie Smith. Far from it. But when I start to compare the two shortstops, I see many similarities. Similar bats. Similar gloves. The numbers are there. You can argue that Ozzie was a better base stealer, or that Omar had more power. The difference in their offensive numbers are negligible. Watching both players, I would tell you that they were at similar levels with a bat in their hands. With a glove, the numbers again are not far off. Ozzie was flashier and made more errors- but then he took more chances than Omar. But to argue that either one was a better defensive shortstop would be a difficult argument to make. The Wizard had the backflips and the all-star game appearances. Omar had an almost equal amount of gold gloves (11 to 13), but less notoriety. Ozzie made 15 all-star teams. Omar was on 3. But if Ozzie is a first-ballot hall of famer, then so is Omar.
Where I believe that Omar’s hall of fame chances are minimized are in his personality and era that he played in. While the 1980’s still had
the belief of the all glove and no hit shortstops, the game evolved in the 1990’s. Cal Ripken type all-around players became the standard, with Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter and Nomar Garciaparra entering the mix. Backflips and all, Ozzie would have faced a difficult task in unseating those offensive beasts in order to gain election to multiple all-star games. Then when you take into account that Omar Vizquel is the steady/silent type- he just simply never received the headlines that he deserved. Yes, he won countless gold gloves. But rarely do I ever hear of a discussion where he is accounted for as one of the best at his position of all time. Again, if you consider Ozzie Smith one of the best- then you have to do the same for Omar Vizquel. I know this in my heart, but I have my doubts if all the hall of famer voters will see things the same way.
As the years have gone by, so have standards and criteria for election into Cooperstown. Given though the recent ‘steroid era’ and the difficult decisions faced by the voters with candidates such as Mark McGwire and Rafael Palmeiro, a candidate one day like Omar Vizquel should be an easy choice. While 3000 hits and 500 home runs used to be automatic markers for induction, offensive numbers are not as critical as they were in recent years. When I reflect on Omar Vizquel, I see a ballplayer that played the game the right way. He stayed fairly healthy for most of his career. He had a decent to very good bat for his position. He certainly never embarrassed himself at the plate. But first and foremost, he was a premiere shortstop. One of the best, if not THE best, that baseball has ever seen. He was steady as they come. Balls hit to Omar were usually automatic outs. He certainly earned each of his gold gloves and certainly could have earned even more. I am sure when the Mariners reflect on Omar Vizquel, they wish they would have kept him rather than moving him in 1993 for Felix Fermin. That year, Omar earned the first of his gold gloves. The first of many to come.
So in considering today’s signing, this is not an ordinary minor league deal. This is a story of a baseball warrior that is beating all odds, including father time. In an age when players are retiring earlier and the game is becoming a young man’s sport, Omar Vizquel continues to hang on. Only 159 hits away from 3000, I certainly could see him reaching that mark in 2013. But regardless of whether that magic number is hit, for everything that he has produced on the baseball diamond to-date, Omar Vizquel should be in Cooperstown in the next few years. I have enjoyed watching him play all of these years and look forward to cheering his name at least one more time before he hangs up his glove for good. Check the numbers again and begin your own thought process of whether you feel that Omar Vizquel deserves a place in Cooperstown. But hopefully we can hold off on that debate for at least a couple of more years.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ian Kadish MLB Guest Blog: I Owe It All to Them…
Sunday January 22, 2012
Ian Kadish (Guest MLB Blogger): Once again, I was lucky enough to be asked back to write another blog post for MLB Reports! I always love being asked to write for them! This time they asked me to write about the biggest baseball influences in my life…and I’m warning you, this could take a while! I have been playing baseball for as long as I can remember, so obviously I am going to have many people that have influenced my baseball career. If I don’t mention you specifically, I am sorry, but the list is way too long and I have to pick the biggest influential people in my baseball career.
I am going to start by saying my parents are easily the single biggest influence in my life, whether it be on or off the field. They have molded me into the man (sometimes little kid) that I am today and I am a product of them. They have always supported me no matter what I do and they have always been there for me through thick and thin. They have been there for the hardest times and have somehow always gotten me through it. They have taught me to chase a childhood dream and put everything I have into it. They taught me to never give up, they taught me to work harder than anybody else, they taught me to play the game right, the list could go on for days of what they have taught me and I could never thank them enough. For that and everything else they have done for me, I owe it all to them. I love you Mom and Dad!
The second biggest influence in my baseball career is an easy choice. It is a guy named Mike Maundrell. He was my pitching coach when I played at Midland and started the molding process of the pitcher that I am today. He has taught me literally everything I know about pitching and is still teaching me today. I have known him since I was 16 and he completely changed me as a pitcher and as a person. He was the first coach I had who taught me what hard work really was and what I had to do to better myself. I still work with him to this day and I have been training with him this offseason here in Cincinnati. I can honestly say, I would not still be playing baseball if I had never met Coach Maundrell. He knows more about pitching than any human probably should know and he could talk about pitching for days on end. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work with him for several years and will forever be in debt to him for everything he has taught/ is teaching me about pitching.
Another big influence in my baseball career is Tim Adkins. He and I both will admit we had our tough times together, but he was the one that gave me the great opportunity to play collegiate baseball at Marshall University. He was the pitching coach at Marshall at the time and he pushed me to great lengths. He pushed me to the breaking point, but he made me as strong as I am today because he pushed me to such great lengths and found that breaking point. He was the one that truly found out what made me tick and what got me going. I learned so much from him not just on the baseball field, but off as well. He continued to teach me what hard work is and he taught me to find out what works for me. I owe him a tremendous amount of credit because he developed me into the hard worker that I am and taught me that if I want something to go get it and let nothing get in my way. Along with Coach Adkins, I owe Coach Waggoner a tremendous amount of credit as well. He was my head coach at Marshall University and he has always been there for me. He always told me if I ever need anything at all to call him and he would be there for my family and me. He genuinely cared about my family and me and I can’t stress enough how much I appreciate it. He always had confidence in me whether I was really good that day or extremely bad. He deserves a great amount of credit for how much he stood behind me and I thank him for that.
Coach Adkins departed from Marshall University after my Sophomore year and was replaced by Joe Renner. Coach Renner and Coach
Maundrell are like brothers and they both teach the same concepts. Coach Renner continued to teach me what Coach Maundrell taught me. Coach Renner and I grew to become extremely close in just 2 years. I feel like I can go to him with anything and talk about it and he will help me through it to the best of his ability. It was extremely sad to walk off the field after my last collegiate game and see tears in his eyes because it was the last game he would coach me in. It brought tears to my eyes and I will never forget the 2 years I worked with him. He worked extremely hard to get me to the next level and I am very thankful for everything he has done for me. I know we will remain in contact for years to come!
The last person that I want to mention who has been tremendously influential in my baseball career is Clarence Mitchell. He was my baseball coach when I was 13-15 years old and I am telling you what, he was the strictest coach I have ever had. He taught me the true meaning of discipline and made sure he engraved it in our heads. I still remember to this day taking a ground ball to the eye during infield practice and the eye swelling up instantly and bleeding profusely, but refusing to come out because of the discipline he preached or the running for hours on end if we messed up or did something the wrong way. He taught me what hustling is and I still to this day have everything he taught engraved into my baseball actions and life in general.
Other people that were influential in my baseball career include Chris Fiehrer (my high school coach), Scott Humes (Midland Coach), Jeff Newman (Midland Coach), and Bernie Barre, Although Bernie Barre wasn’t a baseball coach and had nothing to do with baseball, he taught me life lessons I can use on the baseball field. He was my football coach and was one of the best football coaches in the history of Ohio High School Football.
I also want to mention Dennis Holmberg. He was my very first professional baseball manager and he taught me so much more about the game of baseball that I never knew. I made sure I wrote down everything he taught me so it will be with me forever. He made my first professional season one that I will never forget.
I can’t begin to express how much I appreciate everybody that has had an influence on my baseball career. I owe them all a HUGE thank you and I would not be where I am today without them. I am so grateful for everybody that has influenced me so Thank You from the bottom of my heart! Ian
Thank you to Ian Kadish for preparing today’s MLB Guest Blog. Please feel free to contact Ian on Twitter (@BearJew36) or through his website (http://livinginthelifeofian.blogspot.com) for comments and questions. We also thank Ian for sharing the photographs used in today’s feature from his own private collection.
Previous Ian Kadish Guest MLB Blog Entries on MLB reports:
Ian Kadish Guest MLB Blog: Part 2 – Offseason and Expectations for 2012 October 3, 2011
Ian Kadish Guest MLB Blog: Part 1 – Recap of My 2011 Season September 30, 2011
Ian Kadish Guest MLB Blog: My Baseball Journey September 11, 2011
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Your Baseball Questions Answered – Sunday January 22nd, 2012
Sunday January 22nd, 2012
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Q: Pirates chances in the semi-weakened NL Central this year? John
MLB reports: Great question John. Many Pirates fans are very hopeful this year. But in the opening may not be as clear as some would think. Houston we have to figure is in rebuilding mode and heading to the AL West in 2013. That leaves the Cardinals, Reds, Brewers and Cubs as the main competitors. The Cubs are going to be better, but still have ways away. New management needs time to rebuild the farm and create a lineup in the image that they foresee. That leaves the Reds, Cardinals and Brewers. Even assuming that Prince Fielder is gone and Ryan Braun is lost to suspension, the Brewers are incredibly strong. Gallardo and Greinke to head up the rotation, Axford and Rodriguez at the back of the pen. The Brewers are unlikely to make the playoffs, but will still be in the race. Same goes with the Cardinals, sans Pujols and La Russa. They still have an offense led by Holliday, Berkman and Beltran, with one of the best rotations heads in Carpenter and Wainwright. They will be finding their way this year, but the Cardinals are still the defending champs. Lastly, the Reds will be the team to beat. Latos will now be their ace and Ryan Madson the closer. In between, this team is fairly stacked and can hurt you in so many ways, led by Votto and Phillips. The best that I can see the Pirates finish is 3rd…and that is a long-shot. To me, I see 4th place as being the likely scenario with anything higher being gravy. As far as anything higher? Wait 2 years or so until their farm starts harvesting some really key prospects to the majors.
Q: Question on ’13 HoF vote. Do most of the voters believe Barry Bonds was a HoF’er before using (clear/cream) possible PEDs? Old Man Mack
MLB reports: There is no doubt in most “experts” minds that Barry Bonds was going to Cooperstown before the whole performance enhancing drugs issue arose. Before bulking up in San Francisco and reinventing himself as the home run champion, Barry Bonds was one of the best players in the game. He could do it all and was one of the best 5-tool players the game ever saw. But the reality is that most voters will not look or think in that manner. All they will remember is Balco and the question marks that surround Bonds. Looking at the McGwire and Juan Gonzalez vote totals, I am seeing writers that are not prepared to vote in certified or even heavily suspected PED users. The vote on Bonds, like Roger Clemens, will be very interesting. Without clear criteria and guidelines, voters won’t know which way to go. Some will vote Bonds in, by consideration that he was a worthy candidate even before the Balco mess. Others will consider that he did use PEDs and as a result, should not go to Cooperstown. If Bonds gets 50% of the vote based on what I’m hearing, I will consider that a high total. The 2013 Hall of Fame ballot will be one of the most difficult ones in history. We all look forward to seeing what will transpire.
Q: Are the Red Sox in a rebuilding year or waiting on a certain sign from the Baseball Gods to replenish the rotation and the B-pen? Nick
MLB reports: LOL. The Red Sox are never rebuilding. They may have a new manager and GM, but they are still the Red Sox. Adrian Gonzalez. Jacoby Ellsbury. Dustin Pedroia. Josh Beckett. Kevin Youkilis. This team still has the horses to make a run for a playoff berth. Yes, they just traded away Marco Scutaro, in a rumored attempt to make a run at Roy Oswalt. So no, the Red Sox are not waiting for any signs. They are just staying in a budget and putting the best team that they can put together within their means. Their bullpen is still loaded to the max. Andrew Bailey, Mark Melancon and Daniel Bard (if he doesn’t win a rotation spot). These Red Sox are maybe one starting pitcher away. Some tweaking may still be ahead…but rebuilding, no no no. Far from it.
Q: Do you think Tigers Pitcher Justin Verlander Deserved to win the AL MVP Award last Season? Pitchers don’t win MVP Awards often! Marty
MLB reports: Another great question Marty. You always ask the right questions! Let’s take it another way: if I had a vote, would I have given Justin Verlander the MVP award. Absolutely- yes. I have heard all the arguments why pitchers should not win the MVP award. They have their own award- it’s called the CY Young award. They don’t play everyday and thus are not as valuable as top hitters. It goes on and on. I get it. In 2011, the fact remains that Verlander was the most valuable player on his team. Look at the stats- they are mind boggling. 24 wins in 34 starts. 2.40 ERA. 251 innings pitched. 250 strikeouts and only 57 walks allowed. A 0.920 WHIP. The man won the pitching triple crown and dominated hitters consistently all year long. If you take Verlander off the team, they do not make the playoffs. There were many great players in the American League last year. Jose Bautista. Adrian Gonzalez. Jacoby Ellsbury. Curtis Granderson. But until they make a hitters-only award, the Most Valuable Player award means any player. That player was Justin Verlander in 2011 and yes, he definitely deserved his award.
Final Question: I hope the A’s make Playoffs this year! That would be Something special! Eric
MLB reports: Eric. Eric. Eric. I love your passion and commitment to your team. But I am sorry to be the one to tell you this- ain’t happening. The A’s are in yet another rebuilding mode. The team was destined for 3rd or 4th place before trading Gio Gonzalez, Trevor Cahill and Andrew Bailey. Not to mention the losses of Josh Willingham and Hideki Matsui. The return of Coco Crisp just won’t cut it. While the Mariners should be an improved squad, the A’s have a ton of young talent that will come together in 3-4 years. I’m sure all A’s fans would love a pennant. For now, they will need to settle for last place and a chance at a high draft pick. Until the stadium issue is resolved and the team can figure out a permanent and financially viable stadium option, winning Oakland baseball will continue to be a rarity for the foreseeable future.
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Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen) Follow @mlbreports
Garlic Fries and Baseball: The Book Review
Sunday January 22, 2012
“Garlic Fries and Baseball: The Book” – By Ronni Redmond (2011)
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: From baseball blogger to author. This is the story of Ronni Redmond and her website: “Garlic Fries and Baseball.” As you have probably guessed from the title, Ronni loves ballpark food. Heck, she loves everything baseball. I had no idea what to expect from this book. Perhaps a list of top ballpark foods. A ballpark recipe book. It could have gone in many directions. It turned out to be a bit of everything. Probably one of the easiest and funniest baseball reads you will ever find. Garlic Fries and Baseball: The Book, turned out to be an enjoyable baseball journey. Ronni threw just about everything but the kitchen sink into this one and produced a book to be proud of.
Ronni Redmond is not the Shakespeare or Hemingway of the baseball writing world. Nor does she profess to be. Ronni is a baseball fan, pure and simple. She loves talking about the game and sharing her insights. She does some deep level baseball thinking and likes to share her questions with the readers. GF&B is a book born from her website. From logging a baseball trip on-line (and you know I LOVE baseball trips), the website was born. In the book, Ronni shares the details of the road trip, from the parks she visited, the food she ate, to the hotels she stayed at. For anyone who has ever attempted or completed a baseball vacation, Ronni’s story will be one that you will appreciated. But once the trip was done, Ronni didn’t stop writing about baseball and her website exploded. It grew so much, that she felt the need to write this book. I am certainly glad she did.
A San Francisco Giants fan, Ronni is not afraid or apologetic for sharing the love of her favorite team. That is an art that is missing sometimes in baseball writing. Even if a person writes and analyzes baseball, there is nothing wrong with having an allegiance to a certain team and/or players. Most, if not all, baseball writers are deeply rooted baseball fans from birth. We can love something and still be objective. It is an acquired skill, but definitely can be done. In GF&B, Ronni talks about her team’s climb to the World Series championship in 2010. To hear the story from a fan’s point of view was interesting and heartwarming. Baseball fans live to see their teams go all the way. In 2010, Ronni got to experience those emotions and I enjoyed the ride through her eyes.
From baseball trips and a World Series win, Ronni then covers many more baseball topics. Derek Jeter. Stephen Strasburg. George
Steinbrenner. Joe Mauer and shampoo. Recipes. Ronni has a little bit of everything in this one. If I could consider this book in Seinfeld terms: it is a baseball book about nothing that seems to talk about everything. Sometimes I like reading autobiographies. Sometimes historical pieces. Other times give me statistical analysis manuals. But when I have had a hard day and just want to read, laugh and enjoy myself, GF&B was a good comfort book. A little chicken soup to the baseball soul.
Ronni Redmond: when I finished this book, I had a smile on my face. I laughed. I smirked. Sometimes I agreed with you. Sometimes I shook my head. But you got me thinking and talking baseball. Thus your book, Garlic Fries & Baseball is a success in my estimation. Well done for a first-time author. It will be enjoyed by baseball fans of all levels and ages. Also…I can’t wait to get my hands on some garlic fries. I love baseball food and they sound delicious!
***Garlic Fries and Baseball: The Book is available to purchase as a kindle e-book and can also be found on the GF&B website: http://garlicfriesandbaseball.wordpress.com. Be sure to pick up your copy today and let us know your thoughts and comments. Half the fun of reading a baseball book is to share your experiences with our fans and readers!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Steven Bumbry Interview: The Baseball Story of an Orioles Prospect
Saturday January 21, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Imagine this scenario. Your dad played fourteen seasons in the big leagues, all but one with the Baltimore Orioles. Now you get to play pro ball as a second generation player, working your way up the ladder for that same big league organization. Welcome to the world of Steven Bumbry! When Manny Ramirez calls you to wish you a happy birthday at 11-years old, you know that you are strongly linked to the game. You may know the last name “Bumbry”, but today you get to learn about the man known as Steven Bumbry. The Killer B has been around the game is whole life. From growing up in clubhouses and baseball diamonds, Steven is a member of the Baltimore Orioles organization as an outfield prospect. He completed last season playing for the Frederick Keys of the Carolina League. Steven will be 24 by opening day and looking to make the climb up to Baltimore in the future. Today we sat down with the Killer B to discuss his baseball life and story. From the baseball he equipment he uses- to autographing strange body parts. Today on MLB reports, we are proud to present the Killer B- Steven Bumbry:
MLB reports: Welcome to MLB reports! Steven- you play professional baseball for a living. Has that sunk in yet?
Steven Bumbry: During my first offseason: when all of my college teammates were heading back to school and I literally had nothing on my plate besides keeping in shape. While they were worrying about going to classes and study hall, is when it really sunk in. Although I haven’t completed my degree yet, I wouldn’t trade anything for the time and experiences I’ve had since I started my pro career.
MLB reports: What is your brand choice for bat and glove?
Steven Bumbry: I prefer to use a Rawlings glove with the H-Web. My first two years I stuck to the good ‘ol Louisville Slugger bats. But in the middle of 2011, I was introduced to an up and coming company called DS Wood Bats. They are made outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and this offseason they gave me the opportunity to visit their factory and customize a model bat for myself. So I have made the switch to them and I feel that they are very comparable, if not better than what I was getting from Louisville Slugger. I hope to continue to grow my relationship with them as I continue my career.
MLB reports: Did you have a favorite player growing up?
Steven Bumbry: Manny Ramirez was by far my favorite player and still is at the top of the list today. When my father was coaching with the Cleveland Indians in 1998, I had the chance to visit and travel with the team during the summer when I wasn’t in school. I was only 10 at the time and all of the guys treated me so well, giving me gloves and bats all the time. But Manny was one of the guys who I could stand with during team batting practice and we would play shagging games in the outfield. I thought that was the coolest thing until April of the next year when the phone rang on my birthday and it was a call from Manny personally wishing me a happy birthday. I don’t think there was anything in the world when I was 11-years old that would have been a cooler birthday present.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Steven Bumbry: I admire the hard work and the type of game that Justin Morneau plays. I have the opportunity of working out with him and about 15 other current major leaguers in the offseason here in Phoenix and I enjoy picking their brains about the game. I think that Justin is a great role model both on and off the field.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Steven Bumbry: My number one goal is to stay healthy, I don’t want to miss a game. Unfortunately I haven’t had a season in the last 4 years where I didn’t miss any time. While fighting off the injury bug, I have taken some encouraging steps in my game both offensively and defensively. So when healthy, I will put it all together and hopefully have a break out season in 2012.
MLB reports: You were drafted by the Orioles in the 12th round of the 2009 draft. Tell us about that process.
Steven Bumbry: I first started to realize that I would have the opportunity to play professionally my senior year of High School because Dean Albany (the scout who signed me with the Orioles) had been asking me to play with his summer wood bat team in the Cal Ripken League. After going undrafted in High School, I moved on to Virginia Tech and he continued to show a lot of interest in me, asking me back to play with him after my freshman and sophomore years there. The attention continued throughout my Junior year and I had been in pretty frequent contact with the Orioles and a handful of others in the months leading up to the draft. I eventually went to a couple of pre-draft workouts, one being at home in Baltimore for the Orioles. Then two weeks later, it was draft day and we had calls going back and forth between two teams and it was kind of a roller coaster ride back and forth. But it ended up being the Orioles who called my name and myself and my whole family were ecstatic.
MLB reports: You just finished your third full professional season, playing mainly for the Frederick Keys. How did you find your season overall?
Steven Bumbry: I learned a lot about myself and the game this past season. The game really tests you every da. You have to be able to handle the successes the same way you handle the adversity that happens in this game. The game really humbles you and teaches you to stay level-headed. As far as on the field- I think it was a pretty big success. Our team won the Carolina League Championship and I had some career highs in a couple of categories offensively.
MLB reports: You have played every outfield position in your career. Is the outfield your long-term position?
Steven Bumbry: I think that will be my home for the rest of my career. Being left-handed limits me to only a few positions and I have never really pitched seriously. I am also a little undersized for the typical first baseman.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Steven Bumbry: My defense is something that really stands out when you look at my game. I can play all three outfield positions interchangeably and my arm is one of my best tools. I also think that with more experience at the plate, my offensive tools will continue to develop. It will be interesting to see how they pan out and what type of player I become as I continue to mature and learn- as I get the opportunity to play.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Steven Bumbry: I think the most successful players in the game are also the most consistent at everything they do. If I continue to learn the game and about myself, I think that my consistency will improve and that is something that I want to continue to work on each and every day.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Steven Bumbry: I don’t necessarily like putting time frames on things… because I know anything can happen. I don’t want to be caught off-guard with any moves or decisions that are made because ultimately, they are really out of my control. I just like to focus on doing what I have to do and I know that if I do that and take care of myself and continue to work on my game, that things will happen when they’re supposed to happen.
MLB reports: When did you sign your first autograph? What is the strangest autograph request that you have ever had?
Steven Bumbry: I think I probably signed my first autograph when I was in middle school tagging along with my dad when he was still coaching. I don’t exactly remember the story behind it but I know it was long before I knew that I would be playing baseball as my career. But the strangest request probably had to be these three sisters that all wanted me to sign their arms, but to personalize them with each of their names. I just had to laugh and smile and go along with it. I’m still not sure that they have washed that part of their body.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
Steven Bumbry: Thank you for selecting me to be a part of this piece and your website. Let’s go O’s!
***Thank you to Steven Bumbry for taking the time today to speak with us on MLB reports (and for most of the pictures used in todays’ feature)! You can follow Steven on Twitter (@SBumbry). Please feel free to send Steven any questions/comments you have- he would love to hear from his fans!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Jesus Lands in Seattle: Montero to Save the Mariners’ Offense
Friday January 20th, 2012
Bryan Sheehan (MLB reports Intern Candidate): It’s no secret that the Seattle Mariners struggled in 2011. Their offensive numbers were the worst in the league in many categories, as the team’s .233 batting average, .640 OPS and 534 RBIs ranked dead last, pushing them to a 67-95 record. So, coming into this offseason, the Mariners’ objective was clear: go out and acquire a hitter.
Last Friday, the Mariners found salvation as the club dealt young pitching talent Michael Pineda and right-handed pitcher Jose Campos to the New York Yankees for top prospect Jesus Montero and righty Hector Noesi. Pineda, 23, had an impressive rookie campaign, with a 1.10 WHIP and .211 BAA. His record of 9-10 may look less than stellar on paper, but of his 28 starts, his team scored less than three runs in ten games.
As for Montero, his future looks extremely bright, even in the cloudy landscape of Seattle. At age 22, Montero has only played 18 games at the MLB level but brings skill and potential that could make him a superstar. In 2011, he hit .288 with 67 RBIs in 109 games for Triple-A Scranton (considered a down year for the .308 career hitter) and was a September call-up for the Yankees, where he hit .328 with 12 RBIs in those 18 games. A catcher by trade, Montero will most likely start the year as the M’s designated hitter, with eight-year-veteran Miguel Olivo as the anchor behind the plate.
Ranked as the third best prospect in the league by Baseball America coming into last season, Montero has much to prove. First, he has to prove that he can hit in the pitcher’s heaven/ batter’s worst nightmare that is Safeco Field. He went 2/9 at Safeco last year, but his career slugging percentage (in the minors) is a respectable .501. In 2011, Montero held a slugging percentage of .429 at PNC Field, the home of the Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate that is almost identical dimensionally to Safeco. This is a really promising sign, as Montero should feel right at home in Seattle’s ballpark.
A big question that arises is where Montero will fit into the M’s batting order. He’s had experience hitting in every position after clean-up for the offensively strong Yankees, starting the most games in the seven-hole. In 2012 he’ll be higher up in the order for the M’s, and taking into consideration his power- he will likely bat third or fifth. If he can keep his pace from 2011, Montero could drive in over 100 RBIs, which is almost twice what Seattle’s leading hitter, Miguel Olivo, hit last season (Olivo had 62 RBIs). The offensive spark that Montero provides will help bring life to the middle of the order, which includes young infielders Dustin Ackley and Justin Smoak. The M’s may not be a breakout team or a playoff contender in 2012, but adding Montero to their core of young hitters will definitely prove beneficial in a few years as the team’s young hitters hopefully come into their own together.
Today’s feature was prepared by our Intern Candidate, Bryan Sheehan. You can follow Bryan on Twitter (@Sheehan99), read his interviews with Phillies’ minor league prospects at PhightingOn.com, and catch him writing the occasional article for BleacherReport.com (search his name). Tweet him about this article and he will follow you back!
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan onFacebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Jordan Comadena Interview: Funky Astros Catching Prospect
Thursday January 19, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: We welcome today to MLB reports: Jordan Comadena, Astros catching prospect. If you know Jordan well, then just call him Funky. With the last name Comadena- how could you not? But besides having one of the best nicknames in the business, Jordan is also busting his behind to make his baseball dreams come true. After playing for Purdue, Jordan signed with the Astros and played his first professional season in 2009. Now heading in 2012, Jordan is looking forward to the upcoming season and the opportunities that lie ahead. From the bat that he swings to the strangest autographs that he has signed, get into the mind of a baseball prospect- as we chat exclusively with Jordan Comadena. Playing for a young organization in search of its next big league players, Jordan Comadena is looking to move up the Astros ladder. Today we learn what he will need to do to get there. After a breakout 2011 campaign, we look forward to tracking Jordan’s progress this season as he continues his baseball journey. For the life and times of the man they call Funky, I proudly present my interview with Jordan Comadena:
MLB reports: First question: You play professional baseball for a living. Has that sunk in yet?
Jordan Comadena: This offseason I am preparing for my fourth professional season. So at this point in my career I have a nice routine- and the fact that I am playing baseball for a living has certainly sunk in. I have a good feel for my body and I have learned how to manage the offseason and get myself into the best shape possible to report to spring training.
MLB reports: What is your brand choice for bat and glove/catching gear?
Jordan Comadena: I swing a 33 inch 31 oz J155 made by DS Wood Bats. They are a newer company to Major League Baseball (within the last 2 years). The founder of the company is a very good friend of mine that I played baseball with at Purdue University. They make a great product and they have been very accommodating to me over the last couple years. As long as I am playing, I will be swinging DS. As far as other equipment, I love the All Star system 7 catchers gear and I use an All Star CM3000BT catchers mitt. When I play outfield or any other position, all my gloves are made by Rawlings. (I really like Franklin batting gloves as well, I wear them at the plate).
MLB reports: Did you have a favorite player growing up?
Jordan Comadena: When I was very young my favorite player was Andy Van Slyke of the Pittsburgh Pirates. My parents are from western PA, so I have always been a huge Pittsburgh sports fan and he was certainly my favorite growing up. As I got to high school and I primarily played catcher, I really enjoyed watching MLB games on TV and I tried to really focus on the catcher. I loved just watching how they received the ball and how they moved around behind the plate. I especially enjoyed watching Javy Lopez, Eddie Perez and Mike Matheny. I tried to emulate them and use parts of their game and make myself better.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Jordan Comadena: I currently enjoy watching Koyie Hill catch because I feel like we are very similar behind the plate. He’s not an overly big guy and he is primarily used in a back up role, much like I am. I also really like watching Dustin Pedroia. He is an undersized guy who works really hard and plays the game every day with everything he’s got. He has always had to prove people wrong and I like that about him. I have faced that same kind of skepticism throughout my career as well and I will continue to have a lot of people think that I can’t make it. I use that as motivation to prove them wrong.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Jordan Comadena: First of all I want to have a very productive spring training and continue to show everyone that I can play at any level. In my opinion, my spring training performance has been better each of the last three years and I expect this year to be the best one yet. As for the season, my goal is to make the AA roster out of camp and go there and contribute to that team. I feel like I have a lot to offer as a baseball player and if given that opportunity, I will certainly make the most of it. Last season I played more outfield than I caught- so I hope that I am able to do more of that this year. Ideally, I would like to be able to help a team by playing some corner outfield, some first base and catch. I caught sparingly in college. I primarily played in the outfield and I played a lot of first base in summer ball in the Northwoods League. I feel very confident in my abilities to play any of those positions at a high level.
MLB reports: You joined the Astros organization in 2009. Tell us about that process.
Jordan Comadena: Like I stated earlier, I played my college ball at Purdue University (2005-2008) and I played my summer ball in Madison Wisconsin (2005-2007) as a member of the Madison Mallards of the Northwoods League. I played four years at Purdue and three summers in Madison. Throughout my time in Madison, I had a lot of success and was a key contributor to three good teams. I was even fortunate enough to have my number 14 retired by the Mallards during the summer of 2008.
I had an up and down freshman and sophomore year and Purdue but my junior season I got off to a terrific start and was hitting the ball as well as I ever had. I hit in the leadoff spot and I was hitting for a high average as well as for power. I was always on base and I had five home runs (18 extra base hits) in the first month of the season. During our spring trip at Purdue, I broke the hamate bone in my left hand taking a swing. For the next 2-3 weeks, I tried to play through it. But the pain got worse and worse and I was forced to have surgery. I missed roughly the last 40 games of the season. I got healthy and had my best year in Wisconsin. My senior year at Purdue was very frustrating and I was never able to regain the rhythm I had the previous year. As the season came to an end I was hoping that my total body of work, including what I had accomplished in Madison, was enough for someone to take a chance on me in the draft.
The 2008 MLB draft came and went without my name being called and to say I was disappointed would be an understatement. Playing professional baseball is all I have ever wanted to do and being drafted by a team would have been a dream come true. With that not being the case, I immediately started calling and contacting anyone and everyone that I knew with a connection in professional baseball. I was hoping that I could sign on that summer as a free agent. I called everyone that I could think of and I even worked out for a couple of independent teams but no one wanted to sign me. As August approached I decided to stop trying and get ready for my final semester at Purdue. I would keep myself in shape and pursue signing with someone over the winter.
Every year at the end of August the Madison Mallards host an alumni game where a number of former Mallards players come back to town and play in a friendly game for the fans. Mallards players dating back to the team’s first year in 2001 are in attendance and mixed in with a number of former MLB stars from the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. Steve Schmitt, the Mallards owner, knows a lot of people throughout baseball and puts this event together for the fans. During my time in Madison we would average around 7,000 people in the stands every night. Even this alumni game got about 4,000 people in the stadium. At first, when I was invited to participate in this event I was apprehensive about going because I did not want to be bothered by people asking me why I wasn’t playing professionally anywhere. After being a fan favorite for three summers, I was a little embarrassed to return to Madison in this capacity. But I took into account everything that the Mallards had done for me and I felt like I owed it to the front office staff to show up and be a part of the festivities.
I played shortstop during the game and went 2-3 with 2 doubles and 4 RBI. I hit doubles off Vida Blue and Blue Moon Odom respectively. After the game, in which I was named the MVP, I was approached by former Colt .45 and Houston Astros star Jimmy Wynn. He was in attendance that night and took time out of his day to come talk to me. He asked me why I wasn’t playing anywhere and I expressed to him how I very much wanted to continue my baseball career. He was very friendly and told me that night that he would talk to the Astros on my behalf. I was very gracious. Despite everything we talked about that night I did not really expect anything to come of it. Over the course of the next few months, he and I corresponded via e-mail and he did tell me that the Astros were interested. In the interim, I had signed a contract with an independent team, the Gary Rail Cats of the Northern League. January of 2009 rolled around and I got a call form the Astros scouting department saying that they had talked with Jimmy Wynn and the Mallards front office staff. The Houston Astros wanted to sign me and bring me to spring training. They asked me that night what position I wanted to play and I told them I wanted to catch. Despite not really catching in college, I knew that was something I could do and I felt like it would provide me with the best opportunity to win a spot somewhere.
MLB reports: You just finished your third full professional season, playing mainly for Lancaster. How did you find your season overall?
Jordan Comadena: Overall, for the opportunity that I was given, I felt like it was very productive. When I was in the lineup I played very well and the fact that I showed I could do more than just catch was an added bonus. At one point in the summer I had an 8-game hitting streak and was arguably our hottest hitter.
MLB reports: You showed great improvement in 2011- you were really able to put it together. What changed last year?
Jordan Comadena: I think a big key this year was simply just being a year older and more experienced. I didn’t try to do too much at the plate. I tried to keep things as simple as possible and really look for good pitches to hit. Another key, honestly, was going back to a 33 inch bat and sticking with the same model all year. I went back to the same bat that I swung in Madison in college. For some reason I had gotten away from that model bat. I went back to it and it really felt good in my hands. From now on, I will only swing that kind of bat.
MLB reports: You have played mainly at the catcher position in your career. However, you did play the outfield quite a bit in 2011. Why the change in position and is either the outfield or catcher your long-term position?
Jordan Comadena: We had some injuries in the outfield last season and it got to a point where we needed someone to fill in out there for a little bit. I expressed to the coaching staff that I played outfield throughout college and I won a mini tryout against a couple other players on the team for the opportunity to play in the outfield. I view myself as a baseball player who happens to be able to play the catcher position. I am able to play a number of different positions and I hope that as my career goes on, I am able to continue to do that. Catchers are often negatively labeled as un-athletic and not able to run well. I take offense to that stereotype as I do not fit that description. I think of myself as baseball player, capable of taking on whatever is put in front of me.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Jordan Comadena: I am not the kind of player that would turn a bunch of heads at a private workout. But I do feel that I play the game the right way and I can do a number of things well. I can handle the bat and execute different situations that come up throughout the course of the game. I have also had a very high success rate getting sac bunts down in my career. I take pride in playing the game the right way and doing all the little things well. Defensively, I feel like I am reliable in that where ever I am on the field the team will not miss a beat. I have always had a good rapport with the pitchers I have worked with and I know that they enjoy throwing to me. As a reserve player, my main goal when I am in the lineup is to have a positive impact on the game in some fashion.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Jordan Comadena: Every player at every level should always be working on something. I am always trying to improve my arm strength and improve my catch and throw abilities behind the plate. I try to do something in early work everyday to make myself better. It’s part of my routine in getting myself ready to play.
MLB reports: What do you need to do in order to be successful in this game?
Jordan Comadena: I would say the most important thing is have a good mental approach everyday. You need to be able to stay within yourself and not try to do too much. Stay within yourself and play the game you are expected to play. Trying to do more than you are capable of will only get you off your game. Keep things simple and make the most of every day.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues?
Jordan Comadena: Well it’s kind of hard for me to answer this question- simply because I have not had a season in which I have had more than 100 at-bats. I do however, truly believe that if I were to get 200-250 at-bats in a season- I could do a lot with those at-bats and move up in the organization. I feel like if I were to get that many at-bats per year over the next couple years, I could make it to the big leagues.
MLB reports: When did you sign your first autograph? What is the strangest autograph request that you have ever had?
Jordan Comadena: I really started signing a lot of autographs when I played summer ball in Madison. We would get thousands of fans every night and they would want us to sign anything they could get their hands on. I would say the strangest request was signing someone’s shoe. Taking a shoe straight off their foot and having me sign it. I would always say, “Are you sure you want me to sign the top of your shoe?” You would see a little bit of everything up there.
MLB reports: Funky Comadena – ever get that nickname before?
Jordan Comadena: From the first day I showed up at spring training in 2009 ,I have been known throughout the Astros organization as Funky. Obviously it works very well given my last name… and I do like the nickname. I have Funky written on my batting gloves, bats, shoes and all my undergarments. Pretty much everything I have in my locker is labeled with the nickname.
And yes, at various points throughout my life I have heard people refer to me with that nickname. But it wasn’t until 2009 that the nickname really stuck.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
Jordan Comadena: Thank you very much for allowing me to do this for you guys. It’s been a lot of fun. I hope everyone enjoys reading this!
***Thank you to Jordan Comadena for taking the time today to speak with us on MLB reports (and the pictures used in todays’ feature)! You can follow Jordan on Twitter (@Funky2414). Please feel free to send Jordan any questions/comments you have- he would love to hear from his fans!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Chris Swauger Blog: Swags’ Baseball Gear
Tuesday January 17, 2012
Chris Swauger- MLB reports Blog (Swags’ Hotspot): I was given an idea for this blog and I tried to run with it. I ended up plowing headfirst into a brick wall. The idea was to write about how I choose my equipment. How do I decide on what gear to arm myself with to go into baseball battle? I started thinking about it and writing about it… when I realized something: it doesn’t matter. As a minor leaguer grinding and struggling my way up the food chain, I will take anything I can get. I don’t care if I have the latest batting gloves or the newest cleats. There are no style points awarded in this game. Any and all equipment provided for me is acceptable. If I don’t have to pay for it, that’s a huge plus. One of my teammates and I came up with a saying, “FREE is in the budget.” Truer words have never been spoken.
Contemplating this equipment idea led me to two alternatives. The first was I could talk about the brands I use and prefer, and possibly galvanize any other company into belly-laughing the next time I or my agent called them to talk about supplying me with gear or a contract. So that was out. Then I started thinking about the fact that I have used so much different equipment over the years. So many different gloves, batting gloves and cleats. So many different bats. So many different models. Why? I concluded that I was looking for an edge. I’ve been searching for the next best thing to make me better. I constantly adjusted and changed until I found tools that were comfortable and useful to me and my skill set. I realized that all the time (and money) I’ve spent playing guinea pig and copycat with my coaches’ and teammates’ gear suggestions mirrored my playing career. It’s all about adjustments.
Adjustments are the main reason I am still playing. While I would never be so ignorant as to say I have no talent, I will say that I was not a 26th round senior-sign for nothing. I have always been a productive player everywhere I have gone, but that is definitely not because it has come easy to me. Any success I’ve had has been because of hard work and adjusting to what I see, feel, and hear on the diamond. I believe in and repeat my routines daily, but I am not scared to tweak them and look for alternatives based on what I feel that day. I try to be consistent with the bats or gloves that make me feel confident on the field, but if something is not working- then it’s time to adjust.
I would estimate I have used about 20 different bat models in my four years playing professionally. Sometimes I had to change out of
necessity, because I have a penchant for buzz-sawing bats faster than factories can ship them to me. Other times, it was because I got curious what works for other players. Maybe their “magic sticks” could work for me. While I’ve never been one to completely throw my hands in the air by blowing up everything I have been working on and radically change my approach, I will shake things up when I think it is necessary. I have never been accused of being superstitious, and I think that is because of my willingness to change anything and everything to be successful. I am consistent in what I do and stick to what works. But when it stops working, I grab my gear and move on to the next idea.
That concept is not exclusive to my preparation. Once the game starts, I take the same approach to each play, each at-bat, each pitch. I try to have a solid plan going into the game, but if I feel it’s necessary to adjust- I will. Brad Pitt has a great line in the movie “Moneyball” where he says “Adapt or die.” I love that. There is a constant chess match being played on the field between the managers, the hitter and the pitcher. Between the offense and defense. Falling behind in these tiny point/counterpoint contests usually decides the winner and the lay-HOO-zay-herrr (thank you Ace Ventura). So when I get in these situations, I’m not afraid to flip my game plan based on what the opposition seems to be doing to me or my teammates. No one on the field is going to change just for the sake of changing. Until I prove that I can adjust, players are going to continue to attack me the same way and be successful. Once I evolve, I get the edge and the pressure to change falls back on them. Casual observers don’t always see it, but this happens every pitch. That is why baseball is so fun and interesting. Especially if you pay attention.
I appreciate all of my readers’ attention. If you would like to give me even more of it, follow me on Twitter (@CSwag8). I hope everyone enjoys my insights as much as I enjoy giving them.
Until next time,
Swags
***Chris Swauger (AKA Swags) is an outfielder in the St. Louis Cardinals system. Swags played for the Springfield Cardinals (AA) in 2011. With his own Blog Page on MLB reports known as Swags’ Hotspot, Swags provides a behind the scenes look into the life of a professional baseball player. One of the funniest guys we know, these blog entries are a MUST read for every baseball fan! ***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Casey Lawrence Interview: Blue Jays Pitching Prospect (Casey’s Got Game!)
Monday January 16, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: I love talking baseball prospects. I can discuss them and debate them all day long. I get asked all the time: how do you know which prospects will make it? The truth is…picking prospects is not an exact science. Some highly touted ones end up falling off the map, while relative unknowns can shoot up and shine. But if you ask me my measuring stick, it always begins with one statistic. Walks. I look for hitting prospects that take walks and pitching prospects that give up very little walks. It is that simple. The process if far more complicated and this is an oversimplification. But if a walk total stands out, you definitely have my attention.
On the hitting side, take Jaff Decker in the Padres system. The outfield prospect took 103 walks last year in AA. Ranks him very high in my books. But as rare as it is to find a hitting prospect who can take a walk with pop in his bat, it is even more rare to find a good control pitcher in the minors that gives up few walks and punches hitters out. Let’s say I was to find you a pitcher. In his first two professional seasons combined, here are his numbers: 21-11 record, 2.80 ERA, 1.082 WHIP, 228 1/3 IP, 211 hits allowed, 172 strikeouts and…only 36 walks allowed. Interested? That is a 4.78 SO/BB ratio. Only 1.4 BB per 9 IP. At 24-years of age, welcome to the world of Casey Lawrence.
At 6’2″, Casey has good size for a pitcher. He stepped into professional baseball in 2010 and has dominated from day one. As starting pitchers goes, I really like his potential. There is a common obsession in baseball circles to favor pitchers who throw 99 mph gas but are generally wild. In my book, an out is an out. Casey Lawrence still has a good share of strikeouts, but it is his control and stinginess on walks that separates him from the pack. 2012 will be a big year for the kid who’s got game. I would like to see what he can do in AA. He has shown that he can pitch. The Jays now need to take that potential and put it up against the next level. If he continues on his current path, Toronto will not be too far behind.
For all his success to-date, Casey has not let the numbers get to his head. With his down to earth nature, Casey is not getting too far ahead of himself. He does not consider himself above the game, but rather a student of the game. This is what we call the total package- and Casey Lawrence will continue to turn heads in the coming years. Featured today on MLB reports, we are proud to present our interview with Blue Jays Pitching Prospect, Casey Lawrence:
MLB reports: Welcome to the Reports Casey! First question we like to start off with: Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Casey Lawrence: The player that I most idolized growing up was Cal Ripken Jr. of the Orioles. I admired Cal for his ability to show up to the field day in and day out, without ever taking a day off and playing through injuries. I admired the way he accepted a position change from SS to 3B for the betterment of his team. I admired the way he played the game and had fun doing it.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Casey Lawrence: Today, I admire Derek Jeter for the way he handles himself on and off the field. He is the type of player that has become a household role model. He plays the game the way it is supposed to be played and has that “it” factor; the ability to make the big play, clutch hit, and find a way to win.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Casey Lawrence: My most proudest accomplishment of my career-to-date would have to be a combination of two: the day I signed my contract with the Toronto Blue Jays and being given the honor of starting the 2010 New York-Penn All-Star Game. I consider both to be honors and rewards for the hard work I’ve put in each and every day.
MLB reports: You started your baseball career with the Jays organization in 2010. Did you expect to be signed by Toronto? What was that process like?
Casey Lawrence: I had been shown some interest from a few teams after my junior year at Albright College heading into the draft. While no teams took a chance then, I still had faith that my time would come after graduating my senior year. My senior year was greeted with several more teams showing interest, but yet again the draft came and went without a single phone call from any of the 30 MLB teams. That means I had been passed over in the draft 3,000 times in two years. But wasn’t the first time I had been looked over, so I had accepted the fact that I had to continue to prove people wrong each and every day. I had actually been in Florida for vacation during the 2010 draft. I returned home that Sunday and pitched in a local men’s league game for the Brushtown Bulldogs. Monday morning I received a phone call from Blue Jays scout Bobby Gandolfo saying that they would like to offer me a contract. I flew back to Florida Tuesday morning and my journey started.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Casey Lawrence: I consider my knowledge of the game as one of my greatest baseball skills. I grew up learning and playing the game I love from my Grandfather, who was offered a professional contract from the St. Louis Browns. But he turned it down because my Grandmother insisted he stay home and take care of the family, my Father and my Uncle. I really enjoy talking the game and strategy of baseball every day and don’t know what I’d do without it.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Casey Lawrence: I am continually working to better myself within this game whether it be mentally or physically. I always keep “The Mental ABC’s of Pitching” close by me and consider it a pitcher’s Bible. I also have been striving to continue to get stronger and increasing my arm strength in order to stay healthy and consistent.
MLB reports: I am very impressed with your numbers. Good win totals, low ERA and WHIP. I am particularly blown away by your low walks rates. What’s the secret of your success?
Casey Lawrence: The secret to my success is no secret at all but rather hard work. I have always worked hard at throwing strikes, locating all my pitches, getting ground balls, and allowing the defense to make plays. My Uncle Dave (also my pitching coach at Delone Catholic High School) and Gary Yeager Jr. (my pitching coach at Albright College) always preached about pounding down in the strike zone and that hasn’t changed since signing with Toronto.
MLB reports: Long-term do you see yourself as a starter or a reliever?
Casey Lawrence: Long-term I see myself doing whatever the team asks me to do. Obviously, I’d love to continue to start; but if they feel I’d help the team more by relieving ,then that’s what I’ll do.
MLB reports: What pitches do you throw? Best pitch? Anything you are currently working on?
Casey Lawrence: My repertoire consists of a 2-seam sinking fastball, 4-seam fastball, change-up, slider and curveball. I’m continuing to develop my breaking pitches into being more consistent and sharper.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Casey Lawrence: That’s a tough one, really putting me on the spot with this one! I’ll say this. I see my arrival in the big leagues whenever the team feels I’m ready. Obviously, everyone wants to get there sooner rather than later, but it takes a lot of hard work to get there. They are the greatest players in the world. The truth is “if you think you’re ready, you’re probably not”. Every day is another opportunity to get better and learn something new. No one is guaranteed the opportunity to play at that level and if I’m fortunate enough to one day have that opportunity, that would be a blessing.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball?
Casey Lawrence: When I’m not playing baseball, I enjoy going to the movies, watching television, playing some video games and golfing.
MLB reports: Have you visited Toronto yet?
Casey Lawrence: I honestly have never been outside the United States. My passport is ready if the time calls for it, but I’d rather not just visit.
MLB reports: You just completed your second professional season, finishing in High-A ball. Do you know where the Jays likely plan to start you this season?
Casey Lawrence: I have no idea where the Blue Jays plan on starting me this season. I’m anxious for Spring Training to start and earn a spot on the team they feel I fit best.
MLB reports: If you could send out a message to the Jays fans, what would it be?
Casey Lawrence: My message to the fans of the Blue Jays would be to continue with their unbelievable support and that the whole entire organization is working very hard day in and day out to bring them a World Series. Hopefully in the near future!
MLB reports: Final thoughts?
Casey Lawrence: Finally I’d like to thank my family, friends, and fans for their continued support. I don’t think they get enough credit for what they have meant to me in my life. It’s truly a blessing and I thank God each and every day for the opportunity I have to play the game I love for a living.
***Thank you to Casey Lawrence for taking the time today to speak with us on MLB reports (and the pictures used in todays’ feature)! You can follow Casey on Twitter (@CaseyLawrence). Casey is very social media savy, so please feel free to send him any questions/comments you have. Good luck in 2012 Casey, the crystal ball sees big things for you this season!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Steve Palazzolo Interview: The Pitching Tower of Pisa
Sunday January 15, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: When I first spoke with Steve Palazzolo, I was blown away by his stature. How could you not be…the man stands 6’10” and throws baseballs for a living! The first images that went through my mind were Jon Rauch and Randy Johnson. Comparisons that I am sure Steve has heard his whole life. But once you get past the sheer size of the man, you find a person with an even bigger heart. A gentle giant, Steve is very well spoken and intelligent to converse with. With the shortage of quality arms in today’s major league bullpens, one would expect that available arms would be snapped up in a second. But that is not always the case, especially for Steve Palazzolo. He pitched five seasons in the minor leagues, between the Brewers, Giants and Mariners organizations. He made it all the way up to AAA before returning to Indy ball the past season and a half. Steve will be 30 by opening day and continues to battle his way to achieve his dream: making the big leagues. As we discussed in yesterday’s interview with Luis Lopez, Jerome Williams made his way from Indy ball to the Angels rotation last year. Dreams do come true. Steve Palazzolo has shown that he has the talent. Taking a look at his numbers from last year, Palazzolo pitched 53 games for the Blue Crabs- finishing with a 9-5 record, 3.06 ERA and 1.200 WHIP. He only surrendered 4 home runs while striking out 57 batters. Watching him on video and considering his talents and strong character, I would be snapping this guy up pretty quickly if I was a baseball General Manager. To succeed in baseball, you need to have talent and a chance. Steve Palazzolo has the talent. Now he is just waiting for his opportunity.
Today on MLB reports, we are proud to present pitcher Steve Palazzolo- or as we refer to him: The Pitching Tower of Pisa
MLB reports: First question: Steve. Palazzolo is an interesting last name. Meaning and origins?
Steve Palazzolo: It comes from the Italian word Palazzo, which means palace. There is also a village in Sicily named Palazzolo. I’d definitely love to visit some day.
MLB reports: Everyone reading your profile would see: 6’10”, 29-years-old and a right-handed reliever. On paper you should be in a major league bullpen. What is your current active status?
Steve Palazzolo: Current active status is “trying to join a major league bullpen.” Really, though, I’ve spent the last year and a half in the Atlantic League with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, just continuing to learn and get better. It’s definitely a never-ending process in baseball, and I’ve spent the last couple years adding different pitches and arm angles, while also learning different ways to attack hitters.
I’m also looking at a possible opportunity to play in Japan, so we’ll see how it all plays out.
MLB reports: We last saw you playing for AAA Tacoma in 2010. Since then you have been playing Indy ball. What led you back to playing Indy? What are the differences between Indy and playing in the minor leagues?
Steve Palazzolo: I was sent back to Indy ball in what I viewed as a three-way trade. Back in July 2010, it went something like this:
Rangers Get: Cliff Lee, Mark Lowe
Mariners Get: Blake Beaven, Justin Smoak, Josh Lueke, Matt Lawson
Blue Crabs Get: Steve Palazzolo
OK, so the Cliff Lee deal brought in a few minor league pitchers and I got the axe.
I’d say the main difference in Indy ball is the organizational structure. There is no class level, so you’re not really worried about moving up or being sent down. Just go out and do your job and do it for the team. I’d say my Indy teams have been the most closely knit teams I’ve ever been on. It’s usually the same core of guys for the entire year, and everyone wants to get back to affiliated ball, but there is a definite emphasis on winning as a team. Not to say that affiliated teams can’t be close, but there is a lot more player movement that tends to disrupt team chemistry throughout the year.
MLB reports: You have played in the Brewers, Giants and Mariners systems. Tell us about the best teams that you pitched for in your professional career.
Steve Palazzolo: As far as talent goes, the 2009 Fresno Grizzlies are near the top. Our overall record doesn’t show it, but with about three weeks to go in the season, we had the second best record in the Pacific Coast League but we were 14 games out of first place behind Sacramento.
Bullpen wise, the 2008 Connecticut Defenders was probably the most talented I’ve been a part of. We had a number of pitchers who went on to have some big league success, most notably Sergio Romo who was closing for us.
If we’re talking clubhouse unity, I mentioned the Indy teams, but the 2010 Tacoma bullpen will always hold a special place for me. Even though I was only there a short period of time, we had an outstanding group of guys who genuinely cared for each other and did a great job of staying entertained for the first five innings of every game (always an important in the bullpen).
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Steve Palazzolo: First to marry the love of my life, and best friend, Kelley Donoghue (she is looking over my shoulder as I type). Simple answer is to pitch to the best of my ability, regardless of where I’m playing.
MLB reports: You were signed as a free agent by the Brewers as your first organization in 2006. Tell us about the process in joining Milwaukee.
Steve Palazzolo: Pretty fun story actually. I had just finished my second professional season with the Worcester Tornadoes and was sitting at my computer on a Thursday in late January when I received an email from my good friend, Will Carroll. He forwarded me an email from a Brewers scout that referenced an invitation-only tryout at their spring training complex that Saturday. Will mentioned how it was unfortunate that I was not in Arizona. I emailed him back with the title, “Last Minute Trip to Arizona?” Will sent the request back to the Brewers scout who agreed that if I could get to Arizona, I would be welcome to try out. I immediately booked a flight for Friday and made the workout on Saturday. At the workout, they suggested I mix in a couple different arm angles (which I’d experimented with before) and as it turns out, I was one of only two guys signed that day.
MLB reports: Given your size, most people would think that you would be a power pitcher. How would you describe yourself as a pitcher and tell us about what you throw.
Steve Palazzolo: I wouldn’t say power pitcher, but I do think my height gives me a big advantage and helps all of my stuff to play a little better. I throw a 4 seam fastball, slider, splitter and I just added a new changeup. My change is interesting as I started to experiment with it toward the end of last year, and I may have found a really good grip that I will stick with for good, possibly even replacing the splitter. As I mentioned, I’ve also experimented with a number of different arm angles, so I’m always mixing it up.
MLB reports: Every baseball player works towards making the big leagues. What do you need to do in order to achieve that dream?
Steve Palazzolo: At this point in my career, or anyone’s career for that matter, the phrase you hear is “right place, right time.” Pitchers mature and figure things out at various times in their careers so that’s why I’m constantly looking to improve. I think I just need another shot to play in Double or Triple A, then it’s all about pitching well. Pitch well, and if it matches up with a situation where the big league team needs a pitcher, then it can happen. I know this: I’m confident in my abilities to pitch successfully in the big leagues, it’s simply a matter of continuing to improve while also getting an opportunity.
MLB reports: If you weren’t playing baseball today- what would you be doing?
Steve Palazzolo: I’d probably be a pitching coach, and that’s what I do all offseason. On my long road through the minors, I used myself as my own science (pitching) experiment. It’s been a constant process of trial and error, and I’ve learned so much along the way. So my plan is to coach, while also developing my own business as a pitching coach. I have a couple of blog posts up at www.stevepalazzolopitching.wordpress.com, but I have to get better putting up more consistent material.
I’m also an analyst and writer for www.profootballfocus.com. Just started this year, and it’s been a lot of fun breaking down the NFL.
MLB reports: Looking back at your career to-date, would you have done anything different?
Steve Palazzolo: I do remember a hanging slider I threw in 2008 that went for a home run. I should have thrown a fastball.
Really though, I made the decision early in my career to put everything I had into it, and I’ve been very blessed along the way. No major regrets.
MLB reports: When you think of your expectations going into professional baseball, what are some of the biggest surprises you have encountered?
Steve Palazzolo: This is a tough question. Making me think here. As a kid, expectations are always glamorous. Everyone wants to be like their TV heroes, but when I entered pro ball, I already knew that it was a difficult grind. Not sure I can think of any major surprises, but I will mention the one thing I appreciate and that’s the uniqueness of everyone in the game. Players coming from all walks of life, all over the world, unified by the game of baseball. It’s really amazing to think of the people I’ve met along the way.
MLB reports: Choice of cleats and glove- what brands do you use?
Steve Palazzolo: Nike cleats and Spalding glove. If and when I hit, always Franklin batting gloves.
MLB reports: Given your height, how do you find clothes shopping?
Steve Palazzolo: It’s difficult. There are a few stores that carry big sizes, but I have to do a lot of my shopping online. The Big and Tall store is better for wide rather than tall, so a lot of the stuff is just way too big.
MLB reports: Which past or present MLB players would you most compare yourself to? Are either Randy Johnson or Jon Rauch a close comparison?
Steve Palazzolo: Kenny Powers. Actually, he stole my look. I’ve been rocking the mustache and long hair since ’06.
I really try to take something from everyone, whether it’s Randy Johnson or Tim Lincecum. As far as comparisons, Johnson isn’t great because he was such a hard thrower. Rauch is an OK comparison, but he has a higher arm slot than me.
The one pitcher I’ve seen who compares favorably is Kameron Loe from the Brewers. We’re not identical, but our natural arm slot is similar. He’s 6’8” tall and also likes to mix up arm angles so I can relate to his style a bit.
MLB reports: We discussed the potential of you heading to Japan. What are your thoughts on heading to the far east?
Steve Palazzolo: It would be a great opportunity. The competition is great and I’ve seen a lot of pitchers who have gone there and then come back to the states as better pitchers. It’s a different style in Japan, and I think the hitters force each pitcher to use his entire repertoire. Even though the culture change would be difficult, I’m hoping I get the chance to play there.
MLB reports: Last question: to a young pitcher in school just starting out, what advice would you give them?
Steve Palazzolo: Work hard, work smart. I don’t think the grammar is correct on that statement, but I think it gets the point across. Anyway, pitching is a lot more than throwing a ball to a target (or is it?). Preparation is extremely important, and when I work with young pitchers, I like to break it down into four main areas: mechanics, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and mental approach. Oh and it’s important to have fun while doing it. The best players love the preparation.
***Thank you to Steve Palazzolo for taking the time out of his offseason training to speak with us today on MLB reports! You can follow Luis on Twitter (@Palo50). Steve loves interacting with his fans, so please feel free to send him any questions/comments you have. Or just wish him good luck on the season, as he would appreciate your support!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Your Baseball Questions Answered – Sunday January 15th, 2012
Sunday January 15th, 2012
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Q: Any news on moves for Derrek Lee & Casey Kotchman? With Yanks recent pitching acquisitions, does Boston pursue Roy Oswalt more aggressively? Rick
MLB reports: Great questions Rick. No and no are the answers. Sorry! To answer your first question: Lee and Kotchman are plans “c” and “d”, if that, for contending teams. Teams on the rise would prefer to use younger players at first base. So the market for both is limited at best. Both Lee and Kotchman will need to fight to get full-time jobs. Kotchman will find something based on his solid 2011 campaign. Perhaps a return to the Rays is in order. Lee on the other hand, is getting on in years. I could see him retiring at this point, or in a year from now. It just depends on how desperate some teams are to get a veteran presence on their team and if trust is there for either player. With regards to Oswalt, I see him signing very soon. Boston could use him, yes, but I am not sensing a fit. The top teams for his services appear to be the Rangers and Jays. At 1-year and $8 million, he will likely have 20+ teams pursuing him. Boston does need Roy Oswalt in the worst way at this point. He would help stabilize a rotation that needs his presence. But this decision will come down to geography and fit for the player.
Q: Is Jesus Montero– Victor Martinez good? How far is J.P. Arencibia or Travis d’Arnaud from Montero? Derek
MLB reports: The Montero questions begin! I made the comparison on the trade of the trade that Montero was comparable to V-Mart and I stand behind that one. Carlos Santana is another good comparison. Extremely strong bat, will hit for high average with good pop. Glove is questionable. Montero will be good, I am just on the fence on whether it will happen in Seattle. The hope is that with a young team, he will blossom into a superstar. It will depend on whether he feels any pressure to live up to replacing Michael Pineda and ends up putting too much pressure on himself. He seems like a confident young man, so he should do well. The V-Mart threshold is a high one to reach. But we are definitely talking in the same category. Now d’Arnaud and Arencibia are a different story. Being based in Toronto, I get asked on these guys often. Here is my take put simply. Arencibia is a good guy, with good power in his bat. He is popular in the clubhouse and seen as a developing defensive catcher. His liabilities are his low average, high strikeouts and inability to take a walk. A .219 AVG and .282 OBP don’t cut it in my book. If JP doesn’t develop, he will become the Rob Deer of catchers. Travis d’Arnaud, on the other hand, may not have JP’s power (debatable), but he will definitely hit for a much higher average. He also will need to learn to take walks and cut down on strikeouts, but he should be more consistent offensively than Arencibia. Defensively, I have heard mixed things- but both will stick at catcher. So defensively, both Arencibia and d’Arnaud are above Montero. But Montero’s bat is far superior to either of the other guys. He is major league ready now to hit, while JP and Travis are still learning to hit consistently. If I had to rate each, I would give Montero an 8/10, d’Arnaud a 6/10 and Arencibia a 5/10. Montero is far ahead, with only d’Arnaud having the best chance to close the gap.
Q: Do the Phillies really expect Ryan Howard to be fully “baseball ready” before June 1st? Old Man Mack
MLB reports: LOL. That is the hope sir. If I had to be a fly on the wall, I bet the Phillies are hoping that he will be ready before that. But if the Kendrys Morales injury has taught us anything, is that you never know how some of these freak accidents will heal. My crystal ball sees Howard back after the All-Star break. Unless he is 110% healed, why risk it? His long-term health and productivity are at risk. I would not be shocked if Howard took longer to heal and had to miss all of 2012. But chances are that he will be back, just not till sometime in July or August of 2012. If he is back sooner, he better be ready…or a setback could be around the corner. I would say the bigger question is how long he stays in the lineup, rather than when he is back.
Q: What are the Tigers chances on Yoenis Cespedes? Michael
MLB reports: The Cespedes rumors are flying fast and furious. The teams that have been most linked to him are the Marlins and the Tigers. There have been stories of 5 teams, 10, 20…all sorts of numbers thrown around about this guy. Now, people are questioning why he is playing winter ball and in fact hurting his stock. My gut feel is that there isn’t as high of a demand for him as people suspect and that teams are cautious at throwing big money at an unknown quantity. But even if he doesn’t put up the best numbers this offseason, it has to be considered that he is rusty and been away from the game for some time. People should not expect Babe Ruth immediately, just to view his tools and to see if the mechanics are there. I like the Marlins chances best at signing Cespedes. Team Latino gets a 50% chance of landing Cespedes, with the Tigers at roughly 20%.
Q: Does Vance Worley come back to earth in his sophomore season? Justin
MLB reports: Nah man, Vance never left! Just kidding, but I know what you mean. Vance Worley was unbelievable in 2011, with an 11-3 record, 3.01 ERA and 1.230 WHIP. His won/loss record will depend largely on his offensive support and bullpen, so that we will leave to fate somewhat. I see Vance throwing quality strikes and keeping his walks low. He will not be an ace, but he will be very steady. He has the minor league track record and has already proven himself at the highest stage (in one of the most pressure filled environments, Philadelphia). Expect some regression, but not too much. Vance Worley is the real deal. A sophomore jinx should be avoided, but he will still take time to develop. Remember he is only 24-years of age. By year 3 or 4, expect a stud 20 game winner to emerge.
Q: With the new players eligible for the 2013 Hall of Fame class (Bonds, Clemens, Sosa etc.): will any be inducted? Ken
MLB reports: Ken. Ken. Ken. Mr. I say that Tim Raines MUST be inducted. 🙂 He is back for more… Just playing with you Ken, you know we love ya. 48.7% of the vote Ken, I guess the voters aren’t all sold…yet. Here is my knock on Raines- get ready. Played 23 seasons. Not a bad thing in its own right. But definitely inflated some of his numbers. 980 RBIs. So he averaged less than 50 a year. 1571 runs scored. For 23 years played, not fantastic. A hall of fame leadoff man should easily be scoring 100+ per year, even on poor teams. Raines only did it 6 times. .294 AVG and .385 OBP. Very good. Like those numbers. The man did not hit many doubles or triples. He was basically a singles and stolen base machine. Now go check out our man Vince Coleman. Both in their primes, they were one of the top stolen base threats. Raines got more hits and got caught less stealing. But then Coleman appears to have attempted more stolen bases. Raines played longer and ultimately had the stronger career. But in the prime years, I can’t say that Raines was that much more spectacular than Coleman. Raines is very good and will get into the hall of fame the Jim Rice route. But it is not the Hall of Very Good. It is the Hall of Fame.
Now with your true question: Will any of the new eligible players be inducted into Cooperstown in 2013? The candidates are Bonds, Clemens, Piazza, Sosa, Schilling, Biggio and Lofton. I can tell you right now, based on Palmeiro and McGwire’s poor standings, that there is no chance in heck that Bonds, Clemens or Sosa are getting in. No way. No how. The ones I see getting in are Biggio and Piazza. Secretly, I have fantasized at night about Biggio and Bagwell getting in together. It was just meant to be. If Bagwell does not get in next year, then he will have to wait for some time. I feel next year will be his year. Piazza has to get in as a 1st ballot hall of famer. The numbers he put up as a catcher demand it. Next year is the year that hall of fame voters get their true test. If Piazza is out, then the hall of fame will really have to sit down and work out a better set of criteria for voting. The writers are going to feel like they are on a raft without paddles…it is time to fix the voting mess once and for all. Are these guys hall of famers or not? Let’s lay down the law and be done with it. No more fence-sitting. 2013 will be a big year for sure.
Q: Over/under 13.5 psychotic episodes in Miami? Sam
MLB reports: Under. Way under! I think you will see maybe 5-6 big blow ups. Carlos Zambrano will get into 1-2 confrontations. Hanley will explode about the position change once. LoMo will have one twitter incident. Ozzie will have a couple of issues likely develop. Apparently the Miami Marlins are being considered for the baseball reality show this year. If that happens, watch out. That will be Grade A television!!!
Final Q: Will the Brewers be able to win the central despite losing Prince and no Braun for first 50 games? Eric
MLB reports: My brain says no and my heart says maybe. The reality is that the Brewers are in tough. Very tough. The loss of Prince will be huge (when it happens) and same with Braun if the suspension is upheld. But even with those guys, the Brewers would still be in tough. The Cardinals, even with the loss of the Pujols and La Russa and absence of Duncan would still be a strong team. The Reds though are the team to beat, as they are frontrunners to take the NL Central this year. The Brewers still have Greinke and Gallardo, so they have a chance. But I just see the Reds as the class of the division this year. The Cardinals are going to regress and will have a tough time defending their title. But without their main offensive stars, the Brewers go from stars to ordinary. The window appears to be closing on the Brewers… and opening for the Reds in 2012.
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Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen) Follow @mlbreports
Luis Lopez Interview: The Real Life Crash Davis of Baseball Worldwide
Saturday January 14, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: The numbers are outstanding. Six Most Valuable Player awards. An All-Star seven times. Over 2000 hits. Over 1000 RBIs. A minor league hall of famer for sure, Luis Lopez has been playing this game his whole life. He has done it and seen it all. He played in the majors with both the Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Expos. Played in the minors for four different MLB organizations. Luis has played in both Japan and Mexico. Indy ball. His baseball resume is quite extensive, as are his passport stamps. But at the age of 38, Luis is far from done. He still plays third and first, searching for his chance to make it back to the show. He has strong inspirations to keep him going. Julio Franco played in the major leagues until the age of 49! Even Jerome Williams, at the tender age of 30 provides hope. Away from the big leagues for four seasons, he rose up from Indy ball and back to the Bigs. Luis knows this and keeps the hope deep in his heart as he continues his baseball grind. One of the greatest baseball stories I have heard, Luis Lopez is a true blue-collar baseball player. He is everything that the game is about and a true credit to the sport. Going into his 18th professional season, Luis Lopez is still laughing and having a great time. He just plain loves baseball and will continue to do so for as long as he can.
On his road back to the Major Leagues, we are proud to feature our interview with the real life Crash Davis- Luis Lopez:
MLB reports: First question: On my count, there are three professional ballplayers named Luis Lopez. Why the popularity of the name? How often do you get mistaken for one of the other ones?
Luis Lopez: I get mistaken all the time. Their cards are sent to me to sign and I’m pretty sure mine to them. The worst part is in the airports flying out of the country. I’m asked to the little room every time for extra screening (laughs). My wife thinks I’m a delinquent cause it happens so often! (laughs harder)
MLB reports: Born in Brooklyn, New York. A baseball hot bed! What is your family’s origins? Do you have roots in New York?
Luis Lopez: My family is from Puerto Rico. My dad from Dorado and my mom from Ponce. I considered myself from PR as well even though I wasn’t born there. I was born in NYC. I’m glad I was because it gave me the drive and desire to think that I will make it!
MLB reports: You originally signed with the Jays in 1996 and made your professional debut in 2001. Tell us about your first major league game.
Luis Lopez: (laughter fills the room) Funny you ask. My first at-bat was against the Angels in Toronto. Bengie Molina was catching and I knew him from all my years playing winter ball in PR. He was talking to the pitcher Holtz and then walked back to the plate. He says in Spanish congrats Luis. I said “thanks brother, my heart about to come through my shirt.” (Grin) Delgado and a bunch of the guys had their hands in their shirts showing me how my heart was pounding! Then Bengie says “relax, we’re gonna put you on so you will hit tomorrow.” I said “what?” All of a sudden I was being intentionally walked! All I could think then was that I would be one an answer to a trivia question! (laughs hard) Not too many people on their first at-bat are walked intentionally!
MLB reports: We last saw you playing in the big leagues for the Expos in 2004- the last year of the franchise. Ironic? If the Expos come back, will you come back with them?
Luis Lopez: Would love to!
MLB reports: You have played in the Jays, Expos, A’s and Braves systems. Tell us about the best minor league teams that you played for in your professional career.
Luis Lopez: That’s tough because I learned how to play ball the right way in the Blue Jays system! They broke down everything for me. With the A’s, we won championships. Atlanta is a big league organization. They treated me like I was with them forever.
MLB reports: In recent years I have you played in the Mexican league, Japan and Indy ball. You are a baseball nomad!!! What was the process like going to Mexico and Japan? What were each of those experiences like?
Luis Lopez: After being around so long, my name is around. A lot of the time it is reports or videos that are seen and then reps get in touch with you. A phone call or e-mail usually. Baseball is baseball. You just have to get used to living in another country that’s all. That’s the biggest problem for some guys; but I can live anywhere.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Luis Lopez: To stay healthy and win a championship! I’ve accomplished a lot of personal goals throughout my career. I just want to produce and help my team win!
MLB reports: At 38-years of age, you have seen it all and done it all. Why do you keep going- what motivates you?
Luis Lopez: I love the competition! I feel like I still can play in the big leagues and help a team win- even one with only a little chance. I want all of my family to see me play again in a big league stadium. Especially my mom! Every time she came to see me play, I would get sent down that day. It was crazy!
MLB reports: You and I talked a lot about Julio Franco. How much of an inspiration is he to you? Do you plan to play until you are 50?
Luis Lopez: He inspires me a lot! Julio made it back at an age MUCH older than me because someone gave him a chance again. That’s all I want- a chance! If I couldn’t do it anymore, I would walk away; but I know I still have it. The mindset! (laughs) 50? Wow! Nah I don’t see that. Only God knows!
MLB reports: Favorite position to play: 1B, 3B or any others?
Luis Lopez: I love playing 3rd. Still play it. But I will play wherever to get a chance. I just want to hit! (big smile)
MLB reports: Every baseball player works towards making the big leagues. You have been there and want to get back: What do you need to do to make that dream happen?
Luis Lopez: To be honest… I don’t know! I think I have done enough to have ten years in! But I will always stay positive and keep playing hard. You never know who is watching!
MLB reports: If you weren’t playing baseball today- what would you be doing?
Luis Lopez: I would be managing, coaching or in the front office. Something with baseball. Many of my friends and family members feel I will make it back as a manager- because they feel I have the makeup for that. I can see it!
MLB reports: Looking back at your career to-date, would you have done anything different?
Luis Lopez: (Big Smile) Wow! To be honest… I probably wouldn’t have gone to Japan. It was a great experience; but I think as a position player I went out there too young. When you try to come back, it’s harder that you think. Also Atlanta let Julio Franco sign with the Mets on a 2-year deal because they wanted me to be the righty off the bench.
MLB reports: When you think of your expectations going into professional baseball, what are some of the biggest surprises you have encountered?
Luis Lopez: It had to be when I signed and how far I got to play. I signed for two gloves and a pair of spikes as my bonus; but I made it!
MLB reports: Choice of cleats, bat and glove- what brands do you use?
Luis Lopez: Nike cleats. I use my boy ex-player Pete Tucci’s bat company. Tucci Lumber and he’s MLB approved! (Big laugh) My glove is Nike also.
MLB reports: Which past or present MLB players would you most compare yourself to?
Luis Lopez: Edgar Martinez and Kevin Millar. I would love to have a pic of all three of us! (Laughs)
MLB reports: If the major leagues are not an option, do you plan to stay in Indy ball? Will you try to make the minors for a MLB team or go to another country like Japan again?
Luis Lopez: As of right now, yes- I will be playing in Bridgeport in the Atlantic League. So hopefully someone will come find a guy (like me) that can pinch hit in the bigs and get a game winning hit! (Laughs)
MLB reports: Proudest baseball accomplishment?
Luis Lopez: There are many! I think and say thank you God for letting me be successful! HOF at Coastal Carolina University. 6 MVP’s. 7 time all-star. Over 2000 hits. Over 1000 RBI’s. All in the minors- but i feel anywhere is good! Plus I am going into my 18th year professionally.
MLB reports: You really are the real life Crash Davis. Tell us about the comparison.
Luis Lopez: Hahaha. I’ve seen a lot of places. Many great ballplayers. I try to help everyone just like Crash did in the movies because guys need to realize that Indy ball is another path back- it’s not the end. You put in the work and you will be fine. Look at Jerome Williams! He was in Lancaster last season. Then he got picked up and was on TV again last year. This year he is slated to be the number five starter for the Angels! Way to go Jerome!
MLB reports: You must have made many friends for life in this game.
Luis Lopez: There’s too many to mention! But if I show up to spring training or any stadium, trust me that a lot of them would come up and say wassup! (Big grin)
MLB reports: Final thoughts?
Luis Lopez: Don’t ever let anyone say you can’t do something, because I’m living proof of what you can accomplish if you believe in yourself! Surround yourself around POSITIVE people especially in this sport… because it is a game of failure. Lastly: play hard or go home!
***Thank you to Luis Lopez for taking the time out of his offseason training to speak with us today on MLB reports! You can follow Luis on Twitter (@DoubleL1919). Luis is great and absolutely adores interacting with his fans, so please feel free to send him any questions/comments you have. Or just wish him good luck on the season, as he would appreciate your support!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
The Chicago Cubs 2012 Convention: The Inside Report
Friday January 13th, 2012
Brian Bernardoni (Guest Writer – MLB reports): The tour begins. As long as baseball is played….
For 15 years I have given tours at Wrigley Field to literally thousands of Cub Fans, tourists and the occasional Canadian. And since 1998 I have always started them the same way; with this soliloquy:
“As long as baseball is played, the memory will live of a bulbous man on matchstick leg pointing in an elegant gesture to Wrigley Field’s faraway centerfield barrier, the jibes of 50,000 Chicago fans searing his ears. There were two strikes on George Herman (Babe) Ruth like there had been many times in his career. The score was 4 to 4 in the fifth, and Ruth’s Yankees were gunning for their third straight win. Two called strikes and there stood baseball’s greatest hitter in the sunset of his career, majestically drawing a bead on a spot 400 feet away. Contemptuously the Babe held up two fingers, then pointed to the centerfield flagpole. Charlie Root pitched. He shouldn’t have done it. Like a projectile the ball left the Ruthian bat to scream on a line over the right centerfield wall.”
Any true baseball fan will recognize the story immediately. The story is of course the “Called Shot”.
The story is really part of American folklore; its “Casey at Bat” except Casey hits the home run. Personally I have long contended that the “Called Shot” story is the work of Ruth and the massive public relations team that supported him. Charlie Root and Gabby Hartnett both presented full course presses during and after their careers were over that the story was false, as did a significant volume of others. Heck; Ruth even admitted it. But when you strip away the grandiose story, the drama of the World Series and the great imagery the myth provided Ruth with the setting for what a star is supposed do. A star, when provided the opportunity shines.
Now there are undeniable facts about the story. Fact 1: Charlie Root pitched the ball and Ruth hit it out on Sheffield Avenue.
But as a Cub fan, and a Wrigley Field tour guide the part of the story that grabs me the most is that the Ruth’s pinnacle moment didn’t happen at Ebbets Field, or Fenway, or even the house he himself built – Yankee Stadium. No. The moment that was the exclamation mark on his extraordinary career happened in Chicago and it happened at Wrigley Field, and that is Fact 2.
The 27th Annual Cubs Convention will take place Friday, January 13 through Sunday, January 15, 2012, at the Hilton Chicago, located at 720 S. Michigan Avenue. The hours of the Convention are as follows: Friday – 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday – 9 a.m. to midnight; Sunday – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For Cub fans interested in what is happening at Wrigley Field during the off-season the can’t miss session is “Meet Cubs Business Management,” offering a look toward the future of the Cubs and Wrigley Field with Cubs President of Business Operations Crane Kenney, Executive Vice President, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer Wally Hayward, Executive Vice President of Community Affairs Mike Lufrano, Vice President of Stadium Operations Carl Rice, Vice President of Ticket Sales Colin Faulkner, Vice President of Business Development Alex Sugarman and Director of Fan Experiences Jahaan Blake.
The ballpark is much more than a building for me. It’s part of my own family history as my grandmother played softball there in 1933 during the World’s Fair in Chicago. My daughter took her first step on the field on Father’s Day just a few feet away from where her grandmother once played. It’s also a cruel mistress – who takes me from my family. I leave hours before I should so I can gaze upon her and sing her praises. So as I embark on blogging about her and Chicago ballparks and their rich history – I hope you enjoy the tour.
I will be tweeting at the event (should the Hilton have WiFi). Follow me on Twitter (@brianbernardoni)
ABOUT: BRIAN A. BERNARDONI
2010 Jerome Holtzman Award Recipient
In 2012 Brian A. Bernardoni will enter his fifteenth year as a Wrigley Field Tour Guide. He is a native Chicagoan and is widely recognized and highly regarded as an expert on both the West Side Grounds and Wrigley Field.
Brian is a lifelong Chicago Cub fan who along with his colleague Michael Reischl and the “Way Out of Left Field Society” coordinated efforts to place a historic marker at the location of the West Side Grounds, where the Chicago Cubs played (1885 -1915). He has testified on behalf of the Chicago Cubs on land marking matters at before the Chicago Landmarks Commission and the Chicago City Council Committee on Buildings. He is a member of the Emil Verban Society, the Emil Rothe Chapter of SABR, the Ballparks Committee and the Old Timer’s Baseball Association of Chicago of which he was the 2008 “Old Timer of the Year”. For these efforts Brian was awarded in 2010 with the Pitch and Hit Club of Chicago’s “Jerome Holtzman” Award.
A vigorous researcher he has contributed to several books including The Cultural Encyclopedia of Baseball, Haunted Baseball, Field of Screams: Haunted Tales from the Baseball Diamond, the Locker Room, and Beyond, Classic Cubs ¬– A Tribute to the Men and Magic of Wrigley Field, Hoodoo: Unraveling the 100-Year Mystery of the Chicago Cubs and ¬Living the Dream – An Inside Account of the 2008 Cubs Season. His poetry on the Cubs can be found on Bardball.com and he is a blogger for MLB Reports. His own book on Wrigley Field with Elliott Harris is anticipated soon.
Brian and his efforts to preserve the history of Chicago Cubs ballparks have also been featured in two recent films on the Chicago Cubs; “We Believe” and “Chicago Cubs: The Heart & Soul of Chicago.” Brian was also a contributor on both films.
Brian is not only a serious baseball historian but also has played a role in some interesting Cub related events including “Burying the Curse” where he performed in a funeral home with legendary performer Tom Dressen and a séance in the room where Billy Jurges was shot at the Hotel Carlos; an inspiration for the book and subsequent film “The Natural.”
Brian and his wife Carrie are residents in the Chicagoland area and are the parents of four daughters.
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan onFacebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
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The 2012 Tampa Bay Rays Starting Rotation
Friday January 13th, 2012
Rob Bland: Starting pitching surplus. This is a phrase that every Major League Baseball franchise wishes they could say they possess. However, one team that is quickly becoming a power in the AL East, has just that. The Tampa Bay Rays’ rise to success began in 2008 where they were crowned the American League champions. Since then, they have won due mostly to their strong pitching. A while back, I heard someone say that the Rays franchise is like an onion: peel one layer off, and there is another layer there waiting to blossom. When they lost Carl Crawford, probably the best player in franchise history, to free agency, ultra prospect Desmond Jennings came to Tropicana Field. When Matt Garza was traded to the Chicago Cubs, hyped pitching prospect Jeremy Hellickson took over the 5th spot of the rotation and finished the season with a 13-10 record and 2.95 ERA. Oh, and he won the American League Rookie of the Year Award just to top it off. The fact of the matter is the Rays have a scary rotation already in place, with David Price, James Shields, Wade Davis, Jeff Niemann, and Hellickson.
Before the 2011 season, Baseball America ranked Hellickson the #6 prospect in baseball, with Matt Moore coming in at #15. Moore is a flame-throwing lefty who was called up to the Rays on September 12, 2011 in the middle of a pennant race. Moore threw 9.1 innings, with 15 strikeouts to 3 walks, and a 2.89 ERA. He then went on to pitch Game 1 of the American League Division Series against the Texas Rangers, and threw 7 scoreless innings on 2 hits. GM Andrew Friedman believed in his talent so much that he inked Moore to a 5-year, $14M contract that includes club options that would push the total value to $37.5M over 8 years. Moore will only be 22 years old at the beginning of the season.
Alex Cobb is another intriguing arm that is waiting in the minor leagues for his time to shine. While he wasn’t included in the Rays’ Top 10 Prospects list before the 2011 season, he turned heads while pitching most of 2011 in AAA. Cobb went 5-1 with a 1.87 ERA over 12 starts. Cobb struck out 70 with 16 walks in 67.1 innings, showing plus command of an 89-93mph fastball. Cobb projects to be an inning-eating work horse in the middle of a rotation. While he ended up with 9 starts for the Rays with success, there doesn’t seem to be a spot open for him just yet.
So it appears as though the Rays have 7 viable starting options at the moment. SEVEN. Most teams can’t even say they have four that they are actually happy with. A true embarrassment of riches!
Talent is not the only thing to consider when putting a team together, and the strapped-for-cash Rays are no exception. Even with a team salary of just over $42M, the Rays still clinched the AL Wild Card and reached the postseason for the third time in four years in the loaded AL East. James Shields has club options for 2012-2014, with a value of $7.5M, $9M and $12M, respectively. For a team with such a low payroll, a pitcher like James Shields does not quite seem to fit the team’s plans. It might be in the best interest of the club to be looking for suitable trade partners to potentially shore up the team’s needs at 1B and/or SS.
The reality is that the Rays believe that Moore is Major League-ready now, hence the multi-year contract. So therefore, one of the five starters from 2011 is either on his way out, or on his way to the bullpen. Price, Hellickson and Moore are locks for the rotation it would seem. Even though he missed all of May and half of June with back tightness after a rough start to the season in which he gave up 23 runs in 31.1 innings over 6 starts, Niemann had a very strong July and August. Niemann finished 2011 with an 11-7 record and 4.06 ERA. Davis signed a contract prior to the 2011 season that would pay him $10.1M through 2014, with options from 2015-2017 for $7M, $8M, and $10M, respectively. Davis was 11-10 in 2011 with a 4.45 ERA. The fact that his career ground ball rate is 37.8% and he has struck out under 6 batters per 9 innings doesn’t bode well for him. Davis’s stats have regressed in the last two years, and with his contract doesn’t seem likely to net a large return if traded. He could, however, find himself in a swingman type role to start the season.
In James Shields, the Rays have a HUGE trade chip. Since 2007, he has averaged over 220 innings per season. His career marks of 7.5 K/9 and 2.07 BB/9 to go along with a 44% ground ball rate make him a very good pitcher. With 3-years of control remaining, at an average of under $10M per season, Shields could net the Rays a king’s ransom type return. When Friedman traded Garza to the Cubs, he received outfielder Sam Fuld, SS Hak-Ju Lee (#6 prospect by Baseball America), RHP Chris Archer (#38 by BA), OF Brandon Guyer (#6 Rays prospect), and C Robinson Chirinos. Comparing Garza’s 2010 season and Shields’ 2011 season shows that while Garza pitched well going 15-10 and 3.91 ERA, his peripheral stats don’t quite stack up. Not only is Shields’ platform season greater, but his career statistics prove he has been the better pitcher. With the exorbitant prices some teams are paying for frontline starting pitching (see Gio Gonzalez and Matt Latos), the Rays should certainly be looking into moving Shields.
In all probability, the Rays rotation will start out as Price, Shields, Moore, Hellickson and Niemann, with Davis going to the bullpen, and Alex Cobb biding his time in AAA. The Rays could play out the first few months of the season, and look to deal one of Shields, Niemann or Davis based on where they sit in the standings, and their personal performances. Starting pitching surplus sure is a great problem to have.
***Today’s feature was prepared by our Baseball Writer, Rob Bland. We highly encourage you to leave your comments and feedback at the bottom of the page and share in the discussion with our readers. You can also follow Blandy on Twitter***
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Anthony Ranaudo Interview: 2010 1st Round Draft Pick and Red Sox Uber-Prospect
Friday January 13, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Imagine that you were 6’7″, a chiseled 230 lbs and drafted in the first round (39th overall) in the 2010 MLB draft. Better yet, you were drafted by the Red Sox. This comes after you were drafted by Texas in 2007 but opted to play for a powerhouse school like Louisiana State. To top it all off, you show up to your first professional season of baseball as a 21-year old highly rated pitching prospect and you hold your own against the competition. Impossible dream? Not really…not if your name is Anthony Ranaudo. Going into 2012, Anthony is one of the top rated pitching (and overall) prospects in the game. While he has the resume and strong credentials already, Anthony is not letting anybody hand him anything in baseball. He is working hard to earn his chance and to prove that he belongs in the majors. Red Sox fans are absolutely giddy at the thought of having Anthony in their team’s rotation one day. Can you blame them? There are 29 other major league teams who would grab him for their system in a second. For a kid that grew up a Yankees fan in New Jersey, Anthony’s baseball story certainly took an interesting twist. Now a member of Red Sox nation, Anthony Renaudo is on track to land in Boston in the near future.
Featured today on MLB reports, we are proud to present Anthony Renaudo of the Boston Red Sox:
MLB reports: Welcome to MLB reports Anthony. First question: We have to know the truth. We understand that you grew up a Yankees fans. How did it feel to be drafted by the Red Sox? Was it difficult to give up the love for the pinstripes and join Red Sox nation?
Anthony Ranaudo: Haha… that is actually such a common question with all my family members and friends back home in New Jersey. But once I went to college and saw teammates and guys I played with making it to the big leagues, you become more of a fan of the game rather than of one specific team. So by the time the draft came, I was excited to be picked by the Sox and join the tradition and history behind the organization.
MLB reports: You got the call in 2007 that you were drafted by the Rangers. Was there ever a possibility of you signing with Texas or was it Louisiana State the whole way?
Anthony Ranaudo: There was a slight chance if they were willing to pay above slot. But I really had my mind-set on going to college, earning a part of my degree, and competing for a national championship at one of the best college programs in the country.
MLB reports: How did you enjoy your time in University? Do you feel you made the right choice in picking school over pro ball? (if you could go back in a time machine- would you have still made the same choice?)
Anthony Ranaudo: The time I spent at LSU was an amazing three years to say the least. I would not go back and change a thing, if I had the chance a million times over. The people I met, friendships I made, and the baseball experience I gained- is not something that I could ever replace. I am so thankful I was a part of it.
MLB reports: Not an easy subject I’m sure, but I was curious about your injury in 2010. You hurt your elbow prior the draft. How did you get injured and were you afraid that the injury would affect your draft status?
Anthony Ranaudo: It was actually a freak incident and a rare bone injury that no one really knows why it occurred. But it did happen and affected my performance and ultimately the draft. With that being said, during that time I can honestly say that I wasn’t as concerned with my draft status as I was with returning to my team and helping to defend our national championship in 09.
MLB reports: How is your health today? Any lingering issues?
Anthony Ranaudo: I am 100 percent healthy with no lingering issues.
MLB reports: Did you have a favorite player growing up?
Anthony Ranaudo: Even though he was before my time, I always idolized Nolan Ryan because he was the best pitcher of his time and always wanted to be the best. My dad would tell me stories about him and his work ethic and why he was the best. I used to collect his cards and want to be as successful as he was.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why? Any current players that you pattern your game after?
Anthony Ranaudo: I respect a lot of the players in the major leagues because obviously they have put a lot of time, effort, and energy into their life as a baseball player. Many of them are very intelligent and have learned the game well and that is why they are so successful. I can’t really say there are too many guys that I pattern myself around. But I can say that whenever I am around a major league player, I listen closely and absorb as much as I can about his career and things he has gone through.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Anthony Ranaudo: Personally, my goals for this season are simple. I want to have a focus of getting better each and every day to make myself more of a major league ready pitcher. I think the season will dictate more of my specific goals. But if I work as hard as I can and focus on getting better, I will eventually become the pitcher I know that I can be and hopefully be a major league pitcher helping my team win.
MLB reports: You were a first round pick by the Red Sox in 2010. How did you find out you were drafted? Big party that night?
Anthony Ranaudo: Actually the opposite. The night before the draft, we were eliminated from the postseason at UCLA and had a plane ride that day and night. I found out I was picked by the Sox after we landed back in Baton Rouge.
MLB reports: Did you expect to go to the Red Sox and as high as the 1st round? Your name was discussed for some time in baseball circles as a future 1st round selection- how much of the hype reached you?
Anthony Ranaudo: Well I had heard some rumors about the Sox drafting me, but there are a lot of things your hear all the time. From the time I was a kid it was my dream to play professionally. So just to be drafted was a great honor.
MLB reports: You start off your career as a Greenville Drive and then moved on to the Salem Red Sox last season. Tell us about your first two professional teams…and what the heck is a Greenville Drive?
Anthony Ranaudo: Honestly, I played there for two months and I have no idea. This year was a lot of fun and I really enjoying playing for both teams. I met a lot of good guys and made a ton of new friends that really made this first year of pro ball very memorable.
MLB reports: How did you feel going from school to professional baseball? What was the transition like?
Anthony Ranaudo: Playing at LSU really gave a great start to the transition. There were some minor things to make adjustments to, but overall it was pretty simple.
MLB reports: Do you see yourself long-term as a starter or reliever?
Anthony Ranaudo: I have always seen myself as a starter and I love being on the mound for seven or eight innings. With that being said, I also love having the ball in my hand when the game really matters the most in the late innings. So if it is my job to be a reliever or closer one day, I will really enjoy and embrace that role.
MLB reports: What do you consider your best pitch(es)? Any new ones that you plan to be working on this season?
Anthony Ranaudo: No new additions this year so far. I am trying to really focus on having great control and command of my three or four current pitches. To this day, my fastball and curveball are still my favorite pitches.
MLB reports: Who were the strongest baseball influences growing up? Any particular coaches that had a deep impact on your game?
Anthony Ranaudo: I would have to say my father had the greatest influence on my career. He was the one who taught me the game and was there for every step, even to this day. But without the support of my mother and father and my brothers and sisters, I would never have made it to where I am today.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Anthony Ranaudo: I need to refine my command of the strike zone and throw more quality strikes with greater consistency. Once I do that, I can focus on competing and hopefully moving up the ladder.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Anthony Ranaudo: I am glad I don’t have a crystal ball because that way I cannot worry about it. And that is the approach I take every day. Like I said earlier, I try to get better each and every day. If I can keep doing that while staying healthy, I think those decisions will be made for me, hopefully sooner rather than later.
MLB reports: Favorite baseball movie of all-time and why?
Anthony Ranaudo: For Love of The Game. No doubt. Literally tear up every time. It is the perfect description of the life of a pitcher, with the ending of a perfect game. Something that every competitive pitcher dreams of.
***Thank you to Anthony Ranaudo for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports! You can follow Anthony on Twitter (@anthony_ranaudo). Anthony enjoys speaking with his fans, so please feel free to send him any questions/comments you have. Or just wish him good luck on the season, as he works his way up to Boston!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Chris Swauger MLB Blog: My Offseason (Part 2)
Tuesday January 10, 2012
Chris Swauger- MLB reports Blog (Swags’ Hotspot): A minor league baseball season lasts about five and a half months from start to finish. Add in anywhere from a month to six weeks for Spring training and playoffs and the total time playing adds up to about seven months. Seven months of grinding out games, bus rides, and late-night meals. Days are filled with early work, extra work, batting practice, bullpens, conditioning lifts, rehab, pre-hab, post-hab, and so on. Free time is a precious commodity and soreness is an epidemic. However, when September rolls around, all of us are left with five months to do…absolutely nothing. After days upon days planned to the minute, what am I supposed to do when I don’t have anything planned for months?
I have worked the part-time jobs (Team Sports Associate and near-Employee of the Month at Dick’s Sporting Goods). I have worked the awful jobs (landscaping). I have worked the desk jobs (best receptionist EVER at Sportscenter Tampa Bay). I have done the internships (at the University of Tampa). I have given batting lessons. I have coached AAU teams. In all my experience trying to fill the time between the end of the season and Spring Training, I have done some crazy things and met some strange characters. Still, the two things that I have enjoyed the most in the off-season are playing winter baseball in Latin America and substitute teaching. I have played two seasons in Colombia for Los Caimanes de Barranquilla, as well as this past offseason in Panama for Los Caballos de Cocle. In the interim, between seasons I have substituted grades K-8 in my hometown of Tampa, Florida. These are two very different activities, but they both have some interesting similarities.
The strongest bond that Winter Ball and substituting share is they are both utter chaos. Be it a locker room full of fired up Latinos or a classroom full of sugar crazed 3rd graders, someone or something is bouncing off the walls. Not that I am the calmest person in the world, but these people make me look like a Zen master on adderall. It takes one bikini clad chica to walk across the television screen (which happens about twice every second on Latin American TV) to send every native player into a fist-pumping, chest-bumping, eardrum-thumping frenzy. It takes just the mention of recess, lunch or PE to whip a room full of elementary school students into gymnasts; chairs are flipped, tables are hurdled and cartwheels are performed. I can honestly say that if the world was filled with my teammates and students, I would rule it with a Maxim and a jungle-gym.
Not far beyond the realm of complete disarray are the absolutely absurd questions, answers, and statements I have heard in Winter
Ball, as well as in the classroom. This past season in Panama, we were short an infielder on our team because of an injury. Our coach came to the cage and asked, “Hey [nameless player], can you play third base?” He responded “Oh yeah!” I responded, “Dude, you’re left-handed.” He replied, “Well yeah, but if I was a righty I’d be better than like, Derek Jeter.” I was laughing so hard I couldn’t breathe and ended up with the hiccups. This same player also told his teammates that a pregnant waitress would not be serving tonight because she was on “fraternity leave.” Once again, I couldn’t breathe. I similarly busted out laughing this year when I opened up the floor to questioning in front of a group of 8th graders. I said they could ask any question they wanted. The first question I got was “Do you have a girlfriend?” The second was “How much do you bench?” Such simple minds… and I love it.
One other question I got from a 5th grader was “If you are a baseball player, how come I’ve never seen you on TV?” Yeah…about that…well I am just a minor leaguer right now so I don’t play with the big league Cardinals yet. “Oh so you suck?” was the response. Leave it to an 11-year-old to give me a nice dose of reality; just when I thought I’d gained some status around the elementary school campus. However in all seriousness, he was right. I have only begun to prove myself and in the big scheme of things, I am still just an Internet-streaming broadcast minor league player. It is great motivation to get better and stay humble. The same can be said for Winter Ball. Taking an 0 for 4 or making an error can give a quick ego check and a nice reminder that I still have a lot to prove. There is still much work to be done in my career.
The one thing that has been consistent throughout my career is that I have loved every minute of it. The pure joy that I get out of playing this game is only matched by the happiness that I experience seeing a student light up when he solves a problem- or a concept clicks. When the kids get excited about learning, I am reminded out how I feel when I get a hit or make a good play. It’s that same feeling that keeps me going. I have come to think of professional baseball as a roller coaster: I am just enjoying the ride so far, during the season and out of it. The journey itself has been the reward.
Follow me on Twitter (@cswag8) if you would like to get a daily perspective and interact with me.
Until next time,
Swags
***Chris Swauger (AKA Swags) is an outfielder in the St. Louis Cardinals system. Swags played for the Springfield Cardinals (AA) in 2011. With his own Blog Page on MLB reports known as Swags’ Hotspot, Swags provides a behind the scenes look into the life of a professional baseball player. One of the funniest guys we know, these blog entries are a MUST read for every baseball fan! ***
You can catch Part 1 of Swags’ Offseason report by clicking here!
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
The Casey Bond Guest Blog and Special Moneyball Surprise: Moneyball released on DVD and Blu-Ray
Monday January 9, 2012
Casey Bond- Guest MLB Blog: It’s a brand new year folks! Now all of the hard work and effort put into the previous year will generate some new and exciting happenings for 2012. Although released in September of last year, MONEYBALL continues to turn heads as it is now up for a plethora of awards. I couldn’t be more proud to play such a large role in this film. Truly, it has been a wonderful ride already. I know that ride will continue for years to come, especially if we can walk away from this with some hardware!
The DVD/Blu-Ray release for the film is on January 10th, which is just around the corner. It’s going to be fun to walk around stores and see our work out on the shelves. I’m sure that not only will the movie come out looking stunning on Blu-Ray, but it will also have plenty of extras from behind the scenes of the filming we did while on set. I have already been on a number of flights in which MONEYBALL was an available option for people to watch on their personal in-flight television. Pretty awesome.
It’s interesting how the DVD wasn’t released before Christmas, as I know many people were hoping they could stuff some stockings with it. However, I feel as though they didn’t want to push anything they didn’t have to, not to mention that the film is still in some theaters due to its nominations for some big awards. The movie is still fresh on people’s minds; and perhaps it will get an even bigger response because it is still going to be talked about throughout the award season into February. All I know is that all of my castmates, with whom I keep very close touch with, are excited to see the final product.
Since the release of the film, its been a great pleasure to travel around and speak with people about my career path, the story of being in
MONEYBALL, and what’s next for me. People always seem to have a keen interest and the questions are endless. I hope this will continue for years to come, as I always love having the opportunity to go and speak in different places. Currently, I am working on Producing a few different films. They are in the early stages, but moving along very well. Hope to have some more info on those in the near future, as all of you MLB Reports readers will be the first to know! (Editor’s Note: We LOVE this guy!!!) All of you have been such a great fan and support base, and I thank you for that!
So, in closing, I will answer a few questions which I have been getting lately from different folks. Firstly, why should you go out and pick up MONEYBALL on DVD or Blu-Ray? Well, if you went and watched it in the theaters, I am hoping and assuming you liked it- especially if you have taken the time to read this far into this article! That being said, you should go out and own a piece of history as far as baseball, movies, and baseball movies go. Another question to ponder is “where does MONEYBALL rank among the greatest baseball films of all time?” Well, that is kind of a tough question in my position. I am going to have answer that question like this. I think it depends on which category of baseball movie you are looking for. I have to say that MONEYBALL is the best drama/comedy baseball movie of all time. It has such an interesting twist on baseball, as well as a pretty accurate behind-the-scenes glimpse into the game we all love. Not to mention, the numbers tell us that its done the best in the box office as far as baseball films go. As far as baseball romantic comedies goes, I have to go with Bull Durham. It’s just a classic, and a very accurate portrayal of baseball life in the minor leagues. Kevin Costner is probably the greatest baseball movie actor of all time (for now, maybe we can take over those reigns!)
What I will say, is that I’d like to add a little incentive to going out and purchasing the DVD, or reading this article. If y’all go “Like” my Facebook page here and write on my wall that “MLB reports sent you“, I will send you a personally autographed photo from one of the MONEYBALL premieres I went to. You may be asking how I will know where to send the photo…well, we can communicate through a DM (Direct Message) on Twitter (my name on Twitter is @CaseyBond) to make sure you get it. It’s just a few clicks and you will have yourself some MONEYBALL memorabilia! (This offer applies to U.S. and Canada residents only, while supplies last)
Until next time: take care and I hope you will check out the Facebook page for the latest updates on what’s next! Thank you all for your time! Casey
A BIG MLB reports thank you to Casey Bond for preparing today’s Guest Blog. For a Hollywood actor, producer and director with a busy schedule, we very much appreciate Casey taking the time to help us announce the release of Moneyball on DVD and Blu-Ray. Casey was also very generous in providing the Special Moneyball Surprise as part of this feature. The man loves his fans and really knows how to create a buzz! In addition to following Casey on Twitter and “liking” his Facebook Fan Page, please make sure to bookmark his website (http://thecaseybond.com). Casey will be CONSTANTLY providing personal behinds the scenes photos, videos, etc. of upcoming events that he will be a part of such as Red Carpets and Premieres! If you love Baseball and Hollywood, welcome to the world of Casey Bond!
(Editor’s Note: Casey Bond was an outfielder in the San Francisco Giants organization. He left the diamond and became an actor on the silver screen. In Moneyball, Casey portrays former Oakland A’s pitcher, Chad Bradford. Moneyball was a best selling book by Michael Lewis that became a hit Hollywood film in 2011. To grab your copy of Moneyball on DVD or Blu-Ray, get to your local video store or favorite on-line retailer like Amazon. Destined to be one of the finest cult classic baseball films of all time, Moneyball the movie needs to be in the DVD/Blu-Ray collection of every baseball fan!)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Your Baseball Questions Answered – Monday January 9th, 2012
Monday January 9th, 2012
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Q: With Prince probably going to the Nats, where do you think it places them in the NL East? Are they ready to compete for a playoff spot? Wade
MLB reports: Great question Wade. Despite the reports (and there are plenty), Prince Fielder to Washington is far from a done deal. In the world of Scott Boras, a mystery team could appear at any time. That being said, let’s assume for this exercise that Prince becomes a National in 2012. Given the strength of the Phillies rotation, the improved Marlins and always steady Braves squads, the Nationals would still be in tough. The Nationals could hit .500, but would not yet be ready for a playoff run. Once they have Strasburg firing on all cylinders and Bryce Harper integrated fully into the majors, the story could change. The Nationals are sitting on one of the best farm systems in all of baseball. Adding Prince Fielder makes them a serious playoff contender by 2014 at the latest. They will go from a good team to a possibly a great one. Prince has done it in Milwaukee with the right squad and could replicate his success in Washington soon.
Q: Does Beltran even come close to filling the void that Pujols left? Kevin
MLB reports: No. No. And no. Did I say no? Because I meant no. Carlos Beltran is a good player. But let’s face facts. Aside from his magical playoff run in Houston, he has never been a top player in baseball. He has shown superstar numbers, but given his age and declining health, the Cardinals would simply be happy if he can stay healthy. At best, the Cardinals would get another Berkman type season out of Beltran in 2012. Albert Pujols is one of a kind. A Babe Ruth type slugger. Carlos Beltran is simply a good player that will provide steady production for a lineup that needs to fill a big void. The bigger question is whether the rest of the lineup will pick up the slack. Can Freese continue his breakout? Will Furcal stay healthy? Can Matt Holliday be the main producer in St. Louis? Can Lance Berkman duplicate his 2011 season? Many ifs…too many for my liking. Carlos Beltran helps part of the issue, but is far from the answer in how the Cardinals will play in the post-Pujols era.
Q: Any chance Madson will return to his 8th inning role for the Phillies? Sam
MLB reports: I can’t see this happening. Ryan Madson is not likely to return to Philadelphia. With Jonathan Papelbon entrenched with his old job, Madson will at least need to take a job where he has a chance to win the closer role. Not to mention that Madson’s wife had certain choice words a year ago about playing in Philadelphia. At the time I felt that the Madsons had burned their bridge with the team and I have not changed my opinion since. Madson will need to move on and possibly take a set-up role somewhere. But one where the closer is more volatile and an opening is likely to open up. After the contract fiasco in Philadelphia, a return to the Phillies would be like him coming with his tail between his legs. Pride alone will lead to a new team for Madson in 2012.
Q: Any thoughts on tolleson being the closer for the dodgers by 2013? And when do you see Hutchinson joining the jays (ceiling)? Justin
MLB reports: Considering he was drafted in the 30th round of the 2010 draft, Shawn Tolleson is looking like an absolute steal for the Dodgers. After passing through 3 levels last season, ending in AA, Tolleson is certainly knocking on the door. I can’t see why he doesn’t make the big leagues at some point next season. If he can continue his superior numbers, we could be seeing a set-up man in 2013 and possible closer. I would say 2014 is a more realistic timeline for a full-time closing position, but it will depend on how he pitches at higher levels. Based on the body of work so far, the sky is the limit on this kid. In Toronto, Drew Hutchinson is another kid on the fast-track. A 15th round pick in 2009, Hutchinson has been a dominant starter from day one. At age 21 and finishing last season in AA, I would say 2013 is a realistic timeline for Drew. He clearly has the stuff to succeed. But he is very young and the Jays will not want to risk burning him out by rushing him too soon. Ceiling? From everything he has done so far, I see a solid #3 starter on a contending squad. Good strikeouts and low walk rates are always a recipe for success.
Q: What’s your favorite baseball movie of all time? Lindsay
MLB reports: I love almost every baseball movie that I have seen. Not a big fan of Mr. 3000 and even Mr. Baseball was so-so. There are too many good ones in my opinion. But if I had to pick one, I would go with For Love of the Game. There was something very special and real about that movie that really brought out a great deal of emotion out of me. For a recent film, Moneyball was fantastic. I can’t wait to own it on DVD (in stores Tuesday January 10th, 2012). After I watch it a dozen times or so, we will see where it ranks on my list. It is top-five for sure and could rise even higher. Major League for sure makes the list as well, as does Bull Durham, Field of Dreams and The Rookie. But give me For Love of the Game anytime and I will be a happy camper.
Q: Who do you have starting opening day for the Royals? Jonathan Sanchez? Michael
MLB reports: Good question from one of our top KC readers. My answer will surprise you. The Royals have Luke Hochevar listed at the top spot right now. Sanchez is seen by many as the likely ace for 2012. I think spring training will answer best which arm is in the best shape and looks the strongest to lead the team. If I had to be a dollar right now, my money is on Bruce Chen. I see the Royals leaning on the veteran to guide their young up-and-coming rotation going into the season. I am a Hochevar supporter, but I am not seeing a big upside as of right now. Chen has been very good since joining the Royals and I see him getting the nod in April for opening day.
Q: Any idea what’s going on with Pudge Rodriguez? Nick
MLB reports: Pudge will be back in 2012. I was told that he has been working hard in winter ball and is in great game shape. Speaking to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports (a neighbor of Ivan Rodriguez in Florida), Pudge is in training and gearing up for the season. I don’t see Pudge starting, but he will be a veteran backup on a squad. The list of available jobs is dwindling, but a team will take a flier on him soon. Perhaps a return to the Nationals. Tigers? Angels? Otherwise, if a catcher goes down, Pudge will be one of the first free agent catchers to get the call. The career is definitely winding down for the future hall-of-famer. I can definitely see him getting a contract in place before the start of spring training.
Q: Why does the winning team only give high 5s to each other and not the other team after the game? Javaman
MLB reports: This is one tradition that I still enjoy in baseball. Teams are supposed to go into battle. Players are supposed to go onto the field looking to win, not make friends. Heck, it bothers me when a baserunner and a first baseman get chatty after a base hit. When a baseball team wins, they will rejoice and celebrate as a squad. The losing team wants to get off the field and into the clubhouse as soon as possible. When a team loses, the last thing they want to do is shake hands and socialize with the team that just beat them. They want to recoup and prepare for the next game. Old time mentality and I like it.
Q: Who is the next big star (besides Prince) to get a $200 mil+ contract? Martin
MLB reports: I don’t even see Prince getting $200 million at this point to be honest. There are very few guys that I could see getting a contract of that magnitude. Going to the list, I am drawing blanks. Josh Hamilton is too injured to get there. Tim Lincecum and Clayton Kershaw might, but teams are generally not interested in handing out unlimited years and money to pitchers. Perhaps Joey Votto will have a chance. Otherwise, we will literally have to wait until the Stephen Strasburgs and Bryce Harpers of this world are eligible for free agency. If I had to throw out one another name, maybe Mike Stanton one day. To reach the $200 million club, you need to be one of the best, if not THE best in the game. Quite frankly, there is just too much risk in handing out deals of that size. Show me the next Babe Ruth and maybe I will change my mind. Until then, expect more $100+ million deals, but not $200 million.
Last Q: With a lack of spending this offseason are the Yankees getting ready to buck up for Hamels/Cain next offseason? Chris
MLB reports:That certainly seems like the plan. But it is a risky plan. A very risky plan that could backfire. Sure, C.C. Sabathia and Mark Teixeira found their way to New York. But remember Cliff Lee? He certainly did not work out well for the Yankees. Holding back for such a contingency plan is risky on many fronts. Perhaps the desired player gets injured. Or signs a long-term deal with their current squad. Better yet, the player hits free agency and joins a different team all-together. So while I could see the Yankees waiting for a better group of free agents to be available, there is no guarantees that those players will ultimately land in New York. The decision to hold off on spending this offseason is more based on the overall talent level and asking prices. If there was the right player at the right price on the market currently, the Yankees would grab him. The team would rather go with what they have then take on a bad contract with little return. Next year could find a better talent level available to the Yankees in the form of Cole Hamels and Matt Cain. But as the old saying goes: you have to play for today, because tomorrow might never come. If any of the future free agents do end up signing with the Yankees, it will be a bonus for the team. But to count on it is a pathway to disappointment. The offseason is not over yet, another free agent signing or trade could be in the works. Until opening day is upon us, a lot can still happen. Thank you for reading MLB reports and we appreciate your question.
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Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen) Follow @mlbreports
Ontario Blue Jays Hall of Fame Induction Gala: Class of 2012 with Cecil Fielder as Keynote Speaker
Sunday January 8, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: On Friday night, I got to combine two of my favorite loves: baseball and food. The Ontario Blue Jays were kind enough to invite MLB reports to be a part of their Gala Dinner and Inaugural Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The event was held at La Primavera, a beautiful banquet facility in Woodbridge, Ontario (Canada). It was definitely a night to remember.
The OBJ delivered former MLB slugger Cecil Fielder as the Keynote Speaker for the evening. Having grown up watching Big Daddy play on the baseball field, it was an honor and privilege to speak to him during the night. More on Cecil to come, but let’s say that he certainly did not hold back in his speech. Cecil discussed everything in his captivating address to the starstruck audience. From growing up and playing football/baseball, to his time in Japan, Toronto, Detroit and New York. Cecil also touched upon his personal life, including his recent remarriage and of course, son Prince Fielder.
But firstly, the event itself. Director of Baseball Operations for the OBJ, Dan Bleiwas put together a first-rate program. From the Keynote Speaker, to the inductees, memorabilia auction and of course, the food! I had my eye on a Carlton Fisk autographed lithograph among the many prizes available up for grabs. But with the big spenders on hand that night, it was not meant to be. With a good fill of steak and tiramisu in my belly though, I surely wasn’t complaining. We sat at Table 5 (the most rocking table in the house). I spent a great deal of the night catching up with Michael Bonanno, Vice President of Oak Sports Management. As a baseball agent, Michael’s phone did not stop ringing or buzzing the whole night. It was definitely a pleasure to talk baseball with an industry professional of Michael’s stature. Overall, the room had a great vibe from the start. Baseball talk was in the air, from the cocktail hour right through to the speeches. The night was meant to be a celebration of baseball and the OBJ delivered in that respect perfectly.
Known as “Canada’s top amateur baseball program”, the Ontario Blue Jays are part of the Premiere Baseball League of Ontario. A breeding ground for Canadian baseball talent, specially Ontario, the OBJ has seen many great baseball players come through its doors. The inaugrual Hall of Fame class of 2012 was a strong field of talent. The inductees were as follows:
DREW TAYLOR: We featured Drew on September 22, 2011 in our interview titled: Drew Taylor – An Intercounty League Pitcher. Drew played for the OBJ between 1999-2001. He was originally a part of the Toronto Blue Jays organization and then the Philadelphia Phillies. He still stars for the Intercounty Baseball League as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs. A left-handed pitcher, Drew still looks great on the mound. The highlight of the evening for us was Drew’s mention of his interview with MLB reports during his induction speech. Thank you Drew! I had a chance to speak to Drew during the evening and look forward to featuring him again on the Reports. This cat has many projects on the go…so make sure to keep an eye on the name Drew Taylor! (You can follow Drew on Twitter: @DrewWTaylor)
ADAM STERN: We love Adam on so many levels. A member of the OBJ from 1997-1998, Stern has really experienced all levels of major league life. A 3rd round pick of the Braves in 2001, Stern played for the Red Sox, Orioles and Brewers. A member of the Canadian Olympic team in 2008. But we will most remember Stern for his play in the World Baseball Classic. During the 2006 edition, Stern was the team catalyst- as he almost hit for the cycle with 4 RBI’s as part of Team Canada’s victory over the USA. As down to earth of a player as you will find, Stern embodied the terms hustle and grit during his career. Stern was solid defensively and provided a spark offensively on all the teams he played for. Speaking to him during the night, we reminisced on his career as he recently retired. It would have been a treat to see Stern play for the Toronto Blue Jays, but unfortunately the fit was not in the cards. Reflecting on his time in baseball, Stern had no regrets. As he shouldn’t. The man reached baseball heights that few do and is a great role model for all kids learning the game, not just Canadians. Now in his new role, Stern is the Program Director for Centerfield sports, a sports training facility located in London, Ontario. Adam has agreed to be interviewed for the Reports and we look forward to bringing you his story very soon.
PETE ORR: A member of the OBJ from 1996-1997, Orr was drafted by the Rangers and later signed by the Braves. Orr has played at the major league level with the Braves, Nationals and Phillies. Like Adam Stern, he was a member of both the 2006 and 2009 WBC Canadian teams. Pete will be back with the Phillies in 2012. We talked about his love of the city of Philadelphia and he is definitely chomping at the bit to get to Spring Training. At 32-years of age, Pete Orr still has a lot of baseball left in him. Having achieved a solid major league career, he was a very worthy choice for the inaugural OBJ Hall of Fame class of 2012.
TYLER JOHNSTONE: A member of the OBJ from 1999-2002. Johnstone was a shortstop in the New York Mets organization and played for the Winnipeg Goldeyes in the Northern League. He played in the Connie Mack World Series in 2001. Johnstone also attended Purdue and Auburn before turning professional. An interesting note is that Johnstone played every inning of every game for the Tigers between 2005-2006 and led the team in stolen bases as both a junior and senior.
After the Hall of Fame inductees were named and presented with their plaques following their speeches, the night turned to the Keynote Speaker. The man needed no introduction, as the name Cecil Fielder says it all. I had a chance to speak to Cecil before the dinner and catch up with the former MLB superstar. I had no idea what to expect, given that the last time I met him was in 1990 as a youngster. Since then, Cecil has retired and remains away from the game. Now based in Atlanta with his wife (as he recently remarried), he spends his time running a baseball academy. We shared our experiences as fathers and talked about his role as a dad in raising his son Prince. Watching the both of them during Cecil’s playing days always stuck with me and inspired me in my role as father in the present day. Whenever he spoke about Prince, there was always a gleam in Cecil’s eyes. He loves his son very much and that came across clearly in his words. He did make it clear to me though that he has no interest in returning to professional baseball, whether as a coach or broadcaster. Cecil is more interested in spending time with his family and raising his kids than starting over in the minors. His family comes first.
When Cecil took the podium, every eye in the room was on him. You can’t help but be drawn to his presence. I didn’t recognize him right
away when we were introduced. But once he started speaking, you couldn’t miss that he was Cecil Fielder. He spoke to the room for over 30 minutes, but it felt closer to 5. It was that good of a speech. Cecil talked every aspect of his life. From his football days and decision later in his youth to switch to baseball. To being drafted by the Orioles and then Royals, with his eventual trade to Toronto. Cecil expressed his love for the city of Toronto and the 1985 Jays squad. To playing in Japan, Detroit and New York, we really got to learn every aspect of his career. I was particularly interested in his discussion of the 1996 Yankees World Series team. From the bullpen of John Wetteland and Mariano Rivera, to a young Derek Jeter blasting Mariah Carey in the clubhouse. Cecil was very animated and had people laughing in tears.
When it came to his son Prince, Cecil spoke at great lengths. From Prince’s weight issues as a child and Cecil’s assistance in getting his son into shape. Cecil spoke fondly about his son and with great pride in his voice. When it came to Prince’s next destination, the indication from Cecil was that it would be Washington. I had asked him before about the chances of the Jays signing his son and he just let out a laugh. “Not going to happen”, was the response I received. We have Cecil’s speech for your viewing pleasure coming soon on the Reports. It is one of the best baseball talks you will ever hear. If you are a baseball fan, you will sit back and enjoy the life of Cecil Fielder in his own words.
Overall it was a magical night of baseball history. Congratulations to the Ontario Blue Jays Hall of Fame Class of 2012. A big thank you again to Dan Bleiwas and Drew Taylor for all your assistance in having MLB reports cover the gala. To our photographer Joel Lopata (Twitter @JoelLopataPhoto), who took all the pictures used in this feature. You can click on the MLB reports Facebook page to view the entire album of the evening. We look forward to joining the Ontario Blue Jays in 2013 for their next Hall of Fame class. You can follow the Ontario Blue Jays on Twitter (@OntarioBlueJays) and check their website: http://ontariobluejays.com.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Steve McQuail Interview: Blue Jays Prospect and the New “King of Cool”
Sunday January 8, 2012
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: We welcome today to MLB reports Blue Jays outfield prospect, Stephen McQuail. But you better call him Steve (wink)! A very personable young man, I have really enjoyed speaking to him leading up to this interview. He is not always the easiest guy to get a hold of- he basically lives at the gym and batting cages! At 6’3” and 240 lbs., Steve could be just as easily entering a Mr. Olympia contest or UFC match as he would a baseball diamond. The kid is ripped! A New York native, Steve’s father is a retired NYPD detective. Can you imagine growing up in that household? I doubt Steve got very much past his parents! But all kidding aside, it did instill a very strong work ethic within this baseball prospect. For as hard as he works and trains during the offseason, he still finds time to keep a winter job at the same time. Working Pedestrian Management in New York City? That is a huge grind. But for a ballplayer working to achieve his dream, it is part of the path that he has chosen. As glamorous as many fans envision the life of a professional baseball player, Steve is proof that the road to the majors is a hard one. It involves sacrifices and dedication. Steve wants this as badly as any prospect that I have ever spoken to. That drive should take him very far in the baseball world.
A 30th round pick of the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2010 MLB draft, Steve McQuail has shown strong play already. In his professional debut, Steve played for Auburn in the New York-Penn League. A league with a good track record of graduating talent, Steve tore up the league at the tender age of 21. He hit 6 home runs in only 50 games, with a .272 AVG, .341 OBP and .456 SLG. Just for good measure, Steve popped 12 home runs in 60 games this past season as a member of the Vancouver Canadians. With power in his bat and rated as a top defensive outfielder, Steve McQuail has game folks. So now that we know the background, let’s meet the man himself. Speaking to Steve, I not only learned about his career and journey, but also his mindset. Steve expresses very well what makes a ballplayer tick and what life is like on and off the field. If the Blue Jays are looking for well-rounded players on its future roster, they have a perfect one lined up in Steve McQuail. When I heard the name- I right away thought of Steve McQueen. Getting to know Mr. McQuail- I am definitely ready to bestow upon him the McQueen moniker of “King of Cool”. Enjoy the nickname Steve. You deserve it.
MLB reports: Welcome to MLB Reports, Steve. A pleasure to be speaking to you today. First question: who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Steve McQuail: I think it’s almost impossible to grow up in New York City and not idolize Derek Jeter. He is the definition of the words clutch, confident and hard-working. If I could possibly go about my game and life like he does, I’d be a special type of person.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Steve McQuail: I’m thankful to be a Blue Jay because I get to witness first-hand how the big league guys work. If you saw a cage session with Jose Bautista, there’s no doubt in my mind that you’d leave saying “Oh, no wonder he hits absolute taters.” His work ethic and perfect practice translate into the game atmosphere like I’ve never seen before.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Steve McQuail: I have done some good things on the field in my life up until now, but the moments that stick out the most are those that I get to share with my friends and family. The final home game in Auburn in 2010 I was able to go 5-6 with 2 bombs for a group of my friends that took the 5-hour drive from Long Island. This year in Vancouver, I was able to hit a home run in 5 consecutive games, including a walk-off bomb for my parents, grandparents, sister and girlfriend. Sharing my success with the people I love the most is what it’s all about!
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Steve McQuail: My goals for the 2012 season are all attainable without relying on chance. I’m striving to play everyday, like there is no tomorrow. If I strive to hit the ball hard 5 times a game and have quality at-bats, I will help my team win and be successful. (Editor’s note: One of the best responses to this question we have received in some time. Steve is very mature beyond his years.)
MLB reports: When you first found out you were drafted, what was going through your mind? What round did you expect to be drafted and what was the process like signing with the Jays?
Steve McQuail: I had no idea what round I would go… if I even went at all. The only thing I remember was that I turned the computer on 12:30 in the afternoon and didn’t move from my couch until I heard my name get called in the last round of the day (30th) at around 7:45p.m. I was elated, excited and starving because I hadn’t eaten all day. Signing with the Jays wasn’t a problem at all. I was on a plane in 3 days and out on the field before I knew it. (Editor’s note: Now THAT is commitment. I love this kid!)
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Steve McQuail: I consider my bat to be my strongest asset. Though, since playing pro, I’m working to get my defense as superior or more as I adjust to the outfield.
MLB reports: How do strikeouts and walks figure into your game? Do you see any of these items changing over time and to what degree?
Steve McQuail: Strikeout-to-Walk ratio is basically one of the biggest parts of my game that will help me excel deeper through the organization. This season was rough for me, as I did A LOT of swinging. Seeing more pitches and developing a better plan at the plate will help me define my identity as a hitter. Believe me, I am confident the strikeouts and walks will even out as my career continues.
MLB reports: Long-term do you see yourself as an outfielder? How important is “D” in your game?
Steve McQuail: I absolutely see myself in the outfield in the future. I pride myself in my defense, with arm strength and the ability to move. I’m a big but lean guy at 6’3” and 240 pounds. I strive to outwork the lighter “speed” guys because I know it will only make me a better player.
MLB reports: What do you need to do in order to be successful in this game?
Steve McQuail: In order to be successful in this game, I have to create consistency through practice and experience.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Steve McQuail: I can’t worry about a time frame to get to the show because ultimately it’s something that I cannot control. The only things I can control that will help me on my way are my attitude and work ethic. These will translate into good play and a positive mental outlook which is a necessity during the grind of the Minor Leagues.
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far?
Steve McQuail: Almost every little kid has a dream about playing professional baseball. You create pictures and instances of how it’s gonna be when you get there. For me, it was dead on.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball? Best friend(s) on the team that you most hang out with and what do you guys like to do to chill?
Steve McQuail: Off the field, I would say my number one hobby is lifting weights. But that has kinda taken a backseat since getting drafted because I just don’t have enough energy! But I love to relax, no matter where it is. It could be my bed, the beach or an air mattress on Marcus Knecht‘s living room floor. I say Marcus’s floor because he lets me and Matt Nuzzo crash with him in his sweet condo about a month before spring training. You can find us at the beach, movies or playing Call of Duty for hours and hours.
MLB reports: Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Steve McQuail: I’m not superstitious about a specific pregame meal. I am superstitious about having my Dre Beats on 45 minutes before game time.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
Steve McQuail: I’d like to give a shout out to the Vancouver Canadians. The front office, staff, fans and my host family (Mark, Sue, Carl and Megan) allowed me to have the best summer ever. Hopefully everyone can see me at the Rogers Centre one day. But until then, I’m gonna enjoy the ride.
***Thank you to Steve McQuail for pulling out of the gym long enough to speak with us today on MLB reports! You can follow Steve on Twitter (@SteveMcQuail). Steve LOVES interacting with his fans, so please feel free to send him any questions/comments you have. Or just wish him good luck on the season, as he would appreciate your support!***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
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