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Hunter Pence to the Phillies: Breaking Down the Trade
Friday July 29, 2011
MLB reports: The past week in Houston has seen Hunter Pence rumors flying fast and furious. Analysts pegged Pence to be headed to many destinations, ranging from Boston, Atlanta, Cleveland, Detroit, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. As early as this morning it appeared that there was maybe a 30% chance of the Astros getting a deal done. The Phillies were seen as the favorites, having offered a package of prospects to the Astros including Jonathan Singleton and Jarred Cosart. With the Phillies offer being rejected, word had Philadelphia out of the Pence sweepstakes. With Domonic Brown apparently sought by the Astros, it was unclear if a fit existed between the teams to get a deal done. With the Braves apparently unwilling to trade any of their top pitching prospects, including Mike Minor and Julio Teheran, there appeared to be a good chance that Hunter Pence would stay in Houston as the face of the franchise. That all changed this evening and as the news continued to spread quickly, Hunter Pence as of this evening is officially a member of the Philadelphia Phillies. The cost? Jonathan Singleton, Jarred Cosart, Josh Zeid and a player to be named later. The Phillies also get $1 million from the Astros to cover salary.
What the Phillies Receive:
Along with the $1 million as mentioned, the Phillies get Hunter Pence, one of the brightest young outfielders in the game. The 28-year old Pence was a 2nd round pick of the Astros in 2004. Pence made his MLB debut in 2007 and has been a consistent performer for the Astros ever since, with exactly 25 home runs per year from 2008-2010. The right-handed outfielder finished third in NL ROY voting in 2007 and was an All-Star in 2009 and this past season. Although his home run totals are down this year, Pence has displayed some of his strongest numbers this season. Along with his .309 AVG, Pence has a .828 OPS. The Phillies in need of a right-handed bat in their lineup jumped on Pence when given the chance.
The Phillies at 66-39 currently have the best record in baseball. With the Braves 5.0 GB, the Phillies could not afford to let a division crown slip through their fingers. With one of the deepest and best rotations in baseball history, Philadelphia is in win-now mode and anything less than a World Series championship will be considered a failure. With Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels and Roy Oswalt starting for the team, the Phillies definitely look and feel like a strong contender. From there, the team has its offense paced by Ryan Howard and Chase Utley. With Hunter Pence on board, the Phillies all of a sudden have a more balanced offense and become that much more dangerous. The outfield with Pence has become a little crowded, with Shane Victorino, Raul Ibanez, Domonic Brown, Ben Francisco, Ross Gload and John Mayberry. But too much talent can be a good problem to have and the Phillies have made themselves into a stronger contender by acquiring Hunter Pence. In the Phillies lineup and ballpark, the sky is the limit as far as the numbers Pence can reach. He is also under team control for two more seasons as an added bonus for a team that is trying to maintain continuity in contending for years to come in the NL East.
What the Astros Receive:
I was calling Jonathan Singleton “Ryan Howard Jr.” during his time in the Phillies organization. Watching him play, Singleton has one of the sweetest strokes in the minors and has the potential to be a big time masher when finally getting the call to play in the bigs. The 19-year old Singleton was an 8th round pick of the Phillies back in the 2009 draft. That is what you call great scouting. Considered one of the best, if not the best prospect bat in the Phillies organization, Singleton was drafted as a first baseman but later moved to the outfield with Howard standing in his way. With the Astros playing Brett Wallace at first, its likely Singleton’s stay in the outfield is a permanent one. Playing in high A ball this season, Singleton was showing that his game was taking time to develop. Singleton at the time of the trade was hitting .282 with an outstanding .386 OPS. While the power numbers are down, with 11 home runs and .411 SLG, it is key to remember that Singleton is young and will take time to develop as a hitter. The Phillies were very happy with him in their system and the Astros had to work diligently to get the Phillies to part with him. The Astros farm system instantly shot up with the acquisition of Singleton. Combined with Wallace he should pace the Astros offense for years once he gets the call one day.
Jarred Cosart is a 21-year old pitcher who is also playing high A-ball in the Phillies organization. Another draft steal, Cosart was drafted all the way in the 38th round in 2008. Cosart so far in his career has pitched fairly well, with a lifetime 3.67 ERA and 1.159 WHIP. Standing 6’3″, the right-handed Cosart was highly considered as well in the Phillies organization. With the Astros sitting at 35-71, by far the worst record in baseball and new ownership coming in, the Astros had no choice but to continue to tear down their team and start over. With Hunter Pence far and away their most desired and sought after bargaining chip, the Astros had no choice but to move him and continue to stock their farm.
In addition to a player to be named later, the Astros also received today Josh Zeid, a 6’5″ right-handed pitcher who has started and worked out of the pen throughout his Phillies minor league career. A 10th round pick in the 2009 draft, Zeid is again a late round gem discovered by the Phillies’ incredible scouting staff. The 24-year old Zeid excelled in his first two seasons but hit a road bump this year in AA. With a 5.65 ERA and 1.414 WHIP, Zeid had a down year in 2011 and clearly has ways to go before coming to the majors. But for a pitching staff in need of pitching depth, Zeid becomes another arm in Houston.
Verdict:
If we go on the measure that the team with the best player wins the trade, we have to give this one to the Phillies. They received Hunter Pence, an All-Star outfielder in the prime of his career, under control for two more seasons. In return, the Phillies gave up three players that were all late round picks for the team and a player to be named later. Jonathan Singleton will be a star in my mind one day, no question. But he is still a very young player playing in the lower ranks of the minor leagues and has a long way to go before coming to the majors. That is the funny thing about prospects: their future can seem so bright, but between injuries, confidence and the ability they display by their play, it is quite often a gamble. The Astros do well in this trade if Singleton becomes a number or three or four hitter in the majors and turns into the home run hitter that he is projected to be. Cosart and Zeid are arms that may turn out to be great or average. The Astros may get two additions to their rotation one day, or perhaps just two more middle relief arms in their pen. As difficult as it is to project prospects, pitchers are the toughest of the bunch as they are more likely to face injuries and wear and tear on their arms compared to any other position players.
For a team in the basement of major league baseball, the Houston Astros needed to rebuild. But to trade the last star player on their team for one solid prospect and two uncertain arms was not necessarily the route I would have taken. But this trade was as much financially driven as it was about talent. The Astros are about to be sold and the new owner already ordered a massive payroll cut. With Brett Myers and Wandy Rodriguez still on the team, the Astros most tradeable player was Hunter Pence. Considering that the Blue Jays got Colby Rasmus for three middle relief arms essentially, the Astros went young and with more upside in this trade. Personally, I think very highly of Singleton having watched him play in the past. As one of the best young hitters in the minors, the Astros got themselves likely a future superstar. But the key word is likely. For what the Astros received back in potential, they gave up in certainty. Hunter Pence is a current star player that will fit immediately in the Phillies lineup with no cost off the team’s major league or AAA rosters. Until one or more of the prospects the Phillies receive produce at the major league level, which could be years away, the winner of this trade is the Philadelphia Phillies. Our preseason pick to win the World Series just got that much stronger. The rest of baseball has taken notice and competing teams will need to beef up their rosters over the next two days if they hope to have a shot of catching the Phillies in the postseason.
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B.J. Upton: Rays’ OF Trade Destinations and Recap of Beltran Trade to the Giants
Thursday July 28, 2011
Rob Bland (Intern- MLB Reports): Trade Deadline. More speculation. Teams out of the playoff race sending their valuable veterans to contending teams for prospects. This is a time of year that baseball journalists make a living out of contemplating where there is a fit. The Tampa Bay Rays have quite a decision to make as to what to do with the frustrating yet ultra-talented Melvin “BJ” Upton. Upton was the 2ndoverall pick in the 2002 MLB draft, and quickly rose through the ranks with the Rays. In his first full season in 2007, he belted 24 home runs and stole 22 bases while maintaining an OPS of .894. Every season since that breakout year, his BABIP has dropped, and he has been unable to replicate the type of power he previously displayed. Upton is a good fielder in center field and a good base runner, with the ability to steal 30-40 bases a year. This year, Upton has struggled at the Trop, where he is hitting .171/.250/.312/.562. On the road, the numbers are much better at .284/.364/.481/.845.
The Rays would be wise to move B.J. Upton now as they could net a tremendous return from a team who may be desperate to make a push for the playoffs. There have been close to a dozen teams who have at least called to check in on GM Andrew Friedman’s asking price.
Here are five teams who would be wise to make a big push for the outfielder:
San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants are looking to repeat as World Series Champs and look poised to make the postseason, even with one of the worst offenses in baseball. They do have RHP Zach Wheeler ranked as MLB.com’s preseason #33 prospect. The 2009 1st rounder has done very well this year in the California League, but does need to refine command. Offering Wheeler would probably force the Rays to make the deal, however, the Giants seem to be looking at Carlos Beltran and Colby Rasmus as their main targets.** (NOTE: Since preparing this article, Rasmus has been traded to the Jays and Beltran appears to be on the move to San Francisco. It is a likely safe bet that Upton is not headed anytime soon to San Francisco.)
Atlanta Braves
With none of their regular outfielders hitting over .234, the Braves are getting pretty desperate for help. Even though they are currently three games up in the wild card race in the National League, they need to bolster their line-up in order to do some damage in the playoffs. The Braves have a ton of pitching prospects to get the deal done. Arodys Vizcaino is one of these top prospects, who has shot up to AAA from A-ball this season. With great command and a plus fastball and curve, Vizcaino could be used to bring Upton to Atlanta.
Philadelphia Phillies
With the aging Raul Ibanez and youngster Dom Brown struggling to hit in the corner outfield spots, Upton could be ushered in to fill one of those spots. Incumbent Shane Victorino likely wouldn’t be moved from center, but could shift to left for Upton. I could actually see the Phillies going with a young athletic outfield of Victorino, Upton and Brown. Ibanez then becomes a decent weapon off the bench. Still only 19 years old, Jonathan Singleton has drawn a lot of interest from other teams. The Phillies have stated they will not move Singleton for Beltran, but I could see it happening with Upton. Singleton has an advanced approach at the plate, and as he matures, will surely hit for power.
Cleveland Indians
With Grady Sizemore seemingly always on the disabled list, Cleveland needs to shore up the center of their outfield. Michael Brantley has performed admirably, however if they really want to contend in the shaky AL Central, they need a difference maker. Shin Soo Choo has underperformed this year and with the addition of Upton, I can see him being able to turn his season around. Joe Gardner, a right-handed pitching prospect could be moved in this deal. Gardner is an extreme groundball pitcher that needs work on secondary pitches, but along with Cord Phelps, a 2B/3B who played 19 games with the Indians this year, a deal could be struck.
Pitsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates’ string of losing seasons could soon be over, and they’re in the hunt for the NL Central crown. Only a game back, they may make a push for a complement to Andrew McCutchen in the outfield. With Jose Tabata struggling and spending time in AAA, Upton to play right field for the Pirates could be a great idea. Starling Marte, a speedy outfielder who may remind some a bit of Upton, could be dangled with an arm such as Colton Cain, a lefty who can throw in the mid 90s but needs work on his secondary stuff.
The most likely spot for Upton to land is Philadelphia. With the package that Philly could put together to obtain him, they are capable of pulling the trigger. If the Pirates do make a move, and don’t make the playoffs, they risk possibly setting the organization back again, as rushing their success could cause a tremendous fallout. Slow and steady usually wins the race. Hopefully the Pirates remember that.
***Today’s feature was prepared by our Intern, Rob Bland. Please feel free to leave comments and to welcome Rob aboard. You can also follow Rob on Twitter.***
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Editor’s Note: The Giants acquisition of Carlos Beltran looks to be complete. As proposed last week on the Reports, Carlos Beltran is on the move from the Mets to the Giants in exchange for top Giants pitching prospect Zack Wheeler. The trade simply needs a rubber stamp, as Beltran needs to go through the formality of waiving his no-trade clause. His agent, Scott Boras, worked diligently to land Beltran with a NL contending team and did not disappoint with the trade to San Francisco. The 21-year old Wheeler was the 6th overall pick in the 2009 draft. The Giants gave up the top pitcher in their system, no doubt. But with a major league rotation consisting of Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum, Madison Bumgarner, Barry Zito, Ryan Vogelsong and Jonathan Sanchez on the mend, the Giants could afford to part with pitching to acquire hitting. The Mets are also sending $4 million dollars of salary relief to the Giants as further consideration in obtaining a top prospect back. Expect Beltran to be the middle-of-the-order slugger the Giants so desperately crave, especially with top hitting catcher Buster Posey out for the year. I can see Beltran carrying the Giants into the playoffs and advancing quite far, given his previous playoffs heroics and incentive to land one more big free agency contract in the offseason. Beltran is also likely to re-sign with the Giants, so this is a win-win all around. The Giants get run production this year and in possible future years and the Mets add a much needed building block for their future which just got brighter.
Colby Rasmus and Mark Teahen to Jays, Jason Frasor and Zack Stewart to White Sox, Edwin Jackson and Octavio Dotel to Cardinals
Wednesday July 27, 2011
MLB reports: We first discussed a Colby Rasmus trade to Toronto about a week ago here on the Reports. The trade as we proposed would have included Rasmus to the Jays and Travis Snider and Jason Frasor to the Cardinals. It looks like we got half of the players right, as a Rasmus to Jays deal is complete and ready to be announced. However, in typical Alex Anthopoulos fashion, the trade is a 3-way deal. Going to the Jays is pitcher Edwin Jackson and Mark Teahen in return for reliever Jason Frasor and pitcher Zack Stewart to the White Sox. The Jays are then flipping Jackson, outfielder Corey Patterson and relievers Octavio Dotel and Marc Rzepczynski, as well as three players to be named later or cash to the Cardinals for Colby Rasmus, relievers P.J. Walters, Brian Tallet and Trever Miller. From there, Miller may be on the move to the White Sox to complete the Jackson swap.
Here is how the trade breaks down team by team:
CHICAGO WHITE SOX
Kenny Williams can never sit on his hands come trade deadline time. As hard as he may try, Williams loves to tinker with his team and this year is no different. Speculation had Williams eyeing Rasmus for himself. But with the need to maintain a strong bullpen, it appears that the White Sox are adding Frasor while keeping Matt Thornton. As the Sox are also deep in the rotation and Jackson was essentially redundant for a team that is unlikely to make the playoffs. Frasor is having a solid year, with a 2.98 ERA and 1.252 WHIP. The White Sox may choose to hold onto him or let him go and receive compensation as a type “B” free agent. Teahen, at one more year and $5.5 million left in salary was an expensive backup at best. Zack Stewart, one of the Jays better pitching prospects, is currently at 24-year old AA starter with a 4.20 ERA and 1.410 WHIP. Stewart, who came to Toronto in a package for Scott Rolen, showed very solid numbers until this year, with a lifetime 3.05 ERA in his minor league career with a 1.343 WHIP over four seasons. The White Sox wanted to stock up their system and Stewart should be a bright addition.
VERDICT: White Sox win their end of the deal. Although the addition of Colby Rasmus would have been nice, he was likely a luxury that the team could not afford. The White Sox end up freeing salary, receiving a useful reliever that could turn into a draft pick and a prospect starting pitcher in a system screaming for prospects, in exchange for two spare parts from their team. They may even get Trever Miller to boot.
TORONTO BLUE JAYS
Alex Anthopoulos, the Jays wheeling and dealing GM, is quickly becoming the master of the 3-way trade. AA’s first big move was trading Roy Halladay as part a of a three-way move with the Phillies and Mariners, with the Oakland A’s joining in shortly after in the Michael Taylor and Brett Wallace swap. The Houston Astros then traded Roy Oswalt that summer to the Philadelphia Phillies for a package including Anthony Gose, who was then flipped to Toronto for Wallace. Vernon Wells then this offseason went to the Angels and a couple of days later the Rangers were involved in the Mike Napoli for Frank Francisco trade. AA is now back in a big way. With the MLB non-waiver trade deadline a mere four days away, AA has shocked the slow-moving trade market with the biggest swap of the season. Toronto parts with Jason Frasor to Chicago along with Zack Stewart and then move recently acquired Edwin Jackson with relievers Octavio Dotel and Marc Rzepczynski, as well as outfielder Corey Patterson and three players to be named later or cash to the Cardinals for Colby Rasmus, as well as relievers P.J. Walters, Brian Tallet and Trever Miller. Mark Teahen then stays in Toronto from Chicago as a backup infielder.
Breaking down the deal for Toronto, they move three middle relievers in Dotel, Rzepczynski and Frasor. Dotel and Frasor could have either stayed in Toronto next year or been type “B” free agents with compensation picks coming back. Rzepczynski, a former starter has been steady in the Jays pen this season but does not project to be more than a middle reliever. With the Jays having such strong starting pitching at the majors and minor league levels, Jackson was a pitcher who actually would not have been able to crack the Jays rotation. Teahen, whose last decent season in the majors was 2007, is another Juan Rivera salary dump pickup for the Jays who could hang around for season or be cut loose with salary eaten. At the end of the day, the Jays at most have traded away three middle relievers/draft picks, a prospect in Zack Stewart to the White Sox and about $5.5 million in salary to acquire Colby Rasmus. With the logjam in the outfield, Corey Patterson was expandable. We are not sure yet who are the three players to be named later but apparently the Jays may move cash to the Cardinals instead. The three relievers received by the Jays, Walters, Tallet and Miller are all spare parts at best, with Miller apparently on his way to the White Sox. Tallet though enjoyed his best years in Toronto and a Jays reunion may give his numbers a boost.
How good is Colby Rasmus? Best prospect in baseball good before getting the call to the majors. A first round pick of the Cardinals in 2005, the 24-year old Rasmus has not seen eye-to-eye with manager Tony LaRussa for some time and a change of scenery was in order. Once he realizes his potential, Rasmus has Gold Glove and Silver Slugger potential. He is really that good. Under team control for another three seasons, Rasmus gives the Jays the center fielder they have desired for so long and a top of the order bat. Rasmus will perfectly slide into the second spot of the batting order and give the Jays power, speed and the ability to get on base.
VERDICT: If the measure of a trade is by the team receiving the best player available, then the Jays win this trade overall hands down. They have acquired Colby Rasmus, one of the best young outfielders in the game by giving up essentially middle relievers, a prospect starting pitcher and taking on salary. While Zack Stewart may develop one day into a solid number 2 or 3 starter, for a team that is filled with pitching prospects, Stewart was an arm that the team could afford to move. AA could actually get arrested for stealing Rasmus from the Cardinals. This is what you call buying low at the right time. The Jays should thank LaRussa for his recent comments that Rasmus was not listening to the Cardinals coaching staff. Playing for John Farrell, with Jose Bautista as a teammate and Cito Gaston as a Jays advisor, Rasmus should be able to quickly realize his potential in Toronto. Even with the trade of three of their middle relievers, the Jays are still left with Frank Francisco and Jon Rauch in the pen with more call-ups available at AAA. With the Jays bullpen blowing saves at an alarming rate this year, moving some of the relievers for a star outfielder is a no-brainer. This trade will also increase the Heath Bell to Toronto rumors, as the Jays continue to pursue the Padres star closer.
ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
There aren’t many positives to say here. The Cardinals if they make this move, would be trading away one of their best players for not so magic beans. The 27-year old Jackson, while filled with potential has never performed fully to his capabilities at the major league level. Now on his sixth major league team and eligible for free agency at the end of the season with Scott Boras as his agent, the Cardinals will need to overpay to retain his services. With a 3.92 ERA and 1.422 WHIP on the season, Jackson is as middle-of-the-road as they come. The Cardinals are hoping that Dave Duncan can work his magic but with less than half a season left, there may only be so much that their pitching coach can do. The 37-year old Dotel has also been steady this season, sitting at a 3.68 ERA and solid 1.091 WHIP. The team will also have an option to bring Dotel back next year. Rzepczynski at 25-years of age broke out this year with a 2.97 ERA and 1.093 ERA. He remains under team control for four more seasons. Good numbers, but not enough in my estimation. For a player of the caliber of Colby Rasmus, I would have expected the Cardinals to receive a top starter and closer back. Rather, the Cardinals are esentiallly receiving a number four or five starter and two middle relievers. For a team in dire need of pitching, I would have expected a much greater return. Corey Patterson is at best a fourth oufielder for the Cardinals and the trio of relievers they sent to Toronto, Miller, Tallet and Walters are of little consequence.
Verdict: GM John Mozeliak and manager Tony LaRussa must really dislike Colby Rasmus to be giving him away in this fashion. After both Rasmus and his dad have spoken out by the team in recent years, the LaRussa comments the other day likely sealed the deal. As the team likely does not want to face Rasmus as an opponent, a move to the American League makes sense. One would think that other teams, including the Angels, Orioles, Red Sox, Yankees and Tigers could have offered more. But it appears that Jays GM Alex Anthopolous was in the right place at the right time and is on the verge of acquiring the Cardinals’ outfielder. The Cardinals are the big losers in this trade and it is not even close. In the event that both Dotel and Jackson are type “B” free agents and leave St. Louis at the end of the season, the Cardinals will be left with two months worth of rental players, a middle reliever and two draft picks as compensation. That is all they will have to show for trading away one of the best young hitters in the game. Considering the prospects the Tampa Bay Rays have in their system, if Toronto can pull this swap off, it will be a loss felt in St. Louis for many years to come.
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Jonny Gomes Traded to the Nationals and Yonder Alonso Called Up by Reds
Tuesday July 26, 2011
MLB reports: The trades are trickling in very slowly thus far as the MLB trade deadline approaches. First Wilson Betemit was traded last week to the Tigers by the Royals. Now, Jonny Gomes is off to Washington with cash in exchange for two minor leaguers. Of most significance is the Gomes move allowing the Reds to call up super prospect Yonder Alonso. The question is whether the Reds are showcasing their rookie outfielder in a potential blockbuster trade or have called him for good to man left field for the next decade in Cincinnati.
Gomes was the darling of the Reds faithful the past two seasons. He slugged 20 home runs in 2009, playing in only 98 games. He followed up with an equally strong campaign last year, blasting 18 home runs with 86 RBIs and 77 runs scored. The Red had signed Gomes after the 2009 season to a 2-year, $2.55 million contract which looked like a bargain going into it this season. The 2011 season however, has not been kind to Gomes. Entering play today, Gomes was batting a paltry .211, with a .336 OBP and .399 SLG. After receiving every day playing time to start the year, Gomes was relegated to part-time duty as the season progressed. A change in scenery was in order and with prospect outfielder Yonder Alonso on the horizon, roster space needed to be opened up.
Gomes is now off to Washington to play out the string. The Nationals, in dire need of an offensive boost, took a chance on the 30-year old Gomes in the hope that he will be able to reclaim some of his past magic with Washington. The Nationals did not hurt themselves, as Gomes comes at a very reasonable salary which will be subsidized by the Reds and cost the team only two fringe prospects. Plus as a potential type “B” free agent at the end of the year, the Nationals would receive a compensation draft pick for Gomes if he is offered arbitration by the team and does not accept. Given Gomes’ offensive potential, it was a low-risk and high-reward move for a team that needed to send a message to its fans that it was serious about contending. Even though the team is out of the penant race this season, the Nationals needed to remain competitive through September to send the right message to its fanbase. Jonny Gomes is a step in the right direction in that respect.
The prospects headed to the Reds are pitcher Christopher Manno and outfielder Bill Rhinehart. Manno, a 38th round pick of the Nationals back in 2009 and then again in the 26th round in 2010 has shined since joining the organization. The 22-year old Manno, a 6’3″ left-handed pitcher, has a 1.47 ERA over 2 seasons in the lower minors, with 13 saves, only 32 hits given up in 61.1 IP and 25/98 BB/K. Rhinehart, 26-years of age, was drafted in the 11th round in 2007. Having made it all the way to AAA in 2010, Rhinehart was playing this season in AA. Up to the time of this trade yesterday, Rhinehart was enjoying his finest professional season to-date. Hitting .283 with 21 home runs, 59 RBIs and .963 OPS, Rhinehart was exhibiting great pop in his bat. But given that neither Manno nor Rhinehart are established major league players and are fringe prospects at best at this point in their careers, the Nationals have to be considered the winner of this trade. They acquired an established major leaguer without giving up any of their top prospects.
From the Reds’ perspective, the bigger corresponding move is the recall of Yonder Alonso. With his .296 AVG in AAA with 12 homer runs and .860 OPS,
Alonso had little left to prove in the minors. Scouts have never questioned his bat, as he has displayed the rare combination of power and patience from a very young age, far advanced for his years. The only knock is his defense, as Alonso is a converted outfielder after having been blocked at first base by perennial MVP candidate Joey Votto. But all the reports that we have seen is that Alonso has progressed well in learning the outfield to the point that he is considered adequate. Although he is no danger of ever winning a gold glove, Alonso’s bat more than compensates for any defensive shortcomings. The debate for the next five days will be whether Alonso is remaining with the Reds or being shipped in a blockbuster. My gut is that he is staying put.
The two biggest names being linked to the Reds in trade talks is Ubaldo Jimenez of the Rockies and James Shields of the Rays. Either player would cost a substantial package in return, including possibly Homer Bailey, Aroldis Chapman, Devin Mesoraco, Yasmani Grandal and Yonder Alonso. The package that I have read for both players would be centered around Alonso and 1-2 more top prospects in the Reds’ organization. From all indications, the Reds are in on the two superstar hurlers but are attempting to hold onto their top prospects if possible. In a perfect world for the Reds, they would be able to land Jimenez while only giving up Bailey and Grandal. But the Rockies, like the Rays, will demand a package that includes Alonso and/or Mesoraco. A deep price to pay talent but reasonable, considering the upside and the high level of talent that would be coming back to the Reds.
At the end of the day, I believe that the Reds will regret it if they move Alonso. He is rare hitter that will be an All-Star for many years to come. While top flight pitching is hard to find and develop, it usually comes at a high price and risk. Pitchers, given the strain and wear and tear they put on their arms, are the most likely position to be injured and thus come with the highest risks and question marks. The hope is that the Reds appreciate the talent that they have in Yonder Alonso and continue to cultivate and develop him. With such a deep pool of talent, they should still be able to make the headliner trade they are shooting for without giving up their top rated young hitter. They were able to move Gomes to Washington to make room for Alonso, now hopefully we can sit back and watch Alonso combine with Mesoraco, Votto, Phillips and Stubbs to form the newest version of the Big Red Machine. The Reds are on the verge of putting together something very special. Hopefully they stick to the plan.
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James Shields to the Reds for Alonso and Grandal: July 31st MLB Trade Deadline Rumor
Saturday July 23, 2011
MLB reports: We are now only eight days away from the MLB non-waiver trade deadline and the rumors continue to fly fast and furious. Along with the Carlos Beltran and Heath Bell sweepstakes, the names Ubaldo Jimenez, Josh Willingham, Brandon League, Hunter Pence and Hiroki Kuroda have been tossed around as possible candidates to be moved next week. Another big time name has recently been thrown into the mix that we will be looking at today. James Shields, “big game James”, one of the top starting pitchers on the Tampa Bay Rays may very well be playing for a new team very soon. The Cincinnati Reds are apparently calling and with big prospect bats sitting on the farm, the Reds may very well have the necessary bait to haul in one of the biggest fishes on the trade market.
The 29-year old James Shields was drafted by the Rays in the 16th round of the 2000 MLB draft. Shields made his major league debut in 2006. Here is a quick rundown of his lifetime statistics:
| Year | W | L | ERA | IP | H | BB | SO | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 6 | 8 | 4.84 | 124.2 | 141 | 38 | 104 | 1.436 |
| 2007 | 12 | 8 | 3.85 | 215.0 | 202 | 36 | 184 | 1.107 |
| 2008 | 14 | 8 | 3.56 | 215.0 | 208 | 40 | 160 | 1.153 |
| 2009 | 11 | 12 | 4.14 | 219.2 | 239 | 52 | 167 | 1.325 |
| 2010 | 13 | 15 | 5.18 | 203.1 | 246 | 51 | 187 | 1.461 |
| 2011 | 9 | 8 | 2.53 | 156.1 | 118 | 40 | 151 | 1.011 |
| 6 Seasons | 65 | 59 | 4.02 | 1134.0 | 1154 | 257 | 953 | 1.244 |
| 162 Game Avg. | 13 | 12 | 4.02 | 224 | 227 | 51 | 188 | 1.244 |
A definite innings-eater, James pitched almost 1000 innings over his first five seasons, making him one of the most consistent and reliable pitchers in the game. A lack of run support has definitely hurt Shields over the years, as he had the numbers to obtain more wins had the Rays offense been able to support him better. I have watched too many instances of Shields pitching complete or near complete game losses, despite only giving up 2-3 runs per game. 2009 and 2010 were not kind to James in some ways, as some analysts viewed Shields as having hit his peak and starting to decline. Going into 2011, nobody knew what James Shields the Rays would be getting. The steady ace that the team enjoyed for the majority of his career or the 2010 inconsistent version. Looking at Shields at the halfway mark of the season, he is enjoying by far his greatest season in the majors. A sparkling 2.53 ERA and 1.011 WHIP, Shields has been everything that the Rays could have expected more. But with success comes many questions, with the most pertinent being what the Rays should do with James.
The whispers and talk has been growing by the day that the Rays may be looking to move Shields by July 31st. The Reds have been the team most linked to the Rays, given their desire to bolster their rotation and the deep farm of prospects they can offer the Rays. The Reds are sitting on some of the top prospects in the game that are currently blocked at the major league level. Yonder Alonso, 1B/OF is considered one of the best hitters not at the major league level. Alonso would represent the centerpiece of a potential Shields deal. Born in Cuba and having attended the University of Miami, Alonso is often compared to his friend Alex Rodriguez, based on his combination of power and patience at the plate. Not bad company at all. The 24-year old Alonso was drafted 7th overall in the 2008 draft by the Reds and has quickly advanced in their system. Currently in AAA, Alonso sits at a .297 AVG, .871 OPS, with 12 home runs and 46/59 BB/K. The Rays, desperately in need of bats, currently have Casey Kotchman manning first. Alonso would be a perfect fit in taking over the first base job for the next decade. He is a special hitter that does not come along very often. While a pitcher of Shields stature is not easy to replace, the Rays would be filling a huge void in their lineup by adding Alonso. Dealing from strength to fill a need is smart baseball management and the reason why we are discussing the trade of Shields today.
In addition to acquiring Yonder Alonso, the Rays would be adding a number one catcher to their system in either Yasmani Grandal or Devin
Mesoraco. I have seen both names thrown around, but my gut is that the Rays will end up receiving Grandal. Mesoraco was featured by us back in June. The likely Reds catcher of the future, Mesoraco is expected to get the call either this year or next at the latest to replace incumbent Ramon Hernandez. With a solid backup in Ryan Hanigan, the Reds have an abundance of catchers, a strength considering that few major league teams have potential superstar backstops playing in their lower levels. The 22-year old Grandal was born in Cuba and played in Miami, similar to Alonso. Drafted 12th overall in the 2010 MLB draft, Grandal recently got the call to AA. Mesoraco on the other hand, is 23-years of age and was drafted 15th overall by the Reds in the 2007 MLB draft. Mesoraco is back for his second tour of duty in AAA, hitting a solid .309 and .895 OPS, with 10 home runs and 54 RBIs. After battling injuries in his career, Mesoraco hit a combined 26 home runs over 3 levels last season and has not slowed down since. The Rays would be thrilled to receive Mesoraco in a Shields trade, but Grandal is considered by many to actually be the more talented backstop. A win-win either way for Tampa Bay.
But why trade Shields and especially, why now? Many Rays fans are asking themselves those questions right now. On the surface, Shields and the Rays look like a perfect fit. He is young and still in the prime of his career. Shields has proven to be healthy and durable since joining the Rays. He is signed through this year, with team friendly options through 2014 at $7, $9 and $12 million per year respectively from 2012-14. In baseball they say you can never have too much pitching. If that is the case, then some feel the Rays should consider stockpiling their pitchers and building their team from strength. But that is a narrow view of major league teams and how they operate. Let’s take a look at our five top reasons for the Rays to trade James Shields right now:
1) Sell at the Peak
You never know what the future will bring, so sometimes it is important to live in the moment. Shields, while a steady and consistent pitcher, is currently pitching at the highest level of his career. The Rays will need to determine if he has truly broken out or merely playing above his head. The value for Shields may never get higher than it is today. As well, teams contending for the playoffs may be willing to pay more at the deadline than the offseason for Shields. The Rays, if feeling especially lucky, could request the addition of either Mike Leake or Travis Wood to the trade mix from the Reds.
2) Numbers Game: Rotation Log Jam
The Rays have been known for acquiring, developing and stockpiling pitchers in their system. This past offseason was no different, as the Rays traded
away top starter Matt Garza to the Cubs for a package of prospects, including Christopher Archer and Sam Fuld. With Jeremy Hellickson ready, willing and able to join the big club, the Rays needed to clear room for their next future star pitcher. Hellickson, combined with David Price, Wade Davis and Jeff Niemann form a formidable one through four punch in the rotation. Based on their age and salaries, none of these starters will likely be going anywhere soon. While Alex Cobb has been brought in for temporary measure to the majors, Matt Moore just got the call to join AAA Durham in anticipation of joining the Rays rotation soon. Moore, one of the top-five pitching prospects in baseball, will not likely be kept on the farm too long given his dominance over minor league hitters to-date. That is how the baseball system works. Prospects are developed and either traded for veterans or take over for departed veterans from major league teams. As the Rays have no intention of trading Moore, a spot will have to open up for him. Unfortunately for James Shields, he is the veteran most likely to go. From there, it will only be a matter of time before Archer is ready to join the big club and the cycle will continue.
3) Dollars and Cents
It is no secret that the Rays are on a very tight budget. Low attendance figures, despite continued recent major league success including a World Series appearance in 2008, has meant that the Rays cannot afford to hang onto high priced veterans. Shown the door in recent years were Carlos Pena, Matt Garza and Rafael Soriano, among others for financial considerations. While James may have what is considered a team friendly contract, paying him close to $10 million or so per year for each of the next three seasons does not work for the Rays budget. Moore, combined with Alonso and Grandal, would fill three positions for the Rays at a combined salary that will be a fraction of what Shields makes. In other words, Shields is a luxury that the Rays cannot afford and can fill quite adequately within at a cheaper cost. While we do not like to think about the economics of the game, it can drive roster decisions on the same level as talent and ability.
4) Innings- Wear and Tear
James Shields is starting to enter a zone that many MLB teams dread. The 200-innings per season for over five seasons club. While an informal group,
there has been much talk in baseball circles that most pitchers after their first 1000 innings pitched have a high risk of injuries and decline. Pitchers like Brandon Webb and to a lesser extent Ben Sheets, are shown as examples of modern pitchers that have arm/shoulder problems after pitching many major league innings over a span of 5+ years. While Shields has not shown any risks yet of developing injuries, his numbers going into this season were of concern for the Rays. So while Shields is having a Cy Young caliber season, the Rays may be fearful that he will be susceptible to injuries or declining performance very soon.
5) Pitchers Need Run Support
In the same way a fast car needs a powerful engine and reliable tires, a major league team needs both offense and strong pitching. The current build of the Rays is starting to mirror the San Francisco Giants. Great young pitching but not enough hitting. The Rays can stockpile as much pitching as they like, but if they cannot score runs they will have a difficult time making the playoffs, let alone win a World Series title. Yonder Alonso and Yasmani Grandal are two superstar bats in the making that the Rays desperately need and do not have in their own system. The expression goes that teams “develop pitching and buy bats.” In this case, the Rays will be taking to buying the bats that they themselves cannot produce. With a starting lineup of nine hitters, that Rays will be instantly filling over 20% of their lineup by way of this trade. The hit the rotation by losing Shields would be absorbed by the addition of Matt Moore to the major league club. But the boost to the team’s offense as a result of the addition of Alonso and Grandal is invaluable.
Verdict: The bottom line is that the Tampa Bay Rays are in a quandary. James Shields is the heart and soul of their pitching staff, the go-to guy who has earned his nickname of “big game.” But as the most expensive starter on the staff, with the team’s top prospect almost ready to receive the call to the show and the team desperately needing good young hitting, the Rays have no choice but to consider moving Shields at the trade deadline. As the team is still in contention, management will have to be careful of not sending a message that they are throwing in the towel on the season. But to get the biggest reward, the team will have to pay a big price. It will be difficult in the short-term to accept the trade of James Shields from Tampa Bay. But considering the hitting that the Reds would be sending to the Rays, this is a deal that the Rays cannot afford to miss out on. Keep an eye on Tampa Bay as the team will continue to improve, get younger at a competitive payroll come deadline day and still remain in contention. If this is truly James Shield’s last week in a Rays uniform, please be sure to catch his last start live or on television from Oakland this coming Wednesday July 27th. With Desmond Jennings and Dane De La Rosa just recalled by the Rays from AAA, the cycle of player and prospect replenishment has already begun again in Tampa Bay.
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MLB Global: Creation of MLB Dominicana, International MLB Drafts and Leagues
Thursday July 13, 2011
MLB reports: In our never-ending quest to revitalize and reform baseball, we have discussed and covered in previous editions of the Reports several cutting edge topics. We have looked at MLB Expansion, the new format introduced for the 2013 edition of the WBC, expanding the MLB Playoffs and proposing MLB Realignment. If you thought that we were radical thinkers up until now, well then you haven’t seen anything yet. Today we bring you the new international MLB system, a creation that we feel is long overdue. Discussions have existed for many years in baseball circles that the international development of talent and leagues by Major League Baseball is not working. With the formation of MLB Global, that is all about to change.
There are several international matters being discussed currently as the MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement is set to expire on December 11, 2011. At the forefront is the current system of signing of international free agents by MLB teams. Under the current system, international talent is not subject to a draft and salary recommendations and as a result, when the international free agency period begins, all talent in applicable areas are available to teams at the highest bidder of each player’s choice. Eligible countries include the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Mexico, Panama, South Korea, Taiwan, Australia.
From there, Japan is under another system called posting, whereby until
a player has nine years experience in the Japanese league and is exempt, his controlling Japanese team can offer his rights to MLB teams if requested by the player and consented by the team. MLB Teams submit secret bids over a four-day period. If the Japanese team accepts the winning bid, from there the highest offer then allows the winning team a 30-day window period to negotiate a contract with the player. If the two sides cannot come to terms, the player stays in Japan and the posting fee is returned to the MLB team. Two examples of distinct systems that are currently in place in baseball, but neither appears to be working particularly well.
I have read commentators calling for many changes to the current international baseball markets in relation to Major League Baseball. I have heard the cries for an international draft, whereby all eligible players would be required to be drafted to join a MLB team. There would be anything from recommended slot salaries, to a soft or hard cap. Having most international players simply available to the highest bidder is seen as circumventing the equality and fairness principles behind a draft. Teams like the Yankees and Red Sox can afford to lose draft picks in signing top free agents, as they are able to recoup the prospects back in the international market. But if there was a draft system in place, there would be more opportunity for other teams to have access to top international prospects. But how to hold such a draft and what countries to include? These are questions that linger and result in delays to changing the international system. Then there is the Japanese posting system to contend with and how to liberate Japanese players to Major League Baseball. We may not have all the answers, but there is a starting point. MLB Global.
For simplicity of this article, we will use the Dominican Republic and Japan as examples of territories for MLB Global. From there, the boundaries will be increased until even one day, Cuba could become a territory. But let’s start the discussion with explaining what is MLB Global. The mandate of MLB Global would be the expansion of the MLB brand around the world. Depending on the countries involved, MLB Global would be creating for the most part either sister MLB leagues or MLB affiliated leagues. Let’s start with our inaugural league: MLB Dominicana. Long known for producing top baseball talent, the Dominican Republic is one of the world’s greatest baseball hotbeds. Major League teams have been building academies in the Dominican for years and attempting to cultivate new prospects. But a quandary exists in the Dominican. While the Dominican has a great deal of talent, it still has room to grow. Yet only certain teams are established in the country, while others stay away. Some analysts believe the area is saturated and it is time to discover new areas of development. I believe that more investment is actually needed, but in a manner that will benefit Major League Baseball as a whole rather than select teams. More prospects could be developed in the Dominican if the proper funding and system were put into place. The Dominican has not hit its limit, but rather has not yet even met its potential. MLB Dominicana can work towards utilizing and maximizing the talent available in the Dominican.
MLB Dominicana would be established as follows. A league would be formed,
either through an existing Dominican baseball league or a completely new league. The league could have ten to sixteen teams to start off and eventually grow to thirty teams over the years. The goal would be for every MLB team to have a sister team as part of MLB Dominicana. From there, every eligible Dominican player would need to be drafted by a MLB Dominicana team, which would essentially give that player’s rights to his North American MLB team. Creating this system would be taxing initially for each MLB team, but a system of co-ownership and co-management could be created between each MLB team and their affiliate team in the Dominican. What is envisioned from there, is the cross-development and mobility of players between MLB and MLB Dominicana. Let’s take the for example the Colorado Rockies and if they had a sister MLB Dominicana team, the Boca Chica Thunder. The Thunder are involved in a yearly player draft, as is done in Major League Baseball. In the 2011 draft: 1st round, 5th overall, the Thunder take 16-year old shortstop Pedro Beltran. Once the Dominican player is drafted by the Thunder, the Rockies would have the ability to either keep Beltran in MLB Dominicana to play for the Thunder or to bring him over to North America to play in the minors or majors. The Rockies would be responsible for Beltran’s signing bonus and salary regardless of where he plays. The creation of MLB Dominicana creates an incentive for MLB teams to invest resources, including money and coaching to the Dominican area. Players like the fictitious Pedro Beltran would be able to stay home and continue their baseball development and integrate easier to North America. A win for the Dominican Republic, its baseball fans, the players and MLB teams.
But wait, there is more. The mobility of players from MLB Dominicana to North America could work the reverse way as well. Younger players with options in North America would be available to play for the sister MLB Dominicana team as well. Take the Rockies again. They have a young pitcher in their system by the name of Casey Weathers. Once considered to be their closer of the future, Weathers is now 26-years of age and pitching in AA. His numbers are not at the highest level and his stock is starting to fall. The Rockies could move Weathers over to MLB Dominicana, to either pitch out of the Thunder’s bullpen or stretch him out as a starter. We are starting to see more mobility of North America players to international baseball markets. Ryan Garko in Korea. Josh Fields to Japan. Heck, think of Tuffy Rhodes and Cecil Fielder with home run records and Matt Murton becoming the single season hit king in Japan. As baseball becomes a true international sport and the level of talent increases, the amount of available positions on each MLB affiliate team in North American decreases drastically. Having MLB Dominicana available to North American teams to develop and provide opportunities to its younger players would be invaluable. In addition, the younger Domican players would benefit from having North American teammates to assist in their own development as players by sharing and learning each one’s knowledge and style of play. Again, a win-win proposition.
As MLB Dominicana advances and grows, its limits are endless. Additional
minor league levels can be established as the number of teams and available players can grow. MLB Dominicana can have its own AAA and AA levels as is done in North American ball. Local sponsorship and support would be difficult, given the economic difficulties faced by the region. The revenue stream would be of less focus as in comparison to the talent that the league produces. For the money that each team puts into MLB Dominicana, the end result will be more talent in North America eventually for each MLB team. Probably the biggest obstacle that MLB Dominicana will face is perception. Critics will point to the failure of NFL Europe and predetermine the inability of MLB Dominicana to succeed. While NFL Europe has some similarities to MLB Dominicana, the goals and focus of each league is different. NFL Europe was created to be a money-making operation and grow the NFL brand and work as a farm system/development league for the NFL. MLB Dominicana will work towards building the MLB brand, but in the development of local talent rather than just operating as a pure minor league affiliate system. Rather than simply opening academies, training young players and hoping to sign them one day as free agents, MLB teams will draft the same hometown players through their MLB Dominicana team and grow and develop each player until they are ready for North America. MLB Dominicana will not be a money-maker or loser, but rather an investment in the development of talent. As the league becomes more competitive and popular, international merchandising and television rights would develop as well. NFL Europe was seen as a watered down, poor man’s version of the NFL. Football’s answer to Euro Disney. MLB Dominicana will not try to recreate or become Major League Baseball in Dominican. It will become a complimentary league. The potential is there to create a thriving baseball league that will develop talent in a popular baseball market, while creating an organized system of drafting and development of players between MLB teams.
MLB Global would be in charge of finding countries like the Dominican Republic where the creation of MLB leagues is feasible from a talent, political, economical, cultural and social points of view. Mexico and Australia would seem like ideal candidates, as would South Korea and Venezuela depending on political agreement and safety. The baseball talent base in Venezuela for instance, is too rich for Major League teams to ignore. The creation of MLB Venezuela would create a further pipeline of talent by way of investment in the growth and expansion of baseball in such an area.
The ultimate future league that is dreamed of is MLB Cuba. There is no denying
the level of talent in Cuban baseball, as seen in international tournaments and WBC showings in years pasts. Given the political and economical turmoil in the region, details of which are beyond the scope of this article, needless to say that many changes would have to occur politically before such a concept could even be discussed. But perhaps the common love of baseball could one day bring Cuba to a system of change economically, which would allow both its country and the sport it loves to thrive. Or perhaps this is just wishful thinking.
The last country to review is Japan. One of the powerhouse baseball countries, Japan has won both of the World Baseball Classic tournaments. With its high level of talent and existing Nippon Professional Baseball league (NPB), Japan may not take too kindly to transforming its current system to MLB Japan. Pride, development, ownership and decision-making all come into play as to who will run individual teams and control the use of players. In such a scenario, as well as other countries with existing leagues and teams that are not interested in being co-run and managed by Major League Baseball and its teams, a different arrangement will be needed.
The proposal is an affiliation structure, whereby MLB teams would have
affiliation agreements with NPB teams. As an example, the Colorado Rockies and the Chunichi Dragons could align and have an affiliation agreement. The Rockies and Dragons could cross-promote their teams and products through the affiliation. But most importantly, the transfer of younger eligible players would be between the affiliated teams only. So the Rockies could transfer Casey Weathers to play for the Dragons. The Dragons in turn, could send pitcher Yuta Muto to play in North America for the Rockies organization. Each team would be responsible for the salary of the respective player when playing as part of its professional league. The incentive for the Dragons would be the investment by the Rockies into baseball development in the area, including coaches and infrastructure. The Dragons would have access to more North American players and the Rockies and Dragons would be able to share baseball knowledge and information to better their organizations. In return, aside from the sharing of resources, the Rockies would have access to Dragon players and increase its own prospect pool. Fine tuning would be required as to eligibility and number/types of players that would be able to be transferred. But in such a system, the Rockies would have a vested interest in the players drafted and developed by the Dragons and vice-versa. There would be a high level of trust and commitment to the teams working together as part of the affiliation program in developing teams and players. But if all goes well, both leagues would benefit from working together and would bring an end to the expensive and unproductive posting system. Japan could act as the training ground for the affiliation system and if it works, could lead to the expansion of the NPB by more teams and use of the affiliation system in other countries.
Overall, it is clear that the international baseball scene is very complex and confusing. Major League Baseball appears to be ready to make changes and bring about a new structure and system whereby international players come to North America to play ball. As part of this article, the idea being presented is that such a change will not occur unless Major League Baseball works with the other countries and baseball leagues to make this happen. Whether MLB leagues start forming slowly across the world, including MLB Dominicana, or affiliation systems are put into place between teams from MLB and other countries, some sort of partnership is desperately needed. It will cost MLB and its teams millions of dollars, time and personnel to make MLB Global a reality. While this may not happen tomorrow or ever, we hope that they will at least work to making the dream of global baseball a reality.
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Team USA: Preview of the 2011 MLB All-Star Futures Game
Friday, July 8, 2011
Rob Bland (Intern Candidate for MLB Reports): With the World Team roster covered here on the Reports, we now bring you the potent line-up of Team USA. They are highlighted by standouts Mike Trout (LAA) [named to the squad but just called up to the Angels] and Bryce Harper (WAS). Team USA also boasts an electric mix of pitching arms, including Shelby Miller (STL) and Jacob Turner (DET).
PITCHERS
Jarred Cosart – RHP –Texas – PHI –Clearwater Threshers – A – Florida State League
Jarred sits in the mid 90s and has touched 99 in some starts. This is his second straight year at the Futures Game, although he did not pitch last year. He has average command, as witnessed by his 36 walks in 92 innings, but if he can improve upon that, many scouts see him as a frontline starter.
Kyle Gibson – RHP –Indiana – MIN –Rochester Red Wings – AAA – International League
Gibson has the look of a middle of the rotation innings eater. His fastball has late sink, which gets him a ton of ground balls. With better defense as he moves up, and his ability to throw strikes, he could be a fairly useful 3rd starter.
Matt Harvey – RHP –Connecticut – NYM –Binghamton Mets – AA – Eastern League
Harvey pretty much carved up the Florida State League earlier in the year, but in 3 starts in AA, he has not been able to get past the 5th inning. He strikes a lot of guys out, and doesn’t walk many. As he matures and makes adjustments, he should succeed. He is expected to fast track to the Mets rotation, possibly as early as 2012.
Shelby Miller – RHP –Texas – STL –Springfield Cardinals – AA –Texas League
Ranked as the 4th pitcher in Baseball America’s Midseason Top 50 Prospects List, Miller has been skyrocketing through the ranks, as he got to AA before his 21st birthday. Miller has struck out 119 batters in 91 innings, while his WHIP sits at 1.10. His fastball usually sits in the low 90s with sink and run. He also possesses an above average changeup and a good curveball. Miller has all the tools to win a Cy Young Award someday.
Matt Moore – LHP –Florida – TB –Montgomery Biscuits – AA – Southern League
Moore is rated 3rd overall on BA’s list, and has top of the rotation stuff. He led the minor leagues in strikeouts in both 2009 and 2010, collecting 384K in 267 IP between High-A and AA. Moore has picked up where he left off, with 125 K already this season. His best pitch is a curveball from a low ¾ arm slot.
Brad Peacock – RHP –Florida – WAS –Harrisburg Senators – AA – Eastern League
Another pitcher who seems to finally have put it all together, he has 129 K and hitters have a paltry .179 average against him. Peacock is wiry and should fill out to increase his velocity. I see him as a mid rotation guy with a good fastball and breaking ball and decent change.
Drew Pomeranz – LHP –Tennessee – CLE –Kinston Indians – A –Carolina League
Pomeranz sits at 92 with his fastball, with good command. His breaking ball can be a plus, although it is inconsistent. He keeps the ball in the yard, and due to his large workhorse type frame, he could be an innings eater at the number 2 or 3 spot in a rotation.
Tyler Skaggs – LHP –California – ARI –Visalia Rawhide – A –California League
Skaggs has gained 15 pounds over the offseason, which has allowed him to raise his velocity a couple notches. For a lefty who throws from a ¾ slot, he has surprisingly little movement. His changeup has improved this year, which makes me believe his ceiling could be as a number 2 starter, but most likely settles in the 3-4 range.
Tyler Thornburg – RHP –Texas – MIL –Brevard County Manatees – A –FloridaState League
This 3rd rounder in 2010 has simply overmatched his competition so far this year. With an ERA under 2.00, and opponents hitting under .200 against him, even after a move up to the Florida State League, Thornburg has the tools to succeed. He has a good fastball and a power curve while his changeup needs time to develop. If it doesn’t, a career in a setup role is possible.
Jacob Turner – RHP –Missouri – DET –Erie Sea Wolves – AA – Eastern League
Turner has a heavy fastball with late life that sits around 93, touching 95. He has a sharp, but inconsistent curveball, which if he polishes, could be a devastating combo out of the pen. For a guy who just turned 20 playing AA, Turner has pitched very well with a K:BB ratio at 2.7:1. Opponents have also only hit .233 off of him.
CATCHERS
Devin Mesoraco – C –Pennsylvania – CIN –Louisville Bats – AAA – International League
Catchers with 25-30 homerun power are so rare that they often get moved to first base or even the outfield. Mesoraco’s defense is average at best, so the move does seem likely in a few years. Mesoraco walks a fair amount and is a doubles hitting machine, which makes me think he will be an above average regular by 2013.
Austin Romine – C –California – NYY –Trenton Thunder – AA – Eastern League
Romine hasn’t wowed anyone with his bat, but has shown steady improvements from year to year. In his second year of AA he has raised his average, OBP and OPS. He has a cannon for an arm and quick feet, although his receiving isn’t quite ready. He could be a solid regular in a few years if the Yankees give him the chance.
INFIELDERS
Nolan Arenado – 3B –California –COL –Modesto Nuts – A- California League
This big, strong third baseman has decent feet and an average arm, so I see him being Todd Helton’s replacement in the future. He has a power bat that should develop even further as he matures. Arenado doesn’t strike out much and walks enough to have a decent OBP, so his bat will suffice at any position.
Tim Beckham – SS – Georgia – TB –Montgomery Biscuits – AA – Southern League
Although he hasn’t quite lived up to the hype of his number 1 overall selection in the 2008 draft, he has shown enough skill to keep moving up the ladder. Every year, his numbers have improved, and I believe he is close to a breakout. He is still a plus defender which will keep him in the big leagues for a very long time.
James Darnell – 3B –California – SD –Tucson Padres – AAA –Pacific Coast League
Darnell just got called up to AAA after dominating Texas league pitching. His defense is simply average, and may have to move to a corner outfield. However, his bat is his plus tool, as he has shown even more improvements from his 2010 season in which he struggled. He already has 19 home runs, and has walked 52 times as opposed to only 48 strikeouts, so his approach at the plate is advanced.
Paul Goldschmidt – 1B –Delaware – ARI –Mobile Bay Bears – AA – Southern League
Goldschmidt has unreal power potential. He has been a solid hitter at every level, but has taken his game to another level this year. He already has 25 HR and 77 RBI, and he walks a ton. This guy could be in a big league uniform as early as this September, but more than likely will be sometime in 2012.
Grant Green – SS –California – OAK – Midland Rock Hounds – AA –Texas League
Green profiles as a true shortstop with slightly above average hands and arm, with the ability to produce good numbers offensively. He hit 20 HR last year in high-A, and the move to AA this year has stunted his power, but he still walks and gets on base at a good clip. He isn’t flashy but he gets the job done and could be one of the better regular shortstops in the league.
Jason Kipnis – 2B –Illinois – CLE –Columbus Clippers – AAA – International League
This former center fielder shifted to 2B, where his lack of range still limits him to being only an average defender. However, his bat will keep him in the big leagues for many years. His numbers have improved every year, despite moving up a level. He walks at a good rate and has some pop. Doesn’t have a high ceiling, but what you see is what you will get.
Manny Machado – SS –Florida – BAL –Frederick Keys – A –Carolina League
Machado is still thin, but looks like he could fill out, in which case a move to third would be warranted. He has a plus arm and solid footwork to go along with his very soft hands. Although he has struggled a bit since being called up to high-A, he has the IQ to really succeed at the plate. He takes pitches and isn’t afraid to hit with 2 strikes.
Will Middlebrooks – 3B –Texas – BOS –Portland Sea Dogs – AA – Eastern League
Middlebrooks has had a slow ascent through the minors, and with continued production, he could get a look at the big leagues by next year. He is a solid defender at third, with a good bat. Needs to work on discipline as his K:BB ratio is at 59:18. Could be a regular in the big leagues by 2013.
OUTFIELDERS
Gary Brown – CF –California – SF –San Jose Giants – A –California League
Brown has absolutely blazing speed, with a very good bat. He has stolen 35 bags, but also been caught 14 times, so he must learn to choose his spots more wisely. Brown also shows the ability to hit for power, stroking doubles in the gaps consistently.
Bryce Harper – RF –Nevada – WAS –Harrisburg Senators – AA – Eastern League
By now, everyone knows the legend of Bryce Harper, and he has lived up to the billing. He dominated the Arizona Fall League as a taxi squad player, and showed enough early in A-ball to warrant a call-up straight to AA. The fact that Harper could even surpass people’s expectations is astounding, and I believe he could be a September roster addition for the Nationals.
Wil Myers – OF –North Carolina – KC – Northwest Arkansas Naturals – AA –Texas League
Myers moved from catcher to outfield in the fall of 2010, and this move should pay off for him in the long run. He is aggressive at all times, and he is extremely raw still. He lost part of the season due to an infection from a cut, so he is just rounding into form now. AA has been tough for him, but his tools will shine in the long run. One of the favorites of the Reports, keep an eye on this kid.
Matthew Szczur – OF –New Jersey – CHI Cubs –Peoria Chiefs – A –Midwest League
Szczur has tremendous speed and he covers a lot of ground in the outfield. He hits well for average, but hasn’t quite developed his power yet. This could happen as he matures. He walks at a decent clip, and has the ability to steal a ton of bases, so he could be a mainstay near the top of the Cubs line-up.
**Mike Trout – CF – New Jersey – LAA –Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim – MLB
As I began writing this, it was reported that Trout had been recalled to the big league team, and no replacement has yet been named. Trout does everything well, and many people were very excited to see him play alongside Harper. He may not offer as much power as Harper, but he might be one of the fastest players in the big leagues.
Many people will be disappointed that Trout and Harper won’t be playing alongside each other in the Team USA outfield in the Worlds Game, but there is so much talent at this year’s event that nobody will leave Chase Field disappointed. MLB`s ability to showcase not only current talent, but future stars, highlighted by this year’s fanfest events, make the MLB All-Star Weekend festivities the best of any of the major sports. Get ready for an explosive Futures Game this Sunday, as the youngsters duel for the spotlight and the chance to make the major leagues one day soon.
***Thank you to Rob Bland for preparing today’s article on the All-Star Futures Game, preview of the World Team. You can follow Rob on Twitter.***
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.
MLB All-Star Futures Game 2011: World Team Preview
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Rob Bland (Intern Candidate for MLB Reports): Since its inception in 1999, the Futures Game, now sponsored by XM Satellite Radio, has grown steadily in popularity. The players involved are split into two squads: USA and the World team. The rosters comprise of 25 players each, with every MLB organization represented, and no more than two players from each team. This year’s game will be played at Arizona Diamondbacks’ Chase Field on Sunday, July 10th, a day before the MLB All-Star Homerun Derby.
Previous editions of the Futures Game has been littered with immense talent, and this year is no exception. The MVP of the inaugural event was Alfonso Soriano, and in other years it was Jose Reyes (2002), Grady Sizemore (2003), Aaron Hill (2004), and Billy Butler in 2006. Other notable past participants were superstars Ryan Braun of the Milwaukee Brewers, Robinson Cano of the NY Yankees, and Clayton Kershaw of the LA Dodgers.
This year’s game is no different, as 14 of MLB.com’s Preseason Top 50 Prospects List will be participating in the event. That number could very easily be higher, but more than a dozen of those 50 are currently playing in the MLB. This year’s USA crop is highlighted by Mike Trout, #1 on the top 50 list, (LAA) and Bryce Harper, #3, (WAS) sharing the same outfield. The World team boasts a strong pitching staff, led by Julio Teheran, #10, (ATL) and Henderson Alvarez of the Toronto Blue Jays.
Let’s take a close look at the featured players that will be respresenting this year’s World Team:
WORLD TEAM
PITCHERS
Henderson Alvarez – RHP -Venezuela– TOR –New Hampshire Fisher Cats – AA – Eastern League
Alvarez is a right-handed starter who is in his second turn at the Futures Game. He has always possessed plus command, walking only 1.8 batters per 9 innings in his 5 year minor league career. An increase in weight over the offseason has also helped increase his velocity, as he touches 98 mph.
Liam Hendriks – RHP -Australia – MIN –New Britain Rock Cats – AA – Eastern League
Had an appendectomy just days before last year’s game, so this is a reprise for him. Not unhittable, but throws a ton of strikes; just 18 walks in 90 innings so far. Sits in the 87-91mph range with average secondary offerings.
Kelvin Herrera – RHP -Dominican Republic – KC – Northwest Arkansas Naturals – AA –Texas League
Diminutive right-handed reliever who has been almost untouchable this season. Since his call-up to AA early in the season, he has walked 2 batters to 35 strikeouts in 26 2/3 innings. He sits around 95-96mph with a plus change-up.
Gregory Infante – RHP -Venezuela – CHISox – Charlotte Knights – AAA – International League
Another flame-throwing righty, he has managed to lower his walk rate and raise his strikeout rate in getting to AAA this year. He gets enough groundouts and doesn’t give up many homeruns. His lack of a consistent second pitch is holding him back, although his curve shows flashes of brilliance in the low 80s.
Jhan Marinez – RHP -Dominican Republic –FLA –Jacksonville Suns – AA – Southern League
Another righty reliever that can touch 98, with an exceptional 2-seamer that sits at 92. His problem, as most young arms, is control. Over his career he has average 6 BB/9, and has so far managed 7.9 BB/9 this year. He has struck out almost 12 per 9 innings though.
Carlos Martinez – RHP – Dominican Republic – STL – Palm Beach Cardinals – A – Florida State League
A Latin pitcher, thin and wiry who sits mid 90s with his fastball which has a good late cut. He has given up only 31 hits in 44 2/3 innings pitched, and is able to induce a lot of ground balls.
James Paxton – LHP -Canada – SEA – Jackson Generals – AA – Southern League
A tall, strong lefty, who didn’t sign after being selected in the supplemental first round in 2009, got a later start on his professional career after three years at the UniversityofKentucky. He sits 92-95mph with an above average curve, a power slider and average change-up. As a starter this year, he has struck out 81 batters in 60 2/3 innings.
Martin Perez – LHP -Venezuela –TEX – Frisco RoughRiders – AA –Texas League
A left handed starter with a fastball that sits around 92mph, his bread and butter is his sharp, hard-breaking curveball. His command is average, as he walks close to 4 batters per 9 innings.
Julio Teheran – RHP -Colombia – ATL – Gwinnett Braves – AAA – International League
It’s not often you see a 20-year old in AAA with his numbers. 9-1 with a 1.79 ERA in 90 2/3 IP. He possess a plus fastball that sits 92-94, with a plus plus change-up with great sink. Projects to be a #2 starter, if not a true ace in the big leagues.
Arodys Vizcaino – RHP -Dominican Republic – ATL –Mississippi Braves – AA – Southern League
Strong, well developed legs allow him to sit in the 91-94 range, topping at 95. His curve and change have yet to fully develop, but show flashes of promise. He has the ability to miss bats, as he has compiled 76 K in 78 2/3 IP.
CATCHERS
Willin Rosario – C -Dominican Republic –COL -Tulsa Drillers – AA –Texas League
He possesses 30+ HR power, but lacks discipline and doesn’t walk. He has power to all fields but strikes out in almost 20% of his at bats. If he can learn some patience, he could be one of the top young catchers in the game.
Sebastian Valle – C -Mexico – PHI –Clearwater Threshers – A –Florida State League
Valle is a catcher who has hit at every level so far, yet still lacks patience, which is very common with young backstops. If he can raise his walk rate, and keep hitting the ball to all fields, he could be a special catcher in the Phillies organization.
INFIELDERS
Yonder Alonso – 1B/OF -Cuba – CIN –Louisville Bats – AAA – International League
Alonso is a very polished hitter. He has begun to play more innings at left field, because the Reds have Joey Votto as a lock at 1B. He hits to all fields, with some pop, and he walks a fair amount, which has led to his .861 OPS in AAA.
Jose Altuve – 2B -Venezuela – HOU – Corpus Christi Hooks – AA –Texas League
Listed at 5’7”, but plays as if he was 6’3”. Altuve is currently hitting .362 with 4 HR and 22 RBI in 31 games in AA after starting the season in A-ball, where he hit over .400 in 52 games. He doesn’t walk much, but when he is hitting everything thrown at him, he doesn’t really need to.
Hak-Ju Lee – SS -South Korea – TB – Charlotte Stone Crabs – A –FloridaState League
He is a plus defender at shortstop with good speed. Lee needs to work on his base stealing to better utilize that speed. He is having the best offensive season of his career, and is really looking like a steal in the Matt Garza trade with the Cubs.
Francisco Martinez – 3B -Venezuela – DET –Erie Sea Wolves – AA – Eastern League
Martinez is a prototypical third baseman with a quick bat and strong arm. Once he fills out his athletic frame, he should develop plus power. He still strikes out too much as he adjusts to AA pitching.
Alex Liddi – SS -Italy – SEA –Tacoma Rainiers – AAA –PacificCoast League
As the first Italian position player to sign a professional contract, he was seen as a bit of a project back in 2005. He has begun to develop his power, bashing 15 HR so far this season, but strikes out a ton; around 30% of his plate appearances end with him walking back to the dugout.
Jeffry Marte – 3B – Dominican Republic – NYM – St. Lucie Mets – A –Florida State League
Marte has good gap power and has a decent eye at the plate, as well as being smart on the base paths. May not be able to stay at 3B long term, but as long as his bat continues to progress, could make it to the big leagues as an outfielder.
Jurickson Profar – SS – Curacao –TEX –Hickory Crawdads – A –South Atlantic League
Premium defender at shortstop, with speed and the ability to drive the ball all over the field. He walks more than he strikes out, and once he fills out his 165lb frame, he could eventually become a 20/20 shortstop in the big leagues.
Jonathan Schoop – 3B – Curacao – BAL –Frederick Keys – A –Carolina League
Possesses the skills to play anywhere in the infield, his long term future looks to be 3B. He has quick feet and a good arm, with a quick bat. As he gets stronger, he could be a 20 HR guy that can drive in a ton of runs.
OUTFIELDERS
Chih-Hsien Chiang – OF -Taiwan – BOS –Portland Sea Dogs – AA – Eastern League
After five years of mediocrity in the minor leagues, he seems to have put it together this year. Hitting in the middle of Portland’s line-up, he has not only driven in 58 runs and hit 14 homeruns, but also hit 26 doubles, giving him a .618 SLG. Over half of his hits have been for extra bases, with gap power, he could prove that Boston’s roots in Asia are only getting stronger.
Reymond Fuentes – CF – Puerto Rico – SD –LakeElsinore Storm – A –California League
One of the pieces in the Adrian Gonzalez deal, he should be able to man center field at Petco Park for years to come with his speed. He already has 34 stolen bases, and he gets on base quite frequently. He may never hit for power, but could be a leadoff type hitter in the big leagues.
Starling Marte – CF -Dominican Republic – PIT –Altoona Curve – AA – Eastern League
There aren’t many players in baseball that could push Andrew McCutchen to a corner outfield position, but Marte could be one of them. He possesses the speed to cover a lot of ground, and although his power hasn’t quite developed, he could be a 10-15 HR player with a good OBP if his discipline continues to progress.
Alfredo Silverio – LF -Dominican Republic – LAD –Chattanooga Lookouts – AA – Southern League
Silverio has always seemed ready to be the power/speed combination outfielder the Dodgers envisioned when they signed him in 2003, and almost eight years later, he may finally be hitting his stride. If his discipline can improve, he could be in the big leagues quickly. Lacks a good arm, so he is basically destined for left field.
Dayan Viciedo – RF -Cuba – CHI Sox – Charlotte Knights – AAA – International League
Finally moved to the outfield this year, he has a solid arm for right field, and he flat out mashes. Many see a 30 HR player in the near future, as he uses all parts of the field with a quick compact stroke.
The World team is comprised of players from twelve countries: eight from the Dominican Republic, five from Venezuela, two from Cuba and Curacao, and one each from Canada, Taiwan, South Korea, Australia, Italy, Colombia, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
Stay tuned for analysis on the US roster.
***Thank you to Rob Bland for preparing today’s article on the All-Star Futures Game, preview of the World Team. You can follow Rob on Twitter.***
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.
2011 MLB Home Run Derby: New Format, Ortiz and Fielder as Captains and Picks
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
MLB reports: Change is in the air as Major League Baseball has revised the format for the Home Run Derby, coming up on Monday, July 11th from Chase Field in Arizona. The biggest change is the appointment of captains. Former home run derby champions David Ortiz and Prince Fielder will serve as the leaders of the AL and NL squads respectively. Each captain is able to select three additional players of their choice to fill out their home run derby team, regardless of being selected as an all-star. The Home Run Derby team selections are due today, but David Ortiz has already jumped the gun to fill out his roster. Papi’s selections are about to be listed, but first the format change for the Home Run Derby this year.
According to Major League Baseball:
“While the format to determine the individual champion will remain unchanged, the total number of home runs hit by all players in all rounds will be tabulated for the AL and NL to determine the winning team, captain and charity recipient. Each player will get 10 outs per round, the four players with the highest total of home runs will advance to the second round, and the two players with the highest cumulative number of home runs in the first two rounds will advance to the Championship Round, where first and second round home runs do not carry over for individual scores.”
Thus the derby now becomes a team effort right up until the final round, where an individual winner will be selected. Thus the 2011 Home Run Derby will have a winning team, as well as an individual champion. With the format of the Home Run Derby becoming somewhat stale and many players declining invitations, change was needed. There was also talk of the “Derby Curse”, where participants in the Home Run Derby would find their home run totals slip in the second half of the season. From Bobby Abreu in 2005 to Josh Hamilton in 2008, the curse has taken on a life of its own. With teams starting to put pressure on its players to avoid the home run contest, the new format is a breath of fresh air. Having the teams and captains brings fun and competitiveness back to the event and should rejuvenate a great brand for Major League Baseball. While this year’s format will likely require future tweaking, in my opinion at least, MLB has done a great job in building excitement to the upcoming derby.
As mentioned, today is the deadline for the team captains to submit their home
run team picks. For the American League, Captain David Ortiz has made his selections. Representing the AL in the 2011 Home Run Derby will be Adrian Gonzalez of the Boston Red Sox, Jose Bautista of the Toronto Blue Jays and Robinson Cano of the New York Yankees. Gonzalez and Bautista were the first two selections by Ortiz that accepted their invitations. Cano teammate, Mark Teixeira, was originally selected as the fourth member of the squad, but declined his invitation. Cano has since happily accepted and will be launching home runs for the AL next Monday.
On the current MLB home run leader board, Bautista sits at #1 with 27 home runs, Ortiz at #11 with 17, Gonzalez at #18 with 16 and Cano at #27 with 14. Ortiz made some interesting choices, as Curtis Granderson, Nelson Cruz and Paul Konerko were not selected despite being in the top 10 home run hitters in the game as of today. I don’t believe that many people would argue with the selections of Bautista or Gonzalez. It is the selection of Cano that would likely have some tongues wagging. Most experts would have preferred Teixeira on the squad, but unfortunately he declined the invitation. Personally, I would have gone with Granderson or Miguel Cabrera for the position. But regardless of preference, the AL squad is a mighty one and should give the AL a strong chance to win this year’s Home Run Derby.
In the National League, Prince Fielder continues to ponder and calculate his
selections, which should be announced later today. Prince, at #6 on the home run leader board with 21, has many candidates to choose from. One selection apparently confirmed is Matt Kemp of the Dodgers, who is #4 with 22 home runs. Other strong candidates are Fielder’s teammates Ryan Braun and Rickie Weeks (with rumors have Weeks likely to receive and accept an invitation). Other possibilities are Lance Berkman and Matt Holliday of the Cardinals, Jay Bruce of the Reds, Troy Tulowitzki of the Rockies and Mike Stanton of the Marlins. If you are handicapping at home, my predicted NL squad is Fielder, Weeks, Holliday and Bruce. We will find out later today if Prince and I are on the same page on this one.
No matter who ends up representing the AL and NL, Ortiz and Fielder will captain exciting and dynamic home run hitting squads that will electrify the Arizona crowd next Monday. I cannot recall a more anticipated Home Run Derby in recent history. Good luck Prince and Papi and don’t forget to eat your wheaties this week.
***Get ready for a week’s worth of All-Star reporting, as MLB reports has everything All-Star covered between now and the big game on Tuesday. We will be keeping an eye on the All-Star game itself, as well as the Futures Game, Home Run Derby and everything in between. The All-Star game is a little over a week away and we will bring you all the latest All-Star game news as it develops. To view the AL and NL All-Star Game rosters and Final Vote candidates, click 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.
2011 MLB ALL-STAR GAME FINAL VOTING RESULTS:
Here are the final numbers as voted by the fans for the starting lineups in the All-Star game:
American League
CATCHER — 1, Alex Avila, Tigers, 4,144,384. 2, Russell Martin, Yankees, 3,646,033. 3, Joe Mauer, Twins, 2,308,436. 4, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Red Sox, 2,183,113. 5, Yorvit Torrealba, Rangers, 1,810,755. 6, Carlos Santana, Indians, 1,501,053. 7, J.P. Arencibia, Blue Jays, 1,024,020. 8, A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox, 963,463.
FIRST BASE — 1, Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox, 6,034,533. 2, Mark Teixeira, Yankees, 4,174,690. 3, Miguel Cabrera, Tigers, 3,473,849. 4, Mitch Moreland, Rangers, 1,680,462. 5, Paul Konerko, White Sox, 1,323,853. 6, Adam Lind, Blue Jays, 860,203. 7, Justin Morneau, Twins, 781,717. 8, Matt LaPorta, Indians, 750,953.
SECOND BASE — 1, Robinson Cano, Yankees, 6,679,976. 2, Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox, 4,391,835. 3, Ian Kinsler, Rangers, 2,729,450. 4, Orlando Cabrera, Indians, 1,538,135. 5, Ben Zobrist, Rays, 1,245,709. 6, Howie Kendrick, Angels, 1,079,227. 7, Will Rhymes, Tigers, 671,674. 8, Aaron Hill, Blue Jays, 587,179.
THIRD BASE — 1, Alex Rodriguez, Yankees, 5,277,823. 2, Adrian Beltre, Rangers, 4,036,191. 3, Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox, 4,018,641. 4, Evan Longoria, Rays, 2,804,004. 5, Brandon Inge, Tigers, 1,113,787. 6, Maicer Izturis, Angels, 666,828. 7, Mike Aviles, Royals, 602,091. 8, Edwin Encarnacion, Blue Jays, 505,015.
SHORTSTOP — 1, Derek Jeter, Yankees, 4,536,386. 2, Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians, 4,073,992. 3, Elvis Andrus, Rangers, 2,698,902. 4, Jhonny Peralta, Tigers, 2,301,524. 5, Marco Scutaro, Red Sox, 1,642,606. 6, Yunel Escobar, Blue Jays, 1,104,761. 7, J.J. Hardy, Orioles, 956,073. 8, Alexei Ramirez, White Sox, 946,442.
DESIGNATED HITTER — 1, David Ortiz, Red Sox, 6,324,793. 2, Michael Young, Rangers, 3,072,467. 3, Victor Martinez, Tigers, 2,302,988. 4, Jorge Posada, Yankees, 1,998,551. 5, Johnny Damon, Rays, 1,303,471. 6, Travis Hafner, Indians, 1,206,971. 7, Vladimir Guerrero, Orioles, 1,136,364. 8, Billy Butler, Royals, 891,940.
OUTFIELD — 1, Jose Bautista, Blue Jays, 7,454,753. 2, Curtis Granderson, Yankees, 6,683,877. 3, Josh Hamilton, Rangers, 4,646,394. 4, Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox, 4,609,667. 5, Carl Crawford, Red Sox, 3,213,581. 6, Nelson Cruz, Rangers, 2,704,249. 7, Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners, 2,528,532. 8, Nick Swisher, Yankees, 2,277,856. 9, Brett Gardner, Yankees, 2,064,372. 10, J.D. Drew, Red Sox, 2,009,877. 11, Matt Joyce, Rays, 1,597,334. 12, Jeff Francoeur, Royals, 1,505,399. 13, David Murphy, Rangers, 1,458,420. 14, Grady Sizemore, Indians, 1,283,993. 15, Austin Jackson, Tigers, 1,254,267. 16, Carlos Quentin, White Sox, 1,218,968. 17, Melky Cabrera, Royals, 1,201,982. 18, Shin-Soo Choo, Indians, 1,158,749. 19, Alex Gordon, Royals, 1,120,683. 20, B.J, Upton, Rays, 1,081,270. 21, Magglio Ordonez, Tigers, 1,008,145. 22, Torii Hunter, Angels, 927,271. 23, Sam Fuld, Rays, 916,219. 24, Michael Brantley, Indians, 878,556.
National League
CATCHER — 1, Brian McCann, Braves, 4,698,838. 2, Yadier Molina, Cardinals, 2,972,786. 3, Buster Posey, Giants, 2,418,923. 4, Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers, 2,271,498. 5, Ramon Hernandez, Reds, 2,056,263. 6, Carlos Ruiz, Phillies, 1,864,675. 7, Ivan Rodriguez, Nationals, 1,225,342. 8, Miguel Montero, Diamondbacks, 1,149,461.
FIRST BASE — 1, Prince Fielder, Brewers, 4,864,523. 2, Joey Votto, Reds, 4,254,305. 3, Albert Pujols, Cardinals, 4,171,094. 4, Ryan Howard, Phillies, 2,563,736. 5, Freddie Freeman, Braves, 957,816. 6, Brandon Belt, Giants, 917,044. 7, Ike Davis, Mets, 824,681. 8, Todd Helton, Rockies, 761,928.
SECOND BASE — 1, Rickie Weeks, Brewers, 4,460,395. 2, Brandon Phillips, Reds, 4,273,079. 3, Chase Utley, Phillies, 3,345,845. 4, Freddy Sanchez, Giants, 1,627,733. 5, Dan Uggla, Braves, 1,583,903. 6, Neil Walker, Pirates, 993,369. 7, Kelly Johnson, Diamondbacks, 862,204. 8, Skip Schumaker, Cardinals, 856,658.
THIRD BASE — 1, Placido Polanco, Phillies, 4,410,701. 2, Chipper Jones, Braves, 2,849,578. 3, Scott Rolen, Reds, 2,251,425. 4, Pablo Sandoval, Giants, 2,213,057. 5, David Wright, Mets, 2,106,800. 6, Casey McGehee, Brewers, 1,877,744. 7, Aramis Ramirez, Cubs, 1,192,220. 8, Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals, 1,137,696.
SHORTSTOP — 1, Jose Reyes, Mets, 4,707,976. 2, Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies, 3,932,000. 3, Jimmy Rollins, Phillies, 2,311,689. 4, Yuniesky Betancourt, Brewers, 1,695,431. 5, Stephen Drew, Diamondbacks, 1,523,919. 6, Alex Gonzalez, Braves, 1,476,368. 7, Miguel Tejada, Giants, 1,265,544. 8, Paul Janish, Reds, 1,168,551.
OUTFIELD — 1, Ryan Braun, Brewers, 5,928,004. 2, Lance Berkman, Cardinals, 4,345,766. 3, Matt Kemp, Dodgers, 4,293,626. 4, Matt Holliday, Cardinals, 3,948,268. 5, Jay Bruce, Reds, 3,218,003. 6, Andre Ethier, Dodgers, 3,013,030. 7, Carlos Beltran, Mets, 2,631,991. 8, Shane Victorino, Phillies, 2,370,351. 9, Corey Hart, Brewers, 1,875,897. 10, Justin Upton, Diamondbacks, 1,845,385. 11, Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies, 1,733,281. 12, Jason Heyward, Braves, 1,715,925. 13, Raul Ibanez, Phillies, 1,641,389. 14, Drew Stubbs, Reds, 1,572,673. 15, Carlos Gomez, Brewers, 1,508,939. 16, Andrew McCutchen, Pirates, 1,343,144. 17, Hunter Pence, Astros, 1,315,276. 18, Jonny Gomes, Reds, 1,310,142. 19, Martin Prado, Braves, 1,296,763. 20, Alfonso Soriano, Cubs, 1,282,608. 21, Aubrey Huff, Giants, 1,240,980. 22, Chris Young, Diamondbacks, 1,151,443. 23, Ben Francisco, Phillies, 1,124,361. 24, Jason Bay, Mets, 1,114,574.
Final Rosters are Announced: 2011 MLB All-Star Game Vote Totals and Time for the Final Vote
Monday, July 4, 2011
MLB reports: The day has finally arrived. After weeks of voting in stadiums and on-line, the 2011 final rosters for the All-Star game are set, coming up Tuesday July 12th from beautiful Arizona, hosted by the Diamondbacks. Barring injuries and players pulling out, we now know the starting lineups, pitching staffs and reserves representing the American League and National League in the All-Star game. After the fans voted in the starting lineups, the All-Star managers, Ron Washington for the AL and Bruce Bochy for the NL, filled out the rest of their rosters. There were some surprises in the announcements to say the least. We saw some last-minute changes in the voting by the fans to the starting lineups. From there, the All-Star managers made some very interesting selections as well. On the whole, the rosters are fair and well deserved. But some spots are debatable. Then once you account for the selections by the managers, we enter the realm of a week-long debate. Let’s take a look at the rosters for each league, including the starters, the pitching staffs and the reserves. From there, we will analyze the candidates for the coveted “Final Vote” spot as chosen by the fans on-line, between now and 4:00p.m. on July 7th.
American League All-Star Roster:
| Pos | Player | ||||||
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| C | Alex Avila,Tigers | ||||||
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| 1B | Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox | ||||||
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| 2B | Robinson Cano, Yankees | ||||||
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| 3B | Alex Rodriguez, Yankees | ||||||
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| SS | Derek Jeter, Yankees | ||||||
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| OF | Jose Bautista, Blue Jays | ||||||
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| OF | Curtis Granderson, Yankees | ||||||
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| OF | Josh Hamilton, Rangers | ||||||
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| DH | David Ortiz, Red Sox | ||||||
The American League starting lineup as voted by the fans took shape as projected the last few days. The infield remains with Adrian Gonzalez at first, combined with Yankees Robinson Cano, Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez. Despite late pushes, Asdrubal Cabrera and Adrian Beltre could not garner enough votes to make the starting lineup, although both are on their way to Arizona as reserves. David Ortiz joins Jose Bautista, Curtis Granderson and Josh Hamilton in a very heavy Yankees/Red Sox lineup. Jacoby Ellsbury also did not attain enough votes to start but will be a reserve. Hamilton, the former AL MVP, proved to be too popular on this day. The one major upset though was Alex Avila, who through very strong play and Tigers fans voting is starting next Tuesday ahead of the reserve Russell Martin. Considering that Martin held onto the spot for the majority of the voting, Tigers fans were very successful in sending the deserving Avila to Arizona.
| Pos | Player | |||||
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| P | Josh Beckett, Red Sox | |||||
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| P | Aaron Crow, Royals | |||||
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| P | Gio Gonzalez, Athletics | |||||
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| P | Felix Hernandez, Mariners | |||||
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| P | Brandon League, Mariners | |||||
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| P | Chris Perez, Indians | |||||
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| P | David Price, Rays | |||||
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| P | Mariano Rivera, Yankees | |||||
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| P | James Shields, Rays | |||||
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| P | Jose Valverde, Tigers | |||||
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| P | Justin Verlander, Tigers | |||||
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| P | Jered Weaver, Angels | |||||
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| P | C.J. Wilson, Rangers | |||||
An incredible pitching staff to say the least, but not without its omissions. Despite such a strong selection, C.C. Sabathia, Jon Lester, Dan Haren, Jeremy Hellickson, Ricky Romero and Bartolo Colon all were left off the roster. Other pitchers deserving consideration with Jordan Walden, Sergio Santos, Kyle Farnsworth and Jonathan Papelbon. The selections of Aaron Crow, Gio Gonzalez, Brandon League and Jose Valverde will receive the most criticism in the coming days. While decent picks, there appears to be more deserving players that were cast aside for the above all-stars. A dilemma every year, I make the submission that the AL pitching staff is one that needs a second opinion given the candidates left on the board.
| Pos | Player | ||||||
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| C | Russell Martin, Yankees | ||||||
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| C | Matt Wieters, Orioles | ||||||
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| 1B | Miguel Cabrera, Tigers | ||||||
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| 2B | Howard Kendrick, Angels | ||||||
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| 3B | Adrian Beltre, Rangers | ||||||
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| SS | Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians | ||||||
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| OF | Michael Cuddyer, Twins | ||||||
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| OF | Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox | ||||||
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| OF | Matt Joyce, Rays | ||||||
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| OF | Carlos Quentin, White Sox | ||||||
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| DH | Michael Young, Rangers | ||||||
Notable absences are Paul Konerko of the White Sox and Mark Teixeira of the Yankees. Despite strong power numbers for each, the AL is only carrying two active first basemen, with Michael Young available as well. Apparently the limit of Yankees was reached and a spot could not be found for either one. Konerko though will get a second kick at the can, who together with Victor Martinez are the strongest candidates for the Final Vote spot. While credit should go to Ron Washington in the selection of Joyce and Quentin, the selection of Cuddyer will be considered curious by some. His roster spot relates more to the representation of a player for each team than being a top all-star. So as a result, deserving candidates like Konerko, Teixeira and Martinez may not be in Arizona for the big game.
National League All-Star Roster:
| Pos | Player | ||||||
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| C | Brian McCann, Braves | ||||||
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| 1B | Prince Fielder, Brewers | ||||||
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| 2B | Rickie Weeks, Brewers | ||||||
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| 3B | Placido Polanco, Phillies | ||||||
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| SS | Jose Reyes, Mets | ||||||
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| OF | Ryan Braun, Brewers | ||||||
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| OF | Lance Berkman, Cardinals | ||||||
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| OF | Matt Kemp, Dodgers | ||||||
We are now in the senior circuit and begin with the starting lineup. The fans were very active in the final week of voting here as four members of the starting lineup were last-minute winners. Prince Fielder is in over Albert Pujols, Rickie Weeks beat out the reserve Brandon Phillips, Jose Reyes is in while Troy Tulowitzki is out of the lineup and on the bench and Matt Kemp beat out Matt Holliday for the starting position. All four were very deserving winners and represent a case where the fans pushed hard and got it right. Together with Brian McCann, Ryan Braun, Placido Polanco and Lance Berkman, the NL has a strong offensive lineup. The Polanco selection was not one of my favorites but more of a result of a very weak third base class in the NL than anything else.
| Pos | Player | ||||||
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| P | Heath Bell, Padres | ||||||
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| P | Matt Cain, Giants | ||||||
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| P | Tyler Clippard, Nationals | ||||||
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| P | Roy Halladay, Phillies | ||||||
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| P | Cole Hamels, Phillies | ||||||
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| P | Joel Hanrahan, Pirates | ||||||
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| P | Jair Jurrjens, Braves | ||||||
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| P | Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers | ||||||
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| P | Cliff Lee, Phillies | ||||||
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| P | Tim Lincecum, Giants | ||||||
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| P | Jonny Venters, Braves | ||||||
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| P | Ryan Vogelsong, Giants | ||||||
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| P | Brian Wilson, Giants | ||||||
The NL pitching staff is certainly controversial and as debatable as the AL squad. Absent are pitchers Craig Kimbrel, John Axford, Drew Storen, Kevin Correia, Tommy Hanson, Daniel Hudson and Ian Kennedy, among others. It is hard to argue with many if not most of the NL pitchers selected, although Ryan Vogelsong and Brian Wilson are two selections which are likely to cause the ire of the rest of the baseball world. How Correia and Hanson in particular were omitted is beyond me. But again this is part of the All-Star process. An issue that is coming up every year is the selection of too many of a team’s own players by the league manager. While Ron Washington was fair in his picks, I see Bruce Bochy as favoring his staff a little too much in this case. Hopefully this issue gets settled out soon once and for all.
| Pos | Player | ||||||
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| C | Yadier Molina, Cardinals | ||||||
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| 1B | Gaby Sanchez, Marlins | ||||||
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| 1B | Joey Votto, Reds | ||||||
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| 2B | Brandon Phillips, Reds | ||||||
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| 3B | Chipper Jones, Braves | ||||||
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| SS | Starlin Castro, Cubs | ||||||
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| SS | Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies | ||||||
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| OF | Carlos Beltran, Mets | ||||||
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| OF | Jay Bruce, Reds | ||||||
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| OF | Matt Holliday, Cardinals | ||||||
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| OF | Hunter Pence, Astros | ||||||
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| OF | Justin Upton, Diamondbacks | ||||||
Names that are missing off this list are Ryan Howard, Danny Espinosa, Mike Stanton and Andrew McCutchen, among others. Looking at the selections overall, Chipper Jones was the one that most stands out. But given the weak third base crop and Jones lifetime contributions to the game, this is actually a fairly classy move in what could be Jones swan song. But overall I am satisfied with the NL reserves. Not as many issues as the pitching staff from my standpoint.
With the All-Star rosters in place, fans now get to select the 34th roster spot for each league. A dog fight is definitely in store for Thursday.
MLB Final Vote Candidates:
AL Nominees:
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Alex Gordon, Royals
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Adam Jones, Orioles
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Paul Konerko, White Sox
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Victor Martinez, Tigers
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Ben Zobrist, Rays
While Alex Gordon is a feel good story this year and Adam Jones and Ben Zobrist deserve consideration, this spot will come down to a popularity contest between AL Central rivals Paul Konerko and Victor Martinez. While both are very worthy candidates, it is a question of to which direction the fans will push. My pick is Paul Konerko but given the success of Alex Avila, I am forecasting Victor Martinez as the Final Vote victor here.
NL Nominees:
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Andre Ethier, Dodgers
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Todd Helton, Rockies
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Ian Kennedy, Diamondbacks
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Michael Morse, Nationals
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Shane Victorino, Phillies
Another set of worthy candidates, this one will boil down to the Phillies faithful pushing of Shane Victorino, the hometown Diamondbacks selection of Ian Kennedy or the push for Andre Ethier of the Dodgers. My selection is Ethier but I can see Victorino landing the spot based on the passion and push of his local fans. Call it gut on this one, although I can see the worthy Kennedy squeaking in as an option.
***Get ready for a week’s worth of All-Star reporting, as MLB reports has everything All-Star covered between now and the big game on Tuesday. We will be keeping an eye on the All-Star game itself, as well as the Futures Game, Home Run Derby and everything in between. The All-Star game is a little over a week away and we will bring you all the latest All-Star game news as it develops.***
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.
2011 MLB ALL-STAR GAME FINAL VOTING RESULTS:
Here are the final numbers as voted by the fans for the starting lineups in the All-Star game:
American League
CATCHER — 1, Alex Avila, Tigers, 4,144,384. 2, Russell Martin, Yankees, 3,646,033. 3, Joe Mauer, Twins, 2,308,436. 4, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Red Sox, 2,183,113. 5, Yorvit Torrealba, Rangers, 1,810,755. 6, Carlos Santana, Indians, 1,501,053. 7, J.P. Arencibia, Blue Jays, 1,024,020. 8, A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox, 963,463.
FIRST BASE — 1, Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox, 6,034,533. 2, Mark Teixeira, Yankees, 4,174,690. 3, Miguel Cabrera, Tigers, 3,473,849. 4, Mitch Moreland, Rangers, 1,680,462. 5, Paul Konerko, White Sox, 1,323,853. 6, Adam Lind, Blue Jays, 860,203. 7, Justin Morneau, Twins, 781,717. 8, Matt LaPorta, Indians, 750,953.
SECOND BASE — 1, Robinson Cano, Yankees, 6,679,976. 2, Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox, 4,391,835. 3, Ian Kinsler, Rangers, 2,729,450. 4, Orlando Cabrera, Indians, 1,538,135. 5, Ben Zobrist, Rays, 1,245,709. 6, Howie Kendrick, Angels, 1,079,227. 7, Will Rhymes, Tigers, 671,674. 8, Aaron Hill, Blue Jays, 587,179.
THIRD BASE — 1, Alex Rodriguez, Yankees, 5,277,823. 2, Adrian Beltre, Rangers, 4,036,191. 3, Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox, 4,018,641. 4, Evan Longoria, Rays, 2,804,004. 5, Brandon Inge, Tigers, 1,113,787. 6, Maicer Izturis, Angels, 666,828. 7, Mike Aviles, Royals, 602,091. 8, Edwin Encarnacion, Blue Jays, 505,015.
SHORTSTOP — 1, Derek Jeter, Yankees, 4,536,386. 2, Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians, 4,073,992. 3, Elvis Andrus, Rangers, 2,698,902. 4, Jhonny Peralta, Tigers, 2,301,524. 5, Marco Scutaro, Red Sox, 1,642,606. 6, Yunel Escobar, Blue Jays, 1,104,761. 7, J.J. Hardy, Orioles, 956,073. 8, Alexei Ramirez, White Sox, 946,442.
DESIGNATED HITTER — 1, David Ortiz, Red Sox, 6,324,793. 2, Michael Young, Rangers, 3,072,467. 3, Victor Martinez, Tigers, 2,302,988. 4, Jorge Posada, Yankees, 1,998,551. 5, Johnny Damon, Rays, 1,303,471. 6, Travis Hafner, Indians, 1,206,971. 7, Vladimir Guerrero, Orioles, 1,136,364. 8, Billy Butler, Royals, 891,940.
OUTFIELD — 1, Jose Bautista, Blue Jays, 7,454,753. 2, Curtis Granderson, Yankees, 6,683,877. 3, Josh Hamilton, Rangers, 4,646,394. 4, Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox, 4,609,667. 5, Carl Crawford, Red Sox, 3,213,581. 6, Nelson Cruz, Rangers, 2,704,249. 7, Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners, 2,528,532. 8, Nick Swisher, Yankees, 2,277,856. 9, Brett Gardner, Yankees, 2,064,372. 10, J.D. Drew, Red Sox, 2,009,877. 11, Matt Joyce, Rays, 1,597,334. 12, Jeff Francoeur, Royals, 1,505,399. 13, David Murphy, Rangers, 1,458,420. 14, Grady Sizemore, Indians, 1,283,993. 15, Austin Jackson, Tigers, 1,254,267. 16, Carlos Quentin, White Sox, 1,218,968. 17, Melky Cabrera, Royals, 1,201,982. 18, Shin-Soo Choo, Indians, 1,158,749. 19, Alex Gordon, Royals, 1,120,683. 20, B.J, Upton, Rays, 1,081,270. 21, Magglio Ordonez, Tigers, 1,008,145. 22, Torii Hunter, Angels, 927,271. 23, Sam Fuld, Rays, 916,219. 24, Michael Brantley, Indians, 878,556.
National League
CATCHER — 1, Brian McCann, Braves, 4,698,838. 2, Yadier Molina, Cardinals, 2,972,786. 3, Buster Posey, Giants, 2,418,923. 4, Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers, 2,271,498. 5, Ramon Hernandez, Reds, 2,056,263. 6, Carlos Ruiz, Phillies, 1,864,675. 7, Ivan Rodriguez, Nationals, 1,225,342. 8, Miguel Montero, Diamondbacks, 1,149,461.
FIRST BASE — 1, Prince Fielder, Brewers, 4,864,523. 2, Joey Votto, Reds, 4,254,305. 3, Albert Pujols, Cardinals, 4,171,094. 4, Ryan Howard, Phillies, 2,563,736. 5, Freddie Freeman, Braves, 957,816. 6, Brandon Belt, Giants, 917,044. 7, Ike Davis, Mets, 824,681. 8, Todd Helton, Rockies, 761,928.
SECOND BASE — 1, Rickie Weeks, Brewers, 4,460,395. 2, Brandon Phillips, Reds, 4,273,079. 3, Chase Utley, Phillies, 3,345,845. 4, Freddy Sanchez, Giants, 1,627,733. 5, Dan Uggla, Braves, 1,583,903. 6, Neil Walker, Pirates, 993,369. 7, Kelly Johnson, Diamondbacks, 862,204. 8, Skip Schumaker, Cardinals, 856,658.
THIRD BASE — 1, Placido Polanco, Phillies, 4,410,701. 2, Chipper Jones, Braves, 2,849,578. 3, Scott Rolen, Reds, 2,251,425. 4, Pablo Sandoval, Giants, 2,213,057. 5, David Wright, Mets, 2,106,800. 6, Casey McGehee, Brewers, 1,877,744. 7, Aramis Ramirez, Cubs, 1,192,220. 8, Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals, 1,137,696.
SHORTSTOP — 1, Jose Reyes, Mets, 4,707,976. 2, Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies, 3,932,000. 3, Jimmy Rollins, Phillies, 2,311,689. 4, Yuniesky Betancourt, Brewers, 1,695,431. 5, Stephen Drew, Diamondbacks, 1,523,919. 6, Alex Gonzalez, Braves, 1,476,368. 7, Miguel Tejada, Giants, 1,265,544. 8, Paul Janish, Reds, 1,168,551.
OUTFIELD — 1, Ryan Braun, Brewers, 5,928,004. 2, Lance Berkman, Cardinals, 4,345,766. 3, Matt Kemp, Dodgers, 4,293,626. 4, Matt Holliday, Cardinals, 3,948,268. 5, Jay Bruce, Reds, 3,218,003. 6, Andre Ethier, Dodgers, 3,013,030. 7, Carlos Beltran, Mets, 2,631,991. 8, Shane Victorino, Phillies, 2,370,351. 9, Corey Hart, Brewers, 1,875,897. 10, Justin Upton, Diamondbacks, 1,845,385. 11, Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies, 1,733,281. 12, Jason Heyward, Braves, 1,715,925. 13, Raul Ibanez, Phillies, 1,641,389. 14, Drew Stubbs, Reds, 1,572,673. 15, Carlos Gomez, Brewers, 1,508,939. 16, Andrew McCutchen, Pirates, 1,343,144. 17, Hunter Pence, Astros, 1,315,276. 18, Jonny Gomes, Reds, 1,310,142. 19, Martin Prado, Braves, 1,296,763. 20, Alfonso Soriano, Cubs, 1,282,608. 21, Aubrey Huff, Giants, 1,240,980. 22, Chris Young, Diamondbacks, 1,151,443. 23, Ben Francisco, Phillies, 1,124,361. 24, Jason Bay, Mets, 1,114,574.
Scott Boras: The Contracts. The Clients. Who’s to Blame?
Sunday July 3, 2011
MLB reports: The man behind the billion dollar smile, Scott Boras is a big business. The Boras Corporation represents close to 200 MLB players. This is one of the most influential, if not important people in baseball today. But the man is categorized in many baseball circles as “the devil”, for “forcing” major league teams to dish out excessively large contracts to his clients. Is this really the case? Is Boras bad for baseball or simply a man who knows how to do his job and do it well? Let’s take an inside look at Scott Boras and search behind the contracts.
We took a look yesterday at Randy “Macho Man” Savage, an athlete that aside from being a wrestling superstar, was a baseball player. On the same token, Scott Boras the agent, was at one point Scott Boras the baseball player as well. Here are the numbers that Boras put up in four minor league seasons in the Cardinals and Cubs organizations:
| Year | Lev | AB | R | HR | RBI | BA | OBP | SLG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1974 | Rk | 95 | 13 | 0 | 10 | .274 | .402 | .347 |
| 1975 | A | 300 | 39 | 2 | 36 | .277 | .402 | .373 |
| 1976 | A | 437 | 2 | .295 | .387 | |||
| 1977 | AA-A | 343 | 54 | 1 | 33 | .292 | .392 | .367 |
| 1977 | A | 78 | 17 | 0 | 7 | .346 | .440 | .423 |
| 1977 | AA | 265 | 37 | 1 | 26 | .275 | .377 | .351 |
| 1977 | AA | |||||||
| 1977 | AA | |||||||
| 4 Seasons | 1175 | 106 | 5 | 79 | .288 | .363 | .374 | |
| A (3 seasons) | A | 815 | 56 | 4 | 43 | .293 | .354 | .385 |
| AA (1 season) | AA | 265 | 37 | 1 | 26 | .275 | .377 | .351 |
| Rk (1 season) | Rk | 95 | 13 | 0 | 10 | .274 | .402 | .347 |
A man ahead of his time, Boras was one of the original moneyball players. For his career, Boras had 133 walks and only 76 strikeouts. Those numbers were for good for a lifetime .363 OBP, to go along with his .288 AVG. Knee injuries unfortunately cut his career short and Boras only made it as high as AA ball. With the baseball experience under his belt, Boras went on to practice law and from there become a full-time baseball agent in the early 1980s. Imagine if the 58-year old Scott Boras had made it to the majors and had played for 10+ years. He would have been playing well into the 1980s, when his agent career took off. But alas, Randy Poffo the wrestler became Randy Savage the baseball player. Scott Boras the baseball player became a player agent. Certain things are meant to be and some roles seem to be predestined. But it is still fun to think what could have been and had Boras been able to continue in for professional baseball as a player for many seasons, Scott Boras the agent might have never come into existence.
The exploits of Scott Boras as an agent are legendary. From the Bill Caudill contract with the Jays, Todd Van Poppel deal, J.D. Drew refusing to sign with the Phillies, the Alex Rodriguez contract, Darren Dreifort contract, negotiations for Stephen Strasburg and Daisuke Matsuzaka, Boras has done it all and seen it all. Let’s take a peak at 10 of the biggest contracts negotiated by Boras:
10. Adrian Beltre, Seattle Mariners: 5 years, $64 million
9. Daisuke Matsuzaka, Boston Red Sox: 6 years, $52 million
8. Kevin Millwood, Texas Rangers: 5 years, $60 million
7. Carlos Beltran, New York Mets: 7 years, $119 million
6. Kevin Brown, Los Angeles Dodgers: 7 years, $105 million
5.Matt White, Tampa Bay Devil Rays: $10.2 million bonus
4. Andruw Jones, Los Angeles Dodgers: 2 years, $36.2 million
3. Chan Ho Park, Texas Rangers: 5 years, $65 million
2. Barry Zito, San Francisco Giants: 7 years, $126 million
1. Alex Rodriguez, Texas Rangers: 10 years, $252 million
The list literally goes on and on. Boras Corporation has negotiated contracts well over a billion dollars in my estimation and the number keeps rising by the day. We can pick any contracts negotiated by Boras for review, but these ten deals are particularly interesting ones. What do these contracts all have in common? Firstly, they are for very large dollar amounts and very often far exceed what most experts predicted for each particular player. Secondly, none of the teams that signed their respective deal appeared to have benefited from the deal. In the sense that I would argue each team on this list had buyer’s remorse and would take back the contract if given the chance. Lastly, all of these contracts were negotiated and signed by Scott Boras and each respective major league team owner and general manager. It takes two to tango and in this case, sometimes three or four parties. For as much as teams and fans want to burn Scott Boras at the stake for destroying baseball, these contracts were signed by the free will of each team. Furthermore, each team pursued their respective players and courted them to accept a contract and join their team. At some point, MLB teams need to look at the mirror if they want to change the economic landscape of the game and stop blaming Scott Boras and the player agents of this world.
An agent’s job is to land the biggest contract for his or her client. A team’s job is to field the most competitive team at the most economical price. When a player turns out to be a bust or financial albatross, it is the team that did not do their job. The baseball world fell over when Jayson Werth signed his seven-year, $126 million contract. The blame fell to Scott Boras for the most part for extorting such a large figure out of the Washington Nationals. Why? Mike Rizzo and the Washington Nationals organization are all big boys that can make their own decisions. Without seemingly any strong bidders against them, the Nationals literally outbid themselves in handing Werth such a lucrative and absurd contract. Most analysts, myself included, felt that this contract could only end up failing the Nationals. Werth as an injury prone player without a proven track record was going to likely have a hard time justifying his deal. But don’t blame the player or agent. No, they did their job in the process. It is the team that needs to take responsibility for its actions. An important lesson in life is to learn from one’s mistakes. But teams keep making the same financial blunders, over and over when it comes to player contracts. That is not the fault of Scott Boras. It is the teams.
When free agency opens up each offseason, I compare the winter meetings to children being handed large wads of money and
being thrown into a candy store. They cannot control themselves and have to buy more and more to satisfy their hungers. As it is not the children to blame when they are spoiled, it is really not the General Managers either when they have large spending budgets. As parents need to take responsibility for their children, team owners need to account for their General Managers. The large contracts that are handed out every year must be approved by each team owner beforehand. Thus the way a child comes to ask for a $500 remote control car, a General Manager will ask for a $126 million Werth. When the parent and team owner both say yes, they only have themselves to blame. The toy and player inevitably break down or are seen as too expensive in hindsight. But by then, the toy cannot be returned to the store and the player contract cannot be voided. The lesson is to learn from the experience and to avoid similar mistakes in the future. But teams refuse to listen and learn and as a result, player contracts in baseball are exploding with no end in sight.
Let’s keep Scott Boras in perspective. The man does his job very well and pushes the limit of player contracts in baseball. He might be a very intelligent person and a great salesperson. But at the end of the day, he is simply doing his job. For myself as a consumer, if I buy a brand new car for $30,000 when I could have bought a similar model down the road for $10,000 less, I cannot blame the car dealer or its salesperson. It was up to me as the consumer to shop around and get the best deal I could. There would have been other cars, the same way for MLB teams there will always be other players. But teams don’t see it that way. They get caught up in the negotiations and the thrill of the hunt and get determined to land their “guy”. The Red Sox begged and pleaded to get Dice-K into a Red Sox uniform. The same Sox and Yankees battled it out to land Mark Teixeira. The Texas Rangers and then owner Tom Hicks literally handed Alex Rodriguez a blank cheque to land the marquee free agent. Again and again, MLB teams go out of their way to land the players they want and end up blaming the players and their agent when the contracts do not work out.
One man I will give credit to is Fred Wilpon. In criticizing the Carlos Beltran contract, he blamed the team for overpaying the outfielder based on one good playoff run. This is a man who at the very least took responsibility for his actions and knew where to lay the blame. Since the Beltran deal, the Mets, along with the Braves and Angels, are three teams that tend to stay away from dealing with Scott Boras and the players he represents. That is ultimately the best approach and the only way that any order can be established. If teams do not want to dish the money, all they have to say is no. But as long as the money is there and being handed out by the teams by the truck loads, Scott Boras will be there with open arms, negotiating the best contracts for his clients that he can.
Scott Boras has accomplished some amazing feats during his agent career. From changing the rules on arbitration and free agency, Boras pushes the boundaries and finds all the loopholes to change the economic system of the game. The sign of a great lawyer, negotiator and agent. Before fans are quick to condemn the man, lets step back and appreciate what he has accomplished. Scott Boras and the Boras Corporation are a billion dollar industry. They provide marketing services, training facilities for their clients and look after their clients every needs. Boras has a team of experts that are constantly studying and keeping track of the game. Scott Boras stays on top of the game and thus is able to stay competitive and negotiate the best contracts for his clients. While not everyone agrees with his methods, particularly the Alex Rodriguez opt-out with the Yankees which led A-Rod to leave Boras, he may have the ideas, but it is up to players to accept them and teams to listen. As long as players keep lining up to hire Scott Boras and teams await with open arms and wallets, the system will not change. Scott Boras may be a lot of things, but the devil he is certainly not. He is simply a smart, hard worker who does his job well at levels that few can attain. A baseball pioneer, Scott Boras has certainly left his mark on the game. While many fans and teams do not agree with his methods, at the end of the day he gets the job done. Scott Boras: Genius or madness? You decide.
Please see the list below of some of the clients in the Scott Boras stable. The list is growing by the day:
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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.
MLB Expansion: Baseball Discussions to Add Two More Teams
Friday July 1, 2011
MLB reports: When looking at the current state of baseball, some very important changes are on the horizon. MLB reports tackled in the past weeks the topics of MLB realignment, the future of the DH and expanding and changing the playoffs (click on links to view these posts). Whether you are a traditionalist or modern thinker, we can all agree that revisions to the baseball system are coming. To compliment many of the new developments that are coming, we have one last topic that we need to cover. This is a biggie so hold on to your hats: MLB Expansion. Major League Baseball, as slow as it is to adapt, has come to the time that it must acknowledge that the American League and National League need a balanced amount of teams. When contraction didn’t work (Minnesota stayed and Montreal moved to Washington), we were left with thirty MLB teams. To fix the discrepancy, we need sixteen teams per league. As a result, get ready for Major League Baseball to expand to two new cities.
Before anyone stars howling, let me insert a disclaimer. There is no available information yet confirming that MLB will expand. But from all the signs of the state of the game, it appears that expansion is on the horizon. It must be. Expansion will lead to balanced leagues, which will be a must in the addition of more wild card teams. In 1993, MLB added the Colorado Rockies and Florida Marlins. In 1998, the Tampa Bay (Devil) Rays and Arizona Diamondbacks joined the mix. Since then, we have gone thirteen years without expansion. Baseball popularity is at an all time high, with the economy slowly starting to rebound. The demand and money are there and anytime the MLB owners can fill their wallets, they will take it. Expansion fees back in 1998 were $130 million. To contrast, the Texas Rangers sold last August for $593 million. Let’s ballpark it and say that each new expansion team could easily bring in $250 million each. That would be $500 million available to be shared by the existing 30 MLB owners. That is a minimum of $16 million per team and even that amount is conservative. Realistically, we could see $25-$30 million per team as the bonus. Money talks and the lure of the big payday will be too much for MLB owners to pass up much longer. By having a balanced schedule, leading to realignment and more wild card teams, together with the revenues that are generated, both teams and players should be happy. It is a win-win for all.
The biggest argument that I have heard against MLB expansion is the dilution of talent. There is a thin amount of pitching to go around as it is, and by adding more teams to the mix, the talent levels will supposedly be at an all-time low. I don’t buy it. Take a look at AA and AAA and how many major league ready players are wasting away due to a lack of opportunity. Some are there for financial considerations, by teams wishing to delay their arbitration and free agency years. I acknowledge that. But there is so much talent at those levels alone that an expansion draft could stock two competitive MLB teams. I truly believe that. Then we should take into account the globalization of the sport. The 2013 World Baseball Classic will feature twelve new countries into the mix. By creating and furthering the interest in baseball around the world, including Great Britain, Germany, France etc., Major League Baseball will create a deeper pool of talent as a result. It will take time and the benefits of adding more countries to the WBC in expanding the players that are generated may not be felt for a decade or longer. But baseball needs to think long-term, not short. Even if there is a dilution of the quality of players for a brief time, it is not unreasonable to think that the world as a whole with its population could stock 32 MLB teams. It currently stocks 30 teams quite well and the problem, if any, is that in the future we will actually have more quality players than available teams to play for.
The main benefit of expansion is the created interested in Major League Baseball in more cities and the added rivalries and intrigue to the game itself. There are baseball hungry fans in many cities that are denied the privilege of watching MLB games live, due to lack of proximity. Adding MLB teams will create more fans in the new cities and surrounding areas. Merchandising sales will increase, jobs will be added and economies will benefit in those cities. As long as each new team has a solid economic plan in creating a business model for itself, from the ballpark to the day-to-day operation of the team, new MLB teams will be cash cows and not drains on their respective cities. There is a reason why cities and potential owners campaign to be awarded a Major League Baseball team. Baseball is a lucrative business. By understanding why expansion is necessary and beneficial, it is time to jump into the candidates.
From everything that I have read and people that I have spoken with, the following is a list of ten potential MLB expansion destinations. From these ten cities, two may end up being the lucky winners. I have included a brief commentary beside each candidate for reference:
1) Las Vegas: There is money in Vegas and demand for the sport. The biggest hindrances are the gambling and economic issues for the area. I think Las Vegas should get a team and baseball may feel the same way.
2) Portland: One of the largest cities without a team, this would be a safe bet for Major League Baseball. This city has been thrown around in almost every discussion on expansion. This one will likely happen.
3) San Antonio: Similar to Portland, but there are already two teams based in Texas. If any area will get three MLB teams, it is New York (see Brooklyn discussion).
4) Sacramento: Is the California market getting saturated? With Oakland having issues and looking to a move to San Jose, there may be alarm bells that hinder Sacramento. There is also a chance the city will lose its NBA team which does not help from an image standpoint.
5) Orlando: More teams to Florida? The Rays aren’t exactly busting at the gate and the Marlins are moving to Miami next year. I could see the Rays moving if they do not get a new stadium, so expansion will likely be held off here for now.
6) Nashville/Memphis: Both are great cities but with other viable markets available, Nashville/Memphis are a long-shot.
7) Mexico City: This is the sexy pick if Major League Baseball truly wants to become international. The travel logistics could make this one very difficult. For a sport that is slow to evolve, this is too much change, too soon.
8) Vancouver or Montreal: Stop snickering as this could happen. Ok, not Montreal, but Vancouver is a possibility. After the loss of the Expos, I cannot see baseball ever going back to Quebec. Then when we account for the fact that Vancouver lost its NBA team, baseball may be scared off from these areas as being non-viable. The Toronto Blue Jays sit middle-in-the-pack for attendance and I think MLB is satisfied with one Canadian squad. Happy Canada Day to all the Canucks reading this article and enjoy the Jays this weekend. But as far as more Canadian teams in baseball, I am sorry but I do not see it happening. Ever.
9) Brooklyn: The talk of the Nets coming to Brooklyn soon has sparked renewed interest in the area for baseball. The Brooklyn Dodgers will never come back to existence, but a new expansion team might. Given baseball’s rich history and love of everything retro, I really like this selection. Don’t discount the power of New York, as it is one of the central hubs of sport. I only give this one a 25% chance of happening, but a very solid 25.
10) New Orleans: A feel-good pick, given the tragedy suffered by the city. But on an economic and rational basis, it is difficult to envision bringing a new baseball team coming to a rebuilding area that still is suffering major financial issues.
That concludes today’s discussion on MLB expansion. As a starting point for the topic, I am sure that this will not be the last we hear about it. Given that MLB works in secret ways often, don’t be surprised if an announcement on two new expansion teams comes out of left field one day. While it would be fun to hold a competition and have cities campaign for selection, MLB may not want to run the risk of alienating and upsetting teams that are not chosen. At the end of the day, the key for baseball will be to get the right cities and owners in place. This will happen in the next year or two and should be an interesting process. Will we see the Portland Sluggers, Las Vegas Aliens or Brooklyn Bombers? Time will tell on that one. What we can be sure is that the face of Major League Baseball over the next few years will change substantially. From the teams, to the playoffs and divisions. Change is in the air as baseball continues to evolve with the times.
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2011 MLB All-Star Game: Current Vote Totals Before Final Rosters Announced
Thursday, June 30, 2011
MLB reports: The All-Star rosters for the MLB All-Star game will be announced this Sunday, July 3rd. With the polling stations set to close shortly, we are nearing the end of the voting process. After weeks of fan voting on-line and at all MLB stadiums, decision day is upon us in three short days. But for those of you that don’t like to wait, we have the current vote totals for the AL and NL All-Star rosters by position. We also prognosticate based on the current numbers as to who will win out and make the final squads. Let’s begin in the NL, where some open races still exist:
2011 NATIONAL LEAGUE ALL-STAR BALLOTING (as of June 26)
CATCHER
Brian McCann, Braves: 3,062,884
Yadier Molina, Cardinals: 2,271,887
Buster Posey, Giants: 1,849,984
Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers: 1,451,280
Carlos Ruiz, Phillies: 1,392,944
Prediction: Brian McCann kept his lead and deserves this spot. He will be behind the plate in Arizona for the NL squad. Despite missing most of the season due to injury, Buster Posey still sits in 2nd place. The state of NL catching is weak this year to say the least. With no competition in the field, McCann is your first named starter.
FIRST BASE
Albert Pujols, Cardinals: 3,358,432
Prince Fielder, Brewers: 2,903,584
Joey Votto, Reds: 2,832,857
Ryan Howard, Phillies: 1,881,711
Freddie Freeman, Braves: 702,911
Prediction: Despite his injury and guarantee to miss the game, Albert Pujols will be voted in as a starter (in name only). Prince Fielder has been enjoying a remarkable season and deserves a better fate. While Prince will go to Arizona, it will be as a substitute for Pujols. The lead is just too large and Pujols has too strong of a name recognition for Prince to overcome.
SECOND BASE
Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 2,869,583
Brandon Phillips, Reds: 2,791,186
Chase Utley, Phillies: 2,406,965
Dan Uggla, Braves: 1,223,812
Freddy Sanchez, Giants: 1,184,145
Prediction: This one is very close to call. Based on his late push, our money is on Rickie Weeks winning out over Brandon Phillips. A recent return by Chase Utley has created a mini-push for him as well. In any other year this position would be Utley’s position to lose. But clearly fans have determined that Utley has missed too much time and Weeks is deserving of his recognition.
THIRD BASE
Placido Polanco, Phillies: 3,261,718
Chipper Jones, Braves: 2,040,594
Pablo Sandoval, Giants: 1,584,671
David Wright, Mets: 1,497,778
Scott Rolen, Reds: 1,417,248
Prediction: The Phillies fans have spoken and Placido Polanco will be starting at the All-Star game. David Wright’s free fall from stardom has paved the way for new/old faces to emerge. This has been Polanco’s spot to lose from the beginning and has steady play has been enough to win out. Sometimes slow and steady does win the race.
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 2,955,609
Jose Reyes, Mets: 2,710,777
Jimmy Rollins, Phillies: 1,724,166
Alex Gonzalez, Braves: 1,142,470
Yuniesky Betancourt, Brewers: 1,131,078
Prediction: Another very close race that is difficult to handicap. The gut feel on this one is that Jose Reyes has received enough publicity and media attention to garner the necessary votes to beat out Troy Tulowitzki. Reyes has enjoyed quite the comeback year and a starting role in Arizona would be the icing on the cake.
OUTFIELD
Ryan Braun, Brewers: 3,932,100
Lance Berkman, Cardinals: 3,208,183
Matt Holliday, Cardinals: 2,935,965
Matt Kemp, Dodgers: 2,743,927
Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 2,264,640
Jay Bruce, Reds: 2,119,267
Shane Victorino, Phillies: 1,742,128
Carlos Beltran, Mets: 1,639,362
Jason Heyward, Braves: 1,302,127
Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies: 1,253,728
Raul Ibanez, Phillies: 1,239,678
Corey Hart, Brewers: 1,217,629
Justin Upton, D-backs: 1,141,296
Carlos Gomez, Brewers: 1,016,685
Martin Prado, Braves: 1,012,084
Prediction: Ryan Braun and Lance Berkman have been foregone conclusions for some time. It is the battle for the 3rd and final outfield position that remains. For a while it was Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier on the heals of Matt Holliday. While Ethier has bowed out essentially, Kemp continues to get his push. But will it be enough? MLB reports says yes. In his breakout year, Kemp is getting the respect and attention he deserves. It appears that the fans would agree as well.
2011 AMERICAN LEAGUE ALL-STAR BALLOTING (as of June 28)
CATCHER
Russell Martin, Yankees: 2,779,592
Alex Avila, Tigers: 2,345,065
Joe Mauer, Twins: 1,699,604
Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Red Sox: 1,505,143
Yorvit Torrealba, Rangers: 1,309,802
Prediction: Detroit fans have made a solid plea for the inclusion of Alex Avila as the starting catcher for the AL squad. But the Yankee faithful have spoken otherwise and continue to lead, together with the Boston Red Sox in most spots. Catcher is one of them, with Russell Martin looking to be a lock for Arizona. The one item of note is that Joe Mauer will not be voted in. Mauer when healthy is one of the best, if not the best catchers in baseball. But this year has been a nightmare for Mauer health wise. It looks to be a chance for more new/old blood to shine.
FIRST BASE
Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox: 4,014,722
Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 3,077,242
Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 2,184,480
Mitch Moreland, Rangers: 1,209,258
Paul Konerko, White Sox: 932,422
Prediction: Taking a look at the numbers, 3 million votes for Mark Teixeira and 2 million votes for Miguel Cabrera is very respectable. But 4 million+ votes takes the cake in this race for Adrian Gonzalez. The current leading candidate for AL MVP according to many MLB followers has earned his start in Arizona. The Red Sox faithful are certainly not complaining.
SECOND BASE
Robinson Cano, Yankees: 4,724,816
Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 2,979,181
Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 1,896,259
Orlando Cabrera, Indians: 1,127,840
Ben Zobrist, Rays: 963,481
Prediction: Looking at the numbers, it is all Robinson Cano in this one. No AL second baseman has come close to matching his production and it shows in the voting. A well-earned spot for the maturing Cano who is graduating to complete superstar status in New York.
THIRD BASE
Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 3,735,406
Adrian Beltre, Rangers: 2,935,373
Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox: 2,724,286
Evan Longoria, Rays: 2,000,379
Brandon Inge, Tigers: 633,519
Prediction: Alex Rodriguez will have yet another All-Star game appearance. While Adrian Beltre got a sudden surge, it is the popularity and steadiness of A-Rod that will win out.
SHORTSTOP
Derek Jeter, Yankees: 3,392,128
Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians: 2,885,778
Elvis Andrus, Rangers: 1,971,514
Jhonny Peralta, Tigers: 1,178,114
Marco Scutaro, Red Sox: 1,099,744
Prediction: Another fairly weak field, similar to that of third base in the NL. Derek Jeter has slumped and/or been injured all season long. But the name will win out and Yankee fans are excited to see their future hall of fame shortstop going to the All-Star. Does Jeter deserve this spot this year? Probably not. But without a strong Indians base to campaign for Cabrera, the Yankees captain will start. Just too much of a lead at this point.
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz, Red Sox: 4,237,014
Michael Young, Rangers: 2,235,504
Jorge Posada, Yankees: 1,453,385
Victor Martinez, Tigers: 1,234,879
Johnny Damon, Rays: 1,028,366
Prediction: When you think DH, think David Ortiz. He is his own universe in voting this year. The DH market is starting to thin out and Ortiz has stood head and shoulders above the rest this year.
OUTFIELD
Jose Bautista, Blue Jays: 5,263,840
Curtis Granderson, Yankees: 4,582,419
Josh Hamilton, Rangers: 3,173,000
Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox: 3,051,675
Carl Crawford, Red Sox: 2,294,337
Nelson Cruz, Rangers: 1,912,783
Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners: 1,912,062
Nick Swisher, Yankees: 1,648,599
Brett Gardner, Yankees: 1,499,367
J.D. Drew, Red Sox: 1,428,367
Matt Joyce, Rays: 1,226,439
Jeff Francoeur, Royals: 1,061,445
David Murphy, Rangers: 1,057,887
Grady Sizemore, Indians: 1,033,014
Shin-Soo Choo, Indians: 924,326
Prediction: The first two spots in the AL outfield have been set for some time. Jose Bautista leads all All-Stars in voting and together with Curtis Granderson will definitely be in Arizona on July 12th. Josh Hamilton has held onto the 3rd spot for some time, despite missing part of the season due to injury. Jacoby Ellsbury has narrowed the gap significantly in the last couple of weeks and looks to be a starter by the time the rosters are announced on Sunday. Ellsbury has enjoyed a solid campaign this year and Red Sox nation is making the push for his inclusion in the big game. That is usually a recipe for success.
Get ready for July 12th, as the New York Red Sox (aka the AL All-Star team) takes on the NL squad on Tuesday July 12th to determine home field advantage for the World Series. The rosters will be announced this Sunday July 3rd and MLB reports will bring you all the final details. Stay tuned!
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From Riggleman to Johnson: Davey is the New Sheriff in Washington
Saturday, June 25, 2011
MLB reports: According to several sources, the Nationals are set to announce the hiring of their new manager. Less than twenty-four hours after the abrupt resignation of Jim Riggleman (see yesterday’s feature), Mike Rizzo has apparently found the man for the job within the Nationals organization. Ex-Mets skipper, Davey Johnson is set to move from the front office to the dugout. Nationals fans couldn’t be happier.
| Year | Tm | Lg | G | W | L | W-L% | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 90 | 72 | .556 | 2 |
| 1985 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 98 | 64 | .605 | 2 |
| 1986 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 108 | 54 | .667 | 1 |
| 1987 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 92 | 70 | .568 | 2 |
| 1988 | New York Mets | NL | 160 | 100 | 60 | .625 | 1 |
| 1989 | New York Mets | NL | 162 | 87 | 75 | .537 | 2 |
| 1990 | New York Mets | NL | 42 | 20 | 22 | .476 | 2 |
| 1993 | Cincinnati Reds | NL | 118 | 53 | 65 | .449 | 5 |
| 1994 | Cincinnati Reds | NL | 115 | 66 | 48 | .579 | 1 |
| 1995 | Cincinnati Reds | NL | 144 | 85 | 59 | .590 | 1 |
| 1996 | Baltimore Orioles | AL | 163 | 88 | 74 | .543 | 2 |
| 1997 | Baltimore Orioles | AL | 162 | 98 | 64 | .605 | 1 |
| 1999 | Los Angeles Dodgers | NL | 162 | 77 | 85 | .475 | 3 |
| 2000 | Los Angeles Dodgers | NL | 162 | 86 | 76 | .531 | 2 |
| New York Mets | 1012 | 595 | 417 | .588 | 1.7 | ||
| Cincinnati Reds | 377 | 204 | 172 | .543 | 2.3 | ||
| Baltimore Orioles | 325 | 186 | 138 | .574 | 1.5 | ||
| Los Angeles Dodgers | 324 | 163 | 161 | .503 | 2.5 | ||
| 2038 | 1148 | 888 | .564 | 1.9 |
Unlike his predecessor, Davey Johnson is a proven winner. Johnson managed four teams in his career before accepting the Nationals position. As a big league manager, Johnson has a career record of 1148 wins and 888 losses, good for a .564 winning percentage. Johnson has finished 11 of his 14 seasons above .500. He won a World Series title in 1986 with the New York Mets. Looking further at the numbers, Johnson’s teams have finished first in their division five times and in second place on seven different occasion. Johnson wins everywhere he goes and the same will be expected as the new face of baseball in the nation’s capital.
With Stephen Strasburg on the mend and Bryce Harper slowly making the climb to the big leagues, the Nationals will have a strong talent base for Johnson to mold. The Nationals will be looking for its team to play “Daveyball” and try to recreate some of the Mets magic from 1986. That team was filled with young prospects that gelled together at the same time, sprinkled with key veterans. As Mike Rizzo continues to tinker with the roster, we could very well be seeing a Nationals playoff run by 2013. Coincidently, that will also be the year that new manager Davey Johnson’s contract is set to expire. Provided Johnson’s teams perform to expectations, his run in Washington will be far longer than that of Jim Riggleman.
Davey Johnson is known as a gamer. A man who played with his heart on his sleeve back in his playing days and as an intense competitor behind the bench. This is a man who refuses to lose. For an organization that seemingly refuses to win, Johnson is a breath of fresh air and should turn out to be the voice of a reason for an organization in dire need of direction. Bobby Valentine would have been a good choice as well (given the rumors surrounding him in the media). But the Nationals have their man. A former Manager of the Year (AL 1997) and World Series winner. Welcome to the new Nationals manager, Davey Johnson. Get ready to see a lot of W’s in Washington during the next few seasons.
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Jim Riggleman Resigns from the Nationals: Treason in Washington
Friday, June 24, 2011
MLB reports: June has apparently become the month in baseball to fire your coach if you are a MLB General Manager, or to quit your team if you are a manager. Follow along the coaching carousel:
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June 8th: Texas Rangers fire hitting coach Thad Bosley and replace him with Scott Coolbaugh
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June 9th: Florida Marlins fire hitting coach John Mallee and replace him with Eduardo Perez
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June 10th: Oakland Athletics fire manager Bob Geren and replace him with Bob Melvin
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June 14th: Houston Astros fire pitching coach Brad Arnsberg and replace with him Doug Brocail
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June 17th: Cleveland Indians fire hitting coach John Nunnally and replace him with Bruce Fields
It looks like where there is smoke, there is fire. A lot of it apparently in the coaching ranks of baseball. Teams were getting nervous and to help jump-start their slumping players, several teams decided to change a coach rather than making wholesale roster moves, or let go of the manager and/or General Manager. On June 19th, the baseball world was stunned as manager Edwin Rodriguez of the Florida Marlins resigned and was replaced with 80-year old ex-Marlins manager Jack McKeon. Then yesterday, Jim Riggleman, manager of the Washington Nationals, got the same itch from the “quit bug” suffered by Rodriguez and announced that he was resigning his post. The captain jumped ship in Washington but unlike the Florida situation, Riggleman made his decision for all the wrong reasons. As a result, he may never coach again in baseball.
The inside story behind Riggleman leaving the Nationals was that he requested some sort of meeting from General Manager Mike Rizzo to discuss his long-term future in Washington. When Rizzo refused to discuss his contract status, Riggleman departed from the team and resigned his position as manager. Essentially Riggleman did not like the rules of the game, so in a childlike manner he took his ball and went home, so to speak.
“It’s been brewing for a while,” said Riggleman. “I know I’m not Casey Stengel, but I do feel like I know what I’m doing. It’s not a situation where I felt like I should continue on such a short leash.”
No Jim. You are certainly not Casey Stengel. Let’s take a look shall we, at Riggleman’s career managerial record:
| Year | Age | Tm | Lg | G | W | L | W-L% | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 | 39 | San Diego Padres | NL | 12 | 4 | 8 | .333 | 3 |
| 1993 | 40 | San Diego Padres | NL | 162 | 61 | 101 | .377 | 7 |
| 1994 | 41 | San Diego Padres | NL | 117 | 47 | 70 | .402 | 4 |
| 1995 | 42 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 144 | 73 | 71 | .507 | 3 |
| 1996 | 43 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 162 | 76 | 86 | .469 | 4 |
| 1997 | 44 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 162 | 68 | 94 | .420 | 5 |
| 1998 | 45 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 163 | 90 | 73 | .552 | 2 |
| 1999 | 46 | Chicago Cubs | NL | 162 | 67 | 95 | .414 | 6 |
| 2008 | 55 | Seattle Mariners | AL | 90 | 36 | 54 | .400 | 4 |
| 2009 | 56 | Washington Nationals | NL | 75 | 33 | 42 | .440 | 5 |
| 2010 | 57 | Washington Nationals | NL | 162 | 69 | 93 | .426 | 5 |
| 2011 | 58 | Washington Nationals | NL | 74 | 37 | 37 | .500 | 3 |
| San Diego Padres | 291 | 112 | 179 | .385 | ||||
| Chicago Cubs | 793 | 374 | 419 | .472 | ||||
| Seattle Mariners | 90 | 36 | 54 | .400 | ||||
| Washington Nationals | 311 | 139 | 172 | .447 | ||||
| 1485 | 661 | 824 | .445 |
Jim Riggleman in his twelve-year managerial career has a record of 661-824, .445 winning percentage. During his three years in Washington, Riggleman finished with a 139-172 record. Riggleman’s best year was 1998 with the Cubs, where he had a 90-73 record and his team finished second in their division. He had a 73-71 record in 1995 with the Cubs and was floating at .500 this year, with a Nationals team sitting at 37-37. The man is clearly no baseball Houdini. While some may argue that Riggleman was not given much to work with at each of his stops for the most part, the man clearly was not able to get much out of his teams at most stops. A great manager should be able to turn out something out of nothing. But alas, this was not one of Riggleman’s gifts as a manager.
The reality of baseball is that coaches and managers get let go by teams all the time, as evidenced by the amount of activity among teams this month. Managers and coaches also quit sometimes. Rodriguez left his position in Florida, as did Riggleman in Washington. But when a coach leaves a team, the intention and circumstances behind the resignation are crucial. For it is the story behind the announcement that will ultimately dictate if and when said manager receives another crack at a big league post. Gonzalez left his position for the better of his team. The Marlins were floundering and in the interests of having his team recover, Gonzalez felt that a change was needed. While that should have been up to the team to decide, at least Gonzalez acted in what he felt was best for his team. His compassion and sentiments to the organization means that Gonzalez should continue coaching in baseball. In the case of Jim Riggleman, that door has been shut close in my opinion.
The Nationals were not happy to say the least with the news. “I was always taught that one of the cardinal rules of baseball was that no individual can put
his interests before those of the team,” was the sentiments expressed by Mike Rizzo. The GM is right in this case. Many MLB managers are on one-year contracts like Jim Riggleman was in 2011. Some have a chance at long careers with their teams, while others are seen as more temporary solutions. In Riggleman’s case, he was likely more of the temporary variety. But players, coaches and managers are in this position all the time. Many veteran players sign for one-year deals, knowing full well that they will not be with a team beyond the period. The same goes for managers, who can often be brought in to manage a young team and eventually be replaced with a fresh voice as the team looks to grow and change direction. That is the rules of the game and Jim Riggleman is not better than the system. If a player was to leave his team mid-season due to contractual issues, he would be seen as selfish. Jim Riggleman as manager is no different. He let his organization, players and fans down, by jumping ship. He put his own financial and security needs ahead of those of the people around him. So Riggleman wanted a long-term contract? The best way to do it was to right the ship and lead the Nationals to their strongest possible record this year. Instead, Riggleman has likely blacklisted himself from the game and lost the chance to manage again.
The 58-year old Riggleman does not have any excuses in my book. He was a bench coach for several years, including stints with the Dodgers and Mariners following his departure from the Cubs in 1999. He did not receive another managerial opportunity until 2008, where he was an interim manager with the Mariners. Again Riggleman received an interim managerial job with the Nationals the following year, but stayed on with the team until yesterday. Was he a lame-duck manager so to speak? Probably. But that had more to do with his managerial skills and overall record than anything else. Sure many people want job security, especially in baseball. But let’s keep this in perspective. There are only thirty MLB manager jobs out there. Period. Jim Riggleman had one but he threw it away. He wanted to be a long-term manager but yet was not prepared to do what it takes to get there. Nobody should be above the system. I would not expect the Nationals to give Riggleman a strong recommendation, or any sort of reference in that regard. Teams have long memories and will likely be very cautious with Riggleman, who is today seen as having acted as a “jilted lover.”
In looking to the future, it is interesting to read Riggleman’s take. “I’m not sure if I’ll get another opportunity,” Riggleman said. “But I’ll promise you I’ll never do a one-year deal again. I’m 58. I’m too old to be disrespected.” His comments show that he clearly does not get “it”. This is not a question of respect. There is no entitlement. The Nationals did not owe you a thing Jim. They named you manager by removing the interim label. You were working year-to-year. Your lifetime managerial record did not entitle you to more. You were very lucky to have a MLB manager’s position. Your actions were selfish and disrespectful. The truth is that the Nationals team and its fans are better off for this move. They did not want to have a manager in the dugout who did not want to be there. That would not benefit anyone and a fresh voice and style could prove to be beneficial in the long-term. There are rumors that team is looking at Davey Johnson for the position. Personally, I think that Bobby Valentine should be considered for the job. But no matter who the Nationals hire, the team will be heading in a new direction. Jim Riggleman has committed baseball treason. For that reason, it is time for him to walk the plank and plunge into the waters of baseball oblivion.
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Latest AL and NL Vote Totals: 2011 MLB All-Star Game
Thursday, June 23, 2011
MLB reports: With the MLB All-Star Game less than three weeks, the race to finalize the lineups is starting to tighten up. The majority of the starters have fairly significant leads and will be in Arizona, barring injury or declining the invitation. However, some of the races have started to tighten up, with the positions up for grabs until the final votes are in. Let’s take a look at the current leading vote getters per league and position:
AMERICAN LEAGUE ALL-STAR (as of June 21)
CATCHER
Russell Martin – Yankees: 2,226,797
Alex Avila – Tigers: 1,730,511
Joe Mauer – Twins: 1,341,474
Jarrod Saltalamacchia – Red Sox: 1,135,617
Yorvit Torrealba – Rangers: 980,697
Verdict: Martin is in unless Avila gets a huge spike in votes at the end. While many are pushing for Avila to get the nod, Martin has the numbers and the fan base to likely win out.
FIRST BASE
Adrian Gonzalez – Red Sox: 3,017,960
Mark Teixeira – Yankees: 2,407,665
Miguel Cabrera – Tigers: 1,771,893
Mitch Moreland – Rangers: 890,468
Paul Konerko – White Sox: 676,194
Verdict: A-Gonz will be starting in Arizona. Take it to the bank. He has been one of the best players in the AL this season and plays in Boston. The fans will continue to vote for him until he is announced as the winner.
SECOND BASE
Robinson Cano – Yankees: 3,664,498
Dustin Pedroia – Red Sox: 2,239,172
Ian Kinsler – Rangers: 1,452,880
Orlando Cabrera – Indians: 910,941
Ben Zobrist – Rays: 828,771
Verdict: Cano continues to lead the pack by a country mile. His season totals justify his position.
THIRD BASE
Alex Rodriguez – Yankees: 2,876,537
Adrian Beltre – Rangers: 2,307,380
Kevin Youkilis – Red Sox: 2,025,438
Evan Longoria – Rays: 1,639,405
Brandon Inge – Tigers: 490,734
Verdict: A-Rod is still A-Rod. Beltre is getting closer though and could make this one interesting.
SHORTSTOP
Derek Jeter – Yankees: 2,654,040
Asdrubal Cabrera – Indians: 2,242,157
Elvis Andrus – Rangers: 1,513,929
Jhonny Peralta – Tigers: 875,371
Marco Scutaro – Red Sox: 813,888
Verdict: Jeter, the New York Yankees captain, continues to lead the way. However, an injury and poor play this season have led Cabrera to get closer in the voting. If Cabrera has a few more strong games, there is a chance he could be in Arizona as the starter. Either way, expect Cabrera to represent the Indians at the All-Star game.
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz – Red Sox: 3,116,578
Michael Young – Rangers: 1,760,195
Jorge Posada – Yankees: 1,120,830
Victor Martinez – Tigers: 932,711
Johnny Damon – Rays: 864,535
Verdict: Papi picked a great year to have a strong campaign. A free agent at year’s end, he is a worthy All-Star pick.
OUTFIELD
Jose Bautista – Blue Jays: 4,156,940
Curtis Granderson – Yankees: 3,473,227
Josh Hamilton – Rangers: 2,400,408
Jacoby Ellsbury – Red Sox: 2,249,323
Carl Crawford – Red Sox: 1,789,097
Ichiro Suzuki – Mariners: 1,537,101
Nelson Cruz – Rangers: 1,462,426
Nick Swisher – Yankees: 1,271,843
Brett Gardner – Yankees: 1,120,179
J.D. Drew – Red Sox: 1,112,720
Matt Joyce – Rays: 1,038,098
Jeff Francoeur – Royals: 906,983
Grady Sizemore – Indians: 867,281
David Murphy – Rangers: 785,630
Shin-Soo Choo – Indians: 764,817
Verdict: Bautista and Granderson continue to lead the AL outfielders in voting and deservedly so. Hamilton and Ellsbury are battling it out for the final spot in a competition of what have you done for me lately vs. last year’s statistics. Depending on where you sit in the debate, the 2010 MVP Hamilton or the 2011 resurgent Ellsbury should be the third AL outfielder. With Hamilton banged up and Ellsbury playing so well for a first place Boston squad, expect Ellsbury to win out.
NATIONAL LEAGUE ALL-STAR (as of June 20)
CATCHER
Brian McCann – Braves: 2,301,252
Yadier Molina – Cardinals: 1,836,490
Buster Posey – Giants: 1,573,484
Jonathan Lucroy – Brewers: 1,098,507
Carlos Ruiz – Phillies: 1,095,081
Verdict: McCann is the best catcher in baseball, not just the NL. He has received the justified votes and will be starting for the NL squad.
FIRST BASE
Albert Pujols – Cardinals: 2,806,864
Joey Votto – Reds: 2,270,211
Prince Fielder – Brewers: 2,066,327
Ryan Howard – Phillies: 1,477,478
Freddie Freeman – Braves: 559,762
Verdict: Pujols was the leader and remains so despite being placed on the shelf recently. With Pujols out of the picture, Votto and Fielder will continue to duke it out for top spot. The power and flash of Prince will likely rule over the steadiness of Votto.
SECOND BASE
Brandon Phillips – Reds: 2,286,378
Rickie Weeks – Brewers: 2,094,502
Chase Utley – Phillies: 1,827,194
Dan Uggla – Braves: 1,012,370
Freddy Sanchez – Giants: 987,606
Verdict: Phillips and Weeks are neck-in-neck in one of the closest positional battles. Based on Weeks recent play, my money is on him to get the starting role.
THIRD BASE
Placido Polanco – Phillies: 2,599,925
Chipper Jones – Braves: 1,558,895
Pablo Sandoval – Giants: 1,302,098
David Wright – Mets: 1,228,710
Scott Rolen – Reds: 1,102,626
Verdict: Polanco of the NL leading Philadelphia Phillies appears to have this one locked up. Without much in the way of competition, Polanco has been the best of the bunch according to the fans.
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki – Rockies: 2,385,991
Jose Reyes – Mets: 1,972,820
Jimmy Rollins – Phillies: 1,354,896
Alex Gonzalez – Braves: 928,992
Yuniesky Betancourt – Brewers: 860,163
Verdict: Reyes of the Mets is making a late charge but Tulo might have too big of a lead to overcome. Expect this one to go to the wire as Reyes has been getting much of the press and attention in the past few days.
OUTFIELD
Ryan Braun – Brewers: 3,034,057
Lance Berkman – Cardinals: 2,562,428
Matt Holliday – Cardinals: 2,390,118
Matt Kemp – Dodgers: 2,062,667
Andre Ethier – Dodgers: 1,889,298
Jay Bruce – Reds: 1,681,613
Shane Victorino – Phillies: 1,357,115
Carlos Beltran – Mets: 1,261,308
Jason Heyward – Braves: 1,059,581
Raul Ibanez – Phillies: 982,046
Justin Upton – D-backs: 950,047
Carlos Gonzalez – Rockies: 944,666
Corey Hart – Brewers: 910,550
Martin Prado – Braves: 830,105
Alfonso Soriano – Cubs: 804,303
Verdict: Braun has the top spot locked up with Berkman almost guaranteed a starting spot in Arizona as well. The third outfield position will come down a battle between Matt Holliday, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier. Kemp is narrowing the margin but based on the vote numbers, St. Louis will likely have 2/3 of the starting All-Star outfield come July 12th.
MLB reports will continue to keep you up-to-date as the voting for the MLB All-Star game comes to a close. We will announce the starting lineups and rosters as they are made available and let you know on any injury replacements. This year’s field will be a competitive one and we look forward to catching all the action in Arizona, as the American League and National League battle for home field advantage in the World Series.
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McKeon, Valentine and Guillen: The Loria Marlins Manager Roller Coaster
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
MLB reports: In the world of Jeffrey Loria, nothing is ever boring. Loria, who orchestrated an Expos to Marlins trade-in back in 2002, already owns two World Series rings. The first championship ring was courtesy of manager Jack McKeon, who came on board to manage the Marlins in 2003 and won it all in his initial Florida campaign. McKeon was successful in turning around a Marlins team that started off slowly and picked up steam after his selection. The Marlins currently sit after today’s game with a 33-41 record. They are in last place in the NL East, 12.5 games behind the division leading Philadelphia Phillies. Losers of 11 out of their last 12 games, the Marlins have a 16-23 record at home and 17-18 record on the road. Something had to give and manager Edwin Rodriguez resigned abruptly yesterday. Indicating that change was in the best interest of the team, Rodriguez was out and the Marlins quickly replaced him with former manager Jack McKeon. Out with the “old” and in with the “new”.
John Aloysius (Jack) McKeon will be 81 in November of this year. A veteran manager for sixteen seasons, McKeon managed five teams in his manager league career. His record in the dugout speaks for itself, as we take a look at the numbers:
|
Year |
Tm |
Lg |
G |
W |
L |
W-L% |
| 1973 | Kansas City Royals | AL |
162 |
88 |
74 |
.543 |
| 1974 | Kansas City Royals | AL |
162 |
77 |
85 |
.475 |
| 1975 | Kansas City Royals | AL |
96 |
50 |
46 |
.521 |
| 1977 | Oakland Athletics | AL |
53 |
26 |
27 |
.491 |
| 1978 | Oakland Athletics | AL |
123 |
45 |
78 |
.366 |
| 1988 | San Diego Padres | NL |
115 |
67 |
48 |
.583 |
| 1989 | San Diego Padres | NL |
162 |
89 |
73 |
.549 |
| 1990 | San Diego Padres | NL |
80 |
37 |
43 |
.463 |
| 1997 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
63 |
33 |
30 |
.524 |
| 1998 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
162 |
77 |
85 |
.475 |
| 1999 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
163 |
96 |
67 |
.589 |
| 2000 | Cincinnati Reds | NL |
163 |
85 |
77 |
.525 |
| 2003 | Florida Marlins | NL |
124 |
75 |
49 |
.605 |
| 2004 | Florida Marlins | NL |
162 |
83 |
79 |
.512 |
| 2005 | Florida Marlins | NL |
162 |
83 |
79 |
.512 |
| Kansas City Royals |
420 |
215 |
205 |
.512 |
||
| Oakland Athletics |
176 |
71 |
105 |
.403 |
||
| San Diego Padres |
357 |
193 |
164 |
.541 |
||
| Cincinnati Reds |
551 |
291 |
259 |
.529 |
||
| Florida Marlins |
448 |
241 |
207 |
.538 |
||
|
1952 |
1011 |
940 |
.518 |
McKeon comes with some terrific credentials. He is a two-time National League Manager of the Year, winning the award in 1999 originally with the Reds and again with the Marlins in his championship 2003 season. McKeon has done it all and seen it all. But the question on everyone’s mind is whether he will have a strong impact on the Marlins and turn around their season. From there, the Marlins will need to choose their long-term manager for the 2012 season. There is much discussion and debate surrounding the Marlins, as they complete the 2011 season and move next year to their new stadium and become the “Miami Marlins.”
As much as the Marlins seemed to take a step forward this season as an organization, they are apparently still stuck at square one in some ways. Take their managerial candidates. Back in their last offseason, the Marlins were looking at Bobby Valentine and Ozzie Guillen to become their next manager. Valentine, an analyst with ESPN, could not come to terms with the team and as a result was not hired. The team inquired as well on the availability of Chicago White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen, a former coach with McKeon’s 2003 championship team. When the White Sox required a return of either super prospects Logan Morrison or Mike Stanton, the Marlins said thanks, but no thanks. Edwin Rodriguez ended up receiving the post and did not last even half a season in Florida. With the team in disarray and a fresh voice needed, the Marlins turned to their past in naming Jack McKeon their interim manager for the remainder of the season.
The cigar chomping McKeon, one of the most old-school baseball men you will ever meet, is seen as having a no-nonsense type of approach to the game. As
his first move as manager, McKeon benched franchise superstar Hanley Ramirez yesterday. Reports indicate that tardiness was the cause, while others have viewed the move as a wake-up call for the team. Either way, McKeon has clearly shown that he is in charge and is not prepared to accept the Marlins losing ways. Unfortunately, as the years have progressed, baseball has become more and more of a “young man’s game.” Todays young players, part of the me-first generation, don’t often take kindly to veteran coaches that are seen as being out of touch with today’s times. This was evident before in Florida, where McKeon originally lasted only three seasons. McKeon was seen as a very stern and tough manager and had lost much of the attention of the clubhouse by the end of his tenure. Now the Marlins have gone back to the barrel to see if McKeon has one more strong season of managing in him.
In accepting the Marlins’ position, McKeon has become the second oldest manager in baseball history, just behind Connie Mack. While a great feat for McKeon, it will remain to be seen the impact that he will have on the Marlins 2011 fortunes. My gut is that the Marlins will be lucky to get much more out of the team, even with McKeon in charge. The team is dangerously close to knocking themselves out of contention by the All-Star break and anything short of a miracle at this point will change that. With most MLB teams hiring young, dynamic managers to lead the way, its surprising in some ways that Loria has gone backwards in his approach. But given Loria’s track record, he rarely does anything by the book.
After Jack McKeon completes his second tenure in Florida, the decision will still remain as to whether Bobby Valentine or Ozzie Guillen will be at the helm come 2012. Both are still in contention for the job according to reports, but neither appears in my estimation to be a great fit. Valentine and Guillen are both fiery individuals with strong wills and personalities. After watching the Joe Girardi fiasco in his battles with owner Loria, many managerial candidates have since been scared off from taking the manager’s job with the Marlins. Valentine and Guillen would both have difficult times being placed in a puppet type role as a manager and for that reason, I cannot see a either working out long-term in Florida. Loria would be well served selecting a strong baseball man for the job, but one that has extreme patience and ability to take the directions that would come from the top of the pyramid. Loria has shown in the past to be a man of little patience and self-control when it comes to the personnel of his ball club. If Bobby V or Ozzie do eventually take the job, watch out for the fireworks that will likely come in Miami. While Ozzie is signed for the 2012 season, insiders have indicated that the White Sox may grant permission for the Marlins to speak to him, if the ballclub does not return to contention by season’s end. My bet is that Ozzie will be headed one day to Miami to rejoin the Marlins as their manager. Until then, Jack McKeon will be captain of the Marlins ship.
I guess its true what they say. Everything old really is new again. The magic was there in 2003. Let’s see if the Marlins and McKeon can rekindle some of their spark eight years later.
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2011 MLB All-Star Game Ballots: American League Vote Totals
Tuesday June 14, 2011
MLB reports: In part II of our All-Star game feature, we take a look at the leading vote getters for the American League squad. The MLB All-Star Game is coming up on July 12th from Phoenix, Arizona. With home field advantage on the line, the question every year is whether the American League will continue its domination in the mid-season classic. We might as well call this team the New York Red Sox or Boston Yankees given the current composition of the team. Let’s take a look at the AL vote totals as of today to consider if the fans are getting it right:
CATCHER
Russell Martin, Yankees: 1,712,156
Alex Avila, Tigers: 1,093,070
Joe Mauer, Twins: 1,041,798
Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Red Sox: 763,607
Yorvit Torrealba, Rangers: 751,858
Verdict: Round one goes to the fans as Russell Martin for the most part has been the best catcher in the American League thus far. Coming off an unproductive, injury filled 2010 season, Martin has rebounded to reclaim his all-star status. The 2nd leading vote getter, Alex Avila, has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign and deserves to be up high on the list. From there, the waters get murky. Mauer has been injured all year and Salmatlamacchia has been fairly unproductive for most of the season in Boston. Names like Arencebia and Suzuki should probably be higher up on the list, as much of this list is based on past production and/or popularity vs. actual production. But Martin is in the lead for being the best catcher in the AL, as much as he is a Yankee.
FIRST BASE
Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox: 2,027,537
Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 1,774,024
Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 1,295,547
Mitch Moreland, Rangers: 692,670
Paul Konerko, White Sox: 507,547
Verdict: One of the early season picks for MVP, Gonzalez has been everything that could have been expected and more for Boston. Teixeira and Cabrera have also enjoyed productive campaigns and are rightfully at the top of the voting leader board. A case could be made for any of the three to start at first in Arizona, but A-Gonz has been the best of the bunch and deserves to be at the top. He just happens to play in Boston as well.
SECOND BASE
Robinson Cano, Yankees: 2,649,737
Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 1,518,231
Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 1,129,023
Orlando Cabrera, Indians: 732,308
Ben Zobrist, Rays: 633,533
Verdict: A Yankee in first and a Red Sox player in 2nd in this category. Are we noticing a trend? Based on numbers alone, Cano has been far and away the best second baseman in the American League, if not all of baseball. With almost double the amount of votes compared to Pedroia, fans clearly agree. The list, one through five, appears to be bang-on with listing the top players at the position. The fans got it right yet again.
THIRD BASE
Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 2,063,520
Adrian Beltre, Rangers: 1,752,729
Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox: 1,381,381
Evan Longoria, Rays: 1,226,770
Maicer Izturis, Angels: 364,623
Verdict: This is not your father’s third base and while this group used to be the elite of the league, the numbers are showing otherwise. With Longoria injured for must of the campaign, A-Rod continues to be the leading voting getter with Beltre close behind. I was very surprised to see Longoria as high as 4th, but based on his strong image and popularity, I guess it should have been expected. A-Rod based on the number deserves this spot, but is here as much for his numbers as the fact that he is a Yankee. His position as the top player in the game has clearly been eroding for some time. But for this season at least, A-Rod looks to remain the top third baseman in the American League.
SHORTSTOP
Derek Jeter, Yankees: 1,931,670
Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians: 1,647,802
Elvis Andrus, Rangers: 1,180,962
Yunel Escobar, Blue Jays: 640,395
Jhonny Peralta, Tigers: 540,601
Verdict: Much outcry has been heard over this vote and I will agree. For a player that has given so much to the game, Derek Jeter on the numbers does not deserve to be starting in the All-Star game. Cabrera, Andrus and Escobar have enjoyed very productive seasons for their respective teams and should be ahead of Jeter in the voting. But alas Jeter is Jeter and the fans have chosen the sizzle over the steak in this case. A big double thumbs down here.
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz, Red Sox: 1,974,918
Michael Young, Rangers: 1,428,833
Jorge Posada, Yankees: 810,672
Travis Hafner, Indians: 691,205
Johnny Damon, Rays: 672,529
Verdict: The designated hitter, the who’s-who of players playing out the string in the American League. Despite strong seasons by Young, Hafner and Damon, it is David Ortiz who has been the best DH of 2011 and as a result has a huge lead in the voting. Jorge Posada should be near the bottom of the pack, but sits in third place based on his name and team. Anyone here besides Ortiz would have been an injustice.
OUTFIELD
Jose Bautista, Blue Jays: 3,042,091
Curtis Granderson, Yankees: 2,406,946
Josh Hamilton, Rangers: 1,799,339
Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox: 1,447,715
Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners: 1,231,035
Carl Crawford, Red Sox: 1,222,687
Nelson Cruz, Rangers: 1,123,608
Nick Swisher, Yankees: 937,365
Brett Gardner, Yankees: 796,905
J.D. Drew, Red Sox: 778,871
Jeff Francoeur, Royals: 752,687
Grady Sizemore, Indians: 739,930
Matt Joyce, Rays: 737,377
Shin-Soo Choo, Indians: 642,387
David Murphy, Rangers: 622,160
Verdict: I will give the fans credit. Two out of three ain’t bad. The top two outfielders in the American League have been Bautista and Granderson. They sit one and two in the lead to be the starting outfielders in Arizona. Bravo fans. Bravo. Josh Hamilton though sits in third place over Jacoby Ellsbury. Based on last year’s campaign, Hamilton was a far stronger player than Ellsbury. But this year, Hamilton has missed much of the season due to injury while Ellsbury has rebounded. Despite the heavy Red Sox and Yankees mix in the lineup, I would have awarded Ellsebury the third outfield spot if given the choice between the two. But looking at the rest of the voting list, it is beyond me how Swisher, Gardner, Crawford and Drew are at the voting list. Aside from playing in Boston and New York, these players have done literally nothing to earn their votes. I am impressed to see Francoeur and Joyce with strong vote totals, proving that smaller names in even smaller markets can still be rewarded for strong play. Ichiro is also on the list despite one of his worst campaigns ever. Where I ask is Carlos Quentin, one of the top hitters this year in the American League? Playing for a poor White Sox team with little attention this year. King Carlos should be starting, but the popularity contest unfortunately did him in.
If the voting for the American League All-Star team ended today, 7/9 of the starting lineup would be made up of Red Sox and Yankees players. While most of the players deserve their positions based on the numbers, it would be curious to see what would happen if those same players were on different teams. But then if those players were on different teams, they may not end up with the same high numbers they are producing. Very perplexing. It would be nice to have greater balance in the voting to include more players from other squads. But when players like Russell Martin, David Ortiz and Curtis Granderson stand out so far from the crowd, they should be voted in regardless of the city they play in. While the bias of fans then results in Derek Jeter starting and inferior players like Drew and Swisher receiving high vote totals, looking at the lineups overall, the fans for the most part got it right. For those critics that do not agree, the best argument is get as many fans from other cities to vote on-line and at the games to make a difference. But the fans have spoken and we look forward to watching the New York Red Sox take on the National League All-Star team in Arizona on July 12th.
Please click here to read yesterday’s NL All-Star team preview.
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2011 MLB All-Star Game Ballots: National League Vote Totals
Monday June 13, 2011
MLB reports: The MLB All-Star Game is coming up on July 12th from Phoenix, Arizona. With home field advantage on the line, fans literally start debating in April who should appear as the “best of the best” representatives for each league. With the American League dominating the All-Star game for so many years, I decided to start with the NL and find out who are the current vote leaders. Looking at the fan votes, the arguments center on whether the most deserving or most popular players end up being voted in. Some people question on whether first-half stats weigh too much in the voting, as the previous year’s body of work should possibly be factored in more. Home parks are also considered, given that teams that have high attendance rates will often see sharp spikes in All-Star Game votes for its players. Let’s take a look at the NL vote totals as of today to consider if the fans are getting it right:
CATCHER
Brian McCann, Braves: 1,646,822
Yadier Molina, Cardinals: 1,345,260
Buster Posey, Giants: 1,309,521
Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers: 807,588
Carlos Ruiz, Phillies: 797,450
Verdict: McCann is the best catcher in the NL, if not all of baseball. His numbers have been consistently there throughout the years and 2011 has been no different. Bravo to the fans, they scored well in the first position reviewed. Posey, despite his season ending surgery, is still sitting at 3rd. Surprising is that Lucroy is in 4th place, showing that Brewers fans know how to vote for their own. With such a void of quality catchers behind McCann and Molina though, it is apparent based on the vote totals that the NL catching situation needs an influx of new talent soon.
FIRST BASE
Albert Pujols, Cardinals: 2,081,590
Joey Votto, Reds: 1,773,348
Prince Fielder, Brewers: 1,371,296
Ryan Howard, Phillies: 1,109,487
Freddie Freeman, Braves: 457,926
Verdict: Always the most debated position, 2011 is no different for the NL first basemen. Albert Pujols is the 2nd highest vote getting in the NL and based on his past track history, deserves it. Many others at his position have had stronger seasons, including Votto and Fielder. Based on numbers alone, including this year and 2010, Votto should be leading the votes at first base and should have the highest totals of any player overall in the NL. This vote shows how much the All-Star Game is a popularity contest, as Fielder is over 700k votes behind Pujols at this point. Albert Pujols is a solid player and an All-Star, but not the best player at his position at this point in his career. Votto’s time will come, but not this year according to the fan. Thumbs down from this analyst.
SECOND BASE
Brandon Phillips, Reds: 1,754,872
Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 1,461,383
Chase Utley, Phillies: 1,281,190
Dan Uggla, Braves: 833,610
Freddy Sanchez, Giants: 791,457
Verdict: The best way that I can describe the second base vote situation is a “mess”. Utley has been injured for most of the year, Uggla has slumped all year and Sanchez is injured again, likely gone for the year. Yet these three players consist 3/5 of the top vote getting at second base. Phillips and Weeks are neck-in-neck for top spot. Based on numbers alone, I think Weeks should have a higher total. But a strong case can be made for Brandon Phillips, who has been very consistent for years. Again a fairly feeble crop of players overall to choose from, but the fans did not make a bad choice with their top two choices. One thumb up here as Phillips is a good choice, but not the best selection.
THIRD BASE
Placido Polanco, Phillies: 1,822,129
Chipper Jones, Braves: 1,197,332
Pablo Sandoval, Giants: 1,029,380
David Wright, Mets: 934,636
Scott Rolen, Reds: 824,656
Verdict: One word: huh? Is the NL third base crop this weak? I hate…no, loathe this top-five list. Between slumping and injured players, I don’t see an all-star in the bunch. But with Zimmerman injured, Aramis slowing down, Alvarez developing…there really isn’t much to choose from here. Pick your poison in this case but based on track history alone, I could have seen Wright easily taken here. Polanco is on top mainly based on Philadelphia Popularity. While a .300 average is nice, Polanco is steady but not a superstar. The All-Star Game is meant for the games elite players and Placido is not it. Another thumbs down.
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 1,828,509
Jose Reyes, Mets: 1,241,553
Jimmy Rollins, Phillies: 999,537
Alex Gonzalez, Braves: 744,786
Stephen Drew, D-backs: 639,204
Verdict: An extremely difficult decision for the fans to choose their NL starting shortstop. Jose Reyes has been one of the best players in baseball this year, but has battled injuries and inconsistency for the last couple of seasons. Troy Tulowitzki on the other hand has been one of the steadiest shortstops in the game, when healthy. Tulo has shown better health and far better consistency than Reyes and deserves the nod in the category. Kudos to the fans. Kudos.
OUTFIELD
Ryan Braun, Brewers: 2,230,505
Lance Berkman, Cardinals: 1,878,314
Matt Holliday, Cardinals: 1,855,416
Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 1,468,537
Matt Kemp, Dodgers: 1,372,804
Jay Bruce, Reds: 1,201,224
Shane Victorino, Phillies: 1,001,749
Jason Heyward, Braves: 883,068
Carlos Beltran, Mets: 875,339
Justin Upton, D-backs: 719,937
Raul Ibanez, Phillies: 712,577
Martin Prado, Braves: 676,791
Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies: 674,282
Corey Hart, Brewers: 652,737
Alfonso Soriano, Cubs: 649,093
Verdict: The criteria for All-Star voting has its greatest upheaval in the last position: the outfield. Lance Berkman, the 2nd highest recipient of votes in the position has been one of the best hitters in the NL for years. But last year Berkman had some very pedestrian numbers, to the point that some questioned how much he had left in the tank. The same goes with Carlos Beltran at #9, who was injured for so long that many expected him to never return. While Beltran has displayed a strong comeback, it is debatable if he is worthy of being an all-star. Matt Holliday has been an excellent player for years, but missed much of the 2011 campaign with an appendectomy. Yet Holliday sits as the #3 vote getting in the NL outfield voting. Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp have both excelled this year in Los Angeles, yet are only the #4 and #5 vote getter. Having Ryan Braun at the top spot is undisputable. The man has done it for years and deserves to be the king of the castle. I may not agree but respect Berkman getting a starting spot. But Matt Kemp should be starting in Arizona and is not even the highest vote getter on his own team in the outfield. Two thumbs up for Braun, one thumb up for Berkman and two thumbs down for Holliday. Digging further, the level of votes for the often-injured Heyward, decent Victorino and declining Ibanez are signs of voting popularity by the fans, not a reward for production by the players.
Overall, we found that the fans made decent selections in voting for its NL all-stars. But with better options on the board, it appears that in too many cases the local hero won out over more deserving players. Also, the 2011 statistics often weighed heavily in favor of the voting, ahead of the total body of work of a player including the previous year’s worth of statistics. Looking at the current vote leaders in the National League, I would give one thumb up and the other thumb down. In tomorrow’s edition of the Reports, we will review the American League Vote totals and analyze the projected All-Star Game starters. All coming up, stay tuned!
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Expanding and Changing the MLB Playoffs: Time to Add More Wild Card Teams
Thursday June 9, 2011
MLB reports: Ever since the players’ strike of 1994 and ensuing realignment of baseball and expanded playoff format (implemented as of 1995), continual debates have raged in baseball circles as to the next round of changes. With everyone still talking today on the topic of wild cards and expanding the MLB playoffs, MLB reports is ready to take this topic head on to find the solution.
MLB realignment was already covered by us in a recent feature. After 16 seasons under the current format, clearly changes are needed. Our realignment post was just the beginning of the long process to reform and revitalize Major League Baseball. The next step is expanding the amount of wild card teams and changing parts of the MLB playoffs format which will be discussed today. From there, expansion is required to produce 32 total teams, 16 per division which will be covered on MLB reports on another day. Stay tuned.
The current MLB playoffs structure essentially looks like this:
-
Eight total teams make the playoffs
-
Four teams per league
-
One wild card team per league
-
The Division Series (ALCS and NLCS) is a best of five games format
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The winners from the ALCS and NLCS advance to the League Championship Series (ALCS and NLCS)
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The ALCS and NLCS are both a best of seven games series, winner of each advance to the World Series
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World Series is a best of seven, home field based on winner of All Star Game
As part of revamping the system, it is apparent from whispers around baseball that two more wild card teams are about to be added to the mix. As a result there will now be ten total teams that make the playoffs, five per league. Taking the home field talk out of the equation, which is an article in itself, the issue today is the number of teams to make the playoffs and the best format for each playoff series.
I am writing today’s article from a realistic point of view. When I discussed
realignment a couple of weeks back, it was from a hopeful and practical standpoint, but with the idea that baseball would be unlikely to accept most of my changes. For a game known for its long-standing traditions, the winds of change blow very slowly through baseball. I am presenting the revamped playoffs with the idea that Major League Baseball will not change too much. While it would be nice to have anywhere for 12-16 teams to make the playoffs according to some fans and analysts, the chances of that happening are close to nil. It was a big change to add the two wild card teams back in 1994 and only two more wild card teams will be added in the next year or so at most. Period. There are some that may want more, but it will not happen.
On the same token, the best of five vs. seven game series debating is raging as well. Some people do not agree with the short five games series in the opening round, as it creates a scenario whereby a top team can be bounced early without the ability to play a full seven games series. This topic will be addressed, but we will have to assume that likely the opening rounds will remain a best of five games series and only the League Championship and World Series would be a best of seven games series. Again this may not be the best option for all, but it is what it is and baseball is unlikely to bend on this as well.
The last point to make before going through my playoff scenarios is the home field advantage debate, specifically awarding it based on the All Star game outcome. Most traditionalists, yours truly included, despise this format. The best team in baseball should be rewarded for a seasons worth of games played and not have home field determined based on the results of a high-profile exhibition game. After the All-Star game finished in a tie in Milwaukee during the 2002 season, baseball was left with egg on its face and scrambled to give the game more meaning. The decision to award the World Series home advantage based on the winner of the All Star game has been argued by many to have failed to give the All Star game more meaning. But assuming that this format stays in place, an injustice to the teams that finish with better records after season’s end will remain.
In adding two more wild card teams, an additional round of the playoffs will go into effect. The opening round, which we can call the wild card round for simplicity, will have the two wild card teams in each league face-off (most likely a best of five). The winner of the wild card round will advance to the Division Series. From there, the current playoff format would remain in place, with the best of five games Division Series leading to the League Championship and World Series. Part of me is inclined to allow the top seeded team in each league to have an automatic bye into the League Championship Series, with the wild card teams facing off in the Division Series and the 2nd and 3rd seeded teams in each league facing off as well in the Division Series. Allowing each top seed to have a bye directly into the League Championship would reward the highest winning team in each league. But issues would arise, including arguments that two byes for each top team would be too great of a reward and how to determine if there are ties for the top record in each league.
As a result, to keep things simple, baseball will simply have to institute a 4th
round of playoffs. In my estimation, the Wild Card Round can be a best of five games, with every other round moving to a best of seven. While baseball unfortunately will likely keep the division series as a best of five games, a move to a best of seven would create more balance in making sure that the true “top” teams advance. Major League Baseball will still have to consider a way to reward the top winning team in each league eventually and that will likely be by creating a first-round bye in a further expanded playoff format, when more wild card teams are added. But until that time, the top winning teams will simply have to enjoy home field advantage. That advantage should continue right into the World Series and it is the hope of this analyst that baseball will realize that one day.
So as we head into another new world of baseball changes, I can’t foresee that the game as we know it today will get completely blown up and redone. Even though the game may need more fine tuning, most changes will come along very slowly. The expanding of the playoffs will be a good thing ultimately for the game, as each team plays a whopping 162 regular season games plus spring training and more teams deserve to be rewarded with playoff berths. An expanded playofs will give teams a better chance to make the playoffs and increase the number of cities and fans involved in the playoff races come September. Adding two more wild card teams is the next logical step and it looks like it will go into effect as soon as 2012. With so many of the other major sports in turmoil, it is good to see baseball alive and healthier than ever. It looks like Major League Baseball has learned its lessons after 1994. Hopefully the game will only continue to move forward and cement itself once again as the greatest sport in the world.
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Revisiting: Brett Wallace, Matt Holliday, Michael Taylor, Anthony Gose: 4 Players, 4 Teams, 3 Trades
Tuesday May 31, 2011
MLB reports: Brett Wallace has experienced a baseball odyssey like few others ever have. Drafted twice, traded three times and playing in 4 different baseball organizations before his 25th birthday. The man with the golden bat, Wallace has been coveted by many MLB teams yet somehow managed to move in three separate transactions over his short career. Usually in these scenarios, we would consider the player to be more of a role type player and not likely to be a superstar in the making. But considering the players and transactions involved, it is clear that Wallace has been in demand all along. Now finally entrenched in Houston and playing every day in the big leagues, Wallace is finally fulfilling his early promise and making a name for himself as a future All-Star and possibly batting champion in the National League.
Wallace first hit our radars in 2005 when the Toronto Blue Jays drafted him in the 42nd round. Unable to sign him, Wallace went on to start playing college ball for Arizona State University. From there, Wallace blossomed into a 1st round pick, 13th overall for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008. Playing in the Cardinals minor league system at third base, Wallace was touted as the next Cards superstar hitter in the making. With Pujols entrenched at 1st base and up-and-coming slugger Colby Rasmus also in the picture, the Cardinals appeared to be set offensively for years to come.
The plan was changed on July 24, 2009, where the Cardinals making a playoff push, traded Wallace to the Oakland Athletics with Shane Peterson and Clayton Mortensen for slugging outfielder Matt Holliday. The plan worked as the Cardinals were able to make the playoffs and proceeded to sign Holliday to a long-term deal as protection in the lineup for their main superstar, Albert Pujols. Wallace, played out the season in the A’s organization and the debate started as to whether his long-term future was at third or first base.
Part of the mystery Wallace was solved as Toronto finally landed its prized target on December 15, 2009. As part of the Roy Halladay swap, the Jays acquired outfielder Michael Taylor from Philadelphia. One quick transaction later, Alex Anthopoulos and Billy Beane followed through on a Taylor for Wallace trade. Wallace was moved permanently to first base with an eye towards joining the Blue Jays as their new first baseman by 2011. Or so we all thought. As Alex Anthopoulos started to show the baseball world, he was not afraid to make multiple trades to get the players he wanted.
The Houston Astros in mid-2010 finally started their fire sale. Franchise player Lance Berkman was traded to the New York Yankees and ace pitcher Roy Oswalt was moved to Philadelphia. As part of the Oswalt trade, the Astros received young speedster outfielder Anthony Gose. The Gose acquisition actually led to two further moves. The Jays apparently were keen on Gose for sometime and were unsuccessful in originally prying him away from the Phillies in the Halladay deal. The Astros with this knowledge, were able to trade away Berkman knowing that his replacement would come from Toronto if Gose would be a part of the equation. Trade #3 was then consummated and Wallace found a home in Houston.
Sitting 1/3 of the way into the 2011 season, it is time to look at all four players involved in the three Wallace transactions and get a glimpse as to how each is performing. In the process, it is interesting to note which teams ended up benefitting from being a part of each Wallace trade. Let’s look deeper into the numbers of Brett Wallace and the Astros, Michael Taylor and the Athletics, Anthony Gose and the Jays, and Matt Holliday and the Cardinals.
Brett Wallace – Astros
So far, so good for the young Astros slugger. Having made the team out of spring training, Wallace currently has a .308 AVG, .379 OBP, .442 SLG, 19/39 BB/K, 3 home runs, 22 runs and 16 RBIs. For a young team in need of offense, the Astros could not ask more from Wallace. For a kid that always known to be able to hit, the numbers back up the hype. Having watched him play this year live, I can attest that he plays a fairly solid first base defensively as well. With the Astros now having their future cleanup hitter getting his feet wet in the majors, they look to have benefitted as a team by acquiring Wallace.
Matt Holliday – Cardinals
Despite paying a heavy price to acquire Holliday in the first place, one cannot argue with the results. A contending team that has made the playoffs with him on its roster, the Cardinals have been a better team with Matt Holliday. Since joining the Cardinals, Holliday has since 2009 had an OPS each year of 1.023, .922 and .981. Holliday hit 13 home runs in 63 games in 2009 and 28 home runs last year. As Pujols protection, the Cardinals were able to sign Holliday to a long-term contract and bring stability to its lineup and clubhouse. If the Cardinals had not traded for Holliday, he would have not as likely signed with the team as a free agent as his time playing in St. Louis played a large role in his decision to sign. The other components of the trade, Peterson and Mortensen turned into expandable spare parts, role players at best. While the Cardinals could have used Wallace’s bat, there was no room for him at first base and his glove did not project to allow him to stay at third. The trade turned into a good win for the Cardinals, as strong of a return as the team could have ever expected.
Anthony Gose- Blue Jays
Once we get past Wallace and Holliday, the return on the last 2 Wallace trades still remain relatively unknown. We start with Anthony Gose of the Jays. Seen as a strong defensive player and future stolen base champion, the Jays acquired a player known more for tools over the refined and polished bat of Wallace. So far in 2011, the 20-year old Gose at the advanced AA level has held his own, with a .272 AVG, .375 OBP, .391 SLG, 4 home runs, 22 RBIs, 33 runs, 27/41 BB/K ratio. Having stolen 76 bases in 2009 in the minors, speed is clearly a big part of Gose’s game. On the season, Gose already been successful 22/27 times on stolen base attempts. With Adam Lind entrenched as the new first baseman for the Jays, the team appeared to have indicated by trading Wallace that there was no room for Wallace and that the potential of Gose had a higher value to the team. With the Jays offense being up and down all year, I think the bat of Wallace rotating through first and DH would have been very useful for the team. Time will tell on this swap, but at the moment all the Jays have is potential and hype in Anthony Gose while the Astros have defined production from Wallace. Until proven otherwise, the Astros have the advantage over the Jays in the last Wallace swap.
Michael Taylor- Athletics
The last player to be reviewed is Michael Taylor of the A’s. A highly considered outfielder once upon a time in the Phillies system, some analysts rated Taylor higher than current Phillies prospect Domonic Brown. Since joining the A’s organization, Taylor has been sidelined by injuries and has not been able to fully get himself on track. In 2010, Taylor hit .272 in AAA with 6 home runs and 16 stolen bases in 127 games played. This year, Taylor has only played 15 games with 1 home run, but has hit .333 with a .795 OPS. The potential is still there for Taylor but at 25 and in his second full season at AAA for Oakland, Taylor will have to produce to justify the A’s swap of Wallace for him. Considering that the Athletics have one of the worst offenses in baseball and could desperately use Wallace’s bat in their lineup, it is clear that the A’s came up with the shortest end of the stick, so to speak, among all the teams involved in the Wallace swaps. Considering the price that the A’s paid to get Holliday originally, including Carlos Gonzalez and Houston Street, losing Wallace and having Taylor stuck in AAA makes all of their trades look even worse. I still hold out h0pe for Taylor, but another lost year could result in a required change of scenery for him.
It will be interesting to catch up with Wallace, Gose, Holliday and Taylor in another year and then five years from now and see the stage of each player’s career at that time. Wallace and Holliday should still be proven commodities. It will be Gose and Taylor as the wild cards that will either blossom or fail as prospects. The future is bright and still unknown for both of these players. Until then, we will continue to enjoy watching Brett Wallace as he continues to develop as a player in Houston.
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Wilpon Sells Minority Share in Mets to Einhorn, Not Seinfeld
Thursday May 26, 2011
MLB reports: The seemingly never-ending circus that is the New York Mets took another turn today, as the team announced that it has sold a minority stake in the ball club to hedge fund manager, David Einhorn. The amount of interest sold in the team is not yet known, but the price tag on the purchase has been set at $200,000,000.00. A nice chunk of change for a team that has indicated it would be losing up to $70 million this year alone. The money according to owner Fred Wilpon would be used towards the payment of debts and expenses of the team. In essence, a short-term attempt to stop the bleeding.
The 42-year-old Einhorn is an interesting choice as a partial owner of the team. 
Growing up in New Jersey, Einhorn was a Mets fan and has come home so to speak. Ironically, Einhorn moved to Milwaukee as a kid and actually grew up next door to Bud Selig. With the deal apparently a commissioner rubber stamp away from approval by MLB, the connection between the new owner and the MLB commissioner should mean a quick process. Knowing Selig well should integrate Einhorn quickly into the “old boys club” so to speak as a partial owner of a major league baseball team. Knowing the city and growing up a fan of the Mets, the hope is that Einhorn can use his financial knowledge and passion for the team to build a financially viable contender.
As a limited partner, it is unclear if Einhorn will have any say or control over the team. Fred Wilpon has indicated that the investment is limited and does not include any control stake in the team. But with a team valued at approximately $747 million by Forbes, we can assume that Einhorn purchased approximately 20-25% in the Mets. If Wilpon continues to falter financially, one would assume that Einhorn would have first right to purchase an additional interest in the team. If Einhorn does become a great stakeholder in the team, the issue will become if he will do everything that it takes to make the Mets a winner, or keep a strong eye on the bottom line. Einhorn made his money by being a strong manager of money as the President of the investment firm Greenhouse Capital, Inc. The long-term implications of the sale are not yet known, but this could be a start of a bright road for the Mets depending on Einhorn’s intentions.
So what is the connection to Jerry Seinfeld you ask? Before the Einhorn announcement, Seinfeld was my choice to become the new minority owner of the Mets. With a net worth close to $800 million, Seinfeld has the money and credibility to join the sports ownership business. A life-long Mets fan, as evidenced by his hit television sitcom, Seinfeld would have become the perfect fit. A celebrity in the ranks to take the spotlight away from the troubles of the Mets and allow the fans to get excited about its ball team again. However, from all accounts that I have read, Seinfeld does not have any interest to purchase a sports team. A deeply private person by nature, Seinfeld does not want to consistently be before the press and the responsibilities that go along with becoming an owner in the Mets. Sports ownership is also not always the best financial investment and that appears to have factored into Seinfeld’s decision as well.
Finally, Fred Wilpon is a person that enjoys the spotlight and more than likely would not have enjoyed the attention being shifted away from him to the celebrity Seinfeld. However, given the scandals and turmoil that has plagued the Mets recently, having Jerry Seinfeld as a partner may have been the best cure for Wilpon. But as it stands today, it appears that the Mets have a new minority owner in David Einhorn. Hopefully the new owner brings luck and fortune to a team that desperately can use any help that it can get.
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Part II: Wilpon, Mets, Madoff and Scandals
Tuesday May 24, 2011
MLB reports: In yesterday’s report on the Mets, we took a look at the New Yorker interview that was just released with Mets owner Fred Wilpon. After making many comments on the state of his team and star players, Wilpon by not hold backing is now facing the wrath of theNew York fans and media. The best comparison that I can make is the John Rocker interview with SI, a no-holds barred discussion that left Rocker’s career in the dust and from which he never recovered. Please click here to view yesterday’s post if you missed it to read the quoted damaging words uttered by Wilpon that have tarnished himself and his team. It will give you as the readers a sense of the controversy in place and what has led to the continuing events surrounding the Mets on a now daily basis.
From the aftermath of yesterday’s media storm, some new comments and developments have emerged. Firstly, son Jeff Wilpon, the Chief Operating Officer of the Mets, has apparently sat down with some of the named players from his dad’s interview to help “clear the air.” Given that the elder Wilpon is responsible for the war of words, it is a shame and disappointing that his son was sent in to clean up his mess and attempt damage control. The offended players would likely have had more respect for Fred Wilpon if he had faced them personally and come clean with his errors. It seems that Fred Wilpon will never learn and he continues to dig a deeper hole for himself and one that he likely will not be able to escape at this point.
The first player response to the Wilpon interview came from Mike Pelfrey. The baseball world was unsure as to how the players on the team would react to their owner’s disparaging remarks. In true tongue-in-cheek fashion, Pelfrey became the darling of the media and Mets fans by having the following to say about Wilpon:
“I think guys will be upset,” pitcher Mike Pelfrey said. “But we’re all a family: ownership, coaches and players. Sometimes people say things they regret. It’s a mistake and you learn from it. Maybe next spring when we have our media workshop for the players, Fred can come and sit in on it.”
I do not expect Pelfrey to receive any reprimands from his team for his statements. While it would be fitting to hear how the other Mets players feel about Wilpon’s interview, most will likely remain neutral or keep their opinions to themselves. While most of the Mets players are likely insulted and hurt by Fred Wilpon’s statements, the players likely only want a resolution and the ability to play ball and have a winning team at the end of the day.
Another story emerging from the Mets is another Bernie Madoff side
note. Last week, a story emerged that Bobby Bonilla, a former Mets player, is being paid by the Mets starting this year $1.2 million for the next 25 years. The story is that the Mets chose this delayed compensation plan over paying Bonilla a lump sum $5.9 million dollars for the 2000 season. By delaying the payment, the Mets in essence are paying Bonilla $29.8 million for a $5.9 million lump sum payment, abased on an 8% interest rate paid (a nice investment for Bonilla indeed). The math is mind-blowing and critics have been blasting the team for such poor financial decision making. Well, according to SI, the Mets at the time of making the decision turned to Bernie Madoff to help them plan how to get rid of the malcontent Bonilla after the 1999 season. Rather than releasing the player and paying the remaining money owed to him, the Mets created the delayed payment plan on the basis that Madoff would invest the Bonilla money with an expected rate of return between 10-12%. Now the Mets likely have lost the invested money due to Madoff’s actions and are on the hook for the Bonilla debt that will haunt the team financially for the next 25 years. Similar deals were struck with former pitchers Bret Saberhagen and Tom Glavine, which will hurt the team’s future payrolls as well.
Wilpon Gate is far from over and after the Madoff financial scandal and the New Yorker interview, we will continue to hear about Fred Wilpon for the next few coming weeks and likely months. Wilpon is on record to trying to sell 49% of the stake in his team but based on his shaky financial and credibility standing, the state and ownership of the Mets will be in flux until a final resolution can be arrived at. Until then, expect rumors and stories to continue to circle the team in a circus-like atmosphere. With the both the Mets and Dodgers in crisis mode, it is up to Bud Selig and Major League Baseball to step in and stabilize two of the leagues historical and proudest franchises. Successful and productive teams in Los Angeles and New York is what baseball fans expect and deserve. The challenge is out to Major League Baseball: my hope is that they can hit a home run in both cases.
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Wilpon and the Mets: The Scandals Continue
Monday May 23, 2011
MLB reports: As if the New York Mets have not faced enough issues during the past few seasons, owner Fred Wilpon has brought the team’s troubles to the media forefront again. The laughing stock of baseball, only the Dodgers and the McCourt divorce rival the embarrassment of the once proud franchise. In a John Rocker type interview as given to Sports Illustrated in December of 1999, Fred Wilpon recently spoke extensively with The New Yorker. In a no-holds barred interview, Wilpon lashed out at anyone and everyone associated with his team. I could only describe the piece as the final nail in the coffin, as Wilpon is about to receive a backlash from the Mets media, fans and major league baseball that he likely never expected. As the Mets attempted to recover from the Madoff scandal and sell a portion of the team to save itself financially, the Mets are back in the news for all the wrong reasons. What you are about to read is going to shock you.
On Carlos Beltran, who starred for Houston in the 2004 playoffs before signing a seven-year, $119 million deal with the Mets: We had some dummy in New York, Wilpon says, referring to himself, “who paid him based on that one series. He’s 65 to 70 percent of what he was.”
On Jose Reyes, the often-injured shortstop with an expiring contract: “He thinks he’s going to get Carl Crawford money. He’s had everything wrong with him. He won’t get it.”
As the game progresses during the interview, a Mets rally expires, during which Wilpon refers to his team with an expletive and, again, with the word lousy. He says the team is “snakebitten” and essentially agrees when Toobin suggests the Mets could be cursed. “He gave sort of a half laugh,” Toobin writes, “and said, ‘You mean’ — and then pantomimed a checked swing of the bat.”
“He’s happiest when he’s talking baseball, arguing about baseball,” Omar Minaya, whom the Wilpons fired as the team’s general manager after last season, told me. “I always felt best when we were arguing over a player and Fred would say, ‘Omar, you’re full of s***'”.
Ike Davis, the sophomore first baseman and the one pleasant surprise for the Mets so far this season, was up next. “Good hitter,” Wilpon said. “S****y team—good hitter.” Davis struck out. Angel Pagan flied out to right, ending the Mets’ threat. “Lousy clubs—that’s what happens.” Wilpon sighed. The Astros put three runs on the board in the top of the second. “We’re snakebitten, baby,” Wilpon said.
And Wilpon has now suggested that he may be willing to sell up to forty-nine per cent of the team. The combination of his financial troubles and the value of
the Mets—perhaps more than a billion dollars—has driven speculation that he will have to surrender control of the team.
The first day the architects came to the site, they started saying blah, blah, blah, and I said to them, ‘Let me tell you how this is going to work,’ ” Wilpon told me recently. “ ‘The front of the building is going to look like Ebbets Field. And it’s going to have a rotunda—just like at Ebbets.’ And then I said, ‘Guess what. Here are the plans for Ebbets Field.’ And I handed them over.”
To read the entire Wilpon profile in the New York, click here. If you are a Mets fan, detractor or a general follower of baseball, you won’t want to miss this one. In this day and age of history and instant media, you think that people would learn to be smarter and conduct themselves in the best possible manner. For a man that has lost much of his fortune and jumps from one scandal to another, Fred Wilpon does not appear to have learnt his lesson. After this latest episode, the book may be finally closed on the man who will go down in history for almost destroying the Mets franchise and setting the team back as a result.
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Pitching Keeps Tribe Alive
Sunday May 22, 2011
On the Reports, we will be occasionally featuring an up-and-coming baseball writer that has come to our attention and share their work with you, the readers. Part of our mandate at MLB reports is to provide the best baseball coverage and analysis in the business. MLB reports ultimately is designed to expose our readers to the world of baseball and the stories, facts, insights and profiles behind it. In order to meet this goal, we would like to give exciting young writers the chance to showcase their talents and provide a fresh pool of ideas to our site. In today’s premier feature, we are excited to have Shane Miller as our first guest writer with his post on the Cleveland Indians. Shane’s topic was to discuss the start of the Indians season and to review the success behind it. The direction and focus of the story was up to our writer and in today’s feature, Shane takes a look at the Indians and the pitching that has been the core of the team’s success in 2011. Enjoy!
Shane Miller (Guest Writer for MLB Reports): As the second month of the Major League baseball season is coming to an end, the Cleveland Indians to many baseball fans surprise still sit atop the American League Central division.
Well today I am here to discuss how the Indians have managed to lead the AL Central for the first two months of the season. My observation has been that pitching has been the main component to their early season success. As part of this article, I will be discussing the Indians pitching staff and how they have led their team to success beyond the wildest dreams of most baseball observers.
Pitching without a doubt has been the ultimate key to the Tribe’s early season success. The Indians pitching staff has the second best ERA in the American League at 3.45 and have managed to keep the ball in the park by giving up the third fewest home runs in the AL by only giving up 28 home runs on the season. Also the Indians have also been successful in keeping runners off the base paths giving up the second fewest walks in the AL at 127. A pitching staff that manages to keeps its walks and runs down will in most cases be successful and the Indians pitching staff of 2011 is proof that good pitching is the backbone of a winning baseball club.
A great deal of credit is due to manager Manny Acta, who has done a wonderful job with all the young pitchers he manages on the Indians. Cleveland also happens to boast one of the youngest, if not the youngest starting rotations in major league baseball.
Fausto Carmona, Carlos Carrasco, Justin Masterson, Josh Tomlin and rookie Alex White make up the Cleveland Indians starting rotation. On paper, not much was expected of the Indians starting five going into the season. But success is contagious and as the season has progressed, the pitchers that few in baseball gave much credit have proven that they are for real. The fans in Cleveland are getting excited about their Indians and the team starts and ends with its rotation.
As the newly anointed staff ace, 26-year-old Justin Masterson is enjoying a break out season. So far Masterson is 5-2 with a 2.52 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 48 strike outs and 19 walks in 60.2 innings pitched. Masterson has done an excellent job this season in keeping the free passes to a minimum and keeping the ball in the park by only allowing one home run all year. At his current pace, Masterson is a likely 2011 all-star candidate and is finally fulfilling the hype that surrounded him from the time he came up with Boston as a rookie.
Tomlin is another pitcher who is not getting enough recognition for the amazing season he has put together so far in Cleveland. Looking at Tomlin’s stats, he is 5-1 with a 2.56 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, with 27 strike outs and nine walks in 52.2 innings pitched. The only red flag that I could find with Tomlin is that he has given up eight home runs this season. The number of long balls needs to go down as he only gave up 10 home runs in 73 innings pitched last season.
Another starter of note, the rookie White has pitched very good so far this season in the three games that he has started. White has compiled a record of 1-0, 3.60 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 13 strike outs and nine walks in 15 innings pitched. Like I indicated with Tomlin, White also has an issue with long balls by giving up three home runs in 15 innings pitched so far. This means that White is averaging a home run every five innings pitched. In my opinion, if White can keep the ball in the park he will one day become an outstanding pitcher. (*Editor’s note: at time of publishing White has been placed on the DL by the Indians with a finger injury. While the severity is unknown, White could be lost for the season by the Indians. As adversity tests character, the Indians rotation will be put to the test if White is lost to the team for any kind of extended period.*)
With two of the five starting pitchers for the Indians enjoying breakout seasons and a rookie putting up great numbers in three starts, no wonder the Indians are in first place and have a record of 27-15. The Indians bullpen has also been another source of strength of the Indians team overall. The Indians bullpen is made up of Frank Herrmann, Joe Smith, Vinne Pestano, Tony Sipp, Chad Durbin, Rafael Perez and closer Chris Perez. While again unimpressive on paper to start the year, the Indians relief corps has been lights out all year and one of the best in the game.
The closer, Chris Perez has been very good for the Tribe this season, going 2-1 with a 3.00 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 11 saves, 11 strike outs and 10 walks in 18 innings pitched. The walk totals are very high and if Perez wishes to remain a closer long-term he needs to cut down on those walks. He is currently averaging six walks per nine innings and that needs to be at least cut in half for him to be able to remain successful.
The setup man Rafael Perez has been astounding this season with a record of 2-1 with a 1.20 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 11 strike outs and six walks in 15 innings pitched. Rafael is one of the reasons why Cleveland has one of the best bullpens in the MLB and is sneaking up behind Chris Perez to one day take the closers role away from him. If Rafael can continue pitching like he has this season, he could definitely be the closer by season’s end if and when Chris falters. Rookie middle reliever Pestano is also having a great year in the Indians pen with a 1-0 record, 1.65 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, 18 strike outs and six walks in 16.1 innings pitched. Pestano has been amazing this year with a very strong 9.9 strike outs per nine innings.
Pestano has done an excellent job in limiting walks and home runs given up and has only allowed three earned runs all season. The Indians obviously have amazing pitching from the starting rotation all the way to the deepest part of their bullpen. Without some of these rookie standouts or career years the Indians might not be in this position to possibly contend in historically one of the deepest divisions in baseball. Time will tell where this team is headed but if the start of the year is any indication, the Indians will be players in the AL Central in 2011 and possibly for many years to come.
***Thank you to Shane Miller for preparing today’s article on the Indians. You can follow Shane on Twitter.***
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MLB Realignment Proposal: Time to Overhaul the Divisions
Thursday May 19, 2011
MLB reports: Looking at today’s divisions in baseball, the setup to me does not make sense. From a geographical and competitive standpoint, the current six divisions in baseball appear to exist without much of a foundation or reason. After years of watching baseball in its present day form, I believe that it is time for a change. As a disclaimer, I will warn that this article is not about expanding or changing the playoff format, the unbalanced schedule within divisional matchups and revamping interleague play. While all these items are worth discussing, they will need to be put on the back-burner for a different day. For now, the focus is on the division setup and the new MLB divisions as proposed by MLB reports.
In order to create a new structure, we need to look at the recent history of the divisions in major league baseball to understand how we got to the current structure. Not too long ago, the American League and National league were broken up into two divisions apiece: the East and the West. Each league was stocked as follows:
American League East
Baltimore Orioles
Boston Red Sox
Cleveland Indians
Detroit Tigers
Milwaukee Brewers
New York Yankees
Toronto Blue Jays
American League West
California Angels
Chicago White Sox
Kansas City Royals
Minnesota Twins
Oakland Athletics
Seattle Mariners
Texas Rangers
National League East
Chicago Cubs
Montreal Expos
New York Mets
Philadelphia Phillies
Pittsburgh Pirates
St. Louis Cardinals
National League West
Atlanta Braves
Cincinnati Reds
Houston Astros
Los Angeles Dodgers
San Diego Padres
San Francisco Giants
There were four divisions in total. When the playoffs rolled around, the leaders of the East and West in each league faced-off and the winners met in the World Series. A system that had its flaws, but the majority of people knew it and liked it. The system worked for many years, but with time inevitably came change. New teams entered baseball through expansion: the Marlins, Rockies, Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Devil Rays (now Rays). The Montreal Expos moved to Washington and became the Nationals. Baseball wanted to expand its playoff format and add two more teams per league to the playoff mix. As a result of the changes, baseball grew from a four division to a six division format. Both the American League and National League had three divisions each: the East, West and now Central Division. Add to the mix that the Brewers moved to the National League, the Angels went through somewhat of an identity crisis and the MLB divisions now look as follows:
American League East
Baltimore Orioles
Boston Red Sox
New York Yankees
Tampa Bay Rays
Toronto Blue Jays
American League Central
Chicago White Sox
Cleveland Indians
Detroit Tigers
Kansas City Royals
Minnesota Twins
American League West
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Oakland Athletics
Seattle Mariners
Texas Rangers
National League East
Atlanta Braves
Florida Marlins
New York Mets
Philadelphia Phillies
Washington Nationals
National League Central
Chicago Cubs
Cincinnati Reds
Houston Astros
Milwaukee Brewers
Pittsburgh Pirates
St. Louis Cardinals
National League West
Arizona Diamondbacks
Colorado Rockies
Los Angeles Dodgers
San Diego Padres
San Francisco Giants
Checking the totals, we have 14 teams in the American League and 16 Teams in the National League. Divisions have a range between 4-6 teams each. From a competitive standpoint, teams in the American League West have the best mathematical chance at a division/wildcard entry, with the fewest amount of teams in their division and fewer teams in the league overall. Based on competitive records, the impression is that teams in the American League East face the toughest battles, while the National League Central for example is a weaker division. Finally, from a geographical standpoint, the current setup just doesn’t work. Looking at a map one day, I thought to myself: there has to be a better way. After a geographical and competitive analysis, I believe that I have found the fix.
In order not to change the baseball landscape too much, I have left the current six named divisions in place. For simplicity of discussion, let’s assume that this portion works. I believe that too many divisions will create chaos, while too few divisions will create a logjam of teams. I am prepared to proceed with five teams per division and simply realign the current system. On that basis, the following is the MLB reports proposed MLB divisional realignment plan. Featured for the first time ever, our new MLB would look like this:
American League East
Baltimore Orioles
Boston Red Sox
New York Mets
New York Yankees
Washington Nationals
American League Central
Cincinnati Reds
Cleveland Indians
Detroit Tigers
Milwaukee Brewers
Toronto Blue Jays
American League West
Arizona Diamondbacks
Colorado Rockies
Houston Astros
Seattle Mariners
Texas Rangers
National League East
Atlanta Braves
Florida Marlins
Tampa Bay Rays
Philadelphia Phillies
Pittsburgh Pirates
National League Central
Chicago Cubs
Chicago White Sox
Kansas City Royals
Minnesota Twins
St. Louis Cardinals
National League West
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Los Angeles Dodgers
Oakland Athletics
San Diego Padres
San Francisco Giants
From a geographical and competitive standpoint, it is impossible to ever make a perfect division. But on the basis of 15 teams per league and 5 teams per division, I believe that the above proposal is a vast improvement over the current baseball divisional arrangement. I will present each division as proposed by MLB reports with the related commentary as to the logic behind each.
American League East
Baltimore Orioles
Boston Red Sox
New York Mets
New York Yankees
Washington Nationals
This division was one of the most difficult to build. The Red Sox, Mets and Yankees were a given as the foundational teams to the new AL East. Based on their history and makeup, the Red Sox and Yankees were not moving from the East. Based on geography and rivalry, it was time to add the Mets to the mix and bringing them to the American League will create a fresh start for a team in need of change. The last two teams for the AL East was between the Orioles/Nationals and Phillies/Pirates. It would have been nice to see the Phillies in the Yankees/Red Sox division, but location and the team chemistries were part of the equation. The Orioles and Nationals need to be in the same division based on proximity and are a better fit for the American league. The Phillies and Pirates are still NL based and without good reason for a move, should remain in the senior circuit. The Orioles have a long-standing rivalry with the Yankees and Red Sox, with the Mets and Nationals now joining the party that is the AL East.
American League Central
Cincinnati Reds
Cleveland Indians
Detroit Tigers
Milwaukee Brewers
Toronto Blue Jays
Definitely a different look to the AL Central, this new division is reminiscent of the old AL East. The only difference is both the Yankees and Red Sox are missing with the Reds now on board in the American League. After some thought, I think you will agree that the new AL Central will be one of the most competitive and fun to watch in baseball. The Jays and Tigers have always enjoyed a strong rivalry and based on geography, it makes sense for the teams to be in the same division. The same goes for both Ohio teams, with the Reds offense now enjoying an extra kick in the American League by adding the DH to their lineup. The battle of Ohio will be a heated one and it is about time both teams were in the same division. The fifth and final team came down to a choice of the Brewers or Twins. While the Milwaukee fans might protest a return to the AL, the team overall seemed to be the best fit for the new AL Central. A great offensive team that will match up well with the Tigers, Jays and remaining group in this division.
American League West
Arizona Diamondbacks
Colorado Rockies
Houston Astros
Seattle Mariners
Texas Rangers
After watching the last few years of Angels/Mariners and Rangers/A’s matchups, it is time for a change. These teams do not have the rivalry factor and the old AL West simply lacked excitement. The Astros and Rangers in the same division will showcase the battle of Texas, which I believe will slowly become one of the biggest rivalries in all of sports. The Rockies and Astros have the offensive ballparks that were made for the American League, power and home runs in excess. The Diamondbacks and Mariners based on location fit best into the new AL West, a division in search of an identity but strong overall in hitting. Exactly what fans would expect from their AL teams.
National League East
Atlanta Braves
Florida Marlins
Tampa Bay Rays
Philadelphia Phillies
Pittsburgh Pirates
Rivalries, both old and new, will be the highlight of the new NL East as we showcase the new divisions of the senior circuit. The Marlins and Rays are logical combatants based on their Florida location. With the Braves not far away and already being rivals of the Marlins in the existing NL East, this division should feature some of the best baseball ever seen. With the Pirates on the rebuild, the matchups of the Pennsylvania neighbors will bring back memories of the NL East from days gone by. The Pirates became stagnant in the Central and with renewed rivalries and enthusiasm, this division will be competitive for years to come. The move by the Rays to the NL should be an exciting one, with strong pitching and youth, the Rays will finally be home where they belong.
National League Central
Chicago Cubs
Chicago White Sox
Kansas City Royals
Minnesota Twins
St. Louis Cardinals
The battle of Missouri and Illinois will run rampant in the new NL Central. The White Sox after all these years will be the leaving the American League and changing leagues to do battle with their arch-rivals, the Cubbies. These two teams do not like one another and the Illinois fans will go wild. After a season or two, people will never understand how these teams weren’t in the same division to start with. The Royals, with the best farm system in the game and some of the most highly touted young pitchers and hitters will be a force in the NL Central. The battle of Missouri will ignite Kansas City and bring spark and life to this once proud franchise that needs a fresh start and identity makeover. Further considering the rivalry between the Cubs and Cardinals, I can see the Cardinals and White Sox having intense face-offs every year. The White Sox in coming over to the NL also bring their rivals the Twins with them. The Twins, always built on strong pitching and defense will enjoy their long overdue move to the NL and should continue to match up well against the White Sox, Royals and new division foes. It may take some time for the Twins to find life in this realignment, but over the long haul they will be better off for it.
National League West
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Los Angeles Dodgers
Oakland Athletics
San Diego Padres
San Francisco Giants
Last, but certainly not least, we come to the last and probably the best new division in the baseball, the revamped NL West. The Dodgers, Padres and Giants are all left in their rightful homes and coming over are geographical based enemies, the Athletics and Angels formerly of the AL West. The A’s logically will match up well with both the Giants and Dodgers, cross town rivals and former World Series opponents. Compared to the old matchups with the Mariners and Rangers, the Athletics will see a sharp spike in attendance and popularity in facing geographical opponents that will ignite strong pitching matchups and close baseball games game-in and game-out. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, formerly the California Angels and the Anaheim Angels, will battle their “Los Angeles” foe in what will become as heated as the Yankees/Red Sox one day. Having teams of geographical proximity playing in separate leagues in the past was preposterous. The new baseball realignment will finally fix the divisional setup and create once and for all, an all California division that will showcase truly what the West Coast is all about.
I hope that you enjoyed reading our feature on the new proposed MLB realignment. The ideas have been in my mind for some time and watching almost 1/3 of the season in 2011, it was time to suggest to align baseball into divisions that make sense. The current setup as previously indicated does not make sense. Baseball in its current form is nothing more than a patchwork set of divisions that quite frankly when viewed do not make sense. It is time to get teams on more equal footing and create divisions that better reflect geographical proximity and competitive balance. If major league baseball thought that creating interleague play and wild cards sparked new interest in the game, the new realignment will shake up baseball and bring a whole new level of fans to the sport. It will be impossible to get everyone to agree on the divisional alignments. But at the end of the day, most of us can agree that change is needed. Here is one proposal on the table: let’s discuss it and work towards implementing the best system we can. The fans deserve it and the game as a whole will benefit as a result.
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The Minnesota Twins 2011: What Went Wrong
MLB reports: With the daily moans and groans filling my message box on the state of the Minnesota Twins in 2011, I decided to dig deeper today to analyze what is ailing this team thus far in the season. A steady team that is a perennial contender every year, 2011 has been an unmitigated disaster thus far for the Twins. The Twins record currently stands at 12-21, last in the AL Central. The team is 10.0 games out of first, battling for the basement with the White Sox, who are 14-22. I will be looking at the team’s overall statistics and then view individual players that have flopped and those that still offer hope. To a very special Twins fan out there, I am sorry about the state of the team in 2011, but this article is for you.
Record:
With their 12-21 record, the Twins have the least amount of wins in baseball. At home, they have been a respectable on 4-6, but 8-15 on the road. Ouch. The Twins are 3-7 in their last 10 games and currently are on a 3-game losing streak. A 10-game hole in early May is still fixable, but the Twins have to be careful not to slide too much further or a 15-20 game deficit could result. For a team that was expected to be a playoff contender, 2011 has turned into a nightmare for the team and it’s fans.
Team Offense:
The Twins have the 3rd worst offense in baseball, just ahead of only the Nationals and Padres. In the American League, numbers like this just don’t cut it:
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.230 AVG: 3rd last in majors
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.292 OBP: last in majors
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.320 SLG: last in majors
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15 total Home Runs: last in majors
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46 Doubles: 2nd last in majors
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104 Runs scored: last in majors
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93 RBIs: last in majors
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93 Walks: 3rd worst in majors
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354 Total Bases: last in majors
Sitting at the bottom on near bottom of almost every major offensive category, the Twins clearly have had little offense this year. They are not hitting, walking, scoring or driving in runs and hitting home runs. At these kinds of numbers, a team cannot expect to win many games. At 12 wins thus far, the Twins will need to get the bats going if they hope to climb back into contention this year.
Individual Hitters:
Looking at the Twins hitters, it is quicker to summarize which players are playing well than those that are not. Literally only 2 Twins hitters have had good numbers this year, while all of the rest of the batters have either been injured or underperformed this year. Jason Kubel has been the rock all season. With a .347 AVG, .397 OBP, .508 SLG and 3 home runs, Kubel has shown good production this year. Span has also been decent, with a .298 AVG, .361 OBP and 17 runs scored. Essentially every other hitter has been missing in action, from Morneau, to Cuddyer, Young and Thome, the bats have been ice all season. Valencia has been decent with 3 home runs and 18 RBIs, but a .229 AVG will just not cut it. The health of Mauer will help, with a rebound from Morneau, Young and return by Nishioka to help ignite the offense. Unfortunately the team may need to look on the open market for some offensive help if they want to improve their numbers. Otherwise, runs may be difficult to come by all year.
Team Pitching:
For all the hitting woes the Twins have endured this year, the pitching has not been much better. With the 3rd worst pitching staff in baseball, only the Orioles and Astros are below the Twins.
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4.62 ERA: 3rd last in baseball
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168 Runs allowed: 2nd last in baseball
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178 strike outs: last in baseball
The above numbers are fairly indicative of the Twins pitching. They are giving up a lot of runs and not striking out many batters. Another recipe for disaster. However, looking at the individual pitchers on the team, not all is doom and gloom. The bullpen has been fairly steady and the Twins have received decent to good outings from some of its starters. For a team built around pitching, hope still exists on the mound. If the pitching can continue to return back to form, all the Twins will need is some offensive support to jump-start its team.
Starting Pitching:
The Twins starters have been as good as they have been bad all year. 
Pavano and Liriano have been abysmal all year (except for Liriano’s no-hitter, which still came with a tag of 6 walks allowed). Blackburn has been steady and Baker/Duensing have been very solid. It is ironic that the team’s top 2 starters have caused the most problems for the team this season. Both with ERAs over 6.60, both Pavano and Liriano have to pick up their games if the team is to contend. Kyle Gibson, the team’s top pitching prospect has been decent in AAA, with a 1-1 record, 3.66 ERA and 1.03 WHIP. If he keeps it up, Gibson may get the call this year if the team needs an additional arm. While the prospect does need some more seasoning, the state of the other arms will tell. Kevin Slowey has also pitched well in relief and having come off the disabled list, could take a turn in the rotation if called upon.
Bullpen
The Twins bullpen has actually been very good this year. Matt Capps has taken on the closer role and run with it, sitting at a 3.14 ERA and 5/6 in save opportunities. Glen Perkins has been a rock setting-up, with a 0.55 ERA in 15 appearances. Mijares also has been successful most nights, with a 3.18 ERA in 16 appearances. The problem child has been their former closer to start the season, Joe Nathan. With an 8.18 ERA, 8/9 BB/K ratio, Nathan has clearly not yet regained the form that made him an all-star closer. Thrust too soon into the closing role, Nathan and the Twins dug a hole for themselves that has been hard to climb from. Expect Capps to keep the role for the majority of the year and the bullpen to continue to improve, together with the starting pitching for a team known for its pitching.
The Verdict: The season is still young and it would be foolish to write off the Twins at this early stage of the year. There is nowhere to go but up for this team. With so much talent on its roster, the Twins are due for a hot streak soon. Hitting and pitching are contagious and as the Twins have shown this year, slumps tend to affect most players at the same time. But assuming that the majority of the players can get hot at the same time, 7-8 game winning streaks could be in order. The AL Central has been tough to figure out this year, with the Indians and Royals playing much above expectations and the rest of the teams playing much below. Everything comes in cycles and once the Twins start hitting the hot weather, expect the team to heat up as well. The numbers show that the team has done little from a hitting and perspective in 2011. A continuation of these efforts would bring about one of the worst seasons in team history. But the end is not here yet and the next month or so will be more telling of where the team is headed. That is one of the things we all love about baseball: we never know what is going to happen. Good luck to the Twins and we hope to see you battling for the playoffs come September.
Thank you for reading my feature on the Minnesota Twins. Please contact me if you have any questions and suggestions for future topics. The E-mailbag will be posted Wednesday so please be sure to get all your MLB and fantasy baseball questions in by e-mailing me at: mlbreports@gmail.com
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.
MLB 2011 Standings: Analyzing all the Divisions
MLB reports: With nearly a month of MLB action already underway, it is time to check all six of baseball’s divisions and focus on the standings. After the excitement and panic that accompanied the completion of the opening series for each team, it is now time to check out each division and find which teams are playing above their heads and who needs to turn up a few notches. The MLB standings as of the morning of Thursday April 28th, 2011, look as follows:
| AL East | W | L | Pct | GB | Home | Road | East | Cent | West | Streak | L10 |
| New York Yankees | 13 | 8 | .619 | — | 9-5 | 4-3 | 6-3 | 5-4 | 2-1 | Won 1 | 6-4 |
| Tampa Bay Rays | 12 | 11 | .522 | 2.0 | 6-7 | 6-4 | 4-4 | 8-5 | 0-2 | Won 3 | 7-3 |
| Toronto Blue Jays | 11 | 13 | .458 | 3.5 | 6-5 | 5-8 | 3-6 | 2-1 | 6-6 | Lost 1 | 4-6 |
| Baltimore Orioles | 10 | 12 | .455 | 3.5 | 7-7 | 3-5 | 5-4 | 4-6 | 1-2 | Won 2 | 4-6 |
| Boston Red Sox | 10 | 13 | .435 | 4.0 | 5-4 | 5-9 | 5-6 | 0-3 | 5-4 | Lost 2 | 7-3 |
AL East: Few people should be surprised to see the empire sitting at the top of the AL East. With the largest payroll in baseball and fielding a team of all-stars, the Yankees have proven that they can still win without a complete pitching staff. The Rays after a slow start have turned it up and are now above .500. With continued strong play, we may see the Rays in first by next week. The Jays and Orioles sit in the middle of the pack as expected. With hot and cold performances so far, both teams are two games under .500. The Red Sox are still playing far below expectation but only sit four games out of first. With a 7-3 record in their last ten games, the Red Sox are due for a huge tear. Expect the toughest division in baseball to be a battle all season long as all teams could conceivably finish with a .500 record or better.
| AL Central | W | L | Pct | GB | Home | Road | East | Cent | West | Streak | L10 |
| Cleveland Indians | 15 | 8 | .652 | — | 9-2 | 6-6 | 6-0 | 5-6 | 4-2 | Won 2 | 6-4 |
| Detroit Tigers | 12 | 12 | .500 | 3.5 | 6-5 | 6-7 | 2-4 | 4-2 | 6-6 | Lost 2 | 5-5 |
| Kansas City Royals | 12 | 12 | .500 | 3.5 | 9-5 | 3-7 | 0-0 | 6-7 | 6-5 | Lost 5 | 2-8 |
| Minnesota Twins | 9 | 13 | .409 | 5.5 | 4-4 | 5-9 | 5-10 | 3-1 | 1-2 | Lost 1 | 5-5 |
| Chicago White Sox | 10 | 15 | .400 | 6.0 | 4-6 | 6-9 | 6-5 | 3-5 | 1-5 | Lost 1 | 3-7 |
AL Central: The top team currently in the American League: the Yankees? No. The Rangers? No. Look out, but the upstart Indians continue to lead the AL in winning percentage. With the Indians on top and the White Sox at .400, this division is due for what is called a market correction. The Twins at .409 have suffered through poor play and injuries, but their time is coming soon. The Tigers at .500 haven’t played their best ball yet. The Royals have fallen drastically back down to earth with a recent 2-8 tailspin and should continue to fall back to the cellar. But what about those Indians? At 9-2 at home, their play has been fairly one-sided. With a 6-6 road record, it is only a matter of time before the bubble bursts.
| AL West | W | L | Pct | GB | Home | Road | East | Cent | West | Streak | L10 |
| Texas Rangers | 15 | 9 | .625 | — | 11-4 | 4-5 | 7-5 | 4-2 | 4-2 | Won 1 | 5-5 |
| Los Angeles Angels | 14 | 11 | .560 | 1.5 | 6-7 | 8-4 | 4-5 | 6-4 | 4-2 | Lost 1 | 4-6 |
| Oakland Athletics | 12 | 13 | .480 | 3.5 | 4-5 | 8-8 | 2-3 | 6-4 | 4-6 | Won 1 | 5-5 |
| Seattle Mariners | 10 | 15 | .400 | 5.5 | 5-8 | 5-7 | 2-1 | 4-8 | 4-6 | Won 2 | 6-4 |
AL West: The American League champion Rangers are back on a top with a convincing 15-9 record. The Angels after a recent hot streak have cooled off, going 4-6 in their last 10. The A’s, a traditional second half team are almost at .500. This division should be a three-horse race right until September. The Mariners…. at .400, are already preparing for next year.
Now we turn our attention to the National League after polishing off the junior circuit. With so many interesting races, the National League should prove to have exciting matchups all summer long.
| NL East | W | L | Pct | GB | Home | Road | East | Cent | West | Streak | L10 |
| Philadelphia Phillies | 16 | 8 | .667 | — | 7-4 | 9-4 | 7-4 | 4-2 | 5-2 | Won 1 | 6-4 |
| Florida Marlins | 15 | 8 | .652 | 0.5 | 10-5 | 5-3 | 6-5 | 5-1 | 4-2 | Lost 1 | 7-3 |
| Atlanta Braves | 13 | 13 | .500 | 4.0 | 4-5 | 9-8 | 6-6 | 1-3 | 6-4 | Won 2 | 6-4 |
| New York Mets | 11 | 13 | .458 | 5.0 | 5-8 | 6-5 | 7-7 | 1-2 | 3-4 | Won 6 | 7-3 |
| Washington Nationals | 10 | 13 | .435 | 5.5 | 5-6 | 5-7 | 5-9 | 5-4 | 0-0 | Lost 3 | 4-6 |
NL East: The Phillies, led by the four-aces are on top with a 16-8 record. But don’t look now, the Florida (soon to be Miami) Marlins are on fire at 7-2 in their last 10 and only sit 1/2 a game out of first. With the Mets on a six-game winning streak and the last place Nationals only 5.5 games out, the NL East is becoming quite balanced and competitive. Smart money is still on the Phillies to take the crown, with the Braves playing better than their .500 record as of today. But so far the Marlins and Mets are surprising me, the Braves are disappointing me and the Nationals and Phillies are playing to expectations.
| NL Central | W | L | Pct | GB | Home | Road | East | Cent | West | Streak | L10 |
| St. Louis Cardinals | 13 | 11 | .542 | — | 6-6 | 7-5 | 2-1 | 4-4 | 7-6 | Won 1 | 6-4 |
| Cincinnati Reds | 13 | 12 | .520 | 0.5 | 7-6 | 6-6 | 0-0 | 9-7 | 4-5 | Won 1 | 4-6 |
| Milwaukee Brewers | 12 | 12 | .500 | 1.0 | 8-5 | 4-7 | 5-5 | 7-7 | 0-0 | Lost 1 | 5-5 |
| Pittsburgh Pirates | 11 | 13 | .458 | 2.0 | 4-7 | 7-6 | 2-4 | 7-5 | 2-4 | Won 1 | 5-5 |
| Chicago Cubs | 10 | 13 | .435 | 2.5 | 6-8 | 4-5 | 0-0 | 4-5 | 6-8 | Lost 3 | 4-6 |
| Houston Astros | 9 | 15 | .375 | 4.0 | 5-7 | 4-8 | 3-6 | 4-7 | 2-2 | Lost 1 | 5-5 |
NL Central: For all the critics that wrote me threatening letters when I predicted the Cardinals would take the wild card, please start typing your apology letters and sending them my way. Just kidding. But in an expected strong division, the Cardinals are in first place with only 2 wins over .500. Having the Pirates, Cubs and Astros in the division would do that. For all the press that the Indians, Royals and Pirates received to start the year, the Indians are the only team left at the end of the musical chairs. The Pirates have fallen back down to earth with an 11-13 record that should prove to only be worse as the season progresses. The Cubs and Astros in my estimation could best hope for good drafts and 2011 being a rebuilding year. The Reds, Cardinals and Brewers are all .500 and better and should continue to battle out for the NL Central crown and likely the wild card all season long. Keep an eye on those teams.
| NL West | W | L | Pct | GB | Home | Road | East | Cent | West | Streak | L10 |
| Colorado Rockies | 16 | 7 | .696 | — | 6-4 | 10-3 | 5-2 | 7-2 | 4-3 | Won 2 | 5-5 |
| Los Angeles Dodgers | 13 | 13 | .500 | 4.5 | 7-5 | 6-8 | 4-3 | 3-4 | 6-6 | Won 1 | 6-4 |
| San Francisco Giants | 11 | 12 | .478 | 5.0 | 4-5 | 7-7 | 0-3 | 3-2 | 8-7 | Lost 1 | 4-6 |
| Arizona Diamondbacks | 10 | 13 | .435 | 6.0 | 6-6 | 4-7 | 2-4 | 6-6 | 2-3 | Lost 1 | 5-5 |
| San Diego Padres | 9 | 16 | .360 | 8.0 | 4-11 | 5-5 | 1-6 | 6-7 | 2-3 | Lost 2 | 2-8 |
NL West: Last, but not least, we come to the NL West. A strange division which is strong some years and extremely weak in others. The Rockies have been the class of the National League, with a league leading .696 winning percentage. A strong 10-3 road record has carried the team, which points to a likely correction in the future. The Dodgers, my pick for the division, sits at .500 despite multiple distractions off the field. With the talent base in Los Angeles, they will continue to be a tough competitor. The World Series champs, the San Francisco Giants are below .500 and we need to fight for offense in order to contend. The Diamondbacks continue to rebuild and after a hot start to 2010, the Padres tanked in the 2nd half of last year and now sit with eight games out of first, the biggest margin in baseball. The Padres will need some extreme smoke and mirrors to mask their deficiencies and will need to continue to rebuild to climb back to contention.
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Patient Hitters: The Leaders in Walks
MLB reports: As many of you know from my past articles and tweets, the one quality I look for the most in hitters is patience: the ability to take walks. The art of the base on balls was exemplified somewhat in the “moneyball” Oakland approach and has been adopted by the Red Sox team in particular, among others. People often ask me why I value hitters that take walks so highly. Very simply, walks in my mind lead often to the overall development of every facet of a hitters game. A hitter that has good judgement of the strike zone and take walks should get on base at a high rate. A hitter that takes many walks is more likely to judge better pitches to hit, which should increase their number of hits and home runs correspondingly. When I used to play fantasy baseball, I often looked for batters with high walk totals in filling out my rosters. These hitters would win championships for me, as they do often for baseball teams in real life.
Patient hitters have a high value in baseball, this has become a fact of life. Putting this theory to the test, let’s take a look at which batters sit among the leader board in walks as of today. It will be interesting to see which of these players are considered top players, historically and coming into their own as of today. Has the number of walks taken this year helped each player in other statistical categories? Are each of these players better hitters for having many walks? The results may surprise you.
1st: Jose Bautista, Toronto Blue Jays (19)
Last year 100 walks went hand-in-hand with a league leading 54 home runs. This year, Bautista leads the league with 19 walks and 8 home runs. For a man who hit .260 last year, the high walk has remained while the average has jumped to a league leading .364. Interesting to note, none of Batista’s walks have been intentional. Bautista for me is the poster boy of how patience and power are inter-twined. You almost cannot have one without the other. For anyone that doubts the value of walks, go look up Bautista’s stats again…they will astound you.
T-2nd: Bobby Abreu, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (18)
Bobby Abreu, along with Youkilis, Adam Dunn and Swisher, is a resident in the patience club. With 1,360 career walks, Abreu always brings on-base capabilities for any team he plays for. Long seen as having declining power, Abreu still hit a decent 20 home runs last year. Combined with his 87 walks, Abreu managed a .352 OBP despite a .255 AVG. This year, with a puny one home run and .244 AVG, Abreu is sitting at an unacceptable .329 SLG. But with a .388 OBP, the 37-year-old Abreu still has some value. In his prime, Abreu showed that 100+ walks and a .300+ AVG could lead to 40+ home runs in a season. But Abreu, the elder of the list, only has walks to show for any value left in his tank and is likely dependant on those walks for still receiving any playing time at all. The end is near, but the walks continue.
T-2nd: Joey Votto, Cincinatti Reds (18)
As a rookie, I read that Dusty Baker told Joey Votto that he should becoming more free-swinging and less patient to develop as a hitter. Fortunately for Votto and all Reds fans, the Canadian ignored the advice and continued to grow as a hitter….his way. Last year Votto had 91 walks, which translated to 37 home runs and a league leading .400 OBP and .600 SLG. Hitting .324 along the way, Votto was intentionally walked eight times. Votto fits the bill perfectly- a hitter that picks his spots, waits for the right pitches to hit and avoids the bad ones to get on base. This year, votto has 18 walks to only 11 strike outs. The knock on some patient hitters is that they take too many called third strikes and often hit for low averages. As part of the core of this top list, Votto is able to not only hit many home runs but keep his average steady to high in the process. Many experts see Votto as having surpassed Albert Pujols as the king of the NL. Based on his numbers-to-date, I have a hard time arguing. Votto’s bread and butter has been his eye at the plate. The 2010 MVP and runner-up 2008 ROY can thank his walks for much of his success in baseball.
4th: Jonny Gomes, Cincinatti Reds (17)
The fourth member of our list is the only real head scratcher in the bunch. While all the other listed hitters are known “walkers”, Gomes has basically come out of nowhere to join the group this year. With a career high of 61 walks in 2006 being far and away his highest season total, few people envisioned Jonny Gomes learning true patience at the age of 30. Perhaps spending time with Votto has helped his transition. But then, his .211 AVG would seem to indicate that he might not be fully paying attention in emulating Votto. At a season total of six home runs, Gomes is on pace to set a career high of 35 home runs. But looking at the full numbers, Gomes is the outlier. Hitting in the standard Nick Swisher mold, Gomes has compensated base hits for walks. With his 18 walks has come 23 strikeouts…which shows that he is missing as many pitches as he is taking. It is not a bad thing that Gomes is taking many walks, but unfortunately he is swinging for the fences and striking out at a Rob Deer frequency with too few base hits. Gomes may continue the walks, but without a steadier number of base hits to match, he may not be as productive as one may think.
T-5th: Daric Barton, Oakland Athletics (16)
Seemingly playing forever, the 25-year-old is entering his 5th season in the bigs. With a .368 career OBP and 110 walks last year (leading the AL), Barton is patience personified. The only knock on Barton has been his low batting average and power. 2011 has done nothing to calm those fears, as Barton is hitting .205 with zero home runs. Along with Gomes, Barton is sacrificing base hits for walks, but not seeing the tangible results that should come along with them. Well…at least Gomes is hitting home runs, I really can’t see what value Barton has other than walks. With ten home runs, Barton is slowly becoming another Travis Buck. As Barton continues to keep first base warm for Chris Carter, I am sad to see that his patience at the plate never translated to greater things for him offensively. Judging on his 17/20 BB/K ratio, Barton clearly is either not patient enough or judging the right pitches to hit. Based on this slow start, it appears the one-time A’s prospect has graduated into a full-fledged suspect.
T-5th: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers (16)
One of my favorite hitters in the game, I always wondered what levels he could reach if he could take more walks. Always known for a solid average and home run bat, the answer to my question started to be answered last year. Cabrera set a career high with 89 walks last year and had correspondingly a career high 38 home runs. This year, with a 17/12 BB/K ratio, Cabrera has already five home runs, to go with his .338 AVG, .458 OBP and .610 SLG. These are really…really…really good numbers. Finishing second last year in MVP, the re-born Cabrera has become everything I could have imagined as a hitter. Together with Bautista in the AL and Joey Votto in NL, we are looking at three of the most complete hitters in the game. Taking many walks, hitting many home runs, hitting for a high average and not striking out a ton. Patience at the plate, waiting for the right pitches to hit and taking advantage of those pitches. Hitting perfection.
T-5th: Kevin Youkilis, Boston Red Sox (16)
No conversation on walks is complete without including the Greek God of Walks himself, Kevin Youkilis. A .292 career hitter with a lifetime .394 OBP and .497 SLG, Youk fit the mold of the perfect hitter as I discussed above. But something has happened to Youk in 2011. Despite his high walks and decent number of home runs (4), his average sits at .222. Considering that Youk has hit .300+ the last three seasons, I do not expect a huge regression at the age of 32. As long as he stays healthy, Youk should be at .290, .390 and 25 home runs. That’s just how steady Youk is. But given his career low average this year, I actually suspect there may be an injury concern. I do not see Youk turning into Jonny Gomes overnight. Everything seems to even out in the long run and over the course of the season, the real Youk should emerge. Walks will always be there, but the rest of the game should follow as well. But even if he remains slumping, as Bobby Abreu and Daric Barton have shown, at least taking walks brings some contribution to the table. But unlike those two, at least Youk can still swing a power stick. Walks truly begin and end with Youk.
Thank you for reading today’s feature on walks and the hitters who take them. While we all have theories on the subject, think of all the best all around hitters of all time and take a look at their walk totals. While there may have been many home run kings with low averages or hit kings with poor power, take a look at the best all around hitters and see how many times they walked. Then tell me what you think about the value of the combination of power and patience and if you now subscribe to this theory. I certainly hope that you do.
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MLB Closers Report 2011: Who is in, Who is out
MLB reports: I get several messages a day on the state of the closers in major league baseball. Questions asking me which players have a closing job, which are about to lose their job and which players are most likely to get save opportunities. In my fantasy baseball days, I used to call it fishing for closers on the waiver wire: waiting for a closer to underperform and/or get injured and lose their job and immediately pick up the heir-apparent to the throne. How are the thirty major league teams doing in the closer department? Let’s take a closer look at each team and find out:
1) New York Yankees: Mariano Rivera
With seven saves in eight opportunities and a 1.93 ERA, Mo is as automatic as they come. Even at his advanced age, Mariano is a #1 fantasy closer, if not the top closer. Rafael Soriano is the next in-line, but I wouldn’t hold my breath.
2) Colorado Rockies: Houston Street
Although health is often a concern with Street, seven saves in seven opportunities with a 2.03 ERA is not. Street has really come into his own in Colorado and as long as he can stay healthy, he is becoming nearly automatic out on the mound. Add in fourteen strikeouts and Street is as dangerous as they come. Lidstrom has been spectacular as well to start the year, but with health and performance issues surrounding him in the past, Lidstrom at best is a filler in case of an injury to Street. A solid #2, Lidstrom will form a solid 1-2 punch with Street all season long (on the field and likely on the DL at some point).
3) Atlanta Braves: Craig Kimbrel
The youngsters debate should be over. Six saves in seven opportunities and a 0.96 ERA. 2/14 BB/K ratio. Kimbrel is clearly the man in Atlanta. While
Venters is very talented and the next in line should Kimbrel falter, the rope for Kimbrel grows by the day. Atlanta appears to have found its closer for the next decade.
4) Cleveland Indians: Chris Perez
With the hot start of the Indians, Perez has been enjoying the ride. Six saves in seven opportunities and a 2.25 ERA. One area for concern: four strikeouts in eight innings pitched. Although Perez is becoming craftier on the mound, low strikeouts for a closer generally leads to disaster. The Indians have some decent arms in the pen, including Rafael Perez. But the Perez of choice is Chris.
5) San Diego Padres: Heath Bell
The second coming of Trevor Hoffman, Bell is a perfect five for five in save opportunities with a 1.00 ERA. Having Bell on the Padres is like driving a brand new Mercedes while living in a bachelor apartment on the wrong side of the town. An unnecessary luxury in many observers’ estimation. Beware that a hot Bell will have trade rumors surround him all summer long. The Padres have literally 4-5 closing options in the pen, so this situation is far from settled if Bell is dealt. I could see Neshek, Qualls, Gregerson and Adams all getting their shot. For now Bell is a top five closer unless he leaves San Diego. If I had to watch one reliever it would be Neshek, who has come back from injury and could claim the job in the event he is called upon.
6) Los Angeles Dodgers: Jonathan Broxton
Broxton somehow is a perfect five for five in saves but with a 5.19 ERA, the end is likely coming near. The hope for many baseball analysts, including my own, is that Broxton can turn it around and reclaim his form. Kuo, once healthy, is the likely pick to take over the role. My dark horse pick is Mike MacDougal, the veteran who has extensive closing experience. A 1.13 ERA for MacDougal is outstanding, but his 5/6 BB/K ratio is nothing to write home about. Guerrier may also get a look, but Kuo is the consensus pick to take over at some point. I would like to sit here and guarantee that Broxton will recover and return to form, but I can’t promise that. It could happen, but with each passing rocky outing, even I am starting to have my doubts. My plan would be to remove Broxton from the role and let him work out in his kinks. In the interim I would insert MacDougal to steady the ship and then re-insert Broxton in July. That would be my plan, but not necessarily the same script for the Dodgers. Keep a look out as this mess is far from settled.
7) Philadelphia Phillies: Jose Contreras (Breaking News: Now Ryan Madson)
Running an eight inning scoreless run, a perfect five for five in saves opportunities with nine strikeouts, Contreras has become the man in Philadelphia. But running a close second is Ryan Madson, a 1.00 ERA and 2/10 BB/K ratio. The long-term solution is Madson and any hint of a Contreras downturn will insert Madson in the role. I expect this to happen any week now and once Madson becomes the closer, he should keep it until Papelbon joins the team next year (yes, it will happen). Please do not say Brad Lidge though, that story has been written and re-written too many times. Injuries and production problems is the story of Lidge. Hopefully the Phillies are smart and do not go down that road again. The moral of the story: Contreras today, Madson soon and Papelbon next year.
(P.S. As I am writing this, Contreras has been sent to Philadelphia for an exam and is on the DL. Ryan Madson is the closer, funny how quickly things can turn)
8) Kyle Farnsworth: Tampa Bay Rays
Another closer with a perfect five for five saves record, Farnsworth owns a 1.23 ERA and zero walks allowed on the season. I am not sure who this person on the mound is and what he has done with the real Kyle Farnsworth, but whoever this imposter is on the mound I would keep him. All kidding aside, I am a Farnsworth fan and have wished him well for years. But after watching him implode in nearly every stop on his major league tour, I remain somewhat skeptical. Jake McGee, my closer pick has started off slow but with improved numbers down the road could grab the job. Same with Peralta, although walks tends to hurt his value. The Rays will be riding Farnsworth like a rented mule until he cannot close anymore.
9) Neftali Feliz: Texas Rangers
Another five for five in saves opportunities, Feliz with a 1.08 ERA has a stranglehold on the job. Recently placed on the DL with a sore shoulder, the Rangers will turn to some combination of Darren Oliver and Darren O’Day , perhaps even Rhodes, until Feliz returns. Don’t sweat this one, Feliz will be back soon and continuing his climb to the top of the ranks of MLB closers in 2011. Of concern is Feliz’s 5/6 BB/K ratio, which will have to change for Feliz to be ultimately effective as the closer. Walks tend to do very bad things to closers in the 9th but based on the the talent in his arm, Feliz will be the go-to-guy this year again.
10) Brian Fuentes: Oakland Athletics
Fuentes was signed to be a solid lefty in the pen and fill-in closer for the A’s. Five for six opportunities, Fuentes has been steady for Oakland but sports a brutal 4.66 ERA. Just like Jonathan Broxton in LA, Fuentes is likely on borrowed time unless he becomes more automatic on the mound. Add a 5/7 BB/K ratio and the Andrew Bailey watch will continue in Oakland. While I see Bailey getting the job in the short-run, Fuentes will find a way to reclaim the job by the summer and possibly to the end of the year. Don’t look now though but Ziegler has not been scored upon this year and could put up a fight as well. Keep an eye on this situation as it unfolds.
11) Joel Hanrahan: Pittsburgh Pirates
Five for five in saves, 2/8 BB/K ratio and a 2.70 ERA translates to increased job security for Hanrahan. Much like Heath Bell, as Hanrahan performs well he becomes a luxury on a rebuilding Pirates team in need of prospects. Essentially keeping the seat warm for 2010 all-star Evan Meek, look for Hanrahan to be dealt sometime in the summer and for Meek to take over the closer’s role in 2011 and for the foreseeable future.
12) Brandon League: Seattle Mariners
Yet another closer that is five for five in saves, League is holding down the fort until the return of Dave Aardsma. The 3.68 ERA is ok, but three strikeouts in 7 1/3 innings is not. League has shown good control with only one walk, but changes are still likely coming in Seattle. Expect the Mariners to deal Aardsma and/or League during the summer if Aardsma can return and show health. Given that Aardsma is no guarantee, there is a good chance that League can keep the role for the majority of the year. But I would not bet on it given his shaky track record… I actually expect a dark horse to emerge at some point in this race.
13) Carlos Marmol: Chicago Cubs
Five for seven in saves, Marmol has the security of a long-term deal and is clearly the closer in Chicago. His 2.53 ERA is interesting, but more telling is his 7/15 BB/K ratio. Few closers can touch Marmol’s heat and if he could just lower his walks totals, he would become a top-five closer in baseball. But the walks will unlikely go away this year and expect some interesting moments with Marmol as he works towards 30+ saves in 2011. Kerry Wood is the next-in-line in case, think of him as Marmol insurance. Marshall has been steady as well and the one surprise is Samardzija with a 3.65 ERA, but his 14/14 BB/K ratio shows the heat is there but the control is not. But the Cubs are Marmol’s team.
14) Leo Nunez: Florida Marlins
Totals? Five for five in saves, which appears to be a standard at this point in the season. Nunez has a 2.00 ERA and is off to a hot start in Florida. As the summer months approach, I cannot see Nunez sustaining these numbers and a few bad outings could cost him his job very quickly. For a strong run, I appear the Marlins making a trade or picking a new horse for the job. Webb, Dunn and Hensley may all get looks this year, but are unlikely long-term solutions. Until then, the job is Nunez’s to lose.
15) Jonathan Papelbon: Boston Red Sox
For a guy on the heat seat, all Papelbon has done is go five for five in saves, with a 2.16 ERA and a 2/11 BB/K ratio. Papelbon is as automatic as they come
and with his first run into free agency on the horizon, do not expect Papelbon’s role to change in 2011. Papelbon has an incentive to be a fantasy closing superstar and the Red Sox will happily ride him to first round picks as compensation in the off-season. While Bard is the heir-apparent with Bobby Jenks always lurking, do not expect this move to happen until 2012, unless injury strikes. Papelbon will look really good in Philadelphia next year. Remember you heard it here first.
16) J.J. Putz: Arizona Diamondbacks
Putz has been everything that Kirk Gibson could have imagined in Arizona and more. Five for five in saves (yes, another one), 1.13 ERA and 0/10 BB/K ratio. Expect Putz to be an all-star this year as he leads a young Diamondbacks team back to respectability. With no plan b’s on the horizon, Arizona will live by the Putz and die by the Putz.
17) Joakim Soria: Kansas City Royals
Ok…ok…ok…. let’s not get too excited people. Soria’s five saves in six opportunities comes along with a 5.59 ERA and a 5/5 BB/K ratio. Add ten hits allowed in 10 2/3 innings and you have some pretty ugly numbers for a top-three closer. With the three-headed monster of Collins, Crow and Jeffress looming, I can foresee some fans starting to call for the head of Soria as the Royals continue to excel. Don’t see it happening. I cannot see the Royals continuing their hot start and I cannot foresee anyone unseating the great Soria. The young Royals pitching squad needs Soria and unless he literally implodes, which I don’t see happening, Soria will be the closer for the next few years. As the Royals build to be contenders in the next 2-3 years, they will rely on a healthy and productive Soria to carry their bullpen. Soria is the Royals closer and do not get any other ideas on the subject.
18) Brian Wilson: San Francisco Giants
The Giants were the feel good story of 2011 and while the “fear the beard” motto was cute in its time, I think this story is done. Wilson has to get away from the beard and concentrate on what he does best: close ball games. Although five for six in saves this year, Wilson sports a brutal 7.94 ERA a pedestrian 4/6 BB/K ratio. The World Series champion Giants will give Wilson a lot of rope and I cannot foresee him losing his job. But with the World Series letdown could come a return to earth for several players, including Wilson. While he will still get 30+ saves, his numbers are showing that a market correct is in order. Wilson needs to get re-focused…he is the only game in town as the closer for the Giants.
19) Brandon Lyon: Houston Astros
The poster boy for mediocre closers, Lyon remains a frustration year-in and year-out. Four for six in saves opportunities, with a 4.32 ERA, 13 hits allowed in 8 1/3 inning and a dismal 2/3 BB/K ratio, Lyon is better suited to middle relief than closing. Lyon is a veteran on a young Astros team and while experience is supposed to help the young pitchers, his stats are hurting the team. With Melancon and Fulchino pitching so well, a changing of the guard is coming in Houston. Right now my money is on Melancon becoming the closer by May.
20) Francisco Rodriguez: New York Mets
Together with Papelbon, K-Rod had many doubters going into the year. Legal troubles and a declining team and numbers looked to spell the end for Rodriguez. His four saves in five opportunities has been great, together with his 2.35 ERA. His 6/13 BB/K ratio is showing that the arm and heat are back, but so is his wildness. K-Rod will get 30+ saves in my estimation, but may not so pretty getting there. Frankie is getting paid the big bucks and will have the job for 2011.
21) Jose Valverde: Detroit Tigers
The king of hot starts, Valverde has been four for four in saves on a very inconsistent Detroit Tigers team in 2011. His 1.04 ERA and 2/9 BB/K ratio have been spectacular. Valverde will have the job this year as he works towards another free agency run at seasons-end. Benoit is the closer in waiting and while he will have the job in 2012, will be the filler when called upon. The Tigers will stick with Valverde, period.
22) John Axford: Milwaukee Brewers
Pitching for a contending Brewers team, Axford’s numbers have not cut it this year. Three for five in saves, 7.36 ERA and a 6/8 BB/K ratio means that Axford is closing on borrowed time. I still expect Axford to get a little more rope to straighten himself out, but not for much longer. While Saito was my pick to take over the role at the start of the season, and poor health and inconsistency have plagued him. Same with LaTroy Hawkins, another failed closer in the Brewers’ pen. The dark horse for the role is Kameron Loe, the former Rangers starter and Japanese baseball survivor. Look for Loe, who has been the Brewers best reliever season to get the role any day now and to run with it into the forseeable future.
23) Drew Storen/ (Sean Burnett): Washington Nationals
I know your first reaction: is Sean Burnett not the closer? A 3.24 ERA, three for four in saves and 0/6 BB/K ratio- is that not closing numbers? Perhaps, but Burnett is like a mirage in the desert. You think you are seeing water, but its all an illusion. Storen with a 0.77 ERA, two for two in saves, six hits allowed in 11 2/3 innings and 4/8 BB/K ratio is the man. Storen has been groomed for the position is whole life and was drafted as a closer to become the Nationals ninth inning stopper. Burnett may still get the occasional opportunity but his saves opportunities are coming to an end. As Storen becomes nearly automatic, the job will be his for the next decade in Washington.
24) Matt Capps: Minnesota Twins
The Twins originally said they would bring Joe Nathan along slowly after missing a year due to surgery. What did they end up doing? Throwing him straight into the fire and destroying his pitching confidence and stats line. With a 9.82 ERA and 6/5 BB/K ratio, do not expect Nathan back in the role for a LONG time. Capps, acquired from Washington for catching prospect Ramos has now taken over the closing duties. Three for four in save opportunities, 4.09 ERA and a 0/5 BB/K ratio shows that Capps is ready to run with the job. Minnesota is well-known for steady starting pitching and I look for Capps to finish with a steady amount of saves. He may not blow hitters away anymore, but with continued control look for Capps to keep the job for most of 2011.
25) Francisco Cordero: Cincinnati Reds
For all the doom and gloom coming out of Cinci for Cordero, he has continued to put up great numbers. Three for three in saves, 2.00 ERA, a stingy five hits in nine innings pitched and 4/7 BB/K ratio. The changing of the guard is coming though for the Reds as you look at Chapman’s numbers. Throws 100+ MPH heat, nine scoreless innings, two hits in nine innings with a 7/9 BB/K ratio. This is another case that unless the incumbent implodes or gets injured, he will retain his role. The Reds rely on the Veteran Cordero and Dusty Baker is very loyal to his foot soldiers. Chapman is still showing wildness and the best course is to let him continue to develop as Cordero keeps saving games. A change is coming in 2012 but until then, Cordero is the Reds closer. If you like to gamble though, Chapman has a decent shot at the job… he is the heir apparent and the first reliever in line if needed.
26) Jon Rauch: Toronto Blue Jays
One of several new additions to the Jays pen, Rauch originally was supposed to keep the role warm for Frank Francisco until he returned from injury. Rauch on the season has a 2.08 ERA and is three for three in saves opportunities. While his 4/6 BB/K ratio is pedestrian, Rauch will have the job for the majority of the year in my opinion. While Francisco has the heat and the strikeout numbers, he has shown to be very inconsistent and erratic in the closers role from his time in Texas. Francisco will possibly get a shot at the role at some point early on this season, my money is still on Rauch. With so many closing options in Toronto including Dotel and Frasor, this situation is very difficult to handicap. At the end of the day, you either believe in Francisco or Rauch as the closer. My gut is saying Rauch.
27) Jordan Walden: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
The next, great Angels closer, Walden has taken to the role and run with it. Ten scoreless innings, three for three in saves, three hits allowed in 9 1/3 innings and a 5/10 BB/K ratio are all impressive. Fernando Rodney, the veteran closer will be breathing down his neck the whole season. If not for his 8/7 BB/K ratio, Rodney has a 2.08 ERA of his own and only blown save on the season. As with all young pitchers, Walden will run into some trouble along the way. The question will be how he handles adversity. This is one team that I have faced several arguments on this season. I see Rodney taking back his job while Walden continues to be groomed into the next big thing. For me, experience and knowledge tends to usually win out and Rodney has an advantage in both departments over Walden. The job is Walden’s today and for quite some time, but 2-3 blown saves in a week can change things in a hurry. Another situation to keep an eye on.
28) Mitchell Boggs: St. Louis Cardinals
Where is Ryan Franklin? One for five in save opportunities and with a 7.88 ERA. Complaining about the fans of St. Louis won’t appease Cardinals 
management either. The 27-year-old Boggs is the newest closer on the carousel, with two saves in two opportunities, 1.59 ERA and outstanding 3/13 BB/K ratio. There are many people jumping on the Boggs bandwagon and for good reason. The kid is apparently coming into his own and has taken the job by the reigns. As is the case with Walden, we do not have enough of a track record to know the long-term potential of the kid. Again, 2-3 blown saves in a week can change the situation in a hurry. I still expect Franklin to straighten himself out and perhaps reclaim the job later in the year. But based on his solid work to-date, the closer in St. Louis is Boggs and the job is literally his to lose. Keep one eye open, just in case.
29) Kevin Gregg: Baltimore Orioles
Pitching in the Brandon Lyon sea of mediocrity, Gregg has been up-and-down this year for the upstart Orioles. Two saves in three opportunities, 4.50 ERA, and 4/6 BB/K ratio are nothing to write home about. Mike Gonzalez with a 10.80 ERA does not appear to be healthy and recovered to be able to compete for the role. Jeremy Accardo has a 2.08 ERA but an alarming 6/4 BB/K ratio. Koji Uehara, with a 1.35 ERA and 3/7 BB/K ratio is my pick for the Orioles closing job when Gregg inevitably begins to break down. The Orioles are lucky to have several options, with Simon originally being my original dark horse until legal troubles slowed down his season. But based on track history, I really like Uehara’s chances to claim the job by June, if not sooner.
30) (Jesse Crain): Chicago White Sox
I certainly saved the worst for last and the White Sox have had their share of bullpen woes in 2011. With one team on the season, Sale and Thornton have not been the saviors that Sox fans were expecting this year. With ERAs north of 6.00, neither one is likely to take the role anytime soon. Ohman and Pena have been fairly weak as well and the last two realistic survivors are Santos and Crain. Much press has been written on Santos, the converted pitcher who has pitched 9 2/3 scoreless innings with five hits allowed a 5/13 BB/K ratio. While many experts are already picking Santos, I am looking at the dark horse, Jesse Crain to take the role. The former Twin had a steady 2010 year and has started this year with a 1.74 ERA and spectacular 2/11 BB/K ratio. Santos is the darling of Chicago with his flame throwing ways, but the more experienced Crain appears to be just what the doctor ordered in Chicago. A situation that is far from unsettled, Thornton or Sale could grab a hold of the job at any time with some steady consecutive outings. But based on current numbers and future outlook, if you want my pick- it will be Crain. With such a strong offense and steady starting pitching, the Sox cannot afford to lose too many games in the 9th if they hope to take the AL Central. That is where a veteran as the anchor will prove to be best solution in the bullpen.
The state of closers is always a heated discussion in baseball circles every year. Probably the most volatile position in baseball, approximately 30% of opening day closers will still have their jobs by years-end. With injuries and failures, closers can come and go on a weekly basis. Today’s failed starters can be tomorrow’s superstar closers. Next week’s stoppers can also be minor league filler by August. All baseball fans, whether fans of teams or fantasy players, all get driven to the point of insanity because of closers. For every Mariano Rivera, there will be three Jordan Waldens, five Jonathan Broxtons and seven Brandon Lyons. I hope that you enjoyed reading the state of the union on MLB closers today. Although situations may have changed while I wrote this article (see Contreras) and even tomorrow, remember to keep an open mind and focus on where the next closers will be. The most effective relievers in the bullpen will usually get the first crack- it is the ones that can succeed under pressure that will keep their jobs.
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