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MLB Book Review “All You Can Be: Dream It, Draw It, Become It!” by Curtis Granderson
Tuesday December 27, 2011
“All You Can Be”: BY Curtis Granderson
(Triumph Books: 2009)
MLB reports – Virginia Califano (Guest Writer): My adoration for Curtis Granderson began to develop ever since he suited up the pinstripes. Once he homered in Opening Day against the Red Sox in 2010, I was sold. And ever since then, he has given me more and more reasons to love him – especially after his MVP-worthy 2011 effort. What’s not to like about the guy? He’s a real professional – the epitome of what it means to be a Yankee. He was voted one of the friendliest players in baseball by his fellow ballplayers. He’s friendly, but maybe not if you’re an opposing pitcher. The guy can hit. Like, well. And he’s been known to flash the leather. And okay, maybe I have a little “thing” for him…I mean just look at him. He’s adorable. Gotta love that smile. And he’s so smart. I could listen to him talk or watch him play all day long…
I didn’t really think it was possible to admire Curtis Granderson any more than I did. But I came home yesterday to a package at my door from Brad, the young man behind The King Of Sports Blog of the FanVsFan Network. It was Curtis Granderson’s book, “All You Can Be: Learning & Growing Through Sports.” Brad thought I’d enjoy reviewing it. He was right.
Needless to say, my infatuation with Curtis Granderson has blossomed even further. “All You Can Be” gets two thumbs up from me.
“All You Can Be” is a children’s book written by Curtis Granderson that consists of Granderson’s lessons to the youth. He shares his personal experiences to give the children further reason to listen to his advice. Although I still consider myself a kid, I’m technically an adult, but I still enjoyed this book. I think “All You Can Be” is an inspirational book for people of all ages, even though it was targeted to the youth. The lessons Granderson shares and the values he wants to instill transcend the scope of time.
The book is creatively arranged so that each chapter is a different “inning” in the game of valuable lessons. Inning one is “Have Fun,” followed by, “Choose the Right Friends,” “Play with Passion,” “Be a Leader,” “Value Your Family,” “Be Yourself,” “Listen and Learn,” “Think Positive,” with the 9th inning as “Never Be Satisfied.” On each page front- and-back prior to the start of a new chapter, there is a selected piece of artwork from a talented student of a New York City Public School. These pieces represent the students’ interpretations of their corresponding chapters. A section entitled “Extra Innings: Dream Big!” consists of eight more honorable mention works of art. Placed within the text, Granderson includes personal photographs of his youth that complement the theme of the chapter.
Along with being beautifully arranged, Granderson’s “All You Can Be” is reader-friendly. The 48-page book is easy to read and moves very quickly. The font is big enough that my Grandma read it with ease (and she too enjoyed it). Granderson highlights key ideas throughout the text in red italic fonts. My favorite part was in the chapter “Be Yourself,” where Granderson recalls being self-conscious about his big “clown feet.” How could people have picked on Curtis Granderson in school? It didn’t bother him for long, though. It just created another lesson for him to share with us.
The ideas presented in this book are things kids should hear everywhere: follow the right people, never give up, be confident in yourself, etc. Then why is this book so special? I think it’s because Granderson shares his personal experiences with us. Kids might think, “Yeah, yeah, everyone says that stuff.” But when Curtis Granderson says it, and he proves that it worked for him, we’re all probably more apt to listen. Granderson stressed the fact that although we are all from different backgrounds and are raised in different environments, we all go through the same things in life. That’s why it is important to listen to people, because they’ve been through it, and can help you learn from their experiences. The values may be simple, but they are solid. And they are the values that got Granderson to where he is today – not only in the professional sense, but in the personal sense as well.
I love the fact that Curtis Granderson always wants to give back. I always thought he was nice, but after reading “All You Can Be,” I knew it was no façade. Curtis Granderson is a genuinely compassionate man with solid values, and his words in this book come from the heart. The stories he shares are ones I think we all can relate to. I know I wasn’t always as confident in myself as I am today, but as Granderson assured, through the love of those who care for me, I’ve grown to really believe in myself, just as he has. In a way, it’s somewhat comforting to know that even a guy as seemingly-perfect as Curtis Granderson has dealt with the same things as we have.
Even though this is a children’s book, I think everyone can learn from it. Granderson teaches the young generation what is important, and reminds us older people that adapting those simple ideas makes us grow to all we can think we be, and then keep on growing.
Curtis Granderson’s “All You Can Be” is a simple yet inspirational work.
And thank you, Curtis my sweet, for all the great work you do both on and off the diamond.
Thank you to Guest Writer Virginia Califano for preparing today’s book review on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Virginia.
You can also find Virginia Califano on Twitter (@VirginiaC816). Feel free to also check out: http://pinstripepartisan.com or http://southernbelle.mlblogs.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.
Interview with Jeremy Barfield: Oakland A’s Prospect Extraordinaire
Monday December 26, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Second generation ballplayers are all over the major leagues these days. Strong blood lines and baseball influences help these young men continue their fathers’ legacies. But some become part of a baseball family and create a strong impact on the game. That is the case in the Barfield household, as father Jesse and his sons Jeremy and Josh are all active in the baseball world. Jesse Barfield played from 1981-1992 with the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. Jesse was a gold glover, all-star and silver slugger during his major league career. Oldest son Josh plays second base in the Phillies organization. Now, emerging into the scene is Jeremy Barfield. The younger brother of Josh, Jeremy is 23-years-old and has recently completed his 4th professional season. Ironically, Jeremy got his start in Canada, playing for the Vancouver Canadians in 2008 (the country of origin for Jesse’s career). Originally drafted by the Mets in 2006, Jeremy opted to attend college instead. The A’s then selected Jeremy in the 8th round of the 2008 draft and he has been climbing the organizational ladder ever since.
Jeremy’s greatest strengths are his cannon for an arm in right field and strong pop at the plate. Standing 6’5″ and weighing 240 lbs., Jeremy is built like a tank. He definitely has the physical tools to succeed in the game. Speaking to him on several occasions, I definitely respect his commitment and focus on baseball. This is a very grounded young man who has the right perspectives on the game and life in general. Jeremy Barfield is mature beyond his years and will be knocking on the A’s door very soon. I talked to Jeremy about growing up as a Barfield, his development and future in the game. As he continues to develop and refine his baseball skills, I can foresee that the youngest Barfield will quickly become a fan favorite in Oakland. It will not be long before people approach Jesse Barfield and ask: “Hey…aren’t you Jeremy’s dad?”
Featured on MLB reports, I am thrilled to present my interview with Jeremy Barfield. Oakland A’s Outfield Prospect:
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MLB reports: Welcome to MLB reports Jeremy. It is a pleasure to be speaking with you today. Starting off: who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Jeremy Barfield: Ken Griffey Jr. was by far my favorite player.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Jeremy Barfield: I don’t have a favorite player anymore
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Jeremy Barfield: In 2008 while in the Northwest League, I hit a game tying grand slam in the bottom of the 9th inning on an 0-2 count.
In 2009 when playing in the Midwest League I had a 3 home run game. I almost hit 4 but the centerfielder brought it back from over the fence my last at bat.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Jeremy Barfield: I am setting my sights as high as possible. I want to play in the Major Leagues.
MLB reports: When you first found out you were drafted, what were your reactions? What was the process like being drafted originally by the Mets in 2006 and the A’s in 2008? What made you decide to finally sign with the A’s?
Jeremy Barfield: I was actually half asleep and didn’t really understand what happened, but when I came to I was very excited. After not signing in 2006 I made sure that I was going to sign this time around. I knew it was a great situation with Oakland since they rely so much on homegrown talent.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Jeremy Barfield: My throwing arm and that I have a high rate of contact at the plate.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Jeremy Barfield: I want to be more consistent with my swing. More consistency means more power.
MLB reports: How do home runs and walks figure into your game? Do you see any of these three items changing over time and to what degree?
Jeremy Barfield: I don’t go up to the plate looking to walk. Home runs are great but it’s all about production. Michael Young is a prime example of that. I’m sure as I get older I’ll hit more home runs and I’m not concerned about walks. Those come with a good hitting approach.
MLB reports: How much of an influence was your dad on you growing up? What did you learn from your dad that has shaped you as a baseball player?
Jeremy Barfield: My dad was instrumental for me in becoming the player I am today. And the real question you should be asking is what DIDN’T I learn from my dad. He taught me everything I know.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Jeremy Barfield: Hopefully within the next year or two. I need to be consistent- that’s all.
MLB reports: If you were not playing professional baseball, you would be ____________
Jeremy Barfield: Working for a graphic design company.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun away from the ballpark?
Jeremy Barfield: Play video games and watch movies.
MLB reports: Which of your teammates are you closest with – any good stories?
Jeremy Barfield: My roommate LHP Trey Barham. Our love for late night Whataburger is unmatched.
MLB reports: How close are you with your brother Josh? Is there a good healthy baseball rivalry going?
Jeremy Barfield: Very close. We live together in the offseason. Since we’re so different as ballplayers, we don’t have much of a rivalry going.
MLB reports: Given that your dad was a successful major league player- do you find that you have added pressure to prove yourself? Tell us your experiences of being a 2nd generation baseball player.
Jeremy Barfield: When I was younger, people used to say I was overrated and that my dad was the only reason I was playing. I just let my play on the field stop all that nonsense. They quickly realized that my talent on the field was for real.
MLB reports: Final thought: When fans think of the name Jeremy Barfield, what images do you want them to associate you with?
Jeremy Barfield: Trendsetter extraordinaire!
Thank you to Jeremy Barfield for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Jeremy.
You can also find Jeremy Barfield on Twitter (@Baseclogger). He may be a MLB prospect extraordinaire, but yes- he does answer back!
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Howard Megdal Interview: Author of The Baseball Talmud and Wilpon’s Folly
Sunday December 25, 2011
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: I had the opportunity this week to post on our site my review of the Howard Megdal classic baseball book, “The Baseball Talmud”. Today, MLB reports presents my interview with the baseball author himself, Howard Megdal. We discuss many aspects of Howard’s life- from the process of writing “The Baseball Talmud” to a look to his recently released book “Wilpon’s Folly”. I am looking to forward to getting my hands on his third book and learning Howard’s take on the Wilpon family and state of the Mets. If “Wilpon’s Folly” is anything like his previous works, Howard will have another winner on his hands.
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with baseball author, Howard Megdal
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MLB reports: Welcome back to MLB reports Howard. Thank you for taking the time for us today to talk about your work. It was a pleasure to read the Baseball Talmud, your first book which I recently reviewed on our site. How long did it take you to research and write the book?
Howard Megdal: Overall, it took over a year. But I’d been thinking about these questions since middle childhood.
MLB reports: What would possess you to pick such an expansive topic for your first ever book?
Howard Megdal: Well, it was a perfect marriage of my obsessions with baseball and Jewish culture. And I thought it was a book that needed to be out there, but wasn’t.
MLB reports: Were you worried on being typecast as a “Jewish Baseball Writer” by writing the Baseball Talmud?
Howard Megdal: Not at all. I knew I had many more books in me on various topics.
MLB reports: Favorite Jewish baseball player growing up?
Howard Megdal: That’s hard, because there was a bit of a dearth as I grew up. By high school, definitely Shawn Green.
MLB reports: After the book was published, did you have any Jewish players approach you to discuss the book?
Howard Megdal: Well, I’d spoken to many of them during the publishing. But one of the most rewarding experiences I had was when the family of Lefty Weinert came to a book signing to discuss his career.
MLB reports: Can we expect a sequel or follow-up to The Baseball Talmud?
Howard Megdal: An excellent question- I am certainly open to updating it.
MLB reports: What did you expect The Baseball Talmud would be like when you originally conceived the book and how did it differ once you started to write it?
Howard Megdal: To be honest, this one stayed true to my vision of it from the very start.
MLB reports: With the release of Wilpon’s Folly- you are slowly becoming a Mets-only writer (after the release of Taking the Field). Fair assessment?
Howard Megdal: No, I don’t think so. For the same reasons that I didn’t worry about becoming a Jewish-only writer after Baseball Talmud, I am sure topics will take me in many different directions.
MLB reports: After Taking the Field, why write Wilpon’s Folly now? Did you consider other baseball topics for your third book?
Howard Megdal: Well, Bloomsbury approached me, because my reporting was addressing the topic in a broader way than most of the other coverage out there. And I agreed that people needed a broader context for what was happening, and what will happen.
MLB reports: Tell us about Wilpon’s Folly- what kind of book is it and what should readers expect when reading it?
Howard Megdal: It’s a story of huge sums being handled by flawed people, and the ramifications reaching far wider than anyone could have anticipated.
MLB reports: Have the Mets contacted you in any way to discuss Wilpon’s Folly?
Howard Megdal: Obviously, I spoke to them while writing the book. But no, all I’ve heard is through the New York Post.
MLB reports: What do you think of the Wilpon family?
Howard Megdal: I think they have suffered a public fall that no one should take any pleasure from, and I wonder how hard life is going to get for them.
MLB reports: What is the future of the Mets organization? Can the team win with the Wilpons at the helm?
Howard Megdal: No, they very likely cannot. The future is bright under different ownership, since it is extremely difficult for a New York baseball team not to be immensely profitable. But as long as ownership needs to divert all funds to simple financial survival, a long-term plan is practically impossible.
MLB reports: What is your schedule going to be looking like with the release of the new book?
Howard Megdal: Same as before: five columns a week for Capital New York, regular writing for the LoHud Mets Blog, MLB Trade Rumors and other outlets. Freelance pieces whenever inspiration strikes. Spending time with my wife and young daughter. Busy, but good.
MLB reports: What is the next project for Howard Megdal? Can we expect a baseball book per year from you?
Howard Megdal: An excellent question. Need to talk to my agent and settle on a next book.
MLB reports: If you were to look into a crystal ball, where will you be in 5 years from now Howard?
Howard Megdal: I hope I’ll be writing, enjoying time with my family, and living essentially as I do now. Wouldn’t want to change a thing.
MLB reports: Last question: final thoughts for your fans?
Howard Megdal: Thank you so much. I am gratified that people enjoy reading what I write.
***A special thank you to Howard Megdal for his time and effort as part of being interviewed for this article. You can follow Howard on Twitter and click here for Howard’s website.***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Sunday December 25th
Sunday December 25, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Q: As things stand right now, who wins the divisions and Wild Cards from AL/NL in 2012? Steve
MLB reports: It’s not even 2012 and you want me to give you a sneak on predictions? Sure. I’m game! Which MLB teams will make the playoffs in 2012. I am looking at the crystal ball. We are going to assume there is still only one Wild Card team per league. I am finding it a little hazy at this point, but here is what I am seeing:
American League:
East: Tampa Bay Rays: Still the cream of the east. Nobody is touching that pitching staff, led by David Price, James Shields and company. The Rays could still add a bat or two before the season starts. If pitching is king, the Rays are royalty.
Central: Detroit Tigers. The class of the division and this one isn’t even close. Justin Verlander. Miguel Cabrera. Victor Martinez. Alex Avila. Full seasons of Doug Fister and Delmon Young. MLB should just hand them the division title right now and save everyone else the trouble. It is a great time to be a Tigers fan.
West: Houston Astros (just kidding…they don’t get their chance until 2013). Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Surprised? Me too. Most would expect me to say the Rangers. But with the Angels pitching and offense bulked up by Albert Pujols, the Angels get my vote. Jeff Weaver. C.J. Wilson. Dan Haren. Peter Bourjos. I see where the Angels are headed and they have the horses now to take the West. Their pitching is still stellar and with all that offense that is coming….a miracle will happen in Anaheim in 2012.
Wild Card: Texas Rangers. The AL West will go down to the last day of the season likely. With that offense led by Josh Hamilton, Ian Kinsler, Nelson Cruz, Mike Napoli…Texas will be tough to beat. The difference will be pitching. Sure they have Yu Darvish. But I don’t think he will be enough to get the AL West title. But it will still get Texas into the playoffs again.
National League:
East: Philadelphia Phillies. Yes Ryan Howard is out for some time. Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins are getting older. But Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels equates to an automatic division title. Book it.
Central: Cincinnati Reds: My pick for the second straight year. With the Brewers and Cardinals both losing key parts, it is time for the Reds to shine. A pitching staff led by Mat Latos and Johnny Cueto. The dangerous offensive weapons of Joey Votto, Brandon Phillips and Jay Bruce. Devin Mesoraco becoming the full-time catcher. 2012 will be a bright year for the Reds.
West: Arizona Diamondbacks. No longer a surprise, the Dbacks are loaded to make another strong run in 2012. On top of the returning team, Trevor Cahill will be a strong addition. Kirk Gibson has a nice mix of offense, defense, starting pitchers and a deep pen. The Dbacks are the team to beat in 2012.
Wild Card: St. Louis Cardinals. The 2011 World Series champions are back for more. While the loss of Albert Pujols and Tony La Russa will be devastating, Dave Duncan returns as the pitching coach. Carlos Beltran should pick some of the offensive slack, plus Adam Wainwright will be back from injury. With Wainwright, Carpenter and Garcia leading the rotation, the Cards should make the postseason.
Q: (a) Exactly how does the “bidding”, say for Yu Darvish work? Where’s that $54 million go towards?
(b) How will Fielder (likely) and Pujols leaving the NL Central affect the division? Lee
MLB reports: A two-part question for you today Lee, nicely done! (a) The Darvish posting fee ($51.7 million) goes to his former Japanese team, the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters as a transfer fee. All MLB teams had a window in which to submit a bid for the rights to negotiate with Darvish. In that time, the Rangers submitted the highest bid. The Ham Fighters did not know the team, only the winning bid. Now the Rangers have 30 days to sign Darvish to a contract. If Darvish signs, the Ham Fighters keep the $51.7 million. If no contract, Darvish goes back to Japan for next year and can be re-posted in 2013. Expect Darvish though to sign with Texas and the Ham Fighters to keep the posting fee.
Now on to part 2 of your question. You are correct in your estimation, as Prince Fielder is likely to join Albert Pujols and leave the NL Central. The departures of the two stars means that the NL Central crown is up for grabs. As per my earlier answer, the Reds are now the heavy favorites to win the Central. The Cards will still be in it, as the return of Wainwright will drastically help the team. But nobody can know how the team will play without Pujols and its former manager, Tony La Russa. The Brewers could be in big trouble, especially if Ryan Braun is lost for any lengthy period of time. Prince Fielder did not get enough credit for the success of the Milwaukee Brewers. Now the team will have a reality check when he is gone in 2012.
Q: As of today, what are the top-5 rotations in MLB? Fredy
MLB reports: A great…great…great question. What a fantastic discussion point and source of debate. With all the cries about the lack of pitching in baseball, there are some fantastic rotations out there. Now, with trades and free agent signings, this list could change. But as of today, here are my top rotations in baseball (in order):
1) Tampa Bay Rays: Some teams may have a better 1-2-3 punch. But for overall depth and quality, the Rays are the class of baseball. David Price, James Shields and Jeremy Hellickson can run with the best of them. Then add Matt Moore, Wade Davis and Jeff Niemann into the equation and you have baseball’s best rotation. With even more good young pitchers coming through the minors, the Rays have an embarrassment of riches. A trade could still come through the pipe, but even still, the Rays are my selection.
2) Philadelphia Phillies: Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee are the most devastating top-2 starters I have ever watched in my life. They have the chance of being one of the best duos of all time, and that is saying a lot. Cole Hamels could be an ace for many other teams and is playing for his next big pay-day. Vance Worley had a solid 2011 campaign and should do much of the same this year for the Phillies. The 5th job will likely be between Kyle Kendrick and Joe Blanton, unless another move is made. The Phillies may not be the most complete team in baseball, but they certainly have one of the top rotations in the game.
3) San Francisco Giants: This team does not require much explanation. Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain and Madison Bumgarner. Ryan Vogelsong and Barry Zito to round out the squad. You would have a very difficult time finding a better top-3 when they are on. Cain is one of my personal favorites and one of the most underrated players in the game in my estimation.
4) Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim: My pick to win the AL West and a big reason is this staff. Jeff Weaver and Dan Haren are the foundation of the team. C.J. Wilson should be a great #3 on a team where he will not be expected to be the ace. Between Ervin Santana, Jerome Williams and Garrett Richards, Mike Scoscia should be able to fill in the rest of his rotation.
5) Atlanta Braves: I struggled with this one. I was thinking Cards, Reds and even the Nationals. While each of those teams had some top guns, it was their lack of depth that made them fall of the list. The Braves are my pick for having strong pitchers, but just the best depth in the rotations that were left. Tim Hudson. Jair Jurrjens (if not traded). Tommy Hanson (if healthy). Brandon Beachy. Mike Minor. Randall Delgaldo. Julio Teheran. Just having Teheran alone shoots this rotation up the list. They may not be the flashiest, but the Braves have a choice of starting pitchers that other teams just drool over.
Q: Will Ubaldo Jimenez regain his 2010 first half form? David
MLB reports: Is there a bigger source of frustration in baseball? The Ubaldo from 2011 looked nothing like the recent Ubaldo we have come to know. He will be turning 28 in January (in Dominican years) and should just be entering the prime of his career. I will tell you my gut feeling…and Cleveland fans, you will not like it. I have seen this pattern too many times over the years. Occasionally a pitcher goes through a dead-arm period, where their numbers and performance all of a sudden drops drastically. Through rest and a change in mechanics, the form can return. But that is the exception to the rule. Usually when a decline like Ubaldo’s appears, it means that there is an injury in hiding. I will be very surprised if Ubaldo regains his form overnight. I am looking at a crystal ball and my sense is a visit to Dr. Andrews in his future. This is a gut feeling, but a very strong one. It could be heartburn, but I doubt it.
Q: Tim Wheeler and Seth Smith for Prado or Jurrjens? Joe
MLB reports: Its a possibility, but I don’t see it happening. Wheeler is the real deal and I can’t see the Rockies moving him at this point. Smith is a useful role player and could blossom into a steady every day player, but I have my doubts. Between Jurrjens and Prado, I take Jurrjens if I’m the Rockies. A great pitcher, but has issues staying healthy. The key component in this trade is Wheeler. The former 1st round pick is highly rated and was terrific last season with 33 home runs in AA. Rockies say no, Braves say yes. But if it happens, it would be for Jurrjens also. Martin Prado is another useful player, but not a star and worth the cost of a top prospect.
Q: Which team makes the biggest jump in the ‘Power Rankings’ if they sign Fielder? Bleacher GM
MLB reports: Another great question! Prince Fielder will instantly help any team that signs him. But who will make the biggest jump…now that is a different story. I could see the Jays being stronger playoff contenders with him. The Rangers would be even that much more dangerous. But the biggest jumps would be based on a team with potential that needs to go the next level. My picks in order would be the Nationals, Mariners and Orioles. With Prince on board, I could see the Nats finally climbing from potential to contenders. The Mariners and Orioles would go from the basement to respectability overnight. Yes, Prince has that kind of power and abilities to make everyone else around him better. But the Nationals get my vote, given their emerging pitching staff and great young hitters. If the Nats sign Prince, we could be looking at the Nats in the playoffs by 2013. The Mariners are still far too behind on offense to become contenders and the Orioles are still emerging and integrating as a young team. The Mariners get the edge based on their pitching staff. But imagine Prince hitting between Harper and Zimmerman. Just the thought gets me very excited!
Final Question of the day: Here’s a good question, what was the one moment that made you realize baseball was your niche? Eric
MLB reports: I needed a week to ponder this one Eric. One of the most insightful and deep questions ever presented to me. I always knew that I had a deep love for baseball. I have read about the game and its players and studied the sport for most of life. I have always enjoyed writing about baseball, but never knew where it would be headed. In conducting interviews, I felt a good connection to the game and the people associated with it. But the true point when I knew it was my calling- now that is a different story. I would have to say when a leading baseball writer for a well-known baseball publication told me that he reads the site regularly and enjoys my work, that was the instance I felt that I had something special. When a writer of his caliber and experience was quoting my work and praising it, I literally had goosebumps. That was the defining moment in my career. From there, when I get emails and messages from baseball fans all over the world- it makes all the hard work very gratifying. I enjoy touching people’s lives and being able to deliver to them positive information and analysis on the game of baseball. Finding the right writers who had the same principles, work ethic and ideas was the key to the growth of the site. I definitely love what I do. I believe that people lead busy lives and time is precious. By people taking the time out of their lives to read my work, I have an obligation to provide them with the best baseball writing that I can deliver. It is an honor that I get to interact with as many baseball fans that I do as part of my role as a Baseball Writer. It is the greatest game on the planet and I am proud to be able to make contributions to baseball through my writing. Thank you for the question!
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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 onFacebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
MLB Ballpark Traditions: National League
Sunday December 25, 2011
Doug Booth- Guest Baseball Writer: The entire baseball community is looking forward to the ‘New Marlins Ballpark’ in 2012. This new opening will give some of extreme ballpark chasers a chance to tack another ballpark to their viewing history. I will be attending the opening of this Ballpark in April and that will make it 35 Major League Stadiums for me, 5 that are defunct and this park in Miami will help me re-establish the 30 current MLB Parks. We all assume that Oakland will have a new baseball park eventually so I will have a few years before attending a new baseball park again. These traditions only help the folklore of baseball. I believe it helps distinguish the sport from the other major sports leagues.
Here are the National League Parks Traditions:
Wrigley Field
1. 7TH inning stretch-made famous by Harry Caray and kept up by guests now.
2. They started throwing the ‘opposition’s’ home runs back onto the field and have not stopped even though it is illegal to throw the baseballs back on the field.
3. They have their own song “go Cubs go” which they play after every win.
4. Of course they have the curse of the ‘BILLY GOAT’ and also have not won a World Series in 103 years.
Minute Maid Park
1. They have a train that goes from side to side whenever they hit a homer.
2. They play the song “Stars at Night” right after 7th inning stretch
3. They play all their games indoors and only open up the roof when the park is cleared.
Miller Park
1. They do 2 really cool waves. One is a reverse wave where the goes clockwise all around the ballpark and then change direction. The other one they do is a slow motion wave which is hilarious.
2. They have the sausage race!!!
3. The sing the song “Over The Barrell” after “Take me out to the ballgame”.
4. ‘Bernie Brewer, (Brewers mascot) goes down the slide in upper left field bleachers-and has recently started throwing t-shirts from there.
5. They give out fridges for who has the best-“Tailgate Party”.
Busch Stadium
1. Easily the most respectful fans in baseball.
2. They cheered the 2004 Boston Red Sox even when they lost the World Series, so they are classy.
PNC Park
1. They have the pierogi races.
2. Between every inning they have text messages posted on-screen from people.
3. They have one of the coolest beginnings where they have a pirate ship full of pirates and they take over the opposing team’s ship on the scoreboard.
Great American Ball Park
1. They have fireworks that explode from the ship in center-field when there is a home run.
2. The Reds Museum is the best “Hall Of Fame” out of all the teams.
Dodger Stadium
1. The beach balls are still being thrown around.
2. It is routine to show up 4 innings into the game and leave at the 8th inning-Last year I watched a game that lasted only 2 hours and the parking lot was jammed because people had arrived late and did not leave early because the game was so quick. I still love the replay of the ‘KIRK GIBSON’ homer because of all the tail lights in the parking lot that were leaving.
AT&T Park
1. The Kayaker’s in McCovey Cove are fun to watch.
2. The hecklers in center-field always are after the opposing outfielders with this chant’ “What is the matter with (insert player here)? The answer is: “He’s a bum!” They do this all game.
3. They have a Panda Bear now because of Pablo Sandoval-(Kung-Fu Panda.)
4. They chart the splash hits that go into the cove.
Coors Field
1. They sell food and beverages outside the ballpark with their own vendors for a good price.
2. They use the ‘humidor’ to reduce the flight of the baseballs by 8-10%.
Chase Field
1. They sing “Sweet Caroline” like the Boston fans do.
2. They are the only park that plays a second verse of “Take me out to the Ballgame”.
3. They are very fanatical at security about you operating camera/videos so watch out.
Petco Park
1. There is a picnic area where you can watch the game for 5 dollars.
2. They are the most pet-friendly stadium as pets are allowed into the game a lot.
Turner Field
1. ‘The tomahawk chop’ is the worst tradition in baseball, but it is here to stay-routinely sections of people will get up and stand while doing the chop.
2. Skip Caray and Mark Lemke do the pregame show from the media gondola in center-field every home game.
3. They routinely have ‘concerts’ on weekend night games free of charge and are decent groups. I saw Arrested Development there last year.
Citi Field
1. The ‘BIG APPLE’ still comes out after every homer is hit (unless it is stuck which has happened at Citi Field).
2. There are planes that come over every five minutes–I find this very disrupting to the game and that is why I have the park ranked 11th overall.
Sun Life Stadium coming soon/New Marlins Ballpark in 2012!!
1. You can buy a parking pass that will work for any home date online-which is convenient.
2. The mascot is always featured on the big screen throwing fake pies at people in the stands who have on opposing gear.
Nationals Park
1. The president’s race is a definite highlight of every game-and one of them always falls flat on their face–usually it is Teddy Roosevelt.
2. They shoot t-shirts into the crowd-that have chili-dogs wrapped up in them–just ask the 20 people or so that were pelted with the contents when they failed to wrap the t-shirts tight enough with the food.
Citzens Bank Ballpark
1. The Phillie Phanatac is always in trouble with the ‘grounds crew’ because he whips around in the ATV.
2. There is about 4,000 S.R.O’S for every game and most hang out in ‘Ashburn’s Alley’.
3. They boo the home players more than any other team including Boston and both NY clubs. That is understandable considering they booed Santa Claus–and cheered when Michael Irvin was knocked unconscious at the old ‘VET’.
4. They have the biggest fine in the league for jumping on the field.
Click here to view Part 1 of Doug Booth’s Ballpark Traditions feature on MLB reports, with a look at the American League Traditions.
*** Thank you to our Guest Baseball Writer- Doug Booth for joining us today on MLB reports. To learn more about “The Fastest 30 Ballgames” and Doug Booth, you can follow Doug on Twitter (@ChuckBooth3024) and click here for Doug’s website, fastestthirtyballgames.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.
Interview with Jake Elmore: Arizona Diamondbacks Prospect
Saturday December 24, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Today on MLB reports we are proud to feature Arizona Diamondbacks Prospect: Jacob Elmore (Jake). Originally drafted by the Marlins in 2007, Jake was later drafted and signed with the Diamondbacks in 2008. Jake just completed his 4th season in the Diamondbacks system, with a 2nd straight year in AA with the Mobile Bay Bears of the Southern League. During his professional career, Jake has played every position except for outfield. Yes, he did catch one game and pitched in four games! Jake’s greatest strengths are his batting eye and speed. He has shown close to a 1:1 walk to strikeout ratio (career .370 obp) and very good speed (career high 25 stolen bases in 2010 and 15 in 2011).
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Jake Elmore, Arizona Diamondbacks Prospect:
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MLB reports: Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Jake Elmore: My favorite player growing up was Ken Griffey Jr. I loved how he played the game with a big smile on his face. He looked like he enjoyed playing baseball more than anyone I have ever witnessed. Being as great as he was, that was understandable. His excellence on the field had a great deal with me admiring him as well.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Jake Elmore: Chipper Jones would be my pick. I admire how he plays the game and his loyalty to his organization. Many players run for the higher paycheck but Chipper is beloved in Atlanta and has always found a way to make it work there. The player I try to model my game after is Brian Roberts. The tough, gritty approach he brings to the table is admirable and he always finds a way to impact a game.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Jake Elmore: My proudest accomplishment would be winning the “Big Stick” award at the Junior College World Series in Grand Junction Colorado. This award is given to the player with the highest batting average at the World Series that qualifies with ample at bats. I hit .526 and took home the crown.
MLB reports: Did you fully expect from the start of the draft back in 2008 to sign with the Dbacks? When was the final decision made in the process to sign with Dbacks? Any disappointment with being drafted in the 34th round? What factors led you not to sign with the Marlins back in 2007 when you were originally drafted?
Jake Elmore: I had no expectation to be drafted in 2008. I was really excited to be drafted at all and feel fortunate to be given the opportunity. I had a really rough time at Arizona State and did not fit in well with that program. I thought there was no way I would be given a shot after the year I had, so when I was taken it brought me back to life and gave me extra motivation. I had no plans to sign with the Marlins after 2007 being such a low pick and a Junior year at Arizona State on the horizon.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Jake Elmore: My greatest skill on the field would be my versatility and knowledge of the game. I feel that me being able to move all over the field and the batting lineup gives me an advantage against other players. I pride myself on being athletic and multi-faceted. The mental aspect of the game is really enhanced as you progress through a system and being able to adjust mentally is a key to success.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Jake Elmore: I would love to improve my power numbers and my stolen base success. I am known as a speedy guy, but know that I have been caught far too many times to be considered a top-notch stolen base threat. Power is something all organizations are looking for and I am striving to improve in that area.
MLB reports: I am very impressed with your displayed ability to get on base during your career. You have close to a 1:1 walk to strikeout ratio. How do strikeouts and walks figure into your game? Do you see any of these items changing over time and to what degree?
Jake Elmore: The ability to get on base is a key to my success as a player and being disciplined at the plate is the key to obp. Over time I hope to maintain this ratio because I do think it is important. Although, I would sacrifice a few strikeouts for a few more home runs in a season.
MLB reports: Long term what position do you see yourself playing? You have mainly played 2b and ss, but also some 3b, 1b, catcher and pitched! What’s the story on all these positions played? How do you see defense as part of your overall game?
Jake Elmore: Well, being versatile is something I take pride in so I make sure all the coaches I play for understand that I am serious about playing different positions. I told the organization I could catch and they laughed and took it in stride. Then when I got the chance to get behind the dish they were surprised that I actually had an idea back there. I caught throughout high school, got recruited as an infielder and catcher, started junior college as a center fielder due to an injury, played both at ASU, and played all the infield positions in pro ball. Still waiting on my first outfield appearance in the pros. As for pitching, I do not pretend to be good in that area but when the game is 17 innings in and our team is out of pitchers….”Jake get loose.” As for my projected position of the future, I would say middle infield is my ticket but the ability to catch can become valuable to my career.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Jake Elmore: Looking ahead and trying to predict the future can be dangerous and tricky. So… lets jump into the gauntlet. I feel that if I continue to get on base and score runs, playing solid defense and increase my power numbers, I will get a shot in the next few years.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball?
Jake Elmore: I really enjoy working out. Not necessarily for baseball but for health in general. I enjoy learning how the body functions and why we do the workouts we do. MW3 is a time waster that I enjoy even though I am average at best. Lastly, I have recently started keeping a journal. I figure one day it will be intriguing to look back and remember what was going on at this time in my life.
MLB reports: Have you visited Arizona yet? How did you enjoy Chase Field?
Jake Elmore: Yes I have visited Arizona many times and have always enjoyed my time there. I have been to Chase Field as well. It is immaculate and gives you extra fuel in the tank to make it to the Show.
MLB reports: You just completed your second season in AA ball. Do you know where the Dbacks likely plan to start you this season?
Jake Elmore: I have no idea about the organizations plans and there is no need to even speculate. I am doing everything in my control to better myself to prove I am worthy of a promotion.
MLB reports: If you could send out a message to the Dbacks fans, what would it be?
Jake Elmore: Hopefully I will see you guys soon!
Thank you again to Jake Elmore for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Jake. You can also find Jake Elmore on Twitter (@JElmo6)
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Interview with Neiko Johnson: Houston Astros Prospect and Future Leadoff Man
Thursday December 22, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Today on MLB reports we are proud to feature Houston Astros Prospect: Neiko Johnson. Joining the Astros organization as a free agent this past year, Neiko started his career in the New York-Penn League, playing for the Tri-City ValleyCats. Neiko played all over the field in his first season, including outfield, shortstop, second base and third base. A speedster, Neiko successfully stole 21 bases in 25 attempts, playing in 57 games. Even more impressively, Neiko had a .397 OBP. With the ability to get on base and swipe bags in bunches, Neiko has a bright future as a MLB leadoff man. By taking 41 walks and striking out 37 times, Neiko showed a good eye at the plate. At the age of 23, we see a bright future for Neiko Johnson as the Astros answer to Tim Raines, Vince Coleman or even Rickey Henderson. The tools are clearly there for Neiko- now he just needs the time to sharpen his skills and work towards landing in Houston. Plus having Brandon Phillips as a close friend never hurts. Phillips plays the game “the right way” and clearly has had a positive influence on Neiko. The stars are aligned for this young man and we see big things ahead in his future!
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Nieko Johnson, Houston Astros Prospect:
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MLB reports: You played five seasons for the University of Kentucky. Tell us about that experience and why you chose Kentucky for your education?
Neiko Johnson: College was a great experience and I recommend it to all athletes. I believe college helps a young athlete grow into an adult, learn about themselves and many other parts of life. I learned how to manage my time and be more efficient in life, as well as becoming mentally stronger. I chose Kentucky because I wanted to play college for a big D-1 school and the SEC is the best conference in the nation. So it was an easy choice.
MLB reports: Did you have a favorite player growing up?
Neiko Johnson: Derek Jeter.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Neiko Johnson: Brandon Phillips because I am real close friends with him and he has helped lead me down the right path in baseball.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Neiko Johnson: To become a better player every day and give 110% percent.
MLB reports: You were signed as a free agent by the Astros in June 2011. Tell us about that process.
Neiko Johnson: I worked out for the Houston Astros in my hometown Atlanta, GA. That same day they called back wanting to sign me which was a blessing and I’m very thankful for.
MLB reports: As soon as you signed you were off to Troy to play for the Tri-City ValleyCats. What the heck is a ValleyCat?
Neiko Johnson: HAHA honestly I have no idea what a ValleyCat is! But the fans were awesome and I really enjoyed the environment we played in.
MLB reports: How did you feel going from school to professional baseball? What was the transition like?
Neiko Johnson: I felt good going into pro ball. I was ready because I was mature and knew how to handle myself. The transition was a bit different because in college most things are taken care of for you such as food, housing, workouts, etc. In pro ball, you are basically on your own and you have to become a man in the real world. You have to figure things out as you go along because most things are not taken care of for you like they were in college.
MLB reports: You played all over the field this past season: including shortstop, third base, second base and outfield. What position do you see yourself at long-term?
Neiko Johnson: Whatever position the Astros want me to play is the position I can see myself playing long-term. I am willing to play anywhere as long as I am in the lineup.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Neiko Johnson: My speed and awareness of the game.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Neiko Johnson: I wish to improve every facet of my game because I can improve in all areas all the time.
MLB reports: What do you need to do in order to be successful in this game?
Neiko Johnson: You have to love this game and work hard at it because nothing is given you. You have to earn it!
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Neiko Johnson: I just need to continue to work hard and stay dedicated to the process. When the time is right I will eventually make it to the big leagues.
MLB reports: Favorite baseball movie of all-time?
Neiko Johnson: Major League.
MLB reports: Have you been to Houston yet? Do you own a cowboy hat and boots?
Neiko Johnson: HAHA… nope, not a big cowboy guy. But yes, I have been to Houston. Only once though. In college we played at Minute Maid Park in a tournament during my senior season.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
Neiko Johnson: Thank you for the opportunity to answer some questions about my life and career. I will continue to work hard and always keep a good image.
Thank you again to Neiko Johnson for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Neiko. You can also find Neiko Johnson on Twitter (@ThisIsNJJ)
***The pictures used in today’s feature were provided by Neiko Johnson from his personal collection***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
“The Baseball Talmud” by Howard Megdal: MLB Book Review
Wednesday December 21, 2011
“THE BASEBALL TALMUD”: BY HOWARD MEGDAL
(Harper: 2009)
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Happy Hanukkah to one and all! With today being the first day of Hanukkah, I thought that it would be very appropriate to include some Jewish baseball on MLB reports. Luckily, I just completed a Jewish-centric baseball book and will be reviewing said book for you today. One of our favorite baseball authors (are there any other kind), Howard Megdal, prepared one of the preeminent Jewish baseball books on the market today. Howard’s first baseball book is titled: “The Baseball Talmud”.
You will recall Megdal’s work from our review of his 2nd effort, “Taking the Field: A Fan’s Quest to Run the Team He Loves.” While “Taking the Field” was centered on Howard’s efforts to campaign to run and fix the New York Mets, “The Baseball Talmud” comes from a very different perspective. “The Baseball Talmud” is essentially a baseball history piece. While some players’ names would be familiar to the readers (depending on your age and baseball knowledge), reading “The Baseball Talmud” will prove to be an educational experience for most baseball fans who pick up to read this book. The Talmud (in case you are not familiar with the term) is a collection of ancient rabbinic writings on Jewish law and tradition. Commentary and interpretations are the key components of the Talmud. Thus it is fitting that Megdal labelled his book “The Baseball Talmud”, as the book is an authoritative interpretation of Jewish baseball with commentary. It is first and foremost a baseball history book- but from a Jewish perspective.
I ended up reading Megdal’s books out of order, as “Taking the Field” was released after “The Baseball Talmud”. I was actually pleased about this result, as I came into “The Baseball Talmud” with a more intimate feeling and knowledge about Howard Megdal having completed “Taking the Field”. Even without reading “The Baseball Talmud”, I knew that Megdal had a strong feeling and passion for Judaism and baseball. It was evident from “Taking the Field”, as well as reading his articles and interviewing him in the past. Megdal is very proud of being Jewish. Thus his passion and knowledge of Judaism and baseball made him a perfect authority to write “The Baseball Talmud”. Knowing Megdal’s background, experience and personality, made me appreciate reading “The Baseball Talmud” that much more.
In my estimation, Megdal pulled off one of the biggest literary miracles in “The Baseball Talmud” (again appropriate given the Hanukkah season). While most baseball fans enjoy talking about the history of the game to great lengths, most would not at first glance be terribly excited to read a “baseball history” book. Baseball books can range in different categories, from autobiographies, instructional, statistical and historical. “The Baseball Talmud” fits mostly into the historical category, with a pinch of statistics spread throughout. Make no mistake, there are many modern players included. From Ryan Braun, Ian Kinsler, Kevin Youkilis, Steve Stone, etc., all the “big” name Jewish players that you know and love are discussed and analyzed. But this book is far from a tribute to Sandy Koufax and Hank Greenberg. While two of the biggest Jewish baseball players of all time, Megdal recaps most (if not all) Jewish players that have ever played the game. Names like Conrad Cardinal, Ed Wineapple, Happy Foreman, Erskine Mayer, Mose Solomon and Jake Pitler are all part of the book. Not only did I learn about how the many Jews who played the game of baseball, I learned a great deal about the history of the game of baseball as a whole. The success of this book though is in Megdal’s writing. “The Baseball Talmud” is very well written with a great deal of history and statistics. But it is done in a very fun and light manner, with excellent analysis. Howard Megdal is a storyteller. One of the best baseball ones that I have ever read. So if you are jumping into “The Baseball Talmud” expecting a straight history and statistics text, think again. This book is built upon the baseball stories and commentary within it.
The book is divided into a clean and easy-to-read format. After reviewing the top Jewish baseball players of all time, Megdal then proceeds to list his top Jewish players at each position. The lists are very specific, including all three outfield positions and breaking down right-handed and left-handed starting pitchers and relievers. My favorite section is the all-time Jewish baseball team assembled by Megdal at the end of the book and how his Jewish team would compare to other teams from different eras. On a personal note, I did take a great deal away from this book given my Jewish heritage and background. But regardless of my own religion and culture, I would recommend this book to any baseball fan. Young or old. Novice or expert. To really appreciate the game, it is important to know about the different leagues and teams throughout the years. Players had careers interrupted and shortened due to wars. Before the age of free agency, player movement was very limited and outstanding players were blocked and often left in the minors or on the bench rather than being given an opportunity elsewhere. Such key components of baseball are discussed in Megdal’s book. But again, having Megdal use his superior storytelling abilities in describing the players and their circumstances makes the book a winner. This was a fun read, that had me laughing out loud many times and thinking throughout.
For the baseball fan in your life that has everything, I strongly recommend running out to your local bookstore or jumping onto a site like amazon.com and purchasing “The Baseball Talmud”. I can think of many past Hanukkah seasons that I would have enjoyed receiving this book as a gift. It would also make a great stocking stuffer for any baseball fan of any denomination. While it may seem humorous to receive “The Baseball Talmud” on Christmas morning under a tree or in a stocking, it would be well appreciated by all devotees of the game. Baseball fans are always looking for more information and “something different”. Well folks, “The Baseball Talmud” is as about as unique as it gets in the baseball world. I enjoyed reading several of the chapters to my own 6-year old son. If we are going to teach our kids as parents about the game of baseball early, it is important to use the right materials! So Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and an overall Happy Holidays to everyone. I look forward to hearing from everyone after you had a chance to read “The Baseball Talmud” to debate the rankings of the all-time best Jewish players. Creating a forum for baseball discussion and analysis is what a good baseball book will do and makes “The Baseball Talmud” a clear winner.
***We highly encourage you to keep an eye out for our interview with Howard Megdal coming soon to MLB reports, as we discuss “The Baseball Talmud” and Howard’s newly released book “The Wilpon’s Folly: The Story of a Man, His Fortune and the New York Mets”, available now for purchase. We look forward to reading and reviewing “The Wilpon’s Folly” for you as well in the coming weeks. Also check out “Taking the Field” and learn about Howard’s experiences in campaigning to become the GM of the New York Mets. If you enjoy a good baseball read, you can never go wrong with a Howard Megdal book.***
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
MLB Ballpark Traditions: American League
Monday December 19, 2011
Doug Booth- Guest Baseball Writer: Since I finished writing the book on my experiences in chasing down the World Record by going to all the baseball parks, I decided to ask for help in my research. I went to every ballpark for two years in a row from 2008-2009, and am always fascinated by traditions and things each city does at a ballpark. Like Sweet Caroline is always played in the bottom of 8th at Fenway or…. Tailgate parties that I have seen in Oakland, New York and Minnesota. This could be something on field, in the air, outside the ballpark, after or before the game. Fans have their own way of celebrating. This is just what I have picked up. What else am I missing?
New York Yankees-Yankee-Stadium
1. They take roll call for every position player–and it comes from the bleachers once the game starts. Each 9 starting fielders in the TOP of the first gets their name called. The fans chant each of the BALLPLAYERS until they wave their hats back to acknowledge them.
2. Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” is played at the end of every game in an infinite loop.
3. You got the ‘DEREK JETER’ with rhythmic clapping after wards
4. They chant HIP-HIP JORGE for Jorge Posada–or they say his name to the famous chant of soccer—JORGE-JORGE-JORGE-JORGE-JORGE-JORGE.
5. Of course there are the famous calls of John Sterling for each player. Example,-“Teixeira sends a TEX MESSAGE TO RIGHT FIELD oh you are on the ‘MARK’ Teixeira.
6. Of course booing all the opposition is common.
7. Still play “GOD BLESS AMERICA’ before “TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME.”
Boston Red Sox-Fenway Park
1. Play the song Sweet Caroline in the bottom of the eighth.
2. They boo the catcher and pitcher of the opposite team every time they meet at the mound.
Toronto Blue Jays.-Rogers Center
1. They start at the time of 37-or 07 after the hour to accommodate both the Canadian and American anthem.
2. They have a chant in the stands where a guy counts from 10-1 and then everyone screams.
3. Other cities have called the some of the worst fans in baseball—they do the wave when they are down 10 runs—do you think they would do the wave in New York or Boston if their team was behind by 10 runs?
Baltimore Orioles-Oriole Park at Camden Yards
1. They chant “Oh” really loud at the time of the national anthem when the part says Oh say does that star spangle….”
2. There was a kid who would sprint out with a player’s jacket whenever there was a pitcher called in relief from the bullpen-is he still there?
Tampa Bay Rays-Tropicana Field
1. They play the “HEY RAYS” song when they win.
2. They post the starting lineups on a scoreboard outside the park whenever they are playing that day.
3. They light up the lights outside the ‘TROP’ on nights they win so that motorists can tell the home team won.
4. They have cowbells they use in the stands ‘for effect’
Chicago White Sox-US Cellular Field
1. Their come out song is “Thunderstruck.”
2. They always shoot fireworks after the home runs.
3. They have an old-time song they sing every game, what is it?
Detroit Tigers-Comerica Park
1. They have one of the only names retired instead of numbers with “TY COBB”S’ name being displayed but no number ahead of his name.
2. They play “Detroit Rock City”, by Kiss before the game
Kansas City Royals-Kauffman Stadium
1. They shoot the water fountains high between innings.
2. One of the only clubs that play western music, this includes a rendition of “I got friends in low places.”
Minnesota Twins-Target Field
1.TC(the Twins Mascot)-hits batting practice with a lucky fan before every game.
Cleveland Indians-Progressive Field
1. They have the loyal drummer in right field that attends every game.
2. They usually play the song “CLEVELAND ROCKS” at some point in the game.
3. There is always a clip from ‘MAJOR LEAGUE’ used too.
Seattle Mariners-Safeco Field
1. There is a train that comes through about every 10 minutes in the background-almost as frequent as planes at CITI FIELD.
2. They were the ‘original team’ of the theme “ZOMBIE NATION” by KernKraft 400.
Oakland A’s-McaFee Coliseum/now O.Overstock Coliseum
1. Get there early enough and you are sure to find half the parking lot tailgating. Note: “Worst park to where opposition gear, after all, A’s fan is also “RAIDER FAN.”
2. I would never suggest public transportation in this area, serious safety concern–pay the excruciating 17 dollars and park outside the stadium for easy access in and out.
Texas Rangers-The Ballpark in Arlington
1. They play the “Natural” theme song whenever there is a homer hit by the home team.
2. “They sing the STARS AT NIGHT SONG” as do the Astros.
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim-Angels Stadium
1. The staff used to wear the 20’s usher outfits until recently but they still all wear straw hats like lots of other staffs.
2. They have the waterfall going a lot-and they also have fireworks every time there is a homer hit.
These traditions make baseball great. I would appreciate any other traditions that you know of. If you are the game it makes the experience so much greater in participating. Booth7629@gmail.com
Get ready for Part 2 of Doug Booth’s Ballpark Traditions feature on MLB reports, with a look at the National League Traditions. Coming up this week on MLB reports!
*** Thank you to our Guest Baseball Writer- Doug Booth for joining us today on MLB reports. To learn more about “The Fastest 30 Ballgames” and Doug Booth, you can follow Doug on Twitter (@ChuckBooth3024) and click here for Doug’s website, fastestthirtyballgames.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.
Interview with J.R. Bradley: Diamondbacks Pitching Prospect
Sunday December 18, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Today on MLB reports we are proud to feature James Ray (J.R.) Bradley: 2010 Arizona Diamondbacks draftee. J.R. was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2010 draft. He recently completed his 2nd season in the Dbacks organization, with his most recent season completed with the South Bend Silver Hawks (A-Ball). At 19-years of age, J.R. has a strong future ahead with the Dbacks. As a high draft selection, J.R. was clearly valued highly by the Dbacks. As he continues his progression through the organizational ladder, J.R. looks to continue to develop as he progresses to Arizona one day.
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Dbacks Pitching Prospect J.R. Bradley:
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MLB reports: Welcome to the Reports J.R. Bradley. Starting off: Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
J.R. Bradley: Growing up, I always liked Roger Clemens and Jon Garland. Liking Garland came from within the White Sox because Jon Adkins was playing for them. He’s from WV (West Virginia) and has helped me through baseball since I was younger.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
J.R. Bradley: Roy Halladay. Just the way he competes and handles himself.
MLB reports: What are your proudest accomplishments in baseball?
J.R. Bradley: Being drafted for sure. But we went to the states all 4 years in high school and won it twice.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
J.R. Bradley: Just go out and get better, and make all my scheduled starts.
MLB reports: Were you surprised when you were drafted in the 2nd round- did you have any expectations on the draft and who would draft you?
J.R. Bradley: I wasn’t too surprised I went to the Dbacks. I was hearing rounds 2-4 from everyone and was on the phone with Oakland when I found out.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
J.R. Bradley: I’ve always been a guy who threw strikes. Now it’s a matter of throwing quality strikes, which is something I aim to improve this year. Knocking on wood, I’ve always been pretty durable. I think it’s important to throw innings and make all my starts.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
J.R. Bradley: Fastball command and getting ahead of hitters early in the count. Also consistency with my slider
MLB reports: How do strikeouts and walks figure into your game?
J.R. Bradley: When I walk guys I get hurt, because I pitch to contact and try to get ground ball outs. Strikeouts I think will come when I tighten up my breaking balls. Once I do that, it will be easier to put guys away.
MLB reports: Long term do you see yourself as a starter or reliever?
J.R. Bradley: Starter for sure.
MLB reports: What do you need to do in order to be successful in this game?
J.R. Bradley: I think a positive mindset. Baseball is a game of failure already. No need to beat yourself up.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues?
J.R. Bradley: Man… I’m just focusing on next season!
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far?
J.R. Bradley: Yes, for the most part. I didn’t realize how important it was to have a routine.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball?
J.R. Bradley: Just hang out. During the season we’re at the stadium so much. In the offseason, I’ve just been working out and playing some basketball.
MLB reports: Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
J.R. Bradley: No, I don’t really have a favorite pregame meal.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
J.R. Bradley: Thanks for everything man, really enjoyed it. Now just looking forward to getting out there!
Thank you again to J.R. Bradley for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for J.R. You can also find J.R. Bradley on Twitter (@JR_Brad)
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Saturday December 17th
Saturday December 17, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Which team is going to bite the bullet and sell the farm for Gio Gonzalez? There have been big demands from Beane thus far!! Wade
MLB reports: Great question Wade! I don’t think we have gone an Ask the Reports segment in the past few weeks (or any days for that matter lately) without discussing the status of Gio. Gonzalez has been linked to the Yankees for some time, but with the asking price being Montero and 2 other big time prospects, Brian Cashman has wisely declined. I could see the Nationals getting in on the Gio Derby if they are prepared to pay the price, or the Kansas City Royals perhaps. From a numbers standpoint, Gio would be best served heading to the National League. His stuff and abilities would translate well in the NL. Playing in the American League, specifically the East, would be asking for trouble. His home/road splits are undeniable. Gio would have a hard time succeeding in a hitter’s park. But at this point, smart money is on the Yankees and Red Sox still as the frontrunners. This is not the right move in my opinion, but the one that is most likely to happen. But don’t count out the Nationals…they are planning some big moves still preparing for the Harper/Strasburg show.
Do the Mets go after Theriot? Gio Gonzalez? Trade Murphy? What does your crystal ball say? Raul
MLB reports: The MLB reports crystal ball- you have been paying attention Raul. Well done. I don’t see the Mets going after Theriot or Gonzalez at this point. Daniel Murphy is likely to be moved, although I don’t see a big return. The Mets biggest needs right now are another bat in the outfield, catcher and starting pitcher. I can see them going after a Jason Varitek or Jesus Flores behind the plate. As far as an outfielder, the Mets will scrape by with a Rick Ankiel or J.D. Drew signing. Someone to hopefully hold down the fort at a reasonable salary. Joel Pineiro or Bartolo Colon could be potential targets. 2012 won’t be pretty…sorry my man. It will be a rebuild year for the Mets.
Jesus Montero next year…what will be his line? Not Shawn
MLB reports: The mystery of Montero. I am expecting a big year assuming he gets a full-time position. Which he should and likely will. The Yankees will go from one catching DH to another, as Montero will likely replace Jorge Posada at the DH spot. He will also see time at first base and behind the plate. Despite 5 seasons in the minors, Montero is still only 22-years of age, believe it or not. To be realistic, expect a .270 AVG with 15-18 home runs, 70 RBIs, 60 Runs, .320 OBP and .420 SLG. Most hitters do not adjust to the major league game overnight, especially 22-year-old catchers. Montero will put up good numbers, but he still needs time.
When is a team going to sign Danys Baez? Jason
MLB reports: When hell freezes over? At 34-years, Baez is coming off two very unspectacular season. 2010 brought a 5.48 ERA and 1.636 WHIP, while 2011 saw a 6.25 ERA and 1.556 WHIP. We are looking at a minor league deal with invite to spring training at best. Teams will look at Baez when all the other useable pitchers on the market are taken, or injuries start to appear at spring training. If I was Baez, I would go take a nice long vacation around the world and leave my cell phone at home. He should not expect a call until late January at best. The man has earned approximately $43 million already in his career. If he has one more season in him, it would be a miracle.
Yeah what’s up with da Yankees? Why aren’t they making any moves at all?? Drewskie
MLB reports: We were asking the same question last year, weren’t we Drewskie? There is a combination of reasons for the Yankees inactivity in recent years. A very high budget with little flexibility contracts-wise. Many good young players coming through the system and ready to take big league roster spots. Very few quality free agents with unrealistic contract expectations. 29 other MLB teams which have little talent that they wish to move, especially to New York (unless the price is high). Finally, while many players want to play in New York, some are shying away. With the media and fan glare well-known in Yankee stadium, it is not the environment for everyone. So at the end of the day, Brian Cashman is being smart in making sure not to make rash decisions and make moves just for the sake of it. Remember A.J. Burnett? Rafael Soriano? Sometimes the best moves that you make are the ones that you don’t end up making. The Yankees still have a high-octane offense and plenty of depth. One or two more starting pitchers and fears will be alleviated. Stay patient as the foundation is there. Some under-the-radar pieces will be added in the next month. Trust me. It just may not be the moves you expect. But anything that allows the core Yankees prospects to stay in the system is a good thing.
What do you make of the “sky-high” and “north” of $50 million reported bid for Yu know who? Clues that it may be Toronto? Thomas
MLB reports: Speculation has really gotten out of control on Yu Darvish. Many outlets are reporting that the Jays are the winners of the Darvish derby at an estimated $48 million. Despite this being the golden age of internet information, there is no confirmations at this point. Darvish’s Japanese squad has until Tuesday to accept the bid, which is still a mystery to the public at large. I could see the bid being as high as $70 million. While the Blue Jays are apparently strong contenders for Darvish, don’t count out the Nationals, Rangers, Yankees and others. This is a high-stakes poker game. Nobody is showing their cards or folding yet. I still see the Nationals winning the sweepstakes. So we won’t know until the very end. While spending $100 million+ between the post and contract is a risky move for an unknown MLB talent, in Darvish’s case it could make sense. Between Japanese media attention, stadium revenues and merchandising, the Darvish brand could bring a high revenue stream to a MLB team. It is not the route I would take, but as I crunch the numbers- I can see how the expenditure is justified. Darvish will be playing Major League Baseball come April. But as far as which city will be lucky enough to have him is still pure speculation at this point.
Last question: Why does life suck so much without baseball? Tim
MLB reports: Because baseball is life. All kidding aside though, is life that bad without baseball Tim? We have many outlets to get our fix. Pop in a DVD to watch some older games or even a baseball movie. Pick up a baseball book, there are countless good ones out there. We have daily MLB reports (wink) of free agent signings and trades. This baseball offseason has been one of the busiest ones in recent times. We had a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. The Astros were sold and relocated to the American League West. The Winter Meetings. Talk of an International Draft. Expanding the playoffs. Realignment. There is never a shortage of baseball topics and news to discuss. If you have access, there is winter ball. Point being that even without live MLB games, there is always something baseball to-do and to keep busy with. Twitter. Facebook. Websites like ours. You can always find a baseball outlet. Pitchers and Catchers report in 64 days. It is a quick offseason. Look at the season half-full instead of half-empty. The baseball season is never done. We just happen to be in the offseason stage- but it is still a key part of the overall baseball year. I feel your pain Tim though. Opening day will be here before you know it.
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Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
What the Yankees Need to Win the 2012 World Series
Saturday December 17, 2011
Jeff P (Guest Writer – MLB reports): It was a long season for Yankee fans in 2011, with an abrupt ending to the season with a brutal series loss to the Detroit Tigers in the AL Divisional series. This is even after the Yankees receiving surprising seasons by Bartolo Colon, Freddy Garcia and the Yankees receiving production from its usual core players. However, in the 2011 season, there were noted declines of several Yankee players. Due to injuries and other factors, one of the biggest culprits was Alex Rodriguez. Limited to only 99 games on the season, A-Rod hit 16 homers, with a batting average in the .270 rang. A-Rod’s stats were some of the worst of his career and he was one the big reason the Yankees did not make it far into the 2011 playoffs.
The Yankees have a long path to go to get to the World Series this coming year, especially given that their team remains at a standstill, unexpected to improve greatly from last year. It is not a positive sign that the Yankees rotation will most likely consist of C.C. Sabathia, Ivan Nova and Freddy Garcia, with a likely spring training knockdown competition between Hector Noesi, A.J. Burnett, Dellin Betances and Phil Hughes for the final two rotation spots.
Both Hughes and Burnett had horrific seasons this past year, while Noesi and Betances were both late season call-ups. Adding to the equation, Ivan Nova might enter a sophomore slump (always a possibility), while Freddy Garcia is unlikely to repeat his astonishing 2011 season.
The Yankees have very little margin for error going into 2012, which can ruin the chances of them not only winning the World Series, but even making the postseason. With the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim now serious contenders, the Rays adding a nice hand to the rotation with Matt Moore and the Red Sox players starting to adjust to their new team, it will be a dogfight to the finish in the American League postseason race this upcoming season. The Yankees will have to play their cards right this year, and not sit back and assume that making the postseason is a given.
If the Yankees want some rings in 2012, here are several “must do” items for the team to succeed in 2012:
First of all, the Yankees must get rid of A.J. Burnett. For the last two years, Burnett had horrific seasons and should not be given another chance, despite his large contract. Without Burnett, the Yankees could consider trying a new arm in the rotation, such as Dellin Betances, who is clearly ready for a major league stint. The Yankees this offseason should trade Burnett to a team desperate for a starting pitcher (which should not be difficult given the shallow pool of available talent) and who are willing to give up a useable prospect, which would provide the Yankees with future depth.
Even though it is unlikely, the right thing to do with Joba Chamberlain is to give him a strong opportunity for a comeback season in 2012. I am not saying he should be in the rotation for the season, but he should definitely be given a strong look. Pitchers often improve after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Chamberlain left the rotation after the 2009 season, with a stint in the bullpen for the last two seasons. Up to the time of his injury, Chamberlain pitched well in the bullpen, mostly as the seventh inning option. The Yankees are considering Hector Noesi and other rookies for the starting rotation in 2012. So why not try Joba? Perhaps he will surprise all of us and fulfill the hype that accompanied him since being drafted in the 1st round by the Yankees in 2006.
Another option (although unlikely) is to place Adam Warren in the rotation. He is 24-years-old, and has a powerful fastball in the mid 90’s. His four-seamer can reach 97 mph and could leave major league batters clueless. He has a world of potential, and is ready for a major league stint sooner rather than later.
The Bronx Bombers roster is certainly not set and Brian Cashman needs to search the trade market before his squad will be able to compete for a World Series title. Other teams are considerably high on Eduardo Nunez and the Yankees would be well advised to find a deal involving Eduardo Nunez, Dellin Betances and one of their surplus catching prospects for Gio Gonzalez or similar available starter, who could help provide the Yankees with a balanced and deep rotation.
The Yankees also must keep Montero in New York. Montero had a great stint at the end of the season, and will hopefully continue to provide an offensive spark for the Yankees throughout the 2012 season. Montero is a great offensive force and would make the dangerous Yankees offense (Derek Jeter, Mark Teixeira, A-Rod, Nick Swisher, Robinson Cano, Russell Martin etc.) that much more powerful.
Lastly, the Yankees must monitor Manny Banuelos‘ status. Handled correctly, Banuelos could be this season’s Nova. To get through the regular season and then be a force in the 2012 postseason, the Yankees will need to make changes and several decisions as to their roster. But a successful offseason can minimize the risks and chances for failure in the coming season, by filling critical spots with the right players. The Yankees have many needs in their offseason to-do list in order to repeat their 2009 performance. If the Yankees play their cards right, the path to World Series #28 could be in sight.
***Today’s feature was prepared by Jeff P, Guest Writer to MLB reports. We highly encourage you to leave your comments and feedback at the bottom of the page and share in the discussion with our readers. You can also follow Jeff on Twitter.***
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Interview with Jaff Decker: Padres Prospect and Future MLB Superstar
Wednesday December 14, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Get ready folks, as you are in for a big treat today. Exclusively on MLB reports, we have one of the top prospects in the game, outfielder Jaff Decker of the San Diego Padres. Jaff was recently featured by us prior to this interview. As a former 1st round pick of the Padres (2008 draft, 42nd overall), Jaff came to professional baseball as a very highly touted talent. After working hard and improving every year in the minors, Jaff is on the verge of cracking the Padres lineup in the near future. I had a chance to take some time to speak with Jaff recently. We discussed his childhood, learning the game of baseball, getting drafted in the 1st round, his career to-date and future plans in baseball. Despite being featured in many baseball publications and rated as a top prospect in the game, it was refreshing to find that Jaff has not allowed his notoriety to get to his head. He is a down-to-earth person, who genuinely works hard and takes nothing for granted. He believes in himself and his abilities, but with a strong sense of humor and humility. I project that Jaff will have a long and productive career in the big leagues. He has the talent, work ethic and focus to succeed in baseball. Attention Padres fans: Jaff Decker is knocking on the doorstep and will be a big part of your Padres team very soon.
Featured on MLB reports, I am absolutely thrilled to present my interview with Jaff Decker. Former 1st Round Pick. San Diego Padres Outfield Prospect and Future MLB Superstar:
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MLB reports: Welcome to MLB reports Jaff. It is a pleasure to be speaking with you. As you are a highly rated prospect in the game, do you receive many requests for interviews at this stage of your career?
Jaff Decker: It has definitely started to pick up more and more as I have moved up each year in levels, especially with the teams I have played on the last couple of years. Winning 2 championships out of 3 years has really helped the interviews out.
MLB reports: It is impossible to have a conversation about Jaff Decker without first discussing the walks. You had 85 walks in 2009 and 103 this past season. How did you become a walk/obp machine? At what age did you develop your strong batting eye?
Jaff Decker: I would have to say it is pretty hard to go without talking about the walks I have had the past couple of years. Good and bad. My dad has taught me everything I know about the game of baseball and the hitting aspect of it. He has always taught me great fundamentals and has preached to me that “a pitcher has 3 pitches to get you out. As the pitchers pitch you, work the count. A walk is just as good as a hit.” But I am also learning to be a little more aggressive in the count as well, which I have worked real hard on by watching film and working on pitches.
MLB reports: I often use Nick Swisher and Adam Dunn as comparisons to you. What current and former players did you grow up idolizing and/or patterning your game after? Have the names that I mentioned come up before?
Jaff Decker: Yes, actually Nick Swisher has come up a lot. I really enjoy watching how hard he plays the game and how much he enjoys playing this great game. Growing up though the years, it was always Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr. and Tony Gwynn. I had so many opportunities to watch them play being from Arizona, so I always watching them during the spring. Funny story: when I was about 5-years-old, I caught a home run ball over Tony and actually got the ball signed by him after that inning. That will always be a great moment in my mind.
MLB reports: You were a 1st round pick in 2008. One of the highest honors a young player can experience in the game. Did you know that you would be drafted that high going into the draft and were the Padres the team that you expected to take you?
Jaff Decker: Being drafted where I was a great accomplishment. We had a huge party at my house during the draft and all my family and friends were there to experience it with me. When my name finally got called, it felt like the house was shaking (laugh). To answer your question, I actually had no idea that the Padres were going to pick me there. There were many teams that had talked to me before. But they (the Padres) kind of flew under the radar and I couldn’t be happier with this organization.
MLB reports: What was the first “big” purchase you made after signing with the Padres?
Jaff Decker: My first and only purchase was a car. Everything else has been put away. But I did have to promise my mom who is a teacher that I would go back to school after I was done playing (grin).
MLB reports: You started off the first two seasons of your career with a bang. How did you find your 2010 season? What was that season like and tell us about your strong finish that year.
Jaff Decker: I had battled an injury during the first half of 2010 and I struggled a little bit. It (the injury) did get to me a little bit, as I was not helping the team like I knew I was capable of doing. So I had a few days off at the all-star break that year and went home. Just like when I was younger, my dad spent those 3 or 4 days putting in many hours in the cage with me working on the fundamentals and just the mental side of hitting. When I came back, everything fell back on track. The big thing was not trying to do too much at the plate and just trusting myself and to start using the whole field again.
MLB reports: Your 2011 season was magical in my eyes. You crossed the magical 100 walks plateau, while flashing strong power, driving in and scoring runs at a healthy clip. Looking back on this past year, what are your feelings? Satisfied? Areas of improvement?
Jaff Decker: I don’t think I’ll ever be 100% satisfied. I felt that I had ups and downs all year and my struggles related to being too patient at times at the plate. There were points that I would know when I was getting pitched around. No excuses at all, but I became a little complacent with what I call “maybe pitches”, that were called strikes by the umpires, but in my eyes were balls. We also didn’t play in the most hitter-friendly ballpark. I did feel though that I came up with some big hits at times during the season. But I still need to work on different parts of my game to get to where I want to be and stay there.
MLB reports: In my estimation, you clearly put yourself in the driver’s seat going into 2012. You are turning 22 in February. What are your goals for the upcoming year?
Jaff Decker: I would have to say my goals would include coming to spring training in better shape again. I love proving people wrong and to show them that I can be a five-tool player, even without being 6 feet and built like a specimen. But I want to work hard to prove them (the critics) wrong and I just try to soak everything I can in. I work out at a place with many proven big leaguers. I just can sit and listen to what they say for hours because I know they have been there and who better to learn from than them.
MLB reports: Have you watched and/or read Moneyball? You have been labelled a Moneyball-player throughout your career. Thoughts?
Jaff Decker: Yes I have seen the movie (big laugh) and I loved it. I love seeing that a ballclub can be put together that is not based on how you look, but how you control the game of baseball. Because by no means when you look at me, am I built like a brick house. But I’ve been taught how to play the game the right way and I think it’s helped me get to where I am today.
MLB reports: Is conditioning a strong concern for you, either as your own goal or anything communicated by the team?
Jaff Decker: Conditioning is huge for me. Like I said earlier, I am no way a guy you look at and say he could be a model (chuckle). I do have to work harder than some other guys and be smarter how I treat my body. I am learning how to do that and love seeing everyone’s faces when I show up after a long hard offseason of workouts and preparation.
MLB reports: You hit .236 this past season, but have a career .273 AVG. You also have a .411 lifetime OBP. How do you view OBP, strikeouts, batting average and home runs as part of your game? If the walks and home runs remain consistent, is there any concern that your average needs to be raised?
Jaff Decker: I believe that I had a slight down year in the average department, but I know I can hit a whole lot better than I did. I felt like I came through with runners in scoring position and by walking, I got on base for the middle of the lineup behind me. Getting on base equals scoring runs (laugh). But my power was there throughout this year. It was just about taking what the pitcher gives me, even if it’s a single the other way instead of a double in the gap.
MLB reports: Long-term, do you project that you will remain in the outfield? How important is defense to your overall game?
Jaff Decker: I believe I can handle my own in the outfield. I have worked very hard every year and tried to learn a lot from other guys. A big part of my game on defense is getting good jumps and routes on balls, because I can run well- but not blazing. I need that to become a great outfielder and that is what I have worked very hard on every year to become better at. I love being able to take hits away from opposing batters, especially if they (the other team) are taking them away from me (big laugh).
MLB reports: The MLB reports crystal ball sees you arriving in San Diego as early as this upcoming year and latest 2013. When do you see yourself arriving in The Show? What do you need to do to get there?
Jaff Decker: That is great to hear (big grin). I know I can play this game with the best of them. I always have and when the chance comes, I don’t plan on missing it. I have some things to iron out and I am working day and night to become that complete player that I know I can be.
MLB reports: Did you always know that you would be a professional baseball player? What would you be doing right now if you weren’t playing ball?
Jaff Decker: Honestly I get that question a lot. I have asked my mom and dad the same thing. They said they knew the time I first stepped on the field and was diving for balls, throwing guys out and just had a natural feel for the game. Even when I was 4 or 5, I was playing with older boys and having to lie about my age so I could play with them. I have always loved this game since I can remember. I was constantly standing in front of the television and mimicking all the big leaguers stances. I was even sleeping with my new bats or gloves. There is honestly nothing else I could be doing right now… or ever.
MLB reports: Last question Jaff: What legacy do you want to leave in baseball? What do you need to do to have a successful baseball career?
Jaff Decker: I want to be remembered as the guy that played this game to the fullest, had fun doing it and played the best I could every time I stepped in-between the lines. Even if I didn’t have my best stuff every game, you can always say that I went out there with everything I had to be great.
Jaff Decker: Thanks again Jonathan and I look forward to being back on MLB reports soon. Thanks for everything. I have really enjoyed speaking with you!
Thank you to Jaff Decker for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Jaff. You can also find Jaff Decker on Twitter (@JaffDecker22). He may be a top MLB prospect, but yes- he does answer back!
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Review of Routine Baseball: The Filthiest Baseball Threads in the Game
Tuesday December 13, 2011
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: I will start off this review by admitting some very key points. While I write and review the game of baseball and everything surrounding it, I am also a fan of the game. You have to love this sport to be able to talk and write about it every day. I have no problem admitting it: I love baseball. But when you love the game to this degree, you start to lead a very baseball-centric life. Baseball apps on the smartphone. Baseball birthday cake. Libraries filled with baseball DVDs and books. Are you sensing a baseball theme in my life? That is the reality of a true blooded, 110% focused baseball fan. So what do baseball fans need more than anything else? Good baseball gear. From shirts to hats and everything in between, baseball fans require good apparel. That is where I got introduced to Routine Baseball.
Part of the mandate of MLB reports is to uncover everything and anything in the world that is baseball. That was the purpose behind Technology Field, a section of our website devoted exclusively to technological advancements and products related to the game of baseball. When I first came across Routine Baseball, my immediate thought was to include its brand of baseball wear in Technology Field. We all know and love official MLB clothing that we find at the ballpark. Majestic jerseys and shirts, New Era Caps…those are brands and clothing items we know very well. I will admit that when I first arrive at a new ballpark, I made a direct line to their main souvenir shop to try on baseball gear. Will they have retro Jersey Ts? How much are the jackets? These are questions that are always answered before I even make it to my seat. But we can only wear team and player gear so often. That is where Routine Baseball is unique and part of a very fresh niche market. Hip and fun baseball clothing without the team logos and names. An advancement in the art of baseball fandom. Thus I had no choice but to see what the fuss was about it. Was I ready for filthy baseball threads? The answer was a definite yes.
The first point I noticed wearing and looking at the sample shirts that were sent over to the MLB reports office was the quality. I love the
feel and construction of these shirts. Routine Baseball emphasized to me in our discussion that their products is 100% American Made. Taking a look at each product, there it is right on the label: “100% Filthy American Quality.” I am still of an age where filthy meant dirty and undesirable. But to the hipsters and urbanites, filthy is apparently good. Filthy means cool. I have owned hundreds of baseball tops during my lifetime. Routine Baseball definitely got it right in how they built a baseball shirt. You know that feeling when you buy a stiff top from a store that needs to be worn and washed dozens of times before it feels soft and fun to wear? Not with Routine Baseball clothing. These clothes are ready to wear right out of the wrapper. The best way I can describe them as the type of shirts that you keep at the top of your drawer and just grab and wear without ever thinking. They are soft, the right thickness and fit like a glove. I am very picky about clothing, especially baseball gear. Routine Baseball put a great detail of thought and work in the construction of these bad boys. Surely it costs a great deal more in labor by having their products produced in America. But it is definitely worth it. These are not shirts that you will wear twice and find holes. These are shirts that will be worn for a decade…if not more. You baseball rats know what I mean.
So the first test was passed. Routine baseball shirts live up to my quality standards. Now for the designs. Routine Baseball is not pretending to be traditional or old-fashioned. The company is going for the urban modern look. I will admit that not all their designs are for everyone. But that is the beauty of having many different designs and logos. There should be something for everyone. The first shirt that I opened was actually my favorite of the bunch. “Paint the Corners” was the printed image in black on a grey top. Love it. Absolutely love it. The shirt had a baseball theme that hit home for me. I really enjoyed the slogan and how it was designed on the shirt. The logo was well designed to be smart, but not too complicated. I similarly enjoyed the RBI shirt – “Routine Baseball Inc”. A nice use of colors, yellow and white on a black top. The logo was clean and hip, with a clear baseball message across. The busiest logo was “Triple Crown Status”, with a lion wearing a crown and a baseball in his mouth. An interesting shirt, as it would not be my first choice of shirts in a store. But the blue print on the grey shirt gave it a nice look. I actually found the shirt worked very well with a pair of jeans and a blazer. I don’t find the same versatility in general baseball logo gear. That is yet another factor that makes Routine Baseball gear stand out from the crowd.
As a young fresh company, Routine Baseball hasn’t even hit their stride yet. The product lines include t-shirts, hoodies and hats, for both
men and women. I expect in the coming months and years we will see a full-out explosion of filthy gear from Routine Baseball. Jerseys. Shades. Jackets. Shoes. The sky is the limit. At the end of the day, everyone only has a certain amount of money to spend on products and services. For the best bang for the buck, it is always wise to buy a well made good. They made cost a little more, but they will last far long than an inferior one. Routine Baseball gear is well worth the purchase. I can sum them up by saying their shirts are comfortable, fit well and look good. Wearing baseball gear is all about displaying the love of the game and standing out from the crowd. We are not talking about 1970s Pirates and 1980s Padres clothes (although some actually that type of look). Routine Baseball gear is clothing that you can wear almost anywhere and in any setting without being outcast as the novelty baseball fan. It is cool to love baseball again. Filthy baseball gear is the newest “must have” gear in the world of baseball fandom. With the holiday season around the corner, http://routinebaseball.com is a good stop location to get some cool threads to the baseball fan in your world. From one baseball fan to another: Filthy is the new cool.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
A big thank you to Mike and Tony over at Routine Baseball for providing us with samples of their products for this review. They are very hands-on enterpreneurs and take full advantage of social media to be reached and heard. You can start off by checking their website: http://routinebaseball.com. They can be reached on Twitter (@RoutineBaseball) and Facebook.
Now for the promo stuff. A little something from the fine people at Routine Baseball.
Here is the story of how they came to exist:
Routine Baseball was started by two friends Tony Knapton and Michael DeGrave, Tony the CEO and Michael the CFO. It all started in 2009 when we were in college and started talking about baseball one night sitting around having a few beers. Tony walked out with his old raggedy state baseball t-shirt he had received many years earlier while participating in a state tournament, and I told him that it looked like an old bar rag (due to the stains and little holes on it) and that he should retire the baseball tee and throw on a new one to go out. Tony upset by the comment and most of all from the point of retiring his last piece of memory from that great state team, decided to retire the t-shirt. The idea was created later that night to bring baseball lovers such as ourselves a clothing line that would evolve baseball and fashion into one entity. With the knowledge each of us had of the game, and what we went to school for (Tony a Graphic Designer, and Michael Business) we knew this dream could eventually turn into a reality. This is how the idea of Routine Baseball was developed. However, a couple of beers earlier turned into many more and this grand idea turned quickly into a faded after thought and the idea was lost… along with a few brain cells.
Fast forward to Fall of 2011 and this is where the fun starts. One random night Tony had a couple of beers while watching a baseball game and out of no where the idea popped into his head and he then half drunkenly designed the logo (has been completely unchanged since) and 2 of the shirts THAT night and the call was made to Mikey that very next day. Then came the fun process of bank, lawyer, and ball player meetings and a month later (yes only a month) we launched Routine Baseball on November 1, 2011. Starting out with just 6 t-shirt designs at launch, in just one month we have added 16 more designs to our fall line, including a Women’s line and hats on the way as well. We have been in contact with many Minor and Major league players, and hopefully eventually we will become a household name. We have only scratched the surface of the baseball fashion industry and what we want to accomplish as a business, and we feel that Routine Baseball will take off-the-field baseball apparel to the next level. We try to combine our passions for baseball (obviously), music, art, and current fashion trends and blend them all together in our designs. Also, being a couple 20-something year old’s really plays to our advantage in how we interact with our followers and how we relate to them. They really enjoy the fact that we don’t come off as a strict-by-the-book company where certain topics might be off-limits. So jump on board with Routine Baseball because we are expecting a ride of a lifetime, and we want you to join in on the fun.
Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson: 2012 Projections
Tuesday December 13, 2011
Peter Stein (Fantasy Baseball Analyst – MLB reports): Unless you have been living under a rock for the past two weeks, you are probably well aware of the splash that the Angels made in the free agent market with the signings of Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson. Certainly, the balance of power in the American League West has shifted to the Angels, who have set themselves up for a championship run. While Pujols and Wilson have a good chance to bring home a championship in Los Angeles, they will likely be on many winning fantasy rosters as well.
As I discussed a few weeks back, Pujols has been the best fantasy player in baseball after 10 Ruth-like seasons after he busted onto the scene in 2001. However, 2011 was an interesting year for Pujols, the first in which he did not produce a .300 average, hit 30 HR and drive in 100 runs. He missed this feat by just one RBI and one average point. Through the Cardinal’s first 54 games, Pujols batted .257 with 8 home runs and 28 RBI. However, in the final 108 games, which included the time missed with the wrist injury, he batted .322 with 29 home runs and 71 RBI’s. That is the Pujols that we have all been accustomed to over the last decade. Therefore, I do not think you need to be overly concerned about a significant A-Rod-esque drop off just yet. The back-end of Pujols’ contract will certainly get ugly for the Angels, but expect the usual slugger for the first few years. Now, the other factor on Pujols’ performance is the shift to a new team and new league. In terms of ballparks, Busch Stadium and Angels Stadium are very similar in degree of hitter friendliness. For the switch to the AL. below are his career interleague numbers, which add up to almost one full major league season:
143 GP 39 HR 121 RBI .348 AVG 1.071 OPS (1.037 career)
The stats show the Albert dominates against the American League, with numbers that even exceed his career averages. With a hitter as good as Pujols, it’s the American League pitchers who will be tasked with making adjustments and not Pujols. The Angels lineup is actually pretty similar to the Cardinals, and if people step up (Kendrys Morales), it has potential to be a lot better. Therefore, I expect the usual greatness from Pujols.
Projections: .312 39 HR 120 RBI 117 R 12 SB
C.J. Wilson enjoyed his finest season as a pro in 2011 with a 16-7 record and a 2.94 ERA. At age 31 and not as young as many expect, there is not too much room for actual skill development with Wilson. However, the major factors that impact pitchers results after a team change are in favor for Wilson. Let’s start with park factors and opposition. Wilson no longer has to pitch as many games in Texas, where he sported a career 3.89 ERA, compared to 3.26 on the road. The contrast was even starker in 2011, when he posted a 3.69 ERA at home and a 2.31 ERA on the road. Much of the reason for his success on the road were his regular matchups against the lowly Mariners and Athletics offenses, which he will continue have. Fortunate to have Pujols on his team now, he will still have to face his former talented Rangers teammates. Looking at the defense behind Wilson, it is pretty much a wash. The Elvis Andrus and Ian Kinsler double play combination was one of the best in baseball, but the Angels outfield is significantly better than the Rangers. Lastly, although the Angels made significant offensive upgrades, it is still safe to think the Rangers would provide more run support, potentially cutting into his win total.
The move to the Angels appears to make Wilson potentially more valuable in 2012. His FIP and XFIP indicate that his ERA range should have been closer to 3.20-3.30, so it might be tough to expect a sub-3 ERA in 2012. However, his recent success, coupled with his change of scenery (most importantly out of Texas), indicate that he should be one the game’s most valuable pitchers in 2012.
Projections: 208 IP, 16-9 WL, 3.28 ERA, and 180 K’s
***Today’s feature was prepared by our Fantasy Baseball Analyst, Peter Stein. We highly encourage you to leave your comments and feedback at the bottom of the page and share in the discussion with our readers. You can also follow Peter on Twitter (@peterWstein).***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter (@MLBreports) 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.
Interview with Prospect Jeremy Patton: 2011 Cardinals Draftee
Monday December 12, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: We are thrilled to welcome to MLB reports: 2011 St. Louis Cardinals draftee, Jeremy Patton. A steal of a pick in the 38th round, the 23-year-old Jeremy played this past year for the Batavia Muckdogs (Low-A Ball). Jeremy played nearly every position for the Muckdogs, except shortstop, catcher and pitcher. His primary position is second base, which gives him a good chance of shooting up to St. Louis in the next couple of years. Jeremy showed a very strong bat in his professional debut, which is rare for his position. I have often preached that the ideal hitter shows the “power and patience” combination. Jeremy has indeed done that. In 63 games, he popped 4 home runs, 20 doubles, while walking 30 times to 28 strikeouts. More walks than strikeouts? I’m sold! Jeremy hit .292 last season, with a .374 OBP and .451 SLG. A great start to his baseball career. But this is just the tip of the iceberg, as Jeremy begins his journey to St. Louis.
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Jeremy Patton – Prospect and 2011 Draft Pick of the St. Louis Cardinals:
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MLB reports: Welcome to the Reports Jeremy: First question- Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Jeremy Patton: My favorite player growing up was Chipper Jones.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Jeremy Patton: Derek Jeter, because you never hear his name in a negative way. When you hear his name it is always positive on and off the baseball field. And when his team needs him most, he always comes up with the big hit.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Jeremy Patton: I feel like my greatest accomplishments were winning the 2010 Sun Belt Conference Tournament and being named the Sun Belt Conference Tournament MVP. My proudest accomplishment was being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Jeremy Patton: My goals are to make a long season team after Spring Training, then keep working my way through the minors and making it as high as possible by the end of the season.
MLB reports: Were you surprised when you were drafted in the 38th round- did you have any expectations on the draft? What was the process like signing with the Cards?
Jeremy Patton: Yes, I was surprised when I was drafted. I was even more surprised that it was by the Cardinals because I am from Missouri and I am a Cardinals fan. Yes, I was expecting to be drafted sooner than I was, but I was drafted and that is all that matters. The process was very fast. They called me on June 8th and told me that I had been drafted and they would call me in a couple of days. Then a couple of days passed and they called me and told me that they had a flight booked for me to go to Batavia, New York on June 12th to sign my contract.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Jeremy Patton: I have always considered Hitting to be my greatest skill. I also consider my leadership to be a great skill on the baseball field.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Jeremy Patton: I want to keep improving every aspect of my game. I feel that you can never get too good at this game and there is always room for improvement.
MLB reports: How do strikeouts and walks figure into your game? Do you see any of these items changing over time and to what degree? I was very impressed with your 2011 numbers, especially the fact that you had more walks than strikeouts.
Jeremy Patton: I always try to keep my strikeouts to a minimum. The less you strikeout, the more you put the ball in play and the higher your on-base percentage. My goal every year is to have more walks than strikeouts and I don’t ever see this goal changing. (Jonathan claps and gives Jeremy a standing ovation)
MLB reports: Long term- do you see yourself as a second baseman, third baseman, outfielder or at another position? How do you view your role in the organization?
Jeremy Patton: I see myself as a second baseman, but I am versatile and willing to play whatever position they need me to. I will know more about what my role is after spring training.
MLB reports: What do you need to do in order to be successful in this game?
Jeremy Patton: Stay confident because baseball is a game of confidence and without it you will never be successful. Also, keep putting up exceptional numbers consistently every season.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Jeremy Patton: I see myself in the big leagues in 2014. I need to keep improving my game and produce numbers at every level in the minors.
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far?
Jeremy Patton: Pro ball is everything I have always dreamed it to be. I am one step closer to my lifelong dream of playing in the big leagues.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball?
Jeremy Patton: I like to go hunting, play golf, and spend time with family and friends.
MLB reports: Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Jeremy Patton: I don’t really have a favorite pre-game meal. I guess it would have to be whatever they put out, which is usually peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
Jeremy Patton: Thanks for the interview and maybe we can do a follow-up when I make the big leagues
MLB reports: Maybe??!! Count on it! We would love to have you back on the Reports before then and of course, when you reach St. Louis. Good luck on the upcoming season Jeremy.
Thank you again to Jeremy Patton for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Jeremy. You can also find Jeremy Patton on Twitter (@PlayPat_22)
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
On the Verge: Top MLB Prospect Jaff Decker
Sunday December 11, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: In this edition of On the Verge, I take a look at one of the prospects in the game today: Jaff Decker of the San Diego Padres. Today’s feature is part one of our two-part series on Jaff. Coming up later this week, we will be bringing you my exclusive interview with Jaff Decker. As part of the interview, Jaff talks baseball, including growing up and learning the game and his future in San Diego. Keep an eye out, as I definitely enjoyed learning about Jaff and hearing about his story in his own words. A must read for every baseball fan!
So why the excitement and hype surrounding Jaff Decker? It is very simple. While there are many prospects that play the game every year, there are few “special” ones that will leave an impact in the game. Jaff Decker is one of those special players. Born February 23rd, Jaff will be 22-years-of-age come opening day. Drafted in the 1st round (42nd overall) by the Padres in 2008, San Diego uncovered a hidden gem in selecting Jaff. Just take a look at the his numbers and you will be blown away.
Jaff played across two levels in his first professional season. Playing between Rookie and Low-A Ball, Jaff put up an incredible .343 AVG, .513 OBP and .521 SLG. He walked more than he struck out (57 to 41), and even stole 9 bases in 10 tries. In 2009, Jaff moved to Fort Wayne (A-Ball) and continued his assault on minor league pitching. He put up a .299 AVG, with a .442 OBP, .514 SLG and 16 home runs in only 104 games. Jaff had close to a 1:1 walk-to-strikeout ratio (85/92). The sky was limit at this point as most major baseball publications and analysts began to view Jaff as a can’t miss prospect.
2010 unfortunately was a difficult season for Jaff. He moved to Lake Elsinore (High-A Ball). Between injuries and slumps, Jaff started off the year very slowly and had a difficult time getting untracked. He was able to salvage the year with a strong second half and still finished with 17 home runs in only 79 games. He hit .262 with a strong .374 OBP and .500 SLG. The walks and strikeouts though told a different story, as he walked only 47 times and struck out 80 times. It appeared to me that he was pressing that year and was moving away from his usual patience approach. I was looking forward to 2011 and to see what Jaff could do matched up against AA pitching. I certainly was not disappointed.
Last season turned out to be Jaff’s best year in professional baseball. The strong combination of power and patience displayed throughout his career continued to shine as he blossomed into one of the top slugging prospects in the game. Playing a full season in AA, Jaff hit a career high 19 home runs, drove in 92 RBIs and scored 90 runs. He stole 15 bases in 20 attempts, making him a viable 30/30 candidate in the future. While his average was down to .237, the OBP remained a steady .373 to go along with a .417 SLG. While Jaff has shown higher averages and OPS numbers in previous years, I feel that looking at his body of work as a whole, 2011 was the breakout year. Jaff took 103 walks, while striking out 145 times. So while his strikeouts should be cut down a bit, he was not pressing and went back to his patient ways. A great sign of things to come.
When I think of comparables to Jaff Decker, I think of Adam Dunn and Nick Swisher. Sluggers that hit a fair amount of home runs, take a ton of walks and get on base at high clip. If Jaff stays on his current path, that is very good company to be in. We should find out very soon, as I project Jaff Decker to likely make his major league debut sometime this year, with a full-time MLB job by 2013. As he progresses to San Diego, Jaff will have new challenges to face. A young developing team where he will be expected to become an offensive savior. Ballpark dimensions that are not conducive to hitters. A great deal of pressure on a young hitter. But Jaff Decker appears to not only have the talent, but the right attitude and approach for his future role. A smart young man who is well-mannered, he should fit in well in the laid back San Diego area. For a team that has been looking for its next franchise player since the departure of Tony Gwynn, they made have indeed found him in Jaff Decker.
Get to know Jaff Decker more intimately next week, as we feature my interview with the Padres prospect. Stay tuned for part-two of our Jaff Decker series, coming up on MLB reports!
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Sunday December 11th
Sunday December 11, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Q: Seriously, do you not think a large portion of pro athletes are using PHDs? It’s just a mistake when they get caught. Randy (via Twitter)
MLB reports: The Ryan Braun saga is upon us. The debate as to the use of performance enhancing drugs has been in play for too many years now. The names Mark McGwire, Rafael Palmeiro, Barry Bonds, Rogers Clemens, Sammy Sosa, Manny Ramirez…etc…etc… will forever live in PED infamy. Then Major League Baseball introduced drug testing, with HGH testing upon as well. After years of rumors and whispers, the sport was finally going to be clean. Now we have the news that Ryan Braun was tested positive for use of PEDs. I do not want to comment on Braun much until we have all the information. What we do know from reports is that Braun was found to have high levels of testosterone and determined to have resulted from artificial means. Braun is appealing the findings and more news will follow. Braun was named the 2011 NL MVP, which makes the situation that much more volatile. So do I think that a large amount of pro athletes use PHDs? I can speak of baseball and I would say in recent history, the answer is yes. I don’t want to unfairly label the sport and say “everyone was using them”, but many definitely were. With the introduction of proper testing and penalties, I think use has been curbed substantially. Looking at the numbers players put up in baseball in recent years compared to even ten years ago, there is a clear drop-off. Plus we are not seeing late 30s, early 40s players putting up astronomical numbers they way they were. So the sport is cleaning itself up in my estimation. But we have not seen the end of this topic. Far from it. As tests become better, the drug makers will become even more sophisticated in created betting masking agents to avoid detection. It is a nasty cycle. Just the mere fact that Ryan Braun could be considered using PEDs means this story lives on. Baseball will never fully clean likely. But it is certainly on a very good path. Hopefully, PED use eventually becomes almost non-existent in baseball one day.
Q: Can’t wait to see Mike Choice though. He crushed in single A last year. But offensively, we’ll (the A’s) be pretty slow in 2012. Pigaroo (via Twitter)
MLB reports: Agree and agree. I am very high on Michael Choice as well. There is nothing not to like. The 22-year-old Choice was a 1st round pick (10th overall) by the A’s in 2010. After a nice debut in his first professional season playing Low A-Ball in Vancouver in his draft year, Choice exploded last year playing High A-Ball in Stockton. The numbers were fantastic. 30 home runs, 82 RBIs, 79 Runs, .285 AVG, .376 OBP and .542 SLG. The future looks bright for Choice, as he likely to start 2012 in AA. But let’s keep some things in perspective. He is 22. He is still very raw, as shown by his 61/134 BB/K last year. Choice has a world of potential and is definitely a top prospect in baseball. But then so was Brandon Wood once upon a time. Dallas McPherson. Even looking in the A’s system, Chris Carter and Michael Taylor have developed much slower than expected. Choice has not even proven himself yet in AA, so there is still time for him to shine or fade. Prospects are almost impossible to predict, as many factors can affect their development. Health. Confidence. Ability. Work Ethic. Chances. If anyone area isn’t there, the rest of a person’s game can suffer. So while I am not devaluing the abilities of Michael Choice, I certainly want to see more from the kid before I hail him as the next A’s savior, as is being done in many circles. The Oakland A’s are clearly in a full-blown rebuild mode, as evidenced by their recent trade of Trevor Cahill and likely trade of ace Gio Gonzalez. Josh Willingham is likely to move on as well, as will Coco Crisp, David DeJesus and perhaps Hideki Matsui. The A’s will struggle in 2012 in all facets of the game, to score runs, not give up runs and win ball games. Remember the movie Major League? Sadly, you might be seeing the new Cleveland Indians, as the team owner threatens to move the team. A sad period for a once proud franchise, I certainly hope their stadium situation is resolved soon and the A’s go back to being a baseball powerhouse. Thank you for the questions!
Q: Do you think Josh Willingham would be a good fit with the Tribe? He would cost about as much as D Lee last year with 2 more years. Martin (via Twitter)
MLB reports: Thank you Martin for the question. I definitely think Josh Willingham would be a great fit for the Indians. I think you are comparing his contract status to that of Derrek Lee, who is coming off a 1-year, $7.25 million contract. On your logic, do I think the Indians could sign The Hammer for 2-years and $14.5 million? I do not. Sorry my man. The Hammer is looking at a contract in the 3-year, $30 million range. Do I think that he is worth it? Yes…but it depends. At an affordable rate, I would take Willingham at 2-years with a vesting or option 3rd year. There are strikes against Willngham, no doubt. He will be 33-years-old come opening day. He has battled injuries the last 4-years, missing significant time in 2008 and 2010. The numbers have been consistent, but 2011 was actually a misleading year. While he hit 29 home runs with 98 RBIs, Willingham also hit a career low .246 with .332 OBP. Amazingly, Willingham actually hit better at home than on the road, a surprise given that Oakland is one of the premier pitcher’s parks. .260 AVG at home, .233 on the road. .350 OBP and .523 SLG at home, .315 OBP and .435 SLG on the road. Imagine then what Willingham could do in a better hitting park surrounded by a stronger lineup? With Willingham, beware of injuries and age. If you can live with those risks, then he should be a sure bat in the middle of a lineup for 1-2 more years, perhaps 3. But the decline is coming…so buyer beware.
Q: Ok guys, it’s time to announce locations (for the 2013 World Baseball Classic) so that we can make our plans. I went to Orlando in 2006 and the next series saw Netherlands beat the Dominican Republic – twice- in Puerto Rico.. Wow! So am I (and my family) going to Taiwan? Montreal? Mexico? Europe? If it’s Havana, I’m booking right away! King of America (via Website)
MLB reports: It is good to know that interest in the WBC is alive and well. I get asked often by non-baseball fans and casual supporters of the game whether the WBC will ever be a “big deal”…and the answer is: yes. Rarely a day goes by that I do not get a question or comment from a reader on the WBC. Aside from MLB Expansion, Realignment and Relocation, the WBC is the biggest topic that I deal with on a daily basis. The tournament is growing leaps and bounds, as 2012 will see the qualifying tournament for the first time. The field for the WBC has been expanded from 16 countries to 28. The number will even continue to grow in future years. I have been contacted by reps from different countries requesting information on applying for consideration. Baseball fans from all over the world, including Iceland, England, South Africa, Panama, Venezuela, Russia and Israel have contacted MLB reports to learn about the World Baseball Classic. Unfortunately we do not have named sites yet for the tournament. All we know is that the qualifiers will happen in the fall of 2012, with the tournament itself in the spring of 2013. Will baseball go with the usual venues or add new ones? That is the million dollar question. As there will be qualifiers and an actual tournament this time around, I can see more countries and venues having the opportunity to host games. Hopefully there will be an expansion of host countries this time around, so that more baseball fans around the world can enjoy the flavor of live WBC games. We will keep you up-to-date and will have a dedicated page coming soon on our site. MLB reports will continue to be your source for everything WBC.
Q: What are the chances of the Yankees getting Gio Gonzalez ? Dano (via Twitter)
MLB reports: Good luck in finding more frustrated people wondering the earth right now that Yankees and Red Sox fans. Once known for setting the tone in signing premium players, both teams have been unusually inactive this offseason. The Red Sox have suffered from their well-chronicled issues this past season, which came full steam with the change of their manager, GM and loss of their closer. The Yankees, by not making out of the first round of the playoffs this past season are also considered in their own form of crisis mode. While the Yanks are fairly set offensively, it is pitching (or the lack of) that has fans worried. The team has a strong pen, anchored by the ageless wonder Mariano Rivera. But the rotation is a series of question marks beyond ace C.C. Sabathia. Spots will likely go to Ivan Nova and Phil Hughes. Then you have A.J. Burnett and Freddy Garcia. Maybe Hector Noesi. The return of Bartolo Colon? Yankees would like to see another proven starter, perhaps two hurlers to be added to the roster. While Gio Gonzalez may be one of them, I would say likely no. I took a look at Gio two weeks ago. His numbers away from Oakland make me nervous, and likely other teams as well, including the Yankees. The A’s are reportedly asking for a truckload of top prospects and the Yankees will not likely bite. I still expect the Yankees to find another starting pitcher. But not at the risk of depleting their farm. Gio is a good pitcher, don’t get me wrong. But he is not the ace pitcher that the Yankees need. Hopefully though the Yankees don’t wait too long after the holidays and end up shopping in the bargain bins in January for starting pitching again. The team got very lucky with Garcia and Colon last year. I wouldn’t take the risk again in 2012 if I were them. With their huge payroll and superstar team, the Yankees need to solidify their rotation to have a chance at the World Series.
Last Q: I’ve been hoping that someone like Bud Selig or others at MLB Headquarters would read these expansion ideas that me and many other fans have. I’ve shared my expansion idea to other online forums but many people have told me that further expansion would water down the talent pool. Do you think the new international draft would fix that problem? Joe (via E-mail)
MLB reports: A great last question to end this week’s Ask the Reports. I have enjoyed corresponding with Joe this week and wanted to include his last question to me in this edition. I have enjoyed debating the merits of MLB expansion for years. Many…many…many fans have used the watered down talent argument to argue against expansion. I am sorry people, but I don’t buy that argument. Go watch some AA and AAA games. There is a TON of quality major league ready talent that is simply rotting in the minors in my opinion. Between the 30 MLB teams, each has more than 5 minor league affiliate teams stocked with talent. To bring 2 more MLB teams, for an even 32 teams, there would be no problem finding 25 players per squad. Between prospects, free agents and international talent, there would be no issues to stock two more teams. The issues surrounding international talent, including an international draft, is a topic for baseball as a whole. While a draft could help with expansion, it is only a minor point in the larger scheme of the issue. The signing and development of international players is an issue for all current MLB teams that needs to be addressed in the overall competitive balance and growth of baseball internationally and to bring more talent to North America. I am all in favor of MLB expansion. My hope is that we will see 2 more teams in the next 5 years, but we could be waiting as far as 2020 and beyond until it becomes a reality. As far as international players…this discussion is far from dead and will be a sensitive subject for years to come.
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Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Are Fred McGriff and Larry Walker Heading to Cooperstown?
Sunday December 11th, 2011
Sam Evans: During the pinnacle of their careers, Fred McGriff and Larry Walker, each averaged over thirty home runs a year. Now, in their first couple years of eligibility, both players have shown promising signs that they are on their way to becoming Hall-of-Famers. However, I’m not quite sure if they both deserve it.
Larry Walker: Larry Walker was an amazing power-hitting outfielder from 1989 to 2005. He actually was a very solid defensive right fielder, considered one of the best in baseball history. Walker played for the Expos, Rockies, and Cardinals during his seventeen years in the majors.
Walker helped popularize the game back in his home country of Canada. He was the first Canadian ever to win the MVP in 1997. He hit .366 with 49 HR, 130 RBI, and 33 stolen bases. When he retired in 2005, he had been nominated to five All-Star games, he won seven Gold Gloves, and Walker finished with 67.3 WAR, which is 67th all-time among position players.
Unfortunately, Walker also played during the height of the Steroid Era. We are learning more and more about these dangerous drugs as time passes, and we still can’t be positive who is using PED’s (See Ryan Braun announcement from today). It would not come as a big surprise to me if Walker was using PED’s in the 90’s. However, as great as it is to see a player that had a successful career without PED’s, (e.g. Ken Griffey Jr.), we have to remember that performance enhancing drugs were not banned back then. I am sure that the public suspicion that Walker was a steroid user though are hurting his Hall of Fame chances.
Another knock against Walker is that he never won a World Series. It is hard for voters to vote for a proclaimed winner, if they never won a championship. In 2011, Walker’s first year of eligibility, he received 20.3 of the BBWAA votes. The requirement is seventy-five percent, but overall, this was a strong first year showing for Walker.
If you look at Walker’s career as a whole, I’m pretty certain he will be considered a Hall-of-Famer. I really think Cooperstown though needs to redefine what being a hall of famer is all about. Is it about the impact players made on the game? Or what their numbers look like? The Hall-of-Fame has a lot more problems with its standards then I think most people realize.
Fred McGriff: McGriff is another top power hitter. McGriff holds the MLB record for homers in the most different stadiums with forty-two.
McGriff hit 493 homers in his career, good enough for 25th all-time. “Crime Dog” also finished with a .284 BA, and an average of 86 walks per 162 games. McGriff was nominated to five All-Star games and led the league in home runs twice. On the other hand, McGriff was not known as a great defensive first basemen. Also, he never really stayed with one team for an extended amount of time.
When looking at McGriff’s long career, the homers obviously stand out. He hit just as many homers as current HOF’er Lou Gehrig. Another highlight of McGriff’s nineteen year career was winning the World Series with the Braves in 1995.
McGriff will surely be named a Hall-of-Famer before his fifteen years are up. He played during an era where power was easy to find, and McGriff relied on his power to provide him with a lengthy career. However, 483 homers, and being tabbed “Baseball Superstar” in Tom Emanski’s infamous commercials is apparently enough for an election to Cooperstown.
McGriff is really a “push” candidate for the Hall-of-Fame. I’m not completely sure he will a fair chance to make it because of the era he played in. In 2010, McGriff received 21.5% of the BBWAA votes, and then in 2011, he took a step back only getting 17.9% of the votes.
For both of these players, writers are more reluctant to vote for them because of who the group they played with. As was evidenced with the Ryan Braun news, Americans have a very negative reaction to PED’s. We just want to enjoy baseball nostalgically, with”real” athletes that don’t need to cheat to succeed. The truth is, cheating is a huge part of the game. From corked bats to spitballs, this kind of thing has been going on for over a hundred years. The effects that PED’s have in the human body are devastating, and turning yourself into a superhuman should not be allowed in baseball. However, the era in which Larry Walker and Fred McGriff played in should not be the reason to keep them out of Cooperstown. Both players should be judged on their numbers and performances, if that is possible.
***Today’s feature was prepared by our Baseball Writer, Sam Evans. We highly encourage you to leave your comments and feedback at the bottom of the page and share in the discussion with our readers. You can also follow Sam on Twitter***
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Follow @mlbreportsInterview with Slugger Xavier Scruggs: St. Louis Cardinals Prospect
Sunday December 11, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: In our latest interview feature, we are proud to welcome to MLB reports: Xavier Scruggs, the slugging first base prospect of the St. Louis Cardinals. Xavier was originally drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 2005 and then by his current club, the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008. Xavier completed his fourth season in the Cardinals organization and is coming off his second straight 21 home run season. With a lifetime .340 OBP and .465 SLG, Xavier has swung a strong bat to-date. Now with Albert Pujols a member of the Angels, there is an opening at first base in St. Louis. In another year or two, Xavier could indeed be the man to fill it. I caught up with Xavier Scruggs this month to discuss his past season, future goals going into 2012 and everything in-between. Xavier spoke from the heart and shared a great deal of insight on the game and his own career. A pleasure to speak with, I definitely look forward to tracking Xavier’s progress in professional baseball and interviewing him again in the future.
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Xavier Scruggs – First Base Prospect with the St. Louis Cardinals:
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MLB reports: Welcome to the Reports Xavier. To start off, tell us who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Xavier Scruggs: Growing up my favorite player by far was Gary Sheffield. I loved watching him play because he put fear in the pitchers he was facing. No one could deny his bat speed and the ball came off his bat. The ball shot off like a rocket and sounded like a gun shot when he hit it. I told myself at a very young age that he was the player whom I most wanted to hit like. So when I was young I would try to emulate him every chance I got. From his stance, to the way he cocked his hands to hit. I don’t hit like him much now, but it’s a goal to hit the ball as hard as him and to be feared as much as him. Also being younger and not very strong growing up, I noticed he was in very good shape and was very muscular. So naturally I wanted my body to look like his. I don’t idolize anyone, but he is one player who’s game I truly admired!
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Xavier Scruggs: It’s not an easy choice, but I love watching Matt Kemp play the game. He has every tool and uses them to the best of his ability. You can tell he is humbled by the game and plays the game hard. He plays it the right way too and was able to play phenomenal even when his team was truly struggling. You can tell he’s having fun playing the game as well, because he’s always smiling and laughing with his teammates and other players.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Xavier Scruggs: Some of my proudest achievements includes throwing a perfect game when I was in little league. It was special to me because it was a championship game. Having my younger brother on the team and my father being the coach made it mean a lot more. A proud moment was winning the player of the year for my conference (MWC). Another proud achievement was making the Florida state league all-star team in 2010. My last proud achievement was tying the record for home runs at Palm Beach this past year. I shared that moment with my teammates embracing me and there is no better feeling.
MLB reports: Did you fully expect from the start of the draft back in 2008 to sign with the Cards? When was the final decision made in the process to sign with Cards? Any disappointment with being drafted in the 19th round? What factors led you not to sign with the Mariners back in 2005 when you were originally drafted?
Xavier Scruggs: Being drafted out of high school in 2005 by the Mariners was a blessing because it made me open my eyes to realize how much I really wanted to be a big leaguer one day. My parents and I really thought about it and felt it would be best for me to give myself three quality years in college to better myself and be best prepared to be drafted in 2008. I was fortunate enough to get drafted in the 19th round, which was a little disappointing, but I already knew going into the draft that nothing was promised. I use it as motivation and to remind myself that I have serious odds to beat, and the only way to beat them is through serious hard work. The Cardinals never seemed to be a team with a lot of interest but they were the last team I spoke to right before the draft, so I knew there was interest. The final decision was made a week or two after the draft.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Xavier Scruggs: I believe my greatest baseball skills include being able to drive the ball to all fields and with power. I feel like I have great knowledge of the strike zone and recognize pitches well. I feel like a have a strong-arm defensively and have a good feel for positioning myself. I also have leadership and love to motivate my teammates.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Xavier Scruggs: I wish to improve in all areas of my game and just have the strongest focus on doing all the little things and being consistent in everything I do, whether it be defensively or offensively. I have to improve in every aspect of my game in order for me to be the best because that’s what I want to be.
MLB reports: How do strikeouts and walks figure into your game? Do you see any of these items changing over time and to what degree?
Xavier Scruggs: I feel that with me continuing to learn more about myself as a hitter, gaining better plate discipline will help me to better myself in both of those categories. Everyone wants to have a great strikeout to walk ratio and to better that aspect of their game, so definitely I can see that changing for the better in my own game. I’m doing a lot each day to work on that aspect of my game as well.
MLB reports: Long term what position do you see yourself playing- do you see yourself staying at first? How do you see defense as part of your overall game?
Xavier Scruggs: Defense has always been a huge part of my game and I take a lot of pride in taking away hits and saving runs. Any way that I can help my team with my glove is important to me. I have played 1b, 3rd, and outfield so I can be a replacement for anybody. Not just necessarily a first baseman. I am comfortable in a lot of positions and am athletic enough to play a number of them.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues and what do you think you need to do most to get there?
Xavier Scruggs: I can’t estimate any sort of time when I will reach the big leagues. But I do know when the time comes for them to call my name, I will be prepared and ready. I definitely hope for it to be soon though. It’s in God’s hands and I’m working hard to be prepared for that moment.
MLB reports: What has the experience been like to play winter ball this year? What have you learned this offseason?
Xavier Scruggs: The experience playing winter ball has been something special. It’s exciting to wake up each day and know that I’m in a different country. My Spanish is ok because I took four years of it in high school, so I can communicate fairly well. Baseball is different here in certain aspects, but there is nothing like having teammates there with you grinding it out each day. There aren’t many teams in the league so you start to learn the tendencies of players and visa-versa, which forces you to learn to make adjustments quicker. I’m learning more and more about myself as a ball player and I’m already improving on some of the key aspects of my game I set out to work on this offseason. I’ve learned that it is as important for me to be just as mentally prepared as I am physically, and to not miss a chance to gain a mental edge. Whether that be learning pitchers tendencies or being able to mentally think about making small adjustments in my own swing and game.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball?
Xavier Scruggs: When I’m not playing baseball I love playing video games, listening to music, working out, reading, chillin at the beach, and watching tv.
MLB reports: Have you visited St. Louis the city yet?
Xavier Scruggs: I have never been to St. Louis but I hear it’s beautiful and would love to go.
MLB reports: If you could send out a message to the Cards fans, what would it be?
Xavier Scruggs: If I could say anything to Cardinals fans out there, it would just be to join me on my journey to being the person and baseball player I can be. I know how blessed I am to play this game, so I not only play it for myself but for the people who wish they could play it and don’t have the same opportunity that I do.
Thank you for your support and God bless.
Xavier Scruggs
Thank you again to Xavier Scruggs for taking the time to join us today on MLB reports. We highly encourage our readers to post at the bottom of the article any questions and/or comments that you may have for Xavier. As well, please follow Xavier Scruggs on Twitter (@Xavier_Scruggs)
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
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A Tribute to Jamie Moyer: Life Begins After 30
Saturday December 10, 2011
Doug Booth- Guest Baseball Writer: In May of 1993, Jamie Moyer had spent the previous year entirely in the Minor Leagues with the Detroit Tigers and wondered if his signing with Baltimore Orioles in the offseason was a mistake. At that point in his career Moyer had posted a career won-loss record of 34-54 (.405) with the Cubs, Rangers and Cardinals. He was a soft-tossing Left Handed Pitcher who struggled with giving up home runs. Jamie was called up May.30/1993 by the O’s and began to pitch himself into respectability the next 3 seasons with Baltimore-achieving a 25-22 record. Baltimore was a contending team in the American League and thought Moyer was not going to help them with a championship bid the following year so they released him after the 1995 season. Boston signed him for the 1996 season. Moyer started out in the bullpen 7-1 that year and was later traded to the Mariners for Darren Bragg. It would be a trade that would give Jamie a new lease on life.
The Seattle Mariners were a powerhouse team back then with the likes of Ken Griffey Jr, Randy Johnson, Edgar Martinez, Jay Buhner and a young phenom SS in Alex Rodriguez. The team had plenty of offense and just enough defense to help Moyer go 6-2 the rest of the 1996 season-to help his record to 13-3 overall that year which led the Major Leagues for winning percentage (.813). Moyer was a perfect complimentary pitcher to Randy Johnson went it came to style contrast. Johnson threw in the mid-nineties and buttered up the opposition-and Moyer was the perfect change of pace with crafty off-speed tossing. In 1997, Jamie Moyer went 17-5 with a respectable 3.86 ERA, that was not bad considering the Mariners played at an offence friendly Kingdome for half of the time. The next three years Jamie still went 42-27, but his ERA had crept up to 5.49 in 2000, which was more than a run and a half higher during his Mariners career. Jamie Moyer had still proved his critics wrong with his career renaissance. He was turning 38 in that offseason. The Mariners had moved into Safeco Field despite losing star players of Ken Griffey, Randy Johnson and Alex Rodriguez in consecutive years. The team looked to be in transition. Jamie still wanted to pitch and began training harder than ever.
The 2001 season was historical for the Mariners from start to finish. Playing in front of capacity crowds at Safeco Field the Mariners played inspired baseball. Right in the middle of the team’s incredible year was Rookie of the Year and MVP Ichiro Suzuki. His injection of youth and helped the Mariners finish the season with a record tying 116 wins. In those wins, Jamie finished the year 20-6. It was Jamie’s first 20 win season. Jamie lowered his ERA all the way down to 3.43 that year-which was one of his best ERA’s of his career. The Mariners lost out in the ALCS to the Yankees but Jamie Moyer had pitched the best year of his career. Jamie finished 4th in Cy Young voting. Despite lowering his ERA to a career best 3.32 at that time, Jamie finished 14-8 in 2002. In 2003, and at the incredible age of 40, Jamie went 21-7 with a career single season best 3.27 ERA. Jamie was named to his only ALL-STAR appearance and finished in the top five of Cy Young voting once again.
In 2004, the Mariners had replaced Lou Piniella and had begun the downward spiral to the bottom of the AL WEST. Jamie was a gamer but sported a 7-13 record with an ERA of over 5 again. It looked like he was hanging on to his career by a thread again. Not even the comforts of Safeco Field were providing enough shelter for his game. Jamie had given up 44 home runs in 2004 which had led the American League. The team was not competitive in 2005 but Jamie bounced back with a 13-7 record and a 4.28 ERA. Jamie had worked several games with Catcher Pat Borders (1992 World Series MVP.) Each time the two 42 year olds would be the pitcher catcher tandem they set a record for the oldest pair. This exact tandem was the pitcher and catcher when I attended my first game in the United States at Safeco Field in June of 2005. In 2006, Jamie started the year 6-12 despite pitching well, (His ERA was back down to 4.39,) that is when the Philadelphia Phillies picked him up for the playoffs that year. Jamie left the Mariners as the franchise’s all-time winner at 145-87 (.625)
Over the next five years, Jamie continued to amaze the doubters by posting a 56-40 record (.583). At the age of 45, Jamie Moyer played the most pivotal of roles-with series saving performances in the 2008 playoffs en-route to the Phillies winning the World Series. It was a culmination of a career for the man. Jamie pitched okay in 2009, and saved some of his better performances for later in the season coming out of the bullpen-before suffering some torn muscles in his left arm that ended his season. 2010 saw Jamie post a respectable record of 9-9 before he was injured for the rest of the year just after the All-Star Break. Jamie tried to pitch in the Dominican Winter Leagues that fall but he tore up some more pitching muscles. Jamie Moyer needed Tommy John surgery at the age of 48. Jamie still plans on making a comeback in 2012 at the age of 49. Even if he doesn’t catch on with a team-his longevity and record is quite remarkable.
Jamie Moyer Key Stats
Started his career 34-54 before age 30 (.405) and then went 233-150 for the remainder of his career for a .608 winning percentage. His
career record is currently 267-204 is still at a .567 winning percentage. His 233 wins after the age of 30 trail only #1 Phil Niekro (297 wins) and #2 Warren Spahn (273 wins) all time in MLB history but Jamie had a better winning percentage than both of them after age 30 at .608-to Spahn’s .594 and Niekro’s .540. Jamie was one of the top 2 winning pitchers from 2001-2010 decade with a record of 140-94 (.594), only Randy Johnson with 143 wins in the decade had more…rounding out that top 5 were: Roy Halladay with 139. Andy Pettitte had 138, Roy Oswalt and Tim Hudson had 138. Jamie also compiled a record of 103-70 (.595) after the age of 40. Jamie Moyer has thrown 4020 innings and struck out 2405 batters despite a fastball that ranged from 82-89 MPH in his career.
Will Jamie Moyer receive Baseball Hall of Fame consideration? He will garner some votes as his career is very similar to Tommy John. It is unfortunate the man could not achieve 300 wins in his career with such a slow start-but there is no denying that he should receive “The Most Unlikely to Have Such a Great Career Award.” He is a classy professional and is an even better human off the field, with running his Moyer Foundations all across the country. Jamie has touched countless people and is a great role model for all of those athletes who might feel like giving up. Kudos for having a great second half to your career Jamie Moyer!!
*** Thank you to our Guest Baseball Writer- Doug Booth for joining us today on MLB reports. To learn more about “The Fastest 30 Ballgames” and Doug Booth, you can follow Doug on Twitter (@ChuckBooth3024) and click here for Doug’s website, fastestthirtyballgames.com***
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The Grandy Man Interview: Curtis Granderson Talks Pizza, Wrestling and Choosing Your Friends
Friday December 9, 2011
Playing in his second season with the New York Yankees, Curtis Granderson had one of the best seasons of his career, which entered him into MLB records books. This season, Granderson was voted to the American League All Star game as starting center fielder. The left-handed hitter has home run power, a great glove, speed, along with athleticism on the field. His efforts off the field are as remarkable as his play on field. Curtis represented MLB at the White House in their anti-obesity effort and created the Grand Kids Foundation, focused on improving the educational experience for youth nationwide. Ten-year-old Haley had a chance to sit down with Curtis Granderson before a game in July, and talk baseball, but discovered the Yankees center fielder is an avid WWE fan along with being a published author and all- around nice guy.
Haley: In August my family is following the Yankees to US Cellular Field, Kauffman Stadium, Target Field and Camden Yards with stops at Miller Park, Wrigley and Busch Stadium. Do you have a favorite ballpark and why? Is there a ballpark where you feel you always play well other than Yankee Stadium?
Granderson: I like the Anaheim Angles Stadium because it has good weather to play in and the playing surface is well taken care of, making it a nice place to play ball. I also enjoy the Rally Monkey because he is fun to watch but as a player it means that the Angels are doing well. Other stadiums that I like to play in are Mariners Safeco Field and of course at home in Chicago at US Cellular Field and Wrigley.
Haley: Since I am going to be in Chicago, who has the best Pizza in Chicago? Who in New York? Do you like Deep Dish or Thin Crust Pizza?
Granderson: My favorite Pizzerias in Chicago are Lou Malnali’s, Giordanos and Gino’s and in New York Artichoke Basille’s. Sometimes I like Dominos thin crust pizza, because I like my crust crunchy. If I am really hungry, I will order deep dish.
Haley: Coney Island Hot Dogs or Nathan’s Hot Dogs?
Granderson: Since I played in Detroit, I would have to say Coney Island Hot Dogs.
Haley: What is your favorite meal?
Granderson: I really love Thanksgiving dinner because you get to eat a little bit of everything and you can go back over and over for more helpings.
Haley: My little brother is a fan of WWE, I heard you are as well. Who are some of you favorite wrestlers of today?
Granderson: Of course I like CM Punk because he is a great wrestler and from Chicago. Jon Cena is another favorite. I also like the Divas because they work hard and are as good as the guys.
Haley: Do you have any brothers or sisters?
Granderson: I have an older half-sister, Monica.
Haley: In your book All You Can Be: Dream It, Draw It, Become It, you share the lessons that you learned growing up. What is one lesson you would tell the Baseball Youth readers if they haven’t read the book?
Granderson: The selection of friends, good and bad, positive or negative and the people you surround yourself with, will shape your whole life.
Haley: I also know you are an ambassador for MLB and have traveled to England, Italy, South Africa, China, and New Zealand. Is there any place you would really like to go and represent MLB?
Granderson: I have never been to South America so that would be amazing. I would also like to go to Japan and Australia, those would be on my top-3 list.
Haley: Why did you choose the #28 in Detroit and #14 in New York?
Granderson: I was given the #28 in college, which was great because the numbers 2 and 8 are my favorite numbers, so it was both of them together. When I became a Yankee, Joe Girardi was #28 so I chose #14 because that was my number from high school.
Haley: I get to go to a lot of Yankees games and have noticed that you have two rituals can you to explain them?
Haley: 1) When you step up to the plate you tap it with the bat from left to right then the top. Why?
Granderson: No particular reason. I guess it is just a habit.
Haley: 2) When you are leading off from first and the pitcher makes a move you always walk around first base same way every time. Why?
Granderson: Because I don’t want to get picked off or called out.
Haley: Do you have any other rituals or superstitions?
Granderson: I only chew sugar-free bubble gum. (Curtis asked Haley: “Do you like gum?” Make sure you take a hand full when you leave the dugout.)
Haley: What is it like in the Dugout before and after a game?
Granderson: It is a fun place filled with energy and lots of handshakes. We are always meeting people before games. After the game it depends if we won or lost. If we win everyone is happy and celebrating and if we lost we need to move on to the next game.
Haley: When you are on the road do you share rooms with your teammates?
Granderson: In the majors we get our own rooms. In the minors we share rooms. I used to share with Ryan Raburn, Joel Zumaya and David Espinosa.
Haley: A.J. Burnett has created a celebration for a walk off win, a pie in the face. Have you ever gotten pied?
Granderson: No, I have not been pied. If I get pied it means we won but I am afraid it will burn. (The pies are Shaving Cream)
Haley: Who is the biggest practical joker you have ever been on a team with? Have you ever been the victim of a practical joke?
Granderson: Brandon Inge on the Tigers will do funny pranks, silly ones and even some gross ones. We had a little battle going when I played for Detroit. Once I opened his car and filled it with paper and construction tape, making it a big mess inside the car and out. Jorge Posada is a real joker as well.
Haley: In 2007 you became just one of four players in MLB history to record 20 doubles, 20 triples, 20 home runs & 20 stolen bases in a single season. What are some of your other accomplishments you are proud of?
Granderson: Graduating from University of Illinois-Chicago and that I am 1 of only 37 players with college degrees. Making it to the 2006 World Series.
Haley: Do you have any other favorite sports besides baseball?
Granderson: I like basketball, especially college ball. I also like hockey, football and bowling and I used to run cross-country.
Haley: What’s your favorite team?
Granderson: The Kansas City Jay Hawks.
Haley: Who would you consider your closest friends on the Yankees?
Granderson: Of course I have special bond with my fellow outfielders Nick Swisher and Brett Gardner. But I also like to hang out with C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Russell Martin we go out to dinner and movies together.
***Reproduced with permission from Baseball Youth Magazine. This interview originally appeared in the Nov/Dec 2011 edition of Baseball Youth Magazine***
https://www.facebook.com/baseballyouthmagazine
http://www.baseballyouth.com/
Curtis Granderson Social Networking links:
http://grandkidsfoundation.org/
http://www.facebook.com/cgrand14
Haley Smilow Social Networking Links:
http://www.wix.com/smilow/home-field-advantage
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Home-Field-Advantage/108037172615547
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The End of the Winter Ball Season in Panama: The Chris Swauger Guest MLB Blog
Friday December 9, 2011
MLB reports: Chris Swauger (aka Swags) is back in North America and returns to the Reports! Swags has wrapped up his Winter Ball season in Panama and shares his experiences with us. We even get an inside look at a Winter Ball All-Star Game! A big thank you to Swags for his time in preparing his second blog feature on MLB reports, as well as the photographs used which were supplied for from his personal collection.
Chris Swauger– Guest MLB Blog: The end of a season is always an interesting time. Depending on the team’s position in the standings, players have a few different perspectives. When they are cruising in first place, the main objective is to not get hurt. When they are in a playoff chase or jockeying for positions, the intensity is cranked up to the max and everyone seems to take their focus to a new level. When they are completely out of the race altogether, it becomes a tragic comedy. Regrettably and hysterically, my experiences in Panama fall into the third category.
Safely buried in third place out of four teams, our team accepted the fact that we were out of contention. Admirably, we did not completely mail in the season. Maybe it was because we had so many guys with MLB affiliated teams in the states. Maybe it was because some guys were playing to try to get seen and signed to play with an affiliated or independent team. Maybe it was just pride. Whatever it was, guys continued to show up early and get their work in regardless if a practiced schedule was posted or the coaches even bothered to show up before the national anthem. No staff meant no authority, rules, or organized workouts…which also meant my tan improved significantly.
Our last three game series was against the last place team in our league who had
won a total of nine games all year. Six were against us…stay hot Caballos. With both teams out of the race the games became more of a friendly, stat-chasing fiesta. Oddly enough, the Panamanian TV station decided it would be a good idea to put two of these games on national television. The opposing team had sent all of their foreign (not from Panama) players home and had three players who were moonlighting as taxi drivers. Their starting pitcher in game one was missing a finger and the tip of another, although I will admit it did give his pitches some wicked movement. One of our pitchers rolled his ankle on the mound, called timeout in the middle of an at-bat, went to the locker room to get it taped, then came back out to resume pitching. He must have known the game was on TV and wanted some face time. I think the other team’s left fielder wanted some as well, because by my official count (One-Mississippi, Two-Mississippi…) it took him 73 seconds to get off the field after being called out at first base. He did not say one word to the umpire AND his team was in the first base dugout. He did have three gold chains, two enormous cubic-zirconia earrings, and a fresh tight-fade haircut though.
Apparently these two guys didn’t get the memo that when games don’t mean anything, the objective becomes to play as fast as humanly possible. It doesn’t mean sacrificing the integrity of the game or playing nonchalantly. In fact, it’s the complete opposite. Guys who haven’t hustled all year are sprinting down the line and on and off the field in an attempt to finish nine innings under two hours (which is amazing considering average game time in winter ball is closer to five). What it DOES mean is any attempt to delay the game, like mound visits or calling timeout for any reason other than a seizure, will be met with harsh criticism from both dugouts. Throwing first pitch breaking balls and not swinging at first pitch strikes are also highly frowned upon. I practice what I preach; the last game of the season I swung at all 7 pitches I saw in my 5 at-bats. I would not have been nearly as proud of that if I hadn’t snuck 2 hits out of those 5 at-bats, but the point remains the same: play fast, avoid injuries.
After the final out was made, everyone exchanged handshakes, hugs, e-mail
addresses, and phone numbers. The crazy thing about the end of a season in professional baseball is there is a legitimate chance it is the last time you will ever see some of the guys on your team in your life. Guys you are together with nearly 24/7 and share intimate details of your life with become distant memories after lockers get cleaned out. It’s a harsh reality of a cutthroat game, but it is a fact. Baseball keeps rolling along. The players, coaches, and their careers are merely passengers that can be thrown off as quickly as they are scooped up. I have enjoyed my ride thus far and can’t wait to see what road lies ahead.
My ride in Panama culminated with a trip to the All-Star Game in Panama City. I was extremely excited because our game was being piggy-backed by a celebrity softball game that included Derek Jeter, C.C. Sabathia, Ozzie Guillen, Curtis Granderson and many other big leaguers. It was also going to be a fun experience because my father was able to make the trip down to see me play in the game. He even got an all-access pass into the dugout and onto the field for the event (it’s amazing what Panamanian security officers will let you get away with if you are a gringo, act like you don’t speak English, and pretend you know exactly what you are doing. Wearing absolutely zero credentials my dad got to hang out with the team and sit in the VIP section right next to the dugout. He volunteered to shag balls during batting practice but we ended up not having it. It was cancelled because there were no baseballs. We ended up hitting in the batting cage with the dozen balls the league brought in for the team to autograph.
The game itself is more of a friendly expo than an intense competition. While players still want to win and show off what got them into the game in the first place, the atmosphere is more like a country club than a Roman coliseum. The same last-game-of-the-season rules apply about throwing a lot of fastballs and swinging early in the count. Well, at least I thought they did. That is until the pitch sequence of my first at-bat went curveball, change-up, slider, curveball, change-up, fastball to the backstop, change-up. I still swung at every pitch. I had a few choice words and slightly inappropriate body language for the pitcher. I also, had zero remorse when our team of “Internacionales” (American, Dominican, Venezuelan, Cuban, Brazilian, Japanese, and Korean) commenced to trouncing the Panamanian players to the tune of a 6-0 lead and a perfect game into the 6th inning. Save for an error and a meaningless 3 run homer with two outs in the last inning, the International team dominated the game. Keeping my Panamanian teammates in mind, I respectfully say “WEAR IT!!! That’s what you get for playing a showcase game like it’s Game 7!”
After the game both sides shook hands and thanked the fans. They were what this game was really about and we acknowledged that. One last cold shower and we were back on the field to mingle with the big names with big wallets playing in the next game. Like an idiot I left my camera in the hotel room, paranoid that it might get stolen on the last day. I seem to have inherited this ability to brain fart from my father, who forgot to charge his camera’s battery and it died before the first game ended. So, I have no proof that I met any of these awesome guys that made an appearance. Just take my word for it.
As I finish this blog entry reminiscing on my time in Panama, I am extremely happy. Happy that I jumped at the opportunity and happy that I got to experience this journey. I grew as a man and as an athlete during my time in Panama and am a better person and player because of it. There were hysterical moments and miserable ones, but they were all a good time and will make great stories. I hope to use this blog to continue to tell those stories and the ones that lie ahead.
Thanks for the opportunity
Chris Swauger
PS: Follow me on Twitter @cswag8 for daily doses. However, be warned: my followers have an extremely high rate of eye-rolling.
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Ryan Madson: A Free Agent Closer with no Job?
Thursday December 8, 2011
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: With the Winter Meetings at an end, players/teams/agents are left standing to look over the game of musical chairs and who is left standing. A particularly interesting position was closer- with more eligible players than open positions. In the past few weeks, we have seen many signings and trades in this area. Jonathan Papelbon to the Phillies. Sergio Santos to the Blue Jays. Huston Street to the Padres. Francisco Rodriguez accepted arbitration from the Brewers. Heath Bell to the Marlins. Joe Nathan to the Rangers. Andrew Bailey is openly being discussed in the trade market as leaving the A’s. Frank Francisco and Jon Rauch joined the Mets. As a result, one big name is left standing with no dance partner. Ryan Madson is still on the open market with few promising prospects ahead.
As the story goes, Madson was supposed to re-sign with the Phillies. A reported 4-year, estimated $44 million contract was put on the table by the Phillies early in free agency. Player and agent (Scott Boras) happily accepted and a Philadelphia return was in order. Not so fast. There are conflicting stories on what transpired. Needless to say, there was never a firm deal in place and the Phillies moved quickly to sign the top closer on the free agent market, Jonathan Papelbon. Since then, there has been little discussion on Madson. There have been reports throughout the process linking him to the Jays, Marlins and Red Sox. Well…the first 2 teams have filled their vacancies. The Red Sox have Daniel Bard as the incumbent set-up man who could get a look at the closing position- although he may end up in the rotation. Other than that, there seems to be little hope for Madson.
Last night, Madson chose not to the K-Rod route and accept salary arbitration. As a result, he remains out in the market waiting for his next contract offer. Francisco Cordero is in the same boat, although he is still likely to go back to the Reds on a 1-2 year contract from the whispers around the league. But even if the Reds do not retain Cordero, it is unlikely that they will sign Madson- especially given the young players they still need to lock-up to extensions. So what other options exist for Madson? Perhaps the Orioles. Maybe the Rays. The options are getting bleak.
This is one of the few times that you will see Scott Boras caught “with his pants down” so to speak. For an agent that is well known to be
able to create and stimulate markets and demands for his clients, Boras has come up short for Madson. The perception is that the Phillies did what was best for them in signing Papelbon, which left Boras outraged and in a bind. With little to no teams looking for closers, Boras essentially only has the Red Sox to work with. At this point, he may need to take a 1-2 year deal for Madson, in the $7-10 million range to rebuild his value and try again on the open market in the future. A risky proposition, but with few options- Madson may have no other choice.
I was actually quite surprised that Madson didn’t take the Phillies offer of arbitration. Based on his stellar 2011 numbers, he could have expected a strong 1-year contract at least. Now Boras and Madson are left to take their chances on the open market. For a closer with only 1 full year on the job, time is not on Madson’s side. A proven closer like Francisco Cordero knows that he find a contract soon. Heck, even K-Rod knows that he just needs another solid season under his belt and his next deal will follow shortly after. Madson was in line for his first and only big payday this offseason. If he gets hurt or becomes ineffective in 2012, that dream vanishes. Scott Boras better work overtime to get the Red Sox biting on his closer client. Otherwise, it may not turn out to be a very Merry Christmas in the Madson household this year.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
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Adam Dunn: 2012 Trade Bargain of the Year
Wednesday December 7, 2011
MLB reports – Jonathan Hacohen: Tonight has been an exciting circus of winter meetings trades and free agent signings. With all the names thrown around this week, one that has not come up enough has been that of Adam Dunn. Whenever he has been mentioned, it has usually been in a negative context. But the time has come to consider a Dunn acquisition in a positive light. We could be looking at the 2012 Trade Bargain of the Year.
The value of Adam Dunn has been discussed in previous editions of the Reports. The debate on Dunn has fallen essentially into two categories. Whether 2011 represents an outlier in his career…or the beginning of the end. I argue the former rather than the latter. At age 32, I do not believe that Dunn all of a sudden lost his skills overnight. His decline in Chicago can be traced to many possible factors. First year in the American League, new city, new position, Ozzie as a manager, etc. Whatever the reason, the fit for Dunn did not exist with the White Sox in 2011. There could be a rebound if he stays put, but my instinct is that the White Sox would move Dunn in the right deal. With the team apparently in sell-mode and rebuilding, given the trade of Sergio Santos to the Jays yesterday, impending loss of Mark Buehrle and other key veterans on the trade block, teams would be wise to jump on Dunn immediately.
So how do we fix Adam Dunn? Simple. Get him into a new environment, DH him for the majority of the time with an occasional start in the OF and 1B and he will rebound to his previous slugging ways. Teams like the Orioles, Red Sox, Jays, Yankees, Angels, Athletics and Mariners would all be well served to give GM Kenny Williams a call. Dunn is owed a whopping $44 million over the next 3 years. If the right deal is presented (top prospect in return), the White Sox could perhaps be sold into eating half of the contract. At $22 million, approximately $7 million per season for the next 3 seasons, I would happily take 40 home runs, 100 RBIs, .400 OBP and .500 SLG. The Adam Dunn I watched last year looked very similar to the Nick Swisher on the White Sox in 2008. Things ended up rebounding for Swisher in New York and the same could happen for Dunn on a new squad.
In the age of $100 million contracts being discussed for C.J. Wilson and $200 million deals for Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols, $20-$30 million for a proven slugger like Dunn is a bargain. Building a baseball team, is like building a stock portfolio. Buy low and sell high. Buying C.J. Wilson now is buying high. Good luck on moving that contract in a year (see Jayson Werth and Carl Crawford from a year ago). There is no evidence that Adam Dunn is indeed on the trade market. But if he is (with Kenny Williams, everyone is expandable), teams should be targeting Dunn. He is a definite buy low candidate. With many teams looking for a proven bat in their lineup, there were fewer sure things in baseball going into this year than Adam Dunn. The White Sox thought so when they signed him to a 4-year contract. Clearly there was not a fit for Dunn in Chicago. But again, that does not mean that the player is finished. Dunn is young enough to rebound. Grab him while you can, as the price will be going up in 2013 after he is named Comeback Player of the Year.
Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
A Tribute to Frank “Sweet Music” Viola
Tuesday December 6, 2011
Peter Stein (Fantasy Baseball Analyst – MLB reports): This week, I take a look at back and crunch the numbers of an intriguing former great player, Frank Viola. Nicknamed “Sweet Music”, the crafty left-hander finished his fifteen-year career with a 3.73 ERA and a 176-150-career record. Impressive numbers that earned Viola an induction to the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame. However, his qualifications by no means ended up landing him a spot in Cooperstown with the big boys. Viola only received 2 votes in 2002 (0.4%) and went off the ballot after only one year of eligibility.
Since I was only nine years old when Viola retired in 1996, I don’t have the pleasure of seeing him pitch firsthand. I have heard a lot about the lefty, and while examining his career at a closer level; there are uncanny parallels to my favorite pitcher of all-time, Mark Buehrle. As much as I have tried to the case for Buehrle as a HOF, and as much as he has accomplished, he is simply not a dominant player of his generation. The same was true for Viola.
In the prime of his career, Viola was masterful and ate up a lot of innings. He consistently finished the season around 250 innings pitched and threw a whopping 74 career complete games. He had the ability to miss bats, but only surpassed the 200-strikeout plateau once in his career. He allowed a lot of hits, one per inning throughout his career, but he did have good control and kept the walks to a minimum. Not blowing hitters away, Viola creatively maneuvered around the strike zone and made the most of his “stuff”, a term used to describe a pitcher’s repertoire and arsenal.
Outside of my own wishes and perhaps members of the White Sox nation, Mark Buehrle is not considered a HOF caliber player at this point in his career. However, a move to the National League and another six-plus years of strong pitching, then he truly becomes a candidate if he can surpass the 250-win level. Remember, this is a guy who has thrown a no-hitter, a perfect game, started AND saved a World Series game, and started and won an All-Star game. Since becoming a starter in 2001, he has thrown at least 200 innings in one 10 games in each season. A model of consistency. With a 161-119 career record and 3.83 lifetime ERA. His numbers stack up nicely compared to Viola, despite throwing 30 fewer games.
Admittedly, Viola was more dominant than Buehrle during several of his best seasons, particularly in 1984, 1987, 1988, and 1990. Viola was a 3-time all-star selection, a World Series champion and MVP in 1987, and was the 1988 AL CY Young Award winner. Clearly, Viola was good and even dominant for a few years. However, he does not stack up against the true greats. Overall, he amassed a 43.9 career WAR in fifteen seasons, ranking him 106th overall for pitchers. Buehrle, with a 46.6 career WAR to date, in through just 11 seasons, is ranked 92nd overall.
Therefore, based on this comparative analysis, if Frank Viola should have been HOF worthy, than so is Mark Buehrle – right now. Their career numbers are almost identical, as well as their style and stuff, despite the fact that Buehrle has pitched about one fewer full season of games. While Buehrle still has an outside chance to one day reach Cooperstown, Frank “Sweet Music” Viola, simply did not have enough dominant seasons to reach the Hall of Fame. Viola though did enjoy an outstanding career and will forever be remembered as one of the pitching greats of his generation.
***Today’s feature was prepared by our Fantasy Baseball Analyst, Peter Stein. We highly encourage you to leave your comments and feedback at the bottom of the page and share in the discussion with our readers. You can also follow Peter on Twitter (@peterWstein).***
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Time to Elect Don Mattingly into Cooperstown
Monday December 5, 2011
Doug Booth- Guest Baseball Writer: Okay, it is time for me to make my argument for my favorite player of all time to be inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame. There will be several people that will say that Don Mattingly’s career stats of: H-2154, HR-222, RBI-1099, AVG-.307 and 9 Gold Gloves are not enough in just 14 seasons. I am not counting his 7 game-stint in 1982 with this. As a rookie in 1983, Don only .hit .283 with 4 HR’S and 32 RBI’s. In Donnie’s first year as a full time first baseman, he led the AL with a .343 AVG-with 23 HR’S and 110 RBI’s, also leading the league in hits with 207 and 2B’s with 48.
They say that if you have a shortened career-(and Mattingly’s back injury in the late eighties certainly robbed him of a definite Hall of Fame Career,) then you better have an incredible stretch as the best player in baseball. It is my belief that Don Mattingly was the best all-around player from 1984-1989, with apologies to Rickey Henderson, Wade Boggs, Tony Gwynn and Dale Murphy, Don’s incredible consistency during this 6 year stretch included these numbers. A .327 AVG with 160 HR’s and a staggering 682 RBI’s with 257 doubles and 1219 hits. Nobody had more RBI’s and extra base hits in that time frame. Only Wade Boggs had more hits. The 6 year AVG breaks down to an AVG of .327 with H-204, 2B-43, HR-27 and RBI-114. What is most impressive is that Mattingly only averaged 33 strikeouts a season/or about 1/23 Plate appearances in this stretch.
During this stretch-Mattingly was also an All-star for 6 straight seasons-and was a Gold Glover for 5 years straight from 85-89. Donnie led the league in doubles three times, (84-86), hits twice, (84-86), total bases twice, (85-86), AVG in ’86, slugging and OBP in 1986. Don’s 145 RBI’s in 1985 were the most RBI’s by a left hander since the 1960’s. The same could be said for his 388 total bases in 1986. Other dominant stretches included his 1987 power streaks, in which he hit a record-6 grand slams(since equaled by Travis Hafner,) and also is still tied for homering in a record-tying 8 straight games (and should be the official leader because only Don hit 10 HR’S in that stretch of 8 games.) Mattingly is a silver slugger three times over (84-86), and The Sporting News Player of the Year for the seasons of (84-86). Don was the AL MVP in 1985, and finished 2nd in 1986 to Roger Clemens, but for hitting he was listed as #1. His 1984 and 1987 seasons also garnered serious MVP considerations. All impressive for a man who was not considered a power hitting prospect.
Back injuries slowed Mattingly down from 1990-1995, where he lost most of his power, but he was a .290 contact hitter who would still drive in about 80-85 RBI’S per year. If he could have kept playing healthy, instead of retiring at the age of 34, he would have had nearly 3000 hits, and probably would have hit 600-700 2B, and 300 HR’s-with about 1600 RBI’S. He probably would have finished up career with an AVG. that was near .300. You could probably add 3-5 more Gold Gloves as well. Instead, he finished with 2154 hits. His .307 career average will be one of the higher averages never to be in the Hall of Fame if he is not voted in. Don’s average season is still .307 with 20 HR’S, 97 RBI’S, with close to 200 hits and 40 doubles.
Another fact that gets overlooked was Don’s strikeout ratio to plate appearances. Mattingly only struck out 444 times in 7721 PA’s, or
once every 19 times. This stat is unbelievable for a modern age hitter-and 444 Strikeouts is only 2 less doubles than the man hit in his career with 442. Only Tony Gwynn has had a better ratio for striking out in the last 50 years. You add the 9 Gold Gloves-(2nd all-time for a 1B), and this man should be gaining more consideration for the hall.
Other comparisons in numbers for players already in the Hall, would be Jim Rice and Kirby Puckett, Puckett for average and power, while Rice has similar offensive numbers for his 162 game AVG. Rice had a few more HR’s and RBI’s while Mattingly had a better AVG. and had more hits/doubles for an average season. Both played 14 seasons.
For all of those kids watching Donnie Baseball play live, or on TV, we saw a guy that exemplified a professional hitter. Amongst fielding 1st baseman that I have seen, no one has ever been better. His swing was pure poetry in motion, even when he older, it must have drove pitchers crazy that they could not strike him out. I am only sad that Don Mattingly has missed out on all of the Yankees championship seasons.
At least his fans can always recall his last at bat in the 1995 playoffs where he crushed a homer in a 5th game loss to the Mariners in the ALDS. It was a great career shortened by back injuries. If defensive prowess is deemed a lot more lucrative for a Hall of Fame bid, once again they have to consider ‘Donnie Baseball.’
*** Thank you to Doug Booth for joining us today on MLB reports. To learn more about “The Fastest 30 Ballgames” and Doug Booth, you can follow Doug on Twitter (@ChuckBooth3024) and click here for Doug’s website, fastestthirtyballgames.com***
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My Baseball Comeback: The Loren Deans Guest MLB Blog
Sunday December 4, 2011
MLB reports: We welcome Loren Deans to MLB reports! Loren was originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 37th round of the 2003 draft. Unfortunately, Loren never ended up signing a contract with the Rangers and playing professional baseball. His baseball journey is a tale of fate and twists that led him off the diamond. Now Loren is back and hungrier than ever to jumpstart his career. Joining us today exclusively on MLB reports, we learn about Loren Deans and his journey back into baseball. This is the story of Loren Deans in his own words.
Name : Loren Deans
Height : 6’3″
Weight : 200 lbs
Position : Centerfield/OF/Closer
High School : Capistrano Valley
Loren Deans- Guest MLB Blog: After graduating Capo “Capistrano” Valley High School, I was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 2003 Major League baseball draft. It was supposed to be a draft-and-follow deal (ended in 2007), which allowed me to play another year of college ball. I would then have the opportunity to be re-drafted in a higher round. Back then, based on the draft-and-follow, Texas kept full rights of me for that year in college ball. I was looking forward to having a great year in College and joining the Rangers quickly afterwards
So I went to Irvine Valley College. That ending up being probably one of the roughest years of my life. Looking back,if I could have done things differently, I would have rather signed the contract with the Rangers as a raw 17-year-old out of high school and just developed with Texas. Losing that year in professional baseball ended up setting me back much further then I could have ever imagined.
I definitely did not have the best college experience. I went to Irvine valley college not taking classes too seriously, which led to run-ins with the coach. Once I got my act together and was playing top-notch ball, of course the first injury of my entire life happens! A head-first slide ended my season on my throwing shoulder. Texas was then nowhere to be found that summer. I rehabbed that year (and am now 100% healthy by the way!)
So I moved on to play for Seminole State College in Oklahoma… talk about culture shock HA! Southern California guy going to Oklahoma on a limb was intense. I played my usual centerfield and batted lead off in Oklahoma. I don’t talk about this period in my life much, but truthfully there were many issues facing this team. The coach in Oklahoma had distractions at home and was not all there in the head mentally. So I had enough and left the team in the winter. I went back to California and played a winter at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, where I was tearing it up. I batted cleanup for the first time since my sophomore year in high school. Driving the ball to all field with power playing and I was at the top of my game. Unfortunately, I was not able to play ball that spring due to car problems and living arrangements. Talk about living in the trenches! I was there. Struggling to survive and maintain work and place of home… it was extremely difficult. I found it hard to train and deal with all that was around me. But at the end of the day, I make no excuses.
I recently tried out in May 2011 for the Independent baseball league: NAL “North American (Baseball) League”, in Pasadena, CA. That is where it all currently lays in front of me. My life is in a 180° spin for the better. I have a great job and life at home, although the baseball game continues to burn strongly inside of me. I am 26-years young in my opinion, with plenty of time to succeed in baseball. The passion is inside me. It seems that once you fall out of the baseball loop, it is very hard to get back inside the system. I am currently training and preparing for the upcoming season in a big way. I will NEVER give up! It is my vision that an organization will find this diamond in the rough. A team will view me as a 5-tool utility player. All he needs is to be given a chance. I am training and working towards a comeback because my skill level I believe is high. The fire is there. It is my time!
Loren Deans
You can follow Loren on Twitter (@SwinGzLo) – Please feel free to contact Loren with any questions and comments that you may have!
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Ask the Reports: Saturday December 3rd
Saturday December 3, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: Posted every Weekend: Your top baseball questions from the past week are answered. E-mail all questions to mlbreports@gmail.com, message us on Twitter and post on our Facebook Wall!
Let’s get to your top questions of the week:
Q: I just read your article about expansion. This is my most favorite topic in baseball. I have an idea. Tell me what you think of it.
American League
East
New York Yankees
Boston Red Sox
Toronto Blue Jays
Baltimore Orioles
North
Minnesota Twins
Chicago White Sox
Cleveland Indians
Detroit Tigers
South
Kansas City Royals
Houston Astros
Texas Rangers
Tampa Bay Rays
West
Los Angeles Angels
San Diego Padres
Portland Athletics
Seattle Mariners
National League
East
New York Mets
Philadelphia Phillies
Pittsburgh Pirates
Washington Nationals
North
Milwaukee Brewers
Chicago Cubs
Cincinnati Reds
St. Louis Cardinals
South
Charlotte Knights (Expansion Team)
Atlanta Braves
San Antonio Colts (Expansion Team)
Miami Marlins
West
Los Angeles Dodgers
San Francisco Giants
Arizona Diamondbacks
Colorado Rockies
-Joe (via e-mail)
MLB reports: Radical realignment and expansion Joe. Love it! I am a BIG fan of adding 2 new expansion teams to Major League Baseball. 32 teams, 16 teams per league, 4 divisions per league and 4 teams per division makes perfect sense to me. I am sold. Now the magical question is which cities would be included and how to realign the divisions. Under your proposal, San Antonio and Charlotte would get expansion teams, while the A’s would be relocated to Portland. All three cities are top contenders for MLB teams, so I have no issue with having Major League Baseball in those cities. For this scenario to work, the A’s would need to exhaust the option of moving to San Jose or any other city in California before being fully relocated. I don’t see the A’s in Portland personally. I see them staying in California. But stranger things have happened. Interesting that you did not relocate the Rays in your proposal. I see them having an equally high chance of being relocated as the A’s. So assuming that we accept your relocation and expansion plans, the last issue will be the alignment of the divisions. The AL South and NL South need work. If we are putting a team in San Antonio, let’s put them in the same division as the Rangers and Astros and make a nearly all-Texas division. The Rays and Marlins should also be in the same division. I agree with Charlotte and Atlanta together. Consider as well putting the Dodgers, Giants, Angels and Padres together in an-all California division. You have a great basis for changes though…well done! Thank you for the comment and giving us some food for thought. Please click here to read our previous report on MLB Expansion.
Q: Just want to say that I’m glad other “unknown talented” Countries are going to have an opportunity to participate. My mother is from Nicaragua so it’s awesome to know Nicaragua AT LEAST has an opportunity. Maybe in the near future, the WBC should consist of more than 16 teams….maybe a total of 24? Joshua (via e-mail)
MLB reports: Thank you for the question Joshua. You know we love talking about the World Baseball Classic! Please click here to see our previous report on the upcoming 2013 WBC. The initial 2006 and 2009 WBC editions consisted of 16 total countries. In 2013, there are changes to the tournament. 12 holdover countries are guaranteed to play in the tournament itself. Prior to the WBC, there will be a qualifying tournament between the remaining 4 holdover countries and 12 new countries introduced to the WBC. Thus the total amount of countries that have a chance to play in the WBC is 28. I think that the 16 country format works very well. What MLB officials will look to do is to continue to expand the amount of countries worldwide that will compete in the qualifying tournament. We could easily see in the next decade 24 new countries competing for WBC supremacy. I don’t see the tournament itself changing from the 16 team format, but definitely expect the field of 28 eligible countries to expand further. Another great question, thank you for sharing!
Q: A few months ago I called Pujols in Chicago! They have the $ and could use the leadership. Aaron (via Twitter)
MLB reports: I seem to recall you saying that. There were many pushes to start the offseason for Albert Pujols to join the Cubs. At the time I wrote them off as impossible. But with the Cubs new management team on board led by Theo Epstein, I am not quite as sure. I still see Pujols back with the Cardinals. He has spent his whole career in St. Louis and has roots now in Missouri. At similar or equal money, I see him staying. The more likely move for the Cubs is to pick up Prince Fielder. I think the fit is better overall from an age perspective for Chicago. But if there is any team that will be able to “woo” Pujols, it could very well be the Cubs. The Cardinals faithful would be devastated if Pujols was to leave. We shall see how this all plays out- but I give a 99.9% chance of Pujols staying put.
Q: I’ve run out of patience with (Phil) Hughes. David (via Twitter)
MLB reports: I won’t dispute you David…and many Yankees fans would agree. But not all has been bad about Phil Hughes. He had a strong 2009 season pitching almost exclusively out of the pen, followed by an 18 win season in 2010. Last year was an injury filled season for Hughes that never got on track. Hughes has battled injuries and inconsistencies throughout his career. The million dollar is whether Phil Hughes will ever be able to complete a full season healthy. The Yankees have to decide ultimately if he is best suited to the rotation or bullpen. While he has enjoyed success in both roles, his arm may not be ultimately be able to hold up the grind in the rotation. He is still young (25) and will not be a free agent until 2014. The former 1st round pick from 2004 presents a huge dilemma for the Yankees. Can he be counted to on to be a future ace? That is unclear at best. I am prepared to give Hughes until 2014 before passing final judgement. If it were up to me, the Yankees should carry 6 starters with the hope that Hughes could become a strong #2 and at worst, a viable reliever in the pen. Phil Hughes definitely deserves the opportunity to show his worth…just don’t count on him yet at this point.
Q: Hope the Halos did not give away a young arm w/big upside (Chatwood) for a backup catcher (Iannetta) John (via Twitter)
MLB reports: We get to end today’s Ask the Reports with my favorite topics: Angels’ catchers. The Angels made an interesting move this week, trading former 1st round pick hurler Tyler Chatwood to the Rockies for catcher Chris Iannetta. Looking at the numbers for Iannetta and Chatwood…it makes me wonder what the Angels were thinking in moving Mike Napoli before the 2011 season. Let’s compare Napoli and Iannetta. Napoli is a year and a half older…but about 100x the player. I will point to a very important piece of evidence: the home/road splits. Both played in great hitter’s parks (Texas and Colorado respectively). But on the road, we really get a true sense of each player. Napoli hit more home runs on the road (17 to 13), had a higher batting average (.332 to .307) and maintained a .414 OBP and .663 SLG. The point? Mike Napoli is an effective hitter, no matter where he plays. Had he received the same opportunity in Anaheim, the Angels would have ensured a top catcher for themselves and been able to keep Chatwood. Iannetta, while younger, pales at the plate compared to Napoli. In 2011, Iannetta hit a solid .301 at home, while only batting .172 on the road. Iannetta also hit 10 home runs at home, while only 4 on the road. On the road Iannetta drove in 16 RBIs (39 at home) and scored 15 runs (36 at home). OBP was .419 at home (.321 on road) and SLG was .557 at home (.266 on road). This is a small sample of one year, but Iannetta at home is another Mike Napoli…while on the road he becomes another Jeff Mathis. I am a support of Iannetta, but in Colorado. I am seeing another Vernon Wells blunder, of a hitter taken out of a hitters’ ballpark that cannot adjust to more difficult hitting conditions. Iannetta’s bat does not appear to be a good mix with Angel Stadium. In return for Iannetta, the Angels had to give up Chatwood, their 2nd round pick from 2008. With pitching being a premium in today’s game, it is sad that the Angels had to give up a strong viable arm that I projected as a likely #3 starter for a catcher that will likely not fill in well in their system. The team already tried that least year, when it chose Mathis over Napoli. What happened? Both catchers were not far off defensively, but Napoli became one of the best hitting catchers in baseball. The Angels hope they are getting the next Mike Napoli. In truth they should have kept the original. Now they will have Iannetta (Mathis clone) and Wells clogging up their batting order. While I am left to continue scratching my head in disbelief.
(Editor’s Note: Ironically just as this article was just published, the Angels just traded Jeff Mathis…to the Toronto Blue Jays for Brad Mills. The same Jays that the Angels traded Mike Napoli to almost a year earlier for Vernon Wells. The Jays would have been smart to hold onto Napoli and kept a prize hitting catcher for themselves who could also DH and play 1B. Now the Angels take the other half of the Angels catching tandem as their new backup catcher. Funny how everything comes full circle).
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Jonathan Hacohen is the Lead Baseball Columnist & Editor for MLB reports: You can follow Jonathan on Twitter (@JHacohen)
Playing Winter Ball in Panama: The Chris Swauger Guest MLB Blog
Friday December 2, 2011
MLB reports: We are proud to welcome Chris Swauger (aka Swags) back to the Reports! After our interview with the St. Louis Cardinals prospect, we are fortunate to have Swags return as a Guest MLB Blogger. Have you ever wondered what goes through a player’s mind playing winter ball in a foreign country? Swags is here to give you the scoop on the experience of playing ball in the offseason. A big thank you to Swags for his time in preparing this feature, as well as the photographs used which were supplied for from his personal collection.
Chris Swauger- Guest MLB Blog: I was walking out of a LA Fitness in Tampa when I got the call to play winter ball in Panama. After an hour of being stared at like I was an alien by the juice-monkeys for actually using the squat rack and leg machines, I figured why not be a true alien in a foreign country again? Having played the last two years in Colombia, I was used to the funny looks and had become fluent in Spanish. It seemed like a great opportunity to see a new place and continue to improve my baseball skills. So a week later I said goodbye to my family and the motherland and got on a plane to the middle of nowhere.
I didn’t see the sun for the first 5 days I was down here. I was a new member of the Caballos de Cocle, and I felt like I should have been playing in galoshes instead of cleats. Our practices started at 9 AM because it poured every afternoon. It felt a lot like Spring Training, with the heavy eyes and constant practicing of fundamentals. However, the practice field was slightly different. I had played on fields with pebbles and rocks sprinkled on the field, but this place had full-blown boulders laying around. The warning track consisted of grass as tall as me and was home to a family of iguanas. But I figured if we could play defense on this field, when we got on ours we would all be Gold-Glovers. We grinded it out for a week and went into opening night feeling invincible.
We were exactly that for two games. We pitched, hit, and played defense like seasoned veterans en route to two straight walk-off wins. I had both of the walk-off hits, but before we crown me a clutch performer, I must inform you that they were the only hits I had in either game. I would have probably been put on a plane home if I hadn’t come through in those at-bats. Going into the final game of our first series, we were pretty much fitting ourselves for championship rings. Then reality kicked in.
We started blowing saves and our clutch hitting disappeared. Guys on the team, including myself, continued to put up good numbers but the wins did not come. As a team we could not get in sync. We would pitch well and not hit. Then we would put up four runs in the first and our pitchers struggled to hold the lead. It is one of those things that happens in this game. Rough patches are bound to happen, but they take the highway to panic mode when the season is only 36 games long. I sit here today writing this blog with our team sitting 5 games out of the playoff race with 3 games left to play. On paper our team should have not lost a game, but that’s why you play. The better teams are in the playoff hunt, and ours is sitting here like me trying to figure out where we went wrong.
When the game starts challenging you on the field you start to look for positives off of it. In a town as small as Aguadulce, Cocle, Panama, you have to look really hard. By my official head count the town has 50 people in it (I might be off by a few hundred). The biggest structure in the town is the church, and, outside of a few restaurants and dollar stores, there really isn’t much to do. My roommates and I began to find humor and entertainment in the smallest things. Such as:
The gym that has every piece of Tony Little endorsed equipment from the 80s and 90s…but has no free weights or squat rack.
The clubhouse that has TWO washing machines but no dryer. When I show up to the stadium early, right field looks like a Goodwill
clothing yard sale.
The ability for men to wear Capri pants and be considered stylish.
The maid that works diligently every day cleaning and scrubbing the entire 4 room two-story house every day…and also has a habit of turning off the A/C every morning so we wake up like we are in the middle of a Bikram yoga class.
The Korean player on our team who plays “light-field” and complains about the “blain fleeze” he gets when he eats ice cream.
The fact that one of my roommates thought a mothball was a Mentos.
The flocks of geese people have as pets.
The chauffeur that honks at every female we passed regardless of age (extremely creepy).
The amount that the Latin guys on my team enjoy mayonnaise sandwiches.
The Thanksgiving meal of ham and cheese sandwiches.
The clubhouse attendant who scrubs down our lockers, shoes, uniforms, AND batting practice balls. No one has hit a home run in BP for 3 weeks because they are water-logged but they sure do shine like pearls.
The fact that I only eat at two restaurants because the others have made me do my best bus-driver impression on the toilet seat.
The team bus that is an Aladdin movie prop during the day, and the hottest club in town at night.
As you can tell it’s not the most glamorous of lives, however it is quite amusing. Paying dues in the Minor Leagues and foreign countries can be a bit of an adventure, but it has provided me with many life experiences. I hope to use this blog as a means to share those experiences. I would like people to see what players like myself go through to chase their dreams. Follow me on Twitter @cswag8 if you would like to get a daily perspective and interact with me.
Until next time,
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