Blog Archives
Interview with Toronto Blue Jays Prospect: George Carroll
Wednesday December 21, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: We are pleased to welcome to MLB reports: Toronto Blue Jays Prospect, George Carroll. Coming off his first professional season, George played in the Gulf Coast and Appalachian leagues in 2011. The 23-year old New York native looks to rise in the Blue Jays system and make his name in the big leagues one day soon. As a 6’2″ catcher, George has the physical tools. We look forward to his development as he approaches his first full season in baseball.
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with George Carroll – Catching Prospect for the Blue Jays:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MLB reports: Welcome to the Reports! First question- Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
George Carroll: My two favorite players growing up were Jorge Posada and Craig Biggio. Both guys were great players, and hard-working guys.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
George Carroll: I don’t admire just one guy. I enjoy watching guys like Joe Mauer, Derek Jeter, Josh Hamilton and Posada. These are hard-working players that had the attitude to “put up or shut up”. I am a big fan of guys that go about their business the right way.
MLB reports: What are your proudest accomplishments in baseball?
George Carroll: I had three goals. Play Division I College baseball; Play in the Cape league; and play pro ball. All three dreams have come true and now I just have to work harder to stay here. I also got to play College baseball with my best friend from High School, Effrey Valdez.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
George Carroll: My biggest goal is to work hard and make a full season club. I just want an opportunity to prove myself as a ball player at this level.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
George Carroll: My greatest skill is my ability to play defense, not just behind the plate but at all positions. I feel this elevates my game for the positive.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
George Carroll: Biggest thing I have to improve upon is my consistency with the bat.
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?
George Carroll: Walk more and strike out less. I have to better discipline myself as a hitter.
MLB reports: Long term do you see yourself as a catcher, first baseman or at another position? How do you view your role in the organization?
George Carroll: Mostly as a catcher. But if I have to switch positions, I’m just going to have to make that adjustment.
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?
George Carroll: I pray I get the opportunity to get to that point, but it is something I can’t focus on. I just have to work on my game and focusing on what is in my control.
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far?
George Carroll: It has been everything and more. This is the greatest job in the world.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball?
George Carroll: I enjoy just hanging out with my buddies and my family. My fun is when I am playing baseball!
MLB reports: Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
George Carroll: Peanut butter and strawberry jelly sandwiches, with a glass of milk.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
George Carroll: I just got to work hard, believe in my abilities and get to the next level.
Thank you again to George Carroll 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 George. You can also find George Carroll on Twitter (@GeorgeCarroll20)
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 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:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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.
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:
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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.
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.
Interview with Robby Rowland: Arizona Diamondbacks Pitching Prospect
Thursday December 1, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: We are proud to welcome to MLB reports: Robby Rowland, pitching prospect of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Robby was a 3rd round pick for the Dbacks in the 2010 draft. He recently completed his second season of Rookie Ball, playing for the Missoula Osprey of the Pioneer League. Standing an imposing 6’6″, the soon to be 20-year old Rowland has a bright future ahead with the Dbacks. I have enjoyed getting to know Robby over the past few days, as we talked our favorite subject…baseball. I got the sense speaking to Robby that he truly loves the game. His passion and commitment will carry him very far in my estimation, as he works towards joining the Dbacks one day in Arizona. There is definitely no attitude in the world of Robby Rowland. He understands where he came from and what he needs to do in order to one day become a successful major league pitcher. With spring training less than three months away, I had a chance to catch up with Robby Rowland and learn about his career. It was a fun interview to conduct and we are looking forward to having Robby return back soon on the Reports!
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Robby Rowland – Diamondbacks Pitching Prospect:
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MLB reports: Thank you for taking the time to join us today Robby. How has your offseason gone so far?
Robby Rowland: Thank you for having me! The offseason has been good. Just working out a lot and got a little part-time job. But I already want it to be over. I am just missing baseball too much right now!
MLB reports: You just completed your 2nd season in Rookie Ball. Plus you are still 19-years of age! How have you found the process of getting adjusted to playing professional baseball?
Robby Rowland: It’s definitely a tough process. I used to think that pitching was very simple; that you just throw the ball and get outs. But I have found out that a lot goes into it. Coming from high school, the adjustment was a lot harder. It’s not just throwing the ball as hard as you can anymore. It’s about pitching to your strengths and trying to locate the ball down in the zone. The hitters in pro-ball will make you pay if you make a pitch up in the zone. I am no longer able to take any pitches off; I have to be zoned in the whole game. Aside from the pitching aspect of the game, I just love professional baseball! I get to live and breathe baseball without any interferences.
MLB reports: You were drafted by the Diamondbacks in the 3rd round of the 2010 draft. Did you expect to be drafted by Arizona and what round was supposed to be “your round”?
Robby Rowland: They were one of the teams that showed a lot of interest in me. It was tough to determine, just because I always had a lot of scouts at my high school games. But when it came down to it, I believe Arizona was in the top-4. Everyone told me the highest I would go was 2nd round and the lowest would be in the 4th round.
MLB reports: How did you first find out you were drafted: what was that like?
Robby Rowland: Well I had a couple family members over and we hooked up the computer to the TV in our living room so we were able to watch it on a big screen. My agent would call me and let me know that I might be selected here or there so it was kind of a roller coaster day. The names on the screen seemed to be going so slow. After the second round was completed I grew very anxious. I started thinking about the worst possible scenarios. My agent called me and told me the Diamondbacks were 50/50 in taking me. Right after I hung up with him- my area scout, Dee Brown, called me and told me they selected me. I saw my name on the screen and some highlights. Definitely a surreal moment.
MLB reports: Ever have to pinch yourself: does it feel like a dream playing professional baseball?
Robby Rowland: Haha I had to pinch myself a couple of times during those first few playing days. It’s something that I was born to do. I grew up around this game. My dad played for 10 years, so I was always around the game of baseball. My mom has a couple pictures of me when I was real young holding a couple of my dad’s bats and playing with baseballs around the house. I am just blessed that I am able to be playing the game I love for a living.
MLB reports: What other sports did you playing growing up? Given your height, did you ever consider pursuing basketball instead?
Robby Rowland: I played football when I was real young but it cut into my Fall Ball for baseball, so I only played one year. Yes actually I was always a basketball player. There were a couple of colleges that wanted me for a dual sport scholarship. It came down to my senior year until I decided to just focus on baseball. It was one of the toughest decisions I have ever made in my life. Still to this day, I miss basketball.
MLB reports: What are your most dominant pitches? Any new ones you are working on?
Robby Rowland: I like to say that all of my pitches are dominant. But if I had to throw my best pitch in a certain situation, I would go with my sinking fastball down at the knees. I am a firm believer in a fastball down in the zone with movement is the toughest pitch to hit. I am not necessarily working on new pitches, but when I was instructional league down in Arizona, the pitching coordinator got with me and really helped me to define my mechanics. Before I wasn’t using my lower half and my arm slot was too high, therefore my head was tilting to the left when I would throw. What he did was straighten my body out and helped me figure out how to use my lower half. I also dropped my arm slot a little bit getting some more sink on my ball. The key now is to try and figure out how to control all my pitches with this new delivery and arm slot.
MLB reports: How would you describe “your game”? What “type” of pitcher are you?
Robby Rowland: I like to say I am a strike thrower. I guess you could say that I am a little old school in the fact that I am going to go right after hitters with my best stuff. Almost a “here you go hit it” type of guy. In high school, I was always a strikeout type of overpowering pitcher. But when I got to pro ball, I realized that I needed to start pitching to contact. Keeping the ball down and getting lots of ground balls. It’s like the Bull Durham quote, “Strikeouts are boring, besides that they’re fascist. Throw a ground ball- it’s more democratic.”
MLB reports: Looking into a crystal ball, when do you expect to make it to the Show?
Robby Rowland: I couldn’t tell you that. Of course that’s the goal. But right now it’s about figuring out how to pitch, keep getting better, and when all that comes into play- then hopefully I will make it.
MLB reports: Long term: do you expect to stay a starter or will you consider a move to the pen?
Robby Rowland: I would like to stay a starter my whole life. My dad has always told me that starters have the life! Pitch every fifth day… who wouldn’t want that? But whatever my team needs me to do I am willing.
MLB reports: What are your goals for 2012?
Robby Rowland: I have a lot of goals for 2012. I feel like I have a lot to prove after a shaky 2011 season. My main goal is to get my mechanics dialed in and keep learning how to pitch. Of course I want to be on a full season roster and log a lot of innings. But I realize I am still young and it’s all about figuring out the concept of pitching. I am always just finding ways to get better.
MLB reports: If you weren’t playing baseball, you would be __________________
Robby Rowland: Oh man… I would have to say I would be playing basketball in college somewhere…
MLB reports: Favorite pre-game meal?
Robby Rowland: Gotta go with a Quiznos sandwich here. The Black Angus steak with extra sauce. Really gets me going.
MLB reports: What music are you currently listening to?
Robby Rowland: I have a wide variety.. I’ve always loved the classic rock.. Tom Petty, Boston, Lynyrd, Grand Funk Railroad- all those bands. I will also listen to a little bit of rap and hip hop. I currently just got into a little bit of country but I don’t really know any of the singers.
MLB reports: Funniest prank you ever saw in a clubhouse?
Robby Rowland: Ohhhh… there’s been a lot of good ones. I would have to say the time when some guys took a player’s stuff out of his locker and saran wrapped it to one of the benches in the locker room.
MLB reports: Final question: What would you most want to be remembered for in baseball when you hang up your spikes?
Robby Rowland: I want to be remembered as someone who played the game the right way. Someone who every time he put a jersey on, he played the game with respect. I also want to be a game changer. The guy that you can throw out there in a must-win game and know that there is a great chance that the ball club is going to get a win. Oh and not to mention maybe one of the best hitting pitchers to ever play the game… just saying…
MLB reports: Thank you for your time today Robby. It has been a blast speaking to you. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. We look forward to having you back on soon!
Robby Rowland: Thanks for everything man. Let me know if there is anything else I could do for you. Sure was a fun interview!
Thank you again to Robby Rowland 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 Robby. As well, please follow Robby on Twitter (@RobbyRow_12)
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 Orioles Catching Prospect: Tanner Murphy
Thursday November 24, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: We are proud to welcome to MLB reports: Tanner Murphy, catching prospect for the Baltimore Orioles. Tanner was a 22nd round selection for the Orioles in the 2010 draft. At 19-years of age, Tanner recently completed his 2nd season with the Orioles organization, playing in the Gulf Cost League. Coming off elbow surgery, Tanner looks to be healed and ready for the start of spring training. 2012 represents a big year for Tanner as continues to work his way up the Orioles ladder and one day join the big club in Baltimore.
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with baseball prospect, Tanner Murphy:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
MLB reports: Welcome to MLR reports Tanner and thank you for taking the time today for us. Who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after?
Tanner Murphy: Growing up, I idolized Ken Griffey Jr. And Paul Lo Duca.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Tanner Murphy: The current MLB player would be Matt Wieters because he smart and smooth behind the plate.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Tanner Murphy: I would have to say every game that our team wins and all games when our pitchers feel comfortable no matter what happens on the mound.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2012 season?
Tanner Murphy: I have many many goals going into this next season. A couple main goals are to stay healthy the whole season and to become a better catcher and hitter than I was the year before and learn.
MLB reports: When you first found out you were drafted, what was going through your mind?
Tanner Murphy: Honestly, the first thing that what went through my mind was: Wow! It was almost surreal. I worked so hard towards that day growing up.
MLB reports: What round did you expect to be drafted and what was the process like signing with the Orioles?
Tanner Murphy: I really wasn’t thinking an exact round, just was going with the flow. The process was a lot of phone calls and thinking and guessing. It was a very busy process.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Tanner Murphy: I feel that I am pretty skilled in all aspects of the game, but everyday I can learn and get better to become the best that I can be.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Tanner Murphy: I feel every part of my game. There is always room for improvement. It is a game of failure and you can’t be perfect in this game.
MLB reports: How do strikeouts and walks figure into your game?
Tanner Murphy: Strikeouts actually tell you a lot about your next at-bats and can help me become a better hitter. Walks are the same way- just reading the pitchers.
MLB reports: Do you see any of these items changing over time and to what degree?
Tanner Murphy: Yes. I see that from strikeouts and walks I will continue to get better learning which pitches that I can handle and can’t handle during each of my at-bats.
MLB reports: Long term do you see yourself staying behind the plate considering Matt Wieters is the current starting catcher? How do you view your role in the organization?
Tanner Murphy: As for now, I do see myself still behind the plate. Given my age, I have some time. I feel that my role is to get better and do everything I can do to help the big league club win.
MLB reports: How do you see defense as part of your overall game?
Tanner Murphy: Defense is the most important part of my game. Being a catcher, I see everything and handle the pitchers. My job consists of making the pitchers get through the game, no matter the situation and to know the other hitters.
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?
Tanner Murphy: I can’t really put a time on getting there. I just need to do everything and work hard to get myself there. No matter how long it takes.
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far?
Tanner Murphy: For the most part yes. There have been some things I wasn’t expecting, but that is the case in everyday life as well.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball? Best friend(s) on the team that you most hang out with and what do you guys like to do to chill?
Tanner Murphy: When baseball is done for the season, I just hang out, travel, visit family, watch some football and basketball (when there is not a lockout). But doing that can only last for a couple of months, until the end of November. At the start of December, I usually start training again getting ready for the season.
MLB reports: Tell us more about your recent elbow surgery: what was the nature of the injury leading up to the surgery and how is your recovery going?
Tanner Murphy: I had surgery on my right elbow- my throwing arm. I had an ulnar nerve transposition. The nerve when I was throwing was so loose that when throwing, it would move. When I was throwing then moving back every time it became loose to the point that I could feel it. I had numbing in my ring and pinky fingers. As for my recovery, I am ahead of schedule. I have no more numbing and have a full range of motion. I should be all ready for spring training come February/March.
MLB reports: Do you have a favorite pre-game meal?
Tanner Murphy: I never really had a favorite pre-game meal. But I always do the exact same thing before every game.
MLB reports: Final Thoughts?
Tanner Murphy: Glad to help out. For the readers: hope you enjoy! Thanks MLB reports.
Thank you again to Tanner Murphy 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 Tanner. As well, please follow Tanner onTwitter (@TMurphy20)
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.
Dustin Ackley: A Look at His Young Career and Bright Future
Sunday November 13, 2011
Sam Evans: Dustin Ackley has one of the brighter futures of all young major leaguers. He has lived up to the hype on every team he’s played on and has yet to appear overmatched in the majors.
Dustin Ackley was born in 1988 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In high school we won two state championships in baseball and made honor roll. In 2007, as a freshman at the University of North Carolina, Ackley hit over .400 and started all of his teams 73 games. Ackley, and fellow future first-rounder Alex White, led their team to the College World Series championship but lost to Oregon State. As a sophomore, Ackley just improved, batting .417 on the year.
One thing the average baseball fan doesn’t realize is that Ackley does have a serious injury history. As a junior, he had Tommy John surgery and was forced to play first base for the Tar Heels. Nevertheless, in 2009 he hit .417 again except this time showing off his power hitting 22 home runs. In his three years at North Carolina, Ackley had a OBP of .487, stole more than 10 bases every year, and firmly established his reputation as the best college hitter entering the 2009 draft.
After the consensus #1 pick Stephen Strasburg was selected by the Nationals, the Mariners picked Ackley. It was considered a pretty solid pick and not a stretch by any means. “We think he’s a player that will move pretty quick,” Mariners General Manager Jack Zduriencik said. What’s interesting is that Zduriencik himself actually scouted Ackley in North Carolina, which is rare for a GM living on the other side of the U.S.
The Mariners signed Ackley to a five-year, 7.5 million dollar, major league contract, just before the deadline. Before the 2010 season, the Mariners made a highly criticized move, deciding to move Dustin Ackley, the longtime UNC outfielder, to second base. At the time, most scouts were doubtful of Ackley’s ability to stick at second base.
2010 was an interesting year for Ackley. He got off to a very slow start at AA West Tennessee, but still managed to get on base at a .389 clip, and quieted a couple of whispers about his defense. After 82 games in Tennessee, Ackley was promoted to AAA Tacoma. I was lucky enough to see him a couple of times that year, and he reminded me very much of Tony Gwynn. Obviously, not as developed as a hitter, but he possessed a very mature approach at the plate. Ackley doesn’t go up to the plate trying to hit a homer every time, he just tries to put a good swing on the ball, and get on base. He has an amazing lefty stroke that is quick through the zone.
At the start of the 2011 season, Ackley headed back to Tacoma. In 66 games there, he made it obvious that he was ready for the majors, hitting .303. On June 17, 2011, Ackley made his major league debut. When i heard that Ackley was called up, I made it my first priority to find tickets to the game. I ended up sitting in Section 323 on the first base line. There was a different feel in the usually disinterested Safeco Field that night. The Mariners were playing the Phillies, and Roy Oswalt was taking the mound for the Phils. In Ackley’s first at-bat, with Phillies fans chanting, “OVER RATED,” Ackley singled up the middle. His major-league career just took off from there.
Ackley played 90 games for the Mariners in 2011. He batted .273 with a .348 OBP and a .417 slugging percentage. He also had a OPS+ of 117, and looked solid at second base, committing only six errors and assisting in 49 double plays.
The sky is the limit for Ackley. Scouts are still doubting his ability to play second base, but as long as he stays passable there, the Mariners have their second basemen for the next era.
Ackley could at some point turn in a MVP caliber season, but he’s not especially a power hitter. I think that at his peak he’ll hit about 20 home runs with a .300 average and an OBP around .415. If Ackley stays at his pace from last year, which is actually a legitimate estimate, he will be nearly a 5 WAR player in a full season. Now if only more of his teammates were any good…
***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.***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us onTwitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click hereand follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Interview with Steve Karsay: Reflections on a MLB Pitching Career
Friday November 4, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen: While I get to interview many current MLB prospects and stars on the Reports, it is rare that I have the opportunity to talk baseball with a former great that I watched growing up. As a personal bonus to me, that chance recently came up when I was able to connect with Steve Karsay, former major league pitcher. Steve was originally drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 1st round (22nd overall in the 1990 draft). After being a part of the famed 1993 trade to Oakland for hall-of-famer Rickey Henderson, Steve played 11 major league seasons for 5 different squads. Steve played his final season in 1996.
I reflected with Steve Karsay on his career, from his time with the Blue Jays organization, through to his final season. Steve was very candid in his responses and certainly did not hold back. For all the readers that grew up idolizing Steve Karsay and wondering about his future baseball plans- today you will receive your answers.
Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with former Major League pitcher, Steve Karsay:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MLB reports: Welcome to MLB reports Steve. Let’s start today’s interview from the beginning. A 1st round pick in 1990 with Toronto. What was the feeling when you got the call? Did you expect to be drafted by the Jays? Thoughts/feelings at the time?
Steve Karsay: Wow! Going back a few years. That is correct- I was the 22nd pick overall in the 1990 draft by the Blue Jays. What a great time and what a great organization I was drafted by. The Blue Jays and their organization taught me so much to make me the player I was over my 16 year career. I will always be grateful to the Blue Jays organization and the coaches for the years I spent there. I did not know I was drafted until late in the afternoon for the fact that I was playing for my high school championship at Yankee stadium at the time. The feeling when I did receive the call was shock. I was not sure I was going to get drafted in the first round and had my sights set on going to LSU in the fall. But when it sunk in and realized the opportunity that I had and the feeling of shock turned to joy and excitement made the decision to sign and start my career in St. Catharines.
MLB reports: You will forever be linked to hall of famer Rickey Henderson, being traded for him in July 1993. What was your reaction when you learned of the trade? Have you ever spoken to Rickey about it?
Steve Karsay: First being traded at the time for Rickey was a great honor. I was only 21 at the time in 93′ when the trade happened so learning I was traded I had a mix of feelings. I was disappointed because I wanted to reach the big leagues with the team that drafted me. But realizing that I may get my opportunity to pitch in the big leagues faster, I understood that these are the things that happen when the big club is trying to position itself to win a World Series. After the trade I ended up making my Major League debut two weeks later against the Brewers at the Oakland Coliseum. So that is what made the trade worth it. As far as talking with Rickey, we had a brief conversation when he returned to Oakland the very next year.
MLB reports: After being in the Toronto organization your whole life, what was it like joining the A’s and playing for them for three seasons?
Steve Karsay: Being with Toronto for three years and going to Oakland was an adjustment, but for me was an easy transition. I enjoyed the A’S organization very much. Working with Dave Duncan and having Tony La Russa as my first manager was great. They were both mentors and I credit them for helping me transition to pitching in the big leagues.
MLB reports: Injuries took a big toll on your career- especially your surgeries in 1995 and 1996. After undergoing Tommy John, did you think your career was finished? Give us an idea as to what the surgeries/rehabs were like and your road to continue playing baseball.
Steve Karsay: To be quite honest I wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew I had had to have Tommy John and back in 1995, it was not nearly as perfected as it is today. So I knew there was a chance that I may never play at the big league level again. The surgeries were lengthy and the rehab tedious, but I always had the drive to get healthy and pitch in the big leagues again. I was never one to give up. It was a long three years but in the end to resume my career and compete at the highest level was an accomplishment in itself.
MLB reports: Your career actually took off when you joined the Indians. Your four years in Cleveland represent some of your finest major league numbers. What was the secret of your success with the tribe?
Steve Karsay: I guess if there was any secret to my years in Cleveland, it was that I was finally healthy. I had gone through some tough years with injuries and rehab and when I finally got traded in 97′ to Cleveland, I felt like I turned the corner and it was just all coming together. In Cleveland they decided to put me in the bullpen and really got into a nice niche of what I was really capable of doing. But ultimately I would have to say that the four years in Cleveland I was as healthy as I have ever been throughout my career.
MLB reports: Aside from the occasional start, you became a full-time reliever in 1998. What was the process like to transition from starting to the pen? After coming up as a starter, how did you feel about becoming a reliever?
Steve Karsay: As a starter you have routines and you know what days you’re going to pitch and who you are going to pitch against. As a reliever you just have to be prepared every day. The transition was fairly easy for me because I had some great mentors when I did it in Cleveland. Mike Jackson, Paul Shuey, Paul Assenmacher, and a few others, so I got to learn from some guys who tough me well. I wasn’t excited at first to become a reliever but it definitely grew on me and felt after having success in the bullpen that is where I was supposed to be. It also gave me a new found respect of how hard the bullpen is.
MLB reports: You finished your career with 41 saves. Looking back, do you wish that you had more 9th inning opportunities- was the “closer” role something that you had in the back of your mind?
Steve Karsay: I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to be a closer for a bit in Cleveland and fill in New York when Mariano Rivera was injured. I always had the “closer” role in my mind but was never what drove me to play. I figured opportunities would present themselves if I pitched well enough. My saying was ”How well you are pitching will determine where you pitch in the game coming out of the pen”. When I signed as a free agent, I had the opportunity to go to a couple other clubs to compete for that job but chose to go to NY to set-up. At that point, winning was more important to me than closing. That was a tough choice I had to make.
MLB reports: Your career ended in 2006, after pitching 9 games with the A’s. Why the decision to hang up the glove at that point? Any regrets?
Steve Karsay: I have absolutely no regrets about my decision to retire in 06′. At that particular point, I was still having problems with my shoulder (after having surgery on my rotator cuff in 03′). I was pitching with pain and I felt personally like I couldn’t compete at that level with an injured shoulder. It was not fun any more coming to the ballpark, and I had always told myself that if I felt that I couldn’t compete at the highest level, I wanted to walk away from the game as a player on a respectable note. After retiring I had one last shoulder surgery to repair my rotator cuff for a final time. I came to realize that I was pitching with my rotator cuff torn the whole time in 2006. So looking back, I felt the choice I made was 100% correct.
MLB reports: You pitched for 5 major league teams (A’s, Indians, Braves, Yankees and Rangers). Favorite team(s) that you played for and why?
Steve Karsay: All of the teams hold a special place in my heart. I had great memories with all of them. I had the opportunity to meet and play with some of the best players in the history of the game over my career. I will always be grateful for the Blue Jays for drafting me and giving me the chance to start my career in professional baseball. Then the A’s for giving me my first shot in the Major leagues. The Indians is where I had my most productive years and had the chance to experience playoff baseball for the first time. Atlanta and playing for the great Bobby Cox. He is a player’s manager and a great man. Also having the opportunity to have great teammates in every spot that I played. Too long of a list to compile, but to name a few of the greats I played with: Mark McGwire, Dennis Eckersley, Ron Darling, Rickey Henderson, Jim Thome, Sandy Alomar Jr., Robbie Alomar, Omar Vizquel, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, Chipper Jones, Derek Jeter, Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte, Bernie Williams, Mike Mussina. I know I am probably missing many other great ones I played with. Overall, the experiences were priceless. It was the most exciting time in my life with the exception of the birth of my son Kingston.
MLB reports: Do you still keep in touch with many of your ex-teammates- any ones in particular?
Steve Karsay: I don’t keep in touch per say with them, but whenever I get the opportunity to see them when they come into town I always like to stop by the ballpark and say hello.
MLB reports: Growing up so close to Shea Stadium, it must have been a dream come true to play in New York. Were you a Mets fan growing up- did you consider playing for them at one point?
Steve Karsay: Growing up in NY and so close to Shea was great. I was a baseball fan growing up. I liked players more than I did teams. I watched both the Yankees and the Mets. I went to more Mets games as a kid because it was just a short train ride away. I never had the opportunity to play for the Mets over my career, but playing for the Yankees and the tradition of the Yankees was definitely a highlight of my playing days.
MLB reports: Since you left the game, what has been life been like for Steve Karsay? What are you up to these days Steve?
Steve Karsay: Life has been wonderful since retiring in 2006. After being able to have a 16 year career in baseball I wanted to step away from the game for a short time to pursue a few things that I was not able to do while I was playing- like travel and explore different countries. I also became involved in my friend’s company in Aerospace Manufacturing which has been exciting and to say the least interesting. And last but not least, the birth of my son which has been more work than all of the above. With that being said, baseball is my life and I am pursing opportunities to get back in the game in some capacity. The time off was great, but I want to be able to pass along the knowledge of baseball that I learned while I was playing and help young kids fulfill their dreams of hopefully getting to the big leagues.
MLB reports: If you could give one piece of advice to a young baseball player trying to make it to the show, what would it be?
Steve Karsay: My advice would be to work hard, be consistent, and do not take anything for granted because you never know when it will come to an end.
MLB reports: Will we be seeing you in the future in the major leagues in another capacity, perhaps a broadcaster or coach/manager?
Steve Karsay: I hope so. I am pursuing some things as we speak and would love to get back in the game in any capacity, either as a broadcaster, front office or on the field coach. Baseball is my passion and it what I love.
MLB reports: Final question Steve: everyone at the end of the day wants to leave a mark on the game. What do you most want to be remembered for as a professional baseball player?
Steve Karsay: Looking back I would want to be known for every time I stepped between the white lines I gave everything I had and I did not take anything for granted. I wanted to be the best player I could be when I stepped out on the mound. The fire for competition was always burning when I played. If I can be remembered for that, I would be very proud.
MLB reports: Thank you very much for taking your time out of your busy schedule so we can have you with us. Much appreciated!
Thank you again to Steve Karsay 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 Steve. As well, please follow Steve on Twitter (@Steve_Karsay)
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 Robbie Erlin: San Diego Padres Prospect
Monday October 31, 2011
Jeff P (Guest Writer – MLB reports): I had the pleasure to recently interview one of the top prospects in the game, Robert Erlin of the San Diego Padres. The 21-year-old Erlin was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 3rd round of the 2009 draft. After posting incredible numbers in his brief time in the Rangers organization, Erlin was traded in July 2011, with Joe Wieland for reliever Mike Adams. While Adams was a solid addition to the Rangers bullpen on the road to the World Series, Erlin exploded after the trade. In 6 starts with San Antonio in AA, Erlin had a 1.38 ERA, 1.154 WHIP and 31/4 SO/BB. On the fast track with the Padres, Erlin has a good chance of making his major league debut as early as 2012. Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Padres Prospect, Robbie Erlin:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MLB reports: Hey, Robbie. First of all, I want to thank you for being with us today, it really is an honor to have you with us. I’m sure you have a busy schedule so, let’s get this started. First off:
MLB reports: You have been outstanding to late, and even became a nominee of MLB.com‘s top 50 prospects, who can you thank for your success?
Robbie Erlin: I would thank my dad who taught me how to pitch at a young age, Dave Salter, my pitching coach since I was 13 years old, all the coaches in the Texas Rangers organization who I have worked with during my first couple years of pro ball, and the coaches on the San Antonio Missions who I got to work with for a couple of months this season.
MLB reports: Was it hard to adjust from the Rangers to the Padres?
Robbie Erlin: It wasn’t too hard to make the adjustment. The Padres and Missions staff let me stick with my routines and throwing program and the players were very helpful with any questions that I had.
MLB reports: What do you think is unique about the San Diego Padres organization?
Robbie Erlin: The amount of young talent that they have in both the minor leagues and at the major league level.
MLB reports: What are your daily rituals, and hobbies off the field?
Robbie Erlin: I watch the TV show “Las Vegas” everyday before I go to the field. In the offseason I enjoy spending time with my family and visiting my friends who are in college.
MLB reports: You have been dominating lately. What changes have you made in order to succeed?
Robbie Erlin: I have really tried to concentrate on hitters’ tendencies and gaining information about offenses so I can apply it in my outings. Also, I have made small adjustments in my delivery so it looks the same on every pitch.
MLB reports: What were the reactions on you getting drafted, and the after party?
Robbie Erlin: My family, friends, and I were very excited about getting drafted. I wanted to play baseball after high school and the Rangers provided me with the opportunity.
MLB reports: Out of your fastball, curveball, and change-up, what would you say is your strongest pitch?
Robbie Erlin: Fastball.
MLB reports: Is it safe to say we can see you in MLB in late 2012, or 2013?
Robbie Erlin: That is a decision for the Padres to make. I am going to focus on pitching and improving as much as I can.
MLB reports: Who do you look up to in the MLB?
Robbie Erlin: There is not one specific player. I watch all of them and try to learn from how they play the game.
MLB reports: What kind of music can one find on your iPod?
Robbie Erlin: Country, Classic Rock, Pop, and Rap.
MLB reports: What’s your favorite sport besides baseball?
Robbie Erlin: Football.
MLB reports: Who was the hardest batter you’ve faced in your professional career?
Robbie Erlin: Cody Hinze from Houston has always been a tough out for me.
MLB reports: Let’s end it off here: If you weren’t a baseball player, where would you see yourself today?
Robbie Erlin: I would be in college working towards a degree.
MLB reports: Thank you very much for taking your time out of your busy schedule so we can have you with us. Much appreciated!
Robbie Erlin: No problem. Thank you very much for the interview!
Thank you again to Robbie Erlin 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 Robbie. As well, please follow Robbie on Twitter (@RobbieErlin11)
***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.***
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 Christian Friedrich: Colorado Rockies Prospect
Friday October 14, 2011
Jeff P (Guest Writer – MLB reports): Recently I had the honor of interviewing Christian Friedrich, top MLB pitching prospect. Speaking to Friedrich, I had the sense that he has the same key goal as many other baseball players: working hard to achieve his dream. Friedrich is a great guy and it was a pleasure interviewing him.
Firstly, I would like to relay some information on Chris, courtesy of Wikipedia:
“Christ Louis Friedrich (July 8, 1987 in Evanston, Illinois) is a left-handed starting pitcher in the Colorado Rockies organization. He currently plays for the Class AA Tulsa Drillers. He was drafted in the first round (25th overall) in the 2008 Amateur Draft out of Eastern Kentucky University.”
Considering that he was a prestigious first round selection, Chris is one of the most interesting guys you will ever meet in baseball. Chris has tremendous talent, to go along with his strong reputation in the game. Featured on MLB reports, I proudly present my interview with Rockies Prospect, Chris Friedrich:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MLB reports: Welcome to MLB reports, Chris. I am starting you off with a tough question: you have struggled throughout your time in double-A ball. What do you feel has been the most difficult part of moving from A+ to AA?
Friedrich: The hardest part about AA is being consistent. At the lower levels you can still get by on some of your bad days. In AA you have to be in it every day. The days you’re not pitching are just as important as the 5th day. Your routine has to be perfect and the same, your mental and physical preparation can’t skip a beat. All those things sum up in my mind to confidence. If you forget a certain lift, change your running routine, mental prep, or even your warm up before the game, it leaves doubt in your mind that doesn’t need to be lingering with you when you toe the rubber.
MLB reports: A few months ago, did you worry about the trade speculation around the clubhouse that you might be traded?
Friedrich: When the trade deadline comes around every year, you can’t help to listen in on what some of the guys or reporters are saying. For the most part though it’s something I can’t control and would deal with it if it happened. In all honesty though I didn’t and don’t think there’s a whole lot of teams looking for a guy like me after the season I put up and no one is more disappointed with that than myself. I had a good three months but couldn’t put it all together. I understand what I have to do, and that’s why this offseason is so important. There was a bit of a smile when that time passes because I love being a Rockie.
MLB reports: Daily rituals and hobbies, outside of the clubhouse?
Friedrich: For daily rituals as of now it’s a wonderful routine. Wake up and breakfast might be my favorite part of the day. Two eggs, two sausages, two toasts, and my beloved coffee from the Keurig. I’ll get my workout done in the mornings and then go for a swim. After that I usually go on the course or the range. I’m really roughing it (ha ha). It’s nice to be in one place for and extended period of time and develop the consistent routines. In the evening my other favorite hobby as many around me know is video games. I turned a closet into a video gamer’s paradise. My favorite part about video games is playing competitive games online with friends. It allows me to connect with buddies from back home, college teammates, guys I’ve played against, and even guys in our organization. It’s a lot easier than just sitting talking on the phone. I get to catch up with them and involve teamwork. I’m really excited for Modern Warfare 3 to come out.
MLB reports: What kind of music can one find on your iPod?
Friedrich: I have all genres of music on my apple products. My favorite would definitely be rock and roll. Led Zeppelin, The Doors, Steely Dan, Doobie Brothers, Grand Funk Railroad, and a lot of Fall out Boy. Home town band I really like. No Beatles!
MLB reports: You have suffered from injuries during your career. What effects did your health have on your baseball activities?
Friedrich: Injuries have plagued me through my career but I’m thankful they weren’t and major ones. You learn to deal with them and do everything you can to prevent them. When they first happen it’s hard to accept and deal with them. It’s a great way to train yourself mentally but that’s my only positive. All you can do is work your behind off to get back out there and help out the club. The past three years I’ve dealt with some tendonitis in my elbow. It’s a nagging injury that doesn’t sit you down always but prohibits you from keep up your routine. For example it doesn’t bother you much the day you pitch because you are usually amped up. But on those important days in-between, it makes it harder to work on the things you normally do. Certain lifts bother it, and most of all, certain pitches. I noticed this year my breaking pitches during that time weren’t as sharp and I was getting ahead, but not putting guys away. This comes from not practicing with them as much through your five-day routine. Now I have time to strengthen my body and smaller muscle groups to make sure I can prevent these (injuries) as much as possible.
MLB reports: Do you think we will see you in the big leagues sometime next year?
Friedrich: I’m hoping to shock some people come spring training and reach the expectations I’ve set for myself. I’m doing everything I can to get there but that’s not under my control. But I will try to make the decision very easy for them.
MLB reports: What do you think is unique about the Rockies organization?
Friedrich: The Rockies organization is unlike any other. Our staff is made up of the best around with great knowledge and experience. I feel like we’re taken in, like it’s a family. This is a very classy organization the prides itself on homegrown talent. I couldn’t be happier with where I’m at. From my experience, players who have left our organization and players that come to it, say it’s the best they’ve been a part of.
MLB reports: What was the worst moment of your baseball career thus far?
Friedrich: The worst moment of my career would probably be the collapse at the end of my season this year. Last year our big league club lost a lot of starting pitching to injuries and Ubaldo Jimenez to the trade. It would have been a prime opportunity for me to shine and I went in the opposite direction. I’m looking to fix that.
MLB reports: What are you planning to work on in the offseason to improve your pitching status?
Friedrich: This offseason is again all about my routine and keeping good habits. I took about a week off and got straight to work. I’m using dry work everyday to solidify my mechanics so come February it’s an after thought. I’m incorporating swimming into my workouts to strengthen my shoulders and lats. I have dropped the bad weight and adding the good weight. My eating routine is helping with my energy and muscle-building. I am currently living in Florida by myself, so I don’t have distractions and have loved every minute of it. I started just a month ago and can’t wait come February.
MLB reports: You were drafted 25th, in the 2008 draft. What was the after party and the phone call like?
Friedrich: The draft day was a day I’ll never forget. I was blessed to have friends and family there to celebrate with me. It was hard to think while talking to reporters and answer questions, when I was still trying to wrap my head around it!
MLB reports: Who do you look up to in the big leagues?
Friedrich: I look up to a lot of our own players even at some of our levels. What I’m most impressed with, with majority of the big leaguers I have been around is their work ethic. Guys like Tulo, Helton, Blackmon, Belisle and EY all are workhorses in their own way. And there isn’t one way they all go about doing things. They have all learned for themselves what works best for them. They each have become machines of routine and excellence. My favorite pitcher by far though, like many others is Cliff Lee. He masters the strike zone and his command for all of his pitches is superb. My favorite thing is to watch his sequences and see how he sets up all his opponents. You watch highlights and can’t believe guys miss a pitch, but it’s how he has set them up.
MLB reports: I’ll end off here, if you were not currently a baseball player, what do you think you would be doing right now?
Friedrich: If I wasn’t in baseball? Tough one. If I never played in college, I would have like to go into dentistry or design. Since I am in baseball, I can’t get out. I love it. I would stay in the game whether it would be coaching or scouting.
MLB reports: Thank you very much for taking your time out of your busy schedule so we can have you with us. Much appreciated!
Thank you again to Chris Friedrich 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 Chris. As well, please follow Chris on Twitter (@CFRIED12)
***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.***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Johnny Monell Interview: San Francisco Giants Catching Prospect
Thursday October 6, 2011
Jonathan Hacohen (Lead Baseball Columnist – MLB reports): We are proud today to feature on MLB reports: Johnny Monell, catching prospect for the San Francisco Giants. The 25-year old Monell has the distinction of being drafted on three separate occasions: by the Giants in the 27th round in 2005; Mets in the 49th round in 2006; and again by the Giants, in the 30th round of 2007. Johnny from the Bronx- as I like to call him, finished off the 2011 campaign playing for Richmond in AA. In his five professional seasons, Monell has a .349 OBP and .447 SLG, good for a .796 OPS. Considered strong with the bat as well as the glove, Monell’s future looks bright as he works towards joining the big club soon. With his season coming to an end, I had the opportunity to catch up with Johnny Monell and talk some baseball. Here is our interview with Johnny Monell:
MLB reports: Welcome to the Reports Johnny. Thank you for taking the time out of your schedule for us today. Let’s start with some background on you: Who was your favorite baseball player growing up?
Johnny Monell: My favorite baseball players growing up would have to be Ivan Rodriguez (Pudge) and Ken Griffey Jr.
MLB reports: I would have to say that 90% of players we have interviewed all selected Griffey. Popular choice! Looking at active rosters, which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Johnny Monell: Derek Jeter by far is my favorite player- just because of the way he carries himself on and off the baseball field!! He has accomplished so much in that Yankee uniform…He is just great!
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Johnny Monell: I would have to say in 2010, I was invited to major league camp. Just being in camp was an unbelievable experience. I learned so much that year. That year, I actually went on and played for San Jose and ended up having a very good year… You watch how these experienced major leaguers go about their business and how to get ready for a season. We ended winning a championship and the Giants won the World Series at the same time, which is pretty awesome in itself!!
MLB reports: What were your goals going into the 2011 season?
Johnny Monell: Goals coming into this season were to play hard and just be ready to play everyday!! Being in Double “A” for the first time, you realize a lot and see the best of the best! There are many guys you come across that are ready to make that jump to the majors. I’m happy with where I’m at and just ready to build on it every year to get where I wanna be!
MLB reports: When you first found out you were drafted, what were your reactions? Did those reactions change over time? What was the process like being drafted originally by the Giants in 2005 and Mets in 2006 and not signing with either team? What made you decide to finally sign with the Giants in 2007?
Johnny Monell: The story of how I found out that I was drafted was pretty funny! I was in a McDonald’s with some friends from high school and my college coach from Seminole Community College calls me saying “congratulations you’ve been selected by the SF Giants!” I was definitely excited by the call. I called my family to give them the news. Not too many kids from the Bronx, let alone the inner city, get an opportunity like this. So it was a big deal for myself, as well my family. Reactions kind of changed with time to make a decision- because I wanted to sign! But I knew in my heart that I wasn’t ready. I was fortunate to have my dad on my side, who played pro ball over the course of 17 years, with the Mets especially. Part of me did want to sign with the Mets based on that connection. But at the end of the day, I knew I wasn’t ready and getting advice from my dad helped me to make my decision. After my second year of Jr college, I knew that I was ready to play. As a result, I am now where I belong.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Johnny Monell: I think I bring a lot to the table. Whether it’s behind the plate or hitting! I’m a left-handed hitting catcher. I think that is one of my main traits. There are not to many players out there that can hit and play this position.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Johnny Monell: At this point of my career, I think I would have to say being consistent and continue to get better. I work every season towards retaining all of my experiences of being a catcher in the minors. I want to take those experiences with me hopefully to the major league level.
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?
Johnny Monell: I think they play a huge part! I always strive to being able to see a lot of pitches in the course of every at-bat. This also shows the maturity of a hitter being able to stay back and hit the pitch you want to hit! Walks also can help the batting average. Big time!! This year I wanted to cut down on strikeouts. I did just that by laying off the pitchers’ pitches. I also found that this helps when you come up to bat with runners in scoring position.
MLB reports: Long term what position do you see yourself playing?
Johnny Monell: I see myself behind the plate! I just feel that with every year that goes by, I keep getting better behind the plate. It’s just a matter of putting it all together and going out there and gaining that experience.
MLB reports: If you had to look into a crystal ball, when do you see your expected time of arrival in the big leagues?
Johnny Monell: That is out of my control. I wish it was now, but all I can control is how I play on the field. Knowing the type of player I am, if I keep going about my business as I always have- hopefully one day I can get an opportunity. Someday, God willing of course!
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far?
Johnny Monell: Pro ball has been an amazing experience! By being with the Giants, I have been able to meet many legends of the game of baseball, such as Willie Mays, Willie McCovey and Orlando Cepeda. I was just grateful to have the opportunity to be in their presence. Words can’t express how much that means to me. Also, it has been incredible to have roving coaches that have so many years of major league experience! I think we are spoiled with the amount of knowledge that is given to us on a daily basis.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball?
Johnny Monell: For fun, I usually like to hang out with friends, family and teammates. I would say that I am a big movie guy during the season. Also I was fortunate enough to play on the east coast this year, so I was able to spend time with many of my family members. Being able to see them throughout the season was something that I cherished greatly. Being able to play in front of family and friends was a nice treat! I would say that I am a good teammate, because I try to hang out with everyone. Team chemistry is a definite priority for me. This is the only organization that I have ever been with. Coming up with the same guys, I would say that our relationship only gets stronger. Throughout each season and especially the last couple of years.
MLB reports: As a catcher in the Giants organization, what was your reaction to the Buster Posey injury?
Johnny Monell: The Buster Posey injury was devastating.
MLB reports: Have your visited San Francisco the city yet? How have you found the city thus far?
Johnny Monell: After playing in San Jose last year, we had a few opportunities to visit San Francisco. I visited as much as I could. The city is great. Food is awesome on the wharf. Visited Alcatraz and took a lot of pictures. Definitely a city I could live in!
Thank you again to Johnny Monell 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 Johnny. As well, please feel free to contact Johnny directly by Twitter (@JMoE220). He is very active on social media and welcomes your feedback!
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.
J.P. Arencibia vs. Travis d’Arnaud: Who is the Jays Catcher of the Future?
Saturday September 24, 2011
April Whitzman (Blue Jays Writer – MLB reports): Two weeks ago, I posted that the toughest question Blue Jays’ fans are dealing with right now is figuring out whose comeback, whether that of Dustin McGowan or Adam Loewen, is more impressive. Today I pose a question that some would say is equally hard to answer: who is the Toronto Blue Jays’ catcher of the future – J.P. Arencibia or Travis d’Arnaud?
What they have in common:
Interesting, while many people do not realize this, both catchers share their origin in common – the 2007 MLB first-year player draft. In fact, Arencibia was drafted 21st overall by the Blue Jays out of the University of Tennessee. As the 37th pick overall, the Philadelphia Phillies went with Travis d’Arnaud, out of Lakewood High School. At the time it was believed that the Jays were interested in d’Arnaud’s potential and would pick him with the 38th pick and move Arencibia to first base. Yet the Phillies chose the young star from Florida one slot before, forcing the Jays to choose left-handed pitcher, Brett Cecil. That said, a persistent GM, Alex Anthopoulos, would get his player; as the Blue Jays acquired Travis d’Arnaud two years later in the well-known Roy Halladay trade.
How they differ:
Defense
It is difficult to compare these players, as Arencibia has already made the jump to the majors while d’Arnaud just finished his season in AA New Hampshire. Arencibia has more professional experience having been drafted out of college, while d’Arnaud came out of high school. Here is a graph to compare how each player performed during their time at AA New Hampshire:
JP received the promotion from Dunedin to New Hampshire half-way through the season; his stats have been doubled to receive a more accurate comparison.
Both players are pretty evenly matched. Nevertheless, d’Arnaud has the slight advantage on errors committed, fielding percentage, and passed balls. Meanwhile, Arencibia has a higher caught-stealing percentage.
Despite one player being in the majors and the other in the minors in 2011, an interesting comparison can be depicted if we compare both catchers’ stats for this season:
With each player in their fourth year of professional baseball, these stats show how close their defensive game truly is. Having committed the same amount of errors, the same fielding percentage and only one passed ball being the difference between them, the biggest distinction is that d’Arnaud has the slight advantage throwing out base runners.
Don Wakamatsu, a former catcher himself, and now the Toronto Blue Jays bench coach has admitted that he has seen a drastic improvement in Arencibia’s defensive abilities. Wakamatsu credits the improvement to a significant amount of practice and hard work. He stated: “Arencibia has done a phenomenal job trying to understand how to get the most out of our pitching staff.”
Defensively, Arencibia has a good arm, but he struggles at times with blocking pitches in the dirt. In his minor league career, Arencibia threw out close to 30% of base stealers, though charged with 60 passed balls in 357 lifetime games.
In regards to his defense, Arencibia stated, “Defense is obviously first, and I know that, and whatever comes with the bat is secondary.” He continued: “I feel like my biggest thing is getting that pitcher through that game and I feel like I’m starting to get a real good understanding of my staff and giving us opportunities to win.” Since making these comments, Arencibia has improved his defense considerably in the second half of the season. For example, in the eighth inning of Friday night’s game against Tampa Bay, JP was able to throw out Rays outfielder B.J. Upton.
Comparatively, Travis d’Arnaud’s defensive skills are stronger. He has a great game-calling abilities and he has a strong arm. While his career caught-stealing rates have suffered due to inexperience, he has also improved his game by working on his footwork behind the plate. At 22 years old, d’Arnaud is already one of the better defensive catchers in the minors and he has plenty of time to develop into a premier defender in the big leagues. This was proven when he was named the Catcher’s Captain Award recipient for 2011 by Baseball America. The award is given to the catcher who displays strong defensive qualities, including leadership and dedication.
Offense
There is no denying that both players are also solid offensively. In 409 games in the minors, JP hit .275 with 121 doubles, 83 HR and 290 RBI. That said, he has also proven what he can do at the plate at the major league level as well. There is not a Blue Jays fan who does not remember J.P. Arencibia’s major league debut last year against the Tampa Bay Rays, as he launched the first pitch he saw over the left field wall for a home run. He later singled and doubled and capped the day with a home run to right field. That game showcased Arencebia’s talents and his ability to hit the ball for power.
Offense is where Arencibia and d’Arnaud differ most. Essentially, while JP hits for power but not average, d’Arnaud is a more complete player at the plate, as he hits for average and power. This year with the Fisher Cats, d’Arnaud was named the Eastern League MVP after hitting .313 with 20 homers and 77 RBIs. Here is how their 2011 numbers compare:
Prior to the 2011 campaign, many fans and analysts alike were not sold on d’Arnaud as anything more than a defense-first catcher.
However, as his numbers this season have indicated, Travis experienced a bit of a learning curve early on in his career, as he made the jump from high school to the minor leagues. With his bat coming around this season, the offensive edge at this stage goes to d’Arnaud. It is evident that both players (as can be seen from the table above) need to work on the amount of times they strikeout, but other than that, both look solid at the plate and behind it.
Overall
Although both J.P. Arencibia and Travis d’Arnaud came from the same draft class in 2007, it appears that d’Arnaud has the greater upside. In essence, Arencibia has received the call to the majors quicker because he was able to develop in college before jumping to the professional ranks. As displayed through various charts, d’Arnaud appears to be more efficient both with his glove and bat. His numbers indicate that he could make the jump to the MLB as early as next year. In a recent interview with Fisher Cats beat reporter, Dave Gershman, d’Arnaud showed that he has the confidence to make it to the big leagues, as he stated: “Hopefully one day I can get up to Toronto, and play like I’m playing now. And who knows what will happen? Maybe I’ll be a good player.”
At the same time one cannot discredit J.P. Arencibia, as despite his quick progression to the MLB, he is still learning at the age of 25. Arencibia recently stated as much when he admitted, “On both sides of the plate I’ve been maturing and making adjustments in different things,” Arencibia says. “But it’s still a work in progress. You’re always trying to get better.” With catchers requiring the most seasoning from all the positions, Arencebia can still be considered to be at this stage ahead of the curve.
Whoever is chosen as the lead catcher, one thing is certain: the Blue Jays are blessed with two young catchers – both at the plate – and behind it! If the team’s worst problem is having two number one catchers on its roster within the next two years, then that is a great dilemma to have. It is very possible that one of the above (likely Arencibia) will be moved when both catchers have proven themselves at the major league level. Until then, with injuries and slumps being a reality of the game, the Jays will enjoy their abundance of talent behind the dish and lets the cards play themselves out.
As always, I look forward to hearing from you. Comment below, email MLBreports@gmail.com and follow me on Twitter at @Alleycat17.
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.
There He ‘Gose’ Again: The Future of Base-Stealing Blue Jays’ Prospect, Anthony Gose
Tuesday September 20, 2011
April Whitzman (Blue Jays Writer – MLB reports): A native of Paramount, California, outfielder Anthony Gose was the Philadelphia Phillies second round selection in the 2008 Draft. Although a top prospect with the Phillies organization, Gose found himself in Toronto by the end of the 2010 season after a three team deal also including the Houston Astros.
PRE-BLUE JAYS
Glancing at his numbers from 2009, Anthony Gose led all minor league players with 76 stolen bases while hitting .259 with 20 doubles, 13 triples, seven home runs and 27 RBI. His walk-to-strikeout ratio was a bit cumbersome, however, as he walked 45 times, but struck out 132 times. After the season, MLB prospect writer John Sickels rated Gose’s performance, stating the following: “[I] Love [his] speed, youth, and the athleticism. Don’t like the high strikeout rate for a guy without much power. Most advanced of the uber-tools players collected in this system in recent drafts.”
In 2010, at 19 years old, Gose appeared in 103 games with Clearwater and 27 games with the Dunedin Blue Jays (A+). The 6-1, 190 lb., left-handed hitter collected 20 doubles, 13 triples, and seven home runs with 27 RBI while adding 45 stolen bases. While 45 steals sounds impressive, it should be noted that he was thrown out 32 times that season. That’s only a 58% success rate.
BLUE JAYS
Joining the AA New Hampshire Fisher Cats in 2011, his first full season with the Blue Jays organization, Gose worked to improve his greatest asset – speed. This year he successfully stole 70 bases, only getting caught 15 times, going 23-for-24 in his last 24 attempts and increasing his stealing percentage to 82%. He then started to learn about when to steal, having the majority of his failed attempts coming at third base.
What’s more, along with base stealing, Gose saw improvement in the batters box, as he increased his power totals for the third straight year hitting 16 home runs, 20 doubles and seven triples. Unfortunately, his average has remained around the .250 mark (.253), comparable to the rest of his career in the minor leagues.
Another improvement for Anthony Gose this season was his patience at the plate. While only taking 41 walks in 2010, Gose took 62 walks in 2011 in a similar number of at-bats. He also saw though an increase in his strikeouts this season, as he had 154. Nevertheless when Gose doesn’t strike out and he does put the ball in play, he is batting .339, nearly 80 points higher than his regular average.
Not only has he improved at the plate, but Gose has also seen a rise in his game in the field. His
fielding was phenomenal in 2011, committing only three errors, giving him a .992 fielding percentage. Discussing his play in the field, Sal Fasano, the manager of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, stated: “Gose has enough arm to play right or left in the majors. He caught a ball on the warning track in the right-centre, near the 375 sign, and threw out a guy at third — in the air.” Looking at the numbers, Gose had 15 outfield assists in 2010 and 14 assists this season. That can all be attributed due to his phenomenal range, as thanks to his speed, Gose is able to cover ground smoothly and regularly, making continual exciting plays in the field.
IN THE FUTURE
In late July of this year, 24-year-old center fielder, Colby Rasmus was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays from the St. Louis Cardinals in a blockbuster deal that also involved the Chicago White Sox. The trade left many wondering if Gose still had a future with the Jays. Fasano’s response: “[Gose is] arrogant enough to think they will move players to make room for him.” However, many baseball analysts were not as optimistic and still wondered where he would fit.
There is no doubt that the Blue Jays have a deep farm system. Most would agree that the team has key players that they would be willing to move if the price was right. If nothing else, the Jays’ GM has shown a willingness to be aggressive in the trade market. With the addition of a strong and powerful first baseman, a dominating starting pitcher, and/or a ‘lights-out’ closer, the Blue Jays are likely to contend by 2013, the year that Gose will likely make the majors.
With Colby Rasmus at centre, Jose Bautista in right, and any one of Travis Snider, Eric Thames, Adam Loewen, and Rajai Davis to play left and/or be the fourth outfielder, it is anticipated that a trade will be coming during this off-season.
With the Blue Jays’ need for a first baseman, the Jays could consider a trade
with the Cincinnati Reds who are in dire need of an outfielder. Could Yonder Alonso be the future first baseman for the team in blue and the speedy Gose the future Reds’ centerfielder? With the Astros also needing outfield depth, would it not be ironic if the Jays traded Gose for Brett Wallace? (While this is a very unlikely scenario, it would fill the needs for both teams). The Pittsburgh Pirates are another team in need of a solid outfielder. Thanks in part to a deep farm system, a trade with the Pirates could work. The Jays are also in need of a top starting pitcher and a closer, so any future trade could package off other prospects as well, including, but not limited to, Travis Snider and/or Eric Thames.
The future for Anthony Gose will surely become clear this off–season by recognizing what trades Alex Anthopoulos, deemed as the ‘Silent Assassin’, will make. Along with teammates Yan Gomez and Adeiny Hechavarria, Gose is also heading to the Arizona Fall League to work even more on his skills. Until a trade is consumated, it is evident with Gose, that the Blue Jays have a solid prospect that has a rare combination of top-notch speed, excellent fielding ability and top tools at the plate.
As always, I look forward to hearing from you. Comment below, email MLBreports@gmail.com and follow me on Twitter at @Alleycat17.
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.
What Can a Parent Do: A Guide to Being a Baseball Parent
Monday September 5, 2011
MLB reports: I had the pleasure of meeting James Lamb through social media this year. As parents and through our mutual love of baseball, we have enjoyed several baseball discussions and debates. As a professional scout for the Florida Marlins, James is very active in Major League Baseball and is extremely knowledgeable on the sport. Many of our discussions though centered on parenthood, including being a baseball parent. James own son, John Lamb, is a prospect with the Kansas City Royals. Having been through the process of having a son drafted to a major league team, James’ story is a fascinating one. I learned about James also through his websites, http://pbdad.com and http://baseballpg.com. Being a father myself to a five-year son with another baby boy on the way, I started discussing with James the journey of becoming a baseball parent. That is where the concept of this article was born. We are very fortunate to have James Lamb as our MLB Guest Blogger today. For all current and future baseball parents, you will find James insights and tips extremely valuable. We proudly feature on the reports, James O. Lamb, with A Guide to Being a Baseball Parent:
James O. Lamb (Guest MLB Blogger): Baseball has an infinite number of stories about the players, personnel, coaches and fans whom are associated with the game. One thing that is common among all the unique stories is having parents during the path of participating with the game. I realize the common thread is obvious, but the job of parenthood is key to success as a citizen first and athlete second. There are multiple positions affiliated with the game of baseball throughout the many steps of participation on the field. Surely there are some instances of tragedy where a child loses a parent, or maybe both, but the relative or friend that steps up to facilitate the child assume a very important role in their life. So what can a parent do to help their son play baseball? Try to take a walk with your kids in the game of baseball.
I will never claim to have all the answers but being the father of a current professional baseball player in the Kansas City Royals organization and also a scout for the Florida Marlins, I do have a small clue about the game of baseball. Routinely I’m asked questions about things associated around the great game of baseball. Some ask about youth ball, some ask about the high school challenges, some ask about playing college baseball, some want advice about improving their son’s skills, and many more want to know about the path of their son playing in professional baseball. What is the most important thing a parent can do for their son around the game of baseball? What should a parent do about extra instruction? When should a parent leave the dugout and let someone else control their son’s participation on the field? The examples of questions go on and on covering a huge variety of topics. There all good questions, but I’m reminded by a comment my grandfather made to me when I was very young… the only stupid question is the one never asked. It’s very obvious that many parents have no clue about the game and steps to play for a long time and that is fine. Sound advice for the baseball parent can be discussed in a wide variety of ways, but for the purpose of this article I will address the key ingredients to help any parent with their challenges around the game. I have made mistakes during my walk of being a parent but hopefully some of these experiences can be beneficial during your journey. Take a walk with your kids in the game of baseball and you just might be pleasantly surprised.
Wait for your son to ask you about playing the game. Take them to games and hope they catch the bug and desire to play. It will happen sooner or later if your son wants to learn how to throw, catch or hit. Don’t rush this step of the baseball career. If you already missed this important step, or ignored the obvious, it will eventually be exposed and unlikely they will be a fan of the game. Not the end of the world by any means, but I see players on a regular basis in the high school level, and even college, that illustrate major resentments. The further I dig or observe it becomes extremely obvious the player does not play for the right reasons. Way too much work is necessary for baseball success and the desire simply must be from within the individual, not someone else. The best approach to baseball starts early through desires from the player not the parent. Parents cannot do the work needed for the player’s opportunity to play the game at the highest level, nor can they write a check for their son’s chance to be in the show. Don’t force the game on kids!
Allow them to be kids. Let them enjoy playing the game of baseball. This directly ties into the previous point, I know, but if parents don’t have a sound grip on the foundation of the game of baseball, there will be some serious challenges around the dinner table. Even if the only time you use the table is during the holidays. Kids need to be kids as long as possible and cannot be expected to be perfect on the baseball field. The game of baseball is failure based during half of the game. The offensive side is the glaring example of failure associated with baseball and must be accepted during the early years of playing. Parents that expect more hits, less strike-outs, more wins or higher expectations than the statistics of an average big leaguer are setting their kids up for some serious challenges in baseball and in life. I can say that in retrospect I too was a victim of high expectations during my son’s playing youth baseball. I realize it is difficult to allow our kids to fail with dignity but if we, as parents, push too hard… our young men will likely have years of therapy in their future due to our high unrealistic expectations during their youth. The games your son plays during the ages of 5 to 17 will not impact their careers of playing for a long time, but the negative reaction to possible failure during those games could keep them from wearing a uniform quicker than necessary. If you allow them to fail with integrity, I guarantee you will see them succeed around the game. It is imperative that the kids are allowed to be kids during the early years of playing baseball. The longer they can play with fun in their hearts the higher the likelihood they will be in love with the game enough to survive the challenges ahead. Don’t forget that they are kids while they play!
Let them experience other sports during their youth. Don’t be in a hurry to have your son play 100+ games a year. Way too many kids are simply playing too much baseball during their youth. This approach to playing baseball is an epidemic now in some areas of the United States where the weather permits games and tournaments to be scheduled practically year round. The idea of missing out on baseball development is driven by good marketing from a bunch of ill-advised individuals and corporations. Some players in the professional level are falling victim to a growing statistic of arm problems before their careers are complete and in certain circumstances a player’s career comes to an abrupt halt due to injury. Recently, I have struggled with this situation via hindsight of my own son’s amateur baseball career. John went down earlier this year in a Double-A level game with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals in the first inning against the third batter. Maybe he played too much during his youth, and maybe he didn’t, but this dad will always wonder if the amount of youth games really contributed to the Tommy John surgery before his 21st birthday. Parents should force their boys to rest or simply play another sport to help occupy their minds away from baseball during the typical off-season periods of baseball. If you live in California, Nevada, Arizona, Texas or Florida try to pretend there is snow on the ground during the winter months and you might not need to endure the agony of watching your son‘s career stop against a huge brick wall. My son played youth basketball and even flag-football in an attempt to rest from the game, but his desires to play baseball usually won the household battles especially the closer he got to graduating from high school. The hundred plus game schedules should be a goal for the parent of a baseball player not part of the process for obtaining the professional opportunity of the game. Plenty of other things can provide their much needed rest.
Keep being involved with your son playing the game of baseball. Having been a coach for many years now throughout all levels of youth baseball following my son’s desire to play the game, I am still blown away by the number of parents that treat their son’s practice, games or training as nothing more than a form of childcare. It’s not necessary to be at every practice or game but the more the merrier, at least until they become high school players. Pushing your son’s out of the car at their practice and running errands prevent the chance of assuring he really is learning how to play the game, or more importantly, having fun. If he’s not having fun he should be doing something else to find his passion and genius in life. I played for a few real crappy coaches during my youth but my love and desire to play the game was my personal driving force to work hard and compete for a line-up spot. You’ll never know about your son’s desires if you’re busy getting your nails done or working your brains out to help your boss pay his mortgage. By watching your kids practice or play you’re giving yourself a chance to ensure their desires to participate. Popping into a practice without announcement will give you a clear perspective of their experience and it will have enormous benefit when your son finds you there taking part of their enjoyment, or lack thereof. Your son’s may lose their desires to improve if you’re not part of the experience needed for them to improve and develop during their amateur days of playing the game. I realize the huge challenges parents have to mange time in our fast paced economy and lifestyles but you really should make an effort to be actively involved with the baseball stuff. If you’re too involved your son will let you know that you need to back off. Over involvement is really very common during the wrong stages of a boy’s baseball career, but that is another article for another day. Keep staying involved during their baseball until they make the high school team, at least.
What can a parent do? Try to take a walk with your kid in the game of baseball. The experiences from walking side by side around the game will be life changing for everyone involved. Although a potential love affair with the game may create other obstacles down the road of life all of which depend on the level of involvement with baseball, one thing can be said for sure and that is a true respect for the game will be created. If a relationship is fully allowed to blossom, the benefits are unlimited by the amount of jobs associated in and around the game. Parents can have a profound impact on their kids both in and out of the ballpark. Being a good human being only adds to the true value of any ballplayer at any level. Talent, hard work, a dash of luck and tremendous humility can open many doors and reciprocal affair with baseball. I’m always looking forward to yet another unparalleled baseball story engrained by the individuality of the greatest game on earth.
© by James O. Lamb. All rights reserved.
Twitter @JamesOLamb
* Please be advised that this article and any additional comments, posts or opinions from the content do not reflect the opinions of the Florida Marlins, L.P., Major League Baseball, or any other affiliations of professional baseball. *
Thank you James for preparing today’s article. Please feel free to contact James O. Lamb on Twitter or through his websites for comments and questions. James is one of the brightest baseball minds that I have ever had the pleasure of speaking with and getting to know. We highly encourage our readers to subscribe to James’ websites to gain valuable information and insights.
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.
Tyler LaTorre: Interview with San Francisco Giants Catcher
Thursday August 18, 2011
MLB reports: Today on the Reports we are proud to feature Tyler LaTorre, a catcher with the San Francisco Giants.
The 28-year old LaTorre is a true example of perseverance. LaTorre bypassed the MLB draft and signed with the Giants in 2006, his favorite team as a youngster. After playing four seasons at UC Davis, LaTorre began his professional career in the Arizona Rookie League in 2006. This season LaTorre worked his way up the ranks to AAA Fresno and looks to be banging on the Giants door. With Buster Posey entrenched as the Giants starting catcher, the California native LaTorre continues to strive towards a future position with the big league club.
We are pleased to present Tyler LaTorre of the San Francisco Giants:
MLB reports: Welcome to the Reports Tyler. It is a pleasure to be speaking with you today. Growing up, who was your favorite baseball player? Which player did you most idolize and pattern your game after?
Tyler LaTorre: My all time favorite player is Ken Griffey, Jr. I was always number #24 when playing in little league and on up. Being a left-handed hitter myself, I idolized and mimicked his sweet swing and tried to play the game with has much fun as he did. In the end, baseball is still a game and is meant to be fun. Junior played the game with so much fun and made the game fun to watch.
MLB reports: Griffey is a very popular choice among current athletes we have spoken to. On the flip side, which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Tyler LaTorre: I am a huge fan of all major league players and I admire them all. I love watching big league swings and big league closers throwing hard with dirty off speed pitches. The MLB At Bat app for the iPhone is amazing. Multiple times a day I find myself watching big league swings and seeing what it takes to be a big leaguer. I want nothing more than to someday have people watching my swing on the MLB At Bat app.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Tyler LaTorre: I have won two league championship rings. My proudest moment individually though, was getting a call to the big league spring camp this past year. I was only there for a couple of weeks, but it was a dream come true to be a part of the World Series Champion Giants Spring Training. I learned as much in those two weeks as I have learned in my four years in the minor leagues. I was truly blessed to have been given that opportunity.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2011 season?
Tyler LaTorre: My goals for 2011 are like years past. When I get my opportunities, I have to take advantage of them. I am no longer a prospect and I have never been a player that gets 500-600 AB’s in a season. So when I get my plate appearances, I have to make the most out of them. So far in 2011, I feel like I have done that and I am trying to stay sharp even though the next opportunity might not be today or tomorrow, but a week down the road. Another goal of mine is to help my team win in any way possible. I hate losing and I’ll do whatever it takes to win. I would also like to stay healthy and play winter ball somewhere in the offseason.
MLB reports: When you first found out you were signed by the Giants, what was going through your mind? Why did you choose to bypass the draft and what was the process like choosing to sign with the Giants in 2006?
Tyler LaTorre: It was very surreal to me when I signed my
professional contract with the Giants. It didn’t set in until I was sent to Arizona before being sent to Salem, Oregon for short season. I was a fifth year senior at UC Davis in 2006, and I put together a career changing season that got me a chance to play at the next level. Since I had already graduated and got my degree when my college season was over, I had up to one week before the draft to sign with a team or I would have had to wait on the draft. After my last college game I was offered contracts from some MLB organization, including the Giants. I could have waited for the draft to see where that might take me, but I had the ball in my court and I got to choose where I felt would be the best opportunity for my future. That choice was the San Francisco Giants.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Tyler LaTorre: I feel like I am a great leader and that I have the ability to make my teammates better. I handle a pitching staff very well and pitchers trust me to make the right decision on the field to help the team. I take pride in pitch calling and controlling the other teams’ running game. I also like to think that I can handle the bat pretty well and I hit from the left side, so that’s a strong skill that I possess.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Tyler LaTorre: I am always looking for ways to get better in all facets of my game. I want to quicken my foot work when catching and hit for more pull side power. I also want to try to get some more leg strength to last a full season behind the plate if that opportunity ever arises. In 2010, I caught the majority of the final two months of AA and I figured out what it was like to catch everyday. That season took a toll on my body and I want to be prepared so that I never feel like that again. I would like to be strong and able to perform at the highest levels.
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?
Tyler LaTorre: To me, striking out is the worst thing that I can do when I have a plate appearance. Walking back to the dugout after a strikeout is a terrible feeling for me and I can’t stand letting my team down. I have always had a pretty good eye in the box and I feel I know the strike zone very well. Drawing a walk and getting on base for my team is a victory in itself, and I have always prided myself on having even strikeout to walk ratios in my career. Strikeouts are going to happen, they are a part of baseball. But I strive to make the pitcher work to get me out. I look to walk or put the ball in play to make something happen, and to battle and compete during every one of my at bats.
MLB reports: Long term do you see yourself staying behind the plate? How do you see defense as part of your overall game?
Tyler LaTorre: Catching is one of the funniest things I have ever done in my life. I love catching, blocking, calling a game, and winning baseball games. Nothing more satisfying than working as hard as I can for nine innings and getting that 27th out and walking out to the mound and shaking my teammates’ hands. However, I know the reality that there is only one catcher on the field at one time and there are prospects in this game that have to play. So ultimately whatever can get me in the lineup to help the team win is what I want.
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?
Tyler LaTorre: I need a chance. I need someone or some team to take a chance on me and I need to show them they have made the right choice. I don’t have a timetable on when I will join the Giants. I wish it was tomorrow, but whenever that time may come or not come, I will always be ready to play and compete to the best of my abilities.
MLB reports: Has pro ball been everything you expected it to be thus far? What are some of the highs and lows you have experienced?
Tyler LaTorre: I didn’t really have many expectations. I am the type of person that takes things day by day and even pitch to pitch. I don’t worry about the past or future, I live in the right now and it has helped me stay focused my whole career. On the high side has to be my short season team in 2007 when we had the best winning percentage in all of baseball and won the Northwest League Championship. Also being a non-draftee, non-prospect in AAA right now competing at the level right below the big leagues is a pretty big high for me. On the low side, in 2007 I didn’t make a team out of my first spring training and was sent to extended spring staining in 110 degree Arizona. I honestly thought I wouldn’t make it out of there and was going to be released before I even had the opportunity to show my abilities. But I stay focused and dedicated to baseball and four years later I am in AAA and looking forward to each day and an opportunity to make the big league roster.
MLB reports: What do you do for fun when you are not playing baseball? Best friend(s) on the team that you most hang out with and what do you guys like to do to chill?
Tyler LaTorre: I love having a good time and laughing. Whether it is on the field, the plane/bus, or at our apartment in Fresno, I try to stay positive and have fun. I mostly hang out with Brett Pill, Jackson Williams, Brock Bond, and Brandon Crawford. We all have a great time together and play video games, go to the mall, Golf, whatever we can do to take our minds off playing this tough and grueling game called baseball. I would have retired from baseball a long time ago if I didn’t have such a fun group of friends in this game.
MLB reports: How has the Buster Posey injury affected the organization? Did it have a direct influence on your playing time in your opinion?
Tyler LaTorre: The injury hit me pretty hard. To see a friend in so much pain, made me sick to my stomach. I had to stop watching replays. Buster’s injury was tragic and put our minor league organization in a bit of chaos. We started moving catchers around, looking for trades, and signing free agent catchers. But it never got me more playing time, which was frustrating. The truth is that I haven’t really played that much this year. It doesn’t affect my drive though. I come to the field everyday expecting to be in the lineup and ready to help the team win.
MLB reports: A big thank you to Tyler LaTorre for joining us today on the Reports. We wish you the best of luck on your baseball journey and hope to see you playing for the Giants very soon. You have competed very hard to make it to this point in your baseball career and look for you to take the final step to the big leagues. We definitely encourage all our readers to feel free to contact Tyler with your comments and questions on his Twitter handle. Tyler is a must follow!
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: Brett Lawrie Call Up by Jays is Imminent
Thursday August 4, 2011
Rob Bland (Intern- MLB Reports): The Brett Lawrie rollercoaster started December 6th, 2010. Lawrie was sent to Toronto in exchange for Toronto’s incumbent ace, Shaun Marcum. Toronto GM Alex Anthopoulos immediately said that Lawrie would be working out at third base, switching from second base. This would be Lawrie’s third major position change in 3 years. He was drafted out of Langley, BC by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 1st round (16th overall) of the 2008 MLB draft. That year, Toronto held the 17th pick, and it was said that they coveted him greatly. They instead had to settle for college first baseman and current AAA prospect, David Cooper.
Lawrie hit .293 in spring training this year, while playing decent enough third base to warrant a discussion of keeping him on the roster. However, Anthopoulos deemed he was not ready to play in the Major Leagues, and the fans in Toronto grumbled as the Blue Jays consistently put Edwin Encarnacion at third base to start the year. Lawrie started off hot in AAA Las Vegas, and played good defense. This still wasn’t enough, as the Jays asked him to be more patient and change his approach. Lawrie did just that, and by May 31st, was hitting over .350 with power and walking more often than he had in the past. When the Jays were on the brink of calling him up (see our Report from June 2nd), Lawrie was hit by an errant pitch on the back of his left hand. Blue Jays fans collectively held their breath, and Lawrie declared it was a bruise. Two days later when swelling subsided, it was found out that Lawrie had a non-displaced fracture.
When he finally returned to Las Vegas in the middle of July, Lawrie came right back to where he left off. He is now hitting .352 with 18 home runs and 61 RBI. More importantly, he has 26 walks and is playing much improved defense. Now, the Jays’ faithful are continuing to call for him. Anthopoulos and manager John Farrell have repeatedly said “he’s close” and that they want to get him everyday at bats before rosters expand in September.
Now, when Lawrie gets the inevitable call (my guess being Friday, August 5th, before the beginning of a road series in Baltimore),
where will he play? The Jays have Jose Bautista, one of the top three players in baseball at third base. Well, the plan that Anthopoulos has set out is that Bautista would shift back to his preferred right field, creating a logjam of young and talented outfielders. Travis Snider is 23 years old and he will play every day at one of the corner positions. Colby Rasmus is 24 years old and will be in center for the foreseeable future. That leaves Eric Thames, also 24, the corner outfielder who came out of seemingly nowhere to win the love and admiration of many fans, on the bench. You could say that Thames can just DH because he isn’t the best fielder of the bunch (although more than adequate and constantly improving), but where does Edwin Encarnacion play then? Encarnacion is one of the hottest hitters in all of baseball since the beginning of July. He has 9 doubles, 4 home runs, and 14 RBI with 12 walks in 25 games over that span. Thames most likely gets optioned to AAA to get every day at bats until rosters expand in September. Here is how that lineup stacks up.
Yunel Escobar – SS
Colby Rasmus – CF
Jose Bautista – RF
Adam Lind – 1B
Edwin Encarnacion – DH
Travis Snider – LF
Brett Lawrie – 3B
J.P. Arencibia – C
Aaron Hill – 2B
If one of these players is traded, then there won’t be a problem. The only other option barring a trade, is something that Anthopoulos has stated adamantly will not happen. Moving Lawrie to second base and sitting former Silver Slugger Aaron Hill on the bench. This could possibly be the best option available for both the short-term and long-term. With Hill underperforming (ranked 20th out of 21 qualified 2nd baseman in WAR), and his $8M option for 2012 likely to be declined, Lawrie could slot into that spot for a very long time. Anthopoulos has preached having talent and skill “in the middle of the diamond” and second base is a spot that sorely needs some stability after Hill’s last two years. The only thing that could stop this movement is if Anthopoulos sees Hill, who is a good defender, as a guy who can turn his career back around. If Hill were placed in the 9 hole, and changed his approach, he could be a very serviceable player there. One idea that has been bandied around is that the Jays decline the option on Hill, and sign him to a much smaller deal to bring him back as the second baseman.
I honestly believe that Anthopoulos has the wheels turning, and with Encarnacion being so hot, many teams would love to take him on to make a push for the playoffs. If Encarnacion is not in the picture, there is a spot for Thames as a full-time player. He and Snider would probably split time between left field and DH, with Bautista in right, and Lawrie at third.
What gets lost in all of this, is that the Opening Day center fielder, might become a 5th outfielder. Rajai Davis has 33 stolen bases, and is playing better in a part-time role since Rasmus joined the team. He will be reserved to being a pinch runner, and possibly a late inning defensive replacement for Thames.
The odd man out for this year seems to be Thames, even though the Blue Jays see him as a valuable asset for the long-term. Whether that means for him to be on the field, or using him as a trade chip remains to be seen. Lawrie will likely end up playing third base every day, proving why the Jays gave up Marcum for an unproven “troubled” prospect.
***Today’s feature was prepared by our Intern, Rob Bland. We highly encourge 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 Rob on Twitter.***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Jair Jurrjens: Braves Ace of the Future or Trade Candidate?
Wednesday July 20, 2011
Rob Bland (Intern- MLB Reports): Now that the trade deadline is fast approaching, teams in contention are scrambling to find the pieces they desperately need to reach the playoffs. Teams that are out of contention are scouring other teams’ minor league affiliates in search of suitable trade partners. One man who is terribly busy fielding on calls on one of his biggest talents is the GM of the Atlanta Braves, Frank Wren. Opposing GMs have coveted his ace pitcher, Jair Jurrjens over the past few years. But now that Jurrjens has developed into a solid dependable pitcher who has exceeded his potential, Wren’s phone will be ringing right up until the July 31st non-waiver trade deadline.
Why Atlanta should hold on to their ace
Jair Jurrjens is young and controllable with an inexpensive contract. He is an inning eater, and a dependable arm that will give 6+ innings per game. Jurrjens is in his fourth full season, with the key variable that many people forget is that he is only 25 years old. At the halfway mark of this season, Jurrjens has a 12-3 record with a sparkling 2.26 ERA. Jair also induces a ton of ground balls, with a GB% of 48.2. When a guy can throw strikes consistently, it makes it much easier to be successful. Three walks per nine innings is a pretty good career mark, and he has seemingly improved almost every year, as Jurrjens currently sits at a 2.10 BB/9 for 2011. A young, controllable ace that is continually improving might be something that the Braves want to hold onto. Further, the Braves should even consider giving a long-term extension to Jurrjens given what he means to the ballclub.
Why Atlanta should trade Jurrjens
Why would a contending team trade their ace, you might ask? Well, a guy like Jurrjens might be overachieving for a few reasons. First of all, the velocity on his fastball has dipped every season since his rookie campaign. His average fastball was once 93 mph, whereas it sits at 89 now. Now this could mean a couple of things, such as he has learned how to pitch and doesn’t need the velocity. However, his extra reliance on his change-up and slider; each of them up in usage about 3% over previous years, tells me that he knows his fastball isn’t quite as effective. Jurrjens doesn’t strike many guys out, and there is almost no way that he can maintain a 4.1% homerun per fly ball rate. His xFIP is exactly a run and a half higher than his ERA at 3.76, so a measure of his performance has been attributed to luck. Numbers can be sometimes be deceiving and in Jurrjens case, he might not be as good as his statistics appear to show. Sometimes its good to maximize a return when the market is at its peak and Jurjjens may very well be sitting at the top of his ceiling of potential. Otherwise, if Jurrjens does regress, he value will never be higher than it is at the moment.
Which teams could trade for Jurrjens
If the Detroit Tigers are willing to give up a ton of prospects for Ubaldo Jimenez, I believe they would do the same for Jurrjens. Same goes with the Red Sox and Yankees. Detroit has at least kicked the tires on many starting pitchers, including Derek Lowe, Aaron Harang, and Jeremy Guthrie. I see Jurrjens as an upgrade over those pitchers, so it would take a decent package to steal him away. The Rockies covet four top prospects for Jimenez, so I don’t see why the Braves wouldn’t try to get at least three top prospects for Jurrjens. He may not have the electric stuff that Ubaldo has, but he certainly has a track record of success.
Another fit to trade for Jurrjens that may fly under the radar could be the Indians. Mitch Talbot and Fausto Carmona have
underperformed, and they desperately need an upgrade if they are to contend. This could cause a bidding war for Jurrjens. I can see righty Alex White, lefty Drew Pomeranz and outfielder Nick Weglarz being involved in such a deal. Prospects Jacob Turner (RHP), Andy Oliver (LHP) and Nick Castellanos (3B) may be included in a potential deal with Detroit.
In the NL, if the St. Louis Cardinals decide to make a push in the wide open Central Division, they may be looking at starting pitching help. Kyle McLellan and Jake Westbrook have both struggled, so it could be a possibility they get in the mix. Third baseman Zack Cox and starting pitcher Shelby Miller are possible candidates to be moved in such a scenario.
Verdict
Atlanta doesn’t appear to be actively shopping Jurrjens, but it would be in their best interest to at least gauge the interest of other teams. The Braves could get a return for Jurrjens that would be impossible to refuse. With some of the prospects named, the Braves could still contend, and restock their system for years to come. Until then, we expect Jurrjens to remain a Brave unless Frank Wren gets blown away a trade proposal. With the active trade winds blowing this year and numerous contending teams desperate for starting pitching help, anything is possible.
Editor’s Note: Today’s feature was prepared by our Intern, Rob Bland. Rob was selected from the many candidates who applied to write for MLB reports. Please feel free to leave comments and to welcome Rob aboard. You can also follow Rob on Twitter.***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Interview with Frank Gailey: Jays Prospect
MLB reports: In our most recent interview, we sat down with Toronto Blue Jays prospect, Frank Gailey. The organization’s 2010 Reliever of the Year, Frank is one of the up-and-coming Jays prospects that should be on everyone’s radar. A 23rd round pick of the Jays back in 2007, Frank simply put has been dominant on the mound from the moment he put on a Jays uniform. As Gailey has steadily and methodically risen up the organizational ladder, baseball insiders feel that its time for the Jays to move Gaily aggressively up the ranks to see what he can do. Back for a second tour of duty with Dunedin High A, Gailey after 15 games this season has exploded, with a miniscule 1.21 ERA, 0.851 WHIP, 6/17 BB/K. Considering the man has a 2.07 ERA in 5 career seasons with a 1.005 WHIP, Frank deserves to be on the fast track. With nothing left to prove in Dunedin, Gailey will hopefully be seeing the bright lights of Las Vegas AAA this season. With left-handed relievers furiously in demand through major league baseball, expect to see Frank Gailey up in Toronto one day soon. Now, without further adieu, MLB reports presents: Frank Gailey.
MLB reports: Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to speak with us Frank. It is much appreciated.
Frank Gailey: Thank you for having me and for the opportunity.
MLB reports: Starting off Frank, to get some background on the type of player that you are- we need to ask who was your favorite baseball player growing up, that you most idolized and patterned your game after? Athletes tend to mirror the players that they looked up to growing up from my experiences.
Frank Gailey: I would have to say that Tom Glavine was the one pitcher that I looked at most and enjoyed watching. He is the type of pitcher that uses all approaches when on the mound. I believe as a left-handed pitcher now in the minors, I now know that I can’t just throw a fastball anywhere and expect to be successful. I need to locate every pitch in and outside the plate. Change speeds and be smarter than the hitter.
MLB reports: Which current MLB star do you most admire and why?
Frank Gailey: To be honest I admire all of them that had a dream like mine and fought through any set backs in their careers and made it. One day, I wish I hope to be in their shoes.
MLB reports: Reflecting on your career to-date, what are your proudest accomplishments on the baseball field?
Frank Gailey: I would have to say that all the accomplishments in my career on the field are amazing and I will never forget the teammates and coaches that were there for me. However, the proudest moment was when I got the call that I was drafted by the Blue Jays. To me that showed that all my hard work and dedication to my dream of one day being a big leaguer is paying off.
MLB reports: What are your goals going into the 2011 season?
Frank Gailey: I would have to say that my goals for this season are to be stronger and stay healthy while having a good season. I believe if I do that, then I would be able to help my team be successful.
MLB reports: When you first found out you were drafted by the Jays, what were your first reactions? Did those reactions change over time? If you can comment on the team itself and your draft position in the 23rd round that would help.
Frank Gailey: To be honest, I heard I was drafted and I was pumped. I didn’t really care whom it was that drafted me, as I just wanted an opportunity to compete at a higher level. But now being with the Jays for some time, I enjoy everyone associated with the Jays organization because they are there to help make me grow better as a player and person.
MLB reports: What do you consider your greatest baseball skill(s)?
Frank Gailey: To me my greatest skills are my competitive nature and ability to stay calm and throw strikes with multiple pitches.
MLB reports: What facets of your game do you most wish to improve upon?
Frank Gailey: The part of my game that I wish to improve on the most is to be completely dominant against left-handed hitters.
MLB reports: How do strikeouts and walks/control figure into your game? Do you see any of these items changing over time and to what degree?
Frank Gailey: To me strikeouts will come if you just throw quality strikes. I don’t get on the mound to strike guys out, but rather to make one quality pitch at a time. Personally I hate walking guys because it a free pass. They did not have to do anything to get on base and I didn’t give my defense a chance to do their job. I don’t see this mind-set changing because it fits my game plan.
MLB reports: Long term do you see yourself staying in the bullpen? Do you envision yourself as a closer in the big leagues one day?
Frank Gailey: If I had to guess I would say yes to the fact that I would be staying in the bullpen. I don’t see myself as a closer but pretty much everything else. But I am ready for any role asked of me by the team.
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?
Frank Gailey: There is no way I can even guess an answer to something like that. The only things I can do to help my chances are to compete and be the steady guy that the team can rely upon in the bullpen.
MLB reports: Thank you very much for your time and appearing on MLB reports. It has been a pleasure speaking with you and good luck on the season
Frank Gailey: Thank you for having me and thank you to the fans for all of their support.
***A special thank you to Frank Gailey for his time and effort as part of being interviewed for this article. You can follow Frank on Twitter.***
Please e-mail us at: MLBreports@gmail.com with any questions and feedback. You can follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook . To subscribe to our website and have the daily Reports sent directly to your inbox , click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage.
Meet Tony Sanchez – Future All- Star Catcher of the Pittsburgh Pirates
MLB reports: “With the 4th overall selection of the 1st round in the 2009 Major League Baseball Entry Draft, the Pittsburgh Pirates select, Tony Sanchez, Catcher, from Boston College.” With those words spoken, life would never be the same for Tony. Much publicity surrounded the most recent 1st round pick of the Pirates, centering around the reasons for his selection. To fully understand what was transpiring, one would need to look back briefly at the recent 1st round draft history of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
2008: Pedro Alvarez 3B – 2nd overall
2007: Daniel Moskos P – 4th overall
2006: Brad Lincoln P- 4th overall
2005: Andrew McCutchen OF – 11th overall
2004: Neil Walker C- 11th overall
2003: Paul Maholm P- 8th overall
2002: Bryan Bullington P – 1st overall
2001: John VanBenschoten 1B- 8th overall
2000: Sean Burnett P- 19th overall
With the Bryan Bullington pick still fresh in Pirates’ fans minds, the 2006 and 2007 drafting respectively of Lincoln and Moskos were difficult to swallow. The moves were seen largely as cost-sensitive selections, with the Pirates foregoing Morrow, Miller, Kershaw, Lincecum and Scherzer in 2006 and Wieters, LaPorta and Bumgarner in 2007 respectively. Some missed players could be pointed to poor scouting and drafting, but others were seen by many as being salary restrictive. The most notorious omission being Matt Wieters, a “can’t miss” catching prospect nabbed by the Baltimore Orioles in with the following 5th pick in the draft. After selecting Pedro Alvarez in 2008, the Pirates maintained their 1st round selection of position players by choosing Tony Sanchez with the 4th overall pick. Players left on the board were Mike Minor, Mike Leak and Drew Storen. 2009 was an interesting draft in the sense that Trout, the 25th overall pick of the Angels was just selection as MLB’s top prospect for 2011; proving that drafting is truly more of an art than a science. But the Sanchez pick was not hailed as a victory by the analysts. Reports seemed to indicate that the Pirates were attempting to make up for their Moskos/Wieters blunder by grabbing the best available catcher with the 4th pick, although Sanchez was considered by some to be a late 1st rounder. Money was also thrown into the equation as Sanchez was seen as an easy sign for Pittsburgh. But who is the aforementioned Tony Sanchez? Lets take a look at the man behind the pick.
Standing 6’1” and weighing a solid 213 pounds, Jorge Anthony (Tony) Sanchez was born on May 20, 1988. Tony attended Boston College and played the catcher position as a junior upon being drafted by the Pirates. Known for having taken the “Jared Subway” diet, Tony committed himself to training and exercise and excelled on the diamond in his last season at Boston College. In his 1st season of pro ball, Sanchez split his time between 3 minor league spots, finishing at a .309 average in 48 games, with 7 homeruns, 48 rbis, .408 obp and .539 slg. Building upon that season, Sanchez was enjoying a solid 2010 season in Bradenton which ended prematurely by suffering a broken jaw after a beaning. The final 2010 stat line for Sanchez was a .314 average in 59 games with 4 homeruns, 35 rbis, .416 obp and .454 slg. Solid numbers for any hitter, especially a catcher. Sanchez was named to the 2010 All-Star Futures Game and his future appeared to be very bright. Despite having his season ended early, Sanchez fought weight loss and rust by rehabilitating and joining the Mesa Solar Sox for the Arizona Fall League season. Despite subpar statistics, Sanchez did enjoy a 2-home run game on November 11th and was named a Rising Star in the AFL and most importantly, proved his health and commitment to playing to the Pittsburgh Pirates, its fans and the MLB community at large.
On February 13, 2011, Tony Sanchez will be reporting to spring training with the Pirates in Bradenton, Florida which ironically was his home field this past 2010 season. The only other catchers drafted in the 1st round by the Pirates were Neil Walker in 2004 and Jason Kendall in 1992. If the Pirates get a solid major leaguer like Kendall from Sanchez, the team and its fans will be overjoyed. Baseball America has rated Sanchez as having the potential to being the first Pittsburgh catcher gold glove winner since Mike “Spanky” LaValliere in 1987. It is time for the fans of Pittsburgh and baseball to let go of the ghosts of drafts past and live in the present and future. Tony Sanchez, in addition to Pedro Alvarez and 2010 1st round pick James Taillon represent solid Pirates building blocks for years to come. In his short time in baseball, Sanchez has shown that he has a potentially live bat and has received strong reviews for his work with the glove. With an MLB ETA of 2012, the Tony Sanchez era in Pittsburgh will soon be upon us. With a blue collar approach to the sport that will be well received in his new hometown, Tony Sanchez is starting to silence the critics and build upon the hype surrounding his play. Remember the name: Tony Sanchez, catcher, Pittsburgh Pirates.
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 Reports 
You must be logged in to post a comment.