Top ten NL East prospects:
1. Johnny Saunders, Buffalo Bisons, B+
Age: 22
Level: A+
Expected ML position: LF
Strengths: Power
Weaknesses: Accuracy
2. Curt Hebert, Buffalo Bisons, B+
Age: 22
Level: AA
Expected ML position: SS
Strengths: Range/Arm
Weaknesses: Power
3. Dustin Grieve, Buffalo Bisons, B
Age: 21
Level: A+
Expected ML position: LF
Strengths: AVG/OBP
Weaknesses: Power/Accuracy
4. Logan Roberts, Cincinnati Red Stockings, B-
Age: 21
Level: AA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: BAA vs. LHs/Groundball pitcher/Two above average to good pitches
Weaknesses: Control
5. Willie Andujar, Cincinnati Red Stockings, B-
Age: 19
Level: A+
Expected ML position: LF
Strengths: Glove
Weaknesses: None
6. Esmailyn Gomez, Buffalo Bisons, B-
Age: 24
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control/Two above average pitches
Weaknesses: Velocity
7. Mickey Bartlett, Buffalo Bisons, B-
Age: 24
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control/BAA vs. LHs/Velocity/Two good pitches
Weaknesses: BAA vs. RHs
8. B.C. Moreno, Cincinnati Red Stockings, C+
Age: 21
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: LF
Strengths: Power/Speed
Weaknesses: AVG vs. RHP/Accuracy
9. Raymond Riley, Cincinnati Red Stockings, C+
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: RF
Strengths: AVG vs. LHP
Weaknesses: None
10. Marvin Walsh, Buffalo Bisons, C+
Age: 23
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: RP
Strengths: BAA vs. RHs/Velocity/Dominant fastball
Weaknesses: Durability
Thursday, December 30, 2010
NL South - Top 10 Prospects
Top ten NL South Prospects:
1. Chris Nye, Charleston Chew, A
Age: 19
Level: A+
Expected ML position: 2B
Strengths: AVG/Power/Speed/Range/Glove
Weaknesses: Eye/Arm
2. George Fultz, Little Rock Lewinskys, A-
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: 2B
Strengths: AVG/OBP/Arm
Weaknesses: None
3. Albert Pineda, Nashville Mayhem, A-
Age: 19
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SS
Strengths: AVG/Power/Arm/Speed
Weaknesses: Eye
4. Daniel Haselman, Little Rock Lewinskys, A-
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control, Velocity
Weaknesses: Flyball pitcher
5. Al Beltre, Little Rock Lewinskys, B+
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: BAA v. LHs/3 usable pitches
Weaknesses: Velocity
6. Stubby Shaw, Charleston Chew, B+
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: RF
Strengths: OBP/Power
Weaknesses: Glove
7. Deivi Dotel, Jackson Rockets, B
Age: 21
Level: AA
Expected ML position: 1B
Strengths: AVG
Weaknesses: None
8. Charlie Henderson, Little Rock Lewinskys, B-
Age: 21
Level: AA
Expected ML position: RF
Strengths: Glove/Accuracy
Weaknesses: Contact
9. Manuel Estrada, Little Rock Lewinskys, B-
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: RP
Strengths: Control/BAA v. RHs/Velocity/Groundball pitcher/Dominant fastball
Weaknesses: Durability
10. Rob Corbin, Nashville Mayhem, C+
Age: 21
Level: A+
Expected ML position: RP
Strengths: Control/BAA v. LHs/Groundball pitcher/Two very good pitches
Weaknesses: Durability/Velocity
1. Chris Nye, Charleston Chew, A
Age: 19
Level: A+
Expected ML position: 2B
Strengths: AVG/Power/Speed/Range/Glove
Weaknesses: Eye/Arm
2. George Fultz, Little Rock Lewinskys, A-
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: 2B
Strengths: AVG/OBP/Arm
Weaknesses: None
3. Albert Pineda, Nashville Mayhem, A-
Age: 19
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SS
Strengths: AVG/Power/Arm/Speed
Weaknesses: Eye
4. Daniel Haselman, Little Rock Lewinskys, A-
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control, Velocity
Weaknesses: Flyball pitcher
5. Al Beltre, Little Rock Lewinskys, B+
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: BAA v. LHs/3 usable pitches
Weaknesses: Velocity
6. Stubby Shaw, Charleston Chew, B+
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: RF
Strengths: OBP/Power
Weaknesses: Glove
7. Deivi Dotel, Jackson Rockets, B
Age: 21
Level: AA
Expected ML position: 1B
Strengths: AVG
Weaknesses: None
8. Charlie Henderson, Little Rock Lewinskys, B-
Age: 21
Level: AA
Expected ML position: RF
Strengths: Glove/Accuracy
Weaknesses: Contact
9. Manuel Estrada, Little Rock Lewinskys, B-
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: RP
Strengths: Control/BAA v. RHs/Velocity/Groundball pitcher/Dominant fastball
Weaknesses: Durability
10. Rob Corbin, Nashville Mayhem, C+
Age: 21
Level: A+
Expected ML position: RP
Strengths: Control/BAA v. LHs/Groundball pitcher/Two very good pitches
Weaknesses: Durability/Velocity
NL West - Top 10 Prospects
Top ten NL West Prospects:
1. Mark Martin, Cheyenne Chiefs, A-
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: C
Strengths: High AVG/OBP
Weaknesses: Glove
2. Tony Lopez, Los Angeles Penguins, B+
Age: 21
Level: AA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control, BAA, Dominant Curveball
Weaknesses: Velocity
3. Chet Corey, Sacramento Fighting Cornish Hens, B+
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: LF
Strengths: Power
Weaknesses: Arm
4. Felipe Gonzalez, Honolulu Haoles, B+
Age: 21
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: BAA
Weaknesses: Velocity/Lacking dominant pitch
5. Trent Park, Honolulu Haoles, B
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SS
Strengths: Range/Arm
Weaknesses: Power
6. Darron Wolf, Los Angeles Penguins, B
Age: 23
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SS
Strengths: AVG v.LHP/Arm
Weaknesses: Power/Accuracy
7. Jose Martin, Cheyenne Chiefs, B-
Age: 24
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control/Velocity/Dominant pitches
Weaknesses: BAA v. LHs
8. Albert Rodriguez, Los Angeles Penguins, B-
Age: 21
Level: A-
Expected ML position: CF
Strengths: OBP/Speed
Weaknesses: Glove
9. Heinie Buckner, Cheyenne Chiefs, B-
Age: 21
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control
Weaknesses: Velocity,
10. Jim Baez, Los Angeles Penguins, C+
Age: 22
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: 2B
Strengths: Accuracy/AVG v. LHP
Weaknesses: Contact
1. Mark Martin, Cheyenne Chiefs, A-
Age: 20
Level: AA
Expected ML position: C
Strengths: High AVG/OBP
Weaknesses: Glove
2. Tony Lopez, Los Angeles Penguins, B+
Age: 21
Level: AA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control, BAA, Dominant Curveball
Weaknesses: Velocity
3. Chet Corey, Sacramento Fighting Cornish Hens, B+
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: LF
Strengths: Power
Weaknesses: Arm
4. Felipe Gonzalez, Honolulu Haoles, B+
Age: 21
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: BAA
Weaknesses: Velocity/Lacking dominant pitch
5. Trent Park, Honolulu Haoles, B
Age: 20
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SS
Strengths: Range/Arm
Weaknesses: Power
6. Darron Wolf, Los Angeles Penguins, B
Age: 23
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SS
Strengths: AVG v.LHP/Arm
Weaknesses: Power/Accuracy
7. Jose Martin, Cheyenne Chiefs, B-
Age: 24
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control/Velocity/Dominant pitches
Weaknesses: BAA v. LHs
8. Albert Rodriguez, Los Angeles Penguins, B-
Age: 21
Level: A-
Expected ML position: CF
Strengths: OBP/Speed
Weaknesses: Glove
9. Heinie Buckner, Cheyenne Chiefs, B-
Age: 21
Level: A+
Expected ML position: SP
Strengths: Control
Weaknesses: Velocity,
10. Jim Baez, Los Angeles Penguins, C+
Age: 22
Level: AAA
Expected ML position: 2B
Strengths: Accuracy/AVG v. LHP
Weaknesses: Contact
Monday, December 27, 2010
Season 11 Power Rankings - 25 games
Season 11 is underway, and while the elite (Atlanta, Rochester, Houston) remain so, the second guard appears to be changing.
1. Atlanta Expos (18-7) - As usual, the Expos have made a living on the mound. Atlanta has a staggering 2.49 ERA, supplemented by a 1.11 WHIP and .216 OAVG, all of which easily lead the Majors. Carl Sosa is third in the Majors with a 1.60 ERA. Buddy Poole, a recent member of the 500-HR club, is second in the AL with 10 HRs.
2. Charleston Chew (17-8) - It's been a few years coming for the Chew, but Season 8 draft picks Ron Gross and Norman LaPorta are driving the Chew's new-and-improved staff, which sports an NL-leading 3.11 ERA. Gross leads the Majors with a 0.77 ERA and WHIP, and a .136 OAVG.
3. Richmond Rat Bastids (16-9) - Richmond is a well-rounded team of bastids, with the third-best AL ERA (4.15) and third-most runs scored (159). 25-year old Amos Duffy is 10th in the AL in ERA (3.09).
4. Honolulu Haoles (17-8) - The Haoles are fourth in the NL in ERA (3.52) and AVG (.274). The AVG may have to be maintained, however, because they have below average selectivity and patience at the plate. As usual, Alberto Beltre dominates the mound, with a 2.06 ERA (7th NL) and 0.83 WHIP (2nd). Midre Mantalban leads the NL in hits (44).
5. Rochester Rolling Rocks (16-9) - As usual, Rochester has collected no moss, leading the NL in HRs (49) and SLG (.873). Perennial MVP candidate Bill Everhart is 4th in NL in OPS (1.065), and Barry Carew is 5th in WHIP (0.93).
6. Los Angeles Penguins (14-11) - The two-time defending NL West champs have waddled out strong once again, relying on an average pitching staff and good offense to carry them. Four of the top seven OBP leaders in the NL come from the Penguins, so it is not surprising that they are second in the NL in team OBP (.375).
7. Minnesota Modern Gentlemen (16-9) - The Modern Gentlemen politely mix a good offense with an above average staff, all while proving chivalry exists. Nick Valentine (1.149) and Ronald Donnelly (1.083) are 3rd and 5th in AL in OPS, respectively.
8. Cheyenne Chiefs (15-10) - Cheyenne sports the sixth-best NL ERA (3.85) and third-best NL AVG (.283). Like the Haoles, however, they OPS is low for having such a high average. Carlos Hernandez is fifth in NL in ERA (1.95) and fourth in WHIP (0.92). Pedro Lopez carries the offense with 9 HRs (2nd NL), 24 RBIs (1st), .714 SLG (2nd), and a 1.081 OPS (3rd).
9. Little Rock Lewinskys (15-10) - The Lewinskys have cleaned their red dress and sport a new-and-vastly-improved defense, and a dynamic offense. Little Rock leads the NL in hits (279), AVG (.304), OBP (.378), and is second in runs (143), HRs (40), walks (103), SLG (.483), and OPS (.861). Kris Matthews leads the NL with a 1.244 OPS, and Fausto Gonzalez is seventh (1.026).
10. Houston Space Cowboys (16-9) - The cosmic powerhouse is at the top once again, sporting the fifth-best OPS in the AL and a slightly-above average ERA. Superstar Zach Charles is 8th in the AL with a 1.036 OPS.
11. Arizona Hammer'd Leprechauns (15-10) - The mystical lushes' pot of gold will go as far as their explosive offense takes them. Arizona leads the AL in hits (294), and is second in AVG (.303) and runs (164). Mendy Kondou is top five in the AL in just about every offensive category, and is tied with Matthews for the ML lead in OPS (1.244).
12. Dover Diamond Dogs (12-13) - Combining man's and woman's best friend combines for a great name, but combining a good pitchign staff with an average offense lands Dover in the top half of the power rankings. Jim Lee is destroying the Majors with a .430 AVG and .517 OBP, and is second in the NL with a 1.217 OPS.
13. New York Pride of the Yankees (13-12) - The Pride of last year's team, Gordon Oliver, has struggled mightily, and the staff has a while has underperformed badly. As usual, the offense is near the top of the league in most categories, and leads in ops (.865) and SLG (.498). Al Martinez is fourth in the AL with a 1.094 OPS.
14. Durham Radicals (14-11) - Another of the up-and-comers, the Radicals' climb is totally awesome, bro. Durham has both an above average offense and staff. The team, as always, is led by two-time MVP Rafael Benitez, who is having a solid, not spectacular season, and is ninth in the AL in OPS (1.027). 22-year old rookie Shawon Stoops is 14th in OPS (.981), and Roy Jackson is sixth in ERA (2.52).
15. Hartford Huskies (14-11) - The Huskies have mushed their way to a nice record out of the gate after a disappointing Season 10 campaign. The pitching staff isn't good; the offense isn't good; but theyf find ways to win. Chico Villareal has carried the offense so far, and is second in the AL in SLG (.705) and OPS (1.191).
16. Cincinnati Red Stockings (13-12) - All Cincinnati needs in their red stocking is some offense. They have some power, but lack the ability to get on base. Fortunately, they have the second best ERA in the NL (3.34). Raul Escobar, Bob Taylor, and Ismael Ortiz all rank in the top thirteen in the NL in ERA. The offense relies primarily on Dennis Jeffries (6th in OPS) and Marcus Klassen (8th in OPS) for run production.
17. St. Louis Beermen (13-12) - Much like Cincinnati, the drinkers of all that is right struggle on offense while ranking second in their league in ERA. Matty Cabeza is fourth in the AL in ERA (2.03).
18. Ottawa Renegades (12-13) - Another below-average offense, above-average staff slides in at 18. The Renegades aren't real flashy, and have no real standout players, but manage to get the job done on the mound.
19. Sacramento Cornish Hens (11-14) - Unsurprisingly, the immature chickens have started off slow once again. Sammy Alou is second in the NL with a .400 AVG. 33-year old Brandon Chouinard leads the staff with a 2.96 ERA.
20. Kansas City Tweakers (10-15) - Despite an OK run differential, the Tweakers have spazzed their way to a 10-15 start. Kansas City is basically average at everything so far, but has give up 48 HRs already, second worst in the AL.
21. NY Primetimers (11-14) - The Primetimers have not thrived in the spotlight, and have both a below average offense and defense. Andre Moss has been dominant on the hill with a 1.98 ERA and 0.99 WHIP.
22. Milwaukee Bashing Dwarves (11-14) - Proving no match for Leprechauns in a battle of the little people, the Bashing Dwarves have struggled on offense and on the mound so far. Rod Reitsma leads the AL with 12 HRs. Rusty Hogan is third in AL ERA with a 1.89.
23. Boston Massacre (11-14) - Watching a massacre might be more pleasant than watching Boston's offense. Boston is last in AL in AVG, and at the bottom in most categories. Jose Villano is eighth in AL ERA (3.03). Former MVP Johnny Sherman missed some time because of injury, so the offense should start to pick up a little with his return.
24. Madison Marauders (10-15) - The Marauders sport possibly the worst pitching staff in the history of baseball, giving up over seven earned runs per game. They do, however, lead the Majors in HRs (51), and are third in the AL in OPS (.851). The offense will need to keep clicking for this team to have any chance to stay near .500.
25. Fargo Fighters (10-15) - Fargo management may be regretting the above-.500 guarantee issued in spring training. Fargo has struggled both at the plate and on the mound. Heath Forster is third in the NL with a 1.69 ERA.
26. Jackson Rockets (10-15) - Jackson has dominated the NL South for years, but their throttle seems to be slowly pulling back just as Charleston and Little Rock are engaging their boosters. The Rockets' offense is the worst in the Majors. Harry Mieses is doing what he can on the mound, and is second in the NL with a 1.66 ERA.
27. Syracuse Sycophants (9-16) - No one is buying the flattery being spewed by Syracuse. Being below average on offense and bad on the mound lands the Sycophants at 27. Brendan Fowler is 10th in the NL in ERA with a 2.17.
28. Buffalo Bisons (9-16) - The Bisons offense appears to wander the plains aimlessly, and has a league-worst 16 HRs. The pitching staff is slightly-above average, with no real standouts.
29. Helena Handbasket (7-18) - The league's worst record belongs to its most cleverly named. Helena's first year GM didn't have much to work with, and it shows.
30. Vancouver Canadians (8-17) - The wannabe Minnesotans actually don't have collective stats that scream "8-17," but the team finds ways to lose. Chris Kane is 12th in the AL with a .997 OPS. Al Flores actually leads the AL with a 1.56 ERA.
31. Austin Rock Stars (8-17) - Still waiting...
32. Nashville Mayhem (9-16) - The only positive mayhem Nashville experiences is after a Dolly Parton performs the seventh-inning stretch. Nashville has by far the worst staff in the NL, giving up 6.75 earned runs per game.
1. Atlanta Expos (18-7) - As usual, the Expos have made a living on the mound. Atlanta has a staggering 2.49 ERA, supplemented by a 1.11 WHIP and .216 OAVG, all of which easily lead the Majors. Carl Sosa is third in the Majors with a 1.60 ERA. Buddy Poole, a recent member of the 500-HR club, is second in the AL with 10 HRs.
2. Charleston Chew (17-8) - It's been a few years coming for the Chew, but Season 8 draft picks Ron Gross and Norman LaPorta are driving the Chew's new-and-improved staff, which sports an NL-leading 3.11 ERA. Gross leads the Majors with a 0.77 ERA and WHIP, and a .136 OAVG.
3. Richmond Rat Bastids (16-9) - Richmond is a well-rounded team of bastids, with the third-best AL ERA (4.15) and third-most runs scored (159). 25-year old Amos Duffy is 10th in the AL in ERA (3.09).
4. Honolulu Haoles (17-8) - The Haoles are fourth in the NL in ERA (3.52) and AVG (.274). The AVG may have to be maintained, however, because they have below average selectivity and patience at the plate. As usual, Alberto Beltre dominates the mound, with a 2.06 ERA (7th NL) and 0.83 WHIP (2nd). Midre Mantalban leads the NL in hits (44).
5. Rochester Rolling Rocks (16-9) - As usual, Rochester has collected no moss, leading the NL in HRs (49) and SLG (.873). Perennial MVP candidate Bill Everhart is 4th in NL in OPS (1.065), and Barry Carew is 5th in WHIP (0.93).
6. Los Angeles Penguins (14-11) - The two-time defending NL West champs have waddled out strong once again, relying on an average pitching staff and good offense to carry them. Four of the top seven OBP leaders in the NL come from the Penguins, so it is not surprising that they are second in the NL in team OBP (.375).
7. Minnesota Modern Gentlemen (16-9) - The Modern Gentlemen politely mix a good offense with an above average staff, all while proving chivalry exists. Nick Valentine (1.149) and Ronald Donnelly (1.083) are 3rd and 5th in AL in OPS, respectively.
8. Cheyenne Chiefs (15-10) - Cheyenne sports the sixth-best NL ERA (3.85) and third-best NL AVG (.283). Like the Haoles, however, they OPS is low for having such a high average. Carlos Hernandez is fifth in NL in ERA (1.95) and fourth in WHIP (0.92). Pedro Lopez carries the offense with 9 HRs (2nd NL), 24 RBIs (1st), .714 SLG (2nd), and a 1.081 OPS (3rd).
9. Little Rock Lewinskys (15-10) - The Lewinskys have cleaned their red dress and sport a new-and-vastly-improved defense, and a dynamic offense. Little Rock leads the NL in hits (279), AVG (.304), OBP (.378), and is second in runs (143), HRs (40), walks (103), SLG (.483), and OPS (.861). Kris Matthews leads the NL with a 1.244 OPS, and Fausto Gonzalez is seventh (1.026).
10. Houston Space Cowboys (16-9) - The cosmic powerhouse is at the top once again, sporting the fifth-best OPS in the AL and a slightly-above average ERA. Superstar Zach Charles is 8th in the AL with a 1.036 OPS.
11. Arizona Hammer'd Leprechauns (15-10) - The mystical lushes' pot of gold will go as far as their explosive offense takes them. Arizona leads the AL in hits (294), and is second in AVG (.303) and runs (164). Mendy Kondou is top five in the AL in just about every offensive category, and is tied with Matthews for the ML lead in OPS (1.244).
12. Dover Diamond Dogs (12-13) - Combining man's and woman's best friend combines for a great name, but combining a good pitchign staff with an average offense lands Dover in the top half of the power rankings. Jim Lee is destroying the Majors with a .430 AVG and .517 OBP, and is second in the NL with a 1.217 OPS.
13. New York Pride of the Yankees (13-12) - The Pride of last year's team, Gordon Oliver, has struggled mightily, and the staff has a while has underperformed badly. As usual, the offense is near the top of the league in most categories, and leads in ops (.865) and SLG (.498). Al Martinez is fourth in the AL with a 1.094 OPS.
14. Durham Radicals (14-11) - Another of the up-and-comers, the Radicals' climb is totally awesome, bro. Durham has both an above average offense and staff. The team, as always, is led by two-time MVP Rafael Benitez, who is having a solid, not spectacular season, and is ninth in the AL in OPS (1.027). 22-year old rookie Shawon Stoops is 14th in OPS (.981), and Roy Jackson is sixth in ERA (2.52).
15. Hartford Huskies (14-11) - The Huskies have mushed their way to a nice record out of the gate after a disappointing Season 10 campaign. The pitching staff isn't good; the offense isn't good; but theyf find ways to win. Chico Villareal has carried the offense so far, and is second in the AL in SLG (.705) and OPS (1.191).
16. Cincinnati Red Stockings (13-12) - All Cincinnati needs in their red stocking is some offense. They have some power, but lack the ability to get on base. Fortunately, they have the second best ERA in the NL (3.34). Raul Escobar, Bob Taylor, and Ismael Ortiz all rank in the top thirteen in the NL in ERA. The offense relies primarily on Dennis Jeffries (6th in OPS) and Marcus Klassen (8th in OPS) for run production.
17. St. Louis Beermen (13-12) - Much like Cincinnati, the drinkers of all that is right struggle on offense while ranking second in their league in ERA. Matty Cabeza is fourth in the AL in ERA (2.03).
18. Ottawa Renegades (12-13) - Another below-average offense, above-average staff slides in at 18. The Renegades aren't real flashy, and have no real standout players, but manage to get the job done on the mound.
19. Sacramento Cornish Hens (11-14) - Unsurprisingly, the immature chickens have started off slow once again. Sammy Alou is second in the NL with a .400 AVG. 33-year old Brandon Chouinard leads the staff with a 2.96 ERA.
20. Kansas City Tweakers (10-15) - Despite an OK run differential, the Tweakers have spazzed their way to a 10-15 start. Kansas City is basically average at everything so far, but has give up 48 HRs already, second worst in the AL.
21. NY Primetimers (11-14) - The Primetimers have not thrived in the spotlight, and have both a below average offense and defense. Andre Moss has been dominant on the hill with a 1.98 ERA and 0.99 WHIP.
22. Milwaukee Bashing Dwarves (11-14) - Proving no match for Leprechauns in a battle of the little people, the Bashing Dwarves have struggled on offense and on the mound so far. Rod Reitsma leads the AL with 12 HRs. Rusty Hogan is third in AL ERA with a 1.89.
23. Boston Massacre (11-14) - Watching a massacre might be more pleasant than watching Boston's offense. Boston is last in AL in AVG, and at the bottom in most categories. Jose Villano is eighth in AL ERA (3.03). Former MVP Johnny Sherman missed some time because of injury, so the offense should start to pick up a little with his return.
24. Madison Marauders (10-15) - The Marauders sport possibly the worst pitching staff in the history of baseball, giving up over seven earned runs per game. They do, however, lead the Majors in HRs (51), and are third in the AL in OPS (.851). The offense will need to keep clicking for this team to have any chance to stay near .500.
25. Fargo Fighters (10-15) - Fargo management may be regretting the above-.500 guarantee issued in spring training. Fargo has struggled both at the plate and on the mound. Heath Forster is third in the NL with a 1.69 ERA.
26. Jackson Rockets (10-15) - Jackson has dominated the NL South for years, but their throttle seems to be slowly pulling back just as Charleston and Little Rock are engaging their boosters. The Rockets' offense is the worst in the Majors. Harry Mieses is doing what he can on the mound, and is second in the NL with a 1.66 ERA.
27. Syracuse Sycophants (9-16) - No one is buying the flattery being spewed by Syracuse. Being below average on offense and bad on the mound lands the Sycophants at 27. Brendan Fowler is 10th in the NL in ERA with a 2.17.
28. Buffalo Bisons (9-16) - The Bisons offense appears to wander the plains aimlessly, and has a league-worst 16 HRs. The pitching staff is slightly-above average, with no real standouts.
29. Helena Handbasket (7-18) - The league's worst record belongs to its most cleverly named. Helena's first year GM didn't have much to work with, and it shows.
30. Vancouver Canadians (8-17) - The wannabe Minnesotans actually don't have collective stats that scream "8-17," but the team finds ways to lose. Chris Kane is 12th in the AL with a .997 OPS. Al Flores actually leads the AL with a 1.56 ERA.
31. Austin Rock Stars (8-17) - Still waiting...
32. Nashville Mayhem (9-16) - The only positive mayhem Nashville experiences is after a Dolly Parton performs the seventh-inning stretch. Nashville has by far the worst staff in the NL, giving up 6.75 earned runs per game.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Season 10 Draft Review (Cont.)
The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Category - The best of the best
4. Sacramento Fighting Cornish Hens
Sacramento was unable to sign their first pick, but managed to make do with their other seven first and second round picks. Sacramento picked up the most offense in the draft. Chet Corey has a high offensive ceiling. Andrew Redman could be a solid defensive catcher, but should be great contact hitter with a fantastic eye and affinity for hitting LH pitching. Paul Wills and Jerry Tillman have an outside chance of reaching the Majors. Cy Telford is a nice second round steal, and could be a mid-rotation starter. Jose Goya could be a backup 1B someday.
Internationals: None
3. Fargo Fighters
Lewis Peterson, the draft's third pick, has arguably the highest ceiling of any pitcher in the draft. He features three good pitches, elite velocity, and is especially hard on right handers. His only vice is a lack of great control. Nick Werth has elite defensive potential
Internationals: Edgar Henriquez will struggle with his control, but otherwise has teh potential to be a top-of-the-rotation guy. Ruben Jacquez has an incredibly high defensive ceiling, and could be perfect as a platoon SS. Even if he sees action against RHs, he should be good enough to be a top-half SS.
2. St. Louis Beermen
18-year old Dustan Jackson has the highest ceiling in the draft, and has the potential to be the best player in baseball. He has a long way to go; however, even if he doesn't fulfill his limitless potential, he will still be an elite player barring injury. In an incredibly weak draft, this pick alone lands the Beermen in the top two.
Internationals: None
1. Chicago Puppies
Ned Meyers is currently the most complete pitcher in the draft and will likely be the best. Junior Armas is another SS with elite defensive potential, and could hit enough to stick in the bigs. Hugh Dransfeldt could be a fantastic DH or 1B platoon option against lefties. Ross Stephens likewise has ML potential, especially as a CF platoon option against righties.
Internationals: None
4. Sacramento Fighting Cornish Hens
Sacramento was unable to sign their first pick, but managed to make do with their other seven first and second round picks. Sacramento picked up the most offense in the draft. Chet Corey has a high offensive ceiling. Andrew Redman could be a solid defensive catcher, but should be great contact hitter with a fantastic eye and affinity for hitting LH pitching. Paul Wills and Jerry Tillman have an outside chance of reaching the Majors. Cy Telford is a nice second round steal, and could be a mid-rotation starter. Jose Goya could be a backup 1B someday.
Internationals: None
3. Fargo Fighters
Lewis Peterson, the draft's third pick, has arguably the highest ceiling of any pitcher in the draft. He features three good pitches, elite velocity, and is especially hard on right handers. His only vice is a lack of great control. Nick Werth has elite defensive potential
Internationals: Edgar Henriquez will struggle with his control, but otherwise has teh potential to be a top-of-the-rotation guy. Ruben Jacquez has an incredibly high defensive ceiling, and could be perfect as a platoon SS. Even if he sees action against RHs, he should be good enough to be a top-half SS.
2. St. Louis Beermen
18-year old Dustan Jackson has the highest ceiling in the draft, and has the potential to be the best player in baseball. He has a long way to go; however, even if he doesn't fulfill his limitless potential, he will still be an elite player barring injury. In an incredibly weak draft, this pick alone lands the Beermen in the top two.
Internationals: None
1. Chicago Puppies
Ned Meyers is currently the most complete pitcher in the draft and will likely be the best. Junior Armas is another SS with elite defensive potential, and could hit enough to stick in the bigs. Hugh Dransfeldt could be a fantastic DH or 1B platoon option against lefties. Ross Stephens likewise has ML potential, especially as a CF platoon option against righties.
Internationals: None
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Season 10 Draft Review (Cont.)
The Captain Morgan Category - Good by itself, but needs some help to be great
11. Austin Rock Stars
First round pick David Silva projects as a good hitter with a very good eye. Initially slotted as a CF, it is more likely that he ends up as a corner player. 18-year old Ralph Drew has control issues, but is otherwise a solid starter prospect.
Internationals: None
10. Hartford Huskies
Daniel Grove, the 12th pick, projects as a very good reliever with a fantastic fastball/slider combo. At 18, Grove is raw, and has a lot of room for growth. Chili Xaio has the potential to be a back-end starter.
Internationals: None
9. Boston Massacre
25th pick Andre Wood has a decent ceiling, probably as a number 2 or 3. Wood projects with good control and velocity, and a nasty slurve. Third round pick Duffy Waters has the potential to be a ML catcher.
Internationals: None
8. Charleston Chew
Charleston comes away with maybe the steal of the draft, nabbing Chris Nye with the 9th pick. Nye has elite defensive potential, and projects with a ton of power for a premium position. He is also blazing fast and could be 100 steal guy if used correctly. The one downside is that he is raw, and will have to be developed properly to have any chance of being an elite player.
Internationals: None
The HPNOTIQ Category - Won't completely blow you away, but it's time to party with class
7. Syracuse Sycophants
With seven picks in the first two rounds, it would have been impossible not to get some talent, even in this draft. Julian Beltre projects as a decent hitter if he can stick at 2B or in CF, but will struggle if he has to play a corner spot. B.C. Fussell may have some moderate value as a reliever someday, but isn't great against either righties or lefties. Steven Robinson is similar to Beltre, but is less selective and doesn't have the plate patience. Jimmie Beltre, the first of two second round picks, projects with ML potential.
Internationals: None
6. New York Pride of the Yankees
As we've seen so far, this was not a good year for team with multiple, but late, first round picks. New York is no exception. Moose Gonzales is the best of the group, and projects as an up-the-middle defender. Whether his glove will be good enough to play SS is the only question. He may struggle at the plate because of a subpar eye, but he should be acceptable with his defense. Pedro Barrios may end up as a decent reliever, while Dante Iwamura may end up as NY's future CF. Stu Thomas is the best hitter of the group, but his ceiling isn't much above average.
Internationals: None
5. Tacoma Termites
Basically the same as the previous two teams on the list, Tacoma had a ton of picks in the first two rounds, and that is why they are listed here without any top-tier talent. Vladimir Rosario projects as to be a very good, well-rounded pitcher. Jonathan Lawton will see the Major Leagues some day as a reliever. Roy Phillips will have trouble making contact, but has good power. Davey Torres is the opposite. Juan Sanchez, one of the many decent catching prospects in this draft, projects as a ML catcher.
Internationals: Javier Vega should be a very solid corner OF, but lacks power.
11. Austin Rock Stars
First round pick David Silva projects as a good hitter with a very good eye. Initially slotted as a CF, it is more likely that he ends up as a corner player. 18-year old Ralph Drew has control issues, but is otherwise a solid starter prospect.
Internationals: None
10. Hartford Huskies
Daniel Grove, the 12th pick, projects as a very good reliever with a fantastic fastball/slider combo. At 18, Grove is raw, and has a lot of room for growth. Chili Xaio has the potential to be a back-end starter.
Internationals: None
9. Boston Massacre
25th pick Andre Wood has a decent ceiling, probably as a number 2 or 3. Wood projects with good control and velocity, and a nasty slurve. Third round pick Duffy Waters has the potential to be a ML catcher.
Internationals: None
8. Charleston Chew
Charleston comes away with maybe the steal of the draft, nabbing Chris Nye with the 9th pick. Nye has elite defensive potential, and projects with a ton of power for a premium position. He is also blazing fast and could be 100 steal guy if used correctly. The one downside is that he is raw, and will have to be developed properly to have any chance of being an elite player.
Internationals: None
The HPNOTIQ Category - Won't completely blow you away, but it's time to party with class
7. Syracuse Sycophants
With seven picks in the first two rounds, it would have been impossible not to get some talent, even in this draft. Julian Beltre projects as a decent hitter if he can stick at 2B or in CF, but will struggle if he has to play a corner spot. B.C. Fussell may have some moderate value as a reliever someday, but isn't great against either righties or lefties. Steven Robinson is similar to Beltre, but is less selective and doesn't have the plate patience. Jimmie Beltre, the first of two second round picks, projects with ML potential.
Internationals: None
6. New York Pride of the Yankees
As we've seen so far, this was not a good year for team with multiple, but late, first round picks. New York is no exception. Moose Gonzales is the best of the group, and projects as an up-the-middle defender. Whether his glove will be good enough to play SS is the only question. He may struggle at the plate because of a subpar eye, but he should be acceptable with his defense. Pedro Barrios may end up as a decent reliever, while Dante Iwamura may end up as NY's future CF. Stu Thomas is the best hitter of the group, but his ceiling isn't much above average.
Internationals: None
5. Tacoma Termites
Basically the same as the previous two teams on the list, Tacoma had a ton of picks in the first two rounds, and that is why they are listed here without any top-tier talent. Vladimir Rosario projects as to be a very good, well-rounded pitcher. Jonathan Lawton will see the Major Leagues some day as a reliever. Roy Phillips will have trouble making contact, but has good power. Davey Torres is the opposite. Juan Sanchez, one of the many decent catching prospects in this draft, projects as a ML catcher.
Internationals: Javier Vega should be a very solid corner OF, but lacks power.
Season 10 Draft Review (Cont.)
The Don Q Category - Unknown and underrated, but smooth and effective
17. Cheyenne Chiefs
With the fourteenth pick, Cheyenne took 22-year old Reid Aldridge. Aldridge is not flashy, but he should be a solid middle-of-the-rotation pitcher. Supplemental pick Todd Roberts should be a ML reliever, and could be tough on LH hitters. Second round pick Steve O'Brien also ceilings out as a second-tier ML reliever.
Internationals: Dominican Quilvio Trinidad secured $12.0M on the international market, although there were better deals this season. His ceiling is as a middle-of-the-rotation pitcher, although he could be a very strong power/control pitcher.
16. Buffalo Sabres
Johnny Saunders, the Sabres' first round pick, is one of the few corner players in this draft with a decent glove and bat. He projects with good power and a decent eye. Second round pick Dustin Grieve and third round pick Brandon Small both lack power, but are otherwise decent bats.
Internationals: Dominican Edgar Castro has a high defensive ceiling with a good bat. He has a long way to go, however.
15. Nashville Mayhem
Although Nashville was unable to sign its first pick, the draft's fourth, they were able to sign Louie Murphy, an early supplemental pick. Murphy, who has yet to be assigned and is wasting away, has a very high ceiling, with good control, velocity, and three solid pitches. He needs to play to get there, though, and even then it might be difficult. The first of two second ronud picks, Scott Rice, has limited offensive potential, but has a high ceiling as a defensive SS. Don Maxwell has no power or discipline, but is a great contact hitter.
Internationals: Nashville snagged this year's biggest profile international, Albert Pineda, for $22.0M. He has a monstrous ceiling, and if he reaches it, could be the best player in the Majors. Nashville also signed an under-the-radar pitcher, Ozzie Kimura, who may have some limited ML value someday. Coincidentally, he is also the first Japanese Ozzie I've ever heard of.
The Jack Daniels Category - For no other reason than my girlfriend drinks it like a fish
14. Vancouver Canadians
Fifth pick in the draft Arthur Stern has the highest offensive ceiling in the draft, although no better than mediocre defensively. At only 18, however, he is raw, and has a long way to go.
Internationals: Vancouver dropped a ton of cash on Sammy Otanez and Pedro Mijares. Otanez has front end potential, while Mijares probably ceilings out as a mid-rotation guy.
13. Arizona Hammer'd Leprechauns
Arizona signed just one pick in the first five rounds, but it was a good one. 22-year old Homer Butler is a future 150-inning set up man/closer with decent control and a power arm.
Internationals: Arizona has a productive international season, signing pitcher Bengie Martinez for $19.0M, and snagging legitimate CF prospect Paul Tamura
for just $2.2M.
12. Little Rock Lewinskys
First round pick Daniel Haselman is arguably the third most talented starting pitcher in the draft. His ceiling is as a second-tier number one pitcher, although he has a long way to go to reach that. Second round pick Bill Nix also has ML starting rotation potential.
Internationals: Manuel Estrada has closer potential.
17. Cheyenne Chiefs
With the fourteenth pick, Cheyenne took 22-year old Reid Aldridge. Aldridge is not flashy, but he should be a solid middle-of-the-rotation pitcher. Supplemental pick Todd Roberts should be a ML reliever, and could be tough on LH hitters. Second round pick Steve O'Brien also ceilings out as a second-tier ML reliever.
Internationals: Dominican Quilvio Trinidad secured $12.0M on the international market, although there were better deals this season. His ceiling is as a middle-of-the-rotation pitcher, although he could be a very strong power/control pitcher.
16. Buffalo Sabres
Johnny Saunders, the Sabres' first round pick, is one of the few corner players in this draft with a decent glove and bat. He projects with good power and a decent eye. Second round pick Dustin Grieve and third round pick Brandon Small both lack power, but are otherwise decent bats.
Internationals: Dominican Edgar Castro has a high defensive ceiling with a good bat. He has a long way to go, however.
15. Nashville Mayhem
Although Nashville was unable to sign its first pick, the draft's fourth, they were able to sign Louie Murphy, an early supplemental pick. Murphy, who has yet to be assigned and is wasting away, has a very high ceiling, with good control, velocity, and three solid pitches. He needs to play to get there, though, and even then it might be difficult. The first of two second ronud picks, Scott Rice, has limited offensive potential, but has a high ceiling as a defensive SS. Don Maxwell has no power or discipline, but is a great contact hitter.
Internationals: Nashville snagged this year's biggest profile international, Albert Pineda, for $22.0M. He has a monstrous ceiling, and if he reaches it, could be the best player in the Majors. Nashville also signed an under-the-radar pitcher, Ozzie Kimura, who may have some limited ML value someday. Coincidentally, he is also the first Japanese Ozzie I've ever heard of.
The Jack Daniels Category - For no other reason than my girlfriend drinks it like a fish
14. Vancouver Canadians
Fifth pick in the draft Arthur Stern has the highest offensive ceiling in the draft, although no better than mediocre defensively. At only 18, however, he is raw, and has a long way to go.
Internationals: Vancouver dropped a ton of cash on Sammy Otanez and Pedro Mijares. Otanez has front end potential, while Mijares probably ceilings out as a mid-rotation guy.
13. Arizona Hammer'd Leprechauns
Arizona signed just one pick in the first five rounds, but it was a good one. 22-year old Homer Butler is a future 150-inning set up man/closer with decent control and a power arm.
Internationals: Arizona has a productive international season, signing pitcher Bengie Martinez for $19.0M, and snagging legitimate CF prospect Paul Tamura
for just $2.2M.
12. Little Rock Lewinskys
First round pick Daniel Haselman is arguably the third most talented starting pitcher in the draft. His ceiling is as a second-tier number one pitcher, although he has a long way to go to reach that. Second round pick Bill Nix also has ML starting rotation potential.
Internationals: Manuel Estrada has closer potential.
Season 10 Draft Review (Cont.)
The London's Dry Gin Category - Palatable, but not preferable
24. Atlanta Expos
The Expos had four first round picks, although none before number 47. Nicholas Herndon has decent power potential and should be able to LH pitching, however his limited glove might restrict him to a corner OF spot. Ernest McConnell has ML potential, although fellow first rounder Bryan Lennon probably does not.
Internationals: None
23. Colorado Abominable Snowmen
First rounder Vasco Mendoza could end up being an elite defensive SS with a pretty solid bat, especially against LH pitching. If Tom Munoz could develop stamina, he could please fans in Colorado, and his girlfriend might be a little happier, too.
Internationals: None
22. Honolulu Haloes
First rounder Trent Park probably won't play a premium position, and his below average power won't play there. 64th pick Ariel Guerrero is a potential steal, and although he won't ever be an ace, he could be a solid pitcher.
Internationals: Harry Manuel could be a solid reliever.
21. Ottawa Renegades
Ottawa was unable to sign its first pick, but did sign supplemental pick Joakim Martinez. Martinez doesn't have great stuff, but is hard on LH hitters and has good control and velocity. Second round pick Daric Marshall rarely strikes out and has a good eye, but limited power for a corner position. Third rounder Abraham Dunn may make a ML roster someday.
Internationals: Ricardo Lugo could be very tough on RH hitters.
The Jose Quervo Category - Most people don't want it, but after you have it, you don't mind
24. Atlanta Expos
The Expos had four first round picks, although none before number 47. Nicholas Herndon has decent power potential and should be able to LH pitching, however his limited glove might restrict him to a corner OF spot. Ernest McConnell has ML potential, although fellow first rounder Bryan Lennon probably does not.
Internationals: None
23. Colorado Abominable Snowmen
First rounder Vasco Mendoza could end up being an elite defensive SS with a pretty solid bat, especially against LH pitching. If Tom Munoz could develop stamina, he could please fans in Colorado, and his girlfriend might be a little happier, too.
Internationals: None
22. Honolulu Haloes
First rounder Trent Park probably won't play a premium position, and his below average power won't play there. 64th pick Ariel Guerrero is a potential steal, and although he won't ever be an ace, he could be a solid pitcher.
Internationals: Harry Manuel could be a solid reliever.
21. Ottawa Renegades
Ottawa was unable to sign its first pick, but did sign supplemental pick Joakim Martinez. Martinez doesn't have great stuff, but is hard on LH hitters and has good control and velocity. Second round pick Daric Marshall rarely strikes out and has a good eye, but limited power for a corner position. Third rounder Abraham Dunn may make a ML roster someday.
Internationals: Ricardo Lugo could be very tough on RH hitters.
The Jose Quervo Category - Most people don't want it, but after you have it, you don't mind
20. Rochester Rolling Rocks
The non-moss gatherers had three first round picks. Willard Lo Duca may be a decent back-end starter someday. Geronimo Martin probably won't. This ranking is based on 71st pick Yunel James, one of the few true MLers found this late in this draft. Perez has true ML potential, although he needs to improve quite a bit as a 22-year old.
Internationals: None
19. Durham Radicals
The Radicals' first two picks were catchers. The 17th pick, Kennie Fister, calls a great game, although his glove is lacking. He won't strike out much, and rakes LH pitching. He will struggle to hit for power and against righties, but his eye should play against everyone. Parker Johnston has a massive defensive ceiling, but has a long way to go. He should hit enough to see the Majors, and has a decent eye. Durham's thir first rounder, Leonardo Schilling, has unlimited defensive potential, but will struggle at the plate. Second round picks Nick Burns and Brook Haselman have a chance to reach the Majors.
Internationals: None
18. Kansas City Tweakers
The Tweakers had two supplemental picks. Fred Mullaney has some control problems, and will struggle against RH hitters, but is otherwise good. At 67, Herb James is a steal. He has a devastating changeup and curve ball, and has great potential for control. He should be solid against RH hitting, and has good velocity. Second round pick Zachrey Valiquette also has some ML potential. Third rounder Davey Guardado has good power and a good eye.
Internationals: Ivan Cairo doesn't strike out, but may not have enough power to play a corner spot.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Season 10 Draft Review
This year's draft was disappointing for, well, just about everyone. Initially, the plan was to grade every team's draft, but the grades were so embarrassing, they've been omitted from the review. Internationals will be mentioned, but not factored in the draft's rankings.
This draft saw seventy-two first round picks, a couple of potential stars, a few top-of-the-rotation pitchers, and a very few game-changing hitters. The draft was heavy on defense, and light on greatness.
With that, here are the rankings, from worst to first:
The Milwaukee's Special Reserve Ice Category - Causing headaches after just one
32. Houston Space Cowboys
Houston had six picks in the first three rounds, including four in the first. They signed one player, Reed Rigby. Rigby's ceiling is as a decent defensive SS with no offensive upside. At best, he's a bench player, but it's more likely he'll never see the Majors.
At least he's fast, just like Al Davis likes 'em.
Interationals: None
The Smirnoff Ice Category - For those light on quality and light on testicles
31. New York Primetimers
With only one pick in the first three rounds, the Primetimers had to make their first pick count. They didn't. Alex Beamon, the eleventh pick in the draft, has almost no power and a mediocre eye. He won't strikeout much, and should be OK against LHP, but won't have the glove to play a premium position.
Internationals: None
30. Jackson Rockets
Of the seventy-two first round picks, Jackson had none. Their first pick, Trevor Collier, has a big arm, but not much else. Jackson sneaks ahead of Houston and New York based solely on depth, although their draft is not qualitatively better.
Internationals: Despite spending just $3.7M, Jackson signed three potential ML pitchers: P.T. Arias, Enrique Aguilar, and Yamil Gonzalez.
29. Dover Diamond Dogs
Dover is almost a mirror image of Jackson except with slightly better draftees. Dmitri Monroe is the best.
Internationals: Esteban Estrella should be solid defensively and provide massive power.
28. Richmond Rat Bastids
First round pick Philip Wells is best of the class, but will struggle badly against right handed hitters. He does have a moderately high ceiling, but for a 22-year old, he doesn't have much time to reach it, and he's not nearly ready.
Internationals: None
The Franzia Category - Making you feel sick when you think about last night
27. Cincinnati Red Stockings
First round pick Cozy Powell is a phenomenal defensive catcher with minimal offensive upside. Third round pick Luther Wright has decent upside and fourth round pick Terry Hall projects as a below-average ML bat without a position.
Internationals: 2B Willie Andujar is light on power, but otherwise has ML-starter potential.
26. Minnesota Modern Gentlemen
With four first ronud picks, you would hope for more talent. After being unable to sign sixth pick Dave Burch, the Modern Gents were left with Buddy Palmer, Seop Gong, and J.D. Upshaw in the first. Palmer ceilings out as a light-hitting third baseman. Gong could be a top-tier CF with his potential, but his lack of power will probably keep him from ever being better than a middle-of-the-road player. At best, Upshaw could be a mopup ML reliever.
Internationals: Jose Volquez has some moderate potential, but nothing really exciting.
25. Los Angeles Penguins
First round pick Albert Rodriguez projects as a very good defensive CF, with some offensive potential and good speed. Second round pick Sherman Stark has a decent offensive ceiling, although his value is limited as he projects to be a corner OF, not a CF as once thought. The Penguins added more defense in the third and fourth rounds.
Internationals: Following their draft plan, the Penguins signed Pedro Felix, a projected ligh-hitter with a good glove. Also, LA fleeced us all by stealing Tony Lopez. Lopez has a filthy curveball, and should be very tough on right handers. He could end up being a top-of-the-rotation pitcher.
This draft saw seventy-two first round picks, a couple of potential stars, a few top-of-the-rotation pitchers, and a very few game-changing hitters. The draft was heavy on defense, and light on greatness.
With that, here are the rankings, from worst to first:
The Milwaukee's Special Reserve Ice Category - Causing headaches after just one
32. Houston Space Cowboys
Houston had six picks in the first three rounds, including four in the first. They signed one player, Reed Rigby. Rigby's ceiling is as a decent defensive SS with no offensive upside. At best, he's a bench player, but it's more likely he'll never see the Majors.
At least he's fast, just like Al Davis likes 'em.
Interationals: None
The Smirnoff Ice Category - For those light on quality and light on testicles
31. New York Primetimers
With only one pick in the first three rounds, the Primetimers had to make their first pick count. They didn't. Alex Beamon, the eleventh pick in the draft, has almost no power and a mediocre eye. He won't strikeout much, and should be OK against LHP, but won't have the glove to play a premium position.
Internationals: None
30. Jackson Rockets
Of the seventy-two first round picks, Jackson had none. Their first pick, Trevor Collier, has a big arm, but not much else. Jackson sneaks ahead of Houston and New York based solely on depth, although their draft is not qualitatively better.
Internationals: Despite spending just $3.7M, Jackson signed three potential ML pitchers: P.T. Arias, Enrique Aguilar, and Yamil Gonzalez.
29. Dover Diamond Dogs
Dover is almost a mirror image of Jackson except with slightly better draftees. Dmitri Monroe is the best.
Internationals: Esteban Estrella should be solid defensively and provide massive power.
28. Richmond Rat Bastids
First round pick Philip Wells is best of the class, but will struggle badly against right handed hitters. He does have a moderately high ceiling, but for a 22-year old, he doesn't have much time to reach it, and he's not nearly ready.
Internationals: None
The Franzia Category - Making you feel sick when you think about last night
27. Cincinnati Red Stockings
First round pick Cozy Powell is a phenomenal defensive catcher with minimal offensive upside. Third round pick Luther Wright has decent upside and fourth round pick Terry Hall projects as a below-average ML bat without a position.
Internationals: 2B Willie Andujar is light on power, but otherwise has ML-starter potential.
26. Minnesota Modern Gentlemen
With four first ronud picks, you would hope for more talent. After being unable to sign sixth pick Dave Burch, the Modern Gents were left with Buddy Palmer, Seop Gong, and J.D. Upshaw in the first. Palmer ceilings out as a light-hitting third baseman. Gong could be a top-tier CF with his potential, but his lack of power will probably keep him from ever being better than a middle-of-the-road player. At best, Upshaw could be a mopup ML reliever.
Internationals: Jose Volquez has some moderate potential, but nothing really exciting.
25. Los Angeles Penguins
First round pick Albert Rodriguez projects as a very good defensive CF, with some offensive potential and good speed. Second round pick Sherman Stark has a decent offensive ceiling, although his value is limited as he projects to be a corner OF, not a CF as once thought. The Penguins added more defense in the third and fourth rounds.
Internationals: Following their draft plan, the Penguins signed Pedro Felix, a projected ligh-hitter with a good glove. Also, LA fleeced us all by stealing Tony Lopez. Lopez has a filthy curveball, and should be very tough on right handers. He could end up being a top-of-the-rotation pitcher.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
This Week in Cobbfather
This Week in Cobbfather
Cobbfather is at the point in the season where the draft will occur on Sunday. In an attempt to recap the season thus far the Post Gazette will be taking it from the beginning, starting with the offseason.
The biggest free agent story of the year involved stud SP Ken Evans, who spurned the only franchise he had ever played for to date, the New York Pride of the Yankees and manager domiisgod for a max deal with rival Kansas City Tweakers and owner dirtyhill03. domi had offered a max deal, along with at least 3 other teams to Evans, who had 140 wins at age 30 going into the season. To deal with his disappointment domi called out Evans on the chat board as the loser we all know he is, and proceeded to sign veteran free agent SP Gordon Oliver, who has more than made up for the loss thus far with a 7-2 record. Evans meanwhile is only 4-4 and hasn’t lived up to his deal.
Other big free agent signings included Justin Kennedy signing with the Jackson Rockets, and the Syracuse Sycophants signing 3 type A free agents and a type B FA as well. Jackson Syracuse
The draft class which was revealed last Sunday proved to be a disappointment, as it is not very deep at all. There is some great talent in the first 10 slots, but after that it will probably be a down draft year for most teams. SP Ned Meyers is probably going to be the #1 pick, but there are a few position players who are also worthy of that position in the draft. Meyers has gotten the most draft pre-pub in the league though so he is the odds on favorite. Teams that are getting screwed by the poor class include Sacramento and their seven comp picks, and Syracuse
As poor as the draft class has been the international market has been good. In fact this is the best international class Cobbfather might have ever seen, as there have been no less than nine stud internationals before the draft has even occurred. The biggest paycheck was doled out by Nashville
Thus far in the season the biggest surprise has been the Sacramento Fighting Cornish Hens, who are tied for 1st place in the NL West despite jettisoning 5 type A players and several type B’s through free agency and trades in a rebuilding effort. The Arizona Hammer’d Leprachauns are the surprise of the AL , topping the West over heavily favored Kansas City
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
31% Season Power Rankings
1. Houston (37-11) - The defending AL champ has jumped out to an early 5.5 game lead behind an Al-best 3.75 ERA. Edgar Cortez is 7-0 and 6th in AL with a 2.74 ERA. Dan Carter leads the AL with 21 HRs and Zach Charles tops the league with a .362 AVG.
2. Rochester (35-14) - The reigning World Series champs look strong again. By far the best offensive team in baseball, the Rolling Rocks lead the Majors in runs, hits, doubles, walks, AVG, OBP, and SLG. Bill Everhart leads the world in AVG and SLG. Four other Rolling Rocks can be found in the top eleven in OPS.
3. Atlanta (33-16) - The Expos, a perennial World Series contender, just went from second tier to first with the addition of Talmadge Malone, currently hitting .347/.424/.579/1.003. As usual, Chris Pendleton and Carl Sosa are putting together Cy Young seasons, and are more likely to sustain production that some of the others on that list.
4. Richmond (32-17) - Richmond leads the AL in OBP and runs, mostly behind monster seasons from Alex Coombs and Albert Crespo, both OPSing over 1.000. Richard Jackson leads the AL in ERA and WHIP.
5. Dover (32-17) - Dover has won the NL East three years in a row, and with a huge lead, looks like they will make it four. Nothing flashy here, they just get it done.
6. Jackson (30-19) - Following a "rebuilding year" that saw a playoff berth for the Rockets, Jackson appears to be back as an elite in the NL. Medicore offensively, they are third in the NL in ERA, with Vic Brohawn (3.07) and Willy Murray (3.32) leading the way.
7. New York (AL) (30-19) - Gordon Oliver may not be Ken Evans, but he's certainly pitching like it (3.68 ERA). Sting Bailey is having a strong year at the plate (.317/.399/.550/.949), but the real key to this offense is depth.
8. Boston (30-19) - Boston gets it done with power, leading the AL in HRs, SLG, and OPS. Reigning HR champ Johnny Sherman is second in the AL with 17 HRs, and Gabe Butler is a close third with 16.
9. Arizona (28-21) - Arizona is third in AL in ERA; Sam Cohen and 23-year old Duffy Hughes lead the charge. Tom Weston leads the offense with 15 HRs, 50 RBIs, and a 1.019 OPS.
10. Los Angeles (27-21) - The abandoned playoff team apparently has some talent. Benny Lima and Louis Kirkland lead the team offensively.
11. Ottawa (26-22) - Ottawa has no real deficiencies. They are slightly above average offensively and on the mound. 26-year old Eduardo Redondo is having a monster offensive season (.317/.384/.630). Milton Henry is fourth in NL in ERA with a 2.35.
12. Minnesota (28-21) - Minnesota is headed in the right direction, although they are playing a bit over their heads right now. Arthur Weaver, the former Rule 5 draftee, is second in the AL in ERA, and Geraldo Bautista is eleventh. Expect regression from both.
13. Durham (26-22) - Durham is fourth in AL in ERA. The offense is below average, and they would be in serious trouble if the league's top all-around hitter, Rafael Benitez, was unable to play.
14. Honolulu (25-24) - The Majors' best pitching staff is led by Walt Kennedy (2.11 ERA /1.05 WHIP), Justin Powell (2.71/0.95), Alberto Beltre (3.45/1.07), and Jospeh Hyun (3.63/1.15).
15. Cincinnati (24-24) - Fourth in the NL in ERA, the offense will need to surge to keep playoffs hopes alive later in the season. Ismael Ortiz is second in the NL with a 0.95 WHIP. Dennis Jeffries and Marvin Mays are both having terrible seasons, expect huge improvements, giving a boost to the offense.
16. Cheyenne (25-23) - Jose Rijo is second in the NL in average (.359) and OPS (1.113). Alex Hernandez is fifteenth in OPS (.941) and twelfth in OBP (.402). Jacob Tebeau and Sammy Pinzon are thirteenth and fourteenth, respectively, in ERA.
17. Syracuse (26-23) - Syracuse is above average on the mound, but has scored just 4.2 runs per game. Alfredo Lindsey is putting together a nice season at the plate.
18. Sacramento (26-23) - Sacramento is a mirror image of Syracuse. Brandon Chouinard is third in the NL in ERA (2.14). Dennys Cromer is seventh (2.50).
19. Chicago (21-27) - The Puppies' pitchers lack bite, but the offense has shown some signs of life. Ronnie Bannister and Daniel Russell are a nice one-two punch at the plate.
20. Kansas City (21-28) - The usually-strong-in-all-aspects Tweakers are struggling a bit to start the year. They are near the bottom of the AL in runs scored, and in the middle of the pack in ERA. Benito Guerrero is having a typical monster season (.310/.442/.601/1.043). Greg Maduro and 23-year old Nicholas Atkins have been strong on the mound.
21. Charleston (22-26) - The Chew are in second place in the NL South, but are already 7.5 games back of the Rockets.
22. Buffalo (20-28) - Buffalo is the most one-sided team in the league; second in the Majors in ERA, and last in runs. Brian Wang leads the NL in ERA (1.88) and Sherm Gates is fifth (2.41).
23. Hartford (21-27) - The Huskies are fifth in the AL in runs scored, but sport an awful team ERA (5.82).
24. Tacoma (19-29) - Tacoma's staff has struggled (5.14 ERA), causing the ten-games-under-.500 record. Timo Green's current injury hasn't helped the situation, and was having a good year prior (3.44 ERA).
25. New York (NL) (19-30) - The Primetimers' offense has struggled, scoring the second fewest runs in the NL. Shayne Lemon leads the offense with a .929 OPS.
26. Little Rock (18-31) - The Lewinskys suck (see what I did there). The staff is second-to-last in ERA, and despite being second in the NL in SLG and HRs, they are just ninth in runs scored. Chip James is second in the NL in HRs (17), 4th in OPS (1.053), and fifth in SLG (.640).
27. St. Louis (19-30) - The Beermen's offensive numbers are ironically sobering. Last in the AL in runs scored, OBP, and SLG. 26-year old Harry Mieses is third in the AL in ERA (2.59).
28. Fargo (17-31) - Al James' debut was the first excitement in Fargo since the great cow tipping exhibition of 1973, and before that when Anheuser Busch unveiled Busch Ice.
29. Colorado (17-31) - Terrible pitching (6.31 ERA) neutralizes and decent offense (.782 OPS). Charlie Dickerson (.963) and Travis Lieberthal (.953) are fourteenth and fifteenth, respectively, in AL in OPS.
30. Nashville (16-32) - The former NL South powerhouse rounds out the bottom of the NL. They are last in the NL in ERA, and below average in run scoring. Taylor Overbay has been the lone bright spot for the staff (2.75 ERA).
31. Austin (13-35) - Texas' capital anxiously awaits the true Rock Star, James Hasselman. As of now, Austin doesn't have a lot going for it.
32. Vancouver (13-35) - Welington Lorenzo's (3.43 ERA) emergence as a potential number one is the lone bright spot.
2. Rochester (35-14) - The reigning World Series champs look strong again. By far the best offensive team in baseball, the Rolling Rocks lead the Majors in runs, hits, doubles, walks, AVG, OBP, and SLG. Bill Everhart leads the world in AVG and SLG. Four other Rolling Rocks can be found in the top eleven in OPS.
3. Atlanta (33-16) - The Expos, a perennial World Series contender, just went from second tier to first with the addition of Talmadge Malone, currently hitting .347/.424/.579/1.003. As usual, Chris Pendleton and Carl Sosa are putting together Cy Young seasons, and are more likely to sustain production that some of the others on that list.
4. Richmond (32-17) - Richmond leads the AL in OBP and runs, mostly behind monster seasons from Alex Coombs and Albert Crespo, both OPSing over 1.000. Richard Jackson leads the AL in ERA and WHIP.
5. Dover (32-17) - Dover has won the NL East three years in a row, and with a huge lead, looks like they will make it four. Nothing flashy here, they just get it done.
6. Jackson (30-19) - Following a "rebuilding year" that saw a playoff berth for the Rockets, Jackson appears to be back as an elite in the NL. Medicore offensively, they are third in the NL in ERA, with Vic Brohawn (3.07) and Willy Murray (3.32) leading the way.
7. New York (AL) (30-19) - Gordon Oliver may not be Ken Evans, but he's certainly pitching like it (3.68 ERA). Sting Bailey is having a strong year at the plate (.317/.399/.550/.949), but the real key to this offense is depth.
8. Boston (30-19) - Boston gets it done with power, leading the AL in HRs, SLG, and OPS. Reigning HR champ Johnny Sherman is second in the AL with 17 HRs, and Gabe Butler is a close third with 16.
9. Arizona (28-21) - Arizona is third in AL in ERA; Sam Cohen and 23-year old Duffy Hughes lead the charge. Tom Weston leads the offense with 15 HRs, 50 RBIs, and a 1.019 OPS.
10. Los Angeles (27-21) - The abandoned playoff team apparently has some talent. Benny Lima and Louis Kirkland lead the team offensively.
11. Ottawa (26-22) - Ottawa has no real deficiencies. They are slightly above average offensively and on the mound. 26-year old Eduardo Redondo is having a monster offensive season (.317/.384/.630). Milton Henry is fourth in NL in ERA with a 2.35.
12. Minnesota (28-21) - Minnesota is headed in the right direction, although they are playing a bit over their heads right now. Arthur Weaver, the former Rule 5 draftee, is second in the AL in ERA, and Geraldo Bautista is eleventh. Expect regression from both.
13. Durham (26-22) - Durham is fourth in AL in ERA. The offense is below average, and they would be in serious trouble if the league's top all-around hitter, Rafael Benitez, was unable to play.
14. Honolulu (25-24) - The Majors' best pitching staff is led by Walt Kennedy (2.11 ERA /1.05 WHIP), Justin Powell (2.71/0.95), Alberto Beltre (3.45/1.07), and Jospeh Hyun (3.63/1.15).
15. Cincinnati (24-24) - Fourth in the NL in ERA, the offense will need to surge to keep playoffs hopes alive later in the season. Ismael Ortiz is second in the NL with a 0.95 WHIP. Dennis Jeffries and Marvin Mays are both having terrible seasons, expect huge improvements, giving a boost to the offense.
16. Cheyenne (25-23) - Jose Rijo is second in the NL in average (.359) and OPS (1.113). Alex Hernandez is fifteenth in OPS (.941) and twelfth in OBP (.402). Jacob Tebeau and Sammy Pinzon are thirteenth and fourteenth, respectively, in ERA.
17. Syracuse (26-23) - Syracuse is above average on the mound, but has scored just 4.2 runs per game. Alfredo Lindsey is putting together a nice season at the plate.
18. Sacramento (26-23) - Sacramento is a mirror image of Syracuse. Brandon Chouinard is third in the NL in ERA (2.14). Dennys Cromer is seventh (2.50).
19. Chicago (21-27) - The Puppies' pitchers lack bite, but the offense has shown some signs of life. Ronnie Bannister and Daniel Russell are a nice one-two punch at the plate.
20. Kansas City (21-28) - The usually-strong-in-all-aspects Tweakers are struggling a bit to start the year. They are near the bottom of the AL in runs scored, and in the middle of the pack in ERA. Benito Guerrero is having a typical monster season (.310/.442/.601/1.043). Greg Maduro and 23-year old Nicholas Atkins have been strong on the mound.
21. Charleston (22-26) - The Chew are in second place in the NL South, but are already 7.5 games back of the Rockets.
22. Buffalo (20-28) - Buffalo is the most one-sided team in the league; second in the Majors in ERA, and last in runs. Brian Wang leads the NL in ERA (1.88) and Sherm Gates is fifth (2.41).
23. Hartford (21-27) - The Huskies are fifth in the AL in runs scored, but sport an awful team ERA (5.82).
24. Tacoma (19-29) - Tacoma's staff has struggled (5.14 ERA), causing the ten-games-under-.500 record. Timo Green's current injury hasn't helped the situation, and was having a good year prior (3.44 ERA).
25. New York (NL) (19-30) - The Primetimers' offense has struggled, scoring the second fewest runs in the NL. Shayne Lemon leads the offense with a .929 OPS.
26. Little Rock (18-31) - The Lewinskys suck (see what I did there). The staff is second-to-last in ERA, and despite being second in the NL in SLG and HRs, they are just ninth in runs scored. Chip James is second in the NL in HRs (17), 4th in OPS (1.053), and fifth in SLG (.640).
27. St. Louis (19-30) - The Beermen's offensive numbers are ironically sobering. Last in the AL in runs scored, OBP, and SLG. 26-year old Harry Mieses is third in the AL in ERA (2.59).
28. Fargo (17-31) - Al James' debut was the first excitement in Fargo since the great cow tipping exhibition of 1973, and before that when Anheuser Busch unveiled Busch Ice.
29. Colorado (17-31) - Terrible pitching (6.31 ERA) neutralizes and decent offense (.782 OPS). Charlie Dickerson (.963) and Travis Lieberthal (.953) are fourteenth and fifteenth, respectively, in AL in OPS.
30. Nashville (16-32) - The former NL South powerhouse rounds out the bottom of the NL. They are last in the NL in ERA, and below average in run scoring. Taylor Overbay has been the lone bright spot for the staff (2.75 ERA).
31. Austin (13-35) - Texas' capital anxiously awaits the true Rock Star, James Hasselman. As of now, Austin doesn't have a lot going for it.
32. Vancouver (13-35) - Welington Lorenzo's (3.43 ERA) emergence as a potential number one is the lone bright spot.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Kansas City press conference
Welcome to the Kansas City Tweaker press conference. First off, thank you for your time Dirtyhill03.
Question 1: A lot of owners are calling this FA class the best ever. Do you agree?
Dirtyhill03: "Absolutely. The amount of talent available in the FA was staggering. A lot of teams were able to address their needs with really good players. Will be interesting to see how it all plays out."
Question 2: Are you happy with how the Tweakers did in the FA period?
Dirtyhill03: "We landed the best starting pitcher on the market. We're really excited about that and what Evans can bring to our club."
Question 3: Are you surprised that Ken Evans left NY? And why do you think Evans left NY?
Dirtyhill03: "I am a little surprised, yes. I don't know how or why he left, but once he became a free agent he became out # 1 target. There was a lot of back and forth on how high to take the offer, but once payroll was cleared we decided to go all the way. Unfortunately we had to lose some good players to make the payroll work and we'll miss those guys. However, I feel like it will be worth it in the long run."
Question 4: After dealing Dean Gagne and Peaches Hernandez your fans have some concerns about the offense. A lot of fans don't think there will be enough run support for your great pitching. Do you have any concerns about the line up?
Dirtyhill03: "No concerns at all. Hated to lose those two and wish them all the best and wish the teams they're going to a great season. However, we still think we will have a very strong offense. We picked up Fausto Gonzalez in a deal that didn't get much attention but it's one we think will pay immediate dividends for us. Also, we're well positioned to put some of our young players in there and we don't anticipate much drop off at all. With guys like Brutus Henry and Donaldo Cordero to go along with the guys we've had for a couple of seasons, we think our offense will be fine."
Question 5: Which franchise do you feel did the best in FA?
Dirtyhill03: "I think ATL was a decent bullpen away from a WS appearance and possible win last season. They clearly addressed the bullpen this off season and I think it made them even better for season 10. I'm amazed by the maneuvers that Syracuse did and how they were able to sign FA players and still improve thier draft positioning. A lot of teams did a good job addressing some needs, but those two stood out to me."
Question 6: In your opinion, who will be the season 10 AL champ? Who will be the NL champ? and who is going to win the WS?
Dirtyhill03: "I think the AL competition got a lot tougher with Evans coming here to KC. Ultimately I think ATL and HOU are still the teams the beat. We're Gunning for them though. I think the NL is still all about ROC and DOV. The NL has picked up a lot of talent that had been sitting in the AL though. So those two are going to have tougher competition than maybe they've seen in a couple of seasons. I think ROC will make it through a much improved NL. I think that ATL, HOU, and KC are neck and neck (and neck) in the AL, with ploppie's team not far behind. I wouldn't be surprised to see any of those 4 in the world series. And being an AL guy, give me the AL in the world series!"
Well that's all the time we have for today. Thank you for your time Dirtyhill03 (The Tweaker), and best of luck this season.
Question 1: A lot of owners are calling this FA class the best ever. Do you agree?
Dirtyhill03: "Absolutely. The amount of talent available in the FA was staggering. A lot of teams were able to address their needs with really good players. Will be interesting to see how it all plays out."
Question 2: Are you happy with how the Tweakers did in the FA period?
Dirtyhill03: "We landed the best starting pitcher on the market. We're really excited about that and what Evans can bring to our club."
Question 3: Are you surprised that Ken Evans left NY? And why do you think Evans left NY?
Dirtyhill03: "I am a little surprised, yes. I don't know how or why he left, but once he became a free agent he became out # 1 target. There was a lot of back and forth on how high to take the offer, but once payroll was cleared we decided to go all the way. Unfortunately we had to lose some good players to make the payroll work and we'll miss those guys. However, I feel like it will be worth it in the long run."
Question 4: After dealing Dean Gagne and Peaches Hernandez your fans have some concerns about the offense. A lot of fans don't think there will be enough run support for your great pitching. Do you have any concerns about the line up?
Dirtyhill03: "No concerns at all. Hated to lose those two and wish them all the best and wish the teams they're going to a great season. However, we still think we will have a very strong offense. We picked up Fausto Gonzalez in a deal that didn't get much attention but it's one we think will pay immediate dividends for us. Also, we're well positioned to put some of our young players in there and we don't anticipate much drop off at all. With guys like Brutus Henry and Donaldo Cordero to go along with the guys we've had for a couple of seasons, we think our offense will be fine."
Question 5: Which franchise do you feel did the best in FA?
Dirtyhill03: "I think ATL was a decent bullpen away from a WS appearance and possible win last season. They clearly addressed the bullpen this off season and I think it made them even better for season 10. I'm amazed by the maneuvers that Syracuse did and how they were able to sign FA players and still improve thier draft positioning. A lot of teams did a good job addressing some needs, but those two stood out to me."
Question 6: In your opinion, who will be the season 10 AL champ? Who will be the NL champ? and who is going to win the WS?
Dirtyhill03: "I think the AL competition got a lot tougher with Evans coming here to KC. Ultimately I think ATL and HOU are still the teams the beat. We're Gunning for them though. I think the NL is still all about ROC and DOV. The NL has picked up a lot of talent that had been sitting in the AL though. So those two are going to have tougher competition than maybe they've seen in a couple of seasons. I think ROC will make it through a much improved NL. I think that ATL, HOU, and KC are neck and neck (and neck) in the AL, with ploppie's team not far behind. I wouldn't be surprised to see any of those 4 in the world series. And being an AL guy, give me the AL in the world series!"
Well that's all the time we have for today. Thank you for your time Dirtyhill03 (The Tweaker), and best of luck this season.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Minor League Quick Glance - NL North
Fargo Fighters
AAA: 50-39
AA: 59-30
A+: 53-36
A-: 41-48
RL: 10-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Tommy Schalk
Position Player: Al James
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Sven Abbey
Position Player: Al James
Potential Stars:
Schalk; Abbey; James; Howard Greer; Reed Wright; Felipe Chantres
Ottawa Renegades
AAA: 52-37
AA: 48-41
A+: 34-55
A-: 45-44
RL: 4-17
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Clarence Fleming
Position Player: Alfredo Stone
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Kyle Gibson
Position Player: Bill Burnett
Potential Stars:
Gibson; Burnett
Rochester Rolling Rocks
AAA: 24-65
AA: 31-58
A+: 36-53
A-: 54-35
RL: 11-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: No one
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Timothy Anderson
Position Player: Hooks Weathers
Potential Stars:
Weathers; John Pickett
Syracuse Sycophants
AAA: 55-34
AA: 69-20
A+: 48-41
A-: 26-63
RL: 6-15
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Al Owen
Position Player: Joaquin Saenz
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Dave Munson
Position Player: Julio Cordero
Potential Stars:
Munson
AAA: 50-39
AA: 59-30
A+: 53-36
A-: 41-48
RL: 10-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Tommy Schalk
Position Player: Al James
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Sven Abbey
Position Player: Al James
Potential Stars:
Schalk; Abbey; James; Howard Greer; Reed Wright; Felipe Chantres
Ottawa Renegades
AAA: 52-37
AA: 48-41
A+: 34-55
A-: 45-44
RL: 4-17
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Clarence Fleming
Position Player: Alfredo Stone
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Kyle Gibson
Position Player: Bill Burnett
Potential Stars:
Gibson; Burnett
Rochester Rolling Rocks
AAA: 24-65
AA: 31-58
A+: 36-53
A-: 54-35
RL: 11-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: No one
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Timothy Anderson
Position Player: Hooks Weathers
Potential Stars:
Weathers; John Pickett
Syracuse Sycophants
AAA: 55-34
AA: 69-20
A+: 48-41
A-: 26-63
RL: 6-15
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Al Owen
Position Player: Joaquin Saenz
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Dave Munson
Position Player: Julio Cordero
Potential Stars:
Munson
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Minor League Quick Glance - NL East
Buffalo Bisons
AAA: 56-33
AA: 44-45
A+: 67-22
A-: 67-22
RL: 17-5
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Brian Wang
Position Player: Patrick Donatello
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Brandon Wall
Position Player: Curt Hebert
Potential Stars:
Wall; Marvin Walsh
Cincinnati Red Stockings
AAA: 27-62
AA: 49-40
A+: 48-41
A-: 59-30
RL: 18-4
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Steve Evans
Position Player: Oscar McNally
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Bengie Cruz
Position Player: B.C. Moreno
Potential Stars:
Cruz; Moreno; Sammy Jimenez
Dover Diamond Dogs
AAA: 51-38
AA: 36-53
A+: 42-47
A-: 33-56
RL: 10-12
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Khoury Waters
Position Player: Roberto Bennett
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Khoury Waters
Position Player: Roberto Bennett
Potential Stars:
Bennett
New York Primetimers
AAA: 52-37
AA: 51-38
A+: 30-59
A-: 28-61
RL: 6-15
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Jorel Buck
Position Player: Lynn Castillo
Best long-term prospect:
Jorel Buck
Position Player: Terry James
Potential Stars:
James; Guillermo Campos
Next up: NL North
AAA: 56-33
AA: 44-45
A+: 67-22
A-: 67-22
RL: 17-5
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Brian Wang
Position Player: Patrick Donatello
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Brandon Wall
Position Player: Curt Hebert
Potential Stars:
Wall; Marvin Walsh
Cincinnati Red Stockings
AAA: 27-62
AA: 49-40
A+: 48-41
A-: 59-30
RL: 18-4
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Steve Evans
Position Player: Oscar McNally
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Bengie Cruz
Position Player: B.C. Moreno
Potential Stars:
Cruz; Moreno; Sammy Jimenez
Dover Diamond Dogs
AAA: 51-38
AA: 36-53
A+: 42-47
A-: 33-56
RL: 10-12
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Khoury Waters
Position Player: Roberto Bennett
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Khoury Waters
Position Player: Roberto Bennett
Potential Stars:
Bennett
New York Primetimers
AAA: 52-37
AA: 51-38
A+: 30-59
A-: 28-61
RL: 6-15
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Jorel Buck
Position Player: Lynn Castillo
Best long-term prospect:
Jorel Buck
Position Player: Terry James
Potential Stars:
James; Guillermo Campos
Next up: NL North
Monday, July 19, 2010
Minor League Quick Glance - NL South
Charleston Chew
AAA: 54-33
AA: 23-64
A+: 21-66
A-: 20-67
RL: 10-9
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Norman LaPorta
Position Player: Alex Wang
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Norman LaPorta
Position Player: Stubby Shaw
Potential Stars:
LaPorta; Shaw; Wilt Gaetti; Ron Gross; Jumbo Flores
Jackson Rockets
AAA: 35-52
AA: 55-32
A+: 60-27
A-: 34-53
RL: 7-12
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: R.A. Gonzales
Position Player: Joaquin Barajas
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Von Rain
Position Player: Deivi Dotel
Potential Stars:
Rain; Dotel; Yorvit Ortiz
Nashville Mayhem
AAA: 27-60
AA: 21-66
A+: 23-64
A-: 35-52
RL: 11-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Ezdra Lee
Position Player: Zip Williams
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Keith Munoz
Position Player: Shawn Dixon
Potential Stars:
Dixon
San Juan Chinchillas
AAA: 52-35
AA: 49-38
A+: 57-30
A-: 42-45
RL: 13-6
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Quilvio Perez
Position Player: Joel King
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Alex Satou
Position Player: George Fultz
Potential Stars:
Satou; Fultz; Charlie Henderson; Rafael Abreu; Gus Lennon; Fernando Cortes; Jordan Salmon
Next up: NL East
AAA: 54-33
AA: 23-64
A+: 21-66
A-: 20-67
RL: 10-9
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Norman LaPorta
Position Player: Alex Wang
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Norman LaPorta
Position Player: Stubby Shaw
Potential Stars:
LaPorta; Shaw; Wilt Gaetti; Ron Gross; Jumbo Flores
Jackson Rockets
AAA: 35-52
AA: 55-32
A+: 60-27
A-: 34-53
RL: 7-12
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: R.A. Gonzales
Position Player: Joaquin Barajas
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Von Rain
Position Player: Deivi Dotel
Potential Stars:
Rain; Dotel; Yorvit Ortiz
Nashville Mayhem
AAA: 27-60
AA: 21-66
A+: 23-64
A-: 35-52
RL: 11-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Ezdra Lee
Position Player: Zip Williams
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Keith Munoz
Position Player: Shawn Dixon
Potential Stars:
Dixon
San Juan Chinchillas
AAA: 52-35
AA: 49-38
A+: 57-30
A-: 42-45
RL: 13-6
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Quilvio Perez
Position Player: Joel King
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Alex Satou
Position Player: George Fultz
Potential Stars:
Satou; Fultz; Charlie Henderson; Rafael Abreu; Gus Lennon; Fernando Cortes; Jordan Salmon
Next up: NL East
Minor League Quick Glance - NL West
Cheyenne Chiefs
AAA: 37-50
AA: 44-43
A+: 50-37
A-: 73-14
RL: 11-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Denny Morton
Position Player: Nigel Nakamura
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Denny Morton
Position Player: Alex Hernandez
Potential Stars:
Morton; Hernandez; Miguel Candelaria; Julio Espinosa; Jose Martin; Edgard Cordero; Mark Martin; Pedro Lopez
Honolulu Haoles
AAA: 57-30
AA: 39-48
A+: 43-44
A-: 52-35
RL: 9-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Larry Robinson
Position Player: Midre Mantalban
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Felipe Gonzalez
Position Player: Midre Mantalban
Potential Stars:
Gonzalez; Montalban; Stevie Stanley
Los Angeles Lunatics
AAA: 43-44
AA: 61-26
A+: 55-32
A-: 63-24
RL: 12-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Darron Wolf
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Darron Wolf
Potential Stars:
Wolf; Jim Baez
Sacramento Fighting Cornish Hens
AAA: 31-56
AA: 30-57
A+: 37-50
A-: 32-55
RL: 8-12
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Yamil Hernandez
Position Player: No one
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Jo-jo Strickland
Position Player: Sterling Wright
Potential Stars:
Wright; Strickland; Phillip Thompson
Next up: NL South
AAA: 37-50
AA: 44-43
A+: 50-37
A-: 73-14
RL: 11-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Denny Morton
Position Player: Nigel Nakamura
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Denny Morton
Position Player: Alex Hernandez
Potential Stars:
Morton; Hernandez; Miguel Candelaria; Julio Espinosa; Jose Martin; Edgard Cordero; Mark Martin; Pedro Lopez
Honolulu Haoles
AAA: 57-30
AA: 39-48
A+: 43-44
A-: 52-35
RL: 9-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Larry Robinson
Position Player: Midre Mantalban
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Felipe Gonzalez
Position Player: Midre Mantalban
Potential Stars:
Gonzalez; Montalban; Stevie Stanley
Los Angeles Lunatics
AAA: 43-44
AA: 61-26
A+: 55-32
A-: 63-24
RL: 12-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Darron Wolf
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Darron Wolf
Potential Stars:
Wolf; Jim Baez
Sacramento Fighting Cornish Hens
AAA: 31-56
AA: 30-57
A+: 37-50
A-: 32-55
RL: 8-12
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Yamil Hernandez
Position Player: No one
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Jo-jo Strickland
Position Player: Sterling Wright
Potential Stars:
Wright; Strickland; Phillip Thompson
Next up: NL South
Minor League Quick Glance - AL West
Arizona Hammer'd Leprechauns
AAA: 61-26
AA: 67-20
A+: 50-37
A-: 57-30
RL: 11-9
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Victor Almanzar
Position Player: Orlando Garrido
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Victor Almanzar
Position Player: Mendy Kondou
Potential Stars:
Almanzar; Kondou; Garrido; Max Mantalban; William Sabathia; Trevor McQuillan; Anibal Batista; Al Flores
Colorado Abominable Snowmen
AAA: 41-46
AA: 37-50
A+: 38-49
A-: 54-33
RL: 13-7
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Clint Seaton
Position Player: No one
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Clint Seaton
Position Player: Ken Barry
Potential Stars:
None
Kansas City Tweakers
AAA: 55-32
AA: 48-39
A+: 48-39
A-: 45-42
RL: 9-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Danys Valentin
Position Player: Brutus Henry
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Tomas Batista
Position Player: Brutus Henry
Potential Stars:
Valentin; Batista; Henry; Sawyer Castner
Vancouver Canadians
AAA: 57-30
AA: 44-43
A+: 46-41
A-: 56-31
RL: 12-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Roy Thompson
Position Player: Vic Martinez
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Erubiel Ortiz
Position Player: Vic Martinez
Potential Stars:
Thompson; Martinez; Ortiz; Elston Lloyd; Ronald Donnelly; Chief King
Next up: NL West
AAA: 61-26
AA: 67-20
A+: 50-37
A-: 57-30
RL: 11-9
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Victor Almanzar
Position Player: Orlando Garrido
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Victor Almanzar
Position Player: Mendy Kondou
Potential Stars:
Almanzar; Kondou; Garrido; Max Mantalban; William Sabathia; Trevor McQuillan; Anibal Batista; Al Flores
Colorado Abominable Snowmen
AAA: 41-46
AA: 37-50
A+: 38-49
A-: 54-33
RL: 13-7
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Clint Seaton
Position Player: No one
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Clint Seaton
Position Player: Ken Barry
Potential Stars:
None
Kansas City Tweakers
AAA: 55-32
AA: 48-39
A+: 48-39
A-: 45-42
RL: 9-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Danys Valentin
Position Player: Brutus Henry
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Tomas Batista
Position Player: Brutus Henry
Potential Stars:
Valentin; Batista; Henry; Sawyer Castner
Vancouver Canadians
AAA: 57-30
AA: 44-43
A+: 46-41
A-: 56-31
RL: 12-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Roy Thompson
Position Player: Vic Martinez
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Erubiel Ortiz
Position Player: Vic Martinez
Potential Stars:
Thompson; Martinez; Ortiz; Elston Lloyd; Ronald Donnelly; Chief King
Next up: NL West
Minor League Quick Glance - AL South
I'd like to issue an official apology to ekoontz for ripping his farm system. First, he is clearly very successful at the ML level. Second, I hadn't seen the records from this division yet. Yikes.
Austin Rock Stars (this team is just stacked for the future)
AAA: 54-43
AA: 59-28
A+: 64-23
A-: 47-40
RL: 9-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Victor Villano
Position Player: Tommie Winn
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: No one...wait, oh, HE plays for THEM? My bad. James Haselman
Position Player: Felipe James
Potential Stars:
The Almighty; Villano; Winn; Mike Worthington; Gregory Paronto; Ernest Bailey; Carlos Castro; Benito James
Houston Space Cowboys
AAA: 6-81
AA: 14-73
A+: 8-79
A-: 10-77
RL: 8-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Dion Hood
Position Player: John Rupe
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Dion Hood
Position Player: John Rupe
Potential Stars:
None
Richmond Rat Bastids
AAA: 51-36
AA: 58-29
A+: 72-15
A-: 67-20
RL: 10-9
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Willie Alfonzo
Position Player: Yovani Ozuna
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Willie Alfonzo
Position Player: Yovani Ozuna
Potential Stars:
Ozuna
St. Louis Beermen
AAA: 40-47
AA: 0-87 (What?)
A+: 7-80
A-: 21-66
RL: 9-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Rob Bates
Position Player: Eduardo Calderone
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Allen Cox
Position Player: Neifi Gandarillas
Potential Stars:
Cox; Gandarillas, Calderone
Next: AL West
Austin Rock Stars (this team is just stacked for the future)
AAA: 54-43
AA: 59-28
A+: 64-23
A-: 47-40
RL: 9-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Victor Villano
Position Player: Tommie Winn
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: No one...wait, oh, HE plays for THEM? My bad. James Haselman
Position Player: Felipe James
Potential Stars:
The Almighty; Villano; Winn; Mike Worthington; Gregory Paronto; Ernest Bailey; Carlos Castro; Benito James
Houston Space Cowboys
AAA: 6-81
AA: 14-73
A+: 8-79
A-: 10-77
RL: 8-11
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Dion Hood
Position Player: John Rupe
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Dion Hood
Position Player: John Rupe
Potential Stars:
None
Richmond Rat Bastids
AAA: 51-36
AA: 58-29
A+: 72-15
A-: 67-20
RL: 10-9
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Willie Alfonzo
Position Player: Yovani Ozuna
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Willie Alfonzo
Position Player: Yovani Ozuna
Potential Stars:
Ozuna
St. Louis Beermen
AAA: 40-47
AA: 0-87 (What?)
A+: 7-80
A-: 21-66
RL: 9-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Rob Bates
Position Player: Eduardo Calderone
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Allen Cox
Position Player: Neifi Gandarillas
Potential Stars:
Cox; Gandarillas, Calderone
Next: AL West
Minor League Quick Glance - AL East
Atlanta Expos
AAA: 4-82 (no, that's not a typo)
AA: 16-70 (neither is that)
A+: 40-46
A-: 23-63
RL: 4-15
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Rafael Mercedes
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Rafael Mercedes
Potential Stars:
Mercedes
Boston Massacre
AAA: 51-35
AA: 69-17
A+: 47-39
A-: 43-43
RL: 11-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Jerry Wise
Position Player: Bronson Collier
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Felix Wheat
Position Player: Micah Olmos (if he sticks at SS)
Potential Stars:
Wheat; Hawk Zornes
Burlington Huskies
AAA: 51-35
AA: 48-38
A+: 50-36
A-: 51-35
RL: 12-7
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Endy Prince
Position Player: Miguel Miranda
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Endy Prince
Position Player: Miguel Miranda
Potential Stars:
Prince
Durham Radicals
AAA: 30-56
AA: 39-47
A+: 45-41
A-: 34-52
RL: 9-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Posiedon Cameron
Position Player: Delino Manzanillo
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Posiedon Cameron
Position Player: Shawon Stoops
Potential Stars:
Cameron; Stoops; Manzanillo; Charlie Borders; Roger Mahay
Next up: AL South
AAA: 4-82 (no, that's not a typo)
AA: 16-70 (neither is that)
A+: 40-46
A-: 23-63
RL: 4-15
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Rafael Mercedes
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: No one
Position Player: Rafael Mercedes
Potential Stars:
Mercedes
Boston Massacre
AAA: 51-35
AA: 69-17
A+: 47-39
A-: 43-43
RL: 11-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Jerry Wise
Position Player: Bronson Collier
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Felix Wheat
Position Player: Micah Olmos (if he sticks at SS)
Potential Stars:
Wheat; Hawk Zornes
Burlington Huskies
AAA: 51-35
AA: 48-38
A+: 50-36
A-: 51-35
RL: 12-7
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Endy Prince
Position Player: Miguel Miranda
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Endy Prince
Position Player: Miguel Miranda
Potential Stars:
Prince
Durham Radicals
AAA: 30-56
AA: 39-47
A+: 45-41
A-: 34-52
RL: 9-10
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Posiedon Cameron
Position Player: Delino Manzanillo
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Posiedon Cameron
Position Player: Shawon Stoops
Potential Stars:
Cameron; Stoops; Manzanillo; Charlie Borders; Roger Mahay
Next up: AL South
Minor League Quick Glance - AL North
Chicago Puppies
AAA: 34-52
AA: 44-42
A+: 55-31
A-: 59-27
RL: 12-6
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Jesus Uribe
Position Player: Sammy Nelson
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Roger Hermida
Position Player: Clarence Loney
Potential Stars:
Loney; Nelson, Hermida
Minnesota Modern Gentlemen
AAA: 53-33
AA: 50-36
A+: 59-27
A-: 39-47
RL: 10-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Lyle Wallace
Position Player: Santo Martinez
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Lyle Wallace
Position Player: Santo Martinez
Potential Stars:
Wallace; Martinez; Jayson Klesko; Edgard Aquino
New York Pride of the Yankees
AAA: 51-35
AA: 46-40
A+: 33-53
A-: 58-28
RL: 10-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Alex Yosida
Position Player: Randy Knight
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Alex Yosida
Position Player: Bill Lombard
Potential Stars:
Yosida; Lombard; Dallas Hill; Jorel Swift
Tacoma Termites
AAA: 53-33
AA: 52-34
A+: 31-55
A-: 29-57
RL: 5-13
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Bob Halter
Position Player: Mandy Vander Wal
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Rusty Hogan
Position Player: Denny Juden
Potential Stars:
Juden; Vander Wal; Hogan; Ellie Jenkins; Roger Wohlers; Junior Crespo; Jaime Lansing
Next up: AL East
AAA: 34-52
AA: 44-42
A+: 55-31
A-: 59-27
RL: 12-6
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Jesus Uribe
Position Player: Sammy Nelson
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Roger Hermida
Position Player: Clarence Loney
Potential Stars:
Loney; Nelson, Hermida
Minnesota Modern Gentlemen
AAA: 53-33
AA: 50-36
A+: 59-27
A-: 39-47
RL: 10-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Lyle Wallace
Position Player: Santo Martinez
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Lyle Wallace
Position Player: Santo Martinez
Potential Stars:
Wallace; Martinez; Jayson Klesko; Edgard Aquino
New York Pride of the Yankees
AAA: 51-35
AA: 46-40
A+: 33-53
A-: 58-28
RL: 10-8
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Alex Yosida
Position Player: Randy Knight
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Alex Yosida
Position Player: Bill Lombard
Potential Stars:
Yosida; Lombard; Dallas Hill; Jorel Swift
Tacoma Termites
AAA: 53-33
AA: 52-34
A+: 31-55
A-: 29-57
RL: 5-13
Closest to making a Major League impact:
Pitcher: Bob Halter
Position Player: Mandy Vander Wal
Best long-term prospect:
Pitcher: Rusty Hogan
Position Player: Denny Juden
Potential Stars:
Juden; Vander Wal; Hogan; Ellie Jenkins; Roger Wohlers; Junior Crespo; Jaime Lansing
Next up: AL East
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