I've written about some teams with position battles at second and third base.
This installment includes a look at some teams with options, or should I say problems, at first base -- and how they're solving those.
The White Sox and Mariners seem willing to go the route of weakening their defense in exchange for the possibility of increased offense. The Pirate no doubt will have their eyes on the waiver wire or trade possibilities.
Chicago signed Cuban 1B Jose Abreu, possibly expecting 1B Paul Konerko to retire. His decision to return for a farewell season created a logjam at first base/DH, with Adam Dunn already there. The proposed solution is to have Dunn play left field. Sox pitchers no doubt are overjoyed.
Seattle's taking a similar tack. 1B Justin Smoak might have saved his position with a strong second half in 2013. But then they traded for 1B/OF Corey Hart, whose outfield days are numbered at best. The Mariners also are working failed C Jesus Montero at first base. So there could be something like Smoak at first, Montero as a shaky DH and Hart as a shaky outfielder in a big outfield. Sure, Seattle has added 2B Robinson Cano to RHP Felix Hernandez and 3B Kyle Seager, but what else is there?
Pirates 1B Gaby Sanchez is making noise about being a full-time player this year. The right-handed batter wasn't very effective in just a platoon role against lefties last season, so how can he really be expected to produce every day. The alternatives or possible platoon players are left-handed batters Travis Ishikawa, who has been found wanting elsewhere, and the unproven Andrew Lambo and Chris McGuiness.
-- Reports say the Red Sox are close to signing LHP Chris Capuano to fill the rotation spot that would have gone to RHP Ryan Dempster except that he decided not to pitch this year. They're interchangeable fifth starter at this stage of their careers, and probably average of below-average among fifth starters.
-- For starters: No surprise, RHP Adam Wainwright will start the opening game for the National League-champion Cardinals.
New Tigers manager Brad Ausmus said he hasn't decided among his wealth of right-handed talent: Max Scherzer, Justin Verlander and Anibal Sanchez. I'd rank them in that order. If Scherzer couldn't get the Opening Day start after the season he had in 2013, when would he? Verlander is 31, so logic tells us he isn't likely to have another year as good as his glory days. Sanchez can be unhittable; the inconsistent one can also be hittable.
Detroit has decided on a starter for its opening exhibition game Tuesday against Florida Southern College, and its Ver ... no, not Verlander, but rookie RHP Drew VerHagen, who finished last season at Double-A Erie. I saw VerHagen on a few occasions when he was at Rockwall-Heath High School in Texas. He was drafted in the fourth round out of Vanderbilt in 2012.
* * *
Basketball. Team Fresh Prints maintained its 7-1 lead for this week. Friday's games could be the key to protecting that lead or even going ahead in free throw percentage for an 8-0 sweep. It appears that I'll have nine players to my opponent's two. If my starting nine can shoot well at the foul line, they could put a big dent in the .050 by which they trail in free throw percentage. The downside is that a bad shooting night could all but eliminate the chance of leading in free throws and could also drop the field goal percentage behind. The six other counting categories should be all but wrapped up Friday night.
Showing posts with label Justin Verlander. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Justin Verlander. Show all posts
Friday, February 21, 2014
Friday, February 14, 2014
'Retired' Jeter to kick off big week in Houston
Greetings from San Antonio.
It's a beautiful day to walk along the RiverWalk, which I'll do after posting this.
Spring training news is heating up.
The biggest story has been Yankees SS Derek Jeter's announcement that he is retiring after this season. Reminds of how Marv Levy used to say, "If you're thinking about retiring, you must as well retire." But here's a counter-reminder. Mariano Rivera announced a year ago that he would be retiring after the season. He did OK.
Rivera was a once-in-a-generation player at his position. Jeter could be the same. We'll see over then next eight months.
-- Jeter's announcement set up a big opening week for the Astros. His first regular-season game April 1 will be at Houston. On April 5, the Astros will honor retiring 1B/DH Lance Berkman and RHP Roy Oswalt. They stayed around a year or two too long, which could be a danger for Jeter. In addition, Nolan Ryan will be in his first week as an advisor to Houston's management. If his presence can do what it did with the Rangers, especially in terms of toughening up the starting pitchers, the Astros' rebound into contention could be quicker than we'd expect.
-- In injury news, Mariners RHP Hisashi Iwakuma is expected to miss the beginning of this season. He can't throw for 4-6 weeks because of a strained tendon in his middle finger. Seattle signed two other former major league starters, LHP Randy Wolf and RHP Zach Minor, to minor league contracts.
-- The Phillies gained one pitcher, but lost another for the beginning of the season. They signed free-agent RHP A.J. Burnett to a one-year, $16-million contract. He could fill in early for LHP Cole Hamels, who is expected to begin the season on the disabled list because of biceps tendinitis.
-- Another star pitcher, Tigers RHP Justin Verlander, is expected to be ready to start the season. He underwent surgery in January on both sides of his mid-section. Philadelphia also released RHP Chad Gaudin, who failed his physical exam.
-- The Cubs signed two potential starters, RHPs Jason Hammel and James McDonald, who were low-end free agents. The two pitchers they waived to make room on the 40-man roster both were claimed -- LHP Brooks Raley by the Twins and PHP Brett Marshall by the Reds.
-- In a trade, the Nationals picked up Jose Lobaton, the catcher they had been seeking, from the Rays for RHP Nathan Karns. The 26-year-old was the Double-A Eastern League's ERA leader at 3.26 for Harrisburg, where he was 10-6. Washington also acquired two 22-year-olds, OF Drew Vettleson -- whose 2013 season at high Class A Charlotte of .274, four home runs and 62 RBI was comparable to what he had done in his first two minor league seasons, but with less power -- and LHP Felipe Rivero, who was 9-7 with a 3.40 ERA at Charlotte.
-- Heading the list of those signing contracts were relievers. The Mariners agreed with free-agent RHP Fernando Rodney for two years and $14 million. The Royals avoided arbitration with RHP Greg Holland with a 1-year, $4.675-million deal. The Dodgers did the same with RHP Kenley Jansen for a year at $4.3 million. They all are likely to begin the season as closers. In addition, the Nationals avoided arbitration with RHP Tyler Clippard with an agreement for a year at $5.875 million.
-- Other major league signings included RHP Carlos Marmol with the Marlins for 2014 at $1.125 million. The Indians signed OF Michael Brantley for four years and $25 million, with an $11-million option for 2018.
-- The Brewers outrighted RHP Donovan Hand, who had been designated for assignment when they signed RHP Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez, to Triple-A but also invited him to spring training.
-- Minor league signings -- RHP Jose Valverde with the Mets, RHP Brandon Lyon with the Angels, LHP Eric Bedard with the Rays and LHP Rich Hill back with the Red Sox.
-- In the category of players trying to make a comeback is LHP Johan Santana, who has been throwing in Arizona for teams to observe him. If he's half the pitcher he was with the Twins, he could help a team needed at least a temporary fix in its rotation.
* * *
Basketball. The fantasy week is over, unless your league includes statistics from the NBA All-Star Game, the slam dunk contest and the other junk sports the league will throw out this weekend.
It appears that I'll finish with an 8-0 victory this week and a lead of about 16 games with 24 to play. Magic number 9, for those who are interested.
My team was down 6-2 after Tuesday. That's when Joakim Noah had a triple double, but neglected to get any steals and went just 3-for-6 at the foul line. After that night, steals and free throw percentage were the categories in which I trailed.
On Wednesday, Carmelo Anthony topped the three players on my roster who had double doubles with 36 points and 11 rebounds. Ricky Rubio's double double also included seven steals. Those steals and the overall team's 21 for 23 free throw shooting gave me the lead in those categories.
It's a beautiful day to walk along the RiverWalk, which I'll do after posting this.
Spring training news is heating up.
The biggest story has been Yankees SS Derek Jeter's announcement that he is retiring after this season. Reminds of how Marv Levy used to say, "If you're thinking about retiring, you must as well retire." But here's a counter-reminder. Mariano Rivera announced a year ago that he would be retiring after the season. He did OK.
Rivera was a once-in-a-generation player at his position. Jeter could be the same. We'll see over then next eight months.
-- Jeter's announcement set up a big opening week for the Astros. His first regular-season game April 1 will be at Houston. On April 5, the Astros will honor retiring 1B/DH Lance Berkman and RHP Roy Oswalt. They stayed around a year or two too long, which could be a danger for Jeter. In addition, Nolan Ryan will be in his first week as an advisor to Houston's management. If his presence can do what it did with the Rangers, especially in terms of toughening up the starting pitchers, the Astros' rebound into contention could be quicker than we'd expect.
-- In injury news, Mariners RHP Hisashi Iwakuma is expected to miss the beginning of this season. He can't throw for 4-6 weeks because of a strained tendon in his middle finger. Seattle signed two other former major league starters, LHP Randy Wolf and RHP Zach Minor, to minor league contracts.
-- The Phillies gained one pitcher, but lost another for the beginning of the season. They signed free-agent RHP A.J. Burnett to a one-year, $16-million contract. He could fill in early for LHP Cole Hamels, who is expected to begin the season on the disabled list because of biceps tendinitis.
-- Another star pitcher, Tigers RHP Justin Verlander, is expected to be ready to start the season. He underwent surgery in January on both sides of his mid-section. Philadelphia also released RHP Chad Gaudin, who failed his physical exam.
-- The Cubs signed two potential starters, RHPs Jason Hammel and James McDonald, who were low-end free agents. The two pitchers they waived to make room on the 40-man roster both were claimed -- LHP Brooks Raley by the Twins and PHP Brett Marshall by the Reds.
-- In a trade, the Nationals picked up Jose Lobaton, the catcher they had been seeking, from the Rays for RHP Nathan Karns. The 26-year-old was the Double-A Eastern League's ERA leader at 3.26 for Harrisburg, where he was 10-6. Washington also acquired two 22-year-olds, OF Drew Vettleson -- whose 2013 season at high Class A Charlotte of .274, four home runs and 62 RBI was comparable to what he had done in his first two minor league seasons, but with less power -- and LHP Felipe Rivero, who was 9-7 with a 3.40 ERA at Charlotte.
-- Heading the list of those signing contracts were relievers. The Mariners agreed with free-agent RHP Fernando Rodney for two years and $14 million. The Royals avoided arbitration with RHP Greg Holland with a 1-year, $4.675-million deal. The Dodgers did the same with RHP Kenley Jansen for a year at $4.3 million. They all are likely to begin the season as closers. In addition, the Nationals avoided arbitration with RHP Tyler Clippard with an agreement for a year at $5.875 million.
-- Other major league signings included RHP Carlos Marmol with the Marlins for 2014 at $1.125 million. The Indians signed OF Michael Brantley for four years and $25 million, with an $11-million option for 2018.
-- The Brewers outrighted RHP Donovan Hand, who had been designated for assignment when they signed RHP Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez, to Triple-A but also invited him to spring training.
-- Minor league signings -- RHP Jose Valverde with the Mets, RHP Brandon Lyon with the Angels, LHP Eric Bedard with the Rays and LHP Rich Hill back with the Red Sox.
-- In the category of players trying to make a comeback is LHP Johan Santana, who has been throwing in Arizona for teams to observe him. If he's half the pitcher he was with the Twins, he could help a team needed at least a temporary fix in its rotation.
* * *
Basketball. The fantasy week is over, unless your league includes statistics from the NBA All-Star Game, the slam dunk contest and the other junk sports the league will throw out this weekend.
It appears that I'll finish with an 8-0 victory this week and a lead of about 16 games with 24 to play. Magic number 9, for those who are interested.
My team was down 6-2 after Tuesday. That's when Joakim Noah had a triple double, but neglected to get any steals and went just 3-for-6 at the foul line. After that night, steals and free throw percentage were the categories in which I trailed.
On Wednesday, Carmelo Anthony topped the three players on my roster who had double doubles with 36 points and 11 rebounds. Ricky Rubio's double double also included seven steals. Those steals and the overall team's 21 for 23 free throw shooting gave me the lead in those categories.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Prado, De La Rosa still going strong
The Monday morning updates review what happened over the weekend and indicates which batters and pitchers are hot – and which are not.
NOTE: We have extended the free period for these Emails through Sunday, April 18. After that date, the Emails would go only to those who subscribe.
Before then, we’ll tell you how you can subscribe to receive these Emails five or more times per week, along with timely Articles and other information that will be added to the fantasybaseballscout.com web site.
Subscriptions will include Articles such as our “Pitchers (and Hitters) to Keep and Avoid.” Last year, our recommendation of Rockies LHP Jorge De La Rosa in itself was worth the cost of what you’d pay, and he was only one of our picks that were on the money. Choosing him was inspired; he was 0-6 when we recommended him, and 16-3 thereafter.
You also would have access to whatever content we’re able to get on to the fantasybaseballscout.com web site.
Let us know of your interest and what you’d like to see by Emailing lary@fantasybaseballscout.com.
Thanks for your continuing interest in and support of Fantasy Baseball Scout. Thanks also to those who have made suggestions as to content they’d like to see. A reminder: Subscribers will be able to ask questions specific to their fantasy teams and leagues, and receive answers through these Emails, the web site or personal Emails.
Hot
The weekly Hot and Not for batters is based on 20 at-bats for batting average, and at least a .280 BA for the other categories.
Pos. Player, Team H-AB BA HR-RBI SB
2B/3B Martin Prado, Braves 13-24 .542 0-1 0
2B Edgar Renteria, Giants 11-21 .524 1-5 0
1B/3B Miguel Cabrera, Tigers 12-23 .522 2-8 0
OF Vladimir Guerrero, Rangers 12-24 .500 1-3 0
2B/3B Placido Polanco, Phillies 13-27 .481 1-8 0
OF Jeff Francoeur, Mets 10-21 .476 2-6 0
OF Magglio Ordonez, Tigers 12-26 .462 2-6 0
OF Nelson Cruz, Rangers 9-20 .450 4-9 0
OF Franklin Gutierrez, Mariners 12-27 .444 0-2 2
3B/OF Chase Headley, Padres 11-25 .440 0-1 1
Prado is a repeater from the list of who was Hot during spring training. He is for real.
Encouraging for their teams are some young players who could be on the way to realizing their potential – Francoeur, Cruz, Gutierrez and Headley. Francoeur and Cruz have to prove they now are laying off bad pitches and aren’t just on a hot streak. Cruz had a couple of hits, including an opposite-field home run up in the Rangers Ballpark jet stream, on tough pitches away that he fought off.
Home runs – Cruz, Blue Jays SS Alex Gonzalez and OF Vernon Wells, and Cardinals 1B Albert Pujols 4; Braves RF Jason Heyward, Cardinals LF Matt Holliday, Phillies 1B Ryan Howard, Diamondbacks 2B Kelly Johnson and OF Chris B. Young, White Sox 1B Paul Konerko and Red Sox 2B Dustin Pedroia 3.
RBI – Young 11; Howard, Pujols and Marlins 1B/3B Jorge Cantu 10; Cruz 9; Cabrera, Heyward and Polanco 8; Konerko, Pedroia, Wells, Athletics 1B Daric Barton, Dodgers OF Matt Kemp and Nationals LF Josh Willingham 7.
Here are more young players who could break out – Heyward, Barton and Kemp.
Stolen bases – Athletics OF Rajai Davis and Royals OF Scott Podsednik 4; Dodgers SS Rafael Furcal and Yankees OFs Brett Gardner and Curtis Granderson 3; Gutierrez, Rays SS Jason Bartlett, Pirates SS Ronny Cedeno, Red Sox OF Jacoby Ellsbury, Tigers OF Austin Jackson, Yankees SS Derek Jeter and Phillies SS Jimmy Rollins.
Are the Yankees going to be a running team, or were their numbers merely helped by playing against the Red Sox? Will Gardner and Granderson push themselves to new heights on the bases? One week isn’t long enough to know for sure, but we’ll monitor the situation.
Runs – Holliday, Polanco, Rollins and Athletics 2B Mark Ellis 8; Davis, Pujols, Wells, Twins 1B Justin Morneau and White Sox OF Carlos Quentin 7.
Additional repeat Hot players from the spring training report are Cruz and Headley. Francoeur and Howard were on the exhibition-game Not list.
Requirements for pitchers to make these lists are 7 innings pitched for ERA and WHIP, 10 strikeouts in K:W ratio and an ERA under 4.00 for the other categories.
Hand Pitcher, Team IP W-L ERA WHIP K:W
RHP Hiroki Kuroda, Dodgers 8.0 1-0 0.00 0.75 7:1
RHP Luke Hochevar, Royals 7.2 0-0 0.00 0.78 2:1
LHP Dana Eveland, Blue Jays 7.1 1-0 0.00 0.95 2:2
LHP Jorge De La Rosa, Rockies 7.0 1-0 0.00 0.29 9:1
LHP C.J. Wilson, Rangers 7.0 0-0 0.00 1.00 9:2
RHP Livan Hernandez, Nats 7.0 1-0 0.00 1.14 1:3
RHP Roy Halladay, Phillies 16.0 2-0 0.56 0.94 17:2
RHP Matt Garza, Rays 8.0 1-0 1.13 0.75 9:2
RHP Bronson Arroyo, Reds 8.0 0-0 1.13 0.88 6:3
RHP Tim Lincecum, Giants 14.0 2-0 1.29 0.71 17:1
You probably already suspected that Halladay and Lincecum are good. De La Rosa was the star of our “Pitchers to seek” Article last season, and looks even better this year. Since we named him a “Pitcher to avoid” in 2009, Arroyo seemingly has been on a mission to prove us wrong. Beware the K:W radios for Hochevar, Eveland and Hernandez.
Also with 1.29 ERAs, but in just 7 innings pitched, were Rangers RHP Colby Lewis, Twins RHP Carl Pavano, White Sox RHP Jake Peavy and Blue Jays LHP Ricky Romero. A strategy with Romero might be to trade him at the All-Star break while his value is high, and avoid the possibility of his slumping during the season’s second half as he did last year.
Wins – Blue Jays RHP Casey Janssen 3; Halladay, Lincecum, Giants LHP Jeremy Affeldt, White Sox LHP Mark Buehrle, Pirates LHP Zach Duke and Rockies RHP Ubaldo Jimenez 2.
Saves – Twins RHP Jon Rauch 4-for-4; Nationals RHP Matt Capps 3-3; Mariners RHP David Aardsma, Padres RHP Heath Bell, Reds RHP Francisco Cordero, Blue Jays RHP Kevin Gregg, Cubs RHP Carlos Marmol, Rockies LHP Franklin Morales, Yankees RHP Mariano Rivera and Giants RHP Brian Wilson 2-2.
The word is that Capps has rediscovered the fastball that might have dwindled away while he was waiting for save opportunities with the Pirates away.
WHIP – De La Rosa 0.29; Braves RHP Tim Hudson 0.43; Lincecum and Cardinals RHP Adam Wainwright 0.71; Garza and Kuroda 0.75; Hochevar 0.78; Athletics LHP Dallas Braden and Yankees LHP C.C. Sabathia 0.85; Pavano 0.86.
K:W ratio – Lincecum 17:1; Orioles RHP Kevin Millwood 11:1; Halladay 17:2; Diamondbacks RHP Dan Haren 13:2; Braden 12:2; Blue Jays RHP Shaun Marcum 11:2; Angels RHP Jered Weaver 13:3; Jimenez 13:4; Astros RHP Roy Oswalt 11:4.
Pitchers repeating their strong spring-training performances were De La Rosa, Eveland, Affeldt, Brian Wilson and Hudson. Arroyo, Buehrle and Aardsma were on the exhibition Not list.
Not
Pos. Player, Team H-AB BA HR-RBI SB
CF Julio Borbon, Rangers 1-21 .048 0-2 0
OF Milton Bradley, Mariners 1-21 .048 1-2 0
1B Lyle Overbay, Blue Jays 2-23 .087 0-1 0
RF Hunter Pence, Astros 2-21 .095 1-2 0
2B/SS David Eckstein, Padres 2-20 .100 0-0 0
OF Melky Cabrera, Braves 3-25 .120 0-0 0
OF Juan Pierre, White Sox 3-24 .125 0-0 2
1B Mark Teixeira, Yankees 3-25 .125 0-3 0
LF Carlos Lee, Astros 3-23 .130 0-0 0
SS Alexei Ramirez, White Sox 3-23 .130 1-3 0
This week’s dis(honorable mention) goes to Brewers C Gregg Zaun 0-for-14, and Mariners C Adam Moore and Rangers C Taylor Teagarden 0-for-12. Teagarden also had seven strikeouts.
Angels 3B Brandon Wood just missed the lists, going 1-for-19, Unless he can show he’s the player who racked up huge home run totals in the minors, LA/Anaheim will have to find a replacement quickly.
Here are a couple of outfielders you should expect to see in Triple-A before long: Borbon and the Blue Jays’ Travis Snider.
W:K ratio – This one requires 10 strikeouts. Surprisingly, no major league batter reached double figures in Ks during the season’s first week. The worst ratio belonged to Padres SS Everth Cabrera at 0:9.
Caught stealing – Miguel Cabrera and Rockies OF Carlos Gonzalez 0-for-2; Indians SS Asdrubal Cabrera and Mariners RF Ichiro Suzuki 1-3.
Repeaters from the spring-training Not list are Borbon and Teagarden. Pence was on the Hot list from the exhibition games; we’re still confident that he’ll have a good year.
Hand Pitcher, Team IP W-L ERA WHIP K:W
RHP Carlos Zambrano, Cubs 8.1 1-1 11.88 1.92 10:4
RHP Vicente Padilla, Dodgers 8.2 0-1 11.42 2.08 8:4
RHP Justin Verlander, Tigers 10.0 0-0 9.00 1.50 9:4
LHP John Lannan, Nationals 8.2 1-1 8.31 2.19 2:6
RHP Jake Westbrook, Indians 9.2 0-1 7.45 2.17 8:7
RHP Yovani Gallardo, Brewers 12.0 0-2 6.75 1.33 10:4
RHP Josh Johnson, Marlins 10.0 0-1 6.30 2.00 10:7
RHP Josh Beckett, Red Sox 11.2 1-0 6.17 1.80 5:4
RHP Chris Carpenter, Cards 11.0 1-0 5.73 1.27 7:2
The pitchers eligible for this list all started twice during the week. Some of baseball’s best pitchers appear here: Verlander, Gallardo, Johnson, Beckett, Carpenter. It’s too early to panic, but keep an eye on them – especially on their K:W ratios, which could show that they no longer can blow batters away or that they might be hurt. Beckett and Gallardo could have lost some fire after signing big contracts.
Losses – Gallardo, Rangers RHP Frank Francisco, Padres RHP Jon Garland, Orioles LHP Mike Gonzalez, Cubs LHP John Grabow, Astros RHP Roy Oswalt and Angels LHP Joe Saunders 2.
Blown saves – Francisco and Red Sox RHP Daniel Bard 0-for-2; Gonzalez 1-3; Brewers RHP Trevor Hoffman 2-4.
Returning to the Not list, where they also resided from spring training, are Verlander and Gonzalez.
News and Notes
Ellsbury left Boston’s game Sunday after a collision with 3B Adrian Beltre while chasing a foul popup. Beltre’s knee hit Ellsbury’s rib cage. X rays were negative, and the left fielder is considered day to day.
I like Joe Maddon as the Rays’ manager, but he made a couple of moves Sunday that didn’t make sense to me. In the first inning, after the first two Rays had hits against Yankees RHP A.J. Burnett, No. 3 batter Ben Zobrist bunted a runner from second base to third. Maddon excused the action of giving up an out that settled down a struggling pitcher by saying that Zobrist didn’t feel comfortable against Burnett. Then why was the right fielder batting third in the lineup? If he is the next time he faces A.J., I’ll really be disappointed in Maddon. The other move came late, when Tampa Bay still was stuck on the two runs it had scored in the first inning. With switch-hitting C Jorge Posada coming to bat, the manager replaced the starter, RHP James Shields, with sidearm LHP Randy Choate. Now Choate may have retired a right-handed batter during his undistinguished career, but I don’t remember when. He threw a pitch to Posada that the catcher hit for a home run. Weren’t the odds better that Shields at least would have kept the ball in the park?
I didn’t see Mariners RHP Felix Hernandez in person, but on TV he appeared to be in good shape and not carrying extra weight. His physical conditioning seems to be the only thing that could keep King Felix from being successful. Hernandez does have a big, new contract, but we expect that his team’s lack of offense will be a bigger problem for him than a potential big head.
To give you an idea, our pitching chart for the regular season’s first week had the right pitcher on the right date in 87 per cent of the games (160 of 184). The American League record was 95 per cent (84-for-88) but the National League projections hit on 79 per cent (76-for-96). We had the right pitchers in the right number of starts closer to 95 per cent, but some teams switched the order of those starters from what we had projected. Those switches each resulted in two – and in one case three – games that weren’t matched with the right pitcher.
Minor matters
The bloodletting continued Friday in the Triple-A International League series between Columbus (Indians organization) and Indianapolis (Pirates). Indy won 14-12, with Pedro Alvarez hitting two homers to bring his total to three in two games. Clippers C Carlos Santana hit one homer, also for a total of three after he’d hit two in Columbus’ 17-4 Opening Day win over Indianapolis, so he also had three dingers in two games.
On Sunday, Reds LHP prospect Aroldis Chapman made his U.S. pro debut with eight strikeouts for Triple-A Louisville at Toledo (Tigers), and Nationals RHP prospect Stephen Strasburg gave up four runs (one earned) in five innings for Double-A Harrisburg at Altoona (Pirates).
In closing
This is a regular feature of our Emails and blog posts. It lets you know who’s getting saves. Equally important is telling you who’s blowing saves or putting his job in jeopardy by getting shaky saves. There’s also a FREE Article on the old fantasybaseballscout.com web site letting you know which pitcher or pitchers each team is using to close games. It will be updated whenever there’s a change or speculation about a change in a team’s closer.
Indians RHP Chris Perez blew a save Sunday as the Tigers scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth inning for a 9-8 victory. Hoffman also blew a save by allowing the Cardinals to score three times in the top of the ninth on back-to-back two-out homers by Pujols and LF Matt Holliday. Pujols’ was a two-run shot. Hoffman became the winning pitcher when Brewers 3B/2B Casey McGehee homered in the bottom of the inning against St. Louis RHP Kyle McClellan.
NOTE: We have extended the free period for these Emails through Sunday, April 18. After that date, the Emails would go only to those who subscribe.
Before then, we’ll tell you how you can subscribe to receive these Emails five or more times per week, along with timely Articles and other information that will be added to the fantasybaseballscout.com web site.
Subscriptions will include Articles such as our “Pitchers (and Hitters) to Keep and Avoid.” Last year, our recommendation of Rockies LHP Jorge De La Rosa in itself was worth the cost of what you’d pay, and he was only one of our picks that were on the money. Choosing him was inspired; he was 0-6 when we recommended him, and 16-3 thereafter.
You also would have access to whatever content we’re able to get on to the fantasybaseballscout.com web site.
Let us know of your interest and what you’d like to see by Emailing lary@fantasybaseballscout.com.
Thanks for your continuing interest in and support of Fantasy Baseball Scout. Thanks also to those who have made suggestions as to content they’d like to see. A reminder: Subscribers will be able to ask questions specific to their fantasy teams and leagues, and receive answers through these Emails, the web site or personal Emails.
Hot
The weekly Hot and Not for batters is based on 20 at-bats for batting average, and at least a .280 BA for the other categories.
Pos. Player, Team H-AB BA HR-RBI SB
2B/3B Martin Prado, Braves 13-24 .542 0-1 0
2B Edgar Renteria, Giants 11-21 .524 1-5 0
1B/3B Miguel Cabrera, Tigers 12-23 .522 2-8 0
OF Vladimir Guerrero, Rangers 12-24 .500 1-3 0
2B/3B Placido Polanco, Phillies 13-27 .481 1-8 0
OF Jeff Francoeur, Mets 10-21 .476 2-6 0
OF Magglio Ordonez, Tigers 12-26 .462 2-6 0
OF Nelson Cruz, Rangers 9-20 .450 4-9 0
OF Franklin Gutierrez, Mariners 12-27 .444 0-2 2
3B/OF Chase Headley, Padres 11-25 .440 0-1 1
Prado is a repeater from the list of who was Hot during spring training. He is for real.
Encouraging for their teams are some young players who could be on the way to realizing their potential – Francoeur, Cruz, Gutierrez and Headley. Francoeur and Cruz have to prove they now are laying off bad pitches and aren’t just on a hot streak. Cruz had a couple of hits, including an opposite-field home run up in the Rangers Ballpark jet stream, on tough pitches away that he fought off.
Home runs – Cruz, Blue Jays SS Alex Gonzalez and OF Vernon Wells, and Cardinals 1B Albert Pujols 4; Braves RF Jason Heyward, Cardinals LF Matt Holliday, Phillies 1B Ryan Howard, Diamondbacks 2B Kelly Johnson and OF Chris B. Young, White Sox 1B Paul Konerko and Red Sox 2B Dustin Pedroia 3.
RBI – Young 11; Howard, Pujols and Marlins 1B/3B Jorge Cantu 10; Cruz 9; Cabrera, Heyward and Polanco 8; Konerko, Pedroia, Wells, Athletics 1B Daric Barton, Dodgers OF Matt Kemp and Nationals LF Josh Willingham 7.
Here are more young players who could break out – Heyward, Barton and Kemp.
Stolen bases – Athletics OF Rajai Davis and Royals OF Scott Podsednik 4; Dodgers SS Rafael Furcal and Yankees OFs Brett Gardner and Curtis Granderson 3; Gutierrez, Rays SS Jason Bartlett, Pirates SS Ronny Cedeno, Red Sox OF Jacoby Ellsbury, Tigers OF Austin Jackson, Yankees SS Derek Jeter and Phillies SS Jimmy Rollins.
Are the Yankees going to be a running team, or were their numbers merely helped by playing against the Red Sox? Will Gardner and Granderson push themselves to new heights on the bases? One week isn’t long enough to know for sure, but we’ll monitor the situation.
Runs – Holliday, Polanco, Rollins and Athletics 2B Mark Ellis 8; Davis, Pujols, Wells, Twins 1B Justin Morneau and White Sox OF Carlos Quentin 7.
Additional repeat Hot players from the spring training report are Cruz and Headley. Francoeur and Howard were on the exhibition-game Not list.
Requirements for pitchers to make these lists are 7 innings pitched for ERA and WHIP, 10 strikeouts in K:W ratio and an ERA under 4.00 for the other categories.
Hand Pitcher, Team IP W-L ERA WHIP K:W
RHP Hiroki Kuroda, Dodgers 8.0 1-0 0.00 0.75 7:1
RHP Luke Hochevar, Royals 7.2 0-0 0.00 0.78 2:1
LHP Dana Eveland, Blue Jays 7.1 1-0 0.00 0.95 2:2
LHP Jorge De La Rosa, Rockies 7.0 1-0 0.00 0.29 9:1
LHP C.J. Wilson, Rangers 7.0 0-0 0.00 1.00 9:2
RHP Livan Hernandez, Nats 7.0 1-0 0.00 1.14 1:3
RHP Roy Halladay, Phillies 16.0 2-0 0.56 0.94 17:2
RHP Matt Garza, Rays 8.0 1-0 1.13 0.75 9:2
RHP Bronson Arroyo, Reds 8.0 0-0 1.13 0.88 6:3
RHP Tim Lincecum, Giants 14.0 2-0 1.29 0.71 17:1
You probably already suspected that Halladay and Lincecum are good. De La Rosa was the star of our “Pitchers to seek” Article last season, and looks even better this year. Since we named him a “Pitcher to avoid” in 2009, Arroyo seemingly has been on a mission to prove us wrong. Beware the K:W radios for Hochevar, Eveland and Hernandez.
Also with 1.29 ERAs, but in just 7 innings pitched, were Rangers RHP Colby Lewis, Twins RHP Carl Pavano, White Sox RHP Jake Peavy and Blue Jays LHP Ricky Romero. A strategy with Romero might be to trade him at the All-Star break while his value is high, and avoid the possibility of his slumping during the season’s second half as he did last year.
Wins – Blue Jays RHP Casey Janssen 3; Halladay, Lincecum, Giants LHP Jeremy Affeldt, White Sox LHP Mark Buehrle, Pirates LHP Zach Duke and Rockies RHP Ubaldo Jimenez 2.
Saves – Twins RHP Jon Rauch 4-for-4; Nationals RHP Matt Capps 3-3; Mariners RHP David Aardsma, Padres RHP Heath Bell, Reds RHP Francisco Cordero, Blue Jays RHP Kevin Gregg, Cubs RHP Carlos Marmol, Rockies LHP Franklin Morales, Yankees RHP Mariano Rivera and Giants RHP Brian Wilson 2-2.
The word is that Capps has rediscovered the fastball that might have dwindled away while he was waiting for save opportunities with the Pirates away.
WHIP – De La Rosa 0.29; Braves RHP Tim Hudson 0.43; Lincecum and Cardinals RHP Adam Wainwright 0.71; Garza and Kuroda 0.75; Hochevar 0.78; Athletics LHP Dallas Braden and Yankees LHP C.C. Sabathia 0.85; Pavano 0.86.
K:W ratio – Lincecum 17:1; Orioles RHP Kevin Millwood 11:1; Halladay 17:2; Diamondbacks RHP Dan Haren 13:2; Braden 12:2; Blue Jays RHP Shaun Marcum 11:2; Angels RHP Jered Weaver 13:3; Jimenez 13:4; Astros RHP Roy Oswalt 11:4.
Pitchers repeating their strong spring-training performances were De La Rosa, Eveland, Affeldt, Brian Wilson and Hudson. Arroyo, Buehrle and Aardsma were on the exhibition Not list.
Not
Pos. Player, Team H-AB BA HR-RBI SB
CF Julio Borbon, Rangers 1-21 .048 0-2 0
OF Milton Bradley, Mariners 1-21 .048 1-2 0
1B Lyle Overbay, Blue Jays 2-23 .087 0-1 0
RF Hunter Pence, Astros 2-21 .095 1-2 0
2B/SS David Eckstein, Padres 2-20 .100 0-0 0
OF Melky Cabrera, Braves 3-25 .120 0-0 0
OF Juan Pierre, White Sox 3-24 .125 0-0 2
1B Mark Teixeira, Yankees 3-25 .125 0-3 0
LF Carlos Lee, Astros 3-23 .130 0-0 0
SS Alexei Ramirez, White Sox 3-23 .130 1-3 0
This week’s dis(honorable mention) goes to Brewers C Gregg Zaun 0-for-14, and Mariners C Adam Moore and Rangers C Taylor Teagarden 0-for-12. Teagarden also had seven strikeouts.
Angels 3B Brandon Wood just missed the lists, going 1-for-19, Unless he can show he’s the player who racked up huge home run totals in the minors, LA/Anaheim will have to find a replacement quickly.
Here are a couple of outfielders you should expect to see in Triple-A before long: Borbon and the Blue Jays’ Travis Snider.
W:K ratio – This one requires 10 strikeouts. Surprisingly, no major league batter reached double figures in Ks during the season’s first week. The worst ratio belonged to Padres SS Everth Cabrera at 0:9.
Caught stealing – Miguel Cabrera and Rockies OF Carlos Gonzalez 0-for-2; Indians SS Asdrubal Cabrera and Mariners RF Ichiro Suzuki 1-3.
Repeaters from the spring-training Not list are Borbon and Teagarden. Pence was on the Hot list from the exhibition games; we’re still confident that he’ll have a good year.
Hand Pitcher, Team IP W-L ERA WHIP K:W
RHP Carlos Zambrano, Cubs 8.1 1-1 11.88 1.92 10:4
RHP Vicente Padilla, Dodgers 8.2 0-1 11.42 2.08 8:4
RHP Justin Verlander, Tigers 10.0 0-0 9.00 1.50 9:4
LHP John Lannan, Nationals 8.2 1-1 8.31 2.19 2:6
RHP Jake Westbrook, Indians 9.2 0-1 7.45 2.17 8:7
RHP Yovani Gallardo, Brewers 12.0 0-2 6.75 1.33 10:4
RHP Josh Johnson, Marlins 10.0 0-1 6.30 2.00 10:7
RHP Josh Beckett, Red Sox 11.2 1-0 6.17 1.80 5:4
RHP Chris Carpenter, Cards 11.0 1-0 5.73 1.27 7:2
The pitchers eligible for this list all started twice during the week. Some of baseball’s best pitchers appear here: Verlander, Gallardo, Johnson, Beckett, Carpenter. It’s too early to panic, but keep an eye on them – especially on their K:W ratios, which could show that they no longer can blow batters away or that they might be hurt. Beckett and Gallardo could have lost some fire after signing big contracts.
Losses – Gallardo, Rangers RHP Frank Francisco, Padres RHP Jon Garland, Orioles LHP Mike Gonzalez, Cubs LHP John Grabow, Astros RHP Roy Oswalt and Angels LHP Joe Saunders 2.
Blown saves – Francisco and Red Sox RHP Daniel Bard 0-for-2; Gonzalez 1-3; Brewers RHP Trevor Hoffman 2-4.
Returning to the Not list, where they also resided from spring training, are Verlander and Gonzalez.
News and Notes
Ellsbury left Boston’s game Sunday after a collision with 3B Adrian Beltre while chasing a foul popup. Beltre’s knee hit Ellsbury’s rib cage. X rays were negative, and the left fielder is considered day to day.
I like Joe Maddon as the Rays’ manager, but he made a couple of moves Sunday that didn’t make sense to me. In the first inning, after the first two Rays had hits against Yankees RHP A.J. Burnett, No. 3 batter Ben Zobrist bunted a runner from second base to third. Maddon excused the action of giving up an out that settled down a struggling pitcher by saying that Zobrist didn’t feel comfortable against Burnett. Then why was the right fielder batting third in the lineup? If he is the next time he faces A.J., I’ll really be disappointed in Maddon. The other move came late, when Tampa Bay still was stuck on the two runs it had scored in the first inning. With switch-hitting C Jorge Posada coming to bat, the manager replaced the starter, RHP James Shields, with sidearm LHP Randy Choate. Now Choate may have retired a right-handed batter during his undistinguished career, but I don’t remember when. He threw a pitch to Posada that the catcher hit for a home run. Weren’t the odds better that Shields at least would have kept the ball in the park?
I didn’t see Mariners RHP Felix Hernandez in person, but on TV he appeared to be in good shape and not carrying extra weight. His physical conditioning seems to be the only thing that could keep King Felix from being successful. Hernandez does have a big, new contract, but we expect that his team’s lack of offense will be a bigger problem for him than a potential big head.
To give you an idea, our pitching chart for the regular season’s first week had the right pitcher on the right date in 87 per cent of the games (160 of 184). The American League record was 95 per cent (84-for-88) but the National League projections hit on 79 per cent (76-for-96). We had the right pitchers in the right number of starts closer to 95 per cent, but some teams switched the order of those starters from what we had projected. Those switches each resulted in two – and in one case three – games that weren’t matched with the right pitcher.
Minor matters
The bloodletting continued Friday in the Triple-A International League series between Columbus (Indians organization) and Indianapolis (Pirates). Indy won 14-12, with Pedro Alvarez hitting two homers to bring his total to three in two games. Clippers C Carlos Santana hit one homer, also for a total of three after he’d hit two in Columbus’ 17-4 Opening Day win over Indianapolis, so he also had three dingers in two games.
On Sunday, Reds LHP prospect Aroldis Chapman made his U.S. pro debut with eight strikeouts for Triple-A Louisville at Toledo (Tigers), and Nationals RHP prospect Stephen Strasburg gave up four runs (one earned) in five innings for Double-A Harrisburg at Altoona (Pirates).
In closing
This is a regular feature of our Emails and blog posts. It lets you know who’s getting saves. Equally important is telling you who’s blowing saves or putting his job in jeopardy by getting shaky saves. There’s also a FREE Article on the old fantasybaseballscout.com web site letting you know which pitcher or pitchers each team is using to close games. It will be updated whenever there’s a change or speculation about a change in a team’s closer.
Indians RHP Chris Perez blew a save Sunday as the Tigers scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth inning for a 9-8 victory. Hoffman also blew a save by allowing the Cardinals to score three times in the top of the ninth on back-to-back two-out homers by Pujols and LF Matt Holliday. Pujols’ was a two-run shot. Hoffman became the winning pitcher when Brewers 3B/2B Casey McGehee homered in the bottom of the inning against St. Louis RHP Kyle McClellan.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Baker sizzles on a rainy day
Of the 18 games scheduled, just half were played to a nine-inning conclusion. Five games in Florida were rained out, the Astros’ 10-7 victory over the Red Sox was called after 7 ½ innings because of rain and three games in Arizona ended in ties.
Houston beat up on Boston RHP Jonathan Papelbon. He said he lacked energy after taking medication for a migraine, and that could have contributed to a line of 1/3 56510 (plus plunking a guy) that increased his ERA to 7.11.
Also in Florida, Twins RHP Scott Baker sparkled with a line of 510013 in a 12-3 victory over the Rays. Minnesota mauled Tampa Bay RHP Wade Davis, whose line was 297511. OF Matt Joyce hit his first homer against struggling Twins RHP Clay Condrey, and raised Joyce’s average to .375. LHP Jesse English, claimed on waivers from the Giants last September, picked up his second save in the Nationals’ 9-7 win over the Marlins. English entered the game with one out and a runner on base in the ninth, and pitched out of trouble. He hasn’t yet pitched above Double-A during the regular season.
Some teams made contingency plans to keep their pitchers on schedule despite being postponed. Tigers RHP Justin Verlander threw after busing back to Lakeland, Fla., from their rainout against the Yankees. New York added an intrasquad game Monday morning, with today’s scheduled pitchers, LHP Andy Pettitte and RHP Joba Chamberlain, opposing each other. RHPs A.J. Burnett and Phil Hughes would pitch in the scheduled game. The Braves and Cardinals started their game, but without Atlanta’s scheduled starter, RHP Jair Jurrjens. The Braves held him back to pitch in a minor league game Monday. In his place, RHP Peter Moylan pitched in the game that didn’t make it through two innings. He excited Atlanta’s management by striking out St. Louis OF Colby Rasmus and 1B Albert Pujols.
In Arizona, Reds OF Jonny Gomes clubbed his fourth homer in a 4-3 victory over the Athletics.
The Indians routed the Dodgers 12-5, with OF Austin Kearns hitting his first two homers, against LA LHPs Eric Stults and rookie Aaron Miller. Dodgers OF Garret Anderson had three hits, including a triple that resulted when CF Grady Sizemore missed a diving catch and LF Jose Constanza fell down on the warning track.
On my TV were the Rangers, who scored five runs in the third inning, and the Padres who overcame the five-run deficit with six in the fourth and eight in the eighth to win 14-5. Texas RHP Rich Harden couldn’t get out of that fourth inning. He walked three consecutive batters, and gave up a three-run homer to San Diego SS/OF Jerry Hairston. Harden’s ERA rose to 11.25. Three errors contributed to the Padres’ big eighth inning. Having a big day was San Diego SS prospect Lance Zawadzki – who went 2-for-3, scored two runs and raised his average to .412. Rangers C Jarrod Saltalamacchia couldn’t play because of a stiff neck, which is expected to keep him out 7-10 days.
Giants RHP Kevin Pucetas struggled to an 8.04 ERA in four starts last spring, but reduced this year’s mark to 0.64 in three starts with a line of 531120 in a 4-3 win over the Diamondbacks. On the other hand, Arizona RHP Edwin Jackson continued to struggle this spring. His line of 4 2/3 54440 include a home run by OF John Bowker.
Two of the tie games went 10 innings. OF Laynce Nix’s homer was the Reds’ only run in their 1-1 tie with the Cubs. LF Ryan Braun hit his third homer for the Brewers as they deadlocked the White Sox 4-4. The Rockies and Royals just quit playing after nine innings of their 11-11 tie.
The Mets picked up a Big 10 victory, 8-1 over the University of Michigan. RHP Nelson Figueroa was the winning pitcher, and OF/1B Chris Carter went 3-for-3 for New York.
The Twins pleased their fans by extending the contract of C Joe Mauer, a hometown favorite, for eight years through 2018, paying $184 million and including a full no-trade clause.
The Cardinals optioned struggling RHP Josh Kinney to Triple-A Memphis, creating an opening for RHPs Adam Ottavino or Fernando Salas to earn a spot in their bullpen. Other possibilities are the losers of the battle for the fifth starter’s role among RHP Kyle McClellan and LHPs Rich Hill and Jaime Garcia.
Inside the injuries:
The Indians’ closer, RHP Kerry Wood, will be out 6-8 weeks because of what the team called a “moderate” strained latissimus muscle behind his shoulder. RHP Chris Perez will get the first shot at Cleveland’s saves until Wood returns.
Red Sox RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka retired seven of eight batters in a minor league intrasquad game. He’s scheduled to make his first exhibition appearance Thursday against the Marlins, but it’s almost certain he will begin the regular season on the disabled list.
Cubs RHP Carlos Silva left their game after two innings because of a tight right quadriceps.
Rays C Dioner Navarro is on crutches because of an injured left shin suffered in a collision at home plate Saturday, but he insisted he would be ready to play by Opening Day. LHP J.P. Howell now is expected to miss a month of the season because of a weak shoulder. That means RHPs Wade Davis and Andy Sonnanstine both could begin the season in Tampa Bay’s rotation.
Indians OF Michael Brantley rolled an ankle and left their game in the fourth inning. That could ensure that he’s optioned to Triple-A Columbus or perhaps begins the season on the DL.
Beginning the road back from Tommy John surgery last August, Reds RHP Edinson Volquez threw 25 pitches off a mound Thursday and 30 more today.
Sample Scouting Report:
RHP Kevin Pucetas, Giants
Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 225 T: R Age: 25 Inj. Risk: 10 Alt. Pos.: SP
{2010} Last season, Pucetas jumped past Double-A to Triple-A Fresno. He started out as if he could duplicate his 10-2 record as the high Class A California League’s Pitcher of the Year for San Jose in 2008, but tired to finish 10-6 with a 5.04 ERA and 1.40 WHIP in the Pacific Coast League. Pucetas doesn’t throw hard for a guy his size. He doesn’t strike out batters, but he throws strikes and knows how to win. His career won-lost record in the minors is 42-13. Pucetas has the misfortune of being in an organization with a surplus of pitchers. If he’s traded, consider taking a chance on him. Born: Nov. 27, 1984, Spartanburg, S.C.
Projection
IP: 65 W: 3 ERA: 4.57 WHIP: 1.35 S: 0 SO: 35 Value: $0
Houston beat up on Boston RHP Jonathan Papelbon. He said he lacked energy after taking medication for a migraine, and that could have contributed to a line of 1/3 56510 (plus plunking a guy) that increased his ERA to 7.11.
Also in Florida, Twins RHP Scott Baker sparkled with a line of 510013 in a 12-3 victory over the Rays. Minnesota mauled Tampa Bay RHP Wade Davis, whose line was 297511. OF Matt Joyce hit his first homer against struggling Twins RHP Clay Condrey, and raised Joyce’s average to .375. LHP Jesse English, claimed on waivers from the Giants last September, picked up his second save in the Nationals’ 9-7 win over the Marlins. English entered the game with one out and a runner on base in the ninth, and pitched out of trouble. He hasn’t yet pitched above Double-A during the regular season.
Some teams made contingency plans to keep their pitchers on schedule despite being postponed. Tigers RHP Justin Verlander threw after busing back to Lakeland, Fla., from their rainout against the Yankees. New York added an intrasquad game Monday morning, with today’s scheduled pitchers, LHP Andy Pettitte and RHP Joba Chamberlain, opposing each other. RHPs A.J. Burnett and Phil Hughes would pitch in the scheduled game. The Braves and Cardinals started their game, but without Atlanta’s scheduled starter, RHP Jair Jurrjens. The Braves held him back to pitch in a minor league game Monday. In his place, RHP Peter Moylan pitched in the game that didn’t make it through two innings. He excited Atlanta’s management by striking out St. Louis OF Colby Rasmus and 1B Albert Pujols.
In Arizona, Reds OF Jonny Gomes clubbed his fourth homer in a 4-3 victory over the Athletics.
The Indians routed the Dodgers 12-5, with OF Austin Kearns hitting his first two homers, against LA LHPs Eric Stults and rookie Aaron Miller. Dodgers OF Garret Anderson had three hits, including a triple that resulted when CF Grady Sizemore missed a diving catch and LF Jose Constanza fell down on the warning track.
On my TV were the Rangers, who scored five runs in the third inning, and the Padres who overcame the five-run deficit with six in the fourth and eight in the eighth to win 14-5. Texas RHP Rich Harden couldn’t get out of that fourth inning. He walked three consecutive batters, and gave up a three-run homer to San Diego SS/OF Jerry Hairston. Harden’s ERA rose to 11.25. Three errors contributed to the Padres’ big eighth inning. Having a big day was San Diego SS prospect Lance Zawadzki – who went 2-for-3, scored two runs and raised his average to .412. Rangers C Jarrod Saltalamacchia couldn’t play because of a stiff neck, which is expected to keep him out 7-10 days.
Giants RHP Kevin Pucetas struggled to an 8.04 ERA in four starts last spring, but reduced this year’s mark to 0.64 in three starts with a line of 531120 in a 4-3 win over the Diamondbacks. On the other hand, Arizona RHP Edwin Jackson continued to struggle this spring. His line of 4 2/3 54440 include a home run by OF John Bowker.
Two of the tie games went 10 innings. OF Laynce Nix’s homer was the Reds’ only run in their 1-1 tie with the Cubs. LF Ryan Braun hit his third homer for the Brewers as they deadlocked the White Sox 4-4. The Rockies and Royals just quit playing after nine innings of their 11-11 tie.
The Mets picked up a Big 10 victory, 8-1 over the University of Michigan. RHP Nelson Figueroa was the winning pitcher, and OF/1B Chris Carter went 3-for-3 for New York.
The Twins pleased their fans by extending the contract of C Joe Mauer, a hometown favorite, for eight years through 2018, paying $184 million and including a full no-trade clause.
The Cardinals optioned struggling RHP Josh Kinney to Triple-A Memphis, creating an opening for RHPs Adam Ottavino or Fernando Salas to earn a spot in their bullpen. Other possibilities are the losers of the battle for the fifth starter’s role among RHP Kyle McClellan and LHPs Rich Hill and Jaime Garcia.
Inside the injuries:
The Indians’ closer, RHP Kerry Wood, will be out 6-8 weeks because of what the team called a “moderate” strained latissimus muscle behind his shoulder. RHP Chris Perez will get the first shot at Cleveland’s saves until Wood returns.
Red Sox RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka retired seven of eight batters in a minor league intrasquad game. He’s scheduled to make his first exhibition appearance Thursday against the Marlins, but it’s almost certain he will begin the regular season on the disabled list.
Cubs RHP Carlos Silva left their game after two innings because of a tight right quadriceps.
Rays C Dioner Navarro is on crutches because of an injured left shin suffered in a collision at home plate Saturday, but he insisted he would be ready to play by Opening Day. LHP J.P. Howell now is expected to miss a month of the season because of a weak shoulder. That means RHPs Wade Davis and Andy Sonnanstine both could begin the season in Tampa Bay’s rotation.
Indians OF Michael Brantley rolled an ankle and left their game in the fourth inning. That could ensure that he’s optioned to Triple-A Columbus or perhaps begins the season on the DL.
Beginning the road back from Tommy John surgery last August, Reds RHP Edinson Volquez threw 25 pitches off a mound Thursday and 30 more today.
Sample Scouting Report:
RHP Kevin Pucetas, Giants
Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 225 T: R Age: 25 Inj. Risk: 10 Alt. Pos.: SP
{2010} Last season, Pucetas jumped past Double-A to Triple-A Fresno. He started out as if he could duplicate his 10-2 record as the high Class A California League’s Pitcher of the Year for San Jose in 2008, but tired to finish 10-6 with a 5.04 ERA and 1.40 WHIP in the Pacific Coast League. Pucetas doesn’t throw hard for a guy his size. He doesn’t strike out batters, but he throws strikes and knows how to win. His career won-lost record in the minors is 42-13. Pucetas has the misfortune of being in an organization with a surplus of pitchers. If he’s traded, consider taking a chance on him. Born: Nov. 27, 1984, Spartanburg, S.C.
Projection
IP: 65 W: 3 ERA: 4.57 WHIP: 1.35 S: 0 SO: 35 Value: $0
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Bizarro baseball: Nats win twice, Sox blanked twice
After we wrote about how the Astros still pretty much suck, one of the connections to better days came up with a big game. RHP Roy Oswalt had a pitching line of 420011 in a 3-0 shutout of the Red Sox. LHP Wesley Wright came up with his second save, but his ERA still looks like the number of one of those barely paved, two-lane state highways out in the sticks. For Houston, Koby Clemens, the son of a former major league pitcher and a performance-enhanced mother, played first base.
Another Red Sox split squad also was shut out, 7-0 by the Rays. RHP Wade Davis lowered his ERA to 7.04 with a pitching line of 430015, and 2B Sean Rodriguez hit his fifth home run against RHP Junichi Tazawa. He knew he was no longer pitching in a Japanese industrial league; Tampa Bay’s three runs in his one inning were the first clue.
A second group of Astros weren’t as fortunate in a 4-1 loss to the Yankees. The game’s highlight was New York RHP Phil Hughes’ lengthy save, with a line of 430012.
Some bad pitchers changed hands in the ballyhooed Yankees-Tigers-Diamondbacks trade during the off-season. Arizona was left holding the bag with RHP Edwin Jackson, whose line in a 13-7 loss to the Reds was 2 1/3 67720. Jackson gave up a home run to OF Jay Bruce. He and 2B Brandon Phillips came in with averages under .200.
The Phillies used the work of LHP Cole Hamels (line: 521004) and rookie OF Domonic Brown (his first two homers this spring) in a 6-1 victory over the Tigers. One of Brown’s homers was against the losing pitcher, RHP Justin Verlander (3 1/3 34415). The other came against LHP Phil Coke, another in the aforementioned trade.
The Nationals came into the day with an 0-11 record – and left with not one, but two, wins. One split squad defeated the Marlins 12-3 behind RHP Craig Stammen (432014) and a grand slam by OF/2B Willie Harris against LHP Taylor Tankersley. For the other squad, LHP John Lannan’s pitching (421002) C Ivan Rodriguez’s three runs batted in added up to a 4-2 victory over the Cardinals.
In the Indians-Giants game, San Francisco RHP Tim Lincecum had the winning poker hand (444444) but Cleveland won 7-1 behind RHP Jake Westbrook’s pitching (421101) and OF Shin-soo Choo’s homer. We’re touting Choo this spring.
Sample Scouting Report:
Wade Davis, RHP, Rays
Ht.: 6-5 Wt.: 220 T: R Age: 24 Inj. Risk: 10 Alt. Pos.: SP
{2010} Davis throws a low-to-mid-90s fastball and a hard curve. How far he ultimately advances in the majors could be determined by how well he can develop a third pitch. For now, his status as a prospect is behind LHP David Price and RHP Jeremy Hellickson in the Rays’ organization. Last season, in Davis’ second shot at Triple-A Durham, he was 10-8 with a 3.40 ERA and 140 strikeouts in 158 2/3 innings. That performance earned him a spot in Tampa Bay’s rotation after the Rays traded LHP Scott Kazmir. Davis could maintain his starting role by beating out RHP Andy Sonnanstine or become a vital cog in the bullpen this year. Born: Sept. 7, 1985, Lake Wales, Fla. 2009: Rays, 36 IP, 2 W, 3.72 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 0 S, 36 SO.
Projection
IP: 109 W: 8 ERA: 3.88 WHIP: 1.34 S: 2 SO: 102 Value: $4
Another Red Sox split squad also was shut out, 7-0 by the Rays. RHP Wade Davis lowered his ERA to 7.04 with a pitching line of 430015, and 2B Sean Rodriguez hit his fifth home run against RHP Junichi Tazawa. He knew he was no longer pitching in a Japanese industrial league; Tampa Bay’s three runs in his one inning were the first clue.
A second group of Astros weren’t as fortunate in a 4-1 loss to the Yankees. The game’s highlight was New York RHP Phil Hughes’ lengthy save, with a line of 430012.
Some bad pitchers changed hands in the ballyhooed Yankees-Tigers-Diamondbacks trade during the off-season. Arizona was left holding the bag with RHP Edwin Jackson, whose line in a 13-7 loss to the Reds was 2 1/3 67720. Jackson gave up a home run to OF Jay Bruce. He and 2B Brandon Phillips came in with averages under .200.
The Phillies used the work of LHP Cole Hamels (line: 521004) and rookie OF Domonic Brown (his first two homers this spring) in a 6-1 victory over the Tigers. One of Brown’s homers was against the losing pitcher, RHP Justin Verlander (3 1/3 34415). The other came against LHP Phil Coke, another in the aforementioned trade.
The Nationals came into the day with an 0-11 record – and left with not one, but two, wins. One split squad defeated the Marlins 12-3 behind RHP Craig Stammen (432014) and a grand slam by OF/2B Willie Harris against LHP Taylor Tankersley. For the other squad, LHP John Lannan’s pitching (421002) C Ivan Rodriguez’s three runs batted in added up to a 4-2 victory over the Cardinals.
In the Indians-Giants game, San Francisco RHP Tim Lincecum had the winning poker hand (444444) but Cleveland won 7-1 behind RHP Jake Westbrook’s pitching (421101) and OF Shin-soo Choo’s homer. We’re touting Choo this spring.
Sample Scouting Report:
Wade Davis, RHP, Rays
Ht.: 6-5 Wt.: 220 T: R Age: 24 Inj. Risk: 10 Alt. Pos.: SP
{2010} Davis throws a low-to-mid-90s fastball and a hard curve. How far he ultimately advances in the majors could be determined by how well he can develop a third pitch. For now, his status as a prospect is behind LHP David Price and RHP Jeremy Hellickson in the Rays’ organization. Last season, in Davis’ second shot at Triple-A Durham, he was 10-8 with a 3.40 ERA and 140 strikeouts in 158 2/3 innings. That performance earned him a spot in Tampa Bay’s rotation after the Rays traded LHP Scott Kazmir. Davis could maintain his starting role by beating out RHP Andy Sonnanstine or become a vital cog in the bullpen this year. Born: Sept. 7, 1985, Lake Wales, Fla. 2009: Rays, 36 IP, 2 W, 3.72 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 0 S, 36 SO.
Projection
IP: 109 W: 8 ERA: 3.88 WHIP: 1.34 S: 2 SO: 102 Value: $4
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Guys in Mets uniforms win 1st exhibition
It was good to see some baseball on my laptop today, mlb.tv’s telecast of the Braves-Mets game in Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Especially after New York manager Jerry Manuel took the starters out of the lineup because the field was wet, the players bore little resemblance to major league teams.
Just check out these Mets “stars” – the starting pitcher, RHP Nelson Figueroa; in relief, LHP Bobby Livingston, and with an eighth-inning solo homer cementing their 4-2 victory, Russ Adams. If those players are all with the Mets this season, they’ll be worse than they were in 2009.
Let’s go back to that thing about taking starters out because rain had soaked the field. The same teams that are so concerned about avoiding injury to their high-priced talent at a time of exhibition games think nothing about sending those same players out on the field to complete a regular-season delayed for hours. That’s just good business, because then they can collect the ticket money from people who long since went home and went to bed.
Anyway, the winners of today’s other two games were predictable.
The Tigers defeated Florida Southern 13-1. The only Detroit player worthy of note was OF Casper Wells, who hit a home run. He’s not worthy of note just for that homer, but because he might have a future in the majors. That future isn’t likely to be this season, but keep your eye on him.
Even the Pirates found a team they could beat: Manatee Community College-Sarasota, by a 6-1 count. Marginal major league OFs Brandon Moss and Steven Pearce hit home runs against teenaged pitchers.
Speaking of teams of imposters:
The Dodgers are sending 33 players to Taiwan for three games March 12-14. Two Taiwanese players, LHP Hong-chih Kuo and SS Chin-lung Hu, will make the trip. However, the only really recognizable regulars on the trip will be 1B James Loney, 2B Ron Belliard and LF Manny Ramirez.
For starters:
Tigers manager Jim Leyland announced that RHP Justin Verlander would be their Opening Day starter. Following him in the rotation would be RHP Max Scherzer. Detroit has a battle for a fifth starter among LHPs Dontrelle Willis, Nate Robertson and Phil Coke and RHPs Eddie Bonine and Armando Galarraga.
The need for speed:
In Monday’s intrasquad game, Rangers CF Julio Borbon stole two bases. He told the Dallas Morning News he expects to steal at least 50 bases as Texas’ leadoff batters. Borbon was on a pace that would have resulted in well over 50 last year after being promoted from Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Diamondbacks CF Chris B. Young hopes to steal more bases after his SB total dropped in each of the last two seasons. Here’s a bit of advice: Get on base once in a while.
Mets SS Jose Reyes hit the first pitch in their Monday intrasquad game for a triple. It wasn’t that he had an extra-base hit against rookie Tobi Stoner, who isn’t likely to see CitiField this season unless he buys a ticket. The interest was that Reyes ran swiftly and without pain in his oft-battered legs.
Enhancing performance:
We’re not saying the two paragraphs on either side of the line above are related, but Reyes is one of a number of athletes being questioned in a federal investigation of Canadian Dr. Anthony Galea, accused of arranging to smuggle human growth hormone into the United States.
Others who have testified or might have to talk to the FBI include Reyes and Mets teammates Carlos Beltran and Carlos Delgaro, Yankees 3B Alex Rodriguez (hmm), Rockies RHP Huston Street, Tiger Woods, swimmer Dara Torres and NFL quarterback Chris Simms.
Injuries:
Mets RHP Elmer Dessens left today’s game after being hit on the right knee by Braves C Brian McCann’s line drive.
The Red Sox are playing a low-stress doubleheader Wednesday against Northeastern University and Boston College. They’ll do that without CF Mike Cameron, who has a left groin injury. I’ll set the over/under on how many games he’ll play this year at 110 – and take the under.
Astros 1B Lance Berkman will miss their opening exhibition Thursday because of a left knee injury suffered Sunday.
Marlins RHP Derrick Turnbow has been out because of an infected left big toe.
Rocco Baldelli has rejoined the Rays, but as a special assistant and not as a player. The former outfielder couldn’t sign with anyone as a free agent because of concerns about a shoulder injury.
Unheralded rookie:
The Tigers’ second base job is Scott Sizemore’s to lose. Detroit is likely to open the season with CF Austin Jackson and Sizemore as the all-rookie 1-2 combination at the top of the batting order.
What they’re working on:
Dodgers RHP Eric Gagne, recovering from a shoulder injury, has extended his delivery and is noticing greater velocity on his pitches.
Braves 3B Chipper Jones noted that batting lefthanded last season he was taking his top hand off the bat early, and lifting his head instead of keeping it down with his eyes trained on the ball. So he’s working to overcome both bad habits.
Especially after New York manager Jerry Manuel took the starters out of the lineup because the field was wet, the players bore little resemblance to major league teams.
Just check out these Mets “stars” – the starting pitcher, RHP Nelson Figueroa; in relief, LHP Bobby Livingston, and with an eighth-inning solo homer cementing their 4-2 victory, Russ Adams. If those players are all with the Mets this season, they’ll be worse than they were in 2009.
Let’s go back to that thing about taking starters out because rain had soaked the field. The same teams that are so concerned about avoiding injury to their high-priced talent at a time of exhibition games think nothing about sending those same players out on the field to complete a regular-season delayed for hours. That’s just good business, because then they can collect the ticket money from people who long since went home and went to bed.
Anyway, the winners of today’s other two games were predictable.
The Tigers defeated Florida Southern 13-1. The only Detroit player worthy of note was OF Casper Wells, who hit a home run. He’s not worthy of note just for that homer, but because he might have a future in the majors. That future isn’t likely to be this season, but keep your eye on him.
Even the Pirates found a team they could beat: Manatee Community College-Sarasota, by a 6-1 count. Marginal major league OFs Brandon Moss and Steven Pearce hit home runs against teenaged pitchers.
Speaking of teams of imposters:
The Dodgers are sending 33 players to Taiwan for three games March 12-14. Two Taiwanese players, LHP Hong-chih Kuo and SS Chin-lung Hu, will make the trip. However, the only really recognizable regulars on the trip will be 1B James Loney, 2B Ron Belliard and LF Manny Ramirez.
For starters:
Tigers manager Jim Leyland announced that RHP Justin Verlander would be their Opening Day starter. Following him in the rotation would be RHP Max Scherzer. Detroit has a battle for a fifth starter among LHPs Dontrelle Willis, Nate Robertson and Phil Coke and RHPs Eddie Bonine and Armando Galarraga.
The need for speed:
In Monday’s intrasquad game, Rangers CF Julio Borbon stole two bases. He told the Dallas Morning News he expects to steal at least 50 bases as Texas’ leadoff batters. Borbon was on a pace that would have resulted in well over 50 last year after being promoted from Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Diamondbacks CF Chris B. Young hopes to steal more bases after his SB total dropped in each of the last two seasons. Here’s a bit of advice: Get on base once in a while.
Mets SS Jose Reyes hit the first pitch in their Monday intrasquad game for a triple. It wasn’t that he had an extra-base hit against rookie Tobi Stoner, who isn’t likely to see CitiField this season unless he buys a ticket. The interest was that Reyes ran swiftly and without pain in his oft-battered legs.
Enhancing performance:
We’re not saying the two paragraphs on either side of the line above are related, but Reyes is one of a number of athletes being questioned in a federal investigation of Canadian Dr. Anthony Galea, accused of arranging to smuggle human growth hormone into the United States.
Others who have testified or might have to talk to the FBI include Reyes and Mets teammates Carlos Beltran and Carlos Delgaro, Yankees 3B Alex Rodriguez (hmm), Rockies RHP Huston Street, Tiger Woods, swimmer Dara Torres and NFL quarterback Chris Simms.
Injuries:
Mets RHP Elmer Dessens left today’s game after being hit on the right knee by Braves C Brian McCann’s line drive.
The Red Sox are playing a low-stress doubleheader Wednesday against Northeastern University and Boston College. They’ll do that without CF Mike Cameron, who has a left groin injury. I’ll set the over/under on how many games he’ll play this year at 110 – and take the under.
Astros 1B Lance Berkman will miss their opening exhibition Thursday because of a left knee injury suffered Sunday.
Marlins RHP Derrick Turnbow has been out because of an infected left big toe.
Rocco Baldelli has rejoined the Rays, but as a special assistant and not as a player. The former outfielder couldn’t sign with anyone as a free agent because of concerns about a shoulder injury.
Unheralded rookie:
The Tigers’ second base job is Scott Sizemore’s to lose. Detroit is likely to open the season with CF Austin Jackson and Sizemore as the all-rookie 1-2 combination at the top of the batting order.
What they’re working on:
Dodgers RHP Eric Gagne, recovering from a shoulder injury, has extended his delivery and is noticing greater velocity on his pitches.
Braves 3B Chipper Jones noted that batting lefthanded last season he was taking his top hand off the bat early, and lifting his head instead of keeping it down with his eyes trained on the ball. So he’s working to overcome both bad habits.
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