Regardless of who wins gold and who gets silver in today's game between Canada and USA the NHL ultimately becomes the real winner. The NHL needed this game more than ever to try and put itself back the on the map. Given the fact that Gary Bettman has pretty much ruined the sport in the last 7 years this game could boost popularity to those fans on the fence about hockey. Since the 04-05 lockout hockey has been struggling to get back onto mainstream TV.
They lost their deal with ESPN, ESPN 2, ABC and FOX. They were forced to agree to terms with Versus who wasn't carried by all providers when hockey came back in 05-06. NBC agreed to broadcast a Sunday games after the NFL's regular season was over and select playoff games. Then came the Winter Classic which was a huge game for NBC but it's not enough. Hockey highlights hardly make SportsCenter when football and basketball or basketball and baseball are going at the same time.
The NHL needs to win back those fans they lost from the lockout because many of them have left for football, baseball or basketball. It needs Canada and USA to put on thriller and blow up the rating charts. It needs to see a fast game full of crushing checks, slick passing, spectacular saves and pretty goals all while avoiding a blowout. The NHL needs this game to show the EPSNs, ABC, FOX and NBC that there is a market out there for hockey.
A good showing and good rating could give the NHL some upper hand come 2011 when there could be possible lockouts in both the NFL and NBA, which is another story for another day.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
The Curtis Granderson Edwin Jackson Trade
The Tigers made a great three way today when they trade Edwin Jackson to the Arizona Diamondbacks and Curtis Granderson to the Evil Empire (New York Yankees). Does it suck the Tigers traded Granderson, yes but look at this realistically. Curtis was a good player not a great player. He wasn't a leadoff hitter, he doesn't draw many walks, strikes out too much and is soon to be out his prime and most importantly he can't hit left handed pitching. Edwin was a good pitcher who broke down the second half of the season and wasn't effective down the stretch. The Tigers in return got 4 players, 3 of which could be great players here. Welcome Max Scherzer, Daniel Schlereth, Phil Coke and Austin Jackson.
Max Scherzer is a legitimate pitcher. Last year he went 9-11 with a 4.12 ERA while striking out 174 in 170 IP. He only walked 63 batters though which is a sign of good command. He throws hard and has a good repitore of pitches. Not only could he strike out over 200 hitters this season but a 1-2-3 combo of Verlander, Scherzer and Porcello is down right scary. Best thing about him is he's cheap and under our control for the next five years. Only downside in the should inflammation he suffered this year, not overly alarming though.
Daniel Schlereth is an extremely young, hard throwing lefty. He did get dinged around this September but he was a 23 year old making his big league debut from AA ball. Schlereth has a fastball that ranges from 91-95 MPH and a curveball that can make hitters look silly. He could be the closer of the future if not this season given the fact that Lyon and Rodney have declined arbitration. Schlereth has tremendous upside and in college at Arizona he closed game while Ryan Perry acted as a set-up man. The Tigers may want to look into this now that the two are teammates again.
Phil Coke is another lefty bullpen guy. Tigers fans can think of him as a left handed Zach Miner who is a tad more reliable. Coke was 8th in the A.L. in holds and was used regularly as a lefty specialist for the Yankees. Lefties hit .195 off of him last season. If need be the Tigers could also push Coke to a spot starter or 5th starter but he's better suited as a reliever.
Austin Jackson is the one piece of the puzzle I'm not crazy about. He busted through the minor rankings in a hurry but lately has shown signs of a regression, but that's to be expected of a 22 year old kid. You'll his ups and his downs. He hit .300 in AA last season but he doesn't have much power while he could grow into it don't bank on it. He needs to work on his plate discipline while cutting down the strikeouts but he is fast and is a great defensive player. The ceiling for Jackson is a right handed poor man's Curtis Granderson. The great thing about him is he's 22, and will turn 23 before the season starts. Odds are he'll be your day to day starting center fielder in 2010.
So Tigers fans look at it this way. The Tigers have taken a step back this year because they're looking to cut costs and wait for players (Magglio, Guillen, Bonderman, Robertson and Willis) to come off the books and free up huge money. Granderson and Jackson were traded so the Tigers could try to give Verlander the big, long contract he deserves. The Tigers will compete for 3rd in 2010 but look for them to be strong in 2011 if and big if, but if they can gap the problems at 3rd and shortstop. Sometimes you make a step backwards to go forward.
Max Scherzer is a legitimate pitcher. Last year he went 9-11 with a 4.12 ERA while striking out 174 in 170 IP. He only walked 63 batters though which is a sign of good command. He throws hard and has a good repitore of pitches. Not only could he strike out over 200 hitters this season but a 1-2-3 combo of Verlander, Scherzer and Porcello is down right scary. Best thing about him is he's cheap and under our control for the next five years. Only downside in the should inflammation he suffered this year, not overly alarming though.
Daniel Schlereth is an extremely young, hard throwing lefty. He did get dinged around this September but he was a 23 year old making his big league debut from AA ball. Schlereth has a fastball that ranges from 91-95 MPH and a curveball that can make hitters look silly. He could be the closer of the future if not this season given the fact that Lyon and Rodney have declined arbitration. Schlereth has tremendous upside and in college at Arizona he closed game while Ryan Perry acted as a set-up man. The Tigers may want to look into this now that the two are teammates again.
Phil Coke is another lefty bullpen guy. Tigers fans can think of him as a left handed Zach Miner who is a tad more reliable. Coke was 8th in the A.L. in holds and was used regularly as a lefty specialist for the Yankees. Lefties hit .195 off of him last season. If need be the Tigers could also push Coke to a spot starter or 5th starter but he's better suited as a reliever.
Austin Jackson is the one piece of the puzzle I'm not crazy about. He busted through the minor rankings in a hurry but lately has shown signs of a regression, but that's to be expected of a 22 year old kid. You'll his ups and his downs. He hit .300 in AA last season but he doesn't have much power while he could grow into it don't bank on it. He needs to work on his plate discipline while cutting down the strikeouts but he is fast and is a great defensive player. The ceiling for Jackson is a right handed poor man's Curtis Granderson. The great thing about him is he's 22, and will turn 23 before the season starts. Odds are he'll be your day to day starting center fielder in 2010.
So Tigers fans look at it this way. The Tigers have taken a step back this year because they're looking to cut costs and wait for players (Magglio, Guillen, Bonderman, Robertson and Willis) to come off the books and free up huge money. Granderson and Jackson were traded so the Tigers could try to give Verlander the big, long contract he deserves. The Tigers will compete for 3rd in 2010 but look for them to be strong in 2011 if and big if, but if they can gap the problems at 3rd and shortstop. Sometimes you make a step backwards to go forward.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
More Tigers Troubles.
The Tigers started the year with a payroll just over 115 millions dollars. The following players have help contribute to the issue the Tigers face with their payroll.
Gary Sheffield 9 million dollars *
Nate Robertson 7 mil
Dontrelle Willis 10 mil
Magglio Ordonez just under 19 mil
Carlos Guillen 10 mil
Jeremy Bonderman 12.5 mil
49 percent of our payroll goes to those last 5 guys, which is unreal considering how they've played. To be fair, Bonderman and Guillen have been hurt all year but it's still mind boggling how these big money makers have underperformed. All these guys are on the books for at least next year with some extending to 2011.
* Denotes that the Tigers still had to pay Sheffield 9 million dollars for cutting him, but was not part of the Opening Day payroll.
Gary Sheffield 9 million dollars *
Nate Robertson 7 mil
Dontrelle Willis 10 mil
Magglio Ordonez just under 19 mil
Carlos Guillen 10 mil
Jeremy Bonderman 12.5 mil
49 percent of our payroll goes to those last 5 guys, which is unreal considering how they've played. To be fair, Bonderman and Guillen have been hurt all year but it's still mind boggling how these big money makers have underperformed. All these guys are on the books for at least next year with some extending to 2011.
* Denotes that the Tigers still had to pay Sheffield 9 million dollars for cutting him, but was not part of the Opening Day payroll.
Are The Tigers Bound For a Fall?
Going into tonight's finale with St. Louis, the Tigers stand at 34-31 with a 1.5 game lead in the AL Central. They've currently lost four in a row and are 4-6 in their last 10 games. But this team is in some serious trouble and it's in more then one area.
Pitching: It's no secret that the Tigers have gotten outstanding pitching from Justin Verlander, Edwin Jackson and Rick Porcello. However, the back end of the rotation (Armando Galarraga and Dontrelle Willis) have been so bad that it cancels their work out. Galarraga hasn't won in his last 10 starts after starting out 3-0. His ERA has ballooned to a fat 5.56. His problem has been a combination of things. He fails to get ahead of hitters, his slider is hanging way too much which has lead to 14 home runs and fastball has been eratic at best. I'm not sure if this the dreaded sophomore slump or Galarraga coming back to Earth.
Willis has been well basically D-Trained since coming over in the trade in the winter before the '08 season. Now after his recent start of 3.2 innings pitched on Sunday which saw him give up 8 earned runs and 8 walks he's going back on the DL with more anxiety issues. The Tigers are bringing up 24 year-old Alfredo Figaro from Double A Erie to replace Willis but who knows what to expect from him. Figaro is 5-2 with a 4.10 ERA through 11 starts this year.
Lastly, Nate Robertson needs to be released. He proved last year he couldn't be a valuable starter and now he's proving he can't be a decent relief pitcher. Robertson is 1-0 in 18 appearances this season with a less than stellar ERA of 7.97. But releasing him would cost 7 million dollars. Trades will have to be the only option this year, which we'll explore later.
Hitting: Outside of Miguel Cabrera and Brandon Inge, Tigers' hitters are struggling. Yes Granderson has 16 home runs but he's hitting .264. Magglio Ordonez has hit an extreme power failure, with only 11 extra base hits through 57 games played. Placido Polanco is hitting a meager .259, he's hit near or above .300 since coming over a few years ago. Ramon Santiago, Adam Everett and Inge have all cooled off as of late. Gerald Laird a career .274 hitter is hitting .214. Good news is Marcus Thames is hitting .282 since coming off the DL, but how long until he cools off? If the Tigers don't start hitting and protecting Cabrera, he could be pitched around more which would be bad news for the Tigers.
Trade Possibilities: The Tigers desperately need a lefty in their rotation. Jarrod Washburn would be the cheapest and best bet. Outside of that I don't expect the Tigers to make any big moves for two reasons. They don't have to money to pay the big name guy right now and they don't have very many prospects. With Rick Porcello and Ryan Perry in the majors, their best prospect is Wilkin Ramirez who is expected to crack the lineup in 2010 or 2011 as Ordonez's replacement. And bad trades have left the cupboard bare. Don't expect to see Dusty Ryan or Scott Sizemore traded as they could be replacements for Polanco and Laird next year.
This leaves you with the following guys who could be traded: pitchers Brooks Brown, Casey Fien Charles Furbushand Jonah Nickerson. Hitters Mike Hessman, Will Rhymes, Jeff Frazier, Brent Clevlen, Alex Avila, Cale Iorg and Casper Wells.
Think the Tigers wish they still had Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez?
Pitching: It's no secret that the Tigers have gotten outstanding pitching from Justin Verlander, Edwin Jackson and Rick Porcello. However, the back end of the rotation (Armando Galarraga and Dontrelle Willis) have been so bad that it cancels their work out. Galarraga hasn't won in his last 10 starts after starting out 3-0. His ERA has ballooned to a fat 5.56. His problem has been a combination of things. He fails to get ahead of hitters, his slider is hanging way too much which has lead to 14 home runs and fastball has been eratic at best. I'm not sure if this the dreaded sophomore slump or Galarraga coming back to Earth.
Willis has been well basically D-Trained since coming over in the trade in the winter before the '08 season. Now after his recent start of 3.2 innings pitched on Sunday which saw him give up 8 earned runs and 8 walks he's going back on the DL with more anxiety issues. The Tigers are bringing up 24 year-old Alfredo Figaro from Double A Erie to replace Willis but who knows what to expect from him. Figaro is 5-2 with a 4.10 ERA through 11 starts this year.
Lastly, Nate Robertson needs to be released. He proved last year he couldn't be a valuable starter and now he's proving he can't be a decent relief pitcher. Robertson is 1-0 in 18 appearances this season with a less than stellar ERA of 7.97. But releasing him would cost 7 million dollars. Trades will have to be the only option this year, which we'll explore later.
Hitting: Outside of Miguel Cabrera and Brandon Inge, Tigers' hitters are struggling. Yes Granderson has 16 home runs but he's hitting .264. Magglio Ordonez has hit an extreme power failure, with only 11 extra base hits through 57 games played. Placido Polanco is hitting a meager .259, he's hit near or above .300 since coming over a few years ago. Ramon Santiago, Adam Everett and Inge have all cooled off as of late. Gerald Laird a career .274 hitter is hitting .214. Good news is Marcus Thames is hitting .282 since coming off the DL, but how long until he cools off? If the Tigers don't start hitting and protecting Cabrera, he could be pitched around more which would be bad news for the Tigers.
Trade Possibilities: The Tigers desperately need a lefty in their rotation. Jarrod Washburn would be the cheapest and best bet. Outside of that I don't expect the Tigers to make any big moves for two reasons. They don't have to money to pay the big name guy right now and they don't have very many prospects. With Rick Porcello and Ryan Perry in the majors, their best prospect is Wilkin Ramirez who is expected to crack the lineup in 2010 or 2011 as Ordonez's replacement. And bad trades have left the cupboard bare. Don't expect to see Dusty Ryan or Scott Sizemore traded as they could be replacements for Polanco and Laird next year.
This leaves you with the following guys who could be traded: pitchers Brooks Brown, Casey Fien Charles Furbushand Jonah Nickerson. Hitters Mike Hessman, Will Rhymes, Jeff Frazier, Brent Clevlen, Alex Avila, Cale Iorg and Casper Wells.
Think the Tigers wish they still had Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez?
Friday, April 24, 2009
The 2009 Rod Allen Drinking Game
We've all had those days where we're watching the Tigers, enjoying some beers and are constantly trying to figure out how to make the games more fun. Well in honor of the greatest color commentary man ever, Rod Allen, my friends and I created the 2009 rules for the Rod Allen Drinking Game.
Here they are:
1 DRINK:
When Rod says “Mario” or “pat-nah.”
3 DRINKS:
When Rod says "without question."
When Rod says "predictable count(s)."
When Rod says "pull field."
When Rod says “elevated.”
When Rod says “skipper.”
5 DRINKS:
When Rod makes any kind of reference to someone making adjustments.
» Double if he is referencing a coach.
When Rod makes any kind of reference to a player or his ability being “special.”
When Rod says the phrase “Oh no he didn’t.”
When Rod says the phrase “from time to time.”
When Rod says “cheese.”
When Rod says “features,” “featuring” or “featured.”
When Rod refers to Jim Leyland as a “beauty.”
When Rod says “filthy.”
When Rod refers to RBIs as "rib eye steaks."
When Rod repeats a statement or point he made earlier in the game.
When Rod says "He's just money", referring to his favorite player Placido Polanco.
When Rod says Marcus Thames is “country strong”, double if anyone else.
When Rod says: "They bring their lunch pails to the ballpark", referring to a player who works hard.
When Rod says: "You can't sneak a piece of cheese by a rat." Referring to a Tiger hitting a home run after being thrown a fastball.
When Rod says: "Covers a lot of real estate." Referring to an outfielder making a good catch.
7 DRINKS:
When Rod mentions Tiger awards from past seasons
» Miggy winning the Home Run title, Granderson’s 20-20-20-20 or Verlander's no-hitter.
When Rod says someone is scuffling.
Whenever Rod says he talked to someone at batting practice.
When Rod says the phrase “professional hitter.”
When Rod says "Get the married men off the infield." After a screaming line drive.
When Rod says "Get down with your bad self." When a Tiger makes a good play or hits a big home run.
8 DRINKS:
When Rod makes reference to his coaching/broadcasting career in Arizona.
When Rod makes reference to Rick Knapp’s influence on the young pitching staff.
Whenever Rod makes the statement “some kind of _____.” (IE: Some kind of smooth)
Whenever Rod talks about the benefit to a defense when a young pitcher works quickly.
When Rod says "A long, long time."
10 DRINKS:
When Rod describes baseball as chess on grass.
When Rod asks Mario if he worked out today.
» Double if he asks this during a home game.
When Rod makes reference to cotton candy.
» Double if he makes reference to pink cotton candy.
When Rod makes reference to how much fun Cabrera is having. » Drink double if it is anyone else.
When Rod makes reference to Cabrera's shoes.
When Rod makes reference to the Carlos Guillen trade, the Cabrera/Willis trade or the Josh Anderson trade.
When Rod says the phrase “game within the game.”
When Rod says the phrase, “the unintentional, intentional walk.”
When Rod makes reference to how “smooth” any of the Tiger middle infielders are. » Drink double if it is anyone else.
When Rod says "Uncle Charlie", while Verlander is pitching.
When Rod mentions "Mr. Snappy", while Bonderman is pitching.
12 DRINKS:
When Rod makes reference to his playing career. *Rod only had about 50 career ABs, 20 with the Tigers.
20 DRINKS:
When the footage of Rod charging the mound in Japan is shown.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSxFl3le25o
General Sillyness: 2 drinks can be awarded for Rod's general sillyness. General sillyness can be Rod laughing uncontrollably or making loud screaming noises. Or anything the group may deem silly.
*It should be noted we did not create the game, we simply just updated the rules.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
MLB Playoff s
I predict the Cubs and Phillies to meet in the NLCS with the Cubs going to the World Series while the Rays and Yankees meeting in the ALCS. The Cubs knock off the Phils in 6 while the Yanks beat the Rays in 5 ultimately leading to the Cubs and deadline acquired Jake Peavy beating the Yankees in 7 snapping their 101 year long drought.
MLB Breakdown #6
For the last division I saved the AL Central in which my beloved Detroit Tigers play. While many expect them to finish last again, I just don't see it but nor will my homer feelings allow me to say they'll win the Central, they just won't. But here's my breakdown:
1. Chicago White Sox (90-72) - The Chicago White Sox will once again win the Central in a close race yet again. They have one of the strongest rotations with a strong lineup which is why they'll win the Central. The White Sox blew few games in the late innings due to a strong bullpen much of the pen is intact for this year. Factor in Dye, Thome, Konerko and Quentin with youngsters Alexi Ramirez, Josh Fields and Chris Getz and this team should find themselves back in the playoffs.
2. Minnesota Twins (87-75) - The Twins took the White Sox to a one game playoff for the Central last year and they'll be runner ups again this year. The Twins starters were the best last year at not walking hitters, which is why they played 163 games. A fifth starter has not been named yet what with Boof Bonser and Scott Baker being placed on the DL along with Joe Mauer who has no return date in sight. Joe Crede's iffy back might not hold up so well playing 81 games on a turf surface, not the friendliest of surfaces for those with bad backs. Carlos Gomez should become one of the game's premier leadoff men this year.
3. Detroit Tigers (81-81) - This team potentially could be a dangerous team if the right combination of players stay healthy. Carlos Guillen, Magglio Ordonez and Miguel Cabrera are three guys Detroit needs to stay healthy if they plan to finish higher then third. Justin Verlander, Armando Galarraga and Edwin Jackson need to remain healthy as well. Once Jeremy Bonderman regains velocity look for Zach Miner or rookie phenom Rick Porcello to exit the rotation. The downfall of this team will be the same as last year, their bullpen and closer. Fernando Rodney beat out Brandon Lyon for the closer job but don't be surprised if 7th inning set up guy Ryan Perry is trying his hand at closing out games in September. Guys to watch: Cabrera, Curtis Granderson, Ryan Perry and Rick Porcello.
4. Cleveland Indians (79-83) - Cliff Lee was dominating last year, but can he do it again this year? I suspect he will since his contract runs up and Cleveland likely won't be able to afford this game changing lefty, see C.C. Sabathia. Grady Sizemore gets some help from Mark DeRosa and Victor Martinez but they won't be enough. The back three in the rotation are not exactly proven and the bullpen has some holes in it too. Kerry Wood will spend more games on the DL then he will saving them. Sizemore is primed for a great year.
5. Kansas City Royals (75-87) - Gil Meche and Zach Greinke will be solid pitchers this year for KC, it's the rest of their rotation that worries me. They plenty of potenital all over the field; Alex Gordon, Mark Teahen, Mike Aviles, Matt Jacobs, David DeJesus, Jose Guillen. The queston is can they be productive at the same time, my answer is no. They have a talented bullpen too but I don't know if their starters will be able to give them enough leads to hold for wins. Look for Gordon, Teahen and Jacobs to be productive this year.
1. Chicago White Sox (90-72) - The Chicago White Sox will once again win the Central in a close race yet again. They have one of the strongest rotations with a strong lineup which is why they'll win the Central. The White Sox blew few games in the late innings due to a strong bullpen much of the pen is intact for this year. Factor in Dye, Thome, Konerko and Quentin with youngsters Alexi Ramirez, Josh Fields and Chris Getz and this team should find themselves back in the playoffs.
2. Minnesota Twins (87-75) - The Twins took the White Sox to a one game playoff for the Central last year and they'll be runner ups again this year. The Twins starters were the best last year at not walking hitters, which is why they played 163 games. A fifth starter has not been named yet what with Boof Bonser and Scott Baker being placed on the DL along with Joe Mauer who has no return date in sight. Joe Crede's iffy back might not hold up so well playing 81 games on a turf surface, not the friendliest of surfaces for those with bad backs. Carlos Gomez should become one of the game's premier leadoff men this year.
3. Detroit Tigers (81-81) - This team potentially could be a dangerous team if the right combination of players stay healthy. Carlos Guillen, Magglio Ordonez and Miguel Cabrera are three guys Detroit needs to stay healthy if they plan to finish higher then third. Justin Verlander, Armando Galarraga and Edwin Jackson need to remain healthy as well. Once Jeremy Bonderman regains velocity look for Zach Miner or rookie phenom Rick Porcello to exit the rotation. The downfall of this team will be the same as last year, their bullpen and closer. Fernando Rodney beat out Brandon Lyon for the closer job but don't be surprised if 7th inning set up guy Ryan Perry is trying his hand at closing out games in September. Guys to watch: Cabrera, Curtis Granderson, Ryan Perry and Rick Porcello.
4. Cleveland Indians (79-83) - Cliff Lee was dominating last year, but can he do it again this year? I suspect he will since his contract runs up and Cleveland likely won't be able to afford this game changing lefty, see C.C. Sabathia. Grady Sizemore gets some help from Mark DeRosa and Victor Martinez but they won't be enough. The back three in the rotation are not exactly proven and the bullpen has some holes in it too. Kerry Wood will spend more games on the DL then he will saving them. Sizemore is primed for a great year.
5. Kansas City Royals (75-87) - Gil Meche and Zach Greinke will be solid pitchers this year for KC, it's the rest of their rotation that worries me. They plenty of potenital all over the field; Alex Gordon, Mark Teahen, Mike Aviles, Matt Jacobs, David DeJesus, Jose Guillen. The queston is can they be productive at the same time, my answer is no. They have a talented bullpen too but I don't know if their starters will be able to give them enough leads to hold for wins. Look for Gordon, Teahen and Jacobs to be productive this year.
MLB Breakdown #5
Well people we're about 5 hours away from seeing Brett Myers throw the first pitch of the MLB season. And I'm two divisions away from finishing this breakdown. So onward we go, and it's over the AL East. This is one of the most interesting divisions, you have the big time, no limit spenders in the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox but now you also have one of the little guys giving them a run for their money in Tampa Bay. Shocking the country by winning the division last year, can the Rays recapture last year's magic? Or will the ridiculous spendings made in the offseason pay off for the Yankees and Sox? One thing is for sure the AL Wild Card is coming out of the East, book it.
1. New York Yankees (98-64) - The Yankees spent almost half a billion dollars on C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Mark Teixeira. The Yankees have a lot of pressure on them what with all the money being spent on free agents to win and their new stadium opening up this year but that's why they're the Yankees that's why they play in New York. They will be without A-Rod for the first two months or so but he'll come back and be A-Rod as usual. However this team like many won't succeed if they can't stay healthy. Look for Sabathia and Big Tex to have a good season but I'm not so sure Burnett and his elbow will make it through the year, paving the way for Phil Hughes to return. The Yanks will be back in October this year.
2. Tampa Bay Rays (94-68) - The Rays won't be sneaking up on anyone this year but they are good. Reigning rookie of the year, Evan Longoria is primed for another big year with table setters BJ Upton and Carl Crawford ready to bust out for big seasons, especially since Crawford is in a contract year. With uber stud David Price going to triple-A to work on his changeup, look for Jeff Niemann or Jason Hammel to take over the number 5 gig for now but I have a feeling Price will get that job before the season is over. Troy Percival returns as the closer but he's basically the walking wounded, I expect to see either JP Howell or Grant Balfour take over the closer role.
3. Boston Red Sox (92-70) - Boston wasn't the same team without Manny Ramirez last year and they won't be this year either. Jason Bay is a great player, but he's no Manny Ramirez and it'll come back to cost them the Wild Card. Jon Lester is one of the best left handed starters in the game and could win 20 games this year. The backend of this rotation worries me; Tim Wakefield, Brad Penny and John Smoltz(once back from rehab) are not what they use to be. David Ortiz and Jason Varitek are getting old along with Mike Lowell. This team is likely to be using their minor league options quite a bit and it will eventually lead to them missing the playoffs.
4. Toronto Blue Jays (72-90) - Things won't be getting much better the for the Blue Jays anytime soon and JP Rincardi might be out of a job by year's end. Roy Halladay who is always a contender for Cy Young should be moved around the deadline for much needed prospects. Vernon Wells and Alex Rios could also be moved if the right deal comes along, same for now set-up man BJ Ryan who lost his job to Scott Downs. After Halladay, the rotation is young and inexperienced but they do have some offensive fire power. The Jays did a fine job of winning games that they led into the 7th and later last year, but I don't think the Jays starters will give them as many chances this year.
5. Baltimore Orioles (69-93) - The Orioles have a ton of young talent on this team, none better then Matt Wieters, rookie catcher from Georgia Tech. They also have Adam Jones who they received in the Bedard trade and hopeful of youngster Felix Pie. Then they have veterans Aubrey Huff and Brian Roberts who could be moved if the right deals come along. Baltimore needs pitching to help these talented youngsters out down the road. Jeremy Guthrie and George Sherrill are Baltimore's best pitchers, first a starter and latter a closer. This team is a long ways away from contention but keep an eye on Wieters and Jones in the fantasy world.
1. New York Yankees (98-64) - The Yankees spent almost half a billion dollars on C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Mark Teixeira. The Yankees have a lot of pressure on them what with all the money being spent on free agents to win and their new stadium opening up this year but that's why they're the Yankees that's why they play in New York. They will be without A-Rod for the first two months or so but he'll come back and be A-Rod as usual. However this team like many won't succeed if they can't stay healthy. Look for Sabathia and Big Tex to have a good season but I'm not so sure Burnett and his elbow will make it through the year, paving the way for Phil Hughes to return. The Yanks will be back in October this year.
2. Tampa Bay Rays (94-68) - The Rays won't be sneaking up on anyone this year but they are good. Reigning rookie of the year, Evan Longoria is primed for another big year with table setters BJ Upton and Carl Crawford ready to bust out for big seasons, especially since Crawford is in a contract year. With uber stud David Price going to triple-A to work on his changeup, look for Jeff Niemann or Jason Hammel to take over the number 5 gig for now but I have a feeling Price will get that job before the season is over. Troy Percival returns as the closer but he's basically the walking wounded, I expect to see either JP Howell or Grant Balfour take over the closer role.
3. Boston Red Sox (92-70) - Boston wasn't the same team without Manny Ramirez last year and they won't be this year either. Jason Bay is a great player, but he's no Manny Ramirez and it'll come back to cost them the Wild Card. Jon Lester is one of the best left handed starters in the game and could win 20 games this year. The backend of this rotation worries me; Tim Wakefield, Brad Penny and John Smoltz(once back from rehab) are not what they use to be. David Ortiz and Jason Varitek are getting old along with Mike Lowell. This team is likely to be using their minor league options quite a bit and it will eventually lead to them missing the playoffs.
4. Toronto Blue Jays (72-90) - Things won't be getting much better the for the Blue Jays anytime soon and JP Rincardi might be out of a job by year's end. Roy Halladay who is always a contender for Cy Young should be moved around the deadline for much needed prospects. Vernon Wells and Alex Rios could also be moved if the right deal comes along, same for now set-up man BJ Ryan who lost his job to Scott Downs. After Halladay, the rotation is young and inexperienced but they do have some offensive fire power. The Jays did a fine job of winning games that they led into the 7th and later last year, but I don't think the Jays starters will give them as many chances this year.
5. Baltimore Orioles (69-93) - The Orioles have a ton of young talent on this team, none better then Matt Wieters, rookie catcher from Georgia Tech. They also have Adam Jones who they received in the Bedard trade and hopeful of youngster Felix Pie. Then they have veterans Aubrey Huff and Brian Roberts who could be moved if the right deals come along. Baltimore needs pitching to help these talented youngsters out down the road. Jeremy Guthrie and George Sherrill are Baltimore's best pitchers, first a starter and latter a closer. This team is a long ways away from contention but keep an eye on Wieters and Jones in the fantasy world.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
MLB Breakdown #4
Well I'm getting under the gun here with Opening Night tomorrow for Atlanta and Philly, and Opening Day for everyone else come Monday but I have to get these done.
The AL West is kind of wide open, I say "kind of" sort of casually. The Angels lost some key guys and are kind of old. The A's are talented but young and inexperienced. Seattle has a good mix, just not so talented. And well Texas is still Texas with their lack of pitching to go with their offensive fire power.
1. Oakland Athletics (86-76) - I am gonna give the edge to Oakland here even though they'll be without their ace, Justin Duchscherer for the start of the season. Dallas Braden and Dana Eveland are good young pitchers that Billy Beane seems to always find. Brad Ziegler is the new closer and had a scoreless streak run into like 42 innings last year as a rookie. Can he handle the pressure of being a closer? Eric Chavez returns from injuries and Jason Giambi returns from New York to help out Matt Holiday in this lineup that could put up plenty of runs of the rest of the guys do their job. Or if this team bombs look for free agent to be Matt Holiday to be dealt for more prospects.
2. Los Angeles Angels of Anahiem (83-79) - Bobby Abreu was a great addition for this team even though he's aging. The real questions lie in other positions such as closer and first base where Franky Rodriguez and Mark Teixiera left open for more money. Offensively can Kendry Morales, Howie Kendrick and Maicer Izturis hit consistantly to provide Abreu, Hunter and Guerrero enough chances to drive in runs? John Lackey and Ervin Santana are expected to miss the first month or so of the season, can the Angels get by without them? They say you can't win the division in the first month of the season but you can certainly lose it. Look for Jose Arredondo to replace Brian Fuentes if he struggles.
3. Seattle Mariners (79-83) - Seattle is going to depend on Felix Hernandez and Erik Bedard to carry this team and set the tempo for series when they pitch. Ken Griffey Jr. returns to where it all began 20 years ago, can he recapture the magic he once had? With no Ichiro for the start of the season Jose Lopez is going to be counted on to do a lot more offensively. Look for Adrian Beltre to finally earn his big contract that Seattle gave him due to him being in his last year of it. New closer Brandon Morrow should do fine replacing J.J. Putz as the closer. This team won't score a lot but they should pitch well enough to be in most games.
4. Texas Rangers (74-88) - The Texas Rangers will be the opposite of the Seattle Mariners, they'll hit but they won't pitch. And that's bad news when half of your games are played in a hitter friendly park. They'll have one of the most productive infields with Chris Davis(first), Ian Kinsler(second), Elvis Andrus(shortstop) and Michael Young(third). Jarrod Saltalamacchia should blossom into the catcher everyone thought he'd be. But the Rangers just don't have the pitching to contend this year. Bet they wish they kept Armando Galarraga now.
The AL West is kind of wide open, I say "kind of" sort of casually. The Angels lost some key guys and are kind of old. The A's are talented but young and inexperienced. Seattle has a good mix, just not so talented. And well Texas is still Texas with their lack of pitching to go with their offensive fire power.
1. Oakland Athletics (86-76) - I am gonna give the edge to Oakland here even though they'll be without their ace, Justin Duchscherer for the start of the season. Dallas Braden and Dana Eveland are good young pitchers that Billy Beane seems to always find. Brad Ziegler is the new closer and had a scoreless streak run into like 42 innings last year as a rookie. Can he handle the pressure of being a closer? Eric Chavez returns from injuries and Jason Giambi returns from New York to help out Matt Holiday in this lineup that could put up plenty of runs of the rest of the guys do their job. Or if this team bombs look for free agent to be Matt Holiday to be dealt for more prospects.
2. Los Angeles Angels of Anahiem (83-79) - Bobby Abreu was a great addition for this team even though he's aging. The real questions lie in other positions such as closer and first base where Franky Rodriguez and Mark Teixiera left open for more money. Offensively can Kendry Morales, Howie Kendrick and Maicer Izturis hit consistantly to provide Abreu, Hunter and Guerrero enough chances to drive in runs? John Lackey and Ervin Santana are expected to miss the first month or so of the season, can the Angels get by without them? They say you can't win the division in the first month of the season but you can certainly lose it. Look for Jose Arredondo to replace Brian Fuentes if he struggles.
3. Seattle Mariners (79-83) - Seattle is going to depend on Felix Hernandez and Erik Bedard to carry this team and set the tempo for series when they pitch. Ken Griffey Jr. returns to where it all began 20 years ago, can he recapture the magic he once had? With no Ichiro for the start of the season Jose Lopez is going to be counted on to do a lot more offensively. Look for Adrian Beltre to finally earn his big contract that Seattle gave him due to him being in his last year of it. New closer Brandon Morrow should do fine replacing J.J. Putz as the closer. This team won't score a lot but they should pitch well enough to be in most games.
4. Texas Rangers (74-88) - The Texas Rangers will be the opposite of the Seattle Mariners, they'll hit but they won't pitch. And that's bad news when half of your games are played in a hitter friendly park. They'll have one of the most productive infields with Chris Davis(first), Ian Kinsler(second), Elvis Andrus(shortstop) and Michael Young(third). Jarrod Saltalamacchia should blossom into the catcher everyone thought he'd be. But the Rangers just don't have the pitching to contend this year. Bet they wish they kept Armando Galarraga now.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
MLB Breakdown #3
I believe it's now time we turn our attention to the NL East.
The NL East may be the second best division in all of baseball this year, with the obvious best being the AL East. Think about it though, you have the Mets, the Braves, the Marlins and the defending champs in Philly. Then you have the lowly Washington Nationals but things aren't all bad for them, I'll discuss later in this segment.
1. Philadelphia Phillies (95-67) - It's hard to pick against the defending World Champs, especially when they didn't get any worse. Injuries would be bad news for this team, speaking of which stud pitcher Cole Hamels is going to miss his start Opening Night on April 5th against Atlanta. They aren't a deep team but they are talented. Chase Utley and Ryan Howard make up one of the most powerful right sides of the infield in all of baseball. And the speed of Shane Victorino ahead of them and you have the plate setter for them. For fun, keep an eye on Brett Myers who in the past years has provided us with "Boom... outta here," he also beat his wife mid-day in the streets of Boston before a game and was sent down to the Minors last year. Let's see if he has anything in store for us this year.
2. New York Mets (91-71) - Yes, the Mets added JJ Putz and K-Rod to bolster the bullpen which blew 27 games last year. But these are the same Mets who have choked and faded the last two years in September. Can they get productivity from Luis Castillo at second base, Fernando Tatis in left field and their un-named 5th starter? At this point it'll probably be Livan Hernandez. I just don't see the Mets having enough fire power to overthrow the Phils. They should be in the run for the Wild Card if not the leaders.
3. Atlanta Braves (82-80) - I love the Braves but they are still a year or two away from competing for NL East crown again. While I love the additions of Derek Lowe and Javier Vazquez to their rotation to go with Jair Jurrjens their bullpen is questionable at beast. Mike Gonzalez is returning from surgery after a shaky 36 games as the closer last year. If Jordan Schaffer doesn't beat out Garret Anderson for the job in left field Atlanta pitching could give up a lot of extra base hits down that area. Injuries will ultimately take its toll on this not so deep Braves team.
4. Florida Marlins (78-84) - The Marlins have some fine talent on the team but how long can they keep. Hanley Ramirez is one of the best young players and shortstops in the game. Cameron Maybin could be the next Ken Griffey Jr. and Ricky Nolasco has the stuff to no hit teams. But how consistant can this talent be. And how will they respond to playing in front of 5 to 10,000 fans per home game? If the Marlins can keep these young guys expect them to challenege in two to three years. Keep an eye on Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco and Andrew Miller. If those three contribute they could pass Atlanta for third.
5. Washington Nationals (71-91) - Lastings Milledge, Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn. The three driving forces behind the lowly Nationals team. Their bullpen is full of unproven guys, while their starting rotation isn't much better. Cristian Guzman was a nice surprise for the Nats last year, let's see if he can set the table for Dunn and Zimmerman this year. Don't expect much as the Nats will push the the Padres for the first pick in the 2010 draft. Bright news for the Nats this year is they have the first pick in 2009.
The NL East may be the second best division in all of baseball this year, with the obvious best being the AL East. Think about it though, you have the Mets, the Braves, the Marlins and the defending champs in Philly. Then you have the lowly Washington Nationals but things aren't all bad for them, I'll discuss later in this segment.
1. Philadelphia Phillies (95-67) - It's hard to pick against the defending World Champs, especially when they didn't get any worse. Injuries would be bad news for this team, speaking of which stud pitcher Cole Hamels is going to miss his start Opening Night on April 5th against Atlanta. They aren't a deep team but they are talented. Chase Utley and Ryan Howard make up one of the most powerful right sides of the infield in all of baseball. And the speed of Shane Victorino ahead of them and you have the plate setter for them. For fun, keep an eye on Brett Myers who in the past years has provided us with "Boom... outta here," he also beat his wife mid-day in the streets of Boston before a game and was sent down to the Minors last year. Let's see if he has anything in store for us this year.
2. New York Mets (91-71) - Yes, the Mets added JJ Putz and K-Rod to bolster the bullpen which blew 27 games last year. But these are the same Mets who have choked and faded the last two years in September. Can they get productivity from Luis Castillo at second base, Fernando Tatis in left field and their un-named 5th starter? At this point it'll probably be Livan Hernandez. I just don't see the Mets having enough fire power to overthrow the Phils. They should be in the run for the Wild Card if not the leaders.
3. Atlanta Braves (82-80) - I love the Braves but they are still a year or two away from competing for NL East crown again. While I love the additions of Derek Lowe and Javier Vazquez to their rotation to go with Jair Jurrjens their bullpen is questionable at beast. Mike Gonzalez is returning from surgery after a shaky 36 games as the closer last year. If Jordan Schaffer doesn't beat out Garret Anderson for the job in left field Atlanta pitching could give up a lot of extra base hits down that area. Injuries will ultimately take its toll on this not so deep Braves team.
4. Florida Marlins (78-84) - The Marlins have some fine talent on the team but how long can they keep. Hanley Ramirez is one of the best young players and shortstops in the game. Cameron Maybin could be the next Ken Griffey Jr. and Ricky Nolasco has the stuff to no hit teams. But how consistant can this talent be. And how will they respond to playing in front of 5 to 10,000 fans per home game? If the Marlins can keep these young guys expect them to challenege in two to three years. Keep an eye on Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco and Andrew Miller. If those three contribute they could pass Atlanta for third.
5. Washington Nationals (71-91) - Lastings Milledge, Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn. The three driving forces behind the lowly Nationals team. Their bullpen is full of unproven guys, while their starting rotation isn't much better. Cristian Guzman was a nice surprise for the Nats last year, let's see if he can set the table for Dunn and Zimmerman this year. Don't expect much as the Nats will push the the Padres for the first pick in the 2010 draft. Bright news for the Nats this year is they have the first pick in 2009.
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