The Pirates have signed Garrett Atkins. The same player who averaged 25 home runs and 110 RBI's from 2006-2008, not to mention a rookie year in 2005 where he hit .287 with 13 Hr's and 89 RBI's. Of course, this was in the thin air of Coors Field with (the future hall of famer?) Todd Helton and Matt Holliday hitting around him, which is the equivalent of a Kevin Stevens scoring 50 goals from playing with Lemieux and Jagr...anyone read me? Imler?
Anyway, it looks like the Pearce discussion is out the window; if Atkins makes this team and proves he can come close to the production he enjoyed with Colorado (under clint hurdle by the way), he will prove an adequate bat off the bench and a nice replacement from time to time for Offord's most wanted Lyle Overbay and our future Prince Fielder; Pedro Alvarez, when we face off against a lefty that will no doubt be better than ours.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Godawful
I just had to post my digust with the Lyle Overbay signing. We seriously gave this guy 5MILLION DOLLARS!! It is and has been for a couple of years my opinion that he the worst everyday first baseman to ever start in the MLB. Unbelievable. And for what? Another left handed hitting first baseman?? WTF!!!
It takes a lot to get me angry about the Pirates at this point but this is probably the worst signing I've seen since Kevin Young.. At least the other ones made SOME sense.
At least I have a new "Sean Burnett".
(OK after looking at the numbers he actually had a better season that Garrett Jones last year, so he is not the WORST first baseman in the league, but he did have the lowest RBI total for all 1B with over 500 ABs)
It takes a lot to get me angry about the Pirates at this point but this is probably the worst signing I've seen since Kevin Young.. At least the other ones made SOME sense.
At least I have a new "Sean Burnett".
(OK after looking at the numbers he actually had a better season that Garrett Jones last year, so he is not the WORST first baseman in the league, but he did have the lowest RBI total for all 1B with over 500 ABs)
Friday, October 1, 2010
Pirates in 2012
Does anyone still read this blog anymore? Oh well, I need something to share my opinions so I guess this is it...
Now that the Pirates have the #1 pick (Anthony Rendon), Pedro Alvarez proved he is not a major league third basemen, and 2011 will be another wasted season, here is what we could possibly see in 2012:
LF Tabata
RF Marte
CF McCutchen
1B Alvarez
3B Rendon
2B Walker
C Sanchez
SS Free Agent, Trade, Ciricao, D-Arnaud, or someone else
I'm sure they can sign a SS, but that looks like a damn fine lineup. Lambo and Grossman (trade chips?) are in the mix for that RF spot as well. It's not the Yankees, but I think it could compete with anyone in the Central.
Pitching... that's another story. Ohlendorf and McDonald could become 2-3 pitchers, then we need one or two of the "Altoona Guys" to step up (Owens, Watson, Locke, Morris, Wilson). Of them, I think only Morris has the upside to be a 2-4 pitcher. Lincoln could probably sneak in as a no. 5, but we would still lack a #1 until Allie or Taillon come up. So.. we sign a decent SP and try to get a SS and we have a "potential" division winning team. Of course, there are a lot of ifs... Rendon has to be MLB ready in 2 years (which I think is possible), the defense needs to improve, Marte and Sanchez need to continue developing at the pace they are now, injuries need to be avoided, and management's pockets need to loosen up. But.. there is more hope now than there has been in 18 years. Right??
Now that the Pirates have the #1 pick (Anthony Rendon), Pedro Alvarez proved he is not a major league third basemen, and 2011 will be another wasted season, here is what we could possibly see in 2012:
LF Tabata
RF Marte
CF McCutchen
1B Alvarez
3B Rendon
2B Walker
C Sanchez
SS Free Agent, Trade, Ciricao, D-Arnaud, or someone else
I'm sure they can sign a SS, but that looks like a damn fine lineup. Lambo and Grossman (trade chips?) are in the mix for that RF spot as well. It's not the Yankees, but I think it could compete with anyone in the Central.
Pitching... that's another story. Ohlendorf and McDonald could become 2-3 pitchers, then we need one or two of the "Altoona Guys" to step up (Owens, Watson, Locke, Morris, Wilson). Of them, I think only Morris has the upside to be a 2-4 pitcher. Lincoln could probably sneak in as a no. 5, but we would still lack a #1 until Allie or Taillon come up. So.. we sign a decent SP and try to get a SS and we have a "potential" division winning team. Of course, there are a lot of ifs... Rendon has to be MLB ready in 2 years (which I think is possible), the defense needs to improve, Marte and Sanchez need to continue developing at the pace they are now, injuries need to be avoided, and management's pockets need to loosen up. But.. there is more hope now than there has been in 18 years. Right??
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
I like the Blue Jays
Would anyone like to jump on the Blue Jays bandwagon with me for 2011? Unless the Pirates sign some of the players I mentioned in an earlier post, they have no shot of even .500 next season. So, why not root for an underdog who may have the chance to compete with the Yankees and Red Sox in '11?
Their top 4 pitchers in the rotation are very promising. Brendon Morrow and Brett Cecil are having great second halves, and Marcum and Romero are steady, quality young starters. Their minor leagues are loaded with pitching talent with Kyle Drabeck and Zach Stewart to name a few. They could sign an experienced arm to bolster the staff and help the new guys out, but they have enough internal options that they will probably spend their money elsewhere.
Offensively, they have most of their positions set:
C John Buck
1B ?
2B Aaron Hill
SS Yunel Escobar
3B ?
LF Fred Lewis
CF Vernon Wells
RF Jose Batista
DH Adam Lind
They have Brett Wallace waiting in the wings to play 1B or take over the DH spot, and Travis Snider available if one of the outfielders comes back down to earth next season (ahem.. cough cough Jose Batista cough). They also have 3 nice catching prospects as well as Jose Molina to back up Buck, so they are good there. If they are going to spend money I think it should be to acquire a decent 1B and or/ 3B. Guys like Paul Konerko, Carlos Pena, Ty Wiggington, Jorge Cantu, Troy Glaus, Aubrey Huff, Adam Dunn, and Brandon Inge are some options. I think Konerko will stay with the Sox, and Dunn is probaly out of their price range. I think Wiggington or Cantu would be a decent addition for their versatility, and maybe they could get Pena to play 1B/DH. That would make for a fairly formidable lineup. Yes, they would be old, but they have plenty of talent waiting to take their place.
Could that team compete with the AL East big dogs? Maybe, but I think they are at least going to be in the conversation. So, who's with me?
Their top 4 pitchers in the rotation are very promising. Brendon Morrow and Brett Cecil are having great second halves, and Marcum and Romero are steady, quality young starters. Their minor leagues are loaded with pitching talent with Kyle Drabeck and Zach Stewart to name a few. They could sign an experienced arm to bolster the staff and help the new guys out, but they have enough internal options that they will probably spend their money elsewhere.
Offensively, they have most of their positions set:
C John Buck
1B ?
2B Aaron Hill
SS Yunel Escobar
3B ?
LF Fred Lewis
CF Vernon Wells
RF Jose Batista
DH Adam Lind
They have Brett Wallace waiting in the wings to play 1B or take over the DH spot, and Travis Snider available if one of the outfielders comes back down to earth next season (ahem.. cough cough Jose Batista cough). They also have 3 nice catching prospects as well as Jose Molina to back up Buck, so they are good there. If they are going to spend money I think it should be to acquire a decent 1B and or/ 3B. Guys like Paul Konerko, Carlos Pena, Ty Wiggington, Jorge Cantu, Troy Glaus, Aubrey Huff, Adam Dunn, and Brandon Inge are some options. I think Konerko will stay with the Sox, and Dunn is probaly out of their price range. I think Wiggington or Cantu would be a decent addition for their versatility, and maybe they could get Pena to play 1B/DH. That would make for a fairly formidable lineup. Yes, they would be old, but they have plenty of talent waiting to take their place.
Could that team compete with the AL East big dogs? Maybe, but I think they are at least going to be in the conversation. So, who's with me?
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
If I could be commissioner for a day...
Since I've already solved the Pirates problems, now I have to solve the leagues. Just kidding, but have you ever wondered why baseball not only has less teams than the 3 other major sports, but also has 2 fewer teams in the AL? Expansion might not happen for a while just because it is so hard to fill the seats for as long of a season as it is, but adding 2 more teams might help with parity, plus will even out the leagues and allow for a restructing of divisions. The biggest problem with having 4 divisions like in football is that it would add one more round to the playoffs, which already extend to the beginning of November. They could just start a week earlier?
AL East
New York Yankees
Boston Red Sox
Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays
AL North
Minnesota Twins
Detroit Tigers
Chicago White Sox
Cleveland Indians
AL South
Texas Rangers
Tampa Rays
Memphis Wildcats*
Kansas City Royals
AL West
Los Angeles Angels
Oakland Athletics
Seattle Mariners
Portland Bears*
*Expansion teams
NL East
New York Mets
Philadelphia Phillies
Pittsburgh Pirates
Washington Nationals
NL South
Atlanta Braves
St. Louis Cardinals
Florida Marlins
Houston Astros
NL North
Cincinatti Reds
Milwaukee Brewers
Chicago Cubs
Colorado Rockies
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers
San Diego Padres
Arizona D'Backs
San Francisco Giants
How much fun would it be for the Pirates to be in a division with the Mets, Phils, and Nats???
AL East
New York Yankees
Boston Red Sox
Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays
AL North
Minnesota Twins
Detroit Tigers
Chicago White Sox
Cleveland Indians
AL South
Texas Rangers
Tampa Rays
Memphis Wildcats*
Kansas City Royals
AL West
Los Angeles Angels
Oakland Athletics
Seattle Mariners
Portland Bears*
*Expansion teams
NL East
New York Mets
Philadelphia Phillies
Pittsburgh Pirates
Washington Nationals
NL South
Atlanta Braves
St. Louis Cardinals
Florida Marlins
Houston Astros
NL North
Cincinatti Reds
Milwaukee Brewers
Chicago Cubs
Colorado Rockies
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers
San Diego Padres
Arizona D'Backs
San Francisco Giants
How much fun would it be for the Pirates to be in a division with the Mets, Phils, and Nats???
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
My plan for the 2011 Pittsburgh Pirates
If I could be GM for a day…
The Bucs’ Brass have said they would spend up to 50M on the MLB roster if the prospects were ready and they felt they had a core that could win. Well, I think it is safe to say that they will be ready next year. So, here is what I would do:
Not going to get much in a trade for Church, Duke or Dotel, so give them away for cash considerations. Duke makes about 4.5M, Church 1.5M, and Dotel about 3.5M. I think you could get 5M back from that bunch.
Release Andy LaRoche, Jason Jaramillo, Ryan Church, Brendon Donnelly, Bobby Crosby at end of the season.
Sign Jayson Werth to a 5 year deal for 45M. He currently makes 7.5M/year and I imagine he is in for a raise at least to 9M per, especially if he decides to come to the Pirates who would have to overpay.
Sign Brandon Webb to a 3 year deal for 21M. He currently makes 8.5 so I think we could get him for 7M/year with incentives, following his injury year.
Sign Javier Vazquez to a 3 year 33M deal. He currently makes 11.5M but with his age I bet we could get him for 11M per year plus incentives.
Sign Eric Hinske to a 1 year, 1M deal. He always plays for winners, at least in the second half of the seasons. Can play multiple positions and can pinch hit.
Sign David Ross to backup Doumit for a 1 year, 1.5M deal.
Trade for Ryan Theriot. He makes a very affordable 2.6M this season, so we could probably trade a prospect and cash to the Cubs to attain him. I’ll project spending 3M for him.
Call up Danny Moskos and Chris Jakubauskas (who deserves a second chance after the head plunking he took) and pay them league minimum.
Adding the current salaries, plus the 5M in cash we could get, plus the new salaries, the Pirates would be spending only about 45M on their 2011 roster. That still puts them second to last in the league in team salary, and gives them 5M leeway to spend at the trade deadline if they are actually in contention. My 2011 roster would look like this:
Starting Lineup:
CF Andrew McCutchen
LF Jose Tabata
RF Jayson Werth
1B Garrett Jones
3B Pedro Alvarez
2B Neil Walker
C Ryan Doumit
SS Ryan Theriot
Bench:
2B/OF Delwyn Young
IF/OF Eric Hinske
C David Ross
SS Ronnie Cedeno
OF Lastings Milledge
Pitchers
SP Brandon Webb
SP Javier Vazquez
SP Paul Maholm
SP Ross Ohlendorf
SP Brad Lincoln
RP Jeff Karstens
RP Chris Jakubauskas
RP Joel Hanrahan
RP DJ Carrasco
LP Javier Lopez
LP Danny Moskos
CL Evan Meek
There it is. I didn’t fact check on the 2011 salaries of the current players, but rather went with their salaries for 2010. Therefore, the final number might rise slightly but I doubt it would pass 50M. Seems like it would be relatively easy to do, and who wouldn’t like that 25-man roster? Especially in the NL Central?
But…alas.. I am not the Pirates GM. Thoughts?
The Bucs’ Brass have said they would spend up to 50M on the MLB roster if the prospects were ready and they felt they had a core that could win. Well, I think it is safe to say that they will be ready next year. So, here is what I would do:
Not going to get much in a trade for Church, Duke or Dotel, so give them away for cash considerations. Duke makes about 4.5M, Church 1.5M, and Dotel about 3.5M. I think you could get 5M back from that bunch.
Release Andy LaRoche, Jason Jaramillo, Ryan Church, Brendon Donnelly, Bobby Crosby at end of the season.
Sign Jayson Werth to a 5 year deal for 45M. He currently makes 7.5M/year and I imagine he is in for a raise at least to 9M per, especially if he decides to come to the Pirates who would have to overpay.
Sign Brandon Webb to a 3 year deal for 21M. He currently makes 8.5 so I think we could get him for 7M/year with incentives, following his injury year.
Sign Javier Vazquez to a 3 year 33M deal. He currently makes 11.5M but with his age I bet we could get him for 11M per year plus incentives.
Sign Eric Hinske to a 1 year, 1M deal. He always plays for winners, at least in the second half of the seasons. Can play multiple positions and can pinch hit.
Sign David Ross to backup Doumit for a 1 year, 1.5M deal.
Trade for Ryan Theriot. He makes a very affordable 2.6M this season, so we could probably trade a prospect and cash to the Cubs to attain him. I’ll project spending 3M for him.
Call up Danny Moskos and Chris Jakubauskas (who deserves a second chance after the head plunking he took) and pay them league minimum.
Adding the current salaries, plus the 5M in cash we could get, plus the new salaries, the Pirates would be spending only about 45M on their 2011 roster. That still puts them second to last in the league in team salary, and gives them 5M leeway to spend at the trade deadline if they are actually in contention. My 2011 roster would look like this:
Starting Lineup:
CF Andrew McCutchen
LF Jose Tabata
RF Jayson Werth
1B Garrett Jones
3B Pedro Alvarez
2B Neil Walker
C Ryan Doumit
SS Ryan Theriot
Bench:
2B/OF Delwyn Young
IF/OF Eric Hinske
C David Ross
SS Ronnie Cedeno
OF Lastings Milledge
Pitchers
SP Brandon Webb
SP Javier Vazquez
SP Paul Maholm
SP Ross Ohlendorf
SP Brad Lincoln
RP Jeff Karstens
RP Chris Jakubauskas
RP Joel Hanrahan
RP DJ Carrasco
LP Javier Lopez
LP Danny Moskos
CL Evan Meek
There it is. I didn’t fact check on the 2011 salaries of the current players, but rather went with their salaries for 2010. Therefore, the final number might rise slightly but I doubt it would pass 50M. Seems like it would be relatively easy to do, and who wouldn’t like that 25-man roster? Especially in the NL Central?
But…alas.. I am not the Pirates GM. Thoughts?
Friday, June 11, 2010
All MLB Fantasy Draft - AL East
So in my latest attempt to waste time, I decided to pool all the MLB players and have a mock draft. I randomly ordered the teams and for each I drafted a C,1B,2B,3B,SS,LF,CF,RF,DH/Bench Player, 5 SP's, and 1 Closer. There are a few young players missing, but for the most part it is a decent list. Most probably won't agree with all the lineups I put together, but here is the AL East. Assume each team has an equal bullpen and bench. I'll put up a poll to vote for your top 2 in each division until we crown a mock World Series Champ. (Note: When I did the draft I was thinking about the future for some teams, so the Pirates team would suck next season, but pick the best team however you choose..)
Red Sox
Coghlin
DeJesus
H. Ramirez
Dunn
Rasmus
A. Huff
Uribe
R. Martin
Teahen
Oswalt
C. Lewis
Blanton
D. Bush
G. Gonzalez
J. Soria
Rays
Span
Hudson
Braun
V. Martinez
Dye
N. Johnson
Desmond
Hermida
A. Gordon
Hamels
Zito
Matsuzaka
O. Perez
Monasterios
L. Nunez
Blue Jays
R. Sweeney
Zobrist
Tulowitzki
M. Ramirez
C. Davis
Tejada
B. Molina
Venable
Maybin
Gallardo
Niemann
Ohlendorf
Bedard
Gorzelanny
Marmol
Orioles
Pagan
Cano
Votto
T. Hunter
D. Ortiz
F. Lewis
Crede
Paulino
Aybar
Shields
Vazquez
Braden
Talbot
Snell
Aardsma
Yankees
Furcal
Roberts
Youkilis
Holliday
Thome
Hart
Encarnacion
I. Rodriguez
N. Morgan
Beckett
Porcello
Sheets
Harden
Maine
F. Rodriguez
Red Sox
Coghlin
DeJesus
H. Ramirez
Dunn
Rasmus
A. Huff
Uribe
R. Martin
Teahen
Oswalt
C. Lewis
Blanton
D. Bush
G. Gonzalez
J. Soria
Rays
Span
Hudson
Braun
V. Martinez
Dye
N. Johnson
Desmond
Hermida
A. Gordon
Hamels
Zito
Matsuzaka
O. Perez
Monasterios
L. Nunez
Blue Jays
R. Sweeney
Zobrist
Tulowitzki
M. Ramirez
C. Davis
Tejada
B. Molina
Venable
Maybin
Gallardo
Niemann
Ohlendorf
Bedard
Gorzelanny
Marmol
Orioles
Pagan
Cano
Votto
T. Hunter
D. Ortiz
F. Lewis
Crede
Paulino
Aybar
Shields
Vazquez
Braden
Talbot
Snell
Aardsma
Yankees
Furcal
Roberts
Youkilis
Holliday
Thome
Hart
Encarnacion
I. Rodriguez
N. Morgan
Beckett
Porcello
Sheets
Harden
Maine
F. Rodriguez
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Where we stand after two months...
As of June 1st:
Correctly picked teams in the standings
Offord 11
Ryan 10
Josh 9
Awards
AL MVP M. Cabrera
NL MVP Pujols
AL CY Young D. Price
NL Cy Young Jimenez
AL ROY A. Jackson
NL ROY Heyward
AL WILD CARD Yankees
NL WILD CARD Cardinals
Some notes:
- Is Toronto the new Coors Field? How the hell is Jose Batista leading the AL in HRs??
- San Diego, Toronto, Oakland, continue to prove us wrong in our bottom dweller predictions
- Meanwhile, both Chicago's and the Orioles continue to blow
- Andre Ethier has missed something like 3 weeks and could still be considered NL MVP as of now. Quite an April he had.
- I swear that I seriously considered Jimenez for NL Cy Young in the preseason.
- The Sox and Yanks are gaining on the Rays. How long do you think Tampa can hold them off?
- I think if the Angels don't make the playoffs this season it will be a long time before they do again
- Placido Polanco and Jimmy Rollins mean more to the Phillies offense than anyone could have imagined.. and whay happened to Cole Hamels?
- Will the Reds be the top team in the NL Central for the next decade? They are certainly making a case for themselves. If not them or the Cards, who else could possibly compete in our division?
- When the Astros inevitably lose Oswalt they may have the worst pitching staff in MLB history
- Barry Zito continues to rock the comeback. Right now he is the ace of that staff...
- Lastly, take a look at most of the pitching league leaguers - Leake(21), Kershaw(22), Cahill(22), Garcia(23), Hanson(23), Hughes(23), Gallaro(24), D. Price(24), Cain(25), Lincecum(25), Buchholz(25),Romero(25), Jimenez(26), J. Johnson(26), Pelfery(26), Fister(26), Lester(26), Vargas(27), Verlander(27), Niemann(27). Combine that with the 3 perfect games and low HR output, and I'd say this will definitely be the decade of the pitcher. Look for someone to finish the season with or close to an ERA under 2.00 every season until 2020.
- I took way too much time looking up all their ages
- The Pirates are going to have a winning record in June. Just you wait...
Correctly picked teams in the standings
Offord 11
Ryan 10
Josh 9
Awards
AL MVP M. Cabrera
NL MVP Pujols
AL CY Young D. Price
NL Cy Young Jimenez
AL ROY A. Jackson
NL ROY Heyward
AL WILD CARD Yankees
NL WILD CARD Cardinals
Some notes:
- Is Toronto the new Coors Field? How the hell is Jose Batista leading the AL in HRs??
- San Diego, Toronto, Oakland, continue to prove us wrong in our bottom dweller predictions
- Meanwhile, both Chicago's and the Orioles continue to blow
- Andre Ethier has missed something like 3 weeks and could still be considered NL MVP as of now. Quite an April he had.
- I swear that I seriously considered Jimenez for NL Cy Young in the preseason.
- The Sox and Yanks are gaining on the Rays. How long do you think Tampa can hold them off?
- I think if the Angels don't make the playoffs this season it will be a long time before they do again
- Placido Polanco and Jimmy Rollins mean more to the Phillies offense than anyone could have imagined.. and whay happened to Cole Hamels?
- Will the Reds be the top team in the NL Central for the next decade? They are certainly making a case for themselves. If not them or the Cards, who else could possibly compete in our division?
- When the Astros inevitably lose Oswalt they may have the worst pitching staff in MLB history
- Barry Zito continues to rock the comeback. Right now he is the ace of that staff...
- Lastly, take a look at most of the pitching league leaguers - Leake(21), Kershaw(22), Cahill(22), Garcia(23), Hanson(23), Hughes(23), Gallaro(24), D. Price(24), Cain(25), Lincecum(25), Buchholz(25),Romero(25), Jimenez(26), J. Johnson(26), Pelfery(26), Fister(26), Lester(26), Vargas(27), Verlander(27), Niemann(27). Combine that with the 3 perfect games and low HR output, and I'd say this will definitely be the decade of the pitcher. Look for someone to finish the season with or close to an ERA under 2.00 every season until 2020.
- I took way too much time looking up all their ages
- The Pirates are going to have a winning record in June. Just you wait...
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Baseball Power Rankings 2
As the month of May comes to a close, I figured I better get to work on the newest power rankings.
You're the Best, the Best!
1.(Previous: 1) Rays
Still have the best record in baseball, although I would not be shocked to see them start to slip a little bit. Their pitching looks great on the surface, but some of these guys will start to lose games...
2. (3) Yankees
Good pitching, monster hitting. Yeah, that will help you win games. Hell, beginning of May they were winning without getting much from some of their bigger bats. Now they are coming to life...watch out Rays.
3. (4) Twins
This was a tough call, but I put the Twins up there mainly because of the fact that they have both hitting and pitching and they are playing at a level that is not too far above where they should be.
Baseball Has Been Berry Berry Good to Me
4. (5) Padres
I think they are going to make me look like a fool all year long. One of the best pitching teams in baseball. Yet also one of the worst hitting teams.
5. (19) Reds
Wow, I cannot believe they are playing this well. I guess I should become a believer. They are one of the best hitting teams in baseball and not a terrible pitching team. I guess they could sustain this all year.
6. (11) Blue Jays
Another team that I kept thinking could not be all that good. Although, I do not believe Jose Bautista will continue to be a huge power hitter. Hell, at some point the home runs will stop and this team will fall apart. Or not. Jose will lead the league with 51 HRs this year. Pirates fans will bitch about how they would be in first place if he was still in Pittsburgh...
7. (2) Cardinals
They let the Reds pass them. That should be an automatic drop in the rankings. Also, God decided to forget how to hit in May. Although, he hit 3 HRs today (May 30th). He will carry the Cardinals back into first place. Oh yeah, that pitching staff is still arguably the best in baseball. Not bad either.
8. (20) Red Sox
Fourth place in the AL East is still better than most other teams in baseball. I can understand the argument to realign that division.
9. (8) Phillies
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA...sorry. I mean, how funny is it that the only way they could win the last few games was by Halladay pitching a perfect game. This team cannot buy a run at the moment. Seriously, Anibal Sanchez pitched shut them out today. Everyone is shutting them out. It makes me smile.
Here They Come to Save the Day
10. (21) Braves
At this point last month they were in last place. Now they are close to overtaking the Phillies for first place.
11. (22) Dodgers
The hottest team out there. Oh, and their pitching could actually improve. Not a good sign for the Padres...
12. (9) Tigers
Another one of those teams that I really have nothing to say. Blah.
These Guys Have Winning Records?
13. (10) Rangers
Ah yes, finally the leader in the AL West makes an appearance. They have similar pitching stats to the Tigers, yet the Rangers seem to be pitching a little bit above reality. I know I keep saying that and some of you have no idea what I mean. If you look at peripheral stats, you see that certain teams have a good ERA, but terrible numbers that usually lead to a good ERA (get my drift? no? well blow me).
14. (7) Giants
They are starting to give up runs, yet they are still not scoring some. They finally brought up Buster Posey, which should help that struggling offense. Also, rumors that Lincecum has a blister, which is affecting his pitching make me think that the Giants could get passed up by the next team.
15. (12) Rockies
This seems like a team that has some bad luck. They are one of the top hitting and pitching teams, yet they are just starting to win games. Also, they have some pitcher who is really good. What is his name?
16. (6) Mets
Talk about a streaky team. A few weeks ago I would have put them lower, now all of a sudden they are winning again and looking like a good team. Shutting out the Phillies for an entire series also makes you look super awesome in my book.
17. (14) A's
Dallas Braden pitches a perfect game, then cannot win a game the rest of the month. Good thing they play in the AL West because I believe if they played in any other division they would have a losing record.
And Now Let The Losing Begin
18. (16) Nationals
Their pitching staff is not doing so well. Fortunately, Jesus Christ will be making his debut soon, so they should get 20 wins from him...right?
19. (15) Marlins
H-Ram does not hustle. That is why they are in last place...or maybe it is some bad hitting. Could Mike Stanton be coming up soon to bring some power to the lineup?
20. (17) Angels
I believe the Angels dominance in the West is over. Last year they were killing the ball, this year not so much. Also, I think I just heard that Morales is injured. Not good for them.
21. (13) Cubs
Getting some very good pitching, but not a whole lot of hitting.
22. (27) White Sox
Pitching is not terrible. Not the best in baseball, but pretty average. I wonder if the Cubs and White Sox could combine and start scoring runs. Probably not.
23. (26) Royals
I will keep them up pretty high because they are still a good hitting team, but not a good run scoring team. They have the second highest team average, yet one of the lowest run totals, which obviously does not bode well for your pitching staff.
24. (25) Brewers
This is what happens when you have a terrible pitching staff. Hell, at one point the Pirates started beating them. It felt pretty good.
Bottom Feeders
25. (18) Diamondbacks
They have the worst pitching in the majors. Maybe they will get better. Just maybe. Very doubtful though.
26. (24) Mariners
I guess I answered my question, this is not a very good team...
27. (23) Indians
They are still shitty...
Could These Teams Win in AAA?
28. (29) Orioles
I realize they have the worst record in baseball, but seriously, stats wise, they are better than the next teams. They play in the AL East. Yes, they suck outside the division, but they are 6-18 against their own division. Not a very good record.
29. (28) Pirates
They suck. I really was tempted to put them below the Astros, mainly because they get destroyed so often. But, there is no difference between losing 1-0 or 20-0 (or so someone once said), watch a few of those games and tell me what you think?
30. (30) Astros
Yep, NL Central is really cranking out some shitty teams.
You're the Best, the Best!
1.(Previous: 1) Rays
Still have the best record in baseball, although I would not be shocked to see them start to slip a little bit. Their pitching looks great on the surface, but some of these guys will start to lose games...
2. (3) Yankees
Good pitching, monster hitting. Yeah, that will help you win games. Hell, beginning of May they were winning without getting much from some of their bigger bats. Now they are coming to life...watch out Rays.
3. (4) Twins
This was a tough call, but I put the Twins up there mainly because of the fact that they have both hitting and pitching and they are playing at a level that is not too far above where they should be.
Baseball Has Been Berry Berry Good to Me
4. (5) Padres
I think they are going to make me look like a fool all year long. One of the best pitching teams in baseball. Yet also one of the worst hitting teams.
5. (19) Reds
Wow, I cannot believe they are playing this well. I guess I should become a believer. They are one of the best hitting teams in baseball and not a terrible pitching team. I guess they could sustain this all year.
6. (11) Blue Jays
Another team that I kept thinking could not be all that good. Although, I do not believe Jose Bautista will continue to be a huge power hitter. Hell, at some point the home runs will stop and this team will fall apart. Or not. Jose will lead the league with 51 HRs this year. Pirates fans will bitch about how they would be in first place if he was still in Pittsburgh...
7. (2) Cardinals
They let the Reds pass them. That should be an automatic drop in the rankings. Also, God decided to forget how to hit in May. Although, he hit 3 HRs today (May 30th). He will carry the Cardinals back into first place. Oh yeah, that pitching staff is still arguably the best in baseball. Not bad either.
8. (20) Red Sox
Fourth place in the AL East is still better than most other teams in baseball. I can understand the argument to realign that division.
9. (8) Phillies
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA...sorry. I mean, how funny is it that the only way they could win the last few games was by Halladay pitching a perfect game. This team cannot buy a run at the moment. Seriously, Anibal Sanchez pitched shut them out today. Everyone is shutting them out. It makes me smile.
Here They Come to Save the Day
10. (21) Braves
At this point last month they were in last place. Now they are close to overtaking the Phillies for first place.
11. (22) Dodgers
The hottest team out there. Oh, and their pitching could actually improve. Not a good sign for the Padres...
12. (9) Tigers
Another one of those teams that I really have nothing to say. Blah.
These Guys Have Winning Records?
13. (10) Rangers
Ah yes, finally the leader in the AL West makes an appearance. They have similar pitching stats to the Tigers, yet the Rangers seem to be pitching a little bit above reality. I know I keep saying that and some of you have no idea what I mean. If you look at peripheral stats, you see that certain teams have a good ERA, but terrible numbers that usually lead to a good ERA (get my drift? no? well blow me).
14. (7) Giants
They are starting to give up runs, yet they are still not scoring some. They finally brought up Buster Posey, which should help that struggling offense. Also, rumors that Lincecum has a blister, which is affecting his pitching make me think that the Giants could get passed up by the next team.
15. (12) Rockies
This seems like a team that has some bad luck. They are one of the top hitting and pitching teams, yet they are just starting to win games. Also, they have some pitcher who is really good. What is his name?
16. (6) Mets
Talk about a streaky team. A few weeks ago I would have put them lower, now all of a sudden they are winning again and looking like a good team. Shutting out the Phillies for an entire series also makes you look super awesome in my book.
17. (14) A's
Dallas Braden pitches a perfect game, then cannot win a game the rest of the month. Good thing they play in the AL West because I believe if they played in any other division they would have a losing record.
And Now Let The Losing Begin
18. (16) Nationals
Their pitching staff is not doing so well. Fortunately, Jesus Christ will be making his debut soon, so they should get 20 wins from him...right?
19. (15) Marlins
H-Ram does not hustle. That is why they are in last place...or maybe it is some bad hitting. Could Mike Stanton be coming up soon to bring some power to the lineup?
20. (17) Angels
I believe the Angels dominance in the West is over. Last year they were killing the ball, this year not so much. Also, I think I just heard that Morales is injured. Not good for them.
21. (13) Cubs
Getting some very good pitching, but not a whole lot of hitting.
22. (27) White Sox
Pitching is not terrible. Not the best in baseball, but pretty average. I wonder if the Cubs and White Sox could combine and start scoring runs. Probably not.
23. (26) Royals
I will keep them up pretty high because they are still a good hitting team, but not a good run scoring team. They have the second highest team average, yet one of the lowest run totals, which obviously does not bode well for your pitching staff.
24. (25) Brewers
This is what happens when you have a terrible pitching staff. Hell, at one point the Pirates started beating them. It felt pretty good.
Bottom Feeders
25. (18) Diamondbacks
They have the worst pitching in the majors. Maybe they will get better. Just maybe. Very doubtful though.
26. (24) Mariners
I guess I answered my question, this is not a very good team...
27. (23) Indians
They are still shitty...
Could These Teams Win in AAA?
28. (29) Orioles
I realize they have the worst record in baseball, but seriously, stats wise, they are better than the next teams. They play in the AL East. Yes, they suck outside the division, but they are 6-18 against their own division. Not a very good record.
29. (28) Pirates
They suck. I really was tempted to put them below the Astros, mainly because they get destroyed so often. But, there is no difference between losing 1-0 or 20-0 (or so someone once said), watch a few of those games and tell me what you think?
30. (30) Astros
Yep, NL Central is really cranking out some shitty teams.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Brillant Nutting News Article from last week...
Like Bucs, Penguins Still Have Work to Be Done
Paul Ladewski
PITTSBURGH -- The Penguins may be out the playoffs already – c'mon, they lost to the eighth seed, really? – but at least one Pittsburgh team won this hockey season.
Yep, you guessed it – the Pirates.
Now that the Penguins have gone belly-up in the playoffs for the fourth time in five years in the Sidney Crosby era, maybe we'll hear less about how their ownership will turn around the Pirates in no time if given the chance.
The fact is, despite every conceivable advantage from first or second overall choices in four consecutive drafts to the mother of all lottery picks to a league that operates with a salary cap to a pucks-mad fan base, the Penguins have been unable to dominate their own division let alone the entire league.
Or did you know that, while the Pirates have gone 17 years without a sniff of .500, the Penguins have hoisted exactly one Stanley Cup in that period?
Pure and simple, like the Pirates over the years, the Penguins have made mistakes in the draft and the open market. Lots of them.
For instance, take the 2003 draft, in which the Penguins owned the No. 1 pick on the heels of a anorexic 65-point season. (Yes, Bubba, they were dog breath themselves not that long ago.) The golden rule states that you never, ever select a goaltender at the No. 1 pick, but the Penguins chose Marc-Andre Fleury, anyway. Here are some of players that they could have taken instead -- Eric Staal, Thomas Vanek, Jeff Carter, Zach Parise, Ryan Getzlaf, Mike Richards, Corey Perry, Shea Weber . . .
Hey, maybe Bryan Bullington wasn't that bad, after all. Sorry, forget I wrote that.
Here it is, five years after Crosby was drafted, and the guy still doesn't have a regular linemate that is in the same zip code as his talent level. Quick -- name the last legit 30-goal-scorer to be developed in the Penguins farm system.
OK, 25 then.
Uh, 20?
God help the franchise if Sid the Kid goes down any time soon. Cart him off and the Penguins are the New York Rangers all of a sudden.
I wouldn't wish that on even a Philadelphia Flyer let alone Crosby, who represents everything that is good about professional sports. I wouldn't wish that on any team owner let alone Mario Lemieux, a guy that only the devil could root against.
It's just that, before people wish for the Penguins to step in and save the baseball team in this town, they should remember that the Penguins have to help themselves first.
***This article was on piratesreport.com and has since been removed. If this were meant to be ironic, it would be totally awesome...but sadly it is serious. taking a shot like this at the penguins may be enough for me to consider searching for a new favorite MLB team, this is just sad, sad, sad.
Paul Ladewski
PITTSBURGH -- The Penguins may be out the playoffs already – c'mon, they lost to the eighth seed, really? – but at least one Pittsburgh team won this hockey season.
Yep, you guessed it – the Pirates.
Now that the Penguins have gone belly-up in the playoffs for the fourth time in five years in the Sidney Crosby era, maybe we'll hear less about how their ownership will turn around the Pirates in no time if given the chance.
The fact is, despite every conceivable advantage from first or second overall choices in four consecutive drafts to the mother of all lottery picks to a league that operates with a salary cap to a pucks-mad fan base, the Penguins have been unable to dominate their own division let alone the entire league.
Or did you know that, while the Pirates have gone 17 years without a sniff of .500, the Penguins have hoisted exactly one Stanley Cup in that period?
Pure and simple, like the Pirates over the years, the Penguins have made mistakes in the draft and the open market. Lots of them.
For instance, take the 2003 draft, in which the Penguins owned the No. 1 pick on the heels of a anorexic 65-point season. (Yes, Bubba, they were dog breath themselves not that long ago.) The golden rule states that you never, ever select a goaltender at the No. 1 pick, but the Penguins chose Marc-Andre Fleury, anyway. Here are some of players that they could have taken instead -- Eric Staal, Thomas Vanek, Jeff Carter, Zach Parise, Ryan Getzlaf, Mike Richards, Corey Perry, Shea Weber . . .
Hey, maybe Bryan Bullington wasn't that bad, after all. Sorry, forget I wrote that.
Here it is, five years after Crosby was drafted, and the guy still doesn't have a regular linemate that is in the same zip code as his talent level. Quick -- name the last legit 30-goal-scorer to be developed in the Penguins farm system.
OK, 25 then.
Uh, 20?
God help the franchise if Sid the Kid goes down any time soon. Cart him off and the Penguins are the New York Rangers all of a sudden.
I wouldn't wish that on even a Philadelphia Flyer let alone Crosby, who represents everything that is good about professional sports. I wouldn't wish that on any team owner let alone Mario Lemieux, a guy that only the devil could root against.
It's just that, before people wish for the Penguins to step in and save the baseball team in this town, they should remember that the Penguins have to help themselves first.
***This article was on piratesreport.com and has since been removed. If this were meant to be ironic, it would be totally awesome...but sadly it is serious. taking a shot like this at the penguins may be enough for me to consider searching for a new favorite MLB team, this is just sad, sad, sad.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Where our predictions stand after the first month...
Correctly picked Games
Ryan 9
Josh 6
Offord 7
April awards
AL MVP Cano
NL MVP Ethier
AL CY Young Liriano
NL Cy Young Jimenez
AL ROY A. Jackson
NL ROY Heyward/Freese
AL WILD CARD Yankees
NL WILD CARD Giants
Some notes:
**Ryan you never put up predictions for awards and post-season predictions for the National League**
Best and Worst predictions
- Josh was the only one who believed the Rays would be better than the Sox. I was on the fence, but it is looking like he nailed that one.
- Speaking of the Red Sox, I said Dice-K's return would make a positive impact... oops.
- My pick of Brantley over Austin Jackson for AL ROY was ill advised.
- I think we all forgot to take into account the Dodgers' off-field issues... they are quickly becoming on-field issues.
- I definitely was high on Usbaldo this season and actually picked him second behind Lincecum for Cy Young. Should be fun to watch the battle between those two and Halladay.
- Ryan was dead-on with his Volquez prediction - he is definitely looking like the next Mark Prior.
- However, his pick for Jake Peavy as best pitcher in the American League is not looking so good.
- Three out of four of our consensus last place teams - Athletics, Padres, Blue Jays - are over or within 1 game of .500. But how long will that last?
- Does Ryan still think Griffey can hit over 25 home runs? And does he still think the Pirates can win 80 games??
- While Ryan leads the standings in correctly picked places, he also picked the Mariners and White Sox to win their respective divisions. I should probably deduct points for that.
- We were all very wrong about the Orioles.
Bold predictions for the coming months (pun intended)..(get it?)..(heading is in bold?)..(nevermind..)
- Jason Kendall will not finish the season hitting over .250.
- The Yankees will continue to get better since they are winning without much offense from Teixeira and ARod.
- The Cubs will find more ways to shoot themselves in the foot, and Gorzo will not keep pitching the way he is.
- The Mets are actually in decent position to make a Wild Card run since Beltran will be returning soon (I think) and the pitching hasn't been half-bad. But, they won't.
- The Rockies will be a sub-.500 team until September when their pitching staff finally wakes up and they win 20 straight again to nab the Wild Card spot.
- Jamie Garcia is legit. At least I hope so since he is on 2 of my fantasy teams.
- Francisco Liriano is not legit. At least I hope so since he is on 0 of my fantasy teams.
- It is only a matter of time until Andruw Jones gets a 50 game suspension. Maybe Konerko too.
- Kelly Johnson, José Bautista, and Alex Gonzalez have more homeruns than the Pirates starting lineup combined. I didn't even have to look it up to know that.
- Speaking of the Pirates, the best days are definitely behind them. I should just cancel my MLB TV susbscription now and try to get some sort of refund.
- Last but not least, Tiger Woods will switch sports and DH for Detroit. Think of the marketing!
Ryan 9
Josh 6
Offord 7
April awards
AL MVP Cano
NL MVP Ethier
AL CY Young Liriano
NL Cy Young Jimenez
AL ROY A. Jackson
NL ROY Heyward/Freese
AL WILD CARD Yankees
NL WILD CARD Giants
Some notes:
**Ryan you never put up predictions for awards and post-season predictions for the National League**
Best and Worst predictions
- Josh was the only one who believed the Rays would be better than the Sox. I was on the fence, but it is looking like he nailed that one.
- Speaking of the Red Sox, I said Dice-K's return would make a positive impact... oops.
- My pick of Brantley over Austin Jackson for AL ROY was ill advised.
- I think we all forgot to take into account the Dodgers' off-field issues... they are quickly becoming on-field issues.
- I definitely was high on Usbaldo this season and actually picked him second behind Lincecum for Cy Young. Should be fun to watch the battle between those two and Halladay.
- Ryan was dead-on with his Volquez prediction - he is definitely looking like the next Mark Prior.
- However, his pick for Jake Peavy as best pitcher in the American League is not looking so good.
- Three out of four of our consensus last place teams - Athletics, Padres, Blue Jays - are over or within 1 game of .500. But how long will that last?
- Does Ryan still think Griffey can hit over 25 home runs? And does he still think the Pirates can win 80 games??
- While Ryan leads the standings in correctly picked places, he also picked the Mariners and White Sox to win their respective divisions. I should probably deduct points for that.
- We were all very wrong about the Orioles.
Bold predictions for the coming months (pun intended)..(get it?)..(heading is in bold?)..(nevermind..)
- Jason Kendall will not finish the season hitting over .250.
- The Yankees will continue to get better since they are winning without much offense from Teixeira and ARod.
- The Cubs will find more ways to shoot themselves in the foot, and Gorzo will not keep pitching the way he is.
- The Mets are actually in decent position to make a Wild Card run since Beltran will be returning soon (I think) and the pitching hasn't been half-bad. But, they won't.
- The Rockies will be a sub-.500 team until September when their pitching staff finally wakes up and they win 20 straight again to nab the Wild Card spot.
- Jamie Garcia is legit. At least I hope so since he is on 2 of my fantasy teams.
- Francisco Liriano is not legit. At least I hope so since he is on 0 of my fantasy teams.
- It is only a matter of time until Andruw Jones gets a 50 game suspension. Maybe Konerko too.
- Kelly Johnson, José Bautista, and Alex Gonzalez have more homeruns than the Pirates starting lineup combined. I didn't even have to look it up to know that.
- Speaking of the Pirates, the best days are definitely behind them. I should just cancel my MLB TV susbscription now and try to get some sort of refund.
- Last but not least, Tiger Woods will switch sports and DH for Detroit. Think of the marketing!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Baseball Power Rankings
I figured I would do this once a month. Offord did it for football and I think he tried to do it for baseball last year, but it kind of fell by the wayside. So I will give it a try. Feel free to disagree and argue with any rankings as you see fit.
Oh So Good
1. Tampa Bay Rays
This team has it all: hitting, pitching, speed, power, starters, relievers. My World Series prediction may not be such a pipe dream after all.
2. St. Louis Cardinals
One of the better pitching staffs so far this season. Obviously they have a great lineup, I just wonder if Rasmus can keep up his insane pace. Also I have to wonder if the pitching staff can continue to be as dominant without striking out as many batters. I see them staying up high though, since they play the NL Central teams most of the season.
3. New York Yankees
Seriously, they are the Yankees. What else do I need to say about them?
4. Minnesota Twins
The interesting thing about their pitching so far this season is that it seems to be playing about at the level it could play all season. Some teams (Padres) seem to be pitching out of their minds, and it should catch up to them soon. The Twins do not seem to be one of those teams, which is a good thing for them. Obviously they can hit.
5. San Diego Padres
I predict this team will drop out of the top ten in a short time. They are playing great at home right now. Their pitching is ridiculous, but their hitting is still one of the worst in the league. I mean down there with the Pirates.
6. New York Mets
The hottest team in baseball at the moment, aside from the Rays. Their hitting is finally coming alive and it means they are starting to win games. Pitching has been good like the Twins at a sustainable level.
7. San Francisco Giants
They still have very little offense, but when your pitching staff only gives up 70 runs, you can win some games. The biggest problem they are having right now is winning close games (1-5 in one-run games). Obviously, since I have Matt Cain this year in one of my fantasy leagues.
8. Philadelphia Phillies
I blame them not being in the top three because of Happ. Yep, that is the reason. Also, I love reading all the stuff about Howard's huge contract and how it is such a bad idea. This offense is too good to not win a shit-ton of games.
9. Detroit Tigers
You may be wondering why I have them down here instead of up above the Giants or Phillies. Their hitting is way above where it should be at the moment. Austin Jackson cannot keep up this pace. Unless we are looking at the greatest player of all time (I hope, I have him on one of my fantasy teams). I do believe they are a top ten though, mainly because Justin Verlander will not pitch as badly as he has at the beginning of this season (he started out similarly last season).
Almost There
10. Texas Rangers
They can hit and they can steal. They can also pitch, well not really. Could the AL West be the new AL Central? Meaning: the team that wins barely breaks .500...
11. Toronto Blue Jays
Now we get into all the teams with so-so records. The Jays started hot, but things are starting to even out. Their pitching is decent and in any other division they would probably be in first place.
12. Colorado Rockies
Yes they have a losing record, but their expected W-L is 15-10. It seems to me they are just not getting some things to fall their way. Also, have they not started out bad before and then won like 20 games in a row or something to win the division or the wild card?
13. Chicago Cubs
Average age of this team is around 102 or something. Just kidding, not that old. Who knows though, maybe Gorzo is the answer...
14. Oakland Athletics
Good young pitching. Where the hell does Beane find them? He should look for some hitting though. Not so good in that department.
15. Florida Marlins
As usual they defy reason.
Ugghhhhhh
16. Washington Nationals
Somehow they keep winning games. Although, I am sure Capps will start blowing games soon. It is an inevitability.
17. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, or whatever they are called
Hitting has been decent, but the pitching has been pretty bad.
18. Arizona Diamondbacks
One of the best hitting teams in baseball right now. Also one of the worst pitching teams. Haren should be able to start dominating and maybe Edwin Jackson can maybe give up less than six or seven runs a start and the D-backs will have a chance to climb.
19. Cincinnati Reds
Whatever. How are they doing well, yet got swept by the Pirates? Weird.
20. Boston Red Sox
Obviously they should be better than this, or should they? I wonder if they are hoping to see the Padres collapse so they can try for Adrian Gonzalez?
21. Atlanta Braves
They have Jason Heyward. Also, the best last place team in baseball?
22. Los Angeles Dodgers
Or should that honor go to the Dodgers? I bet Andre Ethier wishes he could play the Pirates all season...
23. Cleveland Indians
Maybe Jobu needs a refill...
24. Seattle Mariners
Not really that bad of a team. But, who knows if they will be any good in the coming months.
25. Milwaukee Brewers
I wanted to put them further down, their expected W-L is boosted by the games against the Pirates, unfortunately that does not mean you can exclude. They have no real pitching aside from Gallardo. They do have a few good hitters though, I think their names are Rickie Weeks and Alcides Escobar...
26. Kansas City Royals
They were hitting way above their true ability, but that is starting to fall back to earth.
27. Chicago White Sox
Haha, I think someone said they had the best rotation in baseball? Peavy has been great so far...also, I believe they have the lowest batting average, which could change.
OH MY GOD THE HORROR!!
28. Pittsburgh Pirates
They have the worst expected W-L record in all of baseball (5-20). They are 5-1 in one-run games, which is funny since a few years ago they were like 1-15 in those situations. Win close, or lose very big...great.
29. Baltimore Orioles
I realize that before they won three games in a row, they only had four wins, but they should not be this bad. They could move up, all the way to like 25...
30. Houston Astros
Wow, they are a shitty team. They are at the bottom of almost every category. Unfortunately they swept the Pirates this about a week ago...but screw them they are going to the bottom.
Obviously this will change dramatically in one month...well maybe not the bottom.
Oh So Good
1. Tampa Bay Rays
This team has it all: hitting, pitching, speed, power, starters, relievers. My World Series prediction may not be such a pipe dream after all.
2. St. Louis Cardinals
One of the better pitching staffs so far this season. Obviously they have a great lineup, I just wonder if Rasmus can keep up his insane pace. Also I have to wonder if the pitching staff can continue to be as dominant without striking out as many batters. I see them staying up high though, since they play the NL Central teams most of the season.
3. New York Yankees
Seriously, they are the Yankees. What else do I need to say about them?
4. Minnesota Twins
The interesting thing about their pitching so far this season is that it seems to be playing about at the level it could play all season. Some teams (Padres) seem to be pitching out of their minds, and it should catch up to them soon. The Twins do not seem to be one of those teams, which is a good thing for them. Obviously they can hit.
5. San Diego Padres
I predict this team will drop out of the top ten in a short time. They are playing great at home right now. Their pitching is ridiculous, but their hitting is still one of the worst in the league. I mean down there with the Pirates.
6. New York Mets
The hottest team in baseball at the moment, aside from the Rays. Their hitting is finally coming alive and it means they are starting to win games. Pitching has been good like the Twins at a sustainable level.
7. San Francisco Giants
They still have very little offense, but when your pitching staff only gives up 70 runs, you can win some games. The biggest problem they are having right now is winning close games (1-5 in one-run games). Obviously, since I have Matt Cain this year in one of my fantasy leagues.
8. Philadelphia Phillies
I blame them not being in the top three because of Happ. Yep, that is the reason. Also, I love reading all the stuff about Howard's huge contract and how it is such a bad idea. This offense is too good to not win a shit-ton of games.
9. Detroit Tigers
You may be wondering why I have them down here instead of up above the Giants or Phillies. Their hitting is way above where it should be at the moment. Austin Jackson cannot keep up this pace. Unless we are looking at the greatest player of all time (I hope, I have him on one of my fantasy teams). I do believe they are a top ten though, mainly because Justin Verlander will not pitch as badly as he has at the beginning of this season (he started out similarly last season).
Almost There
10. Texas Rangers
They can hit and they can steal. They can also pitch, well not really. Could the AL West be the new AL Central? Meaning: the team that wins barely breaks .500...
11. Toronto Blue Jays
Now we get into all the teams with so-so records. The Jays started hot, but things are starting to even out. Their pitching is decent and in any other division they would probably be in first place.
12. Colorado Rockies
Yes they have a losing record, but their expected W-L is 15-10. It seems to me they are just not getting some things to fall their way. Also, have they not started out bad before and then won like 20 games in a row or something to win the division or the wild card?
13. Chicago Cubs
Average age of this team is around 102 or something. Just kidding, not that old. Who knows though, maybe Gorzo is the answer...
14. Oakland Athletics
Good young pitching. Where the hell does Beane find them? He should look for some hitting though. Not so good in that department.
15. Florida Marlins
As usual they defy reason.
Ugghhhhhh
16. Washington Nationals
Somehow they keep winning games. Although, I am sure Capps will start blowing games soon. It is an inevitability.
17. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, or whatever they are called
Hitting has been decent, but the pitching has been pretty bad.
18. Arizona Diamondbacks
One of the best hitting teams in baseball right now. Also one of the worst pitching teams. Haren should be able to start dominating and maybe Edwin Jackson can maybe give up less than six or seven runs a start and the D-backs will have a chance to climb.
19. Cincinnati Reds
Whatever. How are they doing well, yet got swept by the Pirates? Weird.
20. Boston Red Sox
Obviously they should be better than this, or should they? I wonder if they are hoping to see the Padres collapse so they can try for Adrian Gonzalez?
21. Atlanta Braves
They have Jason Heyward. Also, the best last place team in baseball?
22. Los Angeles Dodgers
Or should that honor go to the Dodgers? I bet Andre Ethier wishes he could play the Pirates all season...
23. Cleveland Indians
Maybe Jobu needs a refill...
24. Seattle Mariners
Not really that bad of a team. But, who knows if they will be any good in the coming months.
25. Milwaukee Brewers
I wanted to put them further down, their expected W-L is boosted by the games against the Pirates, unfortunately that does not mean you can exclude. They have no real pitching aside from Gallardo. They do have a few good hitters though, I think their names are Rickie Weeks and Alcides Escobar...
26. Kansas City Royals
They were hitting way above their true ability, but that is starting to fall back to earth.
27. Chicago White Sox
Haha, I think someone said they had the best rotation in baseball? Peavy has been great so far...also, I believe they have the lowest batting average, which could change.
OH MY GOD THE HORROR!!
28. Pittsburgh Pirates
They have the worst expected W-L record in all of baseball (5-20). They are 5-1 in one-run games, which is funny since a few years ago they were like 1-15 in those situations. Win close, or lose very big...great.
29. Baltimore Orioles
I realize that before they won three games in a row, they only had four wins, but they should not be this bad. They could move up, all the way to like 25...
30. Houston Astros
Wow, they are a shitty team. They are at the bottom of almost every category. Unfortunately they swept the Pirates this about a week ago...but screw them they are going to the bottom.
Obviously this will change dramatically in one month...well maybe not the bottom.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Pirates v. Dodgers
I just read a comment from some idiot on the PBC blog that said "seriously, the Pirates are better than the Dodgers. Maybe their pitching is better though." Umm? Assuming Manny is in the lineup, are they not better at every single position?
Martin>Doumit (barely)
Loney>Clement
DeWitt=Iwamura
Furcal>Cedeno
Blake>LaRoche
Manny>Lastings
Kemp>McCutchen
Ethier>Legend
What am I missing here? I would even say every SP for the Dodgers is better, but def couldn't back that up statistically right now. Still, no way no how in any section of any universe are the Pirates a better team than the Dodgers. Regardless of record.
That is all.
Martin>Doumit (barely)
Loney>Clement
DeWitt=Iwamura
Furcal>Cedeno
Blake>LaRoche
Manny>Lastings
Kemp>McCutchen
Ethier>Legend
What am I missing here? I would even say every SP for the Dodgers is better, but def couldn't back that up statistically right now. Still, no way no how in any section of any universe are the Pirates a better team than the Dodgers. Regardless of record.
That is all.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Wow
As most of you have probably noticed, the Pirates are not doing so great right now. Because of the shellacking the Brewers have handed them in four games, their Expected W-L is now 4-15 (they have been outscored 147-65 on the season). Most of that is due to the fact that the Brewers have beat the Pirates 53-4 in four games.
I would love to know what team reached 100 runs scored against another team in the shortest amount of times. If this keeps up, the Brewers could hit that in four or five more games. I do realize that things should adjust back to normal soon (key word being should). I mean, the Brewers cannot play like this all year, right? Well let us have a look at one player and have fun with small sample sizes.
Ryan Braun is destroying the Pirates this season. Last year he played in 14 games against the Pirates.
AB: 50
HR: 4
RBI: 14
SB: 2
Hits: 13
BA: .260
So far, through four games, these are the same numbers against the Buccos.
AB: 15
HR: 2
RBI: 8
SB: 4
Hits: 8
BA: .533
What kind of numbers could he end up with versus the Pirates if he continues at this pace? There are 13 remaining games and the following numbers could be his remaining stats. Add those to the above numbers and see what you get...
AB: 52
HR: 6.9
RBI: 27.7
SB: 13.9
Hits: 27.7
It is theoretically possible for Braun to have a 10/10 season against the Pirates. Last year he only had 20 SBs, this year he has five, but four against the Pirates! Talk about padding your stats. Hell, even if he plays terrible against the Buccos for the rest of the year, his numbers will still end up pretty decent because of these four games.
Oh, jumping back to the Pirates and their expected W-L record, without the Brewers the Pirates have only been outscored 94-62, which would give them a pretty sweet .319 winning percentage and an expected W-L of 5-10. Still not very good.
This is going to be a really long season...
I would love to know what team reached 100 runs scored against another team in the shortest amount of times. If this keeps up, the Brewers could hit that in four or five more games. I do realize that things should adjust back to normal soon (key word being should). I mean, the Brewers cannot play like this all year, right? Well let us have a look at one player and have fun with small sample sizes.
Ryan Braun is destroying the Pirates this season. Last year he played in 14 games against the Pirates.
AB: 50
HR: 4
RBI: 14
SB: 2
Hits: 13
BA: .260
So far, through four games, these are the same numbers against the Buccos.
AB: 15
HR: 2
RBI: 8
SB: 4
Hits: 8
BA: .533
What kind of numbers could he end up with versus the Pirates if he continues at this pace? There are 13 remaining games and the following numbers could be his remaining stats. Add those to the above numbers and see what you get...
AB: 52
HR: 6.9
RBI: 27.7
SB: 13.9
Hits: 27.7
It is theoretically possible for Braun to have a 10/10 season against the Pirates. Last year he only had 20 SBs, this year he has five, but four against the Pirates! Talk about padding your stats. Hell, even if he plays terrible against the Buccos for the rest of the year, his numbers will still end up pretty decent because of these four games.
Oh, jumping back to the Pirates and their expected W-L record, without the Brewers the Pirates have only been outscored 94-62, which would give them a pretty sweet .319 winning percentage and an expected W-L of 5-10. Still not very good.
This is going to be a really long season...
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Barry Zito watch...
First start for Zito was a doozie! 6 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 5 K. Nice start to the season! Could he be turning it around as predicted???
Monday, April 5, 2010
It's Time...
for the same old Pirates. I'd keep a running diary of the opener but I'm at work and watching it on live game channel. What I did see was them blowing a bases loaded no-out situation with our number 9 hitter, who is of course not a pitcher. Go Bucs!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
2010 MLB Predictions: NL Central
Aright kids, here is the NL Central. Our favorite division. The Division with our beloved, impoverished Pirates in a constant flux to reach Major League parity. Oh the lovely Pirates. Our future is so bright (quote used for the last 17 years)...Here are my predictions
Cardinals
Reds
Cubs
Pirates
Brewers
Astros
The top 3 I think could end up being interchangeable throughout the course of the season, and yes, the Pirates sitting in 4th is completely wishful thinking, but what the Cardinals have in Albert Pujols, I think they could end up lacking in 2 very important categories of which are very important for long term success; defense and relief pitching. The pitching may not be a big deal because they have the best pitching coach in the Majors and they will end up righting that ship. So, that is why they won out over the Reds and more notably the Cubs, whom many people are picking as favorites for he division.
The cubs have too many health questions with Soriano, Ramirez, Lee, Zombrano and even more now with the addition of Xavier Nady. If they are all healthy all season and produce like they have in the past, then it will be a compeltely different story. Aside, from the production of the aforementioned stars, does anyone think the Cubs will be getting great numbers from their pitching staff? If I had a magic 8 ball I think they answer would be "ask again later" or "note likely".
I don't know why I have the Reds in second place. I like their young talent and the promise of their up and coming highly rated prospectus rotation. Hell they thought their number 1 pick was so good they said he could skip out on Minor league mop jobs and come straight in and be their number 5 starter. Can Homer Bailey be as good as advertised and will the young boppers come through. I think they can, which is why I have them in second.
I think the bottom 3 could probably be interchangeable as well. The reason these 3 teams are the bottom 3 is because I believe they all lack something in common. Good, Healthy Pitching. But, what they lack in pitching, they make up for it in size(Brewers), speed(Pirates), and texans(Astros).
I believe the Pirates have the best chance of the 3 to finish out of the bottom spot because they do something better than any team, and that is field the ball. The Pirates were the best fielding team in the NL last season. I know that when it comes to baseball there isn't the constant phrasing of "defense wins championships" and the Pirates were THE prime example of that, but in spite of their defensive prowess, I think they can really run. The Pirates have a fast team and are going to take many bases other teams would be afraid to attempt. Like everyone else though, my reservations come with their offense. They lack a big proven bat in the middle of the line up, and everyone in the line up is young. I'm hoping Iwamura becomes our team MVP and his japanese mentality of patience at the plate, which I believe is preached over there will rub off on the rest of the ball club. Which is why I'm assuming they are batting him in the lead off spot to start the season. Their starting pitching keeps me up at night.
The brewers have big bats and big men, but I just don't see the depth in their rotation or their bullpen outside of the trevor hoffman. I think he's going to be waiting awhile for his 600th save, though he only needs like 9.
The Astros just keep getting hurt. Outside of Berkman and Lee, they don't have anyone that really pound the ball and they keep alternating getting injured. Right now its Berkman starting the season on the DL and when he returns how much you want to bet that Lee goes down sometime in the month afterwards. Also, their ace is having back issues, which gives me reservations about how well he actually will pitch this year. Outside of the Wandy Ramirez, I'm not sure they are going to do much, even with the Brett Myers addition. I doubt he has a great season with that short porch in left field; I bet he gives up the most home runs in the Majors this year.
Pirates # of Victories Predictions: 80. Just to blue ball me towards the end of the season and keep everyone in Pittsburgh interested. How sad is it that a team striving for 82 victories could keep an entire city interested in baseball?
CDP: Pujols win another MVP, Cutch goes 20/40 and 2 of the previously mentioned cubs stars will get injured for a significant amount of time. I'm thinking Lee and Ramirez.
Cardinals
Reds
Cubs
Pirates
Brewers
Astros
The top 3 I think could end up being interchangeable throughout the course of the season, and yes, the Pirates sitting in 4th is completely wishful thinking, but what the Cardinals have in Albert Pujols, I think they could end up lacking in 2 very important categories of which are very important for long term success; defense and relief pitching. The pitching may not be a big deal because they have the best pitching coach in the Majors and they will end up righting that ship. So, that is why they won out over the Reds and more notably the Cubs, whom many people are picking as favorites for he division.
The cubs have too many health questions with Soriano, Ramirez, Lee, Zombrano and even more now with the addition of Xavier Nady. If they are all healthy all season and produce like they have in the past, then it will be a compeltely different story. Aside, from the production of the aforementioned stars, does anyone think the Cubs will be getting great numbers from their pitching staff? If I had a magic 8 ball I think they answer would be "ask again later" or "note likely".
I don't know why I have the Reds in second place. I like their young talent and the promise of their up and coming highly rated prospectus rotation. Hell they thought their number 1 pick was so good they said he could skip out on Minor league mop jobs and come straight in and be their number 5 starter. Can Homer Bailey be as good as advertised and will the young boppers come through. I think they can, which is why I have them in second.
I think the bottom 3 could probably be interchangeable as well. The reason these 3 teams are the bottom 3 is because I believe they all lack something in common. Good, Healthy Pitching. But, what they lack in pitching, they make up for it in size(Brewers), speed(Pirates), and texans(Astros).
I believe the Pirates have the best chance of the 3 to finish out of the bottom spot because they do something better than any team, and that is field the ball. The Pirates were the best fielding team in the NL last season. I know that when it comes to baseball there isn't the constant phrasing of "defense wins championships" and the Pirates were THE prime example of that, but in spite of their defensive prowess, I think they can really run. The Pirates have a fast team and are going to take many bases other teams would be afraid to attempt. Like everyone else though, my reservations come with their offense. They lack a big proven bat in the middle of the line up, and everyone in the line up is young. I'm hoping Iwamura becomes our team MVP and his japanese mentality of patience at the plate, which I believe is preached over there will rub off on the rest of the ball club. Which is why I'm assuming they are batting him in the lead off spot to start the season. Their starting pitching keeps me up at night.
The brewers have big bats and big men, but I just don't see the depth in their rotation or their bullpen outside of the trevor hoffman. I think he's going to be waiting awhile for his 600th save, though he only needs like 9.
The Astros just keep getting hurt. Outside of Berkman and Lee, they don't have anyone that really pound the ball and they keep alternating getting injured. Right now its Berkman starting the season on the DL and when he returns how much you want to bet that Lee goes down sometime in the month afterwards. Also, their ace is having back issues, which gives me reservations about how well he actually will pitch this year. Outside of the Wandy Ramirez, I'm not sure they are going to do much, even with the Brett Myers addition. I doubt he has a great season with that short porch in left field; I bet he gives up the most home runs in the Majors this year.
Pirates # of Victories Predictions: 80. Just to blue ball me towards the end of the season and keep everyone in Pittsburgh interested. How sad is it that a team striving for 82 victories could keep an entire city interested in baseball?
CDP: Pujols win another MVP, Cutch goes 20/40 and 2 of the previously mentioned cubs stars will get injured for a significant amount of time. I'm thinking Lee and Ramirez.
Addition to NL West and NL East predictions
I forgot my Crazy Divisional Predictions for the NL West and NL East.
For the NL East: Heyward will NOT be the rookie of the Year, but Wagner will be come back player of the year.
NL West: Manny will be traded mid-season, but will not be the most prolific offensive player on his team, and the NL Rookie of the year will come from this division.
Ok, now since the start of the season is tonight. I figured I should have all the divisions up. So in a minute I will post our favorite division; the NL Central. Lets Go Bucs!
For the NL East: Heyward will NOT be the rookie of the Year, but Wagner will be come back player of the year.
NL West: Manny will be traded mid-season, but will not be the most prolific offensive player on his team, and the NL Rookie of the year will come from this division.
Ok, now since the start of the season is tonight. I figured I should have all the divisions up. So in a minute I will post our favorite division; the NL Central. Lets Go Bucs!
Friday, March 26, 2010
2010 MLB Predictions: NL West
Ugh! I had a whole thing typed up and then I lost it somehow. So, since this division has the laziest fielder in baseball, this is going to be the laziest post for my predictions. Here they are:
Giants
Dodgers
Diamondback
Rockies
Padres
Giants have arguably the best pitching staff in the majors: 2 Cy Youngs, Barry Zito has improved every year since coming over, My favorite for the Cy Young in Matt Cain and oh yea, but they way their 4th pitcher has a No-No to his credit. Their offense is underrated. They have decent pop at the corners and brought in very dependable versatility with DeRosa. Renteria will have a better year, closer to his career average, which will help tremendously and when freddy gets healthy he will hit near .300 as always.
Dodgers have a great team, but will not make the playoffs. They have great offense at every position, but they have the distraction of manny being manny. He's already said this is his last season with the dodgers BEFORE spring training, sheesh. Their pitching I believe with be spotty. Kershaw is still young, Billingsley is talented but inconsistent, kuroda is old and injury prone and you never know what you're going to get from Padilla.
I think the Diamondbacks are better than they performed last year. But, of course it depends on the health of Webb. Can he return to Cy Young form? Will Adam LaRoche actually hit at the beginning of a season, and can all their young guys bounce back and have the seasons they were meant to have? Big questions to be answered, but if 2 out 3 are answered the way they want, they will compete, if all 3 get answered this division could be theres.
I just don't like the Rockies. I don't know what it is. I think they have great talent for the future, but I don't think its aged enough for right now. Their pitching is not as good as people think and there are going to be a lot of strike outs in their line up, aside from Helton.
The Padres have the best first basemen in the National League not named Pujols and the Hairston Brothers. Oh ya, and Kyle Blanks is really really REALLY Big. Who could ask for more?
Giants
Dodgers
Diamondback
Rockies
Padres
Giants have arguably the best pitching staff in the majors: 2 Cy Youngs, Barry Zito has improved every year since coming over, My favorite for the Cy Young in Matt Cain and oh yea, but they way their 4th pitcher has a No-No to his credit. Their offense is underrated. They have decent pop at the corners and brought in very dependable versatility with DeRosa. Renteria will have a better year, closer to his career average, which will help tremendously and when freddy gets healthy he will hit near .300 as always.
Dodgers have a great team, but will not make the playoffs. They have great offense at every position, but they have the distraction of manny being manny. He's already said this is his last season with the dodgers BEFORE spring training, sheesh. Their pitching I believe with be spotty. Kershaw is still young, Billingsley is talented but inconsistent, kuroda is old and injury prone and you never know what you're going to get from Padilla.
I think the Diamondbacks are better than they performed last year. But, of course it depends on the health of Webb. Can he return to Cy Young form? Will Adam LaRoche actually hit at the beginning of a season, and can all their young guys bounce back and have the seasons they were meant to have? Big questions to be answered, but if 2 out 3 are answered the way they want, they will compete, if all 3 get answered this division could be theres.
I just don't like the Rockies. I don't know what it is. I think they have great talent for the future, but I don't think its aged enough for right now. Their pitching is not as good as people think and there are going to be a lot of strike outs in their line up, aside from Helton.
The Padres have the best first basemen in the National League not named Pujols and the Hairston Brothers. Oh ya, and Kyle Blanks is really really REALLY Big. Who could ask for more?
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Fantasy Baseball!
Ok guys. I know we already have our own league, but I am also in another league with a couple of guys from work. The only thing is, they are as competitive as us if not more and they know their stuff. They asked if I knew any fellow baseball freaks, and I thought; no better place to advertise than the pancake. The league is 50 dollars, it's a live, in person draft held on march 30 at 7pm. They are looking for 2 more people. If you cannot make it in person you can draft via phone or possibly Instant messanger of some kind. Let me know if you guys are interested. If you are interested and can possibly make the draft just let Brad know. He is the one who is running the league, his email is: bradt.soe@gmail.com
I'll be putting up the NL Central and NL West predictions in a couple days, just don't have the time to do the proper reading and typing right now. Lata!
I'll be putting up the NL Central and NL West predictions in a couple days, just don't have the time to do the proper reading and typing right now. Lata!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
2010 MLB Predictions: NL East
Every team has the potential to do some special things on the offensive side of the ball, but the biggest problem with teams that could have been favorites entering the season is whether or not their team is healthy and can remain healthy throughout the course of the season. The Mets seem to be the kings of bad luck, with 2 perennial all-starts missing the start of the season; The team to watch out for are the Atlanta Braves with the best up and coming prospect they hope will take over in right field; Philadelphia is still the best team in the NL; Players need to play up to expectations in Florida; The nationals are headed in the right direction. Here are my predictions:
Phillies
Braves
Nationals
Mets
Marlins
The Phillies are the team in the East, but their complete success depends on how well their pitching staff performs this year. I'm still not convinced that trading for Halladay for Cliff Lee was a great improvement. Cliff Lee definitely proved he could pitch in the NL and in the very hitter friendly ball park and was doing it as a south paw. Halladay is going to be a contender for the the Cy Young as he is every year, but I don't think he is going to have the success everyone is predicting for him. I think he still comes close to 20 victories, but I think his ERA is going to be in the mid to high 3's. Brad Lidge needs to come back to form because I really don't think they have anyone else who can close effectively on a consistent basis. They could be the Mets of 2 years ago. Of course this line up is going to rake, but can Ibanez produce like he did last season, he is an aging outfielder, and will polanco provide the proper supporting role they are looking for from the 2 hole? Biggest Questions: How well will Halladay pitch and can Lidge regain his form.
Look out for the Braves...if they are healthy. If they all stay healthy; and thats a big IF, they are going to compete for the division. I think their pitching staff is much improved with a healthy Hudson and Billy Wagner is going to have 30+ saves this year with a sub 2.00 ERA. Again, IF Glaus is healthy all season right there with Chipper, they have a formadable middle of the line up to go with McCann. Biggest questions: How good is Heyward at the pro-level, how long will everyone stay healthy.
Meet the Mets! Greet the Mets! Come and watch the bad luck Mets! Seriously, what else can go wrong. Beltran is going to be out til May it looks like, they don't have a proven healthy first basemen, Jeff Franceour MIGHT be happy in New York and Jose Reyes could be out for 2 to 8 weeks with a freakin' thyroid problem?! Come on now. Even I feel kinda bad, and thats from a Pirates fan who has had nothing but losing for 17 years. But, they could have a decent pitching staff and their bullpen is better this year than it has been. Once they get everyone healthy, I think the Mets will also make a run for the wild card spot. Biggest questions: When and Who comes back healthy for the majority of the seaon and for how long.
The Nationals are making good strides. They are coming along faster than the pirates every have, and I think they are only going to get better especially in their pitching. The signing of I-rod I think was phenomenal for this young staff, and will really help in bringing along strasburg during spring training. I think they need to let him pitch in the minors for a little while until he shows he can dominate. They have a decent line up with good veterans with productive pasts: Dunn, I-Rod, Zimmerman, Morgan. Biggest Questions: When will Strasburg help and can I-rod be as influential as everyone thinks.
The Marlins have a lot of players to play up to expectations: Coughlan, Maybin, Bonifacio; and can Josh Johnson have back to back healthy seasons. He could very well be the best pitcher in the NL, but he also needs to stay very healthy. Also, I think Logan Morrison is this years Rookie of the Year. Biggest Questions: Will they continue to surprise and will Josh Johnson stay healthy.
Oh! By the way, did any of you guys hear anything about the Phillies talking internally about a first basemen swap of Ryan Howard for Albert Pujols, I swear I just saw that scroll across the screen on espnews.
Phillies
Braves
Nationals
Mets
Marlins
The Phillies are the team in the East, but their complete success depends on how well their pitching staff performs this year. I'm still not convinced that trading for Halladay for Cliff Lee was a great improvement. Cliff Lee definitely proved he could pitch in the NL and in the very hitter friendly ball park and was doing it as a south paw. Halladay is going to be a contender for the the Cy Young as he is every year, but I don't think he is going to have the success everyone is predicting for him. I think he still comes close to 20 victories, but I think his ERA is going to be in the mid to high 3's. Brad Lidge needs to come back to form because I really don't think they have anyone else who can close effectively on a consistent basis. They could be the Mets of 2 years ago. Of course this line up is going to rake, but can Ibanez produce like he did last season, he is an aging outfielder, and will polanco provide the proper supporting role they are looking for from the 2 hole? Biggest Questions: How well will Halladay pitch and can Lidge regain his form.
Look out for the Braves...if they are healthy. If they all stay healthy; and thats a big IF, they are going to compete for the division. I think their pitching staff is much improved with a healthy Hudson and Billy Wagner is going to have 30+ saves this year with a sub 2.00 ERA. Again, IF Glaus is healthy all season right there with Chipper, they have a formadable middle of the line up to go with McCann. Biggest questions: How good is Heyward at the pro-level, how long will everyone stay healthy.
Meet the Mets! Greet the Mets! Come and watch the bad luck Mets! Seriously, what else can go wrong. Beltran is going to be out til May it looks like, they don't have a proven healthy first basemen, Jeff Franceour MIGHT be happy in New York and Jose Reyes could be out for 2 to 8 weeks with a freakin' thyroid problem?! Come on now. Even I feel kinda bad, and thats from a Pirates fan who has had nothing but losing for 17 years. But, they could have a decent pitching staff and their bullpen is better this year than it has been. Once they get everyone healthy, I think the Mets will also make a run for the wild card spot. Biggest questions: When and Who comes back healthy for the majority of the seaon and for how long.
The Nationals are making good strides. They are coming along faster than the pirates every have, and I think they are only going to get better especially in their pitching. The signing of I-rod I think was phenomenal for this young staff, and will really help in bringing along strasburg during spring training. I think they need to let him pitch in the minors for a little while until he shows he can dominate. They have a decent line up with good veterans with productive pasts: Dunn, I-Rod, Zimmerman, Morgan. Biggest Questions: When will Strasburg help and can I-rod be as influential as everyone thinks.
The Marlins have a lot of players to play up to expectations: Coughlan, Maybin, Bonifacio; and can Josh Johnson have back to back healthy seasons. He could very well be the best pitcher in the NL, but he also needs to stay very healthy. Also, I think Logan Morrison is this years Rookie of the Year. Biggest Questions: Will they continue to surprise and will Josh Johnson stay healthy.
Oh! By the way, did any of you guys hear anything about the Phillies talking internally about a first basemen swap of Ryan Howard for Albert Pujols, I swear I just saw that scroll across the screen on espnews.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The Pancake Challenge!
Hey everyone, I am setting up a NCAA men's basketball tournament challenge. You know the drill, fill out the bracket and we shall see who wins.
Here is the link. The password is yummy, the group name is The Pancake Challenge, the group ID is 44802. There is no money involved, too hard to gather the money, so it is just for fun. Maybe I will award the winner some kind of prize...
Good luck to everyone...
Here is the link. The password is yummy, the group name is The Pancake Challenge, the group ID is 44802. There is no money involved, too hard to gather the money, so it is just for fun. Maybe I will award the winner some kind of prize...
Good luck to everyone...
Sunday, February 28, 2010
2010 MLB Predictions: AL Playoffs & Awards
AL Wildcard: Boston Red Sox
ALDS: White Sox OVER Red Sox, Mariners OVER Yankees
ALCS: White Sox OVER Mariners
AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera
AL Cy Young: Jake Peavy
AL ROY: I would have picked Julio Borbon, but I don't think he qualifies as a rookie by like 20 or 30 at bats, but I will choose Neftali Feliz, from the same team.
ALDS: White Sox OVER Red Sox, Mariners OVER Yankees
ALCS: White Sox OVER Mariners
AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera
AL Cy Young: Jake Peavy
AL ROY: I would have picked Julio Borbon, but I don't think he qualifies as a rookie by like 20 or 30 at bats, but I will choose Neftali Feliz, from the same team.
2010 MLB Predictions: AL West
Before I go on with my predictions, I want to post this, I figured it might be something Josh and Offord would enjoy since they like to put so much stock in the importance of such statistics that I find subjectively obsolete. But I think it may help my argument for who I think is going to come out on top for the division this season. Here are my predictions for the AL West:
Mariners
Rangers
Angels
Athletics
I know everyone thinks I'm crazy with my predictions half the time, and now I look ready for the straight jacket for predicting the mighty Angels to fall in the AL West, the division they have owned for the better part of a decade, but I think this is the year of the Mariner. Maybe its my personal love for the one last "natural" hall of fame slugger left in the big leagues; or the fact they have 2 center fielders covering the wides expanses of Safeco's spacious alleys and a 3rd in Griffey, if necessary, despite his age; or maybe it could be they have a former AL Cy Young award winner in addition to one of this years front runners for the same award; or it could be the solid defense they display across the diamond to go with a speedy line up. The only things I think may hinder them is their possible lack of power and how well they hold on to leads late in the game. The wild card for the Mariners is the emotion that could be on display night in and night out for this almost definitely being Griffey's last season in the Bigs and the send off they want to give him.
The reason i put the the Rangers over the Angels is because I like their offense so much more, and their bullpen, in my opinion, is more solid. Now, the Angels have a much better rotation, but I think they are relying too heavily on half of their line-up to continue their progress on what were career years for half of their line up. Yes, a couple of these players are still young at SS, 2B and 1B, but the meat of their line up is in the outfield and they are aging and breaking down. To expect a full healthy season from all of them, including Hideki Matsui is asking for too much. They brought in Fernando Rodney to sure up the back end of their bullpen, but they also brought him in case fuentes is as erratic as he was last season. Towards the end of the season you will see the Angels fall out of the race for the division and then the wild card. The Rangers are once again, going to have one of the best offenses in the league. They have decent defense especially in center and left, a gold glover at third and who I think will be a future gold glover at short. I think the offense only got better with what I would call "cheap" signing of Vladdy to hit out of the DH and flip-flop on the defensive side of the ball with Cruz. I like the Rotations 1 and 2 guys, but can Feldman continue to be a 15+ wins pitcher and can the talented Rich Harden stay healthy enough to pitch an entire season? Their bullpen is deep, atleast in potential closer depth, though the role itself is strongly in the hands of Francisco. The last thing I'm really looking forward to is where the young flame thrower Neftali Feliz ends up. He could end up being a stellar 3rd or 4th starter or end up in the bullpen for a little while to groom him into the starters role and build arm strength in the same way the Rays handled David Price.
The athletics brought in Ben Sheets and have a relatively young and speedy outfield. They brought in Kouzmanoff, who still has some power potential and is definitely a reliable back up plan to the oft-injured eric chavez. The rest of their rotation outside of Sheets is going to rely on Dallas Braden and Justin Duchscherer? I like the Pirates odds more with Hart and Lincoln. Their bullpen I don't think is very deep, though they do have a couple options at closer and people who can interchange towards the back end. In the end, I don't think they have what it takes in the division, but it's the A's and like the Marlins and the Twins before them, always seem to find a way to stay competitive at least for a little while.
CDP: The rangers will have 4 players hit 30+ home runs but still come up short in their bid for a playoff birth and Griffey will hit 25 home runs.
Mariners
Rangers
Angels
Athletics
I know everyone thinks I'm crazy with my predictions half the time, and now I look ready for the straight jacket for predicting the mighty Angels to fall in the AL West, the division they have owned for the better part of a decade, but I think this is the year of the Mariner. Maybe its my personal love for the one last "natural" hall of fame slugger left in the big leagues; or the fact they have 2 center fielders covering the wides expanses of Safeco's spacious alleys and a 3rd in Griffey, if necessary, despite his age; or maybe it could be they have a former AL Cy Young award winner in addition to one of this years front runners for the same award; or it could be the solid defense they display across the diamond to go with a speedy line up. The only things I think may hinder them is their possible lack of power and how well they hold on to leads late in the game. The wild card for the Mariners is the emotion that could be on display night in and night out for this almost definitely being Griffey's last season in the Bigs and the send off they want to give him.
The reason i put the the Rangers over the Angels is because I like their offense so much more, and their bullpen, in my opinion, is more solid. Now, the Angels have a much better rotation, but I think they are relying too heavily on half of their line-up to continue their progress on what were career years for half of their line up. Yes, a couple of these players are still young at SS, 2B and 1B, but the meat of their line up is in the outfield and they are aging and breaking down. To expect a full healthy season from all of them, including Hideki Matsui is asking for too much. They brought in Fernando Rodney to sure up the back end of their bullpen, but they also brought him in case fuentes is as erratic as he was last season. Towards the end of the season you will see the Angels fall out of the race for the division and then the wild card. The Rangers are once again, going to have one of the best offenses in the league. They have decent defense especially in center and left, a gold glover at third and who I think will be a future gold glover at short. I think the offense only got better with what I would call "cheap" signing of Vladdy to hit out of the DH and flip-flop on the defensive side of the ball with Cruz. I like the Rotations 1 and 2 guys, but can Feldman continue to be a 15+ wins pitcher and can the talented Rich Harden stay healthy enough to pitch an entire season? Their bullpen is deep, atleast in potential closer depth, though the role itself is strongly in the hands of Francisco. The last thing I'm really looking forward to is where the young flame thrower Neftali Feliz ends up. He could end up being a stellar 3rd or 4th starter or end up in the bullpen for a little while to groom him into the starters role and build arm strength in the same way the Rays handled David Price.
The athletics brought in Ben Sheets and have a relatively young and speedy outfield. They brought in Kouzmanoff, who still has some power potential and is definitely a reliable back up plan to the oft-injured eric chavez. The rest of their rotation outside of Sheets is going to rely on Dallas Braden and Justin Duchscherer? I like the Pirates odds more with Hart and Lincoln. Their bullpen I don't think is very deep, though they do have a couple options at closer and people who can interchange towards the back end. In the end, I don't think they have what it takes in the division, but it's the A's and like the Marlins and the Twins before them, always seem to find a way to stay competitive at least for a little while.
CDP: The rangers will have 4 players hit 30+ home runs but still come up short in their bid for a playoff birth and Griffey will hit 25 home runs.
Friday, February 26, 2010
2010 MLB Predictions: AL Central
I'm sorry guys, I'm kinda bored right now and I have time to continue on with my predictions. So I am going to continue with the AL Central. What can you say about the AL Central? How about White Sox! White Sox! White Sox! I think they are going to run away with this division. I really don't think this is going to be close (but of course I am going to be wrong); Heres the AL Central Predictions:
White Sox
Tigers
Indians
Twins
Royals
The White Sox look absolutely perfect on paper. They have a stellar rotation, especially with a healthy Peavy; crazy depth defensively and offensively; and players who can play above average defense at more than 2 positions. They brought in the best defensive outfielder(andruw jones) and infielder(omar vizquel) from the last 20 years, and if Andruw Jones starts to rake, sheesh! Can you imagine how much better the defense up the middle is going to be this year? With young guys at second and short in their 2nd and 3rd year respectively, just think of all the information they are going to absorb from the future hall of famer. Detroit has a chance...to really struggle this year. They definitely have the quantity at starting pitcher, but its the quality i worry about outside of Verlander. Johnny Damon I don't think made them all that better, and if this team is going to improve at all offensively, Inge can't strike out so often, Ordonez has to hit atleast like 3 years ago and Guillen has to be healthy all season. I think the team that is going to take the biggest dive is going to be the Twins. I'm not at all impressed with their rotation and their biggest acquisitions in the offseason are a flimsy wristed second basemen and a short stop who's had more mental lapses than Shutter Island. I believe the Indians are better than people believe, especially offensively with a healthy Sizemore and an improving Cabrera along with Choo and the newly added Russell Branyan to add 30 home runs. The Royals are getting there and have a great future with a very talented and young pitching staff, but they need a lot of pieces to fall into place offensively...Jason Kendall?? I mean come on!
CDP: The Cy Young and MVP will come out of this division( I will have those when i finish both leagues, they will be included with my playoff predictions.)
White Sox
Tigers
Indians
Twins
Royals
The White Sox look absolutely perfect on paper. They have a stellar rotation, especially with a healthy Peavy; crazy depth defensively and offensively; and players who can play above average defense at more than 2 positions. They brought in the best defensive outfielder(andruw jones) and infielder(omar vizquel) from the last 20 years, and if Andruw Jones starts to rake, sheesh! Can you imagine how much better the defense up the middle is going to be this year? With young guys at second and short in their 2nd and 3rd year respectively, just think of all the information they are going to absorb from the future hall of famer. Detroit has a chance...to really struggle this year. They definitely have the quantity at starting pitcher, but its the quality i worry about outside of Verlander. Johnny Damon I don't think made them all that better, and if this team is going to improve at all offensively, Inge can't strike out so often, Ordonez has to hit atleast like 3 years ago and Guillen has to be healthy all season. I think the team that is going to take the biggest dive is going to be the Twins. I'm not at all impressed with their rotation and their biggest acquisitions in the offseason are a flimsy wristed second basemen and a short stop who's had more mental lapses than Shutter Island. I believe the Indians are better than people believe, especially offensively with a healthy Sizemore and an improving Cabrera along with Choo and the newly added Russell Branyan to add 30 home runs. The Royals are getting there and have a great future with a very talented and young pitching staff, but they need a lot of pieces to fall into place offensively...Jason Kendall?? I mean come on!
CDP: The Cy Young and MVP will come out of this division( I will have those when i finish both leagues, they will be included with my playoff predictions.)
2010 MLB Predictions: AL East
When it comes to parity in the Majors, I believe every team is starting to field respectable professional ball club to remain competitive within the sport, especially in the National League. When it comes to the AL East however, as much as I would like to rain on the Yankees parade and say that Derek Jeter not being guaranteed a Yankee's contract this year would portend the downfall of the franchise and sink them to the bottom of a very competitive division (for second place); every written word would be no more than literary carrion. We all know the Yucking Fankees are the best team in baseball as much as all of us Pirates fans hate to admit. A 200 Million dollar payroll does that for you. So without further ado, here are my AL East predictions:
Yankees
Red Sox
Orioles
Rays
Blue Jays
I hate the Yankees, but despite losing Godzilla and Damon, I think they may have gotten even better. They improved on the defensive side of the ball with Granderson and he is going to bring a little more youth and sizzle to the line up. They brought back Javier Vasquez to the Rotation, AS THEIR 4TH STARTER! He is a potential number 2 starter for any team in the majors and could possibly be a number 1 for any number of NL teams(the pirates). At the same time, I think that is his greatest fault. He is definitely a better NL pitcher than AL, so i guess we'll see the turn out for the yanks with him. I came real close to swapping the positions of the Sox and the Rays, but the Red Sox have the best pitching staff in the Majors. They worry me though because I think they have too many offensive question marks outside of Pedroia and Youk and I think it will hurt them. I don't trust the Rays pitching, or the O's for that matter, but I think the Orioles have such better offensive potential despite, in my opinion, only 2 or 3 consistent commodities in the line up. The Blue Jays have an all star second basement...?(like how i did that)
Crazy Division Prediction (CDP): Either the Red Sox or Rays will lose an early season MVP candidate and it will determine who finishes second in the division. Derek Jeter finishes second in the MVP vote, Carl Crawford has 75+ steals for the season.
Yankees
Red Sox
Orioles
Rays
Blue Jays
I hate the Yankees, but despite losing Godzilla and Damon, I think they may have gotten even better. They improved on the defensive side of the ball with Granderson and he is going to bring a little more youth and sizzle to the line up. They brought back Javier Vasquez to the Rotation, AS THEIR 4TH STARTER! He is a potential number 2 starter for any team in the majors and could possibly be a number 1 for any number of NL teams(the pirates). At the same time, I think that is his greatest fault. He is definitely a better NL pitcher than AL, so i guess we'll see the turn out for the yanks with him. I came real close to swapping the positions of the Sox and the Rays, but the Red Sox have the best pitching staff in the Majors. They worry me though because I think they have too many offensive question marks outside of Pedroia and Youk and I think it will hurt them. I don't trust the Rays pitching, or the O's for that matter, but I think the Orioles have such better offensive potential despite, in my opinion, only 2 or 3 consistent commodities in the line up. The Blue Jays have an all star second basement...?(like how i did that)
Crazy Division Prediction (CDP): Either the Red Sox or Rays will lose an early season MVP candidate and it will determine who finishes second in the division. Derek Jeter finishes second in the MVP vote, Carl Crawford has 75+ steals for the season.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
2010 MLB Predictions
Nice predictions (Josh), I mostly agree. I think this is the toughest season in recent memory to predict because so many teams are looking good, in my opinion. In the NL, I would not be shocked if any of the following made the playoffs - Phillies, Mets, Braves, Cardinals, Cubs, Reds, Brewers, Dodgers, Rockies, Giants, D'Backs. In the AL, I could see the Yankees, Red Sox, Rays, Tigers, Twins, White Sox, Angels, Mariners, and Rangers. That is quite a field of teams that have a shot. Since a lot of them are crapshoots for me, I'll probably get them exactly right, because when I am "sure", they are always way off.
NL East
Phillies
Braves
Mets
Marlins
Nationals
May be the best division in the NL when all is said and done. The Nationals have done A LOT to improve, and if Strasburg is half the pitcher they expect, added to Lanaan, Marquis, Wang, and Zimmerman, these guys could seriously push the Mets and Marlins. Don't forget though, the Mets have a healthyish Beltran and Reyes, to go along with Wright, Bay, and Santana. You can't count these guys out yet...just wait until August.
NL Central
Cardinals
Cubs
Reds
Brewers
Astros
Pirates
Cardinals are the clear favorite, but the Reds are up and coming. The Cubs will be in their consistent 2/3 spot, so the only competition will be the Reds trying to move up the ladder. If not this year, then next year the Reds will be second.
NL West
Rockies
Dodgers
Giants
D'Backs
Padres
The D'Backs get Webb back and add Edwin Jackson, but still have too much youth to make it in this balanced division. Any of the top 3 could make it, but I like Ubaldo Jimenez to lead the Rocks into the playoffs. The Giants just haven't done enough on offense to move up yet.
NL Wildcard: Dodgers. I like the Braves, but they didn't do enough to improve their offense, and the Dodgers have Matt Kemp.
NLDS: Cardinals over Dodgers, Phillies over Rockies
NLCS: Cardinals over Phillies
NL MVP: If Pujols gets seriously injured, then Matt Kemp.
NL CY YOUNG: Tim Lincecum
NL ROY: Pedro Alvarez ... j/k. Heyward if he gets a shot, Escobar if not. Travis Wood - SP Reds - is a sleeper.
AL East
Yankees
Red Sox
Rays
Orioles
Blue Jays
I really like the Orioles. If they were in the Central I might take them to win the division. Alas, they are not. Next year could be their year, but for now, the big 3 will be at the top again. Close between the Rays and Sox, but Lackey and Dice-K will push them over the top.
AL Central
Tigers
White Sox
Twins
Royals
Indians
This is a boring division, but the top 3 teams all have a decent shot. The White Sox have arguably the best rotation in the AL, but I think top to bottom Detroit's is better. Detroit will need its youngsters Jackson, Sizemore, and Raburn to really step up, and Miguel Cabrera to avoid bars.
AL West
Angels
Rangers
Mariners
A's
I think this will be the most exciting division in baseball and probably the closest. The Angels are steady as usual, but, if a lot of things go right, the Rangers have potentially the second best team in the AL to the Yanks. However, I think experience and consistency will win out down the stretch.
For the wildcard, like I said before, there are a lot of teams that have a shot. Because of experience, I will take the Red Sox, but I would not be shocked if the Rangers overcame them. If not this year, then next year we'll see Texas in the playoffs, especially if Harden turns things around and Netfali Feliz is as good as expected.
AL Wildcard: Red Sox
ALDS: Tigers over Red Sox, Yankees over Angels
ALCS: Yankees over Tigers. Surprisingly, the Tigers were potentially the best offense last year, now their offense is a weakness. Yanks are too much to overcome.
World Series: Cardinals over Yankees in an exciting 7 game series.
AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez (Adrian Beltre CLOSE second)
AL CY YOUNG: Felix Hernandez
AL ROY: Michael Brantley, OF, Indians. Only because I think Feliz starts the year in the bullpen. The Rangers have a lot of quality starters and I think Colby Lewis gets a shot at the 5th spot.
NL East
Phillies
Braves
Mets
Marlins
Nationals
May be the best division in the NL when all is said and done. The Nationals have done A LOT to improve, and if Strasburg is half the pitcher they expect, added to Lanaan, Marquis, Wang, and Zimmerman, these guys could seriously push the Mets and Marlins. Don't forget though, the Mets have a healthyish Beltran and Reyes, to go along with Wright, Bay, and Santana. You can't count these guys out yet...just wait until August.
NL Central
Cardinals
Cubs
Reds
Brewers
Astros
Pirates
Cardinals are the clear favorite, but the Reds are up and coming. The Cubs will be in their consistent 2/3 spot, so the only competition will be the Reds trying to move up the ladder. If not this year, then next year the Reds will be second.
NL West
Rockies
Dodgers
Giants
D'Backs
Padres
The D'Backs get Webb back and add Edwin Jackson, but still have too much youth to make it in this balanced division. Any of the top 3 could make it, but I like Ubaldo Jimenez to lead the Rocks into the playoffs. The Giants just haven't done enough on offense to move up yet.
NL Wildcard: Dodgers. I like the Braves, but they didn't do enough to improve their offense, and the Dodgers have Matt Kemp.
NLDS: Cardinals over Dodgers, Phillies over Rockies
NLCS: Cardinals over Phillies
NL MVP: If Pujols gets seriously injured, then Matt Kemp.
NL CY YOUNG: Tim Lincecum
NL ROY: Pedro Alvarez ... j/k. Heyward if he gets a shot, Escobar if not. Travis Wood - SP Reds - is a sleeper.
AL East
Yankees
Red Sox
Rays
Orioles
Blue Jays
I really like the Orioles. If they were in the Central I might take them to win the division. Alas, they are not. Next year could be their year, but for now, the big 3 will be at the top again. Close between the Rays and Sox, but Lackey and Dice-K will push them over the top.
AL Central
Tigers
White Sox
Twins
Royals
Indians
This is a boring division, but the top 3 teams all have a decent shot. The White Sox have arguably the best rotation in the AL, but I think top to bottom Detroit's is better. Detroit will need its youngsters Jackson, Sizemore, and Raburn to really step up, and Miguel Cabrera to avoid bars.
AL West
Angels
Rangers
Mariners
A's
I think this will be the most exciting division in baseball and probably the closest. The Angels are steady as usual, but, if a lot of things go right, the Rangers have potentially the second best team in the AL to the Yanks. However, I think experience and consistency will win out down the stretch.
For the wildcard, like I said before, there are a lot of teams that have a shot. Because of experience, I will take the Red Sox, but I would not be shocked if the Rangers overcame them. If not this year, then next year we'll see Texas in the playoffs, especially if Harden turns things around and Netfali Feliz is as good as expected.
AL Wildcard: Red Sox
ALDS: Tigers over Red Sox, Yankees over Angels
ALCS: Yankees over Tigers. Surprisingly, the Tigers were potentially the best offense last year, now their offense is a weakness. Yanks are too much to overcome.
World Series: Cardinals over Yankees in an exciting 7 game series.
AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez (Adrian Beltre CLOSE second)
AL CY YOUNG: Felix Hernandez
AL ROY: Michael Brantley, OF, Indians. Only because I think Feliz starts the year in the bullpen. The Rangers have a lot of quality starters and I think Colby Lewis gets a shot at the 5th spot.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Fantasy Baseball 2010
Hey guys, guess what time of year it is? That's right, it's fantasy baseball time. I will be starting a league soon on yahoo and you all are invited to join.
I want to start a discussion about it right now. I am saying only one league this year, lets discuss what stats to use. And we need everyone involved to be die hard.
Obviously these are the people I know will join: myself, Offord, Imler, Ryan, Gideon. I am hoping Ryan can get Singer, Dave, and Ruskin. Hopefully James will participate.
We would just need four more folks to have a successful and highly competitive league. Let me know.
I want to start a discussion about it right now. I am saying only one league this year, lets discuss what stats to use. And we need everyone involved to be die hard.
Obviously these are the people I know will join: myself, Offord, Imler, Ryan, Gideon. I am hoping Ryan can get Singer, Dave, and Ruskin. Hopefully James will participate.
We would just need four more folks to have a successful and highly competitive league. Let me know.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
the tebow family tree
anyone hear about the tim tebow "choose life" commercial yet?
if anything could make me root more for this guy's failure, i don't think i can come up with it at the moment. CBS should not air this commercial, since they won't air other political commercials during the super bowl.
i'm strongly considering not watching the super bowl now just because of this retarded commercial.
and tebow is an anti-evolutionist. if you are a creationist, you should not be able to earn a college degree. that should be a rule. like "don't ask, don't tell." except for rational.
if anything could make me root more for this guy's failure, i don't think i can come up with it at the moment. CBS should not air this commercial, since they won't air other political commercials during the super bowl.
i'm strongly considering not watching the super bowl now just because of this retarded commercial.
and tebow is an anti-evolutionist. if you are a creationist, you should not be able to earn a college degree. that should be a rule. like "don't ask, don't tell." except for rational.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Pirates. World Series. 2014
You know what my main problem with this article is? Last year's Pirates were a team 5 years later. 2 years ago's Pirates were a team 5 years later. 3 years ago's Pirates were a team 5 years later. That is 12 straight seasons of being a losing team "5 Years Later". If you want to have hope, fine, but this guy's argument is ridiculous.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
I am America... correction... the WORLD
Just wanted to let say that the 2010 AskMen lady rankings are out, and the top 2 are no other than my personal top 2 - as stated during Offord's contest (though in the wrong order). Shouldn't that nullify everyone elses votes and declare me supreme decider of all things attractive?
The answer is yes. And here are my other 2010 choices:
Hottest Pirate: Blackbeard
Hottest kitty: Professor Purrsalot
Hottest Lego Set: Mohammed
That's all for now.
The answer is yes. And here are my other 2010 choices:
Hottest Pirate: Blackbeard
Hottest kitty: Professor Purrsalot
Hottest Lego Set: Mohammed
That's all for now.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
First Baseball Post of 2010
I am sooo bored lately, so please comment! I have power rankings, division predictions, and other stuff ready to go, but I will wait until the remaining big name free agents sign in the next month or so. Therefore, I'll just start the conversation about the Pirates, since I'm sure that's what everyone wants to talk about...
So far, in free agency, the Pirates have actually been fairly active in attaining low cost, low risk players that may provide some help to the team in a small role. These include:
2B Akinori Iwamura (via trade), OF John Raynor (Rule-5), OF Ryan Church, OF Brian Myrow, SS Bobby Crosby, RHP DJ Carrasco, LHP Javier Lopez, RHP Chris Jakubauskas, LHP Brian Bass, LHP Neal Cotts, RHP Vinnie Chulk, and of course, Bailey the pup.
Definitely nothing major, but at least Huntington is sticking to his goal of not wasting any money on free agents and instead using the money to sign young players and invest in the draft and in Latin America. One player not on the list is Miguel Angel Sano, who the Pirates tried so hard to covet and instead scared him off. He signed for about the same amount we offered with the Twins, even though the Buccos have a great scout in Latin America who was one of the first to contact the kid. That, combined with the Matt Capps disaster, has made this offseason a negative in my view.
What we do have is a lot of options. Not good options, but a lot of options none-the-less. The 25 who will definitely be on the opening day roster are:
Position players C Ryan Doumit, C Jason Jaramillo, 1B Matt Clement, 2B Akinori Iwamura, SS Ronny Cedeno, SS Bobby Crosby, 3B Andy LaRoche, IF Ramon Vazquez, OF Lastings Milledge, OF Andrew McCutchen, OF/1B Garrett Jones, and OF Ryan Church. That leaves 1 or 2 spots available to go to Delwyn Young, Brandon Moss, Steve Pearce, and John Raynor (Rule5).
Pitchers SP Zach Duke, SP Ross Ohlendorf, SP Paul Maholm, SP Chad Morton, SP/RP Kevin Hart, RP Joel Hanrahan, RP Evan Meek, and RP Javier Lopez. That leaves 3-4 spots including 1 for a starter/long reliever, 1 for a lefty, and 1 or 2 more spots. Candidates include RHP Steven Jackson, RHP DJ Carrasco, RHP Jeff Karstens, RHP Daniel McCutchen, RHP Chris Jakubauskas, LHP Brian Bass, and LHP Neal Cotts.
I would put my money for the final spots on Delwyn Young, Stephen Jackson, Carrasco, Bass, and Jakubauskas. At the least, there will be some competition for the final spots, so that will be about as exciting as it gets for Pirate fans. Tabata will be up in May most likely, so that will probably remove Young from the roster, as well as Lincoln or McCutchen replacing one of the righty relievers.
That's about my thoughts on the current roster as of this moment. Nothing spectacular, but at least enough talent to probably keep them from losing 100 games. I currently have them ranked above only San Diego and Toronto, but that could change if some of the new guys resurrect their careers, and some of the young guys live up to potential.
Thoughts?
P.S. I decided to stay a Pirates' fan...however, go Rays!
So far, in free agency, the Pirates have actually been fairly active in attaining low cost, low risk players that may provide some help to the team in a small role. These include:
2B Akinori Iwamura (via trade), OF John Raynor (Rule-5), OF Ryan Church, OF Brian Myrow, SS Bobby Crosby, RHP DJ Carrasco, LHP Javier Lopez, RHP Chris Jakubauskas, LHP Brian Bass, LHP Neal Cotts, RHP Vinnie Chulk, and of course, Bailey the pup.
Definitely nothing major, but at least Huntington is sticking to his goal of not wasting any money on free agents and instead using the money to sign young players and invest in the draft and in Latin America. One player not on the list is Miguel Angel Sano, who the Pirates tried so hard to covet and instead scared him off. He signed for about the same amount we offered with the Twins, even though the Buccos have a great scout in Latin America who was one of the first to contact the kid. That, combined with the Matt Capps disaster, has made this offseason a negative in my view.
What we do have is a lot of options. Not good options, but a lot of options none-the-less. The 25 who will definitely be on the opening day roster are:
Position players C Ryan Doumit, C Jason Jaramillo, 1B Matt Clement, 2B Akinori Iwamura, SS Ronny Cedeno, SS Bobby Crosby, 3B Andy LaRoche, IF Ramon Vazquez, OF Lastings Milledge, OF Andrew McCutchen, OF/1B Garrett Jones, and OF Ryan Church. That leaves 1 or 2 spots available to go to Delwyn Young, Brandon Moss, Steve Pearce, and John Raynor (Rule5).
Pitchers SP Zach Duke, SP Ross Ohlendorf, SP Paul Maholm, SP Chad Morton, SP/RP Kevin Hart, RP Joel Hanrahan, RP Evan Meek, and RP Javier Lopez. That leaves 3-4 spots including 1 for a starter/long reliever, 1 for a lefty, and 1 or 2 more spots. Candidates include RHP Steven Jackson, RHP DJ Carrasco, RHP Jeff Karstens, RHP Daniel McCutchen, RHP Chris Jakubauskas, LHP Brian Bass, and LHP Neal Cotts.
I would put my money for the final spots on Delwyn Young, Stephen Jackson, Carrasco, Bass, and Jakubauskas. At the least, there will be some competition for the final spots, so that will be about as exciting as it gets for Pirate fans. Tabata will be up in May most likely, so that will probably remove Young from the roster, as well as Lincoln or McCutchen replacing one of the righty relievers.
That's about my thoughts on the current roster as of this moment. Nothing spectacular, but at least enough talent to probably keep them from losing 100 games. I currently have them ranked above only San Diego and Toronto, but that could change if some of the new guys resurrect their careers, and some of the young guys live up to potential.
Thoughts?
P.S. I decided to stay a Pirates' fan...however, go Rays!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Fantasy Football and the Playoffs
I know everyone cares, but this season I finished 1,1,2,3,4 in my 5 fantasy football leagues, with a total winnings of $230. Definitely my best season ever, and next year I am going to try to find a higher stakes league...
In more relevant news, would anyone like to join a small Fantasy Playoff league? Buy in would be $10-20 and I will use a point system similar to Yahoo! regular season leagues.
In more relevant news, would anyone like to join a small Fantasy Playoff league? Buy in would be $10-20 and I will use a point system similar to Yahoo! regular season leagues.
Dexter v. Heroes
I am currently watching Dexter Season 3 on DVD, and after watching an episode last night, then watching Part 1 of Heroes that aired on Monday, I realized the difference is staggering. Not that it should be much of a surprise to anyone, but the acting, story, quality, suspense...pretty much everything is so much better on Dexter that I think this will be the last season of Heroes I watch. It was pretty much like watching a major league baseball playoff game, then watching a double A team, or worse, the Pirates.
And if anyone wants to discuss Dexter, and is not so far along that they still remember Season 3, I'm all for it. As for Heroes, I think I'll pass on writing any more reviews since notta one person jumped in on the conversation last time.
And if anyone wants to discuss Dexter, and is not so far along that they still remember Season 3, I'm all for it. As for Heroes, I think I'll pass on writing any more reviews since notta one person jumped in on the conversation last time.
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