Gary Sheffield was released by the Tigers today, due to his lack of production after signing his 2 year 28 million dollar contract a couple seasons past. His constant time on the disabled list, debilitating injuries while actually playing, his sub .200 spring batting average and acquisition of outfielder josh anderson have made him expendable and the tigers have decided to move on without the slugger, who is 1 home run shy of his 500th.
Now, I know I'm always saying we need to sign a slugger with a name sake worth taking a risk on. Whether it's barry bonds, sammy sosa, pedro martinez or ken griffey jr. So, why is sheffield any different? He's not, he's actually better. Not only does the guy still have pop in his bat, he can still run at the age of 40! He's stolen over 30 bases in his last 2 injury plagued seasons, and he would definitely only cost the pirates the pro-rated price of 400K, where the aformentioned players would have cost at least triple the cost.
For the price it would cost to sign sheffield, we could start him for a little while, let him surpass the 500 mark, then throw him on the bench with a thunder bat coming off the pine. It would be exactly what the pirates were looking for all offseason long. A right-handed, power-hitting, outfielder.
Of course, it wouldnt' happen. But, what do you guys think?
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Oh Yahoo!, you so crazy...
I don't think I've ever seen Yahoo! crack a joke in player news, but here is a lame attempt at one in Robinson Diaz's profile:
Mar 28 The Pirates cut Diaz Saturday, choosing to go with Jason Jaramillo as the backup to starting catcher Ryan Doumit.
Recommendation: Diaz outplayed and outhit Jaramillo in spring training, but manager John Russell manager knows Jaramillo from his days in the Phillies' minor league system. Still, it wouldn't be surprising to see Diaz in Pittsburgh this summer, especially when Doumit suffers his annual injury.
Sad but true.
Two days left to vote in my poll
Mar 28 The Pirates cut Diaz Saturday, choosing to go with Jason Jaramillo as the backup to starting catcher Ryan Doumit.
Recommendation: Diaz outplayed and outhit Jaramillo in spring training, but manager John Russell manager knows Jaramillo from his days in the Phillies' minor league system. Still, it wouldn't be surprising to see Diaz in Pittsburgh this summer, especially when Doumit suffers his annual injury.
Sad but true.
Two days left to vote in my poll
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Pedro Alvarez Article
I disagree with you Jayson Stark.
Do we really care about this contract stuff? Don't we now expect a draft pick to be extremely hesitant to sign a contract with the low-spending Pirates? I can't speak for everyone, but I don't think Mr. Stark really understands Pirates' fans...All we want to do is win...Somebody back me up on this one please.
Do we really care about this contract stuff? Don't we now expect a draft pick to be extremely hesitant to sign a contract with the low-spending Pirates? I can't speak for everyone, but I don't think Mr. Stark really understands Pirates' fans...All we want to do is win...Somebody back me up on this one please.
PBC Blog
They actually answered one of my questions in the Q&A about Sean Burnett. I would have done more research on it if I realized he might actually answer me...
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Hot Girls!
A New Quiz is up on my blog. Let's just say, don't participate while you're at work...or attempt creating while you are at work like I am trying to do.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
My Favorite Country
Wow, when was the last time I wrote something over here? Seems like forever. Anyways, the WBC made me realize how much I want to start my own team. Yes, I had enough problems getting enough people to play softball for an entire season, but this would be different. At the next WBC we would be representing a nation. A powerful one at that. What country would I want to represent? Let us look at the contenders:
USA: Way too much talent for me to even get a chance.
Russia: Sure, my grandfather came from Russia (or one of the new countries formed by the split of the USSR), but lets get real, convincing people to play for the Russian national team would probably confuse people and they would think I was starting some kind of Communist movement.
Germany: I think there is some German in me. However, German III kicked my ass at PSU, so fuck ze Germans. Sorry to any German readers out there.
England: Obviously not a country, but I am pretty certain some part of my family came from that region. They would never accept me though, my teeth are straight and I know nothing of cricket.
Damn, that pretty much screws up my theory of starting my own WBC team...or does it? I am sure at some point, at least someone from my ancestry has visited the country with coolest looking flag: Albania!
That settles it, I am starting the Albanian National Baseball Team. I would like us to be ready for play by 2012 (is that the next WBC? Shit, what year is this by the way???) We would definitely not win one single game, BUT we would dominate in jersey sales.
Can you imagine that flag turned into a baseball uniform? All red with a black, double-headed dragon on it. I get chills just thinking about it. What's that USA? You have Eva Longoria and a guy named Chase? Fuck you, we have cool jerseys, beat that.
A boy can dream.
USA: Way too much talent for me to even get a chance.
Russia: Sure, my grandfather came from Russia (or one of the new countries formed by the split of the USSR), but lets get real, convincing people to play for the Russian national team would probably confuse people and they would think I was starting some kind of Communist movement.
Germany: I think there is some German in me. However, German III kicked my ass at PSU, so fuck ze Germans. Sorry to any German readers out there.
England: Obviously not a country, but I am pretty certain some part of my family came from that region. They would never accept me though, my teeth are straight and I know nothing of cricket.
Damn, that pretty much screws up my theory of starting my own WBC team...or does it? I am sure at some point, at least someone from my ancestry has visited the country with coolest looking flag: Albania!
That settles it, I am starting the Albanian National Baseball Team. I would like us to be ready for play by 2012 (is that the next WBC? Shit, what year is this by the way???) We would definitely not win one single game, BUT we would dominate in jersey sales.
Can you imagine that flag turned into a baseball uniform? All red with a black, double-headed dragon on it. I get chills just thinking about it. What's that USA? You have Eva Longoria and a guy named Chase? Fuck you, we have cool jerseys, beat that.
A boy can dream.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Perhaps Waffles are the Breakfast Food du Jour
I never thought I'd write an engaging, interesting (I thought so at least) Pirates blog and get absolutely zero responses, but alas that day has occurred. I am stricken with sadness to realize that no one cares anymore about what I write, although I'm not surprised. I guess what I'm trying to say is, thank you all who did read for the fun conversations, it was nice having people care what I wrote, and maybe once the season starts interest will spark up again. We shall see.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
All Things Pirates - Part 5: The Fab Five
Now that Spring Training is winding down, we can begin to get a picture of who will be part of the future worst rotation in baseball. With only 3 (partially) legit major league starters, it doesn't really matter who the last 2 are, but we can debate it anyway. Maholm has looked great all preseason, and Snell has done good work in the WBC. Duke has looked pretty good, for him at least, so the last 2 are basically between Gorzo, Karstens, Ohlendorf, and Virgil Vazquez (Who??). "Vasquez, a 26-year-old right-hander, went 12-12 with a 4.81 ERA for the Detroit Tigers' Class AAA affiliate." 4.81 ERA in AAA? 26? Perfect! Might as well throw in Rinku and Dinesh too! Anyway, I highly doubt Vazquez will grab a spot since he has sucked in preseason and was delayed due to injury, so that leaves 3.
Tom Gorzelanny: 9 IP, 5 BB, 4 K, 7.00 ERA
Ross Ohlendorf: 9.1 IP, 0 BB, 7 K, 0.96 ERA
Jeff Karstens: 9.2 IP, 1 BB, 3 K, 4.66 ERA
Obviously Gorzo has been terrible. His control has sucked, and he is doing nothing to erase his terrible season last year. I am starting to get sold on Ohlendorf, as are the Pirates. So, who has the upper hand? Gorzo with the experience and track record (2007), or the two promising youngsters who don't have much exp?
FYI, Sean Burnett 8 IP, 3 BB, 4 K, 10.13 ERA, 1 undeserved guaranteed spot on the roster. I'm considering renaming my blog something to express my distaste for Burnett. I'm not crossing my fingers that he blows out his arm again, but I'm not NOT crossing my fingers that he blows out his arm again, y'kennit?
On to other Pirates' news, Chunky Alvarez was sent down because he's too apparently too fat to be a third baseman. If Tony Gwynn could play OF, Alvarez could probably handle third, but looks like he's destined to be a 1B eventually. Shelby Ford was sent down, along with a bunch of pitchers who had sh*tty springs. Not surprising. Garrett Jones and Tabata remain with the big club for now. Jones is definitely intriguing, but there is just no spot for him. So far, no big surprises, but will keep you updated.
Some other notes:
- Did you know Andy LaRoche is hitting .538 with 2 HR's?
- Hansen and Veal finally gave up some runs. Control could be an issue for these 2.
- Brian Slocum has the best name on the team, unless he reminds you of Heathcliff Slocum.
- Pirates' execs used "Brian Bixler" and "optomistic" in the same sentence. Uh oh...
- Jason Bay, regardless of market conditions, is going to make a lot of money in the near future.
- The Pirates' still aren't going to overspend on Pedro Martinez, but wouldn't it be nice if they could underspend on some of that sweet, sweet Dutch talent? Some of those pitchers looked unhittable at times.
Lastly, speaking of the WBC, I think it is safe to say that the venture has been a success. Not for ticket sales, obviously, for anyone who has seen the stands during the games, but for extending baseball around the world. The USA is once again in trouble, needing a win against Puerto Rico, who mercy ruled them earlier, to make it to the final round. I think Japan will win it even though they have absolutely no power hitters. I guess all you need is pitching and slap hitting, to win. Maybe Pittsburgh should just sign the entire Japanese team, at least those not already in the majors. Nothing says "Pittsburgh" like a brand new Michihiro Ogasawara jersey.
Tom Gorzelanny: 9 IP, 5 BB, 4 K, 7.00 ERA
Ross Ohlendorf: 9.1 IP, 0 BB, 7 K, 0.96 ERA
Jeff Karstens: 9.2 IP, 1 BB, 3 K, 4.66 ERA
Obviously Gorzo has been terrible. His control has sucked, and he is doing nothing to erase his terrible season last year. I am starting to get sold on Ohlendorf, as are the Pirates. So, who has the upper hand? Gorzo with the experience and track record (2007), or the two promising youngsters who don't have much exp?
FYI, Sean Burnett 8 IP, 3 BB, 4 K, 10.13 ERA, 1 undeserved guaranteed spot on the roster. I'm considering renaming my blog something to express my distaste for Burnett. I'm not crossing my fingers that he blows out his arm again, but I'm not NOT crossing my fingers that he blows out his arm again, y'kennit?
On to other Pirates' news, Chunky Alvarez was sent down because he's too apparently too fat to be a third baseman. If Tony Gwynn could play OF, Alvarez could probably handle third, but looks like he's destined to be a 1B eventually. Shelby Ford was sent down, along with a bunch of pitchers who had sh*tty springs. Not surprising. Garrett Jones and Tabata remain with the big club for now. Jones is definitely intriguing, but there is just no spot for him. So far, no big surprises, but will keep you updated.
Some other notes:
- Did you know Andy LaRoche is hitting .538 with 2 HR's?
- Hansen and Veal finally gave up some runs. Control could be an issue for these 2.
- Brian Slocum has the best name on the team, unless he reminds you of Heathcliff Slocum.
- Pirates' execs used "Brian Bixler" and "optomistic" in the same sentence. Uh oh...
- Jason Bay, regardless of market conditions, is going to make a lot of money in the near future.
- The Pirates' still aren't going to overspend on Pedro Martinez, but wouldn't it be nice if they could underspend on some of that sweet, sweet Dutch talent? Some of those pitchers looked unhittable at times.
Lastly, speaking of the WBC, I think it is safe to say that the venture has been a success. Not for ticket sales, obviously, for anyone who has seen the stands during the games, but for extending baseball around the world. The USA is once again in trouble, needing a win against Puerto Rico, who mercy ruled them earlier, to make it to the final round. I think Japan will win it even though they have absolutely no power hitters. I guess all you need is pitching and slap hitting, to win. Maybe Pittsburgh should just sign the entire Japanese team, at least those not already in the majors. Nothing says "Pittsburgh" like a brand new Michihiro Ogasawara jersey.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Hi! My name is Craig Monroe, starting Left Fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates?
Craig Monroe crushed 3 home runs yesterday in a spring training game against his former team the Minnesota Twins. With those 3 home runs, he has 6 for the spring, has 9 RBI's and is batting .333. In comparison, Morgan and McCutchen are both batting .188, and Moss is nursing a sprained thrumb.
With Monroe's crazy spring numbers to this point, do you think he should be named the starting left fielder by the time the pirates break camp in april? Or, should the previously mentioned be given the benefit of the doubt? I know it may be hard for Monroe to continue this production for the entire spring, and probably near impossible to duplicate the production for the regular season, but I believe he's making a helluva push to be our opening day starting left fielder.
Here's your topic, discuss...
With Monroe's crazy spring numbers to this point, do you think he should be named the starting left fielder by the time the pirates break camp in april? Or, should the previously mentioned be given the benefit of the doubt? I know it may be hard for Monroe to continue this production for the entire spring, and probably near impossible to duplicate the production for the regular season, but I believe he's making a helluva push to be our opening day starting left fielder.
Here's your topic, discuss...
March Madness!
Teams that could and have made the NCAA tournament: Pitt, Penn St, Robert Morris, Duquense, WVU, American, Maryland, and Maryland Baltimore County. I think that would make it the most teams ever from the areas I've lived in, and could set up some fun matchups.
By the way, I've created a group at Yahoo! if anyone wants to do it for money:
Group ID#: 33625
Password: offord
By the way, I've created a group at Yahoo! if anyone wants to do it for money:
Group ID#: 33625
Password: offord
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Reinstituting infinite waiver moves...
Gideon, if you can get another 1 in addition to your friend that would be awesome. I had to reinstitute, as you say, the infinite transactions to get 3 guys back into the league. I didn't want to cave, but I did it for the better of competition.
Though I have brought back the infinite waiver wire move rule, I am not going to lessen the 25 man roster. I'm under the belief if everyone has a larger bench, that will assist in taking away some of the lower to middle tier pitchers that singer et al., would continuously switch out on their rosters, and give back the advantage of equal competition for people who don't have the time to sit on a computer and constantly monitor waiver moves. I am actually considering moving roster numbers up to 28 or 30, so as to even out the odds against the infinte waiver strategem further, but thought that may be too drastic and would make the draft run-time too long.
As Offord asked for his draft, if you guys can give me your next 3 or 4 best available evenings to do the draft that would be awesome. If anyone can scrounge together 2 more players that would greatly assist in usurping the infinite waiver tyrants and taking care of fantasy managers crossing the fantasy baseball lines even if it is within the rules; Kind of like steroids in baseball through the 90's.
Again, please give me your next 3 or 4 available days, I'm going to change it again today to tuesday evening of next week at 8 pm if it's available. It would be best if all of us could get something together during the first half of a week (monday-thursday), so we can have the maximum amount of people present for the draft. Also, let me know what you guys think about expanding the roster sizes further. If you think it would be too much, no biggie, I'm just trying to find some way to see if singer et al., can win the right way. In all honesty, I doubt he would be able to compete. Dave can compete under any set of rules, but I don't think singer can.
Though I have brought back the infinite waiver wire move rule, I am not going to lessen the 25 man roster. I'm under the belief if everyone has a larger bench, that will assist in taking away some of the lower to middle tier pitchers that singer et al., would continuously switch out on their rosters, and give back the advantage of equal competition for people who don't have the time to sit on a computer and constantly monitor waiver moves. I am actually considering moving roster numbers up to 28 or 30, so as to even out the odds against the infinte waiver strategem further, but thought that may be too drastic and would make the draft run-time too long.
As Offord asked for his draft, if you guys can give me your next 3 or 4 best available evenings to do the draft that would be awesome. If anyone can scrounge together 2 more players that would greatly assist in usurping the infinite waiver tyrants and taking care of fantasy managers crossing the fantasy baseball lines even if it is within the rules; Kind of like steroids in baseball through the 90's.
Again, please give me your next 3 or 4 available days, I'm going to change it again today to tuesday evening of next week at 8 pm if it's available. It would be best if all of us could get something together during the first half of a week (monday-thursday), so we can have the maximum amount of people present for the draft. Also, let me know what you guys think about expanding the roster sizes further. If you think it would be too much, no biggie, I'm just trying to find some way to see if singer et al., can win the right way. In all honesty, I doubt he would be able to compete. Dave can compete under any set of rules, but I don't think singer can.
Monday, March 9, 2009
I have to reschedule too
I have pushed my draft date back as well. I won't be able to make it for sunday, so I changed it to monday at 6 PM. I am also open to tuesday sometime. I'm open for whatever, but I refuse to miss the draft for the league i'm the commissioner for.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Fantasy Draft Date
For my league, is changed to Tuesday March 10 at 8pm. If anyone has issues with this time I can still change, there are lots of time slots available.
He thinks he can He thinks he can...
Now it's being rumored A-rod will forego hip surgery and rehab during spring training instead. He's going to try to play through the injury this season, and then go for the surgery in the offseason.
I see this as a problem for him and the Yankees this year. In the back of his mind he's going to be thinking of that hip all year. His numbers will suffer, as will his defense due to him going to physically limit himself at third. His range will be decreased, but luckily range isn't a huge factor at the hot corner. With, I believe, both aspects of his game taking a hit this season, he does himself and the Yankees a disservice, which I am ok with. My predictions about the Yankees were made well in advance before A-Rods injury, and now I think it makes the Yankees a little worse, which would defend my predictions of yesterday.
I am thinking his numbers this year will be similar to last year, but playing in 145+ games. I think the numbers he put up last year were in like 110-120 games. Do you guys agree with me? Do you think this affects his fantasy draft status? Do you believe this is also going to revise your predictions about the yankees and their standing in the AL?
I see this as a problem for him and the Yankees this year. In the back of his mind he's going to be thinking of that hip all year. His numbers will suffer, as will his defense due to him going to physically limit himself at third. His range will be decreased, but luckily range isn't a huge factor at the hot corner. With, I believe, both aspects of his game taking a hit this season, he does himself and the Yankees a disservice, which I am ok with. My predictions about the Yankees were made well in advance before A-Rods injury, and now I think it makes the Yankees a little worse, which would defend my predictions of yesterday.
I am thinking his numbers this year will be similar to last year, but playing in 145+ games. I think the numbers he put up last year were in like 110-120 games. Do you guys agree with me? Do you think this affects his fantasy draft status? Do you believe this is also going to revise your predictions about the yankees and their standing in the AL?
Thursday, March 5, 2009
A-Rod out til May
A-Rod will be having surgery to remove a cyst on his hip. The surger and rehab is projected to take 10 weeks, which would put him out until mid May to early June. This pushes my argument further about the Yankees not being the best team in AL. Maybe not even in the top 3 now. Could this be last year all over again for Ogre Team Steinbrenner and the Yankees? Oh I hope so!
Top 5 AL teams
1.Boston Red Sox
2.Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
3.Tampa Bay Rays
4.New York Yankees
5.Cleveland Indians
Top 5 NL teams
1.Chicago Cubs
2.New York Mets
3.Los Angeles Dodgers
4.Philadelphis Phillies
5.St. Louis Cardinals
Cubs defeat Angels in 6 for world series
Most Surprise Team: Cincinnati Reds
MVP: AL: Grady Sizemore NL: David Wright
Cy Young: AL: Josh Beckett NL: Rich Harden
Comeback Player of the Year: AL: Kelvim Escobar NL: Chris Carpenter
Top 5 AL teams
1.Boston Red Sox
2.Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
3.Tampa Bay Rays
4.New York Yankees
5.Cleveland Indians
Top 5 NL teams
1.Chicago Cubs
2.New York Mets
3.Los Angeles Dodgers
4.Philadelphis Phillies
5.St. Louis Cardinals
Cubs defeat Angels in 6 for world series
Most Surprise Team: Cincinnati Reds
MVP: AL: Grady Sizemore NL: David Wright
Cy Young: AL: Josh Beckett NL: Rich Harden
Comeback Player of the Year: AL: Kelvim Escobar NL: Chris Carpenter
MLB Power Rankings – March Edition
February saw a lot of free agent signings and shifts in my personal opinions on team rotations, so the rankings have changed quite a bit.
1. New York Yankees (+3): The Andy Pettitte signing, and Chien Ming Wang's solid spring so far, give their rotation much more consistency than previously expected. If their rotation is as good as they look on paper, the Yankees are easily the league favorite with their offense.
2. Chicago Cubs (-1): They haven't done much lately, but they only drop a spot because the Yankees surged ahead.
3. Boston Red Sox (-1): Ditto for Boston, who only added a washed up Varitek to fill their catching void.
4. Tampa Bay Rays (-1): That's right, 3 of the top 4 teams are from the AL East. They've been dormant lately, but that's only because they are set at all positions.
5. Los Angeles Angels (+1): The Bobby Abreu signing was a quiet, yet very good signing for the Halos. With a boost to the offense, and a pitching staff that could be the best in the league (barring injuries, which is saying a lot for them), the Angels could easily move up to #1 this year.
6. New York Mets (+1): Signed Oliver Perez, who adds another average to above average pitcher to their rotation. I think they're aging offense will be able to put up one more solid season, but this could be their last chance before a major overhaul occurs.
7. Philadelphia Phillies (-2): This is not so much a knock on the Phils as it is a testament to the teams above them. Just not sold on their rotation and bullpen.
8. Los Angeles Dodgers (+2): Easy to see why they jet up the rankings with the Manny signing. But they also made the Hudson and Wolf acquisitions that will help as well, not to mention that Billingsley has been practically unhittable this preseason.
9. Detroit Tigers (nc): No change, but the offense and rotation are old and injury prone, definitely cause for concern.
10. St. Louis Cardinals (+7): The biggest riser of the week, it just took me a while to realize that they actually have a really good offense and pitching staff. If Carpenter can regain his old form, and Glaus comes back from his injury well, they could make a run at the Cubs. They are just very consistent on offense and pitching with no major weak spot.
11. Cleveland Indians (+2): If they could have only signed a decent pitcher or two, they could easily be higher up because of their potent offense. If Hafner and V-Mart make nice comebacks, look out for these guys.
12. Cincinnati Reds (-1): Haven't done much since last month, they are just a team that could really go either way.
13. Arizona DBacks (-5): Take a look at their offense. Go ahead, I'll wait. Is there anyone there who scares you? No one has much power and no one has proven consistent. Webb got roughed up yesterday, and if he isn't pitching at the same level as last season, they could actually fall to 3rd or 4th in the division.
14. Chicago White Sox (+4): Fairly consistent on both sides of the ball, but definitely won't blow you away.
15. Minnesota Twins (+4): Same for the Twins. The Crede signing will help if he stays healthy, and Liriano looked good against the Bucs.
16. Milwaukee Brewers (-1): Braden Looper is not the answer to their pitching woes, and they could end up being one of the worst rotations in the NL.
17. Texas Rangers (-3): Speaking of bad rotations, they have done nothing to help themselves out. Kris Benson? Please. They'd be better off pitching Millwood 5 days a week probably. Andrus is a big question mark as well.
18. Atlanta Braves (-2): Signed Glavine and Garret Anderson...They move down just for that.
19. San Francisco Giants (+3): Haven't done much to warrant this ranking, but you have to love the pitching. Manny sure would have helped.
20. Seattle Mariners (+6): Perhaps Ryan is right about the Seamean - they aren't so bad after all. If they can get something out of Griffey, and Bedard stays healthy, they could make a run at second in the terrible AL West.
21. Kansas City Royals (nc): They are content with where they're at, and so am I.
22. Colorado Rockies (-10): Ouch. My sleeper team is..well...not so good. I think losing Jeff Francis is a ginormous hit just because he was their ace. Now they have to look for some new pitchers from the crop of young guys they have, and that's never a promising venture. Their offense is still decent, but I just can't get over the pitching.
23. Houston Astros (-3): For some reason I just hate Brandon Backe. I have absolutely no reason for it, but I can't stand him.
24. Baltimore Orioles (+5): They have a much better offense than I originally thought, but signing Adam Eaton will never help a pitching staff.
25. Florida Marlins (nc): Haven't done anything really, but the team could go either way.
26. Oakland A's (-2): Doucher, or whatever his name is, might have an elbow injury. Not good, because the staff can't afford to lose him. Cabrera is an upgrade over Crosby though.
27. Toronto Blue Jays (-4): It's pretty bad when your fan base is defending Kyle Overbay. Maybe he reminds them of a mini John Olerud.
28. Washington Nationals (nc): Lost their GM and Odalis Perez, last year's ace. Not a good sign of things to come, but they got Dunn and I actually like their offense. I look forward to going to a game or two this year.
29. Pittsburgh Pirates (-2): Nothing to be excited about, except some young relief pitchers who may or may not be good some day.
30. San Diego Padres (nc): With Jake Peavy staying, they actually aren't that far away from passing up the Buccos...
WS Prediction: Cubs over Angels in 7
1. New York Yankees (+3): The Andy Pettitte signing, and Chien Ming Wang's solid spring so far, give their rotation much more consistency than previously expected. If their rotation is as good as they look on paper, the Yankees are easily the league favorite with their offense.
2. Chicago Cubs (-1): They haven't done much lately, but they only drop a spot because the Yankees surged ahead.
3. Boston Red Sox (-1): Ditto for Boston, who only added a washed up Varitek to fill their catching void.
4. Tampa Bay Rays (-1): That's right, 3 of the top 4 teams are from the AL East. They've been dormant lately, but that's only because they are set at all positions.
5. Los Angeles Angels (+1): The Bobby Abreu signing was a quiet, yet very good signing for the Halos. With a boost to the offense, and a pitching staff that could be the best in the league (barring injuries, which is saying a lot for them), the Angels could easily move up to #1 this year.
6. New York Mets (+1): Signed Oliver Perez, who adds another average to above average pitcher to their rotation. I think they're aging offense will be able to put up one more solid season, but this could be their last chance before a major overhaul occurs.
7. Philadelphia Phillies (-2): This is not so much a knock on the Phils as it is a testament to the teams above them. Just not sold on their rotation and bullpen.
8. Los Angeles Dodgers (+2): Easy to see why they jet up the rankings with the Manny signing. But they also made the Hudson and Wolf acquisitions that will help as well, not to mention that Billingsley has been practically unhittable this preseason.
9. Detroit Tigers (nc): No change, but the offense and rotation are old and injury prone, definitely cause for concern.
10. St. Louis Cardinals (+7): The biggest riser of the week, it just took me a while to realize that they actually have a really good offense and pitching staff. If Carpenter can regain his old form, and Glaus comes back from his injury well, they could make a run at the Cubs. They are just very consistent on offense and pitching with no major weak spot.
11. Cleveland Indians (+2): If they could have only signed a decent pitcher or two, they could easily be higher up because of their potent offense. If Hafner and V-Mart make nice comebacks, look out for these guys.
12. Cincinnati Reds (-1): Haven't done much since last month, they are just a team that could really go either way.
13. Arizona DBacks (-5): Take a look at their offense. Go ahead, I'll wait. Is there anyone there who scares you? No one has much power and no one has proven consistent. Webb got roughed up yesterday, and if he isn't pitching at the same level as last season, they could actually fall to 3rd or 4th in the division.
14. Chicago White Sox (+4): Fairly consistent on both sides of the ball, but definitely won't blow you away.
15. Minnesota Twins (+4): Same for the Twins. The Crede signing will help if he stays healthy, and Liriano looked good against the Bucs.
16. Milwaukee Brewers (-1): Braden Looper is not the answer to their pitching woes, and they could end up being one of the worst rotations in the NL.
17. Texas Rangers (-3): Speaking of bad rotations, they have done nothing to help themselves out. Kris Benson? Please. They'd be better off pitching Millwood 5 days a week probably. Andrus is a big question mark as well.
18. Atlanta Braves (-2): Signed Glavine and Garret Anderson...They move down just for that.
19. San Francisco Giants (+3): Haven't done much to warrant this ranking, but you have to love the pitching. Manny sure would have helped.
20. Seattle Mariners (+6): Perhaps Ryan is right about the Seamean - they aren't so bad after all. If they can get something out of Griffey, and Bedard stays healthy, they could make a run at second in the terrible AL West.
21. Kansas City Royals (nc): They are content with where they're at, and so am I.
22. Colorado Rockies (-10): Ouch. My sleeper team is..well...not so good. I think losing Jeff Francis is a ginormous hit just because he was their ace. Now they have to look for some new pitchers from the crop of young guys they have, and that's never a promising venture. Their offense is still decent, but I just can't get over the pitching.
23. Houston Astros (-3): For some reason I just hate Brandon Backe. I have absolutely no reason for it, but I can't stand him.
24. Baltimore Orioles (+5): They have a much better offense than I originally thought, but signing Adam Eaton will never help a pitching staff.
25. Florida Marlins (nc): Haven't done anything really, but the team could go either way.
26. Oakland A's (-2): Doucher, or whatever his name is, might have an elbow injury. Not good, because the staff can't afford to lose him. Cabrera is an upgrade over Crosby though.
27. Toronto Blue Jays (-4): It's pretty bad when your fan base is defending Kyle Overbay. Maybe he reminds them of a mini John Olerud.
28. Washington Nationals (nc): Lost their GM and Odalis Perez, last year's ace. Not a good sign of things to come, but they got Dunn and I actually like their offense. I look forward to going to a game or two this year.
29. Pittsburgh Pirates (-2): Nothing to be excited about, except some young relief pitchers who may or may not be good some day.
30. San Diego Padres (nc): With Jake Peavy staying, they actually aren't that far away from passing up the Buccos...
WS Prediction: Cubs over Angels in 7
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Slow Week at the Pancake
I'll be posting my March Baseball Rankings tomorrow, just wanted to note that the Pirates won, yet again, this time off of an Andy LaRoche 2-Run HR. Not surprisingly, Gorzo struggled throwing only 15 of 35 strikes. On the bright side, the bullpen pitched 7 strong scoreless innings, with Bootcheck, Hansen, and Meek again shining brightly.
Thank you Wikipedia for this little doozie:
"In the 1960 World Series, Mazeroski clinched the title for Pittsburgh with a game-winning home run off New York Yankees pitcher Ralph Terry. The 13-year-old fan who caught the ball traded it to Mazeroski for two cases of beer, after which the ball was placed in the Hall of Fame." Classic.
Thank you Wikipedia for this little doozie:
"In the 1960 World Series, Mazeroski clinched the title for Pittsburgh with a game-winning home run off New York Yankees pitcher Ralph Terry. The 13-year-old fan who caught the ball traded it to Mazeroski for two cases of beer, after which the ball was placed in the Hall of Fame." Classic.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Fantasy Baseball
GIDEON, JOIN!!!
League Id #:46947
League Name: Great Googly Moogly
Password: roids
League ID#: 49293
League Name: 17 Here We Come!
Password: pirates
That gives 8 for Ryan's, and 7 for mine when Gideon joins. Can we make it to at least 10? Josh, any baseball fans in PGH you've met?
One other thing: Congratulations to Adam Croyle for winning the movie stills contest! I am working on a new, super secret contest and hope to have it started by the end of the week. Let's just say it is a difficult one for me to post at work, but it's coming along.
League Id #:46947
League Name: Great Googly Moogly
Password: roids
League ID#: 49293
League Name: 17 Here We Come!
Password: pirates
That gives 8 for Ryan's, and 7 for mine when Gideon joins. Can we make it to at least 10? Josh, any baseball fans in PGH you've met?
One other thing: Congratulations to Adam Croyle for winning the movie stills contest! I am working on a new, super secret contest and hope to have it started by the end of the week. Let's just say it is a difficult one for me to post at work, but it's coming along.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Pirates' Preseason Notes
Record: 4-1
I think spring training stats are more important than execs and coaches make them out to be, but I'm not involved with baseball so who knows...If anything, someone who is hot in spring training might carry it over into April, but then fall flat later if he's not ready for the big leagues.
That said, I will comment/rank players on their preseason performance so far:
POSITION PLAYERS
Guarantees to make the team so it doesn't matter what they do (9): Doumit, Ad. LaRoche, Sanchez, Wilson, Vazquez, Moss, McClouth, Morgan, Hinske
That leaves roughly 4 positions left, with all of them most likely going to An. LaRoche, R. Diaz/J. Jamirillo, Pearce/Monroe, and Cruz/Bixler.
For the sake of argument, though, let's pretend 1 spot is available to the guy that performs the best in spring training.
Stock Rising
Neil Walker - They say his defense is looking good, and so far his bat is not too bad either
Shelby Ford - Strong start to the season, could sneak up on the Cruz/Bixler combo
Pedro Alvarez - Won't make the team, but it's nice to see he's off to a good start
Stock Falling
Andrew McCutchen - Hitless thus far, 0-10
PITCHERS
Guarantees to make the team so it doesn't matter what they do (5): Maholm, Duke, Snell, Grabow, Capps
Pitchers are much more up for grabs with perhaps 7 spots available, but Karstens, Gorzelanny, Yates, and Burnett will probably make it. So we'll say 3 positions are open, all most likely right-hand relievers since they'd have 5 starters and 2 lefties already in the bullpen.
Stock Rising
Craig Hansen (R/R) - Hasn't allowed an ER and is averaging 13.5k/9. Granted, that is over 2 innings...I've already expressed my admiration for Hansen, and I believe he will grab 1 of the 3 spots.
Donnie Veal (L/L) - Rule 5 guy that has to make the roster to stay with the Pirates. He hasn't given up a run yet in preseason, and I think he is a very valuable future pitcher. But, is he good enough NOW to warrant a ticket to the bigs? I say yes, but only in a long reliever "white flag" role.
Chris Bootcheck (R/R) - A relative unknown who has come out of no where to impress. Definitely getting a lot of notice and could see big league action, but probably not to start the season.
Ross Ohlendorf (R/R) - Hard thrower from the Nady trade, I think he could compete for one of the 3 spots.
Evan Meek (R/R)
Juan Mateo (R/R)
Stock Falling
Jesse Chavez (R/R)
Romulo Sanchez (R/R)
Denny Bautista (R/R)
Jimmy Barthmaier (R/R)
Daniel McCutchen (R/R)
Jason Davis (R/R)
Favorites for the 3 Spots: Hansen, Veal, Ohlendorf
I think spring training stats are more important than execs and coaches make them out to be, but I'm not involved with baseball so who knows...If anything, someone who is hot in spring training might carry it over into April, but then fall flat later if he's not ready for the big leagues.
That said, I will comment/rank players on their preseason performance so far:
POSITION PLAYERS
Guarantees to make the team so it doesn't matter what they do (9): Doumit, Ad. LaRoche, Sanchez, Wilson, Vazquez, Moss, McClouth, Morgan, Hinske
That leaves roughly 4 positions left, with all of them most likely going to An. LaRoche, R. Diaz/J. Jamirillo, Pearce/Monroe, and Cruz/Bixler.
For the sake of argument, though, let's pretend 1 spot is available to the guy that performs the best in spring training.
Stock Rising
Neil Walker - They say his defense is looking good, and so far his bat is not too bad either
Shelby Ford - Strong start to the season, could sneak up on the Cruz/Bixler combo
Pedro Alvarez - Won't make the team, but it's nice to see he's off to a good start
Stock Falling
Andrew McCutchen - Hitless thus far, 0-10
PITCHERS
Guarantees to make the team so it doesn't matter what they do (5): Maholm, Duke, Snell, Grabow, Capps
Pitchers are much more up for grabs with perhaps 7 spots available, but Karstens, Gorzelanny, Yates, and Burnett will probably make it. So we'll say 3 positions are open, all most likely right-hand relievers since they'd have 5 starters and 2 lefties already in the bullpen.
Stock Rising
Craig Hansen (R/R) - Hasn't allowed an ER and is averaging 13.5k/9. Granted, that is over 2 innings...I've already expressed my admiration for Hansen, and I believe he will grab 1 of the 3 spots.
Donnie Veal (L/L) - Rule 5 guy that has to make the roster to stay with the Pirates. He hasn't given up a run yet in preseason, and I think he is a very valuable future pitcher. But, is he good enough NOW to warrant a ticket to the bigs? I say yes, but only in a long reliever "white flag" role.
Chris Bootcheck (R/R) - A relative unknown who has come out of no where to impress. Definitely getting a lot of notice and could see big league action, but probably not to start the season.
Ross Ohlendorf (R/R) - Hard thrower from the Nady trade, I think he could compete for one of the 3 spots.
Evan Meek (R/R)
Juan Mateo (R/R)
Stock Falling
Jesse Chavez (R/R)
Romulo Sanchez (R/R)
Denny Bautista (R/R)
Jimmy Barthmaier (R/R)
Daniel McCutchen (R/R)
Jason Davis (R/R)
Favorites for the 3 Spots: Hansen, Veal, Ohlendorf
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)