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Saturday, March 27, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Marlon Mitchell Interview
Over the past year the Phillies have traded two of their top catching prospects in the organization in Lou Marson and Travis D’Arnaud in order to acquire aces to help the MLB staff. This left only one big name catcher, Sebastian Valle, in the minor leagues. However, one name that needs to be considered is that of Marlon Mitchell, a seemingly obscure twenty-seventh round pick out of high school. Marlon, born September 30, 1990, stands tall at 6’1” and weighs 180. One interesting thing about him is that prior to being a member of the GCL Phillies, he was a switch-hitting catcher. Now, he only bats left-handed, ironically clipping lefties at a .400 BAA and a struggling .135 against right handed pitchers. The key for Marlon will be to raise his average against right-handed pitchers, and try to keep his .400 against lefties the same.
He is truly a solid catcher, fielding wise, however. According to Perfect Game USA, his ‘pop time’, or the time it takes for a catcher to throw to second base, is an incredible 1.76 time. Pop time helps show whether or not the catcher is able to control the running game, and a good average of high school players tends to be 2.10. Marlon’s time fits up there with major league times already, as many of the major leaguers throw 1.80 on a consistent basis. All in all, if Marlon keeps up his solid fielding and raises his average against righties, there is a solid chance he’ll move up the prospect boards, and definitely is worth following. Thanks to Marlon for his time on the interview.
Q: You were the youngest of four catchers (Diaz, Aviola, and Guerra) to play on the GCL Phillies last year. What separates you from the group?
A: My athleticism, desire to compete, work ethic and desire to advance.
Q: It shows on your Perfect Game USA page that you were a switch hitter in high school. Why now are you only a lefty hitter and is there any reason that you hit .400 against lefties while only .135 against righties?
A: I hit on both sides in high school to challenge myself. Outside of baseball I do everything right handed but hitting wise I just feel more comfortable on the left side. My focus against lefties happened to be much better last year. My goal this season is to focus equally as well against lefties and righties. The more reps I get against righties the better I will get.
Q: How are you like fielding wise as a catcher (.979 fielding with 38% caught stealing)? Would you like to remain a catcher throughout your career and do you think you'll stay there?
A: I’m pretty solid behind the plate and getting better with excellent instruction from the Philly organization. Every day I strive to get better. Development is a priority to me. Being a catcher is my passion. However, I understand in this game things can change.
Q: Which pitchers did you catch last year and which one would you enjoy catching the most?
A: I enjoyed catching the entire GCL Phillies pitching staff each pitcher brought something unique.
Q: What other than money makes a 27th round draft pick sign out of high school?
A: Playing professional baseball is a once in a life time opportunity to play the game I love and to be drafted by one of the best organizations in baseball weighted heavily. My education is just as important to me and the MLB Scholarship Plan made my decision easier as well. I can play for the Phillies and work toward a college degree at the same time.
Q: Did you have a favorite player growing up, if so, who?
A: All of the great catchers! Johnny Bench, Jason Varitek, Joe Mauer, Benito Santiago, Jorge Posada, Ivan Rodriguez and Roy Campanella. They had a passion for the game and gave a 100 % with amazing skills.
Q: Any other comments you'd like to make?
A: I am grateful for the opportunity to play baseball and compete on a professional level. I am still learning, developing and hope to make it to the big leagues.
He is truly a solid catcher, fielding wise, however. According to Perfect Game USA, his ‘pop time’, or the time it takes for a catcher to throw to second base, is an incredible 1.76 time. Pop time helps show whether or not the catcher is able to control the running game, and a good average of high school players tends to be 2.10. Marlon’s time fits up there with major league times already, as many of the major leaguers throw 1.80 on a consistent basis. All in all, if Marlon keeps up his solid fielding and raises his average against righties, there is a solid chance he’ll move up the prospect boards, and definitely is worth following. Thanks to Marlon for his time on the interview.
Q: You were the youngest of four catchers (Diaz, Aviola, and Guerra) to play on the GCL Phillies last year. What separates you from the group?
A: My athleticism, desire to compete, work ethic and desire to advance.
Q: It shows on your Perfect Game USA page that you were a switch hitter in high school. Why now are you only a lefty hitter and is there any reason that you hit .400 against lefties while only .135 against righties?
A: I hit on both sides in high school to challenge myself. Outside of baseball I do everything right handed but hitting wise I just feel more comfortable on the left side. My focus against lefties happened to be much better last year. My goal this season is to focus equally as well against lefties and righties. The more reps I get against righties the better I will get.
Q: How are you like fielding wise as a catcher (.979 fielding with 38% caught stealing)? Would you like to remain a catcher throughout your career and do you think you'll stay there?
A: I’m pretty solid behind the plate and getting better with excellent instruction from the Philly organization. Every day I strive to get better. Development is a priority to me. Being a catcher is my passion. However, I understand in this game things can change.
Q: Which pitchers did you catch last year and which one would you enjoy catching the most?
A: I enjoyed catching the entire GCL Phillies pitching staff each pitcher brought something unique.
Q: What other than money makes a 27th round draft pick sign out of high school?
A: Playing professional baseball is a once in a life time opportunity to play the game I love and to be drafted by one of the best organizations in baseball weighted heavily. My education is just as important to me and the MLB Scholarship Plan made my decision easier as well. I can play for the Phillies and work toward a college degree at the same time.
Q: Did you have a favorite player growing up, if so, who?
A: All of the great catchers! Johnny Bench, Jason Varitek, Joe Mauer, Benito Santiago, Jorge Posada, Ivan Rodriguez and Roy Campanella. They had a passion for the game and gave a 100 % with amazing skills.
Q: Any other comments you'd like to make?
A: I am grateful for the opportunity to play baseball and compete on a professional level. I am still learning, developing and hope to make it to the big leagues.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Interview with a phille fan
Today I’ve decided to do what other bloggers here have done and also interview someone. Today I’ll be interviewing philly fans. As I stood in front of Carter Batting Practice stadium, I stopped a few passersby on their views on this year’s philly team.
First up is Tom (not his real name, he can’t remember his real name). He puts down his sign, sponge and squeegee (and accepts my $1 “donation); I asked what he thought of Phillies chances this year.
UL: “So, um, Tom. How do you think the Phillies will do this year?”
Tom: “Who?”
UL: "Never mind, here’s another your dollar for some soap.”
Next up is Gloria.
UL: “And what do you think of the phillies chances this year?”
Gloria: “Well with the right training, hard work and determination, they should be able to ward off the stallions.”
UL: “What?”
Gloria: “You know, the stallions that’ll be chasing the fillies around the pastures.”
UL: “I was talking about the philles baseball team.”
Gloria: “Oh, I’m sorry…who?”
UL: “Thank you Gloria”
Next was Herb. He had on his philly hat, a glove, sports bag and a big “We’re number 1!” foam hand thingee.
UL: “So herb, you look like a real phille fan. What do you think of your teams’ chances this year?”
Herb: “WOW!! YEAH!! I’M READY!! THIS IS THE YEAR!! ALL THE WAY BABY!! YEAH!! CAN’T WAIT FOR THE CELEBRATION!!
UL: “What celebration, Herb?”
Herb: “YOU KNOW!! WHERE WE RUN THE STREETS AND RIOT AFTER A WIN!! (He removes foam hand and shows his brass knuckles. He then opens up his sport bag and shows his bat with nails, lighters and beer.) I’M READY BABY!! IT’S HEAD BASHING TIME!! WOOOOO!!”
UL: "I was asking about the phillies baseball team."
Herb: "YEAH BABY!! ALL THE WAY!! WOOOOO!! SMASH AND BASH!!...Who?"
UL: (I slowly back away.)
Last but not least was this little sweetheart by the name of Lucy. Lucy is 7 years old. She was walking with her parents and I noticed she has a philly t-shirt on.
UL: “Hi Lucy. What lovely pink bows you have in your hair. So, how do you think the philles will do this year?”
Lucy: “Um, hee hee, um, I think they’ll win this year.”
UL: “That’s nice. And who is your favorite player?”
Lucy: “Um, hee hee, um, I think Chase Utley is cute. (Hides behind her mom.) So what’s your favorite team, mister?”
UL: “Well, I’m a METS FAN.”
Lucy: “WHAT?!?! YOU M____________F________ C_________ S__________ SONUVA____________!!!! I HOPE YOUR MOTHER ______________________________ AND __________________________________________________________________________!!”
I then jumped in my car a drove the hell out of phillie. But first I stopped at Leo’s Steak House for a cheesesteak sandwich and a dump.
First up is Tom (not his real name, he can’t remember his real name). He puts down his sign, sponge and squeegee (and accepts my $1 “donation); I asked what he thought of Phillies chances this year.
UL: “So, um, Tom. How do you think the Phillies will do this year?”
Tom: “Who?”
UL: "Never mind, here’s another your dollar for some soap.”
Next up is Gloria.
UL: “And what do you think of the phillies chances this year?”
Gloria: “Well with the right training, hard work and determination, they should be able to ward off the stallions.”
UL: “What?”
Gloria: “You know, the stallions that’ll be chasing the fillies around the pastures.”
UL: “I was talking about the philles baseball team.”
Gloria: “Oh, I’m sorry…who?”
UL: “Thank you Gloria”
Next was Herb. He had on his philly hat, a glove, sports bag and a big “We’re number 1!” foam hand thingee.
UL: “So herb, you look like a real phille fan. What do you think of your teams’ chances this year?”
Herb: “WOW!! YEAH!! I’M READY!! THIS IS THE YEAR!! ALL THE WAY BABY!! YEAH!! CAN’T WAIT FOR THE CELEBRATION!!
UL: “What celebration, Herb?”
Herb: “YOU KNOW!! WHERE WE RUN THE STREETS AND RIOT AFTER A WIN!! (He removes foam hand and shows his brass knuckles. He then opens up his sport bag and shows his bat with nails, lighters and beer.) I’M READY BABY!! IT’S HEAD BASHING TIME!! WOOOOO!!”
UL: "I was asking about the phillies baseball team."
Herb: "YEAH BABY!! ALL THE WAY!! WOOOOO!! SMASH AND BASH!!...Who?"
UL: (I slowly back away.)
Last but not least was this little sweetheart by the name of Lucy. Lucy is 7 years old. She was walking with her parents and I noticed she has a philly t-shirt on.
UL: “Hi Lucy. What lovely pink bows you have in your hair. So, how do you think the philles will do this year?”
Lucy: “Um, hee hee, um, I think they’ll win this year.”
UL: “That’s nice. And who is your favorite player?”
Lucy: “Um, hee hee, um, I think Chase Utley is cute. (Hides behind her mom.) So what’s your favorite team, mister?”
UL: “Well, I’m a METS FAN.”
Lucy: “WHAT?!?! YOU M____________F________ C_________ S__________ SONUVA____________!!!! I HOPE YOUR MOTHER ______________________________ AND __________________________________________________________________________!!”
I then jumped in my car a drove the hell out of phillie. But first I stopped at Leo’s Steak House for a cheesesteak sandwich and a dump.
Sixers in Full Tank Mode, Thank God!
Finally, Sixer fans can rejoice. With their heads down and their shoulders sagging the Sixers are finally doing what they should have done the moment they traded Allen Iverson, tanking like no tomorrow. And while the number one pick is still a long shot, it is very possible the Sixers can get a top 5 or even top 3 pick. And with trading chips like Speights, Holliday and Young, the Sixers have the ammunition to move up if needed.
While most fans are clamoring for John Wall, the real area of need for the Sixers is at the shooting guard position and on the inside. Fortunately, this draft may end up having a few real good shooting guards in Evan Turner, James Anderson and Xavier Henry. All are big (6'6) and great shooters. As a matter of fact, Henry and Anderson project as better pure shooters than Evans at the NBA level. Any one of these guys would greatly help the Sixers, and as of now, it looks like the Sixers will be in a position to get at least one of them no matter how the lottery selection plays out.
This draft is also gonna be loaded with some pretty good big men. If the Sixers are fortunate enough to get a top three pick, DeMarcus Cousins will be a name that will get a lot of attention from Sixer management. I've always contended that Cousins has the potential to be another Shaq. Both are big, athletic and have soft hands in the post. Cousins has already bested Shaq's numbers during his freshman year at LSU. Other big men to watch out for include the raw but talented Derrick Favors, the aggressive dunk machine Cole Aldrich and 'Kevin Garnett Lite' Greg Monroe.
In short this draft is gonna be deep in players that will fit the Sixers needs, regardless of what spot in the lottery they select. If the Sixers get the #1 pick, getting Wall will be a no brainer. But between picks #2-12, it looks like the Sixers will have some good options as well.
While most fans are clamoring for John Wall, the real area of need for the Sixers is at the shooting guard position and on the inside. Fortunately, this draft may end up having a few real good shooting guards in Evan Turner, James Anderson and Xavier Henry. All are big (6'6) and great shooters. As a matter of fact, Henry and Anderson project as better pure shooters than Evans at the NBA level. Any one of these guys would greatly help the Sixers, and as of now, it looks like the Sixers will be in a position to get at least one of them no matter how the lottery selection plays out.
This draft is also gonna be loaded with some pretty good big men. If the Sixers are fortunate enough to get a top three pick, DeMarcus Cousins will be a name that will get a lot of attention from Sixer management. I've always contended that Cousins has the potential to be another Shaq. Both are big, athletic and have soft hands in the post. Cousins has already bested Shaq's numbers during his freshman year at LSU. Other big men to watch out for include the raw but talented Derrick Favors, the aggressive dunk machine Cole Aldrich and 'Kevin Garnett Lite' Greg Monroe.
In short this draft is gonna be deep in players that will fit the Sixers needs, regardless of what spot in the lottery they select. If the Sixers get the #1 pick, getting Wall will be a no brainer. But between picks #2-12, it looks like the Sixers will have some good options as well.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Spring Training Games
It is hard not to get caught up in Spring Training games but we have to remember that these do not count. Every time a pitcher gets slammed we want to rag on him and every time he throws a scoreless outing we want to proclaim him a king. But these stats and standings do not carry over to the Regular Season so why care? Sarge and Schmidt were actually discussing this during the Phillies vs Orioles game yesterday. Why even have these exhibition games when they can just scrimmage each other, get in more work quicker thus shortening Spring Training? Well it is all about revenue with these games. Revenue is the reason ESPN covers these games and fools us into thinking they actually matter. Well fact is, the hitters probably do not even care after the first 10 games, they have their timing down well within 10 games then just take it easy trying not to hurt themselves. I mean they just stick around so that pitchers can build up stamina. As for pitchers, why should we not care about them? They are throwing pitches they will not throw even ten times in the regular season. Spring is a time to test new things out and pray something sticks, which it usually doesn't. So that home run you see hit off of a pitch you did not even know that pitcher had, just take a deep breath and remember...it doesn't even matter. That average of under .200 Ibanez has...doesn't matter. That 1.29 ERA of Kendricks...doesn't matter.
That is all I am going to leave you with to think about this week
That is all I am going to leave you with to think about this week
Friday, March 19, 2010
Interview with Ryan Bollinger
In the past five years, 47th Round Phillies draft picks to sign include the likes of Nathan Fike and Jon Blanton. Unlike those two players, Ryan Bollinger, drafted in the 47th Round has a true chance to move up the prospect boards. The eighteen year old out of North Dakota is gigantic at 6’6” 185 lbs. He bats and throws left-handed, and plays a solid first base with no errors in his GCL Phillies career. While playing decently in the GCL, Bollinger will have to develop more hitting in order to make it to the MLB. His Perfect Game USA, however, says that he has good power potential with a quick bat and is a solid fielder. (http://www.perfectgame.org/players/playerprofile.aspx?ID=154727)
Obviously, Ryan is very raw, but has a projectable frame and is solid enough at first base to have a good chance of moving up the minors. It all depends on the bat and if he can provide power, but he was truly very young last year, and hopefully an under the radar guy to emerge in the next few years. Thanks to him for doing this interview around a month ago, and comments are greatly appreciated.
Q: What was intriguing about the Phillies that made a 47th round draft pick sign out of high school?
A: It really didn't matter to me what round I was drafted in. It’s my chance to do what I've always wanted to do so after talking with my family we decided that it's what I wanted to do.
Q: What type of hitter do you consider yourself and why (pull, power, all-fields, etc)?
A: I consider myself of more of an opposite field hitter. I've always worked hitting the other way and it’s worked for me so I've just stuck with trying to drive the ball to the left-center gap.
Q: Have the Phillies told you where you will be playing next year, and if not, where would you like to play in the organization?
A: They haven't told me any of that yet. All I've heard is that it depends how I in spring training. I'm more or less just shooting for a spot on either of the low A rosters.
Q: Based on the roster at the Gulf Coast League, there were 3 other first baseman prospects including Jonathan Singleton. What separates you from the group?
A: I think might heights a big advantage for me. Singleton and Wine are both great players so it will be interesting where we all end up.
Q: In how many years would you like to make the Phillies?
A: I'm just shooting to progress one level at a time. I'm only 19 so I have my time to progress and get stronger. They consider me a step behind John because of him being from California and me coming from a small town in North Dakota so all I can do is work extremely hard and have a little luck on my side.
Obviously, Ryan is very raw, but has a projectable frame and is solid enough at first base to have a good chance of moving up the minors. It all depends on the bat and if he can provide power, but he was truly very young last year, and hopefully an under the radar guy to emerge in the next few years. Thanks to him for doing this interview around a month ago, and comments are greatly appreciated.
Q: What was intriguing about the Phillies that made a 47th round draft pick sign out of high school?
A: It really didn't matter to me what round I was drafted in. It’s my chance to do what I've always wanted to do so after talking with my family we decided that it's what I wanted to do.
Q: What type of hitter do you consider yourself and why (pull, power, all-fields, etc)?
A: I consider myself of more of an opposite field hitter. I've always worked hitting the other way and it’s worked for me so I've just stuck with trying to drive the ball to the left-center gap.
Q: Have the Phillies told you where you will be playing next year, and if not, where would you like to play in the organization?
A: They haven't told me any of that yet. All I've heard is that it depends how I in spring training. I'm more or less just shooting for a spot on either of the low A rosters.
Q: Based on the roster at the Gulf Coast League, there were 3 other first baseman prospects including Jonathan Singleton. What separates you from the group?
A: I think might heights a big advantage for me. Singleton and Wine are both great players so it will be interesting where we all end up.
Q: In how many years would you like to make the Phillies?
A: I'm just shooting to progress one level at a time. I'm only 19 so I have my time to progress and get stronger. They consider me a step behind John because of him being from California and me coming from a small town in North Dakota so all I can do is work extremely hard and have a little luck on my side.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
I hate doctors...
...always telling you "you should take batter care of yourself", "you need to lose weight", "take your medication as prescribed", "you ARE the father"...no wait, I was watching Maury while in the waiting room. But my doctor is cool except when it's time for my annual physical. Nothing worse than having a female doc say "turn your head and cough" while grabbing the boys. No wonder they keep those rooms at freezing temperature.
So I'm having to provide a stool sample and I'm thinking of philly. Once I was done (and it was easy when philly comes to mind) I started thinking about The New York Mets. Now THAT'S a team to root for. In a city so nice you have to say it twice (NEW YORK, NEW YORK) nothing is better than summers in New York City. And while The Mets are tearing up the league and the pretenders (read: philthies) are wallowing in despair, I know a bunch of you will jump ship and root for The Mets. I mean, Carter Batting Practice stadium is a home away from home for New York Mets fans. It's always been that way and it always will.
I keep looking at this Mets team in ST and I've read where now Reyes is going on the DL to start the season with Beltran and some of you are wringing your hands thinking "this is our chance." Let me say a few things to get you back to reality: Fernando Martinez, Mejia, Pelfry, Perez, Santana just to name a few. You have no chance this year. Oh, you may start hot and think that it's going to be a repeat of the last 3 years but I GUARANTEE it won't be that way this year. The fun and games are over and it's time to remind your silly little team who REALLY owns the N.L. East. Get the handkerchiefs out and start crying a river. This year you CAN riot but it'll be when you're shown to be nothing but the pretenders you've been the last 3 years. I would say I feel sorry for your team but I can't lie. The lie has been thinking you've been the best team the last 3 years. Play time is over kiddies and it's time for the adults to take over. Hope you enjoyed yourselves. And you can have this headline for your teams website: "It was fun while it lasted."
So I'm having to provide a stool sample and I'm thinking of philly. Once I was done (and it was easy when philly comes to mind) I started thinking about The New York Mets. Now THAT'S a team to root for. In a city so nice you have to say it twice (NEW YORK, NEW YORK) nothing is better than summers in New York City. And while The Mets are tearing up the league and the pretenders (read: philthies) are wallowing in despair, I know a bunch of you will jump ship and root for The Mets. I mean, Carter Batting Practice stadium is a home away from home for New York Mets fans. It's always been that way and it always will.
I keep looking at this Mets team in ST and I've read where now Reyes is going on the DL to start the season with Beltran and some of you are wringing your hands thinking "this is our chance." Let me say a few things to get you back to reality: Fernando Martinez, Mejia, Pelfry, Perez, Santana just to name a few. You have no chance this year. Oh, you may start hot and think that it's going to be a repeat of the last 3 years but I GUARANTEE it won't be that way this year. The fun and games are over and it's time to remind your silly little team who REALLY owns the N.L. East. Get the handkerchiefs out and start crying a river. This year you CAN riot but it'll be when you're shown to be nothing but the pretenders you've been the last 3 years. I would say I feel sorry for your team but I can't lie. The lie has been thinking you've been the best team the last 3 years. Play time is over kiddies and it's time for the adults to take over. Hope you enjoyed yourselves. And you can have this headline for your teams website: "It was fun while it lasted."
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Ryan Howard The New Scott Rolen?
Is Ryan Howard gonna be the new Scott Rolen? Not if Ruben plays his Cards right.
As many Phillies fans know, this week Buster Olney of ESPN reported a discussion within the Phillies organization about a Ryan Howard for Albert Pujols trade. On cue of course, Ruben denied the trade. And many fans have apparently taken issue with Olney's speculative report. But the reality is that Judgment day is nearing with Ryan Howard. With two year left on his current deal, the time for extending Howard or trading him might be now.
The Phillies were in a similar situation with Scott Rolen a few years back. Ed Wade and the Phillies organization did just about everything it could to please Rolen. First came the very generous 4 year 10 million dollar deal that Rolen got before even being arbitration eligible. Then of course came the removal of the Vet's hard AstroTurf, which coincidentally happened at the exact same time the Rolen started complaining about it. And finally there was the eye popping 10 year 140 million dollar offer which Rolen publicly turned down before his final season with the Phillies.
The mistake made by the Philies with Rolen was assuming that they he would resign if they treated him well. Rolen however had other motives. The Midwest native wanted to play in St. Louis, and nothing the Phillies did was gonna change that. And by refusing to come to terms with this reality, the Phillies cost themselves a chance at acquiring a young Albert Pujols.
Now the Phillies find themselves in a similar situation with Howard. Howard, a St. Louis native, has been treated with all the respect that a player of his caliber should be treated with. The recent 3 year 54 million dollar extension was something that the Phillies didn't have to do but did anyways to make Howard happy. Ownership has proven itself willing to pay for a winner, and the fans have provided Howard with one of the loudest and most vibrant atmospheres to play the game of baseball in.
Yet despite all of this, talks of a new deal with Howard are conspicuously absent. One must assume that Ruben has at least had preliminary discussions with Howard and his people about signing a new deal. Only Howard and those closest to him could know for sure what his intentions are at this moment. But Ruben for his part needs make a decision as to whether or not he can resign Howard pretty soon. And if Ruben does get the feeling that Howard is simply not coming back, he better be kicking the tires on a trade with the Cardinals for Albert Pujols.
As many Phillies fans know, this week Buster Olney of ESPN reported a discussion within the Phillies organization about a Ryan Howard for Albert Pujols trade. On cue of course, Ruben denied the trade. And many fans have apparently taken issue with Olney's speculative report. But the reality is that Judgment day is nearing with Ryan Howard. With two year left on his current deal, the time for extending Howard or trading him might be now.
The Phillies were in a similar situation with Scott Rolen a few years back. Ed Wade and the Phillies organization did just about everything it could to please Rolen. First came the very generous 4 year 10 million dollar deal that Rolen got before even being arbitration eligible. Then of course came the removal of the Vet's hard AstroTurf, which coincidentally happened at the exact same time the Rolen started complaining about it. And finally there was the eye popping 10 year 140 million dollar offer which Rolen publicly turned down before his final season with the Phillies.
The mistake made by the Philies with Rolen was assuming that they he would resign if they treated him well. Rolen however had other motives. The Midwest native wanted to play in St. Louis, and nothing the Phillies did was gonna change that. And by refusing to come to terms with this reality, the Phillies cost themselves a chance at acquiring a young Albert Pujols.
Now the Phillies find themselves in a similar situation with Howard. Howard, a St. Louis native, has been treated with all the respect that a player of his caliber should be treated with. The recent 3 year 54 million dollar extension was something that the Phillies didn't have to do but did anyways to make Howard happy. Ownership has proven itself willing to pay for a winner, and the fans have provided Howard with one of the loudest and most vibrant atmospheres to play the game of baseball in.
Yet despite all of this, talks of a new deal with Howard are conspicuously absent. One must assume that Ruben has at least had preliminary discussions with Howard and his people about signing a new deal. Only Howard and those closest to him could know for sure what his intentions are at this moment. But Ruben for his part needs make a decision as to whether or not he can resign Howard pretty soon. And if Ruben does get the feeling that Howard is simply not coming back, he better be kicking the tires on a trade with the Cardinals for Albert Pujols.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Kendrick To Stick Around?
Just ask any Phillies Phan. We all know the story of Kyle Kendrick. This is the story of a kid who was extremely unknown, but got his call up for one start and made a lasting impression. Kyle was not overly impressive in the minors, we just needed a guy to fill in for a week or two, but KK decided it was not in his plans to return to Reading. He finished the season as a hero. Unfortunately for him fame left as quick as it came. In 2008 he floundered pretty badly with an ERA over 5. In 09 he made his return as a relief pitcher to many fans dismay. But in a shocking fashion he produced a mid 3 era. So why are fans not all over him? Fool me once, shame on you but fool me twice, shame on me.
So why am I writing about him? Well much like other Phillies fans I am taking strong notice of his Spring. Kyle Kendrick has thrown 9 innings without letting up a single run. So what, who cares. Chan Ho Mania was thriving last spring how did that work out? Yea well Chan Ho Mania wasn't entering spring with a new pitch or two. Kyle Kendrick has showcased and admitted to working on some pitches and in great fashion he put those pitches to work. We are seeing more movement out of him than ever before. If anything, maybe this new pitch and tweak to the others will give him one more season of mild success and fool a few hitters. To be honest, I will not be overly upset if KK comes in does his thing and is done again. Our farm is thriving with prospects, many in the lower levels, that maybe all we need is one more decent season out of him.
Overall I think KK will have a pretty nice season. I am not going ape shit over him but i do not think a 10 win 3.80 ERA season is too far out of reach. I think he was destined for the relief role but i feel confident with him going into 2010 as our starting number 5, i mean after seeing Moyer last season how much worse can it get? I will be calling for 1 last HURRAH season out of him before he is subjected to the likes of a mediocre career pitcher(4.25 ERA)
So why am I writing about him? Well much like other Phillies fans I am taking strong notice of his Spring. Kyle Kendrick has thrown 9 innings without letting up a single run. So what, who cares. Chan Ho Mania was thriving last spring how did that work out? Yea well Chan Ho Mania wasn't entering spring with a new pitch or two. Kyle Kendrick has showcased and admitted to working on some pitches and in great fashion he put those pitches to work. We are seeing more movement out of him than ever before. If anything, maybe this new pitch and tweak to the others will give him one more season of mild success and fool a few hitters. To be honest, I will not be overly upset if KK comes in does his thing and is done again. Our farm is thriving with prospects, many in the lower levels, that maybe all we need is one more decent season out of him.
Overall I think KK will have a pretty nice season. I am not going ape shit over him but i do not think a 10 win 3.80 ERA season is too far out of reach. I think he was destined for the relief role but i feel confident with him going into 2010 as our starting number 5, i mean after seeing Moyer last season how much worse can it get? I will be calling for 1 last HURRAH season out of him before he is subjected to the likes of a mediocre career pitcher(4.25 ERA)
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Interview with Jon Pettibone
Picked in Round 3 of the 2008 MLB, Jonathan Pettibone is the highest round pick I have interviewed to this point. The righty has very projectable size at 6’5” 200 lbs as a soon to be 20-year-old. The interesting thing about Pettibone is that he claims to be a control pitcher, yet gets a good amount of strikeouts. 36 strikeouts in 35.1 innings is 9.2 strikeouts per nine innings, and is a very good sign for things to come. However, Pettibone will definitely need to work to limit the amounts of hits and walks he gives up, (WHIP 1.500 last year). His most alarming concern would be the 37 hits he gave up in the 35.1 innings.
A weird trend in Pettibone’s career though is his number of unearned runs. In a career 36.1 innings, he has a bizarre 9 unearned runs to go along with 21 earned runs. Clearly, the defense benind Pettibone has not been the best, and not making excuses, but seems to have an effect on how he pitches. Ultimately, I believe that if Pettibone is able to get his WHIP down and continue to develop power and get strikeouts, he has a real chance to be a top prospect. His stats are similar to Jonathan Sanchez of the San Francisco Giants. Granted, Sanchez was two years older at the same level that Pettibone is at, but the stats are very similar. If Pettibone can follow Sanchez’s path of decreasing walks and hits, he will shoot up on the scene. Thanks to Jon for the interview, and is a good player to follow next year.
Q: The prospect boards find your strikeout total (36 in 35 innings) a good sign of things to come. Would you consider yourself more of a power pitcher or a control pitcher?
A: Control pitcher, this is something the Phillies stress at this point and that is being able to control all of your pitches, at anytime in the count. And eventually power coming later on in my career.
Q: What pitches do you have and what is the MPH of your fastball?
A: 2-seam and 4-seam fastball, curveball and changeup. My fastball can be anywhere from 88 to 92.
Q: Going into the next season, what do you think is the thing that you would like to accomplish most, work on most, and consider your best pitching skill?
A: Being a young pitcher like myself there are several things I need to approve on as well as accomplish but the one that comes to mind as the most important is being able to throw my pitches (fast, curve, change) for strikes on a consistent basis and throwing my fastballs on both sides of the plate.
Q: What other than the money did you see in the Phillies organization that made you want to sign out of high school?
A: Just having strong reputation of being a solid organization year after year, also I knew they felt highly of me with the investment they made so it was just something I couldnt pass up.
Q: Have the Phillies told you where you will start next year and if not, what year would you like to be a part of the starting rotation for the Phillies?
A: They have told me they want me starting in low class A Lakewood. A reasonable goal on when I would like to be a part of the Phillies rotation is in 2012.
Q: Any other comments?
A: With my first full season under my belt I'm really excited for the upcoming season as well as a successful one.
A weird trend in Pettibone’s career though is his number of unearned runs. In a career 36.1 innings, he has a bizarre 9 unearned runs to go along with 21 earned runs. Clearly, the defense benind Pettibone has not been the best, and not making excuses, but seems to have an effect on how he pitches. Ultimately, I believe that if Pettibone is able to get his WHIP down and continue to develop power and get strikeouts, he has a real chance to be a top prospect. His stats are similar to Jonathan Sanchez of the San Francisco Giants. Granted, Sanchez was two years older at the same level that Pettibone is at, but the stats are very similar. If Pettibone can follow Sanchez’s path of decreasing walks and hits, he will shoot up on the scene. Thanks to Jon for the interview, and is a good player to follow next year.
Q: The prospect boards find your strikeout total (36 in 35 innings) a good sign of things to come. Would you consider yourself more of a power pitcher or a control pitcher?
A: Control pitcher, this is something the Phillies stress at this point and that is being able to control all of your pitches, at anytime in the count. And eventually power coming later on in my career.
Q: What pitches do you have and what is the MPH of your fastball?
A: 2-seam and 4-seam fastball, curveball and changeup. My fastball can be anywhere from 88 to 92.
Q: Going into the next season, what do you think is the thing that you would like to accomplish most, work on most, and consider your best pitching skill?
A: Being a young pitcher like myself there are several things I need to approve on as well as accomplish but the one that comes to mind as the most important is being able to throw my pitches (fast, curve, change) for strikes on a consistent basis and throwing my fastballs on both sides of the plate.
Q: What other than the money did you see in the Phillies organization that made you want to sign out of high school?
A: Just having strong reputation of being a solid organization year after year, also I knew they felt highly of me with the investment they made so it was just something I couldnt pass up.
Q: Have the Phillies told you where you will start next year and if not, what year would you like to be a part of the starting rotation for the Phillies?
A: They have told me they want me starting in low class A Lakewood. A reasonable goal on when I would like to be a part of the Phillies rotation is in 2012.
Q: Any other comments?
A: With my first full season under my belt I'm really excited for the upcoming season as well as a successful one.
I hate traffic court...
...but not as much as I hate the philthies.
This late morning edition is brought to you by my having to go to court over a traffic ticket. What a waste of time. Since I plead "not guilty" (and of course I'm not) now I have to go back next month to have the actual case heard in court. No wonder the country is so far in debt. You're paying everyone in the government twice as much to do something that could have been handled one time.
But anyway, back to the reason for todays rant.
I can see the beads of sweat on the foreheads (and those are BIG foreheads) on you philthie fans. First, The Mets have this Carter dude who is hitting the ball like you guys hit each other during riots: hard and constantly. Now word is that Reyes is just fine and will terrorize the opposing pitchers like he did a couple years ago. And this guy hasn't even peaked yet. (More beads of sweat are appearing). On your side, lidge "hopes" see live batters soon. He might have a better chance if he plays 2K10. maybe that way he could last a whole season. blanton hopes not to give up 20 runs this time. With ibañez, victorino, werth and rollins hitting a combined .145 now, you should have nothing to worry about. (Profuse sweating by now).
As I stated last week, you can go ahead and look forward to a quiet summer on your side since The Mets will dominate this year. April 30th will be the day The Mets go into Carter Batting Practice mini-park and remind you that WE own you, we just let you "win" because, well, you needed a reason to riot after all those 10,000 losses.
I'm just going to make this a short one. I need to clean out the crap in the bird cage and re-line the bottom of the cage with the philly inquirer. The birds crap like crazy when that paper is in there. So be good to each other (yeah, right) and remember: "There are no stupid questions, just stupid people"...and they all live in philthiedelphia.
This late morning edition is brought to you by my having to go to court over a traffic ticket. What a waste of time. Since I plead "not guilty" (and of course I'm not) now I have to go back next month to have the actual case heard in court. No wonder the country is so far in debt. You're paying everyone in the government twice as much to do something that could have been handled one time.
But anyway, back to the reason for todays rant.
I can see the beads of sweat on the foreheads (and those are BIG foreheads) on you philthie fans. First, The Mets have this Carter dude who is hitting the ball like you guys hit each other during riots: hard and constantly. Now word is that Reyes is just fine and will terrorize the opposing pitchers like he did a couple years ago. And this guy hasn't even peaked yet. (More beads of sweat are appearing). On your side, lidge "hopes" see live batters soon. He might have a better chance if he plays 2K10. maybe that way he could last a whole season. blanton hopes not to give up 20 runs this time. With ibañez, victorino, werth and rollins hitting a combined .145 now, you should have nothing to worry about. (Profuse sweating by now).
As I stated last week, you can go ahead and look forward to a quiet summer on your side since The Mets will dominate this year. April 30th will be the day The Mets go into Carter Batting Practice mini-park and remind you that WE own you, we just let you "win" because, well, you needed a reason to riot after all those 10,000 losses.
I'm just going to make this a short one. I need to clean out the crap in the bird cage and re-line the bottom of the cage with the philly inquirer. The birds crap like crazy when that paper is in there. So be good to each other (yeah, right) and remember: "There are no stupid questions, just stupid people"...and they all live in philthiedelphia.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Eagles Take A Pass For Now
When the 2010 free agent signing period began many Eagles fans like myself believed that the Eagles would strike early and sign Julius Peppers. This hope of course was not without basis. The Eagles struck early and hard with free agents like Kearse and Samuel in recent offseasons, and even tried to do the same unsuccessfully with LeCharles Bentley (thank God this didnt' work out). By all accounts the Eagles did make an early and substantial offer to Peppers. But the Bears apparently made a much better one.
All of this of course has drawn the wrath of fans who for years have accused Banner and the front office of pinching pennies when it comes to signing players. While I won't disagree that Banner and company have left too much cap space unused, the reality is that outside of Peppers, few options would have given the Eagles a substantial and cost effective improvement over what they already have.
Going into this offseason the Eagles found themselves in a rare position. Unlike previous offseasons the Eagles were loaded at most of the offensive skilled position, but generally weak along the offensive line and defense as a whole. As a general rule of thumb you use the draft at positions where pure physical talent trumps skill and intelligence. As nice as Peppers would have been to have, the Eagles might end up getting a better and cheaper player via the draft. The same can be said for just about any position along the offensive line or defense (except for maybe the middle linebacker and safety position).
The Eagles will get plenty of chances to address their needs in the 2010 NFL draft. Recent drafts have produced as many as 5 quality players in a single draft. While not as flashy as signing known stars on the open market, drafting has proven to be the preferred method of choice for the NFL's most successful franchises. Teams like the Steelers, Patriots and Colts have depended almost entirely on the draft to fill their roster.
Even if you dont' think highly of the Eagles and their way of doing things, you should at least respect the above mentioned teams. I'd much rather emulate them than emulate offseason newsmakers like the Washington Redskins or Oakland Raiders. So to all my fellow Eagle fans I say let's wait until after the draft before deeming this offseason a failure.
All of this of course has drawn the wrath of fans who for years have accused Banner and the front office of pinching pennies when it comes to signing players. While I won't disagree that Banner and company have left too much cap space unused, the reality is that outside of Peppers, few options would have given the Eagles a substantial and cost effective improvement over what they already have.
Going into this offseason the Eagles found themselves in a rare position. Unlike previous offseasons the Eagles were loaded at most of the offensive skilled position, but generally weak along the offensive line and defense as a whole. As a general rule of thumb you use the draft at positions where pure physical talent trumps skill and intelligence. As nice as Peppers would have been to have, the Eagles might end up getting a better and cheaper player via the draft. The same can be said for just about any position along the offensive line or defense (except for maybe the middle linebacker and safety position).
The Eagles will get plenty of chances to address their needs in the 2010 NFL draft. Recent drafts have produced as many as 5 quality players in a single draft. While not as flashy as signing known stars on the open market, drafting has proven to be the preferred method of choice for the NFL's most successful franchises. Teams like the Steelers, Patriots and Colts have depended almost entirely on the draft to fill their roster.
Even if you dont' think highly of the Eagles and their way of doing things, you should at least respect the above mentioned teams. I'd much rather emulate them than emulate offseason newsmakers like the Washington Redskins or Oakland Raiders. So to all my fellow Eagle fans I say let's wait until after the draft before deeming this offseason a failure.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Eagles 180 Spin On WR
On a day the Eagles locked up Jason Avant on a 5 year contract it just had me thinking of how the Eagles WR situation just completely flipped around. So far this off season Anquan Boldin was traded to the Ravens and Brandon Marshall is seconds away from being traded...and Eagles fans weren't pleading for either. This is a brand new feeling in Philadelphia as we are the ones that begged for Larry Fitzgerald 2 seasons ago and Anquan Boldin last season, and got neither, and yet our wide receiving core might just be a top 5 next season. How in the world did that happen?
Well It all began with the Eagles BOLD choice of taking Desean Jackson over another guy the Eagles fans pleaded for and did not receive, and now that same guy we wanted and called Andy an ignorant buffoon for passing up on, might not even be on a team next season. Yep, Limas Sweed has his job on the line this pre season. Well after making the amazing decision that was DeSean Diez, the Eagles made yet another BOLD move and traded up in the first round when Jeremy Maclin for some unexplainable reason dropped 9 spots more than he should have. After a slow start to the season Maclin slowly became a steady option for McNabb and even had a game winning catch against Denver. He is poised for a 1000 yard season as is DeSean Diez. After years on drafting futile wide receivers who could have ever guessed Andy was capable of drafting a WR worthy of contributing, let alone drafting 2 1000 yard receivers? And that brings us to the man of the hour, the man who will spend the next 5 seasons in Eagles Country, Jason Avant. Jason might be the best number 3 guy we have ever had. It is no secret he is McNabbs favorite target on third downs and for a very good reason. He has hands of glue. He is the physical WR the Eagles have lacked since the former number 81.
Just like that, despite not having trading for a stud WR Eagles have gone from one of the worst WR corps in the NFL to one of the best in a matter of three seasons. And not only that, we have a top 5 receiving tight end as well! I guess Andy does have a few trips up his sleeve. The complete transformation of the Eagles WR is the only reason I am not writing about why it was stupid to cut Witherspoon. Instead, I think I am just gonna give Andy the benefit of the doubt, who knows, maybe he can transform this line backing corps as well
Well It all began with the Eagles BOLD choice of taking Desean Jackson over another guy the Eagles fans pleaded for and did not receive, and now that same guy we wanted and called Andy an ignorant buffoon for passing up on, might not even be on a team next season. Yep, Limas Sweed has his job on the line this pre season. Well after making the amazing decision that was DeSean Diez, the Eagles made yet another BOLD move and traded up in the first round when Jeremy Maclin for some unexplainable reason dropped 9 spots more than he should have. After a slow start to the season Maclin slowly became a steady option for McNabb and even had a game winning catch against Denver. He is poised for a 1000 yard season as is DeSean Diez. After years on drafting futile wide receivers who could have ever guessed Andy was capable of drafting a WR worthy of contributing, let alone drafting 2 1000 yard receivers? And that brings us to the man of the hour, the man who will spend the next 5 seasons in Eagles Country, Jason Avant. Jason might be the best number 3 guy we have ever had. It is no secret he is McNabbs favorite target on third downs and for a very good reason. He has hands of glue. He is the physical WR the Eagles have lacked since the former number 81.
Just like that, despite not having trading for a stud WR Eagles have gone from one of the worst WR corps in the NFL to one of the best in a matter of three seasons. And not only that, we have a top 5 receiving tight end as well! I guess Andy does have a few trips up his sleeve. The complete transformation of the Eagles WR is the only reason I am not writing about why it was stupid to cut Witherspoon. Instead, I think I am just gonna give Andy the benefit of the doubt, who knows, maybe he can transform this line backing corps as well
Friday, March 5, 2010
Interview with Nick Hernandez
JKEARSE123's number one sleeper prospect on the Phillies is not one
people would expect. No, not the blazing fast Anthony Gose or the
switch-hitting speedster Jiwan James. While they are both terrific
prospects and great sleepers, there is no question that Nick
Hernandez, a 6'4" 205 LHP from Hialeah, Florida is my number one
sleeper prospect for 2010. Nick began his first season in the majors
at age 20 with the short season A team and absolutely dominated. In
exactly 80 innings pitched, Nick held his own with a 2.70 ERA and a
1.15 WHIP. This includes a very respectable 3.35 strikeout/walk ratio
and 7.5 strikeout per 9 inning. The only slight concern with Nick
Hernandez is his 8.1 hits per 9 innings, otherwise, Nick had
incredibly solid statistics especially for a 20 year old in A- league
(http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?
id=hernan003nic).
There truly is no comparison that serves his sample size well along
with his pitches, age, etc. Only Jamie Moyer, a control pitching left
hander, had better but similiar stats but one year older at A-
League.
If the Phillies drafted a Jamie Moyer type player with an 12th round
draft pick in the 2009 draft, then they have found a steal. One
favorable stat for Nick as well is a high SONAR score of 18.53
(http://
phuturephillies.com/2009/11/12/sonar-scores-the-pitchers/) which is
higher than very high rated prospect Jarred Cosart. All in all, Nick
Hernandez, who has family history in baseball, is going to be a very
interesting player to watch, whether it be in Clearwater of Lakewood.
Q: What made you come out of College at Tennessee as a sophomore to
sign with the Phillies as a 12th round draft pick?
A: I came out of Tennessee as a junior and felt I was ready for pro
ball. It was a tough decision to make because I spent 3 years at the
University of Tennessee but I decided to accept the offer and start
my
pro career.
Q: What pitches do you use and what is the MPH of them?
A: I throw a FB, CH, CB, and I am in the process of learning a SL. My
Fb sits about 85-88 and hits 90 at times. The CH is my best pitch and
it usually sits 76-78 with my CB usually sitting around 74-76. The
SL,
which was taught to me in Instructional Ball, has come a long ways
and
I threw it effectively around 78-81. Hopefully with more reps, I can
get it to the 80-82 range.
Q: Do you consider yourself a power pitcher or a control pitcher?
A: I am definitely a control pitcher that likes to work both sides of
the plate and force the hitters to get themselves out.
Q: Have the Phillies indicated what team you will be on next year, if
not which team would you like to be on?
A: When we broke Instuctional Ball they said I would definitely be
starting every 5th day either in Lakewood or Clearwater. Depending on
how Spring Training goes, is where I will end up.
Q: What did the Phillies see in you that allowed you to skip GCL and
go straight to short season Williamsport?
A: Well I don't know that answer for sure, but from the looks of it,
most of the college players that the Phillies drafted went to
Williamsport.
Q: What player did you grow up admiring the most?
A: Growing up, I always tried to be like Ken Griffey Jr. When I was
young, I think every kid wanted to be like him. His swing, his
ability
in the outfield, and the way he played the game made it easy for me
to
admire Jr. the most.
Q: How has having a family in baseball (Dad as a player, Uncle as an
Umpire) affected your life?
A: It has been a great advantage for me. My father was the 8th
overall
pick in the 1978 draft and he opened me up to what I should expect in
pro ball. He has always been there for me through the tough times and
the bad and has experienced many things that I have already. My Uncle
which has been an umpire now for 30 years (13 in the minors and 17 in
the Big Leagues) has always inspired me to make it up there. They
have
both played a huge part so far in my professional career, and I am
sure they will continue to be a huge part of my career.
Q: Any other comments you'd like to add?
A: I'm excited for my 1st ever Spring Training and I look forward to
finding out exactly what Spring Training is all about. I'm sure I
will
learn some valuable lessons and receive great instruction that will
benefit me throughout the season. Thanks for the interview, GO
PHILS!
people would expect. No, not the blazing fast Anthony Gose or the
switch-hitting speedster Jiwan James. While they are both terrific
prospects and great sleepers, there is no question that Nick
Hernandez, a 6'4" 205 LHP from Hialeah, Florida is my number one
sleeper prospect for 2010. Nick began his first season in the majors
at age 20 with the short season A team and absolutely dominated. In
exactly 80 innings pitched, Nick held his own with a 2.70 ERA and a
1.15 WHIP. This includes a very respectable 3.35 strikeout/walk ratio
and 7.5 strikeout per 9 inning. The only slight concern with Nick
Hernandez is his 8.1 hits per 9 innings, otherwise, Nick had
incredibly solid statistics especially for a 20 year old in A- league
(http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?
id=hernan003nic).
There truly is no comparison that serves his sample size well along
with his pitches, age, etc. Only Jamie Moyer, a control pitching left
hander, had better but similiar stats but one year older at A-
League.
If the Phillies drafted a Jamie Moyer type player with an 12th round
draft pick in the 2009 draft, then they have found a steal. One
favorable stat for Nick as well is a high SONAR score of 18.53
(http://
phuturephillies.com/2009/11/12/sonar-scores-the-pitchers/) which is
higher than very high rated prospect Jarred Cosart. All in all, Nick
Hernandez, who has family history in baseball, is going to be a very
interesting player to watch, whether it be in Clearwater of Lakewood.
Q: What made you come out of College at Tennessee as a sophomore to
sign with the Phillies as a 12th round draft pick?
A: I came out of Tennessee as a junior and felt I was ready for pro
ball. It was a tough decision to make because I spent 3 years at the
University of Tennessee but I decided to accept the offer and start
my
pro career.
Q: What pitches do you use and what is the MPH of them?
A: I throw a FB, CH, CB, and I am in the process of learning a SL. My
Fb sits about 85-88 and hits 90 at times. The CH is my best pitch and
it usually sits 76-78 with my CB usually sitting around 74-76. The
SL,
which was taught to me in Instructional Ball, has come a long ways
and
I threw it effectively around 78-81. Hopefully with more reps, I can
get it to the 80-82 range.
Q: Do you consider yourself a power pitcher or a control pitcher?
A: I am definitely a control pitcher that likes to work both sides of
the plate and force the hitters to get themselves out.
Q: Have the Phillies indicated what team you will be on next year, if
not which team would you like to be on?
A: When we broke Instuctional Ball they said I would definitely be
starting every 5th day either in Lakewood or Clearwater. Depending on
how Spring Training goes, is where I will end up.
Q: What did the Phillies see in you that allowed you to skip GCL and
go straight to short season Williamsport?
A: Well I don't know that answer for sure, but from the looks of it,
most of the college players that the Phillies drafted went to
Williamsport.
Q: What player did you grow up admiring the most?
A: Growing up, I always tried to be like Ken Griffey Jr. When I was
young, I think every kid wanted to be like him. His swing, his
ability
in the outfield, and the way he played the game made it easy for me
to
admire Jr. the most.
Q: How has having a family in baseball (Dad as a player, Uncle as an
Umpire) affected your life?
A: It has been a great advantage for me. My father was the 8th
overall
pick in the 1978 draft and he opened me up to what I should expect in
pro ball. He has always been there for me through the tough times and
the bad and has experienced many things that I have already. My Uncle
which has been an umpire now for 30 years (13 in the minors and 17 in
the Big Leagues) has always inspired me to make it up there. They
have
both played a huge part so far in my professional career, and I am
sure they will continue to be a huge part of my career.
Q: Any other comments you'd like to add?
A: I'm excited for my 1st ever Spring Training and I look forward to
finding out exactly what Spring Training is all about. I'm sure I
will
learn some valuable lessons and receive great instruction that will
benefit me throughout the season. Thanks for the interview, GO
PHILS!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
"Die-nasty"
Almost forgot today’s column. If it wasn’t because I had my daily newspaper in hand and was headed to take a dump, I wouldn’t even have thought of philly.
So after the first day of ST games, The Mets sat every starter because of the weather and beat “duh” braves 4-2. The philthies play today against some hole-in-the-wall college team before getting slapped around again by the yankmees. I noticed something strange. The Philthies don’t play The Mets at all during ST. I can smell the fear emitting from philthie (or maybe that’s just the way it stinks all the time) when it comes to The Mets. Here is something for you to chew on: The Mets WILL be the team to lead in the N.L. East. THE METS WILL OWN YOU AND THE DIVISION THIS YEAR. All the blubbering about the philthies pitching (none) and the hitting (none) and the bullpen (ZERO) will be just talk on paper as The Mets dominate this year. No more giving you the division because of The Mets collapsing or injuries. The only way for the philthies to win is to actually win it on your own and that’s NEVER going to happen. The so-called “dynasty” that was talked about when it came to philly will “die nasty’ and everyone will forget it was ever mentioned very quickly. Any article that mentions it will line the bottom of bird cages across America. Philthie will go back to doing what it does best: watch the phils lose, and lose, and lose…on its way to the next 10,000 loses. I hope you enjoyed your short run at fame. Now you’ll have to find another reason to riot. Hey, I know, you can make it a national holiday. We can call it “National Club a philly Fan” Day. Everyone across the country can hit anyone wearing a philly hat with a bat, a chair, a beer bottle or burn their car. (Marshmallows optional). If it were up to me, it would be everyday.
On a serious note: From the earthquake in Haiti to the earthquake in Chile that apparently has shifted the Earths’ axis, the world seems to be mad at us. We continue to exploit, abuse, litter and basically mistreat this planet we live on. I mess with Philly fans for the sake of this column and don’t wish ANYTHING bad on anyone. Yes, even you Philly fans. We need to take better care of ourselves and this planet. Right now, we don’t have any other place to go. The days of space travel “Star Trek” style is too far in the future for any of us to ever see it. Help those that need your help now. Pay it forward. You NEVER know when you may need their help yourself.
Oh…and philly sucks…
So after the first day of ST games, The Mets sat every starter because of the weather and beat “duh” braves 4-2. The philthies play today against some hole-in-the-wall college team before getting slapped around again by the yankmees. I noticed something strange. The Philthies don’t play The Mets at all during ST. I can smell the fear emitting from philthie (or maybe that’s just the way it stinks all the time) when it comes to The Mets. Here is something for you to chew on: The Mets WILL be the team to lead in the N.L. East. THE METS WILL OWN YOU AND THE DIVISION THIS YEAR. All the blubbering about the philthies pitching (none) and the hitting (none) and the bullpen (ZERO) will be just talk on paper as The Mets dominate this year. No more giving you the division because of The Mets collapsing or injuries. The only way for the philthies to win is to actually win it on your own and that’s NEVER going to happen. The so-called “dynasty” that was talked about when it came to philly will “die nasty’ and everyone will forget it was ever mentioned very quickly. Any article that mentions it will line the bottom of bird cages across America. Philthie will go back to doing what it does best: watch the phils lose, and lose, and lose…on its way to the next 10,000 loses. I hope you enjoyed your short run at fame. Now you’ll have to find another reason to riot. Hey, I know, you can make it a national holiday. We can call it “National Club a philly Fan” Day. Everyone across the country can hit anyone wearing a philly hat with a bat, a chair, a beer bottle or burn their car. (Marshmallows optional). If it were up to me, it would be everyday.
On a serious note: From the earthquake in Haiti to the earthquake in Chile that apparently has shifted the Earths’ axis, the world seems to be mad at us. We continue to exploit, abuse, litter and basically mistreat this planet we live on. I mess with Philly fans for the sake of this column and don’t wish ANYTHING bad on anyone. Yes, even you Philly fans. We need to take better care of ourselves and this planet. Right now, we don’t have any other place to go. The days of space travel “Star Trek” style is too far in the future for any of us to ever see it. Help those that need your help now. Pay it forward. You NEVER know when you may need their help yourself.
Oh…and philly sucks…
Bird in Hand, or Corn on the Kolb?
As the beginning of the football offseason nears, one of the big question in all of the NFL is whether or not Donovan McNabb will be kept or traded by the Eagles. Among Eagle fans, McNabb has proven a divisive figure. Supporters will point to his win-loss record and 6 Pro Bowls. Detractors will point to his lack of a Super Bowl ring and the many games he's missed due to injury. Both sides make good points. However, there is one key difference between McNabb and Kolb. McNabb for all his faults is a known product. Kolb is still unknown.
McNabb's weaknesses and strengths are well documented. He can avoid the pass rush and throw deep balls better than anyone. And his ability to avoid throwing picks is something that only a coach could truly appreciate. At the same time, he holds on to the ball too long and can be extremely erratic in his short passes. A good coach and GM could theoretically build a title team to fit McNabb's strengths. And while Reid and company have given him speedy receivers to throw deep too, they've generally failed to create an offense well suited for McNabb's skill set.
Kevin Kolb on paper looks like a good fit for Reid's offense. He gets rid of the ball quick and is generally accurate with his short passes. But he also lacks McNabb's pocket elusiveness and has an arm that is questionable at best. He is the ANTI McNabb in almost every sense. What will ultimately determine Kolb's future is whether or not he can avoid throwing interceptions. For his young career, Kevin Kolb has averaged 1 pick for every 18.6 pass attempts. McNabb has averaged 1 pick for every 47.5 attempts. Kolb's thrown interceptions at a 250% higher rate.
Many fans will casually dismiss Kolb's penchant for throwing interceptions as just a minor inconvenience. In fantasy football this may be the case, but not in real life. Anyone who knows football knows that the team that wins the turnover battle almost always wins the game. That is why coaches will yank even the best running backs as soon as they see a pattern of fumbling the ball. Reid's job is to put this team in the best position he can to win games. If Kolb's penchant for throwing picks is something that occurs even in practice, Reid would be wise to trade him while he's still young. Simply assuming that he'll 'grow' out of this habit is not something the Eagles can gamble on. This team still has the ability to make a run at a title, even with McNabb hitting receivers at their feet. Reid for his part needs to rely more on the run and less on the short pass. Perhaps Westbrook's departure will mark a new era in Eagles football, one which includes a consistent running game.
Even if Reid doesn't change his ways, this team can still win a title with McNabb. They came within 3 points against a very good (and possibly cheating) New England Patriot team, and put up a very respectable performance against the Cardinals in the NFC title game in 2008. In fact, it was the defense that cost them a chance at a 3rd Super Bowl appearance, not McNabb.
As someone who has lived in the DC area for much of his life I can only tell fellow Eagle fans this: having uncertainty at the quarterback position is the quickest path the football hell. The Redskins haven't had a quality quarterback in over ten years. There is simply no guarantee that Kolb will even lead the Eagles to a winning record, much less a Super Bowl. And the odds of the next guy succeeding might be even less. Teams can go through a half dozen quarterbacks before finding one that can even lead them to the playoffs. We as Eagle fans can't be so dismissive about the Bird we have in hand. He's not perfect, but he is a winner.
McNabb's weaknesses and strengths are well documented. He can avoid the pass rush and throw deep balls better than anyone. And his ability to avoid throwing picks is something that only a coach could truly appreciate. At the same time, he holds on to the ball too long and can be extremely erratic in his short passes. A good coach and GM could theoretically build a title team to fit McNabb's strengths. And while Reid and company have given him speedy receivers to throw deep too, they've generally failed to create an offense well suited for McNabb's skill set.
Kevin Kolb on paper looks like a good fit for Reid's offense. He gets rid of the ball quick and is generally accurate with his short passes. But he also lacks McNabb's pocket elusiveness and has an arm that is questionable at best. He is the ANTI McNabb in almost every sense. What will ultimately determine Kolb's future is whether or not he can avoid throwing interceptions. For his young career, Kevin Kolb has averaged 1 pick for every 18.6 pass attempts. McNabb has averaged 1 pick for every 47.5 attempts. Kolb's thrown interceptions at a 250% higher rate.
Many fans will casually dismiss Kolb's penchant for throwing interceptions as just a minor inconvenience. In fantasy football this may be the case, but not in real life. Anyone who knows football knows that the team that wins the turnover battle almost always wins the game. That is why coaches will yank even the best running backs as soon as they see a pattern of fumbling the ball. Reid's job is to put this team in the best position he can to win games. If Kolb's penchant for throwing picks is something that occurs even in practice, Reid would be wise to trade him while he's still young. Simply assuming that he'll 'grow' out of this habit is not something the Eagles can gamble on. This team still has the ability to make a run at a title, even with McNabb hitting receivers at their feet. Reid for his part needs to rely more on the run and less on the short pass. Perhaps Westbrook's departure will mark a new era in Eagles football, one which includes a consistent running game.
Even if Reid doesn't change his ways, this team can still win a title with McNabb. They came within 3 points against a very good (and possibly cheating) New England Patriot team, and put up a very respectable performance against the Cardinals in the NFC title game in 2008. In fact, it was the defense that cost them a chance at a 3rd Super Bowl appearance, not McNabb.
As someone who has lived in the DC area for much of his life I can only tell fellow Eagle fans this: having uncertainty at the quarterback position is the quickest path the football hell. The Redskins haven't had a quality quarterback in over ten years. There is simply no guarantee that Kolb will even lead the Eagles to a winning record, much less a Super Bowl. And the odds of the next guy succeeding might be even less. Teams can go through a half dozen quarterbacks before finding one that can even lead them to the playoffs. We as Eagle fans can't be so dismissive about the Bird we have in hand. He's not perfect, but he is a winner.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Interview with Scott Mathieson
What MLB player comes to mind if the information is given that this pitcher has started for the Phillies after having been drafted in 2002 and remains in the system? Cole Hamels is one viable answer, however so is 17th Round Draft Pick Scott Mathieson. The right handed pitcher turns 26 on Saturday and stands tall at 6’3 190lbs. He is one of the few players that has played in literally every level of the Phillies minor league system including a short stay with the Phillies in 2006. However, Scott has had three elbow surgeries including the famous Tommy John surgery inhibiting his ability essentially to start as he did coming up in the minors. In 2009, Scott did not start a game, but shined in those he came out of the bullpen. With 3 different teams (Rook League, A+, and AA), he finished with a sparkling 0.84 ERA including 34 strikeouts in 32.1 innings. Reading, the AA squad, out of those stats above in 19.1 innings got 17 strikeouts, 1.4 ERA and a miniscule .879 WHIP (walks + hits per inning).
Pitchers like Mathieson, however, are very hard to judge how they will do in the major leagues. For Scott, this will be his second go around in the major leagues, so a lot of the original nervousness that he exhibited in his first stint should not be there. As stated, it is very hard to guess what a pitcher like him will be able to do in the major leagues. From a ‘stuff’ soundpoint he sounds a lot like Ryan Madson in the back of the bullpen. The hope for Mathieson is that sometime this year or next he can be a force out of the back end of the bullpen somewhere, whether that be in a closer, long relief, set up, right handed matchup, etc. Thanks to Scott for his time and comments are appreciated.
Q: Are you completely recovered from sugery and ready to start of the season competing for a spot on the Phillies?
A: Yes, I’m completely healthy now from my 3 elbow surgeries and hopefully can break with the Phillies this season and help get back to the WS and win it.
Q: What pitches do you use and what is the MPH of your fastball?
A: I throw a FB, SL, and a CH, I’ll also mix in a curve every now and then, but not often. Last year my FB got up to 99mph, but would sit a around 96mph. My CH will be anywhere form 84-88mph and my slider last year was 86-89, but I’m hoping to get it around 87-91mph.
Q: I’ve heard rumors that Tommy John surgery actually gives the fastball a few more MPH, are these rumors true?
A: NO there are way to many people out there saying that, and there’s even parents telling there kids to lie to doctor to get the surgery because they believe that it will help them throw harder and make a college or pro team. This is not true by any means. The reason you see some people throw harder after surgery is because when rehabbing from TJ, you have to work very hard and train a lot so most people come back in better shape then they where in before surgery. So kids and parents should look at a good workout routine before trying to have TJ. I’ve had two TJ surgeries and I wouldn't wish anyone to go though that surgery; is not fun and it takes a lot of very hard work and time to come back if you even do come back.
Q: Have you gotten to pitch with Roy Halladay? If so, what is he like? Has he or any of the other Phillies given you advice on pitching?
A: Halladay came down to CLW (Clearwater) early to workout, so I saw him in the gym for about 3 weeks before camp started. We are both in the same work group in camp, so I am lucky enough to work beside him everyday.
I throw everyday with Ryan Madson and he has been helping me with my change up.
Q: Looking at your stats, you have played in every level of the Phillies organization. What are the various changes and similarities that each level, including the Major League team?
A: I’ve been very lucky in baseball and have played at every level baseball has to offer. In pro baseball, the biggest jump for me was from AA to the majors. There’s just a lot more pressure on you when your up in the majors.
I probably had the most fun while playing in Lakewood, NJ. It was the first time I really played in front of fans and live with a great host family there witch made it a very fun year.
Q: What spot in the bullpen are you looking for, or are you still interested in starting?
A: I love starting, but I think my calling is the bullpen. I’m hoping I’ll be pitching near the back end of the bullpen and one day become a closer.
Pitchers like Mathieson, however, are very hard to judge how they will do in the major leagues. For Scott, this will be his second go around in the major leagues, so a lot of the original nervousness that he exhibited in his first stint should not be there. As stated, it is very hard to guess what a pitcher like him will be able to do in the major leagues. From a ‘stuff’ soundpoint he sounds a lot like Ryan Madson in the back of the bullpen. The hope for Mathieson is that sometime this year or next he can be a force out of the back end of the bullpen somewhere, whether that be in a closer, long relief, set up, right handed matchup, etc. Thanks to Scott for his time and comments are appreciated.
Q: Are you completely recovered from sugery and ready to start of the season competing for a spot on the Phillies?
A: Yes, I’m completely healthy now from my 3 elbow surgeries and hopefully can break with the Phillies this season and help get back to the WS and win it.
Q: What pitches do you use and what is the MPH of your fastball?
A: I throw a FB, SL, and a CH, I’ll also mix in a curve every now and then, but not often. Last year my FB got up to 99mph, but would sit a around 96mph. My CH will be anywhere form 84-88mph and my slider last year was 86-89, but I’m hoping to get it around 87-91mph.
Q: I’ve heard rumors that Tommy John surgery actually gives the fastball a few more MPH, are these rumors true?
A: NO there are way to many people out there saying that, and there’s even parents telling there kids to lie to doctor to get the surgery because they believe that it will help them throw harder and make a college or pro team. This is not true by any means. The reason you see some people throw harder after surgery is because when rehabbing from TJ, you have to work very hard and train a lot so most people come back in better shape then they where in before surgery. So kids and parents should look at a good workout routine before trying to have TJ. I’ve had two TJ surgeries and I wouldn't wish anyone to go though that surgery; is not fun and it takes a lot of very hard work and time to come back if you even do come back.
Q: Have you gotten to pitch with Roy Halladay? If so, what is he like? Has he or any of the other Phillies given you advice on pitching?
A: Halladay came down to CLW (Clearwater) early to workout, so I saw him in the gym for about 3 weeks before camp started. We are both in the same work group in camp, so I am lucky enough to work beside him everyday.
I throw everyday with Ryan Madson and he has been helping me with my change up.
Q: Looking at your stats, you have played in every level of the Phillies organization. What are the various changes and similarities that each level, including the Major League team?
A: I’ve been very lucky in baseball and have played at every level baseball has to offer. In pro baseball, the biggest jump for me was from AA to the majors. There’s just a lot more pressure on you when your up in the majors.
I probably had the most fun while playing in Lakewood, NJ. It was the first time I really played in front of fans and live with a great host family there witch made it a very fun year.
Q: What spot in the bullpen are you looking for, or are you still interested in starting?
A: I love starting, but I think my calling is the bullpen. I’m hoping I’ll be pitching near the back end of the bullpen and one day become a closer.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Off Day
(Ultimate Lou is on taking a break. Filling in for today is his dog, Minnie.)
Arf! Arf! Arf! Oops, sorry, I forgot my master told me I was writing for philly fans so I was told to use small words. Didn’t mean to confuse you.
So after my master took me for my daily walk and gave me the command “PHIILLY”, I took a dump. We continued walking and we saw someone trying to break into someone house. He gave me the command “PHIILY FAN” so I ran and bit the guy in the nuts.
I have some great toys to play with. I have my squeaky bone that I like to tease my master with. I’ll grab it and run to him then run away. He can’t catch me since I’m so fast and he’s chunky like a donut. {Hey, bad dog!} Sorry, I meant he suffered an injury playing sports years ago. {OK, here’s a treat.} I also have my teddy bear that was with me since the day he brought me home. No eyes and smelly but it’s mine. And then there is this ugly green looking thing with a “P” on the front. So on the first day I got him, that’s exactly what I did: I pee’d on it. He got mad and washed it and gave it back to me. I pee’d on it again. So now it sits outside. It can rain, storm or whatever and it stays outside. It’s covered in mud. When I get punished, I usually go out and start ripping into it. I already chewed off the hat and that ugly thing that looks like a snake tongue. When he wants to train me attack someone all he has to say is “GET THE PHANATIC”, I run and grab it and we start a game of “RIP THE PHILLY FAN”. I love that game.
Like I said earlier, I bite male philly fans in the nuts. With female fans, I usually just start yanking their leg hair. Wow, they are hairier than me. I just growl at little kids, it’s not their fault their parents are dumb. Maybe they’ll grow out of it. Maybe I’ll get to bite them when they’re older.
I should talk about sports now but the only thing I understand when I look at the Philthidelphia Inquirer sports section is that it’s there for me to take a dump. I think that’s called recycling.
Well, it’s been fun but I need to chase some squirrels out of the back yard. Oh, dam, there’s that ugly green thing again. I thought I had buried it. Now the squirrels won’t come in the yard. Maybe if I cover it completely with a long nice dump pile…
Ultimate Minnie
Arf! Arf! Arf! Oops, sorry, I forgot my master told me I was writing for philly fans so I was told to use small words. Didn’t mean to confuse you.
So after my master took me for my daily walk and gave me the command “PHIILLY”, I took a dump. We continued walking and we saw someone trying to break into someone house. He gave me the command “PHIILY FAN” so I ran and bit the guy in the nuts.
I have some great toys to play with. I have my squeaky bone that I like to tease my master with. I’ll grab it and run to him then run away. He can’t catch me since I’m so fast and he’s chunky like a donut. {Hey, bad dog!} Sorry, I meant he suffered an injury playing sports years ago. {OK, here’s a treat.} I also have my teddy bear that was with me since the day he brought me home. No eyes and smelly but it’s mine. And then there is this ugly green looking thing with a “P” on the front. So on the first day I got him, that’s exactly what I did: I pee’d on it. He got mad and washed it and gave it back to me. I pee’d on it again. So now it sits outside. It can rain, storm or whatever and it stays outside. It’s covered in mud. When I get punished, I usually go out and start ripping into it. I already chewed off the hat and that ugly thing that looks like a snake tongue. When he wants to train me attack someone all he has to say is “GET THE PHANATIC”, I run and grab it and we start a game of “RIP THE PHILLY FAN”. I love that game.
Like I said earlier, I bite male philly fans in the nuts. With female fans, I usually just start yanking their leg hair. Wow, they are hairier than me. I just growl at little kids, it’s not their fault their parents are dumb. Maybe they’ll grow out of it. Maybe I’ll get to bite them when they’re older.
I should talk about sports now but the only thing I understand when I look at the Philthidelphia Inquirer sports section is that it’s there for me to take a dump. I think that’s called recycling.
Well, it’s been fun but I need to chase some squirrels out of the back yard. Oh, dam, there’s that ugly green thing again. I thought I had buried it. Now the squirrels won’t come in the yard. Maybe if I cover it completely with a long nice dump pile…
Ultimate Minnie
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Some Brief Comments on the Sixers and the Trade Deadline
Some Brief Comments on the Sixers and the Trade Deadline
In the weeks leading up to the 2010 NBA trade deadline, speculation was abound as to whether or not the Sixers would make a major move. Names like Iguodala, Brand and Dalembert floated around in various trade scenarios involving various teams. When all was said and done, the Sixers made only one small time trade for a couple players too trivial for me to even bother remembering their names. The question is, were the Sixers right to stand pat?
Two particular trades were being reported at length by the main stream and local Philly media. The first involved the acquisition of Amare Stoudemire from the Suns, and the other the acquisition of Tracy McGrady from the Rockets. In both deals, Iguodala was the highly sought after commodity. Brand was offered to both teams to no avail. In fact, Dalembert was preferred over Brand by both teams.
McGrady would go on to be traded away to the Knicks, while Stoudemire remained with the Suns. The Sixers for their part are now making yet another late season run at a playoff spot. Had either trade gone down, it would have done little to improve or worsen the Sixers chances of making the playoffs this season.
The impact of such deals were believed to be coming AFTER the 2009/2010 season ended, when the deals of McGrady and Stoudemire were set to expire. Many fans wrongly believed that the Sixers would be able to make a run at a big name free agent like Lebron, Wade or Bosh. This assumption was flat out incorrect. Even if the Sixers had acquired McGrady for Iguodala and Dalembert, they would have had less than 8 million to spend on free agents this offseason, and perhaps none at all. Without Iguodala and Dalembert the Sixers would still have roughly 50 million in payroll. The NBA will reportedly drop the salary cap for 2010/2011 to less than 54 million and perhaps as low as 50 million. And because the Sixers would probably be under the cap, they'd be ineligible to use the mid-level exemption.
It's quite possible that the Sixers would have been able to make a move on a free agent after the 2010/2011 season ended, but by that time they would have been able to do it even without trading Iguodala, due to the expiring contracts of Dalembert, Kapono and Green.
In short, trading Iguodala for an expiring contract would have done nothing to improve the Sixers now, next year, or even further down the line. Stefanski deserves heat for a lot of things, but not for holding on the Iguodala this season.
In the weeks leading up to the 2010 NBA trade deadline, speculation was abound as to whether or not the Sixers would make a major move. Names like Iguodala, Brand and Dalembert floated around in various trade scenarios involving various teams. When all was said and done, the Sixers made only one small time trade for a couple players too trivial for me to even bother remembering their names. The question is, were the Sixers right to stand pat?
Two particular trades were being reported at length by the main stream and local Philly media. The first involved the acquisition of Amare Stoudemire from the Suns, and the other the acquisition of Tracy McGrady from the Rockets. In both deals, Iguodala was the highly sought after commodity. Brand was offered to both teams to no avail. In fact, Dalembert was preferred over Brand by both teams.
McGrady would go on to be traded away to the Knicks, while Stoudemire remained with the Suns. The Sixers for their part are now making yet another late season run at a playoff spot. Had either trade gone down, it would have done little to improve or worsen the Sixers chances of making the playoffs this season.
The impact of such deals were believed to be coming AFTER the 2009/2010 season ended, when the deals of McGrady and Stoudemire were set to expire. Many fans wrongly believed that the Sixers would be able to make a run at a big name free agent like Lebron, Wade or Bosh. This assumption was flat out incorrect. Even if the Sixers had acquired McGrady for Iguodala and Dalembert, they would have had less than 8 million to spend on free agents this offseason, and perhaps none at all. Without Iguodala and Dalembert the Sixers would still have roughly 50 million in payroll. The NBA will reportedly drop the salary cap for 2010/2011 to less than 54 million and perhaps as low as 50 million. And because the Sixers would probably be under the cap, they'd be ineligible to use the mid-level exemption.
It's quite possible that the Sixers would have been able to make a move on a free agent after the 2010/2011 season ended, but by that time they would have been able to do it even without trading Iguodala, due to the expiring contracts of Dalembert, Kapono and Green.
In short, trading Iguodala for an expiring contract would have done nothing to improve the Sixers now, next year, or even further down the line. Stefanski deserves heat for a lot of things, but not for holding on the Iguodala this season.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Fiz Fantasy Projections
I am going to take a break from Phillies this week. This week is all about fantasy baseball. A few days ago I made a list of the top 160 players in fantasy baseball, but I do not think I’m really ready to release that document quite yet. I want to sit on it for another week to make tweaks and adjustments, so this week is basically a preview of next week’s article. I am just going to go around each position and tell you a few guys who I think will be good and why. You will get the stat predictions next week
Catcher
Miguel Montero – I know, I know. Everybody likes this kid and I’m just pointing out a player that every “expert” has already pointed out. But he is still worth mentioning. He is what scouts like to call a “pure hitter”. He is about to undergo his very first full season in 10’
Russell Martin – I am not a fan of him at all…but what I am a fan of is how late he is being drafted. He is a pure value for the round pick.
First Base
Miggy Cabrera - He is a fantasy stud. He is a rare breed that can hit over .310, 30+hr, 100runs, 100rbi. The only fantasy stat he does not contribute to is stolen bases, but then again how many first basemen do contribute to that category? Miggy is late 1st round talent which can be had late 2nd maybe even early 3rd in a few leagues.
Kendry Morales – He’s basically a discount version of Miggy. Morales too can hit .300 and 30 hr, but what he most likely won’t get you are the runs and rbi. He is still a decent threat for 85+ runs and rbi though. Morales is currently going in round 5. With such a stacked first base class, sitting on this position might not be such a bad idea while stocking up on weaker positions like second base and shortstop where the only valuable players will be gone by round 5.
Second Base
Howie Kendrick – He might be the only player in this weeks assessment that you will not hear about in next weeks. How bad of a year did Howie actually have in 09? So bad that he was actually demoted. But even with that he still hit a manageable .291. The boy can hit, and he has an amazing track record of hitting over .300, and he is a threat to do it again now that he has his job back
Jose Lopez – This kid is basically a knock off version of Utley. He has 20+ hr, 10 stolen bases, .280, 80 run, 80 rbi potential. Not bad for a 10th round draft choice. These stats will be better than three or four of the guys being drafted before him. Jose is the ultimate sleeper.
Short Stop
Elvis Andrus – This kid is so good that they moved an above average fielder and an upper echelon hitting shortstop to third base for him. Some may call his 09 season a failure but I will call it a building year. Draft Elvis for his 45+ sb and 85 run potential if for nothing else.
Jose Reyes – If you draft him and he is healthy, then congratulations on winning your league(most likely) you have successfully just drafted a 1st round talent in the third round. But if he is not fully recovered and is showing signs, no matter how slight, trade him and don’t look back. My money is on the fact he’s not fully healed but he has been out since mid season last year, so it is not like he hasn’t had the time to heal it.
Third Base
Ryan Zimmerman – He was drafted 3-4 rounds after Evan “Don’t Call Me Eva” Longoria last season, yet put up almost identical numbers. Interesting isn’t it?
Adrian Beltre – Beltre has the type of swing that will take full advantage of the Green Monster. Do not draft him and expect him to return to 40 hr form, but I wouldn’t call it crazy to project 30 home runs out of him.
Outfield
Jacoby Ellsbury – Ellsbury projects to be top of his class in three of the five fantasy categories. So what’s the difference between him and the other guys who are typical 3 tool players? Well the three he is contributing to are pretty much the exact opposite of the three the others are padding their stats in. Ellsbury is not out of the question to reach 70 stolen bases and 110 runs…all while hitting .300.
Ichiro – Do you do what I do most seasons? I stack up on power. Why? Because every time a player hits a homerun he contributes a run, an rbi, and a hr. Just like that you have just improved three of your categories in one swing of the bat. So what’s the problem with doing that? Your average is going to suffer. If you have a tendency to draft power the same way I do, then draft a guy who can hit way over .300, and there’s only a few of these guys, so you might as well draft the one who will contribute 40 steals while he’s at it. Ichiro is the ultimate fantasy stabilizer. Be prepared to draft him rather early though, like round 3.
Michael Bourne – I am talking about Bourne for the same reason I did Ichiro. Bourne is a stabilizer. Not as good of a stabilizer as Ichiro, and he doesn’t even stabilize your average, he only stabilizes your stolen bases. So why talk about him? Because he will steal 65-75 bases. All you need to do is draft him, and another minor base stealer like Werth and you will compete in the stolen base category every week without making a sacrifice to other stats.
Starting Pitcher
Justin Verlander – There are not many pitchers who can be a threat for 250 strike outs, and the ones that are also post ridiculously low era’s so they get grabbed very early. Verlander on the other hand will get you your 250 strike outs, but his era will be around a 3.50, so he won’t get grabbed in the early rounds. Just think of it, you are grabbing a guy who will get 250 strike outs in the 4th round.
Jair Jurrijens – So now you have your k machine and are looking for a player who will greatly reduce your era, someone that will make your pitching team elite in all pitching categories. Well just like Ichiro was the stabilizer for hitting Jair is the stabilizer for pitching. He will only contribute 2 of the 5 pitching categories, BUT the 2 he contributes, he practically perfects. If you find yourself drafting a player like Vazquez who will give you k’s but nothing else, grab Jair as well to balance things out
Catcher
Miguel Montero – I know, I know. Everybody likes this kid and I’m just pointing out a player that every “expert” has already pointed out. But he is still worth mentioning. He is what scouts like to call a “pure hitter”. He is about to undergo his very first full season in 10’
Russell Martin – I am not a fan of him at all…but what I am a fan of is how late he is being drafted. He is a pure value for the round pick.
First Base
Miggy Cabrera - He is a fantasy stud. He is a rare breed that can hit over .310, 30+hr, 100runs, 100rbi. The only fantasy stat he does not contribute to is stolen bases, but then again how many first basemen do contribute to that category? Miggy is late 1st round talent which can be had late 2nd maybe even early 3rd in a few leagues.
Kendry Morales – He’s basically a discount version of Miggy. Morales too can hit .300 and 30 hr, but what he most likely won’t get you are the runs and rbi. He is still a decent threat for 85+ runs and rbi though. Morales is currently going in round 5. With such a stacked first base class, sitting on this position might not be such a bad idea while stocking up on weaker positions like second base and shortstop where the only valuable players will be gone by round 5.
Second Base
Howie Kendrick – He might be the only player in this weeks assessment that you will not hear about in next weeks. How bad of a year did Howie actually have in 09? So bad that he was actually demoted. But even with that he still hit a manageable .291. The boy can hit, and he has an amazing track record of hitting over .300, and he is a threat to do it again now that he has his job back
Jose Lopez – This kid is basically a knock off version of Utley. He has 20+ hr, 10 stolen bases, .280, 80 run, 80 rbi potential. Not bad for a 10th round draft choice. These stats will be better than three or four of the guys being drafted before him. Jose is the ultimate sleeper.
Short Stop
Elvis Andrus – This kid is so good that they moved an above average fielder and an upper echelon hitting shortstop to third base for him. Some may call his 09 season a failure but I will call it a building year. Draft Elvis for his 45+ sb and 85 run potential if for nothing else.
Jose Reyes – If you draft him and he is healthy, then congratulations on winning your league(most likely) you have successfully just drafted a 1st round talent in the third round. But if he is not fully recovered and is showing signs, no matter how slight, trade him and don’t look back. My money is on the fact he’s not fully healed but he has been out since mid season last year, so it is not like he hasn’t had the time to heal it.
Third Base
Ryan Zimmerman – He was drafted 3-4 rounds after Evan “Don’t Call Me Eva” Longoria last season, yet put up almost identical numbers. Interesting isn’t it?
Adrian Beltre – Beltre has the type of swing that will take full advantage of the Green Monster. Do not draft him and expect him to return to 40 hr form, but I wouldn’t call it crazy to project 30 home runs out of him.
Outfield
Jacoby Ellsbury – Ellsbury projects to be top of his class in three of the five fantasy categories. So what’s the difference between him and the other guys who are typical 3 tool players? Well the three he is contributing to are pretty much the exact opposite of the three the others are padding their stats in. Ellsbury is not out of the question to reach 70 stolen bases and 110 runs…all while hitting .300.
Ichiro – Do you do what I do most seasons? I stack up on power. Why? Because every time a player hits a homerun he contributes a run, an rbi, and a hr. Just like that you have just improved three of your categories in one swing of the bat. So what’s the problem with doing that? Your average is going to suffer. If you have a tendency to draft power the same way I do, then draft a guy who can hit way over .300, and there’s only a few of these guys, so you might as well draft the one who will contribute 40 steals while he’s at it. Ichiro is the ultimate fantasy stabilizer. Be prepared to draft him rather early though, like round 3.
Michael Bourne – I am talking about Bourne for the same reason I did Ichiro. Bourne is a stabilizer. Not as good of a stabilizer as Ichiro, and he doesn’t even stabilize your average, he only stabilizes your stolen bases. So why talk about him? Because he will steal 65-75 bases. All you need to do is draft him, and another minor base stealer like Werth and you will compete in the stolen base category every week without making a sacrifice to other stats.
Starting Pitcher
Justin Verlander – There are not many pitchers who can be a threat for 250 strike outs, and the ones that are also post ridiculously low era’s so they get grabbed very early. Verlander on the other hand will get you your 250 strike outs, but his era will be around a 3.50, so he won’t get grabbed in the early rounds. Just think of it, you are grabbing a guy who will get 250 strike outs in the 4th round.
Jair Jurrijens – So now you have your k machine and are looking for a player who will greatly reduce your era, someone that will make your pitching team elite in all pitching categories. Well just like Ichiro was the stabilizer for hitting Jair is the stabilizer for pitching. He will only contribute 2 of the 5 pitching categories, BUT the 2 he contributes, he practically perfects. If you find yourself drafting a player like Vazquez who will give you k’s but nothing else, grab Jair as well to balance things out
Friday, February 19, 2010
Interview with Jonathan Singleton
18-year-old Jonathan “J-Sing” Singleton is an eight round draft pick of the Philadelphia Phillies. Some draft boards had him projected in the first rounds, so we were very fortunate he dropped all the way to the eight round. In the minor leagues, he played in the Gulf Coast League for the Rookie Phillies. J-Sing impressed putting up a solid stat line of .290/.395/.835 in his first year. He walked eighteen times, five more than he struck out in a small sample size of 100 at bats. The power numbers aren’t quite there yet, with only two homeruns and twelve runs batted in, but as he grows he should develop more power. However, he has shown ability to hit and get on base with such a high OBP, which is a good first sign.
J-Sing is truly a terrific fielder making only two errors the season. For comparison’s sake, Adrian Gonzalez, who is considered one of the top fielding first basemen, in approximately 2.5 the chances made seven errors for a .986 fielding percentage. Singleton, while the sample is small, owned a .991 fielding percentage. The combination of a high OBP with developing power and great fielding should make J-Sing a future top prospect. Hopefully, he should develop in to a first baseman maybe in the likes of Adrian Gonzalez or a healthier Derrek Lee. He probably won’t have power to their numbers, instead will own a higher average and try to knock in batters with singles and doubles.
Q: What was intriguing about the Phillies that made an eight round pick of high school want to sign?
A: Getting to experience a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s been my life-long dream to see my name among the greats of Reggie Jackson and Ken Griff(Ken Griffey, Jr.) and Tony Gywnn.
Q: Do you consider yourself more of a power hitter or an all fields hitter?
A:I consider myself a pull hitter, but next season I will make a conscious effort to hit the ball where it’s pitched.
Q:Have the Phillies told you where you are starting next year, if not where would you like to start?
A:I would love to start in Lakewood. Anything lower would motivate me even more to work harder.
Q: What year would you like to make it to the Phillies and what spot in the order would you think you’d be best hitting in?
A: 3 and a half to 4 yrs, and I would best fit in the 3 to 6 area.
Q:At least in my opinion, you are the most exciting Phillies first baseman prospect since Ryan Howard. Have you talked to Ryan Howard about hitting at all or in general?
A: Thank you, and no I haven’t but I would love to have that opportunity.
Q: Any other comments?
A: I hope the Phillies take this year!
J-Sing is truly a terrific fielder making only two errors the season. For comparison’s sake, Adrian Gonzalez, who is considered one of the top fielding first basemen, in approximately 2.5 the chances made seven errors for a .986 fielding percentage. Singleton, while the sample is small, owned a .991 fielding percentage. The combination of a high OBP with developing power and great fielding should make J-Sing a future top prospect. Hopefully, he should develop in to a first baseman maybe in the likes of Adrian Gonzalez or a healthier Derrek Lee. He probably won’t have power to their numbers, instead will own a higher average and try to knock in batters with singles and doubles.
Q: What was intriguing about the Phillies that made an eight round pick of high school want to sign?
A: Getting to experience a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s been my life-long dream to see my name among the greats of Reggie Jackson and Ken Griff(Ken Griffey, Jr.) and Tony Gywnn.
Q: Do you consider yourself more of a power hitter or an all fields hitter?
A:I consider myself a pull hitter, but next season I will make a conscious effort to hit the ball where it’s pitched.
Q:Have the Phillies told you where you are starting next year, if not where would you like to start?
A:I would love to start in Lakewood. Anything lower would motivate me even more to work harder.
Q: What year would you like to make it to the Phillies and what spot in the order would you think you’d be best hitting in?
A: 3 and a half to 4 yrs, and I would best fit in the 3 to 6 area.
Q:At least in my opinion, you are the most exciting Phillies first baseman prospect since Ryan Howard. Have you talked to Ryan Howard about hitting at all or in general?
A: Thank you, and no I haven’t but I would love to have that opportunity.
Q: Any other comments?
A: I hope the Phillies take this year!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
And so it begins...
Today is the day that pitchers and catchers report for the first day of spring training. The birds are singing, the sun is shining and I gotta take a dump. It’s time to think about philthie again. Where to start. So much to choose from.
Lidge is hoping not to suck this year. After having 2 decent seasons in 8 years, makes you wonder when the next decent season (if ever) will happen again. Howard should have a good year. Maybe he’ll hit that 200 K mark that you should expect from him. Expect Rollins numbers to remain about the same this year: sucky. Halladay wasn’t a bad deal but this is the N.L., where “we” (the teams that haven’t lost 10,000 games) have real power hitters. Expect his ERA to jump a run and easily suffer the worst amount of loses in his career. I like Utley. Too bad he’ll never see another WS again with this team. Does Moyer start collecting his Social Security check this year? Baez should work out real well, after the All-Star break after he has cost you a dozen games. Have you looked real close to his 1st half stats? No one else worth mentioning…well the whole team isn’t worth mentioning but I have a job to do. (I love this job).
So as the teams get ready to warm up for the upcoming season and you start hearing the crack of a bat, no it’s not another philly riot. Baseball bats are for hitting baseballs not each other in the head. Now I know where The Simpsons got the idea for Itchy and Scratchy: watching philthie newscasts. And I see education in philly now has a new study course. It’s called the Flash Mob and the course is offered at the Gallery Mall at Center City. 150 kids run rampant in the mall for no reason. They destroy the mall then head towards city hall to pick up their diploma. As a celebration, they start beating the snot out of each other. As yes, philly education at its finest. Next years course will be on fire starting.
I don’t mean to rag on you guys all the…ah hell, yes I do. It makes my day (and my bowel movement) so much easier. So until next time kiddies. And remember: only YOU can be dumb enough to set your own car on fire in celebrating a sports team victory.
Lidge is hoping not to suck this year. After having 2 decent seasons in 8 years, makes you wonder when the next decent season (if ever) will happen again. Howard should have a good year. Maybe he’ll hit that 200 K mark that you should expect from him. Expect Rollins numbers to remain about the same this year: sucky. Halladay wasn’t a bad deal but this is the N.L., where “we” (the teams that haven’t lost 10,000 games) have real power hitters. Expect his ERA to jump a run and easily suffer the worst amount of loses in his career. I like Utley. Too bad he’ll never see another WS again with this team. Does Moyer start collecting his Social Security check this year? Baez should work out real well, after the All-Star break after he has cost you a dozen games. Have you looked real close to his 1st half stats? No one else worth mentioning…well the whole team isn’t worth mentioning but I have a job to do. (I love this job).
So as the teams get ready to warm up for the upcoming season and you start hearing the crack of a bat, no it’s not another philly riot. Baseball bats are for hitting baseballs not each other in the head. Now I know where The Simpsons got the idea for Itchy and Scratchy: watching philthie newscasts. And I see education in philly now has a new study course. It’s called the Flash Mob and the course is offered at the Gallery Mall at Center City. 150 kids run rampant in the mall for no reason. They destroy the mall then head towards city hall to pick up their diploma. As a celebration, they start beating the snot out of each other. As yes, philly education at its finest. Next years course will be on fire starting.
I don’t mean to rag on you guys all the…ah hell, yes I do. It makes my day (and my bowel movement) so much easier. So until next time kiddies. And remember: only YOU can be dumb enough to set your own car on fire in celebrating a sports team victory.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Sizing Up Baseball's Triumvirate part 4.
While nothing is life is ever a given, it's pretty clear to anyone who pays attention to baseball that three teams rise above all going into the 2010 season. The Phillies, Yankees and Red Sox are all equipped to make a run for the title. All three bring great hitting, pitching and defense to the table, as well as considerable postseason experience. This week's article will focus on how the Phillies hitting matches up against the Red Sox pitching.
Phillie hitters vs. Red Sox pitchers
While the Red Sox do bring good hitting to the table, pitching will be the Red Sox strength in 2010. The 2010 Red Sox possess arguably the best and deepest pitching staff in all of baseball. At the top the Red Sox rotation are three pitchers who could all be staff Aces on most major league staffs. Beckett brings all of AJ Burnett's nastiness to the mound with much better control. He possesses a great fastball to go along with a great curve. If Burnett's game two performance in the 2009 World Series is any indication, the Phillies might be in pretty big trouble when Becket takes the mound against them.
After Burnett is the home grown southpaw Jon Lester. His style of pitching is more akin to a young Andy Petitte. He keeps hitters guessing with a steady combination of fastballs, cutters, breaking balls and change-ups. Ironically, left-handed hitters fare better against him then righties. This should bode well for the left heavy Phillie lineup.
In the third spot, the Red Sox will have free agent signee John Lackey. Lackey is your prototypical power right-handed pitcher. He's tall, thick, sturdy and not afraid to come at hitters. When he's on, he can get batters out with either his fastball or curve. However, because he keeps the ball over the plate, he is susceptible to getting rocked when he's stuff is even slightly off. Once again, the splits work in the Phils favor. Lackey does much worse against left-handed hitters. So while Lackey might be a dangerous pitcher overall, the potential for the Phillie hitters to get to him will be high in a potential World Series match-up.
Filling out the Red Sox rotation are two guys who themselves could be staff Aces on some teams. Dice K had a 2009 season to forget. As it turns out, he was pitching hurt. When healthy, Dice-K brings a huge arsenal of pitches including a forkball and screwball that can make him a hard pitcher to read for anyone facing him for the first time. However, working in the Phillies favor again is the splits. In 2008, Dice-K's best year in the MLB, left-handed hitters did dramatically better against him than righties. Ideally the Red Sox would use a good lefty in the fourth spot of their World Series rotation instead of Dice-K. Unfortunately that lefty as of now doesn't exist. Clay Buchholz is the only other option. While possessing a dominant change-up and curve, Buchholz also does his best work against right-handed hitters.
In a match-up against the Phillies, the starters' splits may push the advantage to the left heavy Phillie lineup. Unfortunately for the Red Sox, they do not possess a whole lot proven southpaws in the bullpen either. Gone is Philly favorite Billy Wagner. His wicked fastball and slider from the left side could have been murderous to the heart of the Phillie lineup. As it stands now Okijima is the only proven southpaw in the Red Sox pen. Accompanying him in the setup role is Daniel Bard, who while a quality pitcher does stunningly bad against left-handed hitters. Closing for the Red Sox is Papelbon who actually shuts down left-handed hitting quite well.
In short, the Red Sox have lots of quality pitching. However, up until the game gets into Papelbon's hands, the Red Sox will not have many guys that specialize in shutting down left handed hitting.
As noted in part 2 of this article, the Phillies' hitting should be improved in 2010. In a match-up against the Red Sox, the Phillies' left heavy lineup will work in their favor. To make things worse for the Red Sox, the Phillies will also have a couple of solid left-handed bats in Dobbs and Gload to use as pinch hitters in games at the Bank, and as potential DHs in games at Boston.
The favorable match-up against the otherwise formidable Red Sox pitchers should make the Phillies the favorite in a potential World Series match-up. Even assuming that the Phillies don't add another starter, I'd say the Phillies stand to win this potential match-up in 6 games, and in 5 games should the Phillies add another quality starter.
Phillie hitters vs. Red Sox pitchers
While the Red Sox do bring good hitting to the table, pitching will be the Red Sox strength in 2010. The 2010 Red Sox possess arguably the best and deepest pitching staff in all of baseball. At the top the Red Sox rotation are three pitchers who could all be staff Aces on most major league staffs. Beckett brings all of AJ Burnett's nastiness to the mound with much better control. He possesses a great fastball to go along with a great curve. If Burnett's game two performance in the 2009 World Series is any indication, the Phillies might be in pretty big trouble when Becket takes the mound against them.
After Burnett is the home grown southpaw Jon Lester. His style of pitching is more akin to a young Andy Petitte. He keeps hitters guessing with a steady combination of fastballs, cutters, breaking balls and change-ups. Ironically, left-handed hitters fare better against him then righties. This should bode well for the left heavy Phillie lineup.
In the third spot, the Red Sox will have free agent signee John Lackey. Lackey is your prototypical power right-handed pitcher. He's tall, thick, sturdy and not afraid to come at hitters. When he's on, he can get batters out with either his fastball or curve. However, because he keeps the ball over the plate, he is susceptible to getting rocked when he's stuff is even slightly off. Once again, the splits work in the Phils favor. Lackey does much worse against left-handed hitters. So while Lackey might be a dangerous pitcher overall, the potential for the Phillie hitters to get to him will be high in a potential World Series match-up.
Filling out the Red Sox rotation are two guys who themselves could be staff Aces on some teams. Dice K had a 2009 season to forget. As it turns out, he was pitching hurt. When healthy, Dice-K brings a huge arsenal of pitches including a forkball and screwball that can make him a hard pitcher to read for anyone facing him for the first time. However, working in the Phillies favor again is the splits. In 2008, Dice-K's best year in the MLB, left-handed hitters did dramatically better against him than righties. Ideally the Red Sox would use a good lefty in the fourth spot of their World Series rotation instead of Dice-K. Unfortunately that lefty as of now doesn't exist. Clay Buchholz is the only other option. While possessing a dominant change-up and curve, Buchholz also does his best work against right-handed hitters.
In a match-up against the Phillies, the starters' splits may push the advantage to the left heavy Phillie lineup. Unfortunately for the Red Sox, they do not possess a whole lot proven southpaws in the bullpen either. Gone is Philly favorite Billy Wagner. His wicked fastball and slider from the left side could have been murderous to the heart of the Phillie lineup. As it stands now Okijima is the only proven southpaw in the Red Sox pen. Accompanying him in the setup role is Daniel Bard, who while a quality pitcher does stunningly bad against left-handed hitters. Closing for the Red Sox is Papelbon who actually shuts down left-handed hitting quite well.
In short, the Red Sox have lots of quality pitching. However, up until the game gets into Papelbon's hands, the Red Sox will not have many guys that specialize in shutting down left handed hitting.
As noted in part 2 of this article, the Phillies' hitting should be improved in 2010. In a match-up against the Red Sox, the Phillies' left heavy lineup will work in their favor. To make things worse for the Red Sox, the Phillies will also have a couple of solid left-handed bats in Dobbs and Gload to use as pinch hitters in games at the Bank, and as potential DHs in games at Boston.
The favorable match-up against the otherwise formidable Red Sox pitchers should make the Phillies the favorite in a potential World Series match-up. Even assuming that the Phillies don't add another starter, I'd say the Phillies stand to win this potential match-up in 6 games, and in 5 games should the Phillies add another quality starter.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Walshy's Wrap Around
Welcome to Walshy’s Wrap Around. Yes the the Olympics are here and we have no NHL to talk about but there is a big date that is all hockey fans heads and that’s the Trade Deadline. The Flyers were in heavy talks with Atlanta before Kovalchuk was sent to New Jersey. Now we have another problem, yes theirs always a problem. Emery will be sidelined the entire Olympic break with a hip injury and it could drag on into the 2nd half. If a move is made for a goaltender it will most likely mean that Emery will not be returning next season.
One possible goalie to come to Philly is Marty Turco. Yes it’s a big name but some say hes on the decline. He has started 60 plus games every season since 03 and posted sub 2.00 GAA twice in that span bringing him to a team in the hunt could bring the bang back to Turco. He’s an ok at best playoff goalie with a 21-26 record and a 2.17 GAA. Yes you could say he didn’t get goal support and Id agree with you but in the season where his team had been bounced out of the 1st round he had a plus 3 GAA. That is not good.
Another possibility is Tomas Vokoun, this 33 year old Slovak has played for 3 different teams in his career Habs, Predators, and currently the Panthers. With the Habs he played 1 game lasted 20 mins and gave up 4 goals CMON and really hasn’t done all that well in his career except the 05-06 season where he went 36-18 with a 2.67 GAA not bad on a bad team. Another downfall he has 11 career playoff games with a combined 2-8 record. Just what the Flyers need right.
When it comes down to it I think it will be easier to get Turco now since there are 3 goalies in Dallas then Vokoun but I see Holmgren making a push for this 2-8 playoff goalie. Just seeing how the flyers have traded in recent past I see Vokoun coming to Philly.
One possible goalie to come to Philly is Marty Turco. Yes it’s a big name but some say hes on the decline. He has started 60 plus games every season since 03 and posted sub 2.00 GAA twice in that span bringing him to a team in the hunt could bring the bang back to Turco. He’s an ok at best playoff goalie with a 21-26 record and a 2.17 GAA. Yes you could say he didn’t get goal support and Id agree with you but in the season where his team had been bounced out of the 1st round he had a plus 3 GAA. That is not good.
Another possibility is Tomas Vokoun, this 33 year old Slovak has played for 3 different teams in his career Habs, Predators, and currently the Panthers. With the Habs he played 1 game lasted 20 mins and gave up 4 goals CMON and really hasn’t done all that well in his career except the 05-06 season where he went 36-18 with a 2.67 GAA not bad on a bad team. Another downfall he has 11 career playoff games with a combined 2-8 record. Just what the Flyers need right.
When it comes down to it I think it will be easier to get Turco now since there are 3 goalies in Dallas then Vokoun but I see Holmgren making a push for this 2-8 playoff goalie. Just seeing how the flyers have traded in recent past I see Vokoun coming to Philly.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Official "Experts" Projections and Anaylasis
Well we have been waiting and waiting and they have finally arrived. The so called experts have released their fantasy baseball projections. so why should we care? We probably shouldn't, but its always refreshing seeing what non-fans think of our team
Carlos Ruiz
ESPN- 40 runs, 8 hr, 44 rbi, .257 avg
MLB- 51 runs, 12 hr, 53 rbi, .263 avg
Both predict a better season than he had at 09, though they both still have him fairly mediocre...which is where they should have him
Ryan Howard
ESPN- 104 runs, 47 hr, 145 rbi, .268 avg
MLB- 103 runs, 47 hr, 137 rbi, .265 avg
Apparently neither seem to think Howards drastic raise in avg was legit. An interesting fact is while ESPN had Howard ranked as the 5th best 1b, MLB had him ranked 4th. The interesting part was that they both had him ranked behind a player Howard eclipsed in all major fantasy stats besides one. say hello to your Yankee bias
Chase Utley
ESPN- 114 runs, 30 hr, 97 rbi, .290 avg
MLB- 106 runs, 30 hr, 98 rbi, .284 avg
Apparently MLB.com is buying into a decline by Utley. Interestingly enough even with them projected him to start declining they still have him as the best at his position.
Jimmy Rollins
ESPN- 103 runs, 19 hr, 79 rbi, .273 avg
MLB- 104 runs, 19 hr, 81 rbi, .275 avg
Both are expecting a bounce back year from Rollins, but neither has him regaining MVP form. Both have him a top 5 ss.
Placido Polanco
ESPN- 91 runs, 11 hr, 67 rbi, .306 avg
MLB- 75 runs, 16 hr, 69 rbi, .281 avg
Wow. One has him succeeding majorly in his new environment, the other has him flopping with only an increase in his hr numbers.
Raul Ibanez
ESPN- 84 runs, 26 hr, 92 rbi, .274 avg
MLB- 87 runs, 26 hr, 89 rbi, .269 avg
While MLB has him decreasing all across the board ESpn has him improving only one category. apparently neither believes in Ibanez's break through last season
Shane Victorino
ESPN- 96 runs, 12 hr, 55 rbi, .288 avg
MLB- 108 runs, 11 hr, 60 rbi, .296 avg
While MLB.com is buying into Shanes gradual improvement, it appears ESPN finds him fluky. I do not think they projected him for 7th in the order.
Jayson Werth
ESPN- 88 runs, 31 hr, 90 rbi, .273 avg
MLB- 97 runs, 29 hr, 90 rbi, .264 avg
While ESPN calls him a "bona-fide top 10 outfielder" they also project him to decline vastly. I guess they think it will be a down year for outfielders.
Roy Halladay
ESPN- 201 k, 16 W, 2.91 era
MLB- 211 k, 20 W, 2.94 era
Both have him as the second best pitcher in the MLB, but both have his stats decreasing in the NL.
Cole Hamels
ESPN- 184 k, 12 W, 3.55 era
MLB- 199 k, 16 W, 3.67 era
Both have Cole Hamels rebounding but neither has him recording an ERA under 3.50. MLB has Hamels the 12th best pitcher in baseball while ESPN has him the 29. Seems like MLB.com is anticipating a horrible year for pitchers around the league.
JA HAPP
ESPN- 154 k, 12 W, 4.17 era
MLB- 166 k, 9 W, 4.29 era
Both apparently think hes a fluke. Not much else to say about these projections
Joe Blanton
ESPN- 148 k, 12 W, 4.02 era
MLB- 128 k, 13 W, 4.21 era
Both have Joey continuing his streak of average-ness.
Brad Lidge
ESPN- 30 sv, 4.43 era
MLB- 29 sv, 4.23 era
Either they don't buy the excuse of him being hurt last season or they just don't think hes that good anymore
Conclusion- i think ESPN had more realistic stats of the two, yet i still think there are some flukes, two in particular...Werth and Happ. but i will let them find that out for themselves
Carlos Ruiz
ESPN- 40 runs, 8 hr, 44 rbi, .257 avg
MLB- 51 runs, 12 hr, 53 rbi, .263 avg
Both predict a better season than he had at 09, though they both still have him fairly mediocre...which is where they should have him
Ryan Howard
ESPN- 104 runs, 47 hr, 145 rbi, .268 avg
MLB- 103 runs, 47 hr, 137 rbi, .265 avg
Apparently neither seem to think Howards drastic raise in avg was legit. An interesting fact is while ESPN had Howard ranked as the 5th best 1b, MLB had him ranked 4th. The interesting part was that they both had him ranked behind a player Howard eclipsed in all major fantasy stats besides one. say hello to your Yankee bias
Chase Utley
ESPN- 114 runs, 30 hr, 97 rbi, .290 avg
MLB- 106 runs, 30 hr, 98 rbi, .284 avg
Apparently MLB.com is buying into a decline by Utley. Interestingly enough even with them projected him to start declining they still have him as the best at his position.
Jimmy Rollins
ESPN- 103 runs, 19 hr, 79 rbi, .273 avg
MLB- 104 runs, 19 hr, 81 rbi, .275 avg
Both are expecting a bounce back year from Rollins, but neither has him regaining MVP form. Both have him a top 5 ss.
Placido Polanco
ESPN- 91 runs, 11 hr, 67 rbi, .306 avg
MLB- 75 runs, 16 hr, 69 rbi, .281 avg
Wow. One has him succeeding majorly in his new environment, the other has him flopping with only an increase in his hr numbers.
Raul Ibanez
ESPN- 84 runs, 26 hr, 92 rbi, .274 avg
MLB- 87 runs, 26 hr, 89 rbi, .269 avg
While MLB has him decreasing all across the board ESpn has him improving only one category. apparently neither believes in Ibanez's break through last season
Shane Victorino
ESPN- 96 runs, 12 hr, 55 rbi, .288 avg
MLB- 108 runs, 11 hr, 60 rbi, .296 avg
While MLB.com is buying into Shanes gradual improvement, it appears ESPN finds him fluky. I do not think they projected him for 7th in the order.
Jayson Werth
ESPN- 88 runs, 31 hr, 90 rbi, .273 avg
MLB- 97 runs, 29 hr, 90 rbi, .264 avg
While ESPN calls him a "bona-fide top 10 outfielder" they also project him to decline vastly. I guess they think it will be a down year for outfielders.
Roy Halladay
ESPN- 201 k, 16 W, 2.91 era
MLB- 211 k, 20 W, 2.94 era
Both have him as the second best pitcher in the MLB, but both have his stats decreasing in the NL.
Cole Hamels
ESPN- 184 k, 12 W, 3.55 era
MLB- 199 k, 16 W, 3.67 era
Both have Cole Hamels rebounding but neither has him recording an ERA under 3.50. MLB has Hamels the 12th best pitcher in baseball while ESPN has him the 29. Seems like MLB.com is anticipating a horrible year for pitchers around the league.
JA HAPP
ESPN- 154 k, 12 W, 4.17 era
MLB- 166 k, 9 W, 4.29 era
Both apparently think hes a fluke. Not much else to say about these projections
Joe Blanton
ESPN- 148 k, 12 W, 4.02 era
MLB- 128 k, 13 W, 4.21 era
Both have Joey continuing his streak of average-ness.
Brad Lidge
ESPN- 30 sv, 4.43 era
MLB- 29 sv, 4.23 era
Either they don't buy the excuse of him being hurt last season or they just don't think hes that good anymore
Conclusion- i think ESPN had more realistic stats of the two, yet i still think there are some flukes, two in particular...Werth and Happ. but i will let them find that out for themselves
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Interview with Jiwan James
Wow. It’s already been a month of interviews. What better way to wrap up the 4th interview in my series than with an interview of Nathaniel Jiwani “Jiwan” James. He’s another outfield prospect to add to the Phillies plethora of outfield prospects. Drafted in the 22nd round by the Phillies, he was originally meant to be a pitcher. Due to some pitching difficulties and injuries he was converted back to an everyday player in the outfield.
As opposed to his teammates in the outfield, he is the only switch-hitting propsect. Jiwan projects as more of a leadoff type of batter which being switch handed is a plus (just look at the player who I compare Jiwan to, Jimmy Rollins of the Phillies). In his first year as an everyday player, he put up solid numbers slightly comparable to Rollins. The other interesting thing about Jiwan is that he has blazing speed. He’s so fast that the people at Baseball America believe he could be quicker than Anthony Gose, who had 76 steals last year. This definitely makes Jiwan an interesting prospect to watch out for, and thanks to him for his time. Comments are always appreciated.
Q:Obviously you started out your career with the Phillies as a pitcher, what lead to this change and what do you think your strengths are as a hitter?
A:The main reason for the position change was the arm injury which kept reoccurring and I didn’t want to miss anymore time. I felt like my career was just sitting in 1 spot... I always knew I could handle playing every day but that’s not what the Phillies wanted at first...
I believe my strength as a hitter is that I have pretty good hand eye coordination meaning I want be striking out a whole lot. I’m going to play my game which is use the whole field with my approach and keep the ball on the ground and in the gaps.
Q:So you see yourself projecting more as a leadoff type hitter than a power hitter?
A: Definitely, I've been batting leadoff pretty much all my life and it’s something I've become comfortable with. I’m not quite strong enough to consider myself a power guy but strength is something I’m working on and will come with age. I didn’t hit many HR in high school it would be crazy to consider myself a power hitter at the pro level.
Q: Who’s faster, you or Anthony Gose?
A: Lol...Gose definitely...Gose and I are great friends, and when Baseball America came out with that we both got a pretty good laugh out of it.
Q: Other than the money, what was attractive about playing for the Phillies for a 22 round draft pick out of high school?
A: A big part of my decision was the coaching change over at UF... I committed to them after my sophomore year of HS and by me being only 20 min from campus… I was always over there and had become very close with the coaching staff. O'Sullivan and I, the head coach over there now have a pretty good relationship though. He's a great guy and fun to be around. I just didn’t have much time to get to know him like I've had in the past during the offseason
Q: Have the Phillies told you where you are playing next year?
A: Nah, I haven’t heard anything about where I'll be starting out...I’m just going to go head into camp and compete to make a full season squad.
Q: Obviously the Phillies have a bunch of high rated outfield prospects with Gose, Santana, Gillies, Brown and you. What separates you from the group?
A: I’m the only switch hitter...lol...I can’t really say what separates me from those guys. That’s a very highly touted group of guys and I’m just happy to be in that category with them after the long layoff that I had from playing every day.
Q: By the way as a switch hitter, do you prefer hitting from the left/right side or equal?
A: I really don’t have a preference, but I will say that I have to put a lot more work in from the right side... I barely seen any lefties in HS, so my right side is a bit behind the left. I did become a lot more comfortable during this past instructs so now it really doesn’t matter which side.
Q: Has Jimmy Rollins given any advice on batting switch-handed?
A:I've talked to him before but it wasn’t about switch hitting. It was more about work ethic since it was the offseason. I’m sure I’ll talk to him during spring training about it though.
As opposed to his teammates in the outfield, he is the only switch-hitting propsect. Jiwan projects as more of a leadoff type of batter which being switch handed is a plus (just look at the player who I compare Jiwan to, Jimmy Rollins of the Phillies). In his first year as an everyday player, he put up solid numbers slightly comparable to Rollins. The other interesting thing about Jiwan is that he has blazing speed. He’s so fast that the people at Baseball America believe he could be quicker than Anthony Gose, who had 76 steals last year. This definitely makes Jiwan an interesting prospect to watch out for, and thanks to him for his time. Comments are always appreciated.
Q:Obviously you started out your career with the Phillies as a pitcher, what lead to this change and what do you think your strengths are as a hitter?
A:The main reason for the position change was the arm injury which kept reoccurring and I didn’t want to miss anymore time. I felt like my career was just sitting in 1 spot... I always knew I could handle playing every day but that’s not what the Phillies wanted at first...
I believe my strength as a hitter is that I have pretty good hand eye coordination meaning I want be striking out a whole lot. I’m going to play my game which is use the whole field with my approach and keep the ball on the ground and in the gaps.
Q:So you see yourself projecting more as a leadoff type hitter than a power hitter?
A: Definitely, I've been batting leadoff pretty much all my life and it’s something I've become comfortable with. I’m not quite strong enough to consider myself a power guy but strength is something I’m working on and will come with age. I didn’t hit many HR in high school it would be crazy to consider myself a power hitter at the pro level.
Q: Who’s faster, you or Anthony Gose?
A: Lol...Gose definitely...Gose and I are great friends, and when Baseball America came out with that we both got a pretty good laugh out of it.
Q: Other than the money, what was attractive about playing for the Phillies for a 22 round draft pick out of high school?
A: A big part of my decision was the coaching change over at UF... I committed to them after my sophomore year of HS and by me being only 20 min from campus… I was always over there and had become very close with the coaching staff. O'Sullivan and I, the head coach over there now have a pretty good relationship though. He's a great guy and fun to be around. I just didn’t have much time to get to know him like I've had in the past during the offseason
Q: Have the Phillies told you where you are playing next year?
A: Nah, I haven’t heard anything about where I'll be starting out...I’m just going to go head into camp and compete to make a full season squad.
Q: Obviously the Phillies have a bunch of high rated outfield prospects with Gose, Santana, Gillies, Brown and you. What separates you from the group?
A: I’m the only switch hitter...lol...I can’t really say what separates me from those guys. That’s a very highly touted group of guys and I’m just happy to be in that category with them after the long layoff that I had from playing every day.
Q: By the way as a switch hitter, do you prefer hitting from the left/right side or equal?
A: I really don’t have a preference, but I will say that I have to put a lot more work in from the right side... I barely seen any lefties in HS, so my right side is a bit behind the left. I did become a lot more comfortable during this past instructs so now it really doesn’t matter which side.
Q: Has Jimmy Rollins given any advice on batting switch-handed?
A:I've talked to him before but it wasn’t about switch hitting. It was more about work ethic since it was the offseason. I’m sure I’ll talk to him during spring training about it though.
Snow Day
While most of the northeast is getting another ton of snow, we are about 6 days from pitchers and catchers. The way things are looking in the south, they might as well stay up north as another day of freezing temperatures hits Florida and more is expected next week. The only thing the south doesn’t get is the snow you’re getting. I was just reading where schools are closed in philthie today. I’m glad for that since the kids will be one day less dumb, since philthie’s school system is ranked behind the school system in Siberia. (BTW, there are no schools in Siberia).
I was just reading about this new study that claims the CBP (Carter Batting Practice) Park is not that much of a hitter friendly park as some people claim. (Sorry, the book has no crayon colored pictures for you to follow along). It doesn’t really matter anyway since while the Yankmees play in a toilet bowl, the philthies play in an outhouse. CITIFIELD has decided to lower its centerfield wall a few feet. No big deal since it still remains a real ballpark where only certified Major League players can hit home runs. Any little leaguer can hit in Carter Batting Practice park and Yankmee stadium.
And speaking of NEW YORK, I didn’t realize something else philthie has that came from NEW YORK: the philthie phanatic. That’s right, ladies and germs; the philthie phanatic is a NEW YORK creation. Look it up, you’ll find lots of pictures.
Well, it has been fun making fun of your team and your city. Don’t forget to come back next week. I’ll try smaller words next time; I wouldn’t want any of you to hurt yourselves trying to read this without pictures. So after being inspired to write about philthie, it’s time to take a dump. Thank you philly!
Ultimate Lou
I was just reading about this new study that claims the CBP (Carter Batting Practice) Park is not that much of a hitter friendly park as some people claim. (Sorry, the book has no crayon colored pictures for you to follow along). It doesn’t really matter anyway since while the Yankmees play in a toilet bowl, the philthies play in an outhouse. CITIFIELD has decided to lower its centerfield wall a few feet. No big deal since it still remains a real ballpark where only certified Major League players can hit home runs. Any little leaguer can hit in Carter Batting Practice park and Yankmee stadium.
And speaking of NEW YORK, I didn’t realize something else philthie has that came from NEW YORK: the philthie phanatic. That’s right, ladies and germs; the philthie phanatic is a NEW YORK creation. Look it up, you’ll find lots of pictures.
Well, it has been fun making fun of your team and your city. Don’t forget to come back next week. I’ll try smaller words next time; I wouldn’t want any of you to hurt yourselves trying to read this without pictures. So after being inspired to write about philthie, it’s time to take a dump. Thank you philly!
Ultimate Lou
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Walshy's Wrap Around
Welcome to Walshy’s Wrap Around. Everyone hockey fan or not knows the Olympics are fastly approaching. The opening ceremony is February 12th and National Hockey is defiantly a must see this Olympic season. This week on Walshy’s Wrap Around I will give a rundown of each Nations team and my prediction for the Gold Medal.
United States
Yes the United States Olympic team may be overlooked this time around with their young inexperienced players but they could do some damage. In the 2006 Olympics the USA finished a dismal 8th. Some of the same faces are back to bring gold back to the US this year which hasn’t occurred since 1980. Some new faces that could make big impacts. Bobby Ryan, Patrick Kane, Phil Kessel, Erik Johnson, and Jack Johnson. Philadelphia Flyer was a hopeful to take the injury spot that is now vacated by Tim Gleason of the Carolina Hurricanes
Prediction-8th
Breakout player-Phil Kessel
Belarus
Yes everyone Belarus does have an Olympic hockey team. Yes this team didn’t qualify for the 2006 winter Olympics. Yes they only have 4 NHL players on there roster. AND yes non of their goaltenders were born in Belarus but I guess you cant overlook this team with talented players like Mikhail Grabovski, Andrei and Sergei Kostitsyn, and Ruslan Salei. This team will either sink or…………sink more.
Prediction-10th
Breakout Player-Sergei Kostitsyn
Germany
Germany does have more NHL faces then Belarus does but the talent ugh. Marco Sturm, Marcel Goc, Christian Ehrhoff, Dennis Seidenberg, Alexander Sulzer, Thomas Greiss, and AHLer Philip Gogulla. This squad finished 10th in 06 but with younger faces all I can see from here is improvement.
Prediction-9th
Breakout Player-Philip Gogulla
Latvia
Lativia wow heres another team. 2 NHL faces on there team. Philadelphia Flyers own Oskars Bartulis and Karlis Skrastins. 16 of the 21 members play on Dinamo Riga. Chemistry could be there. That’s why im making this team my SLEEPER nation of the Olympics. This team finished dead last in 06 so all they can go is up.
Prediction-7th
Breakout Player-Oskars Bartulis
Norway
It gets worse here. One NHL face and that’s former flyer Ole Kristian Tollefsen, who is now with the Detriot Redwings. Heres the rundown here I will guarnatee this team comes in last it just seems that this team is undersized with their tallest player being 6’3 and only weighing 193 pounds so I can see this team being beat up in the physical game.
Prediction-12th
Breakout Player-Patrik Thoresen
Switzerland
Hers another team that could do some damage in the Olypics. Luca Sbisa, Mark Streit, and Jonas Hiller round off the big names on the team. Other than that not a lot of names jump out at you. This team had a lot of older players that could be guidance for some young guys which the Swiss has plenty of.
Prediction-11th
Breakout Player-Luca Sbisa
Slovakia
This is one of my favorites for a possible gold medal bid with big names like Marian Gaborik, Marian Hossa, Zdeno Chara. Former NHLers Marcel Hossa, Ziggy Palffy, Jozef Stumpel, and Richard Zednik will be in Vancouver fighting for gold. I see big things for this team lets see if they deliver.
Prediction-4th
Breakout Player-Ziggy Palffy
Czech Republic
This is another favorite of mine. Stong on defense with Tomas Kaberle,Marek Zidlicky and Pavel Kubina and will be able to score with forwards like Martin Havlat, Milan Michalek, Patrik Elias and former NHL all-star Jaromir Jagr. I guess you could say I like this team cause of Jagr yes that could be the reason but id love to see Jagr light it up again on the ice
Prediction-3rd
Breakout Player-Jaromir Jagr
Sweden
The defending gold medal team is back to bring the gold home once again. With big names like the Sedin brothers, Daniel Alfredsson, Nicklas Backstrom,Nicklas Lidstrom, Henrik Zetterberg and Lundqvist. Former NHL Star Peter Forsberg is also on the roster so it will be exciting to see how he plays. I defiantly see this team attempt to bring the gold back but will fail this team is a little bit older than the 2006 gold medal team.
Prediction-5th
Breakout Player-Peter Forsberg (if not Injured)
Finland
Silver medal team from 2006 and bringing back tournament MVP Antero Nittymaki with big name goalies like Niklas Backstrom and Mikka Kiprusoff Antero may not get the chance for an MVP again. A lot of big names her like Teemu Selanne, Kimmo Timonen, Mikko and Saku Koivu and Jarkko and Tuomo Ruutu. This team has the fire power to get the job done in 2010.
Prediciton-6th
Breakout Player-Mikko Koivu
Russia
Everones Favorite for the Gold this year. I have myself liking this team a lot too. With MVP caliber names like Datsyuk, Kovalchuk,Ovechkin, and Malkin. And not to forget Gonchar, Nabokov, Semin and former NHLer Sergei Fedorov. This team will defiantly be one of the Juagernaughts this year.
Prediction-2nd
Breakout Player-Alex Ovechkin
Canada
The birthplace of this sport. The home of the 2010 Olympics, Canada!!! After a very disappointing 7th place finish in 06 this team is hungry for gold and this could be there year with big names like Mike Richards, Sidney Crosby, Dany Heatley, Jarr….wait im not gonna name the whole team here. That’s how powerful this team is with NHL stars.
Prediction-1st
Breakout Player-Mike Richards
United States
Yes the United States Olympic team may be overlooked this time around with their young inexperienced players but they could do some damage. In the 2006 Olympics the USA finished a dismal 8th. Some of the same faces are back to bring gold back to the US this year which hasn’t occurred since 1980. Some new faces that could make big impacts. Bobby Ryan, Patrick Kane, Phil Kessel, Erik Johnson, and Jack Johnson. Philadelphia Flyer was a hopeful to take the injury spot that is now vacated by Tim Gleason of the Carolina Hurricanes
Prediction-8th
Breakout player-Phil Kessel
Belarus
Yes everyone Belarus does have an Olympic hockey team. Yes this team didn’t qualify for the 2006 winter Olympics. Yes they only have 4 NHL players on there roster. AND yes non of their goaltenders were born in Belarus but I guess you cant overlook this team with talented players like Mikhail Grabovski, Andrei and Sergei Kostitsyn, and Ruslan Salei. This team will either sink or…………sink more.
Prediction-10th
Breakout Player-Sergei Kostitsyn
Germany
Germany does have more NHL faces then Belarus does but the talent ugh. Marco Sturm, Marcel Goc, Christian Ehrhoff, Dennis Seidenberg, Alexander Sulzer, Thomas Greiss, and AHLer Philip Gogulla. This squad finished 10th in 06 but with younger faces all I can see from here is improvement.
Prediction-9th
Breakout Player-Philip Gogulla
Latvia
Lativia wow heres another team. 2 NHL faces on there team. Philadelphia Flyers own Oskars Bartulis and Karlis Skrastins. 16 of the 21 members play on Dinamo Riga. Chemistry could be there. That’s why im making this team my SLEEPER nation of the Olympics. This team finished dead last in 06 so all they can go is up.
Prediction-7th
Breakout Player-Oskars Bartulis
Norway
It gets worse here. One NHL face and that’s former flyer Ole Kristian Tollefsen, who is now with the Detriot Redwings. Heres the rundown here I will guarnatee this team comes in last it just seems that this team is undersized with their tallest player being 6’3 and only weighing 193 pounds so I can see this team being beat up in the physical game.
Prediction-12th
Breakout Player-Patrik Thoresen
Switzerland
Hers another team that could do some damage in the Olypics. Luca Sbisa, Mark Streit, and Jonas Hiller round off the big names on the team. Other than that not a lot of names jump out at you. This team had a lot of older players that could be guidance for some young guys which the Swiss has plenty of.
Prediction-11th
Breakout Player-Luca Sbisa
Slovakia
This is one of my favorites for a possible gold medal bid with big names like Marian Gaborik, Marian Hossa, Zdeno Chara. Former NHLers Marcel Hossa, Ziggy Palffy, Jozef Stumpel, and Richard Zednik will be in Vancouver fighting for gold. I see big things for this team lets see if they deliver.
Prediction-4th
Breakout Player-Ziggy Palffy
Czech Republic
This is another favorite of mine. Stong on defense with Tomas Kaberle,Marek Zidlicky and Pavel Kubina and will be able to score with forwards like Martin Havlat, Milan Michalek, Patrik Elias and former NHL all-star Jaromir Jagr. I guess you could say I like this team cause of Jagr yes that could be the reason but id love to see Jagr light it up again on the ice
Prediction-3rd
Breakout Player-Jaromir Jagr
Sweden
The defending gold medal team is back to bring the gold home once again. With big names like the Sedin brothers, Daniel Alfredsson, Nicklas Backstrom,Nicklas Lidstrom, Henrik Zetterberg and Lundqvist. Former NHL Star Peter Forsberg is also on the roster so it will be exciting to see how he plays. I defiantly see this team attempt to bring the gold back but will fail this team is a little bit older than the 2006 gold medal team.
Prediction-5th
Breakout Player-Peter Forsberg (if not Injured)
Finland
Silver medal team from 2006 and bringing back tournament MVP Antero Nittymaki with big name goalies like Niklas Backstrom and Mikka Kiprusoff Antero may not get the chance for an MVP again. A lot of big names her like Teemu Selanne, Kimmo Timonen, Mikko and Saku Koivu and Jarkko and Tuomo Ruutu. This team has the fire power to get the job done in 2010.
Prediciton-6th
Breakout Player-Mikko Koivu
Russia
Everones Favorite for the Gold this year. I have myself liking this team a lot too. With MVP caliber names like Datsyuk, Kovalchuk,Ovechkin, and Malkin. And not to forget Gonchar, Nabokov, Semin and former NHLer Sergei Fedorov. This team will defiantly be one of the Juagernaughts this year.
Prediction-2nd
Breakout Player-Alex Ovechkin
Canada
The birthplace of this sport. The home of the 2010 Olympics, Canada!!! After a very disappointing 7th place finish in 06 this team is hungry for gold and this could be there year with big names like Mike Richards, Sidney Crosby, Dany Heatley, Jarr….wait im not gonna name the whole team here. That’s how powerful this team is with NHL stars.
Prediction-1st
Breakout Player-Mike Richards
Monday, February 8, 2010
Can Lesean Handle It?
Let me start off by saying i have a reputation of holding a sentimentality towards players that have been in philly a long time. Hell, i was that guy who was upset that the sixers traded AI even though i cant name 3 players on the team. But one player who i want to see go is Westy. Why do i hold no sentimental feelings towards him? Because he plays such an important position and its so obvious his best days are behind him. So for the sake of this article we are going to assume Big Red does the correct thing and lets Westy walk. Now we are left with Lesean. Can he handle the load? On one hand in certain games he looked bloody brilliant but in others he looked like a...rookie. Do i think he can handle it? No. Do i think hes a lost cause? No. I think hes too much of a side-stepper. With maybe a season or two of learning the playbook, and playing in a limited role he can be a threat. After all not every elite rb in the NFL was a star from the start. Westy didn't show his star abilities until the 05 season when he was 26. He was a factor in the Eagles 04 run, dont get me wrong, but i dont think we knew exactly what we had until after our run. This Entry is not about Lesean though despite the misleading title. Its about who might be available if Big Red doesnt think McCoy can handle it.
Larry Johnson: Larry might not be a popular choice with Eagles fans. hes old and he does not have that game breaking explosiveness anymore but LJ proved in Cincinnati that with an Oline that can block hes still got a little juice. He would be an amazing player to platoon and mentor the young McCoy in my personal opinion.
Jerious Norwood: jerious PERFECTLY fits the description of the running backs Andy drafts. Hes lightning fast and he knows how to make a play after the catch. Since Jerious' rookie season his worst yards per reception has been a solid 8.5. Don't think for a second AR isnt moderating his status. With Turner in the ATL Jerious has plenty of reasons to leave.
Willie Parker: With Pitt officially handing the torch to the younger guy, Mendenhall, Parker will most likely look to test the market. Parker is as injury prone as they come and might just be a name at this point in his career, but he did manage a "solid" 4.0 YPC in the limited chances he received in 09. although he has only had 2 seasons with 20+ receptions he has shown potential in this department. Maybe an incentive based contract could lure him to across the state.
Darren Sproles: LT has been heard. He went public and said he does not want to share the rock and Norv Turner heard him loud and clear. Now they need to choose. Their franchise back and fan favorite or the more talented blazer? well if they pick the wrong choice and let this kid hit the open market, there will be no doubt an endless line of suitors. He will be the biggest name in free agency and he will be undoubtedly the most expensive. His chances of joining the Eagles? Id say around a .05% chance, but it's still fun to think about.
Chestor Taylor: Talk about a wasted career. First in Baltimore stuck behind Jamal Lewis then in Minny stuck behind AP. In his one season he started, saying he looked brilliant is an understatement. His stats that season were 1216 rush yards, 6 td, 42 receptions, 288 yards, 0td. In 07 AP somehow dropped to Minny and just like that Chestor was splitting carries again. He didn't do bad platooning. He actually had another good season racking up 800 yards, but when you have AP, you simply do not platoon him. And just like that in 08 the carries faded and he was reduced to a typical second string running back, although he has improved in the reception categories in those backup role seasons. Chestor is 30 years old, but having only started one season in his entire career its possible he might still be fresh. I think he has what it takes to hang around for 2 more seasons. Keep an eye on him Philly fans.
Leon Washington: This is strictly a low risk high reward scenario. He suffered a broken leg in his contract year and basically destroyed all value he might have had. Although he will be back by the start of next season, will he be the same running back? I would say no. And I am probably not the only guy who thinks this. Which is why he might settle for an incentive based contract...and those rarely come back to haunt you, so what would it hurt?
This Is a very deep rb class. i know it is still extremely early and these guys might all end up resigning with their teams. but they all have a reason to leave. Whether it is one last shot at glory (LJ, Parker), tired of being stuck behind in the depth chart(Chestor, Jerious, Leon), or you have a dilemma in being stuck behind the best running back this decade on the depth chart. After all, we don't want to wait till week 4 to realize McCoy is not ready to be an every down back yet and our best available option to platoon him with is some no name coming off the practice squad.
Written by Mike "fiz" Foley
Larry Johnson: Larry might not be a popular choice with Eagles fans. hes old and he does not have that game breaking explosiveness anymore but LJ proved in Cincinnati that with an Oline that can block hes still got a little juice. He would be an amazing player to platoon and mentor the young McCoy in my personal opinion.
Jerious Norwood: jerious PERFECTLY fits the description of the running backs Andy drafts. Hes lightning fast and he knows how to make a play after the catch. Since Jerious' rookie season his worst yards per reception has been a solid 8.5. Don't think for a second AR isnt moderating his status. With Turner in the ATL Jerious has plenty of reasons to leave.
Willie Parker: With Pitt officially handing the torch to the younger guy, Mendenhall, Parker will most likely look to test the market. Parker is as injury prone as they come and might just be a name at this point in his career, but he did manage a "solid" 4.0 YPC in the limited chances he received in 09. although he has only had 2 seasons with 20+ receptions he has shown potential in this department. Maybe an incentive based contract could lure him to across the state.
Darren Sproles: LT has been heard. He went public and said he does not want to share the rock and Norv Turner heard him loud and clear. Now they need to choose. Their franchise back and fan favorite or the more talented blazer? well if they pick the wrong choice and let this kid hit the open market, there will be no doubt an endless line of suitors. He will be the biggest name in free agency and he will be undoubtedly the most expensive. His chances of joining the Eagles? Id say around a .05% chance, but it's still fun to think about.
Chestor Taylor: Talk about a wasted career. First in Baltimore stuck behind Jamal Lewis then in Minny stuck behind AP. In his one season he started, saying he looked brilliant is an understatement. His stats that season were 1216 rush yards, 6 td, 42 receptions, 288 yards, 0td. In 07 AP somehow dropped to Minny and just like that Chestor was splitting carries again. He didn't do bad platooning. He actually had another good season racking up 800 yards, but when you have AP, you simply do not platoon him. And just like that in 08 the carries faded and he was reduced to a typical second string running back, although he has improved in the reception categories in those backup role seasons. Chestor is 30 years old, but having only started one season in his entire career its possible he might still be fresh. I think he has what it takes to hang around for 2 more seasons. Keep an eye on him Philly fans.
Leon Washington: This is strictly a low risk high reward scenario. He suffered a broken leg in his contract year and basically destroyed all value he might have had. Although he will be back by the start of next season, will he be the same running back? I would say no. And I am probably not the only guy who thinks this. Which is why he might settle for an incentive based contract...and those rarely come back to haunt you, so what would it hurt?
This Is a very deep rb class. i know it is still extremely early and these guys might all end up resigning with their teams. but they all have a reason to leave. Whether it is one last shot at glory (LJ, Parker), tired of being stuck behind in the depth chart(Chestor, Jerious, Leon), or you have a dilemma in being stuck behind the best running back this decade on the depth chart. After all, we don't want to wait till week 4 to realize McCoy is not ready to be an every down back yet and our best available option to platoon him with is some no name coming off the practice squad.
Written by Mike "fiz" Foley
Friday, February 5, 2010
Interview with Jarred Cosart
Welcome to the third installment of JKEARSE123 interviewing prospects from the Phillies minor league organization. Jarred Cosart is a much different prospect to one I have interviewed before primarily because I asked him more questions and secondarily because he is a 38th round draft pick from the 2008 MLB Draft. Typically, 38th round picks from high school generally move on to college to see if they can get picked earlier in the draft a few years later. So being the baseball fan I am, I went and looked up the history of 38th round picks. Dennis Tankersley, Mike Jacobs, Randy Wells, and Mark Buehlre highlight a list of players that were drafted (names I could recognize) in the 38th round, signed that year, and made it to the major leagues with Buehlre being the only superstar. Hopefully, Cosart will have similar success to Buehlre but nothing is guaranteed.
But more on to Cosart himself and his stats. This guy has absolutely fantastic stats in Rookie League especially for a 19-year old fresh out of high school. In 24.1 innings, Cosart struck out 25 batters, gave up only 12 hits to 7 walks, and started 5 games to a 2.22 ERA. These pitching stats round out to an unhittable .781 WHIP, not bad for a late round pick. To show how nasty these stats are, Roy Halladay back at one year younger in ROOK league for the Blue Jays in 50.1 innings had 48 strikeouts, 1.013 WHIP and gave up 4 homeruns. Cosart has yet to give up a homerun in rookie league which is impressive as well. Yet again, I’m not saying Cosart is guaranteed to be Roy and his greatness, but for a 38th rounder to put up stats that only a 1st round pick would be expected to get is just incredible.
Please comment and thanks to Jarred for his time!
Via thebaseballcube.com, you have an efficiency rating of 97/100 (which is similar to WHIP in that it is ability to limit base runners) but a control rating of 58/100. Looking at your stats, the number for WHIP it is pretty accurate (.781), but control maybe is only based on the fact you gave up 7 walks to 12 hits in 24.1 innings. Would you agree with this rating?
I’m not sure why the control rating would be only 58 out of 100, if you base it on my numbers. But that has been something that vie been trying to work on to become a better pitcher is control, I felt that I improved tremendously from high school in that department though.
Would you consider yourself more of a power pitcher or a control pitcher?
Definitely a power pitcher with control coming along, my fastball is 93-95 I’ve hit 98 and I think my off-speed pitches are getting better. My curveball is ahead of my changeup but I’ve been working hard on improving both.
What was it about the Phillies organization that a 38th round pick from high school want to play with the team instead of college?
I had the opportunity to pick from quite a few schools and I settled on Missouri for the fact I was gonna get to pitch and hit and play as a freshman. The Phillies drafted me and told me, ‘don’t give up on not going to school’ because they were interested and going to follow me.
It’s just a great organization and they showed that they wanted me to help build a rotation for the future, and they invested something in me to do that.
Brody Colvin got arrested recently and then proceeded to be ripped by Phillies fans. This not only will hurt his prospect hood but definitely increase yours. What are your feelings about Brody getting arrested and do you think that eventually you will rise to be at least the #1 pitching prospect?
Well, I got to know Brody pretty well when he signed and all the charges were dropped and sounded like a misunderstanding to me. He'll be fine and he's a good pitcher. As far as prospects according to baseball America on Trevor May was ranked higher than myself, but I really try not to pay attention to that we all have the same goal of reaching the big leagues and I’m good friends we Trevor also. We hope to make it up together one day but it is definitely a goal to be the number one pitching prospect for such a great organization and hopefully one of the top prospects in all the minor leagues. My goal is to be there by 2012 lol but I can’t control how I get moved or anything.
Dream rotation: May, Colvin, Cosart, Aumont, and Moyer, in no particular order? (Just kidding)
Haha I’d say May, Cosart, Colvin, Halladay and Aumont.
Speaking of Roy Halladay: is he all as advertised?
Yes, he is a machine with workouts and everything he takes hard work to another level and is completely dedicated like no one I’ve ever seen.
Any Other Comments?
Just looking forward to this season and moving along throughout the system and show everyone what I can do.
*shout out to baseball reference, mymlbdraft.com, the baseballcube.com, and phuturephillies.com
But more on to Cosart himself and his stats. This guy has absolutely fantastic stats in Rookie League especially for a 19-year old fresh out of high school. In 24.1 innings, Cosart struck out 25 batters, gave up only 12 hits to 7 walks, and started 5 games to a 2.22 ERA. These pitching stats round out to an unhittable .781 WHIP, not bad for a late round pick. To show how nasty these stats are, Roy Halladay back at one year younger in ROOK league for the Blue Jays in 50.1 innings had 48 strikeouts, 1.013 WHIP and gave up 4 homeruns. Cosart has yet to give up a homerun in rookie league which is impressive as well. Yet again, I’m not saying Cosart is guaranteed to be Roy and his greatness, but for a 38th rounder to put up stats that only a 1st round pick would be expected to get is just incredible.
Please comment and thanks to Jarred for his time!
Via thebaseballcube.com, you have an efficiency rating of 97/100 (which is similar to WHIP in that it is ability to limit base runners) but a control rating of 58/100. Looking at your stats, the number for WHIP it is pretty accurate (.781), but control maybe is only based on the fact you gave up 7 walks to 12 hits in 24.1 innings. Would you agree with this rating?
I’m not sure why the control rating would be only 58 out of 100, if you base it on my numbers. But that has been something that vie been trying to work on to become a better pitcher is control, I felt that I improved tremendously from high school in that department though.
Would you consider yourself more of a power pitcher or a control pitcher?
Definitely a power pitcher with control coming along, my fastball is 93-95 I’ve hit 98 and I think my off-speed pitches are getting better. My curveball is ahead of my changeup but I’ve been working hard on improving both.
What was it about the Phillies organization that a 38th round pick from high school want to play with the team instead of college?
I had the opportunity to pick from quite a few schools and I settled on Missouri for the fact I was gonna get to pitch and hit and play as a freshman. The Phillies drafted me and told me, ‘don’t give up on not going to school’ because they were interested and going to follow me.
It’s just a great organization and they showed that they wanted me to help build a rotation for the future, and they invested something in me to do that.
Brody Colvin got arrested recently and then proceeded to be ripped by Phillies fans. This not only will hurt his prospect hood but definitely increase yours. What are your feelings about Brody getting arrested and do you think that eventually you will rise to be at least the #1 pitching prospect?
Well, I got to know Brody pretty well when he signed and all the charges were dropped and sounded like a misunderstanding to me. He'll be fine and he's a good pitcher. As far as prospects according to baseball America on Trevor May was ranked higher than myself, but I really try not to pay attention to that we all have the same goal of reaching the big leagues and I’m good friends we Trevor also. We hope to make it up together one day but it is definitely a goal to be the number one pitching prospect for such a great organization and hopefully one of the top prospects in all the minor leagues. My goal is to be there by 2012 lol but I can’t control how I get moved or anything.
Dream rotation: May, Colvin, Cosart, Aumont, and Moyer, in no particular order? (Just kidding)
Haha I’d say May, Cosart, Colvin, Halladay and Aumont.
Speaking of Roy Halladay: is he all as advertised?
Yes, he is a machine with workouts and everything he takes hard work to another level and is completely dedicated like no one I’ve ever seen.
Any Other Comments?
Just looking forward to this season and moving along throughout the system and show everyone what I can do.
*shout out to baseball reference, mymlbdraft.com, the baseballcube.com, and phuturephillies.com
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Be Like Mets
So I took my dog for a walk and as he’s taking a dump, I started thinking philly. And I started thinking how much you want to be like the Mets. I gotta admit, the Mets with their signing of “veteran” players (meaning old farts) has gone a little too far at times. But at the same time, these “veterans” are only signed to minor league contracts. So basically, they are called up when the water boy goes down with an injury. And many times other teams sign them for the same reason and assign them to their “no one will remember you” league. But then here come the philthies and lo and behold, sign Jose Contreras. Contreras is 39 going on 53 (since most birth certificates from refugee players are falsified). And he was signed to fill a bullpen spot. Meaning: you got bullpen trouble already. Now you sign Freddy Guzman, 28 going on 41. Guzman, the lifetime .211 BA, .255 OBP who gets caught stealing better than 50% of the time “speedster.” What was that old catch phrase? “Be Like Mike?” Now the philthies want to “Be Like Mets.” Comedy that writes itself.
I was walking along “Carter Batting Practice” mini-park and showed a few phiily fans video of Jose Reyes running at full sprint. You could hear the gas churning in their guts. Everyone who saw the video excused themselves and ran to the nearest bathroom (outhouse) and you could hear the explosions a mile away followed by loud sobs. When they exited (and the haz-mat people cleared the area) I asked were they crying from abdominal pain. They couldn’t even speak and just started crying again while pointing to the video I had shown them. I reassured them that is was OK and that Beltran was out. They beamed a big smile until I said “but not for long.” Another trip to the bathroom (outhouse). Here’s another scary thought: Nelson Figuroa, who has a VERY good shot as the 5th starter just pitched a 1-run, 8 K complete game. Like I said, he’s just the number 5 starter. And it’s 2 weeks away for pitchers and catchers. (I heard a collective gas explosion for philly.)
To be honest, I wish you and your team the best of luck. (yeah right). Here’s to our rivalry and here’s to us knocking you around like we own you, again. And here’s to your trading away Lee. Hope it bites ya on the ass. I know you fans didn’t like it but we sure did. Well, the dog finished and is now taking a pee. Time for my Yankmee blog.
I was walking along “Carter Batting Practice” mini-park and showed a few phiily fans video of Jose Reyes running at full sprint. You could hear the gas churning in their guts. Everyone who saw the video excused themselves and ran to the nearest bathroom (outhouse) and you could hear the explosions a mile away followed by loud sobs. When they exited (and the haz-mat people cleared the area) I asked were they crying from abdominal pain. They couldn’t even speak and just started crying again while pointing to the video I had shown them. I reassured them that is was OK and that Beltran was out. They beamed a big smile until I said “but not for long.” Another trip to the bathroom (outhouse). Here’s another scary thought: Nelson Figuroa, who has a VERY good shot as the 5th starter just pitched a 1-run, 8 K complete game. Like I said, he’s just the number 5 starter. And it’s 2 weeks away for pitchers and catchers. (I heard a collective gas explosion for philly.)
To be honest, I wish you and your team the best of luck. (yeah right). Here’s to our rivalry and here’s to us knocking you around like we own you, again. And here’s to your trading away Lee. Hope it bites ya on the ass. I know you fans didn’t like it but we sure did. Well, the dog finished and is now taking a pee. Time for my Yankmee blog.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Sizing Up Baseball's Triumvirate.
While nothing is life is ever a given, it's pretty clear to anyone who pays attention to baseball that three teams rise above all going into the 2010 season. The Phillies, Yankees and Red Sox are all equipped to make a run for the title. All three bring great hitting, pitching and defense to the table, as well as considerable postseason experience. This week's article will focus on how the Phillies pitching matches up against the Red Sox hitting.
Phillie pitchers vs. Red Sox hitters
Quietly lurking on the 2010 horizon is the impending rise of the Boston Red Sox. Two year removed from their 2007 title, the Sox will be looking to overtake the Yankees and prove once again that the Curse of the Bambino is long gone.
Key to the Red Sox 2004 and 2007 success was the dynamic one-two punch of Ramirez and Ortiz. Old age and steroid testing has ended that gravy train. Manny is gone, as is his replacement Jason Bay. Mike Cameron will continue to defy father time by manning center-field (with Ellsbury taking left) in 2010. Despite his consistency, he's no where close to Ramirez with the bat. Ortiz is still around, but is a shell of the hitter he was when the Red Sox first got him. No longer able to play the field, Ortiz's role in recent years has been strictly as a DH. And in 2009, he failed in that role as well. It is hard to tell how much of his decline could be due to PEDs, old age, or just a regular slump. Fortunately for the Red Sox, Mike Lowell remains a solid DH option if Ortiz proves to be a dud in 2010 as well.
While the Red Sox may not have their powerful Manny-Ortiz duo, they make up for it with a pretty deep and balanced lineup. Leading off are two homegrown stars in Ellsbury and Pedroia. These two give the Red Sox two of the game's best table setters. Both are fast, can get on base, hit for some power and play great defense. Scutaro gives the Red Sox another potential table setter at short. Depending on how things go with the other hitters, the Red Sox could decide to move one of Ellsbury and Pedroia to the middle of their order.
Behind the table setters are a string of very good hitters. Ortiz, Lowell and Cameron have been discussed already. There is also Beltre, Youkilis, Martinez and Philly favorite J.D. Drew. These guys can hit, but none are as dangerous as Manny and Ortiz were a few years back. Drew has always been regarded as having one of the best swings in all of baseball. But without the motivation of playing for a new deal, he seems content being an average hitter. In a short playoff series, Drew could be a world beater if he actually cared about winning. Youkilis has emerged as the Red Sox's best run producer. His OPS over the last two years has actually been better then Ryan Howard's, and he is pretty darn good with the glove as well. Victor Martinez gives the Red Sox very good production from the catcher position, and is a switch hitter to boot.
Beltre is the wild card here. Signed at the age of 16 by the Dodgers, Beltre has always been regarded as a potential phenom. His last year in Los Angelos seemed to indicate a realization of this potential. Unfortunatly the deep walls of Safeco field and injuries seemed to have kept Beltre's offensive production to just average levels. In Boston, Beltre's line drive power might prove quite fruitful with the Green Monster in left. While a repeat of his last season in LA is probably not likely, it is possible that he could put up an OPS in the .850-.900 level.
Besides Lowell, the Sox also have Varitek and Hermida on their bench. And in a game at the Bank, they'd probably have Ortiz as well. The Red Sox might end up having the best bench in all of baseball in 2010.
The 2010 Red Sox lineup won't be as dangerous as the 2009 Yankee lineup. However, they might be as good as the 2010 Yankee lineup. It's a deep and balanced lineup with good on-base guys at the top and solid run producers all the way down to the number nine spot. And with their bench, they will have pinch hitters they can use during a World Series game at the Bank. Phille pitching has already been discussed in part one of this article. To summarize, Phillie starting pitching as well as the bullpen should be slightly improved in 2010. And there is still the very strong possibility that the Phillies bring in another quality starter by the trade deadline.
The Phillies probably won't get shelled by this lineup like they did in the 2009 World Series. But they probably won't be able to shut them down either, even with Doc or Cole on the mound.
Written by krukster
Phillie pitchers vs. Red Sox hitters
Quietly lurking on the 2010 horizon is the impending rise of the Boston Red Sox. Two year removed from their 2007 title, the Sox will be looking to overtake the Yankees and prove once again that the Curse of the Bambino is long gone.
Key to the Red Sox 2004 and 2007 success was the dynamic one-two punch of Ramirez and Ortiz. Old age and steroid testing has ended that gravy train. Manny is gone, as is his replacement Jason Bay. Mike Cameron will continue to defy father time by manning center-field (with Ellsbury taking left) in 2010. Despite his consistency, he's no where close to Ramirez with the bat. Ortiz is still around, but is a shell of the hitter he was when the Red Sox first got him. No longer able to play the field, Ortiz's role in recent years has been strictly as a DH. And in 2009, he failed in that role as well. It is hard to tell how much of his decline could be due to PEDs, old age, or just a regular slump. Fortunately for the Red Sox, Mike Lowell remains a solid DH option if Ortiz proves to be a dud in 2010 as well.
While the Red Sox may not have their powerful Manny-Ortiz duo, they make up for it with a pretty deep and balanced lineup. Leading off are two homegrown stars in Ellsbury and Pedroia. These two give the Red Sox two of the game's best table setters. Both are fast, can get on base, hit for some power and play great defense. Scutaro gives the Red Sox another potential table setter at short. Depending on how things go with the other hitters, the Red Sox could decide to move one of Ellsbury and Pedroia to the middle of their order.
Behind the table setters are a string of very good hitters. Ortiz, Lowell and Cameron have been discussed already. There is also Beltre, Youkilis, Martinez and Philly favorite J.D. Drew. These guys can hit, but none are as dangerous as Manny and Ortiz were a few years back. Drew has always been regarded as having one of the best swings in all of baseball. But without the motivation of playing for a new deal, he seems content being an average hitter. In a short playoff series, Drew could be a world beater if he actually cared about winning. Youkilis has emerged as the Red Sox's best run producer. His OPS over the last two years has actually been better then Ryan Howard's, and he is pretty darn good with the glove as well. Victor Martinez gives the Red Sox very good production from the catcher position, and is a switch hitter to boot.
Beltre is the wild card here. Signed at the age of 16 by the Dodgers, Beltre has always been regarded as a potential phenom. His last year in Los Angelos seemed to indicate a realization of this potential. Unfortunatly the deep walls of Safeco field and injuries seemed to have kept Beltre's offensive production to just average levels. In Boston, Beltre's line drive power might prove quite fruitful with the Green Monster in left. While a repeat of his last season in LA is probably not likely, it is possible that he could put up an OPS in the .850-.900 level.
Besides Lowell, the Sox also have Varitek and Hermida on their bench. And in a game at the Bank, they'd probably have Ortiz as well. The Red Sox might end up having the best bench in all of baseball in 2010.
The 2010 Red Sox lineup won't be as dangerous as the 2009 Yankee lineup. However, they might be as good as the 2010 Yankee lineup. It's a deep and balanced lineup with good on-base guys at the top and solid run producers all the way down to the number nine spot. And with their bench, they will have pinch hitters they can use during a World Series game at the Bank. Phille pitching has already been discussed in part one of this article. To summarize, Phillie starting pitching as well as the bullpen should be slightly improved in 2010. And there is still the very strong possibility that the Phillies bring in another quality starter by the trade deadline.
The Phillies probably won't get shelled by this lineup like they did in the 2009 World Series. But they probably won't be able to shut them down either, even with Doc or Cole on the mound.
Written by krukster
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