RED SOX
-Six man rotation? It's a possibility. I still like the traditional five man more because it promotes a regimen. If you got the arms though, it might not hurt to try it out.
- Beckett didn't pitch masterfully in his last spring training game(possibly with the Red Sox) giving up 3 runs over six innings of work. Mike Lowell went 2-3 with Texas scouts watching. No word if a deal is coming of this.
- Dice-K and Boof Bonser will not be available Opening Day due to injuries. Dick-K is progressing though having pitched a simulated game today. At the end of the week, he will start a game in the minors. Bonser participated in drills with a brace and pitched a simulated game. Word is a bullpen session on Wednesday. Junichi Tazawa is seeing a doctor to look at his elbow(tightness). Tazawa will be opening the season more than likely in AAA. RP Manny Delcarmen's velocity is still down as he's adjusted his mechanics, but remains optimistic that he's getting back to his old self. Only two spots remain for the bullpen and four guys battle for a slot: Scott Atchinson, Scot Schoenweis, Alan Embree, and Joe Nelson.
- The Sox sent C Dusty Brown and INF Kevin Frandsen down to Pawtucket and assigned C Gustavo Molina and 3B Jorge Jimenez to minor league camp trimming the roster to 35. The Sox still must eliminate 10 players by Saturday.
PHILLIES
- Kyle Kendrick makes his final bid for the last spot in the rotation today against the Astros. He'll need a hell of a performance after Jamie Moyer's gem last weekend.
- The Phils cut 10 from camp today including Brad Wilkerson.
- J.C. Romero pitched his first inning today handling AAA-AA guys well. Today was a big step for me," Romero said in the clubhouse at Bright House Field. "I was very pleased with the outcome today. The good thing is that I was throwing a lot of strikes. My arm speed was outstanding."(T.Zolecki interview)
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
BOS, PHL, NYM Notes
Red Sox
- Brian Shouse has been released despite holding opponents under a run an outing. The 41 year old will be looking for employment and the Phils could use another arm in their pen. The Sox signed Scott Schownweis a short time later to a minor league deal. He has until April 15 to opt out should he not make the bigs. Only two spots remain in the pen leaving Alan Embree, Joe Nelson, Scott Atchinson, Boof Bonser, and Schoenweis. My odds are Bonser and Atchinson are on the outside looking in.
- The Red Sox acquired 2B/SS Kevin Frandsen from the Giants for a player to be named. Frandsen hit .240 for the Giants last year. Frandsen can be sent down this year to AAA (which is very likely given the roster spots left).
- Mike Lowell has a knee contusion and on top of that the trade talks have begun again as of Friday.
- The 2010 goes: Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, john Lackey, Tim Wakefield, and Clay Buchholz will start the season. Dice-K may slide in when someone goes down after his return from the DL.
METS
- Jon Niese and Nelson Figueroa are inching closer to grabbing a spot on the ML roster. Niese would be a starter and Figueroa would be in the bullpen. Manager Jerry Manuel made it clear that Fernando Nieve is headed for bullpen duties where's needed which should practically hand Niese the job. Figueroa has looked impressive this spring and could be the long man in the pen.
- Pedro Feliciano wants to be K-Rod's set-up man. Feliciano's competition is Kiko Calero, Ryota Igarashi, and possibly Jennry Mejia. Feliciano has been one of the most reliable relievers on the Mets staff as of late. "I see [J.J.] Putz is gone, and nobody's set up as the setup man," Feliciano said. "I want to get that position. I want to win it. I'm working with the righties like I'm doing with the lefties. And I just want to leave Spring Training as the setup man." - interview with MLB.com's Alden Gonzalez
PHILLIES
- Did someone turn up the heat on Kyle Kendrick and Jamie Moyer. The two are having a battle for the ages in hopes of attaining the fifth spot in the rotation. Kendrick threw 5.2 innings giving up 1 earned run over five hits, two walks and a K. Moyer meanwhile gave up one hit, six K's and no walks against the Yanks in 6.2 innings. Moyer wins this race in my mind despite how strong Kendrick has been.
- Raul Ibanez has struggles since returning from off-season surgery, but will be playing in minor league games to find his rhythm. The organization isn't worried about his struggles. "He's having trouble finding his timing," manager Charlie Manuel said. "When he gets it, you'll see. It's hard to explain. Sometimes you have a hard time really finding your swing. And you try, and you try, and you try, and it seems like forever you're not hitting. The worst thing you can do is really start thinking about digging a big hole for yourself. All of a sudden, one day you might walk out there and a guy throws a ball and you hit a couple right on the nose, and you're right back to square one and you start hitting good again. I've got all the faith in the world in him. I know he can hit." -interview with Todd Zolecki of MLB.com
- Brian Shouse has been released despite holding opponents under a run an outing. The 41 year old will be looking for employment and the Phils could use another arm in their pen. The Sox signed Scott Schownweis a short time later to a minor league deal. He has until April 15 to opt out should he not make the bigs. Only two spots remain in the pen leaving Alan Embree, Joe Nelson, Scott Atchinson, Boof Bonser, and Schoenweis. My odds are Bonser and Atchinson are on the outside looking in.
- The Red Sox acquired 2B/SS Kevin Frandsen from the Giants for a player to be named. Frandsen hit .240 for the Giants last year. Frandsen can be sent down this year to AAA (which is very likely given the roster spots left).
- Mike Lowell has a knee contusion and on top of that the trade talks have begun again as of Friday.
- The 2010 goes: Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, john Lackey, Tim Wakefield, and Clay Buchholz will start the season. Dice-K may slide in when someone goes down after his return from the DL.
METS
- Jon Niese and Nelson Figueroa are inching closer to grabbing a spot on the ML roster. Niese would be a starter and Figueroa would be in the bullpen. Manager Jerry Manuel made it clear that Fernando Nieve is headed for bullpen duties where's needed which should practically hand Niese the job. Figueroa has looked impressive this spring and could be the long man in the pen.
- Pedro Feliciano wants to be K-Rod's set-up man. Feliciano's competition is Kiko Calero, Ryota Igarashi, and possibly Jennry Mejia. Feliciano has been one of the most reliable relievers on the Mets staff as of late. "I see [J.J.] Putz is gone, and nobody's set up as the setup man," Feliciano said. "I want to get that position. I want to win it. I'm working with the righties like I'm doing with the lefties. And I just want to leave Spring Training as the setup man." - interview with MLB.com's Alden Gonzalez
PHILLIES
- Did someone turn up the heat on Kyle Kendrick and Jamie Moyer. The two are having a battle for the ages in hopes of attaining the fifth spot in the rotation. Kendrick threw 5.2 innings giving up 1 earned run over five hits, two walks and a K. Moyer meanwhile gave up one hit, six K's and no walks against the Yanks in 6.2 innings. Moyer wins this race in my mind despite how strong Kendrick has been.
- Raul Ibanez has struggles since returning from off-season surgery, but will be playing in minor league games to find his rhythm. The organization isn't worried about his struggles. "He's having trouble finding his timing," manager Charlie Manuel said. "When he gets it, you'll see. It's hard to explain. Sometimes you have a hard time really finding your swing. And you try, and you try, and you try, and it seems like forever you're not hitting. The worst thing you can do is really start thinking about digging a big hole for yourself. All of a sudden, one day you might walk out there and a guy throws a ball and you hit a couple right on the nose, and you're right back to square one and you start hitting good again. I've got all the faith in the world in him. I know he can hit." -interview with Todd Zolecki of MLB.com
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Red Sox notes
- Dustin Pedroia left a game earlier this week after taking an awkward landing while diving to stop a Denard Span single. X-rays taken today yesterday came back negative. "I rolled my wrist," Pedroia said. "I'll take BP tomorrow and then play the next day. That's it. I'm good. There's nothing. It's more spring training [precaution]. It hurt at the time and then they just took me out of the game. So, no big deal." (ESPNBoston.com)
- Should Alan Embree make the team, either Brian Shouse or Joe Nelson will be released. Shouse can bail as early as April while Nelson has until June.
- While it's not confirm 100%, Gordon Edes writes, "Signs point to Josh Beckett opening the season against the Yanks on April 4th."
- Alan Embree had a strong outing in his minor league game throwing 12 pitches, 11 for strikes. He'll pitch in a big league game this weekend.
- Daiskue Matusuzaka has been "ruled out" for the first few few weeks of the season to give him more time to to rehabilitate and train according to manager Terry Francona.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- Should Alan Embree make the team, either Brian Shouse or Joe Nelson will be released. Shouse can bail as early as April while Nelson has until June.
- While it's not confirm 100%, Gordon Edes writes, "Signs point to Josh Beckett opening the season against the Yanks on April 4th."
- Alan Embree had a strong outing in his minor league game throwing 12 pitches, 11 for strikes. He'll pitch in a big league game this weekend.
- Daiskue Matusuzaka has been "ruled out" for the first few few weeks of the season to give him more time to to rehabilitate and train according to manager Terry Francona.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
BOS, NYM, PHL Notes
RED SOX
- The Sox are looking for a back-up SS due to Jed Lowrie's unfortunate health issues. Bill Hall tried out yesterday, but committed two errors. Marco Scutaro is the primary, but coming off his late season injury is still a concern. Will we hear of talks of Dustin Pedroia backing him up and maybe a back-up 2B?
- If reliever Brian Shouse doesn't make the team, there's a possibility he may retire rather than report to Pawtucket where Scott Atchinson and Joe Nelson may find themselves. Alan Embree is said to have the inside track to be the lefty specialist behind Hideki Okajima, but may not be ready for Opening Day. He can opt out of his contract on April 15th.
- After the shelling Boof Bonser took (5 runs, 6 hits) in his start yesterday against the Rays, he looks like he could be headed to the pen if he decides to stay with Boston. A few teams have interest in acquiring him. According to Gordon Edes, Bonser has a groin issue.
- Jorge Jimenez was returned to the organization by the Marlins. The Red Sox gave 25K back to Florida.
PHILLIES
- Placido Polanco returned to the line-up on Sunday after spraining his knee earlier last week.
- The Phils plan on twelve pitchers on the Opening Day roster. Roy Hallday, Cole Hamels, Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ round out the penciled in starters. Kyle Kendrick and Moyer are still battling for the last slot. Moyer had a strong outing against the Orioles. Whoever loses, goes to the pen with Antonio Bastardo, Jose Contreras, Danys Baez, Chad Durbin, Ryan Madson, and David Herndon. Mike Zagurski was sent down to AAA, but expect to see him make an appearance at some point this season.
- The Phils aren't the only ones that want Jayson Werth. The Yankees are looking at him and Carl Crawford as possibilities next off-season.
METS
- Catching is a hot topic in NY these days. The team has five catchers available to them. Josh Thole is almost certainly headed to Buffalo and Omir Santos maybe as well. With Barajas and Blanco on the roster, doesn't leave much room for Chris Coste unless one of the two go down very soon. Santos and Thole will battle season round to get the call-up and will more than likely happen due to the aging catchers ability to play.
- 1B Ike Davis made enough of an impression that he will almost certainly get the call in mid-season to join the Mets. As for Daniel Murphy, this is not good news.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- The Sox are looking for a back-up SS due to Jed Lowrie's unfortunate health issues. Bill Hall tried out yesterday, but committed two errors. Marco Scutaro is the primary, but coming off his late season injury is still a concern. Will we hear of talks of Dustin Pedroia backing him up and maybe a back-up 2B?
- If reliever Brian Shouse doesn't make the team, there's a possibility he may retire rather than report to Pawtucket where Scott Atchinson and Joe Nelson may find themselves. Alan Embree is said to have the inside track to be the lefty specialist behind Hideki Okajima, but may not be ready for Opening Day. He can opt out of his contract on April 15th.
- After the shelling Boof Bonser took (5 runs, 6 hits) in his start yesterday against the Rays, he looks like he could be headed to the pen if he decides to stay with Boston. A few teams have interest in acquiring him. According to Gordon Edes, Bonser has a groin issue.
- Jorge Jimenez was returned to the organization by the Marlins. The Red Sox gave 25K back to Florida.
PHILLIES
- Placido Polanco returned to the line-up on Sunday after spraining his knee earlier last week.
- The Phils plan on twelve pitchers on the Opening Day roster. Roy Hallday, Cole Hamels, Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ round out the penciled in starters. Kyle Kendrick and Moyer are still battling for the last slot. Moyer had a strong outing against the Orioles. Whoever loses, goes to the pen with Antonio Bastardo, Jose Contreras, Danys Baez, Chad Durbin, Ryan Madson, and David Herndon. Mike Zagurski was sent down to AAA, but expect to see him make an appearance at some point this season.
- The Phils aren't the only ones that want Jayson Werth. The Yankees are looking at him and Carl Crawford as possibilities next off-season.
METS
- Catching is a hot topic in NY these days. The team has five catchers available to them. Josh Thole is almost certainly headed to Buffalo and Omir Santos maybe as well. With Barajas and Blanco on the roster, doesn't leave much room for Chris Coste unless one of the two go down very soon. Santos and Thole will battle season round to get the call-up and will more than likely happen due to the aging catchers ability to play.
- 1B Ike Davis made enough of an impression that he will almost certainly get the call in mid-season to join the Mets. As for Daniel Murphy, this is not good news.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Mets notes
- Marty Noble (Mets beat writer) says that Alex Cora will be the primary SS while Jose Reyes recovers. Rueben Tejada will be his back-up.
- Fernando Martinez is beginning to live up to the expectations the team had when he was acquired in the Santana deal and is less likely to be traded now.
- Expect Ike Davis, Fernando Martinez, Chris Carter and Jennry Mejia to start the season in the minors despite their strong springs.
- P Pedro Feliciano is ok after taking a liner to the knee in Thursday night's game. Expect him back on the mound soon.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- Fernando Martinez is beginning to live up to the expectations the team had when he was acquired in the Santana deal and is less likely to be traded now.
- Expect Ike Davis, Fernando Martinez, Chris Carter and Jennry Mejia to start the season in the minors despite their strong springs.
- P Pedro Feliciano is ok after taking a liner to the knee in Thursday night's game. Expect him back on the mound soon.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Friday, March 19, 2010
Phillies Notes
- Brad Lidge threw 16 pitches in an inning of work in AA game. J.C. Romero is back on the mound throwing bullpen sessions. He threw 20+ today and said in an interview with Todd Zolecki, "Right now, I'm good. I'm going through everything I need to do with no pain. I'm happy with everything that's going on right now." Both Lidge and Romero won't be rushed back for Opening Day.
- Chase Utley has been sitting out with an upper respiratory infection since Monday. He took some BP and fielding practice today, but probably won't play until Friday if he's up to it. Placido Polanco feels better after his sprained knee over the weekend. He may get some time in Friday's game.
- Prospect OF Domonic Brown was sent down to minor league camp after he went 3-3 with 2HRs and 4RBIs against the Tigers on Tuesday. Easily one of the most exciting prospects currently in the Phils system, Brown should make some appearances later this season given what he's shown Charlie Manuel.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- Chase Utley has been sitting out with an upper respiratory infection since Monday. He took some BP and fielding practice today, but probably won't play until Friday if he's up to it. Placido Polanco feels better after his sprained knee over the weekend. He may get some time in Friday's game.
- Prospect OF Domonic Brown was sent down to minor league camp after he went 3-3 with 2HRs and 4RBIs against the Tigers on Tuesday. Easily one of the most exciting prospects currently in the Phils system, Brown should make some appearances later this season given what he's shown Charlie Manuel.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Red Sox notes
- Dice-K's rehab continues to progress as yesterday he took the mound against minor leaguers. He threw about 40 pitches yesterday and is scheduled for a bullpen session Friday and two innings of a minor league game Saturday according to pitching coach John Farrell.
- SS Jed Lowrie has been diagnosed with mononucleosis. He complained of extreme fatigue and went through a battery of tests. He's working lightly now.
- John Lackey continues epic numbers during this spring posting four scoreless innings yesterday in a Red Sox loss.
- The Red Sox are considering bringing back old friend, reliever Alan Embree. Embree, a vital part of the 2004 bullpen, has worked out for Sox officials a few days ago. The Sox sent down Dustin Richardson.
- Manny Delcarmen and Terry Francona aren't worried about Delcarmen's low velocity.
"It's still not where it will be,'' Francona said of his velocity. "Part of that is, you can get out there and your mechanics are a little off, so you go and have an extended side, which they did about a week ago. So you're going to have a little dead arm, dead body.
- Clay Buchholz will pitch a minor league game Friday while the rest of the team has a day off.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- SS Jed Lowrie has been diagnosed with mononucleosis. He complained of extreme fatigue and went through a battery of tests. He's working lightly now.
- John Lackey continues epic numbers during this spring posting four scoreless innings yesterday in a Red Sox loss.
- The Red Sox are considering bringing back old friend, reliever Alan Embree. Embree, a vital part of the 2004 bullpen, has worked out for Sox officials a few days ago. The Sox sent down Dustin Richardson.
- Manny Delcarmen and Terry Francona aren't worried about Delcarmen's low velocity.
"It's still not where it will be,'' Francona said of his velocity. "Part of that is, you can get out there and your mechanics are a little off, so you go and have an extended side, which they did about a week ago. So you're going to have a little dead arm, dead body.
- Clay Buchholz will pitch a minor league game Friday while the rest of the team has a day off.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Phils and Sox Notes
Phillies
- Ryan Howard is unfazed by the rumor of being traded for Albert Pujols.
- 3B Placido Polanco left yesterday's game early with a sprained knee after stumbling on the pitcher's mound fielding a pop-up. Polanco isn't worried about it. "When it first happens, you really get scared," Polanco said. "You don't know what's happening. It doesn't feel right. But now that the doctor took a look at it, it's nothing big at all. ... It's getting better now already after the icing and all that. It's just the back of the knee," Polanco said in an interview with beat writer Todd Zolecki. "It's probably hyperextended a little bit -- irritated."
- Jamie Moyer's bid for the final rotation spot took a serious turn after he was pounded by the Jays in "B" game giving up five runs on eight hits. Kyle Kendrick is still wowing all and looks to be the fifth starter at this point.
Red Sox
- Mike Lowell saw his first action this spring surprisingly at first base going 1-2 in three innings of play.
- After having neck issues backtrack him, Daisuke Matsuzaka will pitch batting practice on Wednesday.
- Jed Lowrie is undergoing tests to find out the cause of his "extreme fatigue." Lowrie has had so much trouble staying healthy and being productive that at this point I think he's a lost cause for the organization. Lowrie's gone 2-9 in limited action this spring and hasn't played in the last three games.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- Ryan Howard is unfazed by the rumor of being traded for Albert Pujols.
- 3B Placido Polanco left yesterday's game early with a sprained knee after stumbling on the pitcher's mound fielding a pop-up. Polanco isn't worried about it. "When it first happens, you really get scared," Polanco said. "You don't know what's happening. It doesn't feel right. But now that the doctor took a look at it, it's nothing big at all. ... It's getting better now already after the icing and all that. It's just the back of the knee," Polanco said in an interview with beat writer Todd Zolecki. "It's probably hyperextended a little bit -- irritated."
- Jamie Moyer's bid for the final rotation spot took a serious turn after he was pounded by the Jays in "B" game giving up five runs on eight hits. Kyle Kendrick is still wowing all and looks to be the fifth starter at this point.
Red Sox
- Mike Lowell saw his first action this spring surprisingly at first base going 1-2 in three innings of play.
- After having neck issues backtrack him, Daisuke Matsuzaka will pitch batting practice on Wednesday.
- Jed Lowrie is undergoing tests to find out the cause of his "extreme fatigue." Lowrie has had so much trouble staying healthy and being productive that at this point I think he's a lost cause for the organization. Lowrie's gone 2-9 in limited action this spring and hasn't played in the last three games.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Mets, Phillies, Red Sox Notes
METS
- With Jose Reyes sidelined, David Murphy, Jason Bay, and David Wright look to be the most likely to bat third in the line-up.
- Alex Cora and non-roster invitee Rueben Tejada are in heated competition for the final bench spot. Cora should win because of his experience and Tejada should be headed to the minors to work on his defense (21 errors in AA).
PHILLIES
- The Phils sent 14 down to minors camp: Pitchers - Phillipe Aumont, Yohan Flande, Scott Mathieson, J.C. Ramirez, Drew Naylor, Joe Savery, Jesus Sanchez and Bill White. Positon players include: Catchers Tuffy Gosewisch, Joe Sumoi and Kevin Nelson, INF Freddy Galvis, and OF's Tyson Gillies and Quintin Berry.
- Brad Lidge and J.C. Romero are hoping to make Opening Day, but the organization doesn't want to rush their return.
RED SOX
- Josh Beckett was scratched from his start due to illness today. Ryne Miller will take his place and Jason Varitek will make his first start this spring training.
- The Sox sent 14 down to the minors including young studs Casey Kelly and Jose Iglesias. Both had successful springs, but have more work to put in. Other players sent down are: Pitchers Adam Mills, Kris Johnson, Kyle Weiland, Radnor Bierd, and Robert Manuel, OF's Ryan Kalish and Che-Hsuan Lin, catcher Luis Exposito, and INF Yamaico Navarro.
- OF prospect Ryan Westmoreland will have brain surgery this week to fix a rare vascular disease diagnosed as a "cavernous malformation." It is unclear if this is detrimental to his career, but it can be deadly if left untreated.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- With Jose Reyes sidelined, David Murphy, Jason Bay, and David Wright look to be the most likely to bat third in the line-up.
- Alex Cora and non-roster invitee Rueben Tejada are in heated competition for the final bench spot. Cora should win because of his experience and Tejada should be headed to the minors to work on his defense (21 errors in AA).
PHILLIES
- The Phils sent 14 down to minors camp: Pitchers - Phillipe Aumont, Yohan Flande, Scott Mathieson, J.C. Ramirez, Drew Naylor, Joe Savery, Jesus Sanchez and Bill White. Positon players include: Catchers Tuffy Gosewisch, Joe Sumoi and Kevin Nelson, INF Freddy Galvis, and OF's Tyson Gillies and Quintin Berry.
- Brad Lidge and J.C. Romero are hoping to make Opening Day, but the organization doesn't want to rush their return.
RED SOX
- Josh Beckett was scratched from his start due to illness today. Ryne Miller will take his place and Jason Varitek will make his first start this spring training.
- The Sox sent 14 down to the minors including young studs Casey Kelly and Jose Iglesias. Both had successful springs, but have more work to put in. Other players sent down are: Pitchers Adam Mills, Kris Johnson, Kyle Weiland, Radnor Bierd, and Robert Manuel, OF's Ryan Kalish and Che-Hsuan Lin, catcher Luis Exposito, and INF Yamaico Navarro.
- OF prospect Ryan Westmoreland will have brain surgery this week to fix a rare vascular disease diagnosed as a "cavernous malformation." It is unclear if this is detrimental to his career, but it can be deadly if left untreated.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Friday, March 12, 2010
Red Sox, Mets, and Phillies notes
METS
- Jose Reyes is lost for 2-8 weeks after being prescribe rest for his thyroid imbalance. This is a big blow to the team considering Beltran is out until May.
- The Mets fell to the Red Sox 8-2 Thursday. Mike Pelfrey struggles to get going and Ryota Igarashi wasn't much better. Pedro Feliciano pitched a scoreless frame. J-Bay was 0-2 against his old team.
- Kelvim Escobar could be thinking about retirement if his arm doesn't get better. Escobar has only pitched five innings total in two years because of various injuries. Currently, he's awaiting to have an MRI unless the pain fades away.
RED SOX
- John Lackey dazzled again on the mound Thursday.
- The Red Sox and Josh Beckett could have a "pact within the next few weeks," according to Ian Browne.
- Jason Bay endorsed the Red Sox offense and says "They'll be fine."
PHILLIES
- Joe Blanton was fantastic as the Phils tamed the Tigers 4-0. Blanton threw four scoreless frames. Raul Ibanez went yard which was a sigh of relief after his off-season surgery.
- Placido Polanco wanted to come back to Philly so much, he skipped staying in Detroit and going to arbitration.
- Right now, the Phillies pitching staff looks stronger than expected. David Herndon, Yohan Flande, and Joe Savery just may make the bullpen this season.
- Jose Reyes is lost for 2-8 weeks after being prescribe rest for his thyroid imbalance. This is a big blow to the team considering Beltran is out until May.
- The Mets fell to the Red Sox 8-2 Thursday. Mike Pelfrey struggles to get going and Ryota Igarashi wasn't much better. Pedro Feliciano pitched a scoreless frame. J-Bay was 0-2 against his old team.
- Kelvim Escobar could be thinking about retirement if his arm doesn't get better. Escobar has only pitched five innings total in two years because of various injuries. Currently, he's awaiting to have an MRI unless the pain fades away.
RED SOX
- John Lackey dazzled again on the mound Thursday.
- The Red Sox and Josh Beckett could have a "pact within the next few weeks," according to Ian Browne.
- Jason Bay endorsed the Red Sox offense and says "They'll be fine."
PHILLIES
- Joe Blanton was fantastic as the Phils tamed the Tigers 4-0. Blanton threw four scoreless frames. Raul Ibanez went yard which was a sigh of relief after his off-season surgery.
- Placido Polanco wanted to come back to Philly so much, he skipped staying in Detroit and going to arbitration.
- Right now, the Phillies pitching staff looks stronger than expected. David Herndon, Yohan Flande, and Joe Savery just may make the bullpen this season.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Thank you
Nomar Garciaparra signed a one day minor league deal with the Red Sox today and promptly retired. After thirteen seasons, the 35 year old decided he "had nothing left in the tank." Given his last two seasons performance, I can see why. His celebrity status around the majors had almost left as soon as he was traded from Boston mid 2004. The Sox fan had soured of Nomar's tantrums and knew it was his time to go. He left and we won a World Series. In an odd way, Nomie was responsible for the first title in 86 years. Today, we got our chance to thank him for his sacrifice. He leaves the game with a career .313 BA, 229 HRs, 963 RBIs, .361 OBP and .521 SLG percentage in 5,586 at bats. He wasn't a slouch in the playoffs hitting 7HRS, 24RBIs, .321 BA, .361 OBP, and a .589 SLG. He leaves with a career .975 FLD percentage. He had numerous all-star nominations and appearances. The only thing Garciaparra didn't achieved was a coveted WS ring. Will Nomar make the Hall of Fame? I'm sure, but he'll have a bit of wait with the current guys trying to make it. As for now, he'll start his new job as baseball analyst at ESPN on Baseball Tonight and color analysis on some games.
By mid 2004 before his surprising departure, I had grown weary of him and his attitude in the clubhouse. You could sometimes feel his anger through the t.v. screen if they panned a shot of him sitting in the dug-out. You forgot about the acrobatic finesse he displayed on the field rivaled only by Derek Jeter. Fans forgot how important he was in the line-up. The day when they traded him to the Cubs, and we we're shocked....shocked seeing a franchise icon we all were sure was retiring in a Red Sox uni. The feeling of anger dissipated and the questions arose if Orlando Cabrera or any other Red Sox SS could measure up. Well, today that day came....and an entire nation tipped their hats and said, "Thank you."
By mid 2004 before his surprising departure, I had grown weary of him and his attitude in the clubhouse. You could sometimes feel his anger through the t.v. screen if they panned a shot of him sitting in the dug-out. You forgot about the acrobatic finesse he displayed on the field rivaled only by Derek Jeter. Fans forgot how important he was in the line-up. The day when they traded him to the Cubs, and we we're shocked....shocked seeing a franchise icon we all were sure was retiring in a Red Sox uni. The feeling of anger dissipated and the questions arose if Orlando Cabrera or any other Red Sox SS could measure up. Well, today that day came....and an entire nation tipped their hats and said, "Thank you."
Red Sox, Mets, Phillies Notes
- Derrick Turnbow is feeling good after his first bullpen session and is likely to see action this weekend.
- Josh Reddick ripped the Marlins for three hits and Tim Wakefiled pitched three shut-out innings in a 9-0 win.
METS
- Jose Reyes does have an overactive thyroid. He will be staying in New York to figure out a course of treatment.
- K-Rod is back. Although, he's considering wearing glasses on the mound. Dorky? Not a chance when the opposing batters can't touch you (see five year stats with Angels).
- Johan Santana made his debut looking healthy throwing 47 pitches in a Mets win. Ike Davis and David Wright homered for the Metsies.
PHILLIES
- Despite pitching well this spring, pitching coach Rich Dubee says, "Kyle Kendrick must take the spot from Jamie Moyer."
- Roy Halladay continues to dazzle. He's got 8 K's in five innings of work.
- Josh Reddick ripped the Marlins for three hits and Tim Wakefiled pitched three shut-out innings in a 9-0 win.
METS
- Jose Reyes does have an overactive thyroid. He will be staying in New York to figure out a course of treatment.
- K-Rod is back. Although, he's considering wearing glasses on the mound. Dorky? Not a chance when the opposing batters can't touch you (see five year stats with Angels).
- Johan Santana made his debut looking healthy throwing 47 pitches in a Mets win. Ike Davis and David Wright homered for the Metsies.
PHILLIES
- Despite pitching well this spring, pitching coach Rich Dubee says, "Kyle Kendrick must take the spot from Jamie Moyer."
- Roy Halladay continues to dazzle. He's got 8 K's in five innings of work.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Red Sox, Mets Notes
- John Lackey pitched 2 scoreless frames on Saturday for the Sox with a strike-out in his debut. The question was presented to him about being the Opening Day starter was handled diplomatically by him. In Ian Browne's article on redsox.com Lackey says, "I'm not worried about that at all," Lackey said. "If the roles were reversed, and I would have stayed in Anaheim and those guys had come over there, I would expect to still be going first. I think those guys have earned the right. They've won a lot of games for [manager Terry Francona], and to go in front of me, I'm all right with that."
- From Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, "talks with Josh Beckett have been amicable, but not productive yet. Look for the Sox to base a deal like they did with J.D. Drew and John Lackey contracts in regards to medical history."
- Clay Buchholz gets the start today @ 1:05PM against Baltimore.
- Dice-K first side session(bullpen mound) was productive tossing 58 pitches, but only 10 of those were with the catcher crouched. Matsuzaka feels his back issues are gone.
METS
- Jose Reyes is being tested for a thyroid imbalance (hyperactive). Reyes has yet to start in a spring game, and won't be tested until tomorrow morning back in New York.
- F-Mart? Holy crap the guy lit the Nats up on Saturday?!?! Two solo HR's and two singles in the game and he left early! Great looking chance he makes the team, watch out Gary Matthews Jr., you may be headed to the Reds after all.
- Jon Niese and Fernando Nieve are "duking out it out for the fifth rotation spot," according to manager Jerry Manuel and MLB.com's Marty Noble.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
- From Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, "talks with Josh Beckett have been amicable, but not productive yet. Look for the Sox to base a deal like they did with J.D. Drew and John Lackey contracts in regards to medical history."
- Clay Buchholz gets the start today @ 1:05PM against Baltimore.
- Dice-K first side session(bullpen mound) was productive tossing 58 pitches, but only 10 of those were with the catcher crouched. Matsuzaka feels his back issues are gone.
METS
- Jose Reyes is being tested for a thyroid imbalance (hyperactive). Reyes has yet to start in a spring game, and won't be tested until tomorrow morning back in New York.
- F-Mart? Holy crap the guy lit the Nats up on Saturday?!?! Two solo HR's and two singles in the game and he left early! Great looking chance he makes the team, watch out Gary Matthews Jr., you may be headed to the Reds after all.
- Jon Niese and Fernando Nieve are "duking out it out for the fifth rotation spot," according to manager Jerry Manuel and MLB.com's Marty Noble.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Friday, March 5, 2010
Doc Vs. CC; Mets V. Cardinals; Sox v. Twins
So the Phils pulled out a 13-6 win yesterday and the Metsies beat the Braves again 9-5 on the arms of Pat Mistch and Fernando Martinez. Today the Mets conclude their series with the Braves, but all eyes will be on the World Series rematch featuring Roy Halladay against C.C. Sabathia. What can be more epic than this? A World Series rematch I guess. This time the Phils prevailed 3-2 with a strong performance by Halladay and the Phils relievers. The Phils one by the small game and by guys like Paul Hoover, Ozzie Chavez, etc. in the small game. Hallday pitched 2 inning of no significant damage baseball with 3K's. Cole Hamels will start against the Blue Jays Friday.
The rival Mets squeaked out a win over the Cards 17-11. Mid-way through the game didn't look promising for them, but they battled back and overtook the Cards in a see-saw affair. David Wright and prospect Ike Davis(who is having a fine spring training already) went long and the top of the order combined for 4-4 with 5 runs scored and 2RBIs. The offense looked fantastic. Jason Bay went 0-2 in his debut. R.A. Dickey's knuckleball danced nicely, but got him into trouble in the third. Tobi Stoner came into stop the bleeding surrendering only another run, but putting the Cards ahead. Jack Egbert had two shut out innings and Sean Green checked in before surrendering two more runs. Johnathan Niese will be starting Friday and in a split squad Fernando Nieve will start the other game. Word is Johan Santana will pitch on Tuesday.
The Red Sox won a nail-biter over the Twins in their Grapefruit League debut 2-1. Dustin Pedroia had two hits including the tying RBI in the sixth. Catching prospect Mark Wagner knocked in the winning run in the eighth. On the mound, Josh Beckett allowed 2 hits and a run over 2 innings of work. The bullpen shined including Ramon Ramirez, Daniel Bard, Hideki Okajima, and Johnathon Papelbon all pitched scoreless innnings. Jon Lester will face the Twins at 1:05 tomorrow with Tim Wakefield backing him up. It will also be Mike Cameron's debut.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
The rival Mets squeaked out a win over the Cards 17-11. Mid-way through the game didn't look promising for them, but they battled back and overtook the Cards in a see-saw affair. David Wright and prospect Ike Davis(who is having a fine spring training already) went long and the top of the order combined for 4-4 with 5 runs scored and 2RBIs. The offense looked fantastic. Jason Bay went 0-2 in his debut. R.A. Dickey's knuckleball danced nicely, but got him into trouble in the third. Tobi Stoner came into stop the bleeding surrendering only another run, but putting the Cards ahead. Jack Egbert had two shut out innings and Sean Green checked in before surrendering two more runs. Johnathan Niese will be starting Friday and in a split squad Fernando Nieve will start the other game. Word is Johan Santana will pitch on Tuesday.
The Red Sox won a nail-biter over the Twins in their Grapefruit League debut 2-1. Dustin Pedroia had two hits including the tying RBI in the sixth. Catching prospect Mark Wagner knocked in the winning run in the eighth. On the mound, Josh Beckett allowed 2 hits and a run over 2 innings of work. The bullpen shined including Ramon Ramirez, Daniel Bard, Hideki Okajima, and Johnathon Papelbon all pitched scoreless innnings. Jon Lester will face the Twins at 1:05 tomorrow with Tim Wakefield backing him up. It will also be Mike Cameron's debut.
Check out: http://www.sportsjabber.net
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Sox and Phils play their first exhibitions
Today, the Phillies are taking on Florida State University while not too far away the Sox are playing Northeastern U. J.A. Happ will get the ball for the Phils on Wedensday. The next day is a rematch of the World Series pitting Roy Halladay against C.C. Sabathia. For a Pillies update though, Shane Victorino will not be playing Wedensday and possibly Thursday due to some soreness in his shoulder. J.C. Romero and Brad Lidge have begun throwing off the mound making steady progress in their returns. Lidge says he's "pain-free, but still slow moving in the right direction." Lidge plan to throw off the mound every other day until he's ready to face live hitters. Romero on the other hand will throw every third day.
As of right now the Phils are down 6-4 against FSU in the bottom of the 5th. Rollins, Ransom, Schnieder, prospect Domonic Brown, and Ibanez lead the with Phils hits and RBIs. Phillipe Aumont has been blasted to the tune of 5 runs, 2 hits, 3 walks, and a HR. Yohan Flande followed giving up another. Happ pitched two scoreless innings with 1 walk and 1 K. To this point, the Phils have left too many guys on base.
Wedensday is the culmination of over a year of the arrival of Casey Kelly. He'll pitch the Northeastern game and Boof Bonser will pitch the B.C. night game. Daisuke Matsuzaka threw from 180-200 ft Tuesday in efforts to return from his injury beleaguered 2009. Manager Terry Francona said, ""That was about as good a day, I think, as you could have. I don't think you can throw the ball like that and not be totally healthy. So probably start thinking about toward the end of the week, getting him some real mound work where he's throwing some sides and throwing to hitters and going through that progression. But that was a real, real good day." As of tonight, it's been confirmed by MLB Network that Dice-K will throw a regular side session on Friday. Mike Lowell got his first hacks in today. His status is yet to be seen, but Francona is confident he can be an asset to the Sox. Francona also mentioned Mike Cameron is progressing from his groin injury.
The Sox pounded Northeastern U today 15-0. Casey Kelly pitched one inning--but had two K's, no hits, no runs. Gil Velazquez had two hits with 2RBIS in a Sox 3 run 2nd. Jed Lowrie was 1-1 with an RBI as well. C Luis Esposito went 1-1 with 2 RBIs and David Ortiz went yard for 2 more.
Against BC a few hours later, Boof Bonser picked up the win. Ryan Kalish, Jose Iglesias, and Kevin Youk starred on offense while Michael Bowden and Junichi Tazawa dazzled on the mound.
As of right now the Phils are down 6-4 against FSU in the bottom of the 5th. Rollins, Ransom, Schnieder, prospect Domonic Brown, and Ibanez lead the with Phils hits and RBIs. Phillipe Aumont has been blasted to the tune of 5 runs, 2 hits, 3 walks, and a HR. Yohan Flande followed giving up another. Happ pitched two scoreless innings with 1 walk and 1 K. To this point, the Phils have left too many guys on base.
Wedensday is the culmination of over a year of the arrival of Casey Kelly. He'll pitch the Northeastern game and Boof Bonser will pitch the B.C. night game. Daisuke Matsuzaka threw from 180-200 ft Tuesday in efforts to return from his injury beleaguered 2009. Manager Terry Francona said, ""That was about as good a day, I think, as you could have. I don't think you can throw the ball like that and not be totally healthy. So probably start thinking about toward the end of the week, getting him some real mound work where he's throwing some sides and throwing to hitters and going through that progression. But that was a real, real good day." As of tonight, it's been confirmed by MLB Network that Dice-K will throw a regular side session on Friday. Mike Lowell got his first hacks in today. His status is yet to be seen, but Francona is confident he can be an asset to the Sox. Francona also mentioned Mike Cameron is progressing from his groin injury.
The Sox pounded Northeastern U today 15-0. Casey Kelly pitched one inning--but had two K's, no hits, no runs. Gil Velazquez had two hits with 2RBIS in a Sox 3 run 2nd. Jed Lowrie was 1-1 with an RBI as well. C Luis Esposito went 1-1 with 2 RBIs and David Ortiz went yard for 2 more.
Against BC a few hours later, Boof Bonser picked up the win. Ryan Kalish, Jose Iglesias, and Kevin Youk starred on offense while Michael Bowden and Junichi Tazawa dazzled on the mound.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Mets Report
The Mets have survived the Jose Reyes drama. Reyes denies using HGH, but going with a platelet-enriching therapy process. You'd have to be stupid to think Reyes was on HGH ever. I mean Reyes isn't too small of a guy, but he doesn't look like Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, etc. One thing no one will argue is that Reyes looks ready for 2010. He ran out a triple and felt good after and intrasquad games Monday before the Mets first exhibition today against the Braves. Evidently, Carlos Beltran is now talking with agents about a treatment in Canada.
The Mets have been dealt a blow with setup man Kelvim Escobar going down. Escobar is feeling some fatigue in his right shoulder, but what can expect after having not thrown in a year. Now, Ryota Igarashi, Bobby Parnell and Sean Green will battle it out for the role until Escobar returns. My money is on Parnell, but look out for Igarashi. The team is still hoping to sign Joe Biemel or Ron Mahay. As of Saturday, Biemel has been holding out for $2M which the Mets aren't going to offer. Also, K-Rod has a bad case of pink eye, so he is currently unavailable.
The Metsies won their exhibition game four to two over the Braves. Elmer Dessens left the game after taking a Brian McCann liner to his knee. Starter Nelson Figeroua pitched nicely bailing them out of tight situations with K's. Bobby Livingston finished up the game. At the plate, Jesus Feliciano was the offensive spark with 2 singles and a sac fly to bring in a run. Russ Adams hit a home run. 1B prospect Ike Davis went 2-3 with a RBI. Jason Pridie and Ruben Tejada brought runners in. The fifth innning was huge for New York bringing in three runs. Castillo, Reyes, Bay, Francouer and Wright were out of the line-up due to field conditions.
The Mets have been dealt a blow with setup man Kelvim Escobar going down. Escobar is feeling some fatigue in his right shoulder, but what can expect after having not thrown in a year. Now, Ryota Igarashi, Bobby Parnell and Sean Green will battle it out for the role until Escobar returns. My money is on Parnell, but look out for Igarashi. The team is still hoping to sign Joe Biemel or Ron Mahay. As of Saturday, Biemel has been holding out for $2M which the Mets aren't going to offer. Also, K-Rod has a bad case of pink eye, so he is currently unavailable.
The Metsies won their exhibition game four to two over the Braves. Elmer Dessens left the game after taking a Brian McCann liner to his knee. Starter Nelson Figeroua pitched nicely bailing them out of tight situations with K's. Bobby Livingston finished up the game. At the plate, Jesus Feliciano was the offensive spark with 2 singles and a sac fly to bring in a run. Russ Adams hit a home run. 1B prospect Ike Davis went 2-3 with a RBI. Jason Pridie and Ruben Tejada brought runners in. The fifth innning was huge for New York bringing in three runs. Castillo, Reyes, Bay, Francouer and Wright were out of the line-up due to field conditions.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Red Sox Report; Ruiz to Sox?
The pitchers have been throwing batting practices getting this velocity back and endurance back up from the months off. The Sox haven't had any pitcher casualties yet, but Adrian Beltre missed two days of practice after misplaying a ball and stepping on twisting his ankle. Beltre has been taking BP, but should step out onto the field today. Dice-K is throwing from 150 ft away which is good news.
Casey Kelly has debuted at spring training throwing off the mound. He wasn't fazed by the big league experience impressing manager Terry Francona and pitching coach John Farell. “He has a very professional approach,” Farrell said. “He’s got genuine confidence in himself, and I mean that in the right way. He’s not cocky by any means. He’s very respectful. When you see him go about his work, he’s not in a rush.
He carries himself with a very good air about him, like one who genuinely is comfortable with himself, even being in big league camp for the first time." Kelly didn't have a problem hitting either. Kelly will make his pitching debut in spring training against Northeastern U on March 4th. Boof Bonser will get the nod against BC the next day followed by Beckett, Lester, Wakefield, and Lackey against Minnesota and Buchholz against the O's on Saturday.
Gordon Edes says, "David Ortiz's days could be numbered if he gets off to the start he did in 2009." The Sox have the option to pick him up for 2011, but given the depth at minor league level with Lars Anderson and Anthony Rizzo, Ortiz is definitely in trouble. What could spell more trouble is if the Red Sox sign Cuban defector Jose Julio Ruiz. Ruiz is similar to Ortiz (only and inch shorter) and a lefty bat which the Red Sox love to have. Ruiz could come at a much cheaper price than Ortiz and possibly more effective if he makes the team upon signing. Ruiz has been compared to Carlos Delgado in his prime before and is just twenty-five.
Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe reports if Mike Lowell doesn't wind-up sticking around, the Twins may be very interested. The Sox do want to keep his bat. The Sox would have to pay Lowell's $12M salary before the Twins would bite.
RP Manny Delcarmen is hoping to get back on track after his case of right shoulder fatigue last season. Evidently, when I cringed last season seeing him on the mound, he was cringing on it as well. Delcarmen didn't report any strangeness last season despite seeing his velocity slow down. He has promised to be more open about injuries even if he doesn't know he's suffering from them.
According to WEEI, Mike Cameron cut his workout short on Sunday with a sore leg. Turns out it's a groin. Cameron is doubtful to play in the first two games this week to prevent further injury and let his body catch up with his age.
Casey Kelly has debuted at spring training throwing off the mound. He wasn't fazed by the big league experience impressing manager Terry Francona and pitching coach John Farell. “He has a very professional approach,” Farrell said. “He’s got genuine confidence in himself, and I mean that in the right way. He’s not cocky by any means. He’s very respectful. When you see him go about his work, he’s not in a rush.
He carries himself with a very good air about him, like one who genuinely is comfortable with himself, even being in big league camp for the first time." Kelly didn't have a problem hitting either. Kelly will make his pitching debut in spring training against Northeastern U on March 4th. Boof Bonser will get the nod against BC the next day followed by Beckett, Lester, Wakefield, and Lackey against Minnesota and Buchholz against the O's on Saturday.
Gordon Edes says, "David Ortiz's days could be numbered if he gets off to the start he did in 2009." The Sox have the option to pick him up for 2011, but given the depth at minor league level with Lars Anderson and Anthony Rizzo, Ortiz is definitely in trouble. What could spell more trouble is if the Red Sox sign Cuban defector Jose Julio Ruiz. Ruiz is similar to Ortiz (only and inch shorter) and a lefty bat which the Red Sox love to have. Ruiz could come at a much cheaper price than Ortiz and possibly more effective if he makes the team upon signing. Ruiz has been compared to Carlos Delgado in his prime before and is just twenty-five.
Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe reports if Mike Lowell doesn't wind-up sticking around, the Twins may be very interested. The Sox do want to keep his bat. The Sox would have to pay Lowell's $12M salary before the Twins would bite.
RP Manny Delcarmen is hoping to get back on track after his case of right shoulder fatigue last season. Evidently, when I cringed last season seeing him on the mound, he was cringing on it as well. Delcarmen didn't report any strangeness last season despite seeing his velocity slow down. He has promised to be more open about injuries even if he doesn't know he's suffering from them.
According to WEEI, Mike Cameron cut his workout short on Sunday with a sore leg. Turns out it's a groin. Cameron is doubtful to play in the first two games this week to prevent further injury and let his body catch up with his age.
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