After stumbling upon this report about the Phillies, I found it quite interesting that Cole Hamels pitched "with anger at himself" last season. They've begun to question "Who is Cole Hamels?" Cole Hamels is the young phenom who had an unfortunate turn of events last season...not a lost puppy people feel he is. I'm not going to let him off the hook that the curveball hasn't been working and he basically quit on the Phils in the post-season. You can easily get down on yourself after going from 14-10; 3.09ERA to 10-11; 4.32ERA. What about the fact he slipped from a 15-5;3.39ERA to that same 2008 14-10; 3.09ERA. Players vary from year and sometimes having a lower ERA is better than the record despite the fact 9 times out of 10 it determines how much you win(When you give up a load of runs it's a lot harder to win). Hamels hasn't faced adversity like he did last season. He was a dominant minor league pitcher and quickly rose to stardom and all-star status. Everyone is bound to take a fall sooner or later (Ask any Yankee or any other ML'er about that). Hamels just has to get back to his roots and develop his curveball. We have yet to see if he's mentally and physically here yet seeing as no major stake games have been played yet.
Hamels made a huge mistake by saying, "I can't wait for the season to be over." It was blown out of context, but the media does that for reader and viewership. Hamels never wanted the season to end the way it did. Hamels loves pitching for the Phils and wanted to deliver a WS as quickly as possible. Cole should keep his mouth shut during spring training and focus on being that all-star he was. No doing press tours, commercials, appearances, etc that burned him out after the World Seris season. Instead, Cole should be saying to the media, "I'm born again, feeling great and am ready to part of the best 1-2 punch in the N.L. and deliver the great people of Philadelphia another October to remember."
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Delusions of Grandeur
As everyone has made it to St. Lucie, FL. , a lot of focus will be placed on hitting. I mean a lot of HITTING. That's something the Mets didn't do last season. The Mets brought in 671 runs while giving up 757. Obviously, you don't win games that way. Only one regular (Carlos Beltran, who missed a good portion of the season) had an OBP of over .400! As for the bench, they were abysmal( Andy Green was the only over .400 and had a total of four at bats). The good news is Carlos Beltran will be back. David Wright came to camp looking jacked and focused. Many criticized Wright for his loss of power last season, but could you blame him? He had no protection. Wright and Luis Castillo were the only ones moving around the bases combining for a total of 47 steals. Eleven players had zero long balls. If Angel Pagan didn't show up, there'd be almost no triples. CitiField is no picnic to hit in, but c'mon when half your bench can't get at least ten doubles where's the excuse?
I've noticed online on various sites that Jason Bay has become the second coming of Christ to Queens and the Mets are going to "bounce back." Now I'm a avid supporter of "JayBay" having played for my beloved Red Sox, but he had a load of protection. Bay played in a fantastic hitter's park enabling him to put up the numbers he did last year. His numbers show statistically lower from his Pirates days, but he halfed his numbers in two seasons with the Sox compared to the six with the Bucs. While Bay excelled with not much production in Pittsburgh, it won't be the case in New York where fans are rabid about the Amazins performance compared to the care-free Bucs fans. Should Beltran and Wright go down, Bay could slip up. While analysts and baseball professionals find Bay is impervious to pressure while playing, I find the constant clamor of a failing franchise to be a lot to hold unlike the successful period he had in Boston.
While Daniel Murphy had his test run last year, he certainly better not take this season as one or Ike Davis will be in the line-up come 2011. He was second in strikeouts last season. A .266 BA and .296 OBP is unacceptable for a regular. He did bat a lot of runs in and scored enough, though. What about Jeff Francouer? He needs to show the spark he brought after being traded from Atlanta. If he tanks the first half, don't think Angel Pagan or Gary Matthews Jr. won't be the starter and he will be dumped.
The catcher position is the other biggest concern the Mets should have. Omir Santos and Josh Thole probably won't make the majors unless someone gets injured. The fact that Rod Barajas is signed give the fans some relief because of the credibility that comes with the brand. But what about the back-ups Henry Blanco and Chris Coste? One blogger I read compared Blanco as "the Adam Everett of catchers." Really? This is what you shoot for? Coste runs his mouth right after he signs "that my heart will always be a Phillie." What no love for the 'Stros? The catcher position behind Barajas is down-right ugly.
I'm not even going to start on pitching. Obviously it needs to get better, but the Mets need to HIT and give RUN SUPPORT. So please Mets fans believing this the season everything turns around , curb your enthusiasm for this season.
I've noticed online on various sites that Jason Bay has become the second coming of Christ to Queens and the Mets are going to "bounce back." Now I'm a avid supporter of "JayBay" having played for my beloved Red Sox, but he had a load of protection. Bay played in a fantastic hitter's park enabling him to put up the numbers he did last year. His numbers show statistically lower from his Pirates days, but he halfed his numbers in two seasons with the Sox compared to the six with the Bucs. While Bay excelled with not much production in Pittsburgh, it won't be the case in New York where fans are rabid about the Amazins performance compared to the care-free Bucs fans. Should Beltran and Wright go down, Bay could slip up. While analysts and baseball professionals find Bay is impervious to pressure while playing, I find the constant clamor of a failing franchise to be a lot to hold unlike the successful period he had in Boston.
While Daniel Murphy had his test run last year, he certainly better not take this season as one or Ike Davis will be in the line-up come 2011. He was second in strikeouts last season. A .266 BA and .296 OBP is unacceptable for a regular. He did bat a lot of runs in and scored enough, though. What about Jeff Francouer? He needs to show the spark he brought after being traded from Atlanta. If he tanks the first half, don't think Angel Pagan or Gary Matthews Jr. won't be the starter and he will be dumped.
The catcher position is the other biggest concern the Mets should have. Omir Santos and Josh Thole probably won't make the majors unless someone gets injured. The fact that Rod Barajas is signed give the fans some relief because of the credibility that comes with the brand. But what about the back-ups Henry Blanco and Chris Coste? One blogger I read compared Blanco as "the Adam Everett of catchers." Really? This is what you shoot for? Coste runs his mouth right after he signs "that my heart will always be a Phillie." What no love for the 'Stros? The catcher position behind Barajas is down-right ugly.
I'm not even going to start on pitching. Obviously it needs to get better, but the Mets need to HIT and give RUN SUPPORT. So please Mets fans believing this the season everything turns around , curb your enthusiasm for this season.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Red Sox Prospects
The Red Sox have considerbaly used their minor league system to their advantage the last decade seeing the likes of Jacoby Ellsbury, Jon Lester, Dustin Pedroia, Johnathon Papelbon and Kevin Youkilis to name a few. The Sox certainly haven't stopped stockpiling talent for the beginning of this decade. Here's a look at some names to know.
If you have heard of SP Casey Kelly, you shouldn't call yourself a Boston fan. This shortstop turned pitcher has been turning heads everywhere he goes. Kelly has a fantastic curveball and a slower fastball(86-90mph) with a deceptive change-up. He's confident and looks more like a guy whose been pitching for years.
We've been waiting years for the arrival of 1B Lars Anderson. Sure, he's been significantly blocked on his path to the majors, but he should put some time in this season as this will more than likely be David Ortiz's last in Fenway. He needs to stay healthy and hope Anthony Rizzo has a down year.
Another guy similiar to Casey Kelly's status is OF Ryan Westmoreland. In single A, he hit .296 with 7HRs and 35RBIs and swiped 19 bases. Even better is his OBP(.401) and SLG(.484). He's developed patience at the plate very well. Defensively, he is sound and exceptionally fast and strong.
With Ryan Westmoreland following behind him, OF Ryan Kalish should be making his debut in Boston very soon. He's a year younger than Josh Reddick, but is much more astute at the plate. His fielding has gotten significantly better from A-AA. He could break AAA at the beginning of the season. In combined A and AA for 2009, Kalish hit .279 with 18HRs, 77RBIs, and 21SB's.
SS Jose Iglesias has been a hot topic in Boston this off-season. He's billed as the "future SS for Boston", but he's got a ways to go. He's got a great glove and movement to the ball, but he can't hit as well. Iglesias hit .275 with 2HRs and 12RBIs for Mesa in the Arizona Fall League.
Other notables:
OF Josh Reddick (.169, 2HRs and 4RBIs in 27 games for Red Sox in 09)
SP/RP Junichi Tazawa (2-3; 7.46ERA for Red Sox in 09)
RHP Michael Bowden (1-1;9.56ERA for Red Sox in 09)
If you have heard of SP Casey Kelly, you shouldn't call yourself a Boston fan. This shortstop turned pitcher has been turning heads everywhere he goes. Kelly has a fantastic curveball and a slower fastball(86-90mph) with a deceptive change-up. He's confident and looks more like a guy whose been pitching for years.
We've been waiting years for the arrival of 1B Lars Anderson. Sure, he's been significantly blocked on his path to the majors, but he should put some time in this season as this will more than likely be David Ortiz's last in Fenway. He needs to stay healthy and hope Anthony Rizzo has a down year.
Another guy similiar to Casey Kelly's status is OF Ryan Westmoreland. In single A, he hit .296 with 7HRs and 35RBIs and swiped 19 bases. Even better is his OBP(.401) and SLG(.484). He's developed patience at the plate very well. Defensively, he is sound and exceptionally fast and strong.
With Ryan Westmoreland following behind him, OF Ryan Kalish should be making his debut in Boston very soon. He's a year younger than Josh Reddick, but is much more astute at the plate. His fielding has gotten significantly better from A-AA. He could break AAA at the beginning of the season. In combined A and AA for 2009, Kalish hit .279 with 18HRs, 77RBIs, and 21SB's.
SS Jose Iglesias has been a hot topic in Boston this off-season. He's billed as the "future SS for Boston", but he's got a ways to go. He's got a great glove and movement to the ball, but he can't hit as well. Iglesias hit .275 with 2HRs and 12RBIs for Mesa in the Arizona Fall League.
Other notables:
OF Josh Reddick (.169, 2HRs and 4RBIs in 27 games for Red Sox in 09)
SP/RP Junichi Tazawa (2-3; 7.46ERA for Red Sox in 09)
RHP Michael Bowden (1-1;9.56ERA for Red Sox in 09)
Monday, February 22, 2010
Phillies Prospects
Let's not get down em yet because they traded away Drabek, Taylor, and D'Arnaud to get Halladay (on top of Marson, Carrasco, and Knapp for Lee previously), the Phils still got some firepower left in their system. An if you think they don't have pitchers left you're wrong, they could field an entire rotation with what they've got. First up is a guy you've probably heard of OF Domonic Brown.
Brown put on a show last season with consistency at the plate and below average fielding. He combined between Rookie, A, and AA a .288, 14HRs, 64RBIs, and 23 swipes. However, his combined fielding percentage is a .953( and he struggled at Reading fielding a .929). At major league level, he figures to be an average hitter and will replace Jayson Werth in the event the Phillies don't get him back/ and don't make a blockbuster move for a RF). For the Phillies, they hope that Domonic can transition success to make it AAA this season, but it's better not rush this guy. He's a quick learner.
Another exciting OF to watch will be Tyson Gillies who was acquired in the Cliff Lee-Hallday blockbuster. It's rumored he'll be starting at Reading(AA) after blazing through the A league to the tune of a .341, 9HRs, 42RBIs, and 44 SB's. I like this kid better than Domonic Brown because of the speed he has and his wider batting stance. Tyson is years off from seeing the majors while he works on his power and hoping Shance Victorino moves on or moves to left when Ibanez goes( don't think that's very likely).
Coming over in that same deal was SP Phillipe Aumont. Aumont is excited to be in Philly and hopes he can transition well from his 6-10; 3.29ERA campaign between A and AA. He does limit his walks and home runs very well, while averaging 9.2 K's a game. While it sounds like a future arm in the starting rotation, I like what PhillyFriar thinks about him being a reliever. His 6'7 frame is very imposing and may be able to use that to his advantage like Randy Johnson did. Needs work on his slider and a another pitch would help him out aside from his mid 90s sinker.
LHP Yohan Flande made some noise last season tearing up Clearwater and making an average transition to AA (11-5;3.48ERA combined). The Phils added him to the 40 man roster for the playoffs. Flande's fastball is a low 90s offering and his change-up peaks around 80. His curveball is a "work in progress". He's still got a lot to learn before we see him at Citizen's Bank, but let him fly under your radar.
SP Trevor May had a decent A season going 4-1;2.56ERA in Lakewood last season. That 11.1 K/9 rating was fantastic as well. Looks like this kid will be starting in Reading this season. His changeup needs work in order to get his walks down. If he keeps up his progress, he could be a middle of the rotation guy.
Other Notables:
LHP Antonio Bastardo (2-3;6.46ERA starting in the bullpen as GM Ruben Amaro claims for 2010)
LHP Sergio Escalona (1-0; 4.64ERA in 14 games for Philadelphia in 09).
Brown put on a show last season with consistency at the plate and below average fielding. He combined between Rookie, A, and AA a .288, 14HRs, 64RBIs, and 23 swipes. However, his combined fielding percentage is a .953( and he struggled at Reading fielding a .929). At major league level, he figures to be an average hitter and will replace Jayson Werth in the event the Phillies don't get him back/ and don't make a blockbuster move for a RF). For the Phillies, they hope that Domonic can transition success to make it AAA this season, but it's better not rush this guy. He's a quick learner.
Another exciting OF to watch will be Tyson Gillies who was acquired in the Cliff Lee-Hallday blockbuster. It's rumored he'll be starting at Reading(AA) after blazing through the A league to the tune of a .341, 9HRs, 42RBIs, and 44 SB's. I like this kid better than Domonic Brown because of the speed he has and his wider batting stance. Tyson is years off from seeing the majors while he works on his power and hoping Shance Victorino moves on or moves to left when Ibanez goes( don't think that's very likely).
Coming over in that same deal was SP Phillipe Aumont. Aumont is excited to be in Philly and hopes he can transition well from his 6-10; 3.29ERA campaign between A and AA. He does limit his walks and home runs very well, while averaging 9.2 K's a game. While it sounds like a future arm in the starting rotation, I like what PhillyFriar thinks about him being a reliever. His 6'7 frame is very imposing and may be able to use that to his advantage like Randy Johnson did. Needs work on his slider and a another pitch would help him out aside from his mid 90s sinker.
LHP Yohan Flande made some noise last season tearing up Clearwater and making an average transition to AA (11-5;3.48ERA combined). The Phils added him to the 40 man roster for the playoffs. Flande's fastball is a low 90s offering and his change-up peaks around 80. His curveball is a "work in progress". He's still got a lot to learn before we see him at Citizen's Bank, but let him fly under your radar.
SP Trevor May had a decent A season going 4-1;2.56ERA in Lakewood last season. That 11.1 K/9 rating was fantastic as well. Looks like this kid will be starting in Reading this season. His changeup needs work in order to get his walks down. If he keeps up his progress, he could be a middle of the rotation guy.
Other Notables:
LHP Antonio Bastardo (2-3;6.46ERA starting in the bullpen as GM Ruben Amaro claims for 2010)
LHP Sergio Escalona (1-0; 4.64ERA in 14 games for Philadelphia in 09).
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Mets Prospects
After previewing the season for the Mets, here's a look at the upcoming stars within the organization. First up is OF Fernando Martinez, who you may remember from last season. Martinez can hit (despite his .176 ML debut), field, and steal bases. His drawback is his injury-proneness. He'll certainly be someone to watch at spring training, but the chances of him making the team are more than likely limited to the bench with how deep the outfield is. In the minors, he's a career .282 hitter with 30HRs, 132RBIs, and 19SB's. With consistent play and patience at the plate, Martinez can develop into a .260 hitter immediately at major league level. Below is a video of the power he can exude.
A guy you probably didn't miss in 2009 was LHP Jon Niese. He was exciting to watch until an injury cut short his effectiveness and season. He's projected as a back of the rotation guy for 2010. Niese went 1-1 with a 4.21ERA in five starts. He needs to keep the ball in the park. Jon has an excellent curveball and average fastball, but appears to throw harder in the beginning of the game and drops off. Getting the changeup to work for him could solidify his spot on the roster. I coudln't find a stand-out video of him(which is nuts for the internet?!?), but i got a quick bullpen throw.
A very exciting youngster who will probably start the season in AA or AAA will be 1B Ike Davis. The first round draft pick by the Mets in 2008 slugged his way through the AZ Fall League with a .341 BA. At single A St. Lucie, he hit .288 with 7HRs and 28RBIs before hitting .309 with 13HRs and 43RBIs. It seems he adapts well as he moves up and grows accustomed to the game. He won't make the team this year, but 2011 Davis could be the Mets starting 1B. Look for more power (especially when he pulls to the left) from him. He needs to work on his running and energy in general.
SS Wilmer Flores is high up with Beckett Media. His A ball at Savannah go .264, 3HRs, 36RBIs, 3SBs, and a .305 OBP/.332 SLG. Still very young and needs work on patience at the plate(72 K's in 125 games). He's very big for a SS (6'2 180lbs) which should hit for power, but we have yet to see it. He's got a great arm, but an average runner. Expect him to be in A, but make a push for AA early.
Lastly is RHP Jennry Mejia signed out of the Dominican Republic in 07 and quickly rising to AA at age nineteen. He was fantastic in A ball posting a 4-1; 1.97ERA, but fell apart at AA going 0-5;4.47ERA. One his large problems was giving up so many free passes (39 in 19 games between A and AA). Mejia needs more time in the minors and should start at AA and break AAA by the end of the season. Through it all has a very good strikeout ratio.
Other notables:
C Josh Thole (.321, 9 RBIs with NYM in 09)
SP Brad Holt (12-10; 3.63ERA between A and AA)
SP Kyle Allen (9-6; 3.45ERA at A)
A guy you probably didn't miss in 2009 was LHP Jon Niese. He was exciting to watch until an injury cut short his effectiveness and season. He's projected as a back of the rotation guy for 2010. Niese went 1-1 with a 4.21ERA in five starts. He needs to keep the ball in the park. Jon has an excellent curveball and average fastball, but appears to throw harder in the beginning of the game and drops off. Getting the changeup to work for him could solidify his spot on the roster. I coudln't find a stand-out video of him(which is nuts for the internet?!?), but i got a quick bullpen throw.
A very exciting youngster who will probably start the season in AA or AAA will be 1B Ike Davis. The first round draft pick by the Mets in 2008 slugged his way through the AZ Fall League with a .341 BA. At single A St. Lucie, he hit .288 with 7HRs and 28RBIs before hitting .309 with 13HRs and 43RBIs. It seems he adapts well as he moves up and grows accustomed to the game. He won't make the team this year, but 2011 Davis could be the Mets starting 1B. Look for more power (especially when he pulls to the left) from him. He needs to work on his running and energy in general.
SS Wilmer Flores is high up with Beckett Media. His A ball at Savannah go .264, 3HRs, 36RBIs, 3SBs, and a .305 OBP/.332 SLG. Still very young and needs work on patience at the plate(72 K's in 125 games). He's very big for a SS (6'2 180lbs) which should hit for power, but we have yet to see it. He's got a great arm, but an average runner. Expect him to be in A, but make a push for AA early.
Lastly is RHP Jennry Mejia signed out of the Dominican Republic in 07 and quickly rising to AA at age nineteen. He was fantastic in A ball posting a 4-1; 1.97ERA, but fell apart at AA going 0-5;4.47ERA. One his large problems was giving up so many free passes (39 in 19 games between A and AA). Mejia needs more time in the minors and should start at AA and break AAA by the end of the season. Through it all has a very good strikeout ratio.
Other notables:
C Josh Thole (.321, 9 RBIs with NYM in 09)
SP Brad Holt (12-10; 3.63ERA between A and AA)
SP Kyle Allen (9-6; 3.45ERA at A)
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Red Sox 2010 Spring Training
Finally, it's here. The Sox are in Ft. Myers now preparing for another season full of of hope for another title. First, here's a look at the roster there (courtesy of Monozygotic and MLB.com).
Pitchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
61 Randor Bierd R/R 6-4 190 03/14/84
53 Fernando Cabrera R/R 6-4 225 11/16/81
83 Kris Johnson L/L 6-4 170 10/14/84
93 Casey Kelly R/R 6-3 195 10/04/89
82 Adam Mills R/R 5-11 190 11/19/84
84 Edwin Moreno R/R 6-1 220 07/30/80
46 Joe Nelson R/R 6-1 205 10/25/74
55 Brian Shouse L/L 5-10 190 09/26/68
36 Jorge Sosa R/R 6-2 220 04/28/77
97 Kyle Weiland L/R 6-4 195 09/12/86
Catchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
91 Luis Exposito R/R 6-3 210 01/20/87
72 Gustavo Molina R/R 6-1 245 02/24/82
Infielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
78 Lars Anderson L/L 6-4 215 09/25/87
96 Yamaico Navarro R/R 5-11 170 10/31/87
62 Angel Sanchez R/R 6-2 205 09/20/83
60 Gil Velazquez R/R 6-3 190 10/17/79
Outfielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
87 Zach Daeges L/R 6-4 225 11/16/83
92 Ryan Kalish L/L 6-1 205 03/28/88
85 Che-Hsuan Lin R/R 6-0 180 09/21/88
54 Darnell McDonald R/R 5-11 210 11/17/78
Without question, the Sox have the deepest rotation in the whole league with six candidates vying for one spot. Josh Beckett and Jon Lester lead the charge in what could be Beckett's last in Boston as the 1-2 punch. Beckett needs to limit his long balls this season and pitch with a little less emotion after giving up one. Behind them, is newly acquired ace John Lackey who should provide the oomph for a 1-2-3 combo. Clay Buchholz could be penciled in for the number four slot if he has a good spring training beating out Daisuke Matsuzaka. This is Buc's year to break-out as many forecast and I think he can win 15 this time around. Matsuzaka has claimed to be improving his relations with the organization and working towards a better 2010 than the disaster that was 09. His key will be keeping his pitch count down by throwing more strikes. It wouldn't hurt if he varied himself with off-speed stuff to righties. On the outside looking in (unfortunately) is Tim Wakefield. Wakefield had various back issues the second half of last season, but was undoubtedly their ace in the first half. Wake should fare well in limited starts and be a monumental asset to the bullpen which was re-vamped after FA departures.
The hitting is something the Sox need to work on. Jason Bay's departure really widened that gap. David Ortiz can't be so sluggish this season and Adrian Beltre has to prove that '09 was a fluke. Mike Lowell's time in Boston is uncertain leaving Jed Lowrie as 3B coverage in the event Youkilis is playing first that day. Victor Martinez should continue where he left off last season after hitting .303 and even higher when first acquired. Dustin Pedroia should rebound this season not swinging at so many balls he has no business trying to make a play out of. Marco Scutaro is a better offensive player than A-Gon was, but defensively not so. I expect Scutaro's 2009 not to repeat this season. Kevin Youkilis will need protection from Ortiz and Pedroia to remain the top hitter/home run contributor. The outfield is what really concerns me. Jacoby Ellsbury has been moved to left for Mike Cameron to play center and J.D. Drew in right. Ellsbury was criticized for his play in center, but left field with the "Monster" is a whole different ball game. Look for a few errors on his part. Cameron is solid, but age is slowly starting to sap his bat. Drew will contribute when he can, but he's so injury-prone Jeremy Hermida or Bill Hall will be getting decent playing time.
Outlook: The Sox will dominate this season and win it all. The Yanks simply aren't as deep bench wise or rotation wise to stop them. This could be the last hurrah for guys like Beckett, Ortiz, Papelbon, and if Lowell is still around (which I'm sure he won't).
Pitchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
61 Randor Bierd R/R 6-4 190 03/14/84
53 Fernando Cabrera R/R 6-4 225 11/16/81
83 Kris Johnson L/L 6-4 170 10/14/84
93 Casey Kelly R/R 6-3 195 10/04/89
82 Adam Mills R/R 5-11 190 11/19/84
84 Edwin Moreno R/R 6-1 220 07/30/80
46 Joe Nelson R/R 6-1 205 10/25/74
55 Brian Shouse L/L 5-10 190 09/26/68
36 Jorge Sosa R/R 6-2 220 04/28/77
97 Kyle Weiland L/R 6-4 195 09/12/86
Catchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
91 Luis Exposito R/R 6-3 210 01/20/87
72 Gustavo Molina R/R 6-1 245 02/24/82
Infielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
78 Lars Anderson L/L 6-4 215 09/25/87
96 Yamaico Navarro R/R 5-11 170 10/31/87
62 Angel Sanchez R/R 6-2 205 09/20/83
60 Gil Velazquez R/R 6-3 190 10/17/79
Outfielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
87 Zach Daeges L/R 6-4 225 11/16/83
92 Ryan Kalish L/L 6-1 205 03/28/88
85 Che-Hsuan Lin R/R 6-0 180 09/21/88
54 Darnell McDonald R/R 5-11 210 11/17/78
Without question, the Sox have the deepest rotation in the whole league with six candidates vying for one spot. Josh Beckett and Jon Lester lead the charge in what could be Beckett's last in Boston as the 1-2 punch. Beckett needs to limit his long balls this season and pitch with a little less emotion after giving up one. Behind them, is newly acquired ace John Lackey who should provide the oomph for a 1-2-3 combo. Clay Buchholz could be penciled in for the number four slot if he has a good spring training beating out Daisuke Matsuzaka. This is Buc's year to break-out as many forecast and I think he can win 15 this time around. Matsuzaka has claimed to be improving his relations with the organization and working towards a better 2010 than the disaster that was 09. His key will be keeping his pitch count down by throwing more strikes. It wouldn't hurt if he varied himself with off-speed stuff to righties. On the outside looking in (unfortunately) is Tim Wakefield. Wakefield had various back issues the second half of last season, but was undoubtedly their ace in the first half. Wake should fare well in limited starts and be a monumental asset to the bullpen which was re-vamped after FA departures.
The hitting is something the Sox need to work on. Jason Bay's departure really widened that gap. David Ortiz can't be so sluggish this season and Adrian Beltre has to prove that '09 was a fluke. Mike Lowell's time in Boston is uncertain leaving Jed Lowrie as 3B coverage in the event Youkilis is playing first that day. Victor Martinez should continue where he left off last season after hitting .303 and even higher when first acquired. Dustin Pedroia should rebound this season not swinging at so many balls he has no business trying to make a play out of. Marco Scutaro is a better offensive player than A-Gon was, but defensively not so. I expect Scutaro's 2009 not to repeat this season. Kevin Youkilis will need protection from Ortiz and Pedroia to remain the top hitter/home run contributor. The outfield is what really concerns me. Jacoby Ellsbury has been moved to left for Mike Cameron to play center and J.D. Drew in right. Ellsbury was criticized for his play in center, but left field with the "Monster" is a whole different ball game. Look for a few errors on his part. Cameron is solid, but age is slowly starting to sap his bat. Drew will contribute when he can, but he's so injury-prone Jeremy Hermida or Bill Hall will be getting decent playing time.
Outlook: The Sox will dominate this season and win it all. The Yanks simply aren't as deep bench wise or rotation wise to stop them. This could be the last hurrah for guys like Beckett, Ortiz, Papelbon, and if Lowell is still around (which I'm sure he won't).
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Philadelphia Phillies 2010 Spring Training
Clearwater, here's your defending NL champs. Will the Phils make it 3 trips in a row to the big one? They've got the fielding, bench, starting rotation, and hitting covered, but their drawback is a much weaker bullpen which will make or break them. Here's a look at all the non-roster invitees (courtesy of Monozyogtic and MLB.com):
Pitchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Phillippe Aumont L/R 6-7 220 01/07/89
– B.J. Rosenberg R/R 6-2 215 09/17/85
– Joe Savery L/L 6-3 215 11/04/85
– Ryan Vogelsong R/R 6-3 215 07/22/77
– Ehren Wassermann S/R 6-0 190 12/06/80
– Bill White L/L 6-3 225 11/20/78
Catchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Tuffy Gosewisch R/R 5-11 190 08/17/83
24 Paul Hoover R/R 6-1 210 04/14/76
– Kevin Nelson R/R 6-3 215 04/08/81
– Dane Sardinha R/R 6-0 215 04/08/79
– John Suomi L/R 5-11 200 10/05/80
Infielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Ozzie Chavez S/R 6-1 160 07/13/83
– Freddy Galvis S/R 5-10 170 11/14/89
– Cody Ransom R/R 6-2 190 02/17/76
33 Andy Tracy L/R 6-3 240 12/11/73
– Wilson Valdez R/R 5-11 170 05/20/78
Outfielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Domonic Brown L/L 6-5 204 09/03/87
– Chris Duffy L/L 5-9 185 04/20/80
– Tyson Gillies L/R 6-2 190 10/31/88
– Dewayne Wise L/L 6-1 190 02/24/78
The 2010 Phillies are going to look much like the 2009 version, but with a much deeper bench and the arrival of Jayson Werth as a super-star. I think it's easy to say after all, the Phils can make it three World Series appearances in a row...should the bullpen not falter. The rotation looks about the same aside form acquiring Roy Halladay. Look for Halladay to win 20+ games(it's gonna happen). Cole Hamels needs to bounce back after his abhorrence last season. Hamels needs to re-introduce his curveball effectively to become the dangerous '08 Hamels. Behind him will be under-rated Joe Blanton who is more than just an "innings-eater." Blanton has improved on his free passes and strikeouts a game and has lowered his opponents BA. Behind him should be J.A. Happ, who I feel may have a sophomore slump. The fifth spot is up for grabs between Jamie Moyer and Kyle Kendrick, but I think Jose Contreras could make a run at it. Starting rotation looks good for the Phils. The pen is a bit more concerning. Brad Lidge needs to be confident and re-find himself or he won't be around by All-Star Break. Ryan Madson is capable of being a closer, but is a much better set-up man. The Phils main problem was closing games last season. Will Danys Baez help? Can Chad Durbin be good? How about the impact of J.C. Romero when he returns in May? These are the most important questions the Phillies need to answer.
As for the hitting, I expect the tandem of Utley and Werth to go on an ass-kicking mission. Not to say I've forgotten about Ryan Howard( he'll certainly be important), but look for Werth to have a monster season. Jimmy Rollins will continue to bat lead-off, but he's really declining at this point ans the Phils need to start thinking about his replacement. His numbers should stay about the same. As for Polanco at third, I don't understand why the organization didn't go after Mark DeRosa or Miguel Tejada. Polanco is a great 2B, but third I'm undecided on. He's an upgrade offensively over Pedro Feliz. Ruiz can expect a similar season, but I cringe with Brian Schnieder on his off days. Victorino is rumored to be dropping lower in the order to strengthen the bottom, but I wonder how much of an impact it will make? Victorino has no problem getting around the bases, but someone has to bring him in. Maybe Ibanez drops down? His age may catch up with him this season especially after the hernia.
Outlook: Phils win NL East again no doubt. No problems to NLCS if anyone can challenge them (Rockies are the only I can think of). Should be another trip to the series. If the Yanks make it for the AL, Phils get revenge on them, but if the Sox make it I don't think the Phillies are deep enough in the bullpen to beat them.
Pitchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Phillippe Aumont L/R 6-7 220 01/07/89
– B.J. Rosenberg R/R 6-2 215 09/17/85
– Joe Savery L/L 6-3 215 11/04/85
– Ryan Vogelsong R/R 6-3 215 07/22/77
– Ehren Wassermann S/R 6-0 190 12/06/80
– Bill White L/L 6-3 225 11/20/78
Catchers B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Tuffy Gosewisch R/R 5-11 190 08/17/83
24 Paul Hoover R/R 6-1 210 04/14/76
– Kevin Nelson R/R 6-3 215 04/08/81
– Dane Sardinha R/R 6-0 215 04/08/79
– John Suomi L/R 5-11 200 10/05/80
Infielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Ozzie Chavez S/R 6-1 160 07/13/83
– Freddy Galvis S/R 5-10 170 11/14/89
– Cody Ransom R/R 6-2 190 02/17/76
33 Andy Tracy L/R 6-3 240 12/11/73
– Wilson Valdez R/R 5-11 170 05/20/78
Outfielders B/T Ht Wt DOB
– Domonic Brown L/L 6-5 204 09/03/87
– Chris Duffy L/L 5-9 185 04/20/80
– Tyson Gillies L/R 6-2 190 10/31/88
– Dewayne Wise L/L 6-1 190 02/24/78
The 2010 Phillies are going to look much like the 2009 version, but with a much deeper bench and the arrival of Jayson Werth as a super-star. I think it's easy to say after all, the Phils can make it three World Series appearances in a row...should the bullpen not falter. The rotation looks about the same aside form acquiring Roy Halladay. Look for Halladay to win 20+ games(it's gonna happen). Cole Hamels needs to bounce back after his abhorrence last season. Hamels needs to re-introduce his curveball effectively to become the dangerous '08 Hamels. Behind him will be under-rated Joe Blanton who is more than just an "innings-eater." Blanton has improved on his free passes and strikeouts a game and has lowered his opponents BA. Behind him should be J.A. Happ, who I feel may have a sophomore slump. The fifth spot is up for grabs between Jamie Moyer and Kyle Kendrick, but I think Jose Contreras could make a run at it. Starting rotation looks good for the Phils. The pen is a bit more concerning. Brad Lidge needs to be confident and re-find himself or he won't be around by All-Star Break. Ryan Madson is capable of being a closer, but is a much better set-up man. The Phils main problem was closing games last season. Will Danys Baez help? Can Chad Durbin be good? How about the impact of J.C. Romero when he returns in May? These are the most important questions the Phillies need to answer.
As for the hitting, I expect the tandem of Utley and Werth to go on an ass-kicking mission. Not to say I've forgotten about Ryan Howard( he'll certainly be important), but look for Werth to have a monster season. Jimmy Rollins will continue to bat lead-off, but he's really declining at this point ans the Phils need to start thinking about his replacement. His numbers should stay about the same. As for Polanco at third, I don't understand why the organization didn't go after Mark DeRosa or Miguel Tejada. Polanco is a great 2B, but third I'm undecided on. He's an upgrade offensively over Pedro Feliz. Ruiz can expect a similar season, but I cringe with Brian Schnieder on his off days. Victorino is rumored to be dropping lower in the order to strengthen the bottom, but I wonder how much of an impact it will make? Victorino has no problem getting around the bases, but someone has to bring him in. Maybe Ibanez drops down? His age may catch up with him this season especially after the hernia.
Outlook: Phils win NL East again no doubt. No problems to NLCS if anyone can challenge them (Rockies are the only I can think of). Should be another trip to the series. If the Yanks make it for the AL, Phils get revenge on them, but if the Sox make it I don't think the Phillies are deep enough in the bullpen to beat them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
