And he is feeling terrible about it. Not that he doesn't deserve some sympathy because he owned up to making such an egregious cock-up. But still, how can you make that call in that situation? Okay, backstory for those who've stumbled upon this website off of an inadvertant search for Kim Kardashian's ass.
Armando Galarraga retired 26 batters. 26 up, 26 down. He was one out away from a perfect game. He got Jason Donald to ground out for the 27th out. Any cursory glance at a replay would tell you so.
Excepting for the fact Jim Joyce called Jason Donald safe.
There are so many reasons why this is should not have happened. I am the sort of fat out of shape guy who would be considered the target of the insults of a Ravishing Rick Rude and I would have made sure I had a decent look at the play if I was at second or working at home. It's the scenario that's tailor made for instant replay. And for crap sake? Any NBA referee would have protected a moment of history.
The scorekeeper can still at least give Armando something. All you have to do is make the call an error. It gives him a no-hitter. I dunno. I haven't been here in like a month.
I guess you have to be a cool name to become a pitching footnote.
Showing posts with label BAYSBALL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BAYSBALL. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Can I do 200 words on a spare parts trade?
Because someone has to discuss this Ray Olmedo and Matt Treanor trade. And that someone will be me.
Ironically, this does have some sort of value for the Brewers. Treanor was going to have to walk away. They had no room for him in Triple-A and George "the Animal" Kottaras looked like he was going to be the stop gap as the back-up catcher. There was no room at the inn for him.
But that being said? The Brewers signed a player to a minor league deal in Luis Cruz who mangled his leg during winter ball. He was the good defense triple A middle infielder glove who we would break the glass to grab in case of emergency. But yeah. That didn't work. So, enter Rainer Olmedo.
To expect anything of any offensive value from Olmedo is naive. His age 27 and age 28 years had Triple A OPS hovering around Jason Kendall territory. His defense is pretty good as a middle infield glove. But you know what? It's okay. It's a warm body that if it all breaks right? He's in Nashville.
An inconsequential trade. But they got something for someone who was going to force an issue for the Brewers and walk away on Thursday. And that's cool. I guess.
Dollar tree middle infielder for the win.
Ironically, this does have some sort of value for the Brewers. Treanor was going to have to walk away. They had no room for him in Triple-A and George "the Animal" Kottaras looked like he was going to be the stop gap as the back-up catcher. There was no room at the inn for him.
But that being said? The Brewers signed a player to a minor league deal in Luis Cruz who mangled his leg during winter ball. He was the good defense triple A middle infielder glove who we would break the glass to grab in case of emergency. But yeah. That didn't work. So, enter Rainer Olmedo.
To expect anything of any offensive value from Olmedo is naive. His age 27 and age 28 years had Triple A OPS hovering around Jason Kendall territory. His defense is pretty good as a middle infield glove. But you know what? It's okay. It's a warm body that if it all breaks right? He's in Nashville.
An inconsequential trade. But they got something for someone who was going to force an issue for the Brewers and walk away on Thursday. And that's cool. I guess.
Dollar tree middle infielder for the win.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Inglett and Edmonds.
While the dreams of Frank Inglett and Tom Edmonds becoming a modern day Loggins and Messina reside in the ashbin of their Pooh Corner cover? The Brewers have smoothly made some attempts at filling out their roster with excellent skills at low costs.
Joe Inglett has been a solid righty masher (for a middle infielder) who's served time at four positions, even though he really can only defend three. A career line of .298/.351/.407 versus righties is a valuable asset to have. I know he's already in his early 30's, so this may be the exact ceiling of his usage. But here's the deal.
He's Weeks insurance. We know that he's not going to play nearly as much on the roster if Weeks can manage to get himself 500 at-bats. And to get a low cost asset to use mostly at second base as good as Inglett in back up terms? It's not a bad thing, it is most definitely a good thing.
Now, in the Wildcard category? We have Jim Edmonds comeback attempt. The guy spent 2009 in the unwanted bin of Free Agency. One would assume that he demanded to roam Center Field or a multi-year deal and no team really wanted to have to deal with all that. Because his 2008 was great as a Cub, but you know what else?
He was unlucky. For the year, his BAbip was a ridiculously low .249. But even as a Cub, when it seemed as if he was hooked up to a juvenation machine? His BAbip was .257.
But that's not where Edmonds makes his money. Where Edmonds makes his money is as a righty masher. He had a .998 OPS versus righties as a Cub. So yeah. That's where last we left him. Put it simply, if he's useful, all he has to do is slug .500 as a Brewer versus right handed pitchers.
And get 400-450 plate appearances.
But lets be honest. If Corey Hart was actually able to be trusted? I wouldn't be nearly as excited by the signing of a 39 year-old who skipped 2009.
Joe Inglett has been a solid righty masher (for a middle infielder) who's served time at four positions, even though he really can only defend three. A career line of .298/.351/.407 versus righties is a valuable asset to have. I know he's already in his early 30's, so this may be the exact ceiling of his usage. But here's the deal.
He's Weeks insurance. We know that he's not going to play nearly as much on the roster if Weeks can manage to get himself 500 at-bats. And to get a low cost asset to use mostly at second base as good as Inglett in back up terms? It's not a bad thing, it is most definitely a good thing.
Now, in the Wildcard category? We have Jim Edmonds comeback attempt. The guy spent 2009 in the unwanted bin of Free Agency. One would assume that he demanded to roam Center Field or a multi-year deal and no team really wanted to have to deal with all that. Because his 2008 was great as a Cub, but you know what else?
He was unlucky. For the year, his BAbip was a ridiculously low .249. But even as a Cub, when it seemed as if he was hooked up to a juvenation machine? His BAbip was .257.
But that's not where Edmonds makes his money. Where Edmonds makes his money is as a righty masher. He had a .998 OPS versus righties as a Cub. So yeah. That's where last we left him. Put it simply, if he's useful, all he has to do is slug .500 as a Brewer versus right handed pitchers.
And get 400-450 plate appearances.
But lets be honest. If Corey Hart was actually able to be trusted? I wouldn't be nearly as excited by the signing of a 39 year-old who skipped 2009.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
DOUG. DAVIS. HAS. COME. HOME.
Now I know I was talking noise about the whole Doug Davis signing. I said that they needed Jarrod Washburn to form a lefthanded innings eating Voltron, right? But that was initial reaction. Doug Davis is a good soild #3/#4 guy.
Think about it like this. In context of recent Brewers starter signings? Dougie D. is a cheaper pickup than Braden Looper. And if you consider the ERA+ of Doug Davis in recent years? You actually get someone who can give you 25-30 good starts a year for a little over 5 million dollars.
Also, we know that Doug is a pitcher who can get wild. He's averaged a walk every two innings in recent seasons. The fact that he's managed to be a solid pitcher despite this glaring weakness only tells me one thing. If he can shave his BB/9 down simply to 4 walks for 9 innings? He will likely be an under 4 era starter. And considering what the Brewers had last year? Even if he's not a sexy signing, he's a real live upgrade.
With the offense that the Brewers generally have? Doug Davis could be 13-9 with a 3.80 ERA. For five and a quarter million dollars. Initial reaction? B+.
I like it. I like it a lot.
Think about it like this. In context of recent Brewers starter signings? Dougie D. is a cheaper pickup than Braden Looper. And if you consider the ERA+ of Doug Davis in recent years? You actually get someone who can give you 25-30 good starts a year for a little over 5 million dollars.
Also, we know that Doug is a pitcher who can get wild. He's averaged a walk every two innings in recent seasons. The fact that he's managed to be a solid pitcher despite this glaring weakness only tells me one thing. If he can shave his BB/9 down simply to 4 walks for 9 innings? He will likely be an under 4 era starter. And considering what the Brewers had last year? Even if he's not a sexy signing, he's a real live upgrade.
With the offense that the Brewers generally have? Doug Davis could be 13-9 with a 3.80 ERA. For five and a quarter million dollars. Initial reaction? B+.
I like it. I like it a lot.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Bill Simmons Corollary
I know that Bill Simmons would be thrilled if he ever read the blog. But there's an obvious theory. If you believe that the National League is the weaker league, it stands to reason that you can find success with reclamation projects in the American League. How does this work?
Because Chien Ming-Wang got non-tendered by the Yankees. His arm was noodles last year. And he struggled. He probably would not be ready for war right off the bat. His agent would say that he would be ready by May 1st. The Brewers are likely in a situation with a one, a three, and certain amount of uncertainty.
I'm not pitching this as a cure all. I'm not pitching this as a necessity. But for someone who was looked upon as lacking the due dilligence? I feel like it warrants mentioning that he could help.
Because Chien Ming-Wang got non-tendered by the Yankees. His arm was noodles last year. And he struggled. He probably would not be ready for war right off the bat. His agent would say that he would be ready by May 1st. The Brewers are likely in a situation with a one, a three, and certain amount of uncertainty.
I'm not pitching this as a cure all. I'm not pitching this as a necessity. But for someone who was looked upon as lacking the due dilligence? I feel like it warrants mentioning that he could help.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
I sense doom for my feelings about Randy Wolf.
Strictly speaking, as a fan? I've always liked Randy Wolf. He was a pretty good lefty for the Phillies during the dark period in the early aughts and he holds a place in rock and jock history for his Pedro Martinezesque relief outing in the last rock and jock game in history. So yeah. I've been a fan.
That being said? If the rumors are true. I'm going to find myself losing faith in the Wolf. Randy Wolf has lost that mojo that made him good. Now, I'm not saying he didn't have a good year last season. It's just that for luck not to be a factor? His batting average on balls in play should reside between .280 and .300.
Randy Wolf had a .258 average. And a correction is not exactly going to be the sort of thing that leads to one hit a month. I'm not saying that young Randall is not a pitcher worthy of being in a rotation. Not by a longshot. But we're looking at 10 wins, a 4.20 ERA and WHIP around 1.300 sort of an average pitcher.
So what I'm saying is this is the sort of experince we had with Jeff Suppan when we first signed him. Look how well that turned out. I don't want to hate Randy Wolf, but circumstances may lead me down that road.
That being said? If the rumors are true. I'm going to find myself losing faith in the Wolf. Randy Wolf has lost that mojo that made him good. Now, I'm not saying he didn't have a good year last season. It's just that for luck not to be a factor? His batting average on balls in play should reside between .280 and .300.
Randy Wolf had a .258 average. And a correction is not exactly going to be the sort of thing that leads to one hit a month. I'm not saying that young Randall is not a pitcher worthy of being in a rotation. Not by a longshot. But we're looking at 10 wins, a 4.20 ERA and WHIP around 1.300 sort of an average pitcher.
So what I'm saying is this is the sort of experince we had with Jeff Suppan when we first signed him. Look how well that turned out. I don't want to hate Randy Wolf, but circumstances may lead me down that road.
Monday, December 7, 2009
We got Luis Cruz y'all!
If I was a narcisstic paranoid man? I would think this was a smokescreen. Doug Melvin knows the strength and power of my 110 reader army. He wants to bring Craig Counsell back. He knows we would riot like we were watching John Cena win in the New Alhambra arena.
So? He has to find someone worse. And Luis Cruz? Fits that bill whole hog.
But that would be if I was all narcisism and paranoia? I'm lazy. I fall off the cliff for days and now weeks at a time. And this signing is merely that of a warm body.
Just try to sign someone before you return to Counsell, okay? Don't feed this fevered ego.
So? He has to find someone worse. And Luis Cruz? Fits that bill whole hog.
But that would be if I was all narcisism and paranoia? I'm lazy. I fall off the cliff for days and now weeks at a time. And this signing is merely that of a warm body.
Just try to sign someone before you return to Counsell, okay? Don't feed this fevered ego.
Friday, December 4, 2009
You know what?
I am sorry. I am. But twitter can kill your will to blog. And on that not, let's smoothly segue to Craig Counsell.
Why?
Because the Brewers are doing it wrong! I have made myself patently clear that Craig Counsell has been a blight on the Brewers roster on several occasions. But you know what? He proved me wrong last year. He had a great season. A league average season, but let's look back at the decade previously in terms of OPS+ where 100 is league average
2000: 104
2001: 82
2002: 78
2003: 61
2004: 69
2005: 89
2006: 70
2007: 65
2008: 77
2009: 105
So when you consider the fact that Counsell's age 29 season was 2000? Can you see that there's a regression to the mean afoot? I know you can. And as such? Consider yourself lucky you got the good season.
(Sure, the Brewers had to take three years of crumbs to do it? But stay with me.)
For you see? His defense was never truly great in that whole I know he sucks, but his glove keeps him being above replacement levels sort of way since he became a Brewer. Not even when you add the fact that he can play three positions.
He can take a walk. But that's it. And you can find a minor leaguer with a good eye and little else for cheap. I mean, somebody rolled up and said Ruben Gotay, get in my spring training after all. I mean, who but superfans and the hardest of the hardcore have made mention of Brock Bond or Esteban German's plate discipline?
In fact? As I research reasons why the potential Craig Counsell resigning is flat out insane? I wounder why don't we go with German instead. He's 8 years younger, comes with speed as well as plate discipline at anywhere from two-fifths to one-sixth the price, and if he sucks? You don't have to stick with him because of loyalty or defensive rep.
...George, so to speak? Is upset.
Apologies for stealing the picture go to: Right Field Bleachers
Why?
Because the Brewers are doing it wrong! I have made myself patently clear that Craig Counsell has been a blight on the Brewers roster on several occasions. But you know what? He proved me wrong last year. He had a great season. A league average season, but let's look back at the decade previously in terms of OPS+ where 100 is league average
2000: 104
2001: 82
2002: 78
2003: 61
2004: 69
2005: 89
2006: 70
2007: 65
2008: 77
2009: 105
So when you consider the fact that Counsell's age 29 season was 2000? Can you see that there's a regression to the mean afoot? I know you can. And as such? Consider yourself lucky you got the good season.
(Sure, the Brewers had to take three years of crumbs to do it? But stay with me.)
For you see? His defense was never truly great in that whole I know he sucks, but his glove keeps him being above replacement levels sort of way since he became a Brewer. Not even when you add the fact that he can play three positions.
He can take a walk. But that's it. And you can find a minor leaguer with a good eye and little else for cheap. I mean, somebody rolled up and said Ruben Gotay, get in my spring training after all. I mean, who but superfans and the hardest of the hardcore have made mention of Brock Bond or Esteban German's plate discipline?
In fact? As I research reasons why the potential Craig Counsell resigning is flat out insane? I wounder why don't we go with German instead. He's 8 years younger, comes with speed as well as plate discipline at anywhere from two-fifths to one-sixth the price, and if he sucks? You don't have to stick with him because of loyalty or defensive rep.
...George, so to speak? Is upset.
Apologies for stealing the picture go to: Right Field Bleachers
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Interesting Pieces...
Rumors are flying for Doug Melvin as he looks for pitching. You know about Lackey, you're fired up for the Halamalocalypse. But amidst that are two things that interest me. People. Two people that interest me?
The first? Justin Duchsherer, or as I would call him, the Arch-Duke. 2009 was a lost year for him. He had a second hip surgery, an elbow surgery, and a bout with depression. I'm not going to speculate on the whys and wherefores of a mans head when my head can go off on its own tangent, but if he's healthy?
His approach is off the charts. Not many righthanders are deemable as crafty? But the Arch-Duke is in spades. He led the AL in ERA for most of 2008. I know staying healthy is a skill. But if he is? The Brewers would be a great for him.
I mean, the National League is the supremely inferior league right?
(You don't want to know my reaction to that opinion.)
Anyway. Kevin Correia? He's probably not going to be as good as he was in San Diego last year. But so long as he doesn't let his solid command go down the drain? He's a fine fit for the end of the rotation. He's got around a 2 to 1 K/BB ratio. Nothing wrong with that.
Not at all. And then again? When Correia has been healthy? He's been quite good in the past three years as a starter. Yeah, I'll say it. He may be able to rock out a stronger year than last year.
If you bring these home Dougie? I'll start to trust you again. I know I've been hurt by recent events. But this would be a nice way to fill out the end of the rotation and in a worst case scenario? Add kickass middle relief.
The first? Justin Duchsherer, or as I would call him, the Arch-Duke. 2009 was a lost year for him. He had a second hip surgery, an elbow surgery, and a bout with depression. I'm not going to speculate on the whys and wherefores of a mans head when my head can go off on its own tangent, but if he's healthy?
His approach is off the charts. Not many righthanders are deemable as crafty? But the Arch-Duke is in spades. He led the AL in ERA for most of 2008. I know staying healthy is a skill. But if he is? The Brewers would be a great for him.
I mean, the National League is the supremely inferior league right?
(You don't want to know my reaction to that opinion.)
Anyway. Kevin Correia? He's probably not going to be as good as he was in San Diego last year. But so long as he doesn't let his solid command go down the drain? He's a fine fit for the end of the rotation. He's got around a 2 to 1 K/BB ratio. Nothing wrong with that.
Not at all. And then again? When Correia has been healthy? He's been quite good in the past three years as a starter. Yeah, I'll say it. He may be able to rock out a stronger year than last year.
If you bring these home Dougie? I'll start to trust you again. I know I've been hurt by recent events. But this would be a nice way to fill out the end of the rotation and in a worst case scenario? Add kickass middle relief.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
David Eckstein is a Shapeshifter
Or the Norse God Loki, because I'm confused.
Okay, here's the thing about moneyball. It's about hitting them where they a'int, to borrow a phrase. Nobody holds OPS on regard? Get the guy who walks. People too protective of the stat guy? Load up on the toolsy prospects. It's all about zigging where the other guy zags. And it makes perfect sense.
Not to say you can't old school your way into contention. The Brewers and Twins have been interesting teams based on old school scouting and savvy trading. But here's the one true common sense fact in baseball.
If you make moves to extend veteran mediocrities? You're doing it wrong.
I mean, the Padres have made an effort to clear the decks and start a youth movement. Not a fun thing to do, but sometimes it just has to be done. You load up on new prospects. And it's going to be fun?
But then you go and extend David Eckstein? Forgive me, but that does not make sense. I mean? He brings nothing to the table. He's stopped running, he doesn't get to as many balls as your average second baseman, and he doesn't even walk. Obviously, he deserves more work as a baseball player.
I mean fuck. Casey McGeehee fell out of the sky for the Brewers. You can't trust your scouts?
This is making my head hurt! Christ! I want answers, Kevin Towers! I want answers!
Okay, here's the thing about moneyball. It's about hitting them where they a'int, to borrow a phrase. Nobody holds OPS on regard? Get the guy who walks. People too protective of the stat guy? Load up on the toolsy prospects. It's all about zigging where the other guy zags. And it makes perfect sense.
Not to say you can't old school your way into contention. The Brewers and Twins have been interesting teams based on old school scouting and savvy trading. But here's the one true common sense fact in baseball.
If you make moves to extend veteran mediocrities? You're doing it wrong.
I mean, the Padres have made an effort to clear the decks and start a youth movement. Not a fun thing to do, but sometimes it just has to be done. You load up on new prospects. And it's going to be fun?
But then you go and extend David Eckstein? Forgive me, but that does not make sense. I mean? He brings nothing to the table. He's stopped running, he doesn't get to as many balls as your average second baseman, and he doesn't even walk. Obviously, he deserves more work as a baseball player.
I mean fuck. Casey McGeehee fell out of the sky for the Brewers. You can't trust your scouts?
This is making my head hurt! Christ! I want answers, Kevin Towers! I want answers!
Monday, August 10, 2009
The Brewers traded for David Weathers...
And as someone who hasn't done much worth a damn before he was 30, I do admire the second and third acts of his career. I admire the fact that he once showed me up. I admire the fact he became good as a Brewer and his return will likely come cheap.
However? Is an 8th inning guy of some renown going to help the Brewers catch the Cubs or the Cardinals? No. The Brewers are 6 games out. And if your starters can't go 7 innings to begin with? You're not going to have them magically get there.
I like the pick-up. But man, the questions the Brewers have are far beyond the purview of a 39 year-old reliever.
However? Is an 8th inning guy of some renown going to help the Brewers catch the Cubs or the Cardinals? No. The Brewers are 6 games out. And if your starters can't go 7 innings to begin with? You're not going to have them magically get there.
I like the pick-up. But man, the questions the Brewers have are far beyond the purview of a 39 year-old reliever.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Halladay...Celebrate.
That's what some lazy punster of a headline writer will say if and when Roy Halladay gets traded. Because his will be the game changer deal of the free agency. So, because we can't trust J.P. Riccardi to make a good decision? I will tell you what teams would be the best fits.
5. Milwaukee
The Brewers have interesting pieces, but with such a dearth of pitching prospects and the double and triple swearing that Alcides Escobar and Mat Gamel are untouchable and the fact that you would just add to an outfield logjam with Corey Hart, I just don't see them developing a package to wrest Halladay.
4. Los Angeles Angels
Best Likely Package: Peter Bourjos, Brandon Wood, and Jose Arrendondo
Why they would be a good fit? Because these are propsects who have a tremendous pedigree. Wood and Arrendondo would be instant big league impact, and Bourjos would be ready for when Wells and or Rios would be gone.
Why would they not? Because for an organization that had such a wide and varied array of super prospects in the middle of the decade? The impact has proven to be minimal.
3. Boston
Best Likely Package: Clay Buchholz, Manny Delacarmen, and Lars Anderson
Why they would they be a good fit? Because the only piece that the Sox truly might miss here is Lars Anderson. If they trusted Buchholz, he'd be a big leaguer right now. And many in Boston like Delacarmen but many also feel his best chance is somewhere else. So despite the division issue, they can make a deal.
Why they would not? The division thing. If the Jays contend in 2010? Halladay will stop them. And rumors out of St. Louis are that no prospect is off the table. And there are some in the Sox have no interest.
2. Philadelphia
Best Likely Package: Carlos Carrasco, Jason Donald, and Michael Taylor
Why would they be a good fit? Jason Donald may have been off to a bad start in Triple-A, but injury explains that. And Carlos Carrasco is rallying in triple-A. That means two instant starters. Michael Taylor causes a bit of a logjam, but they have time to swing a deal if there's a problem.
Why they would not? The Phillies don't have a third prospect with the right mixture of skill and expendability. They could get another catching prospect or a Low-A dude with tools. But they would have to part with a Drabek or a Taylor to get Halladay.
1. St. Louis
Best Likely Package: Brett Wallace, Daryl Jones, Jason Motte, and Jess Todd
Why they would be a good fit? Because Brett Wallace is a professional hitter, and Daryl Jones reminds me a lot of Michael Brantley. Jason Motte is a power arm who should close by 2010. And if he can't? Jess Todd can. I know the story may be apocryphal, but the Cardinals really want Halladay.
Why they would not? Two possibilities. The DeRosa trade may mean a piece that the Jays would want would be going to Cleveland. Two, someone else blows them away with an offer. The Phillies can knock their block off prospect-wise and the Rangers could swing for the fences, damn the owners financial scenario.
So, will we see Halladay get dealt? Yes. Will it make me feel bad? Very likely. But hey, that's how it goes in the Wild Wild West.
5. Milwaukee
The Brewers have interesting pieces, but with such a dearth of pitching prospects and the double and triple swearing that Alcides Escobar and Mat Gamel are untouchable and the fact that you would just add to an outfield logjam with Corey Hart, I just don't see them developing a package to wrest Halladay.
4. Los Angeles Angels
Best Likely Package: Peter Bourjos, Brandon Wood, and Jose Arrendondo
Why they would be a good fit? Because these are propsects who have a tremendous pedigree. Wood and Arrendondo would be instant big league impact, and Bourjos would be ready for when Wells and or Rios would be gone.
Why would they not? Because for an organization that had such a wide and varied array of super prospects in the middle of the decade? The impact has proven to be minimal.
3. Boston
Best Likely Package: Clay Buchholz, Manny Delacarmen, and Lars Anderson
Why they would they be a good fit? Because the only piece that the Sox truly might miss here is Lars Anderson. If they trusted Buchholz, he'd be a big leaguer right now. And many in Boston like Delacarmen but many also feel his best chance is somewhere else. So despite the division issue, they can make a deal.
Why they would not? The division thing. If the Jays contend in 2010? Halladay will stop them. And rumors out of St. Louis are that no prospect is off the table. And there are some in the Sox have no interest.
2. Philadelphia
Best Likely Package: Carlos Carrasco, Jason Donald, and Michael Taylor
Why would they be a good fit? Jason Donald may have been off to a bad start in Triple-A, but injury explains that. And Carlos Carrasco is rallying in triple-A. That means two instant starters. Michael Taylor causes a bit of a logjam, but they have time to swing a deal if there's a problem.
Why they would not? The Phillies don't have a third prospect with the right mixture of skill and expendability. They could get another catching prospect or a Low-A dude with tools. But they would have to part with a Drabek or a Taylor to get Halladay.
1. St. Louis
Best Likely Package: Brett Wallace, Daryl Jones, Jason Motte, and Jess Todd
Why they would be a good fit? Because Brett Wallace is a professional hitter, and Daryl Jones reminds me a lot of Michael Brantley. Jason Motte is a power arm who should close by 2010. And if he can't? Jess Todd can. I know the story may be apocryphal, but the Cardinals really want Halladay.
Why they would not? Two possibilities. The DeRosa trade may mean a piece that the Jays would want would be going to Cleveland. Two, someone else blows them away with an offer. The Phillies can knock their block off prospect-wise and the Rangers could swing for the fences, damn the owners financial scenario.
So, will we see Halladay get dealt? Yes. Will it make me feel bad? Very likely. But hey, that's how it goes in the Wild Wild West.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
I bet you thought I couldn't write 300 words on the Reds 22nd prospect?
Even if you didn't? I know you would have. For you have no idea about the sheer pulse-pounding magic that is Chris Heisey. He is the next Nelson Cruz, after all.
Or failing that? Eric Byrnes.
Feel the magic.
Or failing that? Eric Byrnes.
Feel the magic.
Stetter!
A lefty sidearmer is not storming the nation with his maniacal skills. And he's broken the record for most consecutive strikeouts. Okay, I don't know if he's got the record. But Mitch Stetter deserves respect. Mitch Stetter deserves your love.
I mean, 11 consecutive strikeouts even over five games is a rich tapestry of quality. Think about it. Nolan never struck out 11 in a row. Tom Seaver never struck out 11 in a row. Roger Clemens can't say that.
But you know what? Mitch Stetter can. And even in only three paragraphs? Mitch Stetter deserves a shout-out. And I am going to give it to him.
HEY!
I mean, 11 consecutive strikeouts even over five games is a rich tapestry of quality. Think about it. Nolan never struck out 11 in a row. Tom Seaver never struck out 11 in a row. Roger Clemens can't say that.
But you know what? Mitch Stetter can. And even in only three paragraphs? Mitch Stetter deserves a shout-out. And I am going to give it to him.
HEY!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Nate McClouth is reasonably priced until 2012.
The Pirates get room for a player I'm high on in Andrew McCutchen as well a major league ready prospect in Charlie Morton. If either Gorkys Hernandez or Jeff Locke come to being good for Pittsburgh, it's a deal that will help both sides. There's not much more to say. Glavine's story is sad, but many top athletes have long goodbyes.
And Frank Wren must be plum tuckered out.
And Frank Wren must be plum tuckered out.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
To our pitching prospect graduates of 2009...
If you're not going pro, I've got two words for you. Avoid Texas.
You might say I'm nuts. After all, a scholarship to Texas is a nice balance of work and whimsy. You have an opportunity for an excellent future. And there are always a handful of players who get drafted every season. You get a good shot at money with Texas baseball.
And yet?
You have to deal with Augie Garrido. We know Dusty Baker is a man with a well-deserved rep as a breaker of prospects' elbows and shoulders. However? He's a downright renaissance man compared to Garrido. Example? Here.
You know about Austin Wood's Saturday. 13 innings pitched, the first 12 and 1/3 of those without a hit. He threw 169 pitches. That's a total no major leaguer has thrown since the Baseball Prospectus revoulation came to the forefront. You may never see that total touched in the bigs ever again.
Mister Wood had his arm worked to the bone and came through with flying colors. But you know what's lost among this? And this is exactly why Augie Garrido is criminally negligent.
Wood pitched the night before. And not a like a lefty one out guy scenario either. It took him thirty pitches to work his way through Friday Night. And in the arm-breaking Saturday? And he had 199-pitches in 24 hours. That right there is downright criminal action. You're taking a young man with a chance at a career and you're destroying it for a regional.
Garrido should be fired for this. He's had exactly two pitchers who have generated a career beyond the level of cosmic joke in his elongated career. He abuses those who come down to Austin to pitch for him. The only way the smiling monster can be stopped? If he never gets a prospect above one star to pitch for him.
But because the monster wins? You will see careers go Kirk Dressendorfer. Austin Wood will wash out. And he doesn't deserve it.
You might say I'm nuts. After all, a scholarship to Texas is a nice balance of work and whimsy. You have an opportunity for an excellent future. And there are always a handful of players who get drafted every season. You get a good shot at money with Texas baseball.
And yet?
You have to deal with Augie Garrido. We know Dusty Baker is a man with a well-deserved rep as a breaker of prospects' elbows and shoulders. However? He's a downright renaissance man compared to Garrido. Example? Here.
You know about Austin Wood's Saturday. 13 innings pitched, the first 12 and 1/3 of those without a hit. He threw 169 pitches. That's a total no major leaguer has thrown since the Baseball Prospectus revoulation came to the forefront. You may never see that total touched in the bigs ever again.
Mister Wood had his arm worked to the bone and came through with flying colors. But you know what's lost among this? And this is exactly why Augie Garrido is criminally negligent.
Wood pitched the night before. And not a like a lefty one out guy scenario either. It took him thirty pitches to work his way through Friday Night. And in the arm-breaking Saturday? And he had 199-pitches in 24 hours. That right there is downright criminal action. You're taking a young man with a chance at a career and you're destroying it for a regional.
Garrido should be fired for this. He's had exactly two pitchers who have generated a career beyond the level of cosmic joke in his elongated career. He abuses those who come down to Austin to pitch for him. The only way the smiling monster can be stopped? If he never gets a prospect above one star to pitch for him.
But because the monster wins? You will see careers go Kirk Dressendorfer. Austin Wood will wash out. And he doesn't deserve it.
Monday, May 25, 2009
EV Peavy Japanesey...
Okay, let's talk Jake Peavy. It all depends on the package the Padres would accept. Because you know what? The Brewers have no pitching prospects. They have names on a list. And if you consider that the Brewers history with pitchers is a dark one? (Outside of Sheets and Gallardo? They have received little from pitching prospects.) If the package is something along the lines of Jeremy Jeffress, Jonathan Lucroy, Alexandre Periard, and/or Evan Anundsen?
You have to at least consider it. I'm not saying you have to go for it. It precludes you from keeping Mike Cameron and he has been quite valuable as a Brewer. In fact, with some of the players hitting arbitration? You may not be able to keep the Fresh Prince of Bread and Candy either.
I'm not as bullish on the Brewers going after Peavy as I was for the Crew to bring Sabathia in. Sabathia was a well-dressed maniac on a contract drive, and you could get him for one big name. Peavy would have gone to the Sox for three. I'm not sure that I want to lose Gamel or Escobar for it.
You have to at least consider it. I'm not saying you have to go for it. It precludes you from keeping Mike Cameron and he has been quite valuable as a Brewer. In fact, with some of the players hitting arbitration? You may not be able to keep the Fresh Prince of Bread and Candy either.
I'm not as bullish on the Brewers going after Peavy as I was for the Crew to bring Sabathia in. Sabathia was a well-dressed maniac on a contract drive, and you could get him for one big name. Peavy would have gone to the Sox for three. I'm not sure that I want to lose Gamel or Escobar for it.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Oh, for craps sake.
I have made mention of my feeling that this was the year that Rickie Weeks was supposed to be at long last hitting his stride. And for a while there? I was looking pretty smart, Marlins winning the NL East style. In fact, this Friday, despite my misadventures as a Substitute Gym Teacher, I was a goddamned genius.
But like a wise man once said? A lot can happen in 48 hours. And unlike the Eddie Murphy-Nick Nolte vehicle? This does not turn into a buddy comedy. Rickie Weeks is having wrist issues. Again.
Why is this more annoying than having Weeks as a perpetual breakout machine? This does not leave Milwaukee in good shape offensively if it's not just some sort of Carlos Zambrano internet related wacky. Craig Counsell would likely become your second baseman in peril. His offensive hot start would become obliterated. We would get Mat Gamel staying around longer than the first series of interleague play. But that being said?
You cannot be happy when you have a player who seems to have found his stride get his third flippin' wrist injury.
But like a wise man once said? A lot can happen in 48 hours. And unlike the Eddie Murphy-Nick Nolte vehicle? This does not turn into a buddy comedy. Rickie Weeks is having wrist issues. Again.
Why is this more annoying than having Weeks as a perpetual breakout machine? This does not leave Milwaukee in good shape offensively if it's not just some sort of Carlos Zambrano internet related wacky. Craig Counsell would likely become your second baseman in peril. His offensive hot start would become obliterated. We would get Mat Gamel staying around longer than the first series of interleague play. But that being said?
You cannot be happy when you have a player who seems to have found his stride get his third flippin' wrist injury.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
You know why I had nothing to say about Manny?
Because I'll be honest. I didn't care. I don't care. Sure, way back when, my first big post was based on the cheatery of three Baltimore Orioles. But that was just because I am a whore for readers. That one person who doesn't come here for the pictures of Bianca Beauchamp? I love you.
Anyway...why I don't care about Steroids. Simple. My baseball team sucked for the duration of the era. As you know, the kid is a fan of your Milwaukee Brewers. And from 1988 to 2006? The Brewers were good exactly once. And you know why they were good?
Pat Listach. The 1992 American League Rookie of the year. Straight speedster. The 1992 Brewers were the team that held the record for most players with 10 or more steals. They had a game where they used 24 singles to score 22 runs. This was not a team built on two power hitters.
Maybe that's why they fell short. But that's neither here nor there. The team was usless for most of my childhood and the majority of my adult life. If Jeromy Burnitz or John Jaha cheated? They clearly did not cheat enough. In fact? Purely on speculation, Jeff D'Amico probably cheated at some point during the mid 1990's. But it got them nowhere.
It's like the aphorism. Cheaters never prosper. If the Brewers did the former, it never got them the prosper. So you know what? Meh.
(Now watch Ryan Braun test positive for lady drugs.)
Anyway...why I don't care about Steroids. Simple. My baseball team sucked for the duration of the era. As you know, the kid is a fan of your Milwaukee Brewers. And from 1988 to 2006? The Brewers were good exactly once. And you know why they were good?
Pat Listach. The 1992 American League Rookie of the year. Straight speedster. The 1992 Brewers were the team that held the record for most players with 10 or more steals. They had a game where they used 24 singles to score 22 runs. This was not a team built on two power hitters.
Maybe that's why they fell short. But that's neither here nor there. The team was usless for most of my childhood and the majority of my adult life. If Jeromy Burnitz or John Jaha cheated? They clearly did not cheat enough. In fact? Purely on speculation, Jeff D'Amico probably cheated at some point during the mid 1990's. But it got them nowhere.
It's like the aphorism. Cheaters never prosper. If the Brewers did the former, it never got them the prosper. So you know what? Meh.
(Now watch Ryan Braun test positive for lady drugs.)
Friday, May 15, 2009
Break the Brewers DOOOOOOOOOOOOWN.
Okay, I napped a little longer than expected. Sorry about that. But here's something to make up for it.
The Brewers are hot. Red hot. In fact, these are the days that make up for scouring the six-year free agent wires and saying..."Oooh, I think Carlos Mendoza would be a nice fit." I'll have more on that later.
But we will break down the Brewers into 4 categories...
The Good
1) Rickie Weeks (If he stays healthy, he might have a chance at a 30 home run season. He has stopped running though, so for fantasy purposes you may want to consider selling.)
2) Craig Counsell (For a guy who was essentially ballast during his time in Milwaukee, he does deserve propers for his start. .328/.412/.466)
3) Trevor Hoffman (Milwaukee is in love with Trevor Hoffman. I know it's in eight games, but Eric Gagne was so bad last season. So, so bad.)
4) Mark DiFelice (This is why you need a smart GM. Overpaying for middle relievers is ridiculous when you can pluck a dude out of AAA and say hey, 31 year old who hasn't pitched before? You got this.)
5) Mike Cameron (If this be a contract drive? Let the gods allow him to turn a full on Adrian Beltre season.)
6) Billy Hall (For being the lefty masher in the soft platoon, he's doing very well. Better than 2007 or 2008 to be sure.)
7) Ryan Braun (Nobody expects to have an OPS over 1.000. Braun does right now. He's helping!)
8) Mitch Stetter (In terms of ERA+, you have to be happy with what he's done. His tendency to walk hitters is a worrying thing.)
The expected
1) J.J. Hardy (The dude's always been streaky. And it's too early to call it a slump yet. He's been bad for half-seasons at a time. This too shall pass.
2) Dave Bush (His ERA will always be a touch higher than his command indicates, but he's been solid this season.
3) Braden Looper (An innings eater with an ERA in the 4's is what the Brewers paid for, and it is what the Brewers have received.)
4) Todd Coffey (In terms of solid middle relief? He's been actually what you expected. His BAbip is .353, his luck will even out.)
5) Seth McClung (But not in a good way. He's walked more batters than he's struck out. He's allowed 28 baserunners in 17 innings. Maybe he was too much a product of the Mike Maddux whisperer.)
6) Mike Rivera (Passable offense when he plays, but he does not play often enough.)
7) Yovani Gallardo (Lost in Grienkemania was the fact that Yovani has developed into an ace. Stay healthy. Please. You're awesome when you do.)
The bad
1) Manny Parra (I have to worry if Ned hurt him by overworking him in 2008. When he loses the plate it's usually a signal that he has something deeper wrong with him. I'm hopeful that this is just a bad streak. But I can't not consider the injury question. He's a Brewer pitching prospect.)
2) Corey Hart (He's also streaky. But because I want in my heart of hearts the Kentucky Ninja to be a superstar? I am disappointed. He decided to be called Corey Hart. That's the decision of a man with swagger.)
3) Carlos Villanueva (He always struggles in April. And I keep expecting him to break through to superstar levels, because he can go months at a time as a stud. He's just bad long enough to keep his stats down.)
4) The Bench (With what Casey McGheehee and Chris Duffy have done? Mat Gamel's infusion couldn't have come at a better time.)
Just release him already
1) Jeff Suppan (I know, it's still only seven starts, but the Brewers trendline is scary bad. He's walking one more batter per 9 innings, he's on pace to allow one more dinger per 9 innings. His ERA+ is at the point where he was trying to face down the next Maddux claims. Pitchers die off earlier than 34, and if you're a finesse pitcher? The line is just that much thinner.)
2) Jason Kendall (Average in the .220's. 4 out of 5 runners stealing bases on him as steals come back into the playbook. If he didn't take a walk once in a while, he would be completely useless.)
3) Jorge Julio (Electric arms don't always translate. Let someone else take their shot.)
4) Brad Nelson (Outrighted to Triple-A. So. Thanks.)
Like I said, 87 wins can win the NL Central this year. And while there will be some regression to the mean, you have to wonder if the Brewers may not have another year of October Baseball. I love it.
The Brewers are hot. Red hot. In fact, these are the days that make up for scouring the six-year free agent wires and saying..."Oooh, I think Carlos Mendoza would be a nice fit." I'll have more on that later.
But we will break down the Brewers into 4 categories...
The Good
1) Rickie Weeks (If he stays healthy, he might have a chance at a 30 home run season. He has stopped running though, so for fantasy purposes you may want to consider selling.)
2) Craig Counsell (For a guy who was essentially ballast during his time in Milwaukee, he does deserve propers for his start. .328/.412/.466)
3) Trevor Hoffman (Milwaukee is in love with Trevor Hoffman. I know it's in eight games, but Eric Gagne was so bad last season. So, so bad.)
4) Mark DiFelice (This is why you need a smart GM. Overpaying for middle relievers is ridiculous when you can pluck a dude out of AAA and say hey, 31 year old who hasn't pitched before? You got this.)
5) Mike Cameron (If this be a contract drive? Let the gods allow him to turn a full on Adrian Beltre season.)
6) Billy Hall (For being the lefty masher in the soft platoon, he's doing very well. Better than 2007 or 2008 to be sure.)
7) Ryan Braun (Nobody expects to have an OPS over 1.000. Braun does right now. He's helping!)
8) Mitch Stetter (In terms of ERA+, you have to be happy with what he's done. His tendency to walk hitters is a worrying thing.)
The expected
1) J.J. Hardy (The dude's always been streaky. And it's too early to call it a slump yet. He's been bad for half-seasons at a time. This too shall pass.
2) Dave Bush (His ERA will always be a touch higher than his command indicates, but he's been solid this season.
3) Braden Looper (An innings eater with an ERA in the 4's is what the Brewers paid for, and it is what the Brewers have received.)
4) Todd Coffey (In terms of solid middle relief? He's been actually what you expected. His BAbip is .353, his luck will even out.)
5) Seth McClung (But not in a good way. He's walked more batters than he's struck out. He's allowed 28 baserunners in 17 innings. Maybe he was too much a product of the Mike Maddux whisperer.)
6) Mike Rivera (Passable offense when he plays, but he does not play often enough.)
7) Yovani Gallardo (Lost in Grienkemania was the fact that Yovani has developed into an ace. Stay healthy. Please. You're awesome when you do.)
The bad
1) Manny Parra (I have to worry if Ned hurt him by overworking him in 2008. When he loses the plate it's usually a signal that he has something deeper wrong with him. I'm hopeful that this is just a bad streak. But I can't not consider the injury question. He's a Brewer pitching prospect.)
2) Corey Hart (He's also streaky. But because I want in my heart of hearts the Kentucky Ninja to be a superstar? I am disappointed. He decided to be called Corey Hart. That's the decision of a man with swagger.)
3) Carlos Villanueva (He always struggles in April. And I keep expecting him to break through to superstar levels, because he can go months at a time as a stud. He's just bad long enough to keep his stats down.)
4) The Bench (With what Casey McGheehee and Chris Duffy have done? Mat Gamel's infusion couldn't have come at a better time.)
Just release him already
1) Jeff Suppan (I know, it's still only seven starts, but the Brewers trendline is scary bad. He's walking one more batter per 9 innings, he's on pace to allow one more dinger per 9 innings. His ERA+ is at the point where he was trying to face down the next Maddux claims. Pitchers die off earlier than 34, and if you're a finesse pitcher? The line is just that much thinner.)
2) Jason Kendall (Average in the .220's. 4 out of 5 runners stealing bases on him as steals come back into the playbook. If he didn't take a walk once in a while, he would be completely useless.)
3) Jorge Julio (Electric arms don't always translate. Let someone else take their shot.)
4) Brad Nelson (Outrighted to Triple-A. So. Thanks.)
Like I said, 87 wins can win the NL Central this year. And while there will be some regression to the mean, you have to wonder if the Brewers may not have another year of October Baseball. I love it.
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