The MLB has just announced that Jordan Schaffer will be suspended for 50 games for violating its substance abuse policy by using HGH. Although the details are still uncertain, as there is no current approved test for HGH, the MLB must have gathered sugnificant evidence through talking with sources. Schaffer was one of the Braves top prospects and was expected to be the starting CF by next year, with a possible call-up coming as early as this summer.
The news comes just one day after Richmond Brave Scott Spiezio pleaded guilty to drunk driving and hit and run charges. Hopefully the Braves will be able to avoid any more off field issues for the rest of the year.
Yesterday the Braves dropped a one run game to the Rockies when Blaine Boyer allowed a 2-run HR to Matt Holliday in the 8th inning. Tom Glavine had his second start in which he held the opponent scoreless, although the bullpen couldn't hold the lead this time. So far, the Braves are 3-4. The starting rotation is 3-0, while the bullpen is 0-4. Tonight Jair Jurrjens (1-0) will make his second start of the year against the Rockies Ubaldo Jimenez, in a matchup that features two of the games young talent. In order for the Braves to win their bats will need to wake up, as the bullpen isn't going to hold too many close leads unless it begins improving rapidly. Jimenez struggles with walking batters, so with timely hits the Braves could put the game out of reach before their pen even has to get in the game.
As I have stated before, I think that Atlanta should trade one of its top OF prospects (Brandon Jones, Jordan Schaffer or Jason Heyward) for another RP as the season goes on. Up until this point I thought that Jones should be the one to go, as Heyward will still need more development, and I see no reason why the Braves couldn't lock Matt Diaz up and let him stay in Atlanta for a couple more years. After todays events my first thought was "Lets unload Schaffer ASAP." Although his value takes a significant hit, I still would rather not see a player who cheated staying in the Braves organization (Yes, we can get read of Jurries while we are at it). The Braves still have two other young CF in Gregor Blanco and Jordan Anderson that could both be solid Major Leaguers and provide good speed at the top of the lineup in the future.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Monday, April 7, 2008
Braves Sweep Mets, Back In First
Yesterday the Braves completed a 2-game sweep of the New York Mets to get back into first place in the NL East. Some things that I have noticed over the past couple of days that I would like to get out.
1) The Braves should be able to take the division is Smoltz and Hudson can beat Santana and Maine.
2) Smoltz really needs to stay healthy this year, I think he is still one of the best pitchers in the game, and the Braves can't replace him with their depth the way they can Glavine, Hampton and James.
3) The Braves three top prospects are OF, they have a young Jeff Francoeur and an underrated Matt Diaz. Brent Lillibridge can also play OF with a little more work. By mid-July one of these better be gone so that we can have another proven releiver (although trades for relievers don't always work out: Baez and Dotel)
4) The rotation looks really good so far
5) Mike Hampton got injured, just in case you didn't hear it again
6) Besides Tex (who hopefully isn't taking the A. Jones route to free agency), the lineup is looking great, who knows maybe Mark Kotsay can have a season hitting for a good average if he stays healthy
7) I really wish we would call up Phil Stockman
Thoughts about the rest of baseball
-The Tigers are looking awful, I knew their pitching was that bad, but not the hitting
-Oh well, the local teams (which I hate) the Orioles and Nats were both in first, but now the Nats have lost 4 in a row and fallen, which I expect the Orioles will follow.
-The Reds might make a run at the post season with all of the young talent that they have
Votto, Phillips, Encarnacion, Bruce (who should be starting in the Majors), Cueto and Volquez (maybe one day Homer Bailey). Throw in Harang, Arroyo, Cordero, Dunn, Griffey and Keppinger (who should start the rest of the year) and the Reds have a really good collection of players on a team not expected to do much. It all comes down to whether Cueto and Volquez can continue to do well
1) The Braves should be able to take the division is Smoltz and Hudson can beat Santana and Maine.
2) Smoltz really needs to stay healthy this year, I think he is still one of the best pitchers in the game, and the Braves can't replace him with their depth the way they can Glavine, Hampton and James.
3) The Braves three top prospects are OF, they have a young Jeff Francoeur and an underrated Matt Diaz. Brent Lillibridge can also play OF with a little more work. By mid-July one of these better be gone so that we can have another proven releiver (although trades for relievers don't always work out: Baez and Dotel)
4) The rotation looks really good so far
5) Mike Hampton got injured, just in case you didn't hear it again
6) Besides Tex (who hopefully isn't taking the A. Jones route to free agency), the lineup is looking great, who knows maybe Mark Kotsay can have a season hitting for a good average if he stays healthy
7) I really wish we would call up Phil Stockman
Thoughts about the rest of baseball
-The Tigers are looking awful, I knew their pitching was that bad, but not the hitting
-Oh well, the local teams (which I hate) the Orioles and Nats were both in first, but now the Nats have lost 4 in a row and fallen, which I expect the Orioles will follow.
-The Reds might make a run at the post season with all of the young talent that they have
Votto, Phillips, Encarnacion, Bruce (who should be starting in the Majors), Cueto and Volquez (maybe one day Homer Bailey). Throw in Harang, Arroyo, Cordero, Dunn, Griffey and Keppinger (who should start the rest of the year) and the Reds have a really good collection of players on a team not expected to do much. It all comes down to whether Cueto and Volquez can continue to do well
Monday, March 31, 2008
Braves Drop Heartbreaker to Nats, Thoughts on the Game
The Braves dropped a close one to the Nationals yesterday with a 3-2 loss after Ryan Zimmerman hit a walkoff HR. Hudson gave up 2 in the first after making an error (which ended up not mattering) and the offense struggled. Although it was a bad way to start the season, the Braves will have plenty of time to get hitting, and challenge for the division lead. Tonight Tom Glavine makes his homecoming start at Turner field against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Here are a few thoughts/notes on the Braves/Nats game yesterday:
-Martin Prado is now one of the backup first baseman
-We need a power bat, I didn't think it would matter, but I would have liked to see someone with some pop get up when Brayan Pena did
-Give 'em Hell Yunel (which I originally saw in Matthew Berry's Love/Hate column on ESPN.com is my favorite phrase ever
- Hudson looked sharp for the most part, which is great news
-The ball seemed to carry fairly well in the Nationals new park, even with the cold air
-Yes, I saw what happened last night, but I still believe the Ryan Zimmerman is one of the most overrated and overhyped players in the Majors. Maybe its because I live near Richmond and everyone loves him being a UVa grad and a Nats player, but they seem to forget he produced a .266/24/91 line last year, far from star caliber. Oh, he only hit 13 HRs on the road, so its not like RFK was the only reason for his low power numbers
-I had a bad feeling when Cox left Moylan in for the ninth
-Martin Prado is now one of the backup first baseman
-We need a power bat, I didn't think it would matter, but I would have liked to see someone with some pop get up when Brayan Pena did
-Give 'em Hell Yunel (which I originally saw in Matthew Berry's Love/Hate column on ESPN.com is my favorite phrase ever
- Hudson looked sharp for the most part, which is great news
-The ball seemed to carry fairly well in the Nationals new park, even with the cold air
-Yes, I saw what happened last night, but I still believe the Ryan Zimmerman is one of the most overrated and overhyped players in the Majors. Maybe its because I live near Richmond and everyone loves him being a UVa grad and a Nats player, but they seem to forget he produced a .266/24/91 line last year, far from star caliber. Oh, he only hit 13 HRs on the road, so its not like RFK was the only reason for his low power numbers
-I had a bad feeling when Cox left Moylan in for the ninth
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Braves Make Final Cuts
With the season opener only a day away (The Braves play at the Nationals new stadium) the final cuts for the roster have been made. Here is the final roster:
Pitchers (12):
Manny Acosta
Jeff Bennett
Blaine Boyer
Tom Glavine
Mike Hampton
Tim Hudson
Jair Jurrjens
Peter Moylan
Will Ohman
Chris Resop
Royce Ring
Rafael Soriano
Catchers (3):
Brian McCann
Corky Miller
Brayan Pena
Infielders (6):
Yunel Escobar
Ruben Gotay
Kelley Johnson
Chipper Jones
Martin Prado
Mark Teixeira
Outfielders (4):
Gregor Blanco
Matt Diaz
Jeff Francoeur
Mark Kotsay
Thoughts on the Roster:
I was glad to see Acosta make the roster, but either he or Bennett will likely be the odd man out when Smoltz returns as they both have options left. I like Bennett to stay because he has the ability to make spot starts as the year progresses, which may be necessary with Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton in the rotation, although I think that Acosta would be better for the bullpen.
Didn't see the Braves keeping three catchers. It would appear the Brayan Pena will take over the backup first base duties, which allowed the Braves too keep Scott Thorman in the minors (what a surprise, he wasn't claimed by any other team). There are still rumors of a trade that would send Pena elsewhere, possibly Chicago where the Braves could get Matt Murton. A trade would be good because the Braves don't have a power bat on the bench, although I would rather keep it that was than have Thorman stay on the big team.
Not really sure who will be gone when Infante gets back. It could be a catcher or a middle infielder. Prado would be the solution in the middle, as he still has options left. Infante can play anywhere in the infield, and the Braves would have two backup 1B who would could spend the majority of their time elsewhere (while Thorman couldn't).
Some Concerns:
The Braves don't have a power bat on the bench, which is something that likely will have to be filled out through a trade as Lopez and Thorman weren't the answer. They also don't have someone on the team who has played a lot of SS on the bench, and if anything were to happen to Escobar, I think Lillibridge would get the job (until Infante is back).
Pitchers (12):
Manny Acosta
Jeff Bennett
Blaine Boyer
Tom Glavine
Mike Hampton
Tim Hudson
Jair Jurrjens
Peter Moylan
Will Ohman
Chris Resop
Royce Ring
Rafael Soriano
Catchers (3):
Brian McCann
Corky Miller
Brayan Pena
Infielders (6):
Yunel Escobar
Ruben Gotay
Kelley Johnson
Chipper Jones
Martin Prado
Mark Teixeira
Outfielders (4):
Gregor Blanco
Matt Diaz
Jeff Francoeur
Mark Kotsay
Thoughts on the Roster:
I was glad to see Acosta make the roster, but either he or Bennett will likely be the odd man out when Smoltz returns as they both have options left. I like Bennett to stay because he has the ability to make spot starts as the year progresses, which may be necessary with Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton in the rotation, although I think that Acosta would be better for the bullpen.
Didn't see the Braves keeping three catchers. It would appear the Brayan Pena will take over the backup first base duties, which allowed the Braves too keep Scott Thorman in the minors (what a surprise, he wasn't claimed by any other team). There are still rumors of a trade that would send Pena elsewhere, possibly Chicago where the Braves could get Matt Murton. A trade would be good because the Braves don't have a power bat on the bench, although I would rather keep it that was than have Thorman stay on the big team.
Not really sure who will be gone when Infante gets back. It could be a catcher or a middle infielder. Prado would be the solution in the middle, as he still has options left. Infante can play anywhere in the infield, and the Braves would have two backup 1B who would could spend the majority of their time elsewhere (while Thorman couldn't).
Some Concerns:
The Braves don't have a power bat on the bench, which is something that likely will have to be filled out through a trade as Lopez and Thorman weren't the answer. They also don't have someone on the team who has played a lot of SS on the bench, and if anything were to happen to Escobar, I think Lillibridge would get the job (until Infante is back).
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Evil Empire? Not Really
The New York Yankees have come to be known around baseball as the evil empire. But really, the Yankees stepped up when it meant most to Virginia Tech, and helped in the healing effort after the tragedies that happened on April 16th. Today at 3, the Yankees beat the Hokies 11-0, but the game really didn't matter.
Before the game, the entire Yankee team that made the trip (including Jeter, A-Rod, Damon and Posada) toured the monument and spent time with the student body, doing their best to help Virginia Tech move on from what had happened. Immediately after the shooting event had happened, the game was scheduled, and Steinbrenner donated 1 million dollars to the Hokie Spirit Memorial fund. For the players who played in the game, it must have been a thrill, getting to play the New York Yankees, the most famous baseball team in the world.
With all of the problems that have gone on in professional sports (cheating, dogfighting, steroids, referee scandals, etc.) the Yankees are showing what is rights. The team took their only off day during spring training to go and help a university that needed it the most. I believe that I speak on behalf of all of Hokie nation in thanking Steinbrenner and the Yankees for making the trip and lending such a large helping hand to Virginia Tech.
In other baseball news, the Red Sox also did the right thing by refusing to play a spring training game and refusing to board a plane to Japan until Major League Baseball came threw and paid what they promised to the coaches and trainers who also had to make the trip. This was another case of baseball players doing what was right, as the team took a unanimous vote to stand up for the coaches and trainers who don't get noticed nearly as much as the players.
With all of the problems that have gone on in professional sports (cheating, dogfighting, steroids, referee scandals, etc.) the Yankees are showing what is rights. The team took their only off day during spring training to go and help a university that needed it the most. I believe that I speak on behalf of all of Hokie nation in thanking Steinbrenner and the Yankees for making the trip and lending such a large helping hand to Virginia Tech.
In other baseball news, the Red Sox also did the right thing by refusing to play a spring training game and refusing to board a plane to Japan until Major League Baseball came threw and paid what they promised to the coaches and trainers who also had to make the trip. This was another case of baseball players doing what was right, as the team took a unanimous vote to stand up for the coaches and trainers who don't get noticed nearly as much as the players.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Bob Knight: He's Right
So I have pondered the question for a couple of years now, it seems to come up every time the tournament has decisions to make. Should the NCAA expand the tourny? Bob Knight gave two suggestions, both of which I think would work well, one of which is the best advice the tourny committee has probably ever gotten.
Knight's first suggestion was to simply add one more game to the tournament, whether it be for all teams (which would allow 128 in) or just some (which would allow more deserving teams such as Virginia Tech and Arizona State to get in). His defense was that the highest seeds (13-16) which often consist of conference winners from garbage conferences who are nowhere near the 65 best teams. He proposed that teams ranked 1-64 get to play at home, which could be good as it would allow the best teams to have another home game, and give the best 64 teams an edge at getting into the tournament.
The second option that Knight listed was better than his first, and is the best thing that the tournament can do. Eliminate the Auto-bid. ELIMINATE THE AUTO-BID. It would make sure that no teams who lucked their way through the tournament (Georgia) or played bad but won a conference that was so bad that no teams were near the top 65 were kept out. There would still be mid majors like Gonzaga, Drake, Butler, Xavier and Memphis among others. This would also ensure that the teams that are now on the bubble, who people thought were easily among the best 65 teams in. Yes, there would still be questions about who were on the bubble, but at least teams wouldn't have to sit on the outside knowing that Coppin State has a chance and they don't. Teams in bad conferences would still have a chance, they would simply have to win games against other bad teams, or play a good schedule and have a decent record. A lot of teams such as Virginia Tech could probably dominate some of these garbage conferences. This would mean that the best 65, or at least the best 60, would get into the tournament, and it would make the opening round games more competitive, as well as allowing teams to be rewarded for their top 65 seasons.
Knight's first suggestion was to simply add one more game to the tournament, whether it be for all teams (which would allow 128 in) or just some (which would allow more deserving teams such as Virginia Tech and Arizona State to get in). His defense was that the highest seeds (13-16) which often consist of conference winners from garbage conferences who are nowhere near the 65 best teams. He proposed that teams ranked 1-64 get to play at home, which could be good as it would allow the best teams to have another home game, and give the best 64 teams an edge at getting into the tournament.
The second option that Knight listed was better than his first, and is the best thing that the tournament can do. Eliminate the Auto-bid. ELIMINATE THE AUTO-BID. It would make sure that no teams who lucked their way through the tournament (Georgia) or played bad but won a conference that was so bad that no teams were near the top 65 were kept out. There would still be mid majors like Gonzaga, Drake, Butler, Xavier and Memphis among others. This would also ensure that the teams that are now on the bubble, who people thought were easily among the best 65 teams in. Yes, there would still be questions about who were on the bubble, but at least teams wouldn't have to sit on the outside knowing that Coppin State has a chance and they don't. Teams in bad conferences would still have a chance, they would simply have to win games against other bad teams, or play a good schedule and have a decent record. A lot of teams such as Virginia Tech could probably dominate some of these garbage conferences. This would mean that the best 65, or at least the best 60, would get into the tournament, and it would make the opening round games more competitive, as well as allowing teams to be rewarded for their top 65 seasons.
NCAA Snubs Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech was on the bubble coming into today's NCAA selection show, despite showing that they have the talent and teamwork to beat any team in the country. Yet come NCAA time for the selection commitee to select who gets in, they get left out. The RPI, which the NCAA commitee uses as part of its judgement for who gets in, shows that the ACC as the best conference, yet the number 4 team doesn't get in? Incredible. Tech posted a 9-7 conference record, which was good enough to get them a first round bye. Yes, they are lacking a good record against the top 50, but they definitely deserved to be in the tournament. They are a better team than Baylor (who lost its first game against Big 12 #12 Colorade in the tournament), Kentucky, Oregon, South Alabama and Villanova. They had the 36th best strength of scedule in the country, and once again (the same way that it happened it football, where Tech was #1 in the computers) the NCAA has decided that it is better to play bad teams and win then go down to the wire with good teams. Maybe the only reason that Virginia Tech didn't make the tournament was that Georgia won the SEC title and took away their slot, but it shouldn't have mattered. Virginia Tech was easily one of the 31 best at-large teams, yet they didn't get into the tournament. Why? Because the head of the tourney commitee came out and said something to the extent of "[We don't look at how good your conference is]." Why, because there are problems with the selection committee. 1) The ACC has no representatives, while the Big East, SEC and Pac-10 do (see Villanova, Kentucky and Oregon). 2) Although the power conferences dominate college basketball, there are 6 members who come from mid-majors (aka Garbage conferences) which easily explains why they got a generous 6 at large bids this year (including South Alabama). 3) The committee can't decide whether RPI should be used or not. 4) The RPI is flawed even if it is used. Its obvious that Virginia Tech got snubbed from the NCAA tournament just like they got snubbed from the BCS National Championship game. Now all I can do is hope that their basketball team doesn't come out dissapointed and play a not great game because they are less than excited from getting screwed by the NCAA.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Spring Training News and Notes
There have been about a week and a half of spring training games, and here are some of the Braves who have stood out so far, as well as an updated list of who I think will be on the teams opening day roster. The Braves open the season on March 30th against Washington in the Nationals new ballpark.
Hitting Standouts:
Hitters:
Brian McCann- McCann is going to start even if his poor spring continues
Mark Teixeira- Another lock to start, regardless of what happens
Kelly Johnson- Lock
Yunel Escobar- Great Spring so far, Lock
Chipper Jones- As long as he stays healthy, he will start
Matt Diaz- Good spring so far, will make the team, although still a risk of a platoon
Mark Kotsay- Will start in center until he provides reason that he can't
Jeff Francoeur- Lock
The bench is where the spring training stats likely will affect who is there more
Backup Catcher
-Javy Lopez has really struggled, although I still think that he has the edge on the job, although if he doesn't continue it could go to Bryan Pena who has had the best spring of any catcher
Backup First Baseman
-Scott Thorman has stuggled while Tyler Flowers has hit well. Thorman is out of options, so I don't think the Braves will risk losing him unless he plays extraordinarily awful
Backup Infielder
-Omar Infante will likely be out for the beginning of the season, so the job for utility player opens up. I think that Brent Lillibridge will get the job, because he can play SS, and neither he nor Martin Prado has had a good spring
Backup Outfielder
-Josh Anderson has played much better and it appears that without Infante the Braves will likely want an OF who can play all 3 positions. Although Schaffer has played well, the Braves will probably let him play in AA because he has so little experience. Brandon Jones has played his way out of a role with his bad hitting and has seemed to be lackadaisical on defense at times
Final Bench Spot
-Before I thought that Lillibridge would get this spot because Infante should have been there and he was versatile. At this point, there is no clear choice, and I think that the Braves will reward someone who has had a good spring. So far, I think that this spot could go to Joe Borchard who has hit well, and has always had the tools to be a good MLB player
Pitchers:
Tim Hudson-Lock
John Smoltz- Lock, even if he gave up a base hit to Tiger Woods
Tom Glavine- Lock
Mike Hampton- Lock, Assuming that he is able to stay healthy
Rafael Soriano- Lock, although he has been battling a virus
Peter Moylan- Lock, although he too has had some health issues
Will Ohman- Lock, the club acquired him to be their lefty reliever, and he will get his chance
Tyler Yates- Has pitched well and has been expected to be here, although I don't think he is a lock
Blaine Boyer- Has pitched great, and barring an awful end of spring, he is pretty much a lock
The last 3 spots (including the 5th starters spot) are looking a lot less certain at this point in time
Fifth Starter:
-Chuck James is still battling injury issues and he is looking less and less certain for the start of the season. If he is unable to go, I think that Jair Jurrjens will get the nod because he has
had a tremendous spring, while Jo-Jo Reyes and Jeff Bennett haven't
Bullpen (2 spots)
-Even though he hasn't thrown well yet, Jeff Bennett is out of options, and is a favorite of Cox, so I think he will get a spot
-Manny Acosta (who I previously predicted would get this spot) hasn't pitched well and still has options, so I think he is on his way back to the minors. I think this spot comes down to either Chris Resop or Royce Ring, who are both out of options. I think that the Braves will keep Ring because he is a lefty that they acquired last year and he will definitely get picked up if he gets waived. Resop has pitched better this spring, but I don't see him making the team over any of the other guys.
Hitting Standouts:
- Chipper Jones has hit well, but has only had 10 ABs due to injury issues
- Yunel Escobar has hit .545 in 22 ABs, but has made 2 errors in the field
- Joe Borchard has hit well in 14 ABs, and 5 of his 6 hits have been doubles
- Matt Diaz, Brian Anderson and Jordan Schaffer are all over .333 and have 1 SB
- Tyler Flowers has hit over .300, the best of any Braves 1B by far
- Javy Lopez hit a quick HR but has struggled to a .154 average
- Brandon Jones has hit only .150 with no extra base hits
- Brent Lillibridge has hit .217, although he does have 2 doubles
- Brian McCann has hit only .133
- Scott Thorman has hit only .125
- Blaine Boyer has thrown 6 scoreless innings in 3 games
- Mike Hampton hasn't allowed a run in 3.1 innings, but left after pulling his right groin (he isn't expected to miss any significant time)
- Jair Jurrjens has given up only 1 run in 5 innings
- Phil Stockman, Jeff Ridgeway and Tyler Yates have yet to give up a run
- Tom Glavine has had some troubles giving up 3 runs in 4.2 innings
- Buddy Carlyle started off good before struggling against the Reds
- Jeff Bennett also struggled against the Reds in the split squad game today
- Manny Acosta has given up a lot of hits, although he does have 3 k's in 3.2 innings
- Royce Ring has had control problems, walking 4 men in 3 innings
Hitters:
Brian McCann- McCann is going to start even if his poor spring continues
Mark Teixeira- Another lock to start, regardless of what happens
Kelly Johnson- Lock
Yunel Escobar- Great Spring so far, Lock
Chipper Jones- As long as he stays healthy, he will start
Matt Diaz- Good spring so far, will make the team, although still a risk of a platoon
Mark Kotsay- Will start in center until he provides reason that he can't
Jeff Francoeur- Lock
The bench is where the spring training stats likely will affect who is there more
Backup Catcher
-Javy Lopez has really struggled, although I still think that he has the edge on the job, although if he doesn't continue it could go to Bryan Pena who has had the best spring of any catcher
Backup First Baseman
-Scott Thorman has stuggled while Tyler Flowers has hit well. Thorman is out of options, so I don't think the Braves will risk losing him unless he plays extraordinarily awful
Backup Infielder
-Omar Infante will likely be out for the beginning of the season, so the job for utility player opens up. I think that Brent Lillibridge will get the job, because he can play SS, and neither he nor Martin Prado has had a good spring
Backup Outfielder
-Josh Anderson has played much better and it appears that without Infante the Braves will likely want an OF who can play all 3 positions. Although Schaffer has played well, the Braves will probably let him play in AA because he has so little experience. Brandon Jones has played his way out of a role with his bad hitting and has seemed to be lackadaisical on defense at times
Final Bench Spot
-Before I thought that Lillibridge would get this spot because Infante should have been there and he was versatile. At this point, there is no clear choice, and I think that the Braves will reward someone who has had a good spring. So far, I think that this spot could go to Joe Borchard who has hit well, and has always had the tools to be a good MLB player
Pitchers:
Tim Hudson-Lock
John Smoltz- Lock, even if he gave up a base hit to Tiger Woods
Tom Glavine- Lock
Mike Hampton- Lock, Assuming that he is able to stay healthy
Rafael Soriano- Lock, although he has been battling a virus
Peter Moylan- Lock, although he too has had some health issues
Will Ohman- Lock, the club acquired him to be their lefty reliever, and he will get his chance
Tyler Yates- Has pitched well and has been expected to be here, although I don't think he is a lock
Blaine Boyer- Has pitched great, and barring an awful end of spring, he is pretty much a lock
The last 3 spots (including the 5th starters spot) are looking a lot less certain at this point in time
Fifth Starter:
-Chuck James is still battling injury issues and he is looking less and less certain for the start of the season. If he is unable to go, I think that Jair Jurrjens will get the nod because he has
had a tremendous spring, while Jo-Jo Reyes and Jeff Bennett haven't
Bullpen (2 spots)
-Even though he hasn't thrown well yet, Jeff Bennett is out of options, and is a favorite of Cox, so I think he will get a spot
-Manny Acosta (who I previously predicted would get this spot) hasn't pitched well and still has options, so I think he is on his way back to the minors. I think this spot comes down to either Chris Resop or Royce Ring, who are both out of options. I think that the Braves will keep Ring because he is a lefty that they acquired last year and he will definitely get picked up if he gets waived. Resop has pitched better this spring, but I don't see him making the team over any of the other guys.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Fantasy Preview: Second Baseman
The Studs:
Chase Utley- A legit first round pick, especially at a weak position
Brandon Phillips- Great year last year, possible repeat of 30/30 season and could reach 100 RBIs. Just as much power, and more speed than Utley.
BJ Upton- Although he will likely be playing OF this year, much more value at 2nd base. 25 HRs and steals are a possibility
Brian Roberts- Roberts gets the nod because he is a great steal threat, who once again could post 50 steals
The Sleepers:
Chone Figgins- Has a chance to steal as many, if not more bases than Roberts, and will likely hit for a higher average, although he is getting drafted much lower (20 picks) becuase he doesn't have a lot of power, but that can be found elsewhere
Kelly Johnson- Double digit SB and could hit around 20 HRs and is getting picked around 175 overall. Should score plenty of runs in front of Tex and Chipper
Howie Kendrick- Will produce just as well if not better than Robinson Cano, but he is getting picked about 60 picks later
Rickie Weeks- At this time you might not have any faith left in him, but I think he will rebound from his aweful year and hit 20 HRs while stealing 25 bases. Many others will be scared because of his poor performance, so he should be available at a bargain.
The Busts:
Kaz Matsui- After hitting .288 and stealing 32 bases last year, he reappeared on the fantasy map. I think he falls back to his old self with a much lower average, meaning less opportunities to steal, and decreasing his value
Dan Uggla- He is young and has great power for a second baseman, but his average tumbled to .245 last year, and I think that his power totals will fall as well, especially hitting in a weak lineup.
Ian Kinsler- 20/20 season last year, but something can be seen is his second half numbers, but he doesn't have that much power, so I don't think he will be able to repeat his performance.
Dustin Pedroia- Good BA and solid RBI, but someone will draft him too high because he is on the Red Sox, it has happened in all 5 of my drafts, and 2 mocks so far.
Chase Utley- A legit first round pick, especially at a weak position
Brandon Phillips- Great year last year, possible repeat of 30/30 season and could reach 100 RBIs. Just as much power, and more speed than Utley.
BJ Upton- Although he will likely be playing OF this year, much more value at 2nd base. 25 HRs and steals are a possibility
Brian Roberts- Roberts gets the nod because he is a great steal threat, who once again could post 50 steals
The Sleepers:
Chone Figgins- Has a chance to steal as many, if not more bases than Roberts, and will likely hit for a higher average, although he is getting drafted much lower (20 picks) becuase he doesn't have a lot of power, but that can be found elsewhere
Kelly Johnson- Double digit SB and could hit around 20 HRs and is getting picked around 175 overall. Should score plenty of runs in front of Tex and Chipper
Howie Kendrick- Will produce just as well if not better than Robinson Cano, but he is getting picked about 60 picks later
Rickie Weeks- At this time you might not have any faith left in him, but I think he will rebound from his aweful year and hit 20 HRs while stealing 25 bases. Many others will be scared because of his poor performance, so he should be available at a bargain.
The Busts:
Kaz Matsui- After hitting .288 and stealing 32 bases last year, he reappeared on the fantasy map. I think he falls back to his old self with a much lower average, meaning less opportunities to steal, and decreasing his value
Dan Uggla- He is young and has great power for a second baseman, but his average tumbled to .245 last year, and I think that his power totals will fall as well, especially hitting in a weak lineup.
Ian Kinsler- 20/20 season last year, but something can be seen is his second half numbers, but he doesn't have that much power, so I don't think he will be able to repeat his performance.
Dustin Pedroia- Good BA and solid RBI, but someone will draft him too high because he is on the Red Sox, it has happened in all 5 of my drafts, and 2 mocks so far.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Young Hokies Provide Tons of Hope
Coming into the College Baskeball season Virginia Tech was expected to regress from last year, when they gained a 5 seed in the NCAA tournament and lost in the second round. Tech did regress, but not as much as people were expecting them to. Preseason ACC predictions picked Tech anywhere from 9th to 12th in the twelve team league, with between 2 and 5 conference wins. Yet Virginia Tech has gone 16-11 overall and 7-6 in ACC play, all while starting 3 freshman most games. Could Seth Greenberg be the couach of the year? Yes.
The off-season was filled with one of the best recruiting classes in the country, as Seth Greenberg pulled in five 4 Star commits, two 3 Star commits and a two start commit. Everything didn't stay that good for the Hokies however. Projected starting PG Nigel Munson transferred out of the school (which made way for Hank Thorns). Robert Krabbendam, who wasn't very good, but gave Tech some extra height on the inside left to play in the Netherlands, his home country. Finally, 4 Star commit Gus Gilchrist backed out leaving the Hokies with a hole at center (they have filled that for next year by signing 4 Star prospect Victor Davilia), but the Hokies have played well by using 2 or 3 forwards at a time.
While there is still a lot to be seen (after going 8-8 in conference with 3 freshman starters, Dowdell, Gordon and Collins, the Hokies slipped to 4-12 in conference in 2005-06) all of the freshman should get plenty of playing time, and should have developed into a great team in the next couple years. This year the only losses will be Deron Washington (who provides more emotional support and gets the crowd fired up with his ultra athletic dunks. See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXNJQFi_R50 or any other youtube clips) and backup Marcus Travis, who rarely plays. This means that Virginia Tech, a team that is still in the running for an NCAA bid this year, should only improve over the next 3 years.
Here are the players who could lead them on this run, and try and establish Virginia Tech as a good basketball school under terrific coach Seth Greenberg.
Freshman PG/SG Malcom Delaney. He has played well and has been getting more playing time as the year has progressed. He splits time between Point and Shooting Gaurd. Delaney is likely to step into AD Vassallo's role after he graduates. He can make it rain from down town, is a great FT shooter, and should be plenty expirienced for the next few years, which can only make him better.
Freshman PG Hank Thorns. He came to Tech after Nigel Munson transferred out. His biggest weakness is that he is only 5'10 making him a defensive liability. He has an OK outside game, and is a good FT shooter. He has played extremely well down the stretch, and is so quick he can beat the press by himself. The most important thing that Thorns has come with is his hustle. Almost every game that he gets playing time Thorns has come up with good hustle plays that give Virginia Tech extra possessions.
Junior SG AD Vassallo. Tech's leading scorer this year, Vassallo is an excellent marksman and should again lead the team in scoring next year. He has worked on the other areas of his game, and can score in many different ways. His defense has improved, but still needs to be worked on. If the Hokies are continue to step forward next year, Vassallo will play a key role splitting time between SG and SF.
Freshman SG Dorenzo Hudson- Hudson, who also played football in HS came to Tech in the second semester of this season due to academic reasons. His playing time has increased recently, although he still seemingly needs lots of work. In HS he had a great mid range game, and was pretty good from behind the arc. However, he has struggled from 3-point land since coming to Tech. With increased playing time, and a full year of practice and training camp, Hudson should continue to develop. Although he will still struggle to get playing time becuase he can't play point and will be competing against Delaney and Vassallo, Hudson could emerge as a good scorer two years down the road.
Freshman SF Terrell Bell- Bell, who hasn't seen much playing time this year should see a large roll next year as the heir apparent to Deron Washington's spot. Although he won't energize the crowd as much, Bell brings things that Washington didn't have. Bell should develop into a great mid range scorer, as he has a good jump shot. He doesn't have much range from behind the arc, but Tech should have other options. Bell's best aspect of his game is defense, and he should be the best defensive player at Tech now that Gordon is gone. He is very athletic, and might score more than Washington as early as next season.
Sophmore PF Lewis Witcher- Withcer has fought for playing time with Jeff Allen, JT Thompson and Cheick Diakite. A 4 Star recruit coming out of HS, Witcher has played well when getting extensive playing time. Great offensive rebounder who should get playing time. Possibly could play some SF next year, although he would be big, he has a solid mid range game.
Freshman PF JT Thompson- Got his first start against Duke when Jeff Allen was suspended, and has impressed since. Will take Deron Washington's role as player who can energize the crowd with impressive dunks. He can play SF as well, although his mid range game needs work. Solid defensive player who is capable of getting blocked shots. He is small for a PF but doesn't have the speed to play SF consistently, although he is very athletic. He should continue to score when playing, but he will have to fight for ample time.
Freshman PF Jeff Allen- The highlight of Tech's recruiting class, Allen has posted 7 double-doubles so far this season. Although he will need to continue to work on his conditioning and remaining composed in games, Allen could be a star in the ACC for the next couple of years. He has great hands and is good at accumulating steals from the PF position. Solid shot blocker whoh averages about 1 per game. Good size, although he isn't that tall. Allen should lead the Hokies in rebounding the next couple of years. The most important thing for Allen will be staying out of foul trouble.
Junior PF Cheick Diakite- A defensive specialist, he will lost playing time because his offensive game still needs polish. He is improving as a low block scorer, but shouldn't shoot any jumpers. He can also play center, and is the best shot blocker on the team. Next year he should help provide leadership, as he has always had a hard work ethic. Called a "poor man's Ben Wallace by the coaching staff, he will accumulate Blocks and Boards when he gets playing time.
New Recruits:
C/PF Victor Davilia: Should get immediate playing time as he can play center, although he is only 6'8. A great rebounder and low block scorer, he will have to fight for playing time, but should get it next year.
SG Kendall Durant: Will struggle to get playing time amidst all of Tech's gaurds next season, could be redshirted. Good range.
C Gene Swindle: Big center won't see the floor much next year. Project.
With all of the young talent that the Hokies have, this is a team that should be able to compete for NCAA bids and the ACC title. UNC and Duke will have better rated players, but the expirience that Tech will have should help them win close games for years to come.
The off-season was filled with one of the best recruiting classes in the country, as Seth Greenberg pulled in five 4 Star commits, two 3 Star commits and a two start commit. Everything didn't stay that good for the Hokies however. Projected starting PG Nigel Munson transferred out of the school (which made way for Hank Thorns). Robert Krabbendam, who wasn't very good, but gave Tech some extra height on the inside left to play in the Netherlands, his home country. Finally, 4 Star commit Gus Gilchrist backed out leaving the Hokies with a hole at center (they have filled that for next year by signing 4 Star prospect Victor Davilia), but the Hokies have played well by using 2 or 3 forwards at a time.
While there is still a lot to be seen (after going 8-8 in conference with 3 freshman starters, Dowdell, Gordon and Collins, the Hokies slipped to 4-12 in conference in 2005-06) all of the freshman should get plenty of playing time, and should have developed into a great team in the next couple years. This year the only losses will be Deron Washington (who provides more emotional support and gets the crowd fired up with his ultra athletic dunks. See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXNJQFi_R50 or any other youtube clips) and backup Marcus Travis, who rarely plays. This means that Virginia Tech, a team that is still in the running for an NCAA bid this year, should only improve over the next 3 years.
Here are the players who could lead them on this run, and try and establish Virginia Tech as a good basketball school under terrific coach Seth Greenberg.
Freshman PG/SG Malcom Delaney. He has played well and has been getting more playing time as the year has progressed. He splits time between Point and Shooting Gaurd. Delaney is likely to step into AD Vassallo's role after he graduates. He can make it rain from down town, is a great FT shooter, and should be plenty expirienced for the next few years, which can only make him better.
Freshman PG Hank Thorns. He came to Tech after Nigel Munson transferred out. His biggest weakness is that he is only 5'10 making him a defensive liability. He has an OK outside game, and is a good FT shooter. He has played extremely well down the stretch, and is so quick he can beat the press by himself. The most important thing that Thorns has come with is his hustle. Almost every game that he gets playing time Thorns has come up with good hustle plays that give Virginia Tech extra possessions.
Junior SG AD Vassallo. Tech's leading scorer this year, Vassallo is an excellent marksman and should again lead the team in scoring next year. He has worked on the other areas of his game, and can score in many different ways. His defense has improved, but still needs to be worked on. If the Hokies are continue to step forward next year, Vassallo will play a key role splitting time between SG and SF.
Freshman SG Dorenzo Hudson- Hudson, who also played football in HS came to Tech in the second semester of this season due to academic reasons. His playing time has increased recently, although he still seemingly needs lots of work. In HS he had a great mid range game, and was pretty good from behind the arc. However, he has struggled from 3-point land since coming to Tech. With increased playing time, and a full year of practice and training camp, Hudson should continue to develop. Although he will still struggle to get playing time becuase he can't play point and will be competing against Delaney and Vassallo, Hudson could emerge as a good scorer two years down the road.
Freshman SF Terrell Bell- Bell, who hasn't seen much playing time this year should see a large roll next year as the heir apparent to Deron Washington's spot. Although he won't energize the crowd as much, Bell brings things that Washington didn't have. Bell should develop into a great mid range scorer, as he has a good jump shot. He doesn't have much range from behind the arc, but Tech should have other options. Bell's best aspect of his game is defense, and he should be the best defensive player at Tech now that Gordon is gone. He is very athletic, and might score more than Washington as early as next season.
Sophmore PF Lewis Witcher- Withcer has fought for playing time with Jeff Allen, JT Thompson and Cheick Diakite. A 4 Star recruit coming out of HS, Witcher has played well when getting extensive playing time. Great offensive rebounder who should get playing time. Possibly could play some SF next year, although he would be big, he has a solid mid range game.
Freshman PF JT Thompson- Got his first start against Duke when Jeff Allen was suspended, and has impressed since. Will take Deron Washington's role as player who can energize the crowd with impressive dunks. He can play SF as well, although his mid range game needs work. Solid defensive player who is capable of getting blocked shots. He is small for a PF but doesn't have the speed to play SF consistently, although he is very athletic. He should continue to score when playing, but he will have to fight for ample time.
Freshman PF Jeff Allen- The highlight of Tech's recruiting class, Allen has posted 7 double-doubles so far this season. Although he will need to continue to work on his conditioning and remaining composed in games, Allen could be a star in the ACC for the next couple of years. He has great hands and is good at accumulating steals from the PF position. Solid shot blocker whoh averages about 1 per game. Good size, although he isn't that tall. Allen should lead the Hokies in rebounding the next couple of years. The most important thing for Allen will be staying out of foul trouble.
Junior PF Cheick Diakite- A defensive specialist, he will lost playing time because his offensive game still needs polish. He is improving as a low block scorer, but shouldn't shoot any jumpers. He can also play center, and is the best shot blocker on the team. Next year he should help provide leadership, as he has always had a hard work ethic. Called a "poor man's Ben Wallace by the coaching staff, he will accumulate Blocks and Boards when he gets playing time.
New Recruits:
C/PF Victor Davilia: Should get immediate playing time as he can play center, although he is only 6'8. A great rebounder and low block scorer, he will have to fight for playing time, but should get it next year.
SG Kendall Durant: Will struggle to get playing time amidst all of Tech's gaurds next season, could be redshirted. Good range.
C Gene Swindle: Big center won't see the floor much next year. Project.
With all of the young talent that the Hokies have, this is a team that should be able to compete for NCAA bids and the ACC title. UNC and Duke will have better rated players, but the expirience that Tech will have should help them win close games for years to come.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Fantasy Preview: First Base
The Studs:
Albert Pujols- Best in the game when he is healthy, but he said he will shut down completely if his injury setbacks continue, so massive risk for first round pick
Prince Fielder- Mashed over 50 HRs last year, should hit close to 50 again
Ryan Howard- Down BA last year should rebound this year
David Ortiz- Expect another big year in a great lineup
The Sleepers:
Mark Teixeira- I know, how can the fifth overall first baseman be a sleeper? Because, he will produce more than some of the studs. He tore it up in 54 games with ATL (.317, 17, 56) and is in a contract year
James Loney- Young Dodger has a ton of talent, and could be a great middle round bargain
Joey Votto- Great late round bargain at a position with a lot of depth. Should earn the starting gig for the Reds over Scott Hatteberg, otherwise he might end up being traded and playing somewhere else (which hurts his value because it won't be hitter friendly Great American Ballpark)
Adrian Gonzalez- Great numbers even playing half of his games in Petco Park, possibly consider him someone to play only on the road, while playing someone else when he plays in spacious Petco. He hit .295 with 20 HRs on the road and .266 with 10 HRs at home.
The Busts:
Todd Helton- Yes, he still plays at Coors. Yes, he will have a good average. But someone will draft him too high because of his name, and not realize that Helton is becoming a 1 (maybe 2 w/ RBI) category threat at a position loaded with talent
Albert Pujols- I just don't trust him to stay healthy all year, and if he gets hurt you lose your top pick
Paul Konerko- He is getting old, and I see him declining this season. All of his numbers dropped last year, a trend which I think will continue
Carlos Pena- He came out of nowhere to jack 46 HRs last year, and I think he will return to under 30 HRs and a BA under .270
Albert Pujols- Best in the game when he is healthy, but he said he will shut down completely if his injury setbacks continue, so massive risk for first round pick
Prince Fielder- Mashed over 50 HRs last year, should hit close to 50 again
Ryan Howard- Down BA last year should rebound this year
David Ortiz- Expect another big year in a great lineup
The Sleepers:
Mark Teixeira- I know, how can the fifth overall first baseman be a sleeper? Because, he will produce more than some of the studs. He tore it up in 54 games with ATL (.317, 17, 56) and is in a contract year
James Loney- Young Dodger has a ton of talent, and could be a great middle round bargain
Joey Votto- Great late round bargain at a position with a lot of depth. Should earn the starting gig for the Reds over Scott Hatteberg, otherwise he might end up being traded and playing somewhere else (which hurts his value because it won't be hitter friendly Great American Ballpark)
Adrian Gonzalez- Great numbers even playing half of his games in Petco Park, possibly consider him someone to play only on the road, while playing someone else when he plays in spacious Petco. He hit .295 with 20 HRs on the road and .266 with 10 HRs at home.
The Busts:
Todd Helton- Yes, he still plays at Coors. Yes, he will have a good average. But someone will draft him too high because of his name, and not realize that Helton is becoming a 1 (maybe 2 w/ RBI) category threat at a position loaded with talent
Albert Pujols- I just don't trust him to stay healthy all year, and if he gets hurt you lose your top pick
Paul Konerko- He is getting old, and I see him declining this season. All of his numbers dropped last year, a trend which I think will continue
Carlos Pena- He came out of nowhere to jack 46 HRs last year, and I think he will return to under 30 HRs and a BA under .270
Sunday, February 17, 2008
2008 Fantasy Preview: Catchers
Studs:
Victor Martinez - Best hitting catcher in the game right now
Russell Martin - Catchings only 5 category threat
Brian McCann - Will rebound from last year, great RBI potential in stacked lineup
Joe Mauer - Should have good BA, health is an issue
Sleepers:
Geovany Soto - Rookie should provide solid pop and BA, 20 HR potential
J.R. Towles - Great contact hitter, chance for double digit SB and HR
R. Doumit - Will have to share time with Paulino and OF Nady, but huge power potential
C. Ruiz - Solid power and he won't kill your BA like many other Catchers
Busts:
Jorge Posada - Will be solid, but last years numbers mean someone will draft him too early
Jarrod Saltalamacchia - Will lose ABs to Laird, and is getting drafted way too high
Ivan Rodriguez - The BA is slipping, all other numbers have slipped, but people will get him because he is pudge
Josh Bard- Will hit for solid BA but won't produce in any other category, plus he may lost some ABs to Barrett
Victor Martinez - Best hitting catcher in the game right now
Russell Martin - Catchings only 5 category threat
Brian McCann - Will rebound from last year, great RBI potential in stacked lineup
Joe Mauer - Should have good BA, health is an issue
Sleepers:
Geovany Soto - Rookie should provide solid pop and BA, 20 HR potential
J.R. Towles - Great contact hitter, chance for double digit SB and HR
R. Doumit - Will have to share time with Paulino and OF Nady, but huge power potential
C. Ruiz - Solid power and he won't kill your BA like many other Catchers
Busts:
Jorge Posada - Will be solid, but last years numbers mean someone will draft him too early
Jarrod Saltalamacchia - Will lose ABs to Laird, and is getting drafted way too high
Ivan Rodriguez - The BA is slipping, all other numbers have slipped, but people will get him because he is pudge
Josh Bard- Will hit for solid BA but won't produce in any other category, plus he may lost some ABs to Barrett
Friday, February 15, 2008
2008 MLB Predictions
Spring training is here, and although there is much still to be decided, it is time for some picks for the upcoming year
Playoff Teams:
Atlanta Braves (NL East)
-With a great pitching staff and potent lineup, the Braves return to the top of the NL East
Milwaukee Brewers (NL Central)
-The young and talented Brewers continue on their success from last year and take a weak division
Los Angeles Dodgers (NL Central)
-With new manager Joe Torre, a solid pitching staff, and a ton of young talent, the Dodgers take a tough NL West division
New York Mets (NL Wild Card)
-The Mets fall short of the division crown but win the wild card as the West teams will hurt each other down the stretch
Boston Red Sox (AL East)
-The Champs are loaded and will take the division, everything on their team is too strong for the rest of the division, including the Yankees
Detroit Tigers (AL Central)
-The Tigers made some great off-season moves and are ready to win now. The lineup is potent, the question is whether or not the pitching will hold up
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
-The pitching staff should again be great, and there is a lot of speedy talent on the team, and they will be able to hold off the Mariners as long as Escobar isn't out too long
New York Yankees (AL Wild Card)
-The Yankees are trying something new this year, where they use pitchers who aren't over the hill, I think it will pay off with a Wild Card birth
NLDS
Atlanta Braves over Los Angeles Dodgers
-This becomes a battle of pitching staffs, and I think that the Braves aces lead them to victory
New York Mets over Milwaukee Brewers
-Santana is far better than anyone on the crew, and in the series, he wins two games
ALDS
Boston Red Sox over Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
-Sounds familiar, anyway, Josh Beckett is lights out, and will win two games if he gets the chance
New York Yankees over Detroit Tigers
-I just don't think that the Tigers pitching is good enough. The Yanks, led by Wang and Chamberlain take down a Tigers team with a potent punch
NLCS
Atlanta Braves over New York Mets
-In a rematch of the '99 NLCS the Braves again get the better of their division rivals. Santana splits with Smoltz, and the Braves other pitchers prove better than John Maine and a not that great Pedro Martinez
ALCS
Boston Red Sox over New York Yankees
-The series goes seven games, and Beckett wins games 1, 4 and 7. The lineup helps him out in a shaky game 4 on short rest, and the Yanks pitchers (especially the pen) just won't be good enough
World Series
Atlanta Braves over Boston Red Sox
-Call me crazy, I know the Red Sox have Beckett, but he only wins once, but the Braves actually have a better lineup. They have the better catcher, first baseman, shortstop, third baseman and right fielder. The Sox have a slight edge at second (assuming Pedroia doesn't slip) and have a better DH than anyone the Braves do. Ellisbury will be better than Kotsay or anyone else the Braves put out there, but the surprise will be that Matt Diaz hits just as well as Manny Ramirez. The Series really comes down to the pitching, and John Smoltz is also dominant in the playoffs. Hudson also wins twice over the BoSox 2, (now looking like Dice-K--> see 4.40 ERA which gets worse this year) and then it comes down to the Braves using Tom Glavine to beat the young guns of either Lester or Buchholz. I know the Sox look loaded to repeat, but the Atlanta Braves will pull out a WS win. Both teams had similar numbers last year in BA and ERA, and the Braves have improved more. Mark Teixeira and Chipper Jones lead the team to their first World Series win since 1995.
Playoff Teams:
Atlanta Braves (NL East)
-With a great pitching staff and potent lineup, the Braves return to the top of the NL East
Milwaukee Brewers (NL Central)
-The young and talented Brewers continue on their success from last year and take a weak division
Los Angeles Dodgers (NL Central)
-With new manager Joe Torre, a solid pitching staff, and a ton of young talent, the Dodgers take a tough NL West division
New York Mets (NL Wild Card)
-The Mets fall short of the division crown but win the wild card as the West teams will hurt each other down the stretch
Boston Red Sox (AL East)
-The Champs are loaded and will take the division, everything on their team is too strong for the rest of the division, including the Yankees
Detroit Tigers (AL Central)
-The Tigers made some great off-season moves and are ready to win now. The lineup is potent, the question is whether or not the pitching will hold up
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
-The pitching staff should again be great, and there is a lot of speedy talent on the team, and they will be able to hold off the Mariners as long as Escobar isn't out too long
New York Yankees (AL Wild Card)
-The Yankees are trying something new this year, where they use pitchers who aren't over the hill, I think it will pay off with a Wild Card birth
NLDS
Atlanta Braves over Los Angeles Dodgers
-This becomes a battle of pitching staffs, and I think that the Braves aces lead them to victory
New York Mets over Milwaukee Brewers
-Santana is far better than anyone on the crew, and in the series, he wins two games
ALDS
Boston Red Sox over Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
-Sounds familiar, anyway, Josh Beckett is lights out, and will win two games if he gets the chance
New York Yankees over Detroit Tigers
-I just don't think that the Tigers pitching is good enough. The Yanks, led by Wang and Chamberlain take down a Tigers team with a potent punch
NLCS
Atlanta Braves over New York Mets
-In a rematch of the '99 NLCS the Braves again get the better of their division rivals. Santana splits with Smoltz, and the Braves other pitchers prove better than John Maine and a not that great Pedro Martinez
ALCS
Boston Red Sox over New York Yankees
-The series goes seven games, and Beckett wins games 1, 4 and 7. The lineup helps him out in a shaky game 4 on short rest, and the Yanks pitchers (especially the pen) just won't be good enough
World Series
Atlanta Braves over Boston Red Sox
-Call me crazy, I know the Red Sox have Beckett, but he only wins once, but the Braves actually have a better lineup. They have the better catcher, first baseman, shortstop, third baseman and right fielder. The Sox have a slight edge at second (assuming Pedroia doesn't slip) and have a better DH than anyone the Braves do. Ellisbury will be better than Kotsay or anyone else the Braves put out there, but the surprise will be that Matt Diaz hits just as well as Manny Ramirez. The Series really comes down to the pitching, and John Smoltz is also dominant in the playoffs. Hudson also wins twice over the BoSox 2, (now looking like Dice-K--> see 4.40 ERA which gets worse this year) and then it comes down to the Braves using Tom Glavine to beat the young guns of either Lester or Buchholz. I know the Sox look loaded to repeat, but the Atlanta Braves will pull out a WS win. Both teams had similar numbers last year in BA and ERA, and the Braves have improved more. Mark Teixeira and Chipper Jones lead the team to their first World Series win since 1995.
NFL Mock Draft
The draft order still hasn't been set, but I don't think it will affect the draft.
1. Miami Dolphins-Chris Long, DE, Virginia
The system is switching to a 3-4, and Long is the best D-lineman/OLB in the draft to play in the system. The Dolphins have so many holes, I could see them trading this pick and acquiring more picks in this and next years draft.
2. St. Louis Rams- Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
He is a monster, and the Rams need to solidify both the offensive and defensive lines. Dorsey will immediately improve the defense, and the Rams can hope that Orlando Pace will be productive enough that a later round pick on the o-line will be sufficient.
3. *Atlanta Falcons- Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
The Falcon's have serious QB issues, although they could also go with Run-DMC and pick a QB like Chad Henne in the second round. Even Andre Woodson will have a chance of getting to them there. Personally, it seems to me that they should pick a QB and start Jerius Norwood, but if he hasn't beaten Warrick Dunn yet, I don't know if they think he can.
4. *Oakland Raiders- Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
It kills me to know how likely it is that the Raiders will take DMC. Is he great, Yes. Is he the best player in the draft, Yes. Do the Raiders really need a RB, No. The best thing to do would be to resign Fargas and let him start, and then pick DT Sedrick Ellis to fill the hole (massive hole) that Warren Sapp left in the line. However, Al Davis like "physical specimens" and will take DMC and commit a huge part of the salary cap to Russell and McFadden
5. *Kansas City Chiefs- Jake Long, OL, Michigan
I think they would like to take any of the other guys in the top 5 with the exception of Ryan. I think they will pretty much get what is left to them, and Long would be a good fit because there running game was pretty bad last year.
6. New York Jets- Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
7. New England Patriots (from SF)- Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
8. Baltimore Ravens- Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
9. Cincinnati Bengals- Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints- Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
11. Buffalo Bills- Keith Rivers, LB, USC
12. Denver Broncos- Ryan Clady, OL, Boise State
13. Carolina Panthers- Sam Baker, OL, USC
14. Chicago Bears- Andre Woodson, QB, Kentucky
15. Detroit Lions- Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
16. Arizona Cardinals- Dan Conner, LB, Penn State
17. Minnesota Vikings- Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
18. Houston Texans- Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
19. Philadelphia Eagles- DeSean Jackson, WR, California
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
21. Washington Redskins- Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
22. Dallas Cowboys (from CLE)- Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
23. Pittsburgh Steelers- Jeff Otah, OL, Pittsburgh
24. Tennessee Titans- Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
25. Seattle Seahawks- Fred Davis, TE, USC
26. Jacksonville Jaguars- Early Doucet, WR, LSU
27. San Diego Chargers- Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
28. Dallas Cowboys- Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
29. San Francisco (from IND)- James Hardy, WR, Indiana
30. Green Bay Packers- Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
31. New England Patriots- Forfeited due to cheating
32. New York Giants- Chris Williams, OL, Vanderbilt
Braves Sleepers
Every year there are some players that seemingly come out of nowhere and surprise us. There was Charles Thomas and Damien Moss a couple of years ago. Last year Salty was on everyone's radar and people expected big things, but the players who stepped up the most were Willie Harris (in the beginning of the year) and Peter Moylan. My guess is as good as anyone else's as to whether there will be another no name come up and perform this year, but I have a couple of people on everyone's radar that could easily make a huge impact.
1. Jeff Bennett-I can't say how excited I am about him. I really want to see him get a chance to start, as he really impressed me near the end of last year (maybe it was only because their other pitchers were so awful). Before last season he added a sinker, and dominated when pitching for Richmond (AAA) before making some quality appearances and starts in the Majors. I don't want to see anyone on the staff struggle or get injured, but I want to see Bennett starting because he could post double digits in wins even if he doesn't start the whole season.
2. Manny Acosta- He still has control problems but is one of my favorite pitchers in the organization. His slider is sick-nasty and he dominated anywhere he pitched last year. Although Moylan had a ton of success last year, I think that Acosta could easily end up as the Set-Up man in the future.
3. Phil Stockman- Another reliever, Stockman has dealt with injuries the last couple of years. Although he has very limited MLB experience, I think he has the stuff to succeed in the Majors, and probably could do a better job than Tyler Yates (why is he still on the team?). Having seen him blow hitters away in Richmond, I have been waiting for him to get a chance in the Majors. Unfortunately, the last couple of years where he likely could have gotten a shot, he was injured, and the Braves has tons of pitching depth now.
4. Omar Infante- Originally, it appeared that Infante would serve as a utility player and Willy Aybar would be starting if anyone in the infield got hurt. The Braves traded Aybar, which should leave Infante with a better chance of getting extended playing time. Because he plays everywhere except pitcher and catcher, Infante could easily get 300+ ABs even without platooning or injuries. With decreasing playing time, his power and speed numbers also decreased, but he hit 16 HRs and had 13 SBs for Detroit in 2004, and should provide the Braves with more pop than any utility player could last year.
5. Josh Anderson- For a time, before the Braves acquired Mark Kotsay, it appeared that Anderson would be competing with Brent Lillibridge and Jordan Schaffer for the CF job this year. I still am not sold on Kotsay, who has been injured a lot recently, and think that at some point this year, Anderson will get extensive playing time in center. He has a ton of speed, something that the Braves haven't really had since Furcal, and I think he could make things happen if he gets on base. I see him possibly hitting in the 1-2 hole if he gets to start, as he offers much more speed than Kelly Johnson.
1. Jeff Bennett-I can't say how excited I am about him. I really want to see him get a chance to start, as he really impressed me near the end of last year (maybe it was only because their other pitchers were so awful). Before last season he added a sinker, and dominated when pitching for Richmond (AAA) before making some quality appearances and starts in the Majors. I don't want to see anyone on the staff struggle or get injured, but I want to see Bennett starting because he could post double digits in wins even if he doesn't start the whole season.
2. Manny Acosta- He still has control problems but is one of my favorite pitchers in the organization. His slider is sick-nasty and he dominated anywhere he pitched last year. Although Moylan had a ton of success last year, I think that Acosta could easily end up as the Set-Up man in the future.
3. Phil Stockman- Another reliever, Stockman has dealt with injuries the last couple of years. Although he has very limited MLB experience, I think he has the stuff to succeed in the Majors, and probably could do a better job than Tyler Yates (why is he still on the team?). Having seen him blow hitters away in Richmond, I have been waiting for him to get a chance in the Majors. Unfortunately, the last couple of years where he likely could have gotten a shot, he was injured, and the Braves has tons of pitching depth now.
4. Omar Infante- Originally, it appeared that Infante would serve as a utility player and Willy Aybar would be starting if anyone in the infield got hurt. The Braves traded Aybar, which should leave Infante with a better chance of getting extended playing time. Because he plays everywhere except pitcher and catcher, Infante could easily get 300+ ABs even without platooning or injuries. With decreasing playing time, his power and speed numbers also decreased, but he hit 16 HRs and had 13 SBs for Detroit in 2004, and should provide the Braves with more pop than any utility player could last year.
5. Josh Anderson- For a time, before the Braves acquired Mark Kotsay, it appeared that Anderson would be competing with Brent Lillibridge and Jordan Schaffer for the CF job this year. I still am not sold on Kotsay, who has been injured a lot recently, and think that at some point this year, Anderson will get extensive playing time in center. He has a ton of speed, something that the Braves haven't really had since Furcal, and I think he could make things happen if he gets on base. I see him possibly hitting in the 1-2 hole if he gets to start, as he offers much more speed than Kelly Johnson.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Braves Position Battles
Coming into the 2008 season there are still many things to be decided for the Atlanta Braves. Here are some of the key position battles that will play out in Spring Training and possibly the early part of the season.
Left Fielder
It seems that Matt Diaz will be the primary left fielder next year, as he has been great in platoon roles each of the last two years. The question will be whether or not he will man the position by himself or be involved in a platoon again. I beleive that the Braves will continue what they have had going and platoon him again. Brandon Jones will most likely be the man who is patrolling left with him.
Back-up Catcher
The competition will be between Brayan Pena, Javy Lopez, Corky Miller and Clint Sammons. I think Lopez will win this job as long as he plays reasonably well in spring. Pena and Miller will again play in the minors, as will Sammons. Sammons has the brightest future among the three, and likely will be in Atlanta in a year or two, although he might still only be competing to backup Brian McCann.
Last Bench Spot
The Braves will have a Catcher (Javy Lopez), a First Baseman (Scott Thorman), a utility (Omar Infante) and an Outfielder (Brandon Jones). The final choice will likely be between Martin Prado, Josh Anderson and Brent Lillibridge. I think Lillibridge will get the nod because he has the ability to play 6 positions (2B, 3B, SS, OF) while Prado is limited to INF and Anderson to OF.
Fifth Spot in the Rotation
There are many candidates for the final rotation spot, which could wind up being two spots if Mike Hampton is unable to go. Chuck James, Jair Jurrjens, Jo-Jo Reyes, Buddy Carlyle, Jeff Bennett, Charlie Morton and Matt DeSalvo. James will likely get the first shot, he struggled last year in the number 3 role. Jurrjens, Reyes and Morton all need more seasoning, at least for part of the year. DeSalvo, who was previously with the Yankees, will likely spend time in the minors, and will be something like 10th on the starting pitcher depth chart. Carlyle pitched well in spots last year, but doesn't have the stuff to consistently compete with the others in the organization. Bennett is out of options so he will likely end up in the bullpen, and he could get a long look for a starting spot being that he impressed Bobby Cox last year and got in great shape this offseason.
Bullpen
7 pitchers will make it in the bullpen, and there are many options. Instead of listing them all, I will count down the top seven. Rafeal Soriano, Peter Moylan and Will Ohman are all locks. Jeff Bennett and Blaine Boyer are both out of options, so they will likely make the pen so the Braves don't lose them. Tyler Yates throws hard, and is liked by Cox, although he struggled often last year. Manny Acosta is a young and talented pitcher with a nasty slider. Those seven will likely start out in the pen. Yates should be in the minors, as he has struggled, and I think that Royce Ring would be much more deserving of the spot. With all of the options that the Braves have coming into this season (including Mike Gonzalez coming back in June/July) it will be unlikely that Yates or any other pitcher will be able to go through major struggles and keep their job.
Left Fielder
It seems that Matt Diaz will be the primary left fielder next year, as he has been great in platoon roles each of the last two years. The question will be whether or not he will man the position by himself or be involved in a platoon again. I beleive that the Braves will continue what they have had going and platoon him again. Brandon Jones will most likely be the man who is patrolling left with him.
Back-up Catcher
The competition will be between Brayan Pena, Javy Lopez, Corky Miller and Clint Sammons. I think Lopez will win this job as long as he plays reasonably well in spring. Pena and Miller will again play in the minors, as will Sammons. Sammons has the brightest future among the three, and likely will be in Atlanta in a year or two, although he might still only be competing to backup Brian McCann.
Last Bench Spot
The Braves will have a Catcher (Javy Lopez), a First Baseman (Scott Thorman), a utility (Omar Infante) and an Outfielder (Brandon Jones). The final choice will likely be between Martin Prado, Josh Anderson and Brent Lillibridge. I think Lillibridge will get the nod because he has the ability to play 6 positions (2B, 3B, SS, OF) while Prado is limited to INF and Anderson to OF.
Fifth Spot in the Rotation
There are many candidates for the final rotation spot, which could wind up being two spots if Mike Hampton is unable to go. Chuck James, Jair Jurrjens, Jo-Jo Reyes, Buddy Carlyle, Jeff Bennett, Charlie Morton and Matt DeSalvo. James will likely get the first shot, he struggled last year in the number 3 role. Jurrjens, Reyes and Morton all need more seasoning, at least for part of the year. DeSalvo, who was previously with the Yankees, will likely spend time in the minors, and will be something like 10th on the starting pitcher depth chart. Carlyle pitched well in spots last year, but doesn't have the stuff to consistently compete with the others in the organization. Bennett is out of options so he will likely end up in the bullpen, and he could get a long look for a starting spot being that he impressed Bobby Cox last year and got in great shape this offseason.
Bullpen
7 pitchers will make it in the bullpen, and there are many options. Instead of listing them all, I will count down the top seven. Rafeal Soriano, Peter Moylan and Will Ohman are all locks. Jeff Bennett and Blaine Boyer are both out of options, so they will likely make the pen so the Braves don't lose them. Tyler Yates throws hard, and is liked by Cox, although he struggled often last year. Manny Acosta is a young and talented pitcher with a nasty slider. Those seven will likely start out in the pen. Yates should be in the minors, as he has struggled, and I think that Royce Ring would be much more deserving of the spot. With all of the options that the Braves have coming into this season (including Mike Gonzalez coming back in June/July) it will be unlikely that Yates or any other pitcher will be able to go through major struggles and keep their job.
Spring Training is Here
I am excited about the upcoming season becuase I think this will be the year that the Braves go back and win the NL East. I think the team has potential to win the NL, although probably not the World Series as the Red Sox and Tigers are extremely strong (at least on paper). The return of some old faces has been the big news in Atlanta. They rescued Tom Glavine from the Mets, invited Javy Lopez to Spring Training and recently signed Damien Moss (rember the promise he showed when he won 12 games) to a minor league contract.
I think that the Braves have a ton of depth in the pitching staff this year, and should be able to win the same way they did in their 14 seasons as Kings of the NL East.
Here is what I am projecting to be the 25 man roster that comes out of spring training, as well as a couple of other players who will have a shot to play in the big leagues and have an impact this year.
Starting Lineup:
C- Brian McCann
1B- Mark Teixeira
2B- Kelly Johnson
3B- Chipper Jones
SS- Yunel Escobar
LF- Matt Diaz
CF- Mark Kotsay
RF- Jeff Francoeur
Bench:
C- Javy Lopez
1B- Scott Thorman
Util- Omar Infante
Util- Brent Lillibridge
OF- Brandon Jones
Starting Rotation:
John Smoltz
Tim Hudson
Tom Glavine
Mike Hampton
Chuck James
Bullpen:
Rafeal Soriano
Peter Moylan
Jeff Bennett
Blaine Boyer
Tyler Yates
Manny Acosta
Will Ohman
Other Hitters:
C- Brayan Pena
C- Clint Sammons
INF- Martin Prado
OF- Josh Anderson
OF- Jordan Schaffer
Other Pitchers:
Jair Jurrjens
Jo-Jo Reyes
Buddy Carlyle
Matt DeSalvo
Charlie Morton
Mike Gonzalez
Royce Ring
Jeff Ridgeway
Chris Resop
Phil Stockman
I think that the Braves have a ton of depth in the pitching staff this year, and should be able to win the same way they did in their 14 seasons as Kings of the NL East.
Here is what I am projecting to be the 25 man roster that comes out of spring training, as well as a couple of other players who will have a shot to play in the big leagues and have an impact this year.
Starting Lineup:
C- Brian McCann
1B- Mark Teixeira
2B- Kelly Johnson
3B- Chipper Jones
SS- Yunel Escobar
LF- Matt Diaz
CF- Mark Kotsay
RF- Jeff Francoeur
Bench:
C- Javy Lopez
1B- Scott Thorman
Util- Omar Infante
Util- Brent Lillibridge
OF- Brandon Jones
Starting Rotation:
John Smoltz
Tim Hudson
Tom Glavine
Mike Hampton
Chuck James
Bullpen:
Rafeal Soriano
Peter Moylan
Jeff Bennett
Blaine Boyer
Tyler Yates
Manny Acosta
Will Ohman
Other Hitters:
C- Brayan Pena
C- Clint Sammons
INF- Martin Prado
OF- Josh Anderson
OF- Jordan Schaffer
Other Pitchers:
Jair Jurrjens
Jo-Jo Reyes
Buddy Carlyle
Matt DeSalvo
Charlie Morton
Mike Gonzalez
Royce Ring
Jeff Ridgeway
Chris Resop
Phil Stockman
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