The Red Sox want to get rid of Lugo.
Really, really badly, apparently. He has not put up great numbers, batting just .251 with 10 HR and 103 RBI since joining the Red Sox in 2007. His OBP of .319 would make an impressive batting average. Nick Green, the eternal utility man, has proved more valuable to the Red Sox this year than Lugo. So, who could use an essentially free player at SS?
The Oakland Athletics
The Athletics are a good choice for Lugo because Billy Beane emphasizes money ball, and having a player he doesn't have to pay will suit his penny pinching ways. He'd be a good backup to Orlando Cabrera. At least, he'd be better than Bobby Crosby, who is hitting just over his weight at .210 right now. And nothing says backup light treading the Mendoza Line.
The Philadelphia Phillies
Jimmy Rollins has had a bad year offensively. That, and his backup (notice a pattern here for Lugo?), Eric Bruntlett, is hitting an astounding .139. Citizens Bank Park is a hitters park, and the move could help Lugo put up numbers like he saw in Tampa Bay in 2006. That, and the Phillies are in the habit of signing players past their prime.
The Colorado Rockies
The Rockies are invested in Troy Tulowitzki, and understandably so: he is 25 in October, and has much potential. His backup, Omar Quintinilla (I am not counting Clint Barmes, as he is starting at second), is just plain not performing. Colorado has long been a place where hitters have thrived. Matt Holliday is a prime example, having put up good power numbers in his final three seasons there, before having the power drained by a move to Oakland.
The New York Mets
The Mets are hurting. Literally. Injuries to Delgado, Beltran, and Reyes have left them with David Wright as their man offensive production. Lugo could help the team out down the stretch, and provide a veteran presence trying to contend for the playoffs against the Phillies, as he has been to the playoffs before with the RedSox and the Dodgers.
Anyone have any suggestions as to wear Lugo could end up?
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Sunday, July 5, 2009
All Star Voting
Your Rosters, courtesy of MLB
And, what would rosters be without breaking them down?
American League
C - Joe Mauer
Mauer's third All Star selection in four years. He is the best offensive catcher in the American League beyond a shadow of a doubt, possibly all of baseball. His numbers this year are ridiculous. He's hitting .390 with 14 HR and 45 RBIs.
1B - Mark Teixeira
I wonder if Alex Rodriguez will get an invite as well? Teix has been good this year, but he really started turning his numbers around once Rodriguez returned and started hitting behind him to offer protection.
2B - Dustin Pedroia
Boo. I blame the fans in Boston for letting someone who has an average of .285 with 2 HR, 35 RBIs, and an OBP of .365 start the All Star game. For comparison, someone more deserving to start, Aaron Hill, of the Blue Jays, is hitting .297 with 19 HR, 56 RBI, and an OBP of .338. Or Ian Kinsler, who has 19 HR, 51 RBI, and an OBP of .333. Either are more deserving this year.
3B - Evan Longoria
Longoria makes his second consecutive trip, and deservedly so with an OPS of .925. Longoria is definitely among the top third baseman in the game today, and is the face of the Rays franchise.
SS - Derek Jeter
Jeter will make his 10th All Star appearence this year, this season he is hitting .308 so far with 9 HR and 32 RBI. Jason Bartlett is, by the numbers, more deserving of a start, hitting .362 with 8 HR and 37 RBI, not to mention a ridiculous OPS of .969.
OF - Jason Bay, Ichiro Suzuki, and Josh Hamilton
Hamilton? Really? The man has played 35 games this year, and isn't even doing that well, hitting only .240 with 6 HR in those games. We all remember the show he put on at last year's home run derby, which is the main reason why he got voted in: so we could see him compete again. Jason Bay deserves his selection, as he has shown power in Boston. Ichiro makes his 9th consecutive All Star appearence, putting up his usual Ichirio numbers.
National League
C - Yadier Molina
Boo. Name-that-Molina is only starting because the game is in St. Louis. Brian McCann should be starting, as he has put up better numbers in fewer games.
1B - Albert Pujols
The eighth appearence in nine years for Pujols. What else can be said about him. He's on pace to hit 62 HR this year. Let's all hope he can hit a certain number...say, 74? And bring back glory to the single season home run record. Hell, I'll even take 62.
2B - Chase Utley
The fourth consecutive appearence for Utley, he is one of the premier second basemen in the game today, and is arguably the best second baseman in the National League, both offensively, and defensively.
3B - David Wright
The only good thing that came out of Mike Hampton deserves a lot of credit. He's been doing well this season despite injuries to many of the Mets. As much as it pains me to say this, he does deserve this selection.
SS - Hanley Ramirez
HanRam will be 26 in Decemeber, and is already a two time All Star. He is a phenomenal shortstop and is the best all around player in the game today.
OF - Carlos Beltran, Raul Ibanez, and Ryan Braun
Really? Beltran? He's injured. Ibanez has had a career year in Philly. Braun is Braun, and is the starter in the OF by default. Alfonso Soriano is likely to replace Beltran.
There will be more analysis to come later, specifically, the starting pitching.
And, what would rosters be without breaking them down?
American League
C - Joe Mauer
Mauer's third All Star selection in four years. He is the best offensive catcher in the American League beyond a shadow of a doubt, possibly all of baseball. His numbers this year are ridiculous. He's hitting .390 with 14 HR and 45 RBIs.
1B - Mark Teixeira
I wonder if Alex Rodriguez will get an invite as well? Teix has been good this year, but he really started turning his numbers around once Rodriguez returned and started hitting behind him to offer protection.
2B - Dustin Pedroia
Boo. I blame the fans in Boston for letting someone who has an average of .285 with 2 HR, 35 RBIs, and an OBP of .365 start the All Star game. For comparison, someone more deserving to start, Aaron Hill, of the Blue Jays, is hitting .297 with 19 HR, 56 RBI, and an OBP of .338. Or Ian Kinsler, who has 19 HR, 51 RBI, and an OBP of .333. Either are more deserving this year.
3B - Evan Longoria
Longoria makes his second consecutive trip, and deservedly so with an OPS of .925. Longoria is definitely among the top third baseman in the game today, and is the face of the Rays franchise.
SS - Derek Jeter
Jeter will make his 10th All Star appearence this year, this season he is hitting .308 so far with 9 HR and 32 RBI. Jason Bartlett is, by the numbers, more deserving of a start, hitting .362 with 8 HR and 37 RBI, not to mention a ridiculous OPS of .969.
OF - Jason Bay, Ichiro Suzuki, and Josh Hamilton
Hamilton? Really? The man has played 35 games this year, and isn't even doing that well, hitting only .240 with 6 HR in those games. We all remember the show he put on at last year's home run derby, which is the main reason why he got voted in: so we could see him compete again. Jason Bay deserves his selection, as he has shown power in Boston. Ichiro makes his 9th consecutive All Star appearence, putting up his usual Ichirio numbers.
National League
C - Yadier Molina
Boo. Name-that-Molina is only starting because the game is in St. Louis. Brian McCann should be starting, as he has put up better numbers in fewer games.
1B - Albert Pujols
The eighth appearence in nine years for Pujols. What else can be said about him. He's on pace to hit 62 HR this year. Let's all hope he can hit a certain number...say, 74? And bring back glory to the single season home run record. Hell, I'll even take 62.
2B - Chase Utley
The fourth consecutive appearence for Utley, he is one of the premier second basemen in the game today, and is arguably the best second baseman in the National League, both offensively, and defensively.
3B - David Wright
The only good thing that came out of Mike Hampton deserves a lot of credit. He's been doing well this season despite injuries to many of the Mets. As much as it pains me to say this, he does deserve this selection.
SS - Hanley Ramirez
HanRam will be 26 in Decemeber, and is already a two time All Star. He is a phenomenal shortstop and is the best all around player in the game today.
OF - Carlos Beltran, Raul Ibanez, and Ryan Braun
Really? Beltran? He's injured. Ibanez has had a career year in Philly. Braun is Braun, and is the starter in the OF by default. Alfonso Soriano is likely to replace Beltran.
There will be more analysis to come later, specifically, the starting pitching.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Toronto Blue Jays: A Pitcher's Worst Nightmare
No, I don't meant that because they hit well. I mean that because they tend to injure arms. A lot. Here is a sampling of injuries that have taken place since 2006 to pitchers wearing a Toronto uniform.
Shaun Marcum: Marcum had a stellar start to his 2008 season before he suffered a dreaded arm injury. Marcum attempted to come back from it, only to suffer elbow pain and fall victim to the dreaded Tommy John surgery. He was 26 at the time of his injury, and is due back late this season.
Dustin McGowan: McGowan showed much promise and poise in the 2007 season, throwing 18 quality starts. Having a mid-90s fastball, he was seen as a great pitcher with a bright future. However, in 2008, he suffered fraying in his labrum, which is the ring of cartilidge around the edge of the shoulder. McGowan would undergo surgery. He has yet to pitch in 2009, and rotoworld reports that his career may be in jeopardy. He, too, was 26 at the time of his injury.
Casey Janssen: Janssen went 2-3 with a 2.35 ERA, six saves, a WHIP of 1.197, and a modest 4.8 Ks per 9 pitched Janssen would go on to miss all of 2008 with a torn labrum (He was 26 at the time of his injury). Janssen finally returned in May of 2009, and hasn't been the same since. His ERA has skyrocketed to 6.23, and his Ks per 9 has diminished to 3.8 while his WHIP has skyrocketed to 1.808.
B.J. Ryan: Ryan had a phenomenal 2005, making the All Star team (for the Orioles), and having an ERA of 2.43 while collecting 36 saves. That off season, he signed with the Blue Jays for a record five year, 47 million dollar deal. He certainly showed that he earned it in 2006, making a trip to the All Star game while recording a miniscule ERA of 1.37 and inceasing his saves total to 38. Then, it all went downhill. In 2007, Ryan underwent Tommy John surgery. In 2008, Ryan returned, recording 32 saves. However, Ryan returned to the DL in 2009, and lost the closers job to Scott Downs. Ryan was 31 at the time of his TJ surgery. Speaking of which...
Scott Downs: Scott Downs is currently on the DL with a sprained left toe that he sustained while running out a grounder. While this isn't a pitching sustained injury, it is still something that could have been avoided if management had made a better decision and not risked their closer to batting and running in a National League ballpark. Downs was 33 at the time of his injury.
Jesse Litsch: Litsch showed much promise in 2008, going 13-9 with a 3.58 ERA in 176 IP. He started off poorly in 2009, throwing only nine innings and giving up nine earned runs. He did have eight strikeouts, though. Litsch is currently done for the season, falling victim to the dreaded Tommy John surgery. He was 24 at the time of his injury.
Ricky Romero: Romero showed poise in his first few starts, before falling on the DL. Now, some of you may call this a cheap inclusion, since he strained his oblique while sneezing. But I felt I had to include it for the shear comedy of it. He, too, was 24 at the time of his injury.
Why is all of this relevant? BlueJays' ace Harry LeRoy Halladay is on the DL with a pulled groin. He's only been on the DL twice in his career for pitching-related injures (both in 2004, with his shoulder. I do not count his appendectomy in 2005). I think that Halladay's recent injury may be only the beginning for the Jays' ace.
In fairness, most of these injuries (we won't really count Ryan and Downs) have occurred in 2008 or 2009. What changed in Toronto? John Gibbons was manager until June 20, 2008. He can take credit for possibly overworking the young arms (Marcum threw 159 innings in 2007 and 151 and a third in 2008, Litsch threw 176 innings in 2008 at the tender age of 23, and McGowan threw 169.2 innings in 2007 and 111 and a third in 2008). Perhaps Cito Gaston, manager of the 92 and 93 World Series winning Blue Jays can right the ship. Or at least not be known as CITO: DESTROYER OF PITCHERS.
Shaun Marcum: Marcum had a stellar start to his 2008 season before he suffered a dreaded arm injury. Marcum attempted to come back from it, only to suffer elbow pain and fall victim to the dreaded Tommy John surgery. He was 26 at the time of his injury, and is due back late this season.
Dustin McGowan: McGowan showed much promise and poise in the 2007 season, throwing 18 quality starts. Having a mid-90s fastball, he was seen as a great pitcher with a bright future. However, in 2008, he suffered fraying in his labrum, which is the ring of cartilidge around the edge of the shoulder. McGowan would undergo surgery. He has yet to pitch in 2009, and rotoworld reports that his career may be in jeopardy. He, too, was 26 at the time of his injury.
Casey Janssen: Janssen went 2-3 with a 2.35 ERA, six saves, a WHIP of 1.197, and a modest 4.8 Ks per 9 pitched Janssen would go on to miss all of 2008 with a torn labrum (He was 26 at the time of his injury). Janssen finally returned in May of 2009, and hasn't been the same since. His ERA has skyrocketed to 6.23, and his Ks per 9 has diminished to 3.8 while his WHIP has skyrocketed to 1.808.
B.J. Ryan: Ryan had a phenomenal 2005, making the All Star team (for the Orioles), and having an ERA of 2.43 while collecting 36 saves. That off season, he signed with the Blue Jays for a record five year, 47 million dollar deal. He certainly showed that he earned it in 2006, making a trip to the All Star game while recording a miniscule ERA of 1.37 and inceasing his saves total to 38. Then, it all went downhill. In 2007, Ryan underwent Tommy John surgery. In 2008, Ryan returned, recording 32 saves. However, Ryan returned to the DL in 2009, and lost the closers job to Scott Downs. Ryan was 31 at the time of his TJ surgery. Speaking of which...
Scott Downs: Scott Downs is currently on the DL with a sprained left toe that he sustained while running out a grounder. While this isn't a pitching sustained injury, it is still something that could have been avoided if management had made a better decision and not risked their closer to batting and running in a National League ballpark. Downs was 33 at the time of his injury.
Jesse Litsch: Litsch showed much promise in 2008, going 13-9 with a 3.58 ERA in 176 IP. He started off poorly in 2009, throwing only nine innings and giving up nine earned runs. He did have eight strikeouts, though. Litsch is currently done for the season, falling victim to the dreaded Tommy John surgery. He was 24 at the time of his injury.
Ricky Romero: Romero showed poise in his first few starts, before falling on the DL. Now, some of you may call this a cheap inclusion, since he strained his oblique while sneezing. But I felt I had to include it for the shear comedy of it. He, too, was 24 at the time of his injury.
Why is all of this relevant? BlueJays' ace Harry LeRoy Halladay is on the DL with a pulled groin. He's only been on the DL twice in his career for pitching-related injures (both in 2004, with his shoulder. I do not count his appendectomy in 2005). I think that Halladay's recent injury may be only the beginning for the Jays' ace.
In fairness, most of these injuries (we won't really count Ryan and Downs) have occurred in 2008 or 2009. What changed in Toronto? John Gibbons was manager until June 20, 2008. He can take credit for possibly overworking the young arms (Marcum threw 159 innings in 2007 and 151 and a third in 2008, Litsch threw 176 innings in 2008 at the tender age of 23, and McGowan threw 169.2 innings in 2007 and 111 and a third in 2008). Perhaps Cito Gaston, manager of the 92 and 93 World Series winning Blue Jays can right the ship. Or at least not be known as CITO: DESTROYER OF PITCHERS.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Sammy Sosa tested positive for Steroids
This is a little belated, but I'm sure you've all heard the news by now.
This comes as a shock to no one, as it was long rumored that Sosa did steroids in the 90s. Perhaps the most damning evidence of this was the fact that he fell off drastically in 2004 (when steroid testing began) and didn't reclaim the glory that he once had in the late 90s. In 2004, his OPS fell below .900 for the first time since 1997, the season before he fought with McGwire to break Roger Maris' seemingly untouchable record of 61 home runs in one season.
In his final seasons (2004, 2005, 2007), Sosa hit just 70 home runs, a huge drop off from earlier in his career (remember, he did hit 60+ home runs 3 times in his career, and is currently the only player to do so).
The biggest impact, since Sosa is now retired, is that he probably will not make the hall of fame as a result of this "revelation". However, before I make any definitive judgements on this, I am waiting until Palmeiro goes up for the vote, as he should be the perfect litmus test for the steroid era.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Braves Release Glavine
You all have heard by now. The Braves released Tom Glavine. I for one, am not happy.
This was done as a clear money-saving move by Frank Wren. Tom Glavine pitched well in what was supposed to be his final rehab start. Granted, his velocity is down, but that happens with age. Greg Maddux made a career of pitching in the mid 80s, and right now, Frank Wren is telling me that Tom Glavine can't do it.
Tom Glavine, for all he's done for the Braves, deserves better than this. He deserves the chance to prove himself at the major league level once more. Frank Wren refuses to face facts and admit that the Braves are not contenders this year. Tom Glavine in the rotation is something he deserves. Not only that, but Tom Glavine is a veteran presence and could help younger guys, like Medlen and Hanson mature. Even if he couldn't be effective as a starter, he still is a clubhouse presence. At least offer him the chance to remain with the Braves as a coach.
This move comes as no surprise, given how Frank Wren treated Smoltz in the offseason. Ultimately, the man is a horrid GM given his lack of respect for veteran players.
This was done as a clear money-saving move by Frank Wren. Tom Glavine pitched well in what was supposed to be his final rehab start. Granted, his velocity is down, but that happens with age. Greg Maddux made a career of pitching in the mid 80s, and right now, Frank Wren is telling me that Tom Glavine can't do it.
Tom Glavine, for all he's done for the Braves, deserves better than this. He deserves the chance to prove himself at the major league level once more. Frank Wren refuses to face facts and admit that the Braves are not contenders this year. Tom Glavine in the rotation is something he deserves. Not only that, but Tom Glavine is a veteran presence and could help younger guys, like Medlen and Hanson mature. Even if he couldn't be effective as a starter, he still is a clubhouse presence. At least offer him the chance to remain with the Braves as a coach.
This move comes as no surprise, given how Frank Wren treated Smoltz in the offseason. Ultimately, the man is a horrid GM given his lack of respect for veteran players.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Juan Pierre
Juan Pierre is currently filling in for Manny Ramirez out in LA.
So far this season he has done an admirable job so far, hitting .419 in 74 at-bats with 12 RBIs. Now, those are nowhere near Manny numbers (.348 in 92 at bats with 6 HRs and 20 RBIs). Comparatively, Pierre has one RBI every 6.17 at bats. Manny, at the time of his suspension, has one RBI every 4.6 at-bats.
This is immensely good news for the Dodgers, as it gives them outfield depth with Pierre. Additionally, he can be a trade candidate when Manny comes back late June early July. Oakland and Atlanta are two possible destinations for the 31 year old outfielder, who will turn 32 in August.
Atlanta- The Braves outfield is in shambles. Jeff Francoeur's new swing has not helped his approach, and Jordan Schafer looks like he could still use some seasoning in the minors. The Braves are only 2.5 out right now, and if the NL East doesn't improve, it looks like the Braves could be contenders come July. Don't be surprised if the Braves give up some pitching depth in return for the speedy outfielder.
Oakland- Matt Holiday is lacking power in Oakland, and is already a trade-deadline candidate as it is. Billy Beane loves moneyball, and could give up Holliday in return for Pierre and some Dodgers prospects. This would be a "win now" move for the Dodgers, and give Billy Beane even more proof that while moneyball gives him a low salary cap, it still doesn't give him that all important World Series ring.
So far this season he has done an admirable job so far, hitting .419 in 74 at-bats with 12 RBIs. Now, those are nowhere near Manny numbers (.348 in 92 at bats with 6 HRs and 20 RBIs). Comparatively, Pierre has one RBI every 6.17 at bats. Manny, at the time of his suspension, has one RBI every 4.6 at-bats.
This is immensely good news for the Dodgers, as it gives them outfield depth with Pierre. Additionally, he can be a trade candidate when Manny comes back late June early July. Oakland and Atlanta are two possible destinations for the 31 year old outfielder, who will turn 32 in August.
Atlanta- The Braves outfield is in shambles. Jeff Francoeur's new swing has not helped his approach, and Jordan Schafer looks like he could still use some seasoning in the minors. The Braves are only 2.5 out right now, and if the NL East doesn't improve, it looks like the Braves could be contenders come July. Don't be surprised if the Braves give up some pitching depth in return for the speedy outfielder.
Oakland- Matt Holiday is lacking power in Oakland, and is already a trade-deadline candidate as it is. Billy Beane loves moneyball, and could give up Holliday in return for Pierre and some Dodgers prospects. This would be a "win now" move for the Dodgers, and give Billy Beane even more proof that while moneyball gives him a low salary cap, it still doesn't give him that all important World Series ring.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Manny took PEDs
Manny Ramirez will be suspended for 50 games for a positive PED test.
I guess PED's don't improve your attitude?
This recent test makes one wonder how much the RedSox knew before trading away ManRam in the 11th hour last July. ManRam has always been one of the best hitters in baseball, tearing it up last season for the Dodgers with an aubsurdly high OBP of .489 and an OPS of 1.232 and an obscene 53 RBIs in 53 games.
This will unfortunately taint ManRam's record as a player, as he would have been a first ballot hall of famer without a doubt. This news comes at a good time for the Dodgers, though. The NL West is a weaker division, and the Dodgers have been untouchable at home and have a 6.5 game lead above the second-place Giants. (For the record, the next largest lead a first place team has is 2 games, held by the Cardinals, Blue Jays, and Royals.) This will put a return for ManRam sometime in late June to early July. He will in all liklihood miss the All Star game for the first time since 1997.
I guess PED's don't improve your attitude?
This recent test makes one wonder how much the RedSox knew before trading away ManRam in the 11th hour last July. ManRam has always been one of the best hitters in baseball, tearing it up last season for the Dodgers with an aubsurdly high OBP of .489 and an OPS of 1.232 and an obscene 53 RBIs in 53 games.
This will unfortunately taint ManRam's record as a player, as he would have been a first ballot hall of famer without a doubt. This news comes at a good time for the Dodgers, though. The NL West is a weaker division, and the Dodgers have been untouchable at home and have a 6.5 game lead above the second-place Giants. (For the record, the next largest lead a first place team has is 2 games, held by the Cardinals, Blue Jays, and Royals.) This will put a return for ManRam sometime in late June to early July. He will in all liklihood miss the All Star game for the first time since 1997.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Hypothetical Trades
It's getting towards the end of April, and the season is off a good start. Now that May is looming, trade talks will slowly build around certain players. As such, I am going to explore some trades, from the absurd to the not so absurd and discuss the ramifications of each.
Clay Buchholz for Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
This trade makes a lot of sense for the RedSox. There is no doubt that Varitek has seen better days. If the RedSox still had Kelly Shoppach, this would not be an issue. The Rangers get some much needed pitching help, and the RedSox get a dual-position player with a high upside. Not only that, but Saltalamacchia has said in an interview that he would like to play for the RedSox.
However, I don't think that this trade will ever happen. Last year would have made a lot of sense given the Rangers' depth at catcher. Now, the Rangers have Salty and Teagarden, the latter is better for defense, and the former, for offense.
Stephen Drew and Jarrod Parker for Cliff Lee
Earlier in the week there was discussion of the possibility of a Cliff Lee trade this season. If the Indians wanted a repeat of the CC Sabathia trade, then this would be the best case scenario. The Indians need a SS, and Stephen Drew could fulfill that. If Lee were to be traded, it would have to be to the NL. After a rough first two starts, Lee has put together back to back quality starts, both with pitch counts above 100. There is no doubt he is putting on a decent amount of mileage on his arm, and a move to the NL might help reduce that.
For the Diamondbacks, this trade makes sense because Webb is gone for 6 weeks at least. Danny Haren has been nothing but phenomenal so far, but he can't be this good all the time and needs a solid number one in front of him.
The Diamondbacks don't really have a good backup at shortstop, so it would be difficult for them to part with Stephen Drew.
Jarrod Parker is the top prospect in the Diamondbacks organization, ranked #29 overall by Baseball America, and will undoubtedly draw interest from many teams if he ever becomes available.
Andruw Jones for Ian Kennedy
Ian Kennedy's stock has fallen far. Andruw Jones, in his limited playing time, has done well, getting nine hits in nineteen at-bats (as of this writing). The Yankees get even more OF depth to help out while Nady is on the DL, whose return won't be for another 4 weeks at the earliest, probably five weeks after a rehab assignment to AAA Scanton-Wilkes Barre.
The Rangers, once again, get pitching help. A move to the south definitely would help Ian Kennedy, who isn't really fit for the atmosphere of the Bronx. He's been amazing in the minors, but can't seem to translate that into Major League success. The easier NL West definitely would help him, as would the dimensions of the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.
This trade probably won't happen. Kennedy was high on Kennedy when Johan was on the block, and Andruw Jones isn't nearly as good or as needed as Johan was in the Bronx. The Yankees still hope that he can find major league success.
Clay Buchholz for Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
This trade makes a lot of sense for the RedSox. There is no doubt that Varitek has seen better days. If the RedSox still had Kelly Shoppach, this would not be an issue. The Rangers get some much needed pitching help, and the RedSox get a dual-position player with a high upside. Not only that, but Saltalamacchia has said in an interview that he would like to play for the RedSox.
However, I don't think that this trade will ever happen. Last year would have made a lot of sense given the Rangers' depth at catcher. Now, the Rangers have Salty and Teagarden, the latter is better for defense, and the former, for offense.
Stephen Drew and Jarrod Parker for Cliff Lee
Earlier in the week there was discussion of the possibility of a Cliff Lee trade this season. If the Indians wanted a repeat of the CC Sabathia trade, then this would be the best case scenario. The Indians need a SS, and Stephen Drew could fulfill that. If Lee were to be traded, it would have to be to the NL. After a rough first two starts, Lee has put together back to back quality starts, both with pitch counts above 100. There is no doubt he is putting on a decent amount of mileage on his arm, and a move to the NL might help reduce that.
For the Diamondbacks, this trade makes sense because Webb is gone for 6 weeks at least. Danny Haren has been nothing but phenomenal so far, but he can't be this good all the time and needs a solid number one in front of him.
The Diamondbacks don't really have a good backup at shortstop, so it would be difficult for them to part with Stephen Drew.
Jarrod Parker is the top prospect in the Diamondbacks organization, ranked #29 overall by Baseball America, and will undoubtedly draw interest from many teams if he ever becomes available.
Andruw Jones for Ian Kennedy
Ian Kennedy's stock has fallen far. Andruw Jones, in his limited playing time, has done well, getting nine hits in nineteen at-bats (as of this writing). The Yankees get even more OF depth to help out while Nady is on the DL, whose return won't be for another 4 weeks at the earliest, probably five weeks after a rehab assignment to AAA Scanton-Wilkes Barre.
The Rangers, once again, get pitching help. A move to the south definitely would help Ian Kennedy, who isn't really fit for the atmosphere of the Bronx. He's been amazing in the minors, but can't seem to translate that into Major League success. The easier NL West definitely would help him, as would the dimensions of the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.
This trade probably won't happen. Kennedy was high on Kennedy when Johan was on the block, and Andruw Jones isn't nearly as good or as needed as Johan was in the Bronx. The Yankees still hope that he can find major league success.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Devine Out, More
Joey Devine is out for the season.
Another Tommy John Surgery for a young pitcher. The timing of this is good for the A's because it allows them to bring someone else up, or trade for a reliever to set up for Brad Ziegler, who is pretty much a lock for the closing duties in Oakland, barring a colossal meltdown. Devine's surgery comes after he had a standout season last year, posting a minuscule 0.59 ERA and superb 0.832 WHIP in 45.1 innings pitched in addition to strikeout to walk ratio of over 3 (not including intentional walks). He will return sometime during the 2010 season for A's, as the timetable for a TJ surgery recovery and rehab is about a year.
The Marlins are in first and off to a hot start.
This isn't really surprising if one examines the Marlins roster. The Marlins have Uggla and Hanley Ramirez up the middle to provide solid offense as well as Cameron Maybin in center. Their starting rotation is young and talented. They definitely will be contending for a playoff spot come September, barring any injuries. The only sad thing is that Marlins fans will suffer another six years of baseball purgatory after the firesale that owner Jeffery Loria is sure to have.
The Royals are in first.
This is surprising. The Royals have traditionally been the laughing stock of the AL. The fact that they are above .500 right is surprising. That being said, it shouldn't last. Zach Greinke has found some form, but will fall back down to earth by the end of May. The Royals are not helped either by the return of Joe Mauer to the Twins, who should boost the offense of the Twins.
Chien Ming Wang is off to a horrible start.
Something is wrong. Something is off after his recovery from his injury last year that caused Steinbrenner to condemn the NL for making pitchers hit. As of this writing, Wang's ERA right now is higher than his age. If the Yankees want to be competitive in the tough AL East, they need Wang to figure out what is wrong.
Another Tommy John Surgery for a young pitcher. The timing of this is good for the A's because it allows them to bring someone else up, or trade for a reliever to set up for Brad Ziegler, who is pretty much a lock for the closing duties in Oakland, barring a colossal meltdown. Devine's surgery comes after he had a standout season last year, posting a minuscule 0.59 ERA and superb 0.832 WHIP in 45.1 innings pitched in addition to strikeout to walk ratio of over 3 (not including intentional walks). He will return sometime during the 2010 season for A's, as the timetable for a TJ surgery recovery and rehab is about a year.
The Marlins are in first and off to a hot start.
This isn't really surprising if one examines the Marlins roster. The Marlins have Uggla and Hanley Ramirez up the middle to provide solid offense as well as Cameron Maybin in center. Their starting rotation is young and talented. They definitely will be contending for a playoff spot come September, barring any injuries. The only sad thing is that Marlins fans will suffer another six years of baseball purgatory after the firesale that owner Jeffery Loria is sure to have.
The Royals are in first.
This is surprising. The Royals have traditionally been the laughing stock of the AL. The fact that they are above .500 right is surprising. That being said, it shouldn't last. Zach Greinke has found some form, but will fall back down to earth by the end of May. The Royals are not helped either by the return of Joe Mauer to the Twins, who should boost the offense of the Twins.
Chien Ming Wang is off to a horrible start.
Something is wrong. Something is off after his recovery from his injury last year that caused Steinbrenner to condemn the NL for making pitchers hit. As of this writing, Wang's ERA right now is higher than his age. If the Yankees want to be competitive in the tough AL East, they need Wang to figure out what is wrong.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Opening Day
First and foremost, I apologize immensely for the lack of updates lately. I have been very occupied. There will be more updates to come when I finish finals in May. Here is an update I meant to do a while ago.
So, opening day has come and past. It is one of my most favorite times of year, along with the baseball trade deadline. Many fans get excited when opening day comes, eager to see how the offseason acquisitions will pan out. Others look to opening day as a barometer of how well the season will go; to see whether or not players have their heads in the game, and to gauge their team's World Series chances. That got me thinking; what is the combined Opening Day record of all World Series winners?
Before I post the answer, I will post the guesses I collected. My guess is around 45% of World Series winners won their opening day game. My reasoning is that opening day probably has little to no impact on how well a team does during the season. It is, afterall, 162 games long, and things happen. Players get hurt. Players get traded. Certain acquisitions prove to be worthwhile, while others prove to be worthless. (Worthless x 2) (Worthless x 3).
Other guesses: My roommate guessed 54%, on a pure guess, thinking it would be a little higher than fifty, but not by much. His girlfriend guessed 60%.
The combined Opening Day record of World Series Winners is 69-35-1. (Extra points if you can name the one tie), which computes to 65.7%. While it hurts to be the most-wrong on this number, I should still analyze it.
65.7% is higher than each of us expected. This is not that unusually high, however. Assuming that there is a 50-50 chances of winning one's opening day game, then the result should be around 50%. However, given a standard distribution curve, 68% of the results should fall within one standard deviation of either side of the mean. So if we take the mean to be 50%, that means that the majority of the results taken from the sampling should fall inbetween 15.9% and 84.1%. This is a rather large range, so I prefer to take half a standard deviation, since the sample size is rather small. Within half a standard deviation, that means that the results should fall inbetween 33% and 67%. Given this small range, it is perfectly normal for the number of opening day game winners who went on to win the world series to fall in that range.
So, opening day has come and past. It is one of my most favorite times of year, along with the baseball trade deadline. Many fans get excited when opening day comes, eager to see how the offseason acquisitions will pan out. Others look to opening day as a barometer of how well the season will go; to see whether or not players have their heads in the game, and to gauge their team's World Series chances. That got me thinking; what is the combined Opening Day record of all World Series winners?
Before I post the answer, I will post the guesses I collected. My guess is around 45% of World Series winners won their opening day game. My reasoning is that opening day probably has little to no impact on how well a team does during the season. It is, afterall, 162 games long, and things happen. Players get hurt. Players get traded. Certain acquisitions prove to be worthwhile, while others prove to be worthless. (Worthless x 2) (Worthless x 3).
Other guesses: My roommate guessed 54%, on a pure guess, thinking it would be a little higher than fifty, but not by much. His girlfriend guessed 60%.
The combined Opening Day record of World Series Winners is 69-35-1. (Extra points if you can name the one tie), which computes to 65.7%. While it hurts to be the most-wrong on this number, I should still analyze it.
65.7% is higher than each of us expected. This is not that unusually high, however. Assuming that there is a 50-50 chances of winning one's opening day game, then the result should be around 50%. However, given a standard distribution curve, 68% of the results should fall within one standard deviation of either side of the mean. So if we take the mean to be 50%, that means that the majority of the results taken from the sampling should fall inbetween 15.9% and 84.1%. This is a rather large range, so I prefer to take half a standard deviation, since the sample size is rather small. Within half a standard deviation, that means that the results should fall inbetween 33% and 67%. Given this small range, it is perfectly normal for the number of opening day game winners who went on to win the world series to fall in that range.
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