Toronto’s offence seemingly just keeps rolling. After a weekend in which the Blue Birds hit six home runs on Friday night and scored twelve runs two days later, it is safe to say that no one saw this year’s tater surge coming. Toronto is far and away out homering the rest of baseball, and it is in large part due to many pleasant surprises in the Jays lineup: Kevin Youkilis Jr. (John Buck) and Alex Gonzalez are both on pace for career highs in ding dongs. Edwin Encarnacion came off the DL to hit 5 bombs in one weekend, and Jose Bautista leads the majors in homers, no one saw this coming. While it is easy to get excited about this unexpected power surge and a 27-20 start; I am hoping that cooler heads prevail inside the Jays organization and this season is still treated as the first year of a rebuilding process.
Treating this team as one that is rebuilding means several things for the currently surging Jays. With Bautista, Encarnacion and Fred Lewis all exceeding expectations, creating playing time for Travis Snider will prove to be a challenge. Developing young players that will become cornerstones of the franchise should still be priority number one (unless we plan on singing Alex Gonzalez long term). Hopefully someone that has the potential to become an impact player like Snider doesn’t have to ride the pine because Cito wants to play the hot hand of Fred Lewis.
Despite the Jay’s impressive home run total, this offence needs to be put into perspective. Friday against Arizona the team hit six dingers and STILL lost. While the Jays may be leading the league in homers, they sit 12th in the 14 team AL in on base percentage, which is not the sign of a dominant offensive team and suggests the Jays will be fumbling to score runs if the home run fountain dries up. The Jays coaching staff needs to be preaching patience along with power if this team wants to truly develop into an offensive force.
Lastly, the surprise offensive output of so many different Blue Jay hitters should be used to do what rebuilding teams do best: trade for younger players. Many around baseball are suggesting that Jose Bautista is for real: he has made adjustments to his swing that will translate into sustained results (it is also important to note that despite his .241 average, he has a respectable OBP. Of .354). That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t sell high on players like Alex Gonzalez, Fred Lewis, and John Buck (on the pitching side of things Kevin Gregg and Jason Frasor could be attractive to contending teams). If any of these chips can be turned into productive young players, they Jays should pull the trigger.
Despite this offensive surge the Jays are still facing several challenges: they sit in third place, 7 games behind the Rays, the fourth place Red Sox are beginning to surge and Kevin Gregg is currently closing. As exciting as the team is playing, taking the long view in this situation by focusing on player development and building for the future will ensure that two years from now the are contending and not just exciting.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Monday, May 3, 2010
So It's Been Four Weeks...
We are four weeks into the 2010 season and before we start buying Alex Gonzalez jersey’s (don’t do it) or putting all our money on the San Diego Padres to win the NL (don’t do it), let’s take a minute to evaluate some of the unexpected things that have happened this April and predict what surprises are for real and what teams and players will come back down to earth.
Will Travis Snider Hit Under .200?
Things look bleak for the Jays sophomore, but don’t worry everyone, stat heads to the rescue! Snider has one of the lowest batting average on balls in play in the major leagues. Translation: he has run into a streak of bad luck and is swinging the bat much better than his average suggests. If Cito keeps with him (and he should) Travis’ numbers will improve.
Red Sox Woes
Let’s not freak out Red Sox Nation, the team is still playing .500 baseball but there are reasons for concern. There were questions about Boston’s offence coming into the season, and with injuries to Mike Cameron and Jacoby Ellsbury, coupled with the continual struggles of David Ortiz the offence has been more anemic that the BoSox are used to. This may be a problem (although one that can be addressed via trade) in the coming months, but what is really responsible for the Red Sox slow start is poor pitching and defense. Josh Beckett, Tim Wakefield and John Lackey have ERA’s over 5.00 and Victor Martinez has throw out 2 baserunners all month. I wouldn’t expect either of these trends to continue all season long: Lackey and Beckett are quality pitchers and should rebound as the season moves along and Daisuke Matsuzaka is replacing Wakefield in the rotation. While he is no Johnny Bench, Victor Martinez is a better defensive catcher than how he is playing (he has thrown out 30% of runners in past seasons). Once the catching and pitching are sorted, the Red Sox will be in a better position to judge how the 2010 team will perform.
Is Andruw Jones Going to Rake All Year?
Over the last few years, Andruw Jones’ production has deteriorated to the point that his signing with the White Sox this winter went virtually unnoticed. This year he reported to camp in great shape and has already hit 8 big flies for the Sox. Can he keep it up? There are reasons to believe he can: He is playing his home games at US Cellular Field, one of the best hitters parks in the American League, he is protected in the order by Paul Konerko and Carlos Quinten but most importantly, Jones appears to be more motivated than he has been in years past (hence the better shape). Jones’ talent coupled with his newfound work ethic, should ensure that he continues to produce all year for the South Siders.
Seattle’s Offensive Struggles
Every sports writer in America is muttering “I told you so” over this one. What I can’t understand is why Jermaine Dye is still sitting at home without a contract.
Are the Mets for Real?
Let’s wait and see. I expect the New York offence to produce enough to contend but it all depends on their pitching. Right now, Mike Pelfrey has an ERA under 2.00, Jon Niese is pitching incredibly well for a rookie and Oliver Perez is still the most expensive fifth starter in baseball. Its only May and I do expect that these two young pitchers come back to earth but if they can continue put up decent numbers behind Johan Santana, the Mets may not overtake the Phillies but they do have a shot at staying in playoff contention.
Will Travis Snider Hit Under .200?
Things look bleak for the Jays sophomore, but don’t worry everyone, stat heads to the rescue! Snider has one of the lowest batting average on balls in play in the major leagues. Translation: he has run into a streak of bad luck and is swinging the bat much better than his average suggests. If Cito keeps with him (and he should) Travis’ numbers will improve.
Red Sox Woes
Let’s not freak out Red Sox Nation, the team is still playing .500 baseball but there are reasons for concern. There were questions about Boston’s offence coming into the season, and with injuries to Mike Cameron and Jacoby Ellsbury, coupled with the continual struggles of David Ortiz the offence has been more anemic that the BoSox are used to. This may be a problem (although one that can be addressed via trade) in the coming months, but what is really responsible for the Red Sox slow start is poor pitching and defense. Josh Beckett, Tim Wakefield and John Lackey have ERA’s over 5.00 and Victor Martinez has throw out 2 baserunners all month. I wouldn’t expect either of these trends to continue all season long: Lackey and Beckett are quality pitchers and should rebound as the season moves along and Daisuke Matsuzaka is replacing Wakefield in the rotation. While he is no Johnny Bench, Victor Martinez is a better defensive catcher than how he is playing (he has thrown out 30% of runners in past seasons). Once the catching and pitching are sorted, the Red Sox will be in a better position to judge how the 2010 team will perform.
Is Andruw Jones Going to Rake All Year?
Over the last few years, Andruw Jones’ production has deteriorated to the point that his signing with the White Sox this winter went virtually unnoticed. This year he reported to camp in great shape and has already hit 8 big flies for the Sox. Can he keep it up? There are reasons to believe he can: He is playing his home games at US Cellular Field, one of the best hitters parks in the American League, he is protected in the order by Paul Konerko and Carlos Quinten but most importantly, Jones appears to be more motivated than he has been in years past (hence the better shape). Jones’ talent coupled with his newfound work ethic, should ensure that he continues to produce all year for the South Siders.
Seattle’s Offensive Struggles
Every sports writer in America is muttering “I told you so” over this one. What I can’t understand is why Jermaine Dye is still sitting at home without a contract.
Are the Mets for Real?
Let’s wait and see. I expect the New York offence to produce enough to contend but it all depends on their pitching. Right now, Mike Pelfrey has an ERA under 2.00, Jon Niese is pitching incredibly well for a rookie and Oliver Perez is still the most expensive fifth starter in baseball. Its only May and I do expect that these two young pitchers come back to earth but if they can continue put up decent numbers behind Johan Santana, the Mets may not overtake the Phillies but they do have a shot at staying in playoff contention.
Friday, March 26, 2010
2010 Preview: National League East
The Favourite - Philadelphia Phillies
Far and away the best team in the NL East, the two time National League Champs are still the favourite to win both their division and the National League. With the acquisition of Roy Halladay, the Phils are also the sentimental choice for Blue Jays fans that are realistic about their own teams 2010 possibilities. In the last few years the Phillies have vaulted themselves into the upper echelon of MLB teams, so to be division favourites is not enough anymore, the Phils are trying to hang with and beat the Yankees and Red Sox every year. With that in mind, the Phillies have a few holes that the other super powers do not. The Philadelphia bullpen was a mess in 2009 but I expect Brad Lidge to rebound; he was struggling in Houston when he was traded to the Phillies two years ago and he responded by having one of the most dominant seasons ever by a relief pitcher. The signing of Danys Baez should also help fortify the relief corps. The starting rotation behind Halladay also contains question marks: can Cole Hamels bounce back? Can J.A. Happ continue to improve (and contribute during the playoffs) and can Jamie Moyer stave off death long enough to complete a 40th season in the major leagues? Many baseball people suggest that Cole Hamels was particularly unlucky last year, citing strong peripheral stats (a similar strikeout to walk ratio as his breakout 2007 season and an extremely high opponents batting average on balls in play), on top of this, pitching behind Roy Halladay can only have a positive effect (just ask A.J. Burnett). A return to form by Hamels and continued improvement by Happ is likely and should solidify a rotation that in a worst case scenario can be put on the shoulders of one pitcher (Doc is that good). The offence is one of the best in the majors, and should only be solidified by the addition of Placido Polanco. Don't be surprised however if you see a regression by Raul Ibanez (age) and Jayson Werth (who is coming off a career year). Make no mistake this Phillies team is strong and any questions they have are the questions of a championship caliber team not a team that may or may not win the NL East.
The Challengers
Atlanta Braves
After an unprecedented run, 2010 will be Bobby Cox's last season managing in the major leagues, and this makes the Braves a sentimental pick for many people around baseball. In 2009 the Braves had one of the best rotations in baseball, and despite an offseason trade of Javier Vazquez the rotation is still one of the team's strengths. Even with Vazquez gone, the development of Atlanta's young hurlers Jair Jurrjens and Tommy Hanson should offset the loss and allow the rotation to pitch the way it did in 2009. In the bullpen, many questioned the Braves decision to sign 39-year-old Billy Wagner (only a year removed from Tommy John surgery) to close, although his supporters point out that he did look good late last year with Boston. The offence also has a few question marks: Chipper Jones has vowed to retire if he can't elevate his game above its 2009 level and the production the Braves can extract from Troy Glaus (injury) and Jason Heyward (inexperience) is yet to be determined. Despite these uncertainties I expect Bobby Cox to pull the rabbit out of his hat one last time and keep the Tomahawk Choppers competitive in 2010.
New York Mets
There is no team in the major leagues more dysfunctional than the New York Mets. This offseason, headlines about the Mets included their very questionable acquisitions (they actually traded FOR Gary Matthews Jr. and bid against themselves for Jason Bay), their failed negotiations with several free agent catchers (Bengie Molina, Yorvit Torreabla) and very public arguments about whether or not it was ok for Carlos Beltran to go under the knife. When all the dust had settled, the Mets still had no one to start behind Johan Santana and an offence that does not play well to their cavernous home ballpark. The Mets are an expensive team so I wouldn't be surprised if they somehow stay in the race, but I will be equally unsurprised if they melt down yet again.
Florida Marlins
With the signing of Josh Johnson, the Marlins have assured their fans that they will not turn into the southern version of the Montreal Expos and in Hanley Ramirez the Marlins have one of the most exciting and dynamic offensive players in the major leagues. While the Marlins have more bright spots than they have had in recent years (Cody Ross, Chris Coghlan, Dan Uggla, Ricky Nolasco) but they made need one more year for players like Anibal Sanchez, Cameron Maybin and Gaby Sanchez to develop before they can mount a strong challenge in the NL East.
Maybe Next Year
Washington Nationals
For the last few years, the Nationals have consistently been the worst team in the major leagues. That may change this year. They will still be awful and finish last in the NL East, but they may not be the worst team in baseball. Adam Dunn, Ryan Zimmerman and Josh Willingham form a respectable middle of the lineup but Jason Marquis, Scott Olsen and John Lannan at the top of the rotation spells trouble for the Nats in 2010.
Far and away the best team in the NL East, the two time National League Champs are still the favourite to win both their division and the National League. With the acquisition of Roy Halladay, the Phils are also the sentimental choice for Blue Jays fans that are realistic about their own teams 2010 possibilities. In the last few years the Phillies have vaulted themselves into the upper echelon of MLB teams, so to be division favourites is not enough anymore, the Phils are trying to hang with and beat the Yankees and Red Sox every year. With that in mind, the Phillies have a few holes that the other super powers do not. The Philadelphia bullpen was a mess in 2009 but I expect Brad Lidge to rebound; he was struggling in Houston when he was traded to the Phillies two years ago and he responded by having one of the most dominant seasons ever by a relief pitcher. The signing of Danys Baez should also help fortify the relief corps. The starting rotation behind Halladay also contains question marks: can Cole Hamels bounce back? Can J.A. Happ continue to improve (and contribute during the playoffs) and can Jamie Moyer stave off death long enough to complete a 40th season in the major leagues? Many baseball people suggest that Cole Hamels was particularly unlucky last year, citing strong peripheral stats (a similar strikeout to walk ratio as his breakout 2007 season and an extremely high opponents batting average on balls in play), on top of this, pitching behind Roy Halladay can only have a positive effect (just ask A.J. Burnett). A return to form by Hamels and continued improvement by Happ is likely and should solidify a rotation that in a worst case scenario can be put on the shoulders of one pitcher (Doc is that good). The offence is one of the best in the majors, and should only be solidified by the addition of Placido Polanco. Don't be surprised however if you see a regression by Raul Ibanez (age) and Jayson Werth (who is coming off a career year). Make no mistake this Phillies team is strong and any questions they have are the questions of a championship caliber team not a team that may or may not win the NL East.
The Challengers
Atlanta Braves
After an unprecedented run, 2010 will be Bobby Cox's last season managing in the major leagues, and this makes the Braves a sentimental pick for many people around baseball. In 2009 the Braves had one of the best rotations in baseball, and despite an offseason trade of Javier Vazquez the rotation is still one of the team's strengths. Even with Vazquez gone, the development of Atlanta's young hurlers Jair Jurrjens and Tommy Hanson should offset the loss and allow the rotation to pitch the way it did in 2009. In the bullpen, many questioned the Braves decision to sign 39-year-old Billy Wagner (only a year removed from Tommy John surgery) to close, although his supporters point out that he did look good late last year with Boston. The offence also has a few question marks: Chipper Jones has vowed to retire if he can't elevate his game above its 2009 level and the production the Braves can extract from Troy Glaus (injury) and Jason Heyward (inexperience) is yet to be determined. Despite these uncertainties I expect Bobby Cox to pull the rabbit out of his hat one last time and keep the Tomahawk Choppers competitive in 2010.
New York Mets
There is no team in the major leagues more dysfunctional than the New York Mets. This offseason, headlines about the Mets included their very questionable acquisitions (they actually traded FOR Gary Matthews Jr. and bid against themselves for Jason Bay), their failed negotiations with several free agent catchers (Bengie Molina, Yorvit Torreabla) and very public arguments about whether or not it was ok for Carlos Beltran to go under the knife. When all the dust had settled, the Mets still had no one to start behind Johan Santana and an offence that does not play well to their cavernous home ballpark. The Mets are an expensive team so I wouldn't be surprised if they somehow stay in the race, but I will be equally unsurprised if they melt down yet again.
Florida Marlins
With the signing of Josh Johnson, the Marlins have assured their fans that they will not turn into the southern version of the Montreal Expos and in Hanley Ramirez the Marlins have one of the most exciting and dynamic offensive players in the major leagues. While the Marlins have more bright spots than they have had in recent years (Cody Ross, Chris Coghlan, Dan Uggla, Ricky Nolasco) but they made need one more year for players like Anibal Sanchez, Cameron Maybin and Gaby Sanchez to develop before they can mount a strong challenge in the NL East.
Maybe Next Year
Washington Nationals
For the last few years, the Nationals have consistently been the worst team in the major leagues. That may change this year. They will still be awful and finish last in the NL East, but they may not be the worst team in baseball. Adam Dunn, Ryan Zimmerman and Josh Willingham form a respectable middle of the lineup but Jason Marquis, Scott Olsen and John Lannan at the top of the rotation spells trouble for the Nats in 2010.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
2010 NL Central Preview
The Favorite
St. Louis Cardinals
The Cards are the NL Central favourites for 4 reasons: Albert Pujols, Matt Holliday, Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Carpenter and Wainwright are dominant the top of the rotation, while Pujols and Holliday anchor the middle of the Cards lineup. After that it comes down to whatever manager Tony La Russa and pitching coach Dave Duncan can milk out of the rest of the roster. Luckily for Cardinals fans, the coaching staff has a pretty good record of turning Kyle Loshe into sugar (why else would they sign Brad Penny?). The recent signing of Felipe Lopez should help in stabilizing the offence and questions about the back end of the rotation and bullpen are minor enough that it should not hinder the Cards from repeating as division champs
The Contenders
Chicago Cubs
The 2009 season was somewhat of a disaster for the Cubs. Jim Hendry was the only person on the planet who believed the two angriest people in baseball - Lou Pinella and Milton Bradley - could get along with each other. Geovany Soto was hit with the dreaded sophomore jinx and the stocky backstop took a step backwards, while Alfonso Soriano lived up to his contract in much the same manner as Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Vernon Wells has. The Cubs have added Marlon Byrd and Xavier Nady to shore up their outfield and I expect Mike Fontenot to have a better season than last year in the Cubs infield (he hit almost 40 points lower than his 2008 average). Last year’s disaster season still yielded 83 wins for the Cubs, so with Mad Milton out of the picture there is no reason to believe the Cubs won’t be in the thick of the race this year as well.
Milwaukee Brewers
Bernie Brewer better invest in a good pair of overalls, because with Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun socking dingers, Bernie will be wearing out the seat of his pants going down the slide at Miller Park every time the Brew Crew hit a home run. Along with Braun and Fielder, I expect improved power numbers from Corey Hart and third baseman Casey McGehee. However there are still some question marks in the Brewers lineup (Gregg Zaun is their starting catcher) and like many teams, the Brewers will go as far as their pitching can take them. I expect Doug Davis, Randy Wolf and Jeff Suppan to pitch to their league average levels, but if Yovani Gallardo can improve and Manny Para can get his ERA under six the Brewers can stay in the race.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds are this year’s sexy pick for surprise contender in the NL and I can see why they are such an alluring pick. The team is fairly strong offensively – the only major question mark is center field, where the Reds will most likely start rookie Drew Stubbs. While regression could be a problem for veterans such as Scott Rolen, Ramon Hernandez and Orlando Cabrera, young hitters like Joey Votto and Jay Bruce should continue to improve on their 2009 seasons. Veterans Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo (who recorded a CD with the same name as my blog) should keep the pressure off promising young Reds starters Homer Bailey, Aroldis Chapman, and Johnny Cueto. This makes the Reds just as dangerous (although more unproven) as the Brewers and Cubs in challenging for the division title.
Maybe Next Year
Houston Astros
Carlos Lee is still hitting baseballs as hard as he hits the clubhouse spread, and that is a good thing for the Astros. What is not a good thing for the Astros is Brett Myers and Brandon Lyon were their biggest free agent signings this offseason (no offence Pedro Feliz). Houston’s pitching is still below where it needs to be to contend in the NL Central in 2010.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Well, maybe not next year, maybe two years. But hey, PNC Park is gorgeous.
St. Louis Cardinals
The Cards are the NL Central favourites for 4 reasons: Albert Pujols, Matt Holliday, Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Carpenter and Wainwright are dominant the top of the rotation, while Pujols and Holliday anchor the middle of the Cards lineup. After that it comes down to whatever manager Tony La Russa and pitching coach Dave Duncan can milk out of the rest of the roster. Luckily for Cardinals fans, the coaching staff has a pretty good record of turning Kyle Loshe into sugar (why else would they sign Brad Penny?). The recent signing of Felipe Lopez should help in stabilizing the offence and questions about the back end of the rotation and bullpen are minor enough that it should not hinder the Cards from repeating as division champs
The Contenders
Chicago Cubs
The 2009 season was somewhat of a disaster for the Cubs. Jim Hendry was the only person on the planet who believed the two angriest people in baseball - Lou Pinella and Milton Bradley - could get along with each other. Geovany Soto was hit with the dreaded sophomore jinx and the stocky backstop took a step backwards, while Alfonso Soriano lived up to his contract in much the same manner as Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Vernon Wells has. The Cubs have added Marlon Byrd and Xavier Nady to shore up their outfield and I expect Mike Fontenot to have a better season than last year in the Cubs infield (he hit almost 40 points lower than his 2008 average). Last year’s disaster season still yielded 83 wins for the Cubs, so with Mad Milton out of the picture there is no reason to believe the Cubs won’t be in the thick of the race this year as well.
Milwaukee Brewers
Bernie Brewer better invest in a good pair of overalls, because with Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun socking dingers, Bernie will be wearing out the seat of his pants going down the slide at Miller Park every time the Brew Crew hit a home run. Along with Braun and Fielder, I expect improved power numbers from Corey Hart and third baseman Casey McGehee. However there are still some question marks in the Brewers lineup (Gregg Zaun is their starting catcher) and like many teams, the Brewers will go as far as their pitching can take them. I expect Doug Davis, Randy Wolf and Jeff Suppan to pitch to their league average levels, but if Yovani Gallardo can improve and Manny Para can get his ERA under six the Brewers can stay in the race.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds are this year’s sexy pick for surprise contender in the NL and I can see why they are such an alluring pick. The team is fairly strong offensively – the only major question mark is center field, where the Reds will most likely start rookie Drew Stubbs. While regression could be a problem for veterans such as Scott Rolen, Ramon Hernandez and Orlando Cabrera, young hitters like Joey Votto and Jay Bruce should continue to improve on their 2009 seasons. Veterans Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo (who recorded a CD with the same name as my blog) should keep the pressure off promising young Reds starters Homer Bailey, Aroldis Chapman, and Johnny Cueto. This makes the Reds just as dangerous (although more unproven) as the Brewers and Cubs in challenging for the division title.
Maybe Next Year
Houston Astros
Carlos Lee is still hitting baseballs as hard as he hits the clubhouse spread, and that is a good thing for the Astros. What is not a good thing for the Astros is Brett Myers and Brandon Lyon were their biggest free agent signings this offseason (no offence Pedro Feliz). Houston’s pitching is still below where it needs to be to contend in the NL Central in 2010.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Well, maybe not next year, maybe two years. But hey, PNC Park is gorgeous.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
2010 NL West Preview
The Favorite
Los Angeles Dodgers
Despite losing several key players to free agency (Randy Wolf, Orlando Hudson) and one to a lack of interest in baseball (Manny Ramirez). This is still the Dodgers division to lose. They have a young core of hitters in Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and James Loney that compliment veteran hitters like Ramierz, Rafael Furcal and Casey Blake well. While the rotation lacks a true ace (it is very possible that Clayton Kershaw could prove that statement wrong this year), the Dodgers rotation does have depth. The bullpen is also strength as Jonathan “brick house” Broxton has quickly become a shutdown closer. Two keys for the Dodgers in repeating as division champs are how quickly Russ Martin can recover from injury and if Vicente Padilla can be the same pitcher he was after the Dodgers acquired him late last season.
The Contenders
Colorado Rockies
The only reason there isn’t more discussion of Rockies ace Ubaldo Jimenez is that no one can spell his name correctly (this is also the reason more Rockies fans don’t have his jersey). The lanky, fire-balling righty is a dominant pitcher with a ton of upside and continues to improve. If Jimenez, Aaron Cook and Jorge De La Rosa can pitch as well as they did last year (a return to form from Jeff Francis would be gravy), Troy Tulowitzki and the thin air at Coors field will take care of the rest.
San Francisco Giants
Offence. Just get some offence.
Arizona Diamondbacks
After a disappointing 2009, the D-backs could be poised for a winning season in 2010 and may surprise some people. If things break right for the D-Backs, don’t be surprised if they are contenders. That being said, much of the team’s success hinges on many unknowns. While the lineup was solidified with the addition of Adam Laroche, will Justin Upton and Mark Reynolds continue to develop? Can Conor Jackson return to form after playing only 30 games in 2009? Will Chris Young ever hit over .210? The rotation could have one of the best one two punches in the game if Brandon Webb (paired with Dan Haren) can return to form after major surgery. There are also questions about Edwin Jackson (who faded badly in the second half of 2009) and Ian Kennedy at the back end of the rotation. The signing of new closer Brandon Lyon (remember him Jays fans?) was also heavily scrutinized this offseason. In a competitive NL West the odds may be against them, but I am not ready to count Arizona out yet.
Maybe Next Year
San Diego Padres
Don’t despair Padres fans. With Jed Hoyer at the helm there is also reason to hope. If Chris Young, Heath Bell or Adrian Gonzalez are traded, Hoyer is the man to make a deal that is right for the Friars. The Padres also have acquired some high ceiling prospects (pitcher Clayton Richard) that should start to contribute sooner rather than later. In the meantime though, other than the above-mentioned players Tony Gwynn (junior of course) is one of the more recognizable faces on the 2010 Padres. Yikes.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Despite losing several key players to free agency (Randy Wolf, Orlando Hudson) and one to a lack of interest in baseball (Manny Ramirez). This is still the Dodgers division to lose. They have a young core of hitters in Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and James Loney that compliment veteran hitters like Ramierz, Rafael Furcal and Casey Blake well. While the rotation lacks a true ace (it is very possible that Clayton Kershaw could prove that statement wrong this year), the Dodgers rotation does have depth. The bullpen is also strength as Jonathan “brick house” Broxton has quickly become a shutdown closer. Two keys for the Dodgers in repeating as division champs are how quickly Russ Martin can recover from injury and if Vicente Padilla can be the same pitcher he was after the Dodgers acquired him late last season.
The Contenders
Colorado Rockies
The only reason there isn’t more discussion of Rockies ace Ubaldo Jimenez is that no one can spell his name correctly (this is also the reason more Rockies fans don’t have his jersey). The lanky, fire-balling righty is a dominant pitcher with a ton of upside and continues to improve. If Jimenez, Aaron Cook and Jorge De La Rosa can pitch as well as they did last year (a return to form from Jeff Francis would be gravy), Troy Tulowitzki and the thin air at Coors field will take care of the rest.
San Francisco Giants
Offence. Just get some offence.
Arizona Diamondbacks
After a disappointing 2009, the D-backs could be poised for a winning season in 2010 and may surprise some people. If things break right for the D-Backs, don’t be surprised if they are contenders. That being said, much of the team’s success hinges on many unknowns. While the lineup was solidified with the addition of Adam Laroche, will Justin Upton and Mark Reynolds continue to develop? Can Conor Jackson return to form after playing only 30 games in 2009? Will Chris Young ever hit over .210? The rotation could have one of the best one two punches in the game if Brandon Webb (paired with Dan Haren) can return to form after major surgery. There are also questions about Edwin Jackson (who faded badly in the second half of 2009) and Ian Kennedy at the back end of the rotation. The signing of new closer Brandon Lyon (remember him Jays fans?) was also heavily scrutinized this offseason. In a competitive NL West the odds may be against them, but I am not ready to count Arizona out yet.
Maybe Next Year
San Diego Padres
Don’t despair Padres fans. With Jed Hoyer at the helm there is also reason to hope. If Chris Young, Heath Bell or Adrian Gonzalez are traded, Hoyer is the man to make a deal that is right for the Friars. The Padres also have acquired some high ceiling prospects (pitcher Clayton Richard) that should start to contribute sooner rather than later. In the meantime though, other than the above-mentioned players Tony Gwynn (junior of course) is one of the more recognizable faces on the 2010 Padres. Yikes.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
It's That Time of Year
Everybody has that one friend. They aren’t a sports fan, they are a sport fan. It’s the guy who watches the completely meaningless Raptors game instead of playoff hockey, or the guy who insists on watching the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in July instead of watching Italy and France in the World Cup final. When it comes to baseball, I am that fan. So with the Olympics in full swing, the only thing that I am interested in is pitchers and catchers reporting to camp and all the great rituals that accompany it.
One great ritual of spring is the reappearance of baseball games on television. This usually occurs once a week starting in mid-March in the form of a Saturday afternoon game. As I mentioned above, these games are not for sports fans but rather only for baseball fans. Only someone who truly loves baseball could put up with (what is often) shots from a single, stationary camera behind home plate and the split squad rosters that ensure you won’t see a single player that will make the opening day roster play more than two innings. These games are so lax that the players don’t even wear real jerseys. Despite these glaring shortcomings, there is nothing like watching that first game of the year to remind myself that I really only watch football because there is nothing else on.
Another great ritual of springtime is the requisite smack talk that occurs between rival teams. This year has been so exception. Not sure who the best pitcher in the NL East is? Don’t worry, Johan Santana will tell you. Not sure who will win the division? No sweat, David Wright knows. All that is missing so far in the Mets/Phillies smack talk is for Roy Halladay to tell a ‘yo momma’ joke aimed at Carlos Beltran. As ludicrous and misinformed as these predictions can be, they a little drama can keep things interesting during a time of year when starting players only play a few innings a game.
Spring training is a great time of the year to be a baseball fan for many reasons but the biggest and best of these reasons is that everything is still possible and nothing has been proven untrue: Rookies will perform the same way in the majors that they did in the minors, veterans won’t regress, injured players will return to form, and yes that awful year he had last year was just an aberration (or the last few in the case of Lyle Overbay). Whatever the uncertainty looms large for your favorite team, the cold hard realities of the major league season have not yet kicked in and deflated their chances. For the Jays this means that as of right now Ricky Romero can contend for the Cy Young, Shaun Marcum will return to form, Travis Snider will hit 40 homers, Vernon Wells will earn half his money and Jose Bautista will not play like Jose Bautista.
For many teams not expected to contend (and the Mets), the season can be a long one, but when spring training starts, we all still have the same record. This makes spring training worth watching not only for the rituals and but the hope and excitement that may not be there for fans of every team come June or July. And that’s what makes spring training exciting for all sports fans.
One great ritual of spring is the reappearance of baseball games on television. This usually occurs once a week starting in mid-March in the form of a Saturday afternoon game. As I mentioned above, these games are not for sports fans but rather only for baseball fans. Only someone who truly loves baseball could put up with (what is often) shots from a single, stationary camera behind home plate and the split squad rosters that ensure you won’t see a single player that will make the opening day roster play more than two innings. These games are so lax that the players don’t even wear real jerseys. Despite these glaring shortcomings, there is nothing like watching that first game of the year to remind myself that I really only watch football because there is nothing else on.
Another great ritual of springtime is the requisite smack talk that occurs between rival teams. This year has been so exception. Not sure who the best pitcher in the NL East is? Don’t worry, Johan Santana will tell you. Not sure who will win the division? No sweat, David Wright knows. All that is missing so far in the Mets/Phillies smack talk is for Roy Halladay to tell a ‘yo momma’ joke aimed at Carlos Beltran. As ludicrous and misinformed as these predictions can be, they a little drama can keep things interesting during a time of year when starting players only play a few innings a game.
Spring training is a great time of the year to be a baseball fan for many reasons but the biggest and best of these reasons is that everything is still possible and nothing has been proven untrue: Rookies will perform the same way in the majors that they did in the minors, veterans won’t regress, injured players will return to form, and yes that awful year he had last year was just an aberration (or the last few in the case of Lyle Overbay). Whatever the uncertainty looms large for your favorite team, the cold hard realities of the major league season have not yet kicked in and deflated their chances. For the Jays this means that as of right now Ricky Romero can contend for the Cy Young, Shaun Marcum will return to form, Travis Snider will hit 40 homers, Vernon Wells will earn half his money and Jose Bautista will not play like Jose Bautista.
For many teams not expected to contend (and the Mets), the season can be a long one, but when spring training starts, we all still have the same record. This makes spring training worth watching not only for the rituals and but the hope and excitement that may not be there for fans of every team come June or July. And that’s what makes spring training exciting for all sports fans.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Keeping the Burner On: A Few Ideas for the End of the Hot Stove Season
Boston Bring in a Big Bat
Yeah they upgraded their pitching (Lackey) and defense (Beltre and Cameron) but the defending champion Yankees added pitching and of their own (not to mention Curtis Granderson). Boston has a deep and versatile lineup but if the season started tomorrow would anyone in Beantown really be comfortable with Shrek (David Ortiz), J.D. Drew, or Victor Martinez hitting fourth? The Sox still lack the dominant middle of the order bat that is needed to usurp the Yankees as AL champs. Not only are the Yankees as rich as ever but it looks like they are starting to make very sound baseball decisions to go with their money. If Boston wants to keep up with the Steinbrenners Miguel Cabrera or Adrian Gonzalez may be worth a handful of prospects.
Really Detroit? Johnny Damon?
Only months after trading the most popular man in Michigan due to payroll issues, the Tigers are thinking of signing Johnny Damon. Damon is still a productive player and could provide to be a steal if he comes at the right price, but if I was a Tigers fan I would not take kindly to seeing Granderson and his affordable contract being shipped to the Yankees only to see him replaced with an older and comparably priced outfielder (and Jose Valverde).
Wang, Dye, Blalock Go West!
While Seattle has been deemed one of this offseason’s winners, the team still appears to be lacking power and starting pitching depth. If the team took a flyer on Chien-Ming Wang, Jermaine Dye or Hank Blalock (either seems like a better fit than Eric Byrnes) it would solidify the team as a playoff contender. Bringing back Jarrod Washburn wouldn’t hurt either.
Toronto: Bring Big Hot Carl(os)
This might be a tough year for the Jays so what better way to distract fans than bringing back and aging icon? Hey it worked in Seattle. Carlos could provide us with a link to the “glory days” (those 75-85 win teams of the 2000s) and make us forget what the Jays are doing on the field in 2010. Plus he is still probably a better hitter than many of the Jays regulars…if only he could play on the left side of the infield.
Yeah they upgraded their pitching (Lackey) and defense (Beltre and Cameron) but the defending champion Yankees added pitching and of their own (not to mention Curtis Granderson). Boston has a deep and versatile lineup but if the season started tomorrow would anyone in Beantown really be comfortable with Shrek (David Ortiz), J.D. Drew, or Victor Martinez hitting fourth? The Sox still lack the dominant middle of the order bat that is needed to usurp the Yankees as AL champs. Not only are the Yankees as rich as ever but it looks like they are starting to make very sound baseball decisions to go with their money. If Boston wants to keep up with the Steinbrenners Miguel Cabrera or Adrian Gonzalez may be worth a handful of prospects.
Really Detroit? Johnny Damon?
Only months after trading the most popular man in Michigan due to payroll issues, the Tigers are thinking of signing Johnny Damon. Damon is still a productive player and could provide to be a steal if he comes at the right price, but if I was a Tigers fan I would not take kindly to seeing Granderson and his affordable contract being shipped to the Yankees only to see him replaced with an older and comparably priced outfielder (and Jose Valverde).
Wang, Dye, Blalock Go West!
While Seattle has been deemed one of this offseason’s winners, the team still appears to be lacking power and starting pitching depth. If the team took a flyer on Chien-Ming Wang, Jermaine Dye or Hank Blalock (either seems like a better fit than Eric Byrnes) it would solidify the team as a playoff contender. Bringing back Jarrod Washburn wouldn’t hurt either.
Toronto: Bring Big Hot Carl(os)
This might be a tough year for the Jays so what better way to distract fans than bringing back and aging icon? Hey it worked in Seattle. Carlos could provide us with a link to the “glory days” (those 75-85 win teams of the 2000s) and make us forget what the Jays are doing on the field in 2010. Plus he is still probably a better hitter than many of the Jays regulars…if only he could play on the left side of the infield.
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