All Questions Answered Thread
I will answer any question posted in this thread between 2 and 3 pm CENTRAL TIME, Friday afternoon, April 11th.
Questions posted BEFORE THAT TIME will not be answered. I know not everyone can be here, but if I opened the thread up too early there would literally be 500 questions and it would take more time to do this than I can spare.
Questions posted AFTER THAT TIME will not be answered for the same reason.
ONE QUESTION per poster. Also avoid questions that are super-long.
NO MORE QUESTIONS PLEASE
3 recs |
187 comments
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who is your top sleeper prospect in the white sox system?
somewhere in arizona, jerry owens silently weeps.
by larry on
Apr 11, 2008 3:00 PM EDT
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sox
Pretty dry system. I had Jack Egbert highly-rated but he is getting more attention now and isn't a true sleeper these days. Oneli Perez is still intriguing. Honeslty I can't say any big sleepers stick out at me. It's a very dry system.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:03 PM EDT
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What would you do with the Rangers' catching logjam?
Laird, Saltalamacchia, Teagarden, Ramirez, Santana. The catcing depth on this team is ridiculous. Do you wait it out with laird and let the prospects compete with each other? Do you deal one preemptive to his reaching the majors?
Jarrod Saltalamacchia: The Man, the Myth; The Alphabet.
by BudLight on
Apr 11, 2008 3:00 PM EDT
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rangers
If it was me, Laird would be the C this year and Salty at first base. Teagarden would be being prepped for 2009. Ramirez can hit, not sure about the glove. Santana is a ways off and given the depth ahead of him they can be patient. I really love Teagarden, assuming he's finally healthy.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:05 PM EDT
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Marlins Arms
Who do you see rising out of the pack between these secondary Marlins prospects?
Aaron Thompson, Ryan Tucker, Brett Sinkbeil
by bucklin12 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:01 PM EDT
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marlins
Hmm.....Tucker has the highest physical upside I'd say. I can't say I've ever been super-hot about Sinkbeil, he's struck me as perhaps a bit overrated. Thompson projects as a 3/4 starter but may be less likely to flame out than Tucker.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:07 PM EDT
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Wood
Is Brandon Wood ever going to be able to produce in the majors, let alone AAA for CRYING OUT LOUD? HIs regression has been horrendous.
by Sethy on
Apr 11, 2008 3:01 PM EDT
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wood
I think the Angels have handled him somewhat poorly. Word is that he's swinging for the fences now, trying to force himself into the majors. He's still very young but his approach is all messed up, and given what he's done in the past this is probably a psychological thing more than anything. I'm starting to think he needs a change of scenery.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:08 PM EDT
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Scouting
I am very interested in getting into scouting so I am wondering what is your scouting background?
by King Billy Royal on
Apr 11, 2008 3:03 PM EDT
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scouting
I have not had any formal scouting training but have been watching minor league baseball and projecting future performance for 30 years. I'm not perfect but I think my track record is OK.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:09 PM EDT
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Jose Ceda
Starter or reliever, and do you see his dominance at A ball carrying over at higher levels? Thanks for doing this, John.
by Flynn Blake on
Apr 11, 2008 3:03 PM EDT
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ceda
Good question. Excellent arm strength, no question. Cubs officials like to compare him to Lee Smith, and I think relief is probably his best option down the line. All depends on his command. . .let's see what his walk rate looks like in Double-A action.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:10 PM EDT
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Dexter Fowler
Beginning of a big breakout season or just a nice hot streak?
by joerote on
Apr 11, 2008 3:03 PM EDT
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fowler
Not sure yet. I am going to Tulsa on Sunday to try and figure that very question out.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:11 PM EDT
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Fowler looks more comfortable this year
I saw him this past week in a three game series and he's maturing as a hitter. In the cage, he's doing a better job of getting the bat head on the ball. In the past, I think he tried to pull the ball too much because of his size. Now he's just trying to make solid contact and he's spraying the ball all over the place. Being the big guy he is, he doesn't have to overexert himself at the plate for his hits to find their way deep in the gaps.
by sdbaseballfan on
Apr 11, 2008 3:24 PM EDT
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Luke Scott
Is his start of the year a fluke or is it just that he is finally getting a chance to play everyday and thus have a very good offensive season?
by dlpme77 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:03 PM EDT
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scott
He can hit, at least for power. I'd expect the batting average to settle down but it wouldn't surprise me to see him hit 25-30 homers if he maintains command of the zone.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:12 PM EDT
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Rangers 1b/C prospects
What do you make of Jason Botts? Will he ever truly get a shot? Is he a power hitter in the majors or just a walk/singles guy? What about Salty/Teagarden/Max Ramirez? Is Hurley really just a fourth starter?
by saltaphabet on
Apr 11, 2008 3:04 PM EDT
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questins
That's like five questions, lol. If someone gave Botts 500 at-bats, let him adjust, I think he'd hit. Maybe .250-.260, but with 20+ homers.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:13 PM EDT
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John Mayberry
With the deficiencies at 1b for the Rangers and the only real 1b prospect being Chris Davis, would you move Mayberry back to 1b?
by DirtyDawg on
Apr 11, 2008 3:04 PM EDT
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no
No. I'd leave him in the outfield. I think he has more value there.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:13 PM EDT
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White Sox
Do you see Aaron Poreda as a starter or reliever at the major league level?
by Ryno on
Apr 11, 2008 3:04 PM EDT
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poreda
Too early to say. Need to see how his secondary pitches hold up at higher levels. My guess is that he spends time in both roles but eventually settles into the pen.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:14 PM EDT
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Brandon Morrow
What do you see out of him after Seattle's odd handling of his development?
by Ophidian on
Apr 11, 2008 3:04 PM EDT
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Thank you for asking this
You're a good man.
I will be waiting...24601.
by PujolsJunkie on
Apr 11, 2008 3:08 PM EDT
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morrow
Morrow....geez. I don't know what the fuck the Mariners are doing with him. If it was me, he would have been in Double-A last year, starting. I have no idea what to expect at this point. Anything could happen.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:15 PM EDT
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I know what the Mariners are doing
Looking at pictures of Tim Lincecum and crying.
I will be waiting...24601.
by PujolsJunkie on
Apr 11, 2008 3:18 PM EDT
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So I'm not the only one
Good to see I'm not the only one that thinks the Mariners are crazy
by Ophidian on
Apr 11, 2008 4:03 PM EDT
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Stockton Ports 4some
they are living up to the hype so far...Anderson/Hrod/DLS/Cahill...how good can they be? all #2 SP's or better? Will Craig Italiano join this party?
by AsFan4ever650 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:05 PM EDT
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stockton
Yeah, that's a good staff, isn't it?? HRod and DLS have the highest pure physical ceilings, but Cahill and Anderson's polish stands out too. All could be 3s at a minimum. Of course, remember that for every 4-5 pitching prospects you are lucky to get one good pitcher. What will probably happen here is that one guy has a catastrophic injury and never develops, one turns into a really good pitcher, and two end up as journeymen.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:17 PM EDT
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If we were to trade Saltalawhoppia for an OF,
name an outfielder or two in high A or higher that would be equal value in return, please.
Rex Hudler is in demand as a motivational speaker.
by Brian Thomas on
Apr 11, 2008 3:05 PM EDT
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OF?
I dunno...tough question....different positions and age groups involved. Pick a Grade B+/A- outfielder of your choice.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:18 PM EDT
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Aw come on?
Rex Hudler is in demand as a motivational speaker.
by Brian Thomas on
Apr 11, 2008 3:19 PM EDT
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LOL
What a cop-out.
I will be waiting...24601.
by PujolsJunkie on
Apr 11, 2008 3:21 PM EDT
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I realize
It's not the answer you were looking for, but I think he's trying to jam through these questions so that he can be done by midnight. Very good question. Do you think Maybin's too high of value in return for Salty? Interesting option for the Marlins.
by Sethy on
Apr 11, 2008 3:22 PM EDT
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Florida wouldn't do that
I'm not sure there are more than a handful of players that Maybin would be traded for.
Rex Hudler is in demand as a motivational speaker.
by Brian Thomas on
Apr 11, 2008 3:25 PM EDT
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outfielder
Look you want an honest answer? Here's is one.
I DON"T KNOW
If I had one of the super high value outfielders out there like Bruce or Maybin, no way I'd trade them for Salty. If he can't catch, his value drops a lot. Any competent GM can find a first baseman who can hit for cheap. And I'm not convinced that Salty has the kind of superstar bat at first base that would make it valuable enough to trade a top notch outfielder for him. The line is somewhere around Andrew McCutchen....I would trade McCutchen for Salty, but I wouldn't trade Bruce or Maybin or Rasmus.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:25 PM EDT
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Heh. Ok.
Didn't mean to get under your skin...
Rex Hudler is in demand as a motivational speaker.
by Brian Thomas on
Apr 11, 2008 3:27 PM EDT
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sorry
Sorry. I'm still not feeling my best.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:28 PM EDT
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I was just trying to get max value for the beefy subscription fees I pay
Rex Hudler is in demand as a motivational speaker.
by Brian Thomas on
Apr 11, 2008 3:33 PM EDT
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Ranger pitching
Can you list the pitchers in the Rangers farm system who have true #1 or 2 pitching ceilings?
by peachygbc_1 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:06 PM EDT
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rangers
Lots of Rangers questions today.
Feliz, Main, Neil Ramirez, Font all have that kind of 1-2 ceiling. Other guys like Hurley, Beavan, Kiker are probably more 3 guys.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:20 PM EDT
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NY Mets Draft Strategy
Mets farm system has been left bare after the Santana trade. Minaya has hinted that he sees no reason to stick to slot when other teams aren't. Is this the year the Mets spend big throughout the draft and not just on one or two picks?
by JGrossman on
Apr 11, 2008 3:06 PM EDT
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Mets
The whole slotting thing is so bogus I'm surprised any team pays attention to it. If I were the Mets, or any other big revenue team, I would flood the draft with money.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:21 PM EDT
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Rasmus
With the Cardinals having good pitching production so far and mediocre offensive production when can Cardinals fans expect to see Rasmus up for good? Also how does he profile defensively as a CF?
Thanks
by osoZ on
Apr 11, 2008 3:06 PM EDT
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Rasmus
He is excellent with the glove, potential Gold Glove. If he hits well in Triple-A I expect he would be up by mid-season assuming a spot is open. They won't let him rust on the bench.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:26 PM EDT
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Hayden Penn
What is the future of him. Will the O's send him the way of John Maine only to see him flourish elsewhere?
by Reddrummer9187 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:08 PM EDT
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penn
That's possible. I could see that happening, yes.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:27 PM EDT
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Top 5 Picks for the 2009 Draft
Who do you like for the Top 5 picks in the 2009 Draft? [Top 4 if you think that Yu Darvish will be posted this winter]
by mars2001 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:08 PM EDT
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2009
Haven't thought that far ahead yet.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:28 PM EDT
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Phillippe Aumont
Seattle minors pitcher... who is this kid going to be? What's his ceiling, and will he hit it? What major leaguer does he remind you of?
Visiting Mariners' fan
by KingCorran on
Apr 11, 2008 3:08 PM EDT
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aumont
Can't say he reminds me of anyone specifically. His ceiling would be that of a number one starter, IF he can refine his changeup. If the changeup doesnt' come along, and he relies on his fastball and slider, I can see him as a closer. As usual, all the caveats apply: will he stay healthy? Etc.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:34 PM EDT
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Daryl Thompson
So far this season he has sat 90-94 MPH with his FB and hit as high as 97 MPH. If he has turned a corner in terms of his FB after recovering from his shoulder surgery, how legit of a prospect can he become?
http://www.redsminorleagues.com and http://www.RedsPitchFX.com
by dougdirt on
Apr 11, 2008 3:10 PM EDT
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thompson
I have liked Thompson since he was in high school: I Shadow-drafted him for my fake Twins farm system. If he's fully healthy and can sustain that velocity, he could end up being an impressive pitcher...number 3 starter possibly. That's a big if and assumes durability which he has not shown to this point. He might end up as a really good short reliever.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:36 PM EDT
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Crystal Ball
Which prospect will have the most career stolen bases in the majors?
by Rudy K on
Apr 11, 2008 3:11 PM EDT
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steals
Hmmm.....Ellsbury or Andrus
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:42 PM EDT
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Liz
Assuming the adjustments made to his delivery really have improved his control what kind of future do you see for him?
by sprucemoose on
Apr 11, 2008 3:12 PM EDT
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Liz
Daniel Cabrera at worst. He's got the great arm of course, it all comes down to command. If it remains erratic then he will be frustrating but occasionally brilliant like Cabrera. If he improves, he could be a legit number 2 guy, maybe a number 1 if the command REALLY comes around.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:44 PM EDT
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David Price
When will he be in the majors? What's your prediction for his ML stats?
by tmp23 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:12 PM EDT
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price
Depends on his elbow. If healthy he will be up in Sept.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:44 PM EDT
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Mechaincs
There has been some talk lately about pitching mechanics - in this case relating to Aaron Crow. Where do you stand on pitchers who hook their wrists or for an Inverted W/L etc. It seems interesting but anecdotal
by benzalman on
Apr 11, 2008 3:12 PM EDT
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pitching
I haven't seen Crow in person yet this year but should soon. As for the mechancal issue, the thing for me is repeatability...some pitchers have weird-looking or unusual mechanics that give scouts pause, but if they repeat them consistently and their bodies are used to that particular delivery, I think the concerns are often overblown. Just my opinion.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:46 PM EDT
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Elbert
Are the Dodgers going to give him a chance to start, or do you think that the loss in development time along with a fairly stocked starting staff is going to push him into a high leverage lefty reliever role.
by NMUWildcat027 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:12 PM EDT
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elbert
I asked a Dodgers official that last week on the radio show, and he gave a non-committal answer. I don't think they know yet themselves where Elbert will slot eventually.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:47 PM EDT
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McCutchen rankings?
Why did you rank Andrew McCutchen only 38th in the Rotowire Fantasy Guide compared to the higher ranking you gave him elsewhere? Let's get together for lunch in Lawrence before the kids are out of school and my free time evaporates.
by Mike Webber on
Apr 11, 2008 3:13 PM EDT
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mccutchen
Well the magazine list was finished in mid-December and my opinions change over time. In McCutchen's case I'm not sure he will have much of a short-term fantasy impact, and that is what the Rotowire lists tend to be directed towards, fantasy owners. The list in the book is more general baseball orientation.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:49 PM EDT
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Jesus
It's early but he's already got 2 homers. Where do you predict Jesus Montero will be in baseball's top 100 by the end of the year?
by Stephcaflowne on
Apr 11, 2008 3:13 PM EDT
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montero
Well let's see what reports on ihs defense look like, what his BB/K/AB ratio looks like, etc. Just throwing a guess out there, he will rank 72nd.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:50 PM EDT
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Tommy Mendoza
After a disappointed 2nd stint in lo-A, do you think he can take a step up this year?
The Dodgers won't win a playoff series until the Cool-a-Coo returns.
by mckeeno on
Apr 11, 2008 3:14 PM EDT
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mendoza
If healthy, perhaps. It's not a slam dunk though.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:51 PM EDT
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Why not a fantasy question...
I have Hanley Ramirez, Yunel Escobar, Reid Brignac, and Elvis Andrus all locked up on my team. Do you think the star potential of Andrus outweighs his flameout potential? Does Brignac land the starting job in '09? Renteria says Yunel reminded him of Pujols as a rookie (glad Renteria's scouting tips don't get published), which is nuts but how good can he be? Will Hanley remain at SS for the duration of his career?
All in all, the question is: Who would you deal?
I will be waiting...24601.
by PujolsJunkie on
Apr 11, 2008 3:14 PM EDT
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brignac
I'd trade Brignac. I like Brignac, but the other guys look better to me right now.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:52 PM EDT
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Pedro Alvarez
Do you buy the Manny Ramirez comp? If not, what current or former MLB would you compare him to?
by deezle on
Apr 11, 2008 3:16 PM EDT
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alvarez
Hmm......I can buy a potential Manny comp, yes.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:52 PM EDT
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Mike Moustakas
Do you think he's going to stick at short? Does it even matter because his bat will hold it's own anywhere on the field?
by sdbaseballfan on
Apr 11, 2008 3:18 PM EDT
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moustakas
I am going to go to Burlington later this month or in May to watch Moustakas and will have a report then. I suspect he will have to move but I don't know for sure, I want to see him.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 3:53 PM EDT
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Justin Snyder
He has done nothing but since being drafted last year, and is off to a very hot start this year. Thoughts? Would a guy like Pedroia be a good comp?
http://yankeesmtom.blogspot.com/
by hallofamer2000 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:18 PM EDT
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Edit:
"He has done nothing but hit since being drafted"
http://yankeesmtom.blogspot.com/
by hallofamer2000 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:19 PM EDT
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snyder
I wouldn't want to put a Pedroia tag on him just yet, but he bears close watching certainly, and he COULD develop in that direction. The college second base types have to really stand out on a performance basis since most of them don't have great tools.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:20 PM EDT
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"Skyrocket"ers
Which player(s) in the Twins system has the best chance of becoming a top 10-20 prospect by the end of 2008?
Relax, all right? Don't try to strike everybody out. Strikeouts are boring! Besides that, they're fascist. Throw some ground balls - it's more democratic.
Crash Davis
by Terry Ryan Jr on
Apr 11, 2008 3:18 PM EDT
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twins
Well do you mean Top 10-20 in all of baseball, or just Twins top 10-20? I don't see anyone in the system right now who will be a national Top 20 a year from now. Twins top 10-20 would depend on who is doing the list. Underrated guys I like include Alex Burnett and Rene Tosoni.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:22 PM EDT
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Edison Volquez
What kind of production should the Reds expect? Does he end up having a better year than Cueto?
"You might be impressed with your analysis, but I am not. Stop wasting my time." - Chris De Luca
by BoKnows on
Apr 11, 2008 3:19 PM EDT
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volquez
I'd expect league-average performance with some flashes of brilliance, and be happy if he exceeds that (which he very well could). Cueto could be better this year, perhaps more consistent.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:23 PM EDT
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Chris Carter (Oakland Version)
Deos he land in Oakland as a 1st baseman. Or is he strictly a DH-type?
by BarKing MaDd on
Apr 11, 2008 3:19 PM EDT
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carter-Oak
Probably a DH/platoon 1B if reports about his defense dont' get better. Bat looks interesting though.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:23 PM EDT
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Biggest potential flop?
What can't-miss prospect do you think has the best chance to, well, do just that?
"...and the only things I've found better than listening to Vin Scully are listening to Keith Jackson and uncut cocaine." (bleedjaxblue)
by drjayphd on
Apr 11, 2008 3:20 PM EDT
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hmm
Hmm....well any of the can't miss pitchers can miss easily if they get hurt. Of the position players...McCutchen seems a bit risky perhaps, though as I wrote last week he's still very young and has high upside. LaRoche could be a problem if he keeps getting hurt. I don't worry about Maybin, I think the whole "hits too many ground balls" thing is overblown.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:25 PM EDT
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Eric Campbell
What happened to Campbell? It seemed like he had a shot at being a decent prospect if he could get his act together, but I couldn't even find him on minorleaguebaseball.com. What gives?
by getupkid82 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:20 PM EDT
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campbell
He's been suspended yet again for bad behavior and insubordination. Injuries and this poor behavior over the last year have really dimmed him.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:26 PM EDT
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Rockies
How would you sort out the Chris Nelson, Hector Gomez, Ian Stewart, Garrett Atkins, etc. logjam in the infield next to Tulo? How do you think the Rockies will actually handle it?
by jc3 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:20 PM EDT
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rockies
I have no idea what they will actually do. What would I do personally? I'd convert Nelson to second base and project him as the partner for Tulo. I'd hype up Hector Gomez as much as possible then trade him. Stewart and Atkins, not sure...
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:27 PM EDT
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Bobby Crosby
Will the guy ever make it?
by mascarasnake on
Apr 11, 2008 3:21 PM EDT
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injuries
I think the injuries have really hurt him. He just doesn't look like the same guy.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:27 PM EDT
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Max Scherzer
Had a solid outing in his first start. If he strings together a few more, how soon do you think he could see major league action?
by marchmadness on
Apr 11, 2008 3:21 PM EDT
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scherzer
Sure. Why not? LOL.... if he throws strikes he could be up by mid-season.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:31 PM EDT
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Gerardo Parra
What are your thoughts on this kid?
by Dfarth on
Apr 11, 2008 3:24 PM EDT
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parra
Intriguing bat....high batting average, some speed, mediocre walk rate but not many strikeouts, power development still uncertain, some risk he could be a "tweener" without enough home run power to start at a corner, but still young enough to develop more pop.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:32 PM EDT
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Twins starting pitching logjam
Humber, Blackburn, Baker, Bonser, Slowey, Perkins, Duensing, Mulvey, etc.?
This is pretty open ended but do you see the Twins possibly trading away a package including one or two of the above mentioned for a good infield prospect? If so, anyone you think in particular might be available? sorry for the two parted question.
Peyton's good but have you ever heard of Jeff George?
by halfchest on
Apr 11, 2008 3:26 PM EDT
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Twins
How about trading Duensing and Blackburn to the Angels for Brandon Wood, then sticking Wood at third base and saying "you have this position for the next 1,000 at-bats. Calm your swing down a bit, relax, have some fun, play." Of course it will never happen. Wood has too much power and too many strikeouts to interest the Twins.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:34 PM EDT
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MiL Teams
Which minor league teams do you have the most fun watching/following and why?
Signature! I don't need no stinking signature!!
by DerekSTheRed on
Apr 11, 2008 3:27 PM EDT
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minor league
Well I used to like going to Wichita....it was a quick trip I could do in a day, didn't have to spend the night, cheap. But that's out now. The parks in Cedar Rapids and Quad Cities are a lot of fun. Have to check out the new team in Northern Arkansas soon. I'm heading to Tulsa on Sunday and that's a nice trip too. Basically I like just about every minor league park I've ever been to.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:35 PM EDT
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Philip Humber
Now that Humber is fully recovered from TJ surgery, do you think he'll have a break-out season?
"You're thinking too much. Just have fun." -- Bennie "The Jet" Rodriguez in Sandlot
by cmathewson on
Apr 11, 2008 3:29 PM EDT
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humber
I think it is quite possible, yes. I think both him and Mulvey could end up being really fine number three starters.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:36 PM EDT
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If you were a scouting director
Say you had the opportunity to pluck one of the pitchers from the Stockton rotation and add him to your system, which one would you choose and why?
by DiegoAsFan on
Apr 11, 2008 3:30 PM EDT
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stockton
Can't go wrong with any of them. I think I'll go with the order in the book: DLS, Anderson, Cahill, HAR.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:51 PM EDT
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Chris Tillman
What sort of pitcher do you think Tillman could (or will) be? An ace, a good regular starter, a closer or something else entirely?
by OldProspects on
Apr 11, 2008 3:31 PM EDT
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Tillman
Could be an ace, more likely to be a regular starter. Don't really see him as a closer. All assumes he doesn't burn out or get hurt.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:52 PM EDT
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Giants draft dilemna
The Giants best prospect plays 1B. The best hitters likely to be available to you when you pick at #5 play 1B. If you pick a pitcher, the fans will storm AT&T park demanding your head on a platter. If you were Brian Sabean (and you should be glad you're not) who do you select with the #5 pick in the '08 draft?
by baseballjunkie on
Apr 11, 2008 3:34 PM EDT
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2008 draft
Toughie, obviously depends on who falls where. One of the college first basemen would look nice, even with Villalona around. He will need more time and the college guys will get there sooner. One sleeper possibility would be high school catcher Skipworth. Beckham would be great if he falls that far.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:54 PM EDT
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Higher ceiling?
Eric Hurley vs. Carlos Carrasco... and maybe a reason or two why?
by patsfan on
Apr 11, 2008 3:34 PM EDT
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ceiling
Carrasco has a higher ceiling, but Hurley is more likely to pan out....more polish. Carrasco has a higher physical potential, but is more likely to not live up to that potential.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:55 PM EDT
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Andy LaRoche
Presuming he recovers well do you think Torre will give him a good chance at 3B upon returning or is this going to be a wasted season for him floating back and forth between AAA and MLB.
by osoZ on
Apr 11, 2008 3:35 PM EDT
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no clue
No idea. I don't know enough about the machinations of the Dodgers front office and clubhouse to make a guess about what Torre will do. LaRoche is ready, if healthy.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:55 PM EDT
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Nick Weglarz
What are some of your thoughts on Weglarz and/or what do you see his ceiling as?
by Caernarvon on
Apr 11, 2008 3:35 PM EDT
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weglarz
Interesting power bat certainly, though his strikeout rate is quite high. I'd say a .250-.270 hitter with 25-30 home run power and lots of walks would be his peak ceiling.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:57 PM EDT
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Kelvin De La Cruz
The Cleveland Plain Dealer recently wrote an article comparing De La Cruz to fellow Latin signee Fausto Carmona. Apparently Carmona has been giving him advice and tutelage while he pitches for Lake County this year. His results early on in have been great with the Captians, what do you see for this 19 year old? What's his ceiling?
by ItsTribeTime on
Apr 11, 2008 3:36 PM EDT
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edit
His results early on have been great with the Captains**
by ItsTribeTime on
Apr 11, 2008 4:33 PM EDT
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kelvin
I don't know enough about him to comment.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:57 PM EDT
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Off Topic
What was Al Reyes drinking last night?
by SteveR on
Apr 11, 2008 3:38 PM EDT
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dunno
Dunno. I am partial to vodka sours myself.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:58 PM EDT
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Stockton Ports' Rotation
Who of the Ports' rotation gets promoted first out of Brett Anderson, Trevor Cahill, Henry Rodriguez and Fautino De Los Santos?
by speedchaser9 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:39 PM EDT
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?
Before the season Anderson was regarded as the most polished of the quartet. Assuming that all of them are pitching well he would probably go up first.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:58 PM EDT
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Yankees
Do you think that Joba will make a single start this year, and do they have anybody that could fill a role similar to what he did last year?
by xxpunkcheese98xx on
Apr 11, 2008 3:40 PM EDT
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Joba
Who knows? If they need a starter in July and they have other bullpen options avialble, maybe Joba gets the shot. I kinda doubt it though.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 5:59 PM EDT
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Joaquin Arias/Elvis Andrus
Who was the better prospect at Elvis' current age? What will save Elvis from flopping like Arias did (other than avoiding injury)
by saltaphabet on
Apr 11, 2008 3:44 PM EDT
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andrus
I think that Andrus has shown more polish so far than Arias did at the same age. Certainly a flop is POSSIBLE, but the scouts have liked Andrus better than they liked Arias, granted they liked Arias too.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:00 PM EDT
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Wieters
In the very early going, Wieters is slugging over 1.000 and has a BB/K ratio of 5/1.
Were the Orioles too conservative with him by putting him at Hi-A? Will he see the majors this year?
by dkdc on
Apr 11, 2008 3:44 PM EDT
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wieters
If he keeps this up he will be in Double-A by mid-May I'd imagine, and perhaps the majors in the second half. We will know more about how ready he is when he moves up to Bowie. I suspect he will see the majors this year, yes.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:01 PM EDT
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Cardinals
What kind of prospect is Clayton Mortensen? He seemed like an overdraft at the time, but the Cardinals were raving about him in spring training and jumped him all the way to AA to start the year.
by fewgoodcards on
Apr 11, 2008 3:45 PM EDT
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mortensen
He's a sleeper definitely, on my list to see early in the season schedule allowing. Sinker/slider guy, gets tons of grounders, when he throws strikes he's quite impressive.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:02 PM EDT
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Indians Third Baseman of the future
Beau Mills, Wes Hodges... Marte?
by kwoog on
Apr 11, 2008 3:45 PM EDT
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hmmmm
I'm not sure either Mills or Hodges can handle 3B in the majors defensively. As for Marte....who the hell knows at this point? It's possible that none of them are the 3B of the Future.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:03 PM EDT
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Blue Jays
What are your thoughts on Lansing's trio of Justin Jackson, Kevin Ahrens, and Yohermyn Chavez? Are any of them primed for a breakout?
http://mvn.com/mlb-tossingtherosin/
by koolkerns101 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:45 PM EDT
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lansing
I like Jackson's tools and athleticism but his bat is questionable. Ahrens will need an explosive season to live up to the Chipper Jones comparisons. Chavez has tools but doubtful plate discipline. Ahrens is probably best bet for a breakout.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:04 PM EDT
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Reds
With the Reds having a top system coming in, will it still be atleast middle of the pack by the end of the year since Bruce and Bailey and Cueto etc will be no longer prospects? What do you think about guys like Waring and Frazier and are their any sleepers?
by kennythered on
Apr 11, 2008 3:46 PM EDT
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reds
Well you have the top four, and as you said at least two of those guys will graduate this year. Beyond that both waring anf Frazier have promising bats, and Mesoraco too. I like Kyle Lotzkar as young pitchers go. It will be interesting to see what they do in the draft this year, if they go more for polish or upside. They've made plays in both directions in recent years.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:06 PM EDT
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What is up with Matt Garza
Small sample size should answer it somewhat, but it's extended over a couple of years now.
by HuskerFan on
Apr 11, 2008 3:46 PM EDT
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garza?
I'm not sure what you mean. Hes' not healthy right now, that's the main problem. He's got great stuff, but is reportedly somewhat stubborn. If healthy I think he'll be fine, but that's an IF apparently.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:06 PM EDT
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Smoak / Alonso / Hosmer
Where do you rank them selected in June's draft? Do you think any of them will be there to pick at #8 or they will be gone?
by The Wizard on
Apr 11, 2008 3:47 PM EDT
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correction (grammar)
How do you see them? Do you think any of them will be availble at #8 in June's draft or they will be gone?
by The Wizard on
Apr 11, 2008 3:58 PM EDT
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1B
I'd rate them Alonso, Smoak, Hosmer myself. I imagine one of them will be available at 8 but who that is depends on April and May performance.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:07 PM EDT
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Realistic
pick for the Twins at 14?
1941 .406
by FrozenTed9 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:49 PM EDT
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14
Harold Martinez? Tanner Scheppers? Dennis Raben? Gordon Beckham?
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 6:09 PM EDT
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Per curiousity
What do you think *pulls names out of a hat* Sandy Koufax and Babe Ruth, assuming both were playing at their physical peak and without the use of PED's, would be able to put up in terms of stats if they played in the 2008 season for the LA Dodgers and NY Yankees, respectively?
by GuyinNY on
Apr 11, 2008 3:49 PM EDT
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To clarify
Ruth as a hitter.
*man, I must be pretty jaded to throw in "without PED's" for Ruth and Koufax.*
by GuyinNY on
Apr 11, 2008 3:51 PM EDT
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ruth koufax
LOL....Just guessing....peak-talent Koufax....22-8, 2.35, 232/59 K/BB in 220 innings.
Ruth......365 with 57 homers.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 7:56 PM EDT
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Tommy Hanson
Small sample size or breaking out?
Thanks for the AQA thread!
by Recon on
Apr 11, 2008 3:51 PM EDT
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hanson
I have been a big supporter of Hanson so I say breakout, lol.....have to justify the B+ I gave him.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 7:56 PM EDT
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Matt LaPorta
I've heard his bat referred to as "special". Just how special can he be? Who would you compare his hitting ability to and do you see him getting the call at some point this year?
by lebronballer23 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:53 PM EDT
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LaPorta
Special in that he could be a 40 homer guy with a high walk rate...at worst he's Pat Burrell and he should be better than that. Probably more 2009.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 7:57 PM EDT
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Kala Kaaihue - 1B - Braves
seems to take a while to adjust to each new level, but eventually does. any reasonable chance he's the future 1B for the braves?
by ironmanatee on
Apr 11, 2008 3:54 PM EDT
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kala
My guess is no, he won't be a regular for the Braves. Maybe for someone else, but he could end up as a Quadruple-A slugger.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 7:57 PM EDT
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young catchers
How would you rank some of these top young catchers from the '07 and '08 drafts? Matt Wieters, Devin Mesoraco, Buster Posey & Kyle Skipworth. Where would Robert Stock rank?
by my dixie wrecked on
Apr 11, 2008 3:54 PM EDT
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catchers
I don't want to rate the draftees, sorry. Haven't seen enough of them to rate against the others. Wieters is way ahead of Mesoraco, it isn't even close.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 7:58 PM EDT
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Which money-hungry potential draftees
Could potentially slide to the Rangers at 11?
Are there any projected Porcellos in this draft?
by Or Moyal on
Apr 11, 2008 3:54 PM EDT
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draftees
I'm just focusing on that and don't know enough about bonus demands at this point to answer this question.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 7:58 PM EDT
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Mason Tobin
What do you think of Mason Tobin and his ceiling? He has been flying under the radar thus far.
by BaseballBrain on
Apr 11, 2008 3:56 PM EDT
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tobin
Interesting sleeper pick from last year's draft, good performance numbers so far in a limited sample size. Above average fastball, working on his secondary pitches. I'd say he's a Grade C/C+ guy and I rated him as a breakout candidate in my book.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:01 PM EDT
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Chris Davis
HIs numbers are not that unsimilar to Ryan Howard's at a similar stage in his minor league career. What would you say his chances of becoming a hitter as impactful as Howard is at the major league level?
by dkny22 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:56 PM EDT
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Davis
It's possible, but he could also struggle like Dallas McPherson or bounce around like Russ Branyan. Davis' youth is a facet in his favor. It's dicey to predict anyone turning out like Howard of course.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:02 PM EDT
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OFs
How would you rank these 4 OFs in terms of how they will produce in 08:
Travis Buck, Carlos Quentin, Jack Cust, Franklin Gutierrez
Hey fish, leave those kids alone!
by The Congo Hammer on
Apr 11, 2008 3:56 PM EDT
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OF
Quentin, Cust, Buck, Gutierrez
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:02 PM EDT
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Mike Saunders, OF
What do you see in his future and/or what issues may prevent him from reaching his ceiling?
by marc w on
Apr 11, 2008 3:57 PM EDT
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saunders
I don't think he'll make enough contact to be a long-term regular, or at least he has to prove it to me outside of the Cal League.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:03 PM EDT
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Lars Anderson
Which current major leaguer do you think is the best comparable for Anderson?
by AucklandGM on
Apr 11, 2008 3:58 PM EDT
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hmm
Hmm.......I could see him being like Justin Morneau.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:07 PM EDT
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wandy rodriguez
this is a guy who broke out last year at age 28, and is going to be one of the top LHPs in the league this year at 29. his profile before last year suggested as much, as he had dominated in the minors (though as an over-ager), he hit 90+ on the gun, and he had a dominant curve.
is there anyone else that fits this profile that is languishing away as a AAAAer?
ANATOMY OF ERA:
Variables Don't; Constants Aren't
by variablesdont on
Apr 11, 2008 3:58 PM EDT
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wandy
Not off the top of my head anyway.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:07 PM EDT
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Draft
better prospect, Tanner Scheppers or Shooter Hunt? Can either be a #1 starter?
by FirebatM3 on
Apr 11, 2008 3:59 PM EDT
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draft
Ask me again in a couple of weeks as I start putting my draft preview stuff together. I liked Sheppers better pre-season, but haven't focused on the draft or college game in a few weeks.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:08 PM EDT
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David Robertson
Thoughts on David Robertson? ETA for him; will he have success at the major league level, in the bullpen for the Yankees...?
by yumyumyellow on
Apr 11, 2008 3:59 PM EDT
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robertson
Looks like the real deal to me heading into this year....he's not a soft-tosser and the numbers are excellent. If this continues he will be ready for the pen sometime late this year or next.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:09 PM EDT
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Phillies system.
Does either Jason Donald or Adrian Cardenas have a future with the Phils given that they seem blocked at the top level?
by Jeff Hildebrand on
Apr 11, 2008 3:59 PM EDT
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cardenas
Well Donald is more of a utility type according to what I have heard, though a good one, while Cardenas could be a starter. They don't have to rush either of them given the middle infield situation, so that's a plus. If they are ready and there is still no place to play, they would make good trade bait, esp. Cardenas.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:10 PM EDT
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Julio Borbon
not off to a great start, is this what we can expect from him for the future?
by FirebatM3 on
Apr 11, 2008 4:00 PM EDT
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Nvm
forget this question, the draft question should be the one answered
by FirebatM3 on
Apr 11, 2008 4:02 PM EDT
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borbon
Too early in the season for stats to be meaningful.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 8:10 PM EDT
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NO MORE
NO MORE QUESTIONS PLEASE. Thanks.
by John Sickels on
Apr 11, 2008 4:08 PM EDT
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Which Twins prospect has already up his stock?
Anyone? Tooo late.
"I couldn't do that. Could you do that? Why can they do it? Who are those guys?"
by maxisagod on
Apr 11, 2008 4:09 PM EDT
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John
Thanks a lot for taking this time. There is not a better baseball site on the web. Your a class act and hard worker. A+
by kennythered on
Apr 11, 2008 4:37 PM EDT
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hey
You've got a little something on your nose there man.
I will be waiting...24601.
by PujolsJunkie on
Apr 11, 2008 5:00 PM EDT
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HAHAHA
Hey he took a lot of time to do this. The least I can do is thank him.
by kennythered on
Apr 12, 2008 12:16 AM EDT
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