Spring Training Prospect News and Notes
by Archie A on Mar 1, 2011 10:28 PM EST
Email
Print
I figured it would be good to have a place to discuss anything prospect related going on during Spring Training, be it performances, injuries, or anything else that doesn't warrant a fanpost of its own. Just rec it and we'll be able to use this thread for the rest of ST.
I'll contribute the first piece. Here's a video of Carlos Martinez's first stateside BP session. It's just four pitches, but man does he let it rip. Video!
365 comments
|
9 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Good stuff
Thanks for posting.
that catcher, DeLacruz or whatever, looked afraid to catch those last couple of balls. He looked like he has really good arm speed, and velocity.
"If my uniform doesn't get dirty, I haven't done anything in the baseball game." - Rickey Henderson
There is some Chris Archer doubting on this site here & there it seems
Not from me though. I know his command is a work in process, but I think Archer can be fantastic & he certainly was in 2010. If his BB rate doesn’t continue to improve (which it has steadily), what’s his fall back – lights out closer?
Yeah
That was a pretty vague statement there. I didn’t mean to imply that his absolute worst case scenario was ‘Mariano Rivera II’ or something.
No worries...
I didn’t feel that was the implication at all. Plus, if he really doesn’t make it as a starter I do believe he’ll make a light out reliever.
Archer is still young
And he seems to cycle like alot of other players. If his record is any indication he could have a hot year or 2 successive great years in this year and next. I say keep the guy.
Reg Moore
The early nineteenth century didn't need a lot of baseball equipment, just a bat and ball. http://baseball.epicsports.com/baseball-equipment-history.html
"Continue to improve"
Archer’s an example of how stat lines can be a very telling Rorschach test…
You look at his record and see that his BB rate has steadily improved year-to-year.
I look at his record and see that his 70 IP at Daytona last spring are the exception to an otherwise glaring career-long trend of not being able to throw strikes which evaporated as soon as he moved up to Double-A.
by realitypolice on Mar 10, 2011 9:23 AM EST up reply actions
I'd take those season numbers with a grain of salt...
KLaw mentions that a third of his AA walks came in two bad starts, if that’s true, then his walk rate was much better than one would think on the surface.
I’m not sure where to find minor league game logs, or else I’d post exact numbers for his remaining starts.
Poster formerly known as artie
Archer's last 10 starts, from MiLB.com
http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?pos=P&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=502042
It doesn’t give a full yearly breakdown, but provides a window to view his off/on characteristic when it comes to BBs – 4 starts with more than 4 BBs, 6 starts with 2 or less BBs.
Somewhat
It was actually 12 of his 39 walks in those two awful performances.
And if you look at “only” 27 walks in the other 60.1 innings, that’s still an UGH-inspiring 4 BB/9 ratio.
by realitypolice on Mar 10, 2011 4:55 PM EST up reply actions
He did that?
I take back what I said then.
Tim Beckham hitting .400 with the Rays.
His defense supposedly looks better too, although he already has an error (on a tough play that he charged). I hope he gives me a reason not to change my avatar as soon as I find a good pitcture of Josh Sale in a Ray’s uniform.
Neil Ramirez
Ranger’s prospect Neil Ramirez took a big step forward last year repeating Low-A Hickory. He was able to 142 SO in 140.1 IP, but more importantly he was able to cut BB/9 from 5.6 BB/9 down to 2.4 BB/9. They took some of the movement out of his delivery. He lost some velocity last year sitting around 90-91, but touched 96.
In his first appearance this year Ramirez pitched 1 inning. He threw 11 fastballs that ranged between 94-98. He also features a power curve that sits 81-83 mph. If he can maintain some of the velocity increase as a starter and sit around 92-94, he may be someone to keep an eye on.
I will keep posting about Rangers prospects.
I’m kind of in the dark about the rest of the league. Jurickson Profar, who turned 18 on 20FEB11, played a few innings the other day. He was 1-2, 2B.
Ramirez
has been tabbed as a breakout candidate by several sources. Very interersting guy. Rangers pitching depth is disgusting. lol
by blackoutyears on Mar 2, 2011 1:00 PM EST up reply actions
It might be.
It’s all in the low minors right now except for Martin Perez. If some of them take some steps forward this year their depth could be disgusting again, but it’s just as likely that some of them could bust. The pitchers I am most excited about this year to see if they surprise:
David Perez
Roman Mendez
Luke Jackson
Neil Ramirez
Matt Thompson
Robbie Erlin
Miguel De Los Santos
Not one of them has pitched above High A. A lot of potential, but a lot of risk
Always risky
but look at the size of the pool you’ve noted. What’s the best way to ameliorate risk? Yes, I work for an insurance company. Why do you ask?
I especially like the upside with Perez and Jackson. And I’m still counting guys up the ladder like Kirkman, Holland, Scheppers and Perez who haven’t fully established themselves but who are all above average to great prospects. That’s a ton of young, developing pitching.
by blackoutyears on Mar 2, 2011 9:01 PM EST up reply actions
I was thinking about making this fanpost, glad someone else did.
Didn’t see the game yesterday, but it sounds like Ackley booted the first ball in play yesterday on defense, but then made at least a couple good plays (one that was described as “GREAT” by a beatwriters live blog) after that.
Ackley’s defense will have my attention this spring. Pineda getting the start today.
Chatwood
Did anyone see his two innings against the Reds on Tuesday? Looked pretty effective based on the boxscore.
2 innings no hits
ground ball douple play to end the inning after hitting Negron. the sinker looks effective.
go long with extenze...i do
by angelsownredsux on Mar 3, 2011 1:18 AM EST up reply actions
Great Jesus
Just read the interview by John on the front where the Yanks seem pretty bully about the progress that Montero is making behind the plate. Also saw this on CBS:
Yankees C prospect Jesus Montero gunned down two basestealers during Tuesday’s spring game against the Pirates, showing off his defensive skills. “He has a lot of arm strength,” Girardi told reporters. “A lot of it is footwork and staying down and short arm motion. He’s been able to shorten up his arm motion, and he stays down.”
Girardi said Montero, who is competing with Francisco Cervelli to back up Russell Martin, has greatly improved from spring training last year. “He’s made so many strides,” Girardi said. “I can’t tell you how many strides he’s made since last year.”
I have always gone against the grain and the majority on Jesus. I think it is possible that he can be a competent catcher for at least a few years, making 3-4 starts a week and playing a couple times a week at DH. Been a lot of good reviews so far from Yanks camp, but I am sure most people write it off as spring optimism and coachspeak…idk. Also heard that Mauer gave him some advice the other day, it was in Busters’ blog. Talking about how everyone it seemed told him he would have to move because of his size and bat…
I'm liking the idea
I’ve seen a couple of places (Fangraphs in the Yanks Top 10 and some random blog) that proposed DHing Montero and letting him be the backup 30-35 games a year. You could probably get away with that for a few years until his body goes all Miggy on him.
by blackoutyears on Mar 2, 2011 9:05 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah
not really thinking about this year, though things just got interesting with Cervelli’s injury. I’m wondering how much Posada is going to hit even just DHing.
by blackoutyears on Mar 6, 2011 4:04 PM EST up reply actions
this is really frustrating
could of drafted him but didn’t because I thought he couldn’t catch according to scouts and reports. Now he looks like he could stay there long term.
FML
go long with extenze...i do
by angelsownredsux on Mar 5, 2011 12:44 AM EST up reply actions
*could've
go long with extenze...i do
by angelsownredsux on Mar 5, 2011 12:45 AM EST up reply actions
B&B
I think the performances of Banuelos and Betances have really opened a lot of people’s eyes on how good these two are and can be in the future. I can see Betances making the jump late in the year to help the bullpen out if a need arises and then go back to starting next year. Banuelos should be ready by next year if he keeps it up.
late may for betances to the yanks rotation
he’s going to pick up where he left off in ‘10 and keep ripping his way through the minors, ala latos in ’09……his stuff is just too over-powering now, guys won’t stand a chance…..dominant couple months in AA/AAA and the pressure will be there to promote……only question will be number of innings, but i certainly expect him to spend a good chunk of his year in the yanks rotation
Betances
personally I didnt think he pitched that well, has great stuff but didn’t seem to know where it was going.
by hybrid on Mar 2, 2011 8:12 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Which outing?
He looked great against the Phillies. His control was very good that day.
by blackoutyears on Mar 2, 2011 9:08 PM EST up reply actions
Don't agree
Yep that’s the outing (he’s only had one so far). His FB was either up out of the strike zone or generally right down the middle, no real location on it at all and I don’t think he got more than maybe 1 pitch down. His curve well I’m not sure he knew where it was going half of the time. Honestly I don’t know how you can watch it and say he looked great and that his control was very good.
by hybrid on Mar 3, 2011 1:12 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
+1
saw the same thing
go long with extenze...i do
by angelsownredsux on Mar 3, 2011 1:14 AM EST up reply actions
+1
I also saw the same thing, was over throwing and still topping out at only 95, with no real idea of where it was going.
Wow
Did not see that at all. Interesting. The curve has big break, so I’m impressed he controlled it at all, but I thought he threw it well considering. I don’t think anyone I’ve spoken with felt like you gusy, so that’s quite a diveregence. Baseball Rashomon! lol
by blackoutyears on Mar 3, 2011 1:04 PM EST up reply actions
Betances
Not much location of his fastball but good velocity this early in camp. His curve was inconsistent, sometimes great break and sometimes it looked like a get me over curve which a knuckle curve is not.
IMO still very raw but then again it’s early in camp.
Banuelos
surprised no one mentioned Banuelos’ appearance last night. I thought it was unbelievable. to control the inside lower corner to right handed hitters is a great ability to have. he looked really good and hit 96 with ease. lots of comparisons to Santana when he was younger.
Agreed
Showed good command of the heater (topped out at 96, sat at 92-94) with a good change and a few decent curves. I believe it was Girardi mentioned Santana, but I think that was more of a physical comp
http://www.yankeeanalysts.com
Some video of Banuelos' appearance
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5W-F8A6F9bE&hd=1
http://www.yankeeanalysts.com
Segura
looked decent at Shortstop on Sunday and got an infield hit and steal. onward and upward with him as well…
looked pretty good
especially after the scary collision at first the day before
go long with extenze...i do
by angelsownredsux on Mar 3, 2011 1:15 AM EST up reply actions
Rosario and Delgado
have they got into any games yet? impressions?
Delgado pitched the 9th in a save situation
He got hit pretty hard, faced Bosch and some puchin’ judy contact type guys.
The balls that were hit hard were actually located rather well, typically low and away to the lefties. He did struggle with his fastball command though, missed up with it several times. It also appeared pretty flat. The change looked pretty encouraging however, really fell off and came from damn near the exact arm slot as the FB. All in all not too bad, certainly not as bad as the line indicated.
Off memory I think it was 1IP 3HA 1ER no walks/k’s
I was pretty underwhelmed
Now, it’s only the first spring start so it means very little, but he looked kind of bland stuff wise. The change-up and curve both looked rather raw to me. The best thing I saw was that his fastball had some armside run and he looked very low effort.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
I was a bit underwhelmed
Now, it’s only the first spring start so it means very little, but he looked kind of bland stuff wise. The change-up and curve both looked rather raw to me. The best thing I saw was that his fastball had some armside run and he looked very low effort.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Kipnis
Hit a bomb coming off the bench the other day. looks good apparently, but should be down in the minors until June or July, I’d think.
Padres camp
Casey Kelly and Matt Lollis are both supposed to throw an inning today.
Lollis has gotten plenty of love as a late invitee to camp. This column is pretty typical of the stuff that’s been written about him in the last few weeks.
Lollis
Any reporting on him would be extremely welcome.
by blackoutyears on Mar 4, 2011 11:34 AM EST up reply actions
breaks my heart
The Bad Guy
Be sure to watch CHUCK Monday nights at 8pm on NBC!!! Crazy episode next week!
Watched one of the early Mets games
They talked with him about his surgery and claimed that he’s healthy and practicing. Not sure if he’ll see much spring time though.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Lance Lynn
3 IP, 1H, 3K, 0BB, 4 GB, 1FB
If he has some more outings like that he’ll be the Cards 5th starter.
underrated
The Bad Guy
Be sure to watch CHUCK Monday nights at 8pm on NBC!!! Crazy episode next week!
1 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 3 K
The Bad Guy
Be sure to watch CHUCK Monday nights at 8pm on NBC!!! Crazy episode next week!
March 2nd Rundown
Dustin Ackley 1-1, 2B, RBI, BB
Pedro Alvarez 1-3, 2B
Alexi Amarista 1-3,
Jay Austin 1-2,
Joe Benson 1-2,
Charlie Blackmon 1-2, 2BB
Adron Chambers 1-1,
Michael Crotta 2IP, 0ER, 2H, 1K
Jordan Danks 1-1, BB
Pedro Florimon 1-1,
Freddie Freeman 1-3,
Caleb Gindl 1-2, 2RBI
Paul Goldschmidt 1-1, 2RBI
Bryce Harper 0-1, BB
Eric Hosmer 1-2, 2B, BB
Jose Iglesias 1-1,
Jay Jackson 1IP, 0ER, 0H
Jose Jimenez 1-1, 2B
Casey Kelly 1IP, 0ER, 0H,
Craig Kimbrel 1IP, 0ER, 1H
John Lamb 1IP, 0ER, 1H, 3K
Andrew Lambo 1-2, 2B
Jordan Lyles 2IP, 0ER, 1H, 2BB
Lance Lynn 3IP, 0ER, 1H, 3K
Joe Mahoney 1-3,
Tommy Manzella 2-3,
Yunesky Maya 2IP, 0ER, 2H, 3K
Dan Merklinger 2IP, 0ER, 2H, 2K
Melky Mesa 1-1, 2RBI, BB
Devin Mesoraco 1-2, HR, RBI
Brent Morel 2-3, 2B, BB
Hunter Morris 1-1,
Hector Noesi 2IP, 0ER, 1H, 2K
A J Pollock 2-3, BB
Drew Pomeranz 1IP, 0ER, 0H, 1BB, 2K
Greg Reynolds 3IP, 0ER, 2H, 1K
Austin Romine 1-1, 2BB
Jack Shuck 2-4,
T.J. Steele 2-4, 2B
Jose Tabata 3-3, RBI
Ruben Tejada 2-3, RBI
Mike Trout 1-3,
Arodys Vizcaino 2IP, 0ER, 1H
Casper Wells 2-3, BB
Zealous Wheeler 2-2, RBI
Courtesy of our friends at freedomcardboard.com
by Pup Dog on Mar 2, 2011 7:38 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
This is great, Pup
Better than the BA lists for me. Reds homer in me has to note, Mesoraco 4 for 6 with a homer in his limited looks. Hermida’s doing his best to redeem himself. He and Sappelt are making the LF competition a lot more interesting. I knew Sappelt could hit and I think he’s being unfairly relegated to 4th OF status by many. The guy just rakes.
by blackoutyears on Mar 2, 2011 9:22 PM EST up reply actions
Joe Benson also already has a triple
and 3 runs driven in on that AB alone
At this rate he may lead all the Twins hitters in those not so sexy stats in ST
"TAKE THE DRAFT PICK(S) !!! "
Trading Liriano right now is partially insane, unless we get Montero and Sanchez and Banuelos and Bentances and Gardner...
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Mar 3, 2011 1:22 AM EST up reply actions
very helpful to have it all in one place
much appreciated
Glad
Glad you like it. The post these everyday. If everybody wants I could post this everyday.
by Pup Dog on Mar 2, 2011 9:41 PM EST reply actions 10 recs
Eric Thames
I think he might stick around awhile and be a late cut. He’s as hot as anyone this week, veteran or prospect.
Question regarding Beckham.
I have seen Beckham play some this ST. His range looks better than last year and his arm is good. He just seems a little slow deciding what to do. It cost the Rays a run once when he did it. Is this something that should change with experience. He isn’t supposed to be stupid, so should his baseball intellect come along?
he is still young and has some maturing to do, I think the comparisons in the field to BJ Upton are spot on
BJ was the same way at SS and now is one of the top defensive CF in the league. It may be completely nothing but I think it is interesting that Maddon has Beckham starting at SS today at home against the Yankees with the other 8 guys being regulars. (Not that I think TB has a shot at the opening day roster, but I think it says what Maddon thinks about him that he goes with him over other options)
i don't think that means anything
every team is going to give some of their prospects a few starts. even ones that were in A ball last year.
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
Betances did not sound good today.
He pitched versus the Rays and the Ray’s broadcast made his stuff sound good but pretty muh said he was wild and had little control.
I didn't see the game
but followed it on gametracker for a minute. At one point, his first 10 pitches were all strikes. I see now that he walk three today. I wonder if he is having issues throwing out of the stretch?
Gameday has all the pitches wrong.
It leaves alot of pitches out. I don’t recall him coming close to ten strikes in a row.
only a couple stadiums have pitch f/x
an out or a hit has been recorded as a 1st pitch out….a K is recorded as three strikes and no balls….a walk is a 4 pitch walk
Fire Everyone
by billybeingbilly on Mar 4, 2011 12:58 AM EST up reply actions
Jarrod Parker
First two batters was tossing 91-92, then after letting a batter reach 3rd with only 1 out he started pumping it higher to 94-95 and got to inf pop flies. Announcers said his FB had good life.
Jenrry Mejia
pitched a couple shutout frames…was a little wild, walked one and hit a guy [though he leaned in pretty good]. was really focused on the secondary offerings, he was throwing a over hand curve at about 73-75 and it had decent bite—though a little inconsistent with the command on it. his pitches were moving around pretty good as per usual though he did not have much zip on the ball according to the Mets in game readings [mostly around 88-91]…
Scheppers got roughed up
Velocity was down too apparently.
The Bad Guy
Be sure to watch CHUCK Monday nights at 8pm on NBC!!!
Back Stiffness
To get an MRI today. Says he felt something on about his 3rd pitch and tried to pitch through it. I guess the good news at this point is that it’s not his arm.
blame Nolan Ryan for demanding his pitchers to be "tough" lol
The Bad Guy
Be sure to watch CHUCK Monday nights at 8pm on NBC!!!
Jason Castro
Tore meniscus in his knee during a baserunning blunder, will likely require surgery.
Brett Wallace is 4-for-9, but it’s all singles and no walks. On the plus side, he’s only struck out once so far.
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
Castro
heard about that. Bad break for him and the Astros. Quintero/Towles is a lot less enticing a proposition.
by blackoutyears on Mar 4, 2011 11:39 AM EST up reply actions
apparently it's his ACL
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110304&content_id=16817640&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb
had surgery immediately, which is unusual…usually they wait a few weeks for the swelling to go down. Guess Towles gets a second chance…
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 4, 2011 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
Unless they find a way to get his bat in the lineup everyday, that is a terrible idea
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
it's not like being in the minors will materially advance his game.
i remember when young players had to actually prove their worth before being handed a spot in the lineup everyday. i’m sure montero can handle doing that.
But there's no where for him to earn a spot right now
It just seems wasteful to sit him on the bench when he could continue to play everyday in AAA.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
"wasteful"
i’d forgotten how players contribute to the major league team’s win total while in scranton.
russell martin? really? the guy who has put up like a .300 wOBA the past two seasons? it would be pretty disappointing if montero couldn’t take playing time from that guy when given the chance. it’s not a terrible thing to have to force your way into the lineup with a good performance when given an opportunity. it’s not exactly a short list of rookies who pushed aside other players when an injury gave them the chance.
Remember
Russell Martin is working his way back from surgery, so he may not be able to handle a full starting workload come opening day. Also, as for learning the nuances of catching, I think rubbing elbows with Tony Pena, Joe Girardi, Jorge Posada, and Russell Martin on a daily basis will be a good learning experiences for the kid. If Montero hits from the get-go and doesn’t totally suck behind the plate, I think he has a decent shot to grab the starting job.
http://www.yankeeanalysts.com
i'll just glom on to your response.
whatever he might gain in the minors is more than offset by the opportunity to learn at the major league level (whether that’s “real” learning and/or perceived learning that baseball people think a player gets by being around a major league team, i’ll let others decide the proportion) and, more importantly, the chance to take the job. let’s be realistic. this is the yankees. the only way he gets a shot is if someone gets hurt or really, really sucks. and it’s happened. time to seize the opportunity. if he doesn’t, he’ll just end up back in scranton, having missed like a dozen minor league games, where he can learn catching nuances or whatever.
His D is clearly improving daveh
Haven’t you read the detailed reports yet ;)
Anyways, I still think it would be better to have him head back to SWB and catch almost everyday. Unless they are going to have him at least split time with Martin and start once maybe twice a week at DH.
Also what about delaying his service time/arby clock…? Oh wait never mind.
Ohhh yeah
Please let this happen.
Bossman = player whose effort has always been questioned playing in a season where he can earn himself a ton of money. I’ve seen this movie before.
What?
BJ Upton is seriously one of the hardest workers out there. Just because he gets frustrated and runs smoothly does not mean he does not work hard.
I apologize
I’ve actually been a big defender of BJ in general, but I admit this comment did allow the inference that he doesn’t try hard. I know he works hard and I know that the perception of him is often that he just coasts on the field, but I didn’t mean to imply that he’d just start trying now, only that he will have extra motivation to put up that big season.
IMO it’s more about the health of his shoulder and legs than whether or not he hustles out a routine grounder to short.
by OctaShields on Mar 11, 2011 11:07 AM EST up reply actions
"seems wasteful to sit him on the bench"
I think I saw Jeff Gilloly hanging around Posada’s locker…
by blackoutyears on Mar 4, 2011 5:51 PM EST up reply actions
Montero as a backup is not good for him
If the Yankees truly want Montero to be a catcher, he needs to continue learning at the position by getting lots of games in (in the minors). Sitting on the bench 4/5 times a week with Yanks won’t help.
The Bad Guy
Be sure to watch CHUCK Monday nights at 8pm on NBC!!!
you think that wouldn't do it?
picking numbers out of the air. point is, if he performs, he’ll stay in the majors. if he doesn’t, he’ll be back in scranton by may 1 when cervelli is back. i’m sure that will have terribly stunted his progress.
personally
I just don’t know if the Yankees can afford to have Montero ‘learn’ on the job. With the veteran Martin and the current rotation, Martin seems like a better fit for awhile. I also believe its best for Montero’s development to get steady games in as catcher and regular ABs. I see argument that Montero’s offense will trump Martin. That’s very much possible, but its the other half of the game that concerns me.
The Bad Guy
Be sure to watch CHUCK Monday nights at 8pm on NBC!!!
the flipside is sometimes veteran pitchers hate working with young
catchers. These guys worked with Posada so the bad D shouldn’t faze them. I have no clue how Montero handles in game changes to situations, handles pitchers egos, etc. The bar hasn’t been set very high in NY but not sure if Montero comes in under it.
My gut feeling is that won’t be an issue. Other than Sabathia there was AJ who hates working with Posada, Hughes who is no veteran, Nova who worked with Montero, and some one month fill-in.
If Montero isn’t given a true shot it will be because Girardi, being a former catcher, wants Montero to work on his D in the minors.
Have you seen the Zips projection on Montero?
Zips projected more like a .280 Avg, but the other slash lines are right on target.
Shelby Miller
2 ip, 1h, 1k
Not incredibly exciting but not bad, either.
The Hose
Eric Hosmer hit a game tying, grand salami off the bnench today. Now hitting .714 on the spring. I love spring stats.
"If my uniform doesn't get dirty, I haven't done anything in the baseball game." - Rickey Henderson
"off the bench"
Unless there was a pitcher named Jeff Bnench going today that I dont know about.
"If my uniform doesn't get dirty, I haven't done anything in the baseball game." - Rickey Henderson
just listened to the archive of the radio broadcast
really sounded like a bomb.
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
man
you know i am excited for all the royals prospects. i am. but i am absolutely stoked about Hosmer’s potential with the bat. you try and search for a hole in his game at the plate, and there just isn’t much to pick on. he doesn’t K much, he walks, he hits for average and power…no platoon splits to speak of. now i’m not saying at all that he doesn’t have things to work on, i’m sure he does…but i think he could hold his own (and maybe more) in the Majors right now.
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
+1
Just an incredible hitter, and he’s athletic and a really good defender too. I bet he could handle an outfield spot if KC needed him too.
"Some field has fences, and sometime, the field cant hold a player, but most of the time, a field cant hold Domingo"
www.domingobeisbol.com/Domingo/Home.html
My question is..
Why isn’t he playing another position besides first base? He’s a great athlete, with a great arm, but it seems as if the Royals are terrified that Wil Myers’ value would be lowered to an even more precarious point than it has already, by moving him to first and Hosmer to right field(which is a position it seems Hosmer is made for).
It really doesn’t make sense to waste Hosmers value at the position that happens to be the easiest position to gain value from.
Albert Pujols is a god, and you my friend should be doing no less than groveling at his feet.
why would they move myers to first?
Fire Everyone
by billybeingbilly on Mar 5, 2011 7:01 PM EST up reply actions
Sorry
I probably shouldn’t have said that Myers is a better fit at first base than Hosmer. I’m just trying to say that it is a waste of value to keep Hosmer at first base.
I
Albert Pujols is a god, and you my friend should be doing no less than groveling at his feet.
Not a shot a you, but ...
I can’t let anyone here love on Hosmer after all the hatin’ here last year. Everyone said he sucked, that the eye surgery meant nothing.
How quickly things change.
"Most overrated prospect in the minors." -- Bravesin07 on Madison Bumgarner
by criminal type on Mar 5, 2011 11:46 PM EST up reply actions
Yea Hosmer is a complete beast.
He just seems like such a safe prospect. Hard to picture him failing but you never know. I think he will be a star in the league.
I would like to see him try out the outfield. I think Kila is going to have a pretty good year so it would be nice if we could hang onto him.
Seems like Hosmer and Moustakas are building a ton of chemistry. Can’t wait to see that 1-2 punch.
He just seems like such a safe prospect. Hard to picture him failing but you never know.
Really? Alex Gordon says hi. There is no such thing as a safe prospect.
Bullpen Banter's Top 100 Prospects for 2011!
- - - - - - - -
You can find my musings at Bullpen Banter and Beyond the Box Score.
Well, he did say "but you never know"
There are safer prospects than others.
by Kenneth Arthur on Mar 9, 2011 2:23 PM EST up reply actions
It is just a saying people use. I think his floor is very high.
From what i have heard he doesn’t really have a weakness at all. I think he will hit for avg, power, and walk a ton.
and play great D
But, I think there is a fundamental problem with using the word safe and prospect in the same sentence. Though, if you want to his safety is relative, I guess I couldn’t argue. He is a top 5 prospect, after all. But, then do you want to put it in context of top prospects? Is he still safe then? Maybe not.
Bullpen Banter's Top 100 Prospects for 2011!
- - - - - - - -
You can find my musings at Bullpen Banter and Beyond the Box Score.
yeah but i haven't seen or heard anything on the progress
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
Future 3-4-5.
Myers
Hosmer
Moustakas.
Not even including Butler.
which, no offense, is silly
Butler needs to be there. well, he will anyways.
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
I actually agree with you.
I think it would be more of
3-Butler
4-Hosmer
5-Moustakas
6-Myers
7-Eibner
Brandon Belt
Belt has sure raked in his only two starts this spring. 5-9, Two 2B, HR and 6 RBIs. Even a SB. This years Posey, I hope so.
Agreed
I love me some Belt.
Big Sexy
by King Billy Royal on Mar 5, 2011 12:58 AM EST up reply actions
Oscar Tejada
Finally saw an at bat from him yesterday against the Yanks. The stance kind of caught me as awkward for some reason (I could only see it from the front) but once the swing starts it looks very nice through the strikezone with alot of bat speed. Looks to have decent leverage and the ball jumped off his bat.
He looked very well built and athletic. I wish he could have stayed at SS for the Sox because you could see the talent, size and speed for big things to come just from a couple at bats.
Could definately have a .300-20hr-20sb season in the minors this year.
The stance kind of caught me as awkward
Haven’t seen him in ST but I know what you mean. Somehow he gets the bat head to the ball. Hybrid, I’d worry more about the power if he weren’t so well-built. That physical growth is one reason he’s not made for SS, of course, but he has a chance to be an offense-oriented 2B. Very interesting ceiling.
by blackoutyears on Mar 6, 2011 4:26 PM EST up reply actions
Oscar Tejeda, SS BOS
News: Boston SS Oscar Tejeda was cut by the Red Sox on Saturday. Tejeda, who is on the 40-man roster, was optioned to Triple-A. The 21-year-old rookie hit .375 this spring with a homer and eight RBI over 13 games. "He’s got a smile that’s about as infectious as you can get. He loves to play. We were really excited to get a chance to watch him," said Terry Francona to WEEI.com. "He’s got a lot of work to do defensively. We told him that. there’s nothing wrong with that. he’s a young kid. He made a position change. But he’s got some thunder in his bat, his body is going to continue to get bigger and fill out. He’s a really exciting young player."
jasoncollette jasoncollette
McGee “scrapped my change to improve my fastball and slider” #Rays
Sounds about right.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Saw him
Sunday against the Phils…
dude was throwing Gas…
by jerzbravesboy24 on Mar 10, 2011 11:41 AM EST up reply actions
Lawrie continues to be utterly spectacular defensively at 3B
Curious if he can keep up the focus but he’s made everything so far this spring. Also hitting pretty well so far, another double today.
Then drills a 3RBI HR
to just emphasize the point.
by TtD on Mar 5, 2011 3:00 PM EST up reply actions
pretty amazing to me
People said he couldn’t stick at 2B and was purely a RF only,,,, now this?
I will forever compare Lawrie to Aaron Hicks the Twins chose Hicks, could of went with Lawrie
But Danny V is the 3B stud of the future there anyways so that eases things quite a bit for me, for any Twins fan.
Valencia has been the Twins best hitter in spring T so far outside of maybe Kubel…
"TAKE THE DRAFT PICK(S) !!! "
Trading Liriano right now is partially insane, unless we get Montero and Sanchez and Banuelos and Bentances and Gardner...
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Mar 8, 2011 1:14 PM EST up reply actions
All a lot of guess work based on observations when he was at 2B
Get the feeling people are underestimating his work ethic a little, and that it’s range rather than reactions that hurt him more at 2B. He’s been knocking down everything that’s come flying at him and his arm plays well at 3B, with Escobar at short to make up for the range issues he’s doing very well. Lot of clean D, on the mark throws and has made some very tricky plays to tee off some nice double plays.
Still early days, so we will see how it pans out but he looks to have settled better than anyone expected.
Dom Brown
hamate surgery likely, according to Jon Heyman on twitter. hope he heals up quick.
here
@SI_JonHeyman
Jon Heyman
RT @DKnobler Phils Domonic Brown has fracture of hamate bone. Likely surgery.
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 5, 2011 4:55 PM EST up reply actions
He'll be in AAA most of the year now
The power takes a while to return.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Hate it
I really hope Dom can get back to the majors, but I bet it’ll be a messy campaign …
"Most overrated prospect in the minors." -- Bravesin07 on Madison Bumgarner
by criminal type on Mar 5, 2011 11:48 PM EST up reply actions
I'm probably alone
but I think he needed a break (no pun), and feel there was too much pressure mounting on him. This gives him more time to work on the new swing, though as my pal Steve Carter at Project Prospect points out, this was not the revamp he would have prescribed. I have to agree with him that Brown seemed completely out of whack and had lost all sense of rhythm with the dropped hands.
by blackoutyears on Mar 6, 2011 4:30 PM EST up reply actions
I really hate that they made that change to his setup
Leave him alone until he proves that he can’t succeed with what’s most comfortable.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
by Jeff Reese on Mar 6, 2011 4:50 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I know
I’m not sure what they thought they were doing. The change certainly wasn’t going to close the hole in his swing up and in so it’s the worst of all worlds. Here’s hoping the time off and recovery period give him some time to get back on track away from the scrutiny.
by blackoutyears on Mar 6, 2011 7:50 PM EST up reply actions
you got your wish
Domonic Brown said Thursday that he plans to abandon the stance he had been using since the start of spring training once he returns from hamate bone surgery
http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/phillies/Raise-up-Brown-going-back-.html
About a year usually.
Same thing happened with Yonder Alonso.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
tim beckham continues to impress.
lined a single to center, and hustled to 2B on the throw to 3rd… all y’all gon be wrong about him.
on a similar note
Josh Vitters with another hit today, has hit everything hard this spring.
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 6, 2011 5:29 PM EST up reply actions
Good game
Sad more of the Rays younger guys weren’t there:
Chirinos looked bad (for once this spring) K’d 3x’s…pulled off pitches on the outside 3rd.
Chris Carter (Stanford) was impressive in BP and was 1-2 in the game…
Rizzoti (Phils) hit a bomb and was solid defensively, sadly he doesn’t look athletic enough to play anywhere else…
by jerzbravesboy24 on Mar 10, 2011 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
Better
than I expected (as a former Braves fan) for Cruz. I missed them announcing him entering the game only to look up and ask myself who the F is this throwing that hard. Didn’t seem as fast as Mcgee then again most didn’t. Sat behind the plate 10 rows back…Bush??
by jerzbravesboy24 on Mar 10, 2011 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
Got that
But he was nowhere to be found in Clearwater that day (at least on the field)
by jerzbravesboy24 on Mar 11, 2011 9:16 AM EST up reply actions
yeah
i just thought it was a good opportunity to throw in a Matt f’ing Bush!
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
Bush
He seems to have learned that it’s much easier to throw hard when your head isn’t jammed so far up your ass!
by realitypolice on Mar 10, 2011 3:37 PM EST up reply actions
Give him a break already.
He went through rehad and all and hasn’t done anything wrong since coming to the Rays over a year ago.
Look, I hope that he’s gotten the alcohol issues out of the way, and wish anyone who’s willing to admit and work to overcome their addictions well. That said, he was a grade A f***head long before his alcoholism (go ask anyone else who played for Coach Pugh in the years he was at Mission Bay), and alcohol does not excuse being a dickwad. Any 24-year-old who gets arrested for picking a fight with high school kids is an asshole, period.
by realitypolice on Mar 10, 2011 11:49 PM EST up reply actions
So no mercy, eh?
I unserstand he has done bad things in the past, but so have many people. He looks to be beyond that now, and any comtempt for his past actions, if he is beyond them, is misplaced.
Not continuing to do bad things
Does not forgive having done them previously.
As I said, I really hope for his sake that he’s beaten the alcohol, he’s lost a huge portion of the chip he’s carried around on his shoulder for a decade, and that he’s able to harness some amount of the talent he has.
However, even if he succeeds on all three counts, it doesn’t negate that he spent quite a while perfecting the art of being a schmuck. (I also happen to believe that, aside from making him a pretty miserable person for so long, it kept him from advancing as a player at all. He was among the most uncoachable players I’ve ever watched.)
by realitypolice on Mar 11, 2011 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
Where would we be if there was no mercy?
I don’t care about what he has done in the past…. It doesn’t make him a bad person now.
Now if you believed he had not put his past behind him then fine, but critizing the guy for his past mistakes and making no attempt to have mercy is against my (and many others) moral standards.
This exchange started when I – admittedly, crassly – pointed out that now that he’s putting more of his efforts toward being a baseball player, not being an ass, he’s a much more effective baseball player. (Although I didn’t say it in that post, he’s presumably also more effective as a human being, as witnessed by going 18 months since his last arrest.) When you replied “give him a break,” I took it to mean that we should pretend he didn’t spend the better part of a decade being – or at least, doing a very good impression of – an ass.
I do hope for his future, both as a baseball player and as someone who can navigate daily life soberly and with respect for the people around him. I fully believe he can be/become that person, and I fully give him credit for working to get there. But part of seeking redemption is admitting flaws, and if you’re asking me to pretend he isn’t, that’s a different idea of mercy than mine.
by realitypolice on Mar 11, 2011 11:57 AM EST up reply actions
he is raking isn't he?
"TAKE THE DRAFT PICK(S) !!! "
Trading Liriano right now is partially insane, unless we get Montero and Sanchez and Banuelos and Bentances and Gardner...
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Mar 8, 2011 1:15 PM EST up reply actions
Jordan Lyles
may make the Astros rotation out of ST. It’s not like there’s a lot of competition, of course
Just goes to show how a crappy major league roster can be a vicious cycle of rushing prospects to the majors.
by Kenneth Arthur on Mar 7, 2011 10:58 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah
Terrible idea to rush him, just so they can have the 2nd worst record instead of the worst record this year?
by auclairkeithbc on Mar 7, 2011 11:49 AM EST up reply actions
Somehow, Dayton Moore doesn’t get much credit for avoiding this by signing (admittedly awful) free agents. A rebuilding process is as much about utilizing talent effectively as it is about stockpiling talent in general.
by limozeen on Mar 7, 2011 1:31 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Probably because he doesn't really deserve it
The Frenchy signing is solid. But many of these overpaid stop-gaps that couldn’t really hit also couldn’t field. If he had a plan and knew how to evaluate talent at themlb level would he go for real bats or guys that are slick defenders? At least they could help the young pitching.
I'm not sure
how signing one of the worst everyday players in recent history to be a starter is “solid,” no matter what the cost.
Since they will not compete this year a signing really needs to accomplish one of
1) defensive value to help pitching
2) upside or tradability to add value to the team
3) short contract to not hurt the team when they compete
4) character
He definitely helps with the first. As for the second he doesn’t have upside but there is some tradability for contenders. Not too much though. It’s a short contract I believe.
As for character I’m not talking about “good guy” but rather an influence in the clubhouse for being professional, being diligent in training, etc.
I doubt Lyles starts in the majors
Unless he absolutely blows people away over the rest of the spring. Ed Wade has seemed pretty resistant to the idea of bringing him up without giving him more time at AAA, even though he hasn’t ruled it out. That’s why they brought in Aneury Rodriguez from the Rays and signed Rowland-Smith, plus there are a few other guys in the mix (like Nelson Figueroa).
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
Thoughts on Detwiler
5 INN – 0 ER, 8K’s so far
Does he make the rotation out of ST?
Eventual upside?
Who has actually seen him pitch so far?
He was, what, a #2 overall pick? He definitely has the pedigree but has never put anything together and he never looked very good any times I saw him pitch. With the new mechanics and such everyone is talking about, though, maybe things have changed.
I watched 2day
He looked good. His mechanics looked improved, he is kinda lanky so they shortened things up and it looks more repeatable. Was staying low in the zone with the fb and sitting in the low90’s and hit 94. I would say that their is a #2/3 ceiling there with a floor of a valuable pen lefty…
I watched today as well.
I have a hard time seeing how he makes the club out of camp. It’s certainly possible. But that means they are basically admitting that trading for Gorzelanny was a waste of energy. I think they are going to want to know that Gorzelanny is not starting rotation material before they slide him to the bullpen. Livo, Marquis, Lannan, and Zimmermann are a lock solid 1-4. Gorzelanny will be given every chance to seize the 5 spot. Even after that Yunesky Maya pitched extremely well in his first start. I think that Gorzelanny has to fail, and Detwiler has to clearly beat Maya for him to make the starting rotation. And even then, Rizzo’s still probably got durability concerns about Detwiler that might be better alleviated by 25-50 AAA innings.
Nats really need to find some kind of way to jettison Marquis at this point. They really need to see what they can flip him for to make some room for folks who have a future beyond this year.
"Derek Norris walks." - Gameday. 'Nuff said.
Friend of Nationalsprospects.com
Souldrummer twitters at @souldrummer25
Souldrummer is all in for Derek Norris.
Alcides Escobar
out with a bug bite. shades of David Lee on the GS Warriors, except less manly
http://www.kansascity.com/2011/03/06/2702826/infection-from-bug-bite-sidelines.html
Glenallen Hill called
He says Escobar’s a pussy.
by realitypolice on Mar 7, 2011 10:11 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Brett Wallace
Hitting .294 so far this spring without much power, but what I’m more interested in is that he’s only struck out in 3 out of 19 plate appearances (15%) and he drew a pair of unintentional walks today (10%).
I still think if he winds up being a player, it will be because he hits for average and gets on base.
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
Chris Johnson, by the way
Having another fantastic spring, as presaged his breakout/fluke (depending on your opinion) season last year. 6-for-16, 1 BB, 2K, and a HR to his name.
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
In other news
Jerry Sands is very good, and all those who left him off the top 100 will regret it. 3 run homer and a triple today
by SeanMillerSavior on Mar 7, 2011 9:42 PM EST reply actions
hes been a Beast so far
looks pretty good in the RF and LF too
agreed, and i did have him as high as 35 at one point [mostly bounced between 35-70]
while making my list… but he was difficult to rank because of all the different opinions on him…
I was able to land Sands in the 6th round, yes 6th ROUND !!!!
in my 20 team dynastly League Fantasy Draft on espn
got him like 112 overall I was happy……
my picks include the following
1.0 Jeremy Hellickson
2.0 Aaron Hicks
3.0 Kyle Gibson
4.0 Danny Espinosa
5.0 Yasmani Grandal
6.0 Jerry Sands
7.0 Kaleb Cowart
8.0 Sammy Solis
9.0 Andrew Cumberland
10.0 Carlos Gutierrez
draft is just finishing up….I’m content but not thrilled, still happy overall
"TAKE THE DRAFT PICK(S) !!! "
Trading Liriano right now is partially insane, unless we get Montero and Sanchez and Banuelos and Bentances and Gardner...
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Mar 8, 2011 1:18 PM EST up reply actions
Sands is doing very well in limited appearances this spring
He’s got a ton of power and a great eye at the plate. If he’s not respected this year in the prospect rankings (which he really isnt) he will be next year.
"If we hit that bull's eye, the rest of the dominoes will fall like a house of cards. Checkmate"
He should get to MLB this year though correct?
say mid-season or so as the other COF so the LAD’s can go with Sands, Kemp, Eithier as thier OF
I don’t think Xavier Paul and Jay Gibbons will hold Sands down/ back …..
Sands is slated to begin 2011 in AA no? Or is it AAA now?
"TAKE THE DRAFT PICK(S) !!! "
Trading Liriano right now is partially insane, unless we get Montero and Sanchez and Banuelos and Bentances and Gardner...
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Mar 9, 2011 7:04 AM EST up reply actions
I'm really liking what I've been seeing out of Freeman.
Wowza.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
Delgado
With the Save on the 5th…looked solid, K’d 1, gave up one hit.
Olberholtzer is dealing as well….
by jerzbravesboy24 on Mar 10, 2011 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
Olberholtzer
Yeah, could be a big year for him.
by blackoutyears on Mar 10, 2011 11:48 PM EST up reply actions
I think so too
but one we’ll hear little about as he’s not the sexy name in camp (or the upper rungs of the organization)
by jerzbravesboy24 on Mar 11, 2011 9:17 AM EST up reply actions
True
Like most german, there is nothing sexy about the name Oberholtzer. It’s a sturdy language, but not a sexy one. lol
Seriously though, from what I’ve read the org definitely likes what they’ve seen in ST and he’s slated for Double-A, right?
by blackoutyears on Mar 11, 2011 2:28 PM EST up reply actions
Michael Choice gettin some love
http://twitter.com/SI_JonHeyman/status/44871007906963458
“outfielder michael choice has been wowwing scouts in arizona. a’s 2010 1st rounder is 5-for-14. eta: 2012”.
http://twitter.com/pgammo/status/44913971605671937
“from a great scout:”Michael Choice is going to be a monster. Special batspeed, strength,athleticism…"
Mark Trumbo
ya I know he’s a fringe prospect but he’s put up a pretty good looking line of .375/.400/.875 with 3HR.
Any Morales fantasy owners should consider picking him up as a temp at 1B
go long with extenze...i do
by angelsownredsux on Mar 8, 2011 12:57 AM EST reply actions
Some guys from Monday's games
Weglarz 2-4, 2B, HR
Pineda 2IP, H, 2bb, K, 0 ER
Hosmer 1-3, 2 k
Moose 0-3
Britton, starting against the Yanks with Jeter, Cano, Tex, A.Rod… 3IP, 2 H, BB, K, G/F 6/2, 0 ER
Kila Monster 1-2, HR, BB, SB . 18 spring AB’s .389/.421/.889
Killa is a Major League 1B
"TAKE THE DRAFT PICK(S) !!! "
Trading Liriano right now is partially insane, unless we get Montero and Sanchez and Banuelos and Bentances and Gardner...
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Mar 9, 2011 7:05 AM EST up reply actions
Last round of my fantasy draft with OPS as a category
highway robbery. He’s got a similar fantasy profile as Chris Davis did last year, but he is a more well-rounded hitter by far and isn’t being drafted in the 11th or 12th like Davis was last year when he busted.
by OctaShields on Mar 11, 2011 11:09 AM EST up reply actions
The Harper with 2 doubles yesterday.
If he’s hitting major league pitching already(.307AB so far this spring), imagine what he’s going to do when he faces LowA pitching.
Be real with yourself.
except he's not really facing major league pitching
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
and its like 13 PA or something...
Bullpen Banter's Top 100 Prospects for 2011!
- - - - - - - -
You can find my musings at Bullpen Banter and Beyond the Box Score.
There are so many reasons not to care (SSS, Spring Training, bad pitching) but even I admit its hard not to care.
These are still the best pitchers he’s ever faced in his life and he is still 18. I’m happy to hear he’s at least not striking out on 3 pitches every time.
by Kenneth Arthur on Mar 8, 2011 4:00 PM EST up reply actions
Good news on Tim Beckham from the St. Pete Times today:
“Maddon said SS prospect Tim Beckham’s biggest challenge in getting to the majors is improving the mental aspects of his game, such as making “real sophomoric mistakes” on easy defensive plays. “There’s no reason why he should not be able to play shortstop in the big leagues based on his abilities,” Maddon said. “The only thing that would prevent that would be that he doesn’t focus and doesn’t pay enough attention to the little details, those kind of mistakes that kill you.”"
Good news?
Bullpen Banter's Top 100 Prospects for 2011!
- - - - - - - -
You can find my musings at Bullpen Banter and Beyond the Box Score.
It is, isn't it?
After all, at least we are finally hearing that it is not his athleticism that is the problem.
Not really.
As Double said, are you expecting him to come out and say that he doesn’t have the ability?
Bullpen Banter's Top 100 Prospects for 2011!
- - - - - - - -
You can find my musings at Bullpen Banter and Beyond the Box Score.
Agreed.
Big Sexy
Follow KBR and Dewey on Twitter! @KBRandDewey
by King Billy Royal on Mar 8, 2011 11:38 PM EST up reply actions
would take those quotes for what their worth...
would hope the manager would say those kind of things.
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
Not the most well-known prospect, and most label him as a future bench bat,
But D-backs 1B Paul Goldschmidt is tearing it up so far. SSS, yeah yeah, but considering that he struck out 161 times in 138 games last year, having just 3 K’s through 16 PA’s against some slightly stiffer competition at the end of ST games is good news. Reports are that he’s shortened his swing significantly, and yet he still has a homer and three doubles. He isn’t going to hit .533 anytime soon, but if he can cut down the K’s and keep up the power, he’ll be dangerous. Worth keeping an eye on.
http://hasthelargehadroncolliderdestroyedtheworldyet.com/
by Dan Strittmatter on Mar 8, 2011 10:12 PM EST reply actions
Have you ever watched Paul Goldschmidt?
http://hasthelargehadroncolliderdestroyedtheworldyet.com/
by Dan Strittmatter on Mar 15, 2011 10:20 PM EDT up reply actions
March 8th Results
Jay Austin 1-1,
Peter Bourjos 1-2,
Andrew Brackman 1IP, 0ER, 1H, 1K
Matt Carpenter 3-3, RBI, BB
Darrell Ceciliani 1-2, 2B
Robinson Chirnos 2-2, 3B
Lonnie Chisenhall 4-5, 3B
Michael Choice 1-2,
Delta Cleary Jr 1-1,
Jordan Danks 2-4, 2B, 2RBI
James Darnell 1-1,
Matt Dominguez 2-2, HR, 4RBI
Lucas Duda 2-3, 2B
Eric Farris 1-1,
Tyler Flowers 2-2, HR, 2RBI
Charlie Furbush 2.2IP, 0ER, 0H, 2BB, 1K
Leury Garcia 2-3,
Paul Goldschmidt 1-1,
Grant Green 1-1, RBI
Alex Hassan 1-1, 2B, 2RBI
Ryan Kalish 3-4, 2B
Andrew Lambo 1-1, 2RBI
Ryan Lavarnway 2-2, 2B, HR, 3RBI
Juan Carlos Linares 2-4, RBI, BB
Yamico Navarro 2-3, RBI
Radames Nazario 1-1, 2B, 2RBI
Eduardo Nunez 2-2,
Jordan Pacheco 1-1, HR, 3RBI
Ben Paulsen 2-4, RBI
Wilson Ramos 2-3,
Sean Ratliff 1-1,
Garrett Richards 2IP, 0ER, 3H, 1K
Carlos Rivero 2-2, 2RBI
Anthony Rizzo 1-1, 2B
Fernando Salas 1IP, 0ER, 0H, 1K
Eduardo Sanchez 2IP, 0ER, 1H, 1K
Michael Taylor 2-4, HR, 2RBI
Tony Torres 1-3, RBI
Ronald Torreyes 1-1, 2B
Mark Trumbo 1-3,
Jordany Valdespin 2-2,
Cory Vaughn 1-1, HR, 2RBI
Dayan Viciedo 3-4, RBI
Tom Wilhelmsen 1IP, 0ER, 0H, 2K
by Pup Dog on Mar 9, 2011 9:39 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
BA email update for today
TEAM CLASS PLAYER, POS AB R H BI AVG
BOS MAJ Lavarnway, Ryan PH-DH 2 1 2 3 .333 2B (1), HR (1)
BOS MAJ Linares, Juan Carlos RF 4 2 2 0 .368
BOS MAJ Navarro, Yamaico SS 3 0 2 1 .350
CIN MAJ Torreyes, Ronald 2B 1 1 1 0 .333 2B (1); Pretty impressive for a player who spent most of last year in VSL
CLE MAJ Chisenhall, Lonnie 3B 5 1 4 0 .550 3B (1); Still likely heading to minors, but making that decision tough
COL MAJ Garner, Cole LF 2 1 1 0 .294 2B (2)
COL MAJ Pacheco, Jordan PH-C 1 1 1 3 .500 HR (1)
COL MAJ Paulsen, Ben 1B 4 0 2 1 .357 3B (2), E (1)
CWS MAJ Danks, Jordan CF 4 0 2 2 .389 2B (2), SB (2)
CWS MAJ Flowers, Tyler C 2 1 2 2 .625 2 2B (4)
CWS MAJ Viciedo, Dayan RF 4 2 3 1 .476
FLA MAJ Dominguez, Matt 3B 2 1 2 4 .400 HR (2); Solidifying grasp on 3B job, offense was the only question
NYM MAJ Ceciliani, Darrell LF 2 1 1 0 .500 2B (1), SB (1)
NYM MAJ Duda, Lucas LF 3 0 2 0 .320 2B (3)
NYM MAJ Valdespin, Jordany 2B 2 1 2 0 .308 3B (1)
NYM MAJ Vaughn, Cory LF 1 1 1 2 1.000 2 2B (2)
NYY MAJ Nunez, Eduardo 2B 2 1 2 0 .348 3 SB (4)
OAK MAJ Taylor, Michael RF 4 1 2 2 .185 HR (2)
SD MAJ Rizzo, Anthony 1B 1 0 1 0 .300 2B (1)
STL MAJ Carpenter, Matt 3B 3 0 3 1 .474
TB MAJ Chirinos, Robinson C 2 0 2 1 .357 3B (1)
TEX MAJ Garcia, Leury SS 3 0 2 0 .500 CS (1)
WAS MAJ Ramos, Wilson C 3 0 2 0 .462 The Nats now have a catching surplus
- PITCHERS -
TEAM CLASS PITCHER IP H R ER BB K ERA
ARI MAJ Mickolio, Kam 1 1 0 0 0 1 5.79
ATL MAJ Kimbrel, Craig 1 0 0 0 0 1 10.80 Surprising issue has been hits allowed, not walks
BOS MAJ Pimentel, Stolmy 1.2 5 2 2 1 2 9.82
CIN MAJ LeCure, Sam 2 2 0 0 0 4 0.00
CLE MAJ Judy, Josh 0.2 1 0 0 0 0 13.50
CLE MAJ Kluber, Corey 0.1 4 4 4 0 1 108.00
CLE MAJ Stowell, Bryce 1 1 2 2 2 0 18.00
CLE MAJ White, Alex 2 7 4 4 1 2 10.80 Ouch
COL MAJ Escalona, Edgmer 1 1 0 0 0 1 0.00
COL MAJ Mortensen, Clayton 2 1 0 0 1 2 2.25
COL MAJ Reynolds, Matt 1 1 1 1 0 0 12.00
CWS MAJ Carter, Anthony 1.2 0 0 0 1 1 0.00
DET MAJ Furbush, Charlie 2.2 0 0 0 2 1 6.75
DET MAJ Oliveros, Lester 1 1 0 0 1 0 0.00
DET MAJ Weinhardt, Robbie 1 2 1 1 0 0 3.60
FLA MAJ Ceda, Jose 0.2 1 2 2 3 2 27.00 Ouch X 2
FLA MAJ Cishek, Steven 1 1 1 1 1 1 1.80
FLA MAJ Rosario, Sandy 1 3 2 1 0 0 4.50
FLA MAJ Villanueva, Elih 3 2 0 0 2 2 0.00 W (1-0)
HOU MAJ Carpenter, David 2 2 1 1 1 1 1.80 L (0-1)
HOU MAJ Pendleton, Lance 2 2 1 1 2 1 4.50
HOU MAJ Rodriguez, Aneury 3 4 0 0 1 1 4.50 L (0-1)
KC MAJ Duffy, Danny 2 1 3 3 2 1 9.00 W (1-0)
KC MAJ Keating, Patrick 1 1 1 1 1 0 9.00
LAA MAJ Cassevah, Bobby 1 2 1 1 0 0 9.00 Sv (1)
LAA MAJ Richards, Garrett 2 3 0 0 0 1 4.26
LAD MAJ Guerra, Javy 1 0 0 0 0 0 0.00
MIL MAJ Kintzler, Brandon 1 0 0 0 0 0 1.59
NYY MAJ Betances, Dellin 2 3 1 1 1 2 3.86
NYY MAJ Brackman, Andrew 1 1 0 0 0 1 0.00
PIT MAJ Owens, Rudy 2 4 2 2 1 0 6.75
SD MAJ Kontos, George 1 4 3 3 0 1 9.82
SEA MAJ Robles, Mauricio 1 1 0 0 2 1 0.00
SEA MAJ Wilhelmsen, Tom 1 0 0 0 0 2 0.00
STL MAJ Salas, Fernando 1 0 0 0 0 1 0.00
STL MAJ Sanchez, Eduardo 2 1 0 0 0 1 0.00
TOR MAJ Mills, Brad 3 5 1 1 0 2 3.60
WAS MAJ Carr, Adam 2 1 0 0 0 0 0.00
Just curious ....
My memory is failing me on this, but I know BA sends these out every day during the regular season. Is everyone else only getting these every 2-3 days during ST? I don’t remember if that’s SOP in ST.
Same for me
I’m sure they’ll get more consistently sent out once the regular season starts.
Matt Dominguez being pushed to the majors is the most interesting thing right now for me. I don’t think his bat is ready, but I do think the power/patience/glove will play.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Stuck on Dominguez
I have decided to keep Dominguez over Jordan “Sandy” Lyles and Wilson Ramos.
I hope the kid exceeds expectations, but I’m not delusional.
"Most overrated prospect in the minors." -- Bravesin07 on Madison Bumgarner
Not sure how much he's going to do offensively this year
But I do think you made the right choice.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Dominguez
He seems like a guy who will be terrible upon initial MLB exposure. I’m expecting Mike Lowell beginning in 2013, which is pretty good.
"Most overrated prospect in the minors." -- Bravesin07 on Madison Bumgarner
by criminal type on Mar 10, 2011 1:09 AM EST up reply actions
I'm really not sure
I expect the batting average to be quite low, but I think he has enough secondary skills to avoid being an embarrassment offensively.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
BA report - for games of 3/9
- BATTERS -
TEAM CLASS PLAYER, POS AB R H BI AVG
ARI MAJ Cowgill, Collin CF-RF 5 1 1 4 .200 HR (2), 2B (2)
BAL MAJ Adams, Ryan PH-DH 2 1 2 1 .500 HR (1)
BAL MAJ Mahoney, Joe 1B 3 1 1 0 .357 3B (1); Not exactly a speed demon
CHC MAJ Vitters, Josh 3B 3 1 1 0 .385 2B (2)
CIN MAJ Cozart, Zack SS 3 2 1 1 .400 2B (2)
CIN MAJ Francisco, Juan 3B 4 1 1 2 .200 HR (1)
CIN MAJ Mesoraco, Devin PH-DH 2 1 2 0 .500
CIN MAJ Sappelt, Dave CF 3 0 1 2 .500 2B (1)
COL MAJ Garner, Cole LF 4 1 3 0 .381
COL MAJ Paulsen, Ben 1B 1 1 1 2 .400 HR (1)
CWS MAJ Morel, Brent 3B 3 0 0 0 .176 Defense has been good, offense is in a slump
DET MAJ Dirks, Andy LF 3 0 2 0 .500
HOU MAJ Martinez, J.D. RF 3 1 1 1 .214 HR (1)
LAA MAJ Moore, Jeremy RF 3 0 1 0 .133 3B (1)
LAA MAJ Trout, Mike PH-DH 1 0 1 0 .364 Playing DH because of minor shoulder injury
LAA MAJ Trumbo, Mark 1B 3 1 1 0 .367 2B (4)
LAD MAJ Gordon, Dee SS 2 1 1 0 .250 2B (1)
NYM MAJ Nieuwenhuis, Kirk CF 1 1 1 2 .130 HR (1)
SD MAJ Rizzo, Anthony 1B 3 1 1 3 .308 HR (1)
SEA MAJ Liddi, Alex 3B 2 1 1 4 .333 HR (1)
STL MAJ Craig, Allen RF 3 1 1 1 .346 2B (2)
TB MAJ Chirinos, Robinson PH-DH-1B 2 1 1 0 .375 2B (2)
TB MAJ Jennings, Desmond CF 2 0 0 0 .095 Is walking (5 BB in 26 PA), but isn’t hitting
WAS MAJ Espinosa, Danny 2B 3 2 3 4 .455 HR (2), 2B (2)
WAS MAJ Harper, Bryce PH-DH 1 0 1 1 .357 Do remember he’s supposed to be in high school still
- PITCHERS -
TEAM CLASS PITCHER IP H R ER BB K ERA
ATL MAJ Oberholtzer, Brett 2 1 1 0 1 0 0.00
ATL MAJ Vizcaino, Arodys 1 2 0 0 0 2 0.00
BAL MAJ Pelzer, Wynn 1 2 1 1 1 0 3.00 L (0-1)
CHC MAJ Caridad, Esmailin 1 3 3 3 0 1 7.36
CHC MAJ Jackson, Jay 2.1 5 2 2 0 0 5.68
CLE MAJ Putnam, Zach 1 0 0 0 0 0 12.00
COL MAJ Brothers, Rex 1 1 0 0 0 1 0.00
DET MAJ Below, Duane 1 1 1 1 0 1 7.50
DET MAJ Wilk, Adam 2 1 0 0 1 0 0.00
FLA MAJ Dunn, Mike 1 2 2 2 1 0 6.00
HOU MAJ Abad, Fernando 1 2 2 2 0 1 13.50
HOU MAJ Lyles, Jordan 3 5 2 2 0 2 2.25 L (0-2); Getting a lot of work this spring, has already thrown 8 IP
LAA MAJ Reckling, Trevor 2 6 7 7 0 2 16.50 L (0-1)
LAA MAJ Walden, Jordan 1 1 0 0 0 0 0.00
LAD MAJ Lindblom, Josh 1 0 0 0 1 2 0.00
MIL MAJ McClendon, Mike 2 0 0 0 1 0 6.00 W (1-1)
MIL MAJ Peralta, Wily 2 3 2 2 1 2 6.00
MIN MAJ Diamond, Scott 1.1 0 0 0 2 0 0.00
NYY MAJ Banuelos, Manny 2 2 0 0 0 3 0.00 8 Ks, 1 BB in 5 IP this spring
OAK MAJ Magnuson, Trystan 1 0 0 0 0 1 5.40
SD MAJ Bass, Anthony 1.2 0 0 0 0 2 0.00
SD MAJ Brach, Brad 1.2 2 1 1 1 0 9.64
SD MAJ Hefner, Jeremy 2 1 1 1 0 1 4.15
SD MAJ Kelly, Casey 2 0 0 0 0 0 0.00
SD MAJ Lollis, Matt 0.1 4 6 1 0 0 11.57
SD MAJ Luebke, Cory 4.1 2 1 1 1 4 2.08 W (2-0)
SEA MAJ Cortes, Dan 1 0 0 0 0 1 6.00
STL MAJ Gast, John 1 2 0 0 1 1 0.00
TB MAJ Archer, Chris 1.1 1 0 0 2 1 0.00 Still too many walks, 5 in 5 IP this spring
TB MAJ Cobb, Alex 1 1 0 0 0 1 4.50 W (1-1)
TB MAJ McGee, Jake 1 1 0 0 0 1 0.00
"Most overrated prospect in the minors." -- Bravesin07 on Madison Bumgarner
guys I want to talk about to filter this list
Vitters – has anyone seen him in ST, any better contact – strike zone approach?
Cozart – I think he can be a difference maker in the NL central this year
Mesoraco – ditto
Morel – this is why I can’t see him as a top 125 guy, bat wont play at 3B
Rizzo – when do you think SD calls him up; if you dont’ believe in Hawpe actually playing well
Liddi – seems underrated by most publications, I don’t know much about him actually
Chirinos – TB suddenly has a great group of Catchers
Jennings – overrated
Espinosa – hmm, I wonder how much a leash Desmond gets this year at SS (not just on defense, but his bat doesnt really compare to the former)
Harper – yea, he’s going to prettty good
will get to the pitchers later
I think Morel will be fine offensively
He won’t be a superstar or anything close, but if he can provide league average offense, he’ll be a good everyday player.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Rizzo
Not this year under pretty much any circumstance. If Hawpe either flames out or becomes a good trade commodity, Kyle Blanks will be manning first base for the last few months of 2011.
by realitypolice on Mar 10, 2011 3:33 PM EST up reply actions
That said
Another nice day yesterday… 4-for-5 with two doubles (and an uncomfortable K against Kershaw). He also added back-to-back stolen bases of second then third, but (a) it was off Broxton, who clearly is more concerned with trying to throw a pitch that is neither a ball nor a cookie than what baserunners are doing behind him, and (b) he got too excited after stealing third and was run down between third and home.
by realitypolice on Mar 11, 2011 9:24 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Rizz
Half his spring hits in one game. Wow. How is Blanks’ health this year?
by blackoutyears on Mar 11, 2011 2:30 PM EST up reply actions
Getting there
He’s still not game-ready. Last I saw a few weeks ago is that he’s hitting against live pitching, doing his throwing program, but not yet cleared to throw in-game. They had an intra-squad where he played first, but wasn’t allowed to throw the ball overhand if he fielded it. My guess – although they’ve been non-committal on it – is that he’ll stay in extended until the end of April, then head out on a rehab assignment in early May.
by realitypolice on Mar 11, 2011 3:04 PM EST up reply actions
I guess
there’s no crying need for him so why not take your time? I just hope his window hasn’t closed. If it does end up being a Hawpe to Rizzo hand-off in a year or so, that’s not great for KB.
by blackoutyears on Mar 12, 2011 10:58 AM EST up reply actions
Vitters has been IMO excellent
driving the ball well in every at bat, looks stronger than he did last season. Haven’t seen enough to say how his PD looks, but he’s walked once and struck out once in 14 PAs, I think.
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 10, 2011 7:04 PM EST up reply actions
Cozart and Meso
Neither will be starting the year with the big league club barring injuries. Mesoraco has basically done what I’ve expected this spring. Cozart has certainly impressed though. He’s solid defensively and hitting way better than he has in the past. Let’s see how that holds up.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
The Rays game was televised today, so I got my first few looks at Chirinos.
His defense looked pretty good (he made a nice block at the plate) and he has a sweet sweet swing. Very smooth and powerful. He hammered a walk-off homer. Kids on fire recently…..
Fernando Martinez
Looking good on paper batting .350/.458/.600, in 24 PA, he has 1 HR, 2 doubles, 4 BB, 4 Ks, 0-1 on the basepaths. Has anyone seen him play? Does he look good? I’d imagine he has zero shot at landing a starting OF spot with Beltran moving over to the corner, and that pretty much (hopefully) means he’ll start the year in AAA. Good start this year anyway.
Viciedo..nooooo
fractured his thumb, just when I felt like a genius for getting pennies on the dollar in a dynasty lg this offseason
http://twitter.com/#!/whitesox/status/45977099730817025
getting him for*
don’t know that link is messed up, cut/paste works
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 10, 2011 7:15 PM EST up reply actions
don't know why*
i’m going to stop typing now
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 10, 2011 7:15 PM EST up reply actions
Former top prospect Andy LaRoche
is off to a hot start in spring training for the A’s. After today’s 2-2 with a 2B and a BB he’s sporting a .409/.536/.955 line with 3 HR’s, 3 2B’s and a 5/3 K/BB through 22 AB’s.
I seem to remember hearing about a wrist injury a couple years back, does anybody know if he was battling the injury still the past couple seasons? I remember listening to a Pirates radio broadcast last season where one of the announcers had talked to a member of the Pirates organization that said he wasn’t even hitting the ball hard in batting practice. Seeing him hit the ball so hard right off the bat this spring is encouraging, and makes me wonder if he is just now back to 100%
Got the K/BB ratio backwards.
He drew his 5th walk today, against 3 k’s.
Tyler Flowers
@SI_JonHeyman
Tyler flowers been very impressive in #cactus league. Too good to be sent to triple-a. #chisox
interesting…
Jeremy Hellickson made his debut today
1 perfect inning with a K, I’d expect him to be fully ready to go by the time is spot is up in the rotation at the beginning of the season.
Brett Wallace
3-for-4 with a pair of doubles today
Here’s video of one of the 2B hits
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
In Reds camp
Dave Sappelt has been absolutely dominant. He’s hitting .522 with an otherworldly 1.326 OPS in 23 At Bats. He’s only walked once, buts has also only struck out twice. A note- he did play winter ball, so he might be a bit ahead of everyone and he’s got apparently got some pretty major issues base running, plus Drew Stubbs blocking him in CF, so I’m 90% sure he’ll be starting in CF at Louisville.
Zack Cozart has also been impressive. 21 AB’s has yielded a 1.193 OPS. 2:3 BB/K.
Chris Valaika has a 1.045 OPS in 24 AB’s.
Kris Negron has been pretty surprising too. Only 11 AB’s, but he’s posting a 1.261 OPS. He might be a guy to keep an eye on in the minors this season though. Kind of a sleeper.
Devin Mesoraco is getting started where he left off. He’s shown a good arm so far this spring and solid defense behind the plate. Oh, and a 1.038 OPS (only 15 AB). He’s looked impressive so far. He’ll probably start in AAA, with Ryan Hanigan and Ramon Hernandez blocking him right now.
Yonder Alonso hasn’t played a whole lot. Only 18 AB’s right now, though he has posted a 1.117 OPS. The biggest thing of interest is that he’s gotten some looks at LF. If they’re serious about trying him in LF, he might start in Louisville, otherwise… well, the Reds have a legitimate major league lefty off the bench.
Danny Dorn has been absolutely killing righties. .881 OPS overall right now, and we probably won’t actually see him in the majors anywhere- he’s always hit righties well, but has been left exposed for 2 straight Rule V drafts and never grabbed.
Todd Frazier has been pretty slow to start this spring. He’s only hitting .130 in 23 AB’s. Probably going to keep having to fight for a real spot to play in AAA this year. Maybe he’ll get a look at some point if he heats up.
Juan Francisco has struck out 7 times in 27 AB’s. By some miracle, he’s also managed to draw a walk. There’s a first.
On the pitching side…
Mike Leake has been getting hit pretty hard every time out. He’s totaled 9 innings, striking out only 1 and has a 9.00 ERA. Unless there’s an injury or he does a complete 180, he’s probably cemented his spot in Louisville.
Matt Maloney has been a pretty big surprise. He’s pitched 9 solid innings, giving up 3 ER, striking out 8, and walking only 1, and giving up only 6 hits. But with the Reds depth, he’ll probably still be starting in AAA without injuries.
Daryl Thompson has pitched fairly well in 7 innings. He’s given up 6 hits and 3 walks, but has worked out of the jams and has a 1.29 ERA. Hopefully, the Reds will think about grooming him for a look in the bullpen at some point this season.
Logan Ondrusek is pretty well cementing his spot in the bullpen.
Jared Burton is doing the same.
Dontrelle Willis was pitching fairly well before he got injured today.
Aroldis Chapman has struggled a bit with control this spring, walking 4 in 5 innings. He’s still only given up 1 ER though.
Travis Wood looks to have pretty well secured himself a spot in the rotation.
Donnie Joseph hasn’t been real great in his 4.1 innings. He’s walked 4 and given up 6 hits. He’s an intriguing bullpen arm to watch this season in the minors, though.
Phillippe Valiquette has given up 4 hits in 2.2 innings, but walked none. We’ll probably see him in Cincy at some point this season.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
Thanks
for all the info, crolfer. I’m not sure OPS is very meaningful (if at all) in this context, but the overall impressions (Cozart, Sappelt and Mesoraco are three of the first guys the Reds would probably turn to if needed) are spot on imo.
To add a couple of names, Homer Bailey’s 4 6 1 1 2 5 outing today may have given him a slight edge over Leake for the moment and converted SS Jerry Gil looked sharp in the inning I saw the other day. The FB is firm and he did a great job of throwing it to the bottom of the strike zone.
Here’s hoping Cueto’s forearm/biceps tightness is nothing serious. This is the reason that teams don’t trade their “surplus” pitchers in case anyone needed a reminder.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 1:36 AM EST up reply actions
I'm still a big Homer Bailey believer
I think he finally establishes himself if he can have a healthy season.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Bailey
I liked the way he discussed his outing, what he was working on and what was off (arm side movement on FB for instance). It’s good to hear he got strikeouts on the slider and splitter. I think he’s developing a much better sense of what sort of preparation is required, and he was nails in his post-season appearance. Even-keeled and confident guy.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 2:06 PM EDT up reply actions
He's really seemed to mature a bit in the last year or two.
This might kind of be a make or break year for him.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
It's easy to forget, but he's only going to be 25 in May
Even if this year is another disappointment, he will get more opportunities so long as his stuff is still impressive.
Bullpen Banter
Twitter Account: @Ioffridus
Exactly
He was clearly unready when he was called up at 21, but it’s working itself out and my fingers are crossed that the patience pays off. He’s gone through stubborn phases, loss of velo, mechanical overhauls, wholesale changes to his arsenal (sometimes all at once) and may just have survived. Crolfer, I think you’re right on with the maturity point, though even a year ago he was bucking management by developing and throwing the splitter as a sub for a changeup. It’s an important pitch for him so stubbornness isn’t always a bad thing.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 6:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Part of it will depend on how the rest of the staff performs.
If Leake, Wood, Cueto, and Volquez are all pitching well (which would be great, but not that likely), it could be a crowded rotation next season.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
Yes
and health is always an issue as we’ve seen with Volquez and Leake (and Homer) and as Cueto’s forearm tightness reminds. I think Walt is hanging onto every young arm he’s got.
One huge change is Baker’s attitude toward Bailey. He’s gone from bluntly stating that Bailey lacked polish and implying stubbornness to speaking of Bailey as having ace stuff this ST. They’re definitely a lot more comfortable these days and I think Bailey has made some quiet attitude adjustments along the way.
by blackoutyears on Mar 15, 2011 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh, and is Maloney
really a surprise? He’s been excellent at Lousiville the last three years and just hasn’t been able to quite translate it to the majors yet. He’s a nice insurance policy in the event of multiple injuries.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 1:42 AM EST up reply actions
I think he's a surprise
in the fact that he’s been the best pitcher for the Reds so far this spring.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
Right,
but “best pitcher for the Reds so far this spring” is essentially meaningless. ;-) And even in those terms, he’s excelled at Louisville for three years and is in his mid-20s. It’s not really surprising that he’s having a solid camp so far.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Fair enough
I think Dusty did say that he deserved to be a starter somewhere.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
I think he might finally be ready
It’s really too bad that he couldn’t seize an opportunity three years ago before Wood, Leake and Bailey were cemented as competition. I’d have definitely taken him over Owings, but he just wasn’t there. He’s been a bit of a Quad-A guy, and now that he seems to be putting it together he’s squeezed out again. Still, you never know if injuries will give him a shot, and it’s great to know he’s waiting 1:45 away down 71.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 5:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Do you live in Cincy, crolfer?
And do you ever get to any Louisville or Dayton games?
by blackoutyears on Mar 15, 2011 2:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Danny Duffy
from Rotoworld:
The Royals are considering prospect Danny Duffy as a candidate for their bullpen.
Duffy has been a starter throughout his minor league career and is one of the Royals’ bevy of nice pitching prospects in that role, but the team thinks he can help out of the bullpen now. He’s yet to pitch above Double-A and has struggled this spring, but the Royals like the upside he brings to the table. “He’s had some rough outings,” manager Ned Yost said, “but if Duffy ever finds his comfort zone, you know his stuff is good enough to pitch in the big leagues. It’s just hoping that he finds it.”
The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball. It reminds us of all that once was good, and that could be again.
I think it is stupid...
if their intention is to bring DD up to the bullpen and turn him into a reliever full-time, a la Neftali Feliz.
However, if they are sticking him in the pen to get some exposure to bigs, and work him as a swingman until his time in the rotation comes, I think that’s a great idea…the so-called Earl Weaver method for breaking in rookie pitchers. If he falters, send him to AAA to work on what he lacks until he’s ready to come back up.
quite frankly though...
i’d be kinda surprised if he made the roster at this point. his command has been all over the place so far and they just brought in another lefty off waivers. i think he’ll start in Omaha. where he goes from there, who knows.
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
In Earl Weaver's day
Small market clubs didn’t have to worry so much about maximizing the value they got out of players in their first three and six years of big-league roster time. You’d need to convince me it was REALLY going to help his development to trade off controlling Duffy for his age-28 season for the right to use him in 70-90 meaningless and low-leverage innings in the majors this year instead of sending him back out.
by realitypolice on Mar 13, 2011 11:40 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
not a rookie
but I have to say, Starlin Castro’s power tool seems to be developing nicely. This is his second HR from yesterday, and it went a LONG way.
http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=13190203&topic_id=16703060&c_id=chc
Thanks for the link
I’d read about the homers but it’s cool to see it. It’s funny, because he looks essentially the same at the plate as he did in the 2009 AFL. Confident, advanced approach.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 5:38 PM EDT up reply actions
More impressed than I thought I'd be
After watching that stroke, I think maybe I haven’t given Castro enough credit for his power potential. That swing ought to generate a lot of loft and as he gets older and stronger… who knows.
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
I got to see him a few times last year
and he struck me as a classic “doubles turn into homers” guy. Even if they didn’t, high average hitter with a lot of doubles is awfully good. I’ve always gotten a Jeter vibe from Castro and I think that 15-20 homer pop like Jeter’s is within reach.
by blackoutyears on Mar 13, 2011 6:56 PM EDT up reply actions
whoops
I had actually meant to post the video of his 2nd one…which went way over the wall in deep center, 435 ft out. I’ve been flat-out impressed so far. (Unfortunately he came up limping after a slide today.)
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=13190217&c_id=chc
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 13, 2011 6:32 PM EDT up reply actions
in a word: sloppy
but it’s all concentration-related as far as I can tell, he’s showing great range & arm strength…easy plays are his enemy. Quade is the right manager to fix that issue though, he’s handled him very well, D has gotten much more consistent over the course of ST
by PrincetonCubs on Mar 13, 2011 10:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Quade is the right manager
I was gonna say. Quade was very up front about Castro’s defensive lapses after taking over last year, wasn’t he?
by blackoutyears on Mar 15, 2011 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Tonight
Banuelos is on ESPN 2 at 7 eastern against the red sox. He’s getting the start…should be good.
Anyone see it?
I only saw the last two batters but he struck out the last guy (cannot remember who it was) on an absolutely stunning changeup. The box score shows some issues (walks especially) but he’s got a simple, repeatable delivery and he’s well built for his height. Physically he sort of reminded me of Mike Hampton.
by blackoutyears on Mar 15, 2011 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions
He pitched well.
Had some control issues that got him into a few jams but pitched around them. I wasn’t paying close enough attention to recall specifics.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
Looked decent
A little wild, perhaps because he was trying to be too fine with his pitches. He was consistently 92-94 with the fastball, and threw a few dirty changeups for swings and misses. I don’t remember seeing many breaking balls thrown. He struck out Crawford on a high fastball and Youkilis (I think) on a changeup. He got into trouble with the walks, but got some clutch strikeouts and groundball outs to prevent any damage. Certainly not a dominant performance by any stretch of the imagination, but against the Red Sox regulars, pretty impressive.
http://www.yankeeanalysts.com
Well, I said physically,
so it’s his build. You’re taking the comp further than my verbiage implies I think. And yes, Hampton was a great athlete, but not in the package that’s typically evoked by the word. Banuelos appeared to be well-proportioned, smooth in actions and reasonably well-conditioned for a guy who’s short-ish and stoutly built.
by blackoutyears on Mar 16, 2011 12:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Anyone have any detailed reports/etc on Cashner?
It appears he has been very solid since a bad debut, have to believe he is in the lead for the final rotation spot, not that it says a lot by beating that POS Silva…
Luke Hughes doing his best to take away the 3B job From Danny Valencia
He just might do it in the not too distant future
Nishi to Alexi = Double Play
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Mar 14, 2011 7:39 PM EDT reply actions
I saw Hughes listed as SS in the lineup yesterday...
Could he be taking the SS job away from Alexi?
Also, what’s with Danny Rams getting all these ABs with the big club?
Maybe just getting some flexibility under his belt...
If anything, I’d see Hughes going to 2nd, with Nishioka moving back to SS.
Maybe you missed the higher velocity fastballs when you went to the fridge to get some apple juice...
A big boy drink!
The Bad Guy
Twitter: @KBRandDewey
A big boy drink!
Looks more like a eucalyptus leaf break from the profile pic. lol
by blackoutyears on Mar 15, 2011 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Should someone start a draft thread?
I am curious on the consensus thought. Anyone know when MLB comes out with their draft scouting reports?
Jordan Lyles today
So far- 2 perfect innings with 3 K’s.
He's made it hard for them not to give him the job this spring
Which isn’t good, in my opinion… I’d really like him to get more seasoning at AAA.
Brett Wallace is batting over .300 with a much-improved BB/K rate this spring. He’s 2-for-3 with a grand slam so far today. This is what the minor league guy at our Astros blog commented about the swing:
From the side view of the swing, he does get his foot down before the bat movement and has some good weight shift…thats what we have been looking for.
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
Brett Wallace can't reach the inside pitch
It’s an innate flaw in his swing which is not fixable because of his body type.
(Yes, you are detecting sarcasm.)
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
Well played, Mauer
Keith Law said it though – it’s got to be true!
surprise stadium pitch f/x rulez
Crow was 94-96 in his first inning w/ 85-87 slider. Collins 92-93 w/ 82 changeup. Coleman 90-91 fastball and 79-81 slider.
R.I.P. cwhitman412, Frederick0220, & Mets2k9
http://twitter.com/doublestix
jesus...if crow can turn it around...
have you seen any news on arguelles?
Fire Everyone
by billybeingbilly on Mar 15, 2011 7:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Collins is so sick
it’s going to suck hearing ESPN announcers and Tim McCarver tell anecdotes about his size and what he’s overcome EVERY TIME he pitches though.
by OctaShields on Mar 16, 2011 12:24 AM EDT up reply actions
So true...
Saw a note that he’s slated to be the top lefty in the ’pen?
by blackoutyears on Mar 16, 2011 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Sweet
He deserves it from what I’ve read. I really enjoy watching Danny Ray Herrera pitch, and Collins is quite a bit better so he should be even more fun.
by blackoutyears on Mar 17, 2011 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Good news from Mets camp
Jenrry Mejia sent to minor league camp. New regime sticking to the starter development plan.
Cueto
lasted an inning in his first outing since the forearm tightness and reportedly headed to the doctor.
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
