The World Of Sports Viewed Through The Eyes Of A Yankees And Red Sox Fan

Sunday, July 31, 2011

MLB Trade Deadline Recap

By: Mike Wagenman

After weeks of MLB trade talk, the trading deadline has come and gone, and like every July 31st, nothing turns out as expected. Many players who were expected to be dealt, were not; ex. Heath Bell, Wandy Rodriguez, Hiroki Kuroda. But, some teams surprised the baseball world and made unexpected moves to improve their club or their farm system. The trading deadline always creates winners and losers, and this year was no different. Although moves can still be made via the waiver wire, this article will take a deeper look into the biggest winners at the deadline, plus trades that benefitted both parties. Note: I am not a huge proponent of making teams who acquired many prospects as “winners” because very few top prospects actually pan out into what they are expected to become. Please check out MLB.com's 2011 Trade Deadline Tracker for all of the trades that occurred in the past few days, as not all will be listed in this article.

WINNERS (in no specific order):

Pittsburgh Pirates – The Buccos did exactly what they needed to do at the deadline to go from a nice turnaround story, into a legitimate playoff contender. Their division foes (St. Louis and Milwaukee) made a few small moves to fill voids, prompting the Pirates to make two big moves. They acquired first baseman Derrek Lee from the Orioles, and although he is 35 years old and is only hitting .246 with 12 home runs, 41 RBI and a .302 OBP, he provides an experienced veteran presence in the young Pirates locker room. Lee has been in many playoff races with the Cubs, and won a World Series with the Marlins. His bat is also an upgrade over Lyle Overbay, who is hitting .228 and provides little protection or pop in the middle of the lineup. Next, the Pirates went out and snagged outfielder Ryan Ludwick from the Padres. He is another veteran presence to help in the locker room and in the middle of the lineup. One final note about these two players, they both have years of experience in the NL Central, and are familiar with NL Central pitching and playing style.

Texas Rangers – The Rangers addressed their only glaring hole before the deadline; their bullpen. They snagged two of the best relief pitchers on the market. First, they traded first baseman Chris Davis, who strikes out far too many times and did not really see much playing time behind Michael Young and Mitch Moreland in Texas, and starting pitcher Tommy Hunter to Baltimore for Koji Uehara. The righty has a 1.69 ERA and a 0.69 WHIP, and could become the closer if Neftali Feliz continues to sputter. Next, the Rangers sent prospects to San Diego for reliever Mike Adams. Adams, another righty, has a near spotless 1.13 ERA and averages 9.2 K/9. These two lethal arms in the Texas 'pen seem to be the lockdown pair the Rangers were looking for.

Philadelphia Phillies – The Phillies yet again tapped into their Texas pipeline for some stretch run reinforcements at the trading deadline. First Brad Lidge, then Roy Oswalt, and now Hunter Pence. The Astros shipped their All-Star right fielder to Philadelphia for four prospects, including the Phillies top two prospects. With Pence, the Phillies get a bat to protect Ryan Howard in the five-slot, and a hustle machine who can steal bases and play a hard-nosed right field. He is hitting .306 with 11 home runs and 63 RBI so far this season. Pence is a manager's dream because he gives maximum effort on every play, and for the Phillies, this filled a big void. They have the starting pitching, and maybe not the bullpen, but Lee and Halladay go deep into games. They have the left-handed power. They have speed. They have youth. And they have veteran experience. All they needed was a right handed bat, and they got one. Pence solves future problems in Philly as well, because Domonic Brown can slide back into left field once Raul Ibanez's time is up with the Phils, and Pence can stay in right field.

Cleveland Indians – I was a bit reluctant to put the Indians up here, but acquiring two former All-Stars is a win. They gave up some prospects, especially in their monster package to the Rockies, but they got back an ace to pitch along side Fausto Carmona and Justin Masterson. However, the acquisition of Ubaldo Jimenez does not help the fact that the Indians cannot hit. Sure, he does ensure that the other team probably won't score much, but the Indians needed a bat. Ubaldo is a solid starter, and in acquiring Kosuke Fukudome, the Tribe gets a solid outfielder and a decent bat as well. Once Shin-Soo Choo returns, these trades by Cleveland will begin to make more sense.

Detroit Tigers – This is one of my big sleeper winners. Who is David Pauley and who is Doug Fister? Young pitchers, that's who they are. Pauley will pitch out of the bullpen in Detroit, and everyone loves bullpen help. But the big acquisition here is Fister. He is a young talent who got absolutely no run support in Seattle (surprise, surprise), but pitched to a 3.33 ERA with 89 strikeouts. Fister is a Jered Weaver prototype because he steps right at the batter, but delivers from a strange side angle. He is quick to the plate, his stuff is great, and he is fearless. The Tigers desperately needed a pitcher behind Justin Verlander, and they got a good one for the future.

Atlanta Braves – The Braves addressed a big need at the deadline. They matched the Phillies and traded for a Houston outfielder. Atlanta received speed demon Michael Bourn, who is hitting .303 with 39 stolen bases. He will be an instant igniter at the top of the Braves lineup, and dramatically improves their playoff chances. Speed doesn't go into slumps, and with the power bats in Atlanta's lineup, Bourn may find himself scoring an unprecedented amount of runs.


SMALL, BUT HELPFUL DEALS:

Boston Red Sox – The Red Sox quitely snatched up lefty Erik Bedard from Seattle along with infielder Josh Fields. Although they shipped out prospects, none of them really fit into their future plans. Bedard will help fill holes in the rotation from injuries. More importantly, he was a Yankee killer in his last season in Baltimore, when he went 3-0 against the Bombers, and has pitched better in each start since his knee injury. The Red Sox also traded for Kansas City infielder Mike Aviles.

Arizona Diamondbacks – The D-Backs are quietly having a solid season. They traded for Jason Marquis to help Ian Kennedy in the rotation, giving them a better chance to push for a playoff spot. Marquis is always a solid pitcher, and had a 3.95 ERA in Washington this year. Arizona also acquired reliever Brad Zeigler from Oakland.

Toronto Blue Jays – Obviously wanting to get stronger so they can compete in the AL East, the Jays got the hard to coach, but extremely talented center fielder Colby Rasmus from St. Louis. Rasmus plays a great defensive center field, can hit for average and some power, and can steal bases. If he matures a bit, he can be a great player for the Jays.


EVEN TRADES:

New York Mets & San Francisco Giants – Earlier in the week, the Mets shipped off right fielder Carlos Beltran to the Giants and got young righty Zack Wheeler in return. The Giants get Beltran as basically a rental player, unless he wants to sign back in the offseason. In addition, he is a much needed switch hitting bat in the middle of the lineup, and his stats while playing in New York this year already are tops in San Francisco. Finally, the Giants do not have to pay Beltran much, because the Mets have to pay much of the rest of his contract for the season. He will be a key piece in the Giants trying to repeat as champions. Some experts say the Giants gave up too good of a pitching prospect in Zack Wheeler, but their pitching is young and talent as it is, and trading for hitting was necessary. As for the Mets, they opened the door for some of their young players to gain experience filling the right field void with Beltran gone. They knew he would not sign back with the team this offseason, so they wanted to get value for him. They succeeded as they got the 2009 6th overall pick, Zack Wheeler. He is only 21 years of age, and he throws in the mid to upper 90s with his fastball. A potential top of the rotation pitcher, Wheeler will spend the next couple of years in the Mets farm system trying to lower his walk total and mature.

Los Angeles Dodgers & St. Louis Cardinals – The Cardinals got a top of the lineup hitter from the Dodgers in Rafael Furcal. Furcal has playoff experience with the Braves and is the speedster the Cardinals needed to ignite to offense. He is also a solid fielder at the shortstop position. The Dodgers get a win from this trade as well, because they can promote top prospect Dee Gordon back to the majors. The young shortstop, and son of former relief pitcher Tom Gordon, spent 22 games in the big leagues already this season where he stole nine bases. Gordon is only going to improve, and the Dodgers effectively opened up a spot for him in their every day lineup.



Thursday, July 28, 2011

New Beasts of the East

By: Mike Wagenman

The consensus around the MLB over the past few years is that the American League East is the strongest division in baseball. And why not? They have had three different teams reach the World Series (Red Sox, Rays, Yankees), two different teams win the World Series (Red Sox, Yankees), and three different teams finish in first place (Red Sox, Rays, Yankees) since 2007. That is strong, hard-nosed, bitter inter-division competition. That competition has only been found in one place recently, the AL East. Granted, other divisions have had heated races, such as the AL Central competition between Detroit, Chicago, and Minnesota. But, it is nothing like the AL East, where the Yanks, Sox, and Rays always seem to be not only three of the best teams in their division or league, but in baseball as well.

However, it is beginning to seem like their may be a power shift in baseball approaching. The American League East may have some upcoming competition from another division on their side of the map for the title of strongest division in baseball, the National League East.

For the five teams in the NL East, the future is looking bright, and the sky is the limit. Obviously, the Philadelphia Phillies are the powerhouse, and do not seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. The Phils have won one of the last three World Series, 2 of the past 3 NL pennants, and all of the last 3 NL East Titles. With one of the best pitching staffs ever assembled, the Phillies are destined for greatness this season. Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee are two proven aces who are both in their prime, even though they are both over the age of 30. Cole Hamels has pitched like the ace that Philadelphia had hoped he would be, and he is still young and getting even better. The fact that Roy Oswalt is much less effective and much more banged up than he was in his Houston days opened the door for Vance Worley to step up, and he has pitched to a 7-1 record with a 2.02 ERA at the age of 23. That four-man rotation seems nearly unbeatable, and could be unbeatable for the next few years. Also, the Phillies top prospect Domonic Brown has become the full-time right fielder, and although some of the Phillies position players are a bit older, their farm system is surprisingly strong, so many players are prepared to step in. Incredible pitching, veteran leadership, and solid prospects will keep the Phillies in the hunt for the NL East title for years to come.

The Atlanta Braves are another NL East team that is producing right here and now. They, like the Phillies, have an incredible pitching staff. The Braves also have an advantage that most teams cannot seem to perfect; a lockdown bullpen. Closer Craig Kimbrel has already set the Braves rookie record in saves with 30 and made the NL All-Star squad, all at the age of 23. Eric O'Flaherty has a 0.92 ERA in 48.2 innings as a 26 year old, and fellow 26 year old Jonny Venters has a 1.30 ERA and an All-Star selection. The youth and effectiveness of the Braves bullpen, plus Cy Young candidate Jair Jurrjens and starter Tommy Hanson will keep the Braves in contention for the NL East crown for a long time to come. Also, rookie first baseman Freddie Freeman and second year right fielder Jason Heyward will help the league's best catcher in Brian McCann and power hitting second baseman Dan Uggla anchor the lineup for the future.

The New York Mets are often the laughingstock of baseball because of their high payroll and lack of success, but that is about to change. The Mets just unloaded Carlos Beltran to the Giants and got back their top pitching prospect Zack Wheeler, who, if he gets his control down pat, has the potential to be a true ace. His mid-to-upper 90s fastball got him drafted 6th overall out of high school in 2009 by the Giants, so he is still very young. The Mets already have young pitchers in the big leagues getting better by the start. Dillon Gee started this season winning his first seven decisions, plus Jonathon Niese and Mike Pelfrey have plus-stuff and big league experience. The Mets youngsters in the bullpen also bode well for them moving forward. Pedro Beato started his career with 18.2 consecutive scoreless innings, and flame throwing Bobby Parnell is the developing closer. Plus, Johan Santana is rehabbing and is a proven ace. The fact that the Mets position players usually get injured actually helps them in this scenario. In a year that they have little chance to make the playoffs, many young talents have emerged as staples in their lineup. Justin Turner came from nowhere and is now the second baseman of the future, Ruben Tejada defied his critics and proved that at the young age of 21, he is ready for the big stage, and Josh Thole, Lucas Duda, and Jason Pridie, although not putting up eye-popping stats, have been solid fill-ins and have collected valuable experience in the majors. They could become key role players in years to come for New York. Also, don't forget Fernando Martinez is still in the minors, and Ike Davis and David Wright will be healthy next season. Add all of that with Jose Reyes' electrifying play (if the Mets can keep him), and you have a force to be reckoned with in the National League.

The Florida Marlins are always exciting. They have tons and tons of young, talented players that light it up year after year. However, the fact that some high schools draw more fans than the Marlins often causes them to trade away their stars for prospects, because they cannot afford them. In 2012, this problem may be solved. The Marlins are moving into a new, beautiful, state-of-the-art stadium in Miami which is sure to draw much more fans than their current ballpark. This will generate revenue, and will allow the Marlins to re-sign and lock up their stars for the future. Mike Stanton, Logan Morrison, Hanley Ramirez, Gaby Sanchez; the list can go on and on. These players are middle-of-the-lineup caliber players who the Fish must keep around for the future. Think about it, Gary Sheffield, Miguel Cabrera, Dontrelle Willis, Derek Lee, Alex Gonzalez, Edgar Renteria, Dan Uggla, Ivan Rodriguez, Josh Beckett, A.J. Burnett, Carl Pavano, Andrew Miller, Brad Penny, Mike Lowell; that list can go on and on as well. Those are just some of the players that played for Florida in their prime or younger years that the team just could not hold on to because of financial reasons. The Marlins current pitching staff is young and effective, with Anibal Sanchez, Chris Volstad, and Ricky Nolasco as starters and Leo Nunez closing out games. If the Marlins can pay their players and keep them around, they may be able to win themselves a third World Championship.

The Washington Nationals, the usual bottomfeeders of the NL East, have an exciting future ahead of them. Ryan Zimmerman is the face of the franchise, and soon enough, he will have a supporting cast. Danny Espinosa and Ian Desmond are two young middle infielders who are producing at the big league level already. Couple that with the world's top prospect Bryce Harper, who is slated to arrive in the MLB sometime in 2012. Wil Ramos is a young, stud catcher who is learning from Pudge Rodriguez, and Jayson Werth will be the power bat in the middle of the lineup for the next seven years. Pitching has been a bit suspect, although reliever Tyler Clippard was an All-Star and closer Drew Storen is young and lethal. But, 2009 top pick Stephen Strasburg will be back to lead the rotation next year with his blazing heat and knee-buckling curveball. If Jason Marquis sticks around and John Lannan pitches to his ability, the Nationals may be a young team who will rapidly improve.



Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Pitt Stop in First Place

By: Mike Wagenman

Almost four months into the MLB season, there is an unfamiliar face atop the National League Central: the Pirates. That's right, the Pittsburgh Pirates, that is not a typo. At 50-44, the Bucs sit ½ game ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals and Milwaukee Brewers in the division. This is the latest date that the Pirates have been in first place since July 17th, 1997, 14 years ago. Can anyone even name five players on Pittsburgh's active roster? Didn't think so.

So, how are the Pirates reeling off win after win with a bunch of minor leaguers, young pitchers, and Andrew McCutchen? Confidence, says closer Joel Hanrahan. “We feel like we're not even playing that good yet, we just keep finding ways to win. We can even be better,” he said Sunday. Pittsburgh even had three All-Stars this year, as Hanrahan, starting pitcher Kevin Correia, and center fielder Andrew McCutchen were all given the call to play in Arizona. That marks the first time the team has had three All-Stars since 1990.

Nobody expected much of anything from the usual bottomfeeders of the league this year, and why should they have? The Pirates have not made the playoffs since 1992 and have not won a pennant or a World Series since 1979. And plus, at season's beginning, who was their “big money” player? The guy who was going put the team on his back when they were going through a rough time? The Pirates were lacking a player of that caliber; a CC Sabathia, Adrian Gonzalez, Albert Pujols, or Roy Halladay type player. And then, as if anyone gave the Buccos a chance to begin with, they have had nine players, including four opening day starters and last year's lone All-Star (reliever Evan Meek), land on the disabled list. Of their nine replacements for those who were injured, all of them began the 2011 season in the minor leagues, and seven of the nine have made their major league debut for Pittsburgh this season. But, they just keep on doing the little things and winning baseball games. Plus, Andrew McCutchen has stepped up to be their clutch player. Most of all, the pitching has been superb, which has kept Pittsburgh on top of the NL Central.

The Pirates rank eighth in the majors in pitching, with a 3.40 team ERA. They have been led by their young starters, who go deep into games and keep those games within reach for their offense. Their low ERA and high total of decisions is proof of that. Kevin Correia already has 11 wins, Jeff Karstens is 8-4 with a 2.34 ERA, and although Paul Maholm's record is a lowly 6-9, his 3.06 ERA is second lowest on the team among the five starters. Even no-named rookie's having winning records for Pittsburgh. James McDonald is 5-4 and Charlie Morton is 8-5 with a 3.62 ERA.

The bullpen has been spectacular this season as well. Rookie Chris Leroux has yet to give up a run in his 5 appearances, and Daniel McCutchen has a 2.23 ERA in 48.1 innings pitched. Tony Watson, Jose Veras, and Chris Resop all have an ERA under 3.50, including Watson's 2.40 ERA. Also, Joe Beimel has become the lefty specialist. This all leads up to the flame-throwing closer, Joel Hanrahan, who is 27/28 in save opportunities and sports a 1.27 ERA plus a 99 MPH heater. So far this year, it has been a tall task to string together a few runs against the Pirates.

Through the disastrous seasons over the past 19 years in Pittsburgh, through all the youth and inexperience, and through all the injuries, the Pirates find themselves contending for a playoff spot. And, for once, they are “buyers” instead of “sellers” at the trading deadline. Their top priority is to try to acquire a quality bat to help out Neil Walker and Andrew McCutchen in the middle of the lineup. If rookies such as shortstop Chase d'Arnaud, catcher Michael McKenry, and third baseman Josh Harrison can continue their consistent play, and Jose Tabata and the other injured players can work their way back into the lineup, the Pirates have a great chance to keep winning and even earn their first playoff birth in 19 years.

Joel Hanrahan

Monday, July 11, 2011

The Tales of 8 Sluggers

By: Corey Donetz and Mike Wagenman

With the All Star Break upon us, The writers of The Tales Of 2 Cities have decided to have a little fun and participate in our own version of the Home Run Derby. The Derby teams were picked by two team captains, so we decided to divide the 8 participants and have a draft of our own to see who could pick the best team. We did a fixed order draft, Mike Wagenman (Team Wags) receiving the first pick via coin toss, and Corey Donetz receiving the 2nd pick (Team Danyaz).

The way it will work is simple; we will simply add the total of the homeruns per player, and add them up. The team with the most homeruns gets the victory and wins bragging rights on the other. Following the All Star Game tomorrow (Tuesday), we will have a recap of All Star weekend. Below are

The Draft went as follows:


1st Round: Prince Fielder (Wags); David Ortiz (Danyaz)
2nd Round: Jose Bautista (Wags); Matt Kemp (Danyaz)
3rd Round: Robinson Cano (Wags); Adrian Gonzalez (Danyaz)
4th Round: Matt Holliday (Wags); Rickie Weeks (Danyaz)



1st Round Pick: Prince Fielder, 1B, Milwaukee Brewers (N.L. Captain)
With the first pick in the Home Run derby draft, I took the player who swings harder than almost anyone in the game today. The deciding factor between home run machines Jose Bautista and Prince Fielder at the first overall pick was the fact that Prince Fielder has Home Run Derby experience. Although Prince had just three dingers in 2007 leading to a first round exit, he took the Derby crown in 2009, blasting 23 bombs to defeat the Rangers' Nelson Cruz. His onslaught of not only power, but distance on his towering home run blasts has earned him the honor of being the National League captain in the new Home Run Derby format. Fielder will not have as much trouble as some other players might have hitting the ball out of Chase Field consistently, since he hits the ball so hard and far. He is a lock to put on a show and not disappoint. In just over six MLB seasons, Fielder already has 214 homers, including 50 in 2007. Prince has already unloaded 22 home runs this season as well, tied for fifth best in the majors. Fielder should be one of the main contenders to take home this year's title.

1st Round Pick: David Ortiz, DH, Boston Red Sox (A.L. Captain)
The only player to record over 300 homeruns as a designated hitter, Ortiz looks to defend his 2010 Homerun Derby crown in 2011. This will be Ortiz’s fifth appearance in the Derby, making him the most experienced participant. Ortiz also has the most MLB experience as well as most career homeruns out of the Derby pack. He has played very well in the first half of the 2011 season, leading the Red Sox with 19 long balls. The experience and well known ability to hit the ball out of the yard give Ortiz a great chance to repeat as champion, and is why I chose him with my first pick.



2nd Round Pick: Jose Bautista, RF/3B, Toronto Blue Jays (A.L.)
At the third overall pick, I was contemplating between one of two Red Sox: David Ortiz or Adrian Gonzalez. When Bautista fell into my lap, I had no choice but to pick him. Last year's regular season home run king, with 54, is off to another rapid start in 2011. He leads the major leagues with 31 home runs at the All-Star break, 6 more than his closest competitor, Curtis Granderson (25). Bautista is another hard swinger, something that is very high-risk, high-reward in a home run derby. It can generate much success in the first round or two, but come the end of round two or the final round, fatigue may start to set in. However, Bautista has become such a consistent and complete professional hitter that he should not have much problem with fatigue. “Joey Bats” has no home run derby experience, but has shown enough power over the last season and a half to give fans a reason to believe that he could contend for the title.

2nd Round Pick: Matt Kemp, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (N.L.)
Matt Kemp has arguably been the most consistent well-rounded player in the big leagues this season. Kemp leads the Dodgers in homeruns with 22, along with leading the team in batting average, runs scored, RBI, and stolen bases. Kemp uses his power all around the field, and in my opinion was the best right-handed power option available once Bautista was taken by my counterpart a pick earlier. This will be Kemp’s first appearance in the Derby, and he is also the best athlete in the Derby, so if he makes it into the later rounds, he will have more stamina than the other contestants. I believe Kemp is one of the favorites to make it to the finals.



3rd Round Pick: Robinson Cano, 2B, New York Yankees (A.L.)
With the fifth pick, I decided to take a bit of a chance on Cano. He has one of the sweetest swings since Ken Griffey Jr., but really is not a true power hitter. He is definitely capable of hitting his share of home runs (29 last season; 130 career), but he is more of a line drive hitter who can spray the ball anywhere between the white lines. With 15 home runs already this year, Cano certainly is not leaving fans scratching their heads as to why he was asked to participate. He was also asked to participate in 2009, but minor nagging injuries and the decision to not chance the Derby ruining his swing kept him out of the competition. At Chase Field, though, Cano may have a bit of a tough time getting enough air under the ball, seeing as it is a larger ballpark. His line drive style of hitting may not bode well for him in this competition, but if he gets rolling he will have a chance of advancing past round one. He is a wild card pick in this Derby, and a pick that ensures me two hitters from each side of the plate.

3rd Round Pick: Adrian Gonzalez, 1B, Boston Red Sox (A.L.)
Adrian Gonzalez has been the total package for Boston this season; he has hit the ball out of the park, driven runs in, hit for an outstanding average, and played Gold Glove caliber first base. However, when Gonzalez participated in the 2009 Homerun Derby he had 24 homeruns leading into the break with San Diego, but was eliminated after the first round after only hitting two homeruns in the first round of the Derby. Gonzalez is often regarded as a doubles hitter , which is probably why he fell to the 3rd round,
but the potential the left handed slugger brings to the table was too much to pass on. He has gone deep 17 times this season, and will look to avenge his disappointing performance in 2009. Also, by selecting Gonzalez I was guaranteed to finish with 2 batters from each side of the plate.



4th Round Pick: Matt Holliday, LF, St. Louis Cardinals (N.L.)
With my final selection, I had the choice between Holliday, and the Brewers' Rickie Weeks. Again, as was the case with my first pick, it came down to experience. Matt Holliday is participating in his third Derby, and this will be Weeks' first as a pro. Holliday finished in third place in 2007, followed by a fifth place finish in 2010. He has a very pure swing, which may not be made to blast baseballs out of Chase Field by the bunch, but is smooth enough to earn Holliday his share of longballs. With 14 home runs this season, and 194 for his career Holliday has shown a consistent ability to hit the ball out of the park. With the last pick, it could be much worse given the fields in past contests. Don't be surprised to see Holliday moving on to round two, although it may be a bit of a long shot.

4th Round Pick: Rickie Weeks, 2B, Milwaukee Brewers (N.L.)
Weeks was selected to the N.L. team by his teammate Prince Fielder. Weeks is one of the best power hitting second basemen in the game, and provides power from the right side of the plate. Weeks will be making his first appearance in the Homerun Derby, bringing his 17 homeruns this season with him. Although I didn’t really have a choice in the 4th round as Weeks was basically given to me, I believe Weeks could be a sleeper in the Derby, often being overlooked due to the other big name participants. If he can pull the ball consistently and drive it over the shortest part in Chase Field, the left field corner, he has a good chance to be crowned Home Run King.


Prince Fielder, after his 2009 Home Run Derby title.


David Ortiz, after winning the 2010 Home Run Derby



Friday, July 8, 2011

Angels' Top Fish Ascends To Majors



Mike Trout has officially been called up to the major leagues. Trout has dominated every level of the minor leagues, and will now get a shot to perform at the big league level.

The 19-year-old New Jersey native, who has spent the majority of 2011 in double-A, has skipped triple-A to replace the injured Peter Bourjos in the Angels' outfield. The 6’1’’ phenom hit .324 while hitting nine homeruns, 11 triples, 12 doubles, and stealing 28 bases in 75 games in double-A will get the starting nod in centerfield for the Angels tonight against the Seattle Mariners.

Trout was drafted 25th overall in the 2009 amateur draft, which was certainly a steal for Los Angeles. He is widely regarded as the top prospect in the minor leagues (some say Bryce Harper is), but most people wouldn’t have expected him to make it to the major’s so soon. Harper is just over a year younger then Trout, as Trout will turn 20 in 30 days, while Harper wont turn 19 until October.  Trout and Harper have similar playing styles since Harper made the switch to play in the outfield. Harper is believed to have a little more power, but Trout provides more range in the outfield, and is thought to be more matured as a player on and off the field.

At the young age of 19, Trout is the first teenager to reach the MLB level since Justin Upton of Arizona in 2007. It is unclear how much time Trout will get in the major leagues, with a lot of that depending on Bourjos’ health, but it is definitely good for him to get his feet wet. If Trout performs anywhere near as well as he did in the minors, it will be hard to send him back down regardless of Bourjos’ health. Los Angeles doesn’t exactly have youth around the outfield with Torii Hunter, Vernon Wells, and Bobby Abreu, so it’ll be interesting to see how the Angels front office handles Trout. There is only one thing that I know for sure, and that is that Trout can certainly play at a high level, and is certainly fun to watch. Stay tuned. 


Thursday, July 7, 2011

NFL Rookie Report

By: Mike Wagenman

As the first week of July comes to a close, and as the first scheduled day of NFL training camps approaches quickly, the football world has finally been told some exciting news: the owners and players are making rapid progress, and the NFL lockout may be lifted before the end of the week. With this news in place, teams and players will be scrambling harder than ever to get organized and incorporate new pieces into their offensive, defensive, and special teams systems. Rookies will be behind the eight ball most of all, due to the lack of communication with their new organizations. When the season kicks off in early September, which rookies will be on the field in prominent roles? Which rookies will have trouble adjusting to the harder, faster, and meaner NFL? And which rookies will thrive and earn themselves a permanent spot in the league? These are the top five NFL rookies that will have the most productive rookie campaigns in the 2011 NFL season (in descending order).

  1. Mark Ingram: RB New Orleans Saints (University of Alabama): This most likely was not the former Heisman Trophy Award winner that readers expected to make this list (Cam Newton). However, the former Crimson Tide halfback will surprise NFL fans in the coming season by showing flashes of the Mark Ingram that won a Heisman and a National Title with Alabama in 2009. Coming into the NFL, Ingram's main comparison wasn't to another NFL star; it was to a bowling ball. This is because Ingram is so adept at staying low to the ground (he'll hear a lot of “lower man wins” at practice) and running over and through oncoming tacklers. The key reason why Ingram makes this list at number five is not just because of his overload of broken tackles; it is because of his new team's offense. The Saints offense, led by quarterback Drew Brees, is wide open and scores a ton of points. The threat of pass is always on the opposing defense's mind, resulting in running room for Saint running backs. And, although Reggie Bush, Chris Ivory, and Pierre Thomas are all still under contract, Ingram may in fact become the feature back, and rack up huge numbers.

  1. Von Miller: LB Denver Broncos (Texas A&M University): Most would expect the second overall selection in the draft to be ranked a bit higher than four on the biggest impact list. Even I, myself, ranked Miller as the second best talent coming into the draft (behind Patrick Peterson). But, this isn't a list of the most talented rookies, it has to deal with who will perform the best on the field this season. The only reason why Miller isn't higher on this list is the Denver Broncos team defense. It was ranked dead last in 2010 in total defense (allowing 390 yards per game), and although they welcome back sack-machine Elvis Dumervil from injury, they still have some areas of concern. However, Miller is such a freakishly athletic player at the linebacker position, that he will still succeed even on a sub-par defense where most of the blocking attention is focused on him. Miller is a good pass defender, a top pass rusher, and a plus run defender, and with double teams on him on almost every play, Miller's already incredible ability to shed and avoid blocks will only improve. The Butkus Award recipient as the nation's top linebacker of a year ago should have little problem adjusting to the NFL.

  1. Patrick Peterson: CB Arizona Cardinals (LSU): Many experts and myself had Peterson ranked as the best overall player going into the 2011 Draft. He is joining the 29th ranked defense from a year ago in Arizona, but in 2011, their pass defense should drastically improve. Number one cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie did a stellar job in 2010, but had little help from other defensive backs. Peterson is the help DRC needed. Both players are six feet tall and over 220 pounds, very oversized for cornerbacks. However, these two can run and cover just as well, if not better, than the smaller guys. Peterson helps Rodgers-Cromartie shut down not only the quick, speedy receivers, but the taller ones who can jump out of the gym as well. Peterson has some of the best cover skills and ball recognition ability of any rookie cornerback in the past five years, and he is not afraid to hit the ball carrier. His incredible hands had Les Miles and LSU questioning if he could be a three-way player at LSU and play slot receiver. That's right, three way. Peterson's incredible ability to return kicks and punts gives him the edge at number three on this list. At a moment's notice, he can stop on a dime and accelerate as well as Deion Sanders used to do, and bring it to the endzone. Peterson's four interceptions and two punt return touchdowns last season at LSU will have opponents very wary of his whereabouts between the lines.

  1. Nick Fairley: DT Detroit Lions (Auburn University): At one point during the offseason, Nick Fairley was a lock to be taken first overall by the Carolina Panthers. But then, allegations of him being a dirty player surfaced, and Marcell Dareus of Alabama (another defensive tackle) recorded better times at the NFL Combine. Fairley's work ethic was then questioned, and the former assumed top pick slipped on many expert's draft boards. He fell into the perfect situation at number 13, when the Detroit Lions snagged him and inserted him into one of the league's most ferocious defensive lines. Fairley's raw ability, plus the opportunity to learn how to play on the defensive line in the NFL alongside Kyle Vanden Bosch and Defensive Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowler Ndamukong Suh lands him in the second spot on this list. Fairley has the hunger to push right through offensive linemen on his way to the quarterback or ball carrier, and with Suh and Vanden Bosch also on the line, opponents will not have the opportunity to double team him. This will make it rather easy for a player of Fairley's stature and quickness (6'4” 291 lbs., 4.84 40-yard dash) to get into the backfield. And, when he gets there, he will not be denied. Fairley wrapped up opponents left and right while playing in the SEC, and very, very few got away from his monstrous grip (five tackles, three for a loss, one sack, and a forced fumble in the National Championship Game vs. Oregon). The Lions d-line is a force to be reckoned with come 2011.

  1. Julio Jones: WR Atlanta Falcons (University of Alabama): Another former Crimson Tide makes the top five list, as Julio Jones lands at number one of players who will make the biggest splash in 2011. Julio Jones and A.J. Green were stride for stride in the running for best wide receiver in the 2011 Draft. It was only fitting that Green and Jones were separated by two picks (four and six respectively) in the Draft. Jones makes this list and Green does not for one reason, and it is the same reason that some of the other talents made this list: supporting cast. The Atlanta Falcons had a potent offense (fifth in the NFL in points per game) and finished the regular season atop the NFC at 13-3. With young stud quarterback Matt Ryan at the helm, the Falcons will only continue to improve. Now add one of college football's top two wideouts to play alongside Michael Turner, Roddy White, Michael Jenkins, and Tony Gonzalez. What do you have? Potency. Jones was exactly what the Falcons were missing last season. They had a good defense. They recorded a ton of takeaways. They had a stellar special teams unit. And they scored a ton of points with a star quarterback. All they were missing was a big-time wide receiver to play alongside All-Pro Roddy White so Michael Jenkins could move back to the slot. Julio Jones is that big-time wide out. He can run like the wind (4.39 40-yard dash) and can jump to the ceiling of the Georgia Dome (38 ½ in. vertical). His hands were a bit suspect at times, but he was the best in the nation at making the spectacular diving or leaping catch. With Matt Ryan delivering balls right to his chest, hands shouldn't be too much of a problem. Jones will require safety help on almost every play, but so will Gonzalez and White. This will leave the field wide open for Jones and his teammates, so be prepared for him to put up huge numbers. When he gets behind the corner, it's all but over for the defense. Do not be surprised to see Jones in Hawai'i for the Pro Bowl in 2011.


Wednesday, July 6, 2011

MLB Surprises


Top 5 surprises of the 1st half of the MLB Season


5: Jose Reyes; .354 AVG (1st) , 124 hits (1st), 22 doubles, 15 triples (1st), 32 RBI, 30 stolen bases (2nd).

Reyes couldn’t have picked a better time to have an MVP type season. In a contract year, Reyes leads the Major Leagues in batting average, triples, and hits, while ranking second in stolen bases and third in runs scored. Reyes has led the Mets to an above .500 record, and is widely regarded as the best/most exciting player in the league this year. Good play from Reyes isn’t a surprise, but not many could’ve predicted these types of numbers from Reyes.


4: Josh Beckett; 7-3, 106 IP, 2.12 ERA (2nd), 0.906 WHIP (2nd), 91 K’s.

If I were to tell you Beckett would have the 2nd best ERA on his own team before the season started, you probably wouldn’t have believed me, let alone have the 2nd best ERA in the American League. Beckett has allowed just 5.5 hits per nine, which ranks best in the American League.  He has been the constant for the shaky Boston rotation so far. Beckett’s play has kept the Red Sox within striking distance of the New York Yankees for 1st place in the A.L. East, and to lead the Wild Card race. He was named to the 2011 All-Star team for his play. Beckett has relied heavily on his 2-seam fastball, which has been a key to the strikeout totals, and limiting base runners, allowing less than one per inning (0.906 WHIP). Staying healthy will be key for Beckett as the season continues following the all-star break.


3: Freddy Garcia/Bartolo Colon;

Garcia: 7-6, 92 IP, 3.13 ERA, 1.271 WHIP, 57 K’s.
Colon: 6-3, 84.1 IP, 2.88 ERA, 1.055 WHIP, 78 K’s.

Coming into the season one of the biggest question marks for the New York Yankees was the back end of their rotation. Colon and Garcia have combined to go 13-9, with more consistency than anyone could’ve imagined. The two pitchers have found the fountain of youth and have given the Yankees a solidified rotation behind ace C.C. Sabathia leading them to a first place record. Aside from a short D.L stint from Colon, the two have stayed healthy for the most part, which is another added surprise to Yankees fans. If Colon and Garcia can keep this up, along with stellar play the Yankees have gotten around the diamond, a 1st place finish seems pretty evident for New York.


2: Cleveland Indians; 1st Place, 45-39, 25-15 (Home), 20-24 (Road).

The Tribe has led the A.L. Central for essentially the entire season thus far, and has succeeded greatly and appears to be a playoff contender during a time when many thought the team would be rebuilding. Cleveland’s offense is anchored by shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera, and the resurgence of DH Travis Hafner. Cabrera is hitting .292 and leads the team with 14 homeruns, 49 RBI, 100 hits, 22 doubles, three triples, and 12 stolen bases. The MVP caliber season led to Cabrera being named to the A.L All-Star team. Cleveland’s bullpen has been a pleasant surprise as well; led by closer Chris Perez who is 20 for 21 in save opportunities posting an impressive 2.30 ERA. Josh Tomlin leads the tribe with ten wins, while Justin Masterson has a 2.85 ERA, going 6-6 through season’s 1st half. Cleveland has a slim lead over Detroit in the A.L Central, it will be interesting to see if they can keep it up after the all-star break and close out the division as the season winds down.


1: Pittsburgh Pirates; 2nd Place, 45-41, 21-20 (Home), 24-21 (Road).

The Pirates are led by a plethora of young talent, with the spotlight on centerfielder Andrew McCutchen. McCutchen has a .291 average, 12 homeruns, 46 RBI, and 15 stolen bases. He leads the team in average, homeruns, runs scored, stolen bases, and is second in RBI. Perhaps the biggest surprise within the Pirates has been their pitching as a whole. All-Star closer Joel Hanrahan has gone 25 for 25 in save opportunities, posting an incredible 0.93 ERA. Jeff Karstens has gone 7-4 with a 2.55 ERA, while Kevin Correia and Charlie Morton have won 11 and 7 games, respectively. Pittsburgh is 45-41, just 1.5 games behind the Cardinals for 1st place. It’s been quite some time since the Pirates were relevant, and with the N.L Central still wide open, they have a chance at winning the division if their young players can keep winning. The second half story for the Pirates will be if their pitching can remain as consistent as it was in the first half of the season.


Tuesday, July 5, 2011

The Last Star To Align

By: Mike Wagenman

After three months of baseball and players making names for themselves, the American League and National League All-Star squads have finally been set. Just as is the case before every Mid-Summer Classic, there are certain players who were snubbed of an All-Star selection. But for 10 of those snubs, a new opportunity has arisen. The All-Star Final Vote Ballot presented by Sprint gives fans and fans alone the chance to name the final member of both the American and National League teams. Five worthy finalists from each league have been named, and now it is time for us, the fans, to again make ourselves heard. The Final Vote is one of the hardest choices to make as far as the All-Star teams are concerned because all of the Final Vote participants are so statistically similar. Here is a thorough breakdown of all 10 Final Vote players, so you the fans have an easier time voting.

AMERICAN LEAGUE:

Alex Gordon, LF Kansas City Royals: .298 AVG | 10 HR | 46 RBI | .367 OBP
It's about time Gordon has been considered for a spot on the All-Star team. The one time Baseball America Top Prospect has had a rough start to his career, hitting only .256 in his first four years. However, the third basemen turned outfielder has finally come into his own and has played as many had expected him to when he first donned a Royals uniform back in 2007. As a near .300 hitter this year, Gordon has shown the ability to hit for average, and glimpses of a power stroke. His 98 hits are good for 7th in the AL, and his 24 doubles tie him for 3rd. He has also legged out four triples, just three behind league leader Curtis Granderson (7).

Adam Jones: CF Baltimore Orioles: .283 AVG | 13 HR | 46 RBI | .325 OBP
After a bit of a down year in 2010, the 2009 AL All-Star is back to his strong hitting ways in 2011. However, with every major statistic lower than or equal to Alex Gordon's (aside from three more home runs and just one more stolen base), Jones may have a tough time earning enough votes to make the AL team. He is a great defensive outfielder with speed, and that may provide a bit of incentive for voters who are fans of World Series contending teams, looking for the right mix of players to earn home field advantage in the World Series.

Paul Konerko: 1B Chicago White Sox: .319 AVG | 21 HR | 62 RBI | .390 OBP
Konerko is possibly the biggest All-Star snub in the majors this season. With nearly a .320 batting average, over 20 home runs, and over 60 runs batted in before the break, Konerko seemed like a sure lock to make the squad. However, fans overlooked the always consistent Chicago first baseman. He ranks 8th in the AL in hits (97), and 4th in home runs, RBI, batting average, and slugging percentage. That impressive resume looks not only All-Star worthy, but maybe MVP race worthy if the White Sox can hang around in the AL Central race.

Victor Martinez: DH Detroit Tigers: .328 AVG | 6 HR | 46 RBI | .375 OBP
Martinez has settled in nicely in his new home of Detroit. He has only struck out 27 times this year, and his .328 batting average ranks third in the AL, one point behind second place. The versatile Martinez DH as well as play 1B and C. Although the power numbers are not there, Martinez works counts and does the little things that do not show up in the box score.

Ben Zobrist: 2B Tampa Bay Rays: .256 AVG | 9 HR | 40 RBI | .342 OBP
Another versatile player, Ben Zobrist who can play all over the diamond, finds himself on the final ballot again. However, with his stats being, for the most part, the lowest of the five finalists, Zobrist does not seem to have much of a chance of earning the final spot. One thing that Zobrist has going for him, besides his versatility, is his 27 doubles, one behind the American League leader, Adrian Gonzalez.

WINNER: Paul Konerko – With Konerko leading nearly every major stat category, he is the clear favorite to earn a well deserved final spot on the AL All-Star team.

2nd – Alex Gordon
3rd – Victor Martinez
4th – Adam Jones
5th – Ben Zobrist

NATIONAL LEAGUE:

Andre Ethier: RF Los Angeles Dodgers: .317 AVG | 7 HR | 41 RBI | .385 OBP
Ethier sported a 30-game hitting streak earlier this season, and has always been a great hitter for average. His 23 doubles rank just one behind NL leaders Carlos Beltran, Chris Young, and Hunter Pence (tied with 24). Furthermore, his 99 hits leave him at 5th in the National League. With a solid stat line, and a plus defensive glove in the outfield, Ethier could see some love from the voters.

Todd Helton: 1B Colorado Rockies: .319 AVG | 9 HR | 39 RBI | .392 OBP
The ageless wonder and always consistent Todd Helton makes another run at the All-Star team. The 5-time All-Star is putting up stellar numbers yet again in 2011, including the National League's 6th highest batting average, and 8th best on base percentage. He may not have the gaudy power numbers of other All- Stars, but Helton's stat line speaks for itself.

Ian Kennedy: RHP Arizona Diamondbacks: 8-3 | 3.38 ERA | 103 K | 1.14 WHIP
Kennedy is a bit of a curveball on the NL Ballot (gotta love baseball puns) as the only pitcher. His 122.1 innings pitched ranks 5th in the NL, and he has only given up 107 hits. He has a complete game shutout this season, and has the 12th best WHIP in the NL. A once highly considered pitching prospect for the Yankees, many thought this success would come sooner. Nevertheless, Kennedy is a strong candidate for an extra arm in the NL 'pen.

Michael Morse: 1B Washington Nationals: .299 AVG | 15 HR | 46 RBI | .349 OBP
Morse is one of the big boppers in the middle of a surprisingly successful Nationals lineup. He can hit the ball a long way, recording a few blasts that landed over 450 feet away. His stats are very good, but may not be flashy enough to earn more votes than his other competitors. However, if NL fans want a power bat off the bench to pinch hit in a key spot, look no further than Michael Morse.

Shane Victorino: CF Philadelphia Phillies: .303 AVG | 9 HR | 34 RBI | .376 OBP
The Phlyin' Hawaiian is at it again in the City of Brotherly Love. Victorino is familiar with the Final Vote Ballot, as he won in back in 2009 and became an All-Star. Like the other NL participants, Victorino does not boast gaudy numbers, just very consistent and very productive numbers like always. He has 13 stolen bases so far this year, and his 9 triples rank 2nd in the NL, behind Superman Jose Reyes.

WINNER: Todd Helton – Although it would be nice to pick Ian Kennedy, his numbers just do not rank high enough among the league leaders, and although an 8-3 record looks good, wins and loss stats for pitchers have become less important. And although Phillies fans usually make their voices heard louder than anyone in these votes (hoping to send Victorino), Helton deserves one last shot at being an All-Star. He is defying age and hitting .319, keeping the Rockies lineup stable. His numbers are good enough, and just a tad better than his competitors.

2nd – Andre Ethier
3rd – Ian Kennedy
4th – Michael Morse
5th – Shane Victorino

REMINDER: VOTE ON MLB.COM OR ON ANY MLB TEAM SITE! VOTING ENDS 3 PM THURSDAY!


My winners, Todd Helton (left) and Paul Konerko back in their Minor League Days