Dexter Sports- Can you read the pitch

The Best of 2008

2008-12-31T23:06:00.002-05:00

-Dexter Sports
11:07 PM
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Its been a long while since we have updated, but on this long New Year's eve, I have a feeling of accomplishment for 2008. Let's take a look at the best from the year that is soon to be behind us.

Dexter-Sports Draft Coverage- I had a blast doing this. It is really the first time I got so involved in a draft for major league baseball. I have to say my predictions were not too far off.

In april, I interviewed Tim Dierkes of www.mlbtraderumors.com.

I have to say, our Pick up of the week during the 2008 season was pretty darn successful.

Our Tuesday Prosect Profile took a look at a lot of up and coming stars.

Overall, I just want to thank everyone for stopping by and enjoying my work. In the new year, I hope to get back on track with this Blog. Remember though, You can catch my content at:

www.scoutingthesports.com

www.fantasycpr.com

www.sidelionreport.com

www.motorcitybengals.com

A New Generation of Pitching

2008-12-04T09:35:00.000-05:00

9:35 AM

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At 44, Randy Johnson is five wins away from that special plateau that all pitchers dream of getting to. The lefty, who is currently searching for the right home, will probably be the last pitcher to reach 300 wins for a very long time. 2009 starts the era of a new generation of pitching, led by the likes of Johan Santana, Scott Kazmir, Brandon Webb, Tim Lincecum and CC Sabathia. Do any of the listed above really have a shot at three hundred wins? Lets take a closer look.

Johan Santana- at age 29, Santana already has put together an impressive 109-59 record. Since 2004, the Mets ace hasn't won less than 15 games. So lets assume he is able to put together at least 15 wins for the next four seasons. That puts him roughly at 169 games won at the age of 33. At 33, it is possible that Santana's ability deterioates. Let us say he wins ten games a year, without any barring injuries for another six years. At 39, Santana would have 229 wins. I think it is safe to say that I am being pretty skimpy here. Say Santana averages 14 wins throughout those later six years, he would be over the 250 mark. So though it seems highly possible for Johan to reach the 300 plateau, it seems that the numbers are more against him. Surprisingly though, he has the best chance of the established young starters in the league

Brandon Webb- At the same age as Santana, Webb only has 89 wins in his young career. A late bloomer, it seems nearly impossible for 300. Ten years of averaging 20 wins wouldn't even bloster him over the 300 mark.

CC Sabathia- At 27, Sabathia has already accumulated more wins (117) that Santana, at near the same rate. Though Sabathia is younger, he armed has been taxed more than the mets lefty. Sabathia has already thrown 26 complete games in 1659 innings pitched. Santana on the other hand, has only gone the distance 9 times in 1543 innings pitched. So if Sabathia's arm doesn't fall off by the age of 39, then he could be in the hunt for 300. It will be really tough though.

Scott Kazmir- Some believe that this kid has the best chance of making it to 300, but at the ripe age of 25 (age going into next season) anything is a possibility. Sitting at 47 wins, It will take a big jump to get the lefty a push in the right direction. Let's say he gets a 20 win season, an 18 game season, and averages 14 a year for the next ten seasons. At 35, again, barring no injury, Kazmir would be at a solid 224 wins. If he pitches until he is forty years old, and averages 10 wins a season, that would put him at 274. If he were to average 14 wins those last five seasons, he would be at 294. To me, it seems that Kazmir does have one of the best chances to get to the 300 win plateau.

Tim Lincecum- Despite all of the hype and success that Lincecum has, the odds are stacked up against him. His delivery is one that could cause injury in the future. His small frame is also an issue that could cause breakdown going into his career. At the same age as Kazmir, Linceum has only totaled 25 wins. Granted, it has only been two seasons, and his win rate seems to be a solid fixture, I don't think Lincecum can put that solid run together, especially with the stagnant offense in San Fransisco. The one and only Bill James projects 17 wins next season.

Andy Pettite- At 36, Pettite is still 85 wins away from the 300 club. Is it doable? You betcha! If his arm can last until the age of 42, and he averages 14 wins from now until then, he would be at 84 wins. The only question is if. I think that 14 wins is a safe total. He hasn't been below 14 in a full season since 2002.

Movin' On a Bit: Don't worry we are still here

2008-11-26T12:40:00.002-05:00

-Dexter Sports
12:41 PM
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Hey Y'all. I know I haven't updated in a while, and there is a good reason for it. Throughout the years, if you haven't noticed, my true passion in baseball is the Detroit Tigers. Of Course, I still love the prospects, story lines and other things that happen during the MLB Season. So, from now on, Dexter-Sports will not be updated as much as before. I will be spending a lot of time at my new Tigers Blog, Motor City Bengals. So come on over and check it out, I think you will enjoy it.

For now, I will still post special essays, Fantasy Sports news and other analysis pieces on this blog. I hope you enjoy the upcoming Tigers news on Motor City Bengals, and don't worry, I will still be analyzing the complete game I love right here.

AL Central Pitching Analysis

2008-11-20T14:45:00.006-05:00

-Dexter Sports
2:46 PM
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A long time ago, when the 2008 season was young, I made a bold and completely dumb prediction. For some reason, I felt the Royals would have the best pitching in the AL Central. I was convinced that a staff that included Zack Grienke, Brian Bannister and Gil Meche would be enough, because of the strong bullpen arms. on the staff. In the original post though, I stated that they would at least be better than Cleveland and Detroit and I wasn't far off. Let's break down the AL Central pitching numbers for 2008.

Pitching Total Stats:

IP Relief IP ER HR TBB SO CG ShO SV/Opp.

Minnesota 1459 485 675 183 406 995 5 10 42/65

Chicago 1457.2 463 658 156 489 1147 4 10 34/52

Cleveland 1437 399 711 170 444 986 10 13 31/51

Kansas City 1445.2 439 720 159 515 1085 2 8 44/60

Detroit 1445 440 786 172 644 991 1 2 34/62

So what information do we gather from this compilaton? Here are a few things to note on successes and failures.

1.) Walks and Close Games slay the Tigers-
The Tigers were 16-25 in one run games, and that makes sense. They had the most walked batters in the Central, and the third most in the American League. They only converted 58% of their save opportunities. It only makes sense for a complete rebuild of this bullpen after their failures in 2008. A lot of it had to do with the injury of Todd Jones (18/21). Fernando Rodney did a decent job of holding runners in his absence, closing 13 of nineteen games successfully. But the major issue seemed to be holding leads. Kyle Farnsworth did seem to be a solid acquisition, leading the team in holds with 14 after his trade. To their bullpen's credit, they did inherit a lot of runners, because the staff couldn't stay healthy, or go long into ballgames. The Tigers only had two shutouts and one complete game this season. This makes it clear that a closer will be need, along with other help in the bullpen. Tom Knapp will have to emphasize cutting out the walks, and I wouldn't be surprised to see an innings eater added to the staff. Nate Robertson, who was expected to put up pretty good numbers, gave up the most earned runs in the league. Justin Verlander, who was expected to put up his first twenty win season, led the leagues in losses with 17. Dontrelle Willis, who once had 5 shutouts in a season, had a hard time even shutting down one hitter at a time. He had more walks than innings pitched.

What happened in Cleveland?- Cleveland's pitching performance last year, is one of the strangest that I have ever witnessed. The staff struggled mightly in the first half of the season(41-53). The Indians couldn't find a consistent closer. C.C. Sabathia started off slowly. Joe Borowski was finally let go, and then the combination of Rafael Betancourt and Masa Kobayashi failed to close out close ball games consistently (10/17 combined). But Jenson Lewis stepped up in the second half, closing out 13/14 ballgames. Rafael Perez did a good job getting the ball to the closer, by holding 25 ballgames (4th in baseball). Beyond the performances of Cliff Lee and CC Sabathia, the pitching staff was rather suspect. Paul Byrd gave up 23 dingers in 22 starts with Cleveland. Aaron Laffey and Jeremy Sower were also a bit upsetting in 2008. Many wonder if Jenson Lewis will maintain the job in 2009. I think he should get a shot. But his lack of experience will be hard to allow that. Expect a free agent veteran to come in.

Kansas City isn't that far off- It is clear now that the Royals have a formidable rotation. Sure, they didn't lead the Central like I expected, but they put together a pretty good show. Zack Grienke eclipsed ten wins and two-hundred wins for the first time in his young career. he struck out one hundred and eighty three hitters. Teammate Gil Meche also had 183 strikeouts and added 14 wins. He he also started 34 games and led the league in games started for the second straight season. Third Starter Brian Bannister struggled though, giving up the most amount of runs in the league. He went 9-16 with a 5.76 ERA. Horacio Ramirez was a slight surprise in the pen, going 24 innings and only giving up 7 earned runs. Ramon Ramirez was a big part of the Royal pitching staff, getting in 71 games and holding 21 of them. He struck out nearly a hitter an inning while holding his walks down. Joakim Soria was lights out, shuting down 42/45 save opportunities. He struck out more than one an appearance. He is molding into a top tier closer.

End of an Era- Thanks Mr. Knuckle Curve

2008-11-19T17:53:00.003-05:00

-Dexter Sports
5:53 PM
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As much as I hate to say it, Mike Mussina has decided to hang up the cleats for good, according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.com.

Usually player retirements don't get to me at all. They are part of the baseball process. But in some sorts, this one is more personal.

One of the first pitchers I ever laid my eyes on was the Moose, when he was with Baltimore in the early to mid 90's. I fell in love with his work ethic and approach on the mound. I fell in love with the knuckle-curve. Mussina has never won the big game, and in his eighteen seasons, he only tallied twenty wins once (this season). But since 1992, he has been a staple, winning at least 11 games per season since that point. The five time all-star can now ride into the sunset. And though he didnt tally 300 wins, or win that world series title, He will be considered for the hall of fame.

Other Notes:

-Kansas City, get out the milk! The Royals acquired speedy outfielder Coco Crisp for reliever Ramon Ramirez. Despite all the talk of not liking this deal, I think it improves the RBI chances of Mike Jacobs and Jose Guillen dramatically. Crisp's on base perctange was .344 in 118 games last season. Crisp also adds a dimension of speed that the Royals haven't been able to use in a long time (Joey Gathright excluded). I commend Dayton Moore for selling high on a reliever. If Mike Aviles wasn't a fluke, and their pitching holds up, they could be contenders.

-Chuck Hernandez was hired to be the Indians bullpen coach next season. The Tigers fired him after filling as the pitching coach since 2006. This continues the swirl of AL Central coaches changing uniforms. The Tigers hired former twin pitching instructor Tom Knapp this off-season.

-C.C. Sabathia could recieve an offer from the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Deal would be six years and fall somewhere between 100 and 150 million dollars. Sabathia would like to stay in southern California and the National League. Go get 'em Dodgers!

Off-Season Outlook: Oakland Athletics

2008-11-19T17:08:00.000-05:00

-Dexter Sports
5:00 PM
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It started off with a bang when Billy Beane sent top prospect Carlos Gonzalez, reliever/closer Houston Street and pitcher Greg Smith to the Rockies for slugger Matt Holliday. It was a deal that shocked most. Yet, it was one that was brilliant. The A's picked up someone with true power potential, without giving up top prospect pitchers Brett Anderson or Trever Cahill. Street will be replaced by Mr. shut down, Brad Ziegler. Undoubtedly though, relief help will be needed. Alan Embree and Keith Fulke will both be free agents. The loss of Mike Sweeney, Frank Thomas, Emil Brown and Carlos Gonzalez, also leaves gaping holes in the outfield and at the designated hitter position. But the biggest hole is at the shortstop position. And if it isnt addressed, the A's could have a hard time producing runs, even with Matt Holliday. The pitching staff is close to competing, much like the cross-bay San Fransisco (We will take a look at their outlook tomorrow). This offseason reminds me a lot of the 2005 winter months, when Beane together something special for the 2006 season, which led to an ALCS for the first time in the Beane Era. Let's take a closer look.

Starting Pitching-

Projected Starting Rotation:

1. Justin Duchscherer
2. Dana Eveland
3. Sean Gallagher
4. Josh Outman
5. Gio Gonzalez/Brett Anderson/Trevor Cahill/Insert Free Agent vet here.

Minus Joe Blanton, Greg Smith, and Rich Harden for the 2009 season, but this staff still looks tough. Though Sean Gallagher didn't have spectacular numbers in 2008, but one thing to note is his adjustment since coming to Oakland. At home last season, he was 5-0 with a 3.41 ERA and a .224 batting average against. There isn't a doubt that veteran leadership is needed in Oakland. How about someone like Kenny Rogers? I wouldn't be surprised to see him travel to a warmer climate in 2009. Oakland seems like a good fit.

Relief Pitching-

CL: Brad Ziegler
SR: Josh Outman
LH: Joey Devine
SR: Andrew Brown
SR: Santiago Casilla

The bullpen returns some key starters for 2009, but losing Houston Street could hurt this squad. It seems that one of the top needs for this squad is a set-up type reliever. Is Trevor Hoffman a possibily? I don't see that really happening, but someone under the radar. How about a guy like Will Ohman? He is a lefty, but could fill Alan Embree's spot in the bullpen. I wouldn't be surprised though if Billy Beane didnt sign anybody. Most of his relievers are found from the system and have instant success.

Starting Lineup-

Projected Starting Lineup:

1. Rafael Furcal, SS
2.Ryan Sweeney, CF
3. Jason Giambi, DH
4. Matt Holliday, RF
5.Eric Chavez, 3B
6.Matt Murton, LF
7.Daric Barton, 1B
8.Mark Ellis, 2B
9. Kurt Suzuki, C
---------------------
Obviously, I'm making some assumptions here, but I really think these two free agents are heading to the bay. It is certain, that if Furcal isn't signed, the A's will be looking for a true leadoff hitter. Ryan Sweeney and Mark Ellis could fill in, but are not top notch lead off men. The A's will look for a cheap spark as well on offense. Jason Giambi has been the name that has spread. Murton only played in 9 games for the Athletic's, but I anticipate him making the squad out of spring training. Especially if noone is brought in out of the free agent market. Expect Beane to go after a cheap outfielder. Juan Rivera sounds like a good git.

---------------------
'08 Review and 09 Keys to Success.

Though 2008 was declared a "rebuilding year," The Athletics started hot, going 51-44 before the All-Star Break. After the break was a different story. The A's struggled to get wins, going 27-41 to round out the season. One of the big weaknessess of the '08 squad, believe it or not, was their lack of ability to get on base. The A's put together a the lowest season average for any team in Major League Baseball (.242) and had one of the lowest on base percentages (.318) in baseball.

The strong point was pitching, which held hitters to an astonsihing .253 average. A lot of the success can be credited to an unexpected bullpen. Add in the mix that many starters had early success, though unexpected (see Dana Eveland). The defense didnt really help pitchers either. Ninety-Eight errors on the season is right in the middle of the pack.

Keys to Success in '09-

Use McAffee Coliseum as an advantage. In 2008, the Athletics hit only .243 at home. Adding Matt Holliday should increase most offensive numbers, but the offense needs to start using the gaps. The Coliseum is without a question, a pitchers park. So putting up runs at home will be a key factor. More power to left will also be key. left handed Athletics only hit .236 at McAffee last season.

The Eric Chavez Factor- Can he come back healthy after season ending shoulder surgery? If so, will he put up the numbers needed. Chavez hasn't hit above .250 since 2004. Beyond the homer, Chavez's power numbers are almost non-existent. I believe that shutting him down early could have a positive effect in 2009. The key is staying healthy and getting a hot start. We will see what happens.

Address the top three needs- How do they do this? The first priority has to be the Shortstop position. Bobby Crosby had an oblivial .296 OBP last season in 1465 games. That offensive production won't get it done. Of course, I believe that Rafael Furcal is the perfect fit, but there are others available. Orlando Cabrera has been known to like the one year deal and he could be useful until Adrian Cardenas is ready for everyday play. David Eckstein could aslo spark interest, because of his .354 OBP last season, to tally a career .351 OBP. Secondly, a veteran outfielder or first baseman needs to be brought in. Someone that can spark interest and power. Up top I mentioned Juan Rivera, who could be a Free Agent Bargain. Or the reuniting of Jason Giambi could also help this squad. Another name that I like under the Radar is Sean Casey. He gets on base, is an excellent fielder, and a great clubhouse leader. Thirdly, they need to bring in a solid set-up type reliever. Earlier I mentioned Will Ohman, becuase he is cheap and a lefty. Others could include Chad Cordero (if cheap), Derrick Turnbow, and Kyle Farnsworth.

Free Agency Begins

2008-11-14T08:05:00.002-05:00

-Dexter Sports
8:06 AM
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Beyond snowfall and coffee, this is what I love about winter the most. The trades are already taking place. We see the Yankees add a Nick Swisher, hoping he will improve upon a horrid '08 campaign, that saw him hit .219 in more than 500 at bats. The Cubs have snipped veteran Kerry Wood from returning home. He is seeking a four year deal? The reliever must have forgotten his injury history. And I am sure that some team will forget as well.

Alot of the talk this last week in sports radio has been about the economy, and it's affect on sports. The NFL has slashed Super Bowl tickets. The New Jersey Nets have a wonderful promotion for the jobless in New Jersey. It will be interesting to see if we see this trend fall in free agency. We saw this trend start a bit last year. Owners are starting to take less risk, and go with home-grown talent (See Tampa Bay Rays). Even the Tigers, who had the second highest payroll in baseball, is expected to slice payroll, and start developing talent from within. I won't be surprised if a guy like Ben Sheets wont get the money he demands, or at least the amount of years. Owners (beyond The Boss) are not willing to take those chances. It's why Sabathia will end up a Yankee. Nobody will be able to match the price tag they put up.

In Other News:

Trevor Hoffman's agent expects to hear from the Tigers soon, according to John Paul Morosi of the Detroit Free Press.

The Reds have hired Jamie Quirk as professional scout. A wise move on the organization's part.

According to the Baltimore Sun, every official of the team has denied the rumors that they are interested in signing Manny Ramirez. Makes complete sense to me. Notice how they haven't denied going after Tex at first. I really think he is their goal, beyond A.J. Burnett.

Holliday to the A's

2008-11-10T16:45:00.002-05:00

-Dexter Sports
4:50 PM
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According to ESPN.com, Matt Holliday is heading to the Athletics. The deal, which could be finalized in 48 hours or longer, shores up the weakness of the Oakland A's. The ability to produce runs.

Buster Olney believes that no long term deal will be met with Holliday, and that he will be used as either trade bait down the road, or as compensation picks in the future after 2009. Holliday produced 88 RBIs with Colorado last season, but could see his numbers dip in the spacious Cisco field.

This is yet another interesting move to add to the Beane profile. Many wonder whether Huston Street is part of the deal or not. I would assume it is safe to say that a Carlos Gonzalez or Brett Anderson are a part of that list as well. Pitcher Greg Smith has already became a comfirmed part of the deal.

This is an interesting deal because it wasn't dont to win now. It was done to help develop young pitching, by giving them production. That is priority number one, followed by winning. Either way I think it is a win-win for Billy Beane and the A's staff.

Other News:

The M's are initally interviewing seven candidates for the Mangerial position. Alot of those being interviewed have zero experience managing.

Brandon Lyons could be the "closer of choice" for the Detroit Tigers in 09.

Bernies Crew argues that the Brewers should think about dealing Hardy, for the betterment of the whole.

Could Jarrod Saltalamacchia be traded to the Red Sox? Nothing is certain, but the fact that the young catcher would love to play there.

The Cubs are making a push for Jake Peavy. I would assume if they actually land him, that Ryan Dempster might be out of reach.

Cameron To the Yanks? Seems like a Melky situation.

2008-11-06T12:14:00.002-05:00

-Dexter Sports
12:15 PM
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Only a couple days after the Milwaukee Brewers announced they have exercised the option of center fielder Mike Cameron, the rumors have started to swirl.

According to the New York Post, The Yankees have major interest in Cameron, and would be willing to trade young, switch hitting center fielder Melky Cabrera, plus pitching the Brewers way, in exchange for Cameron.

How would this benefit the Brewers? It's simple. Cabrera adds his switch hitting ability to a weak left side lineup. He is younger, and cheaper. The Brewers would also be able to add some pitching to their system. This sounds like a Doug Melvin deal already. One thing is certain. Melky Cabrera isn't going to be the slugger Cameron has been all of his career. But I contend that he would get on base just as much. Simply put, Cameron struck out nearly as many times last season (142), as Cabrera has in his three year career (187). Cabrera could give Milwaukee that lead-off type hitter they have been looking for. He will still take a lot of work. He is a free swinger, and doesn't get on base as well as he should. His junior campaign was a bit upsetting, only hitting .249 on the season. But did Cameron do that much better? In nine less games, Cameron hit .243. He also didn't create many oppurtunities for his teammates to drive him in.

Taking a look at innings where both lead off, it is quite clear that both hitters struggled in the lead-off position in 2008. Melky led off an inning 98 times in 2008, reaching base 31 times and producing only 19 runs. Meanwhile, in 36 more innings leading off (134 total), Cameron reached base 41 times, producing thirty runs (a pretty good clip). I would argue though, that Cameron got "lucky." In 444 at bats, he only put the ball in play 306 times. 108 were hits. Meanwhile Cabrera put the ball in play 363 times in 414 at bats. He was only to reach 103 times on hits. 260 of the balls he put in play were either caught or someone made a play on them. Many would argue that this suggest a pretty even split. But lets add strikeouts.

With Balls put in play, Cameron hits a magnificent .358 average. Add strikeouts, and he 198 outs jump to 340 missed oppurtunities to reach base. For Cabrera, he caused 260 outs while putting the ball in play. With Strikeouts, Cabrera tallies 318 oppurtunites failed. He is even 20+ oppurtunities up on Cameron, even though he put the ball in play without success 62 more times.

Tack on these facts:

Cabrera is a switch hitter.
He is younger.
He will listen to constructional criticism
You get to add pitching
Cabrera is a better fielder.

Seems simple to me. If the Yankees call, pull the trigger.

OTHER NOTES:

The new president could be throwing out the first pitch in Chicago this summer. White Sox GM Kenny Williams has already offered Barack Obama the honors against Kansas City.

Later Today: Potential Closers in the 2009 Draft

Bad Touch: The free agents who could excel in new roles

2008-11-05T15:31:00.004-05:00

-Dexter Sports
3:37 PM
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At this time of the year, it is always the big names that take over the free agent market. We all want to know where C.C., Manny, Burnett, Sheets, and Teixeira are going to land. But what about those unnamed free agents that can make an impact in 2009? So, Who is going to be the Kyle Lohse and Eric Hinske of this year's class? I can't honestly tell you that, but I can predict who I think has the ability to. Here is a breakdown position by position of who could surprise in 2009.

Catchers:

Miguel Olivo- I have mentioned before on the blog on how I feel his could be the best catcher in this free agent market. He might not be a prototypical option, but he comes cheap, and has shown the ability to be an everyday guy in the past. I love his abilility to drag out long at bats. He did it a higher acclipse than Jason Kendall did last season. He also knows how to score runs, even though he has never walked more than 19 times in a season. A team searching for a veteran, such as the Tigers, Red Sox and Marlins, should give him a look.

Brad Ausmus- The man is 40 years old, but he can really handle a pitching staff. He won't hit for average, power, or even hit the ball for that matter, but his leadership behind the mound is obvious. Mike Hampton stands behind the fact that he believes he is the best catcher to work with in the majors. Many have considered him a future big league manager. During the 2004 world series run, manager Jimy Williams leaned on Ausmus. Williams wanted to give him more time off, but couldn't, simply because of the way he handled Roger Clemens and Andy Pettite. I hope a team gives him a look. If not, someone will give him a call to start the managerial career.

First Baseman:

Hank Blalock- Though he has shown a decrease in power since blasting 32 homers in 2004, Blalock could be dangerous when he is healthy. Granted, he really hasn't been healthy since 2006, he could be worth a gamble. Possibly keeping him at DH could be the answer to keep him healthy. It is expected that the Rangers will pick up his option for 2009, but if not, look for an A.L. club to snatch him up.

Rich Aurilia- He was all over the place for the Giants in 2008, but might not be part of plans for the 2009 season. Giants GM Brian Sabean has interest in bringing Aurilia back, but will not talk to him until later in the off-season. If the utility man gets sick of waiting around, Aurilia could sign else where. the 37 year old hit .283 last season. He has quietly put together a decent career, tallying ove 1200 hits in a little over 1200 games played. In order for Aurilia to leave San Fransisco, I would think it would have to be in a more prominent role.

Sean Casey- GM Theo Epstein has already told the lefty that he will most likely not be back for the 2009 season. Casey would be a good sign for any contender. He has a great lockerroom pressence and brings his best effort to the ballpark every game. Casey hit .296 in a full time role with the tigers in 2007 and was a big part of the Tigers World Series run in 2007. If the Yankees lose out on the Teixeira sweepstakes, they could sign Casey to platoon with youngster Shelly Duncan. The same goes for the Baltimore Orioles.

Second Baseman/Shortstop:

Felipe Lopez- The versatile infielder had a good showing after being dealt to the Cardinals in 2009. If anything, he plays great defense and could double as a shortstop. In 43 games he hit .385 with 21 RBIs for the Cardinals (in 100 games, he only had 25 for the Nationals). It would be smart for the Orioles to sign Felipe Lopez to play shortstop next season. I say just offer a one year deal, and see where it goes from there. Baltimore was scouting him heavily before he was dealt to St. Louis.

Mark Grudzielanek- He is technically the best second baseman available, but he has been overshadowed by they hype of Orlando Hudson. The Royals only free agent, Grudzielanek hit .299 in limited time due to injury. In 2007, he put together a campaign that included a .302 average with 132 hits in 116 games. He isnt someone you would want to offer a long contract, but he could make a big impact in 2009. The Cardinals, Mets, Twins and Cubs have had interest in him during the 2008 deadline. I think the Mets could be a good fit if Orlando Hudson falls through.

Third Base:

Russ Branyan- Against lefties, his power is nearly unbeatable. That being said, he will strike out a ton, and fail to produce runs in tight situations. Sixteen of his twenty RBIs are off the long ball. Undoubtedly he isnt an everyday third baseman, but he could fit well in a platoon role, or as an excellent pinch hitter in the National League. He is a hot/cold hitter though, and could frustrate a lot of big league managers.

Ramon Vazquez- Finally getting to play nearly everyday for the first time since 2003, Ramon Vazquez showed that he could be a solid hitter full time. Unlike Branyan, Vazquez displayed little to no power. Of his 87 hits, 60 were singles. But Vazquez showed much improvement in getting on base in 2008. He hit 30 points higher and his OBP increased by 65 points. He might not be elite, but could be a great infield bench player, considering he has been a solid fielder throughout his career.

Outfield:

Nelson Cruz- The Rangers might have given up on Cruz a little too early. Cruz, who was acquired in the Carlos Lee deal in 2006, absolutely killed AAA pitching last season. In 103 games, Cruz hit .342 with 37 homers and 99 RBIs with the Oklahoma RedHawks. He even responded to a late call-up, hitting .330 with 7 homers and 26 RBIs in late August. Many believe that Cruz is a Jack Cust type player, that will never fully develop as a hitter. I say, who cares. The guy hit 37 homers. At any level that is something special. And he doesn't play a bad Right Field. I really think he could be the breakout player of the year in 2009. He will get a lot of interest. Anyone offering a major league contract will most likely be the favorite to sign him.

Rocco Baldelli- He hasn't been the same since being diagnosed with a mitochondrial disease, but his swing started to come around since doctors figured out a good dosage of medication to balance the fatigue he faces. Ultimately, he isn't a starter. But his bat could become valuable. The Rays have discussed bringing him back for '09, but would also like to shop the free agent market. The Phillies have also been thought to have interest in Baldelli as well.

Starting Pitching:

There are only two pitchers with major MLB experience and under thirty that have filed for free agency. Both could be a big part of a 2009 rotation.

Jon Garland- Just missing 200 innings for the 5th straight season, Garland yet again showed his ability to eat innings in 2008. For seven straight years he has put up double digit wins, including back to back 18 win seasons in 2005/2006. He isn't a top of the notch starter, but will be a good addition to any rotation. The Mets could add Garland as one of the two starters they hope to bring in for the '09 season.

Mark Prior- Prior is surely the biggest stretch of this post, but I still think he could accumulate something in the Major Leagues. It is hard to believe that Prior is only 27, and hasn't pitched in the majors since 2006. The Padres could bring him back with a minor league deal. I think that a team looking for depth, such as the Astros, Tigers, Marlins, Mets, and Nationals should give him a look. But he is under the radar, and could be the Freddy Garcia of 2009.

Freddy Garcia- Speaking of the man, he could be a good addition to a ballclub. The bad part is that he wants a two year deal. In his three games with the Tigers, he seemed to have regained control of his fastball. He could be a good innings eater, a Greg Maddux type, if he is able to place his pitches.

Relief Pitchers:

Kiko Calero- He hasn't been healthy the last two years, but could still put up decent numbers in a different role elsewhere. If he gets his torn rotator cuff taken care of, expect some teams to at least offer a minor league deal. The kid was nearly unhittable between 2003-2006. The Rotator cuff injury goes all the way back to 2004. He could fill in as a short reliever for a couple of bullpens.

Blaine Neal- After making the AAA roster by walking into a fantasy camp for the Detroit Tigers, Neal has blossomed for the Toledo Mudhens. The one time Florida Marlin reliever went 1-0 with a 1.21 ERA in 38 games before heading to Beijing with the Olympic squad this summer. As the Mudhens closer, he tallied 26 saves and struck out 39 in 37 innings pitched. Neal could return to the tigers, but I would imagine he would demand a spot in their weak bullpen. His story reminds me of Troy Percival a bit. I would like to see him get a shot in the big leagues.

Derrick Turnbow- When his mechanics and head is into the game, he is extremely hard to hit. The hard part, is getting the former Milwaukee closer to hone in on those facts. But he can still throw 97 miles and hour, and has electric stuff. With the right pitching coach, I think he could still be a major success in this league. A team like the Tigers, who need major bullpen help, could bring him in to replace Blaine Neal as the AAA closer. He needs to figure out his control. That is the major issue facing Turnbow. He walked 41 batters in 18 innings pitched at AAA Nashville. He is definitely a project. But his past has shown, when he is on, he is extremely hard to hit. Its all mental at this point for Turnbow.

Off-Season Mumbo Jumbo

2008-11-05T11:43:00.003-05:00

-Dexter Sports
11:43 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

It is officially here. The Democrats kicking butt, the Red Sox going after another Japanese arm and the White Sox already talking trade. It surely wouldn't be November without any of these on the radar. Well, enough "Mumbo Jumbo." Let's take a look at some early rumors hitting the Mill today.

According to the New York Post, The Mets and Rays are in talks about swapping arms. The Mets have some serious interest in either Andy Sonnanstine, Edwin Jackson, or Jeff Neiman. It is thought that the Rays like Aaron Heilman, but feel his value has diminished. With all the depth, I wouldn't be surprised if a hitter is involved. Could a deal be worked out for Jose Reyes? Though it is highly unlikely money wise, Reyes is a good fit for that type of offense. One thing I'm certain on is that Billy Wagner is not an option. After failing with Troy Percival, I do not see the Rays forking money to someone aging and declining in ability. I wouldn't think this is anything close, becuase New York has also looked at White Sox Javier Vazquez to bolster the rotation in absence of Oliver Perez.

The New York Post is also reporting that free agent pitcher A.J. Burnett is on the Yankee Radar. Well, Duh! Burnett could be a part of a possible three free agent signings at starting pitching. The Yankees have also been rumored to be interested in C.C. Sabathia, and bringing back Andy Pettite. Derek Lowe has also been a favorite of Cashmans, according to the media. hey have a rich history of having older guys respond to New York, (Mike Mussina, David Cone, Dwight Gooden, Roger Clemens) so why not bring in a Greg Maddux, Paul Byrd, Tom Glavine,Kenny Rogers, Freddy Garcia, or Jaime Moyer to fill the 5th spot in the rotation? A one year deal wouldn't hurt, and they have a bunch of depth in AAA. Pardon me, I must of forgot we were talking about the Yankees. They love to spend money.

Like always, the Chicago White Sox are quick to bolster the trade block. According to the Chicago Tribune, the White Sox are looking to add team speed. One insider says that Kenny Williams is locked on bringing in center fielder Wily Taveras from Colorado. Williams is also rumored to be shopping center fielder Nick Swisher and starting pitcher Javier Vazquez. The Rockies have no interest in either, but would like a young starting pitcher, such as Lance Broadway. If the Rockies did this straight up, it could certaintly be a steal, that adds to the young arms in their organization. If Taveras or Matt Holliday is traded this off-season, expect Olympic center fielder and top prospect Dexter Fowler to man the Coors Field outfield in 2009.

Could the admitted 'roid user be heading back to Oakland? After the Yankees declined his option for 2009, it seemed very possible. Especially since Billy Beane and company just hired Giambi's personal trainer, Bob Alejo, to be the strength and conditioning director for the upcoming season. Alejo followed Giambi to New York after the 2001 season. This would be a classic Beane signing, and definitely a decision the fans would love. Oakland's love for Giambi is much like San Fransisco's love for Barry Bonds. If he were to come cheap, which I think he could, since he recieved 5 million in his buyout, Beane will be calling. With the right timing, I honestly believe that Giambi can get back those power numbers he lost in New York. Heck, maybe his trainer would have something up his sleeve.

According to the Miami Herald, the Marlins have contacted the Texas Rangers about young catcher Max Ramirez. Stockpiled with catchers, the Rangers are looking for some young pitching in return. The Marlins are looking to deal talented lefy Scott Olson, and this could be a good fit. I think it is interesting to note that the talk of Jarrod Saltalamacchia has died down a lot since the emergence of Taylor Teagarden and Max Ramirez. If I were Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski, I would at least put in a call on the young fella. Considering that currently Dusty Ryan is the best catcher in the organization. Prospect James Skelton is raw, but he could win out the starting job in spring training, if the Tigers do not find a replacement for Ivan Rodriguez and Brandon Inge, who will be the starting third baseman in 2009.

According to the Boston Herald, the Red Sox are the lead team in acquiring Japanese standout Junichi Tazawa, who asked Japanese teams not to draft him, so he could pursue a Major League career. Seattle, Detroit, Chicago and Florida, among others have contacted the 22 year old. It is rumored that he could be looking for a major league contract. (To find out more about Tazawa, check out the Scouting The Sports top 100 prospects.)

Interesting Fact:

Thought I would pass this along. Did you know that the Nationals had the smallest attendance for a first year ballpark of the last 17 teams that have opened new stadiums in the "Camden Yards Era." It is so bad it is in Washington D.C., that the Television and Radio ratings were the worst in the Industry, and it wasn't even close to the second to last ratings. It is a good thing MASN carries the Baltimore Orioles as well. It surely is time for a change in Washington. Good thing Barack Obama is coming in. We will see what he can do with the Nationals in his first four years. Getting numbers up would be a success.

Coming Up:

Coming up here on Dexter-Sports:

I'll break down some top relievers in the 2009 Draft Class (and there are some doozies).

I plan on taking a look at some of the best rookie performances you didn't hear about

I'll also look at the it factor in the 2009 Draft. I'll break down some performances of top ranked pitchers, and explain how sometimes scouts don't care about the numbers and over look actual performance.

I also have a podcast in the works. It will break down the top free agents nobody is talking about.

09 Draft anyone?

2008-11-02T21:29:00.002-05:00

-Dexter Sports
9:30 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Even though we are nearly eight months away from the June amateur draft, it never hurts to take a look at some of the top prospects, who will be flying off the draft board. This year’s class could be a year that includes a lot of top tier pitching (only time will tell). Sitting atop the draft class is already a stud pitcher, whose performance has separated him from the rest of the 2009 draft class. Let’s take a look at five top pitchers and five top hitters that could be the first ten picks in the 2009 draft.

Pitchers:

1). Stephen Strasburg- RHP, San Diego State:

Scouting the Sports Top 100 Prospect # 32

After becoming the ace of the 2008 Olympic team, and being the only collegiate player on the squad, Strasburg opened eyes to many scouts across the league. As a freshman at San Diego State, Strasburg took on the closer’s role, shutting down 7 games, and maintaining a solid 2.43 ERA, while holding opponents to a .141 average in his 25 appearances. The 6’4” 220 lb junior then made the transition to starter as a sophomore. In April of last season, Strasburg threw a 23 strikeout gem against conference rival Utah (See video here). Undrafted out of high school, Strasburg is surely set to be a top five pick in 2009. The only thing possibly stopping him from going first is his agent, Scott Boras, who will demand an eight figure contract.

As the only collegiate Olympian, Strasburg shined. In his debut at the international level, the prized righty went 7 no hit innings, and struck out 11 against the Netherlands. Against the Chinese national team, Strasburg struck out 10 of the 12 batters he faced. His battery mate this summer, catcher Lou Marson, compares him to Mark Prior. His manager Davey Johnson, is often reminded of Doc Gooden.

The Scouting Report:

Strasburg has the best command of the whole draft class. His fastball can touch 100 miles an hour, but sits in the mid-90s. His slider is devastating, and his changeup could develop into Pedro Martinez-type quality. Everything about Strasburg’s mechanics and size screams power pitcher. And the Nationals would be fools not to select him with the first pick of the draft.

2) Aaron Crow- RHP, Fort Worth Cats:

Scouting The Sports Top 100 Prospect #83

After being picked number nine in the 2008 draft, and fighting contract disputes with the Nationals and GM Jim Bowden, Crow decided to sign on with the independent Fort Worth Cats. Crow was the big twelve player of the year in 2008, and is often compared to David Cone. Crow was on the fast track to the majors when drafted by the Nationals. Now, he might need a bit more fine tuners. Crow isn’t the first top pitcher to go the independent route. Diamondbacks prospect Max Scherzer and Royals starter Luke Hochevar both went the independent route, before being drafted.

The Scouting Report:

Crow heavily depends on his fastball to get hitters out. Ranked one of the best in the 2008 draft, Crow features a sinking fastball that floats anywhere between 92-96 MPH. His slider can also be devastating with a late break that is hard to pick up for lefties and righties alike. One issue that surrounds Crow is his jerky delivery and stature. Some scouts believe he will end up a closer because of his small frame (6'3" 195 LBs). Either way Crow has proven himself to every organization. Crow was undrafted out of high school.

3.) Kyle Gibson- RHP, Missouri Tigers:

Scouting The Sports Top 100 Prospect # 97

After basking in the shadows of Aaron Crow in 2008, Kyle Gibson will be the Tigers’ number one option to start the 2009 Season. Gibson was considered the sixth best incoming freshman by Baseball America. to start the 2007 season. At 6’4” Gibson has the “projectability” to be a major league starter. One issue that surrounds Gibson is his weight. Scouts would like to see him add some meat to his 195 pound frame. Will Caroll of Baseball America stated in a local Missouri newspaper, that he believes many scouts are looking too deep into the weight issue, and forgetting about the raw talent in front of them. Gibson went 9-4 with a 3.84 ERA in 19 games last season with the Tigers. Gibson also struck out nearly 100 batters in his 87 innings of work. Gibson could be taken by the Nationals with the compensation pick they received by not reaching an agreement with former teammate Aaron Crow.

The Scouting Report:

Gibson’s fastball sits between 85-90 MPH, but will top out at 92. His short delivery though, fools hitters into thinking his fastball is faster than it is. Unlike most pitchers in this draft, Gibson has developed two top-notch secondary pitches. His 76-81 MPH slider has a lot of bite, yet Gibson can control it fairly well. It has the potential to be his out pitch as a major leaguer. Like many youngsters, Gibson is afraid to throw his changeup often. It is something that will need addressed after he is drafted. It will take a lot a work as well. Gibson’s changeup seems to stay straight and not break against lefties. He will need this pitch to make it to the Major Leagues in my opinion (check out his delivery here.)

Alex White- RHP, North Carolina Tar Heels:

Scouting The Sports Top 100 Prospect: Not Rated

Though his commitment to UNC for the 2007-2009 seasons was quite clear, the Los Angeles Dodgers drafted the young pitcher in the 14^th Round of the 2006 draft. The North Carolina player of the year in 2006, White led D.H. Conley High School to back to back championships in 2005 and 2006 and instantly made an impact as a freshman at UNC. White was also named to the Second-Team Freshman All-American team after making 18 starts and compiling 83 strikeouts in 98 innings pitched. Coming into his sophomore season, it was obvious that White needed to work on his control. He walked nearly 5 batters per nine innings pitched. As the Saturday starter in 2008, White was beyond impressive. His 13 wins, including three in the College World Series, were a big part of the Tar Heels 2008 Run. White struck out 10 batters per nine innings pitched, and compiled 2.83 ERA. White was named the 2008 ACC pitcher of the year at the young age of 19. The Tar heels will look for even more success in their 2009 campaign.

The Scouting Report:

What stands out the most about White is his movement, which is considered by some to be the best in the draft. His fastball tops out around 97 MPH and he consistently throws it in the mid 90’s. His secondary slider has the makings to be his best pitch, if he can learn to control it completely. At 6’3” his height will allow him to develop into a number one type power pitcher in the future. One thing that White needs to work on his consistency and control in the strike zone. White walked nearly four batters per every nine innings pitched in 2008. His stuff and delivery reminds me a little bit of a young A.J. Burnett (Check out this video from his 2006 High School tourney run).

Tyler Matzek- LHP, Capistrano Valley High School(CA):

Scouting The Sports Top Prospects: Not Rated

Matzek burst onto the scene in a preseason match-up last season that put him up against current UCLA freshman and Yankee draftee Gerrit Cole. With scouts scouring over what was thought to be the best prep arm in ’08, Matzek struck out five of the six batters he faced. He was later invited to the Perfect Game National showcase, where he was named the top prospect in the event by Baseball America. Though he has been a late bloomer, Matzek is the top prep arm available in the ’09 draft as of now. He has been compared to 2008 Royals sandwich pick Mike Montgomery because of his presence on the mound, and his ability to control hitters. Matzek could go as high as 5^th to the Baltimore Orioles in June.

The Scouting Report:

Though his fastball doesn’t burn by hitters (88-91), Matzek has learned at a young age how to control it and use location as a weapon. What scouts love is his hammer curve that sits in the mid 70’s and has potential to be more than a plus pitch. Also what sticks out as a youngster is his changeup. Though not perfect, Matzek has shown that already that it could be part of his arsenal in the future. Matzek also compliments his changeup with a pretty nasty slider. Baseball America’s Matt Blood notes that Matzek has Major league starter stuff. At 6’3” tall, it is clear that he has the frame to be dominating. One scout, according to saberscouting.com was even brave enough to say that with the development of his curve, Matzek could be a Clayton Kershaw type talent someday.

Hitters:

Grant Green- SS, University of Southern California:

Scouting The Sports Top 100 Prospects # 62

As a standout infielder in 2006 out of California, Grant Green was projected to be a 3^rd round pick in the 2006 draft. Choosing USC over a professional career, teams laid off the shortstop until the 13^th round, where the Padres rolled the dice. Green was a member of the 2005 junior national U.S. team, and started as a freshman at USC. In high school, he put up video game numbers, hitting .453 with 14 stolen bases in his senior year. As a freshman, Green hit .313 and started every game for the Trojans. He was also named the co-freshman of the year. As a sophomore, Green turned it up another notch, hitting .390 on the season, and being named third team All-American in 2008, becoming the first Trojan named to an All-America squad since current Mariner Jeff Clement and Yankee Ian Kennedy in 2005. Green could end up with Clement in Seattle on draft day. Though Green is a Scott Boras client, I wouldn’t expect him to fall much further than #2 to the Mariners. Green has been compared to Troy Tulowitzski and Evan Longoria.

The Scouting Report:

At 6’3”, Green is an intimidator at the plate. He sprays the ball all over the field, and with quick hands, has shown that even triples aren’t hard to come by (14 in ’07 and 15 in ’08). As a fielder, there is no doubt that scouts believe he can remain at shortstop throughout his professional career. The only issue is his fielding, which seems to be a bit rushed at times. Grant had 17 errors with the Trojans. Another positive to Green’s approach at the plate is his timeliness and concentration. Grant slugged a game tying homer in the Cape Cod All-Star game, while streakers sprinting around center field. That being said, Grant can handle a wood bat with ease and has shown success. His Cape Cod manager, John Schiffner believes that Grant is a five tool player and is was the Cape Cod League. Schiffner managed Evan Longoria and often compares the two. It might be a wiser investment for the Nationals to go with this much more polished hitter than anyone else, with the first pick of the draft.

Donovan Tate- OF, Cartersville HS (GA):

Scouting The Sports Top Prospect #64

Beyond being a great baseball player, Tate is one of the best athletes in the nation hands down. A top 100 recruit in football, Scout.com has ranked him as the 17^th best safety in the nation, and schools such as Michigan have recruited him to play quarterback. The son of former NFL running back Lars Tate, Donovan has yet to make a decision on what sport to take up. This leads many to believe that Tate will most likely go to college, where he can continue playing both sports. Either way, Jim Callis of Baseball America believes that Tate is a top ten pick in the draft. And it is simply because of his potential.

The Scouting Report:

Five-tool is the definition of Donovan Tate. The youngster has blazing speed (check out a highlight video on rivals.com) shows tremendous power, and has an absolute cannon in center. He has been gunned in at 95 MPH from the outfield to home. That is something that has scouts smiling in their sleep. But with all of this upside does come some downside. Though he is a marveled talent, Tate isn’t fully developed as of yet. Like many youngsters his at plate presence needs to improve, but with more experience will come the consistency. One of the worries is that Tate will develop into more of a Michael Bourn type player, rather than a B.J. Upton type. One thing is certain though. This Georgia product sure does have the products to be a special player.

Dustin Ackley- OF/1B, North Carolina:

Scouting The Sports Top 100 Prospects #82

Freshman of the year in 2007, Ackley put up monster numbers for his home state Tar heels, hitting .402 with 74 RBIs. As a sophomore, he only increased his average to .417 and had one more double in 18 less at bats. There is no doubt that Ackley is the best pure hitter in the draft. As a freshman, Ackley drove a ball to deep right field and out of the ballpark, after breaking his metal bat. And as a sophomore, his offense was a huge part of the success in Chapel Hill. What I like best about Mr. Ackley is his down to business mentality at the ballpark. He busts his butt to grind out every hit and has been willing to play multiple positions on the field.

The Scouting Report:

Though he might not be a prototypical power type first baseman, Ackley is more the mold of a modern day player at that position. What he doesn’t have for power, he makes up with consistency and speed. At 6’1” he projects to be more of a left fielder. Ackley approaches the plate with an open stance, and his probably the fastest hands in NCAA baseball. He can be compared to Yonder Alonso and Justin Smoak, because of his ability to spray the ball all over the field, though he ultimately projects to be more of a number two hitter. Defensively, Ackley has a below average arm, which could limit him to first. Dustin’s speed is somewhat forgotten about. He swiped 19 games in 2008. Ultimately I believe that is why he will be moved to left field after being drafted.

Kentrail Davis- OF Tennessee Volunteers:

Scouting The Sports Top 100 Prospect #92

Yet another Scott Boras client, Kentrail Davis doesn’t fit your prototypical draft prospect. At 5’9” tall and weighing in at 195 pounds, Davis was considered a first round pick in 2007, but fell to the fourteenth round, when the Rockies selected him 432^nd overall. Davis will begin his sophomore campaign this season with Tennessee after putting up a .330 average with 13 dingers and 44 RBIs in a Freshman All-American campaign in 2008. Davis is one of the strongest players in NCAA, and credits to working construction with his father in High School. He is eligible for the draft as a sophomore, because he will turn 21 before draft day. Tennessee coach Todd Raleigh considers Davis one of the most talented freshman he has ever coached. He also credits his work ethic and commitment as a big reason for his success.

The Scouting Report:

Kentrail is a five-tool player that has shown progression in all facets of his game since signing on to Tennessee last season. His defense in center field has improved immensely, and he has become less dependent on his speed. At 5’9” with a bunch of muscle, Davis is often compared to Kirby Puckett, because of their similar stature and line drive swing. If there is any hint that Kentrail will leave early from the Volunteer program, some team will take a chance on him in the early first round. Davis won the team triple crown award in offensive statistics as a freshman last year.

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-10-31T11:16:00.003-04:00

-Dexter Sports
11:27 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Whoo! It's finally here. The day where kids across America run around getting "hopped" up on sugar. Asking trick or treat, but always receiving the later of the two? What is up with that? I mean come on, can't we put a little fear in the future of our country, without hurting anyone? I guess not.

Well, today is for baseball fans to talk about the curse of the cat, (sorry cubs fans its a must) or to bring up the curse of the great bambino. Hell, dress up as Roger Maris or Big Papi. That's what it's about.

Coming up a little later today, I'll have a preview of ten players that I expect to go early in the 2009 MLB Draft. Also, Ill comment on some free agents filing today.

Trick or Treat!

Macha is the Man in Milwaukee

2008-10-30T17:12:00.003-04:00

-Dexter Sports
5:12 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

The Brewers didn't waste anytime announcing their new manager. Ken Macha will come into Milwaukee, to give the Brewers someone to evaluate outside of the organization. Macha was offered the job six years ago, but eventually decided to stick with the Oakland A's vacant position.

Macha is expected to keep on pitching coach Mike Maddux, first base coach Ed Sedar and bullpen coach Bill Castro. Former bench coach and manager Dale Sveum might be retained as well at some capacity.

Macha saw a lot of success with Oakland in his four years of service, but ultmately "dissconnected" with general manager Billy Beane.

I think this is a great move for the Brewers. It gives them those eyes from outside the organization. It will be interesting to see it this effects the "ways" of the Brewer front office. Losing Jack Zduriencik will defintely hurt scouting. But adding Macha might improve the actually development of players in the Brewers organization.

Other Notes:

Mike Jacobs will now be the Royal's first baseman of the "current future." The Royals acquired him from the Marlins for pitcher Leo Nunez. Jacobs should fill the void, until first rounder Eric Hosmer makes his way to the big leagues. If he can stay healthy, this could be a great deal for Kansas City.

The White Sox declined options on outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. and catcher Toby Hall. Whoo-hoo, now Griffey can go back home to Seattle (I can hope right?).

Are the Yankees gunning for Manny? According the the New York Post, GM Brian Cashman didn't deny that he had interest in the slugger. I still think this is his best destination beyond the warm sun-shinin' city of Los Angeles.

John Fay says that the Reds have begun talking to free agents David Weathers, Jerry Hairston Jr., Mike Lincoln, Javy Valentin and Jeremy Affeldt. Fay notes that it is unlikely all will be back next season.

Check out this crazy story. One Japanese pitcher is hoping that he can make a run at becoming a major leaguer. How did he do it? He asked 12 professional Japanese teams to pass up on him.

Could Chad Cordero get a lot of play in the free agent market? It's quite possible. Many teams could inquire, especially the loser of the K-Rod sweepstakes. Cordero was cut from the Nationals today.

World Series Post-Game Thoughts

2008-10-30T12:15:00.002-04:00

-Dexter Sports
12:16 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

It was one of the weirdest I have ever witness. A rained out game five wins it all? Really? Did I watch this really unfold this way? Unfortunately I did. First things first, congratulations to the Phillies, they deserved it. They played better, were smarter, and even wanted it more. I'm just upset that Major League baseball didnt handle this differently. Is it fair that the Phillies were allowed 12 outs to the Rays 9? That i'm not sure of. But one Bud Selig made a decision and stuck with it. And now we have a world champion. And thought it was sad to see the Rays wonderful run come to an end, that organization has to be proud of what they put together on the field.

I'll admit, throughout this series, it had a feeling as though the big bad 6th grade bully was beating on the elementary youngin' The core of Jason Werth, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell showed up. Evan Longoria, Carlos Pena and B.J. Upton left their bats far away in the ALCS. Its as simple as that.

As for Joe Maddon, I will back his decisions in game five to the grave. Sure, if the game were to be restarted, or you have a lead going into 6th inning action, you go with stud reliever David Price. Grant "Ball four" has been pretty darn good this season. Hell, in 54 regular season appearences, he only gave up ten earned runs. Of all the pinch hitters that could of faced Balfour, Jenkins was the only one who hadn't had success against him. Unfortunatley for Joe and the rest of his club, thats just the way the cookie crumbles. And once that extra run came across the Phillies in the four inning showdown, Maddon yet again made the right decision.

When J.P. Howell was hitting for himself, I thought it was brilliant. Considering who was due up in the next half inning. You have no outs, the game is tied due to Rocco Baldelli's blast. Howell is a good bunter, and gets the job done to move the runner over. Coming up in the bottom half as well is Pat Burell who is 0-13, Shane Victorino (not a power threat) and Pedro Feliz has show absolutely no power in the World Series. So what is wrong with saving your stud in the pen, to face the Big bats in the 8th? Nothing at all.

I also think Maddon made the right decision sending Bartlett. When runs are tough to come by, you have to send the runner. You cannot anticipate Chase Utley making a play like that. It will go down as one of the best in World Series history. Your desperate. Scrapping to hold on. You have to gamble and hope you can win big. And sometimes you end up going home empty handed. Thats just how the game works.

Anyways, congratulations to the Philedelphia Phillie and their organization. Its good to see a turnaround for a guy like Brad Lidge, who couldn't buy a save a few years ago. And its also good to see gentleman and hard players like Jimmy Rollins and Jamie Moyer get reward for their hard work.

So congrats Phillies, you earned it.

Oh, Hey Mr. Brad Lidge, you might want to get some rest. The Big Slugger Ryan Howard sure came at you with destructive force.

Andy MacPhail Trade Profile

2008-10-29T16:59:00.006-04:00

-Dexter Sports
6:19 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

I have finally completed the Andy MacPhail trade profile. It was a very interesting experience, and I think I will try and do it again. Throughout the project I found out a couple things about MacPhail that I found interesting.

Download or view the the Andy MacPhail Trade Profile.

He is actually a really interesting character. I always thought he was just a boring guy.

He really isn't a user of the big trade, but when he does, It usually works. He credits that to asking his father's opinion on trades. He says only once a trade didn't work in his Minnesota days. That trade his father said was a bad one for the twins. Go figure. (Could be a product of his small market nature.)

As he has aged, McPhail has become a better talent evaluator. With Minnesota, a lot of prospects didn't work out. But as he moved to the Cubs and Orioles, it seemed his staffs had a better grasp on player development.

Prospect Profile: Brandon Snyder, 1B Baltimore Orioles

2008-10-29T12:33:00.004-04:00

-Dexter Sports
1:50 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Buried in a draft class that included the likes of Justin Upton, Cameron Maybin, Andrew McCutchen, Chris Volstad, Ryan Braun, Ryan Zimmerman, Troy Tulowitski, Alex Gordon, Jacoby Ellsbury, Colby Rasmus, and Jay Bruce is a former catcher, that might have finally found his niche at the first base position.

Insert Brandon Snyder. While most of these names, who either went just ahead of him, or just after him in the first round of the 2005 draft, have found their way to the majors, or close to it, he has been busy trying to figure out a horrific 2006 season that saw him hit .194 for Orioles A ball affiliate, the Delmarva Shorebirds.

Drafted as the best catcher in the nation out of Westfield High School in Virginia, Snyder excelled in his first pro season. Hitting .271 in rookie ball, with a good control at the plate. A promotion to low A, led to a .393 performance in 28 at bats. Things seemed to be clicking. Until injuries struck the young catcher.

Much of the struggle of '06 for Snyder was due to injury. Snyder suffered a dislocated right shoulder and eventually a torn rotator cuff in his left shoulder. His hitting ability obviously was hampered. During the 06' off-season, it was unknown if Snyder would recover. But after a move to first base, the youngter responded. The Orioles would name him the minor league comeback player of the year in 2007. Snyder put up 58 RBIs, and put together a solid .352 OBP. It seemed as though the prospect was on the right track. The Orioles then sent him to play in Hawaii in the winter. Snyder proved he was back, hitting .378, winning a batting title for the league. And if that wasn't enough proof, Snyder's 2008 was a testiment to his real value.

Snyder was part of the potent Fredrick Keys team in 2008 that included top prospect Matt Wieters and pitching prospects Chris Tillman and Jake Arrieta. Snyder didn't dissapoint at first base, hitting an astonishing .315 with 80 runs batted in. His slugging percentage (.490) was the best of the Frederick squad that played more than 6 games. Currently he is hitting .393 with 4 RBIs on 11 hits for the Suprise Rafters of the Arizona Fall League.

Expect Snyder to be a big slugger for the AA Bowie Baysox in 2009. Snyder should be part of a huge nucleus of players flooding the Orioles between 2009 and 2012. I also wouldnt be surprised if Snyder is rushed. First baseman Kevin Millar will not be returning in 2009 and Aubrey Huff's contract expires after the 2009 season.

Around The Horn: Teahen, Virgil, Bill James Hate, Under the Weathers

2008-10-28T15:23:00.002-04:00

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No, I'm not going to talk about this crazy delay that is going on in the world series. As a matter of a fact I hope that we get to see the baseball in thanksgiving. How awesome would that be? In the words of Eric Clapton, "Let it Rain. Let it Rain." Well the Rain is falling around the blogosphere. Let's go Around the Horn to check out the best of the best the last few days.

Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez was named the N.L. manager of the year. He did a wonderful job of stabilizing a young team throughout most of the season. I'm just glad a manager like Lou Pinella didn't bring it home. I thought that Joe Torre would get a look for his playoff run. Isn't Charlie Manuel worthy as well? In the American League, it was a no brainer. Rays manager Joe Maddon brought home the award. I can't think of anyone else in the A.L. that even came close to deserving it as much as the Rays manager. You always have to root for the Mike Scioscia roots.

The Red Sox claimed right hander Virgil Vasquez from the Detroit Tigers today. Vasquez was one of the Tigers top prospects going into 2007. I wouldn't be surprised if he sees some time in 2009. Vasquez went 12-12 with the Toledo Mudhens last season. Does this mean they are willing to stay away from starting pitcher free agent market? Probably not. A lot of hope is based on the fact that Clay Buccholtz will bounce back from a horrid 2008.

The Diatribe hits on the idea of bringing in Mark Teahen to man left field. I tend to agree that it would be a bad idea to bring him in. The options already in place are so much better. Check out the whole article here.

John Fay of Cinncinatti.com talks about the David Weathers situation, and how he is still a bit bitter about Mike Stanton getting more money than him two years ago. I say suck it up David, and be thankful someone is pursuing you. Fay also touches on how Matt Holliday would be available, and that Walt Jocketty could swing a deal that would most likely
involve Johnny Cueto.

The Cubs reporter wonders, "Why does Bill James hate the Cubs so much?" James rated the Cubs 26th in young talent. TCR also thinks that Geovanny Soto should be on the top 25 players under thirty. Ok, I might agree, but one thing I would note is that Prince is number one over the likes of Hanley, David Wright, Time Lincecum? Ok? Bill, I love you, but are you really believing this? I guess it will come down to production in 2009.

Dexter-Sports Prediction Machine: Where will Manny Land Part

2008-10-26T20:33:00.004-04:00

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He could be the savior of a major league Squad. If you ask the Red Sox, he could be the demon that tears at souls and the chemistry of a ball club. Either Way, Manny Ramirez will demand a lot of money this off-season. And many teams will be after him. And though the dreadlocks, sunglasses and California attitude are appealing. I'm pretty sure I would pass if I were a GM.

Here is a look at some of the teams that will give Manny the Time of day. This will be a three part series starting with AL East and Central Teams that could bite at the worm and hook Scott Boras lays in front of them.

1). Toronto Blue Jays--

J.P. is trying to save his job and trying to impress the Canada faithful. According to many sources, GM J.P Riccardi has interest in Manny. Adding a middle of the order hitter to his lineup makes a lot of sense. The Jays will also be dumping a hefty amount of money if they don't re sign A.J. Burnett, which seems to be the case. But will Manny want to be the solo media star in canada? I don't think so. It sure would be nice to keep him at least somewhat quiet, but unless they throw way too much money at him, I don't see it happening. Unless he wants to spite the Red Sox, and thinks with him, the Jays are playoff type material.

I also don't see Riccardi putting a full push toward Manny. J.P. Riccardi is always all talk. Besides bringing in Burnett and Ryan, he really hasn't held up to his word. Just ask Rod Barajas. Could you imagine Cito Gaston managing Manny? Oh goodness. That sounds like madness. One thing we do know is that J.P will have nothing to do with Adam Dunn this off-season. Who knows, the hypocrite might give him a deal.

As it stands, I don't see this happening. Riccardi wont mounty up to offer more money than any other team. Plus, Manny a Blue Jay? It just doesn't seem natural, Does it?

Prediction Machine Says: No Money, No Luck. Manny will not be a Jay in '09

Baltimore Orioles-

What? Yes they have a strong inside shot of bringing Manny in. GM Andy MacPhail has a history of staying away from the big contract free agent (trade profile coming up later). So even though rumors have spread that the Orioles are interested, I doubt to see anything happen. If MacPhail were to spend the money, and feels that he is close to being a contender, I have to believe that he will go after the younger Mark Teixeira to man first base. One thing is certain. The O's have the money to waste. But I doubt that Manny Ramirez is in the picture, considering their pitching woes. He would also have to man the DH position, considering Nick Markakis and Luke Scott are better outfielders. The void at first would be addressed by moving current DH Aubrey Huff to the hot corner.

I'm sold that MacPhail wouldn't be willing to spend the money that Greedy Agent Scott Boras will ask for. Unless, it is for the younger Teixeira. It would be interesting though to see if Bobby Abreu, or someone of that caliber, is brought in as well. If MacPhail feels he is only a couple peices away from doing what the Rays have this season, don't be surprised if he pulls the trigger.

Prediction Machine Says: Manny the 'O? I dont see an O in the name Manny Ramirez. But I do see a possibility of this happening. It will all depend on how eager management is.

3.) New York Yankees-

Well if a close friend to Manny, if that even should be considered a source, stated that Manny wants to play for the Yankees next season. Revenge on the main course? I would think that would be the main reason beyond money that Manny settles in New York. And if he performs, Manny can be Manny. Fans won't necessarily be upset if he bobbles a ball, or goofs around in the stadium. Heck, this might be the best personalty and performance combo to come to the Yankees since Babe Ruth.

I think the Yankees have the best fit of any NL East teams, but I am not about to jump on the bandwagon of signing him, much like the New York Post is. Personally, if I were Brian Cashman, I would bring back Bobby Abreu instead. But you know those Steinbrenners. They always have to one up everyone when it comes to free agency. The pockets will be open, and Scott Boras will be shoving the money in his pockets as fast as possible. I expect at least two of his clients to sign with the Yankees this off-season.

Prediction Machine Says: Holy Toledo. Man-Ram, AROD, K-Rod?, Melky and The Firey flamethrower? It's going to happen. Why? Becuase the prediction machine says so. I think the Yankees have the best shot at signing Manny away from the L.A. Dodgers.

Part 1 of 3.

Scouting the Sports top 100 prospects

2008-10-26T17:28:00.003-04:00

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Lately I've been getting the itch to look up prospects that could have an impact in 2009. Its a normal thing around this time. Between world series games, I have been doing some research. And it is strange how these things work.

So, I'm browsing baseball America, reading some previous magazines. I look around at minor league ball and all the other prospect blogs to see what is going on as always. And then I get this email from a man named Sam.

Samuel Katz, the president and lead analyst of scoutingthesports.com really has something special. His website, dedicated to catching rumors and giving the best sports insight, is very interesting. But what I love the most is the unique top 100 prospects list. What makes it so interesting is that is also has international players listed on it. This is a great tool that I will continue to use.

Dexter-Sports is also now affiliated with this site. Check out the wonderful commentary.

Evaluating Justin Verlander

2008-10-25T06:30:00.001-04:00

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It was a rough year for Detroit ace Justin Verlander. After starting the season 2-8, many wondered what was wrong with the young ace. His fastball dipped in velocity. He couldn't hit his marks with the curve ball. Many fantasy owners were baffled with the season that Justin Verlander gave them (including yours truly). At some point Jim Leyland and Chuck Hernandez (the former pitching coach) were busy like mad scientests, trying to figure the perfect formula to get Mr. Verlander back on track.

Though Verlander began to pitch better down the
stretch, his record didnt show for it, going 3-6 in his last 10 starts. Now, nearly one month after the end of the season, and a new pitching coach (Rick Knapp) in Detroit, many baseball fans have to be wondering if 2009 will be much of the same.

It's time to put the biohazard gloves and dig in. Maybe I can come up with the perfect equation to why Verlander struggled last season.

He still had the "Stuff" in 2008. Hitters still havent figured him out

How can I say that after his earned run average imploded to over a run more than any other season in his short major league history. It's simple. Opponents only hit .254 off Verlander last season. That is more then ten points lower than his rookie campaign in which he won 17 games. He still tallied over 150 strikeouts. And finally, he gave up less homers (18) than he has in his whole career. The Stuff is still there, he just had a hard time harnessing it in 2008.

And though in the games I had watched him start in '08, it looked like he had lost some velocity, I am certain that he still has the stuff to be the Verlander of 2008 and 2007. According to manager Jim Leyland, a lot of the problem had been the command of his fastball. I couldn't agree more. I would even argue that his dependance of it was a downfall.

"Seeing Eye Fastball"

I admit. Justin Verlander's bread and butter is the 95+ heater blazing by hitters. It is one of the irreplacable pitches in the league. Remember, this is the guy who reared back and hit 100 M.P.H. on the gun in the ninth inning of his no-hit performance against Milwaukee in 2007. But sometimes, enough is enough.

Overall in 2008, Verlander threw his fastball an estonishing 62% of the time. His curveball, which is considered better than just a secondary pitch, seems to be one of the key factors in the downright blow up. Especially against lefties. His Curveball was only used 255 times in his 1722 pitches against south paws. Now this does make sense, because his changeup is more of an out pitch against those pesky left-handers. But even his changeup was underused. In 2008, Verlander used his change up only 313 times. These numbers strike me because as his career develops, he should be relying on the fastball less and less.

My suggestion to Rick Knapp would be to get Verlander to mix his pitches a bit more. His hammer is one of the best when he fastball is working. His changeup has the ability to downright fool hitters.

Balancing these pitches to a better extent will only better that fastball. And I think at some points last season, Verlander felt, "The need for speed" was a comfort pitch. If anyone can adress this issue, it is Rick Knapp, who has dealt with arguable the best minor league pitching system in the game the last ten years. And though balance and development will help, The major issue for Verlander in 06 was the lack of control on the mound.

'Walks and Runs'

Two stats can almost tell the story of Justin Verlander in 2008. In total, Verlander gave up 30 runs more in 2008 than in 2007. This doesn't add up if you consider that his average was around par, and that he had just as many strikeouts and hits as in previous seasons. What adds up though is twenty more walks in 2008, compared to '07. One of the main reasons hitters crossed the plate so much was because of the inconsistency. As we all know, for pitchers, it is harder to control your destiny, if your giving up the free base night after night. In his last ten starts, Verlander didn't have even one outing without a walk. This is the point that has to be adressed. And again, Rick Knapp is the man for the job. He has been known to absolutley hate walks and teach his minor leaguer arms that first and foremost is to avoid walks it at all costs.

It's that simple. Verlander's 20+ more walks ended up biting him. Of those, ten more then a year ago ended up scoring via the free pass. If you recalculate his E.R.A, it drops nearly a half a point.

The Next Step

Just like anyone, "under the weather," rest is the best solution. At many times Jim leyland would tell the media that Verlander's wind up was out of wack, or he was pressing, or any combination of uncomfortable tributes. I say let the big guy rest a big more. He has thrown back to back 200 inning seasons. Then, when it comes time, sit him down with Mr. Knapp and let them feel out what is best for Verlander workout wise. I think that time off would be nearly enough.

Secondly, If I'm Rick Knapp, I work on turning Verlander into the bona-fide ace. Turn him into a true threat because he knows the art of pitching in and out. Don't get me wrong, I think he is one of the best young minds at work on the mound. But just hearing it and learning it from one of the best could do wonders for Justin in '09.

Wren wont pipe up for Peavy

2008-10-24T09:52:00.003-04:00

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Frank Wren is an "I accept" away from having arguable the best starter in major league baseball. Someone who has been known to have great leadership skills and be a silent leader on the field. His stuff is unmatchable in my opinion. And heck, he is a hunter. Doesn't he belong in Atlanta? Some may look back and say it was the wrong decision for Frank Wren not to part with his top prospects to land the Ace.

I don't blame him one bit.

Sure, Jake Peavy is intriguing. He adds a depth to an already young and talented rotation. But he is not worth dumping top prospects for. Throughout his career, Peavy has never tallied 20 or more wins. Maybe that is a product of the organization he plays for. Or maybe part of it has to do with his history of injury.

Though he put up an astonishing 2.85 ERA in 17 starts, much of Peavy's consistency was hampered by two visits to the disabled list. Heck, he has only had three winning seasons in his career. When you lose 90+ games this move doesn't make sense. Peavy's injury ridden past balances out with the probabilty of a guy like Tommy Hanson, who the Braves Covet. And with the natural power of Jason Heyward, you hate to trade what could be a future franchise five tool player.

I will jump on the bandwagon of many and say that trading Peavy would be more of a value to the Padres than any other team in the league. His long term deal could be what scares a lot of clubs as well. It's hard to think a pitcher will remain at his caliber throughout 2012. The probability is less likely.

Either way, he will be dealt soon, Its just a matter of when and where.

Around The Horn: Jack Z, Buster Posey, Brewers Decked with Injury

2008-10-23T13:40:00.003-04:00

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Hot off the Press. Hot off the press! Here are you links for today.

El Lefty Malo comments on the, "Buster Conspiracy." I say nothing to worry about yet. He is going to be a good catcher. Over reacting at this point in the game isn't going to make him that much better.

The Red Sox are not retaining first base coach Luis Alicea. Apperently Alicea was quite surprised and shocked. I dont blame him. He has done a fine job tuning that infield. It will be interesting to see who replaces him.

Jack Z is the man in Seattle. The Mariners were able to steal him away from the Brewers. Zduriencik deserves this job and will develop a lot of young talent, as well as find it throught the nation. I think this will also establish the Mariners as more of a threat in dominican signings and international findings beyond Japan. Man does this make me feel smart to call this one right four months ago.

The Cubs are trying to come up with new ideas to try and bolster their offense. According to the Chicago Sun Times, Pinella and company discussed moving Alfonso Soriano out of the lead-off slot in '09. To me, that makes a lot of sense. Ryan Theriot has been spectacular as a lead-off hitter. As always, the organization also discussed bringing in more lefty power. It seems that is always the Cubs' number one priority.

Drunk Jays Fans responds to JP Riccardi talking to Ken Rosenthal in his latest peice on fox sports. The Post talks about the possibility of Manny coming to Canada to play ball, among others.

O's On Deck trackes the Orioles' best prospects in the Carribean Leagues. A good peice to bookmark for O's fans. A name to watch is Carlos Rojas. He could be the starting shortstop with a good spring training.

And Finally, The New York Times asks, "Do the Rays Have a Panic Button?" It's these type of articles early in seasons, that end up blowing up in the author's face. Sure, only 36 percent of game one losers go on to win the world series. But come on, do we have to discuss this already? Isn't bad enough that BJ Upton and Evan Longoria went 0-8 and didnt produce in critical situations? I guess not. I still think the Rays have a wonderful shot. After all, they have been the come back kids.

World Series Break-Down

2008-10-22T15:01:00.003-04:00

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So Maybe Neilson won't be praising these two teams tonight. I have become "Ok" with that. We know the real baseball fans will watch. I am a huge fan of this world series. Finally two teams, who haven't had a shot in a while or ever. Its refreshing. Both of these teams have some Young Guns that surely know how to play the game. Let's break down the match up going into game one tonight.

1.) Starting Pitching-

First and Foremost, starting pitching is surely a strongpoint of both these squads. For the Phillies, Cole Hamels has shined this postseason. His two wins in the NLCS were huge factors in a Dodgers series that should have been somewhat close. Brett Myers has been a man possesed as of late as well, and is a big reason why the Phillies can say they are representatives of the national league. Though he hasnt been the best post-season pitcher, he has kept the Phillies in the ballgame. Even if it has been by drawing the walk.

For the Rays, it has been Exciting to see what many, Including me, consider the next big three. James Shields, Matt Garza and Scott Kazmir haven't been perfect all season, but they have pitched consistent. That will be key in the fall classic. For Matt Garza, it has been one hell of a post-season. And in the back end of the Rotation is two starters that could fill ins if need be. It his hard to believe I haven't mentioned Edwin Jackson or Andy Sonnastine. If they can stay poise, like they have throughout this post-season, they will be tough to stop.

Advantage: Tampa Rays

2.)Relief Pitching-

One thing that has been constant this season, is the pressence of Brad Lidge. One again, Lidge has locked on with the slider, and hasn't lost sight on finishing the year perfect in save opputunities. As we saw in the ALDS against the Brewers, He can downright dominate hitters. And Charlie Manuel will ride that arm throughout the world series. The Phillies will also rely on lefty J.C. Romero, who has been dominant all season. But the back of the bullpen doesn't seem to be as prominent as the Rays.

Even though the Rays have gone without Troy Percival, they have done a great job of closing out closer ballgames. Granted, they have given up a lot of runs, but when it matters they have been able to hold a lead. Throw in the young gun David Price, and I think they can compete with the Phillies bullpen. Especially considering Lidge's troubling post season past. Look for veteran Chad Bradford to be a key figure in this pen, whether it be for good performance or bad.

Advantage: Push

3.) Infield-

The Phillies have one of, if not, the best infields in all of the majors. Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins are an excellent one two punch, and Ryan Howard is growing into the best slugger in the National League. Grit players like Pedro Feliz and Greg Dobbs add a lot of character to this team as well. Not to mention that they can outright slug out the Rays infield.

The Rays have a wonderful defensive front, led by soon to be gold glove short stop Jason Bartlett and future Mr. Baseball, Evan Longoria. Throw in the gutsy Akinori Iwamura and you can start to understand how this team made it here. First Baseman Carlos Pena is also one of the most underrated defensive players in the game. They sure are solid defensively, but I don't believe they match up with the phillie in the tale of the tape so to speak.

Advantage: Phillies

4.) Catcher-

Carlos Ruiz hit a measley .219 in 117 games with the Phillies this season. Offensively, he has not been a boost to this club. But he does ultimately call a good game, and in the National League, that could be what matters the most. Chris Coste didnt do much better, hitting only .263 on the season.

Dioner Navarro increased significantly in 2008. By reducing his strikeouts, Navarrow was able to increase his average from .227 to .295, and was a pivotal part of the wonderful pitching performance from the Rays staff. Though I do believe Navarro is a bit hyped because of a great season, he is a significant upgrade over Ruiz. Anyone who will take on his pitcher to prove a point is ok in my books.

Advantage: Rays

5.) Outfield-

The Hawaii' Kid has been nothing short of impressive this season for the 'Phils. Shane Victorino has been the spark the 'Phils couldn't find in Aaron Rowand or Michael Bourn. He is a heck of a fielder, with great speed and coverage. Surprisingly the platoon of Geoff Jenkins and Jayson Werth has been pretty successful. Together they have produced nearly identical, if not better numbers that Left Fielder Pat Burrell, who yet again has dissapointed somewhat.

The Rays Outfield is full of young talent and speed as well. B.J. Upton's defensive and power potential have been on display since the start of the playoffs. Carl Crawford is one of the fastest men in the game, and creates a dangerous pressence with speed and power. And the tandom in Right Field has been able to produce throughout the year, though it might not be pretty. Utility man Ben Zobrist will play in Right in game one, which I find is interesting. Rocco Baldelli has shined in the post-season as well.

Though I believe these outfields are pretty even, the speed and ability to produce runs for the Rays outfield gives them a slight advantage.

Advantage: Rays

6.) Bench/Pinch Hitting

For the Rays, It has been a team effort all year. And I believe that will be a big benefit for them and their bench production. Fairly balanced, the Rays bench features veteran slugger Cliff Floyd, as well as speedy youngster Fernando Perez. Gabe Gross is also a capable bat off the bench, who can play pretty good defense. Willy Aybar and Ben Zobrist add depth, as well as defense and pop to an already potent bench. The only weak spot seems to be at backup catcher.

Though the Rays bring a lot of depth to the table from the bench, the Phillie's power and veteran leadership stick out. Matt Stairs, Greg Dobbs, Chris Coste, Eric Bruntlett, So Taguchi and Geoff Jenkins are a threat any time they enter the game. Taguchi has been here before. We saw Matt Stairs already step up to the plate and hit a BIG FLY. There is just something about this group that just shouts out to me. Its Balanced, has power, and can field rather well. I think it's veteran leadership gives it the edge.

Advantage: Phillies

7). Managers-

Charlie Manuel has shown that he is the man for the Job. He has kept this core together and finally pushed them over the top. Sure, he has seen hard times in Philly, but overall, he has his players ready to perform at a top level (Refer to late in the last two seasons). After a tough first round loss to the Phillies in 07, Manuel has made the adjustments on the field. He has handled situations perfectly (Jimmy Rollins not running out plays). Though he has veteran experience and has won before, he has not been further in the playoffs than he has now. That alone keeps him from seperating as the better manager in this World Series.

For Joe Maddon, this has been one heck of a ride. Finally, in the 10 year history of the Tampa franchise, someone has came in and had success. Maddon has the perfect personality for this team. Unconvential, quirky and even sometimes he makes some bad decisions. But he believes more than anything in the players that take the field for him. He has since day one in Tampa. His fire and desire have surely rubbed off on his squad as well. And Im convinced that since he got his club here, after dropping two straight to Boston, that he is the better manager in this series.

Advantage: Rays

8.) Conclusion-

Both of these Teams have been one of destiny this season. For the 'Phils, they crawled back into a race that shouldn't of been theirs. They have scratched to get this point. Their execution against possibly the best starter in the post-season (C.C. Sabathia), shows that they have what it takes to win

On the other side though, The Rays have been a true testament to what "home grown" can really do for you. This season is a story of a bench of ballplayers going out everyday and just playing the game. After finishing last place in the AL East this season, they have upped the defending champs. And it hasn't been via the superstar. Just a bunch of average players, coming together with one thing in common. The Desire to win. And that Desire will drive them.

9.) My Prediction-

Tampa beats the Philedelphia Phillies four games to two.

Miguel Olivo might be the best available catcher this off-season

2008-10-21T16:37:00.004-04:00

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Miguel Olivo isn't what you would call a, "top notch" player. His numbers add up to a measly .241 average and nearly 557 strike outs in 640 games played. He has never had more than 60 RBIs in a season, and astonishingly has never drawn more than 19 walks in a season. Add that with the fact that he does have a history of injury and suspension, and Olivo doesn't seem too appeasing. But I believe, because of age and other factors, He might be the best free agent available on the market.

Sure, He isn't the leader that Pudge Rodriguez or Jason Kendall are. And he isn't a Varitek, who dons a 'C' on his chest, but he does don some offensive numbers that are close, if not better than these group of hitters.

Take Ivan Rodriguez for example. In 129 games split between New York and Detroit, Pudge drove in 35 runners. For Olivo, in his 84 games, he drove in about one every two games played (41 RBIs). Olivo drove himself in 12 times via the long ball. In 48 more ballgames, pudge only went deep seven times. Defensively, it's not even close. But I think Olivo's offense makes up for that.

Consider this. Out of his 84 games of work, Olivo accounted for 70 runs. And that was playing for a team, whose offense was down right pittiful. And though he has no idea how to reach base, he does have a tendancy to stretch out pitchers. 134 of his 306 at bats went 4-6 pitches. Though he had more at bats, Jason Kendall, who is considered one of the most patient catchers at the plate, took his at bats 4-6 pitches 40% of the time. Olivo's rate is near 44%.

I understand that Olivo isnt going to be a team leader, or something to build around, but he could well be worth the look if both the Royals and Olivo opt out of the 2009 deal. If not, be prepared for a decent 2009, If Miguel gets fair playing time.

(Stats Accumulated via billjamesonline.net)

The Tuesday Afternoon Buzz

2008-10-21T15:15:00.003-04:00

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3:16 PM
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Maybe it isn't quite of a buzz, but hey, I have some news and analysis for you.

Blues Notes has the grades of the 2008 Dodgers posted today. I was surprised a bit with Furcal's A. But Hey, when he was on the field, he was a game changer. Unsurprisingly Andruw Jones got an F. But hey, he's got a hefty contract, doesn't that automatically give him a C?

Metsmerized plays "Should I stay or should I go" in a recent post. It seems that they don't want to bring back anyone over there. The Mets will undoubtedly have one of the most interesting off-seasons. If they don't bring in a top tier pitcher and resign Oliver Perez, then I will be shocked. Imagine, Johan Santana, Ben Sheets/Derek Lowe, John Maine, Oliver Perez and Mike Pelfrey. Pretty good rotation. I think that the Bullpen has to be an issue here. If a top tier starter isnt brought in then expect Frankie Rodriguez to be closing out games in New York. They have to add someone to that pen. I'll suggest Braden Looper.

The Boston Herald has a bunch of good information this afternoon. Micheal Silverman covers the to do list for Theo epstein this off-season. One major on the list has to be add bullpen help. Especially if Justin Masterson is not going to be a full time reliever. But I agree with Silverman. The Red Sox need to lock up the young guns to compete in the AL East in the not to distant future. Silverman also touched upon how hard it will be to obtain Jake Peavy. All I got to say is, Forget about it!

According to the New York Daily News, Former Yankee and Met manager Willie Randolph is high on the list of potential managers to fill the void left when the team let go of Interm Dale Sveum. Randolph was interviewed by the Brewers in 2000 as a managerial candidate, but was not choosen. There is also rumor that he could join Manny Acta's staff in Washington. Heck, its a win win for Willie. He will make 2.9 million in 2009 if he isnt hired.

And Finally, Bobby Abreu wants to stay in Pinstripes according to the New York Post. I think this would be a wise move, but Abreu could pick up a bit more money on the open market. The Outfield is a pretty weak position in the upcoming free agent market, and Abreu brings a pressence a lot of teams are looking for. Abreu hit .333 in clutch situations for the New York Yankees last season.

Links and Such

2008-10-20T19:51:00.002-04:00

-Dexter Sports
7:51 PM
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Here are some links for your Monday night. Don't forget to catch Boston Legal!

El Lefty Malo takes a look at the ratings for fox and the world series. Should be interesting to see where the ratings sit. You know that philly is going to pull in a good amount, but Tampa, as a friend said earlier in the week, "Who are they going to pull, Dick Vitale and his buddies?"

The Orioles have released RHP Adam Loewen after posting an 8.02 ERA. Loewen will have to attempt to make his comeback as a position player somewhere else. I hope someone gives him the light of day. Loewen hit .353 in college with 38 RBIs with Chipola junior college in florida. I think this could get interesting. We will definitely keep tabs on him. Someone has to give him a chance right?

La Velle Neil of the Minnesota Star Tribune says this postseason reminds him of the '06 playoffs. I would tend to agree. The Rays remind me of the Tigers, but much younger. They have great pitching and timely power. The Phillies are the Phillies though. I thought they deserved to be here at the beggining of the season.

John Shea Gauges the Free Agent Pool.

The Brewers will not pick a manager until well after the world series. I really think it is Ken Macha. I didn't before, but I just have a feeling he is their guy. The man did get shoved out the door in Oakland pretty quickly. I think he is something this team needs.

Buster Olney touches on this kid named.... David Price... Ever Hear of him? That is a joke. But seriously, I called it yesterday. Good job listening to me Joe Maddon.

Joe Pasnanski blogs about Buck Martinez. This is hilarious, and yet a good read, check it out

The Cubs Reporter takes a look at who should be the team MVP. Really good read.

Columbia pictures pitched a movie to actor Brad Pitt. What the heck does that have to do with baseball? Well the film would be based on the book, "Moneyball" about the Athletics system in the front office. This should be really interesting. I dont know what they are going to do to it to make money. I know i'll go to see it. But really, what can you do with a bunch of baseball minds?

Free Agent Profile: Braden Looper, SP

2008-10-20T14:41:00.003-04:00

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Bradon Looper has seen it all on the mound. As a closer, he saw success to an extent with the Marlins in '03 and the Mets in '04 and '05. Then, after signing as a free agent with St Louis, he was converted into a starter and also had some success.

A big part of the 2006 Cardinals title run, Looper won 9 games and had 15 crucial holds. And though he has not been perfect since 2006, he has been able to eat innings and control games. It is a big reason why he could be one of the under the radar signing this off-season.

According to Bill James Online, Looper threw his fastball 61% of the time in 2008, followed by his split finger 18% of the time, and his slider 15% of the time. In the 199 innings he pitched in 2008, Looper was able to get the first hitter out in 139 of those innings. He threw 148 Shutout innings. His 2008 also proves that he is consistent whenever he took the mound. In his 12 wins on the season, Looper tallied 43 ks and 18 walks. In his 14 losses, Looper struck out 44 batters and walked 20.

Breaking down his performance, I am sold on the fact that some team should give him a shot as a middle reliever or even set up type pitcher. Even though Looper allowed a lot of hitters to reach base, whether it be the walk or the hit, He only allowed 34% of those runners to score.

Though Looper's injury history is against any team that signs him, he might be well worth the shot. Of course, he will not be making anything near the 5 million that he made in 2008, but he could be a good filler on a lot of squads.

The Tigers, A's, Cardinals, Orioles, among others could give him a shot in 09.

Around The Horn: Game 7 Editon

2008-10-19T18:34:00.002-04:00

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Its upon us. Jon Lester, the ace of the Red Sox this Season. Matt Garza, the now ace that was once thought to be a part of a lopsided trade that sent Delmon Young to Minnesota. The Red Sox have certainly been in this situation before.

The Rays have not.

Tonight, expect a tough battle. No doubt about it in my mind. Both are two of the AL's best at eating innings, and performing under pressure. And I really like the Rays offense in this game seven. Expect a homer a peice from young bats B.J. Upton and Evan "Long gone"ia. The games have shown that the offenses will be there. The question mark has to be bullpen pitching. and that is what seperates these clubs.

On one end, is a bunch of solid relievers, all with great experience and a fireball youngster David Price. I say, why not throw him in for three or four innings if needbe. This kid has been lights out all year. Why not give him the ball? I say it is a must for this team to win in a close ball game.

On the other end is a closer that could quite possibly surpass Mariano Rivera's post season numbers and dominance. Jonathon Papelbon continues to answer the call time and time again. And that is going to be the game changing factor. Or so it could be.

Welcome back to the World Series Boston.

Notes from Around the League:

Speaking of those Red Sox, top prospect, starter Clay Buchholtz, tossed five scoreless innings in AFL action on Friday. Buchholtz struggled in 2008 after having a breakout 2007 campaign. I have to admit its wierd not seeing him out there on the mound this time of the year.

The Tigers brought in pitching coach Rick Knapp on Friday. Knapp, 46, does not have any coaching experience at the major league level. The funny part of the story though is, according to the Detroit Free Press, nobody knows or remembers who reccomended Knapp. The Tigers will also be hiring a bullpen coach later this offseason, and manager Jim Leyland says he is "99 % sure" that it will be from within the organization. Does Kenny Rogers fit the bill? Toledo pitching coach A.J. Sager has been a mainstay in the organization and could also be a very good possibility.

Josh Hamilton will be releasing a book detailing his life. The book will be titled, "Beyond Belief" and will cover nearly everything that has gone on in Hamilton's life. His wife even stated there was stuff in it that she didn't know about. All I can say is Kudos to this kid for his effort to get off cocaine and to straighten up his life. Its a miracle that he made it back to the majors. I will definitely be picking up a copy.

That will wrap up this Around the Horn. Oh yah, Make sure you don't caught drunk driving on your way home tonight. Wouldnt want to be like Joba would you?

Off-Season Outlook: Milwaukee Brewers

2008-10-18T01:12:00.002-04:00

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The Brewers opened the season hoping they could make a run at the post-season for the first time since 1981. The feel in Milwaukee was that same aura that filled the air in the summer of '81. This 2008 squad had a lot of talent and promise. And though they made the playoffs, it was of the un traditional sort. For the first time since 1983, a manager (Ned Yost) was fired in a playoff hunt. But the Brewers put together a playoff run despite a 10-16 September. It all fell short though, when the Phillies defeated the Brewers 3-1 in the NLDS.

Tonight, (since I will not be around Saturday) we continue our Off-Season Outlook Series with Bernie's Crew blogger and founder Jim Breen. Bernie's Crew is simply a must read, with the best and most interesting Brewers coverage on the Internet. Thank you Jim for your time. It is greatly appreciated. And once again, great input like always.

Here is the interview:

DS: One of the major concerns of the off-season for the brewers is literally maintaining their roster. Who of the multiple free agents do you think is a, "must sign."

JB: I'm not sure what you mean by "must sign," but if we're talking about 2008 Brewers that are becoming free agents, I'm not sure there is a must sign. I would like to see Gabe Kapler back in Brewers blue. That will take a couple million dollars, however. I am sure there is a cheaper alternative on the free agent market.

CC Sabathia is NOT a must sign. In fact, if the Brewers do resign Sabathia, it would handcuff their finances for many seasons to come. Say what you want about 3 million-plus attendance, that doesn't give Doug Melvin the green light to spend 25% of our payroll on one player. That would be foolish and dangerous to our future success as a team.

If we're talking about who in the free agent pool that was not a Brewer in 2008, I think there are too many ways to go for their to be a "must sign." I'd love to see Orlando Hudson come to Milwaukee, but he desperately wants to play for the Mets. He also will command top dollar, while Rickie Weeks is an average second baseman for much less money.

You want a sleeper free agent? How about Jason Isringhausen. After losing the closer's role in St. Louis, Doug Melvin could give him an eerily similar contract that he gave to Eric Gagne. He could be given a one-year deal to see what he has left in his tank.

DS: One thing that is definite is that the prospects in the Brewers organization are some of the best. First of all, talk about some of the prospects we will be seeing more of in 2009. And Secondly, I've heard around the blogosphere that Mat Gamel could be moving to first base. You as well have covered it a bit. What would you think of such a move?

JB: Mat Gamel should start the year in Triple-A. Plain and simple. He has defensive issues to work out, and he has never sustained a solid offensive output through an entire year. Gamel obviously has the bat to play in the big leagues, but is it consistent enough at the moment? Probably not, as he hasn't seen top-notch competition too often in his young career. Give him a year in the minors and see if he can continue his improvement at third base. If Milwaukee decides he simply cannot handle it, they may give him some reps in the outfield and at first.

Alcides Escobar puts on an absolute show with the glove. I'm also higher on his offensive capabilities than most people. I see numbers trending in the right direction and a hitter who knows how to use his speed on the basepaths. Sure he strikes out a bit and does not walk all that often, but both are improving. The kid is also developing a bit more power. I think he should be Milwaukee's starting shortstop in 2009. That's simply because I think he's ready. There are differing opinions on that.

Tim Dillard is also someone you will see in 2009, hopefully with the big league all season. The right-hander has a mid-90s fastball that has a good amount of movement to it. His control is his downfall, however. The young man seemed to figure it out in Nashville after being sent down after a brief stint with the big league squad. He still has plenty to prove in Spring Training.

I'm also a big proponent of Joe Bateman. He is devastating to right-handers and could be considered for a right-handed specialists. While there are not many of those, his sidearmed delivery is very, very deceptive towards righties. Think of him as a right-handed Mitch Stetter. I'd love to see what he can do on a bigger stage. Spring Training will decide that.

Finally, pay attention to Brad Nelson. He has more power and better plate discipline than what he showed during his September call-up. If Prince Fielder gets shipped this winter, Brad may be Milwaukee's first baseman in April.

DS: It is clear that Brewers management has made Ryan Braun the franchise player. And it is also clear that Prince Fielder could be a bit too expensive in the long haul. Do ultimately see Doug Melvin making a deal this off-season. Especially with the return of picks for starters Ben Sheets and C.C. Sabathia?

JB: Melvin needs to make a deal, in my opinion. I don't believe that the Milwaukee Brewers are a playoff-caliber team unless some changes are made. The starting rotation needs to improve. The offense needs to have a little more plate discipline and a higher OBP overall.

Do you do that by trading Prince Fielder, however? Not unless you get someone like Matt Cain in the deal. The Brewers don't have to trade Prince, so they can sit back and shoot for the moon on a deal.

There are a couple of other deals that are intriguing. Do the Brewers trade J.J. Hardy this winter? About a dozen teams will line up for his services if Milwaukee wants to shop him. Does Milwaukee try to swap bad contracts and move Bill Hall and Jeff Suppan?

Here's a sleeper deal for the winter. Bill Hall for Juan Pierre and cash. Both teams would be swapping bad contracts, and both players have a relative upside for the respective teams. The Dodgers need power in their infield. Billy certainly has that...if he makes contact. Juan Pierre could bring the legitimate lead-off man and solve the center field problem. Of course, this would involve Milwaukee not picking up Mike Cameron's option right after the world series -- which will probably happen, making this entire conversation void.

DS: Plain and Simple, Do you think as a fan of the crew, that Dale Sveum is the man for the job? If not, give us a name that you would think could fill the role as manager.

JB: I honestly don't know. The players love him, but I don't think Milwaukee will win or lose based on the manager next season. Buck Showalter would certainly be an interesting choice.

DS: Carlos Villanueva was undoubtedly a more valuable reliever than a starter last season. In the relief role, he had a beautiful 2.12 ERA in 59 innings. Do you think he has what it takes to be a consistent set up man or closer? Or do you see him more as a mop up/starter to start the '09 season?

CV is perfect for the bullpen, in my opinion. His change-up is a plus-pitch, but only the first time through the order. After that, batters are able to center on it fairly easily. Being in the starting rotation is out of the question in my mind.

As far as being a closer, I haven't really bought that either. I'd like to see him stay as the 7th and 8th inning man, as he has far more flexibility that way. Why limit a pitcher who can go two innings to only one? Milwaukee would be much better served giving the ball to Salomon Torres once again in '09 or signing someone like Jason Isringhausen to a one-year deal.

DS: And Finally, be honest with me Jim, How bad do you wish it were possible for C.C. to make Milwaukee his home in 2009 as the ace of the staff?
Do I wish it were possible? Of course I do.

JB: Do I want to shell out the money for him? No thanks

.

Make sure you check out Jim and his wonderful writing at Bernies Crew on Sportsbubbler.com

Writers Needed

2008-10-17T14:35:00.004-04:00

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Hello Faithful. I hope your day is a wonderful one.

I would like to announce that I am taking submissions. I would love to hear from you fellow bloggers and baseball lovers out there. Email me at admissions@dexter-sports.com. One thing I do ask is that you paste your submissions into the "Body" of the email and not as an attachment. If I like what I see, I might ask you to join as a permanent writer. Another thing I ask is that you have experience in blogging, but it isn't required. I hope to get some submissions, and remember, it can be anything about baseball. I'm up for it all.

Are you kidding me? The Red Sox live another day

2008-10-17T11:06:00.004-04:00

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It Almost Seems like the Red Sox were meant to go down 3-1, just to storm back. Last night, those 'pesky Rays had a chance of a lifetime to shut up the Fenway Faithful. Up 7-0, they blew it. Remind you of Yankees/Red Sox anyone? Except I don't think we will see this swing the Red Sox way.

Josh Beckett takes the mound for the Red Sox, and lets face it, he is one of the best in the game. There is nothing better than knowing as a player, the pitcher that is taking the mound for your squad has some of the best stuff in the game. And when he is on, he is nearly unmatchable pitch by pitch. And with history on their side, it will be tempting to see if the Red Sox can keep this streak alive.

On the other side of the spectrum is bulldog James Shields. He lost in his first visit to the mound, but will look to rebound on Saturday. Shields has added a cutter that has been downright devastating at times. Look for him to work in his change up quite a lot in game 6.

Honestly, I'm sick and tired of seeing the Red Sox in the World Series. How about some new blood? The Rays and Phillies would be a testament to the change in baseball as well. No More big boppin' bats, and ageless wonders making it happen on the field. The Rays are the future, and the Phils are the present.

Quick Hits from around the league:

According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, The Braves are actively seeking starter Jake Peavy. The Braves could add up to 40 million dollars this off-season in payroll. If I'm Kevin Towers, I want Jair Jurrjens back in this deal. The Article rumors Charlie Morton, among others as a possibility. Jason Heyward is considered to be untouchable, so this deal would also include an infielder of some sorts I would imagine. I would not pull the trigger unless i could get a top pitcher and an outfield prospect to fill one of the biggest voids on this squad.

As much as I would love to stay away from the Yankees, it appears that the staff has decided to use Joba Chamberlain as a starter next year. According to Big Hank, "The plan as of right now is Chamberlain is going to be a starter, everybody's pretty much in agreement with that." Well yah, I would hope so. Chamberlain is only 23, and could yet again be the anchor of the Yankees staff.

The Mariners front office cannot catch a break. According to the Chicago Tribune, The Cubs have denied the Mariners the right to talk to GM Jim Hendry about their opening at General Manager. Hendry is considered the winningest GM in Cubs history, since their world series run in 1945. But hey, Brewers scouting director Jack Zduriencik is in the running. I campaigned for Jack in June.

Brewers beat Writer Tom Haudricourt is doing what he is best at. Haudricourt is speculating who GM Doug Melvin is bringing in to interview for the manager position. Haudricourt mentions Bob Brenly, Buck Showwalter and Ken Macha. I think that Macha fits, but Showwalter and Brenly? Don't reach bud, don't reach. Read further about the Macha bit. It is quite interesting.

Hal McCoy must of fallen off of his rocker this morning. The Dayton News beat writer has a post today wondering if the Reds can be the, "2009 Philedelphia Phillies." One word explains that Hal. No.

Varitek shows true leadership before what could be his last game in a Red Sox Uniform

2008-10-16T15:00:00.003-04:00

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Jason Varitek might be on of the most overrated catchers of our time. His numbers are not even close to staggering. The last three seasons he has only eclipsed .250 once. Throughout his career he has flirted with .300 just three times. And its not like he is a stud defensively. Sure he had a .996 fielding percentage this season, but his backup, Kevin Cash, threw out the same amount of runners as him in the regular season (16). Manager Terry Francona doesn't trust 'Tek with knuckleballer Tim Wakefield on the mound. But yet, people always have labeled him as one of the best catchers in the league. Commending him for the 'C' that mans his uniform. Well folks, I did not buy into that 'C'. Until I read this morning's Boston Globe.

I was stuck by his comments in when asked last night about this possibly being his last game at Fenway Park. Here is what Varitek had to say:

"That's totally irrelevant now to what this team is facing. Sorry about that."

I know it sounds generic, but It sold me. Varitek could have talked about his career with the sox, maybe gone on one of those Curt Schilling rants. He could of complained about how he hasn't been taken care of. But no, he is only worried about the job he has to do. He has to keep compusure. And that is why he dons the "C'. And heck, if thats enough, the words of Daisuke Matsuzaka say it all:

"For two years over all those games that Varitek has caught for me, I've been able to pitch with less and less stress over that time, and that certainly has helped me in my performance as well."

So watch for Mr. Varitek tonight to give it his all. He might still look ugly at the plate, and not drive in the runs requested, but he is a true gamer. And if the Red Sox let him walk, some pitching staff will be more than happy to give Varitek the reigns to the sleigh. Look what it has done. Since '99 when he took over, the Red Sox have been one of the best pitching staffs in history. I really think a lot of that has to do with him. I mean, the man has caught four no hitters.

Off-Season Outlook: Detroit Tigers

2008-10-16T09:13:00.002-04:00

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For the Detroit Tigers, the off-season if very grim after a horrible ending to the 2008 season, which seen them slip past the Kansas City Royals into last place as the season unfolded. After many had hopes of a world series birth, fans in Detroit are hoping the Tigers can reel in a successful 2009.

Today starts an ongoing series title, "Off-Season Outlook." With the help of bloggers from across the blogsophere, I hope to break down some team needs and questions with some of the best coverage available. For this edition, I am joined by the wonderful, award winning columnist Kurt Mensching of The Mining Journal in Marquette, Michigan. Mensching maintains Mack Avenue Tigers, which I believe is the best Tigers blog on the map.

Here is what he had to say about the Tigers Off-Season:

JD: First of All, what do you think is the most important need that
has to be addressed this off season for the Tigers?

KM: Honestly, the need is defense. Pitching is an important part of
defense. But eventually, someone's going to hit the ball and you need
the 7 guys who stand behind the pitcher to do something about it. That
was the Tigers' weak point this season. It was just awful to watch, at
times, the bungling fielders. You can pretty much point anywhere but
Curtis Granderson (or Brandon Inge's time at third base) and find ugly
plays.

How they'll address is is another question. It's easier to say, "by
getting better defenders." But that's just not possible unless they're
able to unload some contracts. But there are a few places they can
work with. They have to get a better fielding shortstop, of course.
They need a better fielding left fielder than Carlos Guillen.
Basically, they need to find a way to get a bit younger and more
athletic in the field, but without sacrificing the scoring. Easier
written than done.

--
JD: Many Have linked free agent starter Derek Lowe to the Tigers
because of his connection to Michigan, Do you think signing him or a
free agent starter of his quality is a must for this upcoming season?

KM: I think fans like to banter about "Well, he's from this state and
fills the role, he'd want to come home!" but I don't really see it
happen all that often. As for Lowe, yeah, I guess he could eat some
innings. But I'd rather they use the rotation spot on either some of
the younger guys, or even Freddy Garcia or Dontrelle Willis. I don't
want to see the Tigers throwing any more money at older players. It's
not what they need.

---
JD: This Bullpen has been everything but successful since the 2006
season. We even Saw bullpen coach Jeff Jones and pitching coach Chuck
Hernandez lose their jobs. Do you see an overhaul of this bullpen in
the near future?


KM: They don't really have any choice. They need to fill a lot of
holes that just naturally opened up with players' contacts expiring,
anyway. They need a closer. But they shouldn't spend a lot of money on
one. If they don't feel comfortable promoting from within, they should
try to find a reliever from someone else's bullpen who doesn't close
games and give it a try. I think it's an overrated, stats-driven
position myself. But you obviously can't have a headcase like Fernando
Rodney out in important games either. Rodney should be fine as setup.
I like Bobby Seay as the LOOGY. And they'll have to look at the 2008
college closer draftees of theirs to see if there's anything that can
make the big league club. Otherwise, they just have to scatter some
shots at relievers, no big contracts, but they should definitely be
trying to find a couple of guys at the $3-4M per season level and see
what happens.

---
JD: One of the major issues going into the off season is the shortstop
position. Do you think Ramon Santiago can be the everyday guy?

KM: Defensively, I think he can. I think he should be. Offensively, he
had a nice 2008 season. But I don't know if we can expect that out of
him. Still, I think the free agent shortstop market is going to be
overheated and not worth investing in this year. The best move for the
Tigers is probably just to play some defense and hope Santiago doesn't
hinder run production too much. Of course, with the entire left side
of the infield giving away at bats, they might have to find a catcher
who is above-average at the plate. Not an easy task either.

---
JD: Jim Leyland has been a lot of the talk in the regional press so
far this off season. Do you think that he deserves an extension after
this season?

KM:  After this season? No. Not that I blame him for this season. So
many injuries, such an oddly put-together team. It was one of those
teams going in you knew could either win 100 or fall on its face.
There's a team or two every year that has a bunch of big names, but a
few too many aging players. And every year, a team falls on its face.
That was my fear heading into the season and it turned out. Too many
injuries, too many softball players. It happens. Leyland didn't have a
lot to work with. But I don't view that as being reason to give him an
extension either. I suspect the Tigers will look at his body of work
sometime in 2009 and figure it out before the season is over. They'll
probably offer him something mid-season I'd have to think. And I bet
he takes it.

--
Do you see any big name free agents landing in Detroit? I know that
you have discussed on your blog, names such as Fransisco Rodriguez and
C.C. Sabathia, and how you feel Detroit should move away from those
players. Do you see the Tigers moving more toward a youth movement,
that includes youngsters such as outfielder Matt Joyce?

In my plan for the Tigers, they don't punt 2009. but they don't try to
make a run at the World Series with the same strategy as 2008. So yes,
I'm in favor of a youth movement. Not a full-on youth movement. But
there are a few moves that have to be made, and they're not
necessarily easy ones. For one, they have to dump Gary Sheffield.
Trade him, drop him, I don't really care. And two, they need to trade
Magglio Ordonez for some sort of young, yet major-league ready catcher
or pitchers. Preferably catcher though. That opens room for moving
Carlos Guillen to DH, and for playing  Matt Joyce, who I think really
must be in the lineup and on the field. And it might be time to get a
good look at Wilkin Ramirez in the outfield as well.

I think that would give the Tigers a nice combination of defense and
speed, while still allowing for a few guys who can hit the ball. The
runs scored would obviously drop some. Don't get me wrong. I don't
want NL ball. I don't want small ball. But they just can't be playing
softball games anymore. They need to give Leyland a few more strategic
options and cut down on expected injuries.

--
JD:  Finally, Tell us a little bit about yourself and what made or
makes you a Tigers fan?

KM: I was born and lived half my childhood in Detroit. And I was a bit
too young to have any real memory of 1984, but I did know the Tigers
won the World Series. Baseball was always my sport growing up, too. I
liked basketball (the Pistons were my true first sports love) but
wasn't blessed with height. So I played baseball throughout growing up
and in high school and collected baseball cards and followed the
Tigers religiously on the radio and the few televised games, and got
down to Tiger Stadium as often as possible after moving to northern
lower Michigan. Baseball's just always been my sport, I guess. And I
love my hometown. So nothing would mean more to me (and I suspect
Detroit) than seeing the Tigers actually win it all.

Deals I would love to see happen this Winter

2008-10-15T14:19:00.003-04:00

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2:21 PM
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As baseball fans, we all have deals and signings in our minds, that we would love to see happen. Whether it be to better your favorite team, or just kill your rival, you dream about these signings and trades. Here are some that I would love to see this offseason.

1.) Prince Fielder packs his bags for D-Town-

Lets face it. The Brewers really need to clear money, and though they would like to keep the Prince on board, the ultimate truth is that they cannot afford him. So, why not move him across Lake Michigan? I would love the possibility of a father son duo hitting 50 homers (in different seasons of course) for the same team for the first time in history. Prince would fit well as the DH on the Squad wouldn't he? The Tigers could send some funky prospects that the Brewers fall in love with, and no one has heard of, but turn out to be superstars. Mat Gamel could fill in at first, and the Brewers could push to bring back big C.C. Seeing Prince in a Tigers uniform would be quite the site. Plus, it might spark a bonding possibility and a rekindling of a father-son relationship.

2.) White Sox do not pick up Ken Griffey's contract and He signs with the Mariners-

Come on! Any person who watched baseball in the 90's is rooting for a return to Seattle. We all saw the reception he got when he returned to Seattle. He wont be able to be the young gunning, gold glove center fielder we once loved, but he will be competitive. In a tough time for Seattle baseball fans, It would be nice to see them bring back Seattle's kid.

3.) Jake Peavy is traded to the east coast-

Lets be honest with each other, this isn't going to happen. But I love this guy so much, I just want to be able to see him pitch at a time where I'm not passing out in my lazy boy. Plus, how cool would it be to see his great attitude and wonderful personality mix with a competing east coast team. How about the Rays? Sure, it would take one of their top prospects and more, but hey, It would be well worth it. Hello the 90's braves all over again. Oh, if only the dreams could come true. To be honest, I just love to see this guy pitch. And its hard to catch him on the west coast.

4.) Mike Mussina returns to Baltimore-

Yah right, but I can dream right? Just to see the moose, and the knuckle curve back at it in Oriole park would make my 2009 season. It has been rumored that he is thinking about retiring on a good note, but I have a feeling he will be back. Mussina is in a fraternity of Oriole greats that include Jim Palmer and Mike Flannigan. But when it is all said and done, it wont be in Baltimore. I expect the Yankees, Red Sox, and Dodgers to try and put a cheap bid in. Mussina will most likely don those dirty dirty pinstripes yet again.

5.) Cubs sign Moises Alou, AJ Burnett, Carl Pavano, Braden Looper and Ivan Rodriguez-

See what I'm getting at. All of these free agents played a huge part in the 2003 NLCS. If you bring back Alou, you can find Bartman and replay that situation. And Big Lou can put out Burnett, Looper and Pudge to grit it out during the season and make a run in the playoffs. The Marlins made one of the best playoff runs in history in 2003, starting with bringing down Barry Bonds and the Giants. We all know the Cubs can't win in the playoffs. So why not bring in the guys that ruined their only true chance in 2003?

6.) Manny Ramirez signs with the Hiroshima Carp -

Picture Manny suited up in the Carps uni blasting bombs out of the Tokyo dome. Holy Moley it would be amazing. Ramirez wouldnt worry about playing tough, he would get all the money he wants, and Japanese fans will laugh at him when he falls flat on his face and completely misses the baseball in the outfield. I just thought when the Red Sox went to Japan to open the season, Manny belonged. Heck, I would love it, you know ESPN would be all over the coverage. The only issue that would kill Ramirez is simply that everyone would keep telling him, "You not Big Papi!"

7.) C.C. Sabathia signs with the Oakland A's -

If this were to happen, Billy Beane would have to change the definition of Moneyball to, "Using smarts, and finally handing a bunch of cash to the best pitcher in the league, to win ballgames." I can so see Billy going the Babe Ruth route, and putting C.C. At DH for the long haul. How cool would that be? I mean heck, his salary would leave Billy only enough money for two other players. He would have to bring back Jeremy Brown. I'm pretty sure he could make it work. Billy Beane is Jesus, a god walking on earth.

Playoff Updates

2008-10-01T14:15:00.002-04:00

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2:15 PM
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Today's playoff action has a lot of drama behind it. As we all know, at this time of the season, teams are making last minute roster decisions. Usually it seems that these decisions really don't matter. But this season it could. Let's take a look at some roster moves shaking and baking before postseason play.

The Tampa Rays have some of the most interesting roster moves to make. Speedy leadoff lefty Carl Crawford will make the start against the whitesox in game one. The Most interesting though is the rumor that Edwin Jackson will be left of the ALDS roster. The Rays felt that there were better options for the bullpen (including rookie David Price.) I believe you have to keep the fourteen game winner on the roster. Throw him in the pen. In fact, if Troy Percival isnt healthy, why not make Jackson the closer. His electric slider gives him the stuff to fit the role.

For the Dodgers, Short Stop Rafael Furcal will be batting lead-off tonight. Furcal is straight off the DL, and could be a key spark for the L.A. offense. Jeff Kent is also fresh off the D.L. It seems that Matt Kemp will not really get an oppurtnity to play, with the emergence of Andre Either and Manny Ramirez. Derek Lowe will take the mound in game one.

The other team in Los Angeles will most likely stick Vlad Guerrero at the DH spot. Gary Matthews jr. earned his spot in the outfield as the season wound down. I find it interesting that Mike Sciosca, the worshipper of tough defense, would put Vlad at DH. His arm, though really wild, is still one of the strongest in baseball. Gary Matthews does have a good arm as well though.

The Brewers will not carry veteran Gabe Kapler, as well as starter Ben Sheets and veteran reliever David Riske. All will be injured. Manager Dale Sveum has also decided to carry Brad Nelson on the roster. Should make for an interesting pinch hit option for the Brew Crew. It looks like Rickie Weeks will may the start tonight and bat second. Hopefully, Bill Hall will be a good option second in the lineup.

The Phillies will be without Pat Burell. The Philadelphia Inquirer has a great article today about playoff rotations, and how it's really just a flip of the coin. I believe their staff easily overmatches that of the Brewers. If Cole Hamel's change up is on, watch out. Meanwhile, the only pitcher with consistency right now for the Brewers is the one and only C.C. Sabathia. But watch out Yovanni Gallardo could be a true stud in the playoffs.

The Red Sox are all a mess like always. J.D. Drew should bring his 19 homers back into the lineup, but nothing is certain. Mike Lowell could miss some time, which woudl force Kevin Youkallis over to third and Sean Casey. One thing is certain though. Their top three starters are going to be tough to beat. It will be interesting to see where the Paul Byrds of the team will fit in this postseason.

For the White Sox, it will be a quick turnaround on making decisions. I love the idea of throwing Javier Vazquez against James Shields. I really like this rotation's chances. The Offense is another issue. But if they get hot, a run like 2005 could be in order.

Post-Season Review: Jumping on the Brewer Train

2008-09-29T15:06:00.002-04:00

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3:07 PM
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He did it again. With the biggest crowd output and least amount of Cub fans in Miller Park, in at least my viewing history. C.C. Sabathia controlled the show. And now, after 20+ years of hope, despair, and the attempt to make a push to the playoffs, they have made it. When it's all said and done, no matter where this run ends up, undoubtedly C.C. is the major reason why the Brewers are post season bound.

That is why they should resign him.

I know this sounds extremely crazy. It does not make make any sense to bring back one pitcher in favor of a bunch of position players. But in this baseball fan's eyes, it almost seems that Mr. Sabathia is the Brewers.

No, I'm not going to run down the numbers, because you know them all already. And I'm not going to talk about what Sabathia can do, because it's obvious. But come on Doug Melvin, do the right thing.
(Before I continue this banter, I must make it clear that this is the voice of a fan, and as the voice of the fan, I might not be rational)

Undoubtedly, C.C. Sabathia will demand somewhere in the 150 million dollar range for five years. And you know that teams, such as the Yankees and Red Sox will raise that value. But, what if the Brewers were to make a run? Would he consider a discount. It would be possible. Why not offer him a deal just a little bit above the value of Johan Santana's? I know your thinking it's impossible for a small market like the Brewers, but it really is not. Here is how it could happen:

1) Find a way to clear 30 million a year in cap money; by not bringing back some free agents.
2) Here are some players that would work out in my mind

Eric Gagne (10 Million)
J.J. Hardy (hard to give up, but prospect in the wings, 2.65 million)
Dave Bush (2.5 Million)
Ben Sheets (11 Million)
Ray Durham (7.5 Million) Or could bring back at a cheaper price,
Mike Cameron (Decline 10 Millon dollar option)
Decline contracts on rising stars Corey Hart and Rickie Weeks (I know it hurts)
Craig Counsell (3 Million)

3) Trade Prince fielder for a couple of major league ready prospects. Get them in starting roles, and run with it. Heck, these guys aren't hitting like they should.

4). Heck, Sell the Organization to Bud Selig, and use the cash to buy Sabathia.

All I know is they need to bring this guy back. He is worth every little penny.

Around The Horn: Tigers Talk, Free Agents,

2008-09-29T14:08:00.004-04:00

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2:10 p.m.
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Ryan Braun blasted the shot that kept my playoff hopes alive last night. As you remember, I had once selected the Tigers and Brewers to make it to the world series. Ok, I know the Tigers are horrid. As a matter of fact, they ended up in the cellar of the AL Central. And now players will pay the price.

Here are some quick hits and opinions going into Monday's play.

According to the Detroit Free Press, The Tigers announced today that they will not excercise the contract of Edgar Renteria next year. Personally, as a Tigers fan, I'm thankful. Renteria has yet to have success in the American league. I think teams in the NL such as the Braves, Dodgers, Brewers (depending on Hardy deal) and possibly the cardinals again. It will be interesting to see where he goes in the off-season. I'm not sure any team in the AL will be looking to add him. Also, manager Jim Leyland has announced that Brandon Inge will play third base in 2009. The Tigers will be looking for a catcher in the off-season. Good luck with that one

What is the most important element of tonight's Tigers/Whitesox Game? One of the most important factors will be the last start of the year for free agent Freddy Garcia. Garcia, who has pitched a light load so far this season, will be one of the "top" free agent pitchers in the market. Expect a team like the Yankees or Mets to give him a bit more money than deserved, especially if he pitches well tonight. The Tigers have also had internal talks concerning Garcia.

After watching yesterday's Cubs/Brewers match up I realized two things. 1) If CC Sabathia could go on two days rest, watch out. 2) Angel Guzman looked locked in to start the game, and I really think he could be a key component of their bullpen. It would be wise of Pinella to possibly only carry two lefties instead of three. Either Way, Guzman will be available if needed.

According to Tyler Kepner of the Times, Yankees pitcher Mike Mussina could be considering retirement. Mussina, at the ripe age of 39, won twenty games for New York this season. This will be hard for me to phatom really. Mussina is one of those few players I grew up idolizing as a child. But hey, as the article states, not many of the game's greats have ever finised with a great season. The Yankees will surely be going after the C.C. machine and Sheets in the off-season.

Welcome Back/Week One Impressions

2008-09-01T12:30:00.005-04:00

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12:31 PM
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Man, what a good first Saturday for college football fans. Wasn't It? Michigan loses a squeaker to an underrated Utah Ute squad. We got to see the ACC get blown out of the water. You know, that conference that everyone used to hype. The one that saw supposed powerhouses Virginia Tech and Clemson (#2 recruiting class in '08) get beat by weaker opponents. Throw in losses for Virginia and NC State and you begin to see why everyone is dogging the ACC. It might also be because other teams in the conference, such as North Carolina had to scrap out a win against McNeese State. Or the fact that Maryland could only pull out a 7 point win against Division 1-AA Opponent Delaware.

But unlike most of the power conferences, The ACC is young and talented. As Mentioned above, Clemson ranks second in the 2008 Recruiting class. Who is first. None other than conference foe Miami. Even the Florida State Seminoles (#12 Recruiting Class) have put together some blue chippers. But its the translation of those peices into the final puzzle that matters.

Take for example the 2007 North Carolina Class. Heralded as one of the best in the Nation, the Tar Heels felt with new coach Butch Davis that a new Look was on the way in Tar Heel nation. Davis, though hasn't seen it come together.

The Big Ten though has continued to expand it's talents. Take Illinois. Even though they lost their opener to #6 Missouri, they have built a strong core and winning tradition under one of if not the best recruiter in the nation, in Ron Zook. I Believe that the ACC is moving the same way.

Saturday Quick Hits:

ESPN has a great little tidbit about the Stoops brothers today. If you didn't notice, Both Arizona and Okalahoma put a smackdown on their opponents this week. Their combined score against their opponents, 127-2. Not bad when you consider Mike Stoops and Arizona have not gone 2-0 to start a season in his four year tenure. Both could go a combined 4-0 to start the season if Oklahoma beats Cincinnatti and Arizona beats Toledo.

There still hasnt been an official update on Ohio State Heisman Hopeful Chris "Beanie" Wells. It was originally thought Wells could be lost on the season, but further reports indicate other wise. Wells will most likely sit out against Ohio this week no matter what. The Buckeyes will face a critical non conference foe in a few weeks, when they will take on #3 USC. Chris Wells could be a key factor in that matchup.

Michigan's Terrence Taylor couldn't have said it better. In an interview Taylor clearly stated that Michigan has to move on after a tough loss to Utah. "We need to move on," "We got caught up with the Appalachian State game so much that we lost to Oregon." I couldn't agree more with Taylor. This time though, the loss comes to a Ute Squad that I believe could be BCS bound when it is all said and done. Especially with a weak ACC. If the Wolverines get down on this loss, It could be a long season. Michigan will face Miami of Ohio on Saturday.

David Garrard is turning Into a Number One Fantasy Option

2008-08-09T17:15:00.002-04:00

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5:16 PM
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Eighteen touchdowns. 3 Interceptions. No, those aren't Tom Brady or Peyton Manning Numbers. Heck they aren't lil Manning or Drew Brees Numbers.

But after playing in 12 games last season for the Jacksonville Jaguars and throwing for 2,509 yard s, David Garrard has put himself on the map of capable number one quarterbacks in nearly any fantasy league.

And the Numbers look to only get better. According to Jaguars.com, The staff in Jacksonville is trying to get Garrard to air the ball out a bit more. With Jerry Porter and Reggie Williams as his go to guys, why not burn it? With Maurice Jones-Drew spreading the field, and Fred Taylor pounding the middle, the long ball is going to be a great place to go. And if head coach Jack Del Rio brings in Terry Glenn to fill in for his banged up corps, it will become almost impossible not to go deep. Which could be good and bad.

I think that Garrard could have great value if you fall into a situation where you have to take someone in the middle rounds, and you missed out on the Carson Palmer's and Peyton Manning's of the world.

NFL Slant: Pennington to Start for the Dolphins

2008-08-09T12:13:00.003-04:00

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12:13 PM
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Brett Favre is a big fat Jerk. First, he tries to steal his starting job back from Aaron Rodgers. Little does he know, he has probably given the poor kid a complex the size of Mexico. Secondly, he stole the starting job from one of the NFL's most underrated quarterbacks. But Don't worry, Chad Pennington has already rebounded.

Signing a two year, 11.5 million dollar deal with the Miami Dolphins, it seems inevitable that Pennington will be the starter. Now, Bill Parcells has his quarterback. The Dolphins should be primed to win. Right?

Parcells, who drafted Pennington when he was with the Jets, has always brought silence to the crazed thoughts that Quincey Carter could be the leader of this squad in 08. Thank god. It also means that coach.... I mean general manager Bill Parcells has that veteran starter that he has always loved. And I'll tell you one thing. Pennington's ability increases the value of Ted Ginn and Ernest Wilford. Both are "deep threats" and it will be interesting to see if Parcells and Sparano will change up the offensive game plan.

I also believe that Pennington under center should increase the value of Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams. In that Offense, they are going to pound the ball ALOT. Remember the old Ricky Williams days, when he would touch the ball for what seemed like every other play? I think we will see that again, but with more of a split. As much as I believe that Ronnie Brown will be 100% ready, I'm not sure if he will be as significant as he is sold to be.

It seems that recently drafted Chad Henne will battle Josh McCown for the final quarterback spot. Just last week, McCown was rumored to be the starting quarterback for the Dolphins.

Around The Horn: Rays get Bradford, I'm Alive!, The Matchups of the Weekend

2008-08-07T17:16:00.002-04:00

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5:17 PM
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I'm Alive! Not as much as jello, but I'm here. I haven't been blogging as of late, but I sure have been enjoying the classic summer baseball magic that is upon us. I've enjoyed Manny being Manny in Hollywood, and David Ortiz just wishing that Mr. Ramirez was still a Red Sox. I've watched Jeff Karstens develop at the major league level fairly quickly. And I have watched the Yankees and Tigers make transactions that haven't paid off (See Kyle Farnsworth and Ivan Rodriguez). Then Again, I love what Joe Torre has done. Completely fill the outfield with a bunch of capable stars. Did they really get Manny Ramirez for Andy LaRoche? Yup, they did. Anyways, let's take a look at the news floating around the league.

According to ESPN, the Red Sox have placed a waiver claim on Brian Giles. Theo Epstein reportedly tried to go after Giles in the past. Not a bad pickup by the giants, but I think that pitching is more of the desired. Freddy Garcia could be a possibly solution to that issue. Giles could fill in at first base if Mike Lowell continues to be hurt. Either way, that lineup needs someone that can draw a walk, and Giles gives that to them. Sox fans shouldn't be excited though, because this means that lineup isn't going to be healthy for a good amount of time.

Speaking of Freddy Garcia, he and his agent hope to nail down a team to sign with pretty quickly. Garcia prefers to sign a deal just for 2008, and then hit the free agent market for a bigger deal. Of course he does. If he can have any type of success, someone will give him way too much money. It has happened in the past. There are a lot of teams that could use his help, but I think he will end up in New York. Either the Mets or Yankees will be the heavy hitters.

And in more news in the NL East, The Rays have acquired reliever Chad Bradford from the Orioles. This is a great move by the Rays. Though their pen is one of the best in the AL, it gets better with Bradford. His numbers stun me every year. He just gets the job done. I'm not going to say this is a deal that puts them over the top, but it surely helps them in the hitter heavy AL East. The Orioles will receive a player to be named later. I have quietly been rooting for the Rays all season. Adding Bradford makes me come out of the closet so to speak.

Columns of the Day:

Geoff Baker of the Seattle Times Revisits the Adam Jones trade. This one almost makes you want to go, DOH!

Hal McCoy of the Dayton News writes about the rest of the Reds Season. As always, Hal adds a bit of humor. For Reds fans, it doesn't seem like a .500 season is in reach.

Jean Jacques Taylor of the Dallas Morning News touches on the C.J. Wilson situation in Arlington. Have you heard about it? It is kind of hard not picturing C.J. as the closer of the future. Oh well, he is still young. But I understand the Rangers situation. You have to do something. Especially since your team has a chance at clinching a wild card birth.

Programming Note

2008-08-07T17:11:00.002-04:00

-Dexter Sports
5:12 PM
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Well, now that the Brett Favre Saga is FINALLY over, I think it is time to make a programming switch. Though Dexter-Sports is still primarily a baseball paradise, I plan on making it a vacation destiny for those football fans, and fantasy football managers that visit the site.

Of course, I'll still focus on America's past time, but with college football and the NFL getting underway, I am really excited to expand the horizons of this web page.

Well, cool. For those of you that didn't know, Mr. Cheesehead himself is now a Broadway star. Like you didn't know that in the first place.

The Dexter-Sports Trade Evaluator

2008-08-02T01:17:00.004-04:00

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1:19 AM
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While you were all busy soaking up the trade deadline, and seeing Baseball's favorite son finally land a gig in hollywood, I was watching my World Series pick, The Milwaukee Brewers, get pounded by the Chicago Cubs. It was a good series.... If you are a Cubs fan. But trust me, this battle isn't over. I could almost count out the Cardinals after witnessing part of that series first hand. But Hell, they werent supposed to be at this point anyways, so who knows. But life is more than Cubs/Brewers..... Its about the NL West and AL East and AL Central race that just got much more interesting. Let's break down the big trades. And no, I'm not going to break down the Arthur Rhodes deal. There is no point.

The Big Deal:

The Winners: Los Angeles Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates: I really like what the Pirates did in this trade. Not only do they drop expensive talent, they replace it with an outfielder that could also have the same type of production someday. Throw in a possible future closer in Craig Hanson and then a guy in Andy LaRoche, that could develop Aramis Ramirez type power if he becomes a major league caliber player. Throw in Jeff Karstens and Jose Tabata from the Yankee trade, and this team is looking at a good future.

So why are the Dodgers Winners? It's obvious. Your able to get Manny for a prospect you have given up on and a minor league arm. That is it. Sure, you have the biggest log jam in major league outfield history, but to add that bat is simply something you have to do. Like Joe Torre Said, you wish you have the DH, but you don't, and you have to make do. If their pitching can hang with the Diamondback staff, then this deal puts them over the top.

The Losers: Boston Red Sox

Could I be wrong about this? Of course. But I feel that too much talent was tossed around just to obtain someone of equal or lesser value, because of character and commitment issues. Guess what? The Red Sox had the same issues when they took home the world series last year. It blows my mind that they were willing to give up on Graig Hanson, Brandon Moss, and Manny for.....Jason Bay. I know that Theo met with his team and they discussed this to be the right move. But while Manny is being Manny in Hollywood and protecting LA Hitters, the Red Sox might be sitting on their couch wishing that Jason Bay was still a Pirate.

Tomorrow we will look at the other deals. For Now, I'm signing off.

2008-07-28T23:49:00.003-04:00

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11:56 PM
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This week's prospect profile, We will look at yet another Athletic arm.

For Sean Doolittle, hitting and pitching are both natural. Entering the 2007 draft, Doolittle was heralded as one of the best two way prospects. Many thought that his arm was his ticket to success in the majors, but yet again, the unconventional Billy Beane is proving most scouts wrong. In his short professional career, Doolittle is raking at the plate, and becoming a solid force in the outfield and at first base.

Drafted in the supplementary round of the draft, The A's reached a bit to obtain Doolittle, but it seems to be paying off. With HiA Stockton this year, Doolittle hit .305 with 18 long balls and 61 RBIs. But like many young talented prospects, Doolittle has been known to strike out way too much. In 86 games with the Stockton club, Doolittle had 99 strikeouts.

Now with the AA Midland Rockhounds, Doolittles success has slipped a bit. In 18 games, he is hitting .230, with 2 homers and again a high total of strikeouts. 19 of them in 18 games. But with experience, this issue can be erased.

"I’ve got to stop striking out I guess," said Doolittle. "I guess that’s one thing, but I think that’s coming. It’s a little bit of a byproduct of the more aggressive approach I’ve been taking. I feel like when I was in school I was a little bit more selective of everything. Now I’m really going up there trying to drive the ball and do some damage. Maybe I’m fouling off a pitch here and there early in the count and I’m falling behind and stuff. It’s not something that I’m really worried about, but right now if I had to say there’s an adjustment offensively, that would be probably the biggest thing."

At AA Midland, the lefty has settled in nicely at first base. Doolittle could be the future at the hot corner if Daric Barton doesn't pan out. With him and power hitting Chris Carter inching closer to the big leagues, the future of the A's offense looks spectacular.

Throw in probably the best pitching depth in the major leagues, and you have to believe that this team will be really good in years to come.

(quote taken from the baseball america prospect blog)

Trading Manny will Be near Impossible

2008-07-27T14:26:00.003-04:00

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2:38 PM
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I know we have heard it over and over again this time of the season. They say Manny Ramirez cannot get by with antics that are, "Manny Being Manny." When the trade deadline approaches, we hear that the Red Sox are going to deal Manny. At this time, Theo is apparently upset with Manny's actions and is going to deal him.

I didn't buy it then, and I surely don't buy it now.

Sure, Manny is a nuisance, and he has his downfalls. His body collapses on baseballs, instead of catching them, and he ultimately doesn't care about October. But his production cannot be replaced. At least for the right place. Manny has a no trade clause, because of his veteran duty of ten years or more in the majors and five on the same ball club. It's going to be hard to find a team that will be willing to sign him to an extension, or at least pick up his options. Plus, all the contenders are stacked in the outfield. Theo Epstein claims that he has been trying to trade Manny for five and a half years. I do believe it. Of course I do. But I still don't think it would be the right move.

Of all the contending teams, I can really only think of two that would be willing to talk. The Tigers, who have been searching for a power bat, and had been rumored to be thinking about Bonds could be someone at least interested. But who do you give up for him? Plus the Tigers are searching for pitching help. And I don't think Jim Leyland and Manny Ramirez would get a long too well. With a slew of outfield prospects, and a big need for starting pitching, I just don't see this happening.

The Dodgers could fit. Sending back either Matt Kemp or Andre Ethier as well as a pitching prospect. But why? They have already overpaid for a man named Andruw. But he could be with another former Red Sox problem child, Nomar Garciaparra. But No, I don't see this happening.

Going down the list, the White Sox could make sense. They would most likely send Josh Fields and pitching prospects to the Red Sox. But then you have to either commit to Brian Anderson and give up on either Nick Swisher, Jim Thome or Paul Konerko. Or you would have to play Carlos Quentin in Center. Which I don't think is a good idea.

And of Course, their AL East teams match up pretty well, but they are division foes, and the Yankees already have found their hopeful solution to their woes. It is just going to be really hard to deal this man.

With that being said though, A Surprise team has to be the Texas Rangers. If they want to get a deal done, and can agree in principle with Manny on some type of extension, The Rangers could send some type of help to Boston. They have great catching depth, which could be needed in 09 for Boston. They also have some great pitching prospects that theo could fall in love with. The only thing is that you have to sell it to Manny. The Rangers are four over .500, but with Anaheim playing the way they have all season, it would have to be wild card or bust. And I don't think they have the major league pitching for that.

When its all said and done, I can see "Manny being Manny" somewhere else. Which is dissapointing. The clubhouse seems torn on how Manny has control over his situation. Just listen to Mike Lowell and David Ortiz in this Video:

It should be an interesting few days. But by Thursday, I don't see anything happening. Unless Theo Epstein is giving him away for practically free.

Hampton lasts Longer than Five Warmup Pitches

2008-07-27T03:14:00.003-04:00

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7:00 AM
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Holy Cow. I'm mesmerized. Mr. Mike Hampton and his expensive, yet crappy left arm made it to his scheduled start. I know he gave up 6 runs in four innings, but still, he made it!

I know what your saying, "even Mark Mulder lasted 6 or so innings before bowing out." It's true, but hey, the sky is the limit.

Hey Carl Pavano, how's it looking down in New York? Ok... I went to far with that.... Pavano is too busy soaking up the DL at this point.

Other News: THE GOOSE IS LOOSE TODAY! Goose Gossage will be elected into the Hall of Fame at 1:30 PM ET. You can catch it live on MLB.com

Weekend Deals and Such

2008-07-27T02:05:00.004-04:00

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6:00 AM
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What a great start to the weekend baseball schedule. We saw Mr. Pujols ruin the Mets evening, and the Brewers are now tied with the cubs at 60-44 in the NL Central, thanks to Mr. Ryan Braun.

Oh yah, I forget to mention, The Yankees are quietly putting a big run together. An 8 game winning streak, which has a lot to do with Robinson Cano's big bat finally showing up this season. The pitching staff has been phenomenal. And to think they added a great lefty to their pen and possibly another good lefty to their rotation. Thrown in Xavier Nady in the outfielder as another producer too. I don't think they are going anywhere. This is going to be a good race in the AL East.

Every Division is so close. With the Phillies dramatic comeback, they have came within one game of the Mets with a 55-49 record, which is also the same as the Marlins. The NL Central is all nodded up. The AL central is a battle between three teams, and the NL west is nothing near what it was supposed to be, but it is really competitive. With the Deadline approaching, let's take a look at the done deals so far this weekend, and break them down.

New York Yankees/Pittsburgh Pirates -

Yankees Get: Demaso Marte, LHP/Xavier Nady, OF
Pirates Get: Jeff Karstens SP, Ross Ohlendorf SP, Jose Tabata OF, Dan McCutchen SP

I really like the package that this Pirates team gets in the final offer. Unlike many, I am pretty high on Jose Tabata, because his power potential is really attractive. He has suffered injuries, suspensions and attitude issues that need to be addressed, but if he comes back healthy for the Pirates in 2009, he could be another piece of a pretty good outfield in the future.

When you think about the Pirates needs, the number one thing that comes to mind is starting pitching. And in this deal, they give up such little, to receive some pretty good pitching talent. Both, which could be in the majors as soon as possible.

Karstens has been really good at the AAA level, and Ohlendorf could replace Marte in the bullpen. McCutchen is quietly becoming a good pitcher at the AAA level as well. I really like his plus curve and ability to spot pitches. I expect him to develop into a starter in the Pirates organization.

For the Yankees, this obviously bolsters their Lineup already. Nady will fill in for Matsui and Posada at DH if needbe, and just adds dimension to the lineup. I have a feeling though that it will be a slight adjustment to American League pitching. If Nady can slug at a decent rate, which he has been able to all season, he will help this team score a lot more runs. And though you give up a lot of pitching and a good outfield prospect, you still have Ian Kennedy and Phil Hughes alongside you best outfield prospect, Austin Jackson. The future is still bright. I think at the end of the day, this trade will work out for both organizations. Especially if the Yankees officially add Jarrod Washburn.

Dodgers/Indians -

Dodgers Get: Casey Blake, 3B and Cash
Indians Get: Carlos Santana, C and Jon Meloan, SP

For the Dodgers, this deal makes a lot of sense. They are able to get a consistent, major league third baseman, which allows them to move Nomar to short and solidfy their lineup, without giving up a true top prospect. Though Meloan is ranked 8th in the organization, it isn't giving up much, considering he will most likely fill out as a reliever. With their already young bullpen, the Dodgers don't miss a beat.

Losing Carlos Santana though really could hit the organization in the future though. I know, I know, he cant hit that high note, or solo like nobody's business, but he can hit. At HiA the catcher already has 96 RBIs. I believe he automatically becomes the future catcher that replaces Victor Martinez when he moves to first base. He is that talented. But with Russell Martin locked up, It is a risk worth taking for this season.

For the Indians they bolster their pitching and add a super talented catching prospect. Overall, adding Anthony Reyes from the Cardinals, and more depth in the organization has meant a good day for this team. This could be a really fast rebuilding process, With guys like Matt LaPorta, Anthony Reyes, and Jon Meloan nearly being ready for major league competition. If healthy, I already like the Indians' chances in 2009. I wonder who the Indians have in mind for third base full time in 2009.

Coming up Later in the Day, I'll take a look at the Manny Rumors, and the possibility of the Mets making a move for an outfielder before the deadline.

The Delgado Factor

2008-07-25T09:47:00.006-04:00

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10:10 AM
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The Mets are in First Place. No, you do not need your reading glasses, you read that right. It comes at a time where the rival Phillies can't put together a solid all around game. Let's not discredit the Mets though. A big reason for their success has been the bat of Mr. Carlos Delgado. The same man that was being booed out of games, is now the Savior of Queens. Delgado almost matched his power production April and May in June. In September he has only hit .406 with five homers. Here are the Splits:

Though I am not on the Mets Bandwagon, I think they are on track to actually being the NL East champion this time around. Their Starting Rotation is scary, especially since you don't know what you are getting from Pedro Martinez and Oliver Perez has been shaky. But I think that Omar Minaya will add two more pieces to the puzzle to make it interesting. We all know Minaya is going to do anything he can to keep his job. Wouldn't it be something, if through all this turmoil, he pulls out a world series, even though the Cubs and Brewers have made the big splashes so far before the deadline.

On the mound, the turnaround of Mike Pelfrey has been a big reason this team has looked much better on the field and in the standings. After going 0-5 with a 5.35 ERA in May, Pelfrey has gone 6-0, with a 1.86 ERA in July since then.

This will be an interesting team to watch. But it is still early. Philly will bounce back, and Florida will hang tough. Should make it fun.

Around The Horn: Halladay is Angry, The Reciever is Major League, and Where in the World is Fransisco Lariano?

2008-07-24T16:31:00.002-04:00

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4:33 PM
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Who-hoo! Post number 301. I'm pretty proud of what We have done here. Well, I'll quit gloating and bring you some trade deadline news that you might not be hearing elsewhere. Ok, your probably hearing it everywhere, but I'll add my twist to it. Let's get to it.

Major League News:

Former Notre Dame Wideout Jeff Samardzija could make his major league debut later this week. Samardzija is considered a closer of the future, or even a number two type starter. His slider is his best out pitch, which has gotten him plenty of strikeouts in his three starts with AAA Iowa. The move would come once Kerry Wood is placed on the disabled list. Others believe that Jon Lieber could fill the void. Nobody is talking about the fact that hey, it is close to the deadline. They could go get a reliever from San Fransisco or any other number of teams.

There is still no report of when Mr. Fransisco Liriano will make the trip to the Big Leagues. Liriano shut down the Toledo Mud Hens in his last start, going 7 innings and striking out ten. This will come sooner rather than later. It is just finding out when to do this deal. If you team is winning, why change it? We will see where this goes. I bet he is up by August 1st.
Doc Halladay is upset with the Toronto Blue Jays and I don't blame him. The Jays have not silenced the rumors that the veteran ace is available. If the Jays even think about dealing Halladay, it would be a mistake. He wants to be in Toronto, and he is instantly one of the top ten pitchers in the league. There isn't a prospect that can replace that. We will see where this goes, but I imagine this could hinder negotiations in the future. Halladay is under contract through the 2010 season.

Trade Winds:

Washburn to the Brewers? Really? According to reports, The Brewers could be inquiring about the starter as a possible reliever. The Yankees seem to be the biggest suitor for the lefty, but I wouldn't count out the Cardinals or Rockies. Washburn has a no trade clause, but stated he would waive it for the right situation.

Bronson Arroyo doesn't want to be dealt. He made that clear today. But the Rockies among other teams have expressed some interest. Arroyo, who had a horrid start to 2008, has come along a bit in his last few starts, could also be someone the Yankees or Cardinals target. The Rockies and Reds have agreed that the Reds would take some of the contract of Arroyo if they do agree on players. I think Arroyo could be a big piece for a team in the hunt.

Well here is some obvious news. The Yankees are looking for catching help. ESPN lists Gerald Laird, Paul LoDuca, Miguel Olivo and Rod Barajas as possible players that could fill in for Jorge Posada. Of those, I think Olivo fits best with their offense, but I'll add another name to the list. Bengie Molina. Two Molinas and one heck of a battery could be an option for the Yankees. The price for Bengie might be a bit much though. It will be interesting to see if the Yankees are willing to give up an Austin Jackson for part-time help.

Prospect Profile: Brandon Hicks, SS Atlanta Braves

2008-07-24T12:40:00.003-04:00

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12:41 PM
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For one Atlanta Braves shortstop, the game is a battle of being consistent. It's hitting two homers in one game for the first time. And then following that up the next day with a five strikeout performance against the same team. In his first pro season, he fan a total of 96 times in only 262 at bats. But, Brandon Hicks still put up 14 long balls and 21 doubles.

Coming out of San Jacinto Junior College in Texas, the six foot shortstop was only known as a defensive wizard. But he has began to prove people wrong. It has helped add more depth in the infield of an organization that is top heavy in outfield and pitching depth. People have labeled him the hardest worker in the organization. Imagine David Eckstein type grit with a projectable frame and major league ready defense and you have Hicks. Once he makes the right adjustments, Brent Lillibridge could lose the title as best shortstop in the organization.

So far, coming into this season, after hitting .188 for Peoria in the Arizona Fall League, Hicks has stretched out his stance to help him pick up on pitches better. So far, it hasn't improved him much. Hicks has struck out 106 times in 292 ABs. But the power is still there. In a tough park to hit the ball in the air, Hicks has gone deep 15 times and drove in 48 runs. After going undrafted in high school and junior college, Hicks is really showing that he could someday be a major leaguer.

I believe he will be in the majors by 2011 at shortstop. Though he has a big stature for the position and hits for so much power, I believe his defensive ability is going to be be the factor that keeps him there. I believe he will finish the rest of the season at HiA Myrtle Beach. Next season, we will see him suited up at the AA level.

You have to root for this guy. He is an underdog. Plus, He shares the same birthday as me

Around The Horn: Joyce to the World, Hampton, Rose

2008-07-23T10:45:00.002-04:00

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11:12 AM
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Good Morning. How's this wonderful day treating you? It can't be worse than most Royals players last few days. I mean my goodness. So I apologize if you are a Kansas City fan. Don't worry, Football season is right around the corner. And for now, I'll get you some of the information from around the league.

Trade Talk:

Though The Texas Rangers are above .500 and have put a good run together this season, but many believe the Rangers are still looking to be sellers. The Baseball Times believes that Eddie Guardado would be a prime example of someone the Rangers could possibly dump to anyone who needs bullpen help. Other guys to look out for are Nelson Cruz, Kevin Millwood, Vincente Padilla, and any of the the Rangers outfielders not named Josh Hamilton, Brandon Boggs, or David Murphy.

The Yankees will be buyers in the next week or so. According to sources close to the New York Daily News, Hal and George and the gang still believe they can make a run for the playoffs. Well duh, I mean come on? Did you expect anything different. I wouldn't be surprised if an Ian Kennedy was dealt to bring in an outfield bat. The Yankees are high on C.C. Sabathia this off-season, so it wouldn't be that big of a loss if they could lock up Sabathia or sheets this off-season. I really think that Jason Bay will be a Yankee by the trade deadline.

The White Sox also seem to be on the block for starting pitching. Of course, GM Kenny Williams is going to be aggressive at the deadline. But the question is at what price? I still have a feeling that Joshua Fields will be untouchable to anyone, so that could throw off a good amount of deals. Starting pitching is probably the main target.

Other Baseball Talk:

Have you heard of this Kid, Matt Joyce out in Detroit? He has hit 10 dingers in 36 games at the big league level. How Impressive is that? Well, check this out. Mr. Joyce is one of only four players since 1999 who has hit 10 home runs in his first 36 big-league games. Mike Jacobs (29 games), Albert Pujols (32) and Adam Dunn (34) are the others. That is a pretty impressive group. He is also the 13th fastest to 10 Homers since 1953. I think we might have found a diamond in the rough.

Mike Hampton is expected to return to the rotation by next week. I don't believe it. Maybe that is because we have heard this line 550 times now since he signed that huge contract with the Braves. If he was as young as Rick Ankiel or Adam Loewen. I wish him all of luck, and I am pretty sure the Braves do as well.

The Rivalry:

Andy Tarnoff of onmilwaukee.com writes about the "Anti -Shirt" and it's correlation to the Brewers-Cubs Rivalry that has heated up since both teams have been in the hunt. I Found that article extremely interesting, considering I will be taking part in that rivalry July 30th at Miller Park. It should be a great game.

Why So Serious? It's Ok, Im bringing you some Coverage!

2008-07-22T18:39:00.002-04:00

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6:50 PM
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I know your upset that I haven't updated all day. It was foolish of me. Downright stupid. But listen, The Dark Knight is the 2008 movie of the year, and Heath ledger's performance is not short of perfect. So calm down, I went to a matinée of the film. I know that baseball supersedes everything in life, I understand. But Tell Me.....

Why So Serious?

Ha, Well let's take a look at some major league news going on as we speak. Or as I was utterly entranced in Gotham City.

Transactions:

Well, the Astros went and got them self a good starting pitcher in Randy Wolf today. The Padres and Astros agreed to deal Wolf for AAA pitcher Chad Reineke. Reinke is averaging nearly a strikeout per inning. I really don't understand the logic behind this trade though. Do the Astros really believe that this puts them in contention? I really hope not. It could be a deal just to fill a roster spot, so they don't have to call up a youngster that isn't ready yet. We will see what else is in store. I wouldn't say this puts them out of the Freddy Garcia hunt either.

Jon Rauch has finally been dealt to a contender. Rauch was dealt to the Diamondbacks for Emilio Bonifacio earlier this afternoon. Rauch gives this team one of the best bullpens in the national league. I am still not sure what is role will be, but no matter what, I think he will be fine in any role. For the Nationals, they get a great second base prospect, with a lot of range and a great glove. I think this deal is great for both sides. Surprisingly, I thought Jim Bowden was going to be asking for more. But it's still a good deal for the future.

The Brewers have given Jay Gibbons a chance. Gibbons, who sent out a letter to all major league teams, besides his former Oriole squad, was playing independent ball. Gibbons could have some power with a bit more work on his swing. He was once a great prospect in the Jays system, until they let him go. It will be interesting to see how far he will go in the Brewer system, and where he will start off. I think he is honestly brought in to fill outfield depth, after the Brewers dealt two outfield prospects in hte last few weeks.

Other News:

The Cubs have been fined for violating rules placed regarding the 2008 MLB first year draft. ESPN reports that the Cubs did not place mandatory reports to the league regarding the draft. They also had draftees taking the field before their deals were approved by the league. Major League Baseball has been stiff against the Cubs before, with slotting issues and offering too much players to prospects. I find it kind of interesting. Why such the rush to not file the paperwork. I think some of the issue might have to do with the mix in ownership.

Dexter Sports Pick Up of the Week: Nomar Garciaparra, IF Los Angeles Dodgers

2008-07-21T14:04:00.002-04:00

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2:05 PM
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Wow, I feel like im consulting on a 1998 fantasy team, but I'm going to do it. This week, It's time to pick up Mr. Nomar Garciaparra off the waiver wire.

Though his numbers aren't super impressive, he has looked good in a short time back from the disabled list. He is hitting .288 with four dingers and five teen RBIs. And once Nomar gets on, he is known for going into spurts. If you need someone to back up at either shortstop, third base or first base, he could be the answer. And with Colorado on slate, in Colorado, the numbers will only get better.

With the weak shortstop market out there, Garciaparra could be a great option. He will not strike out hardly at all, increasing his chance to get on base. He still does have some power, which is really valuable at the shortstop position, and with Andruw Jones back, he could have some really great protection in the Dodgers lineup. Heck, its worth a shot isn't it? I feel like it is a reach a bit, but why not. He is Nomar. the Batting Glove adjusting, feet kicking phenom.

Other Solid Pick Ups:

Chris Volstad, SP Florida Marlins - In two starts, Florida's number one prospect has been lights out. Six strikeouts in 10 innings pitched has shown that his stuff is very possibly ready for the full big league workload.

Luke Scott, OF Baltimore - After a great weekend, including three home runs in two games, It might be worth it to give Scott a spot on your roster. For a fourth or fifth outfielder on your roster, he will have some really good numbers.

Mike Aviles, SS Kansas City - Aviles is another stop gap in the lack of depth at shortstop. The Youngster is hitting the ball really well, even though many have focused on his defensive ability so far. I would give him a shot if you can.

Nick Blackburn, SP Minnesota - Sure he isnt going to strike out a bunch of hitters, but he will control a game and keep it low scoring with a good amount of innings. It is surprising that he isnt even in talks for AL rookie of the year. He is holding a 3.65 ERA in his rookie campaign.

NL Predictions

2008-07-21T09:54:00.003-04:00

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9:55 AM
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How was your weekend? Great, thats good to hear. Mine was full of action not related to our wonderful game. That's ok though, because I have a lot of stuff coming to you today. We have your pick up of the week, we will take a look at the Ray Durham trade, and I might just go a bit prospect on you later in the day.

NL Central Winner: Milwaukee Brewers

This is the hardest division in baseball to predict, because all three teams could run away with the division at any point of the season. With Kerry Wood going down on the DL and the injury prone roster, I don't feel the Cubs will be able to stay healthy all season. For the Cardinals, It could come down to the wire, if their pitching holds up the way it has all season. I like their lineup, minus the fact that it lacks a lot of experience. Down the stretch, that could be a huge factor in their run to the playoffs. The reason I pick the Brewers is simply because their pitching staff is going to be phenomenal down the stretch. If they get bullpen help at the deadline, which seems less likely now that they have made another deal to get Ray Durham. Adding that bat will help immensely. I bet he will have taken the starting job from Rickie Weeks within the next week.

NL East Winner: New York Mets

A week ago I would have been sold on this pick. I wouldn't even have second thought the Phillies. But after what I consider an idiotic trade and the resurgence of the Mets, I went with New York's finest. I know that they haven't been impressive this season, but Omar Minaya is their general manager. That means a deal will get done before the deadline for a hitter, or a pretty good starter. If Carlos Delgado keeps hitting the way he has, Look out Joe Blanton and company. But if Billy Wagner's recent tightness is something serious, the Mets Bullpen becomes downright ugly. Though not many are talking about it, but I think the bullpen search has started in New York.

NL West Winner: Colorado Rockies

Don't think it is possible? All I know is that the whole division is under .500 and the Rockies, I believe, have the best roster in the whole division. Plus, we saw what they did in the second half last season. For the Diamondbacks, it has been hard to win without Dan Haren and Brandon Webb on the mound, and the Dodgers just don't have enough depth to compete in a battle for first place. I like their pitching staff, but the bullpen scares me. I'm not sure if Jonathon Broxton is ready to take the role of closer just yet.

NL Wildcard: Cubs, Cardinals

Is it going to be Albert Pujols and the revived rotation pulling it out? How about Rich Harden and Alfonso Soriano, will they carry the Cubs in the second half? I really don't know which team will pull out of the regular season, but I can pretty much guarantee that the Wildcard team will be a central team. I like the Cubs more, because they have a lot of depth. But the Derrick Lees, Kerry Woods and Rich Hardens of this team, that could be hurt anytime really scare me.

NL Rookie of the Year: Geovany Soto

To be honest, there isn't anyone else that even comes close to the production of Soto in the nl rookie class of 08. He was the first rookie catcher to start in the ALL-Star game, and the first non Japanese rookie to even start in the game. He is on a pace that could become the best rookie season of any catcher ever in the bigs.

Second Half Predictions

2008-07-19T14:37:00.002-04:00

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2:40 PM
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Good Afternoon. I hope your weekend is going well. Well, as you have been made aware, the second half is well underway, and we have had some great baseball already.

Unlike some analysts of this wonderful game, I can at least say that my major league world series picks are still alive. In fact, if the Detroit Tigers get on a role, The Brewers and Tigers is not out of the question. Especially if C.C. pitches as well as he did last night. I'm excited to see the second half unfold. Ok, enough small talk, let's get right to the predictions.

AL Central Winner: Chicago White Sox

It is hard to believe that the team that could not score last year, will be able to pull out the tough AL Central, but I believe they have the best all around pitching in the American League. As much as I hate their offensive production, I think it is going to be enough to hold on to the central crown. I don't think they will have much playoff success though, because matched up against the Angels or any of the east teams, I don't think their hitting will match up to opponent pitching very well. It will be a close one, but they will squeak out the Tigers.

AL East Winner: Boston Red Sox

As much as my heart tells me those fighting Rays, those little devils would be able to pull it off, My mind keeps hitting me with the reality. The lineup is not producing, the bullpen has a history of falling apart, and oh yah, The Red Sox are yet to play their best baseball. And guess who is right over the Horizon. Big Papi. I think the combination of his presence and the pitching staff coming together will leave the Rays and Yanks in the dust. Don't be fooled though, My heart will still be cheering for the little guy. And if my prediction is wrong, I wont be surprised. You should always go with your heart....(Are you listening Rays, I'm counting on you!)

AL West Winner: Anaheim Angels

Wait, is this a prediction? Or is it a guarantee? I could almost surely tell you that this team is in. As a matter of fact, this team impresses me more than any of the great Angels teams of this decade, including the 2002 team. The pitching is beyond phenomenal, and though I'm not sold on the lineup, I think it's young spark could be a great thing down the stretch. Wouldn't it be a great story if say, Brandon Wood could make a difference down the stretch. Stay tuned, this rotation is the most exciting in major league baseball.

AL Wildcard: Tigers, Twins or Rays

I know this is backing out of a prediction, but come on? Who really knows what will happen. I really like the Twins chances, especially with Lariano returning to the rotation sometime soon. I also like the idea that Delmon Young and the gang hasn't produced like they can, and we could see a whole different offense in the second half.

The Tigers scare me, because their pitching depth is lacking. It will take another arm to stay in this race and I don't think the Tigers are thinking move. Then again, if Gary Sheffield tears the cover off the ball and Edgar Renteria gets on track, this offense could pick up the slack. I haven't sold out on the Tigers chances all season, but I am as close now, as I was when they were 10 under .500.

For the Rays, I think its going to take a run much like the Rockies of 2007. In the division that they are in, that could be really tough to do. If it does happen, Evan Longoria will be the rookie of the year, Brian Fuentes will be either holding or closing games, and another big bat will step up. That is asking for a lot to happen. I will not count them out though.

AL Rookie of the Year: Evan Longoria, 3B Rays

Why? Because I have a feeling he is going to put the Rays offense on his back and carry them to at least a solid winning record in the tough AL east. Believe it or not, I was sold on this kid's swing in the home run derby. I think he has what it takes right now, to be consistent. If he is, Rays are playoff bound. No question.

Player Destined to Stick in the Majors: Denard Span, OF Minnesota Twins

This Season, it has been a great story to see Denard finally stick at the Major League Level. His speed, undoubtedly makes him a threat, and he finally has a good handle on the stick. Honestly, I would think about keeping in the lineup everyday, alternating throughout. He has been getting on base easily and adds more great speed to an already fast team. Though it might not be the Twins next season, I am pretty sure that Span has reached the ultimate span of time of playing minor league ball.

The Story Behind Ethan Martin

2008-07-18T14:03:00.002-04:00

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2:04 PM
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There is a lot to like about the 2008 High School Player of the Year. He has shown power, quick hands in the infield, and a great knack for the game. He also became one of the top pitching prospects in the game in his senior season.

No, It's not number one pick Tim Beckham, or First Baseman Eric Hosmer. And if you guessed Kyle Skipworth, Anthony Hewitt or Casey Kelly you would also be wrong. For Ethan Martin, playing the game comes quite easy. Whether it be at third base, or his newfound home, the pitching mound.

Originally, I felt that Martin was best suited as an Infielder first, with the though of entertaining pitching every fifth day. Possibly, I felt, a team like the Tigers at pick 21 would be willing to take a chance on. But the Dodgers gave him a home at pick number five teen. And there was no doubt about it. Martin was drafted to be a pitcher for the Dodgers.

For Me, it was a bit surprising to hear that was the Dodgers' plan. Until I read about the moment that Ethan Martin became a pitching prospect.

At the LaGrange Invitational, where Martin's Stephens County High School team competed against some of the best teams in the nation. Martin was about to toe the rubber against, the eventual Number one ranked American Heritage High School. At that point, he was considered a two way prospect. Someone who took the mound, but was best suited in the field and as a hitter. Against American Heritage, Martin set up top prospect Eric Hosmer on two straight fastballs in the mid 90's. Then he sat him down with a slurve. It didn't end there. Martin continued to strike out Adrian Nieto. Martin struck out the side, and 11 total hitters that game. It was one of the only two losses for the American Heritage club.

Overall, Martin went 10-2 in 15 appearances with two saves and 162 strikeouts. And at the Dish, he hit .509 with 18 dingers and 62% of his hits being of the extra base variety.

After signing, It seems clear that Martin will take the mound to hone his skills. Even though the Dodgers announced at the draft as a third baseman, they have made known he is a pitcher in their future. I think that is the best move. It will be interesting to see how Mr. Martin develops. Don't worry, we will keep you updated.

Bend it Like the Beckhams

2008-07-18T08:52:00.002-04:00

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9:05 AM
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For these brothers, it's been quite a ride. One was coveted as the best prospect in the 2008 draft, and looks to be the future shortstop for the Tampa Rays after four years of high school. For the other, after three years at Georgia Southern, and being drafted in the 17th round by the same team, an older brother is just trying to prove himself as a major league caliber talent.

For now, both Jeremy and Tim Beckham are more than just teammates, they are a double play tandem, and a force up the middle. And Jeremy has been a bit of a surprise, hitting .279 with a .404 on base percentage. And though he is struggling just a bit, his defense has been strong. He has been able to make great pivot moves to turn the double play. A pleasant surprise I would say.

For Tim, it has been a bit of a transition, that seems to be on the upswing. in 16 games, he is hitting a measly .203 with only one double and 3 RBIs, but his swing is coming around. From what I read, it seems that he is finally settling in to professional pitching. Having his brother there with him will be a bit of a comfort, and I can only see things getting better for him.

Other Prospect Notes:

So it wasn't a Josh Hamilton performance, but it was close. Check out this video from the eastern league home run derby. Mr. Travis Snider of the Blue Jays absolutely killed the ball. So, him and David Cooper in the lineup by 2009? I wouldn't completely think it was impossible.

The Baseball America Prospects Blog takes a look at the bad luck of USA Baseball.

Twins Supplementary Round Pick, Shooter Hunt has been pretty impressive in the Appalachian League . He gave up his first runs of his professional career in his 3rd start. Originally I thought Hunt would be picked in the 10-15 area of the draft.

Evaluating the Blanton Trade

2008-07-18T07:21:00.005-04:00

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7:21 AM
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Good Morning, I thought there wouldn't be a better way to start our Friday than by looking at yesterday's transaction between the Oakland Athletics and Philadelphia Phillies. Let's get started with Oakland's side of the Deal.

Who They Got:

Adrian Cardenas, 2b (Phillies #2 Prospect in their system) - Cardenas is a fine young left handed hitter that Billy Beane can add to the recent stockpile of middle infield depth in his system. Cardenas was the 2006 high school player of the year and since then has moved from shortstop to second base. I wouldn't be surprised to see Beane move him there over the long term. One thing Cardenas will need to work on is his ability to get on base. Billy Beane and the system demand the ability to walk and take pitches, which isn't a strong suit of this lefty bat with great loft power to the gaps. Defensively he might be a step behind at short, and lack the footwork at second, but don't be surprised to see the organization whip him into shape. Honestly, this is great value for a pitcher like Blanton, at least in my opinion. Cardenas is hittin .309 with 16 SBs in HiA Clearwater.

Josh Outman, SP (Phillies #4 Prospect in their System) - Outman struggled in a promotion to double A Reading last season, but since then has responded. In 70 innings of work, the Lefty has only given up 25 earned runs but he has walked more than that amount, allowing 37 baserunners via the walk. For Outman his number one weapon is his deception. Whether it is his 90-94 MPH fastball, his changeup or his slider, Outman relies on setting up his pitches and working counts. Outman to me, seems like the perfect replacement for a Joe Blanton type in the future. A guy that can go a good amount of innings, wear down hitters, and keep his offense in the ballgame. Yet again, another steal by Billy Beane. You got to love what this guy is doing in Oakland.

Matt Spencer, OF - Spencer, who was drafted in the third round of the 2007 draft out of Arizona State, has struggled to find his way in single A ball so far in his young professional career. Hitting just .249 with 66 strikeouts in 84 games. Many think that Spencer could be moved to the bullpen as a reliever, which he did well with in college. I say it is too early to give up on this kid, and we could see him stay in the outfield for at least one more season. not a bad "talent" to throw in the deal as a throw away prospect.

Who They Got:

Joe Blanton, SP - So what his ERA has been in the sixes his last 9 starts, or that he has given up more hits than innings pitched. For some reason, the Phillies feel that Blanton will be the answer to beating the Mets in the NL East. Well, I'm sorry Mr. Gillick, I'm going to have to disagree with you on this one. I know his job is just to be a "workhorse" but to be honest, his numbers arent much better than Brett Myers. In fact, Meyers has a better K/9 ratio, and hitters are pulling the same average of .284 when he is on the mound. Ok, Ok those optimistic, you got me, it's not all about the numbers. Well let me tell you something, History tells me that Blanton is prone to giving up more than a hit per innings pitched in his career. So, why not go for the Burnett and Byrds of the world? I mean come on, at least they have control of their own destiny. All of that for a rental pitcher. It would of been a better option to bring back Freddy Garcia. All I can Say is ouch, and welcome back New York.

News and Notes: Sexson is a Yankee, Blanton a Phillie

2008-07-18T00:00:00.002-04:00

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12:01 AM
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Well, It has been a busy night around baseball. First and Foremost, Billy Beane is at it again. The Phillies have acquired Joe Blanton for three minor leaguers. No, The Phillies didn't give up Carlos Carrasco, but they did give up talented infielder Adrian Cardenas, whom i think will ultimately be in Oakland's top ten prospect list.

I think this is a bad deal for the Phillies, I mean Joe Blanton, come on. His ERA is in the sixes the last 5 or so starts, and all he can do is eat innings. To me, this deal is like trading for Carlos Silva. As much as Beane loves Joe Blanton (read Moneyball people) this deal will turn out to be good for him. I will have a better update of the prospects in the deal tomorrow for you.

And in other news on the night, the Yankees made a great move in my opinion, signing Richie Sexson to a deal today, after he was released by the Mariners. Sexson can at least still hit lefties and if he can find his stroke, this will spark the offense immensely. No harm, no foul also in this situation. I wonder if he will play some outfield as well, I really doubt it though. It would be exciting to see if the Yanks can get back into the hunt.

What to Expect

2008-07-17T21:23:00.002-04:00

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9:24 PM
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Coming up on the Dexter-Sports Calender:

The Podcast Series of "Who is Number One" will continue up next with the AL Central. We will also take a look at other prospect updates from around the league. If you have questions about prospects or from the 2008 draft, feel free to Email Me, and I will gladly answer them in the next podcast.

We will take a close look at New Dodger Ethan Martin, and discuss whether making him a pitcher is the best option for the Dodgers organization.

I will work on updating our "Available at the Deadline" posts from a few months ago.

All the Deadline action, plus a look at improving prospects after the first half of baseball.

Yup, You guessed it, I'll make some second half predictions.

So look forward to these things coming up in the future, Again if you want to see anything else, let me know via email or the comment section, and I'll gladly work on it for you.

U.S. Olympic Infield and Outfield

2008-07-17T14:43:00.003-04:00

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Lets take a look at this really talented Infield for the U.S. National Team.

First Base:

Mike Hessman, 1B Detroit Tigers - Holy Cow, what a good choice by the national team. Hessman will be a great source of power in the middle of the order and protect guys such as Colby Rasmus and Dexter Fowler in the order. Hessman has already clobbered 30 HRs in the International league and drove in 63. You cannot have a better situation at first base. His defense is a bit shady, but it could be worse. He has worked a lot on his defensive game this season at AAA Toledo.

Second Base/Shortstop:

Jason Donald, SS Philadelphia Philies - Donald looked really good defensively in the futures game, and has been a target of the U.S. team for quite some time. It is not clear if he will play second or short, but he will get a lot of playing time I would imagine. Donald is hitting .301 with 12 dingers for AA Reading.

Brian Barden, IF St. Louis Cardinals - Barden has played shortstop at the major league level, but Davey Johnson could play Barden all over the Infield and that is what is so intriguing. Sure, Barden isn't a Derek Jeter or Jimmy Rollins, but he is a real spark plug that could help the offense generate against the great pitching of the international competition.

Third Base:

Terry Tiffee, 3B Los Angeles Dodgers - Tiffee has had a spectacular season in AAA Las Vegas and even got the call to the majors when Andruw Jones originally went down to injury. The most important thing that Tiffee will bring to this roster is his veteran leadership. It will be important for him to lead by example when he is out on the field.

Matt Brown, 3b Los Angeles Angels - Blocked by Chone Figgins and Brandon Wood, Brown has never really gotten his chance to shine at the major league level. But at this stage, his bat could be a huge force in the middle of the order. With 20 homers and 62 RBIs already on the season, it is evident that Brown will take most of the playing time at third base. I imagine him batting 5th behind Matt LaPorta and Mike Hessman.

Catchers:

Lou Marson, C Philadelphia Phillies - Marson struggled to start his professional career, but as of late has really shined both offensively and as a defensive leader on the field. For AA reading Marson is hitting .321 with 4 homers and 45 RBIs respectively. What got Marson on the National team was his play at the futures game. Manager Davey Johnson was impressed with his play calling and connection to young pitchers, because management wasn't even relaying signs to the catcher or pitcher. Look for Marson to take most of the playing time at catcher.

Taylor Teagarden, C Texas Rangers - What helps Teagarden stick out compared to other catchers is his defensive ability. As we saw in the futures game, Teagarden has the ability to throw out hitters off of a breaking ball in any count. He is very smart behind the plate, and that could become effective coming down the stretch. His offense could use a bit of help, but it will be a great addition to this defense when he plays.

Outfielders:

Matt LaPorta, OF Cleveland Indians - Well, if your traded for C.C. Sabathia, you have to be pretty good right? LaPorta will be the savior of this team if his bat can continue to do what it has in the past. LaPorta has already went deep 21 times and he is a slugging machine. Don't be surprised if Davey Johnson plays LaPorta at first and Mike Hessman at third to get the array of great outfielders into the lineup for Team USA. Either way, Laporta will be hitting in the third or fourth spot in the order.

Dexter Fowler, OF Colorado Rockies - Fowler has the best range defensively of any player on this team and his bat is as solid as any of the five toolers for team USA. His 24 doubles and seven triples are key to the top of the order. it will be either him or Colby Rasmus leading it off for team USA. Either way would be a great option for the national team.

Colby Rasmus, OF St Louis Cardinals - Rasmus isn't your prototypical lead off hitter, because of his power, but could still be the option that Davey Johnson goes with. Rasmus had a horrible start of the season, but has picked it up as of late. I really like this addition to the order, It brings pop and consistency and he can play any outfield position.

John Gall, OF Florida Marlins - Gall is a veteran minor league that brings power, average and a decent glove to the team. Gall replaced Larry Walker in St. Louis for a while, but since then has been stuck in the minor leagues. So far he is hitting .321 with 11 Hrs and 71 RBIs. It will be interesting if his play sparks him back into the majors someday soon .

Evaluating The Olympic Roster :Pitchers

2008-07-17T11:32:00.002-04:00

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11:36 AM
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The United States announced it's roster yesterday. With a tough schedule ahead of them, Davy Johnson and company picked a pretty balanced roster, mixed with vets and young prospects. Lets break down the roster by position. First it will be Pitchers

Starting Pitchers:

Brett Anderson, SP Oakland Athletics - Anderson comes in with 95 strikeouts in 85 innings and what seems to be good control on the mound. He isn't going to blow pitches past hitters, his fastball sits around 90 MPH, but with two breaking balls, and a plus changeup, Anderson easily fools hitters.

Trever Cahill, SP Oakland Athletics - Like Anderson, the A's took Cahill in the second round of the 2006 draft with a lot of hope he would be a top of the line starter. Also like Anderson, Cahill relies on his offspeed pitches, mainly his plus curve, to get hitters out. Cahill is holding hitters to a .167 average on the season, which is astonshing. Combined with that is his 10.14 K/9 ratio that is stunning. Cahill pitches very mature for his age, which will be very important for this national team.

Jake Arrieta, SP Balimore Orioles - Arrieta did not pitch in 07, but jumped right to Double A Carolina in 2008, and he has shined. With a 2/1 strikeout to walk ratio and six wins, the Orioles have been slightly surprised. Arrieta has also held hitters to a .195 average this season. If his changeup is working, it will be hard to hit Mr. Arrieta.

Clayton Richard, SP Chicago White Sox - Richard will be very important to the U.S. team because he is a type of pitcher that can simply kill innings and do it without giving up much offense. Richard wont strike out many, but he does surrender a lot of ground balls and holds hitters to a .206 average.

Jeff Strasburg, SP San Diego State - Strasburg has become the first collegiate player selected to the national team since 2000. Most likely the first pick in the draft in 2009, Strasburg shut down Taiwan and Japan with the college U.S. team earlier this season. I really like bringing in the young gun to balance out this staff. He could be the next Ben Sheets to this staff.

Bullpen:

Brandon Knight, RP New York Mets - Knight brings a great veteran presence for the U.S. team as well as a guy that could start if need be. Knight will most likely fill the Long relief duties for Davey Johnson. Knight has been a stopper for AAA New Orleans, maintaining a 1.89 ERA with 37 Ks in 31 innings pitched.

Blane Neal, RP Detroit Tigers - After signing under contract in a try out session with a million other "fans," Neal has proved that he still has something in the tank. The former major league reliever has pitched beautifully for the AAA Mudhens of the International league. Though Neal has 23 saves on the season, He most likely will not be the closer. Neal has 36 Ks in 32 innings of work. Neal will most likely be middle relief for the most part.

Mike Koplove, RP Los Angeles Dodgers - Koplove also brings major league experience to the table and even a championship in Arizona. Like Neal, Koplove will be used sparingly in middle relief, but his experience will help this very young team. Koplove has held hitters to a .209 average this season.

Geno Espinelli, RP San Fransisco Giants - Espinelli will be called upon to be the lefty specialist in the pen. For AAA Fresno, Espinelli has put together a great campaign that includes a 2.06 ERA in 42 IP. I doubt that Davey Johnson will use him for anything but the lefty, but we will see.

Kevin Jepsen, RP Los Angeles Angels - Jepsen has closer type material, but will most likely settle in as a good set up man for Casey Weathers. Jepson has 13 saves on the season in split time between double and triple A. Davey Johnson will have to pick his spots well when using Jepsen though. He does get wild at times and can walk two or three batters at a time.

Jeff Stevens, RP Cleveland Indians - Stevens will be a great reliever to come in when the U.S. is in a jam. Stevens has a 12.19 K/9 ratio and has been known to step it up a notch with runners in scoring position. Stevens has held batters to a .136 average in those situations.

Casey Weathers, RP Colorado Rockies - IF you didn't see what he can do at the Futures game, then this should be able to describe it. 100 MPH. Davey Johnson will be hoping that Weathers will be mature enough on the mound to hold the closers role down. I really like Weathers in this position and I think he will step up and his prospect status will continue to sky rocket.

We will take a look at the hitters next.

Dexter-Sports Podcast: Whose Number One - Royals, Astros, Angels

2008-07-16T17:06:00.003-04:00

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5:16 PM
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In this podcast we take a look at Who should be the number one prospect for the Royals, Astros and Angels. I believe that Eric Hosmer will be the number one prospect by August 15th.

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Stay Tuned, I'll break down the Olympic Roster Next...

Around The Horn: Feds, Clemens, The Slide, Instant Replay

2008-07-16T11:36:00.002-04:00

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11:38 AM
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Wow, I just woke up and flipped the Tube on, just to make sure that the All-Star game did indeed end. Man, lets say Lidge gets out of that jam... What is Selig's next move? It was one of the best I have watched in a long time. Until I fell asleep in the 13th.... It's ok though, I woke up just in time to catch the end of the game.

Ok, enough talk about this all-star game, let's get right to the Juicy Stuff.

As much as I hate talking about HGH and Roger friggen Clemens, he is in the news again. According to the New York Post, Kirk Radomski handed over shipping reciepts for HGH sent to Clemens' house in 2002 and 2003. Makes sense. I really hope this nails the idiot for trying to file a defamation suit. The only thing that defamed your character Mr. Clemens is your own acts. And I hope you pay for it. I know it was an ERA, and that the hitters he was pitching to were jacked up even more than he was, and I am ok with that. But when you continuously deny your actions, well you deserve everything that is about to happen to you. Just admit it Roger, your acts weren't natural.

Good Ol' Bud Selig told the New York Times that there is a possibility that instant replay could be used during the post season. Man, he sure is pushing this replay notion. Early reports stated that MLB would try to use it in the Arizona Fall league and Spring training to pan things out. All I have to say is it better be perfect, because if instant replay makes a mistake in the postseason, a lot of fans are going to be pretty upset.

Could Barry Bonds be in pinstripes after the All-Star Break? The New York Daily News believes its a possibility, seeing that Hideki Matsui is going to be out for a good amount of time. I'm not buying it. There are better hitters available at the deadline that can play the outfield as well. So why go after Bonds? I dont know, maybe they are eying on Clemens too. I wonder when the Bonds rumors will end. 2011?

Olney's Latest:

Olney writes a nice piece on George Steinbrenner, in light of his appearance at Yankee Stadium yesterday. He also links to other sports writer's take on his appearance last night. I cant believe i felt emotion reading about it. Who would have known.

It seems that the Phillies are keeping tabs on Oakland starter Joe Blanton. That seems like a very good match up trade wise. I have no doubt that Billy Beane will inquire on the availability of Carlos Carrasco. I don't know if the Phillies would be willing to make that deal, but who knows. But with Brett Meyers making a comeback, it doesn't seem the Phils feel like they have to make a move. If Meyers responds, it will be quiet in the city of brotherly love.

The Price for Xavier Nady might be a bit much according to Olney. Many teams will be considering other options because Nady is arbitration eligible in 2009. Hmm, If you are the Pirates, why not try and ask for more? It won't hurt. When it comes time to deal though, you have to dump Nady and give the kids a chance to prove themself. Andrew McCutchen's time seems to be right now.

Stay tuned. Later today we will take a look at the US Olympic Roster announced later today.

Prospect Profile: Ben Revere, OF Minnesota

2008-07-15T15:47:00.004-04:00

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3:50 PM
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In the land of 1000 lakes there lies an organization with more outfield depth than nearly any other organization in major league baseball. They have graduated guys such as Denard Span and Micheal Cuddyer and traded for talent such as Carlos Gomez and Delmon Young. And Yet, their minor league system is deep in outfield talent. Guys Like Joe Benson and Jason Pirdie, alongside recently drafted Aaron Hicks wrap out a great class of outfielders. But One other sticks out more than these ballplayers. And that is Ben Revere.

A four year standout at Lexington Catholic High school in Kentucky and Mr. Baseball for that state in 2007, Ben put together career numbers that were astonishing which include a .489 batting average, 223 hits, 189 runs, 183 RBI, 45 doubles, 29 homers and a state-record 28 triples. In 600 high school at bats, Revere only ended up striking out 19 times.

Despite these numbers, and a draft best 6.3 second 60 yard draft time, Revere was considered a reach for the Twins at pick 28 because of his lack of power and any ability to develop it. The Twins rolled the Dice anyways, signing Revere to a 750,000 dollar contract, the smallest amount of money for a first round hitter since Adam Kennedy in 1994.

So far in his first professional season with the A Midwest League Beloit Snappers, Revere has been just short of perfect. Revere is hitting .401 in 60 games with 8 triples and 39 runs scored.

Revere projects to be an Ichiro type hitter that can slash hits into gaps and stretch them out into doubles and triples. He also has one of the best work ethics in the system, according to Twins officials. Though his power is not up to par and may never be, some twins scouts believe he will be able to develop average power in the future.

Jim Callis of Baseball America believes that Revere is the Twins' new Number One Prospect heading into the second half.

Around The Horn: Hey Now, You're an All-Star

2008-07-15T12:13:00.004-04:00

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12:13 PM
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I cant believe the half way point is already here. Tonight should be interesting. I'll take the NL. Our All-Star Rep, Mr. Ryan Braun is batting 7th in the order, which is quite bogus, but their lineup looks just a tid bit better. I like Terry Francona's strategy to bring in a lot of relievers to work just one inning each. It should help out, but I just got a feeling folks. Josh Hamilton sported the AL last night. I'm going to guess that Hanley Ramirez does it tonight for the NL.

Anyways, we have other things to talk about, so lets get to it.

Mr. K Rod has announced to the world that he will test free agent waters this off-season. Rodriguez said he would consider offers from the Angels as well, but I think you can kiss possibly the best closer in the game away. Fransisco was quoted as saying they had 6 years to put together a deal and they haven't. Should be an interesting plot to follow this off-season. If Rivera hangs up the cleats, The Yankees are my heavy favorite for k-rod.

Barry Bonds' agent is "not optimistic" that his client will get back on the field in 2008. Well, Um, DUH! I have been on of those that believed someone would give him a shot, and I still wouldn't count him out, but has been pretty clear that teams do not want to take on the four headed monster that Bonds brings to the clubhouse. You know, If I were the Yankees I would really think about adding MORE age to their roster. I just don't think Steinbrenner wants to taint the last season at Yankee stadium. Even if the Yankees finish third in the AL east, he still has the fans backing with a new stadium opening in 2009.

The Twins are interested in bringing in Adrian Beltre to man third base. Beltre, who has 16 homers, is a great defensive option with a cannon for an arm. Beltre could make the Twins lineup against lefties that much better as well. Geoff Baker though, of the Seattle Times believes it will be really hard for the Twins and Mariners to connect on a deal. The Twins would have to swallow 17 million in payroll, since the Mariners would be asking for prospects and not everyday players. Beltre is also a major part of the Mariners offense. If I were in Seattle's shoes, I would do something to make a deal get done. Why not take half of his salary? Pitching help and outfielder Ben Revere could be a great swap for both teams.

Well, That is all in Major League News. We will get you some more minor league news coming up today along with a prospect profile. Enjoy the All-Star Game!

Prospects Revisited: 21-25

2008-07-14T17:06:00.002-04:00

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5:07 PM
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21.) Jarrod Parker, SP Arizona Diamondbacks - I am not sold on his debut like many critics out there. In his 15 starts, he has held a solid 8.3 strikeouts to walk ratio. He is holding hitters though at a .270 clip. Though it isn't high, when it comes to better competition, we could see that rise. Granted he is fresh out of High School, I still haven't been sold on this arm. Only time will tell.

Baseball America's #21 Prospect: Wade Davis

22.) Max Scherzer, SP Arizona Diamondbacks - It is true. We haven't seen the best yet from Mr. Scherzer. Once he fills his potential as a starter, and begins to put together more experience, it will be a short time before the Diamondbacks make him a number 3/4 starter in their rotation. After his DL stint, It will be one big push to the major leagues. And with the constant struggle of the Diamondbacks' staff, I don't think there will be anything stopping him.

Baseball America's # 22 Prospect: Jeremy Hellickson

23.) Carlos Carrasco, SP Philadelphia Phillies - I have been one of those that have been down on Carrasco in the past for not developing at the pace he should be, but this season has shut me up. What I have noticed about Carrasco is he is learning how to "pitch." Though his numbers don't show it, he is hitting spots and setting up hitters to bite on his changeup. Carrasco could be trade bait for anybody the Phillies connect with to bring in starting pitching help.

Baseball America's #23 Prospect: Mike Moustakas

24.) Alcides Escobar, SS Milwaukee Brewers - Escobar is beginning to become possibly the best prospect in the Brewers system. His defense is major league ready, and his hitting is coming around quickly. The Brewers sent him back to AA this season after a promotion last season that saw him hit .306. This season he is hitting .337 with 25 stolen bases. For some reason, I have a feeling the Brewers will opt not to sign JJ Hardy, because this kid is ready for the majors in 2009.

Baseball America's #24 Prospect: Fernando Martinez

25.) Jake Arrieta, SP Baltimore Orioles - Arrieta is another example of the great work the Baltimore organization has done to try and put a winning team on the field. Arrieta's control is an issue though, but it should come around with experience. He strikes out twice as many as he walks. Look for Arrieta to get a call up to AA with Matt Wieters and Chris Tillman sometime soon.

Baseball America's # 25 Prospect: Madison Bumgarner

Dexter Sports Pick Up of the Week: All-Star Edition

2008-07-14T11:51:00.002-04:00

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11:52 AM
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In this edition of Pick Up of the Week, I'll take a look at players that you should consider after the All-Star Break. Here are three players you should focus on, that could make a difference down the stretch.

Sean Gallagher, SP Oakland - It is clear why I like him in the second Half. When Billy Beane goes after young pitching, he is most likely going to use it at the Major league level. Peter Gammons said during the futures game on Sunday that he believes when it's all said and done, Gallagher will have a lot more wins then Harden in his career. And I think that starts in the second half. Gallagher is owned in zero percent of leagues, so umm.... Now is the chance to jump on this guy. Gallagher went seven innings in his debut with Oakland. I really got a feeling about this.... It seems like Oakland and Gallagher are in love. And on a minor note, I think his counterpart in trade Matt Murton might be worth a look as well.

Andrew McCutchen, OF Pittsburgh - You can bet your bottom dollar that by Sepetember we will see Mr. McCutchen manning the outfield. It almost seems inevitable that the Pirates will deal one outfielder at least by the end of July. When that happens, Center Field will be his to keep. McCutchen is a great fantasy value, because he will steal, hit for average, hit for power and even take some walks. He should definitely be on your watch list.

Casey Weathers, CL Colorado - Ok, I feel like this might be a bit of a stretch, but this kid was just short of amazing in the futures game yesterday. In a deep league, Weathers could be your guy for saves, especially if the Rockies deal Brian Fuentes. He can hit 98 on the gun and dominates right handed hitters. ESPN ranks Weathers as the best minor leaguer to pick up future saves. I still cant get over his performance yesterday.

Prospect Revisited: 11-25

2008-07-13T13:28:00.002-04:00

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1:28 PM
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Here is a look at 11-20 on my revised top 25 prospect list.

11.) Trevor Cahill, SP Oakland Athletics - Only 20 years old, Cahill has shown that his maturity on the mound is not a factor. In time in AA, Cahill has been the minor league leader in strikeouts and has keep the ball down in the zone, preventing damage. What really impresses is his .134 opponents batters average since has has made the move to AA. All together this season, he has held opponents to a .166 average. Impressive.

Baseball America's #11 Prospect: Chris Tillman

12.) Dexter Fowler, OF Colorado Rockies - Fowler has all of the tools. His speed and defensive ability to stay on the ball in center is unmatchable, which will come in handy in the spacious Coors field. Once his bat improves, which it has tremendously this season, he will be major league ready. In 2009 I expect Fowler and not Tavaras in center in Denver.

Baseball America's #12 Prospect: Neftali Perez

13.) Neftali Feliz, SP Texas Rangers - Perez is one of the few reasons the Rangers were comfortable with trading Edison Volquez in the off-season. Perez could possibly have a better fastball than the Cy Young hopeful. I like to compare Feliz to a rough Johnny Cueto. He has all the stuff to be a more than great pitcher, but his command and composure really need some work. Unlike Number 14 on the list.

Baseball America's #13 Prospect: Trevor Cahill

14.) Chris Tillman, SP Baltimore Orioles - Tillman has impressed many across the nation since coming to the Baltimore organization. The only reason I have him in the middle of my prospect list is because he hasn't proved his talent to me yet. Unlike Feliz, his talent doesn't have quite the ceiling, but his command and control of the game is quite clear. Tillman has only given up 71 hits in 88 innings of work.

Baseball America's #14 Prospect: Austin Jackson

15.) Brett Anderson, SP Oakland Athletics - Yes, this is the second Oakland pitcher in the top 25. billy Beane has done an amazing job of rebuilding this system. Brett Anderson has great control on the hill, and it makes his pitchers harder to pick up. Anderson struggled when he came over from the Arizona organization, but he is responding to a AA callup. Anderson has given up 2 earned runs in 3 starts so far for AA Midland.

Baseball America's #15 Prospect: Dexter Fowler

16.) Austin Jackson, OF New York Yankees - Jackson has become more of a tool outfielder after turning around his game in the New York system. Once known as a pure power hitter, Jackson now has fine tuned his swing. With 14 stolen bases and even 8 dingers, Jackson is becoming the next to actually make it through the Yankees system. He still needs to work on his patience at te plate though. He has 46 walks compared to 76 strikeouts.

Baseball America's #16 Prospect: Brett Anderson

17.) Micheal Bowden, SP Boston Red Sox - This kid is something special. Sure, he has an unorthodox delivery, but at AA, he has been mowing down hitters. In 104 innings, he has only given up five long balls, while walking just 24. What impresses me the most though, is the strikeout ratio. 101 in 104 innings. Wow.

Baseball America's #17 Prospect: Micheal Bowden

18.) Tim Alderson, SP San Fransisco Giants - Alderson is compared to Rick Porcello in a lot of ways. He has made a great impression in HiA with 9 wins and 85 strikeouts in 97 innings. Alderson does need to work on his control though. He has walked about three a game, which isn't horrible for a prospect at his level. I would not be surprised to see Alderson up with the parent team by 2010, if his production continues to improve.

Baseball America's # 18 Prospect: Jarrod Parker

19.) Mat Gamel, 3B Milwaukee Brewers - I know in my last podcast I talked up Mr. Gamel as the number one prospect in the Brewers but it doesn't quite translate to the big picture. I honestly believe if Gamel can prove his glove is better than he has shown, he instantly makes his way into the top ten, but that is the major issue. We know he can hit. Only time will tell. Either way, he will be a major league sometime very soon.

Baseball America's # 19 Prospect: Tim Alderson

20.) Fernando Martinez, OF New York Mets - We all know that the Mets held out Martinez in Johan Santana talks, but with his injury history they could have made a mistake. Well, you have seen what Gomez can do at the major league level. Picture those numbers and defensive performances but better and you have described Martinez. If he can stay healthy, and the Mets are out, which I doubt they will be, we could see Martinez really soon.

Baseball America's # 20 Prospect: Mat Gamel

In our next post, we will take out at the last five in the top 25, plus prospects on the rise. Stay tuned.

Top Prospects Revisited

2008-07-13T10:13:00.000-04:00

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10:13 AM
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The half way point is near us. Later on today, I'll take a look at the Futures game Roster with a breakdown, but first I want to revisit Baseball's top 25 Prospects as of today. Mind you, this will not include draftees of this season. Part one will look at My top Ten Prospects.

1.) Matt Wieters, C Baltimore - Three months ago, If you would have asked me if this Oriole stud was going to prove doubters wrong, I probably would have said no. I did not see this coming. After a promotion to AA Bowie, Wieters has tallied 3 homers and 8 RBIs while hitting .354. His performance in HiA Fredrick earlier in the season put him on everyone's radar. I wouldn't be surprised to see a call up in August and a permanent stay in 2009.

Baseball America's #1 Prospect: Clayton Kershaw

2). Clayton Kershaw, SP Los Angeles - His performance in the big leagues has been a bit of a dissapointment, but I don't think it is something to worry about. When it comes down to it, at the end of the day, Kershaw has two amazing major league pitches. Once he can harness his fastball to set up his devastating curve, he will be able to baffle hitters. Remember, this kid is still young. He has a sharp growing curve to work with, and if it weren't for being rushed to the majors, he would be my number one prospect.

Baseball America's #2 Prospect: David Price

3). David Price, SP Tampa Rays - Price has made the climb to double a already this season after a great spring training showing. After getting to the field late this season, Price has only put up an average of over nine strikeouts per nine innings in his time at Vero Beach and Montgomery. At age 22, Price already has two years experience on number two prospect Clayton Kershaw. Price could be the fifth starter in Tampa next year if he continues to pitch to his capability.

Baseball America's #3 Prospect: Matt Wieters

4). Matt LaPorta, OF Cleveland Indians - Though it might be a bit high to put LaPorta fourth on this list, I have fallen in love with his at bat. His potential at the major league level is beyond measure. LaPorta had 66 RBIs before being traded to Cleveland. The Indians have decided to start Laporta in AA Akron. He should be up in AAA before August and if he excels there, a callup in September should be in order.

Baseball America's #4 Prospect: Colby Rasmus

5). Jason Heyward, OF Atlanta Braves - Heyward has the best projectability of anyone in the top ten. At 19, he already has a big bat, great glove and a knack to get on base. He has a major league body. With a .497 slugging percentage in loA it is clear this kid can hit. Hopefully, with the outfield depth in the Braves system, Atlanta will not rush Heyward to the Majors.

Baseball America's #5 Prospect: Jason Heyward

6). Colby Rasmus, OF St. Louis Cardinals - After a more than horrid start in 2008, Rasmus has began to pick it up a notch. What I like about Rasmus, is even though he is hitting .249 so far this season, he has made the adjustments to get on base. His .351 OBP is astonishing considering his other numbers. Rasmus is still on track for 2009 I believe, just in a different way than most prospects.

Baseball America's #6 Prospect: Cameron Maybin

7.) Cameron Maybin, OF Florida Marlins - Maybin is one of my favorite prospects becuase of his lanky frame that continues to build muscle and his obvious ability. But what disappoints me about him is his lack of production and character. Maybin has continued to be known as someone that gets hot early in the season and then falls off the map. Though many thought Florida was idiotic for not keeping him on the major league roster, it has proven to be a good thing. Maybin is only hitting .265 in AA and 1/3 of his at bats.

Baseball America's #7 Prospect: Matt LaPorta

8). Andrew McCutchen, OF Pittsburgh Pirates - Yet another outfielder makes the top ten. McCutchen brings it all, the glove, bat and now even a bit of pop after making the move to AAA this season. I believe McCutchen is the most major league ready of anyone in the top ten, but most likely wont get a look until September. McCutchen could be the first called up if either Jason Bay or Xavier Nady are dealt.

Baseball America's #8 Prospect: Rick Porcello

9). Rick Porcello, SP Detroit Tigers - Porcello is only the Second pitcher to make the list, but that doesn't mean diddly wap. Porcello could be the number one prospect by this time next year if he keeps up his tear. The Tigers have kept him in HiA Lakeland all season, because they feel their best staff is there. Porcello has 49 strikeouts in 90 innings, and though the wins aren't there, his performance has been very consistent.

Baseball America's #9 Prospect: Andrew McCutchen

10). Travis Snider, DH Toronto Blue Jays - When you think of kids that can downright mash the ball, Travis Snider is one of the first that comes to mind. At the Age of 20, he has shown tremendous power to both sides of the field. Once he figures out how to manage the strike zone and take more pitches to create better power oppurtunities, Snider will be well on his way to the major leagues.

Dexter-Sports Podcast: Looking at top prospects of Organizations

2008-07-10T16:12:00.002-04:00

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4:13 PM
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In today's podcast we take a look at Prospect situation in Milwaukee,San Fransisco, and Texas.

I honestly believe that Buster Posey, Justin Smoak and Mat Gamel have to be their top prospects. Plus, I talk about who I believe will be up the fastest, and who will have the biggest success.

Enjoy. Here it is.

Around The Horn: Cubs, Moulding, Closing and no more Mota

2008-07-10T12:50:00.002-04:00

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12:51 PM
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So, I had a great podcast comparing Sabathia and Harden yesterday, and I went to roll it out and it wouldn't load. Dangit. Oh well, I think I'll try again this afternoon. I might look at the Top prospects for teams that have traded or gained players via the Draft.

For now though, Let's take a look at what is going on around the league.

So, about the Cardinals focusing on current pitching to get them to the playoffs. That isn't going to happen. Mark Moulder is heading back to the DL after 18 pitches last night. Moulder was quoted as saying he just doesn't know what to do. Well, it seems simple now. It has to be time to hang it up. I don't think that Randy Wolf is an option, but possibly a Greg Maddux or possibly Paul Byrd, who pitched pretty well last night.

Hal Mccoy defends Reds manager Dusty Baker from the notion that Baker burns out young pitchers. McCoy looks at Kerry Wood as the prime example. I get what you are getting at Hal, but let's be honest. How many innings does Volquez have already? Oh, what about Homer Bailey.... I think he might have been burned out last year..

Could the Cubs make yet another deal? According to Jim Hendry, it isn't out of question. Though he does believe it will not be a must. Hendry could possibly deal pitching depth, such as Jason Marquis or Ted Lilly. I don't expect anything to happen though.

Tom Hauricourt is reporting that Guillermo Mota could be designated by the Brewers today. Could this be a sign of the Brewers making another move to get Brian Fuentes? Fuentes could just suit up in the opposite club house since the Rockies are in Milwaukee. I sure hope so, Because Derrick Turnbow's 8.31 ERA in AAA wont get it done in beer town.

Stay tuned a bit Later, I'll bring you that Podcast you all have been waiting for.

Around The Horn: Bonds, Ozuna,Catching Rumors,

2008-07-09T10:26:00.003-04:00

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10:27 PM
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We have a lot for you in Around The Horn this Morning. Let's get right to it.

RUMORS:

According to the Arizona Republic, since finding out that Eric Byrnes will be out for the most of the season the Diamondbacks have sparked interest in many free agents. Including slugger Barry Bonds. GM Josh Byrnes had this to say.

"He and maybe a couple of others are sort of sitting out there, I think it's a bit of
assessing any player's readiness, then knocking somebody out of the lineup, dollars,etc."

I would not be surprised to see this happening sometime soon. The Diamondbacks really
need some pop in the middle of their order. Bonds would be a better option than Kenny Lofton, and for the right price, could be a great addition without having to give up prospects. I really hope this deal happens soon, because I want to see Bonds in a uniform again.

Geoff Baker of the Seattle times reports that Pitcher Erik Bedard went on Philadelphia Radio to talk about trade rumors. Baker tells about how rare he thinks this is. I have to agree completely. Bedard barely talks to his home team media. The interview wasn't to controversial, but he does say that he would be, "Happy to pitch for another team." He also blames the media for the characteristics that are floating around about him. I smell a deal happening soon. I'm not saying it is going to be to the Phillies, but the Mariners realized they made a mistake and they will try to patch it by dealing Bedard when they can.

With Matt Treanor heading to the DL, it has to be evident yet again that the Marlins are close to bringing in catching help. The Marlins could deal for Miguel Olivo, David Ross, or Yorvit Torrealba. With a bunch of pitching starting to come around, and with a good catching staff, I think this team still has what it takes to win the East.

Draft Talk:

The Oakland A's have signed first round pick Jemile Weeks with a 1.91 million dollar bonus. The signing was under the radar because of the Harden deal that went down yesterday. Weeks will report to the Athletics' A Midwest affiliate Kane County at a later date. Weeks hit 363 with 13 homers and 62 RBI in 63 games with the Miami Hurricanes last season.

Transactions:

The Braves have signed veteran reliever Julian Tavarez after the Brewers let him go. The Braves can use all the bullpen help they can get. I will not be surprised if Tavarez will stay on the Braves roster all season. Bobby Cox stated that he doesn't know Tavarez's role yet, and that he was just looking for someone that could throw an inning.

The Dodgers have decided to bring in Don Mattingly in to be the hitting coach after the all-star break. The Dodgers have continued to struggle offensively since losing catalyst Rafael Furcal. If you remember, Mattingly was Joe Torre's first choice, but Mattingly wanted to stay close to family.

Brewer Notes:

C.C. Sabathia made his debut yesterday for the Brewers. You can catch post game audio with Sabathia right here. Tom Hauricourt reported today on ESPN that the club has been pumped up the last few days and said that catcher Jason Kendall stated the clubhouse has been really comfortable. CC has already been throwing praises to the organization in his short time there. Well, you think Sheets and Sabathia will be a good one two punch? How about adding Yovani Gallardo to the mix. Gallardo could return sometime in September. That would be scary to face in the playoffs.

The Death of a Legend:

The Corner of Michigan and Trumbell will never be the same. Decontruction of Tiger stadium has started in Detroit Today. Ernie Harwell, Al Kaline and others among a protest group have pushed for the city of Detroit to keep a corner up to build a museum for the stadium.

Relievers Signing at Rapid Rate

2008-07-09T09:23:00.002-04:00

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9:37 PM
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It seems that most of the relievers of the first round of the draft are finally settling into contracts.

According to the Detroit Free Press, The Tigers have signed Arizona right hander Ryan Perry today. Like many, including draft expert Keith Law, the article believes that Perry could be on the major league roster by September. It will be interesting to see how this works out for the Tigers.

Cubs first round pick Andrew Cashner will also sign by the end of the week. Cashner could be converted into a starter by the Cubs. Cashner had nine saves and 80 strikeouts with the horned frogs of TCU. I think it would be wise to give Cashner a bit more time in the minors. He is still a bit raw at this point.

The Mariners are still in negotiations with Joshua Fields. Considered the most ready reliever for the major leagues, the Mariners are hoping that he can get to Seattle on the fast track such as Brandon Morrow has. Fields has a mid 90's fastball with a nasty power curve.

Cubs Answer Back with Harden

2008-07-08T16:01:00.002-04:00

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6:43 PM
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It happened again. I fall asleep with ESPN on like I do often, now that I work during the day. Suddenly I'm awoken by the Boys screaming about Matt Murton and Eric Patterson and I'm thinking what is going on? Then it hit me. Rich Harden is now a Cub.

This deal doesn't have me jumping with happiness. I think it is pretty even. Harden is great when healthy, but only the man up above knows when that is, The Cubs give up a good lefty in Sean Gallagher and the A's got a Billy Beane special in Matt Murton. Eric Patterson is also headed to the bay alongside minor league catcher Josh Donaldson. The Cubs received pitcher Chad Gaudin as well.

John Kruk is already back on the Cubs bandwagon. I can only imagine that everyone else will be pretty soon here.

Harden is 5-1 with a 2.31 ERA this season.

Around The Horn: Post Trade Talk, Volstad, Nats on TV and Reds Trade Talk

2008-07-08T11:53:00.002-04:00

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12:56 PM
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Lets take a look at the Top Stories in Baseball from around the Blogospher this Tuesday:

Diatribe takes a deep look into the latest Indian, Matt LaPorta. I know that Cleveland fans are still mourning, but I'm telling you, You're going to love this kids power and potential.

Top Marlin Chris Volstad has made his way to the parent club this afternoon. Volstad will take Mark Hendrickson's spot in the rotation. Volstad has a great sinking fastball with a decent curve that averages 80-82 on the gun. Volstad follows fellow prospect Ryan Tucker to the majors. Is it possible we could see Cameron Maybin next? It doesn't seem likely. Maybin has hit a wall since staring off hot in AA Carolina. Maybin is only hitting .265 with 12 homers on the year. The Marlins might give him a look in August, but I don't think anytime soon is in the picture

John Perrotto of the Beaver Times thinks that the Pirates could be looking to acquire Matt Kemp from the Dodgers in exchange for Jack Wilson. Wait, What?!?! There are reports that Kemp could be available. The Dodgers have been on the hunt for a shortstop after finding out Rafael Furcal will not be around anytime soon. So, whatever happened to playing Garciaparra at shortstop? It would be better for the future of this team. Matt Kemp for Wilson? COME ON!

Reds Beat Writer John Fay looks at if the Reds will "buy,sell or trade." Fay believes the Reds will keep pretty quiet and that David Weathers, Jeremy Affeldt and David Ross are the most likely to move on. I have to agree. If they were going to do something, it would have happened by now. This team could use some more position prospects though.

The Ratings:

The Nationals have a new stadium and a new feel in Washington, but the ratings do not lie. Washington has the lowest regional baseball rating in major league baseball. The Nationals are only drawing 9,000 fans per game in the local area. The Baltimore Orioles, who are carried on the same network, are carrying around 33,000 a game. When you think about it though, they are the Youngest franchise and the worst team in baseball. It makes sense that more people in Washington would be more interested in watching the O's.

Im Gone and Look what Happens

2008-07-08T10:46:00.002-04:00

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10:49 PM
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Ok, I look at my RSS Reader. I knew that C.C. was dealt, of course I did, I live four hours away from Milwaukee, where Fans are screaming across the lake. But it is all that people are talking about. I feel like I'm out of the loop. You know Why? because I am.

So I'll rap up the Sabathia talk by saying WHOO-HOO!!!! Why am I excited? Because my World Series winner is still alive. Sure I have them facing the Tigers in the World Series, but thats a different story....for a different day.

Unlike many, I believe that the Brewers might have paid too much. Zack Johnson is one of the only few top pitching prospects in their system and we all know what Matt LaPorta could be capable of. But you have to do it don't you?

Now the Cubs will be on the hunt for pitching to match up with the Brew Crew. Listen Cubs fans, It's going to be impossible to match the output of Sabathia. Rich Harden is the favorite to be moved to Chicago, but I would not count out Greg Maddux, Randy Wolf, AJ Burnett, or Joe Blanton either.

Either Way, Ladies and Gentleman, I'm Back...............

Around the Diamond: Sabathia, Rocky Pitching, Trade Rumors

2008-07-05T14:35:00.002-04:00

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2:45 PM
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Did you see the Fireworks in Denver last night? Come on Really? They were four hours long. Are you sure you didn't catch them? 35 of them went off in Coors field. My god, I hope you at least got to see the recap. That was the craziest game I have watched in a long time. I'm sitting by my computer, tuning into some action before I go enjoy some fireworks down by the water, and I remember thinking, Poor Rockies fans. I came back wondering, Did this really Happen? It did, well at least that is what ESPN told me this morning when I woke up and relived Matt Holliday's monster day and Chris Ianetta's walk off single. I wonder if they can do it again. Hmmm, probably not. Anyways, let's get into some news that is floating around.

It looks like the Brewers are the first to make an offer for Big C.C. According to Tom Haudricourt, the offer includes Top prospect Matt LaPorta, minor-league third baseman Taylor Green and probably another prospect, perhaps outfielder Lorenzo Cain.. As BrewersNation stated today, it would be quite a hefty price for a rental, but I believe this is the deal that keeps the Brewers in the hunt. It would be a big disappointment though, if they cant make the playoffs. Can you Imagine a three headed monster of Ben Sheets, C.C. Sabathia and Yovani Gallardo when it is playoff time. Gallardo has a torn ACL, but could be back in time for the playoffs. Add in Jeff Suppan or Manny Parra and that is a NASTY four to face in a playoff series.

No More Joe in Cleveland. The Indians released closer Joe Borowski yesterday. Umm, yah its about time. This is almost as bad as me keeping him on my fantasy team while he was injured becuase I thought, "He would come back better than ever." Wow, that was dumb thinking. If the Indians offense cant get anyone the ball with a lead, How is anyone going to get saves. Either way Joe Blows (literally). Of course we all know about the trade disscussions of C.C. going on as well. Apparently though, The Indians signed Jeff Weaver as an insurance for when they trade Sabathia. Insurance? If you go with Weaver, you wont need insurance. He will have your team on life support. Did Mark Shapiro not get the message? WEAVER STINKS. Please see Doug Melvin for more details.

Jeff Francoeur has headed back to AA to find his stroke again. We all had to see this coming, I mean the man has hit little to nothing this season. Many thought this would be his season to break out, but it seems to have been to opposite. There doesn't seem to be a timetable for Francoeur's return, but who is to say this is the right thing to do. Francoeur has become an everyday player for the Braves. We will see. Only time will tell. I wonder if Jason Heyward or Gorkys Hernandez will get a look, just for a short period.

Columnist of the Day:

Hal McCoy, Dayton Daily News - This goes out to you Mr. McCoy for accidently wearing a Toronto Maple Leafs Baseball cap to the Ballpark on the Fourth of July. Hey, we understand, you made a little mistake. You are the Columnist of the Day, because of how much you made me laugh this morning with your article on the situation. Here is that article.

Blog of the Day:

Drunk Jays Fans - Wow, that is all I can say. Today's posts on AJ Burnett and yesterday's about autotrader.ca are hilarious. Yet again, good work.

Programing Notes

2008-07-05T14:19:00.002-04:00

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2:19 PM
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As you have noticed I have not updated as much as usual. Well, just so you know, It will continue to be sporadic for the upcoming week, and then I shall be back here as much as usual. I really miss the updating, but Work has been real busy, and it isn't going to get any easier the next week.

Please be patient, I'll keep ranting as much as possible. Have a good rest of the fourth of July Weekend.

AROD, What is Your Problem?

2008-07-03T13:40:00.005-04:00

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4:27 PM
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One player I am really hating on right now is Alex Rodriguez. The first thing that irks me is that he is hanging around with Madonna, while his wife watches his newborn. Ok, it's not my business, not at all. I could really care less. BUT IM SICK OF HEARING ABOUT IT. Then the top story on the AP Wire this afternoon is the story of him and his girlfriend separating. When are writers and journalists finally realize we don't care? Ok enough of that rant. But I'm really heated on another decision by AROD.

This is the last time that the best of the game will gather together in the house that Ruth Built. Yankee Stadium is leaving the world of baseball. And Rodriguez is saying goodbye, by withdrawing from the home run derby during the all-star weekend. Shouldn't it be required? Rodriguez will someday break Ruth's record. In a Yankee Uniform. For all I know, the New Yankee Stadium could be the house the AROD built. But yet again Alex Rodriguez is showing that he isn't a franchise player.

As of now, It will be the last home run derby without a representative in Yankee pinstripes. Oh Wait, Sure there will be. David Ortiz will represent Babe Ruth in the called shot.

I really hope Rodriguez changes his mind. It would be a good opportunity to get on the fan's good side. Especially if he chokes yet again down the stretch. That is if there is even a stretch for the Yanks.

Around The Horn: Fuentes, Myers, and Clearing the Hurdle

2008-07-02T14:23:00.002-04:00

-Dexter Sports
2:26 PM

Whew, It feels good to be back. I missed posting yesterday because of work, but I am back and better than ever. Let's take a look at some of the news circulating.

Top Stories:

Brett Myers has accepted an assignment to AAA. Myers has struggled all season to maintain any consistency. While it makes sense for him to accept the deal, because the Phillies have a good chance at being playoff bound, I am a bit surprised to see he didn't take his chances elsewhere. It must have been a agreed option. Myers could back to bullpen if anyone gets injured, but I think he will be back soon enough. It could also mean the Phillies are looking for pitching help. We will wait to see how that one pans out.

It seems that the Rays have increased interest in Rockies closer Brian Fuentes. Troy Percival will hit the DL yet again. Fuentes would be an interesting addition to this ball club. If any deal the Rays could make seems possible, this one has the best chance of happening. Fuentes has one of the best slurves in the game. Fuentes could be dealt to a number of teams. He seems to be the best reliever available. Who would think the Rays would have the best record in the league? My goodness, it's amazing.

According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, three major league scouts were in attendance to take a look at reliever David Weathers. John Fay, who covers the Reds, feels that Weathers and fellow reliever Jeremy Affeldt could be the most talked about Reds players being dealed. I believe some team has to be desperate to go after Weathers. But hey, that might just be me.

Well that is all for now. I will have the prospect profile we missed yesterday for you in a bit.

Ryan Braun, We are Pulling for Ya Buddy

2008-06-30T15:02:00.004-04:00

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It's Official. I have jumped onto my first All-Star Bandwagon to support Ryan Braun in his pursuit of making the Starting Lineup for the NL All-Stars. Why you say? Simple. He is a masher. And Bloggers dig the long ball.......

Braun has been a near prodigy since joining the big leagues last season with the Brewers. He is a man possessed. 58 RBIs and July has just Started. HELLO people! It's time to start voting! He is within 33,000 votes. Come on. Do the right thing. Vote for him. Ok, your not sold on him right? Well take a look at this equation. It proves that he is all-star caliber.

(20 HRs + 58 RBI)+ (NO ERRORS!)
__________________________ = ALL-STAR STARTER
NO SOPHOMORE SLUMP

Did I fail to mention that his six outfield assists leads NL left fielders? Forget the boys in blue, It's Braun Time BABY!