-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.

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'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.
  

-Dexter Sports
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)

-Dexter Sports
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.

-Dexter Sports
1:20 PM
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Everyone knows that at this point of the baseball season, many teams are looking for help on the mound. For Teams like the Brewers and Tigers, it is becuase of the loss of key components to their rotation. For others, like the Cubs and Phillies, It is about improving their staff to get that closer to the goal of a World Series. Either way, the top teams in the league have to make choices. Heres what I think will happen on the deadline. Or at least a glance at what options teams will mull.

Milwaukee Brewers: BrewersNation hit the nail on the head with the starting pitching possibilities the Brewers will mull over. What should they do when the Time comes? If I am Doug Melvin I have to feel obligated to bring in C.C. Sabathia. The Brewers have one of, if not the best package to offer. The one thing that could hold them back is that Sabathia is going to take up a lot of payroll. I just have a feeling though. I really do not see Zach Grienke or Cliff Lee as options, as BrewersNation does, but I do think another veteran starter and Cleveland Indian Paul Byrd might be a good fit. Sure, he is Jeff Suppan Jr. but in the National League, Byrd could have success. He wouldn't be that much of an upgrade over Seth McClung either. One name that does fit is Daniel Cabrera. He is actually posting a 1.40 WHIP. Like I have mentioned before, The Brewers could snatch A.J. Burnett as well, just to block the Cubs from making a deal. The Brewers would pay him and then allow him to walk next season .

New York Yankees: As much as it makes sense, I do not see the Yankees going big pitching wise. Phil Hughes is on his way back, Sidney Ponson is loving New York, and I believe that Mr. Steinbrenner believes that Mike Mussina will keep up his first half performance throughout the year. That being said, I am not sold on this bullpen. Expect this team to get in the middle of Brian Fuentes talks. How about Aaron Heilman hopping on the seven train? I don't think that is likely, but it is possible. If the Yankees could land George Sherrill inter-division or another top notch reliever, such as Jon Rauch, It will make this team that much better. A mid range starter wouldn't do any good.

Chicago Cubs: I have a bad feeling the Cubs are going to try and land someone, and overpay. It seems that the Cubs are willing to deal Rich Hill, which could be a major mistake. It would not be hard for a team like the Athletics or Mariners would be happy to take on Hill and another prospect for the contracts of Bedard or Rich Harden. Jim Hendry has been too anxious in the past and might jump on a deal too fast. This is why the Cubs have not been successful in the past. They give up on players and prospects way too fast. Going for the wrong pitcher could really hurt this system yet again. I think that the Cubs have their eyes on the top four. Burnett, Sabathia, Bedard or Harden will be in a Cub uniform.

Los Angeles Angels: Here is a good phrase that tell you the Angels' pitching situation. "If it ain't broken, don't fix it." This staff has been just short of amazing. Ervin Santana, Joe Saunders, and reliever Jose Arredondo have all been pleasant. There is no room to make a deal. I also feel that if given the chance, Nick Adenhart will blossom in his second stint with the major leagues. Heck, Jon Garland, the 5th starter in this rotation, already has 7 wins. Signing Frankie Rodriguez long term though, could be a good option.

New York Mets: I am not sure if anything will be done at the deadline, but I know that if the Mets stay around .500, Omar Minaya will wheel and deal. Remember when he went and got Cliff Floyd and Bartolo Colon? Remember when he went and got Johan Santana? Be ready for it. Something is going to happen before the deadline. I believe that Freddy Garcia will also be a Met at the deadline. Beyond that, Bedard and Burnett should be two pitchers that Minaya talks about. It will be interesting to see if the Mets can pull something together for Sabathia. Though I doubt it will happen, I believe it is a possibility.

Philadelphia Phillies: We know that Gillick is going to make a move. The question is just when. Their Bullpen has been lights out. Chad Durbin and Brad Lidge have been pleasant surprises. And the rotation hasn't been that bad. But one more piece could solidify yet another division title. Bedard is definitely the favorite. I do think that Brett Meyers will turn it around here in the second half. That should be a big boost.

-Dexter Sports
11:05 AM
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Both have struggled to find at bats in the Majors. Both have tremendous power.

Jack Cust saw his major league career finally blossom last season when Billy Beane gave him a chance in Oakland. Twenty Six Homers later, He has become the legend and myth that once seemed to be dead.

For Russell Branyan, the road has been similar. Plenty of major league teams, willing to give him a shot, only to use him as a situational hitter or give up on his abilities. But now he is getting a chance to prove himself.

In 20 games with the Milwaukee Brewers, Branyan has blasted 10 Hrs. His 17 RBIs have been a big part of the recent success in Milwaukee. But no one can deny that Branyan is a three part machine that consists of Homers, Strikeouts and Walks.

Branyan either goes deep, takes a bases, or goes down hacking 52.5 % of his at bats (before this season). Sure, his sample size isn't as big as Ryan Howard (50.2) or Adam Dunn (49.0), but he has been that type of hitter his whole career. And for those like me who don't believe in his ability, it's time to wake up.

Branyan will produce. Just because they are not singles, doubles or anything fancy, doesn't mean they dont matter. As strange as it feels, I'm jumping on the Russell Branyan bandwagon.

-Dexter Sports
9:29 AM
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Proper Name: Vernon Christopher Carter
Born: Dec. 18, 1986 in Redwood City, Calif.
High School: Sierra Vista HS, Las Vegas
Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 210
Bats: R Throws: R

This Chris Carter will not go deep and beat a corner to win you a game. He will not hit for a high average and he might not be the best defensive first baseman prospect in baseball, but in his short time as a professional baseball player he has shown his ability to drive the ball out of the ball park. That is why Billy Beane of the Oakland A's needed him in order to complete the deal with Arizona for Dan Haren.

This Winter was tough for Chris Carter. Within 11 days he was a member of two different teams, after being part of a package for Carlos Quentin and then quickly being dealt with prospect Carlos Gonzalez among others to the Athletics.

In 273 career games before this season, Carter has hit 51 homers. Throw in the fact that he had a .522 slugging percentage in 2007 with 23 homers and 93 RBIs is why he is so valuable to a small market team like the A's. Carter projects long term as a designated hitter because of his lack of ability as a fielder. In 73 games in the field, Carter made 11 errors.


Billy Beane has found another prospect that isn't the complete package, but will have a huge impact some day in the Majors. Carter could be the best pure power prospect this organization has seen since Miguel Tejada and Eric Chavez. Carter already has 11 homers and 29 RBIs for HiA Stockton this season. Look for a call up to AA soon.

My Predictions and ETA:

I believe we will begin to see Carter as an everyday player in 2009 as the regular designated hitter or left fielder depending on his development as a fielder. I think it is safe to say that Carter could end the trend of bringing in veteran players for a cheap price to be a designated hitter (Mike Piazza, Frank Thomas, Mike Sweeney). Some scouts have compared Carter to Jermaine Dye. If Carter can become a better average hitter, which he is working on, and continues to muscle the ball out almost regularly then the sky is the limit for Carter. I believe he will project as at least an equal if not better hitter than Jermaine Dye has been in his career. Remember the name Chris Carter. He will be hitting moonshots in a ballpark near you anytime soon.

-Dexter Sports
10:50 PM
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The Cubs have signed Jim Edmonds and though he isn't a long term option as the fourth outfielder, he has replaced Felix Pie at least for the rest of the season. Again, the cubs have failed to allow their young talent to develop at the major league level. Pie wasn't given a fair amount at bats from the right side and yet the Cubs continue to bring in veteran players that are past their prime. I agree with the signing of Reed Johnson, but bringing in Jim Edmonds and hoping for a spark is a reach at best. Though it is too soon to tell, if the Cubs have officially given up on Felix Pie, he could be available around the deadline in a deal that would bring them either more offensive firepower or one more solid pitcher.

It has been clear from the get go that the Cubs did not have faith in Felix Pie. Their first attempt was to get Coco Crisp from the Red Sox to take over in center. Then it was even Marlon Bryd of the Rangers who they thought would do better than Pie. If the right deal comes along then I think the Cubs will jump on it. Allowing him to rot in AAA, much like another former outfield prospect is not the right answer. With that being said, here is a few scenarios that I can see happening.

San Diego Padres: We know the need for a true center fielder overlies nearly every other need on this squad. If the Cubs want to re-evaluate the thought of bringing in shortstop Khalil Greene, if Ronny Cedeno and Ryan Theriot are not getting the job done. Though Greene isn't that much of an upgrade, he did show power last year. The Padres would also be able to clear 4.5 million dollars for next year. Other players that could be available are Brian Giles, Trevor Hoffman(bit of a reach), Greg Maddux, Wilfredo Ledezma, and even possibly pitching prospects. Even third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff could be available, because the Pads would love to give
a chance to shine. The Cubs could use Kouzmanoff in the outfield, but he is most likely an option to another team, considering Aramis Ramirez is not going anywhere and their top prospect is third baseman Josh Vitters.

Baltimore Orioles: I still think that Brian Roberts is a possibility in Chicago and one of the pieces of the puzzle could be Pie. Though the Orioles are very happy with what they have got in the outfield right now, Pie could be a solid addition for the future, and though they are having success the future is the biggest thing on Andy MacPhail's mind. Eventually, with the departure of Kevin Millar, we could see Luke Scott or Nick Markakis move to first base, which would make room for Pie in center. Though Pie wouldn't be the only required piece of the deal, something like Ronny Cedeno, Felix Pie and Sean Gallagher/Sean Marshall is a possibility. The Orioles will be asking for a lot though.

Oakland Athletics: If Billy Beane can sweep in and grab Pie under his terms, I am sure that he would do it. The A's lack any depth at center field currently and Ryan Sweeney is still struggling to put up numbers. Though the A's have Carlos Gonzalez waiting in the wings, an outfield prospect who could play center field, Beane could swing this move just to clear a bit of salary to add a pitcher at the deadline if needed. Beane won't be willing to give up much, probably offering someone like Bobby Crosby to give Donnie Murphy time or Jack Cust and a prospect. Though Beane is very high on his prospects. The Cubs though could use someone like Cust to pinch hit, if Daryle Ward doesn't come back healthy in two weeks.

San Fransisco Giants: Though Brian Sabean claims he isn't going to make any more deals, Felix Pie could be a piece of the future of San Fransisco. Though the Giants don't have much to offer that could help the Cubs immediately, I do like the idea of the Giants sending a pitcher Midwest. I think that Brian Wilson, Jonathon Sanchez, Tyler Walker, Vinnie Chulk and maybe even Barry Zito (with the right price reduction and improved outings). The move would put Fred Lewis in left and give them possibly the fastest outfield in the league. Ray Durham could also be a possibility.

-Dexter Sports
6:33 PM


We have had some interesting things happen within this week of baseball. Players are becoming eligible in different positions around the league and some are just stepping up that we would not expect. Here is a look at some interesting facts and some great match ups going into tonight's action.

• Looking to reshape you infield? How about sticking Russell Martin at third and Albert Pujols at second base? Joe Torre played Russell Martin at third earlier this week and wasn't shy to state that Martin could see more time there in the weeks to come. Tony Larussa also wasn't shy to play Albert Pujols at 2nd Base when short stop Cesar Izturus was injured. Pujols wanted to play Shortstop...Naturally. Other moves include Carlos Guillen moving to third base with Miguel Cabrera making the transition to first. This will make Guillen eligible in three positions.

• Who would know that at this point of the season, Emil Brown of the Oakland A's would be in the top 5 in Runs Batted in. Great Job to Billy Beane for yet again finding a run producer out of nothing. Brown has 22 Rbis.

• Angels first baseman Casey Kotchman has been hitting fourth between Vladimir Guererro and Torii Hunter. Kotchman has produced so far this year, hitting .337 with 6 long balls. Garrett Anderson, who he is replacing in the four spot, is hitting a measly .235.

-Dexter Sports
10:01 AM

Good Morning. Well if you are the Rockies or Padres, then heck your just going to bed. Man, who would think when I went to bed that the Rockies would of played the equivalent of two and a half games. Heck, I'm surprised that Jake Peavy didn't pitch all 22 innings. Anyways, lets get to what I have for you this wonderful Monday morning.

• Speaking of the Rockies and Padres, Did you know that Rockies Lefty Reliever Brian Fuentes was cut from his high school baseball team as a junior? It's interesting because he is the type of guy that puts the team first, though teams have spited him before. Five million a year ain't bad for someone who shouldn't have made it in the college game. Fuentes has become one of the best setup men in the league.

• The Detroit Tigers bats should wake up again this weekend against the Toronto Blue Jays. Today, the tigers will take on 25 year old call up David Purcey to make a spot start because of the emergency relief appearance of A.J. Burnett this week. Dustin McGowan will go for the Jays on Saturday. He is 1-2 with a 9.95 ERA in three starts against the Tigers in his career. The numbers for A.J. Burnett do not get any better. He is 1-1 with a 9.88 ERA in three starts against the tigers.
  

• This weekend's best pitching match up will take place today. Johan Santana will take the ball for the Mets, while Cole Hamels, the changeup wizard will go for the Phillies. Not only is this a rivalry, but Johan looks to improve after giving up four home runs against the brewers in his last start.

• Wow, It sure hasn't been talked about much but Manny Ramirez is inching closer to 500 homers for his career. I wonder where we will rank him all-time when it is all said and done. He is the first player, I can say that i have witnessed his whole career, that is in the 500 Homer club.

• Mike Sweeney stuck out for the first time this season Wednesday night. That is interesting, especially since that is all he could do in Kansas City.
  

• Detroit Tigers' outfielder Curtis Granderson will began a rehab assignment today. He will start off in Low A West Michigan, but make his way to AAA Toledo for the weekend. Granderson should be up and ready in the tiger's lineup next week. The free press also notes that Reliever Joel Zumaya has been throwing off the ground. Manager Jim Leyland said he was, "firing the ball." that is good news for this weak pen.