-Dexter Sports
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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.
  

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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

-Dexter Sports
9:14 AM
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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.