21. Milwaukee Brewers - Chad Lannan: The quickest way to describe Lannan would be "platoon SS", which sounds like a poor value in the 1st round. Lannan, however, has the potential to be an extremely valuable platoon SS. Luckily, his poor split is vL, which is much less damaging to a player's value than a poor vR. Excellent contact, great vR, and really good batting eye will make him a force at the plate against RHP's (which should account for 400+ great AB's a year). His defense isn't spectacular but will more than get the job done at SS. Lannan will provide the Brewers with a great option at SS vs. RHP's for a long time. If only the real life Brewers could find one too. Grade: B+
22. Indianapolis Lancers - Ross Prince: I think Prince is a pretty solid value pick for bottom half of the 1st round. I see him as having pretty good splits and control, with two solid pitches and three mediocre-to-crappy ones. Not a franchise-changer, but if he reaches the projections I currently see (no given, since they could drop once he signs) he will be a solid #3 SP...more likely he will be a 4 or 5. Grade: B
23. Little Rock Liddies - Larry Coco: Coco will probably be a decent player but nothing special, which is fine for a pick this late. His D is a little weak for SS, so he'll probably play 3B . Mediocre splits and batting eye will keep him from being a star, but his contact should let him be at least somewhat useful. His blazing speed combined with excellent baserunning skills should allow him to reach scoring position a lot. Probably a mediocre 3B or a very good utility man. Grade: B-
24. Baltimore mets - Carter Farr: I find Farr to be an acceptable but slightly below average pick at this point in the draft. On the surface he looks like a fairly successful SP, with solid splits, decent velocity, and above average control. However, when you note that his lower split is vR and he only has one above-average pitch, he looks a lot like a long reliever or spot starter than a middle-of-the-rotation stalwart. Grade: C+
25. Texas Dragons - Wascar Gil: Seeing a split as low as Gil's vL immediately turns me off to a player. However, I think Gil deserves a second look. That vR isn't great, but will do fine with good supporting ratings. And those beautiful first 4 pitches, great velocity, and pinpoint control give Gil all the supporting ratings needed to overcome those underwhelming splits. I think that his vL rating will hurt him, but I still think Gil will be a solid SP4 or SP5, with maybe a lucky season or 2 where he leads a staff. Grade: B
26. Augusta moose - Malcolm Young: If Young's durability were just 10 points higher, he'd be an absolute steal at pick 26. As it is, though, he's still a solid pick who can help a winning team. When it comes to pitching skill, Young's above-average split set, great velocity and control, and above-average set of pitches will make him dangerous on the mound. But that low durability will keep him stuck as a reliever or a low pitch count SP. Still, given how good Young will be when he is able to pitch, it's a good value for this late in the 1st round. I had him ranked 13th. Grade: B+
27. Hartford Pit Bulls - Alberto Lopez: Lopez is an average or slightly below average 1st round pick, in my opinion. His slightly above average splits, mediocre batting eye, and above average power will not make up for his low contact rating. I see him with a low batting average and unspectacular OBP with about 15-20 HR...but given his defensive prowess in CF, that may be plenty to warrant a starting job. Grade: C
28. New York Juicers - Victor Franco: Franco is an interesting player whose value is difficult to clearly define. On the bright side, he can mash the hell out of the ball when he's playing LHP's, and he'll provide a spark on the basepaths. On the downside, he probably can't hit RHP's enough to justify starting against them with his unspectacular defense. So he'll probably give 200-300 AB of excellent offense a season, meaning he's not a franchise-changer but could still have value. Grade: C+
29. Tacoma Mountain Men - Timo Workman: Low-contact players like Workman are one of the most interesting player types statistically around HBD. They seem to be very inconsistent to me, with All-Star seasons followed by years batting .240. I think Workman has the splits (especially that excellent vR), decent batting eye, and great power to make him an All-Star multiple years in his career. He will also have down years, though, but overall, with a bat like that at 3B, he's going to end up being a positive asset for the Mountain Men for a lot of years. Grade: B+
30. Durham Bulls - Ron Price: Price, to me, is thoroughly ordinary. These are the kinds of players that are picked frequently in this part of the draft. He'll probably make a ML team due to his good vL and great speed, but he will never be anything more than an average starter or a pretty solid platoon man at 2B or LF. These are the guys you can find aplenty in the Rule V draft or free agency. Grade: D+
31. Cheyenne Warriors - Brett Guerrero: Here is the type of dynamic pick teams drafting in the bottom of the first round hope to get to keep their franchise on top. Guerrero has the arm to play C, and while his pitch calling will never be above average, his bat (especially versus LHP's) and great batting eye will allow him to be a solid starter at C for a long period of time. Excellent value pick for the Warriors. Grade: A-
32. Boston Red Sox - Travis Earley: And here we have another example of a difference-maker picked late in the 1st round. While Earley doesn't have the great velocity of many RP's, he does have absolute pinpoint control, a great slider and change-up, and the above-average splits to make him a fixture in the late-inning bullpen of the Red Sox for many seasons to come. Grade: A
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Season 19 Draft Analysis: Picks 11-20
11. Sacramento Screaming Eagles - Dale James: James is going to be a very solid player, but in a draft this deep there were star-quality players still on the board at the time he was picked. He's got solid splits, solid power, solid batting eye, and mediocre contact, which means he'll be an average to slightly-above-average starter in RF for the Screaming Eagles. I had him ranked 8th, but his post-draft projections are worse than pre-draft for me. Grade: C
12. Las Vegas Rounders - Rajai Milledge: Milledge would be an excellent value pick near the bottom of the first round (though, once again, my scouts didn't see him), but he's a little iffy in the top half. He's got the control and velocity to be successful, as well as a killer sinker. He's fine against lefties, but the question is whether he can get righties out...and that's kind of an important thing to be able to do. His lack of a solid secondary pitches is troubling as well, but he should be able to pitch a lot of innings as a #4/#5 SP in the ML's...but this high in the draft, you want more. Grade: C-
13. Tampa Bay Sun - Cookie Beltran: Beltran is a rock solid pick (that my scouts once again missed) at this point in the draft. He's no top-of-the-rotation stud like several of the SP's taken above him, but with 4 good pitches, solid splits, and great control, he will be a good #3 SP for a long time...barring injury. And injury is a big worry for someone with as low of health as Beltran. Grade: B+
14. Oklahoma City Outlaws - Ross Venafro: Venafro is a talented bat that is a good pick for middle of the 1st round. He's got a poor glove in RF, but his arm and bat make up for it. He hits RHP's very well, and with good contact and power and solid speed, Venafro (ranked 9th by me) should see the All-Star game at some point in his career. Grade: A-
15. New York Stink Palmers - Sadie Downs: Downs is another good pick for this part of the draft. Catcher is a position with high durability demands, and Downs should be able to play just about every day. Downs will be about average defensively, but his .300 bat will make him a good option at C for a long time. I had him ranked 17th, but his post-draft projections are significant improvements over what I saw before the draft. Grade: A-
16. St. Louis Arch Angels - Derek Zaun: Zaun is another unspectacular but rock solid pick for the middle of the 1st round. Although listed as a 2B, he will probably end up playing LF, which makes his bat a little less impressive. Only slightly above average hitting RHP's, his good contact, power, and very good batting eye should nonetheless allow him to succeed at the plate. Health could be an issue. I had him ranked 10th. Grade: B
17. Charleston Vampires - Bobby Simontacchi: With the Vampires' 2nd 1st-round pick they got one of the best steals of the draft in Simontacchi. The only knock on him is a poor change-up and low velocity...but his great splits, excellent control, and fastball/slider combo will make him a top-of-the-order SP in the future. He was my 2nd-ranked player, behind only Martin. Grade: A
18. Hartford Pit Bulls - Kip Donnelly: Donnelly is an interesting player whose bat reminds me a lot of my own Rafael Quixote: excellent contact and power, above average vL, and a weak vR and batting eye. Quixote has had a successful career, and Donnelly should have him beat in both splits, meaning he should be a very productive player. He also has great speed, though it's hampered by his baserunning skills. Donnelly's bat at 2B would probably make him a frequent All-Star. More likely, though, he will play LF and be an above-average bat for the Pit Bulls. My scouts missed him. Grade: A-
19. Cheyenne Warriors - Achilles Uribe: Uribe is an interesting choice as a 1st round pick. At first glance, he seems like a poor pick due to his very average bat. However, he's got blazing speed, with baserunning skills to make him a true demon on the bases, and he's also going to be a defensive whiz in CF. I think that his speed will really improve his offensive impact, and the (+) plays he makes in CF will probably earn him his share of Gold Gloves. I've also seen guys with worse bats make the All-Star team. Uribe is an unspectacular pick, but he is a guy who can really help his team win without lighting up the box score with big offensive numbers. I had him ranked 29th, but his post-draft defensive ratings outshine the ones I saw pre-draft. Grade: B-
20. Pittsburgh Penguins - Allan Holland: Holland is a player who can play a contributing role on a good team, but guys like him are often available after the 1st round. He will be Gold-Glove caliber at SS, but he is simply unable to hit RHP's. He can be a solid platoon SS against LHP's, but guys like this are frequently available in lower rounds and in free agency, which makes me think he is not worthy of a 1st round pick. Grade: D-
12. Las Vegas Rounders - Rajai Milledge: Milledge would be an excellent value pick near the bottom of the first round (though, once again, my scouts didn't see him), but he's a little iffy in the top half. He's got the control and velocity to be successful, as well as a killer sinker. He's fine against lefties, but the question is whether he can get righties out...and that's kind of an important thing to be able to do. His lack of a solid secondary pitches is troubling as well, but he should be able to pitch a lot of innings as a #4/#5 SP in the ML's...but this high in the draft, you want more. Grade: C-
13. Tampa Bay Sun - Cookie Beltran: Beltran is a rock solid pick (that my scouts once again missed) at this point in the draft. He's no top-of-the-rotation stud like several of the SP's taken above him, but with 4 good pitches, solid splits, and great control, he will be a good #3 SP for a long time...barring injury. And injury is a big worry for someone with as low of health as Beltran. Grade: B+
14. Oklahoma City Outlaws - Ross Venafro: Venafro is a talented bat that is a good pick for middle of the 1st round. He's got a poor glove in RF, but his arm and bat make up for it. He hits RHP's very well, and with good contact and power and solid speed, Venafro (ranked 9th by me) should see the All-Star game at some point in his career. Grade: A-
15. New York Stink Palmers - Sadie Downs: Downs is another good pick for this part of the draft. Catcher is a position with high durability demands, and Downs should be able to play just about every day. Downs will be about average defensively, but his .300 bat will make him a good option at C for a long time. I had him ranked 17th, but his post-draft projections are significant improvements over what I saw before the draft. Grade: A-
16. St. Louis Arch Angels - Derek Zaun: Zaun is another unspectacular but rock solid pick for the middle of the 1st round. Although listed as a 2B, he will probably end up playing LF, which makes his bat a little less impressive. Only slightly above average hitting RHP's, his good contact, power, and very good batting eye should nonetheless allow him to succeed at the plate. Health could be an issue. I had him ranked 10th. Grade: B
17. Charleston Vampires - Bobby Simontacchi: With the Vampires' 2nd 1st-round pick they got one of the best steals of the draft in Simontacchi. The only knock on him is a poor change-up and low velocity...but his great splits, excellent control, and fastball/slider combo will make him a top-of-the-order SP in the future. He was my 2nd-ranked player, behind only Martin. Grade: A
18. Hartford Pit Bulls - Kip Donnelly: Donnelly is an interesting player whose bat reminds me a lot of my own Rafael Quixote: excellent contact and power, above average vL, and a weak vR and batting eye. Quixote has had a successful career, and Donnelly should have him beat in both splits, meaning he should be a very productive player. He also has great speed, though it's hampered by his baserunning skills. Donnelly's bat at 2B would probably make him a frequent All-Star. More likely, though, he will play LF and be an above-average bat for the Pit Bulls. My scouts missed him. Grade: A-
19. Cheyenne Warriors - Achilles Uribe: Uribe is an interesting choice as a 1st round pick. At first glance, he seems like a poor pick due to his very average bat. However, he's got blazing speed, with baserunning skills to make him a true demon on the bases, and he's also going to be a defensive whiz in CF. I think that his speed will really improve his offensive impact, and the (+) plays he makes in CF will probably earn him his share of Gold Gloves. I've also seen guys with worse bats make the All-Star team. Uribe is an unspectacular pick, but he is a guy who can really help his team win without lighting up the box score with big offensive numbers. I had him ranked 29th, but his post-draft defensive ratings outshine the ones I saw pre-draft. Grade: B-
20. Pittsburgh Penguins - Allan Holland: Holland is a player who can play a contributing role on a good team, but guys like him are often available after the 1st round. He will be Gold-Glove caliber at SS, but he is simply unable to hit RHP's. He can be a solid platoon SS against LHP's, but guys like this are frequently available in lower rounds and in free agency, which makes me think he is not worthy of a 1st round pick. Grade: D-
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Season 19 Draft Analysis: Picks 1-10
Disclaimer: I have $16 million advanced scouting (and $14 million HS and college scouting), so my projections are not perfect. This analysis is done based on the projections I see (advanced scouting for signed players, HS/college scouting for unsigned players).
1. Columbus Small Ballers - Russ Martin: Martin was my top-ranked player. He is the definition of a player to build a franchise around: MVP-quality bat, blazing speed, and very solid defense at the most difficult position, SS. He will be an All-Star SS for the Small Ballers for many seasons to come, and was a great pick by chuckster. Grade: A
2. Mexico City Charros - Danys Perez: Another excellent selection. Perez will hit for more power than Martin, but might not get on base as much. He does boast blazing speed, but his defensive limitations mean he'll probably play 3B rather than SS in the bigs. Still, a bat like his at a position other than C/DH/1B/LF are not easy to come by. I had him ranked 5th, but his projections improved when my advanced scouting guys took a look at him. Grade: A
3. Cleveland Redlegs - Russ Paramore: My scouts saw this as an extraordinarily weak pitching draft, and part of the reason is because they missed Paramore. Wow, what a stud. Has the potential to be even better than Jeff Muratore (even before his injury). Nearly unbeatable splits, as well as great control, velocity, one great pitch and three other good ones...I am very unhappy he's in my division. Grade: A
4. Los Angeles Urban Achievers - Corky Ramsey: Ramsey has yet to sign, but when he does, the Urban Achievers will have a great bat to build around. Ramsey has MVP potential, thanks to his great power, excellent eye, speed on the basepaths, and ability to play pretty much every single day. The only downside is he will be limited to 1B or DH throughout his career. Still, an MVP-quality bat with the 4th pick is very good. I had him ranked 3rd. Grade: A
5. Florida Jack A$$'es - Alberto Alvarez: Ah yes, another stud SP that my scouts missed out on. Alvarez is no Paramore, but then again, nobody is. He still has potential to win a Cy Young (or more) during his career. The lack of a 3rd pitch might hurt him a bit, but his control, splits, and velocity make up for it. And with that high durability, he can put up some monster innings for the Jack A$$'es. Grade: A
6. Baltimore mets - Glenn Barnes: And here we have the 3rd stud SP my scouts missed. He's not quite at the caliber of Paramore or Alvarez, but he should see his share of All-Star games during his career. Barnes' excellent splits and great velocity should make up for his low control and lack of good 2nd through 5th pitches. Baltimore management is hoping he doesn't run into health issues during his career, which could be a worry. Grade: A-
7. Charleston Vampires - Orber Espinosa: The wealth of offensive talent in this draft continued as the Vampires picked up a great CF with the 7th pick in Espinosa. Espinosa continues the trend of speedy position players, though his baserunning instincts are subpar. He struggles against LHP's, but his great contact, vR, and batting eye should make him a MVP candidate at some point in his career. He should be very solid in CF as well, and bats like this at a demanding position like CF are rare indeed. My scouts continued their stellar work in completely missing out on Espinosa. Grade: A
8. San Francisco Friars - Don Kelly: The stellar draft continued with yet another MVP-caliber bat going 8th to the Friars. Kelly can hit for power (40+ HR threat) and average. He should be a very solid defender in CF, and could even fill in at 2B in a pinch (though you wouldn't want to play him there for a full season). Getting an MVP-caliber bat at the 8th pick, even at a corner OF position, is still an accomplishment. I had him ranked 4th. Grade: A
9. Madison Cheeseheads - Pedro Gonzalez: Finally the first dud pick in the draft. When Gonzalez throws the ball, he gets people out. He's got pitching tools comparable to Paramore and Muratore. However, Gonzalez suffers from an extreme case of narcolepsy: by the time he's thrown 10 pitches, he's usually asleep on the mound. Although his disorder has entertained dozens of fans at Milwaukee Area Technical College (who often compete in odd contests for the right to wheel him off the field), he probably won't be a great help for a ML baseball team. Luckily for milton7, though, he probably won't sign, as he prefers prefers playing in front of only his parents rather than a packed stadium, and a compensation pick could yield a useful pick next season. Grade: F
10. Nashville Troubadors - Jared Russell: Since he's still unsigned, and since apparently my scouts can't even locate a single college newspaper article about him, I can't give any opinion on this pick. When he signs, I'll update this with analysis.
1. Columbus Small Ballers - Russ Martin: Martin was my top-ranked player. He is the definition of a player to build a franchise around: MVP-quality bat, blazing speed, and very solid defense at the most difficult position, SS. He will be an All-Star SS for the Small Ballers for many seasons to come, and was a great pick by chuckster. Grade: A
2. Mexico City Charros - Danys Perez: Another excellent selection. Perez will hit for more power than Martin, but might not get on base as much. He does boast blazing speed, but his defensive limitations mean he'll probably play 3B rather than SS in the bigs. Still, a bat like his at a position other than C/DH/1B/LF are not easy to come by. I had him ranked 5th, but his projections improved when my advanced scouting guys took a look at him. Grade: A
3. Cleveland Redlegs - Russ Paramore: My scouts saw this as an extraordinarily weak pitching draft, and part of the reason is because they missed Paramore. Wow, what a stud. Has the potential to be even better than Jeff Muratore (even before his injury). Nearly unbeatable splits, as well as great control, velocity, one great pitch and three other good ones...I am very unhappy he's in my division. Grade: A
4. Los Angeles Urban Achievers - Corky Ramsey: Ramsey has yet to sign, but when he does, the Urban Achievers will have a great bat to build around. Ramsey has MVP potential, thanks to his great power, excellent eye, speed on the basepaths, and ability to play pretty much every single day. The only downside is he will be limited to 1B or DH throughout his career. Still, an MVP-quality bat with the 4th pick is very good. I had him ranked 3rd. Grade: A
5. Florida Jack A$$'es - Alberto Alvarez: Ah yes, another stud SP that my scouts missed out on. Alvarez is no Paramore, but then again, nobody is. He still has potential to win a Cy Young (or more) during his career. The lack of a 3rd pitch might hurt him a bit, but his control, splits, and velocity make up for it. And with that high durability, he can put up some monster innings for the Jack A$$'es. Grade: A
6. Baltimore mets - Glenn Barnes: And here we have the 3rd stud SP my scouts missed. He's not quite at the caliber of Paramore or Alvarez, but he should see his share of All-Star games during his career. Barnes' excellent splits and great velocity should make up for his low control and lack of good 2nd through 5th pitches. Baltimore management is hoping he doesn't run into health issues during his career, which could be a worry. Grade: A-
7. Charleston Vampires - Orber Espinosa: The wealth of offensive talent in this draft continued as the Vampires picked up a great CF with the 7th pick in Espinosa. Espinosa continues the trend of speedy position players, though his baserunning instincts are subpar. He struggles against LHP's, but his great contact, vR, and batting eye should make him a MVP candidate at some point in his career. He should be very solid in CF as well, and bats like this at a demanding position like CF are rare indeed. My scouts continued their stellar work in completely missing out on Espinosa. Grade: A
8. San Francisco Friars - Don Kelly: The stellar draft continued with yet another MVP-caliber bat going 8th to the Friars. Kelly can hit for power (40+ HR threat) and average. He should be a very solid defender in CF, and could even fill in at 2B in a pinch (though you wouldn't want to play him there for a full season). Getting an MVP-caliber bat at the 8th pick, even at a corner OF position, is still an accomplishment. I had him ranked 4th. Grade: A
9. Madison Cheeseheads - Pedro Gonzalez: Finally the first dud pick in the draft. When Gonzalez throws the ball, he gets people out. He's got pitching tools comparable to Paramore and Muratore. However, Gonzalez suffers from an extreme case of narcolepsy: by the time he's thrown 10 pitches, he's usually asleep on the mound. Although his disorder has entertained dozens of fans at Milwaukee Area Technical College (who often compete in odd contests for the right to wheel him off the field), he probably won't be a great help for a ML baseball team. Luckily for milton7, though, he probably won't sign, as he prefers prefers playing in front of only his parents rather than a packed stadium, and a compensation pick could yield a useful pick next season. Grade: F
10. Nashville Troubadors - Jared Russell: Since he's still unsigned, and since apparently my scouts can't even locate a single college newspaper article about him, I can't give any opinion on this pick. When he signs, I'll update this with analysis.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Who has the best organization? pt 2
I know everyone has been waiting for part 2 of "who has the best organization's top 15."Once again this is the ranking for best organization from rookie to major leagues.Whitehouse Rating= 4 points for world series,3 points for LCS,2 points for div title and 1 point for playoff appearance at any level. NOTE: i mixed up notes on colorado,colorado springs and colombus.The only correction from part 1 is a tie for #18th(tied)-Colorado Springs Field Mice-(104 pts)Big League play these guys rank 9th with 11 appearances in playoffs via 6 by div chamionships and 1 LCS's to their ML banners.They slipped a little in minors with a 22nd ranking with 25 appearances,20 div titles,3 LCS, and 1 world series.psanders is an original owner.So our countdown continues at #14....
#14-New York Stink Palmers-(120 pts)The NY2 club has 6 major league playoff appearances and 1 division title which ranked them 22nd in bigs.Their minor league teams helped them tremendoudly in rankings coming in 10th.with 45 appearances,13 div titles,7 LCS'S and a countdown high at this point, 5 World Series'(4th best in minors).Look for this team to move up in ML rankings as they are one of the 3 youngest teams in league.joshcarolina is an original owner.
#13-Augusta Moose-(127 pts)The Moose ranked 13th in ML's with 7 playoffs appearances with 4 div titles.minor league they ranked 13th with 39 october appearances,32 by div titles,but only 3 LCS titles and lacked points for "closing the deal"in the big series. Mcgupp is an original owner.
#12-Cleveland Redlegs-(133 pts)Cleveland ranks dead last in ML's with 0 appearances-that makes them a very fine minor league club ranking 10th in minors with 44 appearances but get mad points for 40(ranks 3rd total) division titles!! They have 3 LCS titles to add to their point total.However have 0 WS which makes them 1 of 7 teams with no WS banners in their organization!
#11-Boston Red Sox-(136 pts)Red Sox have 2 playoff appearances in ML's to rank them 29th.the made up a lot of points in the minors ranking 9th.they were propelled by 37 appearances via 32 div titles,7LCS titles amd 3 World Series.
#10-Colombus Small Ballers-(143 pts) Small Ballers have a new owner that has some high expectations expected of him.They rank the 4th best ML team with 14 appearances ,13 div titles and 3 LCS titles.A 7th ranking drops them in minors they have acquired 20 div titles,6 LCS, and 3 WS rings in 24 appearances,
#9-Nashville Troubadours-(149 pts)Nashville is tied at 17th in ML's with 6 appearances and 3 div titles.They are 8th in minors with 46 appearances,23 div titles,11 LCS'S and 3 world series trophies.
#7(tie)-Little Rock Liddies-(150 pts) The Liddies are tied 31st with 1 playoff appearance.They pack a punch in the minors with a 6 ranking.After 43 trips ,35 by div title.They have acquired 8 LCS's and 3 World Series rings.
#7(tie)-Texas Dragons-(150 pts)The Dragons rank 10th in bigs with 5 playoff appearances all by division titles and have 1 LCS ,and they made it count gaining their 1 world series victory.Texas was 11th in minors with 39 trips to playoffs,23 div titles,9LCS, and 4World Series triumphs.
#6-St Louis Arch Angels-(160 pts)Arch Angel's rank 3rd best team in ML's with 11 div titles,2 LCS,and 2 WS in their 12 appearances.They finished 14th in minor leagues with 37 appearances via 29 bydiv titles but have only produced 1 LCS and WS.
#5-Scranton Screamin Eagles-(194 pts) a mere 28th ranking in bigs with just 3 palyoff appearances hurts them but in minors this teams always come to play.They have a whopping 53 appearances(3rd in minors),39 div titles(4th in minors),12 LCS(tied for 3rd in minors) and 6 WS(tied for 3rd in minors).
#4-Atlanta Angry Pirates-(195 pts)Another 1 point victory.ML's these guys are 11th with 7 div titles and 8 appearances.Look for that to change over the next couple yrs wit this other young team.Ranking 5th in minors with 43 appearances 38 by div titles,10 LCS,and 6 WS.
#3-Cincinnati Red Stockings-(221 pts)Cincy ranked 5th in ML's with 10 trips to playoffs,9 by div title and 3 LCS titles.A 4th ranking in minors is from their 62 appearances(3rd most),33 div titles(4th),12 LCS(tied for 3rd), and 5 WS(tied for 4th)
#2-SalemStreep Sweepers-(343 PTS)Salem is middle of the bigs, ranking 15th but by far is the most decorated minor league squad by far.in ML's they have 6 playoff appearances and 4 division titles.Where they rack up is in the minors.They have 68 appearances(2nd),60 div titles(1st),23LCS(1st),and 18(1st-5 more than 2nd) World Series'.
#1-Tacoma Mountain Men-(387 pts)Suprise,Suprise!Did anyone doubt the Mighty Mountain Men?They trumped in all categories in ML's,the only team to touch their #1 rankings was Indy with 14 div titles.they have had 9 LCS,8 WS, all in a perfect 17 maximum oppurtunistic appearances.Minor leagues they did finish 2nd with a league leading 70 appearances,but only 52 div titles(2nd),19 LCS(2nd),and 13 WS(2nd).
While i had the numbers crunched i decided to see who was the best division,these were the results:
#1-NL North
#2-(tie)NL South/AL North
#4-AL West
#5-NL West
#6-NL East
#7-AL East
#8-AL South
Top League
#1-National League-2013 pts
#2-American League-1863 pts
I'm sure not averyone approves of this formula, but its just a gauging system for collection of banners through minors and majors and doesnt really mean anything! Hope you all enjoyed the number crunch and have a nice spring!I will check these again in a few seasons, so you better pick up those minor league systems because the Whitehouse is watching!
#14-New York Stink Palmers-(120 pts)The NY2 club has 6 major league playoff appearances and 1 division title which ranked them 22nd in bigs.Their minor league teams helped them tremendoudly in rankings coming in 10th.with 45 appearances,13 div titles,7 LCS'S and a countdown high at this point, 5 World Series'(4th best in minors).Look for this team to move up in ML rankings as they are one of the 3 youngest teams in league.joshcarolina is an original owner.
#13-Augusta Moose-(127 pts)The Moose ranked 13th in ML's with 7 playoffs appearances with 4 div titles.minor league they ranked 13th with 39 october appearances,32 by div titles,but only 3 LCS titles and lacked points for "closing the deal"in the big series. Mcgupp is an original owner.
#12-Cleveland Redlegs-(133 pts)Cleveland ranks dead last in ML's with 0 appearances-that makes them a very fine minor league club ranking 10th in minors with 44 appearances but get mad points for 40(ranks 3rd total) division titles!! They have 3 LCS titles to add to their point total.However have 0 WS which makes them 1 of 7 teams with no WS banners in their organization!
#11-Boston Red Sox-(136 pts)Red Sox have 2 playoff appearances in ML's to rank them 29th.the made up a lot of points in the minors ranking 9th.they were propelled by 37 appearances via 32 div titles,7LCS titles amd 3 World Series.
#10-Colombus Small Ballers-(143 pts) Small Ballers have a new owner that has some high expectations expected of him.They rank the 4th best ML team with 14 appearances ,13 div titles and 3 LCS titles.A 7th ranking drops them in minors they have acquired 20 div titles,6 LCS, and 3 WS rings in 24 appearances,
#9-Nashville Troubadours-(149 pts)Nashville is tied at 17th in ML's with 6 appearances and 3 div titles.They are 8th in minors with 46 appearances,23 div titles,11 LCS'S and 3 world series trophies.
#7(tie)-Little Rock Liddies-(150 pts) The Liddies are tied 31st with 1 playoff appearance.They pack a punch in the minors with a 6 ranking.After 43 trips ,35 by div title.They have acquired 8 LCS's and 3 World Series rings.
#7(tie)-Texas Dragons-(150 pts)The Dragons rank 10th in bigs with 5 playoff appearances all by division titles and have 1 LCS ,and they made it count gaining their 1 world series victory.Texas was 11th in minors with 39 trips to playoffs,23 div titles,9LCS, and 4World Series triumphs.
#6-St Louis Arch Angels-(160 pts)Arch Angel's rank 3rd best team in ML's with 11 div titles,2 LCS,and 2 WS in their 12 appearances.They finished 14th in minor leagues with 37 appearances via 29 bydiv titles but have only produced 1 LCS and WS.
#5-Scranton Screamin Eagles-(194 pts) a mere 28th ranking in bigs with just 3 palyoff appearances hurts them but in minors this teams always come to play.They have a whopping 53 appearances(3rd in minors),39 div titles(4th in minors),12 LCS(tied for 3rd in minors) and 6 WS(tied for 3rd in minors).
#4-Atlanta Angry Pirates-(195 pts)Another 1 point victory.ML's these guys are 11th with 7 div titles and 8 appearances.Look for that to change over the next couple yrs wit this other young team.Ranking 5th in minors with 43 appearances 38 by div titles,10 LCS,and 6 WS.
#3-Cincinnati Red Stockings-(221 pts)Cincy ranked 5th in ML's with 10 trips to playoffs,9 by div title and 3 LCS titles.A 4th ranking in minors is from their 62 appearances(3rd most),33 div titles(4th),12 LCS(tied for 3rd), and 5 WS(tied for 4th)
#2-SalemStreep Sweepers-(343 PTS)Salem is middle of the bigs, ranking 15th but by far is the most decorated minor league squad by far.in ML's they have 6 playoff appearances and 4 division titles.Where they rack up is in the minors.They have 68 appearances(2nd),60 div titles(1st),23LCS(1st),and 18(1st-5 more than 2nd) World Series'.
#1-Tacoma Mountain Men-(387 pts)Suprise,Suprise!Did anyone doubt the Mighty Mountain Men?They trumped in all categories in ML's,the only team to touch their #1 rankings was Indy with 14 div titles.they have had 9 LCS,8 WS, all in a perfect 17 maximum oppurtunistic appearances.Minor leagues they did finish 2nd with a league leading 70 appearances,but only 52 div titles(2nd),19 LCS(2nd),and 13 WS(2nd).
While i had the numbers crunched i decided to see who was the best division,these were the results:
#1-NL North
#2-(tie)NL South/AL North
#4-AL West
#5-NL West
#6-NL East
#7-AL East
#8-AL South
Top League
#1-National League-2013 pts
#2-American League-1863 pts
I'm sure not averyone approves of this formula, but its just a gauging system for collection of banners through minors and majors and doesnt really mean anything! Hope you all enjoyed the number crunch and have a nice spring!I will check these again in a few seasons, so you better pick up those minor league systems because the Whitehouse is watching!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Who has the best organization? Pt 1
Well we all know who has the best ML franchise and that would be Tacoma,but after a little thought i wondered who had the best entire organization.There was a couple different ways I found to answer the question.What i decided to do was come up with a formula that could be understood with easy explanation that would rank by covering all levels of play,majors and minors.The Whitehouse formula as I have named it, is scored like this.For a Divisional Title you get 2 points,League Championship you get 3 points, and for a World Series 4 points and 1 point for a playoff appearance,in any level.NOTE : no points were given for Divisional Champion Series wins.I broke it down for the bigs at first and decided to go for an entire franchise ranking,these are the results of the Best Organizations since inception(up through season 17) I will break the teams down in a 2 part write up counting down to #1,hope you all enjoy!
#32-Charleston Vampires-(23 pts)Have only made it to the ML playoffs once,which tied them for a 30 rank in ML's and have had only 7 divisional titles and 1 wild card appearance in minors as their highest accomplishment.
#31-Sacramento Screaming Eagles-(39 pts)With 1 divisional title and 4 ML total appearances, Sacramento has also blundered in the minor leagues, but is tied for 24th in ML rankings,to have a bright side if there is one.The Screaming Eagles have 5 minor league div titles with 15 appearances in playoffs in minor leagues.
#29(tied)-Baltimore Mets-(43 pts)Baltimore ranks 18th in ML's with 3 division titles and 6 total playoff appearances but their minors have failed them in getting them props for the Whitehouse ratings.1 league championship and 8 division titles in minors.pitnickd is an original owner.
#29(tied)-New York Juicers-(43 pts)The Juicers came in 12th in ML ratings, but like Baltimore dont put much thought into minor league accomplishments,which hurts in these rankings. 2 league championships and 7 divisional titles which make up all their ML playoff appearances is impressive.Though,their minors has failed to produce but 1 world series,1 1 league championship and 1 div title and has had 13 playoff appearances in the minors.
#28-Salt Lake(44 pts)-This franchise, although, has had success with 6 divisional titles and 2 League Championships in the Bigs for a #7 ranking,they have been horrid in the minors with a measely 3 minor league division titles and 12 playoff appearances in all minor league levels over 17 seasons.
#27-Oklahoma City Outlaws-(49 pts)With 2 division titles,their only ML appearances, does rank them 22nd in the bigs.But a dismal minor league system with 10 total division titles,1 league championship(that they did make count), and 1 world series in 16 appearances just doesn't help them in these polls.
#26-Ottawa Rough Riders-(53 pts)Ottawa has 9 ML playoff appearances,1 league championship and 1 division title which ties them for 14th at big league level their minor league has failed to fire.20 minor league playoff appearances have brought them home just 1 league championship with 8 titles which ranked them 26th in minor league ratings.They do play in a division with mighty Tacoma but there are no excuses in baseball.
#25-Tampa Bay Sun-(67 pts)They rank 23rd in ML's with 2 division titles and those were their only appearnces.In minors have had 30 playoff appearances,9 div titles,3 league championships and 1 world series team but i see a brighter future with the Sun with thompkinsaj at the helm.
#24-Madison Cheeseheads-(71 pts)Madison was 27th in ML ratings with 1 div title and 2 appearances but picked it up in the minors a bit.They had 20 appearances,15 by div titleway,3 LCS's and the first of our teams unveiled to have 2 World Series rings.
#23-Durham Bulls-(85 pts)Durham has some nice ML ball teams and are ranked 8th with 9 playoff apearances,7 of them by div title, and had 1 LCS.The 24th ranking in minors was the stinker for Durham,they have had 30 minor league playoff appearances with just 1 LCS and 13 div titles to their belt.
#22-Indianapolis Lancers-(97 pts)The mighty Lancers of the major leagues are ranked #2 in pro rankings with 71 pts.They have been in playoffs 15 of 17 seasons with 4 world series rings all via their 4 and only LCS's(they make it count, they are 4-0 in world series when they make it there)also adding 14 div titles out of the 17 yrs.Very Impressive!!! Their minors....arent so hot!They are ranked the 28th worst minor league organization.They only have 10 playoff appearances with 8 div titles in 85 opportunities....with no minor league banners!danman is original owner along with world commissioner!
#21-Colorado Moonshots-(101 pts)They rank 25th in bigs with 4 playoff appearances and 1 div title.a 16th ranking gives them a boost in minors with 24 appearances,20 of them by division titleway.They have 6 minor league LCS's and the first of our teams to have 3 World Series banners from the minors.
#20-Las Vegas Rounders-(102 pts)Edging Colorado out by one point is Las vegas.3 div titles helped pull them away and 5 total tickets punched in october ranked them 19th in big league play.32 appearance via 26 div titles helped get them to 1 LCS in which they won their one and only WS title in the minor leagues.
#19-Milwaukee Brewers-(103pts)Another 1 point victory in the rankings.A 27th ML ranking didnt help with 1 div title and only 2 playoff appearances.They picked it up in the minor leagues(14th) with 40 big banging appearances,15 by div title,with 7 big LCS AND 2 WS banners hanging in Miller park...these awards all brought to you by kainvb, an original owner.
#18-Mexico City Charros-(104 pts)Once again a tight race won by 1 point.Mexico City has been to 7 playoffs 2 by the way of div titles and won 1 LCS but lost in their only chance at a Championship which ties them for 15th on the big league scale.Minor leagues they ranked 19th with 32 appearances,19 div titles ,4 LCS'S and 2 WS
#16-Iowa City Moonlight Graham's-(107 pts)The Moonlight Graham's are interesting they have 0 div titles but have 2 appearances in which one they won the LCS and world series which ranks them 20 in ML rankings.Minor leagues they rank 15th by 33 appearances 29 by div title, 1 LCS and world series.
#15-Florida Jack A$$es-(117pts) Florida ranks 6th in ML's.They have been to playoffs 10 times 8 by div titles.And have also won a LCS and have a WS ring!Minors,The jack a$$es look like exactly that they fall of to 20th.32 appearances, 21 div titles,2LCS's and 1 minor league world series banner.
Didn't see your team , you were lucky enough to make it to the top 15 coming soon.....
#32-Charleston Vampires-(23 pts)Have only made it to the ML playoffs once,which tied them for a 30 rank in ML's and have had only 7 divisional titles and 1 wild card appearance in minors as their highest accomplishment.
#31-Sacramento Screaming Eagles-(39 pts)With 1 divisional title and 4 ML total appearances, Sacramento has also blundered in the minor leagues, but is tied for 24th in ML rankings,to have a bright side if there is one.The Screaming Eagles have 5 minor league div titles with 15 appearances in playoffs in minor leagues.
#29(tied)-Baltimore Mets-(43 pts)Baltimore ranks 18th in ML's with 3 division titles and 6 total playoff appearances but their minors have failed them in getting them props for the Whitehouse ratings.1 league championship and 8 division titles in minors.pitnickd is an original owner.
#29(tied)-New York Juicers-(43 pts)The Juicers came in 12th in ML ratings, but like Baltimore dont put much thought into minor league accomplishments,which hurts in these rankings. 2 league championships and 7 divisional titles which make up all their ML playoff appearances is impressive.Though,their minors has failed to produce but 1 world series,1 1 league championship and 1 div title and has had 13 playoff appearances in the minors.
#28-Salt Lake(44 pts)-This franchise, although, has had success with 6 divisional titles and 2 League Championships in the Bigs for a #7 ranking,they have been horrid in the minors with a measely 3 minor league division titles and 12 playoff appearances in all minor league levels over 17 seasons.
#27-Oklahoma City Outlaws-(49 pts)With 2 division titles,their only ML appearances, does rank them 22nd in the bigs.But a dismal minor league system with 10 total division titles,1 league championship(that they did make count), and 1 world series in 16 appearances just doesn't help them in these polls.
#26-Ottawa Rough Riders-(53 pts)Ottawa has 9 ML playoff appearances,1 league championship and 1 division title which ties them for 14th at big league level their minor league has failed to fire.20 minor league playoff appearances have brought them home just 1 league championship with 8 titles which ranked them 26th in minor league ratings.They do play in a division with mighty Tacoma but there are no excuses in baseball.
#25-Tampa Bay Sun-(67 pts)They rank 23rd in ML's with 2 division titles and those were their only appearnces.In minors have had 30 playoff appearances,9 div titles,3 league championships and 1 world series team but i see a brighter future with the Sun with thompkinsaj at the helm.
#24-Madison Cheeseheads-(71 pts)Madison was 27th in ML ratings with 1 div title and 2 appearances but picked it up in the minors a bit.They had 20 appearances,15 by div titleway,3 LCS's and the first of our teams unveiled to have 2 World Series rings.
#23-Durham Bulls-(85 pts)Durham has some nice ML ball teams and are ranked 8th with 9 playoff apearances,7 of them by div title, and had 1 LCS.The 24th ranking in minors was the stinker for Durham,they have had 30 minor league playoff appearances with just 1 LCS and 13 div titles to their belt.
#22-Indianapolis Lancers-(97 pts)The mighty Lancers of the major leagues are ranked #2 in pro rankings with 71 pts.They have been in playoffs 15 of 17 seasons with 4 world series rings all via their 4 and only LCS's(they make it count, they are 4-0 in world series when they make it there)also adding 14 div titles out of the 17 yrs.Very Impressive!!! Their minors....arent so hot!They are ranked the 28th worst minor league organization.They only have 10 playoff appearances with 8 div titles in 85 opportunities....with no minor league banners!danman is original owner along with world commissioner!
#21-Colorado Moonshots-(101 pts)They rank 25th in bigs with 4 playoff appearances and 1 div title.a 16th ranking gives them a boost in minors with 24 appearances,20 of them by division titleway.They have 6 minor league LCS's and the first of our teams to have 3 World Series banners from the minors.
#20-Las Vegas Rounders-(102 pts)Edging Colorado out by one point is Las vegas.3 div titles helped pull them away and 5 total tickets punched in october ranked them 19th in big league play.32 appearance via 26 div titles helped get them to 1 LCS in which they won their one and only WS title in the minor leagues.
#19-Milwaukee Brewers-(103pts)Another 1 point victory in the rankings.A 27th ML ranking didnt help with 1 div title and only 2 playoff appearances.They picked it up in the minor leagues(14th) with 40 big banging appearances,15 by div title,with 7 big LCS AND 2 WS banners hanging in Miller park...these awards all brought to you by kainvb, an original owner.
#18-Mexico City Charros-(104 pts)Once again a tight race won by 1 point.Mexico City has been to 7 playoffs 2 by the way of div titles and won 1 LCS but lost in their only chance at a Championship which ties them for 15th on the big league scale.Minor leagues they ranked 19th with 32 appearances,19 div titles ,4 LCS'S and 2 WS
#16-Iowa City Moonlight Graham's-(107 pts)The Moonlight Graham's are interesting they have 0 div titles but have 2 appearances in which one they won the LCS and world series which ranks them 20 in ML rankings.Minor leagues they rank 15th by 33 appearances 29 by div title, 1 LCS and world series.
#15-Florida Jack A$$es-(117pts) Florida ranks 6th in ML's.They have been to playoffs 10 times 8 by div titles.And have also won a LCS and have a WS ring!Minors,The jack a$$es look like exactly that they fall of to 20th.32 appearances, 21 div titles,2LCS's and 1 minor league world series banner.
Didn't see your team , you were lucky enough to make it to the top 15 coming soon.....
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
AL North Season 18 Preview
Scranton Red Barons
Key additions: Stevie Reed, Luther Broome, Louis Gibson, Harry Mateo
Key losses: Eddie Marshall, Tex Parnell, Clem Smith, Fred Lieberthal
Although this franchise won 87 or more games each of the past 3 seasons, they missed the playoffs each year, and new owner pgburner realized some moves were necessary to push them over the hump and land their first playoff berth since season 14. Gibson and Mateo were signed to small 1-year contracts to provide an offensive burst, and newly promoted Phil Hampton should provide some pop from a corner outfield position. The starting rotation looks pretty solid, but the bullpen will probably need more help than just newly signed Reed and Broome. Prediction: 95-67
New York Juicers
Key additions: David Ontiveros
Key losses: Gabe Douglass, Hector Beltran, Erubiel Martin, Ismael Santiago
The Juicers underwent a tumultuous off-season that could cause them to lose their 6-season hold on 1st place in the notoriously tough AL North. The biggest loss was 2-time MVP Beltran, who left to sign a 5-year, $102 million contract with Colorado Springs. The bats of Martin and Santiago will also be missed, but Ontiveras, acquired in a trade with Salt Lake City, will greatly help the lessen the blow. Along with Emmanuel Machado and on-base machine Hideo Hujimoto, this offense still has the capability to put up lots of runs. And the 1-2 punch of Raymond Buckley and Daisuke Kimura will probably keep the Juicers in playoff contention all season. Prediction: 94-68
Cincinnati Red Stockings
Key additions: None
Key losses: Matty Oliva
Not much changed over the off-season for the Red Stockings, who look to return to the playoffs after a first round exit last year. There's no doubt that the offense will be solid, led by Tony Shannon and Mack Webster. The real question is whether the pitching staff will repeat its performance last season, when SP's Tomas Alomar, Ken Gehrig, and Tuck Sweeney all posted 16 or more wins and ERA's of 3.45 or below. My guess is the staff will take a step back this season. Prediction: 86-76.
Milwaukee Brewers
Key additions: Eugene Nicholson, Luis Nieves, Vladimir Bautista, Stuart Kirkland
Key losses: Darrel Young, Bret Gagne, Jimmie Morales
Last season, the Brewers won 88 games...and finished in dead last in the division. Their off-season plan appeared to be replacing departing old pitching with some fresh old pitching from the free agent market. However, their pitching staff appears to be stronger than last season's staff, provided injuries and aging don't strike too hard. The offense is once again led by Bosco Hyers and a solid, but not spectacular, supporting cast including Adam Gagne and Albert Lugo. The season likely depends upon incoming SP Nicholson's ability to stay healthy. Prediction: 84-78
Key additions: Stevie Reed, Luther Broome, Louis Gibson, Harry Mateo
Key losses: Eddie Marshall, Tex Parnell, Clem Smith, Fred Lieberthal
Although this franchise won 87 or more games each of the past 3 seasons, they missed the playoffs each year, and new owner pgburner realized some moves were necessary to push them over the hump and land their first playoff berth since season 14. Gibson and Mateo were signed to small 1-year contracts to provide an offensive burst, and newly promoted Phil Hampton should provide some pop from a corner outfield position. The starting rotation looks pretty solid, but the bullpen will probably need more help than just newly signed Reed and Broome. Prediction: 95-67
New York Juicers
Key additions: David Ontiveros
Key losses: Gabe Douglass, Hector Beltran, Erubiel Martin, Ismael Santiago
The Juicers underwent a tumultuous off-season that could cause them to lose their 6-season hold on 1st place in the notoriously tough AL North. The biggest loss was 2-time MVP Beltran, who left to sign a 5-year, $102 million contract with Colorado Springs. The bats of Martin and Santiago will also be missed, but Ontiveras, acquired in a trade with Salt Lake City, will greatly help the lessen the blow. Along with Emmanuel Machado and on-base machine Hideo Hujimoto, this offense still has the capability to put up lots of runs. And the 1-2 punch of Raymond Buckley and Daisuke Kimura will probably keep the Juicers in playoff contention all season. Prediction: 94-68
Cincinnati Red Stockings
Key additions: None
Key losses: Matty Oliva
Not much changed over the off-season for the Red Stockings, who look to return to the playoffs after a first round exit last year. There's no doubt that the offense will be solid, led by Tony Shannon and Mack Webster. The real question is whether the pitching staff will repeat its performance last season, when SP's Tomas Alomar, Ken Gehrig, and Tuck Sweeney all posted 16 or more wins and ERA's of 3.45 or below. My guess is the staff will take a step back this season. Prediction: 86-76.
Milwaukee Brewers
Key additions: Eugene Nicholson, Luis Nieves, Vladimir Bautista, Stuart Kirkland
Key losses: Darrel Young, Bret Gagne, Jimmie Morales
Last season, the Brewers won 88 games...and finished in dead last in the division. Their off-season plan appeared to be replacing departing old pitching with some fresh old pitching from the free agent market. However, their pitching staff appears to be stronger than last season's staff, provided injuries and aging don't strike too hard. The offense is once again led by Bosco Hyers and a solid, but not spectacular, supporting cast including Adam Gagne and Albert Lugo. The season likely depends upon incoming SP Nicholson's ability to stay healthy. Prediction: 84-78
NL North Season 18 Preview
Ottawa Rough Riders
Key additions: Jay Hughes
Key losses: Carlos Fernandez, Lonny Aguilar, Neil O'Neil
The Rough Riders have done a real nice job staying competitive with a small payroll in recent seasons, and this season should be no different. With a payroll under $50 million and no huge losses following a 93-win season, the Rough Riders look to compete for the division title once again this year. The offense is led by former ROY winner John Murata and fellow young slugger Sawyer Delmonico, and the rotation, though it features no true ace, is solid and should keep the team in games enough for the offense to push the Rough Riders to the playoffs. Prediction: 90-72.
Tacoma Mountain Men
Key additions: Buddy Cepeda
Key losses: Jimmy Springer, Tomas Concepcion, Vladimir Bautista, Donne Higginson, Jamie Risley, Peter Chong
After 17 years of unmatched success, including 8 (eight!) World Series titles, including one last season, it might finally be time for Tacoma (formerly the Rochester Big and Tall juggernaut) to return to the pack. Although a lot of talent was lost during the offseason, the Mountain Men still boast a strong starting rotation led by Robert Walton, and a few good middle-of-the-lineup bats, led by Benito Perez. They aren't my pick to repeat, but I think they have a chance at making the playoffs despite all the off-season losses. Prediction: 87-75.
New York Stink Palmers
Key additions: None
Key losses: Dennys Hayes
We've all heard a lot about New York's rebuilding plan, and now it's time to see if there are going to be results. The offense is led by Ben Bickerton and young Javier Santana, and the pitching staff is led by Mark Cox. Owner joshcarolina obviously feels he has enough young talent on this franchise to make a run at the playoffs this season, but a weak starting rotation and a mediocre offense will probably lead to a finish in the bottom half of the division. Prediction: 74-88.
Madison Cheeseheads
Key additions: Carlos Fernandez, Freddy Dixon, Michael Lee, Neil O'Neil, Eddie Marshall
Key losses: Charles Suzuki, Grant Kapler
After a disappointing 89-loss campaign last season, the Cheeseheads set out to improve their pitching through free agency, and they did just that, inking SP's Dixon and Marshall and RP's Fernandez and Lee. However, without a true ace atop the rotation or top-notch slugger in the middle of the lineup, the Cheeseheads will probably disappoint this season as well. Prediction: 73-89.
Key additions: Jay Hughes
Key losses: Carlos Fernandez, Lonny Aguilar, Neil O'Neil
The Rough Riders have done a real nice job staying competitive with a small payroll in recent seasons, and this season should be no different. With a payroll under $50 million and no huge losses following a 93-win season, the Rough Riders look to compete for the division title once again this year. The offense is led by former ROY winner John Murata and fellow young slugger Sawyer Delmonico, and the rotation, though it features no true ace, is solid and should keep the team in games enough for the offense to push the Rough Riders to the playoffs. Prediction: 90-72.
Tacoma Mountain Men
Key additions: Buddy Cepeda
Key losses: Jimmy Springer, Tomas Concepcion, Vladimir Bautista, Donne Higginson, Jamie Risley, Peter Chong
After 17 years of unmatched success, including 8 (eight!) World Series titles, including one last season, it might finally be time for Tacoma (formerly the Rochester Big and Tall juggernaut) to return to the pack. Although a lot of talent was lost during the offseason, the Mountain Men still boast a strong starting rotation led by Robert Walton, and a few good middle-of-the-lineup bats, led by Benito Perez. They aren't my pick to repeat, but I think they have a chance at making the playoffs despite all the off-season losses. Prediction: 87-75.
New York Stink Palmers
Key additions: None
Key losses: Dennys Hayes
We've all heard a lot about New York's rebuilding plan, and now it's time to see if there are going to be results. The offense is led by Ben Bickerton and young Javier Santana, and the pitching staff is led by Mark Cox. Owner joshcarolina obviously feels he has enough young talent on this franchise to make a run at the playoffs this season, but a weak starting rotation and a mediocre offense will probably lead to a finish in the bottom half of the division. Prediction: 74-88.
Madison Cheeseheads
Key additions: Carlos Fernandez, Freddy Dixon, Michael Lee, Neil O'Neil, Eddie Marshall
Key losses: Charles Suzuki, Grant Kapler
After a disappointing 89-loss campaign last season, the Cheeseheads set out to improve their pitching through free agency, and they did just that, inking SP's Dixon and Marshall and RP's Fernandez and Lee. However, without a true ace atop the rotation or top-notch slugger in the middle of the lineup, the Cheeseheads will probably disappoint this season as well. Prediction: 73-89.
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