Steve (PGH) and I thought it would be fin to hand out draft grades again. These are our opinion, and certainly are subjective to an extent, so don;t take them too seriously. Also, the grades are only partially based on talent that you got, and they look more at what you did with what you have. Here you go.
Boston A+
1B Sadahura Oh
CF Josh Hamilton
Getting an absolute stud at 5 is huge, maybe the best 5th pick ever. In addition, nabbing Hamilton in round 2 makes Bostons draft a profitable one.
Atlanta A
1B Prince Fielder
P Felix Hernandez
SS Hanley Ramirez
CF Grady Sizemore
P Gil Meche
2B Ian Kinsler
RP Chad Cordero
RP Brian Wolfe
Since we were able to script the first 7 picks of the draft, 4 of which belonged to Atlanta, it is no surprise that we are grading this team high. One of if not the best draft in memory by a single team, Casey is building a powerhouse. The high point was getting 2B kinsler in the 2nd round, a great talent to fall that low. The low point was taking Meche, a 23 year old pitcher when he already has great starters. Zumaya would have been a better pick here. But, that is minor in this great draft.
Pittsburgh A
C Jarrod Saltalamacchia
3B Alex Gordon
CF Hunter Pence
P Micah Figgs
Salty is a great pickup. The number of stud catchers is on the rise, but being one of the 4 or 5 teams that have one is a huge plus, which is why this pick was so huge. Gordon, too was an amazing pickup so late, as was Pence. When currently good teams get high draft picks and draft well, look out.
Kansas City A
Traded #1 for CF Mike Robinson
P Freddy Mendoza
SS Stephen Drew
RF Puddles Sheldon
The trade of his #1 for Mike Robinson met a huge need foe the Royals, giving the a CH/SP guy who can come in and score runs right away. In addition, his other 3 picks were all smart, bringing in very good starting pitching, and filling a hole at short.
Florida A-
3B Garret Atkins
With only one pick, and the league making it for him, it is hard to grade this well. Although, getting Atkins this late is a great pickup.
HoustonA-
LF Matt Holiday
RP Matt Lindstrom
SS Steve May
Holliday was one of the top outfielders in the draft and one of the top pure hitters as well. Lindstrom was a very nice pickup in round 2 as well.
Colorado A-
P Francisco Liriano
RP Joel Zumaya
P Spencer Kriegel
C Jack Behrman
Colorado, in the GM's first draft was able to emerge with the top Starting Pitcher and the top Reliever in the pool. Kriegal was also a fine pickup, but Behrman was a reach.
Texas A-
RF Delmon Young (Draft day trade)
2B Kelly Johnson
Trading to get Delmon Young at the time of the pick continues to make a great team younger. Johnson also provides a protege since Biggio is aging.
San Diego A-
P Danny Kingston
P Mac Thomas
P Bert Dilly
SD was making calls and pulling strings to make things happen, and we like to see that. Mike was able to trade for the pick to get P Bert Dilly, a huge risk, but a guy with huge upside. We would all do better to take more chances like this.
Toronto B+
P Tim Lincecum
C Big Bear Andrews
P Kason Goddard
P Jim Tweedles
Lincecum was a good pick, further building that rotation. Andrews was okay: nothing special but at an important position.
Anaheim B+
RF Nick Markakis
P Samuel Gereson
P Casey Jannsen
SS Jimmy Anderson
Markakis is a great pickup and will add will help round out a potentially very good offense. Gereson certainly has upside and Jannsen is a good pickup for the 3rd round.
Milwakee B+
P Scott Kazmir
P Eduardo Lodermo
P Eric Bauer
Kazmir was one of the top pitchers and will do very well in Milwakee. Lodermo is very solid for a 2nd rounder.
Oakland B
C Brian McCann
P Matt Garza
C Kenji Jahima
1B Ryan Garcon
RF Franklin Gutierez
Los Angeles B
P Fausto Carmona
P Mike Palmer
New York Mets B
Traded #1 for CF Tris Speaker
SS Travis Ykema
1B Eric Bittner
P Brandon Morrow
P Joakim Soria
Speaker is a huge gain, and the two pitchers are both great picks. Ykema may have been high and Bittner is a gamble.
Saint Louis B
C Bobby Wilson
LF Jacoby Ellsbury
2B Placido Polanco
CF Jesus Sindari
3B Freddy Sanchez
P Mel Napier
A lot of picks really helped out STL in this draft. Wilson and Sanchez were both pretty good picks. There were no bad picks in STL's draft, but it would be easy to make the case for slightly different choices.
San Francisco B
P Andy Virmin
A cheap 3rd rounder will fill a roster slot in LOW for awhile, if nothing else.
New York YankeesB-
RP Chad Cordero (clone)
RP Justin Hampson
2B Frank Sundin
P Camilla Rodriguez
Cordero is good, and Hampson is okay, but there is nothing special about the Sundin or Rodriguez picks.
Cleveland B-
P Ricardo Torrez
May be able to eat up some innings in relief.
Cincinnati B-
P Brett Conlon
Low control and average pitches make Conlon a career AAA player, but not much was left this late.
Detroit B-
RP Bobby Jenks
Jenks is certainly a very good reliever, but there were probably better players on the board.
Seattle B+
Traded #1 to NYN for 4 players
2B Cooper Greer
They traded their #1 for 4 players, and while it was partly because of cast and roster spots, they could have gotten a very good player with that pick.
Philadelphia C-
P Doud Slaten
Made a fine pick. Too bad they didn't have more in a draft like this.
Baltimore C-
Traded #2 pick for SS Royce Clayton
There was a player very similar to Clayton taken 17 pick after this one. If they would have kept it, they could have gotten a very good player.
Chicago White Sox D
P Raphael Perez
RF Jack Cust
P Nick Remlinger
CF Jay Backus
We had Perez ranked as the 7th best reliever, and he was the first one taken. Players like Cust are a dime a dozen and Remlinger, too, won't win any awards.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Sunday, November 11, 2007
2032 Mock Draft
After a record setting break in the league, we are finally up to looking seriously at the Ammy Draft. For the second year in a row, Sheffy and I will be doing a mock draft, sharing what we think are the wise and likely picks. We generated the Draft Order based on all we knew at the time. We hope you enjoy and feel free to comment. Here we go!
1. ATL: Nick- 1B Prince Fielder. Atlanta is apparently a hangout for young studs, and the best player in the draft will fit right in.
Steve- P Francisco Liriano. Well, I already botched this one up. However, I thought the Braves might take the best pitcher in the draft knowing they could get one of the first baseman with the 3rd pick.
2. COL: Nick- P Francisco Liriano. When rebuilding, like the Rockies will be doing, it helps to have an ace to build the staff around. Liriano is the best hurler in the pool.
Steve- 1B Prince Fielder. Colorado has holes all over the place, so they will take the best player in the draft and begin to build an offense.
3. ATL (CHN): Nick- P Felix Hernandez. Adding a 4th stud starting pitcher to the club, the Braves snatch up Hernandez. Watch out for the Braves in 5 or 6 years.
Steve- 1B Sadahura Oh. Here is where I expected Atlanta to get their first baseman. Oh looks to be somewhat similar to Lou Gehrig.
4. ATL (KC): Nick- SS Hanley Ramirez. Let me say what is on everyone's mind...yes it is rediculous that the Braves have this many high pick 2 years in a row with such great draft pools. That being said, they will take the SS that will quickly become the best in the league.
Steve- SS Hanley Ramirez. Another pick for the Braves. Here they take a guy who will be the best middle infielder in the league.
5. BOS: Nick- 1B Sadahura Oh. Oh is a steal at 5, and provides a feared bat in the middle of the Sox lineup for a long time.
Steve- P Felix Hernandez. Boston’s pitching has really fallen apart since their trip to the World Series 3 years ago. It’s time to get an ace.
6. ATL (DET): Nick- CF Grady Sizemore. With their 4th pcik in the top 6 (excuse me while I vomit), the Braves take Sizemore to fill a very important position on the field, giving them young studs at 6 offensive positions and 4 stud pitchers.
Steve- CF Grady Sizemore. This is ridiculous. With their 4th pick in the top 6, Atlanta adds another prize bat.
7. OAK: Nick- C Brain McCann. Hard to pass up a top 5 catcher like this whn he is on the board at 7.
Steve- C Brian McCann. Oakland still has some of the pieces in place to turn things around. McCann gives them some hope of reestablishing a potent lineup.
8. PGH (BAL): Nick- 3B Garret Atkins. Can play first base, which the Pirates need, and though 3B Gordon has much better speed, Atkins is ready to play now, which is also what the Pirates need.
Steve- 2B Dib Williams. At 37, he’ll provide a lot of veteran leadership. Club is hoping he can be a player coach (did you really thing I’d give away who I want).
9. HOU: Nick- 3B Alex Gordon. He won't be ready for awhile, but he is a great hitter and defender. Can you believe a guy like this could fall to 9?
Steve- 3B Alex Gordon. Gordon still has a lot of growing to do, but he has tremendous potential and the Astros have lots of time.
10. MIL: Nick- RF Delmon Young. Gives the Brewers a very solid bat to help them manufacture runs in a tough division.
Steve- C Jarrod Saltamacchia . His bat behind Greenberg’s would make the middle of the Brew Crew’s lineup much more dangerous.
11. LA: Nick- P Scott Kazmir. Some would say the Dodgers have not had a really good pitcher since Billy Chapel, so Kazmir will help them in that category.
Steve- P Scott Kazmir. The Dodgers have been without a true ace since Billy Chapel retired.
12. NYN: Nick- C Jarrod Saltamacchia. A great cathcer is always a good pick, particularly this late.
Steve- SS Travis Ykema. The Mets are really a team without much for holes. Ykema would improve on one of their weaker spots.
13. NYN (CLE): Nick- P Tim Lincecum. Another arm to help solidify a talented, but chaky rotation.
Steve- C Bobby Wilson. Wilson allows the Mets to improve in one of the few spots they can at this point.
14. ANA: Nick- CF Hunter Pence. The 2nd really good CF in this draft will add even more pop to the Angels lineup.
Steve- 3B Gerret Atkins. Teamed with the Howard brothers and Slater, this Angels offense will soon be very good.
15. CHA: Nick- LF Matt Holiday. The Sox are right there in a tough division, so Holiday could get them over the hump.
Steve- P Tim Lincecum. The White Sox have never had trouble scoring runs. What they’ve needed is consistent pitching. They should get that here.
16. TOR: Nick- RF Nick Markakis. The last of the elite outfielders in the pool, Toronto can certainly add a nice player at this spot.
Steve- LF Matt Holiday. How is a bat like this still around. Toronto will go crazy if this happens. Finally, a big time bat to go with what has become a strong pitching staff.
17. ATL (TEX): Nick- 2B Ian Kinsler. The Braves add another piece to a scary puzzle.
Steve- 2B Ian Kinsler. Atlanta fills another hole with a great player.
18. FLA: Nick- C Bobby Wilson. Florida already has a lot, but the smart pick here is to add the 3rd good catcher in the draft.
Steve- P Fausto Carmona. The Marlins don’t really need anything so they’ll just take the best pitcher on the board.
19. KC (CIN): Nick- SS Travis Ykema. The second best SS in the draft is nothing to cry about at this point. Very good value.
Steve- RF Delmon Young. Another team ecstatic that a bat of this talent may fall to them. He should be a perfect compliment to Graves and Duncan.
20. STL: Nick- P Fausto Carmona. Another good arm in a pitchers park will help them fight for the NL Central crown.
Steve- P Gil Meche. Here’s another team without much for holes. Meche looks to be the best pitcher available.
21. SEA: Nick- P Gil Meche
Steve- 2B Kelly Johnson
22. PHI: Nick- RP Joel Zumaya
Steve- P John Maine
23. SF: Nick- RP Joakim Soria
Steve- RP Joel Zumaya
24. PGH (SD): Nick- RP Bobby Jenks
Steve- RF Nick Markakis
25. KC (PGH): Nick- RP Chad Cordero
Steve- SS Stephen Drew
26. MIN: Nick- CF Josh Hamilton
Steve- CF Hunter Pence
27. DET (MON): Nick- P John Maine
Steve- P Freddy Mendoza
28. NYA: Nick- P Freddy Mendoza
Steve- RP Joakim Soria
1. ATL: Nick- 1B Prince Fielder. Atlanta is apparently a hangout for young studs, and the best player in the draft will fit right in.
Steve- P Francisco Liriano. Well, I already botched this one up. However, I thought the Braves might take the best pitcher in the draft knowing they could get one of the first baseman with the 3rd pick.
2. COL: Nick- P Francisco Liriano. When rebuilding, like the Rockies will be doing, it helps to have an ace to build the staff around. Liriano is the best hurler in the pool.
Steve- 1B Prince Fielder. Colorado has holes all over the place, so they will take the best player in the draft and begin to build an offense.
3. ATL (CHN): Nick- P Felix Hernandez. Adding a 4th stud starting pitcher to the club, the Braves snatch up Hernandez. Watch out for the Braves in 5 or 6 years.
Steve- 1B Sadahura Oh. Here is where I expected Atlanta to get their first baseman. Oh looks to be somewhat similar to Lou Gehrig.
4. ATL (KC): Nick- SS Hanley Ramirez. Let me say what is on everyone's mind...yes it is rediculous that the Braves have this many high pick 2 years in a row with such great draft pools. That being said, they will take the SS that will quickly become the best in the league.
Steve- SS Hanley Ramirez. Another pick for the Braves. Here they take a guy who will be the best middle infielder in the league.
5. BOS: Nick- 1B Sadahura Oh. Oh is a steal at 5, and provides a feared bat in the middle of the Sox lineup for a long time.
Steve- P Felix Hernandez. Boston’s pitching has really fallen apart since their trip to the World Series 3 years ago. It’s time to get an ace.
6. ATL (DET): Nick- CF Grady Sizemore. With their 4th pcik in the top 6 (excuse me while I vomit), the Braves take Sizemore to fill a very important position on the field, giving them young studs at 6 offensive positions and 4 stud pitchers.
Steve- CF Grady Sizemore. This is ridiculous. With their 4th pick in the top 6, Atlanta adds another prize bat.
7. OAK: Nick- C Brain McCann. Hard to pass up a top 5 catcher like this whn he is on the board at 7.
Steve- C Brian McCann. Oakland still has some of the pieces in place to turn things around. McCann gives them some hope of reestablishing a potent lineup.
8. PGH (BAL): Nick- 3B Garret Atkins. Can play first base, which the Pirates need, and though 3B Gordon has much better speed, Atkins is ready to play now, which is also what the Pirates need.
Steve- 2B Dib Williams. At 37, he’ll provide a lot of veteran leadership. Club is hoping he can be a player coach (did you really thing I’d give away who I want).
9. HOU: Nick- 3B Alex Gordon. He won't be ready for awhile, but he is a great hitter and defender. Can you believe a guy like this could fall to 9?
Steve- 3B Alex Gordon. Gordon still has a lot of growing to do, but he has tremendous potential and the Astros have lots of time.
10. MIL: Nick- RF Delmon Young. Gives the Brewers a very solid bat to help them manufacture runs in a tough division.
Steve- C Jarrod Saltamacchia . His bat behind Greenberg’s would make the middle of the Brew Crew’s lineup much more dangerous.
11. LA: Nick- P Scott Kazmir. Some would say the Dodgers have not had a really good pitcher since Billy Chapel, so Kazmir will help them in that category.
Steve- P Scott Kazmir. The Dodgers have been without a true ace since Billy Chapel retired.
12. NYN: Nick- C Jarrod Saltamacchia. A great cathcer is always a good pick, particularly this late.
Steve- SS Travis Ykema. The Mets are really a team without much for holes. Ykema would improve on one of their weaker spots.
13. NYN (CLE): Nick- P Tim Lincecum. Another arm to help solidify a talented, but chaky rotation.
Steve- C Bobby Wilson. Wilson allows the Mets to improve in one of the few spots they can at this point.
14. ANA: Nick- CF Hunter Pence. The 2nd really good CF in this draft will add even more pop to the Angels lineup.
Steve- 3B Gerret Atkins. Teamed with the Howard brothers and Slater, this Angels offense will soon be very good.
15. CHA: Nick- LF Matt Holiday. The Sox are right there in a tough division, so Holiday could get them over the hump.
Steve- P Tim Lincecum. The White Sox have never had trouble scoring runs. What they’ve needed is consistent pitching. They should get that here.
16. TOR: Nick- RF Nick Markakis. The last of the elite outfielders in the pool, Toronto can certainly add a nice player at this spot.
Steve- LF Matt Holiday. How is a bat like this still around. Toronto will go crazy if this happens. Finally, a big time bat to go with what has become a strong pitching staff.
17. ATL (TEX): Nick- 2B Ian Kinsler. The Braves add another piece to a scary puzzle.
Steve- 2B Ian Kinsler. Atlanta fills another hole with a great player.
18. FLA: Nick- C Bobby Wilson. Florida already has a lot, but the smart pick here is to add the 3rd good catcher in the draft.
Steve- P Fausto Carmona. The Marlins don’t really need anything so they’ll just take the best pitcher on the board.
19. KC (CIN): Nick- SS Travis Ykema. The second best SS in the draft is nothing to cry about at this point. Very good value.
Steve- RF Delmon Young. Another team ecstatic that a bat of this talent may fall to them. He should be a perfect compliment to Graves and Duncan.
20. STL: Nick- P Fausto Carmona. Another good arm in a pitchers park will help them fight for the NL Central crown.
Steve- P Gil Meche. Here’s another team without much for holes. Meche looks to be the best pitcher available.
21. SEA: Nick- P Gil Meche
Steve- 2B Kelly Johnson
22. PHI: Nick- RP Joel Zumaya
Steve- P John Maine
23. SF: Nick- RP Joakim Soria
Steve- RP Joel Zumaya
24. PGH (SD): Nick- RP Bobby Jenks
Steve- RF Nick Markakis
25. KC (PGH): Nick- RP Chad Cordero
Steve- SS Stephen Drew
26. MIN: Nick- CF Josh Hamilton
Steve- CF Hunter Pence
27. DET (MON): Nick- P John Maine
Steve- P Freddy Mendoza
28. NYA: Nick- P Freddy Mendoza
Steve- RP Joakim Soria
Thursday, September 27, 2007
End of Season Award Winners!!!
The votes have been cast, the ballots are in, and the points have been tallied. Here are your 2032 Award Winners.
NL MVP
Parker 70
Melton 65
Walker 34
Lee 13
Blaylock 9
Cepeda 8
Berkman 4
Floyd 4
AL MVP
Snyder 72
Larkin 50
Jackson 38
Morgan 11
Killabrew 11
Prez 8
Easter 5
Olerud 4
Lee 3
Gehrig 3
Martinez 2
NL Cy Young
Joss 53
Livingston 37
Roe 33
Blaeholder 27
Brubaker 21
Willow 20
Hershiser 8
Cox 6
Blank 1
Niekro 1
AL Cy Young
Barrios 73
Rau 66
Blackwell 24
Cone 18
Smiley 12
Belcher 6
Goldsmith 6
Halliday 2
NL Rookie of the Year
Lette 101
Zimmerman 54
Solaris 34
Odell 6
Carrol 5
Bradley 4
Clarke 3
AL Rookie of the Year
Verlander 96
Graves 50
Kramer 30
Beck 14
Lando 10
Anderson 7
NL Fireman
Saito 70
Stone 35
Barnhardt 24
Solaris 23
Holloway 21
Face 11
Takatsu 8
Wright 8
Otsuka 4
Amonte 3
AL Fireman
Sherry 44
Pappas 40
Kellaher 39
Gagne 37
Tyler 12
Street 10
Stock 10
Lasher 8
Charlton 2
GM of the Year
Nick 61
Mike 52
Scott 35
Expos 17
Jason 11
Arvin 7
Casey 5
Sheffy 4
Luke 2
Thanks for voting guys, and for another great season.
NL MVP
Parker 70
Melton 65
Walker 34
Lee 13
Blaylock 9
Cepeda 8
Berkman 4
Floyd 4
AL MVP
Snyder 72
Larkin 50
Jackson 38
Morgan 11
Killabrew 11
Prez 8
Easter 5
Olerud 4
Lee 3
Gehrig 3
Martinez 2
NL Cy Young
Joss 53
Livingston 37
Roe 33
Blaeholder 27
Brubaker 21
Willow 20
Hershiser 8
Cox 6
Blank 1
Niekro 1
AL Cy Young
Barrios 73
Rau 66
Blackwell 24
Cone 18
Smiley 12
Belcher 6
Goldsmith 6
Halliday 2
NL Rookie of the Year
Lette 101
Zimmerman 54
Solaris 34
Odell 6
Carrol 5
Bradley 4
Clarke 3
AL Rookie of the Year
Verlander 96
Graves 50
Kramer 30
Beck 14
Lando 10
Anderson 7
NL Fireman
Saito 70
Stone 35
Barnhardt 24
Solaris 23
Holloway 21
Face 11
Takatsu 8
Wright 8
Otsuka 4
Amonte 3
AL Fireman
Sherry 44
Pappas 40
Kellaher 39
Gagne 37
Tyler 12
Street 10
Stock 10
Lasher 8
Charlton 2
GM of the Year
Nick 61
Mike 52
Scott 35
Expos 17
Jason 11
Arvin 7
Casey 5
Sheffy 4
Luke 2
Thanks for voting guys, and for another great season.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
An Interview with the Champs: Texas Rangers
Sheffy here, conducting the 2nd annual post World Series interview with the GM who won it. We have the GM answer the same five questions to get to know some GM's better. We started last year with Gary of the Expos, and this year we are interviewing Nick from the Rangers who has just won his third World Series championship in Habla.
1. How does it feel to have won the Habla World Series?
It feels very good. Each World Series win has been different, from the young, emerging team in 2024, to the juggernaught in 2026. This one was more of the underachieving team getting it done when it counts.
2. Did your team surprise you this year?
Yeah, to be honest I thought they would be better. We have averaged 102 wins in this dynasty run, so 94 is a bit lower. Our hitting and pitching were both down, for whatever reason. But, I'd gladly take a regular season like this again if it ends with another ring.
3. What is the one move you made that help you become an elite team in this league?
Gosh, there are so many. The first was probably drafting Jake Peavy at a time when I thought my pitching was set (man was I naive). That originally put me in the hunt. Trading up to get Tris Speaker was huge, as was deciding to take a chance on Doug Rau 1st overall. The trade for Hank Aaron. The trade for Lou Gehrig. I think it would be a toss up between the Rau decision and getting Gehrig, because Rau is my best pitcher and Gehrig my best hitter.
4. What is the secret to winning a Habla World Series?
Honestly, after the amazing teams I have built that have fizzled in the first round of the playoffs, and also winning World Series' with 92 and 94 win teams, I have given up on caring about the regular season. My goal has changed to simply get to the playoffs, where you have a 1 in 8 chance. I think it almost all luck. A case in point is this years Yankees, who set the wins record at 122 and then lost in the first round. Sure they had a huge injury, but they were not a first round exit team. This new goal has changed my philosophy, though. I used to relish having 5 great pitchers. I'm not sure you need that anymore. If you can have an ace, 2 really good pitchers, and 2 serviceable guys who can help get you to the playoffs, then you can set your front three up in a playoff series. It still helps to have 4 or 5 in case you have an injury, but I traded away a great pitcher in Preacher Roe for Terrence Lee to make my lineup better because that fit this new philosophy better. It was a gamble, but it paid off.
5. Is there anything you would like the league to know about you as a person?
Ummm...well I guess I would say that I have a huge heart for justice issues; things like poverty and forced labor over seas. I think these are issues that we as Americans have to face and stand up against. We cannot continue to be ignorant about these things.
Thanks for the time.
1. How does it feel to have won the Habla World Series?
It feels very good. Each World Series win has been different, from the young, emerging team in 2024, to the juggernaught in 2026. This one was more of the underachieving team getting it done when it counts.
2. Did your team surprise you this year?
Yeah, to be honest I thought they would be better. We have averaged 102 wins in this dynasty run, so 94 is a bit lower. Our hitting and pitching were both down, for whatever reason. But, I'd gladly take a regular season like this again if it ends with another ring.
3. What is the one move you made that help you become an elite team in this league?
Gosh, there are so many. The first was probably drafting Jake Peavy at a time when I thought my pitching was set (man was I naive). That originally put me in the hunt. Trading up to get Tris Speaker was huge, as was deciding to take a chance on Doug Rau 1st overall. The trade for Hank Aaron. The trade for Lou Gehrig. I think it would be a toss up between the Rau decision and getting Gehrig, because Rau is my best pitcher and Gehrig my best hitter.
4. What is the secret to winning a Habla World Series?
Honestly, after the amazing teams I have built that have fizzled in the first round of the playoffs, and also winning World Series' with 92 and 94 win teams, I have given up on caring about the regular season. My goal has changed to simply get to the playoffs, where you have a 1 in 8 chance. I think it almost all luck. A case in point is this years Yankees, who set the wins record at 122 and then lost in the first round. Sure they had a huge injury, but they were not a first round exit team. This new goal has changed my philosophy, though. I used to relish having 5 great pitchers. I'm not sure you need that anymore. If you can have an ace, 2 really good pitchers, and 2 serviceable guys who can help get you to the playoffs, then you can set your front three up in a playoff series. It still helps to have 4 or 5 in case you have an injury, but I traded away a great pitcher in Preacher Roe for Terrence Lee to make my lineup better because that fit this new philosophy better. It was a gamble, but it paid off.
5. Is there anything you would like the league to know about you as a person?
Ummm...well I guess I would say that I have a huge heart for justice issues; things like poverty and forced labor over seas. I think these are issues that we as Americans have to face and stand up against. We cannot continue to be ignorant about these things.
Thanks for the time.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
SS Jan Mallory Hopes to be the First Woman in Habla
Our world is on the fast track to gender equality, and SS Jan Mallory thinks that applies to the Habla Baseball League as well. For the first time ever, a woman has entered the amateur draft in hopes of being the first female in the league. While playing collegate softball, Jan would play in men's baseball leagues on the side and hold her own. Her outgoing and abrasive personality would often times get in the way, however, as she would continually get into fights with teammates who were not comfortable playing on the same team with a woman. "She would yell at us and tell us about her bra burning parties she was hosting at her house, as if we wanted to hear that," said teamate Joe Sexist.
"All of them boys are just jealous!" exclaimed an angry Jan referring to the men she played with. "They hate to see a woman beat them. The boys in Habla are gonna hate it to. They just aint gonna like it, but they better get used to it." It turns out, despite her mediocre success playing in recreational men's leagues, "The Jan", as she is referred to, is not that good of a player (click image for player profile). She is a poor hitter. Her 26 speed potential does not leave much room for her to even make a squad as a pinch runner. She is listed as a shortstop, but can play severall other positions. Unfortunately, she is equally bad at all posititions she plays. "The only chance she has at getting drafted," said Habla Eboard member Nick Fox, "is if a team needs a filler in LOW, which there is a pretty good chance of. If she does get taken late as a filler, she will feel like she accomplished an amazing feat, and she will have broken the gender barrier in Habla." Will a team take a chance on the young liberal female who wants to play professional baseball? We will only have to wait a couple of days to find out.
2031 End of Season Award Winners
NL MVP
Ruth 74
Parker 70
Duhram 30
Walker 22
Simmons 15
Robinson 10
Hobbs 9
Stearns 8
Mitchel 1
Klezewski 1
ALMVP
Gehrig 104
Easter 90
Aaron 21
Jackson 16
Gibson 5
Perez 3
Matsui 2
Gant 1
Ortiz 1
NL Cy Young
Van Hekken 119
Niekro 54
Grimes 18
McDevitt 14
Joss 13
Willow 8
Brubaker 6
Wickersham 4
Spahn 3
Nichols 2
Perry 1
Blank 1
AL Cy Young
Barrios 119
Hampton 37
Rau 20
Roe 19
Livingston 14
Tauscher 13
Bonderman 12
Hough 4
Sain 1
Valenzuela 1
Jackson 1
Belcher 1
Cone 1
NL Rookie of the Year
Willow 69
Blank 59
Melton 40
Apple 11
Gravens 10
Ferrick 8
Bourne 5
Lee 5
Duvereaux 3
McCallister 2
Stairs 1
AL Rookie of the Year
Hampton 123
Williams 49
Kaplar 25
Tyler 21
Dent 12
Memmit 10
Whittle 7
NL Fireman
Stone 68
Face 45
Saito 45
Takatsu 37
Simontacci 19
Barnhardt 6
Acker 6
Conley 5
Bourne 5
Otsuka 4
Timlin 3
AL Fireman
Pappas 55
Roney 49
Kellaher 47
Sherry 27
Stock 20
Rodriguez 12
Demmit 10
Tyler 6
Tewksberry 5
Steller 3
GM of the Year
Gary 123
Scott 44
Luke 36
Mike (CWS) 14
Chris 11
Steve 5
Felix 4
Nick 2
Ruth 74
Parker 70
Duhram 30
Walker 22
Simmons 15
Robinson 10
Hobbs 9
Stearns 8
Mitchel 1
Klezewski 1
ALMVP
Gehrig 104
Easter 90
Aaron 21
Jackson 16
Gibson 5
Perez 3
Matsui 2
Gant 1
Ortiz 1
NL Cy Young
Van Hekken 119
Niekro 54
Grimes 18
McDevitt 14
Joss 13
Willow 8
Brubaker 6
Wickersham 4
Spahn 3
Nichols 2
Perry 1
Blank 1
AL Cy Young
Barrios 119
Hampton 37
Rau 20
Roe 19
Livingston 14
Tauscher 13
Bonderman 12
Hough 4
Sain 1
Valenzuela 1
Jackson 1
Belcher 1
Cone 1
NL Rookie of the Year
Willow 69
Blank 59
Melton 40
Apple 11
Gravens 10
Ferrick 8
Bourne 5
Lee 5
Duvereaux 3
McCallister 2
Stairs 1
AL Rookie of the Year
Hampton 123
Williams 49
Kaplar 25
Tyler 21
Dent 12
Memmit 10
Whittle 7
NL Fireman
Stone 68
Face 45
Saito 45
Takatsu 37
Simontacci 19
Barnhardt 6
Acker 6
Conley 5
Bourne 5
Otsuka 4
Timlin 3
AL Fireman
Pappas 55
Roney 49
Kellaher 47
Sherry 27
Stock 20
Rodriguez 12
Demmit 10
Tyler 6
Tewksberry 5
Steller 3
GM of the Year
Gary 123
Scott 44
Luke 36
Mike (CWS) 14
Chris 11
Steve 5
Felix 4
Nick 2
Monday, May 21, 2007
2031 Mock Draft
As we are approaching the ammy draft on Thursday, Sheff and I decided to do a mock draft. We each pick for each team in the first round and give our reasons. Hopefully this adds a little fun to the draft and the league and gets some conversation going. This also replaces the yearly ammy preview, showing through the mock draft who we think the top players are. Here we go!
1. ATL: Nick- SP Carlos Zambrano. Despite having great pitching prospects already, they can get the hitting they need at 3 and 4. So, they’ll take the best pitcher in the draft.
Steve- RF Ed Delahanty. With 4 quality pitching talents in the minors, the Braves will look to get the guy who could become the best table setter in the league.
2. SF (BAL): Nick- RF Ed Delahanty. You can’t pass up a table setter like this. He will help the Giants score a lot of runs.
Steve- SP Carlos Zambrano. With Chien-Ming Wang, the Giants will a tremendous 1-2 punch at the top of the rotation.
3. ATL (KC): Nick- CF Ken Williams. Here’s where they’ll go hitting. Williams is a great 5-tool player and a great addition to the middle of their lineup.
Steve- CF Ken Williams. Should hit in the 3 hole for years to come.
4. ATL (MIL): Nick- 3B Al Rosen. Going hitting again, Rosen will help this offense and is a good fielder.
Steve- 3B Al Rosen. It won’t be long before Rosen is a premier 3B in this league.
5. CIN (COL): Nick- SP Daisuke Matsuzaka. Going to Cincinnati will give him a great opportunity to succeed. I believe he will.
Steve- SP Daisuke Matsuzaka. This guy is a gamble, but should be interesting to watch. With 6 decent pitches, his upside is huge.
6. NYN: Nick- LF Ray Blade. A poor fielder, but plenty of pop to drive in runs.
Steve- CF Jack Ryan. Not the Tom Clancy character, but a very solid hitter with decent speed.
7. HOU: Nick- CF Jack Ryan. Ryan will be a welcome addition to a mediocre outfield.
Steve- LF Rocky Colavito. With his GF, Pull and Power ratings he could hit a ton of homers.
8. KC (CHN): Nick- 3B Eddie Yost. He’s got a pretty good bat and fills a hole for the Royals.
Steve- 2B Josh Barfield. Barfield is a good hitting 2B with decent defensive abilities.
9. TOR: Nick- SP Eddie Plank. The smart pick is to take a good pitcher that will eat up a lot of innings. Plank fits the bill.
Steve- SP John Ward. A little older, but with 2 very good pitches and 2 more solid ones, he could be a nice #2.
10. CLE: Nick- SP John Ward. This team needs starting pitching and Ward is the best on the board.
Steve- SP Eddie Plank. After trading Dave Dravecky, they probably have the worst starting pitching talent in the league.
11. SD (OAK): Nick- 2B Josh Barfield. Barfield is a great talent that fills a much- needed hole for them.
Steve- 2B Bid McPhee. McPhee has similar offensive skills to Ozzie Smith and a decent glove as well.
12. ANA: Nick- 3B Akinori Iwamura. A good fielder and a good hitter makes him a smart pick to fill the hole at the hot corner.
Steve- LF Ray Blades. Cecil Fielder’s lack of ability to make contact could mean his days as a starter are numbered.
13. ATL (DET): Nick- LF Rocky Colavito. Everybody needs a homerun hitter to drive in runs. Colavito will be a good candidate for this in Atlanta.
Steve- SP Frank Owen. He’s probably the best starter on the board still.
14. STL (SF): Nick- C Cal McVey. The best catcher in the draft fills a hole nicely in the middle of the first round.
Steve- 1B Rudy York. GM Worst is unhappy with Dale Alexander’s fielding. York is a solid fielder and is a big upgrade on Lucerne Blue at the plate.
15. BOS: Nick- 1B Rudy York. York provides a little anxiety for pitchers, which is something Boston desperately needs.
Steve- RF Dante Bichette. This team is in bad need of someone with some pop. Bichette could immediately hit in the 3 or 4 hole.
16. SEA: Nick- RP Les Owen. As relief pitching becomes more important, it becomes crucial to take them high. Seattle will take the best one here.
Steve- 3B Akinori Iwamura. Aki Iwa will fill the M’s most glaring need at third base.
17. BOS (SD): Nick- RF Dante Bichette. Great value this late in the draft will help their power issues as a team.
Steve- RF Jim Smith. Red Sox get another solid bat to add to their weak hitting lineup.
18. BAL (PHI): Nick- 2B Bid McPhee. Great speed and good fielding make him a welcome addition to the Orioles infield.
Steve- C Cal McVey. The best receiver in this draft would be a nice fit in Baltimore.
19. TOR (STL): Nick- SP Frank Owen. It’s always wise to stock up on pitching. Owen is a good pickup at this point.
Steve- RP Les Owen. Frank’s brother should be one of the best long or middle relievers in Habla some day.
20. LA: Nick- RF Jim Smith. He’ll help bring some youth to an aging outfield.
Steve- SP George Bradley. His good curve and knuckler could help fill a rotation spot in the future.
21. TOR (CIN): Nick- SS Dave Bancroft.
Steve- SS Dave Bancroft.
22. DET (PIT): Nick- SP George Bradley.
Steve- SP Jake Weimer.
23. CHA: Nick- RP Tom Henke.
Steve- RP Tom Henke.
24. TOR (FLA): Nick- SP Jake Weimer.
Steve- 3B Eddie Yost.
25. DET (TEX): Nick- SS Troy Tulowitzki.
Steve- CF Lloyd Waner.
26. MON: Nick- RP Hideki Okajima.
Steve- RP Hideki Okajima.
27. COL (MIN): Nick- CF Lloyd Waner.
Steve- 1B Greg Walker.
28. NYA: Nick- SP Jimmie DeShong.
Steve- SP Jimmie DeShong.
1. ATL: Nick- SP Carlos Zambrano. Despite having great pitching prospects already, they can get the hitting they need at 3 and 4. So, they’ll take the best pitcher in the draft.
Steve- RF Ed Delahanty. With 4 quality pitching talents in the minors, the Braves will look to get the guy who could become the best table setter in the league.
2. SF (BAL): Nick- RF Ed Delahanty. You can’t pass up a table setter like this. He will help the Giants score a lot of runs.
Steve- SP Carlos Zambrano. With Chien-Ming Wang, the Giants will a tremendous 1-2 punch at the top of the rotation.
3. ATL (KC): Nick- CF Ken Williams. Here’s where they’ll go hitting. Williams is a great 5-tool player and a great addition to the middle of their lineup.
Steve- CF Ken Williams. Should hit in the 3 hole for years to come.
4. ATL (MIL): Nick- 3B Al Rosen. Going hitting again, Rosen will help this offense and is a good fielder.
Steve- 3B Al Rosen. It won’t be long before Rosen is a premier 3B in this league.
5. CIN (COL): Nick- SP Daisuke Matsuzaka. Going to Cincinnati will give him a great opportunity to succeed. I believe he will.
Steve- SP Daisuke Matsuzaka. This guy is a gamble, but should be interesting to watch. With 6 decent pitches, his upside is huge.
6. NYN: Nick- LF Ray Blade. A poor fielder, but plenty of pop to drive in runs.
Steve- CF Jack Ryan. Not the Tom Clancy character, but a very solid hitter with decent speed.
7. HOU: Nick- CF Jack Ryan. Ryan will be a welcome addition to a mediocre outfield.
Steve- LF Rocky Colavito. With his GF, Pull and Power ratings he could hit a ton of homers.
8. KC (CHN): Nick- 3B Eddie Yost. He’s got a pretty good bat and fills a hole for the Royals.
Steve- 2B Josh Barfield. Barfield is a good hitting 2B with decent defensive abilities.
9. TOR: Nick- SP Eddie Plank. The smart pick is to take a good pitcher that will eat up a lot of innings. Plank fits the bill.
Steve- SP John Ward. A little older, but with 2 very good pitches and 2 more solid ones, he could be a nice #2.
10. CLE: Nick- SP John Ward. This team needs starting pitching and Ward is the best on the board.
Steve- SP Eddie Plank. After trading Dave Dravecky, they probably have the worst starting pitching talent in the league.
11. SD (OAK): Nick- 2B Josh Barfield. Barfield is a great talent that fills a much- needed hole for them.
Steve- 2B Bid McPhee. McPhee has similar offensive skills to Ozzie Smith and a decent glove as well.
12. ANA: Nick- 3B Akinori Iwamura. A good fielder and a good hitter makes him a smart pick to fill the hole at the hot corner.
Steve- LF Ray Blades. Cecil Fielder’s lack of ability to make contact could mean his days as a starter are numbered.
13. ATL (DET): Nick- LF Rocky Colavito. Everybody needs a homerun hitter to drive in runs. Colavito will be a good candidate for this in Atlanta.
Steve- SP Frank Owen. He’s probably the best starter on the board still.
14. STL (SF): Nick- C Cal McVey. The best catcher in the draft fills a hole nicely in the middle of the first round.
Steve- 1B Rudy York. GM Worst is unhappy with Dale Alexander’s fielding. York is a solid fielder and is a big upgrade on Lucerne Blue at the plate.
15. BOS: Nick- 1B Rudy York. York provides a little anxiety for pitchers, which is something Boston desperately needs.
Steve- RF Dante Bichette. This team is in bad need of someone with some pop. Bichette could immediately hit in the 3 or 4 hole.
16. SEA: Nick- RP Les Owen. As relief pitching becomes more important, it becomes crucial to take them high. Seattle will take the best one here.
Steve- 3B Akinori Iwamura. Aki Iwa will fill the M’s most glaring need at third base.
17. BOS (SD): Nick- RF Dante Bichette. Great value this late in the draft will help their power issues as a team.
Steve- RF Jim Smith. Red Sox get another solid bat to add to their weak hitting lineup.
18. BAL (PHI): Nick- 2B Bid McPhee. Great speed and good fielding make him a welcome addition to the Orioles infield.
Steve- C Cal McVey. The best receiver in this draft would be a nice fit in Baltimore.
19. TOR (STL): Nick- SP Frank Owen. It’s always wise to stock up on pitching. Owen is a good pickup at this point.
Steve- RP Les Owen. Frank’s brother should be one of the best long or middle relievers in Habla some day.
20. LA: Nick- RF Jim Smith. He’ll help bring some youth to an aging outfield.
Steve- SP George Bradley. His good curve and knuckler could help fill a rotation spot in the future.
21. TOR (CIN): Nick- SS Dave Bancroft.
Steve- SS Dave Bancroft.
22. DET (PIT): Nick- SP George Bradley.
Steve- SP Jake Weimer.
23. CHA: Nick- RP Tom Henke.
Steve- RP Tom Henke.
24. TOR (FLA): Nick- SP Jake Weimer.
Steve- 3B Eddie Yost.
25. DET (TEX): Nick- SS Troy Tulowitzki.
Steve- CF Lloyd Waner.
26. MON: Nick- RP Hideki Okajima.
Steve- RP Hideki Okajima.
27. COL (MIN): Nick- CF Lloyd Waner.
Steve- 1B Greg Walker.
28. NYA: Nick- SP Jimmie DeShong.
Steve- SP Jimmie DeShong.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Interviewing the Champ: Gary of the Expos
I am starting a new tradition where we will interview the GM of the Habla Champion after he wins the World Series. I think it will be a fun way to get to know some GM's better. We start with Gary of the Expos, who as one of the longest tenured owners just won his first ring. Congratulation again, Gary. Here is the interview.
1. How does it feel to have won the Habla world Series?
It feels great. It was a loug haul which makes it that much sweeter.
2. Did your team surprise you this year?
Not really. We had a great year last year and this is a veteran group. They really wanted it after last years 1st round exit.
3. What is the one move you made that help you become an elite team in this league?
Drafting P Takashi Saito. We needed a closer and he's been great.
4. What is the secret to winning a Habla World Series?
I think you are asking the wrong guy. After all the failures I've had I guess the odds eventually went in my favor.
5. Is there anything you would like the league to know about you as a person?
I'm old school. I'm responsible for my actions. It use to bug me as I was refered to as a "nice guy" but now I'm pleased to hear it. When I was young I use to wish I could gain weight and now that I'm middled aged I'm about twice the man I used to be. Careful what you wish for. LOL
1. How does it feel to have won the Habla world Series?
It feels great. It was a loug haul which makes it that much sweeter.
2. Did your team surprise you this year?
Not really. We had a great year last year and this is a veteran group. They really wanted it after last years 1st round exit.
3. What is the one move you made that help you become an elite team in this league?
Drafting P Takashi Saito. We needed a closer and he's been great.
4. What is the secret to winning a Habla World Series?
I think you are asking the wrong guy. After all the failures I've had I guess the odds eventually went in my favor.
5. Is there anything you would like the league to know about you as a person?
I'm old school. I'm responsible for my actions. It use to bug me as I was refered to as a "nice guy" but now I'm pleased to hear it. When I was young I use to wish I could gain weight and now that I'm middled aged I'm about twice the man I used to be. Careful what you wish for. LOL
Monday, April 23, 2007
Coors Light Cold Hard Facts
We got a chance recently to sit down with Steve, the head researcher of the Habla blog and manager of the defending champion Pirates and ask him a few questions about the history of Habla based on his recent research. Here we go with a 6 pack of questions.
1. Is Joe Jackson the best player in Habla History?
This is only my 5th season, so it is hard to say since I never saw players like Mantle and Chane Winther, but from what I saw of Jackson, he is the most complete player that I’ve ever seen.
1A. As a follow up, are any current players potential candidates to challenge him for that title?
As a complete player, Turkey Stearns has the potential to challenge him. As far as impact for a team, Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth are up there.
2. Will we ever again see a team as good as the Mariners of early Habla were?
Average 112 wins over 14 seasons? I think we could see a team have a dynasty last as long as they did, but I don’t see a team averaging that many wins for that long of time.
3. Of the teams who have not won a World Series, who will be the next to win?
I’m gonna say either the white Sox or the A’s. The Sox seem to have a 3 or 4 year window here where they could do it. The A’s simply because the have Rob Peterson as their GM and he has the track record of getting it done.
4. Will the current Yankees team be remembered as a top 10 dynasty when they are forced to rebuild?
That’s tough. I’m going to say no, because throughout their good years coming up they will be battling the Rangers, Twins, and White Sox, all really good teams, so even if they have a great run they may not make it to more than a couple World Series’.
5. How will the 2031 draft be remembered in comparison to all the other drafts of this era?
Deep and Powerful is the phrase that comes to mind. Some HUGE stars at the top and many good players in the later rounds, the latter of which has not been seen for a long time in the league. The depth is the best we have seen in a long time.
6. Would you rather take a tennis ball strait to the groin or step in fresh dog poop barefoot?
I think the dog poop, because then you can just go find a hose. You can do something about the dog poop, but the groin shot you just have to wait it out until the pain subsides.
1. Is Joe Jackson the best player in Habla History?
This is only my 5th season, so it is hard to say since I never saw players like Mantle and Chane Winther, but from what I saw of Jackson, he is the most complete player that I’ve ever seen.
1A. As a follow up, are any current players potential candidates to challenge him for that title?
As a complete player, Turkey Stearns has the potential to challenge him. As far as impact for a team, Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth are up there.
2. Will we ever again see a team as good as the Mariners of early Habla were?
Average 112 wins over 14 seasons? I think we could see a team have a dynasty last as long as they did, but I don’t see a team averaging that many wins for that long of time.
3. Of the teams who have not won a World Series, who will be the next to win?
I’m gonna say either the white Sox or the A’s. The Sox seem to have a 3 or 4 year window here where they could do it. The A’s simply because the have Rob Peterson as their GM and he has the track record of getting it done.
4. Will the current Yankees team be remembered as a top 10 dynasty when they are forced to rebuild?
That’s tough. I’m going to say no, because throughout their good years coming up they will be battling the Rangers, Twins, and White Sox, all really good teams, so even if they have a great run they may not make it to more than a couple World Series’.
5. How will the 2031 draft be remembered in comparison to all the other drafts of this era?
Deep and Powerful is the phrase that comes to mind. Some HUGE stars at the top and many good players in the later rounds, the latter of which has not been seen for a long time in the league. The depth is the best we have seen in a long time.
6. Would you rather take a tennis ball strait to the groin or step in fresh dog poop barefoot?
I think the dog poop, because then you can just go find a hose. You can do something about the dog poop, but the groin shot you just have to wait it out until the pain subsides.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
The Owl’s Power Rankings for August
Around 50 games to go and the Owl will take a look of where the teams rank after looking at the current standings. The NL East has been a 3 team race and don’t count out the Phillies. Late season surges have happened by them before.
The NL Central is really a 3 team race with the Reds, Cards and Pirates taking turns with the lead. So far the Marlins or Expos figure to be the Wild Card but that isn’t a lock.
The Dodgers are headed for another West Title.
In the AL only the Central has a race. The Twins are chasing the surprising White Sox and both teams figure to make the playoffs joining the Yankees and Rangers who can start printing playoff tickets at any time. OK here are the latest (very late) rankings:
1. New York Yankees: The Yanks have been the Class of the AL with a very good Offense and the Best Pitching in AL and maybe the league. P Francisco Barrios and RF Reggie Jackson have been phenomenal.
2. Montreal Expos: The Expos Pitching has been great. The starters might be getting tired as they are veterans but the Pen led by P Takashi Saito have kept this team in the playoff hunt. Hitting is balanced but will it let down in a big game like in last years playoffs?
3. Texas Rangers: Great Hitting as been a trademark and this year it isn’t any different. Hank Aaron leads the way but he has a lot of help. Pitching is the key and it’s good. The return of P Jake Peavy makes this team more dangerous
4. Los Angeles Dodgers: Add slugging rookie 3B Tim Ferrick to a group of veterans and the Dodgers continue to be a force as they lead the NL in runs scored. The Pitching is solid
5. Chicago White Sox: Getting P Tony Livingston in a trade was huge as he gives this team an Ace. Team playing well for new Coach Mike
6. Minnesota Twins: Twins have been streaky this year. The starting pitchers have been very good led by P David Cone but an inconsistent bull pen has been a problem. 1B Luke Easter is having a career year.
7. Florida Marlins: Team on pace for another 100 win season. P Andy Van Hekken is dominating the NL Hitters. Ruth, Hrbek, Simmons continue to pound the ball.
8. Pittsburgh Pirates: Defending Champs are in a battle for the NL Central Title and a playoff spot. Pitching is still the strength. The hitting can be better and it might have to be to make the post season.
9. St. Louis Cardinals: Cardinals probably are the top pitching and fielding team in the Majors. When the team get hitting they excel. This year they have had the hitting.
10. Cincinnati Reds: The pitching is good led by P Jim Perry. The Hitting is strong but one has to wonder how the 1B Kluszewski and 1B Derek Lee platoon setup will work out.
11. Philadelphia Phillies: The Phils started strong but recent pitching woes have this team scrambling to make the playoffs. Rookie 1B Kite Melton has had a productive year and if he gets more consistent he’ll be a force for a long time.
12. Anaheim Angels: KL has gotten a lot out of his talent this year. Not only the youngster but veterans like P Milt Pappas and Rich Carlen. The Hitting is still a concern but the Angels are headed in the right direction
13. Detroit Tigers: Team is in transition and playing hard but it still lacks talent to compete for a playoff spot. Is this Veteran OF Kirk Gibson’s “swan song.”
14. San Diego Padres: Padres are in flux but they needed to be after the last few season. They should be better then their record but the Bullpen hasn’t been that effective. Team is on the way up
15. Seattle Mariners: Mariners have outscored their opponents by 48 runs but they are still under .500. Tough luck and inconsistent pitching are the likely culprits as P Myles Truscher Jr. has been they only starting pitcher performing well.
16. Toronto Blue Jays: Jays have been competitive all season as some of the young pitchers are developing. P Tim Belcher is having a break out season. Hitter will be the key for improvement.
17. Chicago Cubs: Team has made some strides but this team hasn’t played well recently. The youngsters are getting playing time and that can’t help but help the teams’ future.
18. Boston Red Sox: The Red Sox are having a power outage. Team still has found a way to score but the lack of power has put pressure on the pitching staff.
19. Oakland Athletics: Rob’s wheeling and dealing and it will be a matter of time before he gets the roster the way he wants. Team is a few seasons away.
20. San Francisco Giants: Team has a strong hitting team but when you don’t win with that it’s the pitching that is the problem. The Starting rotation needs good 4th and 5th starters. P Jonathan Papelbon has had a terrible sophomore season.
21. Cleveland Indians: The Indians had major Free Agent loses in the Free Agent Market prior to the season and it shows. Team is in transition but not that far from competing if they get a few pitchers.
22. Colorado Rockies: P Dick Elsworth has been great and Veteran P Nolan Ryan continues with his great career but other then those two the pitching has been hammered. The Hitting has been good but it can’t save the pitching staff.
23. Houston Astros: Sam has done a great job for many season competing but this year is one of the few down seasons he’s had. The Hitting has been weak but the pitching hasn’t been that bad.
24. Brewers: Coach Cameron took over the Brewers that were in rebuilding mode. They still are but if there is a Coach that can turn them around he’s the man.
25. New York Mets: The Mets are a young team in a tough Division. There are some good starters to build on but the bullpen needs an overhaul. The hitting has improved a bit from last year.
26. Baltimore Orioles: The O’s are in full fledge rebuilding mode and it takes time. The hitters are progressing better then the pitchers at this time.
27. Kansas City Royals: P Roger Clemens should sue for non support. But he is the Ace to build around. I hope the fans are patient because it will take time as Coach Travis has done it before.
28. Atlanta Braves: The Braves needed nuking and Coach Casey started that. He has a lot of work to do but a few high draft picks is a good start.
The NL Central is really a 3 team race with the Reds, Cards and Pirates taking turns with the lead. So far the Marlins or Expos figure to be the Wild Card but that isn’t a lock.
The Dodgers are headed for another West Title.
In the AL only the Central has a race. The Twins are chasing the surprising White Sox and both teams figure to make the playoffs joining the Yankees and Rangers who can start printing playoff tickets at any time. OK here are the latest (very late) rankings:
1. New York Yankees: The Yanks have been the Class of the AL with a very good Offense and the Best Pitching in AL and maybe the league. P Francisco Barrios and RF Reggie Jackson have been phenomenal.
2. Montreal Expos: The Expos Pitching has been great. The starters might be getting tired as they are veterans but the Pen led by P Takashi Saito have kept this team in the playoff hunt. Hitting is balanced but will it let down in a big game like in last years playoffs?
3. Texas Rangers: Great Hitting as been a trademark and this year it isn’t any different. Hank Aaron leads the way but he has a lot of help. Pitching is the key and it’s good. The return of P Jake Peavy makes this team more dangerous
4. Los Angeles Dodgers: Add slugging rookie 3B Tim Ferrick to a group of veterans and the Dodgers continue to be a force as they lead the NL in runs scored. The Pitching is solid
5. Chicago White Sox: Getting P Tony Livingston in a trade was huge as he gives this team an Ace. Team playing well for new Coach Mike
6. Minnesota Twins: Twins have been streaky this year. The starting pitchers have been very good led by P David Cone but an inconsistent bull pen has been a problem. 1B Luke Easter is having a career year.
7. Florida Marlins: Team on pace for another 100 win season. P Andy Van Hekken is dominating the NL Hitters. Ruth, Hrbek, Simmons continue to pound the ball.
8. Pittsburgh Pirates: Defending Champs are in a battle for the NL Central Title and a playoff spot. Pitching is still the strength. The hitting can be better and it might have to be to make the post season.
9. St. Louis Cardinals: Cardinals probably are the top pitching and fielding team in the Majors. When the team get hitting they excel. This year they have had the hitting.
10. Cincinnati Reds: The pitching is good led by P Jim Perry. The Hitting is strong but one has to wonder how the 1B Kluszewski and 1B Derek Lee platoon setup will work out.
11. Philadelphia Phillies: The Phils started strong but recent pitching woes have this team scrambling to make the playoffs. Rookie 1B Kite Melton has had a productive year and if he gets more consistent he’ll be a force for a long time.
12. Anaheim Angels: KL has gotten a lot out of his talent this year. Not only the youngster but veterans like P Milt Pappas and Rich Carlen. The Hitting is still a concern but the Angels are headed in the right direction
13. Detroit Tigers: Team is in transition and playing hard but it still lacks talent to compete for a playoff spot. Is this Veteran OF Kirk Gibson’s “swan song.”
14. San Diego Padres: Padres are in flux but they needed to be after the last few season. They should be better then their record but the Bullpen hasn’t been that effective. Team is on the way up
15. Seattle Mariners: Mariners have outscored their opponents by 48 runs but they are still under .500. Tough luck and inconsistent pitching are the likely culprits as P Myles Truscher Jr. has been they only starting pitcher performing well.
16. Toronto Blue Jays: Jays have been competitive all season as some of the young pitchers are developing. P Tim Belcher is having a break out season. Hitter will be the key for improvement.
17. Chicago Cubs: Team has made some strides but this team hasn’t played well recently. The youngsters are getting playing time and that can’t help but help the teams’ future.
18. Boston Red Sox: The Red Sox are having a power outage. Team still has found a way to score but the lack of power has put pressure on the pitching staff.
19. Oakland Athletics: Rob’s wheeling and dealing and it will be a matter of time before he gets the roster the way he wants. Team is a few seasons away.
20. San Francisco Giants: Team has a strong hitting team but when you don’t win with that it’s the pitching that is the problem. The Starting rotation needs good 4th and 5th starters. P Jonathan Papelbon has had a terrible sophomore season.
21. Cleveland Indians: The Indians had major Free Agent loses in the Free Agent Market prior to the season and it shows. Team is in transition but not that far from competing if they get a few pitchers.
22. Colorado Rockies: P Dick Elsworth has been great and Veteran P Nolan Ryan continues with his great career but other then those two the pitching has been hammered. The Hitting has been good but it can’t save the pitching staff.
23. Houston Astros: Sam has done a great job for many season competing but this year is one of the few down seasons he’s had. The Hitting has been weak but the pitching hasn’t been that bad.
24. Brewers: Coach Cameron took over the Brewers that were in rebuilding mode. They still are but if there is a Coach that can turn them around he’s the man.
25. New York Mets: The Mets are a young team in a tough Division. There are some good starters to build on but the bullpen needs an overhaul. The hitting has improved a bit from last year.
26. Baltimore Orioles: The O’s are in full fledge rebuilding mode and it takes time. The hitters are progressing better then the pitchers at this time.
27. Kansas City Royals: P Roger Clemens should sue for non support. But he is the Ace to build around. I hope the fans are patient because it will take time as Coach Travis has done it before.
28. Atlanta Braves: The Braves needed nuking and Coach Casey started that. He has a lot of work to do but a few high draft picks is a good start.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Habla Dynasties
After looking into who won rings and when, we thought it would be fun to rank what we thought were the all time dynasties in Habla history. Man, were there some dominant teams early on. Anyway, here they are. Tell us what you think.
Seattle Mariners 1998-2011
GM Arlon Rahn
- 14 seasons of 100 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 2 seasons of 121 wins
- 9 world Series appearences
- 4 World Series Championships (in a 10 year span)
- averaged 112 wins/season for a 14 year span
Key Players: Randy Johnson, Alex Rodriguez, Sean Spencer
New York Mets 1998-2012
GM Jeff Dupree
- 15 seasons of 98 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 4 World Series appearences
- 3 World Series Championships (in a 14 year span)
- averaged 107 wins/season for a 15 year span
Key Players: Rogers Hornsby, Don Drysdale, Jim Bunning, Ricky Ledee
San Francisco Giants 2001-2013
GM Tony Preist
- 13 seasons of 96 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 4 consecutive seasons of 112 or more wins
- 5 world Series appearences
- 3 World Series championships (in a 10 year span)
- averaged 104 wins/season for a 13 year span
Key Players: Andruw Jones, Christy Matthewson, Bob Feller, Derek Jeter
Houston Astros 1998-2006
GM JP Richard
- 9 seasons of 86 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 2 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 4 year span)
- averaged 106 wins/season for a 9 year span
Key Players: Joe Medwick, Joe Dimaggio, Sequoia Gessert
Texas Rangers 2023-2030
GM Nick Fox
- 8 seasons of 92 or more wins
- missed the playoffs only 1 time
- 2 seasons of 113 or more wins
- 2 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 4 year span)
- averaged 102 wins/season for an 8 year span
Key Players: Jake Peavy, Hank Aaron, Lou Gehrig, Oliver Perez
Anaheim Angels 2009-2022
GM Rob Peterson
- 14 seasons of 95 or more wins
- missed playoffs only 1 time
- 2 seasons of 106 or more wins
- 3 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 5 year span)
- averaged 100 wins/season for a 14 year span
Key Players: Joe Jackson, Micky Mantle, Carl Hubble, Wib Joncas
St. Louis Cardinals
GM Jeremy Worst
- 10 seasons of 91 or more wins
- missed the playoffs only 1 time
- 111 wins in 2017
- 4 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 5 year span)
- averaged 99 wins/season for a 10 year span
Key Players: Robin Roberts, Mike Schmidt, Walter Johnson
Philadelphia Phillies 2022-2029
GM Jim Rohlman
- 8 seasons of 88 or more wins
- only missed playoffs 2 times
- 2 seasons of 107 wins
- 5 world Series appearences
- 1 World Series championships (in a 10 year span)
- averaged 96 wins/season for an 8 year span
Key Players: Frank Robinson, Brooks robinson, Mel Ott, Adam Eaton
Boston Red Sox 2012-2018
GM Greg Fingas
- 7 seasons of 94 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 110 wins in 2014
- 2 world Series appearences
- 1 World Series championships
- averaged 100 wins/season for a 7 year span
Key Players: Dave Winfield, AJ Burnett, Josh Gibson
Florida Marlins 2017-2021
GM Felix
- 5 seasons of 93 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 2 world Series appearences
- 1 World Series championship
- averaged 97 wins/season for a 5 year span
Key Players: Vida Blue, Christy Matthewson
Seattle Mariners 1998-2011
GM Arlon Rahn
- 14 seasons of 100 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 2 seasons of 121 wins
- 9 world Series appearences
- 4 World Series Championships (in a 10 year span)
- averaged 112 wins/season for a 14 year span
Key Players: Randy Johnson, Alex Rodriguez, Sean Spencer
New York Mets 1998-2012
GM Jeff Dupree
- 15 seasons of 98 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 4 World Series appearences
- 3 World Series Championships (in a 14 year span)
- averaged 107 wins/season for a 15 year span
Key Players: Rogers Hornsby, Don Drysdale, Jim Bunning, Ricky Ledee
San Francisco Giants 2001-2013
GM Tony Preist
- 13 seasons of 96 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 4 consecutive seasons of 112 or more wins
- 5 world Series appearences
- 3 World Series championships (in a 10 year span)
- averaged 104 wins/season for a 13 year span
Key Players: Andruw Jones, Christy Matthewson, Bob Feller, Derek Jeter
Houston Astros 1998-2006
GM JP Richard
- 9 seasons of 86 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 2 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 4 year span)
- averaged 106 wins/season for a 9 year span
Key Players: Joe Medwick, Joe Dimaggio, Sequoia Gessert
Texas Rangers 2023-2030
GM Nick Fox
- 8 seasons of 92 or more wins
- missed the playoffs only 1 time
- 2 seasons of 113 or more wins
- 2 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 4 year span)
- averaged 102 wins/season for an 8 year span
Key Players: Jake Peavy, Hank Aaron, Lou Gehrig, Oliver Perez
Anaheim Angels 2009-2022
GM Rob Peterson
- 14 seasons of 95 or more wins
- missed playoffs only 1 time
- 2 seasons of 106 or more wins
- 3 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 5 year span)
- averaged 100 wins/season for a 14 year span
Key Players: Joe Jackson, Micky Mantle, Carl Hubble, Wib Joncas
St. Louis Cardinals
GM Jeremy Worst
- 10 seasons of 91 or more wins
- missed the playoffs only 1 time
- 111 wins in 2017
- 4 world Series appearences
- 2 World Series championships (in a 5 year span)
- averaged 99 wins/season for a 10 year span
Key Players: Robin Roberts, Mike Schmidt, Walter Johnson
Philadelphia Phillies 2022-2029
GM Jim Rohlman
- 8 seasons of 88 or more wins
- only missed playoffs 2 times
- 2 seasons of 107 wins
- 5 world Series appearences
- 1 World Series championships (in a 10 year span)
- averaged 96 wins/season for an 8 year span
Key Players: Frank Robinson, Brooks robinson, Mel Ott, Adam Eaton
Boston Red Sox 2012-2018
GM Greg Fingas
- 7 seasons of 94 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 110 wins in 2014
- 2 world Series appearences
- 1 World Series championships
- averaged 100 wins/season for a 7 year span
Key Players: Dave Winfield, AJ Burnett, Josh Gibson
Florida Marlins 2017-2021
GM Felix
- 5 seasons of 93 or more wins
- made the playoffs every year
- 2 world Series appearences
- 1 World Series championship
- averaged 97 wins/season for a 5 year span
Key Players: Vida Blue, Christy Matthewson
Ring City
Someone was asking about who has won rings and who have not. Here is the info. Enjoy.
Teams that have have never won a Ring
Expos
Reds
Braves
Cubs
Padres
Rockies
White Sox
A's
Rings by Division
NL East 5
NL Central 5
NL West 4
AL East 6
AL Central 5
AL West 8
Rings by Team
Mariners 4
Mets 3
Giants 3
Rangers 2
Angels 2
Indians 2
Yankees 2
Astros 2
Cardinals 2
Rings by GM (Only current GM's listed)
Rob 3 (2 with the Angels, 1 with the Brewers)
Jeremy 2
Greg 2
Nick 2
Felix 1
Travis 1
Luke 1
Jim 1
Steve 1
Teams that have have never won a Ring
Expos
Reds
Braves
Cubs
Padres
Rockies
White Sox
A's
Rings by Division
NL East 5
NL Central 5
NL West 4
AL East 6
AL Central 5
AL West 8
Rings by Team
Mariners 4
Mets 3
Giants 3
Rangers 2
Angels 2
Indians 2
Yankees 2
Astros 2
Cardinals 2
Rings by GM (Only current GM's listed)
Rob 3 (2 with the Angels, 1 with the Brewers)
Jeremy 2
Greg 2
Nick 2
Felix 1
Travis 1
Luke 1
Jim 1
Steve 1
Fact or Fiction
We’re (Steve representing the Habla Network) going to play a little Habla Fact or Fiction with Blog Editor and Rangers GM Nick Fox today. I promise we won’t spend the whole time talking about the Rangers and Pirates. Let’s get him on the phone.
S: Hey Nick, how’s it going?
N: Good, man.
S: I saw that your boy Pujols finally hit a homerun, raising his average to a whopping .136, any thoughts?
N: You can guarantee he’ll finish the season 300 points above that, so I’m not too worried.
S: Good one, anyways, let’s get to this. Ready to Play?
N: I think so. Let’s do it.
S: All-time HR champ, Dave Parker, will finish his career with at least 1000 longballs.
N: Fiction. He’s not gonna get another 35 this season, although he may get close. This is definitely his last season, so I’d have to say no.
S: The NL Pennant will leave the state of Pennsylvania for the first time since 2024.
N: Fact. It doesn’t look like the Pirates will be contending, and it doesn’t look like the Phillies will either. There’s a good chance they’ll both miss the playoffs. My pick to win the NL this season is the Marlins.
S: Nolan Ryan’s torn bicep will end his career.
N: Fact. This late in his career, that is such a major injury requiring a lot of work to get back from. He’s had a Hall of Fame career and I see him just hanging them up.
S: The Atlanta Braves will break the Marlins record of 134 losses in a season.
N: Fiction. The chance of getting less than 8 wins the rest of the way is slim. As hard as it is to break the all-time wins record, it’s almost as hard to break the loss record of 134.
S: Gambling addict Brian Fuentes will become the first full-time reliever to lead the league in innings pitched.
N: Fiction. As many innings as he’s seeing on two different teams, he’s still not a starter. I expect Barrios to continue to pitch a lot of innings and beat him out.
S: Francisco Barrios will capture a 2nd consecutive AL Cy Young award.
N: Fact. There doesn’t seem to be much competition right now. What he’s been able to do the last season and a half is amazing. I wouldn;t be surprised to see him win several more in the years ahead.
S: The Dodgers’ Tim Ferrick will break Kent Hrbek’s rookie homerun record of 55.
N: Fiction. Conventional wisdom tells me that as a rookie he’ll slow down the 2nd half of the season. The changes of him hitting 25 more aren’t that great.
S: Crash Davis’s recently hit 500th homer cements his place in the Hall of Fame.
N: Fact. A catcher hitting 500 homers is so rare, almost by itself that gives him a pass to the Hall. In addition, his other accomplishments also make his entrance to the Hall a certainty.
S: The Rangers will end their championship drought and hoist the trophy at the end of October.
N: Fiction. I think there are too many good teams in the AL and a number of good teams in the NL. If given the chouce between one good team and the field, there are so many good teams that I have to pick the field.
S: Scott Dinnis and the rest of the EBoard have done an outstanding job carrying the torch from former commish Jeff D who set the bar so high.
N: Fact. It all starts with Scott. He’s done a great job taking over the commissioner’s role, taking charge and showing leadership. Although, we miss Jeff, Scott has been a great leader.
S: Hey Nick, how’s it going?
N: Good, man.
S: I saw that your boy Pujols finally hit a homerun, raising his average to a whopping .136, any thoughts?
N: You can guarantee he’ll finish the season 300 points above that, so I’m not too worried.
S: Good one, anyways, let’s get to this. Ready to Play?
N: I think so. Let’s do it.
S: All-time HR champ, Dave Parker, will finish his career with at least 1000 longballs.
N: Fiction. He’s not gonna get another 35 this season, although he may get close. This is definitely his last season, so I’d have to say no.
S: The NL Pennant will leave the state of Pennsylvania for the first time since 2024.
N: Fact. It doesn’t look like the Pirates will be contending, and it doesn’t look like the Phillies will either. There’s a good chance they’ll both miss the playoffs. My pick to win the NL this season is the Marlins.
S: Nolan Ryan’s torn bicep will end his career.
N: Fact. This late in his career, that is such a major injury requiring a lot of work to get back from. He’s had a Hall of Fame career and I see him just hanging them up.
S: The Atlanta Braves will break the Marlins record of 134 losses in a season.
N: Fiction. The chance of getting less than 8 wins the rest of the way is slim. As hard as it is to break the all-time wins record, it’s almost as hard to break the loss record of 134.
S: Gambling addict Brian Fuentes will become the first full-time reliever to lead the league in innings pitched.
N: Fiction. As many innings as he’s seeing on two different teams, he’s still not a starter. I expect Barrios to continue to pitch a lot of innings and beat him out.
S: Francisco Barrios will capture a 2nd consecutive AL Cy Young award.
N: Fact. There doesn’t seem to be much competition right now. What he’s been able to do the last season and a half is amazing. I wouldn;t be surprised to see him win several more in the years ahead.
S: The Dodgers’ Tim Ferrick will break Kent Hrbek’s rookie homerun record of 55.
N: Fiction. Conventional wisdom tells me that as a rookie he’ll slow down the 2nd half of the season. The changes of him hitting 25 more aren’t that great.
S: Crash Davis’s recently hit 500th homer cements his place in the Hall of Fame.
N: Fact. A catcher hitting 500 homers is so rare, almost by itself that gives him a pass to the Hall. In addition, his other accomplishments also make his entrance to the Hall a certainty.
S: The Rangers will end their championship drought and hoist the trophy at the end of October.
N: Fiction. I think there are too many good teams in the AL and a number of good teams in the NL. If given the chouce between one good team and the field, there are so many good teams that I have to pick the field.
S: Scott Dinnis and the rest of the EBoard have done an outstanding job carrying the torch from former commish Jeff D who set the bar so high.
N: Fact. It all starts with Scott. He’s done a great job taking over the commissioner’s role, taking charge and showing leadership. Although, we miss Jeff, Scott has been a great leader.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Most Home Runs since 2027 Season
Round 2 of Steve's research had him finding out where woodie Held ranked on this list for homers in the last 4 and a half seasons. Here are the top 26 home run hitters in the last 4.5 years.
1. Lou Gehrig 257
2. Babe Ruth 254
3. Dave Parker 238
4. Reggie Jackson 232
5. Harmon Killabrew 216
6. Hank Aaron 201
7. Ted Klezewski 180
8. David Ortiz 177
9. Orlando Cepeda 170
10. Duke Snider 165
11. Tony Perez 163
12. John Liska 160
13. Matt Williams 155
14. Luke Easter 153
T-15. Bobby Abreu 152
T-15. John Olerud 152
17. Danny Tartabull 151
18. Hank Greenburg 150
19. Turkey Stearns 149
T-20. Raphael Palmiero 148
T-20. Daryl Strawberry 148
22. Randy Birch 147
23. Roy Hobbs 146
23. Roosevelt Brown 146
25. Lance Berkman 145
26. Woodie Held 144
1. Lou Gehrig 257
2. Babe Ruth 254
3. Dave Parker 238
4. Reggie Jackson 232
5. Harmon Killabrew 216
6. Hank Aaron 201
7. Ted Klezewski 180
8. David Ortiz 177
9. Orlando Cepeda 170
10. Duke Snider 165
11. Tony Perez 163
12. John Liska 160
13. Matt Williams 155
14. Luke Easter 153
T-15. Bobby Abreu 152
T-15. John Olerud 152
17. Danny Tartabull 151
18. Hank Greenburg 150
19. Turkey Stearns 149
T-20. Raphael Palmiero 148
T-20. Daryl Strawberry 148
22. Randy Birch 147
23. Roy Hobbs 146
23. Roosevelt Brown 146
25. Lance Berkman 145
26. Woodie Held 144
Most Wins Since the Start of the 2027 Season
Steve was doing some research to find out where his favorite pitcher ranked in Wins in the 4 and a half seasons he has been on the Pirates. The Results were so interesting, I knew we had to post a blog about it. Brubaker came in 27th among active pitchers in Wins over this Time period. Here are 1 through 27 with their record. I wrote a short blurb about some of them. Enjoy.
1. David Cone 88-40
An interesting #1. I knew he was great, but expected him to be closer to #5. nonetheless, cone has been the winningest pitcher since 2027. He was definately worthy of beaing drafted #1 overall.
2. Doug Rau 83-24
By far the best winning percentage on this list, and we thing the best winning percentage by a starter all time. A great pitcher on a great team. also a former #1 overall pick.
3. Brandon Webb 77-37
Webb goes to show how being on a great team can drive you high on this list. With an ERA that won't blow you away over this period, Webb has simply shown up and been a solid pitcher without getting injured for this period, and the great offense has helped him win 77 games.
4. Dennis Eckersly 73-39
Former Cy Young winner has done quite well for himself after winning the award, coming in 4th. Eck has played on many teams in his long career.
5. Nolan Ryan 72-42
Another old guy who is still getting it done. Ryan is a fantastic power pitcher and no one should be surprosed at him bein gin the top 5.
6. Dwight Gooden 71-47
A bit of a surprise, but has the combination of being a pretty good pitcher on pretty good teams.
7. Fenrnando Valenzuela 69-37
Has been a bit hot and cold, but has been hot enough to put him high on this list.
8. Orel Hershizer 68-27
Orel, another who takes very few losses, has been playing for the mighty Marlins for his entire career and it has certainly helped his record.
9. Tom Glavine 68-39
Glavine came out of the gate very hot, but has wavered. Another Twins player who has gotten it done.
10. Burleigh Grimes 68-45
Is 2nd in this period in QS percentage, with 109 of his 150 starts going as quality.
11. Joe Kennedy 67-34
The Cy young winner for the Dodgers has kept his success going.
12. Oliver Perez 67-36
Hasn't won as much since leaving the Rangers, but has won 20 games and a Cy Young before.
13. Mark Gubicza 67-38
14. Warren Spahn 66-46
15. Adam Eaton 65-26
16. Scott Sullivan 65-44
17. Roger Clemens 64-49
T-18. Jim Perry 63-37
T-18. Tony Livingston 63-37
20. Charlie Hough 62-29
Is first during this period in QS percentage, converting a staggering 100 of 133.
21. Dave Dravecky 62-45
22. Dave Wickersham 61-29
23. Phil Niekro 61-43
24. Andy Van Hekken 60-36
25. Bobby Witt 60-41
26. Tomo Ohka 60-46
27. Ken Brubaker 58-38
1. David Cone 88-40
An interesting #1. I knew he was great, but expected him to be closer to #5. nonetheless, cone has been the winningest pitcher since 2027. He was definately worthy of beaing drafted #1 overall.
2. Doug Rau 83-24
By far the best winning percentage on this list, and we thing the best winning percentage by a starter all time. A great pitcher on a great team. also a former #1 overall pick.
3. Brandon Webb 77-37
Webb goes to show how being on a great team can drive you high on this list. With an ERA that won't blow you away over this period, Webb has simply shown up and been a solid pitcher without getting injured for this period, and the great offense has helped him win 77 games.
4. Dennis Eckersly 73-39
Former Cy Young winner has done quite well for himself after winning the award, coming in 4th. Eck has played on many teams in his long career.
5. Nolan Ryan 72-42
Another old guy who is still getting it done. Ryan is a fantastic power pitcher and no one should be surprosed at him bein gin the top 5.
6. Dwight Gooden 71-47
A bit of a surprise, but has the combination of being a pretty good pitcher on pretty good teams.
7. Fenrnando Valenzuela 69-37
Has been a bit hot and cold, but has been hot enough to put him high on this list.
8. Orel Hershizer 68-27
Orel, another who takes very few losses, has been playing for the mighty Marlins for his entire career and it has certainly helped his record.
9. Tom Glavine 68-39
Glavine came out of the gate very hot, but has wavered. Another Twins player who has gotten it done.
10. Burleigh Grimes 68-45
Is 2nd in this period in QS percentage, with 109 of his 150 starts going as quality.
11. Joe Kennedy 67-34
The Cy young winner for the Dodgers has kept his success going.
12. Oliver Perez 67-36
Hasn't won as much since leaving the Rangers, but has won 20 games and a Cy Young before.
13. Mark Gubicza 67-38
14. Warren Spahn 66-46
15. Adam Eaton 65-26
16. Scott Sullivan 65-44
17. Roger Clemens 64-49
T-18. Jim Perry 63-37
T-18. Tony Livingston 63-37
20. Charlie Hough 62-29
Is first during this period in QS percentage, converting a staggering 100 of 133.
21. Dave Dravecky 62-45
22. Dave Wickersham 61-29
23. Phil Niekro 61-43
24. Andy Van Hekken 60-36
25. Bobby Witt 60-41
26. Tomo Ohka 60-46
27. Ken Brubaker 58-38
Monday, April 02, 2007
Brian Fuentes: The Ultimate Reliever
An interesting thing happened last sim that has never happened in Habla, the Major Leagues, or for that matter, any professional team sport ever. Brian Fuentes pitched for two different teams that were playing each other!!! That's right folks, Brian Fuentes, who has been scandalously playing for both the Red Sox and the Brewers, made an appearance for both teams when they were playing each other on Thursday. He pitched the 6th inning for the Brewers, and then came out and pitched a 3rd of an inning in the 8th for the Red Sox.
You may have noticed Fuentes' ridiculous stats this season: 115.0 IP in relief, 105 K's, 70 appearances. However, you must keep in mind that he has been playing for two different teams. Concerning this situation, Fuentes said "I needed to fund my addiction to hardcore gambling on bare-knuckled midget boxing, and I thought playing for two teams and making double pay was the best thing to do. What can I say, I just keep thinking Wee Man is going to take that jerk, The Little Pistol one of these days, but he can't pull it off. And here I am, down 750 large to that bookie, Teeny Tom...Oh Crap!!! I have to catch my plane to Boston!!!" He was not able to comment more. However, we figure that Fuentes has simply been slipping his pitching coaches bribes to not let anyone in on it, so he only pitches in certain games. How he was able to pitch for two teams in the same night without anybody catching on, however, remains a mystery. More on this story as it develops.
You may have noticed Fuentes' ridiculous stats this season: 115.0 IP in relief, 105 K's, 70 appearances. However, you must keep in mind that he has been playing for two different teams. Concerning this situation, Fuentes said "I needed to fund my addiction to hardcore gambling on bare-knuckled midget boxing, and I thought playing for two teams and making double pay was the best thing to do. What can I say, I just keep thinking Wee Man is going to take that jerk, The Little Pistol one of these days, but he can't pull it off. And here I am, down 750 large to that bookie, Teeny Tom...Oh Crap!!! I have to catch my plane to Boston!!!" He was not able to comment more. However, we figure that Fuentes has simply been slipping his pitching coaches bribes to not let anyone in on it, so he only pitches in certain games. How he was able to pitch for two teams in the same night without anybody catching on, however, remains a mystery. More on this story as it develops.
2031 All-Stars
The All-Star break is nearly upon us. Most of us know that the game engine picks an All-Star team, but it’s small and usually very random. So, I (Steve) have created All-Star teams for this season based on the format used by MLB (including 1 player from each team). I’ve even given you 5 snubs from each league to vote in. So, sound off and let us know who should get the final spot in each league. Let us know what you think of the teams. Did your guy get left off? Anyways, we hope you have fun with it. The most interesting comment made by a player in regard to the All-Star Team announcement was from Angels reliever Milt Pappas. Upon learning of his inclusion on the team, he had this to say, “That fool who wrote ‘Hot Commodities’ can suck it. He wouldn’t recognize a Most Improved Pitcher if one bit him in the butt. Have you seen the nasty stuff I’ve been throwing these days?” With that, I give you the 2031 Habla All-Stars.
AL Starting Lineup
1. 2B B. J. Upton- .310, 2 HR, 23 RBI, 38 Runs, .814 OPS, 25 SB
2. SS Joe Cronin- .337, 10 HR, 38 RBI, 51 Runs, .934 OPS, 9 SB
3. 1B Luke Easter- .360, 33 HR, 81 RBI, 73 Runs, 1.152, 0 SB
4. RF Reggie Jackson- .259, 35 HR, 77 RBI, 66 Runs, .939 OPS, 2 SB
5. DH Lou Gehrig- .342, 25 HR, 58 RBI, 68 Runs, 1.119 OPS, 7 SB
6. LF Henry Aaron- .339, 19 HR, 71 RBI, 57 Runs, .949 OPS, 5 SB
7. CF Duke Snider- .297, 25 HR, 61 RBI, 70 Runs, .981 OPS, 2 SB
8. C Roy Campanella- .321, 13 HR, 45 RBI, 55 Runs, .924 OPS, 2 SB
9. 3B Ken Caminitti- .317, 13 HR, 46 RBI, 37 Runs, .886 OPS, 0 SB
Bench:
C Cooper Walker- .255, 9 HR, 33 RBI, 44 Runs, .713 OPS, 0 SB
1B John Olerud- .289, 18 HR, 62 RBI, 52 Runs, .878 OPS, 1 SB
1B Tony Perez- .322, 26 HR, 57 RBI, 56 Runs, 1.027, 1 SB
2B Craig Biggio- .271, 6 HR, 24 RBI, 51 Runs, .756 OPS, 24 SB
3B Bill Mazeroski- .291, 14 HR, 45 RBI, 48 Runs, .830 OPS, 3 SB
SS Barry Larkin- .258, 18 HR, 48 RBI, 53 Runs, .816 OPS, 5 SB
LF John Liska- .272, 21 HR, 43 RBI, 54 Runs, .870 OPS, 5 SB
LF Kirk Gibson- .295, 17 HR, 52 RBI, 46 Runs, .904 OPS, 5 SB
LF Hideki Matsui- .349, 21 HR, 47 RBI, 66 Runs, 1.037 OPS, 3 SB
LF Michael Coleman- .291, 12 HR, 41 RBI, 37 Runs, .865 OPS, 1 SB
CF Chuck Klein- .315, 9 HR, 30 RBI, 30 Runs, .853 OPS, 0 SB
Starting Pitcher:
SP Francisco Barrios- 14-1, 0.88 ERA, 123.0 IP, 76 K, 17-17 QS
Bullpen:
SP David Cone- 11-1, 2.35 ERA, 103.1 IP, 112 K, 12-16 QS
SP Tim Belcher- 11-3, 1.97 ERA, 114.1 IP, 76 K, 14-17 QS
SP Jeremy Bonderman- 12-3, 2.86 ERA, 110.1 IP, 72 K, 12-17 QS
SP Tony Livingston- 9-4, 1.83 ERA, 113.0 IP, 97 K, 14-17 QS
SP Charlie Hough- 9-3, 1.95 ERA, 111.0 IP, 75 K, 14-16 QS
RP Francisco Rodriguez- 5-0, 1.53 ERA, 29.1 IP, 29 K, 14 S, 5 H
RP Wes Stock- 5-1, 1.88 ERA, 28.2 IP, 32 K, 14 S, 6 H
RP Milt Pappas- 4-3, 2.11 ERA, 38.1 IP, 13 K, 16 S, 5 H
RP Todd Worrell- 2-1, 2.41 ERA, 18.2 IP, 23 K, 5 S, 6 H
Who should get the last spot?
1B John Karpel- .304, 21 HR, 50 RBI, 54 Runs, .946 OPS, 2 SB
1B Eddie Morgan- .310, 19 HR, 48 RBI, 57 Runs, .924 OPS, 3 SB
LF Ron Gant- .274, 23 HR, 59 RBI, 58 Runs, .896 OPS, 0 SB
SP Preacher Roe- 10-5, 2.48 ERA, 116.0 IP, 120 K, 13-17 QS
SP Myles Tauscher Jr.- 9-3, 2.49 ERA, 108.2 IP, 74 K, 12-17 QS
NL Starting Lineup:
1. 2B Charlie Gehringer- .328, 8 HR, 47 RBI, 48 Runs, .953 OPS, 15 SB
2. CF Roy Hobbs- .294, 20 HR, 57 RBI, 56 Runs, .932 OPS, 9 SB
3. RF Larry Walker- .335 17 HR, 50 RBI, 45 Runs, .977 OPS, 18 SB
4. 3B Matt Williams- .350, 25 HR, 57 RBI, 55 Runs, 1.017 OPS, 0 SB
5. 1B Gil Hodges- .322, 20 HR, 52 RBI, 51 Runs, .981 OPS, 0 SB
6. DH Tim Ferrick- .292, 27 HR, 58 RBI, 42 Runs, 1.011 OPS, 4 SB
7. LF Kevin Mitchell- .270, 26 HR, 55 RBI, 57 Runs, .917 OPS, 0 SB
8. C Ben McAllister- .324, 12 HR, 32 RBI, 43 Runs, .911 OPS, 3 SB
9. SS Charlie Smith- .318, 15 HR, 46 RBI, 43 Runs, .983 OPS, 7 SB
Bench:
C Crash Davis- .283, 19 HR, 37 RBI, 34 Runs, .937 OPS, 2 SB
1B Leon Durham- .274, 25 HR, 63 RBI, 46 Runs, .916 OPS, 0 SB
1B Ted Kluszewski- .270, 27 HR, 60 RBI, 48 Runs, .894 OPS, 1 SB
1B David Oritz- .272, 21 HR, 59 RBI, 37 Runs, .902 OPS, 1 SB
2B Rex Hudler- .330, 8 HR, 34 RBI, 64 Runs, .886 OPS, 15 SB
3B Jose Leon- .265, 13 HR, 33 RBI, 25 Runs, .836 OPS, 0 SB
SS Woodie Held- .265, 19 HR, 36 RBI, 43 Runs, .839 OPS, 1 SB
CF Turkey Stearnes- .282, 19 HR, 46 RBI, 59 Runs, .875 OPS, 11 SB
RF Dave Parker- .283, 22 HR, 51 RBI, 61 Runs, .914 OPS, 3 SB
RF Al Simmons- .318, 16 HR, 47 RBI, 61 Runs, .932 OPS, 4 SB
RF Babe Ruth- .249, 21 HR, 69 RBI, 61 Runs, .835 OPS, 0 SB
Starting Pitcher:
SP Andy Van Hekken 11-2, 1.94 ERA, 107.0 IP, 62 K, 14-17 QS
Bullpen:
SP Alvin Crowder- 11-1, 2.02 ERA, 102.1 IP, 55 K, 12-15 QS
SP Jim Perry 11-2, 2.04 ERA, 101.1 IP, 78 K, 13-18 QS
SP Phil Niekro- 9-3, 2.27 ERA, 111.0 IP, 72 K, 14-17 QS
SP Addie Joss- 9-5, 2.11 ERA, 115.1 IP, 116 K, 14-17 QS
SP Ben Sheets- 6-2, 2.53 ERA, 96.0 IP, 64 K, 14-15 QS
RP Takashi Saito- 0-1, 3.03 ERA, 29.2 IP, 41 K, 19 S, 7 H
RP Jason Bourne- 0-0, 1.82 ERA, 24.2 IP, 32 K, 14 S, 5 H
RP Mike Timlin- 1-1, 1.77 ERA, 20.1 IP, 25 K, 10 S, 12 H
RP Joe Boever- 1-1, 2.29 ERA, 43.1 IP, 19 K, 0 S, 1 H
Who should get the last spot?
LF Frank Robinson- .286, 13 HR, 55 RBI, 53 Runs, .844 OPS, 4 SB
RF Randy Birch- .289, 14 HR, 51 RBI, 54 Runs, .856 OPS, 2 SB
SP Roger Craig- 10-3, 2.28 ERA, 98.2 IP, 65 K, 10-16 QS
SP Cap Wilkerson- 7-1, 1.66 ERA, 92.0 IP, 59 K, 10-14 QS
SP Orel Hershiser- 7-4, 1.84 ERA, 107.2 IP, 105 K, 14-17 QS
AL Starting Lineup
1. 2B B. J. Upton- .310, 2 HR, 23 RBI, 38 Runs, .814 OPS, 25 SB
2. SS Joe Cronin- .337, 10 HR, 38 RBI, 51 Runs, .934 OPS, 9 SB
3. 1B Luke Easter- .360, 33 HR, 81 RBI, 73 Runs, 1.152, 0 SB
4. RF Reggie Jackson- .259, 35 HR, 77 RBI, 66 Runs, .939 OPS, 2 SB
5. DH Lou Gehrig- .342, 25 HR, 58 RBI, 68 Runs, 1.119 OPS, 7 SB
6. LF Henry Aaron- .339, 19 HR, 71 RBI, 57 Runs, .949 OPS, 5 SB
7. CF Duke Snider- .297, 25 HR, 61 RBI, 70 Runs, .981 OPS, 2 SB
8. C Roy Campanella- .321, 13 HR, 45 RBI, 55 Runs, .924 OPS, 2 SB
9. 3B Ken Caminitti- .317, 13 HR, 46 RBI, 37 Runs, .886 OPS, 0 SB
Bench:
C Cooper Walker- .255, 9 HR, 33 RBI, 44 Runs, .713 OPS, 0 SB
1B John Olerud- .289, 18 HR, 62 RBI, 52 Runs, .878 OPS, 1 SB
1B Tony Perez- .322, 26 HR, 57 RBI, 56 Runs, 1.027, 1 SB
2B Craig Biggio- .271, 6 HR, 24 RBI, 51 Runs, .756 OPS, 24 SB
3B Bill Mazeroski- .291, 14 HR, 45 RBI, 48 Runs, .830 OPS, 3 SB
SS Barry Larkin- .258, 18 HR, 48 RBI, 53 Runs, .816 OPS, 5 SB
LF John Liska- .272, 21 HR, 43 RBI, 54 Runs, .870 OPS, 5 SB
LF Kirk Gibson- .295, 17 HR, 52 RBI, 46 Runs, .904 OPS, 5 SB
LF Hideki Matsui- .349, 21 HR, 47 RBI, 66 Runs, 1.037 OPS, 3 SB
LF Michael Coleman- .291, 12 HR, 41 RBI, 37 Runs, .865 OPS, 1 SB
CF Chuck Klein- .315, 9 HR, 30 RBI, 30 Runs, .853 OPS, 0 SB
Starting Pitcher:
SP Francisco Barrios- 14-1, 0.88 ERA, 123.0 IP, 76 K, 17-17 QS
Bullpen:
SP David Cone- 11-1, 2.35 ERA, 103.1 IP, 112 K, 12-16 QS
SP Tim Belcher- 11-3, 1.97 ERA, 114.1 IP, 76 K, 14-17 QS
SP Jeremy Bonderman- 12-3, 2.86 ERA, 110.1 IP, 72 K, 12-17 QS
SP Tony Livingston- 9-4, 1.83 ERA, 113.0 IP, 97 K, 14-17 QS
SP Charlie Hough- 9-3, 1.95 ERA, 111.0 IP, 75 K, 14-16 QS
RP Francisco Rodriguez- 5-0, 1.53 ERA, 29.1 IP, 29 K, 14 S, 5 H
RP Wes Stock- 5-1, 1.88 ERA, 28.2 IP, 32 K, 14 S, 6 H
RP Milt Pappas- 4-3, 2.11 ERA, 38.1 IP, 13 K, 16 S, 5 H
RP Todd Worrell- 2-1, 2.41 ERA, 18.2 IP, 23 K, 5 S, 6 H
Who should get the last spot?
1B John Karpel- .304, 21 HR, 50 RBI, 54 Runs, .946 OPS, 2 SB
1B Eddie Morgan- .310, 19 HR, 48 RBI, 57 Runs, .924 OPS, 3 SB
LF Ron Gant- .274, 23 HR, 59 RBI, 58 Runs, .896 OPS, 0 SB
SP Preacher Roe- 10-5, 2.48 ERA, 116.0 IP, 120 K, 13-17 QS
SP Myles Tauscher Jr.- 9-3, 2.49 ERA, 108.2 IP, 74 K, 12-17 QS
NL Starting Lineup:
1. 2B Charlie Gehringer- .328, 8 HR, 47 RBI, 48 Runs, .953 OPS, 15 SB
2. CF Roy Hobbs- .294, 20 HR, 57 RBI, 56 Runs, .932 OPS, 9 SB
3. RF Larry Walker- .335 17 HR, 50 RBI, 45 Runs, .977 OPS, 18 SB
4. 3B Matt Williams- .350, 25 HR, 57 RBI, 55 Runs, 1.017 OPS, 0 SB
5. 1B Gil Hodges- .322, 20 HR, 52 RBI, 51 Runs, .981 OPS, 0 SB
6. DH Tim Ferrick- .292, 27 HR, 58 RBI, 42 Runs, 1.011 OPS, 4 SB
7. LF Kevin Mitchell- .270, 26 HR, 55 RBI, 57 Runs, .917 OPS, 0 SB
8. C Ben McAllister- .324, 12 HR, 32 RBI, 43 Runs, .911 OPS, 3 SB
9. SS Charlie Smith- .318, 15 HR, 46 RBI, 43 Runs, .983 OPS, 7 SB
Bench:
C Crash Davis- .283, 19 HR, 37 RBI, 34 Runs, .937 OPS, 2 SB
1B Leon Durham- .274, 25 HR, 63 RBI, 46 Runs, .916 OPS, 0 SB
1B Ted Kluszewski- .270, 27 HR, 60 RBI, 48 Runs, .894 OPS, 1 SB
1B David Oritz- .272, 21 HR, 59 RBI, 37 Runs, .902 OPS, 1 SB
2B Rex Hudler- .330, 8 HR, 34 RBI, 64 Runs, .886 OPS, 15 SB
3B Jose Leon- .265, 13 HR, 33 RBI, 25 Runs, .836 OPS, 0 SB
SS Woodie Held- .265, 19 HR, 36 RBI, 43 Runs, .839 OPS, 1 SB
CF Turkey Stearnes- .282, 19 HR, 46 RBI, 59 Runs, .875 OPS, 11 SB
RF Dave Parker- .283, 22 HR, 51 RBI, 61 Runs, .914 OPS, 3 SB
RF Al Simmons- .318, 16 HR, 47 RBI, 61 Runs, .932 OPS, 4 SB
RF Babe Ruth- .249, 21 HR, 69 RBI, 61 Runs, .835 OPS, 0 SB
Starting Pitcher:
SP Andy Van Hekken 11-2, 1.94 ERA, 107.0 IP, 62 K, 14-17 QS
Bullpen:
SP Alvin Crowder- 11-1, 2.02 ERA, 102.1 IP, 55 K, 12-15 QS
SP Jim Perry 11-2, 2.04 ERA, 101.1 IP, 78 K, 13-18 QS
SP Phil Niekro- 9-3, 2.27 ERA, 111.0 IP, 72 K, 14-17 QS
SP Addie Joss- 9-5, 2.11 ERA, 115.1 IP, 116 K, 14-17 QS
SP Ben Sheets- 6-2, 2.53 ERA, 96.0 IP, 64 K, 14-15 QS
RP Takashi Saito- 0-1, 3.03 ERA, 29.2 IP, 41 K, 19 S, 7 H
RP Jason Bourne- 0-0, 1.82 ERA, 24.2 IP, 32 K, 14 S, 5 H
RP Mike Timlin- 1-1, 1.77 ERA, 20.1 IP, 25 K, 10 S, 12 H
RP Joe Boever- 1-1, 2.29 ERA, 43.1 IP, 19 K, 0 S, 1 H
Who should get the last spot?
LF Frank Robinson- .286, 13 HR, 55 RBI, 53 Runs, .844 OPS, 4 SB
RF Randy Birch- .289, 14 HR, 51 RBI, 54 Runs, .856 OPS, 2 SB
SP Roger Craig- 10-3, 2.28 ERA, 98.2 IP, 65 K, 10-16 QS
SP Cap Wilkerson- 7-1, 1.66 ERA, 92.0 IP, 59 K, 10-14 QS
SP Orel Hershiser- 7-4, 1.84 ERA, 107.2 IP, 105 K, 14-17 QS
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Hot Commodities
One of the great things about Habla (actually about BBPro 98) is that their is a certain "X-factor" involving player production. Some players will go from mere contributors to All Stars in one season. There are different contributors to this, such as changing teams, changing stadiums, changed to the ini file, younger players developing etc., but, I think we would agree that some times it is a mystery. Nonetheless, I thought it would be fun to look at those players who, in the last few seasons, have become hot commodities, who have gone from rags to riches, from contributors to much more. You may notice that all 10 are pitchers, but that should not be surprising, since more pitchers have turn arounds than do hitters. Anyway, here they are, the top 10 hot commodities.
1. P Francisco Barrios Yankees
Barrios seems to be the clear cut #1 on this list. He has gone from an ERA near 5.00 in '29 to a Cy Young winning season last year in which he won 21 games with a meager ERA of 1.58. He seems to be the AL front runner for the award this year as well. A manager recently commented that no player has benefited more from the change in ini 2 years ago than Barrios. He has made quite a change.
2. P Preacher Roe Rangers
Roe was traded from the Cubs to the Rangers in the middle of the '29 season. He ended up finishing 5-8 with a 4.14 ERA. The next season he won 23 games with a 2.62 ERA and finished in the top 3 in Cy Young voting. His change in production is due to a few things, probably the biggest being his change from the worst pitchers parks in baseball to a more balanced home field. Regardless, the Rangers like having Roe in their rotation.
3. P Danny McDevitt Pirates
McDevitt has seen a turn around over a few seasons. After going 2-4 with an ERA over 6.00, he was able to drop his ERA to 3.67 and then to an amazing 1.68 last season. It seems clear that McDevitt's turn around was not a fluke and he is a big part of the reason the Pirates are defending World Series Champions.
4. P Alvin Crowder Cardinals
Crowder was a wreck early in his career, but has made quite an impact for the Cardinals in the last few seasons. After his last rough season in '29, where his ERA was over 5.00, he has had 2 and a half great seasons with ERA's under 3.00.
5. P Andy Van Hekken Marlins
After having a great first few seasons, Van Hekken shifted into a back end of the rotation guy. then, after some ini and team changes a few years ago, he has rejuvinated his career and has become an ace type starter, getting his ERA down below 2.00 for the first time ever.
6. P Tony Livingston White Sox
Livingston did not make an amazing one year turn around, but instead has seemed to get better every year. After the 2025 season, where he had an ERa of about 4 and a half, he has lowered it pretty much every year until he posted a 2.30 ERA with 11 wins last season.
7. P David Cone Twins
Cone has always been a good pitcher. He was selected first overall by the Twins a number of years ago. He had played some good years and been pretty good for the Twins, even winning 22 games one year. However, some of us watched an felt that Cone was not yet the Ace that he could and would become. He seems to have made the switch, winning 18 games with a 2.59 ERA last year and starting this year 11-1 with a 2.35.
8. P Jason Simontacci Phillies
Jason Simontacci had had a mediocre career. that was until last season, when he pitched 31.2 innings in relief without allowing an earned run. He has continued that success this season, with an ERA just over 1.00 in 42.1 innings in relief.
9. P Wilson Alvarez Marlins
Alvarez is an interesting story, as he was an undrafted ammy turned hot free agent. The Marlins were the high bidder, and watched him pitch poorly. Then, in '29 put up a great year with a 2.85 ERA. After a rough year pitching in Coors Field, Alvarez is back with the Marlins and pitching well again.
10. P Jerry Robertson Rangers
Robertson was not a great pitcher early in his career. however, he has come on late in his career as a great long reliever and fill in starter. After putting up an ERA of 3.08 in 87 innings in 2027, Robertson went on to have two of his next 3 seasons see ERAs below 3.70. Robertson has went from a bum to a very valuable and versatile pitcher.
1. P Francisco Barrios Yankees
Barrios seems to be the clear cut #1 on this list. He has gone from an ERA near 5.00 in '29 to a Cy Young winning season last year in which he won 21 games with a meager ERA of 1.58. He seems to be the AL front runner for the award this year as well. A manager recently commented that no player has benefited more from the change in ini 2 years ago than Barrios. He has made quite a change.
2. P Preacher Roe Rangers
Roe was traded from the Cubs to the Rangers in the middle of the '29 season. He ended up finishing 5-8 with a 4.14 ERA. The next season he won 23 games with a 2.62 ERA and finished in the top 3 in Cy Young voting. His change in production is due to a few things, probably the biggest being his change from the worst pitchers parks in baseball to a more balanced home field. Regardless, the Rangers like having Roe in their rotation.
3. P Danny McDevitt Pirates
McDevitt has seen a turn around over a few seasons. After going 2-4 with an ERA over 6.00, he was able to drop his ERA to 3.67 and then to an amazing 1.68 last season. It seems clear that McDevitt's turn around was not a fluke and he is a big part of the reason the Pirates are defending World Series Champions.
4. P Alvin Crowder Cardinals
Crowder was a wreck early in his career, but has made quite an impact for the Cardinals in the last few seasons. After his last rough season in '29, where his ERA was over 5.00, he has had 2 and a half great seasons with ERA's under 3.00.
5. P Andy Van Hekken Marlins
After having a great first few seasons, Van Hekken shifted into a back end of the rotation guy. then, after some ini and team changes a few years ago, he has rejuvinated his career and has become an ace type starter, getting his ERA down below 2.00 for the first time ever.
6. P Tony Livingston White Sox
Livingston did not make an amazing one year turn around, but instead has seemed to get better every year. After the 2025 season, where he had an ERa of about 4 and a half, he has lowered it pretty much every year until he posted a 2.30 ERA with 11 wins last season.
7. P David Cone Twins
Cone has always been a good pitcher. He was selected first overall by the Twins a number of years ago. He had played some good years and been pretty good for the Twins, even winning 22 games one year. However, some of us watched an felt that Cone was not yet the Ace that he could and would become. He seems to have made the switch, winning 18 games with a 2.59 ERA last year and starting this year 11-1 with a 2.35.
8. P Jason Simontacci Phillies
Jason Simontacci had had a mediocre career. that was until last season, when he pitched 31.2 innings in relief without allowing an earned run. He has continued that success this season, with an ERA just over 1.00 in 42.1 innings in relief.
9. P Wilson Alvarez Marlins
Alvarez is an interesting story, as he was an undrafted ammy turned hot free agent. The Marlins were the high bidder, and watched him pitch poorly. Then, in '29 put up a great year with a 2.85 ERA. After a rough year pitching in Coors Field, Alvarez is back with the Marlins and pitching well again.
10. P Jerry Robertson Rangers
Robertson was not a great pitcher early in his career. however, he has come on late in his career as a great long reliever and fill in starter. After putting up an ERA of 3.08 in 87 innings in 2027, Robertson went on to have two of his next 3 seasons see ERAs below 3.70. Robertson has went from a bum to a very valuable and versatile pitcher.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Team Aspirations
Sheffy has written a nice piece on what he percieves each team's realistic aspirations to be for this season. See where your team stands and whether you agree. We hope to get more articles out soon.
The Serious Contenders
New York Yankees- The club looks stronger than the one that grabbed a wild card spot last season. Francisco Barrios is proving that last season was no fluke.
Minnesota Twins- How do you drastically improve a team that’s won its division 3 straight seasons? Simple, add an ace (Charlie Hough) and a cleanup hitter (Luke Easter) to the mix.
Texas Rangers- Finally getting Jake Peavy back from an elbow injury that’s kept him out for over a year could be the key to ending the Rangers 4 year championship drought. It also doesn’t hurt to add Harmon Killabrew’s 700 homers to an already lethal lineup.
Florida Marlins- Team is hungry after last season’s incredible run was cut short in part to Babe Ruth’s ill-timed injury. The additions of Will Judy Johnson and Jeremy Affeldt may make up for the loss of Whitey Ford.
St. Louis Cardinals- Turkey Stearnes could be on verge of his first MVP season. The team has amassed enough talent to not only go to the post-season, but do some damage when they get there.
Pittsburgh Pirates- They may have the best pitching staff in the league. However, an underachieving lineup will need to start producing at some point for this club to have a strong chance of repeating.
Los Angeles Dodgers- Dave Parker and Roy Hobbs wouldn’t have bothered coming back if they didn’t feel this team had what it takes. Can they get it done, though, with what appears to be less talent than some of their recent teams?
A Move or Two Away
Chicago White Sox- Off to a strong start, but does anyone in this lineup or rotation strike fear in the opposition?
Cleveland Indians- This club probably needs to decide soon whether to rebuild or continue to go for it now.
Seattle Mariners- Their sluggish start has many fans questioning the trading of stars Hank Blalock and Will Clark.
Philadelphia Phillies- The team is largely the same, minus Mel Ott, as the one that won the title 2 years ago.
Montreal Expos- The club may need to add another big bat to feel good about their chances.
Chicago Cubs- They need several players to start producing to be better than a .500 team.
Cincinnati Reds- If they manage to make the postseason, Jim Perry and Oliver Perez could make things very difficult on the opposition in a 5 game series.
San Diego Padres- As good a 1-5 in the lineup as you’ll find, but must find some consistency in the rotation behind Tony Livingston.
Improving, but Not Going Anywhere Yet
Toronto Blue Jays- A decent mix of youngsters and vets is beginning to form, but this team is likely a year or two away.
Anaheim Angels- They are the biggest surprise of the season, thus far, and may have the young talent to seriously challenge the Rangers for division supremacy in a season or 2.
San Francisco Giants- This club’s progress may be hinged on the development of Chien-Ming Wang.
They Stink, but Hey Their Young
Baltimore Orioles- Clue Haywood, Chuck Klein, David Wells and Kevin Ritz give this team some nice pieces to build around.
Kansas City Royals- There’s work to be done with the lineup, but a lot of talent is being developed on that young pitching staff.
Atlanta Braves- These guys are stockpiling draft picks and have some tremendous pitching talent in LOW.
New York Mets- Still a lot of time, with a lot of pitching talent in their mid-20s.
If They Aren’t Rebuilding Yet, They’ll Probably Start Soon
Boston Red Sox- Made it to the Series last season, but the loss of Luke Easter is showing how weak this offense has become.
Detroit Tigers- Average age for the starting lineup is 33.5, while their best young pitcher, Grant Balfour, had a 6.48 ERA last season.
Milwaukee Brewers- 38 year old Rafael Furcal will likely ask to be traded to a contender and the club will need to decide what to do with several good players in their early 30s.
Oakland Athletics- Charlie Konikowski is the only holdover from a once powerful lineup.
Houston Astros- The trading of Harmon Killabrew is probably the first of several moves to come.
Colorado Rockies- Gil Hodges, Nolan Ryan, Sid Fernandez and Kelvim Escobar were all brought in, but this is not the result the club anticipated.
The Serious Contenders
New York Yankees- The club looks stronger than the one that grabbed a wild card spot last season. Francisco Barrios is proving that last season was no fluke.
Minnesota Twins- How do you drastically improve a team that’s won its division 3 straight seasons? Simple, add an ace (Charlie Hough) and a cleanup hitter (Luke Easter) to the mix.
Texas Rangers- Finally getting Jake Peavy back from an elbow injury that’s kept him out for over a year could be the key to ending the Rangers 4 year championship drought. It also doesn’t hurt to add Harmon Killabrew’s 700 homers to an already lethal lineup.
Florida Marlins- Team is hungry after last season’s incredible run was cut short in part to Babe Ruth’s ill-timed injury. The additions of Will Judy Johnson and Jeremy Affeldt may make up for the loss of Whitey Ford.
St. Louis Cardinals- Turkey Stearnes could be on verge of his first MVP season. The team has amassed enough talent to not only go to the post-season, but do some damage when they get there.
Pittsburgh Pirates- They may have the best pitching staff in the league. However, an underachieving lineup will need to start producing at some point for this club to have a strong chance of repeating.
Los Angeles Dodgers- Dave Parker and Roy Hobbs wouldn’t have bothered coming back if they didn’t feel this team had what it takes. Can they get it done, though, with what appears to be less talent than some of their recent teams?
A Move or Two Away
Chicago White Sox- Off to a strong start, but does anyone in this lineup or rotation strike fear in the opposition?
Cleveland Indians- This club probably needs to decide soon whether to rebuild or continue to go for it now.
Seattle Mariners- Their sluggish start has many fans questioning the trading of stars Hank Blalock and Will Clark.
Philadelphia Phillies- The team is largely the same, minus Mel Ott, as the one that won the title 2 years ago.
Montreal Expos- The club may need to add another big bat to feel good about their chances.
Chicago Cubs- They need several players to start producing to be better than a .500 team.
Cincinnati Reds- If they manage to make the postseason, Jim Perry and Oliver Perez could make things very difficult on the opposition in a 5 game series.
San Diego Padres- As good a 1-5 in the lineup as you’ll find, but must find some consistency in the rotation behind Tony Livingston.
Improving, but Not Going Anywhere Yet
Toronto Blue Jays- A decent mix of youngsters and vets is beginning to form, but this team is likely a year or two away.
Anaheim Angels- They are the biggest surprise of the season, thus far, and may have the young talent to seriously challenge the Rangers for division supremacy in a season or 2.
San Francisco Giants- This club’s progress may be hinged on the development of Chien-Ming Wang.
They Stink, but Hey Their Young
Baltimore Orioles- Clue Haywood, Chuck Klein, David Wells and Kevin Ritz give this team some nice pieces to build around.
Kansas City Royals- There’s work to be done with the lineup, but a lot of talent is being developed on that young pitching staff.
Atlanta Braves- These guys are stockpiling draft picks and have some tremendous pitching talent in LOW.
New York Mets- Still a lot of time, with a lot of pitching talent in their mid-20s.
If They Aren’t Rebuilding Yet, They’ll Probably Start Soon
Boston Red Sox- Made it to the Series last season, but the loss of Luke Easter is showing how weak this offense has become.
Detroit Tigers- Average age for the starting lineup is 33.5, while their best young pitcher, Grant Balfour, had a 6.48 ERA last season.
Milwaukee Brewers- 38 year old Rafael Furcal will likely ask to be traded to a contender and the club will need to decide what to do with several good players in their early 30s.
Oakland Athletics- Charlie Konikowski is the only holdover from a once powerful lineup.
Houston Astros- The trading of Harmon Killabrew is probably the first of several moves to come.
Colorado Rockies- Gil Hodges, Nolan Ryan, Sid Fernandez and Kelvim Escobar were all brought in, but this is not the result the club anticipated.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Draft Grades
Steve (PGH) and I decided to hand out grades for the draft (not that you asked), in order to evaluate how teams did. We noticed once we finished that the grades are all pretty high. We attribute this to a combination of us being too nice and the draft being too good, so that it was hard to NOT get guys who helped your team. Also, the grades are not just based on talent acquired, but by what you did with what picks you had, team needs, and wisdom were all factored in. Here we go, with grades and commentary. Should make for some good discussion.
Kansas City A
P Manny Smyth
P Chris Capuano
1B Clem Graves
SS Greg Mack
There is a lot of pressure that comes with the first overall pick in the draft. We felt that KC handled it well, taking the best pitcher in the draft and setting himself up for a killer rotation in a few years. Also, getting Clem Graves in round 3 was a steal.
Cincinnati A
C Terrence Lee
P Martin Blank
1B Emil Wesson
Drafting the guy who is probably the best catcher in Habla history starts a team off on the right foot. Blank has huge upside. This draft should have a huge effect of the Reds.
Pittsburgh A
CF Mike Robinson
LF Ivory Carroll
2B Bill Leiter
LF Shane Block
Trading up to get Robinson was smart, as the defending Champs have been looking for their stud CF for awhile. All of their picks help their team. Getting Carroll in late 2nd is huge, and Leiter is a good future 2B.
Anaheim A-
C Jack Slater
SS Lynn Lyons
P Neal Heaton
P Ray Anderson
Though it was tough, taking Slater 4th overall was the smart move. Lyons, the best SS in the draft, was a steal late in the first. Add on 2 solid pitchers and you got yourself a pretty good draft.
Philadelphia A-
1B Kite Melton
C Tony Delis
P Dave Solaris
C Stan Blinx
Getting the best hitter in the draft at pick 7 was huge, and Delis was a great pick. He loses points because Solaris was a reach that high and Blinx is good, but no team can start 2 catchers. Great draft nonetheless.
Texas A-
RF Stacey Conner
P Sammy Tyler
C Josh Clarke
RP Tiki Pratt
Conner provides nice insurance, should Enos Slaughter decide to leave via FA at the end of this season. Tyler is a closer type. He fills a big need with the trading of Todd Worrell and the uncertainty of Ryan Duren's future with the club following this season. The team also managed to find a solid replacement to veteran Pinky Hargrave behind the plate.
Minnesota A-
3B Kevin Dent
2B Robby Whittle
OF Allie Lando
Dent and Whittle aren't as young as you'd like your prospects to be, but should make the Twins infield much stronger. Lando was a nice pick up, as well, and should find a spot a very good outfield someday soon.
Boston A-
P Blake Brannon
P Troy Shulte
RF Dave Melvin
The Red Sox add two solid starters to what was already one of the better rotations in the league. In Melvin, they don't get much pop, but they do get a gold glove candidate with incredible speed.
New York Mets B+
3B Dex Apple
2B Pete Looper
The Mets had a pretty good draft for not showing up or sending in a list. Apple is a great pick and Looper is arguably the best 2B in the draft. Hard to skip all your later picks in a draft like this, though.
Houston B+
P Jay Gravens
P Artemis Odell
1B Tommy Spokane
CF Bob Veelo
P Timmy Smith
Gravens could soon be battling Gubicza for ace honors in the rotation. Spokane was a bit of a steal in the mid 2nd. Smith was also a nice value pick.
Montreal B+
2B Red Graham
LF Charlie Walton
You get big props from us for taking a little and making it into a lot. That is what the Expos did. Graham is a very nice 2B for late 2nd and Watson is a decent OF.
Oakland B+
2B Bill Ford
P Roy Nevel
Again, take a little and see what you can do with it. Ford is another solid 2B who fell and OAK was wise enough to snag him. Nevel is a solid arm as well. Wise decisions pay off.
Florida B+
3B Johnny Dwight
P Tank Nevers
Florida may have spend the best $4 in the draft taking these two guys. In a deep draft, you are left with some quality players at the bottom of the barrel, and Florida did well in picking these 2.
Colorado B
2B Francis Dantana
P Jason Bourne
P Bill Romberger
RF Mark Ingram
SS Addie Herald
P Alejandro Travino
P Del Ellerton
The great: getting Herald at the end of the 2nd round. The good: Dantana and Bourne may not have been the best players on the board, but both are very good talents. The bad: Taking a guy with no endurance and only one good pitch in the 1st, then following it up with a RF not as good as Herald early in the 2nd.
Chicago White Sox B
P Ray Willow
P Todd Johnson
Willow should be solid as a starter or reliever. Ditto for Johnson. However, the team lost out on their 3rd rounder with good players still available.
San Francisco B
SS Billy Reed
C Ben McAllister
P Brian Thames
CF Roland Davis
P Cap Wilkerson
RF Ernie Coleman
No spectacular picks, but no terrible ones either. A solid draft with quite a few guys who will contribute to this ball club.
San Diego B
P Willie Redus
P Seth Mann
Not much you can do when the only guys left are relievers. The Padres got a couple guys who should see some action in their bullpen.
Atlanta B-
P Randy Rix
This one is hard because it is a team with no GM. Rix was the best pitcher available at #2, and it is hard to go wrong with taking a good pitcher. The rest of his pick were sold for cash...not a bad day.
Los Angeles B-
OF Chris Duncan
3B Tim Ferrick
Duncan was a reach for the 1st, as teams were taking better players in the late 2nd. Ferrick, however, was a great pick and earns this team some good draft points.
Baltimore C+
OF Danny Black
P Taylor Craigen
P Malc Harmon
SS John Ganzel
3B Mark Odom
1B John Washington
RF Phillip Wells
A lot of picks should equal a lot of return. We felt this entire draft was simply mediocre, less than what you expect to get with 7 picks in a draft this good.
Toronto C+
P Lex Powell
SS Woody Stairs
1B Mike Capra
LF John Deverauk
P Juan Alvarez
3B Pete Roberts
Pete Roberts was a great pickup for the third round, and was the best pick Toronto made. The other guys he got in the 2nd round, and he was reaching some, and we felt there were better players on the board at the time.
Detroit C
P Frankie Hernandez
P Mike Chibib
P Brian Demmitt
CF Welday Money
P Dick Stoddard
LF Tyronne Kutzler
P Linc Boxer
Again, with 7 picks in a draft like this, a team should expect great things. We felt that the team got mediocre talent and missed some better players in the process. The bottom line is a net gain, but could have been much more.
Kansas City A
P Manny Smyth
P Chris Capuano
1B Clem Graves
SS Greg Mack
There is a lot of pressure that comes with the first overall pick in the draft. We felt that KC handled it well, taking the best pitcher in the draft and setting himself up for a killer rotation in a few years. Also, getting Clem Graves in round 3 was a steal.
Cincinnati A
C Terrence Lee
P Martin Blank
1B Emil Wesson
Drafting the guy who is probably the best catcher in Habla history starts a team off on the right foot. Blank has huge upside. This draft should have a huge effect of the Reds.
Pittsburgh A
CF Mike Robinson
LF Ivory Carroll
2B Bill Leiter
LF Shane Block
Trading up to get Robinson was smart, as the defending Champs have been looking for their stud CF for awhile. All of their picks help their team. Getting Carroll in late 2nd is huge, and Leiter is a good future 2B.
Anaheim A-
C Jack Slater
SS Lynn Lyons
P Neal Heaton
P Ray Anderson
Though it was tough, taking Slater 4th overall was the smart move. Lyons, the best SS in the draft, was a steal late in the first. Add on 2 solid pitchers and you got yourself a pretty good draft.
Philadelphia A-
1B Kite Melton
C Tony Delis
P Dave Solaris
C Stan Blinx
Getting the best hitter in the draft at pick 7 was huge, and Delis was a great pick. He loses points because Solaris was a reach that high and Blinx is good, but no team can start 2 catchers. Great draft nonetheless.
Texas A-
RF Stacey Conner
P Sammy Tyler
C Josh Clarke
RP Tiki Pratt
Conner provides nice insurance, should Enos Slaughter decide to leave via FA at the end of this season. Tyler is a closer type. He fills a big need with the trading of Todd Worrell and the uncertainty of Ryan Duren's future with the club following this season. The team also managed to find a solid replacement to veteran Pinky Hargrave behind the plate.
Minnesota A-
3B Kevin Dent
2B Robby Whittle
OF Allie Lando
Dent and Whittle aren't as young as you'd like your prospects to be, but should make the Twins infield much stronger. Lando was a nice pick up, as well, and should find a spot a very good outfield someday soon.
Boston A-
P Blake Brannon
P Troy Shulte
RF Dave Melvin
The Red Sox add two solid starters to what was already one of the better rotations in the league. In Melvin, they don't get much pop, but they do get a gold glove candidate with incredible speed.
New York Mets B+
3B Dex Apple
2B Pete Looper
The Mets had a pretty good draft for not showing up or sending in a list. Apple is a great pick and Looper is arguably the best 2B in the draft. Hard to skip all your later picks in a draft like this, though.
Houston B+
P Jay Gravens
P Artemis Odell
1B Tommy Spokane
CF Bob Veelo
P Timmy Smith
Gravens could soon be battling Gubicza for ace honors in the rotation. Spokane was a bit of a steal in the mid 2nd. Smith was also a nice value pick.
Montreal B+
2B Red Graham
LF Charlie Walton
You get big props from us for taking a little and making it into a lot. That is what the Expos did. Graham is a very nice 2B for late 2nd and Watson is a decent OF.
Oakland B+
2B Bill Ford
P Roy Nevel
Again, take a little and see what you can do with it. Ford is another solid 2B who fell and OAK was wise enough to snag him. Nevel is a solid arm as well. Wise decisions pay off.
Florida B+
3B Johnny Dwight
P Tank Nevers
Florida may have spend the best $4 in the draft taking these two guys. In a deep draft, you are left with some quality players at the bottom of the barrel, and Florida did well in picking these 2.
Colorado B
2B Francis Dantana
P Jason Bourne
P Bill Romberger
RF Mark Ingram
SS Addie Herald
P Alejandro Travino
P Del Ellerton
The great: getting Herald at the end of the 2nd round. The good: Dantana and Bourne may not have been the best players on the board, but both are very good talents. The bad: Taking a guy with no endurance and only one good pitch in the 1st, then following it up with a RF not as good as Herald early in the 2nd.
Chicago White Sox B
P Ray Willow
P Todd Johnson
Willow should be solid as a starter or reliever. Ditto for Johnson. However, the team lost out on their 3rd rounder with good players still available.
San Francisco B
SS Billy Reed
C Ben McAllister
P Brian Thames
CF Roland Davis
P Cap Wilkerson
RF Ernie Coleman
No spectacular picks, but no terrible ones either. A solid draft with quite a few guys who will contribute to this ball club.
San Diego B
P Willie Redus
P Seth Mann
Not much you can do when the only guys left are relievers. The Padres got a couple guys who should see some action in their bullpen.
Atlanta B-
P Randy Rix
This one is hard because it is a team with no GM. Rix was the best pitcher available at #2, and it is hard to go wrong with taking a good pitcher. The rest of his pick were sold for cash...not a bad day.
Los Angeles B-
OF Chris Duncan
3B Tim Ferrick
Duncan was a reach for the 1st, as teams were taking better players in the late 2nd. Ferrick, however, was a great pick and earns this team some good draft points.
Baltimore C+
OF Danny Black
P Taylor Craigen
P Malc Harmon
SS John Ganzel
3B Mark Odom
1B John Washington
RF Phillip Wells
A lot of picks should equal a lot of return. We felt this entire draft was simply mediocre, less than what you expect to get with 7 picks in a draft this good.
Toronto C+
P Lex Powell
SS Woody Stairs
1B Mike Capra
LF John Deverauk
P Juan Alvarez
3B Pete Roberts
Pete Roberts was a great pickup for the third round, and was the best pick Toronto made. The other guys he got in the 2nd round, and he was reaching some, and we felt there were better players on the board at the time.
Detroit C
P Frankie Hernandez
P Mike Chibib
P Brian Demmitt
CF Welday Money
P Dick Stoddard
LF Tyronne Kutzler
P Linc Boxer
Again, with 7 picks in a draft like this, a team should expect great things. We felt that the team got mediocre talent and missed some better players in the process. The bottom line is a net gain, but could have been much more.
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