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.
Monday, April 23, 2007
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.
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