The Yankees have claimed C Craig Tatum on waivers from Arizona after he was cut by the D-backs this Spring. He spent last season in Baltimore where he batted .195 in 87 at-bats. A defensive standout, Tatum has spent a large part of this off-season on the waiver wire.
Drafted by Cincinnati in 2004, Tatum was claimed on waivers by Baltimore in 2009 and was then claimed on waivers by Houston this past November, only to waived and claimed by Arizona in January before again being claimed by the Yankees today after being cut in Spring Training. The Yankees have added Tatum to their active roster and he will be temporarily competing for a job as a backup catcher until the end of Spring Training.
And you guessed it: If Tatum is cut (and he isn't likely to beat out C Francisco Cervelli for the backup job) he'll likely be waived again.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Spring Training cuts
Boston made another series of Spring Training cuts on Tuesday, with one of them having major ramifications on the makeup of the team in 2012. 1B Lars Anderson was optioned to Pawtucket in a move that was expected all season long. But in another major move, SS Jose Iglesias was also optioned to Pawtucket. Iglesias was battling for a position as the team's starting shortstop, but that job now appears to have gone to IF/OF Mike Aviles.
Chamberlain Expects to Pitch this Season
RHP Joba Chamberlain feels as if he let the Yankees down when he dislocated his ankle on a trampoline playing with his son and nearly died to to blood loss, but refused to apologize to the team following the incident. He was already sidelined following Tommy John surgery and - realistically - probably wouldn't have pitched at all this season. However, Chamberlain still expects to pitch this season.
Chamberlain said that he and his son were jumping from trampoline-to-trampoline at a Tampa trampoline facility when he landed awkwardly. GM Brian Cashman has revealed that the injury has been categorized as an open dislocation subtalar joint. Chamberlain is expected to remain in a cast for a minimum of six weeks and then move to a walking boot.
Chamberlain said that he and his son were jumping from trampoline-to-trampoline at a Tampa trampoline facility when he landed awkwardly. GM Brian Cashman has revealed that the injury has been categorized as an open dislocation subtalar joint. Chamberlain is expected to remain in a cast for a minimum of six weeks and then move to a walking boot.
Baseball Season Opener - if you saw it
Hey in case you didn't notice it, and judging by the TV exposure this came got, you didn't, the baseball season opener happened yesterday morning at 2:00 in Tokyo. RF Ichiro Suzuki had four hits in the first game he has played in Japan since 2000 and 2B Dustin Ackley hit a homer and drove in the game-winning run with an 11th inning single as Seattle topped Oakland 3-1. RHP Felix Hernandez combined with two relievers on a six-hitter for the Mariners. The two teams complete their two-game series in Tokyo this morning at 2:00, with the rest of the league not opening their seasons until April 4 or later.
The game was tied in the fourth when Ackley homered and Oakland C Kurt Suzuki had an RBI double in the bottom of the frame. Seattle went ahead in the 11th when SS Brendan Ryan doubled and 3B Chone Figgins bunted him over to second, followed by Ackely's RBI single, a stolen base, and a single by Ichiro to pad Seattle's lead to make it easier on RHP Brandon League, who slammed the door for the save in the bottom of the frame. RHP Tom Wilhelmsen got the win for Seattle following two innings of relief.
CF Yoenis Cespedes, a Cuban defector who signed a four-year, $36 million contract this off-season, was one-for-three with a double and two strikeouts in the game for Oakland in his Major League debut. The capacity crowd at the Tokyo Dome seemed ecstatic every time Ichiro came up to the plate or touched the ball in the field. Ichiro has been dropped to the number three hole in Seattle's batting order and singled in his first at-bat when he beat out Oakland SS Cliff Pennington's throw to first for an infield hit.
Ichiro had another infield hit in the fourth and a clean single to center in the sixth before his extra-inning hit in the 11th. Hernandez pitched eight strong innings in a no-decision for Seattle. RHP Brandon McCarthy pitched seven strong innings in a no-decision for Oakland.
The A's were 1-for-14 with runners in scoring in position. Remember my opening? That's because this game wasn't broadcast live in the U. S. outside of the Seattle market. I was awake at 2:00, and I checked FOX, TBS, ESPN, and the MLB Network, but nary a game was found (the game was shown on a tape-delay by the MLB Network later yesterday). Don't get excited for this morning's game either, because you probably won't find it. The Mets and Cubs played in Tokyo in 2000, and those games were on TV. So were the Yankees and Tampa Bay (then "Devil" Rays) when they opened in Tokyo in 2004. And so were Boston and Oakland when they played in Tokyo back in 2008. Oh by the way, Oakland and Seattle were supposed to play a two-game set in Tokyo back in 2003, but the series was cancelled due to fears over the impending U. S.-invasion of Iraq, and I bet that those games would have been broadcast too. Epic fail MLB, Ted Turner, Disney, and Rupert Murdoch.
Today's probables are RHP Bartolo Colon for Oakland and LHP Jason Vargas for Seattle. Yesterday's game featured an hour-long tribute to the victims of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, narrated by former Baltimore IF Cal Ripken Jr., Yankees SS Derek Jeter, and Boston manager Bobby Valentine (who previously managed the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan for years), and absolutely no one from either Oakland or Seattle.
The game was tied in the fourth when Ackley homered and Oakland C Kurt Suzuki had an RBI double in the bottom of the frame. Seattle went ahead in the 11th when SS Brendan Ryan doubled and 3B Chone Figgins bunted him over to second, followed by Ackely's RBI single, a stolen base, and a single by Ichiro to pad Seattle's lead to make it easier on RHP Brandon League, who slammed the door for the save in the bottom of the frame. RHP Tom Wilhelmsen got the win for Seattle following two innings of relief.
CF Yoenis Cespedes, a Cuban defector who signed a four-year, $36 million contract this off-season, was one-for-three with a double and two strikeouts in the game for Oakland in his Major League debut. The capacity crowd at the Tokyo Dome seemed ecstatic every time Ichiro came up to the plate or touched the ball in the field. Ichiro has been dropped to the number three hole in Seattle's batting order and singled in his first at-bat when he beat out Oakland SS Cliff Pennington's throw to first for an infield hit.
Ichiro had another infield hit in the fourth and a clean single to center in the sixth before his extra-inning hit in the 11th. Hernandez pitched eight strong innings in a no-decision for Seattle. RHP Brandon McCarthy pitched seven strong innings in a no-decision for Oakland.
The A's were 1-for-14 with runners in scoring in position. Remember my opening? That's because this game wasn't broadcast live in the U. S. outside of the Seattle market. I was awake at 2:00, and I checked FOX, TBS, ESPN, and the MLB Network, but nary a game was found (the game was shown on a tape-delay by the MLB Network later yesterday). Don't get excited for this morning's game either, because you probably won't find it. The Mets and Cubs played in Tokyo in 2000, and those games were on TV. So were the Yankees and Tampa Bay (then "Devil" Rays) when they opened in Tokyo in 2004. And so were Boston and Oakland when they played in Tokyo back in 2008. Oh by the way, Oakland and Seattle were supposed to play a two-game set in Tokyo back in 2003, but the series was cancelled due to fears over the impending U. S.-invasion of Iraq, and I bet that those games would have been broadcast too. Epic fail MLB, Ted Turner, Disney, and Rupert Murdoch.
Today's probables are RHP Bartolo Colon for Oakland and LHP Jason Vargas for Seattle. Yesterday's game featured an hour-long tribute to the victims of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, narrated by former Baltimore IF Cal Ripken Jr., Yankees SS Derek Jeter, and Boston manager Bobby Valentine (who previously managed the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan for years), and absolutely no one from either Oakland or Seattle.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Ownership Group led by Johnson wins bid for Dodgers
An ownership group led by former NBA player Magic Johnson and longtime baseball executive Stan Kasten has agreed to buy the Dodgers from disgraced owner Frank McCourt for $2 billion. The price would be a new record for a North American sports franchise if the deal goes through, breaking the $1.1 billion Stephen Ross paid for the Miami Dolphins of the NFL in 2009. In addition to Johnson and Kasten, the controlling owners would also include Guggenheim Partners CEO Mark Walter.
The deal came on the heels of an announcement by MLB that three finalists had been approved for an auction, and the deal is still subject to be approved by a bankruptcy court and is not expected to be completed until late April. As a strange part of the deal, McCourt will acquire land in Chavez Ravine surrounding Dodger Stadium for $150 million. The new ownership group also includes Mandalay Entertainment CEO Peter Guber, Guggenheim Partners President Todd Boehly, and oil and gas mogul Bobby Patton.
Johnson, now 52, played 13 seasons for the Los Angeles Lakers and won five NBA championships and three MVP Awards. He retired abruptly in 1991 after being diagnosed with HIV, although he came out of retirement in the 1995-1996 season and has coached in the NBA. Since leaving coaching, he has made a living as a public speaker on HIV awareness.
McCourt bought the team and approximately 250 acres of land in Chavez Ravine surrounding Dodger Stadium from News Corp. CEO Rupert Murdoch for $430 million in 2004. With the sale now all-but approved, it now appears that Katsen will serve as the foremost baseball executive. Other finalists included a group led by Stan Kroenke, who owns the Colorado Rapids of MLS, the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, the St. Louis Rams of the NFL, the Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, and the Arsenal of the Premier League; the last group of finalists included a group led by SAC Capital Advisors founder Steven Cohen, who owns a small share of the Mets, Patrick Soon-Schiong, a biotechnology entrepreneur, and Wasserman Media Group agent Arn Tellem.
MLB has the right to challenge the sale in bankruptcy court in front of Judge Kevin Gross in Delaware. MLB and McCourt made a deal to take the team to auction last November, with a schedule outlined to select the winner by April 1, have the agreement submitted to bankruptcy court by April 6, have the trial begin by April 13, and finalize the sale by April 30. The deal also hinges on the ability of the new ownership group to sell the Dodgers' broadcast rights by 2014.
If the deal goes through it would break the record for a purchase of a Major League Baseball franchise, set in 2009 when the Ricketts family bought the Cubs for $845 million. The Dodgers filed for bankruptcy protection last June when it became apparent that they weren't going to be able to make payroll. They finished in third place in the West last season at a respectable 82-79.
Kasten was hired as a legal counsel by Ted Turner for the Atlanta Braves and Hawks of the NBA in 1976 and became the youngest GM in the history of the NBA when he took the helm for the Hawks in 1979, later becoming president of the Hawks, Braves, and Thrashers of the NHL and later serving in the same capacity for the Washington Nationals from 2006-2010. Following the story of the upcoming sale, Dodgers GM Ned Colleti had dinner with Katsen in Glendale, Arizona. The Dodgers have won the World Series six times, but never since 1988.
Colleti admits that he's happy about the upcoming influx of money into the team.
The deal came on the heels of an announcement by MLB that three finalists had been approved for an auction, and the deal is still subject to be approved by a bankruptcy court and is not expected to be completed until late April. As a strange part of the deal, McCourt will acquire land in Chavez Ravine surrounding Dodger Stadium for $150 million. The new ownership group also includes Mandalay Entertainment CEO Peter Guber, Guggenheim Partners President Todd Boehly, and oil and gas mogul Bobby Patton.
Johnson, now 52, played 13 seasons for the Los Angeles Lakers and won five NBA championships and three MVP Awards. He retired abruptly in 1991 after being diagnosed with HIV, although he came out of retirement in the 1995-1996 season and has coached in the NBA. Since leaving coaching, he has made a living as a public speaker on HIV awareness.
McCourt bought the team and approximately 250 acres of land in Chavez Ravine surrounding Dodger Stadium from News Corp. CEO Rupert Murdoch for $430 million in 2004. With the sale now all-but approved, it now appears that Katsen will serve as the foremost baseball executive. Other finalists included a group led by Stan Kroenke, who owns the Colorado Rapids of MLS, the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, the St. Louis Rams of the NFL, the Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, and the Arsenal of the Premier League; the last group of finalists included a group led by SAC Capital Advisors founder Steven Cohen, who owns a small share of the Mets, Patrick Soon-Schiong, a biotechnology entrepreneur, and Wasserman Media Group agent Arn Tellem.
MLB has the right to challenge the sale in bankruptcy court in front of Judge Kevin Gross in Delaware. MLB and McCourt made a deal to take the team to auction last November, with a schedule outlined to select the winner by April 1, have the agreement submitted to bankruptcy court by April 6, have the trial begin by April 13, and finalize the sale by April 30. The deal also hinges on the ability of the new ownership group to sell the Dodgers' broadcast rights by 2014.
If the deal goes through it would break the record for a purchase of a Major League Baseball franchise, set in 2009 when the Ricketts family bought the Cubs for $845 million. The Dodgers filed for bankruptcy protection last June when it became apparent that they weren't going to be able to make payroll. They finished in third place in the West last season at a respectable 82-79.
Kasten was hired as a legal counsel by Ted Turner for the Atlanta Braves and Hawks of the NBA in 1976 and became the youngest GM in the history of the NBA when he took the helm for the Hawks in 1979, later becoming president of the Hawks, Braves, and Thrashers of the NHL and later serving in the same capacity for the Washington Nationals from 2006-2010. Following the story of the upcoming sale, Dodgers GM Ned Colleti had dinner with Katsen in Glendale, Arizona. The Dodgers have won the World Series six times, but never since 1988.
Colleti admits that he's happy about the upcoming influx of money into the team.
Dickey's book Makes Stunning Revelations
Mets RHP R. A. Dickey has revealed in his upcoming book that he was sexually abused as a child. He says that he was eight years old when his 13-year-old female babysitter began sexually abusing him. Dickey has said that it's important to tell others of abuse when it happens.
In addition, Dickey also goes into detail about contemplating suicide after cheating on his wife. He also alleges that he once saw a syringe on the floor of the Texas clubhouse in 2001. Dickey only played four games with the Rangers that season, so the fact that he saw a syringe out in the open despite being on the roster for a brief period of time would suggest that steroids were rampant on that team.
The book, Wherever I wind up, written by Dickey and Wayne Coffey, will be released tomorrow.
In addition, Dickey also goes into detail about contemplating suicide after cheating on his wife. He also alleges that he once saw a syringe on the floor of the Texas clubhouse in 2001. Dickey only played four games with the Rangers that season, so the fact that he saw a syringe out in the open despite being on the roster for a brief period of time would suggest that steroids were rampant on that team.
The book, Wherever I wind up, written by Dickey and Wayne Coffey, will be released tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Former Sopranos star Reportedly Dating Dykstra's son
Former The Sopranos hottie Jamie-Lynn Sigler is reportedly dating Washington Nationals Minor League IF/OF Cutter Dykstra, the son of former Philadelphia OF Lenny Dykstra, now a convicted felon. A source has told LeRoy that the two have been together for three months and that the relationship is going well. The LA starlet was introduced to the younger Dykstra by Yankees OF Nick Swisher and his girlfriend, the actress Joanna Garcia.
And Sigler seems to like those athletes, as she had previously dated Jets QB Mark Sanchez, but to be fair she also once dated actor Jerry Ferrara, who was her costar on Entourage. Sigler is currently set to star in the Jimmy Fallon pilot Guys with kids. Dykstra tweeted last week that he is happy dating the actress.
And Sigler seems to like those athletes, as she had previously dated Jets QB Mark Sanchez, but to be fair she also once dated actor Jerry Ferrara, who was her costar on Entourage. Sigler is currently set to star in the Jimmy Fallon pilot Guys with kids. Dykstra tweeted last week that he is happy dating the actress.
Beltran Makes good on Offer
St. Louis RF Carlos Beltran has finally made good on his offer to finance Mets LHP Jon Niese's nose job. The procedure reportedly cost $10,000. Beltran joked last season that he would finance the operation if Niese - who formerly had a very distinct and crooked nose - would undergo surgery on his nose.
Niese confirmed to reporters that he had undergone the procedure in October when it became evident that his nose looked noticeably different after he reported to Spring Training in mid-February and had told them that he sent Beltran the bill for the operation. But don't worry folks, Beltran just signed a two-year, $26 million deal with St. Louis this off-season so $10,000 is peanuts to him. Although Niese's nose is noticeably straighter than it had been in the past, the procedure has helped him breath easier out of his nose.
In addition, Niese claims that he lost ten pounds in the off-season due to the fact that he was breathing heavier while working out following the nose job.
Niese confirmed to reporters that he had undergone the procedure in October when it became evident that his nose looked noticeably different after he reported to Spring Training in mid-February and had told them that he sent Beltran the bill for the operation. But don't worry folks, Beltran just signed a two-year, $26 million deal with St. Louis this off-season so $10,000 is peanuts to him. Although Niese's nose is noticeably straighter than it had been in the past, the procedure has helped him breath easier out of his nose.
In addition, Niese claims that he lost ten pounds in the off-season due to the fact that he was breathing heavier while working out following the nose job.
Spring Training Cuts
The Yankees have made a couple of more Spring Training cuts over the past few days. On Sunday, The Yankees optioned RHP Dellin Betances to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and on Monday they also optioned IF Ramiro Pena to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Mets Re-Sign Young to Minor League Contract
The Mets have re-signed RHP Chris Young to a Minor League contract. He is attempting to recover from right anterior capsule surgery - the same procedure that LHP Johan Santana underwent on his left shoulder in September 2010 - after going 1-0 with a 1.88 ERA in four starts last season. He is undergoing a physical in New York today and will then report to Port St. Lucie where he is expected to throw in front of Mets officials.
Young was reportedly seeking a Major League deal all off-season, but went unsigned due to concerns about his long rehab schedule and preexisting injury history, and the odds are that he will not pitch at all this season, considering that Santana is currently attempting a comeback after 18 months of recovery and rehab, and his potential return would be the quickest yet for anterior capsule surgery if he is successful. Further complicating matters, Young has only pitched 120 innings in the Majors since 2009 due to injuries.
Young was reportedly seeking a Major League deal all off-season, but went unsigned due to concerns about his long rehab schedule and preexisting injury history, and the odds are that he will not pitch at all this season, considering that Santana is currently attempting a comeback after 18 months of recovery and rehab, and his potential return would be the quickest yet for anterior capsule surgery if he is successful. Further complicating matters, Young has only pitched 120 innings in the Majors since 2009 due to injuries.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Boots Signs Contract with Kings, is Assigned to ECHL Affiliate
Former Oswego State Lakers F Ian Boots has signed a contract with the Los Angeles Kings and has been assigned to play with the Ontario Reign of the ECHL, the AA-level affiliate for the team. The Lakers were runners-up for the National Championship last week in Lake Placid, New York, with Boots finishing his senior campaign with 28 points in 30 games and being named to the 2012 NCAA All-Tournament Team. A D-I transfer to the Lakers, Boots finished his junior year with the team in 2010-2011 by winning First-Team All-SUNYAC honors and being named a Second Team East All-American in his first of two years in Lakerland.
Before transferring to Oswego State, Boots played for Ohio State and scored 29 points in 50 games in two seasons in the CCHA. He played a year in juniors for the Cornwall Colts and Brockville Braves, both of the CJHL, and scored 74 points in 54 games. He is a native of Akwesasne, New York, an unincorporated native community on both sides of the New York-Ontario, Canada border with roots from a group belonging to the Mohawk Native American tribe, with the New York side resting mostly on the St. Regis Indian Reservation.
Before transferring to Oswego State, Boots played for Ohio State and scored 29 points in 50 games in two seasons in the CCHA. He played a year in juniors for the Cornwall Colts and Brockville Braves, both of the CJHL, and scored 74 points in 54 games. He is a native of Akwesasne, New York, an unincorporated native community on both sides of the New York-Ontario, Canada border with roots from a group belonging to the Mohawk Native American tribe, with the New York side resting mostly on the St. Regis Indian Reservation.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Utley opts Against Surgery
Philadelphia 2B Chase Utley has decided to opt against surgery. Instead, Utley will begin a daily routine that is designed to strengthen both of his balky knees. The routine has been designed by trainer Brett Fischer, who has worked with numerous other athletes with knee issues in the past, including baseball players 1B Adrian Gonzalez (Boston), 1B Justin Morneau (Minnesota), and RHP Kerry Wood (back to the Cubs).
The routine will include standard therapeutic procedures, strength training, and mobilization of certain joints. The now 33-year-old Utley is suffering from left-knee chondromalacia patella, which is basically a roughening of cartilage under the knee. The condition is not believed to be chronic.
The routine will include standard therapeutic procedures, strength training, and mobilization of certain joints. The now 33-year-old Utley is suffering from left-knee chondromalacia patella, which is basically a roughening of cartilage under the knee. The condition is not believed to be chronic.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Spring Training Cuts
The Red Sox and Mets have made another wave of Spring Training cuts in an attempt to trim their active rosters down to 25 for Opening Day.
Yesterday, Boston optioned RHP Clayton Mortensen, RHP Junichi Tazawa, and C Luis Exposito to Pawtucket.
Also yesterday, the Mets optioned 2B Josh Satin to Buffalo.
Yesterday, Boston optioned RHP Clayton Mortensen, RHP Junichi Tazawa, and C Luis Exposito to Pawtucket.
Also yesterday, the Mets optioned 2B Josh Satin to Buffalo.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Joba Injured Playing with son on Trampoline
RHP Joba Chamberlain has dislocated his right ankle and undergone surgery after rolling it while playing with his son on a trampoline. GM Brian Cashman said that bone came through the skin when the ankle dislocated and that Chamberlain is expected to be hospitalized for a few days. The Yankees say that the injury occurred when Chamberlain was playing with his five-year-old son at a Tampa-area hot-spot that has trampoline equipment (the Yankees train in Tampa during Spring Training).
Chamberlain was attempting to return from Tommy John Surgery this season and now he has the ankle deal with, with an MRI and CAT scan set for today.
Chamberlain was attempting to return from Tommy John Surgery this season and now he has the ankle deal with, with an MRI and CAT scan set for today.
Red Sox Pitcher Jenks Arrested
RHP Bobby Jenks was arrested after leaving a strip club in Florida this morning and charged with DUI and leaving the scene of an accident. The accident occurred in the parking lot of "Babes" in Fort Myers, Florida, where Boston trains in Spring Training. According to the Lee County Sheriff's Office, Jenks was released after posting bond.
Aside from DUI and leaving the scene, Jenks also faces two counts of DUI with property damage. Jenks was ordered to appear in court on April 9. Signed to a two-year, $12 million deal following the 2010 season, Jenks spent most of last year on the disabled list and was terrible while healthy, posting a 6.32 ERA in 15.2 innings pitched.
Aside from DUI and leaving the scene, Jenks also faces two counts of DUI with property damage. Jenks was ordered to appear in court on April 9. Signed to a two-year, $12 million deal following the 2010 season, Jenks spent most of last year on the disabled list and was terrible while healthy, posting a 6.32 ERA in 15.2 innings pitched.
2004 Number one Draft pick Bush Arrested Again
The Florida Highway Patrol has charged RHP Matt Bush with several crimes after a traffic accident yesterday. Apparently Bush struck a 72-year-old man on a motorcycle yesterday on US 41 in Florida with his 2011 Dodge SUV. After the accident, Bush left the scene and traveled north on 41 before he was eventually located a short time later after numerous law enforcement agencies were alerted to his vehicle, after which he was arrested and charged with a number of crimes including DUI and was taken to Charlotte County Jail.
The Highway Patrol asserts that Bush hit the motorcycle from behind and then ran over the man's head. Bush has never made the Major Leagues since being drafted number one overall by San Diego in 2004, but he's currently in the Minor League system with Tampa Bay (his third organization) who have declined to comment on the charges. He signed with the Rays in 2010 after having played briefly in the Toronto organization.
This is just another in a long-line of off-field incidents which have plagued Bush's career since he was drafted, most of which have involved alcohol.
The Highway Patrol asserts that Bush hit the motorcycle from behind and then ran over the man's head. Bush has never made the Major Leagues since being drafted number one overall by San Diego in 2004, but he's currently in the Minor League system with Tampa Bay (his third organization) who have declined to comment on the charges. He signed with the Rays in 2010 after having played briefly in the Toronto organization.
This is just another in a long-line of off-field incidents which have plagued Bush's career since he was drafted, most of which have involved alcohol.
Yankees Roster Predictions
Starting Rotation:
1. LHP C. C. Sabathia
2. RHP Hiroki Kuroda
3. RHP Ivan Nova
4. RHP Michael Pineda
5. RHP Freddy Garcia
Bullpen:
1. RHP Mariano Rivera (closer)
2. RHP David Robertson
3. LHP Boone Logan
4. RHP Rafael Soriano
5. RHP Cory Wade
6. LHP Clay Rapada
7. RHP Joba Chamberlain*
Starting Lineup:
1. LF Brett Gardner
2. SS Derek Jeter
3. 2B Robinson Cano
4. 3B Alex Rodriguez
5. 1B Mark Teixeira
6. CF Curtis Granderson
7. RF Nick Swisher
8. DH Raul Ibanez
9. C Russell Martin
Bench:
1. OF Andruw Jones
2. IF Eduardo Nunez
3. C Francisco Cervelli
4. IF Bill Hall
1. LHP C. C. Sabathia
2. RHP Hiroki Kuroda
3. RHP Ivan Nova
4. RHP Michael Pineda
5. RHP Freddy Garcia
Bullpen:
1. RHP Mariano Rivera (closer)
2. RHP David Robertson
3. LHP Boone Logan
4. RHP Rafael Soriano
5. RHP Cory Wade
6. LHP Clay Rapada
7. RHP Joba Chamberlain*
Starting Lineup:
1. LF Brett Gardner
2. SS Derek Jeter
3. 2B Robinson Cano
4. 3B Alex Rodriguez
5. 1B Mark Teixeira
6. CF Curtis Granderson
7. RF Nick Swisher
8. DH Raul Ibanez
9. C Russell Martin
Bench:
1. OF Andruw Jones
2. IF Eduardo Nunez
3. C Francisco Cervelli
4. IF Bill Hall
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Yankees Bench
The Yankees are attempting to repeat as AL East Champions in 2012. As such, they are proceeding with a long list of returning players from 2011. However, there are going to be some new additions on the team's bench.
1. Fourth Outfielder: The fourth outfielder role is designed for defensively strong players. These players typically will lead bench players in games played, though not necessarily at-bats. They need to be ready to enter into almost every game when their team has a late lead to protect for defensive purposes. The front-runner for this role is OF/DH Andruw Jones, who is as ideal a candidate for the role as there ever has been, having won ten Gold Gloves in his career. Jones had an interesting season last year, only batting .247 in 190 at-bats last season, but hitting 13 homers and playing outstanding defense in that time. Just for kicks, giggles, insurance, and depth, OF Justin Maxwell and OF DeWayne Wise are competing for the role.
2. Utility Infielder: The utility infielder essentially serves as a jack of all trades for the manager, being able and willing to play anywhere, but he must be able to play both second base and shortstop. The front-runner for this role is probably IF Eduardo Nunez, a top prospect who filled the role well last season. Nunez batted .265 with 22 stolen bases in 309 at-bats last season and proved that he is capable of playing second, third, and short. Also competing for the role are IF Ramiro Pena, IF Doug Bernier, and IF Bill Hall.
3. Backup Catcher: The backup catcher basically catches day games after night games, comes in for defense late in games on occasion, and makes a spot start every once in awhile when the starter needs an extra day off. The front-runner on paper is C Francisco Cervelli, but it's not exactly a closed competition. Cervelli had a good season last year, batting .266 in 124 at-bats, but his season ended in misery with another concussion and his future is definitely in doubt as post-concussion syndrome has crept in. He's facing competition from top prospect C Austin Romine, C Jose Gil, C Kyle Higashioka, C Gustavo Molina, C J. R. Murphy, and C Gary Sanchez.
4. Backup DH: The Backup DH needs to be a platoon-type player who can do some pinch hitting and can provide a degree of defensive versatility. Being that DH Raul Ibanez bats left-handed, the backup DH figures to profile as a right-handed hitter. However, there doesn't appear to be a clear front-runner for this role. A good fit might be IF Bill Hall, who bats right-handed, can play almost anywhere, and has some power. Hall had a bad season last year, though, batting .211 with only two homers and 14 runs batted in after 185 at-bats with Houston and San Francisco. Other right-handed options in camp are Maxwell, Bernier, Romine, Gil, Higashioka, Molina, Murphy, Sanchez, 3B Jayson Nix, 1B Jorge Vazquez, and LF Cole Garner.
1. Fourth Outfielder: The fourth outfielder role is designed for defensively strong players. These players typically will lead bench players in games played, though not necessarily at-bats. They need to be ready to enter into almost every game when their team has a late lead to protect for defensive purposes. The front-runner for this role is OF/DH Andruw Jones, who is as ideal a candidate for the role as there ever has been, having won ten Gold Gloves in his career. Jones had an interesting season last year, only batting .247 in 190 at-bats last season, but hitting 13 homers and playing outstanding defense in that time. Just for kicks, giggles, insurance, and depth, OF Justin Maxwell and OF DeWayne Wise are competing for the role.
2. Utility Infielder: The utility infielder essentially serves as a jack of all trades for the manager, being able and willing to play anywhere, but he must be able to play both second base and shortstop. The front-runner for this role is probably IF Eduardo Nunez, a top prospect who filled the role well last season. Nunez batted .265 with 22 stolen bases in 309 at-bats last season and proved that he is capable of playing second, third, and short. Also competing for the role are IF Ramiro Pena, IF Doug Bernier, and IF Bill Hall.
3. Backup Catcher: The backup catcher basically catches day games after night games, comes in for defense late in games on occasion, and makes a spot start every once in awhile when the starter needs an extra day off. The front-runner on paper is C Francisco Cervelli, but it's not exactly a closed competition. Cervelli had a good season last year, batting .266 in 124 at-bats, but his season ended in misery with another concussion and his future is definitely in doubt as post-concussion syndrome has crept in. He's facing competition from top prospect C Austin Romine, C Jose Gil, C Kyle Higashioka, C Gustavo Molina, C J. R. Murphy, and C Gary Sanchez.
4. Backup DH: The Backup DH needs to be a platoon-type player who can do some pinch hitting and can provide a degree of defensive versatility. Being that DH Raul Ibanez bats left-handed, the backup DH figures to profile as a right-handed hitter. However, there doesn't appear to be a clear front-runner for this role. A good fit might be IF Bill Hall, who bats right-handed, can play almost anywhere, and has some power. Hall had a bad season last year, though, batting .211 with only two homers and 14 runs batted in after 185 at-bats with Houston and San Francisco. Other right-handed options in camp are Maxwell, Bernier, Romine, Gil, Higashioka, Molina, Murphy, Sanchez, 3B Jayson Nix, 1B Jorge Vazquez, and LF Cole Garner.
Spring Training Cuts
The New York Yankees have made another wave of Spring Training cuts in an effort to trim their active roster down to 25 by Opening Day in early April.
Late Tuesday, the Yankees optioned RHP George Kontos, RHP D. J. Mitchell, RHP David Phelps, and 3B Brandon Laird to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Late Tuesday, the Yankees optioned RHP George Kontos, RHP D. J. Mitchell, RHP David Phelps, and 3B Brandon Laird to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Mets Roster Predictions
Starting Rotation:
1. RHP R. A. Dickey
2. LHP Jonathan Niese
3. RHP Dillon Gee
4. RHP Mike Pelfrey
5. RHP Miguel Batista
Bullpen:
1. RHP Ramon Ramirez (closer I guess)
2. RHP Bobby Parnell
3. RHP Pedro Beato
4. RHP Frank Francisco
5. RHP D. J. Carrasco
6. LHP Tim Byrdak*
7. RHP Chris Schwinden
Starting Lineup:
1. CF Andres Torres*
2. 2B Justin Turner
3. 3B David Wright*
4. 1B Ike Davis
5. LF Jason Bay
6. RF Lucas Duda
7. SS Ronny Cedeno
8. C Josh Thole
Bench:
1. IF Ruben Tejada
2. IF/2B Daniel Murphy
3. C Rob Johnson
4. OF/2B Scott Hairston*
5. ?????
*denotes health problems
?????denotes unknown commodity on roster (translation: if you can figure out who is going to be on this bench with the players they have in place and all of their injuries then LeRoy officially offers to shake your hand and buy you a Macanudo cigar)
1. RHP R. A. Dickey
2. LHP Jonathan Niese
3. RHP Dillon Gee
4. RHP Mike Pelfrey
5. RHP Miguel Batista
Bullpen:
1. RHP Ramon Ramirez (closer I guess)
2. RHP Bobby Parnell
3. RHP Pedro Beato
4. RHP Frank Francisco
5. RHP D. J. Carrasco
6. LHP Tim Byrdak*
7. RHP Chris Schwinden
Starting Lineup:
1. CF Andres Torres*
2. 2B Justin Turner
3. 3B David Wright*
4. 1B Ike Davis
5. LF Jason Bay
6. RF Lucas Duda
7. SS Ronny Cedeno
8. C Josh Thole
Bench:
1. IF Ruben Tejada
2. IF/2B Daniel Murphy
3. C Rob Johnson
4. OF/2B Scott Hairston*
5. ?????
*denotes health problems
?????denotes unknown commodity on roster (translation: if you can figure out who is going to be on this bench with the players they have in place and all of their injuries then LeRoy officially offers to shake your hand and buy you a Macanudo cigar)
Mets Bench
The Mets are attempting to tread water this season, in the second year of their official rebuilding phase. With that being said, they're moving forward with an eclectic mix of returning veterans, young players and prospects, and new acquisitions. One area which should feature all three types of players is their bench.
1. Fourth Outfielder: The fourth outfielder position usually goes to a strong defensive player who will typically lead bench players in games played, though not necessarily at-bats. He needs to be someone who can play all three outfield positions and be ready to enter games after the seventh inning when his team has a lead. Who is the front-runner for this role with the Mets? Good question. GM Sandy Alderson would have you believe that OF/2B Scott Hairston is capable of filling the role, but if you watched the team last year you know that Hairston was used as a pinch hitter and a long-ball threat off the bench most of the year, not as a defensive outfielder. Moreover, if you watched the team last year you undoubtedly saw Hairston misjudge fly balls in left field on a regular basis and not play center or right at all, and for a good reason: He wasn't strong enough defensively to play either of those positions. The fences are shorter this year than they were last year in right field which could make Hairston more versatile in the outfield, but he still can't play center. Plus, Hairston has an oblique injury and hasn't played in Spring Training yet. So that's Hairston. Who else is in competition for the role? Well there's prospect CF Matt Den Dekker, who right now is probably the most capable person for the role, although I doubt the Mets would use this guy in the Majors for anything that wouldn't give him regular at-bats. That's about it. So who will the fourth outfielder be? Good question.
2. Utility Infielder: The utility infielder is typically a jack of all trades who is expected to be willing and able to play just about anywhere. But the most important things for these guys is that they have to be able to play both second base and shortstop. The clear front-runner here is IF Ronny Cedeno, who was signed as a free agent this off-season. Last season in Pittsburgh, Cedeno batted .249 in 413 at-bats as the team's starting shortstop. But let's not start sucking each other's dicks just yet. LeRoy still believes that Cedeno will emerge as the starting shortstop for the Mets, and if that happens, IF Ruben Tejada would then become the utility player. Also competing as longer shots for the role are IF Justin Turner (last year's starting second baseman), SS Jordany Valdespin (a prospect which the team probably wouldn't use off the bench), and SS Omar Quintanilla (a non-roster invitee who may play second base at Buffalo), but none of them are considered to be close to winning the role. I'd put my money on the job falling to Tejada.
3. Backup Catcher: The backup catcher typically catches day games after night games and comes in for defense on occasion, while also giving the starter an extra rest when he needs it. The job is different for the Mets though. The backup catcher in Queens needs to platoon with lefty-hitting starting C Josh Thole (meaning that the backup better be right-handed) and he may have to serve as a personal catcher for both RHP R. A. Dickey and RHP Mike Pelfrey. Who's that person going to be? If I were a betting man, I'd put my money on C Rob Johnson. Johnson's not a good hitter, having batted .190 in 179 at-bats last season with San Diego, but he's better at hitting lefties than Thole (which isn't saying much), he's an excellent fielding catcher, and he could probably catch both Pelfrey and Dickey on a regular basis. C Ronny Paulino left at the end of last season and no one is on a guaranteed contract, but the closest thing to an incumbent the team has is C Mike Nickeas, who probably represents Johnson's biggest competition. Also in the mix is C Lucas May.
4. Left-handed Bat: The left-handed bat usually serves as the team's primary pinch hitter. A good pinch hitter usually needs to be able to hit fastballs on a regular basis. Mets fans have complained about the lack of pinch hitters since Alderson took over last season, but the role has been kept conspicuously vacant for an obvious reason: The best pinch hitter on the team is IF/LF Daniel Murphy. The Mets are touting Murphy as their starting second baseman this season, but that's not going to happen. Second base is going to go back to Turner due to Murphy's fielding difficulties. And then Murph will go back to pinch hitting and that role won't be anywhere near as vacant as it is right now. Until then though, Valdespin, Quintanilla, Den Dekker, OF Mike Baxter, and OF Adam Loewen are nominally competing for the role.
5. Right-Handed Bat: The right-handed bat is typically the 24th or 25th man on the roster. He usually isn't a very consistent pinch hitter but gets used against lefties on a regular basis and pulls his weight with spot starts and a degree of defensive versatility. The person for this role is HairstonNickeas, Cedeno, Turner (who we still think will be the starting second baseman), Johnson, May, 2B Josh Satin, 1B Valentino Pascucci, and LF Vinny Rottino.
1. Fourth Outfielder: The fourth outfielder position usually goes to a strong defensive player who will typically lead bench players in games played, though not necessarily at-bats. He needs to be someone who can play all three outfield positions and be ready to enter games after the seventh inning when his team has a lead. Who is the front-runner for this role with the Mets? Good question. GM Sandy Alderson would have you believe that OF/2B Scott Hairston is capable of filling the role, but if you watched the team last year you know that Hairston was used as a pinch hitter and a long-ball threat off the bench most of the year, not as a defensive outfielder. Moreover, if you watched the team last year you undoubtedly saw Hairston misjudge fly balls in left field on a regular basis and not play center or right at all, and for a good reason: He wasn't strong enough defensively to play either of those positions. The fences are shorter this year than they were last year in right field which could make Hairston more versatile in the outfield, but he still can't play center. Plus, Hairston has an oblique injury and hasn't played in Spring Training yet. So that's Hairston. Who else is in competition for the role? Well there's prospect CF Matt Den Dekker, who right now is probably the most capable person for the role, although I doubt the Mets would use this guy in the Majors for anything that wouldn't give him regular at-bats. That's about it. So who will the fourth outfielder be? Good question.
2. Utility Infielder: The utility infielder is typically a jack of all trades who is expected to be willing and able to play just about anywhere. But the most important things for these guys is that they have to be able to play both second base and shortstop. The clear front-runner here is IF Ronny Cedeno, who was signed as a free agent this off-season. Last season in Pittsburgh, Cedeno batted .249 in 413 at-bats as the team's starting shortstop. But let's not start sucking each other's dicks just yet. LeRoy still believes that Cedeno will emerge as the starting shortstop for the Mets, and if that happens, IF Ruben Tejada would then become the utility player. Also competing as longer shots for the role are IF Justin Turner (last year's starting second baseman), SS Jordany Valdespin (a prospect which the team probably wouldn't use off the bench), and SS Omar Quintanilla (a non-roster invitee who may play second base at Buffalo), but none of them are considered to be close to winning the role. I'd put my money on the job falling to Tejada.
3. Backup Catcher: The backup catcher typically catches day games after night games and comes in for defense on occasion, while also giving the starter an extra rest when he needs it. The job is different for the Mets though. The backup catcher in Queens needs to platoon with lefty-hitting starting C Josh Thole (meaning that the backup better be right-handed) and he may have to serve as a personal catcher for both RHP R. A. Dickey and RHP Mike Pelfrey. Who's that person going to be? If I were a betting man, I'd put my money on C Rob Johnson. Johnson's not a good hitter, having batted .190 in 179 at-bats last season with San Diego, but he's better at hitting lefties than Thole (which isn't saying much), he's an excellent fielding catcher, and he could probably catch both Pelfrey and Dickey on a regular basis. C Ronny Paulino left at the end of last season and no one is on a guaranteed contract, but the closest thing to an incumbent the team has is C Mike Nickeas, who probably represents Johnson's biggest competition. Also in the mix is C Lucas May.
4. Left-handed Bat: The left-handed bat usually serves as the team's primary pinch hitter. A good pinch hitter usually needs to be able to hit fastballs on a regular basis. Mets fans have complained about the lack of pinch hitters since Alderson took over last season, but the role has been kept conspicuously vacant for an obvious reason: The best pinch hitter on the team is IF/LF Daniel Murphy. The Mets are touting Murphy as their starting second baseman this season, but that's not going to happen. Second base is going to go back to Turner due to Murphy's fielding difficulties. And then Murph will go back to pinch hitting and that role won't be anywhere near as vacant as it is right now. Until then though, Valdespin, Quintanilla, Den Dekker, OF Mike Baxter, and OF Adam Loewen are nominally competing for the role.
5. Right-Handed Bat: The right-handed bat is typically the 24th or 25th man on the roster. He usually isn't a very consistent pinch hitter but gets used against lefties on a regular basis and pulls his weight with spot starts and a degree of defensive versatility. The person for this role is HairstonNickeas, Cedeno, Turner (who we still think will be the starting second baseman), Johnson, May, 2B Josh Satin, 1B Valentino Pascucci, and LF Vinny Rottino.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Red Sox Roster Predictions
1. LHP Jon Lester
2. RHP Josh Beckett
3. RHP Clay Buchholz
4. LHP Andrew Miller
5. RHP Aaron Cook
6. RHP Andrew Bailey
7. RHP Mark Melancon
8. RHP Matt Albers
9. LHP Franklin Morales
10. RHP Scott Atchison
11. RHP Alfredo Aceves
12. RHP Daniel Bard
13. C Jarrod Saltalamacchia
14. C Kelly Shoppach
15. 1B Adrian Gonzalez
16. 1B David Ortiz
17. 2B Dustin Pedroia
18. 2B Nick Punto
19. 3B Kevin Youkilis
20. SS Mike Aviles
21. LF Carl Crawford
22. CF Jacoby Ellsbury
23. CF Darnell McDonald
24. RF Ryan Sweeney
25. RF Cody Ross
2. RHP Josh Beckett
3. RHP Clay Buchholz
4. LHP Andrew Miller
5. RHP Aaron Cook
6. RHP Andrew Bailey
7. RHP Mark Melancon
8. RHP Matt Albers
9. LHP Franklin Morales
10. RHP Scott Atchison
11. RHP Alfredo Aceves
12. RHP Daniel Bard
13. C Jarrod Saltalamacchia
14. C Kelly Shoppach
15. 1B Adrian Gonzalez
16. 1B David Ortiz
17. 2B Dustin Pedroia
18. 2B Nick Punto
19. 3B Kevin Youkilis
20. SS Mike Aviles
21. LF Carl Crawford
22. CF Jacoby Ellsbury
23. CF Darnell McDonald
24. RF Ryan Sweeney
25. RF Cody Ross
Red Sox Bench
The Red Sox are attempting to recover from a disastrous collapse in 2011. They have opted to employ the band-aid method, leaving the areas that were successful untouched and attempting to patch up the areas that didn't work. They have a mix of returning and new players competing for spots on their bench.
1. Fourth Outfielder: The fourth outfielder position is designed for players who are exceptionally good defensive outfielders. These players will probably lead bench players in games played though not necessarily at-bats, and will typically be inserted after the seventh inning when the team has a lead to shore up defense in the outfield. The front-runner for this position is probably OF Darnell McDonald. McDonald had a season typical of a fourth outfielder last season, batting .236 in 157 at-bats while playing good defense. He doesn't essentially have any competition for this role.
2. Utility Infielder: The utility infielder is usually a guy who can play almost anywhere, but he definitely needs to be able to play both second base and shortstop. The front-runner for this role appears to be Nick Punto. Punto batted .278 last season in 133 at-bats for St. Louis and is an adequate fielder at a number of positions. He doesn't really have any direct competition for the role, although there are a number of middle infielders in camp including IF Jose Iglesias and IF Pedro Ciriaco.
3. Backup Catcher: The backup catcher will serve as the reserve to the starting catcher, catching day games after night games and coming in on occasion for defense. The front-runner for this position appears to be Kelly Shoppach. Shoppach had a strange season last year, batting .176 in 221 at-bats, although he hit 11 homers in that time and is probably the best defensive catcher in the American League. He faces competition from C Ryan Lavarnway, C Luis Exposito, C Dan Butler, and C Max St. Pierre.
4. Backup DH: The backup DH is usually a guy who's a platoon-type player and a good hitter that can complement the regular DH. Given that DH David Ortiz swings left-handed, the backup DH will probably be a right-handed hitter who can start on occasion against lefty pitchers. The front-runner for that role is probably OF Cody Ross. Ross had a bad season last year in San Francisco, but he has some power and has always been good against lefties. He faces competition from Exposito, Lavarnway, Iglesias, Butler, St. Pierre, Ciriaco, 1B Mauro Gomez, LF Alex Hassan, RF Juan Carlos Linares, and LF Jason Repko.
1. Fourth Outfielder: The fourth outfielder position is designed for players who are exceptionally good defensive outfielders. These players will probably lead bench players in games played though not necessarily at-bats, and will typically be inserted after the seventh inning when the team has a lead to shore up defense in the outfield. The front-runner for this position is probably OF Darnell McDonald. McDonald had a season typical of a fourth outfielder last season, batting .236 in 157 at-bats while playing good defense. He doesn't essentially have any competition for this role.
2. Utility Infielder: The utility infielder is usually a guy who can play almost anywhere, but he definitely needs to be able to play both second base and shortstop. The front-runner for this role appears to be Nick Punto. Punto batted .278 last season in 133 at-bats for St. Louis and is an adequate fielder at a number of positions. He doesn't really have any direct competition for the role, although there are a number of middle infielders in camp including IF Jose Iglesias and IF Pedro Ciriaco.
3. Backup Catcher: The backup catcher will serve as the reserve to the starting catcher, catching day games after night games and coming in on occasion for defense. The front-runner for this position appears to be Kelly Shoppach. Shoppach had a strange season last year, batting .176 in 221 at-bats, although he hit 11 homers in that time and is probably the best defensive catcher in the American League. He faces competition from C Ryan Lavarnway, C Luis Exposito, C Dan Butler, and C Max St. Pierre.
4. Backup DH: The backup DH is usually a guy who's a platoon-type player and a good hitter that can complement the regular DH. Given that DH David Ortiz swings left-handed, the backup DH will probably be a right-handed hitter who can start on occasion against lefty pitchers. The front-runner for that role is probably OF Cody Ross. Ross had a bad season last year in San Francisco, but he has some power and has always been good against lefties. He faces competition from Exposito, Lavarnway, Iglesias, Butler, St. Pierre, Ciriaco, 1B Mauro Gomez, LF Alex Hassan, RF Juan Carlos Linares, and LF Jason Repko.
Yankees DH
The Yankees are attempting to repeat as AL East Champions in 2011. Having said that, the Yankees have made very little changes in the off-season, leaving most of their roster from last season intact. One area with a new player in place, however, is DH.
1. Raul Ibanez: Ibanez was signed late in the off-season to add another left-handed bat to their lineup and to fill what some viewed as a hole at the DH spot. He had a good season last year in Philadelphia, hitting 20 homers. Ibanez has never been a good outfielder and should have probably played first base throughout his career, but that probably is now a moot point as he will be playing for the Yankees as a DH. The Bombers are hoping that Ibanez will be able to provide another 20-homer season this year, though he could be in for a sharp decline as he'll be turning 40 this year.
2. Andruw Jones: Jones was re-signed in the off-season to either return as the team's fourth outfielder or to be the starting DH. With the signing of Ibanez late in the off-season, Jones will now return to the team as a fourth outfielder. The Yankees expect him to play good defense and reach double-digit totals in homers again, and he may get a lot of platoon-like playing time in both left field and at DH.
3. Alex Rodriguez: A-Rod is under contract as the team's third baseman for the foreseeable future, but he's not getting any younger, IF Eduardo Nunez is waiting in the wings, and their may be available playing time at DH. A-Rod had a lost season last year due to injury, batting .276 with only 16 homers, 62 runs batted in, and four stolen bases in 373 at-bats. So far, the team has stated that they want A-Rod to potentially get as many as 50 starts at DH. A-Rod says that he wants to play third base, but he hasn't opposed the move either. The Yankees are hoping that with less-fielding time A-Rod can stay healthy and return to his 2010 form.
4. Derek Jeter: Jeter is under contract as the team's shortstop for the foreseeable future, but he's not getting any younger, Nunez is waiting in the wings, and there may be available playing time at DH. Like A-Rod, the team has publicly stated that they want Jeter to get as many as 50 starts at DH, but Jeter has told manager Joe Girardi flat-out that he's "Derek Jeter and Derek Jeter doesn't play DH." Jeter had a decent but unproductive season last year, batting .297 but producing mediocre numbers beyond that, with his already-poor defense getting worse and worse with age. The Yankees are hoping that he has another decent season this year and won't embarrass himself too much in the field.
5. Mark Teixeira: Teixeira is under contract as the team's first baseman for the forseeable future, but he's not getting any younger and there may be playing time available at DH. Teixeira had an outstanding season last year, hitting 39 homers and driving in 111 runs while playing outstanding defense at first. The Yankees were planning to get Teixeira a small amount of playing time at DH this season just to give him a rest every once in awhile, but with the signing of Ibanez and the logjam created by the injury problems with A-Rod and fielding problems with Jeter, that time now seems to be diminished. The Yankees are hoping that Teixeira has another outstanding season next year.
The Yankees look pretty good at DH. Ibanez isn't the player he once was, but he should provide some left-handed pop in their lineup. Jones will provide a good right-handed complement to Ibanez against lefty pitching. A-Rod, Jeter, and Teixeira will all benefit from occasional playing time at DH.
1. Raul Ibanez: Ibanez was signed late in the off-season to add another left-handed bat to their lineup and to fill what some viewed as a hole at the DH spot. He had a good season last year in Philadelphia, hitting 20 homers. Ibanez has never been a good outfielder and should have probably played first base throughout his career, but that probably is now a moot point as he will be playing for the Yankees as a DH. The Bombers are hoping that Ibanez will be able to provide another 20-homer season this year, though he could be in for a sharp decline as he'll be turning 40 this year.
2. Andruw Jones: Jones was re-signed in the off-season to either return as the team's fourth outfielder or to be the starting DH. With the signing of Ibanez late in the off-season, Jones will now return to the team as a fourth outfielder. The Yankees expect him to play good defense and reach double-digit totals in homers again, and he may get a lot of platoon-like playing time in both left field and at DH.
3. Alex Rodriguez: A-Rod is under contract as the team's third baseman for the foreseeable future, but he's not getting any younger, IF Eduardo Nunez is waiting in the wings, and their may be available playing time at DH. A-Rod had a lost season last year due to injury, batting .276 with only 16 homers, 62 runs batted in, and four stolen bases in 373 at-bats. So far, the team has stated that they want A-Rod to potentially get as many as 50 starts at DH. A-Rod says that he wants to play third base, but he hasn't opposed the move either. The Yankees are hoping that with less-fielding time A-Rod can stay healthy and return to his 2010 form.
4. Derek Jeter: Jeter is under contract as the team's shortstop for the foreseeable future, but he's not getting any younger, Nunez is waiting in the wings, and there may be available playing time at DH. Like A-Rod, the team has publicly stated that they want Jeter to get as many as 50 starts at DH, but Jeter has told manager Joe Girardi flat-out that he's "Derek Jeter and Derek Jeter doesn't play DH." Jeter had a decent but unproductive season last year, batting .297 but producing mediocre numbers beyond that, with his already-poor defense getting worse and worse with age. The Yankees are hoping that he has another decent season this year and won't embarrass himself too much in the field.
5. Mark Teixeira: Teixeira is under contract as the team's first baseman for the forseeable future, but he's not getting any younger and there may be playing time available at DH. Teixeira had an outstanding season last year, hitting 39 homers and driving in 111 runs while playing outstanding defense at first. The Yankees were planning to get Teixeira a small amount of playing time at DH this season just to give him a rest every once in awhile, but with the signing of Ibanez and the logjam created by the injury problems with A-Rod and fielding problems with Jeter, that time now seems to be diminished. The Yankees are hoping that Teixeira has another outstanding season next year.
The Yankees look pretty good at DH. Ibanez isn't the player he once was, but he should provide some left-handed pop in their lineup. Jones will provide a good right-handed complement to Ibanez against lefty pitching. A-Rod, Jeter, and Teixeira will all benefit from occasional playing time at DH.
Red Sox DH
The Red Sox are attempting to recover from a disastrous collapse in 2011. They have opted to employ the band-aid method, leaving the areas that were successful untouched and attempting to patch up the areas that didn't work. One area with a returning player in place is at the DH position.
1. David Ortiz: It's pretty much a one man show at DH in Boston, but it's not a show that many people can complain about, including Ortiz, who accepted arbitration from the team in order to guarantee his return to them in 2012. He had a good season last year, hitting .309 with 29 homers. Ortiz isn't getting any younger, but his production shouldn't take a sharp decline this season, and the Red Sox are hoping for another 20-homer season out of their big lefty.
The Red Sox appear to be okay at DH. Ortiz isn't the player he once was, but he should still be able to supply some punch from the left side of the plate in their lineup.
1. David Ortiz: It's pretty much a one man show at DH in Boston, but it's not a show that many people can complain about, including Ortiz, who accepted arbitration from the team in order to guarantee his return to them in 2012. He had a good season last year, hitting .309 with 29 homers. Ortiz isn't getting any younger, but his production shouldn't take a sharp decline this season, and the Red Sox are hoping for another 20-homer season out of their big lefty.
The Red Sox appear to be okay at DH. Ortiz isn't the player he once was, but he should still be able to supply some punch from the left side of the plate in their lineup.
Whatever Happened to...? A Laker Alumni Update
Whatever happened to Neil Musselwhite?
Neil Musselwhite was a forward born on November 13, 1985 in Burlington, Ontario. He was five feet, ten inches tall and weighed 177 pounds. He shot left-handed.
Musselwhite was a promising amateur player in high school who was extremely fast on skates but went undrafted due to his small size. He decided to play juniors and signed a two-year contract with his hometown Burlington Cougars of the OPJHL in 2002.
In his first year with Burlington he played in four games and tallied two points. In his second year in Burlington he played in 22 games and tallied 19 points before being traded to the Hamilton Red Wings, where he played in 24 games and tallied an additional 14 points. He signed another two-year contract with Hamilton at the end of that season and returned with them in 2004, where he played in 48 games and tallied an amazing 52 points. In his last year in juniors he played in 27 games for Hamilton and tallied 26 points.
He again went undrafted out of juniors and was unable to get much attention from Division I colleges with scouts at both the pro and college level complaining of his small size, in spite of his outstanding speed. Eventually, though, Musselwhite accepted an offer from head coach Ed Gosek to play for the Division II/III Oswego State Lakers.
He first came to the Lakers in 2006, where he played in 28 games and tallied 14 points in helping lead the team to a National Championship at the 2007 Division III Frozen Four in Superior, Wisconsin. In his sophomore year with Oswego State he played in 26 games and tallied 14 points. In his junior year in Lakerland Musselwhite played in 25 games and tallied 12 points. In his senior year Musselwhite was named an assistant captain on the team, played in 29 games and tallied an amazing 36 points. In addition, Musselwhite was selected to play in the Division I Frozen Four Skills Competition in Detroit, Michigan, the only Division II/III player selected to participate in the Competition. While there he came in second place in the hardest shot competition and came in first place in the fastest skater competition, setting a new NCAA record and finally getting the recognition he so rightfully deserved from scouts.
But that still wasn't enough. Musselwhite again went undrafted out of college and was unable to gain a contract from a professional hockey team in the U. S., due again to complaints from scouts about his small size. Luckily, he was able to gain a spot on a hockey team in the Developmental League in Germany. Many Lakers fans were befuddled that the fastest player in the history of the NCAA at any level would end up playing in the Minor League in Germany, but were hopeful that his career would advance thereafter. And their hopes were rewarded when he signed a contract with the independent Fort Wayne Komets of the CHL early in the 2010 season.
With the Komets he played in 26 games and tallied 12 points before he was signed to a contract by the Florida Panthers and was assigned to the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL. After his acquisition by Florida/Cincinnati, Musselwhite played in an additional 20 games without recording a point.
He was cut by the Panthers at the end of the season and retired, noting that he probably wouldn't be able to go straight into another NHL contract and didn't want to return to the small arenas of independent Minor League hockey. He now lives in Burlington, Ontario and works as a color commentator for the Cougars.
Neil Musselwhite was a forward born on November 13, 1985 in Burlington, Ontario. He was five feet, ten inches tall and weighed 177 pounds. He shot left-handed.
Musselwhite was a promising amateur player in high school who was extremely fast on skates but went undrafted due to his small size. He decided to play juniors and signed a two-year contract with his hometown Burlington Cougars of the OPJHL in 2002.
In his first year with Burlington he played in four games and tallied two points. In his second year in Burlington he played in 22 games and tallied 19 points before being traded to the Hamilton Red Wings, where he played in 24 games and tallied an additional 14 points. He signed another two-year contract with Hamilton at the end of that season and returned with them in 2004, where he played in 48 games and tallied an amazing 52 points. In his last year in juniors he played in 27 games for Hamilton and tallied 26 points.
He again went undrafted out of juniors and was unable to get much attention from Division I colleges with scouts at both the pro and college level complaining of his small size, in spite of his outstanding speed. Eventually, though, Musselwhite accepted an offer from head coach Ed Gosek to play for the Division II/III Oswego State Lakers.
He first came to the Lakers in 2006, where he played in 28 games and tallied 14 points in helping lead the team to a National Championship at the 2007 Division III Frozen Four in Superior, Wisconsin. In his sophomore year with Oswego State he played in 26 games and tallied 14 points. In his junior year in Lakerland Musselwhite played in 25 games and tallied 12 points. In his senior year Musselwhite was named an assistant captain on the team, played in 29 games and tallied an amazing 36 points. In addition, Musselwhite was selected to play in the Division I Frozen Four Skills Competition in Detroit, Michigan, the only Division II/III player selected to participate in the Competition. While there he came in second place in the hardest shot competition and came in first place in the fastest skater competition, setting a new NCAA record and finally getting the recognition he so rightfully deserved from scouts.
But that still wasn't enough. Musselwhite again went undrafted out of college and was unable to gain a contract from a professional hockey team in the U. S., due again to complaints from scouts about his small size. Luckily, he was able to gain a spot on a hockey team in the Developmental League in Germany. Many Lakers fans were befuddled that the fastest player in the history of the NCAA at any level would end up playing in the Minor League in Germany, but were hopeful that his career would advance thereafter. And their hopes were rewarded when he signed a contract with the independent Fort Wayne Komets of the CHL early in the 2010 season.
With the Komets he played in 26 games and tallied 12 points before he was signed to a contract by the Florida Panthers and was assigned to the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL. After his acquisition by Florida/Cincinnati, Musselwhite played in an additional 20 games without recording a point.
He was cut by the Panthers at the end of the season and retired, noting that he probably wouldn't be able to go straight into another NHL contract and didn't want to return to the small arenas of independent Minor League hockey. He now lives in Burlington, Ontario and works as a color commentator for the Cougars.
Wilpon, Picard Settle Lawsuit
Fred Wilpon et. al and Irving Picard have agreed to settle rather than go to trial over the business of liquidating the assets of former financier Bernard Madoff. The Wilpons will have to pay $162 million into the fund for the victims of Madoff's ponzi scheme, including the $83 million that the Federal Judge presiding over the case had already ordered them to pay, meaning that they will pay an additional $79 million into the fund. The process began in 2010 and was mediated by former New York Governor Mario Cuomo.
In addition, as victims of the ponzi scheme themselves, the Mets will have the opportunity to collect some, most, or all of the $162 million they have paid into the fund when the stolen money is redistributed to the victims. Jury selection for the trial was to have taken place today. The settlement also concedes that Mets owner Fred Wilpon and Mets President Saul Katz were not "willfully blind" when investing with Madoff.
Fred Wilpon is simply happy to be able to focus on his multiple businesses again, including the New York Mets. Saul Katz is simply happy to be moving past the "negative energy" brought about by the lawsuit. The $162 million is based upon withdrawal of profits by Wilpon and Katz from Madoff's ponzi scheme from 2002 to 2008, which is concurrent with the timeline Picard is using to recover funds from other investors.
Picard and his attorneys have stated that they and the Wilpons will be partners going forward, as they will view the real estate moguls as victims hereafter. Madoff pleaded guilty to 11 federal felonies in 2009. Thus far, Picard has recovered $9 billion of the estimated $60 billion stolen by Madoff.
Picard had originally sued the Wilpons for $1 billion, but that total was knocked down to $386 million before a judge ordered the Wilpons to pay $83 million into the fund and a trial date was set, knocking the total amount of money remaining in the lawsuit to $303 million before the two sides agreed to settle with the Wilpons paying an additional $79 million into the fund. Notable witnesses in the trial included former LHP Sandky Koufax - testifying as a witness for the defense as a fellow victim of the ponzi scheme - and a host of current and former employees of Sterling Equities who were testifying for the prosecution on grounds that they allegedly told the Wilpons that Madoff's returns at greater than 12 percent in a recession were "too good to be true."
In addition, as victims of the ponzi scheme themselves, the Mets will have the opportunity to collect some, most, or all of the $162 million they have paid into the fund when the stolen money is redistributed to the victims. Jury selection for the trial was to have taken place today. The settlement also concedes that Mets owner Fred Wilpon and Mets President Saul Katz were not "willfully blind" when investing with Madoff.
Fred Wilpon is simply happy to be able to focus on his multiple businesses again, including the New York Mets. Saul Katz is simply happy to be moving past the "negative energy" brought about by the lawsuit. The $162 million is based upon withdrawal of profits by Wilpon and Katz from Madoff's ponzi scheme from 2002 to 2008, which is concurrent with the timeline Picard is using to recover funds from other investors.
Picard and his attorneys have stated that they and the Wilpons will be partners going forward, as they will view the real estate moguls as victims hereafter. Madoff pleaded guilty to 11 federal felonies in 2009. Thus far, Picard has recovered $9 billion of the estimated $60 billion stolen by Madoff.
Picard had originally sued the Wilpons for $1 billion, but that total was knocked down to $386 million before a judge ordered the Wilpons to pay $83 million into the fund and a trial date was set, knocking the total amount of money remaining in the lawsuit to $303 million before the two sides agreed to settle with the Wilpons paying an additional $79 million into the fund. Notable witnesses in the trial included former LHP Sandky Koufax - testifying as a witness for the defense as a fellow victim of the ponzi scheme - and a host of current and former employees of Sterling Equities who were testifying for the prosecution on grounds that they allegedly told the Wilpons that Madoff's returns at greater than 12 percent in a recession were "too good to be true."
First Waves of Spring Training cuts come In
The first waves of Spring Training cuts have come in for Boston, the Mets, and the Yankees. The Red Sox made their first cuts on Thursday when they optioned 3B Will Middlebrooks and CF Che-Hsuan Lin to Pawtucket and LHP Drake Britton and 2B Oscar Tejeda to Portland. They made their second wave of cuts on Friday when they released RHP Carlos Silva. The team made its third wave of cuts on Saturday when they optioned RHP Stolmy Pimentel to Portland.
The first wave of cuts came on Thursday for the Mets when they optioned LHP Robert Carson, RHP Jeurys Familia, RHP Jenrry Mejia, 2B Reese Havens, 3B Zach Lutz, and CF Kirk Nieuwenhuis to Buffalo and RHP Armando Rodriguez, SS Wilmer Flores, and LF Juan Lagares to Binghamton. The second wave of cuts came for the Mets yesterday when they optioned RHP Jeremy Hefner to Buffalo and RF Cesar Puello to Binghamton.
The Yankees made their first cuts of the Spring on Friday when they optioned 2B Corban Joseph and CF Melky Mesa to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and 2B David Adams and CF Zoilo Almonte to Trenton.
The first wave of cuts came on Thursday for the Mets when they optioned LHP Robert Carson, RHP Jeurys Familia, RHP Jenrry Mejia, 2B Reese Havens, 3B Zach Lutz, and CF Kirk Nieuwenhuis to Buffalo and RHP Armando Rodriguez, SS Wilmer Flores, and LF Juan Lagares to Binghamton. The second wave of cuts came for the Mets yesterday when they optioned RHP Jeremy Hefner to Buffalo and RF Cesar Puello to Binghamton.
The Yankees made their first cuts of the Spring on Friday when they optioned 2B Corban Joseph and CF Melky Mesa to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and 2B David Adams and CF Zoilo Almonte to Trenton.
Pettitte ends Retirement, at Least for a Couple of Weeks
It probably started when former LHP Andy Pettitte approached current Yankees LHP C. C. Sabathia earlier this Spring and told him he was thinking about trying to play again. Sabathia told him to tryout. After all, he was only six pounds over his normal playing weight and he looked like he could still play when he was working as a special Spring Training coach with the team.
When C Russell Martin heard about the possibility of Pettitte pitching again he described the scenario as "awesome." It certainly wouldn't have been unprecedented. Mike Donlin is believed to be the first baseball player to come out of retirement, and he first retired in 1908. He came out of retirement in 1911 after spending a couple of years as a vaudeville star in Hollywood and a marriage to a starlet.
Pettitte's retirement from baseball was far less dramatic than Donlin's. For that matter, his retirement has been far-less dramatic than Ryne Sandberg's, who retired in 1994 after being named to ten All-Star teams. And his return has been far-less dramatic then other sports figures like NBA player Michael Jordan, who retired from basketball three times, and came back twice (once after pursuing a professional baseball career and once with the Wizards after he bought the team).
Instead, Pettitte's retirement and return is more similar to that of Dave Stieb, a star pitcher in the 1980s who was released in 1992 by Toronto and retired after making four starts with the White Sox in 1993. But he returned to the Blue Jays in 1998 and pitched in 16 games out of the bullpen and made three starts. Pettitte's return in no way mirrors the dramatic return of Johnny King, who walked away from the game after winning the World Series with the Cubs in 1908 and became a professional pool player (winning the World's Pool Championship in 1909), but returned to the Cubs in 1910.
Oh by the way, King's billiard tables are now amongst the most valuable in the world. And of course, Pettitte's retirement is far-less dramatic than the multiple retirements of former teammate Roger Clemens. The best part about that is that, of course, it was Pettitte who convinced Clemens to come out of retirement after he gloriously walked away following a World Series start in 2003.
And Pettitte's return is being treated seriously, unlike the gimmicky returns of Minnie Minoso, who was signed out of the Mexican League at the age of 50 by the White Sox in September 1976 and came out of retirement in September 1980 at the age of 54 again with the White Sox. Minoso had appeared on the Hall of Fame ballot in 1969 before his return from Mexico in '76, and he was the only player to return after appearing on a Hall of Fame ballot before Jose Rijo retired in 1995 after blowing out his elbow, appeared on the Hall of Fame ballot in 2000, and returned to pitch with Cincinnati in 2001. And Pettitte's retirement is nothing like that of Hideo Nomo, who announced his retirement from Nippon Professional Baseball in Japan so that he could avoid the posting system and sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
His comeback attempt will not be viewed with as much scrutiny as that of Manny Ramirez, who will begin his return to the game by serving a 50-game suspension if his comeback attempt is successful. And don't forget about people like Yogi Berra, who retired to become a manager for the Yankees in 1962, was fired after losing the World Series in 1964, and returned to play with the Mets in 1965. Berra again became a coach and eventually a manager with the Mets, winning a World Series ring as a coach in 1969 under manager Gil Hodges and winning another pennant with Mets as a manager in 1973.
Pettitte has been spending his time away from the game by spending time with his family, coaching youth baseball, and taking part in his church activities. But he was never able to grasp the fact that he was no longer a baseball player. Although he was able to go out on his own terms, he still felt an emptiness for the game.
Despite his need to be closer to his family, he was still addicted to the game. Only last summer, Pettitte was adamant that he was loving retirement. But it wasn't long before former teammate Lance Berkman began lobbying for Pettitte to return and pitch for St. Louis.
But Pettitte wouldn't return for any team other than the Yankees. But when the off-season came and went with no solid offers from the Bronx, Pettitte began to believe that perhaps his retirement was permanent. But last Friday the story broke that Pettitte had decided to return after all.
With only a few weeks left in the exhibition season, it will be interesting to see how quickly - or if at all - Pettitte can be ready to pitch in a Spring game, and even then if he can beat out RHP Phil Hughes or RHP Freddy Garcia for a spot in the rotation as a fifth starter or in the bullpen as a long reliever. One of the three has to be cut - and Pettitte is probably that candidate right now in the eyes of manager Joe Girardi (who doesn't get along with Pettitte either) - but the Steinbrenner family may give Pettittearen't hollow in any way.
He definitely was the epitome of a big-game pitcher. Pettitte's return would essentially mean that the Yankees would be willing to trade talent for guts in 2012. Pettitte was probably the least accomplished of the Big Four (also including current Yankees SS Derek Jeter and RHP Mariano Rivera and former C/DH Jorge Posada), but that doesn't mean that he didn't accomplish a lot.
Most of his teammates over the years envied Pettitte's success as much as they did that of the other three. But that only happens when Pettitte plays, not when he's out of the game, and his life after baseball probably won't include a trip to Cooperstown, especially after being linked to the PED scandal and admitting to using HGH. Certainly a lot more people are happier to see him playing then they are to see him retired.
Pettitte was always lauded as a great player even when his numbers didn't match his reputation. He was never the best pitcher on any team that he played on. Two years ago Pettite went 11-3 with a 3.28 ERA in 21 starts, but he hasn't pitched since then and he's now 39.
Pettitte doesn't need the money and he loves spending time with his family, but he loves baseball more than both of those things. Pettitte had both family and baseball during his time with Houston, but he always felt more at home playing thousands of miles away from his family in the Bronx. Pettitte realizes that playing for the Yankees will mark the best time of his life, not spending time with his family.
And now he'll have a couple of more weeks (at least) to relive those times again. There's no doubt that Pettitte's heart beats fastest when he's on the mound, not when he's intimate with his wife. And you can bet that his heart was beating fast when he secretly threw in front of Yankees personnel a couple of days ago.
After the tryout the Yankees signed Pettitte to a Minor League contract and invited him to Spring Training, guaranteeing him $2.5 million if he makes the team. Pettitte tried out in front of GM Brian Cashman, Girardi, pitching coach Larry Rothschild, and assistant GM Gene Michael after being brought into camp as a special spring training coach, and although they were conspicuously absent, you know that Hank and Hal were well aware of everything that happened on that mound. Only a day before Pettitte's number 46 jersey hung from a locker in the coach's room instead of the clubhouse with the rest of the players.
And even the day before the tryout Pettitte was adamant that he was happy in retirement. It turns out that Pettitte had been secretly talking to the Yankees since December. Cashman admitted that he'd offered Pettitte a contract around $11 million to come back and pitch before the acquisitions of RHP Michael Pineda and RHP Hiroki Kuroda.
Pettitte worked out for most of the off-season, and kept his arm in shape by throwing batting practice to his sons. There was another opportunity for a contract on March 10 when both the Yankees and Pettitte were in Lake Buena Vista (the Yankees for a Spring Training game and Pettitte with his church), and an agreement was made on Friday. A potential payroll increase was approved by Hal and suddenly Pettitte has become a favorite to make the team in the eyes of the Yankee fan-base.
But let's not start sucking each other's dicks just yet. Cashman has said that Pettitte will probably need seven weeks to be ready; he has three at most. Pettitte retired on February 4, 2011, and he hasn't thrown a pitch since October 2010. No one really knows how this move will affect the futures of Hughes and Garcia.
Pettitte said that one of the first people he heard from when the story of the signing broke was Posada. Pettite has spent 13 seasons with the Yankees and three seasons with Houston, and now he'll be going for season number 14 out of 17 with New York. He is third all-time in wins in Yankee history and second in strikeouts.
He'll try to move up the ranks now. Jeter has said in the past that nothing surprises him anymore. So he was not shocked when heard the news of Pettitte's comeback attempt.
3B Alex Rodriguez has said that Pettitte will be hailed as a hero every time he enters the Yankees clubhouse as an active player - no matter how long that lasts. RF Nick Swisher said that he was able to connect the dots when he golfed with Pettitte earlier in the exhibition season and noticed that the former pitcher had obviously been working out. RHP Ivan Nova used to view video of Pettitte pitching in the postseason to see how it was supposed to look, and now he may have a chance to view it in person this October.
Jeter told reporters last weekend that a year away from the game may have changed Pettitte's desire to spend time with his wife, Laura. And as happy as as many people are to have Pettitte pitching again, many others are unhappy to see it happening again. Pettitte may certainly be worth a look, but his signing may also spell doom for either Hughes or Garcia.
Hughes has been mostly noncommittal and politically correct since the signing, increased competition, and discussions about the logjam, while Garcia has been more business-like and cut and dry since the signing. Suffering from a swollen hand after being hit by a come backer, Garcia is expected to miss one Spring start while he recovers. Garcia signed a $4 million guaranteed contract with the Yankees last November following a strong 2011 season, but since then the team has acquired Pineda, Kuroda, and now Pettitte, and suddenly Garcia finds himself looking hard at being released.
When C Russell Martin heard about the possibility of Pettitte pitching again he described the scenario as "awesome." It certainly wouldn't have been unprecedented. Mike Donlin is believed to be the first baseball player to come out of retirement, and he first retired in 1908. He came out of retirement in 1911 after spending a couple of years as a vaudeville star in Hollywood and a marriage to a starlet.
Pettitte's retirement from baseball was far less dramatic than Donlin's. For that matter, his retirement has been far-less dramatic than Ryne Sandberg's, who retired in 1994 after being named to ten All-Star teams. And his return has been far-less dramatic then other sports figures like NBA player Michael Jordan, who retired from basketball three times, and came back twice (once after pursuing a professional baseball career and once with the Wizards after he bought the team).
Instead, Pettitte's retirement and return is more similar to that of Dave Stieb, a star pitcher in the 1980s who was released in 1992 by Toronto and retired after making four starts with the White Sox in 1993. But he returned to the Blue Jays in 1998 and pitched in 16 games out of the bullpen and made three starts. Pettitte's return in no way mirrors the dramatic return of Johnny King, who walked away from the game after winning the World Series with the Cubs in 1908 and became a professional pool player (winning the World's Pool Championship in 1909), but returned to the Cubs in 1910.
Oh by the way, King's billiard tables are now amongst the most valuable in the world. And of course, Pettitte's retirement is far-less dramatic than the multiple retirements of former teammate Roger Clemens. The best part about that is that, of course, it was Pettitte who convinced Clemens to come out of retirement after he gloriously walked away following a World Series start in 2003.
And Pettitte's return is being treated seriously, unlike the gimmicky returns of Minnie Minoso, who was signed out of the Mexican League at the age of 50 by the White Sox in September 1976 and came out of retirement in September 1980 at the age of 54 again with the White Sox. Minoso had appeared on the Hall of Fame ballot in 1969 before his return from Mexico in '76, and he was the only player to return after appearing on a Hall of Fame ballot before Jose Rijo retired in 1995 after blowing out his elbow, appeared on the Hall of Fame ballot in 2000, and returned to pitch with Cincinnati in 2001. And Pettitte's retirement is nothing like that of Hideo Nomo, who announced his retirement from Nippon Professional Baseball in Japan so that he could avoid the posting system and sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
His comeback attempt will not be viewed with as much scrutiny as that of Manny Ramirez, who will begin his return to the game by serving a 50-game suspension if his comeback attempt is successful. And don't forget about people like Yogi Berra, who retired to become a manager for the Yankees in 1962, was fired after losing the World Series in 1964, and returned to play with the Mets in 1965. Berra again became a coach and eventually a manager with the Mets, winning a World Series ring as a coach in 1969 under manager Gil Hodges and winning another pennant with Mets as a manager in 1973.
Pettitte has been spending his time away from the game by spending time with his family, coaching youth baseball, and taking part in his church activities. But he was never able to grasp the fact that he was no longer a baseball player. Although he was able to go out on his own terms, he still felt an emptiness for the game.
Despite his need to be closer to his family, he was still addicted to the game. Only last summer, Pettitte was adamant that he was loving retirement. But it wasn't long before former teammate Lance Berkman began lobbying for Pettitte to return and pitch for St. Louis.
But Pettitte wouldn't return for any team other than the Yankees. But when the off-season came and went with no solid offers from the Bronx, Pettitte began to believe that perhaps his retirement was permanent. But last Friday the story broke that Pettitte had decided to return after all.
With only a few weeks left in the exhibition season, it will be interesting to see how quickly - or if at all - Pettitte can be ready to pitch in a Spring game, and even then if he can beat out RHP Phil Hughes or RHP Freddy Garcia for a spot in the rotation as a fifth starter or in the bullpen as a long reliever. One of the three has to be cut - and Pettitte is probably that candidate right now in the eyes of manager Joe Girardi (who doesn't get along with Pettitte either) - but the Steinbrenner family may give Pettittearen't hollow in any way.
He definitely was the epitome of a big-game pitcher. Pettitte's return would essentially mean that the Yankees would be willing to trade talent for guts in 2012. Pettitte was probably the least accomplished of the Big Four (also including current Yankees SS Derek Jeter and RHP Mariano Rivera and former C/DH Jorge Posada), but that doesn't mean that he didn't accomplish a lot.
Most of his teammates over the years envied Pettitte's success as much as they did that of the other three. But that only happens when Pettitte plays, not when he's out of the game, and his life after baseball probably won't include a trip to Cooperstown, especially after being linked to the PED scandal and admitting to using HGH. Certainly a lot more people are happier to see him playing then they are to see him retired.
Pettitte was always lauded as a great player even when his numbers didn't match his reputation. He was never the best pitcher on any team that he played on. Two years ago Pettite went 11-3 with a 3.28 ERA in 21 starts, but he hasn't pitched since then and he's now 39.
Pettitte doesn't need the money and he loves spending time with his family, but he loves baseball more than both of those things. Pettitte had both family and baseball during his time with Houston, but he always felt more at home playing thousands of miles away from his family in the Bronx. Pettitte realizes that playing for the Yankees will mark the best time of his life, not spending time with his family.
And now he'll have a couple of more weeks (at least) to relive those times again. There's no doubt that Pettitte's heart beats fastest when he's on the mound, not when he's intimate with his wife. And you can bet that his heart was beating fast when he secretly threw in front of Yankees personnel a couple of days ago.
After the tryout the Yankees signed Pettitte to a Minor League contract and invited him to Spring Training, guaranteeing him $2.5 million if he makes the team. Pettitte tried out in front of GM Brian Cashman, Girardi, pitching coach Larry Rothschild, and assistant GM Gene Michael after being brought into camp as a special spring training coach, and although they were conspicuously absent, you know that Hank and Hal were well aware of everything that happened on that mound. Only a day before Pettitte's number 46 jersey hung from a locker in the coach's room instead of the clubhouse with the rest of the players.
And even the day before the tryout Pettitte was adamant that he was happy in retirement. It turns out that Pettitte had been secretly talking to the Yankees since December. Cashman admitted that he'd offered Pettitte a contract around $11 million to come back and pitch before the acquisitions of RHP Michael Pineda and RHP Hiroki Kuroda.
Pettitte worked out for most of the off-season, and kept his arm in shape by throwing batting practice to his sons. There was another opportunity for a contract on March 10 when both the Yankees and Pettitte were in Lake Buena Vista (the Yankees for a Spring Training game and Pettitte with his church), and an agreement was made on Friday. A potential payroll increase was approved by Hal and suddenly Pettitte has become a favorite to make the team in the eyes of the Yankee fan-base.
But let's not start sucking each other's dicks just yet. Cashman has said that Pettitte will probably need seven weeks to be ready; he has three at most. Pettitte retired on February 4, 2011, and he hasn't thrown a pitch since October 2010. No one really knows how this move will affect the futures of Hughes and Garcia.
Pettitte said that one of the first people he heard from when the story of the signing broke was Posada. Pettite has spent 13 seasons with the Yankees and three seasons with Houston, and now he'll be going for season number 14 out of 17 with New York. He is third all-time in wins in Yankee history and second in strikeouts.
He'll try to move up the ranks now. Jeter has said in the past that nothing surprises him anymore. So he was not shocked when heard the news of Pettitte's comeback attempt.
3B Alex Rodriguez has said that Pettitte will be hailed as a hero every time he enters the Yankees clubhouse as an active player - no matter how long that lasts. RF Nick Swisher said that he was able to connect the dots when he golfed with Pettitte earlier in the exhibition season and noticed that the former pitcher had obviously been working out. RHP Ivan Nova used to view video of Pettitte pitching in the postseason to see how it was supposed to look, and now he may have a chance to view it in person this October.
Jeter told reporters last weekend that a year away from the game may have changed Pettitte's desire to spend time with his wife, Laura. And as happy as as many people are to have Pettitte pitching again, many others are unhappy to see it happening again. Pettitte may certainly be worth a look, but his signing may also spell doom for either Hughes or Garcia.
Hughes has been mostly noncommittal and politically correct since the signing, increased competition, and discussions about the logjam, while Garcia has been more business-like and cut and dry since the signing. Suffering from a swollen hand after being hit by a come backer, Garcia is expected to miss one Spring start while he recovers. Garcia signed a $4 million guaranteed contract with the Yankees last November following a strong 2011 season, but since then the team has acquired Pineda, Kuroda, and now Pettitte, and suddenly Garcia finds himself looking hard at being released.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
St. Norbert Captures National Championship
The St. Norbert Green Knights captured their second straight NCAA D-III National Championship Saturday night after defeating Oswego 4-1 in Lake Placid, NY. The Green Knights punishing defense and spectacular goaltending propelled them to a dominated victory over the Lakers. St. Norbert forward Cody Keefer recorded a hat trick in the game and goalie David Jacobson was named the MVP after recording 29 saves and playing outstanding throughout the entire tournament. Congratulations to St. Norbert on a spectacular season.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Oswego & St. Norbert Advance to National Championship
The Oswego State Lakers and the St. Norbert Green Knights will square off for a national tittle on Saturday night. St. Norbert dominated Norwich in a 4-1 victory that sent them to the championship game. Oswego defeated Amherst 2-1 in a thrilling overtime victory to advance.
Both teams matchup well with great defense and goaltending. As we saw yesterday both teams will wait for and captialize on an opportunity when it presents itself. Tonight's championship has all the makings for a classic. The puck drops at 7pm tonight at Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid, NY. Follow us on twitter @LeroySportsCrew for all the updates leading up to, during, and after the game.
Both teams matchup well with great defense and goaltending. As we saw yesterday both teams will wait for and captialize on an opportunity when it presents itself. Tonight's championship has all the makings for a classic. The puck drops at 7pm tonight at Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid, NY. Follow us on twitter @LeroySportsCrew for all the updates leading up to, during, and after the game.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
LeRoy Heads to Lake Placid
The LeRoy Crew will travel to Lake Placid, NY to cover the 2012 NCAA D-III Men's Frozen Four. For the lastest updates on and off the ice follow us on our new created twitter page @LeRoySportsCrew.
NCAA D-III Tournament: Frozen Four Preview
The NCAA Division III Frozen Four starts tomorrow night in Lake Placid, New York. The first game takes place at 3:00 tomorrow afternoon and will pit Norwich against St. Norbert in a rematch from two years ago that saw Norwich topple the Green Knights in overtime at the Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid. The second game will feature the Oswego State Lakers facing off against Amherst at 7:30.
Oswego State Lakers
Overall Record: 22-3-2
NCAA History: 13th Appearance (2007 National Champion)
Scoring Offense: 4.67 gpg
Scoring Defense: 1.81 gpg
Power Play: 26.8%
Penalty Kill: 86.0%
Penalties: 16.7 min per game
Leading Scorer: Jon Whitelaw (40 Pts)
Goaltender: Andrew Hare (.929 SV% & 1.77 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated Elmira 5-0 in NCAA Quarterfinal
Amherst Lord Jeffs
Overall Record: 23-3-1
NCAA History: 4th Appearance
Scoring Offense: 3.89 gpg
Scoring Defense: 1.67 gpg
Power Play: 27.6%
Penalty Kill: 86.7%
Penalties: 10.33 min per game
Leading Scorer: Mike Moher (28 Pts)
Goaltender: Jonathan La Rose (.942 SV% & 1.56 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated Plattsburgh 3-1 in NCAA Quarterfinal
This is the first matchup between the Lakers and Jeffs in years. With that being said, these two teams are definitely unfamiliar with each other. The first period of the game could be a little messy as the two teams get to know each other on the ice. Both teams have been ranked in the top five in almost every poll available since the beginning of the season, and it should be a good game. Amherst is strong defensively and their goalie La Rose has been a stud all season long, but hasn't gotten much recognition for it. However, Oswego is a far-superior team offensively.
Oswego definitely holds an advantage in experience. This is their 13th NCAA appearance and third frozen four in a row, although they've lost the last two. Amherst on the other has only been to four NCAA tourneys and has never won a championship. As far as mental preparation is concerned, Oswego should have a clear advantage. It also helps that they played at Herb Brooks Arena only two years ago and are familiar with the Placid ice.
We like Oswego due to their high-octane offense and speed as well as their recent experience in the NCAAs. Aside from mental lapses and bad mistakes, Oswego doesn't have any disadvantages in this game. They might not get ahead by a lot, but they should control most of the game. We like Oswego by one or two goals.
St. Norbert Green Knights
Overall Record: 17-5-5
NCAA History: 13th Appearance (2008 & 2011 National Champions)
Scoring Offense: 3.81 gpg
Scoring Defense: 2.22 gpg
Power Play: 22.8%
Penalty Kill: 88.8%
Penalties: 15.96 min per game
Leading Scorer: Johan Ryd (36 Pts)
Goaltender: David Jacobson (.931 SV% & 1.64 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated St. Thomas 3-1 in NCAA First Round. Defeated Gustavus Adolphus 4-1 in NCAA Quarterfinals
Norwich Cadets
Overall Record: 23-2-2
NCAA History: 12th Appearance (2000, 2003, & 2010 National Champions)
Scoring Offense: 4.81 gpg
Scoring Defense: 1.74 gpg
Power Play: 30.5%
Penalty Kill: 80.5%
Penalties: 10.33 min per game
Leading Scorer: Pier-Olivier Cotnoir (40 Pts)
Goaltender: Parker Carroll (.884 SV% & 2.02 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated Wentworth 3-0 in NCAA Quarterfinal
This one looks like it's going to go to Norwich. They've been ranked as one of the top teams all year, went into the NCAAs as the number one team in the nation and have been playing some of their best hockey of the year in the past couple of weeks. But that's only on paper. In person, Norwich is much stronger both offensively and defensively. However, St. Norbert goalie Jacobsen is a stud and Carroll has really struggled this season. The advantage here definitely goes to the Green Knights. If the Cadets lose this game it will happen in between the pipes. We still like Norwich by two or three goals though.
Oswego State Lakers
Overall Record: 22-3-2
NCAA History: 13th Appearance (2007 National Champion)
Scoring Offense: 4.67 gpg
Scoring Defense: 1.81 gpg
Power Play: 26.8%
Penalty Kill: 86.0%
Penalties: 16.7 min per game
Leading Scorer: Jon Whitelaw (40 Pts)
Goaltender: Andrew Hare (.929 SV% & 1.77 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated Elmira 5-0 in NCAA Quarterfinal
Amherst Lord Jeffs
Overall Record: 23-3-1
NCAA History: 4th Appearance
Scoring Offense: 3.89 gpg
Scoring Defense: 1.67 gpg
Power Play: 27.6%
Penalty Kill: 86.7%
Penalties: 10.33 min per game
Leading Scorer: Mike Moher (28 Pts)
Goaltender: Jonathan La Rose (.942 SV% & 1.56 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated Plattsburgh 3-1 in NCAA Quarterfinal
This is the first matchup between the Lakers and Jeffs in years. With that being said, these two teams are definitely unfamiliar with each other. The first period of the game could be a little messy as the two teams get to know each other on the ice. Both teams have been ranked in the top five in almost every poll available since the beginning of the season, and it should be a good game. Amherst is strong defensively and their goalie La Rose has been a stud all season long, but hasn't gotten much recognition for it. However, Oswego is a far-superior team offensively.
Oswego definitely holds an advantage in experience. This is their 13th NCAA appearance and third frozen four in a row, although they've lost the last two. Amherst on the other has only been to four NCAA tourneys and has never won a championship. As far as mental preparation is concerned, Oswego should have a clear advantage. It also helps that they played at Herb Brooks Arena only two years ago and are familiar with the Placid ice.
We like Oswego due to their high-octane offense and speed as well as their recent experience in the NCAAs. Aside from mental lapses and bad mistakes, Oswego doesn't have any disadvantages in this game. They might not get ahead by a lot, but they should control most of the game. We like Oswego by one or two goals.
St. Norbert Green Knights
Overall Record: 17-5-5
NCAA History: 13th Appearance (2008 & 2011 National Champions)
Scoring Offense: 3.81 gpg
Scoring Defense: 2.22 gpg
Power Play: 22.8%
Penalty Kill: 88.8%
Penalties: 15.96 min per game
Leading Scorer: Johan Ryd (36 Pts)
Goaltender: David Jacobson (.931 SV% & 1.64 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated St. Thomas 3-1 in NCAA First Round. Defeated Gustavus Adolphus 4-1 in NCAA Quarterfinals
Norwich Cadets
Overall Record: 23-2-2
NCAA History: 12th Appearance (2000, 2003, & 2010 National Champions)
Scoring Offense: 4.81 gpg
Scoring Defense: 1.74 gpg
Power Play: 30.5%
Penalty Kill: 80.5%
Penalties: 10.33 min per game
Leading Scorer: Pier-Olivier Cotnoir (40 Pts)
Goaltender: Parker Carroll (.884 SV% & 2.02 GAA)
Road to Frozen Four: Defeated Wentworth 3-0 in NCAA Quarterfinal
This one looks like it's going to go to Norwich. They've been ranked as one of the top teams all year, went into the NCAAs as the number one team in the nation and have been playing some of their best hockey of the year in the past couple of weeks. But that's only on paper. In person, Norwich is much stronger both offensively and defensively. However, St. Norbert goalie Jacobsen is a stud and Carroll has really struggled this season. The advantage here definitely goes to the Green Knights. If the Cadets lose this game it will happen in between the pipes. We still like Norwich by two or three goals though.
Yankees Right Fielders
The Yankees are attempting to repeat as AL East Champions in 2012. With that being said, they are proceeding with a number of returning players from last season. One area with a returning player in place is right field.
1. Nick Swisher: Swisher returns to the Yankees this season for his fourth year as the team's right fielder. He had a good season last year, hitting 23 home runs with 85 runs batted in. Although he's not known for his defensive capabilities, he can man right field at Yankee Stadium. In addition, look for Swisher to get some time at first base this year too. The Yankees are hoping for another 20-homer season out of their right fielder.
2. Andruw Jones: Jones was brought back to be the team's starting DH until OF Raul Ibanez was signed, and now he'll return to his role as a fourth outfielder. He only batted .247 in 190 at-bats last year, but he did belt 13 homers in that time. Jones - a ten-time Gold Glove Award winner - is probably the best defensive outfielder on the team (if not in the league) and should get plenty of time in both right and left, as well as at DH, especially against lefty pitchers. The Yankees are hoping for another season of good defense and a double-digit total of home runs from him.
3. Chris Dickerson: Dickerson was in good shape to break camp as a fourth outfielder with the team until Ibanez was signed, but now his chances are much more dim. He had a decent season last year, batting .260 in 50 at-bats. He probably doesn't have any chance of making the team as a defensive outfielder playing behind Jones and a left-handed hitter that the team doesn't need. He should still provide good depth at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre though.
4. Justin Maxwell: Maxwell is a former top prospect in the Washington organization whom the Yankees acquired in a trade last off-season and is well-liked in the organization and was brought back this season. He was injured for most of last season, batting .260 in 177 at-bats at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, hitting 16 homers and stealing 11 bases in that time. A good defensive outfielder, he's behind both Jones and Dickerson right now in that category, although he is competing for a job as a right-handed bat off the bench and a backup DH to Ibanez.
The Yankees look pretty good in right field. Swisher is a good complementary player who can provide power from both sides of the plate lower in the order. Jones is about as good of a fourth outfielder as a team could ask for. Dickerson and Maxwell will provide good depth from AAA.
1. Nick Swisher: Swisher returns to the Yankees this season for his fourth year as the team's right fielder. He had a good season last year, hitting 23 home runs with 85 runs batted in. Although he's not known for his defensive capabilities, he can man right field at Yankee Stadium. In addition, look for Swisher to get some time at first base this year too. The Yankees are hoping for another 20-homer season out of their right fielder.
2. Andruw Jones: Jones was brought back to be the team's starting DH until OF Raul Ibanez was signed, and now he'll return to his role as a fourth outfielder. He only batted .247 in 190 at-bats last year, but he did belt 13 homers in that time. Jones - a ten-time Gold Glove Award winner - is probably the best defensive outfielder on the team (if not in the league) and should get plenty of time in both right and left, as well as at DH, especially against lefty pitchers. The Yankees are hoping for another season of good defense and a double-digit total of home runs from him.
3. Chris Dickerson: Dickerson was in good shape to break camp as a fourth outfielder with the team until Ibanez was signed, but now his chances are much more dim. He had a decent season last year, batting .260 in 50 at-bats. He probably doesn't have any chance of making the team as a defensive outfielder playing behind Jones and a left-handed hitter that the team doesn't need. He should still provide good depth at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre though.
4. Justin Maxwell: Maxwell is a former top prospect in the Washington organization whom the Yankees acquired in a trade last off-season and is well-liked in the organization and was brought back this season. He was injured for most of last season, batting .260 in 177 at-bats at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, hitting 16 homers and stealing 11 bases in that time. A good defensive outfielder, he's behind both Jones and Dickerson right now in that category, although he is competing for a job as a right-handed bat off the bench and a backup DH to Ibanez.
The Yankees look pretty good in right field. Swisher is a good complementary player who can provide power from both sides of the plate lower in the order. Jones is about as good of a fourth outfielder as a team could ask for. Dickerson and Maxwell will provide good depth from AAA.
Wright's Injury Diagnosed, Timetable set, sort Of
Mets 3B David Wright has now been diagnosed with a tear in one of his abdominal muscles. He is currently wearing an ice cap over the injury. Wright will wait 48 hours for the cortisone shot to take effect, and then get back into baseball activities and be ready by Opening Day, which is the timetable he has set for himself.
But even Wright admits that that is only a tentative schedule. After all, Wright has torn his left rectus abdominis (an injury that was underdiagnosed for ten days), the same injury that ended in surgeries for Washington 3B Ryan Zimmerman and Baltimore RF Nick Markakis. Wright insists that his injury is less severe than those of the other two players.
Right now, the timetable for Wright's return is Opening Day. This news comes a day after manager Terry Collins blew a gasket (publicly) over the high number of injuries on his team after IF Ruben Tejada went down with a groin injury. Collins explained later that he was merely frustrated and was not blaming his players in any way for being injured.
But even Wright admits that that is only a tentative schedule. After all, Wright has torn his left rectus abdominis (an injury that was underdiagnosed for ten days), the same injury that ended in surgeries for Washington 3B Ryan Zimmerman and Baltimore RF Nick Markakis. Wright insists that his injury is less severe than those of the other two players.
Right now, the timetable for Wright's return is Opening Day. This news comes a day after manager Terry Collins blew a gasket (publicly) over the high number of injuries on his team after IF Ruben Tejada went down with a groin injury. Collins explained later that he was merely frustrated and was not blaming his players in any way for being injured.
Whatever Happened to...? A Laker Alumni Update
Whatever happened to Tyler Lyon?
Tyler Lyon was a defender born on February 4, 1985 in Foxboro, Ontario. He stood at six feet tall and weighed 177 pounds. He shot left-handed.
Lyon was an outstanding amateur player in Canada and shined as a defender, but went undrafred out of high school with scouts complaining that he was too slow for the pro level. In 2001, he signed a contract to play juniors with the Wellington Dukes of the OPJHL.
His first year with Wellington wasn't much to shout about, as he only played in one game. His second year in Wellington, though, saw him suit up for 38 games and tally 22 points. He played in 47 games in his third year with Wellington and tallied 20 points. The year after that he played in 49 games for Wellington and tallied 35 points. His fifth and final year in Wellington saw Lyon play in 47 games and tally 51 points.
Despite his strong play in juniors which consisted of standout defense and a huge amount of points for defenders (mostly on assists), Lyon again went undrafted due to his speed on the ice. Unfortunately for Lyon, he was said to be too slow for the Division I game in America as well. With his career hanging in the balance, Lyon decided to accept an offer to play for the Division II/III Oswego State Lakers from head coach Ed Gosek.
In his freshman year with the Lakers Lyon played in 27 games and tallied nine points in helping lead the Lakers on the defensive side of the ice to a National Championship. His sophomore year in Oswego saw Lyon play in 26 games and tally ten points. In his junior year Lyon played in 23 games and tallied 12 points. In his senior year with the Lakers, Lyon was named team captain and tallied 17 points in 29 games and played outstanding defense along the way.
Despite his strong play in college, Lyon again went undrafted out of college with scouts still complaining about his speed. However, he quickly signed a contract with the independent Pensacola Ice Flyers of the SPHL.
In his first year in Pensacola Lyon played in 55 games and tallied 19 points. He began this season with Pensacola again, adding a goal and an assist in 11 games before he was traded to the Louisiana IceGators in a three-way deal that also included the Fayetteville FireAntz, both independent teams also of the SPHL. With Louisiana, Lyon has played in 40 games and racked up an additional 21 points this season.
He looks forward to continuing his professional career and advancing through the minor league hockey system in the years to come.
Tyler Lyon was a defender born on February 4, 1985 in Foxboro, Ontario. He stood at six feet tall and weighed 177 pounds. He shot left-handed.
Lyon was an outstanding amateur player in Canada and shined as a defender, but went undrafred out of high school with scouts complaining that he was too slow for the pro level. In 2001, he signed a contract to play juniors with the Wellington Dukes of the OPJHL.
His first year with Wellington wasn't much to shout about, as he only played in one game. His second year in Wellington, though, saw him suit up for 38 games and tally 22 points. He played in 47 games in his third year with Wellington and tallied 20 points. The year after that he played in 49 games for Wellington and tallied 35 points. His fifth and final year in Wellington saw Lyon play in 47 games and tally 51 points.
Despite his strong play in juniors which consisted of standout defense and a huge amount of points for defenders (mostly on assists), Lyon again went undrafted due to his speed on the ice. Unfortunately for Lyon, he was said to be too slow for the Division I game in America as well. With his career hanging in the balance, Lyon decided to accept an offer to play for the Division II/III Oswego State Lakers from head coach Ed Gosek.
In his freshman year with the Lakers Lyon played in 27 games and tallied nine points in helping lead the Lakers on the defensive side of the ice to a National Championship. His sophomore year in Oswego saw Lyon play in 26 games and tally ten points. In his junior year Lyon played in 23 games and tallied 12 points. In his senior year with the Lakers, Lyon was named team captain and tallied 17 points in 29 games and played outstanding defense along the way.
Despite his strong play in college, Lyon again went undrafted out of college with scouts still complaining about his speed. However, he quickly signed a contract with the independent Pensacola Ice Flyers of the SPHL.
In his first year in Pensacola Lyon played in 55 games and tallied 19 points. He began this season with Pensacola again, adding a goal and an assist in 11 games before he was traded to the Louisiana IceGators in a three-way deal that also included the Fayetteville FireAntz, both independent teams also of the SPHL. With Louisiana, Lyon has played in 40 games and racked up an additional 21 points this season.
He looks forward to continuing his professional career and advancing through the minor league hockey system in the years to come.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Mets Right Fielders
The Mets are attempting to tread water in 2012. With that being said, the Mets are going forward with an eclectic mix of returning stars, up-and-coming Minor Leaguers, and veteran free agent signees. One area with a young player tentatively in place is right field.
1. Lucas Duda: The Dude is preparing for his first full season in the Majors. He looked good in two-thirds of a season last year in the Majors, batting .292 in 301 at-bats. He looks like he's going to be a capable hitter at the Major League level with a ton of power, but the questions surrounding him involve defense. He's a natural first baseman who hasn't really ever proven that he can play the outfield in the Majors. The Mets are hoping he can be a capable fielder this year and can produce anywhere between 20 and 37 homers with a lot of runs produced.
2. Scott Hairston: The Mets have brought Hairston back to reprise his role as a right-handed bat off of the bench. He had an unusual season last year before going down with an injury in mid-August, batting .235 in 132 at-bats, but hitting seven home runs in that time. Defense is another matter entirely for Hairston. He's a natural second baseman and is mediocre - at best - in the outfield, and last season he struggled mightily in Citi Field's spacious dimensions, not getting much time in right at all, which was one of the toughest right fields in the Majors for the first three years of its existence. The dimensions are considerably smaller this season, but that shouldn't equate to more playing time for Hairston. The Mets are hoping that Hairston can provide a level of stability as a righty pinch hitter and produce some power off the bench.
3. Cesar Puello: Puello is a top prospect who the Mets have placed on their 40-man roster. He had a good season at St. Lucie last year, batting .259 in 441 at-bats, although he only stole a disappointing 19 bases and scored only 67 runs. Another issue with Puello is his patience, as he drew only 18 walks and struck out an alarming 103 times. That tells me that he was swinging at almost everything, and that he was coming up empty quite a bit. He's a good outfielder though, and the Mets are hoping that he can get back on track a little bit as he continues to progress through the Minors. Puello probably needs another two full years in the Minors and he's likely headed to Binghamton this year, although a strong campaign in the Minors could end in a September call-up for Puello. The Mets want Puello to raise his average about 20 points, cut down on his strikeouts, take more pitches and start stealing bases and scoring runs at a batter pace this year in the Minors.
4. Adam Loewen: Baseball fans may recognize Loewen's name but may also be surprised to see him under the right field title: He was drafted by the Orioles in the first round in 2002 and came on the scene as a promising rookie in 2006, as a starting pitcher. A number of injuries and general ineffectiveness ended his pitching career, and now he's trying to get to the Majors as a hitter and outfielder. He got a September call-up last year in Toronto after a strong showing in Las Vegas but he didn't perform well, batting .182 in 32 at-bats. A big left-hander, Loewen hasn't developed much power yet but he has been a decent hitter in the Minors, despite a disturbing tendency to strike out. Loewen's also a good corner outfielder with an absolute gun for an arm, and he has a chance to win a job as a lefty pinch hitter with the Mets in the Spring, though he's probably an underdog in that role right now. If he doesn't make the team he should provide interesting depth at Buffalo.
The Mets look a little murky in right field, but not exactly bad. Duda should be decent at worse, and he has the makings to become a stud if not a star. Hairston can be a decent bat off the bench. Puello's a good prospect who could become a productive player in the Majors in a few years. And Loewen might make a good bench player.
1. Lucas Duda: The Dude is preparing for his first full season in the Majors. He looked good in two-thirds of a season last year in the Majors, batting .292 in 301 at-bats. He looks like he's going to be a capable hitter at the Major League level with a ton of power, but the questions surrounding him involve defense. He's a natural first baseman who hasn't really ever proven that he can play the outfield in the Majors. The Mets are hoping he can be a capable fielder this year and can produce anywhere between 20 and 37 homers with a lot of runs produced.
2. Scott Hairston: The Mets have brought Hairston back to reprise his role as a right-handed bat off of the bench. He had an unusual season last year before going down with an injury in mid-August, batting .235 in 132 at-bats, but hitting seven home runs in that time. Defense is another matter entirely for Hairston. He's a natural second baseman and is mediocre - at best - in the outfield, and last season he struggled mightily in Citi Field's spacious dimensions, not getting much time in right at all, which was one of the toughest right fields in the Majors for the first three years of its existence. The dimensions are considerably smaller this season, but that shouldn't equate to more playing time for Hairston. The Mets are hoping that Hairston can provide a level of stability as a righty pinch hitter and produce some power off the bench.
3. Cesar Puello: Puello is a top prospect who the Mets have placed on their 40-man roster. He had a good season at St. Lucie last year, batting .259 in 441 at-bats, although he only stole a disappointing 19 bases and scored only 67 runs. Another issue with Puello is his patience, as he drew only 18 walks and struck out an alarming 103 times. That tells me that he was swinging at almost everything, and that he was coming up empty quite a bit. He's a good outfielder though, and the Mets are hoping that he can get back on track a little bit as he continues to progress through the Minors. Puello probably needs another two full years in the Minors and he's likely headed to Binghamton this year, although a strong campaign in the Minors could end in a September call-up for Puello. The Mets want Puello to raise his average about 20 points, cut down on his strikeouts, take more pitches and start stealing bases and scoring runs at a batter pace this year in the Minors.
4. Adam Loewen: Baseball fans may recognize Loewen's name but may also be surprised to see him under the right field title: He was drafted by the Orioles in the first round in 2002 and came on the scene as a promising rookie in 2006, as a starting pitcher. A number of injuries and general ineffectiveness ended his pitching career, and now he's trying to get to the Majors as a hitter and outfielder. He got a September call-up last year in Toronto after a strong showing in Las Vegas but he didn't perform well, batting .182 in 32 at-bats. A big left-hander, Loewen hasn't developed much power yet but he has been a decent hitter in the Minors, despite a disturbing tendency to strike out. Loewen's also a good corner outfielder with an absolute gun for an arm, and he has a chance to win a job as a lefty pinch hitter with the Mets in the Spring, though he's probably an underdog in that role right now. If he doesn't make the team he should provide interesting depth at Buffalo.
The Mets look a little murky in right field, but not exactly bad. Duda should be decent at worse, and he has the makings to become a stud if not a star. Hairston can be a decent bat off the bench. Puello's a good prospect who could become a productive player in the Majors in a few years. And Loewen might make a good bench player.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Whatever Happened to...? A Laker Alumni Update
Whatever happened to Kyle Roberts?
Most Laker fans probably won't remember Kyle Roberts. He was a defender born on January 6, 1986 and was a standout high school hockey player from Whitesboro, New York. He stood at five feet, ten inches tall and weighed 180 pounds. He shot right-handed.
Going undrafted out of college, Roberts decided to attend SUNY Oswego after being told by a recruiter in the Athletics Department that he would have a chance to tryout for the standout Division II/III hockey team on campus. This was probably a lie told by a shameless recruiter, but Roberts attended the tryout and impressed Lakers head coach Ed Gosek enough to earn a spot on the team.
But Roberts did not have a rewarding career in Lakerland, as he sat below the fourth line for most of the season and rarely dressed for a game. All told, he only played in one game the Lakers without tallying a point. At the end of the season, with new recruits coming in, Roberts was cut by Gosek and opted to leave Oswego.
Roberts again went undrafted and was unable to gain a professional contract. As another blow, Roberts was unable to gain another spot or tryout on a college hockey team. Luckily for him, he was able to gain a contract with the Wellington Dukes of the OPJHL.
While with the Dukes, Roberts played in 40 games, tallying 12 points and playing outstanding defense. Roberts was unhappy with the Juniors environment after playing in the high-octane SUNYAC for a season, and he was determined to bolt as soon as another offer from a college or pro team came his way. So when SUNY Morrisville came calling with a guaranteed spot on their newly-formed team, Roberts decided to leave Juniors.
In his first year with the Morrisville Mustangs, Roberts played in 24 games and tallied three assists. in his second year with the Mustangs, Roberts played in 22 games and tallied nine points. In his senior season in college and third in Morrisville, Roberts played in 20 games and tallied five points.
Despite being noted as one of the best defenders in all of Division II/III hockey during his three years with Morrisville, Roberts went undrafted out of college due primarily to complaints about his size, which was thought to be too small for a professional defender. However, he quickly signed a contract with the independent Rome Frenzy of the FHL.
Roberts was one of the standout players for Rome, playing outstanding defense in 44 games and tallying 13 points. However, the team suffered from extreme financial strains and ceased operations before the end of its first season, ending Roberts' professional career.
He now lives in Utica, New York and works for an accounting firm.
Most Laker fans probably won't remember Kyle Roberts. He was a defender born on January 6, 1986 and was a standout high school hockey player from Whitesboro, New York. He stood at five feet, ten inches tall and weighed 180 pounds. He shot right-handed.
Going undrafted out of college, Roberts decided to attend SUNY Oswego after being told by a recruiter in the Athletics Department that he would have a chance to tryout for the standout Division II/III hockey team on campus. This was probably a lie told by a shameless recruiter, but Roberts attended the tryout and impressed Lakers head coach Ed Gosek enough to earn a spot on the team.
But Roberts did not have a rewarding career in Lakerland, as he sat below the fourth line for most of the season and rarely dressed for a game. All told, he only played in one game the Lakers without tallying a point. At the end of the season, with new recruits coming in, Roberts was cut by Gosek and opted to leave Oswego.
Roberts again went undrafted and was unable to gain a professional contract. As another blow, Roberts was unable to gain another spot or tryout on a college hockey team. Luckily for him, he was able to gain a contract with the Wellington Dukes of the OPJHL.
While with the Dukes, Roberts played in 40 games, tallying 12 points and playing outstanding defense. Roberts was unhappy with the Juniors environment after playing in the high-octane SUNYAC for a season, and he was determined to bolt as soon as another offer from a college or pro team came his way. So when SUNY Morrisville came calling with a guaranteed spot on their newly-formed team, Roberts decided to leave Juniors.
In his first year with the Morrisville Mustangs, Roberts played in 24 games and tallied three assists. in his second year with the Mustangs, Roberts played in 22 games and tallied nine points. In his senior season in college and third in Morrisville, Roberts played in 20 games and tallied five points.
Despite being noted as one of the best defenders in all of Division II/III hockey during his three years with Morrisville, Roberts went undrafted out of college due primarily to complaints about his size, which was thought to be too small for a professional defender. However, he quickly signed a contract with the independent Rome Frenzy of the FHL.
Roberts was one of the standout players for Rome, playing outstanding defense in 44 games and tallying 13 points. However, the team suffered from extreme financial strains and ceased operations before the end of its first season, ending Roberts' professional career.
He now lives in Utica, New York and works for an accounting firm.
Byrdak Undergoes Surgery
Mets LHP Tim Byrdak will have surgery tomorrow to repair a torn meniscus in his left (push-off) knee. There is no timetable for his return. Byrdak was re-signed to a one-year, $1 million contract after posting a 3.82 ERA in 72 appearances last season as a lefty specialist.
Byrdak was the clear front-runner to remain in the bullpen as a lefty specialist, reprising his role from 2011, this season, although he was ostensibly competing with fellow returnee LHP Daniel Ray Herrera (who was acquired for RHP Francisco Rodriguez as a player-to-be-named later in September), Mets Minor Leaguer LHP Robert Carson, and non-roster invitees LHP Chuck James and LHP Garrett Olson, and one of those four will likely fill that role on Opening Day, unless Byrdak makes a miraculously quick recovery. In other Mets news, 3B David Wright is being examined in New York and may undergo an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection on his strained left rib cage.
Byrdak was the clear front-runner to remain in the bullpen as a lefty specialist, reprising his role from 2011, this season, although he was ostensibly competing with fellow returnee LHP Daniel Ray Herrera (who was acquired for RHP Francisco Rodriguez as a player-to-be-named later in September), Mets Minor Leaguer LHP Robert Carson, and non-roster invitees LHP Chuck James and LHP Garrett Olson, and one of those four will likely fill that role on Opening Day, unless Byrdak makes a miraculously quick recovery. In other Mets news, 3B David Wright is being examined in New York and may undergo an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection on his strained left rib cage.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Red Sox Right Fielders
The Red Sox are attempting to recover from a disastrous collapse in 2011. As such, they have employed the band-aid method, leaving the pieces that worked well in place and attempting to patch up the areas which did not work well. One area that was both a problem last season but has neither been patched up is right field.
1. Ryan Sweeney: Sweeney is a young player who was a former top prospect and a former starter in the Majors who has experienced some success, holding a career .283 batting average, but has otherwise been unremarkable. Last season with Oakland he batted .265 in 264 at-bats. Sweeney's not known for his defense, but that shouldn't be a problem in right field at Fenway. The Red Sox are hoping that he can hit for a respectable average and provide some left-handed balance to the bottom of the order.
2. Cody Ross: Ross was signed as a free agent in the off-season after spending parts of the past two seasons in San Francisco. A right-handed hitter with a good arm and some power, Ross struggled last season with the Giants, batting .240 with only 11 homers and 52 runs batted in with 405 at-bats. The right field situation is somewhat wide open and Ross could find himself in the running for a right field job, especially if he provides good pop and/or if Sweeney struggles. Either way, Ross will probably find himself in a super platoon, splitting time with left-handed hitters Sweeney, LF Carl Crawford and DH David Ortiz. The Red Sox are hoping that Ross can provide good balance against lefties and provide some power in a reserve role.
3. Darnell McDonald: McDonald returns to Boston for his third season with the team as a fourth outfielder after two strong campaigns in 2010 and 2011. McDonald was considered the front-runner for the right field job less than a month ago, although manager Bobby Valentine is now leaning more toward a platoon of Sweeney and Ross. McDonald is arguably the second-best defensive outfielder on the team behind only CF Jacoby Ellsbury and should get a lot of playing time in the corners with weak outfielders in Crawford and Sweeney and he should also spell Ellsbury when he needs a rest. McDonald only batted .236 in 157 at-bats last season and Boston should not expect much more playing time or production from him this season, although his defense should remain strong.
4. Ryan Kalish: Kalish is a former top prospect who cracked the Majors for much of the 2010 season but was injured most of last year. He wasn't particularly productive when he was healthy in 2011 either, batting .228 in 92 at-bats. Kalish is a nice-looking young player but he's found himself behind a host of other veterans at multiple positions and he's probably headed back to Pawtucket, although he should be the first outfielder recalled when a need arises.
5. Josh Kroeger: Kroeger is a former top prospect with Arizona who Boston has signed to a Minor League contract and invited to Spring Training. Kroeger batted .284 in 282 at-bats last season for New Orleans and is not known for his defense. He has some power and a decent arm and will get a long look in Spring Training, but he'll likely be given his unconditional release following the exhibition season.
6. Juan Carlos Linares: Linares is a veteran player who defected from Cuba and joined the Boston organization in 2010. His professional career hasn't gotten very far off the ground yet though, due both to negotiation problems and injuries. He only batted .233 in 60 at-bats last year for Pawtucket, and both his range and arm in the outfield have proven to be less than advertised. Boston still believes in Linares, but with his age concerns - he admits to being 28 (probably too old for a career Minor Leaguer) and that has been called into question - and his poor performances and injury problems haven't done anything to reassure the organization of any hidden talent. Having said that, it's hard to say how much longer Boston will be willing to wait for Linares to develop.
The Red Sox look moderate in right field. Sweeney is a very mediocre player, but he should hold his own defensively in right and at least hit for a respectable average. Ross had a bad season last year in San Francisco, but he's a good defensive corner outfielder and should be productive if utilized properly against lefties. McDonald is an ideal fourth outfielder. Kalish still has a lot of potential at Pawtucket. Kroeger is interesting for depth although he probably won't remain with the organization for very long. Linares is really a mystery.
1. Ryan Sweeney: Sweeney is a young player who was a former top prospect and a former starter in the Majors who has experienced some success, holding a career .283 batting average, but has otherwise been unremarkable. Last season with Oakland he batted .265 in 264 at-bats. Sweeney's not known for his defense, but that shouldn't be a problem in right field at Fenway. The Red Sox are hoping that he can hit for a respectable average and provide some left-handed balance to the bottom of the order.
2. Cody Ross: Ross was signed as a free agent in the off-season after spending parts of the past two seasons in San Francisco. A right-handed hitter with a good arm and some power, Ross struggled last season with the Giants, batting .240 with only 11 homers and 52 runs batted in with 405 at-bats. The right field situation is somewhat wide open and Ross could find himself in the running for a right field job, especially if he provides good pop and/or if Sweeney struggles. Either way, Ross will probably find himself in a super platoon, splitting time with left-handed hitters Sweeney, LF Carl Crawford and DH David Ortiz. The Red Sox are hoping that Ross can provide good balance against lefties and provide some power in a reserve role.
3. Darnell McDonald: McDonald returns to Boston for his third season with the team as a fourth outfielder after two strong campaigns in 2010 and 2011. McDonald was considered the front-runner for the right field job less than a month ago, although manager Bobby Valentine is now leaning more toward a platoon of Sweeney and Ross. McDonald is arguably the second-best defensive outfielder on the team behind only CF Jacoby Ellsbury and should get a lot of playing time in the corners with weak outfielders in Crawford and Sweeney and he should also spell Ellsbury when he needs a rest. McDonald only batted .236 in 157 at-bats last season and Boston should not expect much more playing time or production from him this season, although his defense should remain strong.
4. Ryan Kalish: Kalish is a former top prospect who cracked the Majors for much of the 2010 season but was injured most of last year. He wasn't particularly productive when he was healthy in 2011 either, batting .228 in 92 at-bats. Kalish is a nice-looking young player but he's found himself behind a host of other veterans at multiple positions and he's probably headed back to Pawtucket, although he should be the first outfielder recalled when a need arises.
5. Josh Kroeger: Kroeger is a former top prospect with Arizona who Boston has signed to a Minor League contract and invited to Spring Training. Kroeger batted .284 in 282 at-bats last season for New Orleans and is not known for his defense. He has some power and a decent arm and will get a long look in Spring Training, but he'll likely be given his unconditional release following the exhibition season.
6. Juan Carlos Linares: Linares is a veteran player who defected from Cuba and joined the Boston organization in 2010. His professional career hasn't gotten very far off the ground yet though, due both to negotiation problems and injuries. He only batted .233 in 60 at-bats last year for Pawtucket, and both his range and arm in the outfield have proven to be less than advertised. Boston still believes in Linares, but with his age concerns - he admits to being 28 (probably too old for a career Minor Leaguer) and that has been called into question - and his poor performances and injury problems haven't done anything to reassure the organization of any hidden talent. Having said that, it's hard to say how much longer Boston will be willing to wait for Linares to develop.
The Red Sox look moderate in right field. Sweeney is a very mediocre player, but he should hold his own defensively in right and at least hit for a respectable average. Ross had a bad season last year in San Francisco, but he's a good defensive corner outfielder and should be productive if utilized properly against lefties. McDonald is an ideal fourth outfielder. Kalish still has a lot of potential at Pawtucket. Kroeger is interesting for depth although he probably won't remain with the organization for very long. Linares is really a mystery.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Whatever Happened to...? A Laker Alumni Update
Whatever happened to Ryan Scott?
Scott was a goalie from Williamsville, New York born on April 18, 1983. He was five feet ten inches tall and weighed 195 pounds.
Scott was an outstanding goalie in high school, but he went undrafted and attempted to sign a contract with a Juniors team in Canada. When that didn't pan out, Scott instead signed with the Buffalo Lightning in Amherst, New York, who played in the OPJHL at the time (the team is now known as the Buffalo Jr. Sabres). Scott played in 29 games for Buffalo that season but was unremarkable in net. Buffalo decided not to retain Scott at the end of that season and he was unable to find a contract with a Juniors team elsewhere.
Scott went to work on his Uncle's farm for a year as he was unable to find a spot on a hockey team anywhere. After a year he decided to attend Oswego State University, in part because he was offered a tryout on the standout Division II/III Lakers. The tryout was probably a lie told to him by a shameless recruiter as Oswego scouts its players extensively and typically sets its roster well before the beginning of the season, but Scott nonetheless arrived for the tryout and impressed head coach Ed Gosek enough where he made the team.
Scott played in 17 games his freshman year, posting an 11-5-1 record and a 0.926 save percentage. He played in 25 games his sophomore year and posted a 16-7-1 record and a 0.896 save percentage. He played in 25 games his junior season and posted a 19-3-3 record and a 0.921 save percentage, leading the Lakers to a National Championship. In his senior season he played in 23 games and posted a 15-6-1 record and a 0.921 save percentage.
Scott went undrafted out of college but quickly signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins and was sent to the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL.
Scott's NHL career never got off the ground though, as he rode the bench as the third string goalie for Wheeling and only played in three games in his first pro season, going 1-1 and posting a save percentage of 0.879. Following the season he was not retained by Pittsburgh and became a free agent.
Following his release from Pittsburgh he quickly signed a contract with the independent Amarillo Gorillas of the CHL.
Scott played in eight games with Amarillo before being released, going 2-5 with a 0.886 save percentage. He quickly signed a contract with the independent Richmond Renegades of the SPHL after his release from Amarillo. With Richmond he played in 33 games and went 14-13-3 and posted a 0.898 save percentage.
After the season Scott signed a contract with the independent Pensacola Ice Flyers, also of the SPHL. For Pensacola, Scott played in 37 games and posted a 15-17-5 record and a 0.903 save percentage. He returned to Pensacola the next season and played in 38 games, going 17-20 and posting a 0.901 save percentage.
Scott tired of the long bus rides and small venues and retired after the 2010-2011 season. He returned to Western New York where he works in customer service for Verizon.
Scott was a goalie from Williamsville, New York born on April 18, 1983. He was five feet ten inches tall and weighed 195 pounds.
Scott was an outstanding goalie in high school, but he went undrafted and attempted to sign a contract with a Juniors team in Canada. When that didn't pan out, Scott instead signed with the Buffalo Lightning in Amherst, New York, who played in the OPJHL at the time (the team is now known as the Buffalo Jr. Sabres). Scott played in 29 games for Buffalo that season but was unremarkable in net. Buffalo decided not to retain Scott at the end of that season and he was unable to find a contract with a Juniors team elsewhere.
Scott went to work on his Uncle's farm for a year as he was unable to find a spot on a hockey team anywhere. After a year he decided to attend Oswego State University, in part because he was offered a tryout on the standout Division II/III Lakers. The tryout was probably a lie told to him by a shameless recruiter as Oswego scouts its players extensively and typically sets its roster well before the beginning of the season, but Scott nonetheless arrived for the tryout and impressed head coach Ed Gosek enough where he made the team.
Scott played in 17 games his freshman year, posting an 11-5-1 record and a 0.926 save percentage. He played in 25 games his sophomore year and posted a 16-7-1 record and a 0.896 save percentage. He played in 25 games his junior season and posted a 19-3-3 record and a 0.921 save percentage, leading the Lakers to a National Championship. In his senior season he played in 23 games and posted a 15-6-1 record and a 0.921 save percentage.
Scott went undrafted out of college but quickly signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins and was sent to the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL.
Scott's NHL career never got off the ground though, as he rode the bench as the third string goalie for Wheeling and only played in three games in his first pro season, going 1-1 and posting a save percentage of 0.879. Following the season he was not retained by Pittsburgh and became a free agent.
Following his release from Pittsburgh he quickly signed a contract with the independent Amarillo Gorillas of the CHL.
Scott played in eight games with Amarillo before being released, going 2-5 with a 0.886 save percentage. He quickly signed a contract with the independent Richmond Renegades of the SPHL after his release from Amarillo. With Richmond he played in 33 games and went 14-13-3 and posted a 0.898 save percentage.
After the season Scott signed a contract with the independent Pensacola Ice Flyers, also of the SPHL. For Pensacola, Scott played in 37 games and posted a 15-17-5 record and a 0.903 save percentage. He returned to Pensacola the next season and played in 38 games, going 17-20 and posting a 0.901 save percentage.
Scott tired of the long bus rides and small venues and retired after the 2010-2011 season. He returned to Western New York where he works in customer service for Verizon.
Friday, March 9, 2012
NCAA Quarterfinal: Elmira at Oswego Preview
The Oswego State Lakers will host Elmira in the Quarterfinal round of the 2012 NCAA D-III Men's Ice Hockey Tournament Saturday night. Both Oswego and Elmira received at-large bids into the tournament and a first round bye into the quarterfinals. Oswego enters the game as the No. 2 team in the nation and No. 2 seed in the East with a record of 23-3-2. The Lakers were upset at home last Saturday in the SUNYAC Championship game by rival Plattsburgh State 3-2. Elmira enters the match-up ranked 11th in the nation and the No. 5 seed in the East with a record of 15-8-3. The Soaring Eagles were knocked out of the ECAC West tournament in the semifinals by Neumann in OT 5-4. Here's a quick preview of both teams.
Oswego State Lakers
Overall Record: 22-3-2
NCAA History: 13th Appearance (2007 National Champion)
Scoring Offense: 4.67 gpg
Scoring Defense: 1.81 gpg
Power Play: 26.8%
Penalty Kill: 86.0%
Penalties: 16.7 min per game
Leading Scorer: Jon Whitelaw (40 Pts)
Goaltender: Andrew Hare (.929 SV% & 1.77 GAA)
Elmira Soaring Eagles
Overall Record: 15-8-3
NCAA History: 18th Appearance
Scoring Offense: 3.73 gpg
Scoring Defense: 2.88 gpg
Power Play: 17.0%
Penalty Kill: 79%
Penalties: 16.7 min per game
Leading Scorer: Kevin Willer (33 Pts)
Goaltender: Darren McDonald (.892 SV% & 3.01 GAA)
Our Pick
Oswego has the clear advantage in all major categories (Offense, Defense, Special Teams, & Goaltending). Oswego and Elmira met twice earlier this season in a home-and-home series. Oswego swept the series winning 7-3 and 6-2. The Lakers play very well at home, especially in the NCAAs winning their previous three home quarterfinal games against Norwich and Bowdoin (2). Plus, Elmira hasn't beating Oswego in the Campus Center Ice Arena since 2007. However, the typical Oswego environment their accustom to isn't expected to be out in full force. The students begin their Spring Break this afternoon and are kicked out of the dorms Saturday morning. Most will not stick around for the Saturday night game. The key to the game for Oswego will be to play clean and play smart. If Oswego doesn't overlook this round and doesn't beat themselves they should win easily. We like Oswego by at least three goals.
The puck drops Saturday night at 7:00pm in the Campus Center Ice Arena. According to Oswego State Athletics there are plenty of tickets still available for the game. If you are unable to make it up to Oswego the game will be streamed live online via the athletics page or can always be heard on WNYO.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)