RF Nick Swisher left yesterday's game against Detroit after drawing a walk in the third inning due to a tight left hamstring and will undergo an MRI. He struck out in the bottom of the first and made a putout in the top of the third on a line drive hit by Tigers CF Austin Jackson, a play for which he barely had to move. Swisher was then walked by RHP Max Scherzer in the bottom of the third and stayed in the game for two pitches to DH Raul Ibanez and a pick-off attempt at first base, but he was then removed for PR Andruw Jones after complaining of the tightness.
Swisher currently leads the American League in extra-base hits and is second in runs batted in.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Fister to Begin Rehab
Detroit RHP Doug Fister, injured in his first start of the season on April 7, will make his first rehab start on Wednesday with Toledo. He could rejoin the rotation after only one start. Fister was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a strained rib cage in his 2012 debut against Boston after pitching 3.2 scoreless innings.
Fister threw a problem-free bullpen session Saturday. He went 8-1 with a 1.79 ERA in ten starts for Detroit after being acquired in a mid-season trade from Seattle, normally pitching behind RHP Justin Verlander, who won the AL Cy Young Award last season.
Fister threw a problem-free bullpen session Saturday. He went 8-1 with a 1.79 ERA in ten starts for Detroit after being acquired in a mid-season trade from Seattle, normally pitching behind RHP Justin Verlander, who won the AL Cy Young Award last season.
Sherrill to Undergo Tommy John Surgery
Seattle LHP George Sherill will undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery on May 4. He only pitched in two innings this season before being shut down with elbow discomfort after allowing four earned runs in 1.1 innings pitched. Last season, Sherill went 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA in 36 innings pitched for Atlanta and Seattle signed the 35-year-old former All-Star to a one-year, $1.1 million contract in the off-season.
Seattle currently has LHP Charlie Furbush and LHP Lucas Luetge in the bullpen.
Seattle currently has LHP Charlie Furbush and LHP Lucas Luetge in the bullpen.
Garcia Removed from Rotation
The Yankees have moved RHP Freddy Garcia to the bullpen. The announcement was made yesterday, one day after he gave up six runs in 1.2 innings pitched against Detroit and saw his ERA climb to 12.51. Garcia went 12-8 with a 3.62 ERA last season for New York and he was re-signed in the off-season to a one-year, $4 million contract, although he's been the worst pitcher in a bad rotation so far this season.
In addition, RHP Michael Pineda is gone for the season and RHP Phil Hughes is pitching true to form (in other words, badly). The obvious choice to replace Garcia in the rotation is rookie RHP David Phelps, a top prospect who made the team out of Spring Training as a long reliever. Garcia's turn in the rotation won't come around until Thursday, so an announcement is not imminent and if the team is forced to use Phelps out of the bullpen between now and then he likely won't be able to make a start, and with plenty of off days in their schedule the Yankees could presumably skip the fifth starter's spot the next time it comes around and call up LHP Andy Pettitte when Garcia's spot comes up a second time. Pettitte pitched for Tampa today and could need one or two more starts before he is ready to return to the Majors.
In addition, RHP Michael Pineda is gone for the season and RHP Phil Hughes is pitching true to form (in other words, badly). The obvious choice to replace Garcia in the rotation is rookie RHP David Phelps, a top prospect who made the team out of Spring Training as a long reliever. Garcia's turn in the rotation won't come around until Thursday, so an announcement is not imminent and if the team is forced to use Phelps out of the bullpen between now and then he likely won't be able to make a start, and with plenty of off days in their schedule the Yankees could presumably skip the fifth starter's spot the next time it comes around and call up LHP Andy Pettitte when Garcia's spot comes up a second time. Pettitte pitched for Tampa today and could need one or two more starts before he is ready to return to the Majors.
Hamilton Leaves game with Stiff back
Texas LF Josh Hamilton left last night's game against Tampa Bay with stiffness in his back. He currently leads the American League in homers and runs batted in. Hamilton also leads the AL in total bases and slugging percentage and was injured while running from first to second on a force-out, although he stayed in the game for two more innings.
Tampa Bay won the game 5-2.
Tampa Bay won the game 5-2.
Oakland Signs Inge
Oakland has agreed to terms on a contract with free agent IF Brandon Inge. Minnesota, Baltimore, and Arizona had also shown interest in the 34-year-old who was released by Detroit on Thursday after spending his entire 12-year career there. Inge is expected to split time at third base with the A's with IF Eric Sogard, IF Josh Donaldson, and IF Luke Hughes after losing 3B Scott Sizemore with torn left knee ligaments in Spring Training.
Inge lost his starting job in Detroit after they signed 1B Prince Fielder and a domino effect resulted in Miguel Cabrera being moved back to third base, and he was competing for playing time at second base but was slowed down by injuries and bad offense, batting .197 in 2011 and only .100 with six strikeouts and two extra base hits this season. Oakland is responsible for the pro-rated league minimum for him as the Tigers are on the hook for the rest of his $5.5 million salary.
Inge lost his starting job in Detroit after they signed 1B Prince Fielder and a domino effect resulted in Miguel Cabrera being moved back to third base, and he was competing for playing time at second base but was slowed down by injuries and bad offense, batting .197 in 2011 and only .100 with six strikeouts and two extra base hits this season. Oakland is responsible for the pro-rated league minimum for him as the Tigers are on the hook for the rest of his $5.5 million salary.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Inge Released
After a months-long rumored split, Detroit has finally released IF Brandon Inge. The 34-year-old tried to convert to second base this season but injured his groin and started the year on the disabled list, and he only batted .100 with one homer and two runs batted in after he returned in nine games. Inge has played his entire 12-season career in Detroit and was named an All-Star in 2009, batting .234 with 140 homers and 589 runs batted in during his career.
Huff Placed on Disabled list
San Francisco has placed 1B Aubrey Huff on the 15-day disabled list with anxiety after he left the team to deal with family issues and announced that he expects to discuss those issues when he returns this weekend. He is currently going through a divorce and has struggled both offensively and defensively this season, though the nature of his anxiety problems remain a mystery. Several other Major Leaguers such as Cincinnati 1B Joey Votto, Milwaukee RHP Zach Greinke (then a member of Kansas City), and former Major League LHP Justin Duchscherer (then a member of Oakland) have been placed on the disabled list in recent seasons due to anxiety problems.
Reyes to Continue Leading off
Both 1B Albert Pujols and SS Jose Reyes are struggling with their new teams this season, but Florida manager Ozzie Guillen has said that Reyes will not be removed from the lead-off spot despite hitting only .205 with a .263 on-base percentage so far this season, mostly because he leads the Marlins in most offensive stats despite his struggles. The obvious choice to replace him is CF Emilio Bonifacio, who is currently batting .263 with a .354 on-base percentage in the number two hole.
Hudson to make Season Debut Thursday
Atlanta RHP Tim Hudson will make his season debut Sunday against Pittsburgh. Recovering from off-season back surgery, he went 2-2 with a 3.57 ERA in four rehab starts and led Atlanta's staff in wins, ERA, innings pitched, and WHIP last season. To make room for Hudson on the roster, Atlanta has optioned RHP Jair Jurrjens to AAA.
Trout will not be Recalled
The Angels will not call up OF Mike Trout. He is a top prospect who is currently batting .419 with 13 runs batted in at AAA but struggled during his first taste of Major League action last season, batting .220 with five homers, 16 runs batted in, four stolen bases, and a .281 on-base percentage in 40 games last season. However, Trout will likely be recalled if a starting outfielder - such as CF Peter Bourjos or LF Vernon Wells - is injured or loses his starting job.
The Angels are currently in last place in the AL West and are already nine games behind Texas.
The Angels are currently in last place in the AL West and are already nine games behind Texas.
Pelfrey out for Season
RHP Mike Pelfrey has a partial tear in his right elbow and will likely undergo Tommy John surgery and miss the remainder of the season. The announcement was made almost immediately after yesterday's win over Florida. Pelfrey had posted no decisions with a 2.29 ERA in three starts this season and has been a remarkably durable pitcher for the Mets - if at times frustrating and ineffective - over the past four seasons.
The news came as a blow for Pelfrey and the Mets after he excelled in his last start against San Francisco and appeared well on his way to a rebound from last season, when he went 7-13 with a 4.74 ERA. He said he felt tightness on several occasions during his start against the Giants but that it usually went away quickly and that he was prepared for his next start tonight against Colorado. Pelfrey later said that he thought the symptoms were consistent with tendinitis and was later placed on the 15-day disabled list when an MRI revealed swelling in his elbow.
Pelfrey considered undergoing "alternative therapy" which consisted of an injection, although he was told that there was only a 20 percent chance that the therapy would work and he was afraid that if it were not successful that he would compensate by altering his delivery and mechanics and then putting stress on his shoulder.
The news came as a blow for Pelfrey and the Mets after he excelled in his last start against San Francisco and appeared well on his way to a rebound from last season, when he went 7-13 with a 4.74 ERA. He said he felt tightness on several occasions during his start against the Giants but that it usually went away quickly and that he was prepared for his next start tonight against Colorado. Pelfrey later said that he thought the symptoms were consistent with tendinitis and was later placed on the 15-day disabled list when an MRI revealed swelling in his elbow.
Pelfrey considered undergoing "alternative therapy" which consisted of an injection, although he was told that there was only a 20 percent chance that the therapy would work and he was afraid that if it were not successful that he would compensate by altering his delivery and mechanics and then putting stress on his shoulder.
Crawford out Indefinitely
It has been announced that LF Carl Crawford has a sprained ligament in his left elbow and is now out indefinitely. The injury was first diagnosed by Boston's medical staff and was then confirmed by Dr. James Andrews, with the outfielder undergoing blood-platelet spinning therapy (which doesn't work by most accounts) and deciding to sit out during the first phases of treatment. There is no timetable for Crawford's return, but it has been speculated by joint doctors who work as technical advisers with Boston media outlets that the injury should sideline him for about three months.
Crawford batted .255 with 11 homers, 56 runs batted in, and 18 stolen bases last season, the first in a seven-year, $142 million contract.
Crawford batted .255 with 11 homers, 56 runs batted in, and 18 stolen bases last season, the first in a seven-year, $142 million contract.
PETCO to get Dimension Change?
San Diego is considering moving the fences in at PETCO Park after hearing complaints that the park is too pitcher-friendly since the venue opened in 2004. CEO Tom Garfinkle said that no discussions about what the new dimensions would be have taken place and that the decision will not be final until October.
Rays Reportedly Close to Signing Matsui
In a long-rumored deal with no comment from any of the principles, Tampa Bay is reportedly close to signing DH/LF Hideki Matsui to a Minor League contract. The 37-year-old lefty hitter batted .251 with 12 homers and 72 runs batted in for Oakland last season but didn't draw any interest in the off-season or in Spring Training after having only played 68 games in the outfield over the past four seasons. The deal would reportedly land Matsui in AAA where he would only be promoted if he were to perform well at the plate.
In nine Major League seasons with the A's, Yankees, and Angels, Matsui has posted a career .285 batting average with 173 homers and 753 runs batted in.
In nine Major League seasons with the A's, Yankees, and Angels, Matsui has posted a career .285 batting average with 173 homers and 753 runs batted in.
Blue Jays Closer out a Month
Toronto has lost RHP Sergio Santos (their closer) for what is believed to be a period of approximately a month due to discomfort and soreness in his right shoulder. He was examined by Dr. Lewis Yocum and no structural damage was found before being placed on the disabled list last Saturday. Santos had gone 0-1 with a 9.00 ERA and two saves this season before going down with the injury, after posting a 3.55 ERA with 30 saves last season for the White Sox before an off-season trade brought him to the cold and frozen north.
Without Santos, Toronto will use RHP Francisco Cordero, signed in the off-season and one of the greatest closers of all-time, as their ninth-inning man.
Without Santos, Toronto will use RHP Francisco Cordero, signed in the off-season and one of the greatest closers of all-time, as their ninth-inning man.
Crawford to Undergo Elbow Exam
LF Carl Crawford will have his sore left elbow examined by the dreaded Dr. James Andrews. Crawford began the season on the disabled list due to left wrist surgery in January and appeared to be primed for his season debut until experiencing elbow soreness in rehab games. Manager Bobby Valentine said that Crawford will get a second opinion on the elbow and that the team does not believe the injury to be serious (but that's most likely bullshit if Crawford is visiting Dr. Andrews), although he was forced to admit that Crawford's estimated time of return in early May is no longer realistic.
Crawford batted a slightly disappointing .255 last season, with 11 homers, 56 runs batted in, and a hugely disappointing 18 stolen bases and a .289 on-base percentage, and that in the first season of a seven-year, $142 million contract. In addition, Crawford's mounting injuries come on the heels of CF Jacoby Ellsbury's assignment to the disabled list (shoulder) with no timetable for a return and the questionable acquisition of CF Marlon Byrd from the Cubs.
Crawford batted a slightly disappointing .255 last season, with 11 homers, 56 runs batted in, and a hugely disappointing 18 stolen bases and a .289 on-base percentage, and that in the first season of a seven-year, $142 million contract. In addition, Crawford's mounting injuries come on the heels of CF Jacoby Ellsbury's assignment to the disabled list (shoulder) with no timetable for a return and the questionable acquisition of CF Marlon Byrd from the Cubs.
Nationals Finally Proving Baseball can work in D. C.?
Washington manager Davey Johnson is predicting that his Nats - one of the earliest surprises in this young baseball season - are transforming D. C. into a baseball town. But that optimism may end quickly, as RF Jayson Werth (hip), LF Mike Morse (lat), and RHP Drew Storen (elbow) are all on the disabled list, and 3B Ryan Zimmerman (shoulder) appears to be heading in that direction. Johnson should be worried about more than just turning Washington into a baseball town for the first time since before the Redskins existed though, considering that he said earlier this year that he should be fired if his team doesn't make the playoffs.
Pineda gone for Season
RHP Michael Pineda has been diagnosed a torn right anterior labrum (shoulder) and will undergo arthroscopic surgery next Tuesday. He is expected to miss the remainder of the season. GM Brian Cashman said that he was "devastated" over the news.
Cashman also went onto say that he doesn't believe that Pineda - acquired for four players including former top prospect C/DH Jesus Montero - was damaged goods when he was acquired. Pineda is not expected to return to a mound until May 2013. On the bright side, the loss of Pineda reduces the complications for the return of LHP Andy Pettitte in his comeback bid.
Pettitte gave up three earned runs in five-plus innings yesterday against AA batters in his third Minor League start this season. Pettitte is now 39 and is attempting a comeback after retiring following the 2010 season, and he allowed one walk and had three strikeouts before being pulled after allowing a lead-off single in the sixth. But don't get overanxious, Pettitte isn't coming out of the Minors anytime soon despite the injury to Pineda, the struggles of RHP Freddy Garcia, and the continued decline of RHP Phil Hughes.
Cashman also went onto say that he doesn't believe that Pineda - acquired for four players including former top prospect C/DH Jesus Montero - was damaged goods when he was acquired. Pineda is not expected to return to a mound until May 2013. On the bright side, the loss of Pineda reduces the complications for the return of LHP Andy Pettitte in his comeback bid.
Pettitte gave up three earned runs in five-plus innings yesterday against AA batters in his third Minor League start this season. Pettitte is now 39 and is attempting a comeback after retiring following the 2010 season, and he allowed one walk and had three strikeouts before being pulled after allowing a lead-off single in the sixth. But don't get overanxious, Pettitte isn't coming out of the Minors anytime soon despite the injury to Pineda, the struggles of RHP Freddy Garcia, and the continued decline of RHP Phil Hughes.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Is Moyer a Hall of Famer?
In case you didn't notice, Colorado LHP Jamie Moyer became the oldest pitcher to ever record a win in Major League history earlier this week at the age of 49, and after the game he donated the hat and glove that he wore throughout the contest to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. After the game he was offered a spot in the Museum's Steele Internship Program, but he would have to retire to be eligible for that program. But all of this talk is for naught.
With the win this week Moyer added just another record to his personal sheet of accomplishments, which begs the question, is Jamie Moyer a Hall of Famer? There's a lot of evidence in his favor. The win earlier this week made him the oldest player ever to win a game, and most of his records are associated with age. But it also marked win number 268 in his career.
Think about these things: Over 250 wins, and approaching 275 at an acceptable rate. A good win-loss record. A respectable career ERA. All-Star game appearances. 20-win seasons. World Series rings (just one but we'll take it). A gazillion records, and important records at that. Years upon years of Major League service. A huge amount of innings pitched and games started. The status of a folk hero among the populace. Huge amounts of respect from the media and - more importantly - from the BBWAA. The favorite player of the one-and-only Dr. Sean Nice.
What does all that add up to? A very good player with a compelling argument for the Hall of Fame. But is Jamie Moyer a Hall of Famer? LeRoy doesn't think so, not yet at least. Rickey Henderson and Randy Johnson had to play well into their 40s to record 3,000 hits and 300 wins, respectively, so maybe Moyer will have to play into his 50s to get number 300. What then? We don't know, except to say that LeRoy would support Moyer's Hall of Fame candidacy at that point in time.
But now? No. Sorry Jamie, but you're not a Hall of Famer yet. Not in our book at least. And all that means is that we won't support your candidacy. But look at two paragraphs above, loyal blog reader, and you'll see a long list of accomplishments. And that list means that Moyer will have a lot of support when he finally washes out of the game (we kinda doubt that he'll retire voluntarily) and will get enough votes to consistently stay on the ballot. And that's the biggest battle if you're not going to get elected on the first ballot.
And if he stays on the ballot long enough? Who knows? Certainly lesser pitchers have been elected to the Hall of Fame. Will Jamie Moyer one day get a plaque in Cooperstown? It's a distinct possibility.
With the win this week Moyer added just another record to his personal sheet of accomplishments, which begs the question, is Jamie Moyer a Hall of Famer? There's a lot of evidence in his favor. The win earlier this week made him the oldest player ever to win a game, and most of his records are associated with age. But it also marked win number 268 in his career.
Think about these things: Over 250 wins, and approaching 275 at an acceptable rate. A good win-loss record. A respectable career ERA. All-Star game appearances. 20-win seasons. World Series rings (just one but we'll take it). A gazillion records, and important records at that. Years upon years of Major League service. A huge amount of innings pitched and games started. The status of a folk hero among the populace. Huge amounts of respect from the media and - more importantly - from the BBWAA. The favorite player of the one-and-only Dr. Sean Nice.
What does all that add up to? A very good player with a compelling argument for the Hall of Fame. But is Jamie Moyer a Hall of Famer? LeRoy doesn't think so, not yet at least. Rickey Henderson and Randy Johnson had to play well into their 40s to record 3,000 hits and 300 wins, respectively, so maybe Moyer will have to play into his 50s to get number 300. What then? We don't know, except to say that LeRoy would support Moyer's Hall of Fame candidacy at that point in time.
But now? No. Sorry Jamie, but you're not a Hall of Famer yet. Not in our book at least. And all that means is that we won't support your candidacy. But look at two paragraphs above, loyal blog reader, and you'll see a long list of accomplishments. And that list means that Moyer will have a lot of support when he finally washes out of the game (we kinda doubt that he'll retire voluntarily) and will get enough votes to consistently stay on the ballot. And that's the biggest battle if you're not going to get elected on the first ballot.
And if he stays on the ballot long enough? Who knows? Certainly lesser pitchers have been elected to the Hall of Fame. Will Jamie Moyer one day get a plaque in Cooperstown? It's a distinct possibility.
Replay Discussions Flare up After Blown call in Dodgers game
Los Angeles lost an extra-innings game to Milwaukee on Wednesday night on a close play at the plate that replays showed may not have been the right call, and after seeing the replay on TV Dodgers manager Don Mattingly is calling for plays such as the one which cost his team the game to be replay-review-eligible. The replays showed what appeared to be Los Angeles C A. J. Ellis tagging out Brewers OF Nyjer Morgan at the plate, but he was ruled safe and Milwaukee won the game by a score of three-to-two.
Berkman Placed on DL
St. Louis has placed 1B Lance Berkman on the 15-day disabled list after re-aggravating a left calf strain on Wednesday which had previously kept him sidelined for a week. He missed a month in 2009 when he suffered a similar injury while with Houston. Berkman is batting .348 with no homers, two runs batted in, and a .500 on-base percentage in seven games this season.
Francona Attends Fenway Anniversary
Former Boston manager Terry Francona opted to attend the 100-year anniversary of Fenway Park after all. He said that he owed it to the fans to show up. Francona originally turned down the invitation to attend the anniversary celebration after someone in the Boston front office leaked a story to the media alleging that he was addicted to pain killers.
Boston invited every living ex-player and ex-manager in franchise history to attend the festivities, which took place before today's game against the Yankees at 3:00.
Boston invited every living ex-player and ex-manager in franchise history to attend the festivities, which took place before today's game against the Yankees at 3:00.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Dominican Superstar Signs Contract
Seattle and 17-year-old Dominican superstar OF Hersin Martinez have agreed to terms on a $1.1 million contract. Already, though, scouts are complaining about a hitch in his swing, with Seattle calling the pause a "timing mechanism." Scouts have also referred to Martinez as a "decent athlete" who will likely develop as a corner outfielder.
Atlanta Honors Smoltz
Atlanta will retire the number of former star RHP John Smoltz. The number 29 will be officially retired by the organization on June 8 before a game against Toronto. Smoltz is the only pitcher in Major League history with at least 200 wins and 150 saves and he spent all but one season of his Major League career with Atlanta, splitting a season between St. Louis and Boston to end his career, but he has recently made amends with the city of Atlanta and with the Braves by purchasing a home in the area and by calling several games in Atlanta on both TBS and the MLB Network, and now the organization is returning the favor by retiring his number after retiring number 31 in honor of former RHP Greg Maddux and number 47 in honor of former LHP Tom Glavine.
Contreras Returns to Majors
Philadelphia has activated RHP Jose Contreras from the disabled list for the first time since last June following an elbow injury and subsequent surgery. The team plans to go slowly with the 40-year-old as he will be used sparingly out of the bullpen. Contreras recently completed a rehab assignment at Clearwater where he went 0-1 with an 8.31 ERA.
Contreras started last season as Philadelphia's closer but was limited to only 17 games due to injury. To make room for the former All-Star, Philadelphia optioned LHP Joe Savery to Lehigh Valley.
Contreras started last season as Philadelphia's closer but was limited to only 17 games due to injury. To make room for the former All-Star, Philadelphia optioned LHP Joe Savery to Lehigh Valley.
Aybar Close to Getting Extension
Gold Glove-winning SS Erick Aybar appears to be close to signing a contract extension with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The two sides have been talking for almost four months. Aybar, 28, is reportedly asking for a five-year extension worth $50 million, while the team is more content with a four-year contract worth somewhere between $30 and 35 million, very similar to the extension awarded 2B Howie Kendrick in January.
Bad news for the Angels: Middle infielder salaries have been inflated by the recent extensions given to Texas 2B Ian Kinsler and Cincinnati 2B Brandon Phillips, and the team is playing beat the clock as an extension for Yankees 2B Robinson Cano, which will likely be huge, is believed to be nearing completion as well. Aybar set career-highs last season in runs scored, doubles, homers, runs batted in, and stolen bases and won his first Gold Glove, although he's only batting .219 with one extra base hit so far this season. Aybar was eligible for arbitration this year, though he signed a $5.075 million contract for this season to avoid that process.
Bad news for the Angels: Middle infielder salaries have been inflated by the recent extensions given to Texas 2B Ian Kinsler and Cincinnati 2B Brandon Phillips, and the team is playing beat the clock as an extension for Yankees 2B Robinson Cano, which will likely be huge, is believed to be nearing completion as well. Aybar set career-highs last season in runs scored, doubles, homers, runs batted in, and stolen bases and won his first Gold Glove, although he's only batting .219 with one extra base hit so far this season. Aybar was eligible for arbitration this year, though he signed a $5.075 million contract for this season to avoid that process.
Bumgarner Latest Pitcher to sign Extension
San Francisco and LHP Madison Bumgarner have agreed to terms on a six-year contract extension that will bypass his arbitration years and his first year of free agency. The deal includes this year and has options for 2018 and 2019 and will keep him, RHP Tim Lincecum, and RHP Matt Cain under contract for the Giants at least until next season. Bumgarner, 22, is the team's number two starter and was instrumental in their run to the 2010 World Series and has gone 21-20 with a 3.12 ERA in three plus seasons in San Francisco.
The deal is the latest in a series of steps designed by GM Brian Sabean to keep his pitching staff intact this season. Lincecum, who has won two Cy Young Awards, signed a two-year, $40 million extension in January, and Cain signed a six-year, $127.5 million extension earlier this season, the largest contract ever awarded a right-handed pitcher. Bumgarner is 6-5 and weighs 235 pounds and posted a 3.21 ERA last season while bypassing the 200 inning mark and fanning 191 batters compared to only 46 walks.
In addition, Bumgarner posted an 8.40 K/9 ratio in 2011 which was third best amongst NL lefty starters, behind only Los Angeles LHP Clayton Kershaw and Philadelphia LHP Cliff Lee, both of whom have won Cy Young Awards. Thus far in 2012, he is 1-1 with a 3.21 ERA in two starts.
The deal is the latest in a series of steps designed by GM Brian Sabean to keep his pitching staff intact this season. Lincecum, who has won two Cy Young Awards, signed a two-year, $40 million extension in January, and Cain signed a six-year, $127.5 million extension earlier this season, the largest contract ever awarded a right-handed pitcher. Bumgarner is 6-5 and weighs 235 pounds and posted a 3.21 ERA last season while bypassing the 200 inning mark and fanning 191 batters compared to only 46 walks.
In addition, Bumgarner posted an 8.40 K/9 ratio in 2011 which was third best amongst NL lefty starters, behind only Los Angeles LHP Clayton Kershaw and Philadelphia LHP Cliff Lee, both of whom have won Cy Young Awards. Thus far in 2012, he is 1-1 with a 3.21 ERA in two starts.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Burrell to Return to Philadelphia, sort of
35-year-old free agent OF Pat Burrell will return to Philadelphia next month, but only to retire. He will sign a one-day contract with the Phillies to retire with the team that drafted him in 1998 and saw him play nine Major League seasons as his career has been all-but ended by a foot injury. Burrell will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the May 19 game against Boston at Citizen's Bank Park.
Burrell is fourth in Philadelphia history in homers, eighth in runs batted in, and ninth in extra base hits. He left as a free agent after helping lead the team to a World Series title in 2008 and went on to play for Tampa Bay and San Francisco, winning a second World Series with the Giants in 2010. In his career, Burrell batted .253 with 292 homers and 976 runs batted in.
Burrell is fourth in Philadelphia history in homers, eighth in runs batted in, and ninth in extra base hits. He left as a free agent after helping lead the team to a World Series title in 2008 and went on to play for Tampa Bay and San Francisco, winning a second World Series with the Giants in 2010. In his career, Burrell batted .253 with 292 homers and 976 runs batted in.
Posey Returns to Lineup
San Francisco C Buster Posey will make his first start in San Francisco in this afternoon's Home Opener since going on the disabled list last May. The game against Pittsburgh has already sold out. Posey is currently suffering from shingles but returned to the lineup yesterday in Colorado.
Posey was cheered loudly in a home exhibition game last week against Oakland and should expect louder cheers in his first regular season game back at AT&T Park. He won the 2010 National League Rookie of the Year Award before suffering three torn ligaments and a broken bone in his left ankle and left leg, respectively, after a home plate collision last year.
Posey was cheered loudly in a home exhibition game last week against Oakland and should expect louder cheers in his first regular season game back at AT&T Park. He won the 2010 National League Rookie of the Year Award before suffering three torn ligaments and a broken bone in his left ankle and left leg, respectively, after a home plate collision last year.
Berkman to miss Home Opener
St. Louis 1B Lance Berkman will miss today's Home Opener with a left calf strain and is expected to return by Tuesday. He suffered a minor tear of the muscle while legging out a triple last Tuesday in Cincinnati, was removed from the game later on, and did not play in the last game of the series on Wednesday. Berkman was fearful that he had re-aggravated a more serious injury which landed him on the 15-day disabled in 2009.
Morse out for six Weeks
Washington LF Michael Morse has suffered a relapse of his torn lat and was not able to return for the teams home opener yesterday. Surgery is not an option and he is expected to be out for another six weeks. Morse's injury will not effect the promotion time table of top prospect OF Bryce Harper, with IF/OF Mark DeRosa, OF Xavier Nady, and OF Roger Bernadina expected to fill in for him in left field.
In other Nationals news, RHP Drew Storen successfully underwent surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow on Wednesday and is expected to pitch this season.
In other Nationals news, RHP Drew Storen successfully underwent surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow on Wednesday and is expected to pitch this season.
Rangers, Hamilton Talking Extension
The agent for impending free agent CF Josh Hamilton met with Texas officials earlier this week. It was reported that both GM Jon Daniels and co-owner Bob Simpson were present at the meeting. The team had wanted to begin extension talks with Hamilton in the off-season but those talks were stalled after he suffered a sobriety relapse in February.
This is a prime time for extensions in the Dallas Metroplex, as both 2B Ian Kinsler and LHP Derek Holland have agreed to new contracts with Texas.
This is a prime time for extensions in the Dallas Metroplex, as both 2B Ian Kinsler and LHP Derek Holland have agreed to new contracts with Texas.
Cleveland Makes Damon Signing Official
Cleveland has agreed to terms with OF/DH Johnny Damon on a contract. Made official after he passed a physical, the one-year deal will give him $1.25 million and also offers an additional $1.4 million in incentives. Cleveland is off to a 1-4 start and has only scored 20 runs on the season as the team as a whole is batting .178 at present.
The deal includes a no-trade clause and an "out" clause that will allow Damon to become a free agent after CF Grady Sizemore returns from back surgery. Sizemore is currently on the 60-day disabled list. Damon is expected to play mostly left field and serve as the starting half of a platoon with OF Shelley Duncan, who had been starting before now.
The 38-year-old Damon batted .261 with 16 homers, 73 runs batted in, and a .743 OPS last season for Tampa Bay, and has 2,723 career hits.
The deal includes a no-trade clause and an "out" clause that will allow Damon to become a free agent after CF Grady Sizemore returns from back surgery. Sizemore is currently on the 60-day disabled list. Damon is expected to play mostly left field and serve as the starting half of a platoon with OF Shelley Duncan, who had been starting before now.
The 38-year-old Damon batted .261 with 16 homers, 73 runs batted in, and a .743 OPS last season for Tampa Bay, and has 2,723 career hits.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Posey Diagnosed with Shingles
San Francisco C Buster Posey was a late-scratch from yesterday's game as he continues to recover from shingles. He first noticed the symptoms during last week's Bay Bridge series and has now had three off days in a row.
Baker lost for Season
Minnesota RHP Scott Baker is out for the season. The impending free agent was being counted on to provide stability to Minnesota's questionable rotation, but all that ended when it was discovered that he would have to undergo surgery to repair the flexor pronator tendon in his right elbow. Baker has had problems with the tendon for the past couple of seasons but announced he could no longer pitch through the pain and opted for surgery (it's not Tommy John surgery as some media outlets have reported) after getting a second opinion on the elbow yesterday.
Baker, the team's Opening Day starter, went 8-6 with a 3.14 ERA last season.
Baker, the team's Opening Day starter, went 8-6 with a 3.14 ERA last season.
Greinke, Milwaukee on hold over Extension Talks
Milwaukee and RHP Zach Greinke have tabled discussions regarding a potential extension for the pitcher. The 28-year-old is in the final year of the four-year, $38 million extension he signed with Kansas City in 2009 before being dealt to Milwaukee in December 2010. Greinke went 16-6 with a 3.83 ERA last season and threw seven shutout innings against division-rival St. Louis in his first start this season.
Francona will not Attend Celebration
Former manager Terry Francona will not attend the 100-year anniverseray celebration of Fenway Park on April 20. He is angry over reports that his questionable managing performance during Boston's collapse last season was due to an addiction to painkillers. Boston has invited every living ex-player and ex-manager in their organization to the event.
Damon Close to deal with Cleveland
Cleveland and DH/OF Johnny Damon are close to agreeing to terms on a one-year contract. Cleveland is in need of outfield help with CF Grady Sizemore on the 60-day disabled list, and the deal is set to include a no-trade clause for the 38-year-old outfielder and an opt-out clause that would allow him to become a free agent after Sizemore returns. The left-handed hitting Damon, who batted .273 with 16 homers and 73 runs batted in for Tampa Bay last season, is expected to get most of his playing time in left field.
Carpenter Waiting to Return to Mound
St. Louis RHP Chris Carpenter will undergo a series of tests this week that will help determine when he will be able to return to the mound. He has been suffering from a nerve condition that has led to both shoulder discomfort and weakness and he has not thrown a pitch in over three weeks since suffering a setback in Spring Training. If Carpenter performs well in the tests then he will begin a throwing program, with the most optimistic reports having him back in the St. Louis rotation by May, although a more realistic timetable wouldn't have him back in their rotation until June.
Carpenter, 36, went 11-9 with a 3.45 ERA in 34 starts in the regular season and went 4-0 with a 3.25 ERA in four starts in the post-season and pitched a career-high 273.1 innings last season.
Carpenter, 36, went 11-9 with a 3.45 ERA in 34 starts in the regular season and went 4-0 with a 3.25 ERA in four starts in the post-season and pitched a career-high 273.1 innings last season.
Martinez Could Return this Season
Detroit DH/C Victor Martinez could return this season despite reliable reports which suggested that he would miss the entire season after having microfracture surgery on his right knee in January. After it was discovered that the 33-year-old would not need follow-up surgery on his ACL his prognosis became more optimistic. However, it will not be know if Martinez will be able to make a return until as late as August.
Martinez batted .330 with 12 homers, 103 runs batted in, and a .380 on-base percentage last season. In what was probably not a coincidence, Detroit agreed to terms with 1B Prince Fielder on a nine-year, $214 million contract shortly after he underwent surgery.
Martinez batted .330 with 12 homers, 103 runs batted in, and a .380 on-base percentage last season. In what was probably not a coincidence, Detroit agreed to terms with 1B Prince Fielder on a nine-year, $214 million contract shortly after he underwent surgery.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Torres Placed on DL
For the first time in a long time the Mets had their entire roster healthy on Thursday's Opening Day game. But it didn't last long, as CF Andres Torres pulled his left calf chasing down a triple hit by Atlanta SS Tyler Pastornicky, re-aggravating an injury that had sidelined him in Spring Training. OF/2B Scott Hairston replaced Torres in center in the game and OF Kirk Niewenhuis was recalled from Buffalo yesterday.
Torres batted .221 with four homers, 19 runs batted in, and 19 stolen bases for San Francisco last season, and batted .268 with 16 homers, 63 runs batted in, and 26 stolen bases in 2010.
Torres batted .221 with four homers, 19 runs batted in, and 19 stolen bases for San Francisco last season, and batted .268 with 16 homers, 63 runs batted in, and 26 stolen bases in 2010.
Reds Close to Signing Phillips to Extension
Cincinnati is close to reaching terms on an agreement for a contract extension with 2B Brandon Phillips only days after handing out a ten-year, $225 million extension to 1B Joey Votto. The extension is believed to be in the range of five years and $60 million. Phillips batted .300 with 18 homers, 82 runs batted in, 14 stolen bases, 94 runs scored, and a .353 on-base percentage last season, as well as being named to the All-Star team and winning a Gold Glove Award.
Phillips wanted a contract extension this off-season, but the team compromised by exercising his $12 million option.
Phillips wanted a contract extension this off-season, but the team compromised by exercising his $12 million option.
Rangers, Kinsler fail to Reach Extension
Texas has failed to reach a contract extension with 2B Ian Kinsler by his Opening Day deadline after they squabbled over money regarding the potential six-year deal. He will make $7 million this season and has a $10 million option for 2013, although the Rangers had hoped to sign him before Yankees 2B Robinson Cano gets an extension of his own and inflates the second base market. Kinsler batted .255 with 32 homers, 77 runs batted in, 30 stolen bases, and a .355 on-base percentage last season.
Braun: Brewers Better this year
Milwaukee LF Ryan Braun believes that his team is better without 1B Prince Fielder. Fielder hit 38 homers and had 120 runs batted in last year for the Crew (Fielder signed a ten-year contract with Detroit in the off-season). Braun says that the bullpen is much more improved than it was last season and that the team is healthier than last year.
Braun was suspended for 50 games in the off-season after he was caught taking a substance usually prescribed to treat genital herpes (a condition which Braun insists that he has) but is on the MLB banned substance list, but the suspension was lifted after Braun appealed and chain of custody problems regarding his damning urine sample came to light.
Braun was suspended for 50 games in the off-season after he was caught taking a substance usually prescribed to treat genital herpes (a condition which Braun insists that he has) but is on the MLB banned substance list, but the suspension was lifted after Braun appealed and chain of custody problems regarding his damning urine sample came to light.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Jeter tops in Jersey Sales
SS Derek Jeter, the newest member of the 3,000-hit-club, led all Major League players in jersey sales last year. Amongst the top-20 players in jersey sales last year, 12 were All-Stars, 14 played on a postseason team, and players from 11 different teams were represented, though the Yankees and Phillies had four players each on the list (including Jeter at number one).
The list:
1. Jeter
2. LHP Cliff Lee, Philadelphia
3. 1B Albert Pujols, St. Louis/Angels (signed in 2011 calendar year)
4. LF Josh Hamilton, Texas
5. RHP Roy Halladay, Philadelphia
6. RHP Tim Lincecum, San Francisco
7. 2B Dustin Pedroia, Boston
8. LF Ryan Braun, Milwaukee
9. RF Hunter Pence, Philadelphia
10. C Buster Posey, San Francisco
11. 2B Chase Utley, Philadelphia
12. C Joe Mauer, Minnesota
13. RHP Justin Verlander, Detroit
14. 1B Adrian Gonzalez, Boston
15. 3B Alex Rodriguez, Yankees
16. 2B Ian Kinsler, Texas
17. 2B Robinson Cano, Yankees
18. RHP Mariano Rivera, Yankees
19. LF Carl Crawford, Boston
20. 3B David Freese, St. Louis
The list:
1. Jeter
2. LHP Cliff Lee, Philadelphia
3. 1B Albert Pujols, St. Louis/Angels (signed in 2011 calendar year)
4. LF Josh Hamilton, Texas
5. RHP Roy Halladay, Philadelphia
6. RHP Tim Lincecum, San Francisco
7. 2B Dustin Pedroia, Boston
8. LF Ryan Braun, Milwaukee
9. RF Hunter Pence, Philadelphia
10. C Buster Posey, San Francisco
11. 2B Chase Utley, Philadelphia
12. C Joe Mauer, Minnesota
13. RHP Justin Verlander, Detroit
14. 1B Adrian Gonzalez, Boston
15. 3B Alex Rodriguez, Yankees
16. 2B Ian Kinsler, Texas
17. 2B Robinson Cano, Yankees
18. RHP Mariano Rivera, Yankees
19. LF Carl Crawford, Boston
20. 3B David Freese, St. Louis
Not much of a Trade Market for Lannan
A day after becoming the highest-paid player to ever be optioned to AAA in Spring Training and subsequently requesting a trade, it appears that Washington LHP John Lannan will not get his wish, as GM Mike Rizzo says that the market for the lefty is low and manager Davey Johnson has been so bold to say that the request for a trade will not be honored. He was a front-runner to win the fifth starter's job for the Nationals, at least until RHP Chien-Ming Wang was healthy enough to pitch, but Johnson opted to take LHP Ross Detwiler in a surprising move. Lannan sent an email to members of the Washington media expressing a desire to be traded Wednesday night.
Lannan went 10-13 with a 3.70 ERA last season. However, after LHP Gio Gonzalez and RHP Edwin Jackson were acquired this past off-season his spot in the rotation became jeopardized.
Lannan went 10-13 with a 3.70 ERA last season. However, after LHP Gio Gonzalez and RHP Edwin Jackson were acquired this past off-season his spot in the rotation became jeopardized.
Kinsler Expecting Extension
Texas and 2B Ian Kinsler are close to agreeing to terms on a six-year contract extension for the team's star second baseman. He has said that he will cease negotiations during the regular season, which starts today for Texas, so an announcement could be imminent or could stall for the next six months (assuming he's a man of his word and won't negotiate after this morning). Kinsler is due $7 million this season and has a $10 million option for 2013, but reports say that Texas wants to give him an extension before Yankees 2B Robinson Cano inflates the second base market with an extension of his own.
Kinsler batted .255 with 32 homers, 77 runs batted in, 30 stolen bases, and a .355 on-base percentage last season.
Kinsler batted .255 with 32 homers, 77 runs batted in, 30 stolen bases, and a .355 on-base percentage last season.
Beckett to Start Sunday
Unlike RHP Andrew Bailey, RHP Josh Beckett's thumb is fine. The same hand specialist who has recommended surgery for Bailey that will keep him out for at least the first half of the season has pronounced Beckett as good to go. Beckett has been dealing with thumb discomfort for the past 18 months.
Beckett was 13-7 with a 2.89 ERA in 30 starts for Boston last season.
Beckett was 13-7 with a 2.89 ERA in 30 starts for Boston last season.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Outman Injured While Vomiting
Colorado LHP Josh Outman has sustained an injury while vomiting. Manager Jim Tracy told reporters that he pulled his right oblique muscle after vomiting from food poisoning. Outman will start the year on the 15-day disabled list.
Outman went 3-5 with a 3.70 ERA and 35 strikeouts last season for Oakland.
Outman went 3-5 with a 3.70 ERA and 35 strikeouts last season for Oakland.
Martinez Arrested for DUI
Atlanta RHP Cristhian Martinez was arrested yesterday morning and charged with a DUI by the Gwinnett County Police after he was seen weaving in and out of traffic and later registered a 0.13 BAC level during a breath test. The 30-year-old reliever is in his third season with the Braves and had secured a spot on the team with a strong Spring.
Francisco Undergoes MRI on knee
Mets RHP Frank Francisco, signed to a two-year, $12 million contract this off-season, had an MRI on his right knee yesterday after having it drained earlier. He said that the knee was sore earlier in Spring but that it went away after his body toned up in Spring, but that the soreness returned on Saturday after pitching two innings in an exhibition game, although he was able to throw after the draining and MRI yesterday.
Upton Hopes to Return in April
Tampa Bay CF B. J. Upton, who will start the season on the disabled list, says he is making quick progress in his recovery and plans to return to the team later this month, more specifically during the team's April 10-19 road trip against Detroit, Boston, and Toronto. He has played in only one Minor League game since a collision with LF Desmond Jennings on March 14. In other Rays news, OF Sam Fuld underwent right wrist surgery today and is expected to miss four or five months.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Pettitte to Start Against Mets Tomorrow
Yankees LHP Andy Pettitte is scheduled to start tomorrow's exhibition game against the Mets in Tampa tomorrow at noon (YES Network, MLB Network). He is expected to pitch one winning. Pettitte came out of retirement on March 16 and is expected to be ready to join the team sometime in May.
The decision to let Pettitte start came after he threw his second simulated game since his return on Saturday and a 25-pitch bullpen session yesterday.
The decision to let Pettitte start came after he threw his second simulated game since his return on Saturday and a 25-pitch bullpen session yesterday.
Chapman Returns to Bullpen
Cincinnati LHP Aroldis Chapman will return to the bullpen this season. The plan had been to let him return to starting (his role in his native Cuba) but they opted to place him back in the bullpen when RHP Ryan Madson (out for season) and RHP Nick Masset (15-day disabled list) went down with injuries. Chapman had been optimistic to return to starting this season.
Jimenez Suspended five Games After Drilling Tulo in Spring game
Cleveland RHP Ubaldo Jimenez has been suspended for five games after hitting Colorado SS Troy Tulowitzki (the two a re former teammates) with a pitch in a Spring Training game on Sunday. The incident cleared both benches and Jimenez was later suspended by MLB Senior Vice President Joe Garagiola Jr. Tulowitzki did not play in Colorado's next Cactus League game on Monday, but he was expected to play both today and tomorrow.
Jimenez insists that the beaning was not intentional and refused to apologize to Tulowitzki. Colorado manager Jim Tracy and several of their players were upset at the incident because it occurred so close to the regular season, despite the fact that most of them were aware of the ill will between the two players.
Jimenez insists that the beaning was not intentional and refused to apologize to Tulowitzki. Colorado manager Jim Tracy and several of their players were upset at the incident because it occurred so close to the regular season, despite the fact that most of them were aware of the ill will between the two players.
Bailey to Undergo Thumb Surgery
Boston RHP Andrew Bailey is set to undergo surgery on his right thumb and is expected to miss a large amount of the season, although there is no set timetable for his return. The Red Sox announced on Tuesday that he had been examined by two doctors in Boston and was set to be examined by a third that day. Today, Boston announced that Bailey has decided to undergo surgery.
2012 MLB Division Predictions
Before we start with all the prediction let's take a look at the three teams we cover the most, the Yankees, the Mets, and Boston.
We'll start with the Yanks. !!!!SPOILER ALERT!!! I'm going to say where these teams finish in our predictions before we actually name our predictions, so reader beware. We picked the Yankees to repeat as AL East Champions. And why not? They have, more or less, the same team in place as last year and none of the other teams in the Division (with the possible exception of Toronto) has upgraded their personnel. But don't get too excited Yankee fans. This team still has all the old problems from last season. Like their pitching for example. Or rather, lack thereof. LHP C. C. Sabathia is a stud and one of the better true aces in the AL, but there's nothing behind him. Okay, RHP Ivan Nova is pretty good, and I expect RHP Hiroki Kuroda to be decent in the AL and the Bronx, but not great. RHP Phil Hughes belongs in AAA, and RHP Freddy Garcia's job is only guaranteed until either RHP Michael Pineda (who's well on his way to being a true NY bust) returns from the DL or LHP Andy Pettitte is ready to go again. The bullpen is good at first with RHP Mariano Rivera and RHP David Robertson, but it thins out quickly after that. Yanks might get knocked out in the Division Series, and definitely won't make it to the World Series.
Now onto Boston. We picked Boston to recover from their collapse from last season and finish in second place in the AL East. And yes, although it's somewhat of a crap-shoot, we picked Boston to win one of the two Wild Card spots in the AL. !!!SPOILER ALERT!!! We picked the Angels to win the other Wild Card spot. This would lead to a one-game playoff between the two teams. A lot will happen between now and the first week of October, but if the two brightest spots on the teams stay the course that would lead to a pitching match-up in the one game playoff between LHP Jon Lester and RHP Jerad Weaver. You never know what will happen in these one-game playoffs until they're played, but if you were giving us odds we'd put our money on Weaver and the Angels. Sorry Red Sox Nation, but it should still be a good season.
And finally the Mets. Yeah, they're going to finish in last place. Sure, The Dude (RF Lucas Duda) looks like the real deal, but he can't judge fly balls. 1B Ike Davis says that he's healthy, but we don't really know how his ankle is faring and now he has Valley Fever. 3B David Wright has a torn muscle in his rib cage. IF Ruben Tejada is completely unproven at shortstop. IF/OF Daniel Murphy can't field ground balls to save his life and he's penciled in to play second base. C Josh Thole can't hit left-handers and can't catch either RHP R. A. Dickey or RHP Mike Pelfrey (the first being a knuckleballer and the latter needing a personal catcher), and he can't meet the defensive demands of his position. CF Andres Torres is terrible and injury-prone, and he'll probably start the season on the DL. But that's only their starting lineup. They have no one of value in their bullpen. Their rotation is actually okay, with Dickey, Pelfrey, LHP Jon Niese, and RHP Dillon Gee actually finishing with a near .500 record last season. But it all hinges on LHP Johan Santana, who's trying to come back from an injury for a full season that no one has ever fully recovered from (Nationals RHP Chien-Ming Wang has come closest). So yeah, they'll be in last place and Citi Field will be empty by Mother's Day.
The predictions:
AL East:
1. Yankees (see above)
2. Red Sox (see above)
3. Rays: They're in a tough division and probably won't be able to benefit from another Red Sox collapse again.
4. Blue Jays: A ton of offense, decent pitching, and much-improved bullpen, but they won't be able to leapfrog the three strong teams in front of them.
5. Orioles: Baltimore sucks. At everything. Not just baseball.
AL Central:
1. Tigers: Definitely in good position to repeat.
2. Royals: The rest of the division is terrible and they're actually looking better; could have a winning record for first time since 2003.
3. Indians: They're a mediocre team in a bad division; 75 wins but a third place finish is proof of this.
4. Twins: They built their team to win in the Metrodome, then they built a completely different stadium; it could be a long time before they win again.
5. White Sox: They're in an acknowledged rebuilding phase and rookie manager Robin Ventura isn't going to be able to do anything special with this franchise.
AL West:
1. Rangers: They've become the new powerhouse of the AL with back-to-back pennants.
2. Angels: Should be strong again new additions in Pujols and Wilson; should win one of two Wild Card spots.
3. Mariners: They're bad, but still better than Oakland.
4. A's: They're rebuilding with a huge fire sale in the off-season.
NL East:
1. Phillies: An offense suited for their stadium and top-notch pitching will give them another Division title.
2. Braves: They won't collapse again if only because there are two Wild Card winners this season, and we expect them to win one of them.
3. Marlins: A new ballpark, shortstop, and manager will help, but it won't help that much, although they may make a strong run at 85 wins.
4. Nationals: Look, they're not going to be as good as people are saying, losing record.
5. Mets: See above.
NL Central:
1. Cardinals: They've lost a lot in player personnel, LaRussa, and the coaching staff, but they should still repeat as division champions.
2. Reds: They were there two years ago but slumped last season, they'll be back again and should win one of the two Wild Cards.
3. Brewers: It turns out that Prince Fielder was a lot more important than people thought.
4. Pirates: They look like they're going to be better, but how good will that really make them?
5. Cubs: They're officially rebuilding, they're going to be worse than usual for awhile.
6. Astros: They're just waiting to limp their way into the AL West in 2013.
NL West
1. D-backs: Hopefully last year wasn't a flash in the pan like in the past with the D-backs, because they looked like they had the most complete team last year.
2. Giants: A ton of pitching, but last year their offense was their Achilles' heel.
3. Dodgers: The new owners and lack of McCourt distractions will help, but the team still just isn't that good.
4. Rockies: I love Jamie Moyer, but when a 49-year-old finesse pitcher attempting to make a comeback is currently penciled into be your number two starter, how good can you expect to be?
5. Padres: Proof that baseball is the most humbling sport amongst the big four: It wasn't that long ago that the Padres were a decent team.
We'll start with the Yanks. !!!!SPOILER ALERT!!! I'm going to say where these teams finish in our predictions before we actually name our predictions, so reader beware. We picked the Yankees to repeat as AL East Champions. And why not? They have, more or less, the same team in place as last year and none of the other teams in the Division (with the possible exception of Toronto) has upgraded their personnel. But don't get too excited Yankee fans. This team still has all the old problems from last season. Like their pitching for example. Or rather, lack thereof. LHP C. C. Sabathia is a stud and one of the better true aces in the AL, but there's nothing behind him. Okay, RHP Ivan Nova is pretty good, and I expect RHP Hiroki Kuroda to be decent in the AL and the Bronx, but not great. RHP Phil Hughes belongs in AAA, and RHP Freddy Garcia's job is only guaranteed until either RHP Michael Pineda (who's well on his way to being a true NY bust) returns from the DL or LHP Andy Pettitte is ready to go again. The bullpen is good at first with RHP Mariano Rivera and RHP David Robertson, but it thins out quickly after that. Yanks might get knocked out in the Division Series, and definitely won't make it to the World Series.
Now onto Boston. We picked Boston to recover from their collapse from last season and finish in second place in the AL East. And yes, although it's somewhat of a crap-shoot, we picked Boston to win one of the two Wild Card spots in the AL. !!!SPOILER ALERT!!! We picked the Angels to win the other Wild Card spot. This would lead to a one-game playoff between the two teams. A lot will happen between now and the first week of October, but if the two brightest spots on the teams stay the course that would lead to a pitching match-up in the one game playoff between LHP Jon Lester and RHP Jerad Weaver. You never know what will happen in these one-game playoffs until they're played, but if you were giving us odds we'd put our money on Weaver and the Angels. Sorry Red Sox Nation, but it should still be a good season.
And finally the Mets. Yeah, they're going to finish in last place. Sure, The Dude (RF Lucas Duda) looks like the real deal, but he can't judge fly balls. 1B Ike Davis says that he's healthy, but we don't really know how his ankle is faring and now he has Valley Fever. 3B David Wright has a torn muscle in his rib cage. IF Ruben Tejada is completely unproven at shortstop. IF/OF Daniel Murphy can't field ground balls to save his life and he's penciled in to play second base. C Josh Thole can't hit left-handers and can't catch either RHP R. A. Dickey or RHP Mike Pelfrey (the first being a knuckleballer and the latter needing a personal catcher), and he can't meet the defensive demands of his position. CF Andres Torres is terrible and injury-prone, and he'll probably start the season on the DL. But that's only their starting lineup. They have no one of value in their bullpen. Their rotation is actually okay, with Dickey, Pelfrey, LHP Jon Niese, and RHP Dillon Gee actually finishing with a near .500 record last season. But it all hinges on LHP Johan Santana, who's trying to come back from an injury for a full season that no one has ever fully recovered from (Nationals RHP Chien-Ming Wang has come closest). So yeah, they'll be in last place and Citi Field will be empty by Mother's Day.
The predictions:
AL East:
1. Yankees (see above)
2. Red Sox (see above)
3. Rays: They're in a tough division and probably won't be able to benefit from another Red Sox collapse again.
4. Blue Jays: A ton of offense, decent pitching, and much-improved bullpen, but they won't be able to leapfrog the three strong teams in front of them.
5. Orioles: Baltimore sucks. At everything. Not just baseball.
AL Central:
1. Tigers: Definitely in good position to repeat.
2. Royals: The rest of the division is terrible and they're actually looking better; could have a winning record for first time since 2003.
3. Indians: They're a mediocre team in a bad division; 75 wins but a third place finish is proof of this.
4. Twins: They built their team to win in the Metrodome, then they built a completely different stadium; it could be a long time before they win again.
5. White Sox: They're in an acknowledged rebuilding phase and rookie manager Robin Ventura isn't going to be able to do anything special with this franchise.
AL West:
1. Rangers: They've become the new powerhouse of the AL with back-to-back pennants.
2. Angels: Should be strong again new additions in Pujols and Wilson; should win one of two Wild Card spots.
3. Mariners: They're bad, but still better than Oakland.
4. A's: They're rebuilding with a huge fire sale in the off-season.
NL East:
1. Phillies: An offense suited for their stadium and top-notch pitching will give them another Division title.
2. Braves: They won't collapse again if only because there are two Wild Card winners this season, and we expect them to win one of them.
3. Marlins: A new ballpark, shortstop, and manager will help, but it won't help that much, although they may make a strong run at 85 wins.
4. Nationals: Look, they're not going to be as good as people are saying, losing record.
5. Mets: See above.
NL Central:
1. Cardinals: They've lost a lot in player personnel, LaRussa, and the coaching staff, but they should still repeat as division champions.
2. Reds: They were there two years ago but slumped last season, they'll be back again and should win one of the two Wild Cards.
3. Brewers: It turns out that Prince Fielder was a lot more important than people thought.
4. Pirates: They look like they're going to be better, but how good will that really make them?
5. Cubs: They're officially rebuilding, they're going to be worse than usual for awhile.
6. Astros: They're just waiting to limp their way into the AL West in 2013.
NL West
1. D-backs: Hopefully last year wasn't a flash in the pan like in the past with the D-backs, because they looked like they had the most complete team last year.
2. Giants: A ton of pitching, but last year their offense was their Achilles' heel.
3. Dodgers: The new owners and lack of McCourt distractions will help, but the team still just isn't that good.
4. Rockies: I love Jamie Moyer, but when a 49-year-old finesse pitcher attempting to make a comeback is currently penciled into be your number two starter, how good can you expect to be?
5. Padres: Proof that baseball is the most humbling sport amongst the big four: It wasn't that long ago that the Padres were a decent team.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Doubront, Bard Crack Boston Rotation
Manager Bobby Valentine has announced that LHP Felix Doubront and RHP Daniel Bard have won the two open spots in his rotation. The announcement was made yesterday. Doubront will be the team's fourth starter and Bard the fifth, behind LHP Jon Lester, RHP Josh Beckett, and RHP Clay Buchholz, if all are healthy.
RHP Alfredo Aceves, who was also competing for a rotation spot, was informed that he will pitch out of the bullpen. Bard has been a reliever in the Majors and posted a 6.57 ERA in six starts this Spring, but was considered a lock for the rotation all off-season.
RHP Alfredo Aceves, who was also competing for a rotation spot, was informed that he will pitch out of the bullpen. Bard has been a reliever in the Majors and posted a 6.57 ERA in six starts this Spring, but was considered a lock for the rotation all off-season.
Braden Suffers Setback
Oakland Athletics LHP Dallas Braden has suffered a setback in his recovery from shoulder surgery with a left shoulder strain. The strain was suffered while he was playing catch following a bullpen session before the team traveled to Japan to open the season against Seattle. Before the setback, Braden was expected to return by May.
The 28-year-old Braden underwent left shoulder surgery last May to repair a torn capsule after going 1-1 with a 3.00 ERA in three starts. He went 11-14 with a 3.50 ERA in 30 starts in 2010. Braden was on a throwing program this Spring, but had yet to appear in an exhibition game.
The 28-year-old Braden underwent left shoulder surgery last May to repair a torn capsule after going 1-1 with a 3.00 ERA in three starts. He went 11-14 with a 3.50 ERA in 30 starts in 2010. Braden was on a throwing program this Spring, but had yet to appear in an exhibition game.
Atlanta, Cincinnati swap Prospects
Atlanta has acquired 3B Juan Francisco from Cincinnati in exchange for RHP J. J. Hoover. Francisco was ranked as Cincinnati's top-ranked power-hitting prospect by Baseball America in 2011. Last season he batted .307 with 15 homers and a .334 on-base percentage for Louisville and also batted .258 with three homers and a .289 on-base percentage with Cincinnati.
Francisco is out of options and was about to be cut by Cincinnati, which is why he was traded as opposed to waived of outrighted, and he is expected to crack the Opening Day roster for Atlanta and should get some starts in place of injured 3B Chipper Jones. Francisco lost out on the job to back up 3B Scott Rolen to IF Todd Frazier and had no place on the team. Hoover had a 2.64 ERA in the Minors last season and has gone 25-19 with a 3.14 ERA in his Minor League career.
Francisco is out of options and was about to be cut by Cincinnati, which is why he was traded as opposed to waived of outrighted, and he is expected to crack the Opening Day roster for Atlanta and should get some starts in place of injured 3B Chipper Jones. Francisco lost out on the job to back up 3B Scott Rolen to IF Todd Frazier and had no place on the team. Hoover had a 2.64 ERA in the Minors last season and has gone 25-19 with a 3.14 ERA in his Minor League career.
Cain Signs $127.5 Million Extension with San Francisco
RHP Matt Cain will be staying in San Francisco for the time being. And why not, Cain has been an All-Star, second ace to RHP Tim Lincecum, and postseason hero in the Bay Area. And now Cain has been awarded a big contract for his contributions, past, present, and future.
The extension has netted Cain $127.5 million over the next six years, a record for a right-handed pitcher. Cain had already been guaranteed $12 million this season, but was due to become a free agent at the end of the season. The extension also gives Cain a vesting option for 2018 if he reaches 200 innings pitched in 2017 and/or pitches a combined 400 innings pitched combined in 2016 and 2017.
This long extension comes after Lincecum agreed to a two-year, $40 million extension earlier this off-season. Oh by the way, Cain's record deal for a righty is also the third biggest contract of all-time for a pitcher, behind the ones awarded LHP Johan Santana of the Mets and LHP C. C. Sabathia of the Yankees. The second-largest contract ever awarded a righty was RHP Kevin Brown's seven-year, $105 million contract awarded him by the Dodgers in 1998.
Cain, only 27, went 12-11 with a 2.88 ERA last season and reached 200 innings pitched for the fifth season in a row, after not allowing a run all postseason in 2010 when San Francisco won the World Series. Cain and his agents had intimated that he wanted "fair value" from whatever team gave him a contract, and he was awarded similar money to that of LHP Cliff Lee of Philadelphia and LHP C. J. Wilson and RHP Jerad Weaver of the Angels. GM Brian Sabean said that the contract talks with Cain and his agents were constant and professional.
And look out Philadelphia fans, LHP Cole Hamels now figures to be the top free agent pitcher this season, and he'll probably want a bigger contract than Cain. Not that San Francisco is worried about that, or were they worried about spending top-dollar for Cain, after they signed free agent bust LHP Barry Zito to a seven-year, $126 million deal in 2007. And Cain isn't worried about either of those two things, he's just happy to be staying in San Francisco.
The extension has netted Cain $127.5 million over the next six years, a record for a right-handed pitcher. Cain had already been guaranteed $12 million this season, but was due to become a free agent at the end of the season. The extension also gives Cain a vesting option for 2018 if he reaches 200 innings pitched in 2017 and/or pitches a combined 400 innings pitched combined in 2016 and 2017.
This long extension comes after Lincecum agreed to a two-year, $40 million extension earlier this off-season. Oh by the way, Cain's record deal for a righty is also the third biggest contract of all-time for a pitcher, behind the ones awarded LHP Johan Santana of the Mets and LHP C. C. Sabathia of the Yankees. The second-largest contract ever awarded a righty was RHP Kevin Brown's seven-year, $105 million contract awarded him by the Dodgers in 1998.
Cain, only 27, went 12-11 with a 2.88 ERA last season and reached 200 innings pitched for the fifth season in a row, after not allowing a run all postseason in 2010 when San Francisco won the World Series. Cain and his agents had intimated that he wanted "fair value" from whatever team gave him a contract, and he was awarded similar money to that of LHP Cliff Lee of Philadelphia and LHP C. J. Wilson and RHP Jerad Weaver of the Angels. GM Brian Sabean said that the contract talks with Cain and his agents were constant and professional.
And look out Philadelphia fans, LHP Cole Hamels now figures to be the top free agent pitcher this season, and he'll probably want a bigger contract than Cain. Not that San Francisco is worried about that, or were they worried about spending top-dollar for Cain, after they signed free agent bust LHP Barry Zito to a seven-year, $126 million deal in 2007. And Cain isn't worried about either of those two things, he's just happy to be staying in San Francisco.
Votto Signs ten-year, $225 Million Extension
Arguably the biggest off-season splash in the history of the Cincinnati Reds organization came when they acquired CF Ken Griffey Jr. in a trade with Seattle shortly before the start of the 2000 season. But that won't be the case for much longer. 1B Joey Votto has told reporters that he is close to signing a ten-year, $225 million extension with the team.
If true and the numbers are correct, this would be the fourth largest deal in MLB history, not adjusted for inflation. And the 28-year-old Votto will be the third first baseman to sign a $200-million contract in the past four months, joining 1B Albert Pujols of the Angels and 1B Prince Fielder of Detroit. Before this off-season, the only player to ever crack the $200 million mark was IF Alex Rodriguez, who did so twice, once as a shortstop with Texas in 2001 and a second time as a third baseman with the Yankees in 2007.
Just for reference, Votto was already set to make $9.5 million this season and $17 million in 2013. Also, by opting to build around Votto, this probably means that 2B Brandon Phillips will not be retained by Cincinnati when he becomes a free agent at the end of this season. The 30-year-old Phillips will more likely get a three-year contract in the off-season, most likely somewhere outside of Cincinnati.
If true and the numbers are correct, this would be the fourth largest deal in MLB history, not adjusted for inflation. And the 28-year-old Votto will be the third first baseman to sign a $200-million contract in the past four months, joining 1B Albert Pujols of the Angels and 1B Prince Fielder of Detroit. Before this off-season, the only player to ever crack the $200 million mark was IF Alex Rodriguez, who did so twice, once as a shortstop with Texas in 2001 and a second time as a third baseman with the Yankees in 2007.
Just for reference, Votto was already set to make $9.5 million this season and $17 million in 2013. Also, by opting to build around Votto, this probably means that 2B Brandon Phillips will not be retained by Cincinnati when he becomes a free agent at the end of this season. The 30-year-old Phillips will more likely get a three-year contract in the off-season, most likely somewhere outside of Cincinnati.
Spring Training cuts
Boston made an important Spring Training cut today, optioning C Ryan Lavarnway to Pawtucket. There was some speculation that Lavarnway - a top prospect who has torn up Minor League pitching and has looked capable of making the next step to the Majors - would be awarded the starting catcher's job over incumbent C Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
The Mets have also gone through their most recent wave of cuts, beginning on Thursday when they optioned SS Jordany Valdespin to Buffalo. On Friday, they then optioned RHP Chris Schwinden to Buffalo. In addition, the team signed LF Bobby Scales, who was released in Spring Training by the Cubs, to a Minor League contract today.
The Yankees have also been tweaking their roster since last Tuesday, when they claimed C Craig Tatum on waivers from Arizona and signed 1B Steve Pearce - a free agent who had been released by Minnesota this Spring - to a Minor League contract. On Thursday, they outrighted Tatum to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He has the option of refusing the assignment and becoming a free agent. And today, they signed RHP Jason Bulger - who had been released by Minnesota this Spring - to a Minor League contract.
The Mets have also gone through their most recent wave of cuts, beginning on Thursday when they optioned SS Jordany Valdespin to Buffalo. On Friday, they then optioned RHP Chris Schwinden to Buffalo. In addition, the team signed LF Bobby Scales, who was released in Spring Training by the Cubs, to a Minor League contract today.
The Yankees have also been tweaking their roster since last Tuesday, when they claimed C Craig Tatum on waivers from Arizona and signed 1B Steve Pearce - a free agent who had been released by Minnesota this Spring - to a Minor League contract. On Thursday, they outrighted Tatum to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He has the option of refusing the assignment and becoming a free agent. And today, they signed RHP Jason Bulger - who had been released by Minnesota this Spring - to a Minor League contract.
Santana Named Opening Day Starter
LHP Johan Santana has been named the Opening Day starter by the Mets. He learned that he would be given the Opening Day assignment during a meeting with manager Terry Collins on Thursday. The rest of the rotation will include RHP R. A. Dickey, LHP Jon Niese, RHP Mike Pelfrey, and RHP Dillon Gee.
There had been doubt about Santana's availability all Spring as he hasn't pitched in the Majors for 19 months, and that doubt was reinforced as he left an exhibition game with shoulder soreness last week, but his strong bullpen session yesterday convinced Collins that he was ready to go.
There had been doubt about Santana's availability all Spring as he hasn't pitched in the Majors for 19 months, and that doubt was reinforced as he left an exhibition game with shoulder soreness last week, but his strong bullpen session yesterday convinced Collins that he was ready to go.
Robinson's son Commits to Notre Dame
Corey Robinson has committed to Notre Dame. He picked Notre Dame over Iowa, Navy, Wake Forest, North Carolina, and Kansas. The wide receiver is the son of NBA Hall of Famer David Robinson.
It appears that Wake Forest was Robinson's second pick. He committed to Notre Dame after visiting the school on Junior Day and meeting with academic advisers.
It appears that Wake Forest was Robinson's second pick. He committed to Notre Dame after visiting the school on Junior Day and meeting with academic advisers.
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