Cleveland Rockers -
Coming off back to back World Series championships the Rockers were upset in the playoffs last season by the up and coming Seattle Somethings. The Rockers return the core of their team losing only spot starter/mop up man Orlando Navarre and 7th inning man Jair Acosta who through arbitration was quickly pricing himself out of Cleveland's plans. In return they received an intriguing 1B prospect Oswaldo Telemaco who is sure to make an impact at the big level eventually.
The Rockers don't usually participate in the rule 5 draft but after trading Navarre and Acosta it opened a couple spots on the big league roster and they found a useful bullpen piece in Shelley Cornelius. For a rule 5 guy he's a perfect low leverage guy in the bullpen and the price was definitely right!
CF, Wilson Rolls who is sitting at 475 figures to hit his 500th home run at some point this season.
Prospects who figure to make an impact at the ML level at some point season are SP Jacob Kida and CF Raul Valdes. Kida really has nothing left to prove in the minors and deserves a spot in a ML rotation but it's tough to crack a spot in Cleveland's rotation. Valdes figures to break into the bigs as a late inning defensive replacement for Rolls and could eventually take over full time when Rolls contract expires at the end of next season.
Once again the Rockers have their sights set on brining home another World Championship but it won't be easy. The NL has some very good teams. It should be an exciting season!
Montreal Bloody Sox -
This team had its biggest offseason in its 32 year history! After failing to make the .500 mark again the GM targeted the trade market to bring in top pitchers and run producers. This will not be another easy clinch for Cleveland this year.
We will start with the promotion of Wilfredo Azocar who can hit and field but needs another year or 2 before he can be a shut down SS.
We then move to the free agent market where the GM first targeted some bullpen help landing a long relief in Tony Matos and an aged veteran set up man hoping to have 1 more great year left in him (Theodore Standridge, 1 all star and a WS ring). A defensive bandaid was then brought aboard in Esteban Guerrero (another former all star) hoping to give a season or 2 so Azocar can continue to develop. The strategic move to put Neil Chatwood in CF to keep his bat left 2B open and a steal came when the GM signed 2B Roland Street for 4 mill (ROY, GG, SS, and a 3 time all star with an all star MVP). He will be a top of the order run producer with good speed and base running presence.
If that didn't sound great here is where the fans are turkey getting excited landing 2 top pitchers in Abraham Booker (3 time all star, 3.58 career ERA and an inning eater) and Hee Sop Higashioka (former ROY and allstar with 3 WS rings and a 3.56 career ERA). Both fit in well at the home stadium. Heinie Overbay was another set up guy brought aboard for relief help. They did not stop there going after Benito Marichal for defensive 3B help with great speed and run producing ability. All but Booker is under the age of 30 and locked in a contract!!!
This team has become a shadow of what it once was. Now building around a solid power hitting core of Cesar Molina (.286 / 36 / 121), Steve Brush (.278 / 35 / 121), and James Hawkins (.259 / 20 / 94). The GM has put together a starting rotation worthy of a playoff birth and added bullpen help to protect closer Wilin Lee (4 time all star and former fireman of the year). The most amazing part is how they stay under budget and retained their last 4 years first round draft picks.
Play ball!
St. Louis Griffins -
Despite the fact that their strong playoff push came up short, hopes are high for the franchise this season. A move to Busch from the Metrodome was made to capitalize on the trade deadline acquisitions of starters Bret Clayton and Philip Davis.
The biggest weakness for this team going into season 31 was the pitching staff. Rookie Rafeal Ortiz surprised in S31 going 12-7 with a 3.97 ERA and earning an All-Star bid. Another rookie, Galahad McAnaney also earned a spot in the mid-summer classic posting a 3.69 ERA in 68 appearances (8-7, 22sv, 102.1ip). Chris Hubbard will look to bounce back after having a disappointing S31, going 14-14 with a 5.14 ERA. Brent Harmon will round out the rotation after posting a 4.27 ERA last season.
Mariano Terrero was added in the deal that brought Clayton in. He stumbled initially when going into the lineup but bounced back down the stretch to help the club. He joins the very recent acquisition of 27 year old OF Antonio Choi. These two should bolster an already solid offense that returns all-star catcher Richard Chen and Silver Slugger LF Sting Remlinger.
As much as this organization is looking to succeed this season, eyes will be focused on the High A level and the progression of last season number one pick (#5 overall). 19 year old first basemen Butch Payton looks to be one for the ages and if this season should not go as planned, expect moves to be made to set up the roster for his arrival to the bigs.
Chicago Cubs -
Thursday, February 12, 2015
NL SOUTH - Season #32 Preview
Jackson Jayhawks -
The patience of the Jackson faithful has been tested for many years but at least there is one constant: the owner, loosecc, doesn't give up trying to win an elusive WS title. "Dream on" I hear people cry...the Jayhawks are rarely out of the basement.
Well, Season 32 is the dawning on a new era: the big league outfit want to get some of what has been seen at the rookie level where eight division titles in nine seasons has been the result of good talent spotting. Just a pity few get beyond the minor league system.
Anyway, Season 31 held great hope after a 76-86 split the year before but sadly the players did not have the belief in themselves and a 44-118 record was...well, best forgotten. A new bench coach, J P Howard, has been installed (a ML rookie coach this season) and he is supported by many veteran coaches who just want to make a good life out of their job.
The franchise was really zinging when Caleb Jerchaver (2B) was signed in the Rule V draft. Coming with a minor league BA .315 and OBR .408 he is expected to challenge for the lead-off spot in the line-up.
Toby Howe (1B) led the team in homers last term with 27; the roster doesn't like the long ball game and his tally accounted for one third of the season total.
Speed comes from Charlie Little (RF) who swiped 48 (from 60 attempts) bases and currently has a ML total of 414 steals in ten big league seasons.
Ricardo Olivares (OF) showed his potential after coming over part way through last season and now needs to fulfil his potential.
Pitching has long been the problem: too many runs given up. New to the starting rotation is Orber Ordonez (left hander), 24 y-o-a, who gets his chance after a decent AAA showing. Ace starter, if you can call him that, is Joaquin Bonilla (9-5, 4.32 ERA in S31). If they fail to hold the opponent's batters then the bullpen will be relied upon and its really a committee at work: no outstanding guys but each could do it on their day.
Spring training has thrown up a little gem. A potential closer in Dana Newman who has gone 6-for-6 in saves with a 0.00 ERA in six outings. So it may not be a full big league line-up opposing him but a job to be done needs to be done to get results.
Owner's forecast for Season 32: 70 wins.
Roger Brown (loosecc)
Maidstone England
Kansas City Googly Mooglies -
The Googly Mooglies have had their share of missteps since moving to Kansas City, but they seem to be finally moving toward some organizational stability with a cost-conscious, flexible major league roster that has several legitimate prospects working their way toward the big leagues.
The KCGMs added a pair of controllable starting pitchers via trade this off-season in right-handers Greg Newsom and Gene Bolden. Not only did the additions come without having to sacrifice top prospect Louie Mori, the slugging Japanese first baseman signed last season, but the deals actually created a place in the lineup for Mori. The Googly Mooglies also signed free-agent right-hander Sal Stratton to a reasonable, two-year deal.
The KCGMs are also in position to add to their farm system this year thanks to a pair of compensation picks for reliever Joseph Martin, who opted out of his contract before signing with Salt Lake City. There's also some flexibility in the budget should the right player pop up on the international market. After a 90-win season left them just short of the playoffs last year, there’s optimism in Kansas City that the Googly Mooglies can not only get over the hump in Season 32 but that they can stay there for the foreseeable future.
Mexico City Hombres Azul -
In hindsight, the decision to rebuild was made a season too late: after 14 winning seasons, 11 visits to the post season, and 1 world series win – the Hombres Azul lost 96 games. Some major league talent was traded away during season 31 (Philip Davis, Vic Ayala, Lou Hendrickson & Roland Street), and some more this off-season (Oswaldo Padilla & Benito Marichal); there is still some talent on the roster, but insufficient to compete with KC & Monterrey, it’s plain that Mexico City will not be a contender in season 32, and probably not in season 33 either.
The fruit of all those trades is the restocking of what was a very bare farm-system. 1B Kevin Knight and SP Paul Lewis are close the big leagues, SP Frankie Redman and COFs Carlos Guerrero, Victor Bournigal & Norberto Sosa are a littler further off.
Monterrey Border Jumpers -
The patience of the Jackson faithful has been tested for many years but at least there is one constant: the owner, loosecc, doesn't give up trying to win an elusive WS title. "Dream on" I hear people cry...the Jayhawks are rarely out of the basement.
Well, Season 32 is the dawning on a new era: the big league outfit want to get some of what has been seen at the rookie level where eight division titles in nine seasons has been the result of good talent spotting. Just a pity few get beyond the minor league system.
Anyway, Season 31 held great hope after a 76-86 split the year before but sadly the players did not have the belief in themselves and a 44-118 record was...well, best forgotten. A new bench coach, J P Howard, has been installed (a ML rookie coach this season) and he is supported by many veteran coaches who just want to make a good life out of their job.
The franchise was really zinging when Caleb Jerchaver (2B) was signed in the Rule V draft. Coming with a minor league BA .315 and OBR .408 he is expected to challenge for the lead-off spot in the line-up.
Toby Howe (1B) led the team in homers last term with 27; the roster doesn't like the long ball game and his tally accounted for one third of the season total.
Speed comes from Charlie Little (RF) who swiped 48 (from 60 attempts) bases and currently has a ML total of 414 steals in ten big league seasons.
Ricardo Olivares (OF) showed his potential after coming over part way through last season and now needs to fulfil his potential.
Pitching has long been the problem: too many runs given up. New to the starting rotation is Orber Ordonez (left hander), 24 y-o-a, who gets his chance after a decent AAA showing. Ace starter, if you can call him that, is Joaquin Bonilla (9-5, 4.32 ERA in S31). If they fail to hold the opponent's batters then the bullpen will be relied upon and its really a committee at work: no outstanding guys but each could do it on their day.
Spring training has thrown up a little gem. A potential closer in Dana Newman who has gone 6-for-6 in saves with a 0.00 ERA in six outings. So it may not be a full big league line-up opposing him but a job to be done needs to be done to get results.
Owner's forecast for Season 32: 70 wins.
Roger Brown (loosecc)
Maidstone England
Kansas City Googly Mooglies -
The Googly Mooglies have had their share of missteps since moving to Kansas City, but they seem to be finally moving toward some organizational stability with a cost-conscious, flexible major league roster that has several legitimate prospects working their way toward the big leagues.
The KCGMs added a pair of controllable starting pitchers via trade this off-season in right-handers Greg Newsom and Gene Bolden. Not only did the additions come without having to sacrifice top prospect Louie Mori, the slugging Japanese first baseman signed last season, but the deals actually created a place in the lineup for Mori. The Googly Mooglies also signed free-agent right-hander Sal Stratton to a reasonable, two-year deal.
The KCGMs are also in position to add to their farm system this year thanks to a pair of compensation picks for reliever Joseph Martin, who opted out of his contract before signing with Salt Lake City. There's also some flexibility in the budget should the right player pop up on the international market. After a 90-win season left them just short of the playoffs last year, there’s optimism in Kansas City that the Googly Mooglies can not only get over the hump in Season 32 but that they can stay there for the foreseeable future.
Mexico City Hombres Azul -
In hindsight, the decision to rebuild was made a season too late: after 14 winning seasons, 11 visits to the post season, and 1 world series win – the Hombres Azul lost 96 games. Some major league talent was traded away during season 31 (Philip Davis, Vic Ayala, Lou Hendrickson & Roland Street), and some more this off-season (Oswaldo Padilla & Benito Marichal); there is still some talent on the roster, but insufficient to compete with KC & Monterrey, it’s plain that Mexico City will not be a contender in season 32, and probably not in season 33 either.
The fruit of all those trades is the restocking of what was a very bare farm-system. 1B Kevin Knight and SP Paul Lewis are close the big leagues, SP Frankie Redman and COFs Carlos Guerrero, Victor Bournigal & Norberto Sosa are a littler further off.
Monterrey Border Jumpers -
NL WEST - Season #32 Preview
Colorado Evil Empire -
PAST - Season 31 saw us win our 3rd Squires World Series Trophy., Tomas Cairo won his 9th Straight MVP (in only 10 ML seasons) and Yuniesky Delgado took home his 3rd CY award in 4 seasons while Future HOF Niko Kirby moved to #6 in career wins and #3 in career strikeouts after yet another great season.
PRESENT - The 3-season plan to re-sign Tomas Cairo worked perfectly as "The Franchise" took our MAX offer the very first cycle it was eligible to be accepted. Our final year in Colorado will hopefully result in another World Series appearance and maybe with some luck we win #4.
Those are the expectations as we eagerly anticipate our move back to Fresno in Season 33.
ROSTER ADDITIONS - In Season 31, we brought in four players who contributed in a big way during our playoff run in SP- Lou Hendrickson, C- Rodrigo Campos, Gold Glove SS - Vic Ayala, and World Series MVP 3B/RF - Sam Petrick.
This offseason was also very busy as we added younger and cheaper talent in 2B- Mark Sears and 1B- Vicente Ciriaco, but they came at a price and really didn't lessen our ML logjam.
Signed future HOF'ers Rickey Atchley and Octavio Valenzuela mostly to try and get them their first WS ring before they retire and am very happy to have both back on the squad.
ROSTER SUBTRACTIONS - Budgets and FA contracts dictated that we needed to move some payroll and with that brought the very tough decision to move All-stars Julio Osoria, Hee Sop Higashioka and Lou Hendrickson via trades. We wish all three nothing but the best in their next endeavors.
FUTURE - Trades, drafts and IFA brought in some quality youngsters like future closer Jimmy Hoffman, Speedsters and potential on base producers in Luis Lima and Jesus Delgado as well as future #3-#4 type SP's in Ricardo Sanchez and Hector Jacquez.
Luis Gutierrez, Wilin Mercado, and John Ono should provide some much need RP help in the near future.
The jewels of our Farm System are 3B- Rubby Velez who will replace Osoria in Season 33 and future Ace SP - Alex Sojo will make his eagerly anticipated ML debut sometime after the 25-gm mark this year.
One to keep an eye on would be SP - Yordano Uribe who bounced back nicely last year after missing over a year with an injury. The knuckleballer may never get back to those lofty projections/ratings, but that means little to this owner who thinks Yordano is going to be special and a future ace in a couple of years.
IN SUMMARY - Our only priority this year was getting Cairo re-signed and thankfully it was achieved. Was hoping to bring in another stud SP, but Ben Bolton and Harry Newman both rejected near MAX offers to pitch for The Champs while staying in The AL which helps ease the disappointment of not obtaining one of the two.
FINAL THOUGHT - Just going to say that I am shocked to have received ZERO interest in trading for one of the best hitters currently in Squires. That guy is Louie Ibanez who has been on the trade block and garnered no inquiries.
At only 5.8m this year he is worth every penny and is even willing to sign an extension at 4.6m which will also be a very good value the next couple of years. A hamstring injury knocked some of his non-offensive ratings down a little (did nothing to his hitting ratings) which I'm guessing is why there hasn't been any interest, but it's guys like Louie that win you Championships and it's baffling that not one owner has inquired about him.
5-time and reigning Gold Glove SS Bartolo Padilla has also been on the trade block all offseason and also received no interest from the world which is also a mystery. Defense especially at SS is one of the most important keys to HBD success, but nobody wants him either ?? One decent prospect or cheap stud bullpen guy could have had both, but I guess nobody needs these proven winners. Oh well..
Good luck to all teams in Season 32 !!!
Seattle Somethings -
Before forecasting Season 32 for Seattle Somethings, let us take time out to reflect upon S31 and recap the tremendous overall progress the historically-tortured Seattle franchise has made.
For about the first 50 games or so, the squad was floundering in mediocrity, posting a sub-.500 record. Out of desperation (as well as merit, in fairness), the club decided to promote 20-year old phenom catcher Alex Mota (S29 R1P9) to the bigs after only 800 career minor league at bats. The club experienced an instant turnaround, improving substantially on defense while breaking about even offensively. As planned, the club also called up rangy CF Bill Presley who managed to contribute a .796 OPS as a rookie. Marc Oswalt and Marc Sears each contributed 20-20ish seasons, and former R5 pick Kevin Martin continued to produce and improve. The starting rotation was the highlight and the bullpen had some standout play. The preseason trade with Colorado appeared to have favored Seattle in the short-term. On a disappointing note, 2B/SS/3B Mateo Nunez and 1B Vicente Ciriaco experienced statistical regression.
When the teams took their leave for the All-Star break, rookie manager Al Vargas gathered his the all-star-less club together and organized an on-site lock-in team retreat to foster improved team chemistry and morale. The results were immediately noticable. Before the break, the club was 5+ games back of the 6th seed with multiple teams to pass. Immediately following the ASG, the club began winning at a feverish pace. Overshadowed by Colorado's club-record (league-record?) winning streak, Seattle simultaneously posted a 10+ game winning streak itself and began to make a spirited charge to validate and defend its S30 playoff berth. However, upstarts Kansas City (nicepiecoro) and Minnesota (cincymike) were not ready to go quietly into the night. Over the last 50-60 games, the three clubs chased one another neck-and-neck. At separate invervals all three clubs led the way, and throughout the entire race neither club was more than 5 games back of the 6th seed. Minnesota went all in with trades to push for the spot, while Kansas City and Seattle stood pat and searched for intrinsic improvement. Also, Kansas City (...controversially...) elected not to immediately assign mega-IFA 1B Louie Mori right to the bigs, instead electing to preserve service time. In the homestretch, Minnesota faltered and the race came down to KC and Sea, and thanks to an extremely fortunate scheduling fate, Seattle profited from facing Honolulu and Colorado squads that had long-ago clinched their playoff berths and were resting key players. Rather begrudgingly, Seattle appeared in their 2nd-straight playoffs.
In the first round, the Somethings (92-70) drew 2-time-defending NL South champions Monterrey Border Jumpers (101-61), led by phenom IFAs Alex James and Melky Quixote, amongst other strong supporting cast. Rather interestingly, Seattle was thrilled to be paired with Monterrey in the lead-up to the series, as Seattle has mysteriously posted a .650ish win % lifetime versus a superior roster on paper. Despite being underdogs, the S.S. rode their late-season wave of confidence to a stunning 3-0 sweep of the favored Border Jumpers, announcing to the league that they were for real and that their playoff qualification was not simply a matter of luck and formality.
In the DCS, Seattle was paired with 2-time defending league champions Cleveland Rockers (106-56). The plucky Somethings managed to steal game 1 against co-ace Julian Scott, but dropped games 2 and 3 against Cleveland's other formidible starters. Facing elimination, and having to go against Scott a second time, as well as former first-overall pick stud SP Billy Campbell in an if-necessary game 5, the Vegas odds were very stacked in Cleveland's favor. Despite that, Seattle managed to steal game 4 with a late come-from-behind victory to force a deciding game 5, and rather incredibly, the Somethings stormed Campbell and advanced to the first LCS in their 31 season history!!!
Awaiting them in the LCS was none other than the Big Bad Wolf himself, scootermcray, and his Colorado Maize 'N Blue, who posted an incredible 117-45 regular season, including a 23- or 24- or 25-game mid-season win-streak. Despite Seattle's attempts to put out every trick in the book, including re-setting its starting rotation to have its groundballers pitch in Coors and its flyballers pitch in Safeco, and a failed attempt to play extreme small ball by setting bunting and baserunning aggressiveness to 5 in the game against Colorado's 0-range 0-fielding SP Hendrickson, the well-rested Maize 'N Blue ran out to a quick 3-1 series lead. However, the plucky Somethings rallied with victories in games 5 and 6 to force an unlikely game 7 against the National League titans and their future Hall-of-fame ace Yuniesky Delgado. Seattle was able to muster its share of offense in game 7, but Seattle fans were heartbroken when the game was broken open by former-Something RF Sam Petrick breaking the game open against former-Colorado relief pitcher Denny Stock, who were coincidentally and cruelly involved in the same pre-season trade for one another.
Despite the loss, Seattle fans and media gave pjfoster13 high praise for performing so admirably against the murderers' row of squads and owners. The first round upset of Monterrey even led to their ownership firing GM runnrun, replacing his Moneyball IFA-centered style with big-budget veteran dubrightway.
Fast-forwarding to S32, Seattle did not rest on its laurels and had an off-season which GMs around the league have rated as extremely productive. With minimal long-term commitments, Seattle was motivated to make a huge splash in free agency or IFA. With no fewer than three potential max- free agents on the market, Seattle was poised to strike. They had to make some tough personnel decisions with their own free agents and arb candidates, electing to allow valuable reliever Wandy Urbina to walk in free agency, but electing to keep playoff scapegoat Denny Stock and defensive-whiz Tim O'Malley for relatively large contracts in 3rd-arb.
This was merely the start of the fun, however. The off-season hot stove was unusually active between S31 and S32, and the Somethings became engaged in fierce trade negotiations with no fewer than a dozen clubs. It became clear to pjfoster13 that the offseason was going to be filled with mass exchanges, and boy was that ever the case. After days of intensive back-and-forth posturing, it was actually Richmond and their GM dabomb167383 who set the first dominos in motion by agreeing to a massive selloff of core players to Hartford. This led to the materialization of a MASSIVE trade for Seattle that had been brewing in Seattle's rumor mill for at least 4 seasons. The prize was the straw that stirred the drink in Richmond, slugging SS Max Cerveza. GM pj openly admitted in interviews that this deal was totally unexpected and literally fell into his lap. GMs around the league complimented the acquisition, considering it only cost young corner bat Marc Oswalt and talented-but-injury-prone 21-year old SP prospect Mark Chen. National media outlets are speculating that GM dabomb163783 may be beginning to walk on eggshells and his reign over Richmond may soon be coming to an end ...
GM pjfoster13 then completed his 2nd massive coup, bringing in 6-time all-star 28-year-old 3B Julio Osoria from Colorado, along with his 3 world series rings, 5 silver-slugger awards, and 2 gold-gloves, as well as 33-year-old SP Lou Hendrickson, in exchange for 26-year-old S31 Gold Glove 2B Marc Sears and 24-year-old slugging 1B Vicente Ciriaco. Colorado was able to get younger and shave some payroll, and Seattle acquired much-needed experience, infield ability, and pitching depth. GM pjfoster13 was STILL not done, sending solid 200+ IP starter Rigo Almonte to Milwaukee for enigmatic / jaded outfielder Julian Aquino. Aquino has declined severely the past several seasons but is still only in his age-27 season, and if the former-40-HR hitter regains his slugging form, the deal will be considered a coup for the championship-thirsty Seattle fans and media alike. Finally, in a minor move, Seattle acquired veteran RH RP Ted Sheehan from St. Louis (formerly Minnesota) for a AAA RP prospect.
Seattle enters S32 loaded with pitchers and hitters in the prime seasons of their careers, and will be looking to maximize their push towards another deep playoff run in S32. Not only that, Seattle's minor league system continues to be one of the deepest in the league, and speculation on Twitter is that pjfoster13 is willing to use some of that roster depth to acquire a key veteran or two to enhance its playoff run. Additionally, intrinsic growth is expected from Seattle's talented core of youngsters including Mota, Presley, Nunez, and Parkers. This may be the season that Seattle overtakes Honolulu for 2nd-best in the NL West, and under extremely generous albeit unlikely circumstances, Seattle could overtake scootermcray and the Maize 'N Blue for top spot in the NL West.
Outlook: CONTENDING
Departures: RP Wandy Urbina (signed with Monterrey, $63.4M over 5 years !!!), RP Louie Abreu (FA, to LAA), 2B Marc Sears (trade to Col), 1B Vicente Ciriaco (trade to Col), LF Marc Oswalt (trade to Rich), SP Rigo Almonte (trade to Mil)
Acquisitions: SS Max Cerveza (trade from Rich), 3B Julio Osoria (trade from Col), SP Lou Hendrickson (trade from Col), LF Julian Aquino (trade from Mil)
Milestones: Club seeking first-ever 100-win season in its history. 3B Osoria needs 28 HR to reach 200 career. LF Aquino needs 3 HR for 200 career. SP Lou Hendrickson needs 6 wins for 150 career, 79 strikeouts for 2000 career. SP Eric Bordick needs 9 wins for 150 career, needs 204 strikeouts for 2000 career.
Best off-season move: acquiring five-tool slugging SS Max Cerveza gives the Somethings an MVP-type, middle-of-the-order middle-infield bat, a huge luxury and a key component to organizations looking to compete at the highest level. Widely considered the biggest coup of GM pjfoster13's career.
Top prospects: LHP Timothy Carreon (ETA S32), 2B/LF Miguel Tejera (ETA S33), RHP Derrik Hayes (ETA S32), 2B/CF Miguel Navarre (ETA S32), LHP Francisco Quintanilla (ETA S32), SS Wayne Anderson (ETA S33), C Darron Wilkerson (ETA S34), 1B Perry Adkins (ETA S32), DITR LHP Mendy Vanguri (ETA S34), RHP Ren Wanatabe (ETA S35)
Honolulu Rainbow Warriors -
Portland Pines -
PAST - Season 31 saw us win our 3rd Squires World Series Trophy., Tomas Cairo won his 9th Straight MVP (in only 10 ML seasons) and Yuniesky Delgado took home his 3rd CY award in 4 seasons while Future HOF Niko Kirby moved to #6 in career wins and #3 in career strikeouts after yet another great season.
PRESENT - The 3-season plan to re-sign Tomas Cairo worked perfectly as "The Franchise" took our MAX offer the very first cycle it was eligible to be accepted. Our final year in Colorado will hopefully result in another World Series appearance and maybe with some luck we win #4.
Those are the expectations as we eagerly anticipate our move back to Fresno in Season 33.
ROSTER ADDITIONS - In Season 31, we brought in four players who contributed in a big way during our playoff run in SP- Lou Hendrickson, C- Rodrigo Campos, Gold Glove SS - Vic Ayala, and World Series MVP 3B/RF - Sam Petrick.
This offseason was also very busy as we added younger and cheaper talent in 2B- Mark Sears and 1B- Vicente Ciriaco, but they came at a price and really didn't lessen our ML logjam.
Signed future HOF'ers Rickey Atchley and Octavio Valenzuela mostly to try and get them their first WS ring before they retire and am very happy to have both back on the squad.
ROSTER SUBTRACTIONS - Budgets and FA contracts dictated that we needed to move some payroll and with that brought the very tough decision to move All-stars Julio Osoria, Hee Sop Higashioka and Lou Hendrickson via trades. We wish all three nothing but the best in their next endeavors.
FUTURE - Trades, drafts and IFA brought in some quality youngsters like future closer Jimmy Hoffman, Speedsters and potential on base producers in Luis Lima and Jesus Delgado as well as future #3-#4 type SP's in Ricardo Sanchez and Hector Jacquez.
Luis Gutierrez, Wilin Mercado, and John Ono should provide some much need RP help in the near future.
The jewels of our Farm System are 3B- Rubby Velez who will replace Osoria in Season 33 and future Ace SP - Alex Sojo will make his eagerly anticipated ML debut sometime after the 25-gm mark this year.
One to keep an eye on would be SP - Yordano Uribe who bounced back nicely last year after missing over a year with an injury. The knuckleballer may never get back to those lofty projections/ratings, but that means little to this owner who thinks Yordano is going to be special and a future ace in a couple of years.
IN SUMMARY - Our only priority this year was getting Cairo re-signed and thankfully it was achieved. Was hoping to bring in another stud SP, but Ben Bolton and Harry Newman both rejected near MAX offers to pitch for The Champs while staying in The AL which helps ease the disappointment of not obtaining one of the two.
FINAL THOUGHT - Just going to say that I am shocked to have received ZERO interest in trading for one of the best hitters currently in Squires. That guy is Louie Ibanez who has been on the trade block and garnered no inquiries.
At only 5.8m this year he is worth every penny and is even willing to sign an extension at 4.6m which will also be a very good value the next couple of years. A hamstring injury knocked some of his non-offensive ratings down a little (did nothing to his hitting ratings) which I'm guessing is why there hasn't been any interest, but it's guys like Louie that win you Championships and it's baffling that not one owner has inquired about him.
5-time and reigning Gold Glove SS Bartolo Padilla has also been on the trade block all offseason and also received no interest from the world which is also a mystery. Defense especially at SS is one of the most important keys to HBD success, but nobody wants him either ?? One decent prospect or cheap stud bullpen guy could have had both, but I guess nobody needs these proven winners. Oh well..
Good luck to all teams in Season 32 !!!
Seattle Somethings -
Before forecasting Season 32 for Seattle Somethings, let us take time out to reflect upon S31 and recap the tremendous overall progress the historically-tortured Seattle franchise has made.
For about the first 50 games or so, the squad was floundering in mediocrity, posting a sub-.500 record. Out of desperation (as well as merit, in fairness), the club decided to promote 20-year old phenom catcher Alex Mota (S29 R1P9) to the bigs after only 800 career minor league at bats. The club experienced an instant turnaround, improving substantially on defense while breaking about even offensively. As planned, the club also called up rangy CF Bill Presley who managed to contribute a .796 OPS as a rookie. Marc Oswalt and Marc Sears each contributed 20-20ish seasons, and former R5 pick Kevin Martin continued to produce and improve. The starting rotation was the highlight and the bullpen had some standout play. The preseason trade with Colorado appeared to have favored Seattle in the short-term. On a disappointing note, 2B/SS/3B Mateo Nunez and 1B Vicente Ciriaco experienced statistical regression.
When the teams took their leave for the All-Star break, rookie manager Al Vargas gathered his the all-star-less club together and organized an on-site lock-in team retreat to foster improved team chemistry and morale. The results were immediately noticable. Before the break, the club was 5+ games back of the 6th seed with multiple teams to pass. Immediately following the ASG, the club began winning at a feverish pace. Overshadowed by Colorado's club-record (league-record?) winning streak, Seattle simultaneously posted a 10+ game winning streak itself and began to make a spirited charge to validate and defend its S30 playoff berth. However, upstarts Kansas City (nicepiecoro) and Minnesota (cincymike) were not ready to go quietly into the night. Over the last 50-60 games, the three clubs chased one another neck-and-neck. At separate invervals all three clubs led the way, and throughout the entire race neither club was more than 5 games back of the 6th seed. Minnesota went all in with trades to push for the spot, while Kansas City and Seattle stood pat and searched for intrinsic improvement. Also, Kansas City (...controversially...) elected not to immediately assign mega-IFA 1B Louie Mori right to the bigs, instead electing to preserve service time. In the homestretch, Minnesota faltered and the race came down to KC and Sea, and thanks to an extremely fortunate scheduling fate, Seattle profited from facing Honolulu and Colorado squads that had long-ago clinched their playoff berths and were resting key players. Rather begrudgingly, Seattle appeared in their 2nd-straight playoffs.
In the first round, the Somethings (92-70) drew 2-time-defending NL South champions Monterrey Border Jumpers (101-61), led by phenom IFAs Alex James and Melky Quixote, amongst other strong supporting cast. Rather interestingly, Seattle was thrilled to be paired with Monterrey in the lead-up to the series, as Seattle has mysteriously posted a .650ish win % lifetime versus a superior roster on paper. Despite being underdogs, the S.S. rode their late-season wave of confidence to a stunning 3-0 sweep of the favored Border Jumpers, announcing to the league that they were for real and that their playoff qualification was not simply a matter of luck and formality.
In the DCS, Seattle was paired with 2-time defending league champions Cleveland Rockers (106-56). The plucky Somethings managed to steal game 1 against co-ace Julian Scott, but dropped games 2 and 3 against Cleveland's other formidible starters. Facing elimination, and having to go against Scott a second time, as well as former first-overall pick stud SP Billy Campbell in an if-necessary game 5, the Vegas odds were very stacked in Cleveland's favor. Despite that, Seattle managed to steal game 4 with a late come-from-behind victory to force a deciding game 5, and rather incredibly, the Somethings stormed Campbell and advanced to the first LCS in their 31 season history!!!
Awaiting them in the LCS was none other than the Big Bad Wolf himself, scootermcray, and his Colorado Maize 'N Blue, who posted an incredible 117-45 regular season, including a 23- or 24- or 25-game mid-season win-streak. Despite Seattle's attempts to put out every trick in the book, including re-setting its starting rotation to have its groundballers pitch in Coors and its flyballers pitch in Safeco, and a failed attempt to play extreme small ball by setting bunting and baserunning aggressiveness to 5 in the game against Colorado's 0-range 0-fielding SP Hendrickson, the well-rested Maize 'N Blue ran out to a quick 3-1 series lead. However, the plucky Somethings rallied with victories in games 5 and 6 to force an unlikely game 7 against the National League titans and their future Hall-of-fame ace Yuniesky Delgado. Seattle was able to muster its share of offense in game 7, but Seattle fans were heartbroken when the game was broken open by former-Something RF Sam Petrick breaking the game open against former-Colorado relief pitcher Denny Stock, who were coincidentally and cruelly involved in the same pre-season trade for one another.
Despite the loss, Seattle fans and media gave pjfoster13 high praise for performing so admirably against the murderers' row of squads and owners. The first round upset of Monterrey even led to their ownership firing GM runnrun, replacing his Moneyball IFA-centered style with big-budget veteran dubrightway.
Fast-forwarding to S32, Seattle did not rest on its laurels and had an off-season which GMs around the league have rated as extremely productive. With minimal long-term commitments, Seattle was motivated to make a huge splash in free agency or IFA. With no fewer than three potential max- free agents on the market, Seattle was poised to strike. They had to make some tough personnel decisions with their own free agents and arb candidates, electing to allow valuable reliever Wandy Urbina to walk in free agency, but electing to keep playoff scapegoat Denny Stock and defensive-whiz Tim O'Malley for relatively large contracts in 3rd-arb.
This was merely the start of the fun, however. The off-season hot stove was unusually active between S31 and S32, and the Somethings became engaged in fierce trade negotiations with no fewer than a dozen clubs. It became clear to pjfoster13 that the offseason was going to be filled with mass exchanges, and boy was that ever the case. After days of intensive back-and-forth posturing, it was actually Richmond and their GM dabomb167383 who set the first dominos in motion by agreeing to a massive selloff of core players to Hartford. This led to the materialization of a MASSIVE trade for Seattle that had been brewing in Seattle's rumor mill for at least 4 seasons. The prize was the straw that stirred the drink in Richmond, slugging SS Max Cerveza. GM pj openly admitted in interviews that this deal was totally unexpected and literally fell into his lap. GMs around the league complimented the acquisition, considering it only cost young corner bat Marc Oswalt and talented-but-injury-prone 21-year old SP prospect Mark Chen. National media outlets are speculating that GM dabomb163783 may be beginning to walk on eggshells and his reign over Richmond may soon be coming to an end ...
GM pjfoster13 then completed his 2nd massive coup, bringing in 6-time all-star 28-year-old 3B Julio Osoria from Colorado, along with his 3 world series rings, 5 silver-slugger awards, and 2 gold-gloves, as well as 33-year-old SP Lou Hendrickson, in exchange for 26-year-old S31 Gold Glove 2B Marc Sears and 24-year-old slugging 1B Vicente Ciriaco. Colorado was able to get younger and shave some payroll, and Seattle acquired much-needed experience, infield ability, and pitching depth. GM pjfoster13 was STILL not done, sending solid 200+ IP starter Rigo Almonte to Milwaukee for enigmatic / jaded outfielder Julian Aquino. Aquino has declined severely the past several seasons but is still only in his age-27 season, and if the former-40-HR hitter regains his slugging form, the deal will be considered a coup for the championship-thirsty Seattle fans and media alike. Finally, in a minor move, Seattle acquired veteran RH RP Ted Sheehan from St. Louis (formerly Minnesota) for a AAA RP prospect.
Seattle enters S32 loaded with pitchers and hitters in the prime seasons of their careers, and will be looking to maximize their push towards another deep playoff run in S32. Not only that, Seattle's minor league system continues to be one of the deepest in the league, and speculation on Twitter is that pjfoster13 is willing to use some of that roster depth to acquire a key veteran or two to enhance its playoff run. Additionally, intrinsic growth is expected from Seattle's talented core of youngsters including Mota, Presley, Nunez, and Parkers. This may be the season that Seattle overtakes Honolulu for 2nd-best in the NL West, and under extremely generous albeit unlikely circumstances, Seattle could overtake scootermcray and the Maize 'N Blue for top spot in the NL West.
Outlook: CONTENDING
Departures: RP Wandy Urbina (signed with Monterrey, $63.4M over 5 years !!!), RP Louie Abreu (FA, to LAA), 2B Marc Sears (trade to Col), 1B Vicente Ciriaco (trade to Col), LF Marc Oswalt (trade to Rich), SP Rigo Almonte (trade to Mil)
Acquisitions: SS Max Cerveza (trade from Rich), 3B Julio Osoria (trade from Col), SP Lou Hendrickson (trade from Col), LF Julian Aquino (trade from Mil)
Milestones: Club seeking first-ever 100-win season in its history. 3B Osoria needs 28 HR to reach 200 career. LF Aquino needs 3 HR for 200 career. SP Lou Hendrickson needs 6 wins for 150 career, 79 strikeouts for 2000 career. SP Eric Bordick needs 9 wins for 150 career, needs 204 strikeouts for 2000 career.
Best off-season move: acquiring five-tool slugging SS Max Cerveza gives the Somethings an MVP-type, middle-of-the-order middle-infield bat, a huge luxury and a key component to organizations looking to compete at the highest level. Widely considered the biggest coup of GM pjfoster13's career.
Top prospects: LHP Timothy Carreon (ETA S32), 2B/LF Miguel Tejera (ETA S33), RHP Derrik Hayes (ETA S32), 2B/CF Miguel Navarre (ETA S32), LHP Francisco Quintanilla (ETA S32), SS Wayne Anderson (ETA S33), C Darron Wilkerson (ETA S34), 1B Perry Adkins (ETA S32), DITR LHP Mendy Vanguri (ETA S34), RHP Ren Wanatabe (ETA S35)
Honolulu Rainbow Warriors -
Portland Pines -
Thursday, November 13, 2014
AL EAST - Season #31 Preview
Baltimore Renegades -
The more things change, the more they stay the same in Baltimore. The Baltimore Renegades have made the playoffs TWELVE straight seasons, but still have not won a World Series Championship. Last season, the team won an American League high 110 games only to be knocked out in the AL Championship Series to the arch rival Las Vegas Gamblers. The fans are rabid for a Championship and owner/GM Terry Swayne made a flurry of off-season moves to shake up this team yet again.
HALF of the roster was turned over this off-season. Popular former players Rickey Atchley , Jon McConnell, Octavio Valenzuela, and Jose Velez were brought back to keep Season Ticket sales high. The Renegades still have a decent young core of productive ballplayers, but their window of opportunity to win a Championship is 2-3 seasons at best. Bringing back all of the former (age 30+) players says this team is going for it all this season.
Baltimore's front loaded contract strategy is out the window this season as the team decided to spend money for this year's team instead of worrying about next year's cap. Like always, the Renegades are a balanced group with no glaring holes. This is what you would expect from a team that has went to the playoffs 12 straight years. Speed was added this off-season and that was the one missing element last year. The revamped Renegades line-up is still the strength of the team.
The line-up projects as followed...
(1) Jin Nishioka LF
(2) Derek Tanner CF
(3) Peter Carlson 3B
(4) Artie Bukvich DH
(5) Lyle Beck SS
(6) Jose Velez RF
(7) Mariano Terrero 2B
(8) Al Matos C
(9) Rickey Atchley 1B
The five-man bench is flexible with C-Bernie Rosado, 1B/OF- Brandon Wall, 3B/OF-Johny Henley, 3B/OF- Michael Weiland, and UT-Peter Stowers.
Burlington Black Bears -
Charlotte Tar Heels -
Hartford #Team Cutters -
The more things change, the more they stay the same in Baltimore. The Baltimore Renegades have made the playoffs TWELVE straight seasons, but still have not won a World Series Championship. Last season, the team won an American League high 110 games only to be knocked out in the AL Championship Series to the arch rival Las Vegas Gamblers. The fans are rabid for a Championship and owner/GM Terry Swayne made a flurry of off-season moves to shake up this team yet again.
HALF of the roster was turned over this off-season. Popular former players Rickey Atchley , Jon McConnell, Octavio Valenzuela, and Jose Velez were brought back to keep Season Ticket sales high. The Renegades still have a decent young core of productive ballplayers, but their window of opportunity to win a Championship is 2-3 seasons at best. Bringing back all of the former (age 30+) players says this team is going for it all this season.
Baltimore's front loaded contract strategy is out the window this season as the team decided to spend money for this year's team instead of worrying about next year's cap. Like always, the Renegades are a balanced group with no glaring holes. This is what you would expect from a team that has went to the playoffs 12 straight years. Speed was added this off-season and that was the one missing element last year. The revamped Renegades line-up is still the strength of the team.
The line-up projects as followed...
(1) Jin Nishioka LF
(2) Derek Tanner CF
(3) Peter Carlson 3B
(4) Artie Bukvich DH
(5) Lyle Beck SS
(6) Jose Velez RF
(7) Mariano Terrero 2B
(8) Al Matos C
(9) Rickey Atchley 1B
The five-man bench is flexible with C-Bernie Rosado, 1B/OF- Brandon Wall, 3B/OF-Johny Henley, 3B/OF- Michael Weiland, and UT-Peter Stowers.
Baltimore's revamped rotation is led by experienced LHP- Henderson Sirotka and returing RHP- Octavio Valenzuela. The rest of the rotation is young but talented. RHP-Jin Ho Uehara won 22 games last season and LHP's Henderson Riggs and Pablo Taveras show a lot of promise as well. Juan Duran is the emergency starter and long man and his flexability adds to a very strong starting rotation..
CoCo Reagan will be Baltimore's closer again this season. The set-up men will be lefties Hal Alexander and Willie Estrada, along with righties Jon McConnell and Albert Ramirez.
Top Rookie- NONE
CoCo Reagan will be Baltimore's closer again this season. The set-up men will be lefties Hal Alexander and Willie Estrada, along with righties Jon McConnell and Albert Ramirez.
Top Rookie- NONE
Key Players Lost- RHP-Derrik Easley (trade), RHP-Rashun Gonzalez (trade), LHP-Johan Heredia (trade), RHP-Harry Mateo (trade), RHP-Frank Maurer (trade), 1B-Ty Scanlan (trade), 1B/OF-Benji Aquilera (trade), 3B-David Vargas (trade), SS/OF-Banjo Wiltse (trade), SS-Jose Guzman (trade), CF-Clarence Christopher (trade), and MVP LF-Juam Tabata (trade).
Key Players Acquired- RHP-Jon McConnell (trade), RHP-Octavio Valenzuela (trade), LHP-Henderson Riggs, LHP-Henderson Sirotka, LHP-Pablo Tavarez (trade), 1B-Rickey Atchley (trade), 1B/OF-Brandon Wall (FA), 2B-Mariano Terrero (trade), 3B/OF-Johnny Henley (FA), SS-Lyle Beck (trade), LF-Jin Nishioka (trade), and RF-Jose Velez (trade).
Key Off-Season Transaction- The trade of MVP Juan Tabata to Philadelphia for three players started a domino effect. Players acquired were traded in other deals which brought in more talent. The end result is that Baltimore has the strongest 25 man roster from top-to-bottom that it's ever had. This is a strong, talented team and the fans hope this is finally the year when the Renegades can win it all.
Burlington Black Bears -
Charlotte Tar Heels -
Hartford #Team Cutters -
AL NORTH - Season #31 Preview
Buffalo Wings -
Looks to be mainly a rebuilding year for the Wings, but we've added some quality veteran talent as well. We'll see what happens...
Detroit Wolverines -
Milwaukee Blue Ribbons -
Wichita Winners -
Looks to be mainly a rebuilding year for the Wings, but we've added some quality veteran talent as well. We'll see what happens...
Detroit Wolverines -
Milwaukee Blue Ribbons -
Wichita Winners -
AL SOUTH - Season #31 Preview
Houston Wranglers-
Jacksonville Jaguars -
Little Rock Rockabillies -
Montgomery Cornbread On The Brain -
Jacksonville Jaguars -
Little Rock Rockabillies -
Montgomery Cornbread On The Brain -
AL WEST - Season #31 Preview
Anaheim Aardvarks -
Las Vegas Gamblers -
Salem Slayers -
Salt Lake City Movers & Shakers -
Las Vegas Gamblers -
Salem Slayers -
Salt Lake City Movers & Shakers -
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
NL EAST - Season #31 Preview
Philadelphia Phillagers -
1) We're trying to contend
2) Juan Tabata, Harry Mateo, Clarence Christopher from BAL.... Tike Stokes from BOS.... Damaso Mangual from COL... Tony Colome from BAL
3) Richard Osuna, Henderson Riggs, Jin Nishioka, Jerome Hill, David Herrera, Jorge Andrus, Ricardo Sanchez, Tommie Clark via TRADE... via FA: Benito Marichal, Andres Macias
4) Danny Small
5) Tabta trade procured young, perennial MVP candidate and shed 4 years of a huge contract for good player but not worth that contract (career >340 OBP and .824 OPS... not bad but not $1$79M over 4 years good)
Boston Bulgers -
Richmond Spiders -
Washington D.C. Whalers -
1) We're trying to contend
2) Juan Tabata, Harry Mateo, Clarence Christopher from BAL.... Tike Stokes from BOS.... Damaso Mangual from COL... Tony Colome from BAL
3) Richard Osuna, Henderson Riggs, Jin Nishioka, Jerome Hill, David Herrera, Jorge Andrus, Ricardo Sanchez, Tommie Clark via TRADE... via FA: Benito Marichal, Andres Macias
4) Danny Small
5) Tabta trade procured young, perennial MVP candidate and shed 4 years of a huge contract for good player but not worth that contract (career >340 OBP and .824 OPS... not bad but not $1$79M over 4 years good)
Boston Bulgers -
Richmond Spiders -
Washington D.C. Whalers -
NL NORTH - Season #31 Preview
Cleveland Rockers -
Fargo Sno Balls -
Minnesota Norsemen -
Montreal Bloody Sox -
Fargo Sno Balls -
Minnesota Norsemen -
Montreal Bloody Sox -
NL SOUTH - Season #31 Preview
Jackson Jayhawks -
After Season 30 the fans of Jackson finally have something to feel optimistic about going forward. Following six successive 100+ loss seasons the franchise showed that better batting and reasonable pitching can bring rewards; a 76-86 record. Now to maintain the momentum.
Jesus Duran is in his third year as bench coach in the big league and ninth with the franchise.
This year's pitching rotation is lead by veteran starter Tom Cota and he needs to recover some of his former control. Oswaldo Cueto has cemented his place as closer and will want to improve on his 46/54 save/opp achievement in S30.
Leading off the batting is Charlie Little (RF) picked up from FA having spent the last few years in Detroit.. The team captain is Sal Clarke (3B) and his potential has yet to be proven in terms of his stats. Maybe S31 will be his breakout year.
Maintaining the w/l improvement will go along way to keeping the franchise in Jackson.
Roger Brown
Owner
Mexico City Hombres Azul -
The game-plan for season 31 was one of rebuild, and as such the club chose not to re-up several borderline ML players. However, the trade market was quieter than usual, and unable to find a suitable trade partner for Phillip Davis or Lou Hendrickson GM Sneekes changed tack and dove into the free agent market in order to replace those expired contracts.
The Hombres Azul said ”thanks for the memories but enough is enough” to:
SP Drew Ducey
LF Dave Uggla
2B/OF Mickey Reid
C Joshua Fife
2B Horacio Mujica
RP Homer Zornes
They said “welcome to Mexico” to:
2B Delino Silva
3B Benito Marichal
OF D’Angelo Cedeno
CF Stewart Hall
SP Allie Mlicki
RP James Bradford
They also said an initial goodbye, but then an unexpected “Welcome back brother” to:
SP Tomas Blanco
RF Russell Hunter
The Rule 5 Draft brought in:
RP David Ramirez
The upshot is a team that has moved a shade or two away from the “get on base then leg it” tactics of its heyday, with more of a focus on defense, and a little more reliance on the long-ball.
The outlook for Mexico City is a little more positive than it was two years ago, the noisy neighbours from Monterrey are a very real problem, but at least now the ballclub from the capital has managed to a). acquire some free agent talent without paying inflated fees, and b). managed to restock the farm.
That farm system won’t start to bear fruit until Season 32 or 33 - when we might expect to see 1B Kevin Knight and/or SP Paul Lewis. Until that point – Mexico City will probably be fighting KC and one of the NL West clubs for the last Wild Card spot.
Kansas City Googly Mooglies -
Monterrey Border Jumpers -
After Season 30 the fans of Jackson finally have something to feel optimistic about going forward. Following six successive 100+ loss seasons the franchise showed that better batting and reasonable pitching can bring rewards; a 76-86 record. Now to maintain the momentum.
Jesus Duran is in his third year as bench coach in the big league and ninth with the franchise.
This year's pitching rotation is lead by veteran starter Tom Cota and he needs to recover some of his former control. Oswaldo Cueto has cemented his place as closer and will want to improve on his 46/54 save/opp achievement in S30.
Leading off the batting is Charlie Little (RF) picked up from FA having spent the last few years in Detroit.. The team captain is Sal Clarke (3B) and his potential has yet to be proven in terms of his stats. Maybe S31 will be his breakout year.
Maintaining the w/l improvement will go along way to keeping the franchise in Jackson.
Roger Brown
Owner
Mexico City Hombres Azul -
The game-plan for season 31 was one of rebuild, and as such the club chose not to re-up several borderline ML players. However, the trade market was quieter than usual, and unable to find a suitable trade partner for Phillip Davis or Lou Hendrickson GM Sneekes changed tack and dove into the free agent market in order to replace those expired contracts.
The Hombres Azul said ”thanks for the memories but enough is enough” to:
SP Drew Ducey
LF Dave Uggla
2B/OF Mickey Reid
C Joshua Fife
2B Horacio Mujica
RP Homer Zornes
They said “welcome to Mexico” to:
2B Delino Silva
3B Benito Marichal
OF D’Angelo Cedeno
CF Stewart Hall
SP Allie Mlicki
RP James Bradford
They also said an initial goodbye, but then an unexpected “Welcome back brother” to:
SP Tomas Blanco
RF Russell Hunter
The Rule 5 Draft brought in:
RP David Ramirez
The upshot is a team that has moved a shade or two away from the “get on base then leg it” tactics of its heyday, with more of a focus on defense, and a little more reliance on the long-ball.
The outlook for Mexico City is a little more positive than it was two years ago, the noisy neighbours from Monterrey are a very real problem, but at least now the ballclub from the capital has managed to a). acquire some free agent talent without paying inflated fees, and b). managed to restock the farm.
That farm system won’t start to bear fruit until Season 32 or 33 - when we might expect to see 1B Kevin Knight and/or SP Paul Lewis. Until that point – Mexico City will probably be fighting KC and one of the NL West clubs for the last Wild Card spot.
Kansas City Googly Mooglies -
Monterrey Border Jumpers -
NL WEST - Season #31 Preview
Colorado Evil Empire -
The Maize 'N Blue are back. Gone is the Evil Empire moniker which should be passed on to the champs in Cleveland..
This team will once again be led by All-World CF Tomas Cairo who brought home his 8th straight MVP in Season 30. Cairo set the Squires record for RBI in a season last year knocking in 206 with a personal best 70 HR's to boot.
Surrounded by stars like Benny Uribe, Julio Osoria, Leo Conner, and Louie Ibanez who incredibly took home the Silver Slugger award despite missing half of the season to injury, offense should never be an issue.
Young phenom Marino Vasquez takes over in RF with the tough decision to trade away stud Teddy Locke for bullpen help and some salary relief. We love Marino's potential if he can just stay healthy.
Offensive prospects aren't quite ready, but youngsters like Rubby Velez, Harry Nieves and the recently signed Luis Lima should help the big club one day.
Pitching staff is once again led by Niko "The Machine" Kirby who took home his 7th Cy Young award and continues to dominate even at the age of 36. Bret Clayton who combined with Kirby to go 41-1 last year returns along with 2-time Cy winner Yuniesky Delgado and Hee Soep Higshioka to form the best pitching tandem iin Squires..
The bullpen continues to hold this team back and trades have tried to address the problem, but so far it appears to have not helped.
Pitching prospects like Alex Sojo, Rio Maduro, John Ono and Yordano Uribe should arrive in a couple of seasons.
As always it's World Series or bust for The Maize 'N Blue..
Honolulu Rainbow Warriors -
In their ceaseless quest to finally reach a World Series after years of fruitless division titles, the Rainbow Warriors are relying on speed to get them there. The Warriors have loaded up on fast players like platoon monster Salvador Seneca to complement their racing core, and all Rainbow Warrior baserunners have been given the green light to go at any opportunity.
To further their plan, the Warriors made a blockbuster to bring in centerfielder Richard Osuna, a 93 overall stud who is badly overpaid but speedy, smart, and devastatingly handsome. The Warriors parted with two-time Honolulu standout Ricky Atchley and injured former ace Octavio Valenzuela to get it done, and while the Honolulu Advertiser ripped the deal, the general manger responded with only a pithy "Newspapers are dead, shut it."
With Osuna on board, and a mandate to run their way to victory, the Rainbow Warriors are committed to bring a title to the shores of Waikiki at last!
Seattle Somethings -
Season 30 for the Seattle Somethings was considered by many as a resounding success. The long-suffering franchise broke thru with its first playoff appearance under pjfoster13's management, and first playoff appearance overall since season 23 and only third overall in Squires history. Anchored by arguably one of the deepest pitching staffs in the ML and the youngest starting lineup in the ML, the Somethings have every reason to believe that continued success is attainable. The question becomes whether the squad can perform under the newly-discovered weight of expectations.
The Somethings once again have wild-card expectations in S31. The continued development of its young core players Nunez, Parkers, and Oswalt is essential to Seattle's success. Seattle dabbled heavily in the trade market this offseason, subtracting 26-year old starting 2B Ringo Bradley, 24-year old starting/platoon catcher Rodrigo Campos, 29-year old backup RF Sam Patrick, and 25-year old backup 3B Dee Edwards, but adding 25-year old 2B Marc Sears to shore up defense and offense and RHP Wandy Urbina, LHP Denny Stock, and LHP Gerald Burch to shore up the bullpen which was Seattle's greatest concern coming into S31. CF Glen Handworth departed in free agency, but 21-year old dynamic CF prospect Bill Presley (s28 7th overall) is expected to join the team once the service time period expires. Presley may also be joined by upgrades of top prospects 2B/CF Navarre, SP/LRP Hayes, and possibly a bullpen arm or two. C Mota (S29 9th overall), LHP Carreon (S28 27th overall steal), and LHP Quintanilla (S28 35th overall) are all likely to spend an additional season + 30 cycles in the minors for additional development.
The somethings are gifted with youth, pitching, lineup flexibility, and tremendous overall defense, but teeter on the brink of 7th place due to difficult home park conditions affecting its offense. A back-to-back wild-card finish would be welcomed in the highly-competitive National League
Oklahoma City Slickers -
The Maize 'N Blue are back. Gone is the Evil Empire moniker which should be passed on to the champs in Cleveland..
This team will once again be led by All-World CF Tomas Cairo who brought home his 8th straight MVP in Season 30. Cairo set the Squires record for RBI in a season last year knocking in 206 with a personal best 70 HR's to boot.
Surrounded by stars like Benny Uribe, Julio Osoria, Leo Conner, and Louie Ibanez who incredibly took home the Silver Slugger award despite missing half of the season to injury, offense should never be an issue.
Young phenom Marino Vasquez takes over in RF with the tough decision to trade away stud Teddy Locke for bullpen help and some salary relief. We love Marino's potential if he can just stay healthy.
Offensive prospects aren't quite ready, but youngsters like Rubby Velez, Harry Nieves and the recently signed Luis Lima should help the big club one day.
Pitching staff is once again led by Niko "The Machine" Kirby who took home his 7th Cy Young award and continues to dominate even at the age of 36. Bret Clayton who combined with Kirby to go 41-1 last year returns along with 2-time Cy winner Yuniesky Delgado and Hee Soep Higshioka to form the best pitching tandem iin Squires..
The bullpen continues to hold this team back and trades have tried to address the problem, but so far it appears to have not helped.
Pitching prospects like Alex Sojo, Rio Maduro, John Ono and Yordano Uribe should arrive in a couple of seasons.
As always it's World Series or bust for The Maize 'N Blue..
Honolulu Rainbow Warriors -
In their ceaseless quest to finally reach a World Series after years of fruitless division titles, the Rainbow Warriors are relying on speed to get them there. The Warriors have loaded up on fast players like platoon monster Salvador Seneca to complement their racing core, and all Rainbow Warrior baserunners have been given the green light to go at any opportunity.
To further their plan, the Warriors made a blockbuster to bring in centerfielder Richard Osuna, a 93 overall stud who is badly overpaid but speedy, smart, and devastatingly handsome. The Warriors parted with two-time Honolulu standout Ricky Atchley and injured former ace Octavio Valenzuela to get it done, and while the Honolulu Advertiser ripped the deal, the general manger responded with only a pithy "Newspapers are dead, shut it."
With Osuna on board, and a mandate to run their way to victory, the Rainbow Warriors are committed to bring a title to the shores of Waikiki at last!
Seattle Somethings -
Season 30 for the Seattle Somethings was considered by many as a resounding success. The long-suffering franchise broke thru with its first playoff appearance under pjfoster13's management, and first playoff appearance overall since season 23 and only third overall in Squires history. Anchored by arguably one of the deepest pitching staffs in the ML and the youngest starting lineup in the ML, the Somethings have every reason to believe that continued success is attainable. The question becomes whether the squad can perform under the newly-discovered weight of expectations.
The Somethings once again have wild-card expectations in S31. The continued development of its young core players Nunez, Parkers, and Oswalt is essential to Seattle's success. Seattle dabbled heavily in the trade market this offseason, subtracting 26-year old starting 2B Ringo Bradley, 24-year old starting/platoon catcher Rodrigo Campos, 29-year old backup RF Sam Patrick, and 25-year old backup 3B Dee Edwards, but adding 25-year old 2B Marc Sears to shore up defense and offense and RHP Wandy Urbina, LHP Denny Stock, and LHP Gerald Burch to shore up the bullpen which was Seattle's greatest concern coming into S31. CF Glen Handworth departed in free agency, but 21-year old dynamic CF prospect Bill Presley (s28 7th overall) is expected to join the team once the service time period expires. Presley may also be joined by upgrades of top prospects 2B/CF Navarre, SP/LRP Hayes, and possibly a bullpen arm or two. C Mota (S29 9th overall), LHP Carreon (S28 27th overall steal), and LHP Quintanilla (S28 35th overall) are all likely to spend an additional season + 30 cycles in the minors for additional development.
The somethings are gifted with youth, pitching, lineup flexibility, and tremendous overall defense, but teeter on the brink of 7th place due to difficult home park conditions affecting its offense. A back-to-back wild-card finish would be welcomed in the highly-competitive National League
Oklahoma City Slickers -
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