Kaline World

Linking players

2012-02-01T11:11:00.001-05:00

Linking players again
Today is a non baseball related post. I am going to share with every one on how to link players into chats. I see a few newer guys and maybe they don't know how to do it yet and I hate not having a player linked into the chat.
1.First thing you need to do is be able to click on a player profile.
2.After you click on the player profile look at the left side and under the blog there is a green + next to some binoculars.
3.Click on the green +.
4.After you click that a little head picture should show up.
5.You have now added that guy to you clipboard.
6.Now go over to the chat formate that you wanted to link the player to.
7.Under your text box you will see an up arrow over a little clipboard.
8.Click on that and there you go. If you want feel free to test it in my trade chat box. I trade chat with just about every one so give it a try.

Post season round One Match-ups

2012-01-09T08:37:00.005-05:00

Jackson (86-76)Vs Minnesota(87-75) A down season in Minnesota brings them into a first round match-up with Jackson. Jackson is in the post season for the first time since season two. The two teams have pretty even records.

Hitting: The Millers have out hit The Rollin Rebels this season. Jackson has Jerry Leonard sitting in the middle of the line up though and this kid can swing the stick. He has hit 42 home runs and 118 RBI to go along with his .963 OPS. Minnesota brings in more sticks with Stephen Smalley, Victor Pulido, and Jose Barrios sitting in the middle of their line-up. Advantage Minnesota

Pitching: Jackson has the slightest edge in team ERA4.06 to 4.10. Minnesota is better in just about every other stat though. Minnesota also has a nice top three to go in the post season with Bryce McMillon, Lyle Moran, and Miguel Nieves. They also have Norm Garcia and a bullpen stopper. Jackson doesn't have a the high end start to match up with the three The Millers bring but they have Roy Humphries and Gregory Smith to shut done the game if Jackson has a lead. Advantage Minnesota

Fielding: Jackson has three Golden Gloved outfielders this season in Anthony Hernandez, Cole Stern, and Lucas Wilson. With those three roaming the outfield extra base hit are a lost to singles or outs. Minnesota is far from a poor defense though and can hold there own. Advantage Jackson

Minnesota wins the series in 4 games.

Cincinnati(96-66) Vs Scottsdale(84-78)

Scottsdale is back in the post season for the fourth straight season while Cincinnati is back for the first time since season 15 and only 5th time in franchise history. Cincinnati has the better record but Scottsdale has the team built for their home stadium.

Hitting: Scottsdale is always up near the top in hitting and this season is not any different. They have six players with OPS over .800 make for a long line up to work around. Cincinnati only has two players with an OPS over .800. One of them is Tricky Midre Santana. He has had a nice hitting season but his mom has always told him he was fast so he will try and try again to steal that extra base only to get gunned down time and time again. Tricky aside however Cincy takes the extra base every time they can second in the AL in stolen bases this season though with a fair low success rate. Advantage Scottsdale

Pitching: Despite playing in a hitting leaning park Cincy has the second best ERA in the AL while Scottsdale is below the average line. For Scottsdale one might think that their home field would hurt their pitching and their away numbers would be better but that is far from the case here. They are amongst the worst away from home while Cincy is very near the top. Games one and two starters are fairly matched. Advantage Cincinnati

Fielding: Cincy has the fewest errors of any team in the AL this season while Scottydale is middle of the pack. Neither team has a huge difference in +(-) plays though. In the raw numbers Cincinnati fairs much better. Advantage Cinncinnati

Scottsdale in 5. Home field will pay off Cincy is only 41-40 on the road.

Salem(94-68) Vs Philadelphia(89-73)

The NL Has two great first round match-ups starting here. Philly has taken a bit of a different approach this season going away from great pitching and moving to a big bat line-up. Salem made a huge mid-season deal to bring in Big Dick Randal to "head" their pitching staff.

Hitting: Both teams hit very well and can punish pitchers with long line-ups. Philly has 6 everyday players hitting over .800 OPS to Salem has three. Both teams have MVP type (and former MVPs) players in the middle of their line ups. Jordan Weiss had 62 homeruns and 165 RBI to make a very strong case for MVP. Felix Torrealba has also added to his Hall Of Fame Career with yet another season batting over 1.000 OPS. Advantage Philly

Pitching: Big Dick is the best pitcher in this series and he will pitch two games if it goes the distance. Beating him twice could be challenging to say the least. Fallowing him in the rotation in Sammy Javier giving Salem a very nice one two punch. Philly has starters that give the line-up a very good chance to win just about every time they take the mound. Jerry Canseco is enjoying is best season ever and will take the hill in game one. The over all pitching numbers gives Philly that advantage in that aspect while Salem has the bigger names. Advantage is a Push

Fielding: Both Long time owners have put seem to care a great deal for quality defense and it show in their numbers. In raw over all numbers it leans slightly towards Philly. To me it comes down to Shortstop and Philly has a couple of good fielding guys and Salem does not. Advantage Philly

Philly takes the series in 5 games.

Fargo(92-70) Vs New York(93-69)

This brings us to a match-up with Division foes both coming from the NL north. These two teams both could find themselves in the world series with the talent that that bring to the table. New York has the home field advantage but they are below .500 there while Fargo is nine games over on the road.

Hitting: Both teams can take you deep with their line-ups with each having 8 players in double digit home runs. Fargo's team OPS is about 12 points higher then their Northern foe. Both teams are farily even and I call it a Push

Pitching: Overall Numbers show New York to have one of the best staff in the NL. They are headed by Angel Cueto who is in the CY voting. Fargo Counters with Clay Henry who is coming of a below average season for himself. They also have Free Agent addition Hank Xavier to fall back on. For over all pitching though I have to give the edge to New York

Fielding: Neither team is all that strong with the glove. Both teams lack good, everyday, defensive shortstop. Willie Rivera will catch the ball well enough but his arm will let him down from time to time. P.J. Kershaw is below average in most SS ratings. Over all I call it another Push

I believe Fargo in five.

The Play-Off Picture

2012-01-06T08:48:00.002-05:00

After a long regular season we are finally to the point were the post season picture is cleared. The AL is set already with 8 cycles to play yet. Baltimore will hold their normal spot at the one spot. Last season El Paso just missed the post season last season but this season they hold the 2nd spot. The Mighty Millers of Minnesota will not get the free pass this season but will hold the three spot. They will play The sixth seeded Jackson Rollin Rebels who will be making the post season for the first time since season two. Congratulation kevthekidd for turning that team into a playoff team. The 4-5 game will have Scottsdale hosting Cincinnati despite the Red Legs having the second best record in the AL.
The Bastardly NL will come done to the last game as always for final setting. The World Champions Sacramento Renegades(God DAMMIT!!) will be the top stop for sure again. Houston will claim the second spot getting the first round bye as well. Fargo and New York are fighting it out for the third stop with the loser having a safe fall back in a wild card slot for sure. Either the fifth or sixth seed. Looking at the records though I think it might be better for New York to punt away the last few games and get their players rested because they have the best NL road record and a sub .500 home record. Only Baltimore has a better away record then them. Philly is heading in for the tenth straight and 16 out of the last 18 season. Salem will hold the last play-off spot. So really the NL is set with their top 6 just a bit of seating juggling to finish up with.
Upcoming soon I will break down season 23 free agents and options. I will break down every play-off team and how I think the will compete against their first round Foes. And of course I will bitch about season awards and issue my own.

Season 22 AL Preview

2011-11-09T08:54:00.009-05:00

AL North

As always I start with the greatest Division in Kaline, the AL North.

The Millers are returning the same basic core of players that saw them back in the world series. They are headed by one of the very best pitching staff in all of baseball. The bats were a little slow to get started last season but they did start hitting really well in the second half. The bullpen did take a hit with Max Encarnacion being traded away, but it is still a solid group to fall back on. The Millers are always one of the best teams with the gloves.

Key players: Bryce McMillon, Victor Pulido, Lyle Moran

Pawtucket had a very strong season even sweeping the Baybirds in the postseason last year. They bring a starter that gives them a good chance to win every game. They have an amazing bullpen that can hold leads very well. The line up is has plenty of plus .800 ops hitters and cam match up with just about any other teams hitters. They also have a strong defensive tradition.

Key player: Shane Kraemer, Geraldo Belliard, Willis Richardson

Seattle surpassed my expectations last season by making the playoff. This is one of the up and coming teams that will push for top seeds in the very near future. An incredible defense helps out a below average pitching staff. If your going to go with this type of rotation this is the field you want and the gloves behind you that you want. This team is stacked with good hitters that might be league leaders due to the park factors but they will hit. As is the norm in the AL North bullpen is another strong spot on the team.

Key players: David Bolivar, Jake Jennings, Tony "Two Timing" Tavarez

No team has had more shit luck then Detriot when free agency rolls around. Both of their top players declined their options and head to new team. Add in last season departure of Big Bad Bryce and you have a team in need. They should be about middle of the pack or just above in hitting. Pitching has really taken a huge hit and needs a complete face lift after having the best one two punch in the game. The pen is good enough to hold most leads but a few might get away. Defensively they are looking to be in the bottom five to me at quick glance.
Key players: Keith "The Thief" Haad, Cecil Seneca, Macbeth Billingsley

Final standings

Millers 95-99 wins
Seattle 92-96 wins
Pawtucket 91-96 wins
Detriot 58-62 wins

FA Black Bet Class

2011-11-02T13:56:00.002-04:00

You need to have both the Trade Proposal screen up (everyone knew that part) and wait for it, wait for it, World Office->Finances->Franchise Payroll Analysis up.
The Trade Proposal screen gives you the current budget with FA Negotiations like it says at the bottom above submit proposal.
The Franchise Payroll screen give you the actual current budget that is being paid to the current players.
So lets talk about Tacoma quick if you go to Tacoma on the trade screen and then click on the franchise itself you will see that their team is current paying the players 59 million right now. On the trade screen you see that their Budget is 79 million. So we now know that they have a huge offer out because of the 20 million difference. Now on the Franchise payroll screen we can go and check out what they have to pay next season and we see that they have 29.8 in current salary for next season. Flip back to the trade screen and we see that they have 53 million in season 23. Quick math and the difference is about 23 million. That is more then the max bid but you have to dig a bit and see that Wilkin Vega was extended for next season for a little over 3 million so we know that he still has 20 million out for the next season. Repeat for season 24. trade screen says 32.4 million Franchise screen says 12.4. Another 20 million Season 25 and 26 both are sladed for 0 budget right now on the franchise screen and on the trade screen we see 20 million apiece. So we know that he has at least 100 million over 5 year still out in free agentcy. We know that the max you can offer a player is 100 million over 5 years. WE know that Dick Randall is the only player currently worth a max bid in FA so we can assume that Tacoma has an offer to Big Dick of at least 100 million.
Does this make sense to every reader I have all 5 of you?
So the quick way to check it out. Go to the trade proposal screen start with the first team and hit go look at the current seasons new click on the team name and check what they are paying the players right now. If it is the same or close enough to it move on to the next team and repeat until you find a big jump in the number. When you find a big jump you can check out the Franchise Payroll screen and do the math and find out how much they are spending. There is guess work for sure for the second tier FA like this season with Hartman Xavier and Tatum but if you have a strong offer for one of them out there and you are not winning of were just over taken and you have been tracking every teams spending you will have a very good idea on who has jumped over you.
One thing to keep in mind is doing all this information gathering will not give you any bonus information. You will have to straight guess at that. One thing that can help you out though is if they are very close to the top budget. Let say that they are 4 million away from their top. Now you know that there is no way for them to give out more the that for that player. If you have a question or this does not make any sense feel free and ask. I would ask that you please not link this to other owners though and keep the FA black bets to Kaline owners only. But now I have given you good information and if you feel like sharing it I guess that is up to you.

Free Agent spending

2011-11-02T08:37:00.002-04:00

Bonus money is not included.

Boston has a contract out worth about 68.5 million over 5 years. My Guess is he is looking at picking up pitcher Hank Xavier.

Buffalo is looking at a 69 million offer over 4 years. Probably has the same pitcher in mind.

Charleston Has a near max bid out unless he has two bids. I am thinking that he is holding a Big Dick Randall offer.

Detroit has a 60 million offer out and I think Cody Tatum is his target now. Could also be Kirt Hartman but that would be a huge contract for him.

Fargo 62.5 contract might be an effort in bringing in Tatum.

Houston is also floating around a mid 60 million offer. Must be for Tatum.

Indianapolis has a smaller 5.5x5 offer out.

Philly has a mess of things going on but I would bet 100x5 or very close to is up for Big Dick.

Salem Has the max bid in on Randall. Might have a little #1 next to them too.

Scottsdale has about 9.5x5 for someone. I don't know who is around there. I think it is a holding offer.

Tacoma has a max bid in as well and with the guys left we know who that will be.

So there it is two max bids from what I saw quick. Salem and Tacoma. Philly is holding a big bid. I think there is a bunch of teams in on the other big three left and all are going to make in the mid 60s to 70s after the next cycle.

Season 22 Kick-Off

2011-10-26T14:04:00.006-04:00

The trade forcast

With only about twenty trades total each of the last season two seasons, teams have seemed to want to biuld from with in. That is one great approach to winning games but the flip side of that coin is an arbitration mess. Teams like Baltimore, Wichita, Scottsdale, Pawtown, Houston, Helena, Fargo, and Detroit all in a bit of an aritration mess with the payroll hike. On top of those team other teams have a few players whose numbers sky rockets in the 3rd year. So what does all this mean? I think that it means more trades early. Also the free agent market is solid but not great and prices are going to get bloated for average to good players. I am betting that we come close to doubling last season trade total with those to storms coming.

War chests

Philadelphia is sitting at about 90 million spent already this season but with actually means that they have about 55-60 million in disposable free agent cash on hand. Hineiii is always busy in the open market so look for a 110 million dollar contract added to this team for sure this season. Can you say Luther Hutton.

Buffalo will take a few hits on a couple of players leaving via FA but in turn they will get tons of extra spending cash. Last season they budgeted 90 million and if they hit that same number that will give them about 40 million to on the open market. This team is in great shape to make a run with the right addition.

Salem also has a huge amout of extra cash on hand. about 45-55 million if they go with last season number.

That is all I am going to dig for until budgets are set. After budgets are set and FA are announced I will have my annual Free Agent Report ready.

Notes and Thoughts and Stuff

If Baltimore does not make a trade they might have a franchise pay-roll record this season.

Honolulu has the first pick in the draft for the second striagt season. That is the first time since The Rochester Nighthawks(Now Seattle) tanked their way into a power house in season 5,6 and 7.

Chris Ray sits just 8 homeruns and 31 RBI short of the Kaline records. If he can find a team he should be able to get there. He is also about 90 hits away from the record. If someone could just give him one more season worth of at bats he will have the numbers to be the greatest hitting in the history of the world. If not second best will have to do.

Last season predictions results and I am good I must say... Sort of

AL North

The Minnesota Millers 98-102 wins

Really won 100

The Pawtucket Juggernauts 84-89 wins

Really Won 98 but finished 2nd

The Detroit Miracles 82-87 wins

Really won 82

Seattle Grunge 79-84 wins

Really Won 87 so close

The AL EastBaltimore 114-119

Really Won 123 how can you predict high then 120.

Indianapolis Devils 80-85 wins
Really Won 85

Kansas City Dingbats 80-85 wins

Really won 69 yuck bad ownership is what I blame my guess was good.

Cincinnati Red Legs 55-60 wins

Really Won 79. Good ownership I blame for my bad pick

The AL South

St. Louis Black Dynamites 98-102

Really Won 84 and missed the post season. I don't know

Durham Spitoons 86-91
Really Won 82 pretty close.

Memphis Packers 64-69

Really won 85 made the post season. I really have to spot picking agianst them.

Jackson Rollin Rebels 57-62 wins

Really Won 72

AL West

Scottsdale Slam 87-92 wins

Really won 85. They should have won a few more.

Helena Troy 65-70

Really won 57. Had a horrible start just terrible.

Honolulu Hoplites I must have missed my pickbut I must have been close

Really won 52

Colorado Springs Cougars 54-59 wins

Really won 57

NL Prediction season 21

Posted by Burning Bush on Wednesday, August 10, 2011
NL North
NL North Standings

Buffalo with 88-93 wins
Fargo with 88-93 wins
New York 86-91 wins
Montreal 79-84 wins

Real Standings

Fargo 88
New York 85
Buffalo Freeze 72
Montreal Otters 71

NL East Standing

Boston 83-88 wins
Philadephia 81-86 wins
Washington D.C. 71-76 wins
Richmond 67-72 wins

Real Standings

Philadelphia 78
Richmond Rebels 75
Boston Muffin Hawks 75
Washington D.C. 68

NL South

NL South Standings

Houston 100-105 wins

Charleston 89-94 wins

Charlotte 79-84 wins

Wichita 58-63 wins

Real Standings
Houston 103
Charleston 84
Wichita 76
Charlotte 71

NL West

NL West Standings

Sacramento 98-103 Wins

Salem 83-88 wins

Vancouver 81-86 wins

Las Vegas 55-60 wins

Real Standings
Sacramento Renegades 104
Salem EliteDucks 97
Vancouver Whitecaps 86
Las Vegas 62

Linking Players into world and trade chat

2011-10-12T14:18:00.004-04:00

Linking players

Posted by Burning Bush on Friday, January 7, 2011
Today is a non baseball related post. I am going to share with every one on how to link players into chats.

1.First thing you need to do is be able to click on a player profile.
2.After you click on the player profile look at the left side and under the blog there is a green + next to some binoculars.
3.Click on the green +.
4.After you click that a little head picture should show up.
5.You have now added that guy to you clipboard.
6.Now go over to the chat formate that you wanted to link the player to.
7.Under your text box you will see an up arrow over a little clipboard.
8.Click on that and there you go.
If you want feel free to test it in my trade chat box. I trade chat with just about every so give it a try

Play-Offs Round Two

2011-10-10T13:14:00.004-04:00

Round One saw 3 game fives so that was a good time. Every team with a better record won each series though so no real upsets yet.

Baltimore

Pawtucket

I actually think this is a pretty good match-up. Paw-Town did lose Julio Barrios for the series but I don't think that will be any sort of major issue. The teams did split the regular season series and not very many teams can ever say that about their Baltimore record. Pawtucket has good enough hitting to hold their own against Baltimore. They also have a couple of nice starters that match up well with them too. Pawtucket does have a great starter to closer bridge to help hold leads. The issue is that they are playing Baltimore. the best hitting the history setting pitching team. They might be a touch weaker then some season but that still means they are only super great instead of invincible. I see this one going 5 with Baltimore moving on because of greater hitting.

Minnesota

Seattle

This is another match-up with teams that split the season series. What Seattle is missing is front line starting pitching but what they have is a ballpark and defense that can make up the difference for them. Seattle has the best fielding % in the AL to go along with their amazing 129 plus plays and only 15 minus plays. Five of the minus plays came from pitchers. Just amazing defense in a pitchers park. Seattle does not have the power that Minnesota has but they can work counts and get on base. When they get on base they like to run stealing 226 bags this season. Player to player Minnesota has the advantage. Better high end talent and pitching top to bottom. Minnesota is no push over in the field either so that advantage is mitigated some. I will take the Mighty Millers in 4. Big Bad Bryce McMillon starts game one in Baltimore.

Sacramento

Salem

This is a great match-up as well but this time Sacramento has a 7-3 regular season record on their side. Sacramento has pitched crazy good all season and is hard to score on. Salem makes up for that with Superior fielding. Also Salem has hit better this season too. With that said though I do not think Sacramento losses this series. It will go five though.

Houston

Fargo

Houston has the 6-4 season edge. I hope that Armando Ramirez can go in game one with Floyd "The Hit man" Mullen. That would be a great game for sure. Pitching is almost a push to me in this series. Both teams have high-end aces and #1 type second pitchers. Houston just has one more #1 type to avoid where Fargo is missing that. Both teams have had good bullpens this season and to me they are close enough to call it even. The away hitting stats are pretty close too but Houston has the long ball that I love so much to fall back on in case they need it. I am going to take Fargo in five though just to shake things up.

Next round if I am lucky enough to move on I will do a better run down also Look for my award voting and also the unsub awards later this week.

Clearer Pictures... Sort of

2011-10-03T13:08:00.002-04:00

I would like to start with the major loss to the one of the Kaline world greatest, Hector Merced. He wont even be back as an ace again. If he can hold onto a spot on the voting I am going to give Merced a life time achievement vote for everything he has given Kaline. I will start the campaign now Vote For Hector!

Lets get over and check the NL first this time. With slim leads in the NL East and the NL West every game let matters even more. I am calling The north race now. Congrats Fargo your magic number is 8 with 13 to play. Also Houston clinched a few games ago so congrats on that. Also Congrats to Salem for locking up at least a wild card spot. I am also calling Vancouver to take the last spot.

Now the races! Both Sacramento and Salem are in it is just a matter of seeding. I am going to give the West to Sac-town. They just have better pitchers and now more so then ever that matters more. The schedule is about even on including playing the same two teams to end the season. The only thing holding them up a bit might be a motivated Philly team make a late season move.

NL East has Philly charging a bit. Charging in the east is really not that big of a deal this season but still winning 7 of the last ten puts them in good shape. Philly does have to fight through a Houston team for 3 more games. Then onto Salem before we get a 3 game set against Boston. i hope we still have a race to watch then. Side note maybe Richmond can steal it with an easy schedule but losing to Philly last series really hurt them.

So we have a seeding as such

Houston

Sacramento

Fargo

Philly

Salem

Vancouver

Really a respectable group of teams here and should be an interesting play-offs.

AL time Minnesota has locked up a play-off spot and Baltimore did it around the all star break. Also Pawtucket has a magic number of one to clinch the first wild card spot. Scottsdale clinched awhile ago congrats to the Slam. that leaves The North, South and second wild card spot.

AL North has Pawtucket hanging around but missing a chance to gain ground by losing that last 3 game set. Still they have Jackson and Helena left for seven more soft games though Helena has been better since their awful start. Minnesota has Scottsdale and they might be in rest mode and a terrible Colorado Springs team. Both teams wrap up with two teams fighting for the six spot. Of course i give it to Minnesota what do you think I am crazy!

AL South has St. Louis going up with Baltimore for three more games a four game set with Kansas City, Jackson and a three game set with Memphis. They are slipping a little. Memphis is taking control a bit while Durham could not get traction and slip in to the conversation more. Memphis has does not play a team below .500 the rest of the way. My pick is St.Louis here just because I think that they can make up the two games with a softer team ahead.

Second Wild card Spot. Wow Seattle now holds it. They play the north leaders both fighting for first round byes. If the race gets a little one sided they hit a break because both will be resting starters for the play-offs. If not they will need their a game to get in. If The Devils get get moving they might find themselves in a great spot to take this thing. If I give St. Louis the South then Memphis has to be right in here as a favorite. Basically right now I don't know it looks like 4 teams two spots for two and win or nothing for two. I am going to give it to Seattle because I hope to be resting my starters by the time we play!

Baltimore

Minnesota

St. Louis

Scottsdale

Pawtucket

Seattle

Good luck with that.

Ramblings and Stuff

2011-09-27T13:05:00.008-04:00

I am starting to clog up the world chat a bit so I thought I should bring it here.
First the MVP Awards.
I have no problem with any of the three Baltimore guys to choose from. All three have great hitting lines and should be up for the voting.
Einar DeJesus really has had a very nice season. Personally I don't value stolen bases that much but for those that do he has 85 of them. He also the best hitting CF in the AL this season but I think that is more of a lack or CF talent then his abilities. He has played very good defense too and it you think defense and stolen base is your type of MVP this is your guy.
Cesar Gabriel is having his best hitting season ever. After playing In CF in Montreal he moved over to right and he has played very well there. He also has played 346 innings at third this season and has done great in those games with 9 plus plays to go along with his 8 in right. He has batted in the one whole all season getting things started for one of the best offense in the game. He will get my vote due to my policy of always voting for Mighty Millers. If he falls out of the race I will pick Albert The Noodle" Gonzalez.
Over in the NL My current Vote Goes to Jordan "Wimpy" Weiss. His combination of hitting and fielding are just too goof to overlook. Oh and maybe this is not noticed by everyone around the world but he is .003 batting average point away from a Traditional Triple Crown( I wish I could look up historic league leaders and see if its been done before if you know I would love to have that information).
David Gomez would be my second pick. He is the current Modern Triple Crown leader. I would normally instantly pick a player with that accomplishment but there is just something nostalgic about the Traditional one.
After the top two you have Davey "The Lady"Fick is having his worst offensive season since season 14. I didn't but should have look at park factors with his new team. Jim "Not" White does nothing for me. Felix"No Shame" Torrealba rounds it out and he would be a solid third this season. No shame in that those other two guys are playing great.
Voting snubs! WiS has a formula in place that picks who you can vote for for Season awards. The Formula is about the same one used to pick all stars. So if you get pissed every season about getting screwed out of All Stars the same thing will happen at the end of the season. WiS says this is how it is figured;
For batting awards, players must average 3.1 plate appearances per team game or more in order to qualify. Pitchers must average one inning pitched per team game. Position players must appear in 50% of their team's innings played to qualify for fielding awards.

Cy Young: Innings Pitched, Earned Runs, Strikeouts, Saves, Shutouts, Wins, Losses, Team Records and Park Factor.

MVP: Runs Created, Good Plays, Poor Plays, Fielding percentage, Park Factor, Position Played (difficulty), Passed Balls (catchers only)

Fireman of the Year: Saves, Wins, Losses, and Blown Saves

Gold Glove: Fielding percentage, good plays, poor plays, Errors, and Range Factor

Silver Slugger: Runs created and park factor

Rookie of the Year: Closely mimics the formula used for MVPs for position players and Cy Young for Pitchers. In order to be eligible for the ROY or NOY, a player must not have more than 150 career AB or 50 IP at the current level. For instance, if a player had 87 at-bats at the big league level in season 1 and 90 at-bats at the big league level in season 2, then he will not be eligible for the award in season 3 and beyond.

In each case, there are weights assigned to the individual components for the award calculation. While real life awards are decided by writers using the core raw stats and their personal opinion of how good/valuable players are (despite numerous objections by other esteemed writers across the land), HBD can use more appropriate statistics and accuracy to determine the best of the best.

If you think you have a player that should be up for an award but he isn't listed, be sure to evaluate all the component pieces and compare them to the players ranked ahead of them. It's hard to take sometime (like when you have a player with 55 HR, 150 RBI and a .340 AVG not in the top then), but there are always reasons why they are ranked where they are. They could be playing 1B while those ahead are SS & CF. They could be playing half their games in a hitter's park while those ahead play in pitcher's parks. Many reasons, all put together, and the best are at the top of the pack.

Lets go over this now shall we. For the Cy Young(last I checked the best pitcher in the league).

They look at innings pitcher. OK sure you need to pitch innings to win. Sounds fair so far I guess but how many? Oh I see 1 per game played. Well fine than don't have a real standard. So a team with a five man staff can have a pitcher go 5 innings every time and qualify. Well that is the bottom number I guess moving along.

Earned Runs... really you are going to take a stat based on the abilities of the pitchers defense behind him. I have see many times in this game where a pitcher will give up 4 unearned in an inning. Should a Cy Young winning Pitcher be able to get out of that inning with less damage. I believe so.

Strikeouts are sexy for sure. I love them and you love them but does striking a guy out really mean that your the best pitcher. If you have a bunch of innings and an average strikeout abilities you are going to have more strikeouts of course. Why not just use the K/9 ratio that you already have calculated.

Saves... what the fuck! Why on earth put saves in any sort of award. Saves are the most worthless statistic in baseball all together. It has created a thought process that you need to have you best bullpen arm in the game in the ninth inning alone. That thought process is not good for a winning team. Why would you not put your best bullpen arm in the most important game situation like a tie game in the seventh with a runner on second and no outs. Why put your second or third best relief pitching in the game when you could have your best. The Save stat is worthless trust me folks I really could go on and on about it. Oh and how the hell are you going to get the innings in that are required when you are trying to build up saves. Bullpen guys should not be able to receive this award they have their own to win.

Shutouts. I love it sounds good to me but why not include complete games too.

Wins and losses... I have as much venom for this stat as I do saves. To win a baseball game many many things need to go right. First and for most you need to have more runs than the other team. Now a starting pitcher has some influence in this but we already talked about earned runs right. What if your team around you sucks. The Pitcher can go out pitch brilliantly and lose. A pitcher can go out get shelled and win. It is a stat that the pitcher does not have enough influence with for me to add that to the Cy Young award.

Team Record!!!! Am I really looking for the best pitcher here. Now not only do I have to worry about the times the ace takes the hill I have to think about the other four guys and how they can screw/help a guy win an award. For me I just want the best pitcher not the best pitcher on a winning team only.

Park Factor should play into the outcome.

My Cy Young formula would be K/BB, K/9 OPS against, WHIP, Complete games and shutouts, Innings would have to play into it somehow and maybe just one inning a game is enough. Done with rant number one.

Now the MVP rant.

Runs Created I am fine with. I think that what is put into this formula is what I like to see from a MVP player.

Good plays/Poor Plays could be useful but there is such a huge issue in in this game for me. I could play a below average hitting shortstop at first and watch him get 30 plus plays. Or I could see an average second baseman that hits the cover off the ball and he could be 4/4. I will take the second baseman that crush over the sexy gloved first baseman any day. Fielding should absolutely count don't get me wrong but it has to be reasonable.

Fielding % should not be a factor. There are way too many different position in baseball that require different skill sets to allow this to matter here. I could have a guy playing short with 68 range and 99 glove. Yes his fielding % will be great but is he a better SS than an 85/85 guy. I do not believe that to be a true statement. I would rather have a guy get a few errors and get to the ball then a guy the doesn't get the ball but really picks up the easy ones well.

Park Factors again sure sounds fair.

Position played... What the fuck. In this game you can play any player anywhere anytime you want to. If the guy plays his position better then most and crushes the ball that is all that should matter. I would rather have the 7th best RF that hits like crazy then the best CF that hits 7th best for his position but fields the best. I love defense as you can see on my team and in my predictions. But it gets a little crazy here.

Passed balls for the catcher. Why hate on the catchers!

I think MVP should go by the Traditional Triple Crown stats(Home runs, RBI, Average), the Modern Triple Crown stats(AVG, OBP, SLG), Runs created, OPS and a playable fielding ability. *I know some stats are repeated thanks for your input.

OK I am done for now it just really pisses me off that I can't vote for Russell "The Phylloxera" Reitz

More Award Talk: Cy Young

2011-09-23T12:44:00.004-04:00

I am going to start with the Cy Young's first because the pitching has really interested me this season. Since the mid-season report some things have changed a bit.

In the AL Ted Timlin is still having a fantastic season. Still only one loss to go along with his 20 wins now. He still is and should be a favorite to win the award. In some of my preferred statistics like K/BB and K/9 head of the other front runners. Ramiro Cabrera is crushing the world in K/BB this season. Almost a top five season ever. I don't consider Cabrera a top five though despite leading that and one of my other favorite stats BB/9. Maybe he should be though maybe I'll dig deep later on him. Maybe.
Now to the rising contender and maybe new front runner "Big" Dick Randall. He has been a mode consistency this season. Back on 8/30 he let up 6 runs. That was his low point this season. He followed that up with two straight no runs games. When he takes the hill all Detroit has to do most of the time is score 3 or more runs to get the win. He has 6 no decisions so far this season and in all 6 of them he let up 3 or less runs. Five times he let up 2 or less. Four times 1 run or less. And once with out letting up a single run. If he had just a little bit of run support and a better bullpen he would have more wins than everybody in the world. Or maybe if he could go deeper into the game that would change a bit. He is only averaging about 6.5 inning a start. Randall is the AL leader in my favorite pitching stat that we can find OPS against(.591 vs Timlin .608). To me this is the most important stat. It is very telling in how a pitcher preforms overall. He is also the AL leader in ERA, second in WHIP, 5th in K/BB, 3rd in K/9 and 12th in BB/9.
One thing that does bother me about these to guys is the lack of innings. Randall does make the top ten but Timlin is out of the top 25 altogether. Timlin has not gone more then 7 innings all season and averages under 6 a game. In all though, these two guys are the front runners for the AL. I don't know where my vote is going to go yet but I can bet you it is going to be for Lyle Moran because why on earth would I not vote for my own guy. I think you all should vote for him too.

The NL may have even a closer race with more option to choose from. At the mid-season report I had Floyd Mullen as my easy pick. I don't believe that to be a true statement anymore. Russell "The Phylloxera" Reitz has really picked up his game(really the number two pick how is Mike Lyon Looking now). Clay Henry is right on the heels of Reitz for my next choice. In the wins/loses category there is no front runner as the top tier are all about the same to me. Mullen sub 2 ERA would steal votes right off the bat but as stated a few times before ERA can be misleading. The three mention are 123 in the ERA race 1,2,4 in the WHIP race Angel Cueto coming in the third spot there. In OPS against, Mullen has a huge advantage with a .508. Reitz hold a .538 followed by Henry's .591. So right there you see that to me Reitz and Henry better make up for tht gap some how. Boy does Reitz find a way to bridge the gap with his NL record setting season. What record you ask? His K/BB rate is the highest ever in the NL. Second only to the great "Sir" William Haselman, who set the record back in season 7. Mullen falls in at ten on this seasons list. Clay is 19th. K/9 Reitz is 3rd Mullen 12th and Clay is... Not on the list. Reitz also leads BB/9 while Mullen is 13th and Clay 12th. All three are in the top ten in innings pitched. I think that after the closer look at the numbers my vote is going to go to Reitz. The is difference between he and Mullen in K/BB is just too much to go against. Looks like maybe a passing of the torch might be happening this season.

Racing!!! Where teams stand today

2011-09-20T12:43:00.004-04:00

Historically in the AL, the Play-off picture is usually pretty set but the non-waiver deadline. This season we are seeing a few more teams pushing to get to the post season.
Baltimore is a lock for the one seed per the norm in Kaline.
For the fifth time in six season, the defending world series champions(in your face Cloud and Bernie ;-p), The Minnesota Miller are in a good position for the second seed.
As of right now, Memphis holds the three spot but St. Louis is just a game behind for the AL south crown.
The fourth spot be Scottsdale. They hold an 11 game advantage over the second team in the terrible terrible AL West. They are finally getting near .500 too, so they are playing much better baseball.
The fifth spot falls to Pawtucket and they are almost a lock for the top wild card team. If they were in the AL West or south they would be winning a better position but when you play in the Best division in the Kaline you can get stuck in second with a nice record. They hold a lead the wild card race buy 10 games but only trail Minnesota by 6 games.
Now the fight for number six. St. Louis, Seattle, and Indianapolis are all tied for the spot. Durham is only two games back Cincinnati 3 games Detroit 4 games and still even Jackson at 6 games back still has a fighting chance.
The unsub AL best guess ranking

Baltimore. Really I know out a limb here. They have a 15 game lead and should be in cruise control mode now.

Minnesota. With still around 50 games to go Pawtucket could make a run. Pawtucket plays Minnesota 3 more times.

*Durham. Only three games back I will explain below how it plays out in my worthless math.

Scottsdale. 11 game lead over really bad teams this season.

Pawtucket. Ten game advantage.

*St. Louis but I should pick Cincinnati again see below.

I give the 3 spot to Durham because they only have 21 games left against teams with a .500 record or better. Durham also only has seven more games against the three teams with a .600 record or better and ten games left with the teams with .400 record or under. The current leader has 28 games with teams .500 or better and 11 games with the top three teams while only playing the bottom three six times. They would have to play very good ball down the stretch to make the play-offs in my opinion. St. Louis has it rough too. They play 23 games against teams with a .500 record or better 14 games with .600 and up and only 6 with below .400.

So why even pick St. Louis to make the play-offs? I don't know. Of the games played against the top three, 16, they have won a whopping 3. So again why pick them? I guess I do truly believe that they are the best team of the wild card group. Even if all the numbers tell me differently. Cincinnati only has 19 games left with teams .500 or better, 6 games with the top three and 14 verses the bottom three. They only trail the 6 spot by three game. According to the math that got Durham in it should also get them in but well its my blog entry so eat it.

Last thing to consider. Detroit has a span of 20 games against teams below .500. They end the season with ten straight games with Baltimore Pawtucket and Minnesota. My thinking might be that those three team will be in play-off mode and key players might be resting for the real games. Maybe Detroit just maybe!

The NL is always hard to figure out. They are so much more balanced then the AL and always have tons of different racing to watch. This season is no different. Even the one seed is a race this season.

Houston holds it now but Fargo is three games back and Sacramento is Four.

That means by my quick Minnesota math that Fargo is only a game up on second first round bye spot. Those are so important and this race is so tight it is anyones call. As it stands today Sacramento has a 4 game lead for the NL West and the 3 spot.

Boston has around .500 since the All-star break. Richmond has though about making a run right after the break with a mini 5 game win streak but then decided that maybe they didn't want the NL East now losers of 12 of the last 16. Way to step-up. Philadelphia is lurking around at six games back and with neither team taking the division and running with it they might sneak in and steal it. The NL West has the two teams holding the wild card spots.

Salem in the five hole and Vancouver in the six. Five games between these two team might still make a race yet. Fighting for the last spot is very large group and I would start looking up your tie breakers now. At this point in the season I make the cut off six games. Charlotte, Charleston, Wichita all just two back. New York and Richmond four back. Montreal five and Buffalo at six.

My unfair unsub picks.(I didn't do a schedule peak for the NL... too many races to look in on)

Houston. Just add Bullpen arms and ready to gain some distance for the one spot.

Sacramento. They just are a slightly better team then Fargo.

Fargo. just missing the two spot

Philly. I will go with the team with the best players. Six back might be too much to pass two teams but I see them making a run.

Salem. Good hitting club that has pitching fairly well.

Vancouver. They just pitch really well and their defense it tops in the NL.

Good luck I will update in a little while.

2011-09-12T14:12:00.002-04:00

AL MVP

Paul Melville. It really could be any of Baltimore's top 3 hitters. The Triple Bs have three guys with OPSs over 1.000. Those same three are also on the plus side of 30 homeruns. When voting comes around I am sure that some these players will not make the final top five because of WiS strange section process. I know that WiS loves to get players like Enir DeJesus in to voting they love the stolen bases. He is also fielding really well and I sort of wish I didn't trade him away.

AL ROY

David Bolivar. It was a very close call between him and ajpop's Andrea Delany. At season's end the voters may disagree with me and I am okay with it. I choose Bolivar for a few reasons. First even though I do not like the way All-Stars are picked Bolivar was one this season. Second defense should play a roll and Bolivar is a sure shot mid-season Gold Glove 3rd basemen and I would say Silver Slugger 3rd basemen. The last thing I will say is the home park factors. Delany plays his home games in a hitters park and Bolivar plays his games in an extreme pitchers park. Bolivar should also be in the running for MVP.

AL Cy Young

Temlind Timlin. After gushing in the last post about how great of a season Baltimore pitchers have been this season could it have came from another team. There are other very strong candidates but Timlin is hands down the top pitcher in the AL this season. Leads the league in OPS against, WHIP, OBP, OAV, WinsK/9. Top five in ERA, SLG, Ks, K/B, B/9. You can not argue with this selection. If you think "Big" Dick Randall is having a better season a want to vote for him that's your call. To me it looks like Timlin is ahead in the more important stats.

The Mid-Season Report

2011-09-09T11:16:00.005-04:00

We are just passed the half point and somethings are gaining clarity. First The AL West is terrible. Every other team in the AL outside of the division would be leading it. The AL has nine teams under .500 and the West has four of them. On the flip side the AL only has 6 teams over .500. Of course three teams are with-in on game of that mark. The NL has only 7 teams below .500 leaving 8 teams with a winning record. The NL east is like a rich mans AL West since all their teams are under .500.
Despite the DH, the AL has 4 of the top five pitching ERAs in the world. Only Houston makes the list at number 4. Baltimore's pitchers have been so good that are their team ERA is currently 2.97. That would put them are the greatest pitching staff kaline has every had and the best by a fairly solid mark.
The top five are:

Houston 3.08 season 18

Sacramento 3.12 Season 16

Wichita 3.17 season 7

Philadelphia 3.20 season 16

Houston 3.26 Season 19

All of those teams are nice a cozy in the punchless and no DH NL. The Top five AL only season are:

3.31 S9

3.34 S19

3.44 S20

3.51 S11

3.54 S 10 And S7

All of those season belong to Baltimore... It must be nice not to have to pitch to that line up. I will say that of the 19 teams that have finished under 4.00 in the AL 11 of them belong to Baltimore. Only 8 other teams in the AL have finished the season below 4.00 not from Baltimore. Season 21 may just be Cloudg13 crown jewel season if he can keep playing at this pace. Baltimore will be sending three starting pitchers to the All Star game for sure.

Minnesota has played in 10 extra inning games and seem to find a way of pulling out the victory 80% of the time. Their Pitching has been outstanding even though Bryce McMillon has not been at his best this season. The Bullpen here has been outstanding posting a 3.50 ERA. Baltimore's is better though at about 3.18.

Strictly by team OPS and team ERA Houston is by far the best in the NL. Floyd Mullen is having one of his best seasons ever by the way. The Man does not get old he just keeps going strong. Overall the NL team ERAs are way up from seasons past though and it doesn't seem that the offense has gone up as much. Over the last five seasons the team OPS averaged out to be about .739 and this season it is up to .745. That last five seasons team ERA Average is 4.18. This season it is 4.32. For about 5.5 points of OPS if doesn't seem to match the jump in ERA. I would have to dig deeper then I feel like doing to get to the bottom of this.

Mid-Season Award Winners according to me. NOT the WifS goes about picking winners and top five.

AL MVP

Paul Melville . He is just crushing the ball. This Award could maybe go to a pitcher from Baltimore.

AL ROY

David Bolivar. It was very close and Andre Delaney may pass him before the seasons over but Bolivars Defense is great right now.

AL Cy Young

Ted Timlin. You can not argue about the results he is putting up. The K/9, bb/k OPS against wins loss how every you do your evaluation he has to be on top. I can almost feel that he will be a Free agent this off season maybe you can pull out your check books for this two time CY winner... Maybe three time at seasons end. He will be getting paid for sure.

NL MVP

Jordan Wiess. He is just smashing the ball and not making many mistakes on defense.

NL ROY

Gerald Zhang. I don't know how he is putting up those numbers but he is.

NL Cy Young

Floyd "The Hit Man" Mullen. He is just flat out the best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be. Maybe he has a brother names Owen.

Early Season Trends and Production

2011-08-26T08:43:00.002-04:00

Well Baltimore is a Force. If you didn't know that you are blind. Their record is insane at 38-6. Fun Fact Gus West has half of the teams losses. Their payroll next season could be a team record after the arbitration case. My interest is peaked on the choice that Cloudg13 will make for the future of the team. his AAA team is stacked and could play above .500 in the ML. I am getting goo-goo gaa gaa over this squad time to move on.

Helena is a joke. Also an insane record but in reverse at 5-39. I thought that they might bring up some younger talent but at this point why waste the service time. Good news though they have a 10 game lead for the top pick in the draft next season.

The Mighty Millers are getting on a roll. The on;y team not to lose a series to The Triple Bs. Huge trade right after the season started to add a huge bat but at the cost of a great arm and solid bat. Risky because of the contract year for Victor Pulido and I may be having a little buyers remorse for it.

What-a-be-Minneapolis hold the third best record in all the land. From my write up I should have seen that but the record I gave them was not on point. Fielding has be terrible but the pitching might improve yet. Hitting has been the bread and butter over the years and we are seeing that again this season.

Philly and the crazy payroll of 135 million = a .400 winning percent. Their real problem is that they can't beat Sacramento. So far this season they are 0-7. They are not doing so hot when the other nine on the diamond if from Fargo either going 2-4 so far. Things will balance out a little.

The AL West looks to have a below .500 winner so good for them. Funny thing though. Helena, despite that record, is closer to first place then Kansas City and Cinncy. Those Last two teams can go ahead and bust out the season 22 blueprint. Three teams from the East is not going to happen. Montreal seem as the only NL team in need of a quick turn around.

Early season newly sign free agents production: Davey Fick is just about right where his career line stands. Just a shade below. Bryce McMillon is having a slow start in Minnesota, but Cesar Gabriel in just about at his career line. Jake Jennings is just a pile of steaming shit so far. His OPS is .669. He has zero plus plays and 4 minus plays. New York added Del Vallarta and he is pitching above his career line. On the other hand they also forked over about 90 million to J.R Cunnane. His .656 OPS is not what he is paid to do.

NL Prediction season 21

2011-08-10T08:33:00.002-04:00

NL North

The NL North is very difficult place to pick a winner. They seem to take turns winning the division here.

New York has a really nice line up and top end starting pitching.

Fargo also has a really good one two at the top of their rotation but that lack the line-up depth to be a sure shot winner. They do have a good group of both side of the ball pretty well though.

Buffalo has the best starting pitcher in the world and follow him up is a really solid rotation. Maybe the second best in the NL even... Maybe. Defense is a killer and could hurt their pitching a bit. From what I can see they are playing with-out a usable everyday short-stop.

Montreal has a very consistent team with no huge holes but lacking high end star power.

NL North Standings

Buffalo with 88-93 wins

Fargo with 88-93 wins

New York 86-91 wins

Montreal 79-84 wins

NL East

In the History of Kaline Philadelphia has reigned over the East winning 15 times. They have top end starting pitching a that is getting older and older. They still have some big sticks in the line-up but age is taking a toll on them too.

Boston is almost ready to push the gas and make a run at the champ but they might be a season away from that still. They have some really good hitters and some nice looking guys in the minor league that will be really good starters.

Washington D.C. on the surface looks to take a big ratings drop until you scan their AAA team . They have a few guys there that should be making the ML debut sometime this season. The have an ace to front their rotation and also hold a respectable 2-3 starter as well. They have a good enough line-up to score some runs. Defense is also respectable and will hold its own.

Richmond has some very large defensive issues. No true SS, CF lacks range, 2nd basemen can't turn the double play if he manages t even get to the ball, Corner OF lacks arm and Range(close on Range though). But they hit here. They should score some runs this season for sure. Starting pitching should give them a chance to win some games too.

NL East Standing

Boston 83-88 wins

Philadephia 81-86 wins

Washington D.C. 71-76 wins

Richmond 67-72 wins

NL South

Houston has represented the NL in 3 of the last 4 world series winning one. You could argue that the best rotation is playing here in Houston. The window is still open but ML service time is catching up and contracts are getting rather large. They have a line-up that will score runs in bunches. A bullpen that can shut teams down late. Defense is in the bottom third in the world.

Wichita is a starving team with some amazing contracts on the books. Some of the worst I have seen. Poor ownership over the last few season have made this team a long term rebuild. Tons of money can come off the books after this season but there is also a arbitration nightmare to deal with. this is another team that as too look for the future and the current owner has an great track record so lets hope he sticks around and see it though. All in all this is a team that is looking at next season draft already. Two picks in this years draft could help speed things up.

Charleston has some things that I like. and well not starting pitching. The bullpen should hold teams off in the late innings. Fielding should be in the top third of the world. On offense they hold the next 110 million dollar man as well as a great line-up 1-8. Maybe the fielding will help the pitching out enough to put them over the top Sly Stallone style.

Charlotte seems to me to be in a bit of a reload mode not rebuild. They have some prospects that might need more seasoning in the minors before they make an impact on the ML squad. Up and down their current 25 man this seems to me to be about as average of team in Kaline. Budget is in good shape too.

NL South Standings

Houston 100-105 wins

Charleston 89-94 wins

Charlotte 79-84 wins

Wichita 58-63 wins

NL West

The NL West seems to come down to the last series of the season every season.

Sacramento went on a little spending spree this off season picking up one of the best position players in the league. They are very strong defensively in the key positions. Every time the team plays the send out a pitcher that can get the win. A good to great rotation. Add in the bullpen and you have a ton of wins. Their bullpen is top five or better. The team is set up well 1-8 in the line up and should be in the five offensively as well.

Vancouver has a history of .500 teams. I think this years team maybe be a little better than that. Solid pen to keep games close late. Good enough hitters to score a few runs. Great defense behind middle of the road starting pitching.

Salem could use an upgrade at starting pitching. The bullpen should be average Defense is pretty much middle third. They will hit and hit and hit. Solid eyes up and down the line up with good splits and power.

Las Vegas is old and on the decline with the whispers of rebuild. The team might win a few games this season but I don't see them as a factor this season. They really don't do any one thing that well.

NL West Standings

Sacramento 98-103 Wins

Salem 83-88 wins

Vancouver 81-86 wins

Las Vegas 55-60 wins

Season 21 Predictions

2011-08-05T12:36:00.004-04:00

AL North

The Minnesota Millers should be able to repeat as AL north champions this season. They added ace Bryce McMillon to an already strong Rotation. They did lose power hitting CF JR Cunnane in free agency leaving a hole there. The Millers still have one of the best line-ups in the AL and should be able to hit. Their bullpen may have over-achieved last season but in all they should be able to hold most leads late. Always a strong fielding team they added Cesar Gabriel to fill in defensive gaps. The team is a year older but still has plenty of wins in them.

98-102 wins

The Pawtucket Juggernauts will be in the running for another wild card spot this season. The have a solid rotation that gives them a chance to be in just about every time they play. If they have a lead their back end of the bullpen is about as good as anyone with Geraldo Belliard and Vic Brogna. They have a good enough line up to get leads and play from behind. There is a little less power then we are use to seeing from Pawtucket but they will still hit plenty. We should see another strong defensive team again this season.

84-89 wins

The Detroit Miracles will also be hunting for a wild card spot this season. Dispite losing an ace they still hold one in Big Dick Randall and have a very nice 2(Ruben Tejada) and 3(Luis Escobar). The bullpen is also in pretty good shape and won't blow it too many times. The team is going to need to find some hitting with Keith Haad missing most of this season with a ACL tear. On defense they have a few holes to patch up as well.

82-87 wins

Seattle Grunge still may need one more season to be a true wildcard contended this season. They do have the talent though that could surpass my expectation depending on how well the coaches improve the players. Lacking a true power hitter may cause some issues but they have enough talent to hit for AVG and a great eye for a High OBP. They will score some runs and they will see plenty of pitches to get the the bull pen quicker. They are missing high end starting pitching and bullpen. They have some solid guys on staff but nothing top end. Some AAA players could help out this season if they can make the jumps that are need to make the show. This team is stacked with defense and should be right up there with the league leaders and that should help the pitchers play better and in turn really make a wild card run.

79-84 wins

The AL East

Baltimore What can I say they hit they pitch and they win games in the masses. Every knows when they are coming up on the schedule and either plans on resting players or setting up the best you have to match up with them. As far as hitting goes there is Baltimore than there is everyone else. Every time you play them an ace takes the mound. Every time they have a lead a shut down closer take the mound. They do lack a little in the fielding but with the bats they carry it is more than made up for. If you don't think this is the team to beat you need to get checked into a clinic or something. I know cloud misses his trophy and it has been six season since he has been with out it for two consecutive season. Oh and the AAA team is stacked in case your thinking the pipeline is drying out.

114-119

Indianapolis Devils have the hitting and pitching combination to make a play-off run this season. They also have plenty of talent in AAA to fill in holes as needed and they may be needed with the complete lack of any sort of defense.

80-85 wins

Kansas City Dingbats are missing pitching in the starting rotation. They have young arms that should develop into top of the rotation starters. At the end of the game they have the best relief pitcher in the world in Hipolito Iglesias. They should hit in the middle of the pack and they are a fine defensive team. they could be in the wild card hunt once again.

80-85 wins

Cincinnati Red Legs are still in a rebuild. They have a complete lack of hitting abilities against right handed pitching and that makes for a really really bad offense. With one of the better bullpens in the world the lead they have they should hold well. With a minor system stocked up with talent players I will be keeping my eye on this team in the season that fallow but right now they may be looking ahead and spending on the minors then the ML squad this season.

55-60 wins

The AL South

St. Louis Black Dynamites have one the the best up and coming teams in the world. A superpower in the making. They did find some poor luck in losing Alfredo Espinosa for about three more months. Still with out him they showcase two of the better pure power hitters in the world in Harley Nunnally and Miguel Feliz. The line-up is solid up and down and the defense + plays all day. Add in a starting rotation that features some of the games best young starting pitching and you have a real shot at the two spot in the AL and earn the first round bye. The injury may cost them that but they still have so much talent that they should over come it.

98-102

Durham Spitoons have a really solid group of starting pitchers and a very nice end of the bullpen with the arms in Endy Simpson, Cristian Black and the young Jair Mijares. Range on defense seems to be a the lower side but the gloves and arms are there to help pick up that weakness. There is a lack of power for the stadium they play in and I believe that might push them towards the back of the pack a little. In all this team could make the play-offs.

86-91

Memphis Packers are in the decline after some really good season. Age has caught up to them and they are about to head to rebuild mode I think. the Defense is really solid with amazing range. They did bring in Chris Ray this off season and it will be fun to see if he can catch up to Alex "Doesn't Know when to quit" Silva as the greatest hitter ever. There is some pitching that could become trade bate. To me it looks like a bit of a below average team in the hitting, pitching and pen

64-69

Jackson Rollin Rebels lacks high end talent. They fill the roster well enough but there is just not a wow player there right now. They have a team that will win a few games and maybe place third in the South. They will play outstanding defense and they have some OK starting pitchers upfront but nothing too special. The bullpen is looking really shaky and maybe a little scary when in a close game with the lead.

57-62 wins

AL West

Scottsdale Slam is the class of the west right now. The some of the starters have trouble getting the ball across the plate but for the most part they are an upper tier rotation. They even brought in Aaron McCorley so I will try to keep an eye out for win number 200. The line-up will fill out a nice one-nine with nice power and a solid OBP. I don't see much in the pen but relief pitching can be found during the season.

87-92 wins

Helena Troy currently only has about 16-17 players on their 25 man so it is a little hard to tell that they look like as a team right now. From what I can tell they have some nice young players getting ready to make their first pro game. There is not enough young players yet to impact too many wins.

65-70

Honolulu Hoplites are in year three of there second rebuild. 2.0 if you will. They don't pitch very well, hit real well or catch the ball real well. Another long season here and next season maybe another top five pick to help with the re-load.

Colorado Springs Cougars are a team with three of the best hitters Kaline has seen(Benji Mota, Chris Montague, and Ron Matherson). Five Or six seasons ago this would be one mean team but that it is a group in their mid 30s on the decline. Not much pitching either starting or Pen. Defense is scary bad. Looking for a number one pick maybe.

54-59 wins

Season 21 Free Agent Report

2011-07-26T13:02:00.010-04:00

The Best

Bryce McMillon (29)will be the gem free agent this shopping season. His former team did not budget to keep him so he will find a new home. Think tie breakers in this one. He will easily get a max deal.

Davey Fick (28)is a former MVP, seven time All Star 6 time Silver Slugger and also has a Gold Glove to his resume. At 28 he is ready to cash in on a mega deal in the max range.

Jake Jennings (25)is a free agent due to a new owners mistake. It is very rare to find a player of this talent and this age in free agency. He also might find himself in the 110 million range if teams want to over pay because they missed the top two.

The Rest

Those are the top tier free Agents following them is a very very good group of second tier position.

Ceasar Gabriel (30)should make a nice payday finding a spot on teams that missed out on Fick. His range does not play at shortstop but he has more that enough arm to hold down third and the glove to play second. His outstanding make-up rating means that he might still hold value at the end of a 5 year deal.

Tony Benjamin (30) Is a two time all star. A Gold Glove winner at 2nd. He is like a not quite as rich mans Gabriel but not quite a poor mans version either. He holds his own just fine but an injury at the end of the season caused him to miss the play-offs and world series. His make is not as high so I would avoid paying him too much towards the end of longer deals. Maybe front load the deal with a bonus and de-escalate it at the end.

J.R. Cunnane (31) is the only power hitter worth a damm on the open market. He is a two time all star. He hits for power and he also fields a solid CF. At 31 with a lower make-up rating I would follow the Benjamin contract plan.

Ramiro Lira (31) Has posted almost a career OPS of .900. He is a pure hitter with out much to offer in the field outside 1st base. His Make-up rating is higher than the last two but I don't see him make that much money to matter that much. I will be wrong but we will see.

Luis Mairena (31) Has won GG in CF in both leagues. He does have some pop in his bat but I would expect a sharp decline in his ratings soon. He has a terrible make-up rating and should see a fast fall. He doesn't hit well enough for a corner outfielder down the line he may be a serviceable 2nd base place holder but in this game 2nd basemen are a dime a dozen and can be found in two-way threats like just about every other player above. If you could get him on a 2 year place holder deal I could see it but I wouldn't give up a first round pick for him.

The Scrap Heap

The scrap heap and players that can be picked up during spring training on the cheap. Jim Hall (34) can still swing the bat and run some bases. He has a glove but no range left. Also he is a type A FA so happy trials Jim Hall. Archie Hubbell (30) can play every day as a super utility player. He could even fill in as a SS if needed. Benji Mota (34)is on his way to the hall but could still fill up a line-up card as a DH. He still hits and hits well and won't cost a draft pick... interesting. Jake "The Snake" Roberts (34)hits according to his ratings but not to his stats. Someone will find a use for Cesar Fernandez (26). Yes there are other out there but these are the ones I see as worth a longer look.

Did you say you wanted to add pitching?

Well there is McMillon right. Yeah then the Big drop

Rafael Guillen (35) is about to hit all out free fall in the ratings. You might be able to get two more productive starting season out of him but then its off to the pen.

Del Vallarta (30) Has had a nice career so far and has a nice make-up rating to hold for the length of a deal. This guy is an innings eater going over 200+ innings for the last 8 season and 192 9 season ago.

Chick King (30) Maybe you think that you will be the owner that he finally wins with... good luck with that.

Clyde "The Glide" Franco (35) has had nice career but maybe finally ready to head to the pen full time after this season.

There are a bunch of back of the rotation starters this season fill up on your stop gaps

The Pen

I have made a few bullpen mistakes in my day and have learned my lessons. That said.

Luis Montana (30) should hold games for you. His numbers don't show that but well he should.

Paul "OverPaid Ninja" Nakamura (35) Can you believe this guy was making 20 million a season the last few years. He has pitcher well and his ratings are holding well so he might be the next fireman of the year.

My former guys and players I swear by Cristian Black and Roy "Fort" Campbell could be your next great righty lefty set-up combination. If they are there during spring training I might make a move for them.

There is plenty of overpriced bullpen players here good luck with them.

The Spenders

What teams have in the war chest.

Baltimore 1,134,800

Boston 20,494,900*

Buffalo 12,728,984

Charleston 16,536,402

Charlotte 13,501,500

Cincinnati 33,520,550

Colorado Springs 15,454,134

Detroit 14,509,300

Durham 17,375,450

Fargo 27,529,200

Helena 26,475,300 *

Honolulu 15,262,900

Houston 1,919,050

Indianapolis 3,019,384

Jackson 22,706,550*

Kansas City 15,918,750

Las Vegas 39,510,300

Memphis 25,964,850

Minnesota 50,200,000

Montreal 14,525,000

New York 57,311,150

Pawtucket 25,885,467*

Philadelphia 36,426,750

Richmond 26,880,050*

Sacramento 40,359,000

Salem 32,418,300

Scottsdale 16,997,418

Seattle 49,808,750

St. Louis 27,379,150

Vancouver Not Much at all under 600k

Washington D.C. 2,331,050

Wichita 5,020,450

* have yet to finish arbitration cases

Bold- Max deal potential

I didn't look at what every team has for holes or if they have AAA call-ups coming yet so something might be off on their max deal abilities.

Season 20 Free Agent Report

2011-04-13T09:58:00.005-04:00

For the second time in his career Floyd Mullen will has a chance to become a free agent. He is the greatest pitcher in the history of Kaline and even ranks as one of the best in all of what if sports. Just about every team with the cash to spare will be in on him.

Houston is also about to lose former CY winner Ramiro Cabrera. He is only 29 and has pitcher great through his career.

Those are the Headline starters other starter that should find work include; Luis Escobar , Ruben Tejada , Vin Almanzar.

For hitting help this off season it is a bit light in the market. You have David Gomez as a switch hitting firstbase option. Enrique Gomez can play just about anywhere you need him to and still can handle a bat OK. He is better than a super utility guy but is a long way from his robust homerun seasons. Efrain Redman can still hold his own in any outfield spot and not bring too much shame to his family when he steps into either side of the batters box. Hank Morgan is even better and a year younger that Redman. There are plenty others out there that can fill in as stop gaps and maybe can be had during spring training to save some money. When the time for signing comes I will do a better run down with released players and declined options

Linking players again

2011-04-12T08:35:00.003-04:00

Today is a non baseball related post. I am going to share with every one on how to link players into chats. I see a few newer guys and maybe they don't know how to do it yet and I hate not having a player linked into the chat.

1.First thing you need to do is be able to click on a player profile.

2.After you click on the player profile look at the left side and under the blog there is a green + next to some binoculars.

3.Click on the green +.

4.After you click that a little head picture should show up.

5.You have now added that guy to you clipboard.

6.Now go over to the chat formate that you wanted to link the player to.

7.Under your text box you will see an up arrow over a little clipboard.

8.Click on that and there you go. If you want feel free to test it in my trade chat box. I trade chat with just about every one so give it a try.

Options Options Options...

2011-03-23T11:14:00.002-04:00

The Season 20 is a bit thin at first glance at pitching. Sure you have the the greatest Pitcher in the history of Kaline hitting the market but really after that it is pretty bare. You should be able to find a solid hitter somewhere in the mix. But if you are hoping to and dreaming to hit it big there may be a chance if the options are not picked up or taken.

Detroit has a mutual option for Bryce McMillon. He has been one of the best pitchers in the world and should have a few Cy Youngs but it has not fallen in his favor. He can play he can get a max deal and he will only be 28 next season.

Magglio Wilfredo has a player option from Memphis and he would help the weaker pitching market.

One of the greatest Hitter in the world and 3 time MVP 8 time all-star Felix Torrealba has a player option. The Future Hall Of Famer will be 32 next season.

Alex Aybar also has a player option but I would doubt that he make as much in the open market.

Racing

2011-03-10T10:34:00.004-05:00

Down the stretch they come!!!
This season is seeing a little closer races in the AL than the last few. Usually there is only a race for the last wild card there so I do have a few things to say about that. The NL on the other hand has fewer races than in the passed.

As always starting in the greatest division the AL north. Minnesota has held onto first for the bulk of the season but Pawtucket has now run off 10 wins in a row and closed the gap to just two games. These two team match up on for the last series of the season so it may come down to that. Detroit is sitting at 7 games over .500 and we will talk about them in the wild card part.

The AL east... Baltimore clinched about 5 days ago. Are about to clinch home field too!

The AL South Memphis is holding onto the top spot after a dreadful start but they are now a game over .500. Durham is in 4th but only six games out and at this point that might be too much to over come. Both Montgomery and Oklahoma City are lurking at 2 games back and could get hot and pull out the top spot. With really no chance at the wild card the only hope is to beat out Memphis to head to post season baseball.

The AL West ajpop has the the Slam playing really well and they are getting close to clinching with a magic number of 13. With a 9 game advantage they are in no real danger.

The AL Wild card has Pawtucket in with a ten game lead but both Kansas City and Detroit fighting it out. Detroit is two games back and within striking distance so if they can get some bounces they may be in the post season for the first time since season two. Kansas City has not seen the play-offs since season 10 and would like to make waves in the post season. Salt Lake City is just 4 games back from the last spot so if they heat up they could leap two teams but at this point with so few games left it makes it hard.

The NL North has Fargo heading in for the 3rd straight season with Montreal 8 games back and swimming to stay ahead of .500.

NL east has Philadelphia looking to win there 14th title their with a ten game advantage over Washington D.C. Washington is a wild card runner though.

The NL South has Houston up by 19 games over Charleston. Houston magic number is just 3 games and they are up 6 games for the top spot in the NL.

The last real horse race it a neck and neck in the NL West. LA has a super slim one game lead over last season champs Sacramento. The loser here does have a safe fall back plan and holds the top wild card spot. LA is also only 3 games back from a first round bye. Welcome back to the post-season Keeid12x.

The NL wild card has Charleston clawing to get in at three games behind Washington. Montreal is four games and two teams out and as stated before the more teams you have to climb over the hard it is to get in. The NL in the past is where to go for races till the last game of the season but this year other than slotting it is just about wrapped up with a bow.

Mid-Season Report

2011-02-22T10:17:00.003-05:00

A quick look at the mid-season report.

Baltimore is Baltimore, still and looking down right scary. They are having maybe the best team pitching in the history of the world this season and they can out score everyone. Magic Number is 61

Montgomery is ready this season after all! They should be in the running for a world championship for may years with their stocked minor league system.

Durham is fighting for a play-off spot again this season and we will see if they can hold on this time around.
We are seeing that the Oklahoma Franchise can indeed win games and compete.
Philly is getting the pitching that they pay for and are the best in the NL.
The current champs are learking and looking impressive.
A noted observation the NL is Better than the AL right now.

Mid-Season Report

2011-02-22T10:17:00.000-05:00

Predictions season 19

2011-01-24T12:42:00.008-05:00

AL North
Winner: Minnesota with 99-103 wins
Detroit 92-95 wins
Pawtown 87-91 wins
Seattle 65-69 wins

AL East
Winner: Baltimore(I know bold prediction) 123-126 wins. Maybe even more
Kansas City 71-75wins
Indianapolis 70-74 wins
New York Metros 69-73 wins

AL South
Winner: Memphis 88-92 wins. As badly as I wanted to pick A new winner I can't yet. This should be a very close race though
Durham 86-90 wins
Oklahoma 84-88 wins (I really like this team for some reason)
Montgomery65-69 wins(their last season in the basement)

AL West
Winner: Honolulu 88-92 wins
Salt Lake City 86-90 wins
Scottsdale 80-84 wins
Helena 70-74 wins

AL MVP: Keith Haad

AL Cy Young: Jordy "The Juicer" Hobbs

AL ROY: Some one from Baltimore for real that AAA team would make the play-offs

AL Fireman: Dick Randall if he closes all year.

The AL winner.... Detroit Miracles( Its too easy to pick the Baybirds and I look like a clown picking my own team plus really they are a very very good team)

( Do I really have to do the NL... I guess so they hold the trophy now)

NL North Winner: Fargo 103-107 wins

Montreal Otters 81-85 wins

New York 78-82 wins

Buffalo 70-74 wins

NL East winner: Philadelphia 99-103 wins

Washington D.C. 89-93 wins

Louisville 60-64 wins

Cincinnati 58-62 wins

NL South Winner: Houston 95-99 wins

Charleston 84-88 wins

Charlotte 83-87

El Paso 74-78 wins

NL West Winner:Los Angeles 92-96 wins

Sacramento 90-94 wins

Las Vegas 65-69 wins

Vancouver 15-19 wins because I know Verd will say something really though they will be about 500

NL MVP: Victor Pulido

NL Cy Young : Should I even tell you because if you don't know you should ask some one

NL Roy: I don't have a clue I didn't study that this year My guess would be Alex Polonia if he gets a call up

NL Fireman: Who every won it last year I'll go with...

NL Winner: Philly comes though in the end and goes on to lose to Long Time Kaline Owner and New World Champion agateking congratulation sir!!!!!

Bargian hunting In Free Agency

2011-01-14T13:19:00.003-05:00

Well the prices are dropping on a few free agents and if you still have some needs there are some deals to be had.
Starting Pitchers

Wilt O'Connor is still out there looking for a 2 year deal worth about 6 million. He would be a fine stop gap and back of the rotation starter.
Herm Walker is on the decline but he should pitch well enough to cover his asking price of about 6.5 over 2 years.
Jayson Tartbull asking for less than 4 million over 2 years and he can also plug innings at the back of a rotation.
Louie Lima is on the cheap at under 5 million over 2 years.
Archie Rapp from the great hockey town of Eveleth(United States Hockey Hall of Fame is located there) is only asking for just over 5 million again over two years.

Thats not a bad starting 5 in fact that is better than some teams are rolling with this season.

Relief Pitching

Alex Torres price tag is under 4 million covering two years.
Alvin Murray is around 4 over two years.
Mac Peterson want to give it one more year and is a steal under one million on one year.
Trevor Knoblauch is also only looking for a one year deal around 2 million.

That could be an alright bullpen not great but serviceable at the least.

Catchers.

Greg Collins is cheap and a fine back up catcher I had him last season and when I am bargain hunting in a few days I will pick him up. One season at 1.3

Thats about is back up catchers are all that's left.

Firstbase

Harley Dixon can platoon and really you could get around 45 homers through the lenth of the deal of around 3 million over 2.
Jamie Stynes can still hit a little and is asking for very little. Under 400k on one year.

There is a nice platoon 1st/DH middle of the order.

Secondbase (side note I am not going to look at the contracts anymore)

Louie Snyder was a Miller last season and was great. He lost another step this off season but he still has the glove and bat to start.
Dingo Rivera could still start somewhere for sure.
Brad Daniels is still young and has great range and could be a great utility guy.

Not great but stop gaps.

Thirdbase

Kareem Redmond hold his own at the plate.
Russell Peters also handles the bat well as well as plays the hot corner solid.
Russ Lowe is not yet 30 and he could keep the spot warm till some one else steps in

Errr.

Shortstop

Not pretty if you ask me some platoons guys I guess so good luck with that I would find a trade partner though.

Corner Outfield

Oscar Li is an everyday player and shouldn't embarrass himself in either hitting or defense.
Errr. Price are all high for me to fish in this pond this season. They will drop though.

Centerfield

Tony Martinez is a bottom third bat but a very nice defensive guy.
After that find a platoon yous comfortable with of find a trade partner.

Well there is my look at TJ Max

Linking players

2011-01-07T08:39:00.003-05:00

Today is a non baseball related post. I am going to share with every one on how to link players into chats.

First thing you need to do is be able to click on a player profile.
After you click on the player profile look at the left side and under the blog there is a green + next to some binoculars.
Click on the green +.
After you click that a little head picture should show up.
You have now added that guy to you clipboard.
Now go over to the chat formate that you wanted to link the player to.
Under your text box you will see an up arrow over a little clipboard.
Click on that and there you go.

If you want feel free to test it in my trade chat box. I trade chat with just about every so give it a try

The Play-off picture

2010-12-15T08:45:00.003-05:00

Well Baltimore has been in since about the All Star break. Minnesota clinched a spot about 6 games ago. Omaha Clinch with their last win. Houston is in and has pretty much put a bow on the top spot in the NL. Philly can clinch a spot with one more win. The only Division that can really be called a race is the NL North and that lead is 3 games. That is not all that easy to overcome at this point in the game but things happen. Vancouver sits 5 games back and and Sacramento does have a hard schedule ahead but up 5 with 14 to go might just be too much to overcome. The NL wild card is going to be a photo finish again this season and there are plenty of teams playing heads up that I am not going to look at all the angles yet. The AL is pretty much set other than seeding. Still waiting on Pawtown or Honolulu to decide who takes the 5 and six spot.

Lets Race

2010-12-07T13:10:00.002-05:00

A quick run down of the races around the league and my best guess on who will be there and who will be golfing.
In the AL Baltimore clinched about a month ago. They have a comfortable 43 game lead. They have an 18 game lead for the top spot so good luck with that.
All the rest of the division have 5 games between first and second place. Minnesota leads the North by 5 over a rolling Pawtucket. Minnesota has given up a cozy lead as Pawtown has played 43-17 for a .716% over their last 60 to gain ground. They still have 7 games to play against Baltimore where Minnesota is done with them for the season. They also play the team they are tied with in the Wild card, Honolulu four times plus a three game set against the Millers.
In the AL South Memphis has regained the top spot. The five game lead might be too much to over take with 9 straight games against playoff teams. If they can gain ground over the next nine games there might be a race. Memphis though does not have it any easier of harder. I would like to to go down to the wire and have that last three game set against each other matter.
In the AL West Omaha has the lead with Honolulu in trail. These two teams play each other on also the last 3 games of the season so I hope it comes down to that. Omaha is playing a hard schedule down the stretch who's opponents winning percent is about .560 while Honolulu is around .500. A difference of about 76 wins over the next 10 series.
the Wild Cards look to be about set unless Detroit can find one more run this season. Honolulu and Pawtucket share the same record and they will be playing for seating if they don't over take their divisions.
This AL shakedown leave Durham, Detroit and Scottsdale out.

If you want races you will have to look at the NL.
In the NL North Fargo holds a slim one game lead over Montreal. Five of Fargos last ten series are against teams holding a winning record. Montreal has series still to play against Houston, Philly, and the team they trail Fargo. This one could come down to the wire and it will be something to watch as the season runs low.
Philadelphia is comfy cozy up by 11 in the East. And Houston holds a strong 16 game lead in the South.
The NL west has Sacramento up by the familiar five games over Vancouver. This race really comes down to how well Vancouver plays Washington. They play The Senators seven straight times.
The real race in Kaline this season is the NL wild card. Montreal has the fifth spot there for now while they battle Fargo for the North. They lead by a passable four games. For the final spot four teams are within two games and they all play each other a few times here and there. If Washington can beat the Whitcaps in their seven straight or vice verse one team is done. El Paso seems to have a tough series on ever Horizon but if they win they will be in... maybe. LA seems to have a hard go of it the rest of the way but they do have some talented player. Oh this is going to be a great race again this season.

Player Options

2010-12-01T14:16:00.003-05:00

With from what I can tell the upcoming Free Agent Class is looking weak at starting pitching. There are some players that might use that to decline their options.

Floyd Mullen has a player option and may try to cash in one more time with another max deal before he hangs them up.
Dennis Priest will in all likely hood accept his Option but Charleston will surely take the buy-out.
Mateo Granados will be old and on the streets I bet with Fargo taking the buy-out. He might find a DH job in the AL or this might be it for him.
Charlie Kline also has a mutual option than might not be picked up by Houston.
Desi Uribe might think he can do better in a starting pitcher weak free agent see and might decline his 5.6 million option from Indianapolis.
Ruben Saenz might think he can cash before he gets too old and too hurt to play. Omaha may also just take the buy out depending on how his ratings hold.
Miguel Nieves should decline his options as well because he will get a huge raise this off-season. Pawtucket will for sure accept the mutual option if he does.

So I guess I will budget for starting pitcher after all with Mullen and my Moby Dick Nieves possibly hitting the open market.

Ranking the Divisions

2010-11-24T14:31:00.003-05:00

I feel like backing up my claim that the AL North is the best division in the world. I am going to rank all the division by wins than add 5 points for every All Star from the Division. What if I am wrong... than I will find another stat that makes me right.

1st place AL North 199 Wins plus 12 All Stars for a grand score of 259.

2nd place NL South 191 wins plus 12 All stars for a score of 251

3rd Place NL East 184/8 for a score of 224

4th place AL East 181/8 for a score of 221(Baybirds have 7 All Stars and 67 wins)

5th Place AL West 182/7 scores a 217

6th Place NL West 180/6 scores a 210

7th Place NL North 183/4 scores a 203

Last place by far is AL South with 157/3 scores 172 ouch

It was a little closer than I thought it would be but my numbers show that the AL North is still the very best Division the world. Now will Pawtucket and Detroit please slow down just a bit.

AL Cy Young Mid-season Report and a quick NL CY note

2010-11-23T12:12:00.004-05:00

The AL Cy Young looks to be coming down to a top Five of Sandy Lowe (MIN), Jordy Hobbes (BAL), Bryce McMillon (DET), and two Closers Tony Ontiveros (BAL) has been brilliant and Geraldo Belliard (PAW) has been near perfect and perfect in saves so far. I don't think that relief pitchers should be part of this award because they have their fireman award to win but it is what it is. Last season McMillon was just edged out for the award last season and might happen again this season. Lowe has the best K/b ratio has only lost once this season so far and is the great .602 OPS against the best whip and the and might be the top pitcher in the AL world. Hobbes is the best pitcher on the team in the world. He has a lights out ERA and a strong win/lose record. There are plenty of other great pitchers in the world but from what I can tell from seasons passed that these will be the guys for the CY award. I don't think bullpen guys should or will win here. There is still a lot of games left and as the season progresses this should change a bit. My money is on McMillion. Who do you got.
NL CY is as easy to pick as it gets. Floyd Mullen. Hands down should be unanimous! He is have maybe the greatest pitching season ever!

Contenders Season 18

2010-11-15T09:04:00.003-05:00

If I started with any other team besides Baltimore I would be a lair. These guys are stacked young and extremely well run and rested. They have top line Pitching leading the AL in just about ever pitching line that matters. They are first or second in every hitting line that matters. They may not be the best fielding team but they make the plays the need to be made. They are the best that Kaline has to offer and until somebody beats them they should be the favorite every time.

The second choice would be a little team in Houston. This team can pitch pitch and pitch. They just lead again every important line in the NL. They have a great bullpen and the best starter in the history of Kaline. They are not just a pitching team though they have the best OPS in the NL. They are also just above the median in fielding.

The Mighty Millers of Minnesota have a great record, have great pitchers and have great hitters. They have made about a dozen or so trades so far this season trying to find the right mix of players to stretch out the line-up and stabilize their pitching. This little team could go far if they can gel together.

In the AL Wild West we are seeing a three team show down. Scottsdale is getting wins by getting just enough hitting and passable pitching. Omaha is a top five hitting and pitching club and I will look forward to seeing how they finish up. Honolulu seems to always start slow and have a strong finish lets see if that is the same story this season.

One other AL team to bring up is Detroit. These guys had a awful start to the season but now are firing on full force. Top line pitching and a line up that has just added a needed hitter in Tony Benjamin. Agateking is still looking for a closer to shut down games and if he gets that they could really be a force.

Other NL teams with over 40 wins at this time are Philly and Montreal. Montreal is the second best hitting team in the NL and they are top five in pitching. They will be play-off bound this season for sure after missing out the last 3 seasons. The big salary Phillies have one of the worlds best middle of the orders and can send out a pitcher on any day and get a win.

There are others that could peak though but I think that as of right now these are the teams to be looking to continue on winning.

Things that are strange to me so far this season.

Detroit has 36 wins this season and some how only have just 12 home wins.
Baltimore has only lost 5 time this season at home.
This season has seen the highest paid international free agents ever.
Honolulu has played in 18 one run games winning 14 of them
Magglio Wilfredo and Tomas Carrasquel have played way over their heads this season.
New York Midtowners are playing almost .100% points under there Exp PCT
Detroit has had Joel Roth, and Keith Haad have hitting streaks of 18 games this season. Tony Benjamin with a 16 games streak and Julio Rodriguez with a 14 game streak.

The Pitching Rotations

2010-10-20T09:58:00.002-04:00

Today I am going to take a look at the best rotations in baseball. Since I can't look to see who everyone has 1-5 I will guess. I will also average out the overall to rank the best.

The Top rotation in Kaline goes to Houston Grandes. This team is just stacked at the starter positions. The top has the best pitcher in the world Floyd Mullen down a point this year at 93 overall. Than you have young Jarrod Walker at 83 fallowed my Clayton Serra at 81. Oh and the reining AL Cy young winner pitching in the 4 hole. Yes The 4 hole rated at 76. Rounding out the top five is not an easy pass either with Wilfredo Silva rated at 72. This is a scary good group. This might be enough to get them to a world championship. Total Average is 81.

Next the team that is the World Champion and should still be picked to be the champ is Baltimore. Heading their rotation is Jordy Hobbes rated 83 overall. Behind him is a guy that can match up with any number 2 in the league Ted Timlin rated at 82. Next we have a young Gus West rated at 80 with room to grow to a higher number. At 32 years of age Clyde Franco fills in well at 77 in the 4 spot. Davey Saenz rated at 74 overall fills it out for a very very good 1-5. Total average 79.2

The top two teams are just that. There is no question that those are the two very best 1-5 rotations in this world. I would guess that we will find out who is best this year in a repeat world series.

The next team looks to be heading into the season with 4 starting pitchers. Yes it pains me to say it but based on the averages Detroit has the 3 best. They have the very best one two punch in this world With 88 overall Bryce McMillon and 85 overall Dick Randall. Their 3 guy is rated at 75 he is Chick King and filling out the four hole is a hittable Buck Hull at 65 overall. I thought about giving them a zero for the 5 spot but I am not sure what his plans are so I will let him inflate his overall average a bit. Total 78.25

Separated by just.2 points we finish up with Philadelphia Phillies coming in at 76.4 and the Millers in at 76.2. Philly rolls out Hector Merced at 86 than Jerry Canseco at 80 for a solid 1-2 punch. The Millers go with a trio of Sandy Lowe 81 Lyle Moran 78 Shane Kraemer 80.

Season 18: Preview

2010-10-18T08:38:00.004-04:00

Yes folks you can tell season 18 in officially under way. The Free Agents and coaches have been signed. Trades have been done Rule V draft is over preseason has started. And now that we are having our annual great trade debate we can get this thing going.

As always I will start with the AL and we will see if I have time to work one the second league as time goes by today. In the AL north (still the best in baseball) It looks like three teams will due battle for the top stop and at the very least win one wild card.

The Minnesota Millers are as strong as ever coming off of back to back division championships. The have added SS Vinny Kou Sandy Lowe to pitch Deacon Pierce to hit and Louie Snyder to fill in off of the bench. They lost Enrique Gomez, Glenn Morgan, and lead off hitter Efrain Redman. For the most part the added moves are a push other than the added starting pitching. In my eyes they should run the North again.

Detroit might have the top one two punch in all of baseball. The Added bullpen arms Crash Gabriel and Billy Ray Haywood. They also add needed bat Victor Sanchez to help out with the offense. They should be in the hunt again this season after just missing last year.

Pawtucket has a great line up that can carry the team. This season they added a great starter in Miguel Nieves to top out the Rotation. From what I am looking at this is there only addition this off season. They didn't really lose anybody either. Just adding the pitcher though could be enough to get to the postseason with there deep line up.

One team has won the most offseaon trades in season 18 and it is not Baltimore or Minnesota It is Seattle. After coming with in a game for the division last season The Seattle owner appears to have decided to change the direction of the team. Many all star are gone and many up and comers in the minors. I don't see them in the post season this year.

The Best of the AL East and of Kaline has had a pretty as normal offseason so far. A few trades new faces from the minors and again the best in baseball. There Is no reason that The Baybird should not win the AL again.

Indy Lost Devon Minor but that should be able to be absorbed fairly well. The Devils have a solid Line up and pitching that can win games. They didn't add anyone really this season. They will play for a wild card again this season.

Both New York Metros and San Juan are in a re-built mode this season. Though both teams are not play-off bound neither should be terrible either.

The AL South has been ruled by Memphis for the last four season. I am guessing that their reign in over this season. They still have a high level one though nine line up they don't have top tier pitching anymore. What is working for Memphis though is a weaker South but the gap between Memphis and the pack is closed.

Durham has just about as good of a line up as Memphis but they might have just a bit of better pitching. They lost Thoe Forest in a trade but brought back Erubiel Colome in the deal. I think that Durham can win this division this season. The also added from Memphis Pat Newfield to replace Sid Tracy and that is a fine one season upgrade.

Something about Atlanta is telling me they are winning 84 games this season. Their one though nine is not bad though they need a slugger. They have guys that can hit pretty well and add in one of the better pitching rotation and they may surprise a few teams and win the South. These guys are my dark horse here. *Hint hint add a shortstop sooner than later like right away*

Montgomery is still looking a few seasons down the line and won't win much this year but will still be active in the international signings.

The AL west is Honolulu's to take again. Last season they started slow and still won by 15 games. They are young and ready to challenge for the AL crown this season and future seasons. They lost Louie Lima but that should be absorbed just fine by them. They also made that trade with Durham that was talked about as well as a one other. They added Cory Cohen and he will fill in to there line up well. A good line up a good rotation means another 95 win season.

Scottsdale Slam might win 85 games this season and maybe a few more and sneak into the wild card hunt. Helena is a season away from being in the mix. Omaha should hit and hit well but they won't pitch and in turn... OK so I was not giving a good look at Omaha and after a little more digging I think that they might make a pretty solid team this season. They pitch allot better than I thought and are an alright one though nine. Omaha will surprise other this season as well.

Ok so I got lazy at the end what of it. Maybe I will talk about the NL but why maybe when they win something we can talk about them again.

Division Championship Series Preview

2010-09-16T11:28:00.002-04:00

Baltimore Vs Seattle
The top seeded Baybirds draw the Seattle Grunge in their first play off series. Baltimore Is well rested and ready to go. Seattle is running a little low on energy but can still play ball pretty well. The season series was pretty close with Baltimore winning six of the ten games. Seattle line up can stand up to just about any other teams and they have a great ace to to fall back on. Baltimore will score runs and hold other teams scores down they are hard to beat. I think this series will be over in four games with Baltimore taking the series 3-1.
Minnesota Vs Honolulu
Minnesota hold the season series by just a game this season and both teams got off to a really slow start. The Millers have out hit the Hoplites this season but that doesn't make them easy outs. The Hoplites do have a very talented line up that has under preformed this season. The Pitching is really a pick a team and roll. Both teams have been about even this season so far pitching wise. If the game comes down to a home run though don't look for the Millers to be the team to let it up. The have given the fewest in the AL this season. My completely bias pick Millers in 3. You don't like it write your own stuff
Fargo Vs Philadelphia
Philly has a strong top top of their rotation and a solid middle of the order. Fargo also has a very strong top of the rotation but don't really have a big bat in the middle. A couple of their players have had nice seasons but I want to see more. They do though get on base very well so that might make this interesting series to fallow. My Pick Philly in 5.
Houston Vs New York Midtowners
Both teams finished the season 1-2 in hitting with the slight edge going to Houston. The Pitching might come down to which bullpen flinches first. To me the bullpen edge goes to Houston. This series is stacked with stars and great pitching match-ups. This might be the best series of the 4 to keep track of. My secret joy would be Gerald Baker winning a game. He is my favorite player of all time in this world. My pick is Houston in 4.

NL Play-Offs

2010-09-09T10:18:00.002-04:00

OK it is finally time to talk about the other league for a bit. The NL has really come down to the last few weeks of the season before the play-Off picture for form. Today It is looking like we have some clarity. The Charlotte Shock still have a chance but at four games out I think its not looking so good. They have such a hard schedule ahead with games against New York Midtowners (88-60) Washington D.C. (83-65) Little Rock (74-74) and ending the season at Houston(91-57... look out for these guys this team is stacked I tell you). So I am sticking a fork in the outlet and getting the Shock out of the play-offs. Vancouver Has a slim one game lead over Sacramento. The loser of this race is also completely out of the play-offs because they are just too far back. What is left is positioning for first round games. Houston has a three game advantage over New York for the 2nd spot so maybe that's in reach yet. Fargo and Washington I would believe like a chance to play against Vancouver instead of New York or Houston in the first round so they may play it out. I do have to say one thing the NL this season was a little more fun that the AL great season NL and good luck to those moving on and best of luck next season for those not.

Revisit My pre-seaon predictions

2010-09-07T11:04:00.002-04:00

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Millers
7/14/2010 3:23 PM
The ROY guys to me is a three player race The Baybirds have 2 guys in AAA that are crazy good and if either of them get the call they will be tough to beat but Cloud likes to keep his guys down there until they get really close to there projections.
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Millers
7/14/2010 3:23 PM
The guys are named Erubiel Delgado and Paul Melville (The Baybirds AAA team could make the play-offs by the way). There is a guy that may have a dark horse chance that is already called up his name is Gorkys Limon
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Millers
7/14/2010 3:18 PM
Cy young I believe will go to Bryce McMillon a fine young player with crazy good ratings... I would love to have him on the Millers (do I get fined for talking about other players like in the MLB)
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Millers
7/14/2010 2:46 PM
Its quiet in here now. I should blast some random owner for a something stupid. Or better yet I could make my AL predictions player award. Sorry NL I just don't pay that much attention to you guys

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Millers
7/9/2010 11:19 AM
bagpipes has built a really good looking team I can't believe that i handled them so well last season and in the play-offs this season i think will be different i hope not though
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Millers
7/9/2010 11:10 AM
Ok here goes my unbias opinion on the season ahead. I, because im the greatest, will win the north again but the race will be really tight.
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Millers
7/9/2010 11:10 AM
Detriot should be right there and Pawtown has a great line up Seattle will also be right in the thick of things too. I bet both wild cards come from the North this season it was close last season.
unsub
Millers
7/9/2010 11:10 AM
Memphis and their immortals will clean my clock again and be in the playoffs plus The Hopiltes and of course the Triple Bs of Baltimore. Al winner will be drum roll please The Millers Lose to the Hopilites and Philly beats them in the World Series.

Not to bad not bad at all. The AL North has been and currently is the best division in baseball with out a doubt. The Cy Young party may be crashed by Ramiro Cabrera who is pitching great but still Bryce McMillon has my vote because I want to be right. As for the MVP I may never figure out how the pick the top five. Eddie Hawkins and Al Manuel would be my one and two in either order and neither are even on the ballot! I'm not saying the guys on the top five are not great but I would pick both those two over everyone else. Now for the ROY I didn't really explore pitching that much for the award and maybe I should have just a bit. But Who else had Gorkys Limon in there. I am so freaking smart it makes me blush. I had Paul Melville but really anyone with a half a brain would I didn't see Walter Thomas having the season that he is having though. Well My arm is sore from all this back patting so Ill leave it at that for now.

How Detroit makes it in

2010-09-01T13:00:00.002-04:00

In my last post I pretty much stuck a fork into The Miracles. After a look at their schedule I would like to revisit. Detroit has seven games left against The Devils and at five back that might be enough. The Devils are running low on energy at the moment where Detroit is still running their everyday line up at very close to 100% all the way through. The Miracles also still have the best pitching in baseball and are coming off a huge series sweep against Baltimore plus winning 2 of 3 against Memphis. They still have some tough games ahead against Honolulu (6) but are coming off a victory in the last game. They also have 3 game sets left against both Seattle and Minnesota. That means that according to my Minnesota math they have 19 games left of their final 36 against teams with a winning record. Indianapolis on the other hand has the seven games left with Detroit three in the last week of the season with Baltimore when they may be resting up for the post season and 4 left with Memphis who may at that point be resting starters as well. That is again by my Minnesota math 14 games against teams with a winning record. I am not saying that they will blow their lead it is their spot right now and win and your in but keep your eye in your rear view mirror objects are closer than they appear. There is still a race in the AL yet.

The Play-Off Run down

2010-08-30T12:36:00.001-04:00

Last week I talked about the AL races and since then Detroit has failed to make up ground. So its all but over and the top six are left fighting for position. Baltimore is a lock for the top spot an eight game advantage. The two hole is held by the red hot Minnesota Millers due to head to head games won. They are tied with Seattle for the top spot in the north though. Memphis and Honolulu both have all but wrapped up the Divisions as well. That leaves Indianapolis as the current six seed at only 3 games back from the wild card lead. Indianapolis has a better record than both Honolulu and Memphis. So as of right this second the two byes go to the Millers and the Baybirds. The two division winners both would play teams with better record but still home field. Seattle would face off with Memphis and Indianapolis would take a shot at Honolulu. With still 40 games or so to go anything can happen.

The NL is where all the real races are. Philly has the NL East wrapped up and Houston holds the same game lead in the South but other than that it seems like some of the play-off spots will come down to the very last week of the season. Even Los Angeles has a shot only five games out of first place and under .500.

AL Play-Offs taking Form

2010-08-25T09:38:00.002-04:00

The race to to post season in the AL is setting into place. There are only 7 teams over .500 and that have a chance at 6 spots. The Baybirds are almost a given for the top spot again this season. They have an eight game lead over the Indianapolis Devils. The Seattle Grunge slipped out of the All-Star Break a little bit but have had a nice 5 game winning streak since getting sweeped by the Millers and dropping the series against Detriot Detroit. Honolulu had a very slow start to the year but went on a long winning streak to boost up their record. They hold nine game advantage over ajpop and the Crushers. Memphis has had a hard time playing consist ball but still hold a 10 game lead over Durham. The team currently holding down the 5 spot has the 3rd best record in the AL. The Devils have a two game lead over the Millers for the top wild card slot. The Millers hold a six game lead over the Miracles for the final play-off spot. They are the hottest team in baseball heading into a series with Baltimore. Finally The Detriot Detroit Miracles. They have been really up and down this season. With 26 games still this season with the other six teams with a winning record the Miracles have a chance to win there way into the post season but it will not be an easy road... wow 26 of the last 56 against the top six not looking good for them but they have the pitching to shut down any offense. Boy I wonder how the top 7 would rank in some sort of power ranking system?

The All Star Break report.

2010-08-19T09:26:00.005-04:00

The Detroit Miracles were rolling until they ran into Memphis and Baltimore. They split a 4 game set with Memphis and where swept out of Baltimore. After Al north post break games they play 17 straight games against teams with losing records. Their one to pitching punch should keep them close and in the hunt for the play-offs. All stars Bryce McMillon, Dick Randall, and Harvey Linton have been great this season. They could use another hitter though. They have called up 20 year old top hitting prospect Keith Haad to try to help add offense.

The Seattle Grunge are coming of series wins against play-off contenders. Their Hitting this season has been great and they have pitched enough to win at a high level. With seven hitters in double digit home runs and a 1-9 batting order with an OPS over 800 they will continue to play every one hard. Look for them to try and add a starter though to make a huge splash in the post season.

The Baltimore Baybirds continue there league wide domination again this season. Al Manual has been great and consistent all year. They hit the ball well the throw the ball well. They play good defense. They have a stacked AAA team to fill the injury hole. In an odd twist they only sport 2 All stars. There might be a snub or two there.

Indianapolis Devils are playing sound baseball and would be leading most other division in Kaline. They are Hitting the ball really well and the most notable all star snub in Eddie Hawkins leads the league in OPS. Add in Vasco Martinez and you have a great 1-2 middle of the order. Pitcher Rabbit McClellan has posted a 10-0 record this season with nice second numbers as well. Bill Beech and Desi Uribe have been good this year too.

Memphis Packers Are leading the AL South by 6 games. They are a balanced team solid pitching and hitting. They are playing a little below what I thought they would this season though still a very good team. Pat Newfield is still got it at 38 pitching to a 10-4 record with good triple / stats. Domingo Mota Has bounced back really nice and having a great season. Although with his contract and injury history a team could trade for him at wholesale.

Honolulu Hoplites had a rough start to the year. Also not playing there best right before the break losing 3 of 4 to Seattle and getting swept by Pawtown. They have some really hard outs in there line up and that has been their saving grace so far. Cy Young winner Ruben Tejada has been just terrible this season but Juan Rincon has been play well this season. They are on the hunt for an ace pitcher and willing to pay for one. So if your out of the race and have an extra pitcher laying around pick up the phone and give them a call.

Fire Sale Rumors: Minnesota Millers

2010-08-16T10:53:00.002-04:00

As the Millers slip back to .500 and six games out of the play-offs the Millers are almost ready for the all out fire sale. The Millers are a team that has a little bit of everything. They have Front Line starting Pitching in Shane Kraemer who finished 2nd in the CY Young last season but has but bad this season. He has a team friendly contract that runs for years. He should have no issues with injury and has no past issues. Cristian Black has had a nice season so far close to his career line. His contract runs though season 19 and he should have not problems holding his ratings till than. With pin point contral and a rocket fast ball a move into a bullpen roll would work out nice for him after this deal runs up. Omar Cunningham has can pitch but his season has not bee the best for him so far. Lyle Moran is only 26 has great rating but has not put together a good season. The South Paw is under team contol for 4 more season. The Bullpen is based off of closer Bartolo Owen. he is All star bound having a inline with his great career line add in Norm Garcia and you have a great 1-2 punch to end play-off games with.

The Millers also have some great hitters. Alex Rios could be a top 5 MVP guy at the end of the season. The Morgan Brother ,Walter and Glenn have been great this season. The bottom line the team can hit better than they have this season. This team is stacked with power and if they are looking to trade they should be busy this season.

White Flag Report: Salt Lake City Crushers

2010-08-12T11:23:00.002-04:00

The Crushers owner is waving the white flag saying that he will not make the play-offs. The current roster has hitters, former silver slugger winner Jim Hall, who is in his last year of his deal. His ratings should hold well if there is a sign and trade option. He is the best hitter available from their roster but not the only one. Chad Winn seems to still hit below his ratings maybe someone thinks there coaches can fix him. Deacon Pierce, 27, can get on base and hit a few long shots. You get 2 more season with him at a reasonable rate. Leon Blasingame could provide a team with a bull pen arm, but his health rating could keep his price down. The same goes for Billy Rakers. I would think that Morgan Coles is part of the re-built but maybe he could be had for the right prospects. He is the only starter worth talking about and if he becomes open to trading him could be the biggest mid-season deal.

Trade Rumor: Chris Montague

2010-08-11T10:34:00.002-04:00

Chris Montague is going to be on the move. The Swithhitting 1st baseman could add to any team looking to make a run. He has hit below his career numbers so far this season but has still handled righties very well. Against right handed pitching he has put up an OPS of .934 this season. That puts him fourth in the AL among 1st basemen. It is unknown what beznoska is looking to get back in return due to not have any trade needs and preferring not to trade chat. A quick glance in his trade history shows that he does ask and receive fair trades on both ends. I know I made an offer that I feel is fair.

Weekend wrap-up

2010-08-09T11:01:00.002-04:00

In the AL there is only one team that I would consider Hot right now and that is the Honolulu Hoplites. I do believe I called that a week ago that they would have a good run. They have won 7 straight and 12 of the last 14. The next best streak in the AL is just a three game streak by Indianapolis Devils but they are just 6 and 4 over the last 10.
In the NL the hottest team is Philadelphia Phillies winning 8 of the last 10.Since their 5 game losing streak back on 7/30 they have won 25 of their last 28. Nice work Hineiii just lose the next to to the Millers.
The Last place Vancouver Whitecaps even found a way to rip off a nice 7 game winning streak.
The Fargo Outlaws keep up their winning ways by going 16 in their last 21to open up their led over New York by 3 games.
A trade between the Blue Demons and The Banditos was vetoed by the owners. The trade would have give the Banditos a bottom of the rotation starter and a prospect that rates as a utility player. The Blue Demons would have been given some cap flexibility that they needed. On the chat board only one owner asked about it and swamphawk gave his reason and that was all. I thought It would have been passed but enough owners thought differently that I.
The draft happened this weekend and I will try to do a break down after more sign so I can see all of the ratings.

The turn around in Montgomery

2010-08-06T11:47:00.002-04:00

The Montgomery Black Dynamites have a new owner running the show. New to Kaline but coming in with 33 seasons of experience steelforge has been a great addition to the Kaline owners list. Already making a huge impact in the international market sign two of the top guy, Jose Cortez and Del Figureoa. In addition to those guys they have Pedro Lopez signed last season. Turner Wathan was drafted last season but the previous owner was unable to sign Derrin Howe. Harley Nunnally should crush the ball when his call comes and he is not the only masher they have in the minors right now. Miguel Feliz could make his way to the pros this season. The building blocks are in place to make a winner in Montgomery and this is with out this season draft yet. With 28 million spread out evenly in this season draft and with 2 top ten picks and 6 picks in the top 71 things could be really interesting for them sooner than later. Steelforge was looking for a re-building project but i bet he didn't think it would happen this fast... Still have to develop the guys though.

Deadline sellers?

2010-08-04T08:50:00.004-04:00

The Boston Red Sox are currently 9 games under .500 and 12 games back. This is not much of a surprise with them already make some moves and in rebuilt mode. Former silver slugger CF Buck Feller and DH Ben Post are both know to be on the trading block already for Boston. Mitch Knight is having a fantastic season at 30. He is under a fair contract for two more season. Fausto Durazo is young and hits Lefties well but is slated to make over 5 million next season. I would think that they would be willing to move that contract from the books as well. At just 28, Miguel Nieves is already pretty well traveled. Is he still young enough to be part of the re-built or are they going to try to flip him for prospects. He had a rough start for the Red Sox but has been outstanding over his last seven starts letting up just 11 earned runs over 42.1 innings. With over 60 million cap already spent for next season I look for the Red Sox to be on of the most aggressive sellers at the deadline due to their assets.

The New York Metros are just under 50 million next season not including arbitration raises. Ryan Romero has been hurt for most of this season possibly hurting his trade value. He is due over 7 million next season. He is a very solid fielder and versatile. Herm Walker is an innings eater that can fill the bottom of the a rotation. His price tag is a little high for that role at 5.6 million next season but he should hold his ratings fairly well. Jacob Roberts has a reasonable long term deal in place and his ratings should also hold up well.

The Durham Spitoons have cap flexibility for next season, they are under 40 million. If they do become sellers they could really impact someones line-up. Timo Sanders is off and running with a MVP type season right now. They a ton of contracts coming off the books next season so they have plenty of rentals to go around. They have Abdul Murry on the trading block and he could bring in a nice haul and clear up a little bit of more cash next season. Look for them to try to add pitchers for bats this year.

The Freeze are in great cap shape for next season with only 19 million already spent. They have tons of players coming off the books and with only 13 wins this season and heading the wrong way in the last ten look for them to be selling sooner than later. They currently don't have anyone on the trading block but one can assume that it will change soon. the youth movement is in effect in upstate New York so look for just about anyone over 29 to be moved.

Staying in upstate New York, Syracuse is a team in need. With almost 55 million already spent next season on players this newer owner would love to shed salary. Looking deeper into in it I would say a team could get a nice whole sale price on some of these guys if they were willing to take back salary. Dick Nixon could bring back an above average prospect. He should hold his rating well as he ages. They should look at trading Alex McQuillan at all cost but I don't know if they could give him away at this point in his career... trust me in season 13 when he was hitting well I tried. My bottom line advice to a newer owner from newer owner is get younger and get your money under control.

Los Angeles L.A EliteDucks and keeid12x are in a strange spot for the Kaline world. L.A. has been a winner every season finishing .500 just once and never under it. Keeid12x is a very experience owner so it will be interesting to see what he want to do with the future of the franchise. With quite possibly the highest paid AAA team in baseball, I know he would love to drop many millions off of next years cap hit of around 55 million. Bret O'Donnell and Ralph Ellenwood are already on the trading block.

Charleston Ashley Coopers have tons of contracts leaving the books next season. They have some solid vets that could helps play-off hopefuls get over the hump. They don't have anyone on the block as of now but they would move guys if asked nice enough.

That all I am going to get into this morning have a great day.

2010-08-03T12:41:00.000-04:00

Contenders AL

2010-08-03T11:28:00.007-04:00

Seattle
Led by Ernest Hall the team post an impressive OPS of .851. They can post a line up of 1-7 that can rival just about any one in the AL. They can hit the long ball as well with already four players with double digit home runs and one more with nine. Their weak spot in the starting rotation led by Ramiro Cabrera. Cabrere has been a very good at the top rotation but it falls off pretty quick after that. Alex Aybar has been terrible over his last 3 starts letting up 18 earned runs in just 13 innings of work. Not to be out done Trevor Wilkins has been just as bad in his last four starts giving up 24 earned runs over 19.2 innings. Thing should turn around if not look for them to add pitching quick.

Detroit
Pitching rules here with an outstanding rotation fronted by Cy young hopeful Bryce McMillon. He has been great this season only letting up more than 3 runs once. They added Chick King who has been solid in his last two starts giving up one run over 15 innings. Add in Dick Randall and you have the best top three in the AL. The question is can can they hit enough to make a run with a team OPS of .725. Time will tell.

Baltimore
The Triple Bs are the team to beat this year and every year they don't rebuilt the re-cock. The line up is down right scary to face with Al Manuel and Chris Ray but add in a couple of ROY candidates Paul Melville and Darby Ramirez they will be impossible to keep off the scoreboard.

Indianapolis
Indy had a little time in first place this season but I don't see Baltimore giving it back. Indy has two of the best hitters in baseball right now in Eddie Hawkins and last years trade to bring in Vasco Martinez will keep this team from fading back anytime soon. Five players in there deep line up have hit double digit home runs already make for a hard time finding easy outs. The bullpen has been terrible at times so look for them to add some arms there as the season moves along.

Memphis
Memphis and there Immortals keep on winning and winning in bunches. They are at a tough spot in there schedule right now though so things could change. A balanced team with solid pitching and solid hitting they will be in the play-offs for sure.

Minnesota
With a expected winning percent of .570 the Millers are either not preforming to standards or are just that good against left handed pitching. they lead the league against southpawns but also have more than 150 at bats against than. Righhnded pitching is a different story with 150 less AB then the next lowest they post and awful team OBP .292. So either they are going to start hitting righthanded pitching and compete as the ABs even out or they are going to keep struggling and having a fire sale by the all star break.

Honolulu
This team has a run in them and I don't see why they won't have a nice streak of ten in a row. Once they get consistent and their pitching gets under control they could steam roll a few teams. They are still younger team that should gel together and could very well built a contender for years and years.