Well I couldn't take Doyel's far out reaches on some picks so I decided to do one and looking at teams rosters and most likely future direction. Whether that's making a realistic run or loading up for 2016.
1.1 North Texas Ranger - OF - Mike Trout: The most sought after pick and the hardest to acquire because of Trout. Still After Adrian traded his team to Keith for Trout I hope he gets his money worth... He is the top player though.. Still all that talent he moved is hard to replace. Here is tyour 2016 Lottery team..
1.2 Dallas Redbirds - OF Bryce Harper: Well ok maybe Doyel is really set on taking an always hurt OF with huge upside. Glad it's not me putting a 5 year on an unproven... Still Harper has a high ceiling.
1.3 South Texas Heat - OF Corey Dickerson: I know Berg said he would look to take Kershaw here but he's told me in the past he won't move up to take a pitcher. I believe him there and he normally isn't a 1st round pitcher. Look at his past staff. Still I really like Dickerson. He's got everything you love from a hitter except for SB. 30HR guy here in Coors.
1.4 Montgomery Biscuits - SP Clayton Kershaw: With Berg passing Carson gets his main target in Kershaw. I have him as the #2 overall pick in the draft. Can't go wrong and probably get a 3 year even though I hesitate putting one on a pitcher. Rather a 2+1 then a 3+1.
1.5 Flying Squirrels of the Republic - OF Adam Jones: Still one of the elite OF. Doesn't walk a lot and SB have slowed but you can't find a safer pick here then Jones. I had him last year and he was a very important part to my teams run.
1.6 Raging Katatafish - OF - Yasiel Puig: Puig still working his way up to being one of the leagues premiere hitters and maybe he takes a step forward with his power. Only thing limiting him is those power numbers. Nice 3 year keeper here.
1.7 Arizona Desert Swarm - OF - Matt Kemp: Team has 1 OF and will look to fill a power bat. Having filled his 3B I see this a better 3 year keeper. Look for them to use their last 3 year spot with Kemp and give him a 25+ HR OF.
1.8 San Antonio Fire Ants - 3B Adrian Beltre: Still the leagues best 3B even at his age a solid 2 year should be put on him with option for 3. I wasn't sure if they wanted to grab a 3B here or wait till round 2 possibly Zimmerman and take Cruz. Still this is one of the safer bets at this point in the 1st.
1.9 Oviedo Knights - C/1B/3B Carlos Santana: I moved up hoping a Kemp or Dickerson or Beltre slipped. In this possible scenario This would be some one I would lean towards because of his Multi.. Nice options for late rin the draft.
1.10 North Texas - N/A
1.11 South Texas Heat - 1B/3B Chris Davis: Berg's 2nd pick he loves the big power bats. IE Chris Carter. Berg is making a run for 2016 and Davis will help give him the power he will need next year.. I know Broskey is getting annoyed. Wonder if he makes a desperate move to leapfrog him..
1.12 Charlotte Orios - OF Nelson Cruz: Broskey Wanted Davis for sure but I think Cruz gives him a solid back up plan. Now in Seattle and a different team so a drop in numbers across the board is to be expected. Still a 80/80 25HR is a good floor. Solid 2 year keeper for him.
1.13 Raging Katatafish - SP Yu Darvish: Ryan is in rebuild mode again.. sigh... Still Getting Puig early and now locking up one of the top 5 SP in the game will give him a great foundation. I still think Harvey is in his sights somewhere soon. Wouldn't be completely shocked if he took him there
1.14 Olivet Killer Eagles - 2B Jason Kipnis: This is one of the worst positions if someone doesn't fall from the expected. I don't see Larry staying here. Look for a trade either before or during draft.. If he does make a pick I like Kipnis here. Should be a solid 3 year..
1.16 Mid Michigan Tigers - 3B/OF Ryan Zimmerman: He isn't ranked as a first rounder but Tigers looking for OF and only other to consider is Calhoun but I don't think he has the power numbers Keith will be looking for. While I don't have that pick any more..
Well I tried to do a look at free agent class and teams current needs and teams past trends in drafting style. Not going to get them all right but hey. It's my best guess..
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Your 2014 Oviedo Knights
With the draft in the rear view mirror lets take a look at where we stand. Going into the meetings we wanted to move some of our lesser contracts to open up new spots. We gave up some quality as the rounds we got not as good as their value. Still worked out. We also moved up from 2.9 to 1.12, That proved to be a big difference and will touch on that in a bit. With the draft we had a good amount of starting contracts. 3-4 SP and 3-4 OF. Also a SS and possible 1B if we wanted to use Morse as a starter. So with the 2 1st rounders and no pick till round 3 Our goal was to get a 3yr player and a few 2yr and then draft best available after that. It wasn't easy but glad I did..
1.8 Jason Heyward OF - With all the Mocks this was looking like I had a choice between Heyward and Rios. Already made the decision long ago I was going to take Heyward. He is only 24 and he knows how to walk. Which is big for our league. If he can stay healthy you are looking at 25/15 guy this year and well worth the 3yr.
1.12 Albert Pujols 1B - With my 2nd pick I was targeting 3 1B. I had Pujols 3rd best in draft and since I had no shot at other 2 I already came to the conclusion it was Pujols. Had an injury plagued season but claims to be 100%. He will be very dangerous if 100%. I see him as a 280 30 100.
3.9 Trevor Rosenthal - SP/RP Ok this is where my game plan of drafting best available got difficult. I was debating between him and Utley to fill my 2B before it got thin but I had Rosenthal higher then Utley. Looking back I do't regret this now. Utley is injury risk and not sure I would put a 2yr on him. I will on Trevor for upside at starting alone.
4.15 Victor Martinez - 1B/DH Ok so sticking with best available Martinez was passed up because he doesn't hit a lot of HR's or steal bases. Basically he is a weak option at 1B. Still he offers some good stats people are ignoring. He is batting 4th for a solid Tigers offense. Meaning 90+ RBI should be a lock and he hits 300+. A fit perfect for my team as a compliment to Pujols at 1B. Looking like a solid 2yr.
5.11 Glen Perkins - RP I originally had the 5.13 pick and with Mike Wagner picking in front looking for a closer Perkins was the last of the top tier in my books and he would have taken him. So I paid a hefty price to move up 2 spots. Glad I did as he was no question the best closer on the board. Solid last year around for his 2nd tour with Oviedo. 40saves and more then a K per IP. IMO better then Johnson or Soriano.
6.12 Grant Balfour - RP Never thought I would have taken 3 closers in forst 6 rounds but thats how taking best available worked out. TB has a habit of making closers stars. Look at Rodney and Farnsworth. No matter who closes for them they do well. He should get 35-40 saves with a K per IP. Leaving me with 3 RP with solid ERA/WHIP and more then a K per IP.
8.5 Rick Porcello - SP This was a hype pick I have to admit. All signs he will step forward and I took the leap they will. He looks to be putting it together now. Last year his K's improved by 2 per 9 innings. That and his 2nd half was a step up. I am expecting him to continue to move forward. Looking for an ERA around 3.7 and K's around 170.
9.8 Anthony Rendon - 2B/3B Risky pick here taking Rendon as my starting 2B. He has not secured the spot yet. If he doesn't do well in camp he could find himself on the pine to start the year. With my choices at this stage shrinking I had to grab him. His upside and future should be decent. Put on Mock Draft Site I am hoping for a 270 16 70/70 splits if it works out well. If not I hope my backups can carry me.
9.9 Tim Lincecum - SP This was my best late draft pick. Yes hes lost a bit of zip on his FB but he is showing signs he is learning to pitch better instead of just throwing hard. If he can master the art of placement he could have an ERA around 3.5 and 180-200ks.
10.9 John Lackey - SP Fell probably farther then he should because he burned past owners but nobody can deny his stats last year. He is now 2 years removed from his surgery he has his arm strength back. Repeating this numbers I got solid depth at SP..
11.9 Kelly Johnson - 2B/3B/OF Kelly provides 3 position depth and looks to be the starting 3B for the Yankees. Worst case he is on the good side of a platoon at least until Roberts gets hurt then he will start full time. Either way he gets 500AB's look for him to hit 20+ HR's. Not bad for an 11th rounder 2B.
12.9 AJ Pierzynski - C It took 12 rounds but I finally got my only catcher unlike some teams that have 3. Either way Boston improves catchers stats though AJ is coming from Texas and his stats were decent their. If he can duplicate I got a nice starting catcher here. I am hoping 15-20HR a 270BA ad maybe 70RBI. Not too shabby in round 12.
12.12 David Freese - 3B Starting 3B for Angels and projected to bat 4th. Not expecting some resurrection from 2012 but he has the ability to drive in 70+ Still backup depth for Manny in case he starts year on DL. Hopefully don't have to rely on him too much.
13.9 Stephen Drew - SS Solid season last year and once he signs will give me good value as he produces stats that would have been drafted 6-8 rounds instead of 13.
13.15 Jared Burton - RP Once again I get the Minny 8th/9th inning guys. He did well until he had some issues middle of the year but worked back into setup and finished with 27 holds. Will take that again..
14.9 Drew Storen - RP He is right now 7th inning for the Nats but there are rumors of him being traded. Would rather have him as a setup but if hes traded could instantly have more value closing..
15.9 Andre Ethier - OF Nothing special here a 4th OF until Crawford gets hurt or Kemp gets hurt. Took him for depth and hope he starts again.
16.9 Steve Delabar - RP He has a lot of K's and if he can be used in more high pressure situations he will offer me nice k's and holds. The future closer will one day get a shot.
17.9 Hector Santiago - SP/RP Hector has SP/RP eligibility and that is what I liked. He has walked to many in the past. If he can find some control will give me some options with team starting 6-7 SP.
18.9 Nick Franklin 2B/SS Ok this is my end gamer. Had him last year and did well until fading at end. Now he might not have a starting job but teams are asking for his availability. He is a former 1st Rounder and he was born where I work in Sanford Fl. Still if he is traded he has instant value if not hes WW trash for now. Like his future. 15/15 guy when he gets a shot.. Not expecting that this year though.
Well that is it. I did A LOT of draft prep this year and had a game plan. Stuck to it without reaching and dreaming. Overall I think this is a playoff caliber team but I also thought the team was last year and very similar so we will see.
1.8 Jason Heyward OF - With all the Mocks this was looking like I had a choice between Heyward and Rios. Already made the decision long ago I was going to take Heyward. He is only 24 and he knows how to walk. Which is big for our league. If he can stay healthy you are looking at 25/15 guy this year and well worth the 3yr.
1.12 Albert Pujols 1B - With my 2nd pick I was targeting 3 1B. I had Pujols 3rd best in draft and since I had no shot at other 2 I already came to the conclusion it was Pujols. Had an injury plagued season but claims to be 100%. He will be very dangerous if 100%. I see him as a 280 30 100.
3.9 Trevor Rosenthal - SP/RP Ok this is where my game plan of drafting best available got difficult. I was debating between him and Utley to fill my 2B before it got thin but I had Rosenthal higher then Utley. Looking back I do't regret this now. Utley is injury risk and not sure I would put a 2yr on him. I will on Trevor for upside at starting alone.
4.15 Victor Martinez - 1B/DH Ok so sticking with best available Martinez was passed up because he doesn't hit a lot of HR's or steal bases. Basically he is a weak option at 1B. Still he offers some good stats people are ignoring. He is batting 4th for a solid Tigers offense. Meaning 90+ RBI should be a lock and he hits 300+. A fit perfect for my team as a compliment to Pujols at 1B. Looking like a solid 2yr.
5.11 Glen Perkins - RP I originally had the 5.13 pick and with Mike Wagner picking in front looking for a closer Perkins was the last of the top tier in my books and he would have taken him. So I paid a hefty price to move up 2 spots. Glad I did as he was no question the best closer on the board. Solid last year around for his 2nd tour with Oviedo. 40saves and more then a K per IP. IMO better then Johnson or Soriano.
6.12 Grant Balfour - RP Never thought I would have taken 3 closers in forst 6 rounds but thats how taking best available worked out. TB has a habit of making closers stars. Look at Rodney and Farnsworth. No matter who closes for them they do well. He should get 35-40 saves with a K per IP. Leaving me with 3 RP with solid ERA/WHIP and more then a K per IP.
8.5 Rick Porcello - SP This was a hype pick I have to admit. All signs he will step forward and I took the leap they will. He looks to be putting it together now. Last year his K's improved by 2 per 9 innings. That and his 2nd half was a step up. I am expecting him to continue to move forward. Looking for an ERA around 3.7 and K's around 170.
9.8 Anthony Rendon - 2B/3B Risky pick here taking Rendon as my starting 2B. He has not secured the spot yet. If he doesn't do well in camp he could find himself on the pine to start the year. With my choices at this stage shrinking I had to grab him. His upside and future should be decent. Put on Mock Draft Site I am hoping for a 270 16 70/70 splits if it works out well. If not I hope my backups can carry me.
9.9 Tim Lincecum - SP This was my best late draft pick. Yes hes lost a bit of zip on his FB but he is showing signs he is learning to pitch better instead of just throwing hard. If he can master the art of placement he could have an ERA around 3.5 and 180-200ks.
10.9 John Lackey - SP Fell probably farther then he should because he burned past owners but nobody can deny his stats last year. He is now 2 years removed from his surgery he has his arm strength back. Repeating this numbers I got solid depth at SP..
11.9 Kelly Johnson - 2B/3B/OF Kelly provides 3 position depth and looks to be the starting 3B for the Yankees. Worst case he is on the good side of a platoon at least until Roberts gets hurt then he will start full time. Either way he gets 500AB's look for him to hit 20+ HR's. Not bad for an 11th rounder 2B.
12.9 AJ Pierzynski - C It took 12 rounds but I finally got my only catcher unlike some teams that have 3. Either way Boston improves catchers stats though AJ is coming from Texas and his stats were decent their. If he can duplicate I got a nice starting catcher here. I am hoping 15-20HR a 270BA ad maybe 70RBI. Not too shabby in round 12.
12.12 David Freese - 3B Starting 3B for Angels and projected to bat 4th. Not expecting some resurrection from 2012 but he has the ability to drive in 70+ Still backup depth for Manny in case he starts year on DL. Hopefully don't have to rely on him too much.
13.9 Stephen Drew - SS Solid season last year and once he signs will give me good value as he produces stats that would have been drafted 6-8 rounds instead of 13.
13.15 Jared Burton - RP Once again I get the Minny 8th/9th inning guys. He did well until he had some issues middle of the year but worked back into setup and finished with 27 holds. Will take that again..
14.9 Drew Storen - RP He is right now 7th inning for the Nats but there are rumors of him being traded. Would rather have him as a setup but if hes traded could instantly have more value closing..
15.9 Andre Ethier - OF Nothing special here a 4th OF until Crawford gets hurt or Kemp gets hurt. Took him for depth and hope he starts again.
16.9 Steve Delabar - RP He has a lot of K's and if he can be used in more high pressure situations he will offer me nice k's and holds. The future closer will one day get a shot.
17.9 Hector Santiago - SP/RP Hector has SP/RP eligibility and that is what I liked. He has walked to many in the past. If he can find some control will give me some options with team starting 6-7 SP.
18.9 Nick Franklin 2B/SS Ok this is my end gamer. Had him last year and did well until fading at end. Now he might not have a starting job but teams are asking for his availability. He is a former 1st Rounder and he was born where I work in Sanford Fl. Still if he is traded he has instant value if not hes WW trash for now. Like his future. 15/15 guy when he gets a shot.. Not expecting that this year though.
Well that is it. I did A LOT of draft prep this year and had a game plan. Stuck to it without reaching and dreaming. Overall I think this is a playoff caliber team but I also thought the team was last year and very similar so we will see.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
End of Season and Upcoming 2014 meetings
The year ended on a rare down year where Oviedo missed the playoffs for only the 3rd time in 12 seasons. We had a very solid team and produced top 5 stats throughout most of the year but not winning the weeks we were supposed to was killer. Still with that we were able to add some very solid contracts going into next year. Extending Adam Jones and team mate Manny Machado who is on track to be back the start of the season. Those are the only 2 I can't move. Still I will probably move a pitcher or 2 and maybe an OF. Some of the names more likely to move are Weaver and Shields for pitching. For OF Morse and Gomez. I will also listen to offers for Walker and Rollins but due to their lower appeal I will probably use them as my starting 2B and SS. Since they are both top 16 at their positions they are starters. As for the draft it's no secret I would love to move up to top 3 but will not kill myself or cripple my team. I currently have one of the top teams in the league and only looking to tweaking. If I can't move up I will entertain moving back. Shedding 3 contracts would be ideal. in the meetings. If you are interested let me know and let me know your ideal situation to see if we are a match. I do bend to get deals to work..
Monday, April 29, 2013
First Month
Well we are now about 1/4 through the season and the Knights are tied with
Dallas for 1st place. The other 2 starting to fall back as expected. We never
saw any real competition from them. Toledo IMO traded away a playoff team.
Going into meetings I felt they were going to be the toughest one to beat.
After the draft it's a totally different story. When you start guys like Span
and Revere and Gyorko even Pierre your asking for trouble when your studs like
Pujols struggle. Surge surprising me a little some of their players really
stepped up and I think might end up finishing 2nd now.. Marte really growing.
Same with Jackson. Overall their hitting isn't bad. The issues are the
pitching. Lots of if's out their. I think it will be ever changing.. Dallas
on the other hand has done nothing to make you think they will stick with me in
the future. He will blame injuries but the facts are this. He invested in
players early that didn't help him with all 12 stats. He still thinks this is
points league. You don't get more wins if you steal 5 bases or 20 in a week.
Even with him 100% I don't see a difference. SP is ok for now. RP is solid but
paid a HUGE price for them. Something I pointed out during draft. My pen is
just as good minus the flashy names from last year stats. That's where drafting
skill takes over. Now onto my team. I really like my team one month in. Other
then a small bump in the offensive side the last 2 weeks it's going to be a team
that's competitive in all 12 stats. I was made fun of with the Machado pick but
right now who's laughing? I also was told that I should have passed on Iwakuma
and waited for Erasmo Ramirez. Hmmm Maybe I knew something? Naaaaa.. I was
also told I paid 100% value for Gomez. I don't think so though. I still stand
firm on my decision he was the best OF of round 4 and beyond. He has already
started to produce like talent taken earlier in the draft. Morse and Morales
are solid. Both offer HR's and Morales offers BB which was one reason I traded
for him. Crisp offering superior value using an 8th rounder. Even if he gets
hurt he's producing when hes in. Reynolds trade was smart. While Quentin
hasn't done much he still is organizational depth. Wonder if Broskey regets
that trade now? Hmm Hanarhan might close again. Either way I stole Reynolds
now. He will offer depth or trade bait. On the other side I am growing
frustrated with Prado. He hasn't lived up to his draft pick. I missed on the
Jap SS from Oakland but invested very little. Anderson has been a disappointment
but I am hopefully he turns it around when I need him. Right now I have plenty
of depth to get by but will need him..
Now what do I expect over the next month? I see my team slowly pulling away. Over the next 4 weeks I am only concerned about Gaylord. An obvious playoff team. The rest I can match up well against. I am right now listening for offers but not in any need to make a move but if an opportunity arises for depth I'll make a move.
Now what do I expect over the next month? I see my team slowly pulling away. Over the next 4 weeks I am only concerned about Gaylord. An obvious playoff team. The rest I can match up well against. I am right now listening for offers but not in any need to make a move but if an opportunity arises for depth I'll make a move.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Knights sign 4
Well with the season less then a week away the Knights officially signed 4 players. We were thinking of using one of our 3 year spots but instead we feel we can trade for one if we need to during the season. It's safer to sign 2 years and possibly extend them a 3rd. Of all our contracts we feel Gomez was the only one worthy of a 3 year based on his high upside and 2nd half production. Sometimes people figure it out. Like Edwin. I did the same with him in the past. Winning the league isn't about drafting at face value it is about finding value where others don't see it. That's the keys to success. Anytime you draft somebody that outperforms their draft spot you get value. Anytime you reach and they don't perform you lose value. Simple game but hard to excel in. If this was easy everybody would have a competitive team. Yet facts are some people draft cookie cutter style using default rankings or one source and some draft with head in clouds dreaming of rookie breakouts and so called sleepers. My season will hang on the players below living up to their expectations.
All 2 year contracts
Mike Morse OF
Jimmy Rollins SS
Carlos Gomez OF
Brett Anderson SP
Edit: I changed Morse from a 2 to a 3. Feeling his only downside is injury not talent.
All 2 year contracts
Mike Morse OF
Jimmy Rollins SS
Carlos Gomez OF
Brett Anderson SP
Edit: I changed Morse from a 2 to a 3. Feeling his only downside is injury not talent.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Eastern Division
The East normally a decent division is pretty weak overall. Brent learning the league jumped right in and Matt is a very aggressive owner. Usually good for excitement both good and bad.. Doyel plays things safe and well I try to find a balance between risk/reward.
Toledo Mudhens
New team manager Brent was greeted warmly by Renner and Adrian. Proceeding to introducing him to the contract issues really fast. People thought I was a shark. These guys were able to successfully move players expiring or dead contracts pretty cheap. Rich the former owner did a good job putting his team in a position to make playoffs. Yet after some questionable deals and some bad picks he will have work to do. Toledo took Posey first and that was a good pick but a costly one giving up 2 firsts. From there it went downhill. A good amount of risk early will prove costly. Revere was expensive given his lack of anything other then SB. I liked Perez in round 5. Should be a keeper and slide Posey to 1B or DH. Still as the dust settles the team will need to get some power bats. He will have a solid BA and decent runs and very good SB. Yet RBI and HR's and BB will be an issue. Pitching wise it won't be horrible. Led by Gio and Kershaw should keep the ERA/WHIP in check. Soriano good closer but Rondon a reach. His MR guys are very solid producers or ERA/WHIP and K's but not big holds guys. Overall Brent had a playoff shot going into draft but as of right now I think they will be consolidation.
Ovideo Knights
I don't think I need to discuss my draft again. Read my post draft report on my guys. Basically I did what I needed to going into draft and during draft. I have a balanced team with decent speed but not to much and a lot of power. I have solid BA guys and should once again be near top of the league for offense. Pitcher wise I went with guys on the verge of breakouts. They won't be household names but should produce. Iwakuma and Ogando and Milone and Hammel. All took steps forward. Decent holds guys but that can be on the WW. My issue will be the consistancey of closers and how well the new guys can perform. As the season wears so do they. I don't think without question I should make playoffs with this team. Then again I could get major injury bug and end everything.
Atlantic Surge
Matt is active and isn't afraid to take a chance on the guys he likes to breakout but sometimes when you do thata you get burned. Reaching far above their possible production usually ends up on losses. He took Jackson and Middlebrooks round 1. While I think Jackson is a solid pick. Middlebrooks was early. Cespedes who was there might have been a better pick as he has shown more. Doesn't mean Middlebrooks won't produce just means the risk is more. I don't like Tori in round 3. He's getting up there and he's at the age when the wheels come off fast. After that it got sketchy. Morneau downside lots of risk. Lucroy expensive catcher in round 5. Weeks in round 7 no job. Marte was ok but early. Brantley starting? Not one player last year in his offense hit 20HR's. Not one in his lineup stole 20 bases. Not going to lead a lot of offensive weeks. Look for him to be near bottom almost every stats except BA which should be ok. SP Harvey keeps progessing he will have a solid keeper. PGrienke in a nice location and should also do well. After that lots of questions. Floyd and Worley and Pelfrey? Cashner? 1 Closer and a bunch of closers in waiting. In the end look for Surge to hold one of the lottery spots. Keys will be for them moving players early for better contracts. This team should be one of the first to put up a firesale.
Dallas Redbirds
Safe Doyel didn't make many moves before draft. His man trade bait guys were ones that are questionable. Still when you compare rest of the division he is in much better shape. Doyel is built around speed again but he added a better pen. Draft was pretty vanilla. Solid picks but nothing that will surprise on the upside. Pedoria was a the best pick at his 1st. Bourn might have been the best available in round 2 but one thing Doyel has always failed to do is draft best for his team. He should have used that pick on some power. Somebody to put up 30HR's. Would have given his team more balance. Round 3 took Rosairo. While he has the power nobody knows how he will perform in his 2nd year. Lots riding here especially since hes one of his main power guys. Rounds 4 and 5 guys like Seager and Victrino and Pagan. They most likely have shown you their best. Limit the upside but also the downside. Then he drafted the upper elcheon RP from last year. Givng him a solid pen. I see the offense in the top 8 while his staff has questions with Hughes and Lynn and Hellickson. His pen should save a lot of those starts. Overall this team will be in hunt most of the year but if he stays on course with past won't make the changes he needs at trade deadline to give him a solid push to win it all. Yet a playoff appearance is a good possibility.
Right now I have the East
Knights
Redbirds
Mudhens
Surge
Team management plays a big part of final rankings. Also schedule. Since the league is broken up into 4 divisions and 2 wildcards having to play 2 weaker teams 6 times will help Doyel and myself. The ability to trade and pick up areas that are weak will help change outcome. Though the only spots I expect to see are the top 2. If Doyel finds some power without hurting other stats he could push to win division.
Toledo Mudhens
New team manager Brent was greeted warmly by Renner and Adrian. Proceeding to introducing him to the contract issues really fast. People thought I was a shark. These guys were able to successfully move players expiring or dead contracts pretty cheap. Rich the former owner did a good job putting his team in a position to make playoffs. Yet after some questionable deals and some bad picks he will have work to do. Toledo took Posey first and that was a good pick but a costly one giving up 2 firsts. From there it went downhill. A good amount of risk early will prove costly. Revere was expensive given his lack of anything other then SB. I liked Perez in round 5. Should be a keeper and slide Posey to 1B or DH. Still as the dust settles the team will need to get some power bats. He will have a solid BA and decent runs and very good SB. Yet RBI and HR's and BB will be an issue. Pitching wise it won't be horrible. Led by Gio and Kershaw should keep the ERA/WHIP in check. Soriano good closer but Rondon a reach. His MR guys are very solid producers or ERA/WHIP and K's but not big holds guys. Overall Brent had a playoff shot going into draft but as of right now I think they will be consolidation.
Ovideo Knights
I don't think I need to discuss my draft again. Read my post draft report on my guys. Basically I did what I needed to going into draft and during draft. I have a balanced team with decent speed but not to much and a lot of power. I have solid BA guys and should once again be near top of the league for offense. Pitcher wise I went with guys on the verge of breakouts. They won't be household names but should produce. Iwakuma and Ogando and Milone and Hammel. All took steps forward. Decent holds guys but that can be on the WW. My issue will be the consistancey of closers and how well the new guys can perform. As the season wears so do they. I don't think without question I should make playoffs with this team. Then again I could get major injury bug and end everything.
Atlantic Surge
Matt is active and isn't afraid to take a chance on the guys he likes to breakout but sometimes when you do thata you get burned. Reaching far above their possible production usually ends up on losses. He took Jackson and Middlebrooks round 1. While I think Jackson is a solid pick. Middlebrooks was early. Cespedes who was there might have been a better pick as he has shown more. Doesn't mean Middlebrooks won't produce just means the risk is more. I don't like Tori in round 3. He's getting up there and he's at the age when the wheels come off fast. After that it got sketchy. Morneau downside lots of risk. Lucroy expensive catcher in round 5. Weeks in round 7 no job. Marte was ok but early. Brantley starting? Not one player last year in his offense hit 20HR's. Not one in his lineup stole 20 bases. Not going to lead a lot of offensive weeks. Look for him to be near bottom almost every stats except BA which should be ok. SP Harvey keeps progessing he will have a solid keeper. PGrienke in a nice location and should also do well. After that lots of questions. Floyd and Worley and Pelfrey? Cashner? 1 Closer and a bunch of closers in waiting. In the end look for Surge to hold one of the lottery spots. Keys will be for them moving players early for better contracts. This team should be one of the first to put up a firesale.
Dallas Redbirds
Safe Doyel didn't make many moves before draft. His man trade bait guys were ones that are questionable. Still when you compare rest of the division he is in much better shape. Doyel is built around speed again but he added a better pen. Draft was pretty vanilla. Solid picks but nothing that will surprise on the upside. Pedoria was a the best pick at his 1st. Bourn might have been the best available in round 2 but one thing Doyel has always failed to do is draft best for his team. He should have used that pick on some power. Somebody to put up 30HR's. Would have given his team more balance. Round 3 took Rosairo. While he has the power nobody knows how he will perform in his 2nd year. Lots riding here especially since hes one of his main power guys. Rounds 4 and 5 guys like Seager and Victrino and Pagan. They most likely have shown you their best. Limit the upside but also the downside. Then he drafted the upper elcheon RP from last year. Givng him a solid pen. I see the offense in the top 8 while his staff has questions with Hughes and Lynn and Hellickson. His pen should save a lot of those starts. Overall this team will be in hunt most of the year but if he stays on course with past won't make the changes he needs at trade deadline to give him a solid push to win it all. Yet a playoff appearance is a good possibility.
Right now I have the East
Knights
Redbirds
Mudhens
Surge
Team management plays a big part of final rankings. Also schedule. Since the league is broken up into 4 divisions and 2 wildcards having to play 2 weaker teams 6 times will help Doyel and myself. The ability to trade and pick up areas that are weak will help change outcome. Though the only spots I expect to see are the top 2. If Doyel finds some power without hurting other stats he could push to win division.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Great Lakes Division
Onto normally the weaker division but not this year. The East took that spot but they are not that far from it. Still should be a wild year with the Gambler in Broskey. Steady Keith. Never say die Larry and the wannabe Shandler in Wagner. :). This division will be active for sure. Except for maybe Keith.
Gaylord Dingers
Mike seems to always find ways to keep his team in contention each year. Falling short some years while making solid runs others. Having last years trade deadline to get contracts and a few winter meetings moves. His team should be in contention. During draft he took Holliday in the first. If this was a redraft league I have no problem with it but as a keeper league I am not a fan of him. He's at an age where it could start to show issues. Especially in the OF which wears on you. Shields in round 2 was the best SP available but how will he fair in a HR park and on a weaker team? I liked BJ Upton as I am a big fan of him really doing well in Atlanta. He should move to elite status this year. Davis round 3 might have been a little bit of a reach but obviously he wanted power. Liked the Samardzija pick. Wanted him myself in round 4. High k's and should take a step forward. Afterwards went closer crazy like many league mates. I think will cost him valuable trade bait later. As for his teams production. Solid Power will lead to good Runs/HR/RBI. SB will be lite and BA should be solid. SP is decent. As long as Shields doesn't fall to much and Garza has no more arm problems (has shown not 100% already) should be a good staff. Kennedy needs to rebound. He has 3 closers and all major question marks. How many will implode? Brothers and Mujica were good for holds but what about this year since they are not 8th inning guys. Still look for Wagner to keep his team in the hunt. I see a playoff team here.
Olivet Killer Eagles
Larry made his run last year hung it all out to dry. Yet came up short and is now rebuilding. He moved most of his contracts for picks. Yet with all that I don't think he will be that bad. Usually starting with almost nothing leads to a down year. Larry had no 1st and took Corey Hart in round 2. While normally a great spot he had an injury and most likely knock him out 1-2 months. Still a decent 2 year keeper. Round 3 was a great pick in Adam LaRoche. Seems to always fly under the radar. 30+ HR and 100+ RBI. Where can you find that in round 3? Wagner probably kicking himself now. Then it was Uggla after which I am not a fan of. Low BA getting worse there and power shrinking. Reddick with his low contact rate most likely not going to produce same as last year. Still I see Larry being in contention most of the year. He has solid power but no speed at all. Low BA will bring that down. Low BA also. Now where this team will struggle is on the SP side. Lots of questions. Cap have a spot in rotation? Ramirez takes a leap forward? Gallardo their only stable SP. RP lots of holds type and high ks'. Overall team made good strides focusing on offense keepers. Yet will most likely be consolidation.
Charlotte Orios
Always active Broskey. Makes plenty of deals but before dust can settle he makes another. Usually leading to over managing and hence not able to see what his team needs. With that the drafted started well. While I don't agree with some of the trades he did to move up and back. He did take 2 solid guys with his early picks in Cabrera and Cespedes. How long they stay on team? Bets anyone? Then it started to go down hill. Round 4 big round he took a SP whos upside is round 4 but his downside is WW. To much risk over reward. Then round 4 rebounded to take Kuroda. He was solid and should be ok as long as he fights the age battle. Still a slightly higher ERA possible. Reached for Eaton after. While he could begin in majors to start he might not produce like a stud. After that questionable closers. Reed and low BA Hardy. Overall Broskey should have kept his team out of lottery as long as he holds onto his proven guys. Lack of Speed and Runs will hurt offense. SP has lots of if's. If everything works in his favor they will be decent. Still hows Lester? Dempster in AL East? Kuroda battling age. Richard? Can Josh stay healthy? Do you gamble much? I wouldn't bet on these odds. RP also issues. Guys who had 6's and 7's ERA. Will Reed finally put it together? He over paid for Hanrahan to have handcuff. Broskey should keep his team in hunt but most likely fall short of any playoffs.
Mid Michigan Tigers
Keith does his homework but he's not active enough during meetings or during season to push his team to the next level. If he only reached out more. He's most of the time right at the consolidation rounds. Will this year break that? Had an ok team heading into draft. I put him in the same area as Doyel. Pretty safe when it comes to drafting and trading. Billy Butler solid not spectacular 1B. Should help all over except SB. Cabrera a solid pick up and good contract. Keith got 2 three year guys. DeAza was horrible pick. Speed is all over this year and could have taken a guy with stats very close to same a little later. Round 5 had Soriano but how long can he keep it up? Ludwick in round 6 isn't going to have any upside (Hamilton going to press soon). Overall all Keith did ok in the draft. Not a lot of reaches but also not much upside. Power will be middle of the pack and speed lower half. Runs a little lite and RBI should be ok. BA might struggle a bit. SP also has questions. Chapman a SP this year.. How long till injury? How many innings before he tires? Beckett bounce back in LA now? Sanchez did well for the Tigers last year but what about a full season? Hudsona nd Buehrle fight off father time? Scherzer ready to finally control his wildness and be an ACE? Weak closers Francisco on short leash and Perez doens't have the closer stuff. Overall Keith will be in hunt but like most years will come up short especially if he isn't active. For the most part Keith doesn't aggrssively reach out to adjust team via trade but listens to offers. Hopefully he changes that..
Overall this division has vastly improved. Here is the order I see..
Gaylord
Mid Michigan
Olivet
Charlotte
Gaylord is clearly in front while I put Larry and Keith very close. Broskey brings up rear but has made strides over last seasons given the rest of the league somebody has to be lottery here. Broskey or Larry depending on who packs it in first.
Gaylord Dingers
Mike seems to always find ways to keep his team in contention each year. Falling short some years while making solid runs others. Having last years trade deadline to get contracts and a few winter meetings moves. His team should be in contention. During draft he took Holliday in the first. If this was a redraft league I have no problem with it but as a keeper league I am not a fan of him. He's at an age where it could start to show issues. Especially in the OF which wears on you. Shields in round 2 was the best SP available but how will he fair in a HR park and on a weaker team? I liked BJ Upton as I am a big fan of him really doing well in Atlanta. He should move to elite status this year. Davis round 3 might have been a little bit of a reach but obviously he wanted power. Liked the Samardzija pick. Wanted him myself in round 4. High k's and should take a step forward. Afterwards went closer crazy like many league mates. I think will cost him valuable trade bait later. As for his teams production. Solid Power will lead to good Runs/HR/RBI. SB will be lite and BA should be solid. SP is decent. As long as Shields doesn't fall to much and Garza has no more arm problems (has shown not 100% already) should be a good staff. Kennedy needs to rebound. He has 3 closers and all major question marks. How many will implode? Brothers and Mujica were good for holds but what about this year since they are not 8th inning guys. Still look for Wagner to keep his team in the hunt. I see a playoff team here.
Olivet Killer Eagles
Larry made his run last year hung it all out to dry. Yet came up short and is now rebuilding. He moved most of his contracts for picks. Yet with all that I don't think he will be that bad. Usually starting with almost nothing leads to a down year. Larry had no 1st and took Corey Hart in round 2. While normally a great spot he had an injury and most likely knock him out 1-2 months. Still a decent 2 year keeper. Round 3 was a great pick in Adam LaRoche. Seems to always fly under the radar. 30+ HR and 100+ RBI. Where can you find that in round 3? Wagner probably kicking himself now. Then it was Uggla after which I am not a fan of. Low BA getting worse there and power shrinking. Reddick with his low contact rate most likely not going to produce same as last year. Still I see Larry being in contention most of the year. He has solid power but no speed at all. Low BA will bring that down. Low BA also. Now where this team will struggle is on the SP side. Lots of questions. Cap have a spot in rotation? Ramirez takes a leap forward? Gallardo their only stable SP. RP lots of holds type and high ks'. Overall team made good strides focusing on offense keepers. Yet will most likely be consolidation.
Charlotte Orios
Always active Broskey. Makes plenty of deals but before dust can settle he makes another. Usually leading to over managing and hence not able to see what his team needs. With that the drafted started well. While I don't agree with some of the trades he did to move up and back. He did take 2 solid guys with his early picks in Cabrera and Cespedes. How long they stay on team? Bets anyone? Then it started to go down hill. Round 4 big round he took a SP whos upside is round 4 but his downside is WW. To much risk over reward. Then round 4 rebounded to take Kuroda. He was solid and should be ok as long as he fights the age battle. Still a slightly higher ERA possible. Reached for Eaton after. While he could begin in majors to start he might not produce like a stud. After that questionable closers. Reed and low BA Hardy. Overall Broskey should have kept his team out of lottery as long as he holds onto his proven guys. Lack of Speed and Runs will hurt offense. SP has lots of if's. If everything works in his favor they will be decent. Still hows Lester? Dempster in AL East? Kuroda battling age. Richard? Can Josh stay healthy? Do you gamble much? I wouldn't bet on these odds. RP also issues. Guys who had 6's and 7's ERA. Will Reed finally put it together? He over paid for Hanrahan to have handcuff. Broskey should keep his team in hunt but most likely fall short of any playoffs.
Mid Michigan Tigers
Keith does his homework but he's not active enough during meetings or during season to push his team to the next level. If he only reached out more. He's most of the time right at the consolidation rounds. Will this year break that? Had an ok team heading into draft. I put him in the same area as Doyel. Pretty safe when it comes to drafting and trading. Billy Butler solid not spectacular 1B. Should help all over except SB. Cabrera a solid pick up and good contract. Keith got 2 three year guys. DeAza was horrible pick. Speed is all over this year and could have taken a guy with stats very close to same a little later. Round 5 had Soriano but how long can he keep it up? Ludwick in round 6 isn't going to have any upside (Hamilton going to press soon). Overall all Keith did ok in the draft. Not a lot of reaches but also not much upside. Power will be middle of the pack and speed lower half. Runs a little lite and RBI should be ok. BA might struggle a bit. SP also has questions. Chapman a SP this year.. How long till injury? How many innings before he tires? Beckett bounce back in LA now? Sanchez did well for the Tigers last year but what about a full season? Hudsona nd Buehrle fight off father time? Scherzer ready to finally control his wildness and be an ACE? Weak closers Francisco on short leash and Perez doens't have the closer stuff. Overall Keith will be in hunt but like most years will come up short especially if he isn't active. For the most part Keith doesn't aggrssively reach out to adjust team via trade but listens to offers. Hopefully he changes that..
Overall this division has vastly improved. Here is the order I see..
Gaylord
Mid Michigan
Olivet
Charlotte
Gaylord is clearly in front while I put Larry and Keith very close. Broskey brings up rear but has made strides over last seasons given the rest of the league somebody has to be lottery here. Broskey or Larry depending on who packs it in first.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Texas Division
Here we are in the Texas division you have bitter rivals in this one. The champs in Miracles and the commish whos still looking for that elusive win. Lots of activity from the miracles not all good though.
Hackensack Bulls
Bulls have done a good job setting themselves up for a run this year. Not very active in the meetings but didn't need to be. Just had to draft solid. Round 1 took Granderson. While he is a monster HR hitter will provide solid 3 stats and thats his limit. Runs/HR/RBI and I expect his BB to drop as hes getting older. Still not many have his power. Altuve in round 2. Grabing my sleeper last year. Should give him a ton of steals. Lots of runs and a solid BA. Then Bulls got risky. I am not a fan of Crawford. Injury from last year still an issue heading into camp and I don't think in LA he will produce numbers worthy of his round 3 spot. Round 4 Ichiro was a good pick but nobody knows when the decline will start. As of last year he was rejuvenated after being traded but will that wear off? Johnson in round 6 for saves. Most expect him to come back to earth and I agree. He's not a 50 save guy.. As far as the overall team looks. He has a very nice balance on offense. Solid stud HR hitters and SB guys in Altuve and Castro and hopefully Ichiro. BB will be low and solid BA. Offense will keep Bulls in it alone. The staff is a lot of questions. How does Darvish handle year 2? He did falter 2nd half like I predicted. CC and Strasburg will anchor the staff and will Lincecum return? Saves should be ok and Holds shold be solid. Overall this is a playoff team on paper but given his division it might be tough.
Michigan Miracles
Well last years champ proved he will do whatever it takes to win again. If that means raping the new guy in the league all bets are off there. So after a very active meetings I am not so sure the champs did a better job this year though. He traded CJ Wilson/Kendrys Morales/Albert Pujols then added Goldschmidt/Walker/Frazier. Not sure that worked out in favor of this year. Long term who knows. Moved up to take Gonzalez but I think that was for Posey. I have a feeling the draft was very frustrating for Renner. I don't think he got the guys he was targeting. Next round 4 he took Walker and Frazier and Cuddyer. None are studs and don't see much more then what they showed last year. Then the draft went down hill. Round 5 Bonifacio a platoon guy. Avila hoping to return to solid catcher. I wouldnt bet on it. He's nothing special. 2011 was just a career year. Overall team will have solid power. Decent RBI but lack of top of the order guys will keep runs in check except for big HR weeks. BA is decent and BB ok.. Overall offense not bad. Now we get into the staff. Will Pettitte throw more then 100 innings? I seriously doubt it. He is to fragile. This is his last year. Dickey knuckle work well in the AL East? I think he also comes back to earth. Latos not a fan but did ok in in their HR park. Surprisingly better at home. Rest of the staff is even more questions. Estrada and Griffin and Detwiler. Almost like Renner didnt do the research since a few are fighting for jobs and a utility offense guys. Overall the champs made it tougher on them and right now I think they are on outside looking in.
San Antonio Fire Ants
I think Keith did a hell of a job drfting. Not many reaches and solid picks most rounds. Braun in round 1 can't go wrong. Hopefully doesnt get suspended. Zobrist in round 2. I had him as a 1st given his versitility. Round 4 of Cabrera I dind't like. I know he was later then ADP but nobody knows which Melky will show up. I think 2010 is the real Cabrera making this a bad pick. Risk higher then reward here. Miley must be a favorite player because I got a guy in round 13 that will put similar numbers so based on value IMO not a good pick. Parker next was solid but again SP like him available later. Then the closer run started. Overall top to bottom I like this team. Has solid power and decent Runs/RBI. Might need another speed guy for matchups and BA will be on the downside expecting Melky to come back to earth. Where the question srise for the team is the staff. They need to hold the fort until McCarthy and Beachy come back. Nothing studly but should do ok with the solid pen. Overall look for the Fire Ants to make the playoffs. I think they have a shot at the division..
Soth Texas Heat
Well Berg wasn't very active before draft. Seems a lot of owners got frustrated with the high prices. Still he added Dunn and Robertson and moved Young. Berg wanted to move out of round 1 and was able to move a few spots back. Selecting Aramis was the best available and should do well but he is on the start of the declining years so injury risk even more right now. Then took Sale later in the round. Should produce solid k's but will he last all year? If he did gain stamina he will be studly. Brett in the 3rd another speed guy that was expensive. If he doens't hit near top he loses a lot of value. look for a 260 ba and 40+ SB with 90 or so runs. Juan Pierre will be somewhat closer and was drafted well beyond. Then things got worse. Kubel on the verge of platoon. Having real problems hitting lefties. I think he paid for the HR production last year and that should drop. Nathan a solid pick in 5 and Berkman is breaking down. Burnett solid SP. Madson might prove costly having issues returning from surgery. Will he hold up? Overall Berg did a good job and should be a playoff team. Good power and all offense stats solid. His staff hinges around Sale and Moore. They are solid it will make up if Straily/Miller don't have jobs or if Marcum struggles. I am sure Berg will make the moves needed to stay near the top of the division.
Overall this is how I see it finishing
South Texas Heat
San Antonio Fire Ants
Hackensack Bulls
Michigan Miracles
This is the toughest division and the fact they play each other 3 times is only going to make it harder. San Antonio and Hackensack have easier weeks facing Orios and Eagles 2 times. That will give them a leg up.
Edit 3/23/2013. Due to injuries I have now swapped Bulls and Miracles. I don't see the defending champs able to compete now. His offense is the weakest in the division.
Hackensack Bulls
Bulls have done a good job setting themselves up for a run this year. Not very active in the meetings but didn't need to be. Just had to draft solid. Round 1 took Granderson. While he is a monster HR hitter will provide solid 3 stats and thats his limit. Runs/HR/RBI and I expect his BB to drop as hes getting older. Still not many have his power. Altuve in round 2. Grabing my sleeper last year. Should give him a ton of steals. Lots of runs and a solid BA. Then Bulls got risky. I am not a fan of Crawford. Injury from last year still an issue heading into camp and I don't think in LA he will produce numbers worthy of his round 3 spot. Round 4 Ichiro was a good pick but nobody knows when the decline will start. As of last year he was rejuvenated after being traded but will that wear off? Johnson in round 6 for saves. Most expect him to come back to earth and I agree. He's not a 50 save guy.. As far as the overall team looks. He has a very nice balance on offense. Solid stud HR hitters and SB guys in Altuve and Castro and hopefully Ichiro. BB will be low and solid BA. Offense will keep Bulls in it alone. The staff is a lot of questions. How does Darvish handle year 2? He did falter 2nd half like I predicted. CC and Strasburg will anchor the staff and will Lincecum return? Saves should be ok and Holds shold be solid. Overall this is a playoff team on paper but given his division it might be tough.
Michigan Miracles
Well last years champ proved he will do whatever it takes to win again. If that means raping the new guy in the league all bets are off there. So after a very active meetings I am not so sure the champs did a better job this year though. He traded CJ Wilson/Kendrys Morales/Albert Pujols then added Goldschmidt/Walker/Frazier. Not sure that worked out in favor of this year. Long term who knows. Moved up to take Gonzalez but I think that was for Posey. I have a feeling the draft was very frustrating for Renner. I don't think he got the guys he was targeting. Next round 4 he took Walker and Frazier and Cuddyer. None are studs and don't see much more then what they showed last year. Then the draft went down hill. Round 5 Bonifacio a platoon guy. Avila hoping to return to solid catcher. I wouldnt bet on it. He's nothing special. 2011 was just a career year. Overall team will have solid power. Decent RBI but lack of top of the order guys will keep runs in check except for big HR weeks. BA is decent and BB ok.. Overall offense not bad. Now we get into the staff. Will Pettitte throw more then 100 innings? I seriously doubt it. He is to fragile. This is his last year. Dickey knuckle work well in the AL East? I think he also comes back to earth. Latos not a fan but did ok in in their HR park. Surprisingly better at home. Rest of the staff is even more questions. Estrada and Griffin and Detwiler. Almost like Renner didnt do the research since a few are fighting for jobs and a utility offense guys. Overall the champs made it tougher on them and right now I think they are on outside looking in.
San Antonio Fire Ants
I think Keith did a hell of a job drfting. Not many reaches and solid picks most rounds. Braun in round 1 can't go wrong. Hopefully doesnt get suspended. Zobrist in round 2. I had him as a 1st given his versitility. Round 4 of Cabrera I dind't like. I know he was later then ADP but nobody knows which Melky will show up. I think 2010 is the real Cabrera making this a bad pick. Risk higher then reward here. Miley must be a favorite player because I got a guy in round 13 that will put similar numbers so based on value IMO not a good pick. Parker next was solid but again SP like him available later. Then the closer run started. Overall top to bottom I like this team. Has solid power and decent Runs/RBI. Might need another speed guy for matchups and BA will be on the downside expecting Melky to come back to earth. Where the question srise for the team is the staff. They need to hold the fort until McCarthy and Beachy come back. Nothing studly but should do ok with the solid pen. Overall look for the Fire Ants to make the playoffs. I think they have a shot at the division..
Soth Texas Heat
Well Berg wasn't very active before draft. Seems a lot of owners got frustrated with the high prices. Still he added Dunn and Robertson and moved Young. Berg wanted to move out of round 1 and was able to move a few spots back. Selecting Aramis was the best available and should do well but he is on the start of the declining years so injury risk even more right now. Then took Sale later in the round. Should produce solid k's but will he last all year? If he did gain stamina he will be studly. Brett in the 3rd another speed guy that was expensive. If he doens't hit near top he loses a lot of value. look for a 260 ba and 40+ SB with 90 or so runs. Juan Pierre will be somewhat closer and was drafted well beyond. Then things got worse. Kubel on the verge of platoon. Having real problems hitting lefties. I think he paid for the HR production last year and that should drop. Nathan a solid pick in 5 and Berkman is breaking down. Burnett solid SP. Madson might prove costly having issues returning from surgery. Will he hold up? Overall Berg did a good job and should be a playoff team. Good power and all offense stats solid. His staff hinges around Sale and Moore. They are solid it will make up if Straily/Miller don't have jobs or if Marcum struggles. I am sure Berg will make the moves needed to stay near the top of the division.
Overall this is how I see it finishing
South Texas Heat
San Antonio Fire Ants
Hackensack Bulls
Michigan Miracles
This is the toughest division and the fact they play each other 3 times is only going to make it harder. San Antonio and Hackensack have easier weeks facing Orios and Eagles 2 times. That will give them a leg up.
Edit 3/23/2013. Due to injuries I have now swapped Bulls and Miracles. I don't see the defending champs able to compete now. His offense is the weakest in the division.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Western Division
While this division isn’t the same as the
Josh went for it last year and came up short. Some say the lack of deadline deals hurt his chances and I agree it played a huge factor as injuries happened and the lack of depth proved costly. Will that change his thinking from here on out? With that said he moved his valuable contracts for draft pick and some how got
Julian Javelina
Hoyle is an active owner. Sometimes gets it right and other times crashes and burns. Last year was another crash and burn. Will this be different? Well they took Verlander and I am sure will slap a 3 year but I am leery of him like I was Bautista last year. His workload is going to catch up to him. 4 straight 200+ innings and now at the 30 barrier. I wouldn’t put a 3 on him. Choo his 2nd rounder. Though I like Choo but I think he overvalues him a bit to much. Zimmerman I like as a SP but not sure that was best for Hoyle's team. Peavy my last years 13th rounder. Now a 4th. Well I hope he does as well as last year but that IMO is full value. No room for improvement. Finally by round 6 took a power bat but an inconsistent one. Lower BA. Overall Hoyle has solid 20+ HR guys and maybe a 30 with Bautista. I don't see 40's again with him. Runs and RBI's are solid. Doesn't have a true SB guy and BA is solid. Overall offense should be top 5-6 teams. Pitching id decent. Is
Flying Squirrels
Will the Squirrels have enough to make another run? Elite SP were going early. Felix was solid pick if he’s healthy but they are already concerned. Traded a very valuable 2nd for Pence who was overpaid. In SF and struggled to produced. Best hopes are he is unaffected by the change to SF and still does well. Worst case he’s Melky Cabrera and power goes away along with his speed. Then he took Konerko on the decline and Jeter returning from injury and older. Most expect him to fall back to 2011 stats and Konerko's elite days are behind him. Still after the draft this is one of the better offenses in the league. On his bench there isn't a lot of depth. Stubbs platoon? Brown platoon? Chisenhall and Solano avg. Still even with some questionable picks this team is in solid contention. Felix Halladay and Wainwright should be solid. Having one closer will need to be addressed but there is time for that. They should be able to make moves throughout the year to keep this team near top of division.
Western Division
Flying Squirrels
Julian Javelina
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Post Draft
The Knights worked hard offseason moving players and picks to get some quality and felt like we achieved the best posible outcome. We can only hope the players we drafted and believe in will have the results we expect and hope for. Guys like Morse returning after his solid 2nd Half last year and Gomez breaking out along with Anderson returning to glory pitching a full season. The we have the gambles in Machado and Ogando and Iwakuma and Hammel returning from injury. Yes I have a lot of upside players. A bad word in this league but nothing ventured nothing gained. As long as the risk isn't bigger then the gain we are ok. Other then Macado I don't feel like I did. I can thank Broskey for bailing me wout with the trade of Mark Reynolds. Gives me some stability behind if I need to.. Now onto the results. We Had no first as planned and that would be ok. Lost Cespedes but hes not an elite player..
Round 2.
Jimmy Rollins SS. I wanted Cabrera but since he went in front I will settle for the better SS but not a 3 year contract. He will be decent for the 2 years I need. Still not ready to decline yet.
Round 3.
Mike Morse OF. He was a guy I targeted. He had a 15HR 2nd half last year and 49RBI. If he puts a whole year together looking at a 25-30HR and near 100RBI. Thats 1st round talent. Word is he looks in great shape and will be given a 2 year..
Round 4.
Carlos Gomez OF. Here is another great 2nd half guy. Once a big prospect for the Mets and busted every year. Finally put a good year in and 27 only. Lots of people like him. ESPN and him top 100 and a few others. I am putting at least a 2 year but debating on a 3 year. Hopefully the Larry curse continues. Larry has a knack for finding talent a year before they blow up.
Round 4.
Brett Anderson SP. Are we seeing a theme here? Returned from TJ and dominated where he left off before. He will get a solid 2 year. Expecting solid ERA/WHIP but low K's..
Round 5.
Manny Machado SS. A stud in the making but might have taken him a little early. Problem was didn'y have another pick until round 7 so my hand was forced. I also planed on closer that round and not another pick till 9. I surely would have been using backup if I didn't get him. Think his upside was higher then Seager and any other 3B left.
Round 5.
Mark Reynolds 1B/3B. League can thank Broskey for helping me out at 3B depth. Getting him secured 2 starting 3B. Nothing special in the BA department but 25-30 HR guy and 70+ RUNS/RBI. If Machado struggles he will start.
Round 7.
Glen Perkins RP. Well Perkins a WW claim last year after Surge dumped him when he was off to a slow start. Now a full time closer. Should give me 30+ saves if he doesn't crash and burn.
Round 9
Alexei Ogando SP. Not sure how he slipped by Adrian but I'll take it. Few forget back in 2011 was an All Star in his first season as a SP. Then moved to pen most forgot. Now he has a rotation spot all year. He stays healthy he will give me a solid #3 SP.
Round 10.
Hisashi Iwakuma SP. Struggled in the pen to start year and once moved to rotation dominated the league with under 3 ERA. Not expecting that but a low 3's and a 1.2 WHIP very possible. Has that SP/RP option too..
Round 11.
Carlos Marmol RP. Not the most stable closer left but he has a job right now. He could be elite or Crash.. Either way as an 11th round not a major risk.
Round 13.
Tom Milone SP. Some how A.J Griffin went before Milone by 2+ rounds and he doesn't have a rotation spot secured. Yet Renner knew that right?? Hey it's ok called value.
Round 14.
Jason Hammel SP. You guessed it another upside pick. Was having a breakout season before injury
Some how 3MPH more on his fastball and his sinker was working better. If he continues where he left off will have a nice 5th SP.
Round 15.
Jim Henderson RP. He was ignored because of little experience but has nasty stuff and great K's. Should be a bargin holds guy and if Axford blows up again he's next.
Round 16.
Hiroyuki Nakajima SS. Here is an import and most scared. The Nish fears come out. Still if Billy Beane likes him and guaranntees him a starting job I bet he does well. Billy has a hell of an eye for talent.
Round 16.
Matt Thornton RP. Old but good and still the main setup. If he blows up I lost a 16th. Most people lose players this spot in the draft. If he is steady well I got a nice 25+ holds guy late..
Round 17.
Justin Maxwell OF. Here is my big time sleeper pick of the year. This could Adam Dunn. If he hits the projected 25-30 HR I will have nice value here. Was looking at him for 3-4 rounds glad I waited.
Round 19.
Jared Burton RP. Got my handcuff. If Perkins fails I have the backup. If not I have the 8th inning guy setting Perkins up. Nice security so If Marmol blows up I can always trade or find a closer off WW.
Round 20.
Dillon Gee SP. Was having a nice season before his arm injury. Now claiming to be 100% injury free. Will round out my bench..
Round 2.
Jimmy Rollins SS. I wanted Cabrera but since he went in front I will settle for the better SS but not a 3 year contract. He will be decent for the 2 years I need. Still not ready to decline yet.
Round 3.
Mike Morse OF. He was a guy I targeted. He had a 15HR 2nd half last year and 49RBI. If he puts a whole year together looking at a 25-30HR and near 100RBI. Thats 1st round talent. Word is he looks in great shape and will be given a 2 year..
Round 4.
Carlos Gomez OF. Here is another great 2nd half guy. Once a big prospect for the Mets and busted every year. Finally put a good year in and 27 only. Lots of people like him. ESPN and him top 100 and a few others. I am putting at least a 2 year but debating on a 3 year. Hopefully the Larry curse continues. Larry has a knack for finding talent a year before they blow up.
Round 4.
Brett Anderson SP. Are we seeing a theme here? Returned from TJ and dominated where he left off before. He will get a solid 2 year. Expecting solid ERA/WHIP but low K's..
Round 5.
Manny Machado SS. A stud in the making but might have taken him a little early. Problem was didn'y have another pick until round 7 so my hand was forced. I also planed on closer that round and not another pick till 9. I surely would have been using backup if I didn't get him. Think his upside was higher then Seager and any other 3B left.
Round 5.
Mark Reynolds 1B/3B. League can thank Broskey for helping me out at 3B depth. Getting him secured 2 starting 3B. Nothing special in the BA department but 25-30 HR guy and 70+ RUNS/RBI. If Machado struggles he will start.
Round 7.
Glen Perkins RP. Well Perkins a WW claim last year after Surge dumped him when he was off to a slow start. Now a full time closer. Should give me 30+ saves if he doesn't crash and burn.
Round 9
Alexei Ogando SP. Not sure how he slipped by Adrian but I'll take it. Few forget back in 2011 was an All Star in his first season as a SP. Then moved to pen most forgot. Now he has a rotation spot all year. He stays healthy he will give me a solid #3 SP.
Round 10.
Hisashi Iwakuma SP. Struggled in the pen to start year and once moved to rotation dominated the league with under 3 ERA. Not expecting that but a low 3's and a 1.2 WHIP very possible. Has that SP/RP option too..
Round 11.
Carlos Marmol RP. Not the most stable closer left but he has a job right now. He could be elite or Crash.. Either way as an 11th round not a major risk.
Round 13.
Tom Milone SP. Some how A.J Griffin went before Milone by 2+ rounds and he doesn't have a rotation spot secured. Yet Renner knew that right?? Hey it's ok called value.
Round 14.
Jason Hammel SP. You guessed it another upside pick. Was having a breakout season before injury
Some how 3MPH more on his fastball and his sinker was working better. If he continues where he left off will have a nice 5th SP.
Round 15.
Jim Henderson RP. He was ignored because of little experience but has nasty stuff and great K's. Should be a bargin holds guy and if Axford blows up again he's next.
Round 16.
Hiroyuki Nakajima SS. Here is an import and most scared. The Nish fears come out. Still if Billy Beane likes him and guaranntees him a starting job I bet he does well. Billy has a hell of an eye for talent.
Round 16.
Matt Thornton RP. Old but good and still the main setup. If he blows up I lost a 16th. Most people lose players this spot in the draft. If he is steady well I got a nice 25+ holds guy late..
Round 17.
Justin Maxwell OF. Here is my big time sleeper pick of the year. This could Adam Dunn. If he hits the projected 25-30 HR I will have nice value here. Was looking at him for 3-4 rounds glad I waited.
Round 19.
Jared Burton RP. Got my handcuff. If Perkins fails I have the backup. If not I have the 8th inning guy setting Perkins up. Nice security so If Marmol blows up I can always trade or find a closer off WW.
Round 20.
Dillon Gee SP. Was having a nice season before his arm injury. Now claiming to be 100% injury free. Will round out my bench..
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Final Day of Meetings
In what looks to be an extremely active meetings we are very pleased how it ended. We accomplished all of our goals coming in. We moved back in draft to acquire more picks. We used some of those picks to add value guys. Now we head into draft only missing a 1st/6th/8th but have two 4ths. After looking over draft with a fine tooth comb we couldn't find a huge difference between end of round one to end of round two. That is why we moved back. was hoping to have those two 2nds but we had a huge hole between rounds 6-8 and there is a lot of quality there. To give you an example last year I took Edwin in round 7. So some trades were necessary to do. Now lets look at the final results. We ended up keeping all our current players. Only player looking to really move was Sizemore but nobody wanted a pick to hold him for the year. We added Kendrys Morales. We probably paid close to full price according to ADP but I am a HUGE believer in contract years. Hes on a new team and last year of arbitration. He's playing for his first big contract. Next we went after Crisp. The oft injured OF has lots of little ailments but when in is solid. If he can manage 500AB's he will produce solid 1st or 2nd round stats. If I can get 40SB and 10HR I will be very happy. Another player playing for contract. I am expecting him to step up. Last trade was adding Prado. At first I didn't like him to much. Not very flashy. Has about 10HR and 10-15SB a year plus 70-80 runs and RBI. Yet what makes him valuable is his position eligibility. He looks to be eligible for 2B/SS/3B/OF. His value is obviously 2B/SS. Will give me the flexibility in draft to go in any direction. Prado is a very weak 3B/OF but he is a top 10 SS or 2B. So today is the last day. Will there be any last minute deals? Probably not. We currently are not in discussions with any team. Will always listen to offers. If a deal makes sense we will explore it.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Wrapping up meetings
The meetings has gone about as well as I could expect. I acquired some decent players for cheap prices. None costing me a 1st or 2nd and the 3rd I traded was only a few round swap. In the end we currently have 5 picks in the first 5 rounds but. Big hole with no picks between 6-8. That is something most likely we will deal with. The only other options I would explore to get a pick back there is to swap one of my 2's for a 3 and. Pick between 6-8. I would entertain that. Also I am still talking to a few teams about possibly adding another player and even moving Sanchez. Not that I don't like him just anybody is availble for the right price except cutch. Also, I have spoken to a few teams about dumping Sizemore. If anybody is interested in a mid to late round free pick to hold sizemore till end of year let me know.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Busy pre-meetings
Well as the meetings kick under way the Knights have made 5 deals so far and continue to talk to other owners. We feel like we got some value players with Sanchez and Morales. Crisp was a nice addition and if he can stay some what healthy and we know that is a big "IF" he will out produce the 8th round I sent. So with the addition of the 3 players and still working on adding a 4th we have kept 5 picks in the first 5 rounds to keep this team competitive for this year and hopefully next. Those interested in what I have feel free to send me an email or IM. I will always listen. Even the newly acquired guys I will listen to offers..
Wednesday, January 09, 2013
Knights 2013 offseason
Well the season can't start soon enough. After a semi successful season last year the Knights find themselves in a tough offseason. With only 5 real keepers. Sizemore and Rodriguez non impact players our goal is to some how acquire enough talent and hold onto draft picks. Not an easy task but we are surely going to try. The Knights have been in the playoffs 9 of 11 years and we want to be the first team to hit double digit appearances. Having been in finals 4 times and 2 champonships. The core team is very solid. Not usual for the Knights to have top talent but they do right now. Cutch the centerpiece and Hamels their ace. One of the best 1B in Edwin with a NT contract. Montero a solid C and Hanarhan the new closer for the Sox will surely get 40 saves if healthy. With that said the Knights need bodies before the draft. We need solid guys on expiring contracts. So far lots of handshake deals. It is rumored the Knights have acquired a SP and a power 1B to fill the DH slots. It is also assumed the Knights no longer have a 1st rounder. It was on their managements agend going into meetings to move back. We still plan on making moves when the meetings officially open up but could not wait. Plenty of moves are still left to be made. The Knights would like to move Sizemore for almost nothing but have a feeling will be stuck with him. One of the worst contracts in Knights history will be glad when its gone. Those interested in either selling a player or wanting to trade draft picks or want a player I have feel free to contact me. Hamels will cost a lot if you are interested. Cutch probably to expensive. I can not move Edwin. Montero or Hanarhan can be had if price right but in no need to move them. More to come in the next few weeks.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
2012 Preseason Rankings
Ok I used CBS sportsline as a guide on projections and then I factored in divisional play and depth into how I expect it to play out.
1. South Texas Heat - While I don't see their pitching as a all around solid staff they have a plan and it's looking like they will use the more starts then their opponent to make up for quality. Lester and Shields will be the steady guys while Moore should be solid while he’s in there. I still think he either loses starts down stretch or gets shutdown if Rays out of it. Heat's pen is solid and good depth. Hitting has nice balance with speed and power. I think 1B and 2B will be issues as I don’t think Kipnis is ready. Bay and Scott are real question marks.. I think LaHair might surprise..
2. Oviedo Knights - I drafted a little different this year going for an all around solid team. I'm tired of the revolving SP. I feel I got some good breaks during draft as many of the guys drafted "upside" over talent and guys like Konerko slipped to far. Even with injuries I can field a solid hitting team. SP will be anchored by Hamels and Beckett. Also, like the Heat 2 very good SP. Then a few question marks. I have a solid pen but no RP depth. Good SP depth. Hitting is very good all around with good depth. If damon is able to sign a full time gig it will only add to that. I will need to look at SB in the future unless Altuve takes over for Walker which is possible.
3. Rochester Red Sox - Sox should be battling the Knights all year With a good all around power team and nice balance of speed. Some of the question marks on the hitting side are how well Montero handles a full time gig and in a pitchers park how productive he will be.. Does Goldschmidt step it up?? I have my doubts with the low BA.. Reynolds needs to do more then hit HR's. Like the staff overall. Kershaw/Haren/Johnson anchor them even their supporting cast is solid. RP is very good also. Team will most likely make playoffs unless they hit rash of injuries.
4. Hackensack Bulls - The more I look at this team the more I like what they have and if Howard can come back and I have serious doubts he will.. They will have decent depth. Best staff in the league. Strasburg will be limited though and I expect Darvish to wear down and the league catch up. Crow back to pen hurts a little but I think finding holds will be an early season priority. Still battling in Texas division will be tough but should get a wild card position.
5. Arizona Desert Swarm - I think Berg is overreacting with the injuries. They have great offensive balance and solid depth. I think they will have to move one for some pitching. If they make a few moves to give some pitching depth I see them winning the West without much of a problem.
Right now they need to work on adding another SP or 2 and acquiring a closer will help them make a serious impact in the playoffs. The good news is the division overall is weak which will help them add some wins.
6. Olivet Killer Eagles - Larry did a great job of drafting and trading to really give him the top team in the Lakes division.. Team is overall in great shape with hitting leading the way.. there is some solid depth in place and that will help when injuries strike and trades are needed.. SP should have no problem competing each week in every stat except Saves. Facing Broskey and his brother a lot will give him a lot of wins while Wagner will give him a run. Larry I see will make some moves to acquire closers.
7. Michigan Miracles - Got to give Renner some credit for the aggressive moves he made winter meetings. He wants to win but to go from lottery to championship playoffs isn't easy. That along with having 2 other teams I am figuring to be in the playoffs I can't see them getting in. They also have some question marks IMO.. Power is very light. No real elite SB guys. His staff is decent all around but K's very light pen is great and best closers in the league. Still they are decent yet given their division I can't see them making playoffs.
8. Gaylord Dingers - A few weeks ago I had them in the playoffs but they had some injuries that raise red flags. I told Wagner back in Jan about Crawford wrist said that’s not a good injury because it zaps the strength in the hand. OF is really below avg with Crawford out and depth is light. Grienke is their one proven SP. Rest I worry about. Norris is already having issues. Floyd is avg at best and Jackson is innings filler. They have 3 closers right now and K-Rod good holds. If Wagner makes some moves and catches some breaks he could push towards playoffs.
9. Julian Javelina - Hoyle has a good team and is going to make a push for the division if he stays on top of his team. Hoyle over the last few years has done that well and I expect him to be active. His offense is solid and I like that he has some depth for injuries. Weaver and Wilson will hold down the SP and then be going with hot hands for the rest. They have no closer and will need something for playoff run. The RP they do have will be ok but questions are about how many holds they will get. I see that a constant mix and match all year. Still expect Hoyle make moves to keep them in it but I think they fall short...
10. Dallas RedBirds - I like to pick on Doyel when he's down but he's not going to be as bad as some think. He has limited upside due to lack of depth but he has a lot of very good players. One thing hurting him he has to face his division so much and I have 2 of those teams in the playoffs. Team hitting is solid when healthy could use a better 2B and not a fan of Dejesus or Morneau but they could be worse I guess. Pitching is going to be solid overall. The need for a 2nd closer will be there if he wants to take saves but holds will be good. Overall I think Doyel did a good job given what he was given. He still needs to grow a set and make moves before players contracts expire along with draft trades to get more quality.
11. North Texas Rangers - This is a typical Adrian team. Rangers occupy their starting team and big names with fringe players filling in rest. Revere?? Not even sure he starts. Aza?? Cruz how many AB's he gives them? Figgins at DH?? Has to be better.. Staff has Halladay and then a patch fill rest. Closers are pot luck. Most likely none hold it long. This will be another typical season for Adrian start out hot and fade away. I don't see them having enough quality to last all season or depth.
12. Mid Michigan Tigers - Keith keeps making consolidation playoffs but never puts it all together for a championship run. Some think it’s his lack of activity. I think it’s his choices and picks he makes doesn't draft going after the 12 stats you need. He has some very good hitting guys but a few marginal guys. Rolen and Escobar and Ross. Not a lot of depth and will be hard to improve via trades. Staff anchored by Gio and Lewis isn't bad. Wandy is a ??? Fister should be good for ERA/WHIP. They have 2 current Closers but most likely not all year. Street will be injured and Gregg can't close all year. Chapman might give him some trade value but overall I don't see Keith being able to make a push.
13. Springfield Flying Squirrels - Another team in for a long season.. Team is playing for next year and really has not a lot going for it. I put them in the same class as Atlantic. They have a few solid guys from draft but need to make some moves if they want to do something for 2013. Cano and Wainwright and Lawrie should help next year and a quick turn around is very possible. They should look to help some contenders and get another contract or 2.
14. San Antonio Fire Ants - Looking to rebuild they are going to have some growing pains this year. Not a lot to like on them. Marginal power and no real depth. They will most likely be one of the first teams to move some players for contracts. If they can add another contract or 2 they could set themselves up well for next year. SP won't kill them but no K's either. Not a lot to like this season.
15. Charlotte Orios - Ok Broskey says he won't be lottery but I can't see them fielding a completive team all year. Still if he trades some contracts away which he will. He might move out of the lottery spots. This team has injury written all over him and overrated players. It is even hard to figure out who will be where. I see this team being different by midseason. Not for the better. Staff is headed by Liriano.. No K's so I don't care if he has 10 starts. Most won't get more then 3-4 each start. Pen is solid and their only bright spot. Going to be a long year..
16. Atlantic Surge - Well somebody has to be last. Playing in a tough division and some questionable drafting picks will have them quickly packing it in. Team really doesn't have a lot going for it.. After Justin Upton the talent level falls fast. BJ going to start on DL and I like Weeks but he’s far from impact players. Staff is ok with Verlander and Kennedy and Hudson But their RP looking like a big question mark. Squire should be active and making some moves for 2013. Question is will it be the right ones??
Ok there you have it. My projected results. Take them for what they are which is my opinion.
1. South Texas Heat - While I don't see their pitching as a all around solid staff they have a plan and it's looking like they will use the more starts then their opponent to make up for quality. Lester and Shields will be the steady guys while Moore should be solid while he’s in there. I still think he either loses starts down stretch or gets shutdown if Rays out of it. Heat's pen is solid and good depth. Hitting has nice balance with speed and power. I think 1B and 2B will be issues as I don’t think Kipnis is ready. Bay and Scott are real question marks.. I think LaHair might surprise..
2. Oviedo Knights - I drafted a little different this year going for an all around solid team. I'm tired of the revolving SP. I feel I got some good breaks during draft as many of the guys drafted "upside" over talent and guys like Konerko slipped to far. Even with injuries I can field a solid hitting team. SP will be anchored by Hamels and Beckett. Also, like the Heat 2 very good SP. Then a few question marks. I have a solid pen but no RP depth. Good SP depth. Hitting is very good all around with good depth. If damon is able to sign a full time gig it will only add to that. I will need to look at SB in the future unless Altuve takes over for Walker which is possible.
3. Rochester Red Sox - Sox should be battling the Knights all year With a good all around power team and nice balance of speed. Some of the question marks on the hitting side are how well Montero handles a full time gig and in a pitchers park how productive he will be.. Does Goldschmidt step it up?? I have my doubts with the low BA.. Reynolds needs to do more then hit HR's. Like the staff overall. Kershaw/Haren/Johnson anchor them even their supporting cast is solid. RP is very good also. Team will most likely make playoffs unless they hit rash of injuries.
4. Hackensack Bulls - The more I look at this team the more I like what they have and if Howard can come back and I have serious doubts he will.. They will have decent depth. Best staff in the league. Strasburg will be limited though and I expect Darvish to wear down and the league catch up. Crow back to pen hurts a little but I think finding holds will be an early season priority. Still battling in Texas division will be tough but should get a wild card position.
5. Arizona Desert Swarm - I think Berg is overreacting with the injuries. They have great offensive balance and solid depth. I think they will have to move one for some pitching. If they make a few moves to give some pitching depth I see them winning the West without much of a problem.
Right now they need to work on adding another SP or 2 and acquiring a closer will help them make a serious impact in the playoffs. The good news is the division overall is weak which will help them add some wins.
6. Olivet Killer Eagles - Larry did a great job of drafting and trading to really give him the top team in the Lakes division.. Team is overall in great shape with hitting leading the way.. there is some solid depth in place and that will help when injuries strike and trades are needed.. SP should have no problem competing each week in every stat except Saves. Facing Broskey and his brother a lot will give him a lot of wins while Wagner will give him a run. Larry I see will make some moves to acquire closers.
7. Michigan Miracles - Got to give Renner some credit for the aggressive moves he made winter meetings. He wants to win but to go from lottery to championship playoffs isn't easy. That along with having 2 other teams I am figuring to be in the playoffs I can't see them getting in. They also have some question marks IMO.. Power is very light. No real elite SB guys. His staff is decent all around but K's very light pen is great and best closers in the league. Still they are decent yet given their division I can't see them making playoffs.
8. Gaylord Dingers - A few weeks ago I had them in the playoffs but they had some injuries that raise red flags. I told Wagner back in Jan about Crawford wrist said that’s not a good injury because it zaps the strength in the hand. OF is really below avg with Crawford out and depth is light. Grienke is their one proven SP. Rest I worry about. Norris is already having issues. Floyd is avg at best and Jackson is innings filler. They have 3 closers right now and K-Rod good holds. If Wagner makes some moves and catches some breaks he could push towards playoffs.
9. Julian Javelina - Hoyle has a good team and is going to make a push for the division if he stays on top of his team. Hoyle over the last few years has done that well and I expect him to be active. His offense is solid and I like that he has some depth for injuries. Weaver and Wilson will hold down the SP and then be going with hot hands for the rest. They have no closer and will need something for playoff run. The RP they do have will be ok but questions are about how many holds they will get. I see that a constant mix and match all year. Still expect Hoyle make moves to keep them in it but I think they fall short...
10. Dallas RedBirds - I like to pick on Doyel when he's down but he's not going to be as bad as some think. He has limited upside due to lack of depth but he has a lot of very good players. One thing hurting him he has to face his division so much and I have 2 of those teams in the playoffs. Team hitting is solid when healthy could use a better 2B and not a fan of Dejesus or Morneau but they could be worse I guess. Pitching is going to be solid overall. The need for a 2nd closer will be there if he wants to take saves but holds will be good. Overall I think Doyel did a good job given what he was given. He still needs to grow a set and make moves before players contracts expire along with draft trades to get more quality.
11. North Texas Rangers - This is a typical Adrian team. Rangers occupy their starting team and big names with fringe players filling in rest. Revere?? Not even sure he starts. Aza?? Cruz how many AB's he gives them? Figgins at DH?? Has to be better.. Staff has Halladay and then a patch fill rest. Closers are pot luck. Most likely none hold it long. This will be another typical season for Adrian start out hot and fade away. I don't see them having enough quality to last all season or depth.
12. Mid Michigan Tigers - Keith keeps making consolidation playoffs but never puts it all together for a championship run. Some think it’s his lack of activity. I think it’s his choices and picks he makes doesn't draft going after the 12 stats you need. He has some very good hitting guys but a few marginal guys. Rolen and Escobar and Ross. Not a lot of depth and will be hard to improve via trades. Staff anchored by Gio and Lewis isn't bad. Wandy is a ??? Fister should be good for ERA/WHIP. They have 2 current Closers but most likely not all year. Street will be injured and Gregg can't close all year. Chapman might give him some trade value but overall I don't see Keith being able to make a push.
13. Springfield Flying Squirrels - Another team in for a long season.. Team is playing for next year and really has not a lot going for it. I put them in the same class as Atlantic. They have a few solid guys from draft but need to make some moves if they want to do something for 2013. Cano and Wainwright and Lawrie should help next year and a quick turn around is very possible. They should look to help some contenders and get another contract or 2.
14. San Antonio Fire Ants - Looking to rebuild they are going to have some growing pains this year. Not a lot to like on them. Marginal power and no real depth. They will most likely be one of the first teams to move some players for contracts. If they can add another contract or 2 they could set themselves up well for next year. SP won't kill them but no K's either. Not a lot to like this season.
15. Charlotte Orios - Ok Broskey says he won't be lottery but I can't see them fielding a completive team all year. Still if he trades some contracts away which he will. He might move out of the lottery spots. This team has injury written all over him and overrated players. It is even hard to figure out who will be where. I see this team being different by midseason. Not for the better. Staff is headed by Liriano.. No K's so I don't care if he has 10 starts. Most won't get more then 3-4 each start. Pen is solid and their only bright spot. Going to be a long year..
16. Atlantic Surge - Well somebody has to be last. Playing in a tough division and some questionable drafting picks will have them quickly packing it in. Team really doesn't have a lot going for it.. After Justin Upton the talent level falls fast. BJ going to start on DL and I like Weeks but he’s far from impact players. Staff is ok with Verlander and Kennedy and Hudson But their RP looking like a big question mark. Squire should be active and making some moves for 2013. Question is will it be the right ones??
Ok there you have it. My projected results. Take them for what they are which is my opinion.
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