Oviedo Knights

Revised Round 1 Mock final version

2012-01-30T08:54:00.002-05:00

Now the Meetings are over and the last of the 1st rounders traded. Here is my up to date picks. I will see how logical I can make this. Even though we know logic isn't a part of it.

1. Olivet Killer Eagles - 1B Adrian Gonzalez

Larry said he was taking Cano before but I think things changed when he moved Dunn. Opening up 1B spot. Now he gets one of the better 1B in the draft.

2. Hackensack Bulls - OF Justin Upton

Bulls were a lock for Gonzo having 2B and SS already filled. Perfect fit. With Gonzo going I can see them taking the Best OF in the draft.

3. South Texas Heat - SS Troy Tulowitzki

Different team same pick. Berg traded up and moved Jeter to take Tulo.

4. Atlantic Surge - OF Mike Stanton

Ok others thinking Surge will reach for Stanton. I'll go with the flow on this one. I am not sure he passes on better hitters for a shot at a hitter that could be 40+ but we have seen worse.

5. Julian Javelina - 3B/OF Bautista

Hoyle waiting to see if Upton goes just before or not. He can't lose here..
Upton his pick if the Surge change up and take Stanton.

6 Flying Squirrels of Springfield - OF Andrew McCutchen

They say its Upton or McCutchen. Almost no way Upton falls to him. So guess what its McCutchen. Even with Cano there he has Uggla. No way he takes a 2nd 2B

7. Oviedo Knights - 2B Robinson Cano

This is something the Knights never thought could happen but it might now with the current teams and needs.

8. Dallas Redbirds - 1B Mark Teixeria

Well Doyel known for not having a lot of power decides he needs to finally grab a HR hitting guy takes Tex. Even though his BA has been dropping hes been good for 30+ HR's a year.

9. Olivet Killer Eagles - SS Jose Reyes

Larry passed on Tulo knowing he can get Reyes or Ramirez here and I bet he takes the SS with more speed.

10. North Texas - OF Josh Hamilton

Adrian continues to pull homer on us and takes his man crush Hamilton
Look for a 3 year of a guy who has had 1 500+ AB season in the last 3 but hey that doesnt matter.

11. Dallas Redbirds - SS Hanley Ramirez

Doyel gets a solid SS/3B this year. As long as he is 100% healthy. These picks are questionable

12. Michigan Miracles - OF Jay Bruce

Different team but I can see same pick.. Solid 3 year OF in Bruce.

13. Mid Michigan Tigers - OF Hunter Pence

Tigers have 1OF in thier roster and plenty of INF. Look for them to grab the best OF left. They I am sure are hoping Bruce falls but setting for Pence not horrible..

14 Rochester Redsox - SP Cliff Lee

Sox take the best SP in the draft. Kind of like a gift for them.

15.. North Texas Rangers- SS Elvis Andrus

Adrian pulls another homer.

16 Arizona Desert Swarm - OF Cole Hamels

Swarm takes the next best pitcher in draft with all the hitters going. Gives them some value.

Well here is my revised mock..

Winter Meetings Closing Weekend

2012-01-28T07:58:00.000-05:00

Well with 2 more first round picks being traded and Ovideo missing out on both. The chances of moving up from round 2 to round 1 look slim. Still feeling like the Knights had the better offers most teams either were to greedy or were afraid to move a few spots back then they were getting. We will still listen to offers and offered 2 lower picks for a decent 1st but given how many have moved in the past week not many available. Yet if there is a team that wants to maximize thier picks send me an IM. Also I am listening to offers for Sizemore and Walden. If anybody is interested in them let me know. No matter how this ends the Knights very happy to go into the draft in this position. We increased out current team and draft picks. Looking for that 5 year at the 7 spot.

Rumors Rumos Rumors

2012-01-26T08:29:00.000-05:00

Rumors are swirling around Oviedo that they are looking to move up from their round 2 position to another round 1 pick. From what we hear there are a few teams debating on the move. The rumor is the Knights have offered 2 low picks for the first and a middle round pick. It seems the Knights are paying a bit much for another first given what might be their but they have plenty of contracts and can only assign so many. If any other teams interested in this move please contact me soon. I plan on making a move soon.

Last few days of the meetings

2012-01-25T15:29:00.001-05:00

Knights are pretty much set but will entertain offers for Sizemore and Walden. Basically we are talking to a few teams about them and want to guage interest in the rest of the league for them. If interested send me an IM or email.. Will negotiate. Not looking to dump IE like Broskey..

Oh if anybody has a free spot on their roster and is willing to hold Nish I would gladly give a 16th rounder to take him..

Day 2 More Activity

2012-01-23T09:19:00.000-05:00

Well the Knights continued to mold their team as Howie Kendrick was traded. He was the topic of discussion for weeks and with the Dingers in constant talk most thought they would win his services. Well GM Mike Wagner continued to stand his ground. So his rival Keith Baker of the Tigers stepped up and stole him from under him. One will think will GM Wagner learn that penny pinching not worth it?? I doubt it. He was poised to have the Angels 2-3 hitters with Pujols behind Kendrick. Now his rival has him and has to face him 3 times. The Knight will still look at all trades and might entertain ones for Walden or any other player but for the most part GM Reynolds said " We achieved what we wanted in the meetings." The knights still looking to move up in round 1. So any team in front willing to move back send me a message and expectations.

Round 2 Mock.

2012-01-22T09:33:00.003-05:00

Ok since family is asleep I can try and do this based on my round 1.

Hackensack Bulls - OF Nelson Cruz

Often injured Cruz has a lot of talent and while in the lineup is a stud. Falls out of round 1 because of injuries only.. Bulls scoop him up and slap a 2 year on him. If they move Werth he can put a 3 year.

Olivet Killer Eagles - 1B Paul Konerko

Larry passes on Adrian Gonzalez and jumps on Konerko in round 2. This mock Larry does very well. 2 Power hitters.

Michigan Miracles - SP Yovani Gallardo

Miracles want to compete and they need a front line SP. K SP are rare and locking him up will give them a solid start.

North Texas Rangers - 3B Brett Lawrie

I had Surge here but the pick can still be the same. Figgins isn't a starter and Adrian has the space for 3 years. Still like Lawrie going at this spot.

Julian Javlina - SS Elvis Andrus

Hoyle in full rebuild mode and wants some 3 year contracts. Added Upton in round 1. Look for him to add some more youth and take a chance on Andrus as a 3 year.

Flying Squirrels - 1B Eric Hosmer

Squirrels in full rebuild mode take a young player that should improve on his 2nd half numbers. Could be a Fielder lite very soon. Look for them to put a 3 year on him and roll dice.

North Texas Rangers - C/1B Mike Napoli

Wow another Ranger falls to Adrian. No surprise he scoops him up. Good thing for Adrian this is a decent pick at his spot. Probably a solid 2 year. Going 3 years on a catcher turns 30 is risky.

Charlotte Orios - OF Desmond Jennings

Can never figure out Broskey but he does like young guys. Traded for Alvarez to add another contract player for next year. My thinking is he signs Jennings to add to that future and puts 3 year on him.

Oviedo Knights - 3B Alex Rodriguez

Many will say this is the perfect pick for me. Aging superstar looking for rebound. Will not a 3 year contract. Should be ok for the next year or 2.

Mid Michigan Tigers - C Brian McCann

Keith is going for it all and look for him to add one of the top C in the game. He is young enough that he could get a 3 year. This is a fine pick at this spot.

Gaylord - OF Adam Jones

I don't think Gaylord is going to like how this round plays out. He takes Jones here but I am sure he has other players he was hoping would fall.. Stil Jones gives him another Orio and a solid OF.

San Antonio Fire Ants - SP Matt Cain

In a draft filled with hitters and limited pitchers Look for him to take one of the 2 SP in the 2nd round worthy of drafting. Will most likely give him another 3 year contract player.

Gaylord Dingers - C Joe Mauer

Not a normal pick for the Dingers in their 2nd go around with Doyel trading up to have 2 1st rounders but Mauer is still a solid Catcher. he rebounds at all this is a steal.. Look for Gaylord to slap a 2 year on him..

Rochester Red Sox - 3B Pablo Sandoval

Solid pick here and most likely 3 year player. Not many 3B will hit 25+ HR and have over a 300BA. Only falls due to teams in front having 3B already.

South Texas Heat - 2B Rickie Weeks

Berg gets a fine pick here. Adds to his Brewers and will get solid value here. Fortunately for him lots of people have 2B.. Weeks slips a bit because of that.

Arizona Desert Swarm - 1B/3B Kevin Youkilis

Since I don't see any decent OF in this spot. Look for them to take one time top pick in Youkilis. They can shift Lee to OF.. In that lineup he will give them a good amount of production but probably only 2 year contract type.

Ok I tried my 2nd round mock. It is very hard to do since people are trading and their needs changed. I used ADP as a guide. Not my rankings and based on teams needs and direction they are headed..

Day 2 What is next?

2012-01-22T08:35:00.001-05:00

Well the Meetings started off with a blast. The Knights were the most active team. We added 1 contract and that was a given one. What to expect from today. The Knights will probably move Kendrick. Word has it a number of teams are interested. Chances are hes headed to a team in the Great Lakes Division. We will also entertain offers for Nishioka. The new acquired throw in with the Butler trade. Basically anybody can have him if they want. Those with a lot of room in their contract space might want a cheap pick. Like endgame type. Also, I will listen to offer for Walden. Not to crazy about moving him but if the price is right... Also Knights will listen to other teams contracts and make offers to the ones that fit better. Along with kendrick some believe Walker is the better 2B and I will also entertain offers for him..

Day 1A Winter Meetings

2012-01-21T22:50:00.000-05:00

In a late night move. The Knights decide to swap Oswalt for Hellickson. In the move Reynolds stated "We think Oswalt has the higher upside for 2012 but we are very afraid of his back". Hellickson is a young solid SP but lacks the K's in his first year in the majors. It is a risk for the Knights but they moved a round up and 1 spot in the first. Now up to 1.7. The Knights moving up 1 spot at a time. Look out Flying Squirrels.. Your pick is next. :)

Day 1 Winter Meetings

2012-01-21T18:17:00.000-05:00

Looks like the Knights have been a lot more active then we thought. GM Reynolds said "We are just trying to move into position for the upcoming draft". On said guys rumored to be on the move is 2B Howie Kendrick. Howie was reached at his home saying "I hear about these trade rumors all the time. I am just getting ready for spring training".. The Knights will be exploring other deals. SP Roy Oswalt is being discussed as well.. The Knights moved Pedro Alvarez and their 1.9 pick to the Orios for Billy Butler and Nishioka and their 1.8 pick. We lost a year on a contract with Alvarez but we gained a solid 1B in Butler. One less piece needed. Stay tuned to other deals in the works but the Knights are agressively looking at moving up in draft.

Winter Meetings Agenda

2012-01-21T09:12:00.000-05:00

Well now with winter meetings open we can officially open up the trading. While I have already started to discuss trades with teams its time to start narrowing the teams down to offers.

Howie Kendrick 1B/2B/OF The versitile 2B now in a great position. He will be batting 2nd in a Angels lineup that has Pujols 3rd. Anybody hitting in front of Pujols is going to score. I am looking for a season where his HR's might not increase but his SB and runs should jump.

Roy Oswalt - SP I have had a few asking about him. Not big on moving him but given he could be some what cheap I will listen to offers.

The rest can be had but really not pushing any of them off. I am also willing to take on a contract player if the price is right. I have talked to some owners about moving up in the 1st round. If your looking to move back a few spots talk to me. A swap of later rounds to compensate would be discussed. An example was I move up 4 spots in round 1 and move back 1 and half rounds in round 4 to 6. If this is something that interest you hit me up.

2012 1st Round Mock

2012-01-19T19:41:00.001-05:00

Using current draft order..

1 Hackensack Bulls - 1B Adrian Gonzalez

Hackensack has 9 returning players and could have one of the best staffs in the league. With that said I see them taking one of the best power hitters available. Solid 5 year keeper

2 Olivet Killer Eagles - 2B Robinson Cano

Would be good if Larry can get the #1 or #2 position. Should Get him the best 2B in the draft. Cano would probably be his 5 year.

3 Michigan Miracles - 3B/OF Jose Bautista

Renner looks to lock up the top power hitter in the draft. Even though he is a questionable 5 year player. Renner feels some sort of commitment for the elderly.

4 Atlantic Surge - SS Troy Tulowitzki

Surge is collecting SP for a rainy day and I don't think they will have all of them come draft time.. With that said they take the top SS in Troy Tulowitzki. Sold 5 year player.. Guess Bartlet will ride pine. Not sure he would complain about that.

5 Julian Javelina - OF Justin Upton

With news coming out Hoyle is dumping his contracts it looks to be a rebuild year. Hoyle Takes a solid young OF in Upton. With his age he is a question mark but should be a solid 5 year.

6 Flying Squirrels of Springfield - SS Hanley Ramirez

Flying Squirrels are pretty much rebuilding and need every solid player they can get. Hanley wile question mark health wise will be a SS/3B this year. When Reyes gets hurt he might get enough games at SS for next year.

7 North Texas Rangers - OF Josh Hamilton

Always a sucker for Rangers. Puts a 5 year on the best offensive player on the Rangers roster.

8 Charlotte Orios - SS Jose Reyes

Another Miami player goes. Reyes would be a solid 5 year if Broskey wasn't dumb enough to trade for Rios. Bet hes dying to move him. Not many will take him even if he offered his 2B rounder. Reyes will still be solid for 3 years.

9 Oviedo Knights - OF Mike Stanton

Young powerful but his age makes his consistance a real question mark. I still like this kids upside though.. Should be a solid 5 year.

10 Mid Michigan Tigers - OF Andrew McCutchen

Tigers grab best hitter left and Andrew is a solid pick at this spot. 3 year. Probably a 5 year if he had the spot open..

11 Gaylord Dingers - 1B Mark Teixeira

Wagner will ggo after the best hitter he can and Mark is. Given Pujols at 1B Mark will be a very solid DH and 3 year.. My bet is he moves Pena before draft. Why I see him taking Mark here.

12 San Antonio Fire Ants - OF Jay Bruce

Well they need a ton and obviously rebuilding. at the age 25 Bruce could be a solid 5 year. At this spot in the draft premium power is gone.

13 Dallas Redbirds - OF Hunter Pence

Doyel frustrated at the lack of solid power hitters settles for Pence. My guess makes him his 5 year given age.

14 Rochester Red Sox - SP Cliff lee

Red Sox get a great value here in Lee. With all the other teams going for 5 year players. Lee slips a bit farther then he should. Nice 3 year here.

15 South Texas Heat - 3B Adrian Beltre

Probably the best hitter left in the draft and at 33 might be able to handle a 3 year contract. heat do well snagging him.

16 Arizona Desert Swarm - SP Cole Hamels

Defending champs have a decent amount of contracts but there are not many solid hitters at this spot left. So they grab an elite SP.

Well Here is my Mock draft. We all know meetings will changes teams directions and needs. Yet I feel these are pretty good picks for each team.. Feel free to talk about it.

2012 Season preview

2012-01-02T09:31:00.001-05:00

The Now Oviedo knights had their worst season statistically in their 10 year history in the league. Fought hard until last few weeks missing the championship playoffs. Reasons it didn't happen. Simple. INJURIES!! The 2 years I didn't make the playoffs I was hit with injuries very hard. Not going to replace solid pitchers and bats off WW and drafting near back every year leaves little room for error. Started the season down 4 solid players. It only got worse from there. Made a few moves and when my team was healthy it made huge strides. Then less then a month left in the regular season we lost more and that ended any chance. Now onto 2012. We have 10 keepers giving us a nice core players. OF is set.. Beltran (NT) and Sizemore (3/13) and Stubbs (NT) and Hart (NT). None of them will hit 30+ HR's but all are starter material. Now the question mark.. Padro Alvarez. I see 2011 as a sophmore slump and so does Pittsburgh. They plan on giving him the job again and so do I. Way too much talent to bust. 2B I have a log jam. Having 2 guys in the top 10 at 2B is nice but its probably not going to be there come draft time. Plans are to move one of the 2 guys. So either Walker or Kendrick will be gone before the draft. Most likely Kendrick. Morrow and Oswalt are solid pitchers. Owsalt gives me a good ERA/WHIP and Morrow gives me K's. Walden gives me 1 closer he could go for right price.

So leading into meetings the Knights are looking to make a few moves. Move a 2B and possible move up in the draft. Will also listen to moving back if the price is right but given we need a 5 year I doubt we move back. We don't have a good draft spot for missing playoffs but its not as bad as years past.

Oviedo Knights Starting Lineup

2011-02-08T09:31:00.003-05:00

Here is my starting lineup. Stats based on a generic site I used mlb.com

C: Miguel Olivio .252 44 14 48 5 This is the one position that was not decent. It could be possible Arencibia cracks lineup.

1B: Carlos Lee 283 68 24 86 3 No longer the stud he used to be but decent numbers for a 1B.

2B: Neil Walker 284 80 17 84 5 This could also be Kendrick. Right now I'll use Walker but Kendrick could platoon.

SS: Jose Reyes 293 100 12 58 41 Should put up typical numbers.

3B: Pedro Alvarez 263 80 28 89 2 The future stud 3B

OF: Jose Bautista 253 95 34 106 8 Came out of no where. If he hits 35+ HR's well worth keeping.

OF: Juan Pierre 286 83 1 42 50 My eSeries MVP back for another tour..

OF: Corey Hart 271 82 26 89 9 Solid bat traded for last summer. Could be expended if he has another great year.

OF: Grady Sizemore 264 83 23 74 12 Hopefully puts up better numbers this year but always stud like potential.

DH David Ortiz 253 77 26 85 0 Ortiz stays on track this year and builds on it..

Pitching

SP: Roy Oswalt 15-9 3.46 1.26 203IP 171K's Nice to have one dependable SP

SP: Brandon Morrow 12-8 3.86 1.36 177IP 191K's Needed K's and here is a solid one.

SP: Johnny Cueto 11-11 4.03 1.31 190IP 152K's I am hoping he makes a step up. prime age.

SP: James McDonald 10-11 3.53 1.39 171IP 153K's Here is another huge upside K's!!

SP: Jeff Neimann 9-7 4.15 1.34 143IP 122K's Last years ACE going in number 5 now. Thats a huge improvement.

RP: Jonathan Broxton 3-4 3.28 1.25 68IP 80K's 32 Saves. Time to return to stud..

RP: Chris Perez 2-2 68IP 66K's 3.16ERA 1.13WHIP 32 Saves. Future stud hopefully he moves up..

RP: Mike Adams 3-1 68IP 71K's 2.38IP 1.09WHIP 4 Saves 30+ holds Top holds guy

RP: Octavio Dotel 3-4 63IP 73K's 4.00ERA 1.32WHIP 8 Saves 20+ Holds

RP: Kenley Jansen 3-3 76IP 99K's 2.72ERA 1.21WHIP 5 Saves 20+ Holds

Now A lot can change but this team is more solid then last season. All around better stats. Some of the major improvements are the HR's and K's.. SB is also stronger. Some of the questionable stats. BA will be a struggle. Not having a 300 plus hitter.. WHIP might be a bit high.. Overall I have solid depth. I was very surprised drafting last to get the team I got. Now I need my upside guys to perform.

Picks 12.16 - End

2011-02-05T09:26:00.002-05:00

Ok the draft is finally over. I really enjoyed this draft. I feel it is one of my best ever given my draft spot and choices. Lots of picks I lost because I was last but still grabbed solid value and minimized risks.. So heres the end..

12.16 Jason Motte RP - Rounding out my pen. Motte is a solid 8th inning guy to add to my holds. He will also be first in line for saves once Franklin is either traded/hurt.

13.16 Miguel Olivio C - Here is solid value. Posada went 7 rounds earlier with very similar numbers. He will hopefully keep the spot warm for my backup. Either way won't hurt me and add a few HR's.

14.13 Kila Ka 1B - Another low risk high reward player. He is a Carlos Pena clone. He will have a low BA and High HR and High BB. Expected to the the starting 1B for the Royals and its make or break for him given his prime age. Could be in for 28HR's and 80+ BB.

14.16 Chris Young SP - Continuing my theme of low risk high reward. Young hasn't done much in 2 years but noy self proclamed healthy. He comes close to his past numbers he will be a steal here. Worst case I invested little.

15.16 Kenley Jansen RP - Another find for my pen. He will give me great ERA/WHIP/K's. Even if he is 7th inning. He will give me plenty of holds of he is the 8th inning. Will backup Broxton.

16.16 Andy Pettitte SP - Well took the gamble and it obviously didnt pay off.. Not much lost.

17.16 JP Arencibia C - Another high reward guy. Most likely will be my backup catcher but could possibly push playing time if shows he belongs in preseason. might be waived if he doesn't.

18.16 Kosuke Fukudome OF - Staying focused on guys who can help. Kosuke is right now set to be a starter for the Cubs but that could change in spring. Either way this former early round pick has nothing but upside..

19.16 Brian Duensing SP - I think a lot of people overlooked him. Penciled in as the Twins 4th SP and produced last year. Not a lot of K's but should be decent. Last year this is where I got value in my staff. He could be my this years Arroyo..

20.16 Dayan Viciedo 3B - Here is another vying for starting job. Has to win it in spring. Free swinger with lots of power. Most likely will be waived but if he makes starting lineup this late will have trade bait.

21.16 Sergio Santos RP - White Sox have 2 top pen guys in Thronton and Sale. Well both are lefties. Santos is the top RHP and should server as 8th inning setup. Not bad K's also and decent Holds.

22.16 Cory Luebke SP - Another Padre SP from their farm. Any pitcher pitching for them has an inflated value due to Petco. See if he makes rotation out of Spring. If so could give me decent depth.

23.16 Ronny Cedeno SS - Depth only. Nothing special. Probably won't hold onto him..

24.16 Jay Gibbons OF - Well the last pick in the draft was a name from the past. Has the startign LF job to lose. Could be a great pick if he is back to 05-06 numbers.. If not WW..

Thats it. Lots of value in this draft and took lots of guys with high upsides..

Draft Picks 5.16 - 10.16

2011-01-31T15:08:00.002-05:00

As the draft moves to the 2nd half here is how we ended the first half..

5.16 Johnny Cueto SP - Finally able to put a good year together this could be his breakout season. He has solid numbers all around. A sub 4 ERA and 1.2+ WHIP will give me a nice 3rd OF. Decent K's also.

6.16 Manny Ramirez OF - Manny was left for dead by most owners because of his past season and his age and drop in numbers. Few reasons to think he will bounce back.. Now healthy again and full time DH. Should be able to stay healthy and 20+ Homers possible. Not bad for a 5th OF.

7.10 Mike Adams RP - We have followed the same plan each year. Draft solid offense and great pen. We continued by taking Mike Adams but this year seems to be the year of the pen as more MR gone before round 10 then I have ever seen. Adams great K's and Holds. Might close by mid season..

7.16 Neil Walker 2B - Here is a guy passed up on to many times. He could produce 2nd round numbers in the 7th. I am sure many teams would love to have taken him. upwards of 20HR and 80 RBI.. Worst case I have trade bait. Best case I have options platooning..

8.16 Jeff Niemann SP - Had him last year and was an ACE for the first half and then got hurt. Came back and struggled. Now healthy again. I could have ACE like poduction at 8th round ot to shaby for a 4th SP..

9.16 Octavio Dotel RP - Solid MR/Closer. Will give me a ton of K's and maybe either Saves or Holds but regardless very valuable.

10.16 Jame McDonald SP - Lots of upset people I took him. Will look to build on 2nd half numbers. Breakout near? I think so. Sub 4 ERA. Solid K's. a K SP this late is rare and not without risk..

Early Draft Results

2011-01-27T09:33:00.002-05:00

Well The Knights went into this winter meetings aiming to shed a few expiring contracts and work on the 2nd thru 5th rounds to maximize future. We had 9 picks in those rounds. The biggest goal was to find a few contracts from there. Never expecting to find ANY 3 year guys. Yet how this draft went the Knights were very surprised to see there were a few guys that might get 3 years depending on their spring goes. So onto the picks.

2.12 Pedro Alvarez 3B - The Knights first pick really wasn't hard choice. We could have played it safe with a player like Hunter or even a stud SP like Oswalt but in the end the took a highly touted 3B prospect with 30+ HR power. Reminds me of Aramis Ramirez. A few years down road. Shows a strong spring a 3 year is going to be a lock.

2.16 Roy Oswalt SP - Knights management do not like taking SP early because of how many breakout ones become available throughout year. Yet Oswalt was too good to be true at this spot. He will get a 2 year contract and even in Philly should have a solid year with 18-20 wins possible.

3.13 Grady Sizemore OF - Ok this is a player so many teams looked at but couldn't pull trigger. I seemed to have pushed this with every pick. A few years ago this guy was a 1st rounder producing 30/30 years. A true 5 tool player. Now completely healthy and only 28!! He can return to that level but there will always be question marks. If he proves in spring hes back another 3 year here.

3.16 Brandon Morrow SP - With pitchers like Baker and Hudson available Knights decided to try and fix a big issue with last years draft. That was the lack of K's. No other pitcher has his ratio and will help there but also a risk to ERA/WHIP and of course injury. Solid 2 year contract here..

4.8 Chris Perez RP - With only a few solid closers in the draft without any questions the Knights needed to secure one. Perez is a blossuming closer and with nobody else in the way should dominate with 35+ saves. Possible 2 year here..

4.16 Howie Kendrick 2B - Not a normal pick for the Knights here but when you look at his overall numbers hes a solid 2B. Possible 15/15 guy with 70+ runs and RBI. With what is left he will give me consistant number all year. He still could return to the 300+ hitter. Not sure if I will give a contract or not.

5.2 Juan Pierre OF - Last season MVP for the Knights returns again. not because we wanted to have him but again a player that fell in the draft way to far. With playing time intact and no signs of slowing down. 280+ hitter and 90+ runs and 50+ SB should have me dominating the SB stat with Reyes. Worked well last year. No contract though for him.

5.8 Jonathan Broxton RP - Last year going into season he was one of the best closers. Had a melt down 2nd half. Some think he was hurt and some think it was cause Torre over worked him and never recovered. Facts are hes 26 and could return to elite status.

The draft overall has been about grabbing value period. We went after highest upside with lowest risk. This has 2005 flashback. We used the same thinking but it backfired. All the gambles either got hurt or busted. This led to our only lottery position. This time around the risks are there but I think I have a much stronger core team for that to happen. The middle of the draft we will focus on our staff and adding solid bench..

Wieters Gone!

2011-01-14T09:03:00.002-05:00

In a very surprise move the Knights moved Matt Wieters yesterday. It was put out there they might be interested in moving him but really didn't expect to move him. Then the Orios owner came in with an offer we couldn't say no to. The 5th round pick we got will give me a solid bat or pitcher. Now the Knights are in VERY strong position. We now have 7 of the first 66 picks and 7 keepers.. So that means by round 5 early we have almost half our team. Still talking to a few owners about Valverde. Management thinks somebody will come in the last few hours and make a play for him. Redbirds were rumored to be interested but obviously they had their eyes on another RP. A few others were linked to Valverde. If we don't get a 4th we have no problem holding onto a RP with 30+ save possibility and a decent ERA/WHIP. knights are still entertaining moving up to the lower part of the 2nd round and don't mind adding a player and picks to get it done SP would be tops on the list.. Phone lines are open.

See Ya Soriano

2011-01-13T07:54:00.002-05:00

Well we moved Soriano. While he should have produced 25+ HR's this year we decided to take a chance in the draft and possibly sign a NEW contract to hopefully give us a better future. Soriano expires end of this year and most likely not an extendable player. Will the Knights make another move?? Wouldn't mind either moving Valverde or swapping more picks. I will only move Valverde if its for a 4th. So yes Doyle thats fair given the closer who have been traded in that area. If not I will hold onto him.. With Soriano gone Lee will now stay to start the year. I will also listen to offers for Wieters but management is reluctant to move him due to his position and potential might be worth more then his value.. Also management might entertain moving up to the early 2nd round if somthing is there.. Feel free to inquire..

Few More Moves?

2011-01-09T21:30:00.003-05:00

Well the Knights are really positioning themselves for the middle of the early part of the draft. We still wouldn't mind making one or two more deals if the right offer came our way. From the talks the Knights have been having with other owners Soriano and Valverde seem to be the most asked about. I see why. In a lite draft Soriano has the posibility to hit 25-30 homers this year. Might not steal that many bases any more but thats not what people want him for.. Valverde has been getting a lot of attention but management is a little recluctant to move him. Nice to have one closer. It allows us to use only one of those middle picks on one instead of two.. Hopefully a little more movement from Knights camp in the coming days..

Offseason

2010-12-21T10:23:00.003-05:00

The Knights have been pretty quiet so far. Still focused on other areas of life but are now starting to work towards the winter meetings.. Some of the areas to explore. We are interested in moving out of our last pick in round 1 to get more picks later. A drop to the mid 2nd isn't out of the question. Also some of the other areas to work on are moving a few players to bulk up in draft.

Carlos Lee 3/12 - He has been asked about and could be moved for the right price. Rumor has it a 2nd round pick is needed to move him but a player swap and pick swaps are possible.

Alfonso Soriano 3/11 - Another player asked about and management willing to listen to offers for. His value took a little hit but he didnt totally bust in 2010. hit almost 260 with 24HR's. Figures to imporve on those numbers. Again picks and player swaps available.

Asdrubal Cabrera 2/11 - Here is one that must go. No longer 2B eligible and Reyes locked into SS I need to move him. He isn't very expensive and will be listening to offers..

Jose Valverde - 2/11 - Not big on moving him but I will listen to offers.

That's the small list of what I am looking to do.. I can always adjust to deals thrown my way if needed. Nothing and nobody is locked in stone to staying put..

Oviedo Knights formerly New Jersey Mets

2010-11-19T08:25:00.003-05:00

In the spirit of me finally moving to Florida the team has followed me here. New chapter to this long franchise..

Offseason Plans

2010-11-17T07:20:00.002-05:00

The Mets once again will start with a playoff calibar team. This could be my last run if I don't make changes in winter meetings so here goes. The plan is first to trade Cabrera. I already have Reyes and since he's only SS now I can't use him. Solid top of the order guy. 2nd thing I would like to accomplish is to move out of round 1 and get a 2nd and later pick depending how far back I go.. Now all my players are available but Reyes is tough to move since hes a 5 year. Hart will give me best return but will only move him if I get a good draft pick. Valverde can also be traded for the right pick.. Soriano and Lee and Wieters can also be had but if I have to give them away I will probably keep them since I am fine using them in my starting lineup. So I am open to suggestions. Feel free to send me a line..

First Championship in 7 years

2010-10-07T12:48:00.002-04:00

Well this was a very odd season for my Mets. The YTD stats we were one of the worst teams. Starting out dead last in many offense stats really made us have an uphill battle that was unable to make up. We made some key moves. First one was moving Gio Gonzalez for Casey Blake. That really didnt work out well for me. Next was critical. Moving Sizemore for Hart and Hart had a career year. One mister Wagner wishes he had back. Next I moved Ely and Bailey for Ortiz and Gregerson. Both were HUGE in changing my teams offense and Holds. Then I made a minor deal moving FA pickup Lucroy for Schumaker who helpped me in tough times.. Then Ross for Hammel who did the same but the biggest one was Sandoval for Bautista. This one might have helpped me win it all. Still the eSeries MVP was my round 10 pick of Juan Pierre. I got most of his stats predicted correctly but his SB beat my expectations.. There is a lot of luck in the playoffs but I think my team did enough to win it. I looked at the other 2 teams in the final 4 and I would have beaten all those teams also. With the Squirrels being the closest game. With that said I have finally won it again after making championship playoffs 5 years in a row.

It goes to show you how hard it is to win it all even down to 6 teams. Next year picking last I once again will have my work cut out for me. I do have a lot of keepers. C/2SS/3B/1B/2OF/DH/RP. The key to my win this year was all the great finds I got in the 2nd half of the draft. Most of the SP were on my team and starting from beginning to end. Since I have no SP and most of the times solid SP are available late round 1. I might break my rule of not drafting a SP in round one or I might move back to get another pick.. Cabrera will be moved as I don't need 2 SS. I hope to get a 4th for him.. So with 2010 closed. Lets begin preparing for 2011.. I have to defend my championship. This could be my last streak and have to rebuild for 2012..

2010 Draft Reflection

2010-02-06T20:18:00.003-05:00

The goal every year is to set my team up for the next 2 years. The winter meetings was almost a complete Our plan every year is to move contracts to extend our new contract for years 2011-12.. During meetings we veered away with the opportunity to grab 2 guys in the top 20. It cost our 1st which is a NEW 3 year but lucky we were able to trade back into the first.. My contracts I will assign this year will not be my best and might hurt me if I dont make moves during the year..

1.15 Carlos Lee OF HOU I love this pick. In fact I didnt have him on my list. I expected him gone. My 1st round list was Butler first then Haren and finally last Roberts.. Lee at the ripe age of 32 will get a 3 year. i guess people thought he was older. Why not take 1 300 28 100 season at the end of round 1.. He will get a 3 year

3.4 Andrew Bailey Rp OAK This was the hardest pick to make. One I wish i could switch but I took what I felt was the top Closer on the board. His skills are so dominating EVERY forecaster has him doing VERY well. It's not IF its when he will be lights out.. He's in line for a 2.

3.11 Asdrubal Cabrera 2B/SS CLE I wanted Cabrera all a long but my plan was to take him at 4.1. I was forced to move up and take him as I was looking for Wandy or Lackey.. He will give me either the 1-2 for the Indians or the 2-3.. Rither way having the combo is nice. I will enjoy the double steals they will do together with Sizemore. He will get a 2 year..

4.1 Jose Valverde RP DET Tough choice here.. The best value was catcher and SS and OF and I needed none of those. So I decided to grab another elite closer. Especially since I was not picking until end of round 5. Turns out it was a good decision. I will probably give him a 2 year..

5.11 Todd Helton 1B COL Here is a former elite 1B. His stock took a hit with a bad back but he still can hit for a high BA and drive in decent runs.. His one stat the most valuable which is BB. he will give me 90 BB. under-rated in our draft cause most dont think of that 6th stat..

6.11 Jeff Niemann SP TAM I think this was my worst pick. I went on a solid rookie season but some regression is in store. Should still give me a solid low 4's ERA and decent WHIP..

7.11 Chad Qualls RP ARI This pick came because he was the best available at that spot. I [icked 4 spots later but I had a feeling they were looking closer and they were. Qualls was the last questionable closer. having 3 is always good in a long season..

7.15 Cody Ross OF FLA under-rated OF. Solid 260 24 90 OF. I think most overlooked him because he plays for the Marlins.. Yet as a 6th OF can't go wrong.

8.11 Matt Thornton RP CHW With my team pretty much set except for SP and RP. We grab an elite MR. One that will give me a ton of K's and holds..

10.11 Juan Pierre OF CHW Here is one of my steals. I think most looked at him with last years part time stats and thought he didnt have a full time job.. Well he does and will run.. Not out of the question to see a 300 90 0 40 45SB. Not bad as a 10th rounder and 7th OF..

11.11 Bronson Arroyo SP CIN A decent SP. Seems like most of my SP are decent but not great since I am going to rely on my RP to carry the stats.

12.11 Carlos Delgado 1B FA Carlos was a gamble here. He was left for dead many rounds. Took a shot at a guy who could help at 1B or DH of the need arises. if not I lost a 12th round pick..

14.11 Sergio Romo RP SFG Continued with my theme of K RP and solid ERA/WHIP guys. Sergio will give me more then 1K per IP. Plus a decent amount of holds..

15.11 Kevin Gregg RP TOR Here is another steal. Now signed a decent contract with the Jays falls right in front for saves. A 4th possible closer in round 15!!!

16.11 Shaun Marcum SP TOR This guy was becoming a solid SP when he was hurt. Now back 100% might roound out my rotation having a diamond in teh rough..

17.11 Ian Kenndy SP ARI Another risky SP. Will be given a shot to start and has a very good skill set..

18.11 Aroldis Chapman SP CIN A lefty that can throw 100MPH is rare. He might start off in the minors but his stuff is electric.

19.11 Luis Castillo 2B NYM he fell to far in the draft. Came off a decent season will give me a back up at 2B. Since Cabrera also plays SS I have him for there.

20.11 Jim Thome DH MIN I am hoping that the reports of him really going to be the starting DH will give me a guy who hits 20+ HR's in round 20...

21.11 Scot Shields RP ANA here is another injury plagued RP. used to be elite until his knee problems. Now 100% will assume his 8th innnig duties..

25.9 Kelly Shoppach C TAM He could have his first full time gig if he wins it out of spring training.. If not just another WW material..

eMLB 2010 Round 1 Draft

2010-01-25T12:41:00.003-05:00

Well the 1st round went pretty much as expected. Looking like a lot of owners using the ADP from MDC to help.. I really can't say there were any bonehead picks. I only see a few that IMO were reaches. Forst was Adam Jones. I like his potential nut not ready yet.. I also think Butler was a 2nd rounder but I would have thought about taking him.. Roberts lasted as long as people thought but I had him 3rd on my list. I ended up with good value in Carlos Lee. Guy is 32 years old and slipped due to people making him old already.. Can't get much more consistant then him. 300 hitter.. 25+ HR and 100+ RBI. Even as my DH is solid..

mets now don't pick until round 3. While OF now not an issue we can focus on RP/2B/3B/Sp.. Look for one of these areas to be addressed..

New Jersey's Mock Draft

2010-01-18T18:36:00.003-05:00

Yes I will put my .02 into this years draft.... As we all know it is very hard to predict a draft like this due to the variables in the keepers..

1.1 Wisconsin Brewers (AKA Red Necks) - 3B Evan Longoria Justin has a pretty easy pick here. Had Longoria in past and still needs a 3B. This is probably one of the easiest picks to predict. Even a Red Neck could do this. :)

1.2 Julian Javelina - 1B Joey Votto Hoyle has been active in the meetings. Having a 2011 plan and it will make him a lot better then but hurt this year. Team still looking to move a few more guys to get ready for draft. That being said Votto is going to be a fine replacement for Gonzalez.

1.3 Michigan Miracles - 2B Ian Kinsler This is a perfect spot for Miracles. They will select the top 2B in the draft. Solid pick to add with Alexei who they got in the meetings.. Now if they can off a contract or 3. They should be in better shape.

1.4 Carolina Yankees - 2B Brandon Phillips I bet Carolina was hoping Kinsler will fall but you can't complain about Phillips. I thought he ahd him before also.. Solid 2B and the next best hitter in the draft. Would be nice to see Carolina trim some fat before end of meetings though..

1.5 South Texas Heat - 1B/3B Kevin Youkilis Berg gets the guy he was looking for in the draft and will give him the opportunity to move Wright or Davis now if he wants.. Team is in need of a solid SP as you can not trust Kazmir. Hurt all the time and what role will Morrow play??

1.6 Dallas Redbirds - SP Zack Greinke Doyel moved Webb for 2 reasons. First was the worry about the arm and the second was cause he knew he could get a stud SP. Look for a 3 year on him..

1.7 Springfield Flying Squirrels of Republic - 3B Ryan Zimmerman They could go in a few directions here. The best SP available is King Felix but something tells me he is going to go hitter and with that said look for him to take the best 3B left in Zimmerman.

1.8 Mid Michigan Tigers - OF Andre Either This is a good pick here. He needs an OF.. and Either is still getting better every year. had Ichiro but I cant see Keith taking him..

1.9 Encinitas Beach Bums - SP Felix Hernandez Team is in bad shape and needs to turn it around. Look for Darrent to lock up the best SP in the draft especially this far back. His only downfall is injury concerns.

1.10 Rochester Red Sox - OF Adam Jones Rochester has said he wants to get younger. Well jones is a nice addition. He will provide 20+ power and maybe 15SB.. Might be a 3 year guy here..

1.11 Wisconsin Brewers - OF Bobby Abreu This pick has Storlie all over him. A solid 5x5 guy and will help in all areas. Question is will he put a 3 year on this aging wonder??

1.12 San Antonio Fire Ants - RP Jonathan Papelbon Of the players left non is needed by this team. If I was him i would move back some. Yet its hard to argue about getting the top RP in the draft... Will help this team in the long run.

1.13 Olivet Killer Eagles - OF Carlos Lee This is a perfect fit for him. He had him the last few years and even though hes coming down from elite having only 1 OF and Beltran probably out first month a solid OF is needed. Look for Larry to role dice with 3 year..

1.14 Julian Javelina - SP Dan Haren hoyle is trying to move Slowey now and my thinking is he is hoping to nab a top SP with this late pick. He looks to have done it and making those trade pay off big time. Look for his 2nd 3 year to be filled here..

1.15 New Jersey Mets - TBD Will not show my hand here as I have too many in front..

1.16 ES Blacksox - 1B Billy Butler This pick has his name all over. ES not afraid to take a young one early and slap 3 year on him.. Nothing wrong here though... Will give him a well needed 1B..

Well there is my current Mock..

Back in Round 1

2010-01-17T11:41:00.002-05:00

Well The Mets moved back into round 1 because of the growing concern they were not going to get any of their targets at the 2.11 spot. The deal took a bit from the Reyes/Sizemore trade. It essentially moved it from a 4th to a 7th rounder. We still feel we ended up ahead cause the players between 4 and 7 are a lot closer then between 1 and 2. This has historically been the case. Even with this draft weak.. Now Wagner needed to fill different holes and this helps him as the players he is looking at wouldnt be 1st round material.. Mets say they are not done. We have to move Ryan before the draft and might even consider taking a contract back..

Winter Meetings around the corner

2010-01-14T08:00:00.003-05:00

Well we are a few days from the official start to the winter meetings and it looks like a lot of buzz going around the league. The normal active guys are trying to make moves. I am not sure how many have made moves but I believe most are in a holding pattern until they can offically make moves. I myself still have a few deals on the table with discussions. I will try and break down teams outlooks and needs for the Winter Meetings and their chances of making a run. I will do this by the list on eMLB so its not a rankings.. You will see who is active in the league and who isn't.

Carolina Yankees

If you look at this teams history you see a team that doesn't make many moves to improve themselves each offseason. How do you know? Well the pattern of Lottery to consolidatio to championship playoffs is a pattern based on drafting lower. I bet you can guess where they will finish this year?? Yet they do have a nice list of keepers minus Zambrano and Maybin. Team has an open 5 year slot and might use it this year. Not sure Zimmerman or Votto is 5 year worthy. Yet looks like 3B is the targeted position and will get a fine one for at least a 3 year. Given the teams number of expiring contracts and only 2 players set to return 2011 He will need to make some moves this year and move a few expiring contracts for picks if he wants to be competitive..

Dallas Redbirds

Here is another team like Carolina. They allow the system to move their team. History says this will be a playoff team this year but just as Carolina has done they are left with 2 contracts in 2011 and without any moves they are not going to have much returning.. Right now 7 open slots which is 2 extensions. They have a decent amount of keepers and should be able to make a run this year and once again fall apart next year due to the lack of depth. This offseason I would move Cano and Webb and Price. Get the picks even if its later there are good 2 year keepers usually through round 6.. Look at Sandavol last year??

Encinitas Beach Bums

Darren has typically been less then active in the years and once again it shows in results. The team has bounced from lottery to playoffs for the last 6 years. Well given last years standings they are in for a lottery pick next year.. With only 4 under contract and 3 returning they are kind of stuck moving players. I might be willing to move Nolasco to acquire another pick for the 2012 season to break the cycle. Maybe acquire another contract that is through 2011. He won't need to use all 3 3year contract spots in the draft as there won't be that many worthy. Given their draft spot it might beneift them to move back and get anothe rlower pick to help fill those contract spots.

ES Blacksox

ES Finally put a team to win it all last year and they are in decent shape to make a run again but given lack of 2011 contracts and a bad draft spot being last their future looks bleak. If they don't make a move in the meetings I think they could make a run but that would end this year. Their 3 year pattern is just like the previous teams. This should be a consolation playoffs this year. Maure and Padroia return in 2011 but thats it. Given this teams draft spot and lack of kept positions I would move 1 if not 2 OF positions for either a player in another position or draft picks. I would also consider moving Hamels for a pick/player. If they want a pick Upton might not fetch a really low pick due to expiring but something is better then nothing.

Gaylord Dingers

Wagner made some moves in the offseason to make another run and it cost him future. Minus Martin he has decent keepers and a well rounded team going into meetings. He has a lot of open spots and 3 coming back for sure. I would consider adding a contracted SP for a mid pick to help give this team another shot. I would also consider moving out of the first to get more picks to fill some of thise 2 year slots cause after the 6th round it's rare to keep a player. No team should be set with what they have and should be always trying to improve if an opportunity arrives. If Wagner makes the right moves they can make another run but it will cost them at least next year.. Which way they choose??

Julian Javelina

Hoyle is a talker in the league he likes to try and make moves I guess he makes the wrong ones cause other then one year it working out they have sat in the lottery every year. They have a lot of contracts going into this year and only 3 retunring for 2011. With 1 3year slot open they have little chance to change their future unless moves are made. Talking with Hoyle he will make those moves. I don't think they currently are in good shape to make a run though they have a lot of contracts the quality of them are not great. With that being said I would move Adrian Gonzalez/Eric Byrnes (Give a Pick)/Gallardo/Slowey/ At least for picks. If he moves enough it might give this team a solid future for at least the next 2 years... If not I see another bad season on the horizon..

Michigan Miracles

Michigan now retired can focus 100% on his team and he needs too. Since taking over he has finished in lottery 2 years and made consolation playoffs once. He has a lot of keepers and one would think a run is possible. Yet I see a lot of improvement for this team to make. 3 contracts back in 2011. Carpenter is stuck with extension.. I would try to move all of his 2 year guys if possible. Getting a decent draft pick for Vazquez. A good trading partner would be Gaylord in the need of a solid SP. Keep his 3 year guys are 3 open spots enough. He might get 2 players from it.. I would also look into moving back a half a round if he can get another lower pick. If not he will be taking the best 3B left..

Mid Michigan Tigers

Keith has't been a very active owner in trades but has done enough every year in the draft to keep his team in mediocre land. Last year I saw them as the top team in the league going into the season.. What happened?? A few disappointments but they make a lot of trades until deadline and it wasn't enough to save them.. Team looks pretty solid going into this year with only 2 returning contracts in 2011. 7 open spots and 2 extensions will give them 4 and most likely Lee and ??? I would give Hardy away and Burrell if I could to open a few slots. Even if I take basically nothing. I would also consider moving one of their 3 pitchers. To get another draft pick or acquiring a 3 year that expires in 2011. They also might consider moving back to get more talent early on. If not i see another mediocre year in store..

New Jersey Mets

Don't need to show my plans but you all know what I do every year to keep my team up there. Sometimes its moving players for picks. Sometimes its moving players for players.. Sometimes its movin picks for players. It all depends on what my current and future needs are..

North Texas

Adrian made an all or nothing run last year and it didn't work out. if pattern holds true and they stand pat a lottery is possible for this team in 2011. Now left with 1 contract after this year.. With this team currently having virtually nothing for next year I would consider moving a pick for a player that is kept until 2011. That would mean adding another 3 year. At the very least also add another 2 year contract if they want to be competitive. History tells us that you can get better talent acquiring player who have contracts due to them not being worth as much.. They have all contracts available even if they sign 6 they can extend 3. That means they could get 2 players currently under contract and extended for next year.

Olivet Killer Eagles

Larry hasn't been as active as he was in the past. Life gets in the way and I bet he has hands full with 2 kids. I know what that is like. He has 9 open spots going into meetings and they are not bad. Has 2 open 3 year slots but might have a problem filling them. I might consider possibly trying to move his 2nd round pick to a late 1st or early 2nd to secure 2 keepers at 3 years. I would also consider moving Edwin for a late pick or looking to acquire another 2 year contract either an INF or OF position. If the team stays put this looks like a Mediocre year for them.

Rochester Red Sox

First year team here so pattern doesnt work for them. They took over another team in medoicre land. They were not very active but like Keith could draft decent enough to keep them in playoff hunt every year but falling short. Team has been linked to deals already and more talked about but unloading dead contracts in Carrasco/Aviles is a must if this team wants to make 2011 a playoff run. Right now they have 6 decent contracts going into year. Given where this team sits I would look to acquire another 3 year contract expiring in 2011. Will cost them a early pick but they will get slightly better player then in draft. Other then that they are pretty set. Lets see how he drafts...

San Antonio Fire Ants

Here is another new owner. This team has had 4 owners. Most of any team. The last one did a decent job cause he was active. Yet left a team in need of contract relief. They have 5 slots open and must remove a few to give them any shot at 2011. Currently only Santana coming back and with only 1 extension available this isnt looking good. I would move whoever I could. At least 3 contracts. The better the players teh better the picks. With that said some main guys I would move would be Lopez/Damon/Tulowitzki. Currently they will need some help to make it in the playoffs this year and next is looking very bleak..

South Texas Heat

berg is very active in trade talks and it shows with his constant playoff pushes. He make moves to free up space and add when wants to make a run. They have 7 open spots and that will net them 2 extensions. 4 keepers for 2011 plus 2 extensions which isn't bad. Still with that I would move a 3 year and a 2 year for picks. Maybe Davis and I would dump Swisher if I could.. Konerko has been rumored but he won't net much. I see them making a solid run for 2010 and if they play cards right will make another run in 2011.

Flying Squirrels of the Republic

Another new owner here taking over a team that stayed in mediocre land. Team has 8 open slots and needs to open one more to have 3 extensions. They have 2 retunring next year. I man not sure they have the horses in their current spot to make a run this year but I would move 203 expiring contracts for a 3 year that expires in 2011 and picks. Some of the guys I would move Matsuzaka/Young/Fuentes. Doubt people take Francoeur might have to give a pick to get somebody to take him. Being a new owner we wil have to see how active he is.. If he can move enough to make his team competitive.

Wisconsin Brewers

Poor Justin. Made some bad decisions and it keeps biting him in his ass. They have 8 open slots and 4 of them are 3 year ones which isn't good. They need to add a 3 year that is extended through 2011. They have 3 SP and should move one of them for a pick. Possibly getting another OF in the 3 year spot. Moving a SP to fill the pick they are losing to get the 3 year guy would give this team more balance for this year and next. If the holding pattern stays I see another low finish for them. Having only Reyes returning won't be enough.

Well thats my take on the upcoming winter meetings. I hope owners take my advise and make moves to improve. Some need picks. Some need players.. Some need to move back.. All ned to be active...

2010 Offseason Thread

2010-01-07T14:02:00.005-05:00

Well the new year means once again my new run towards an unprecedented 8th playoff appearance. The next closest team has 4 appearances. With only one other team getting to the finals as much as I have and won it equally. The ES Blacksox don't make playoffs often but when they do they make it good. This year started out hot in the off season with one goal in mind. Improve in all areas of my team. We needed to get better keepers because our constant late drafting is hurting every year. So far I have made 3 unofficial trades but they are confirmed and handshake which will be formally announced on the 16th of this month. They include the following..

Storlie and Mets

Jose Reyes and Grady Sizemore and their 4th round pick come to the Mets for Derrek Lee and Hunter Pence and my 1st round pick.

Rochester Sox and Mets

Matt Wieters and Manny Ramirez come to the Mets for Brian McCann and Scott Baker and my 9th round pick.

The last trade was to unload a contract.. Mets moved Alexei Ramirez to Miracles for their 3.4 pick.

I might be making a few more moves but for the most part I accomplished what I was looking to do. That is get premium players...

Those that might be interested in Soriano I am looking for a 2nd round pick. Any other offers need not ask. I don't need to move him...

If somebody wants to take Ryan feel free to get a hold of me he is practically free..

2009-03-09T14:54:00.007-04:00

eMLB’s 2009 Preseason Rankings

Once again I do my preseason rankings. It is based on current teams lineups and baring a major catastrophe I feel most of the playoff teams will make it. As we all know nobody is perfect but I do get most right every year. The difference between teams 2 thru 5 is minor. Any of those teams I could make 2 or 5.

1. Mid-Michigan Tigers I was shocked after looking at his teams current lineup to see that Keith might have finally broken the jinx of making the eMLB playoffs. Yet top to bottom he has the most complete team leading into the season. They will have plenty of power when injury strikes to keep it going. With this group that will happen. Utley/Burrell will lead that department with Ichiro/Win taking the speed. I can see this team winning 5-6 hitting stats a week. That alone will keep him in every week. Pitching has a nice mix of Vets and youth. If I had to find a weakness it’s the closers and depth. Wilson is horrible and Percival we don’t know how long he will last. If he needs to use his depth he might need to trade some contracts to bulk up.

2. South Texas Heat Berg was able to move an expiring contract for another 1st and will help him for the next 3 years. Moving Utley/Dunn hurt overall but long term helped by getting Ramirez/Kazmir for longer. Still even with that he has a well rounded offense. Will need a few guys to rebound or step it up. Davis/Konerko/Hart. The teams weakness on offense will be BA and Speed. Still should lock up 3-4 each week. The SP is the real question mark. 4 of the top 5 SP have injury questions and age. They have 2 elite closers and good setup men for holds. What this team lacks is solid depth. They had Drew to help which is good but then nothing. SP pretty much the same.

3. New Jersey Mets I can’t be top this year. As the Tigers have too much fire power but with the moves I made and the depth I got I will once again make another playoff run. I don’t have any super studs. Most of the time my team doesn’t have that. Yet I don’t have any real weakness positions either. Power is split among the whole team and the same for speed. I could have 6 guys in double digits in SB. The hitting I should win 5 stats a week with only BB my weakness. SP is more solid this year then last. Have 2 ACE SP in Baker and Shields. Danks finally turned corner and will be a decent 3rd. Kershaw and Uehara I am hoping will be ok for back of the rotation fillers at least until Smoltz and Escobar come back. If they do I could have the best rotation in the league. The pen is deep with 3 closers and secured backup men. Should not be an issue all year unlike last season.

4. Olivet Killer Eagles Larry was pretty much AWOL last year but still managed some deadline deals that set him up going into draft. Having a decent draft position helped. Power is not going to be a problem for this team. Like the Mets they have a lot of mid range power. That will help keep this team up near top all year. They are a bit light on SB but nothing that can’t be adjusted if they need to. Outside of Guillen no real depth which is most teams issues. They have a good 1-2-3 punch in SP. C.C/Haren/Billingsley all solid. If Wandy can build and Maine can keep from walking he might have the best staff. The weakness is saves. They have one closer. The setup men will provide enough holds to keep him in contention each weak. The need for a 2nd closer will have to be addressed. The only reason they are not 2nd is BB/Saves/SB. Still they could easily make that up.

5. Julian Javelina Hoyle did a great job setting his team up for one more run. Sacrificing future for that shot might have put him in contention. As he got better value by taking expiring contracts then he would have if he took players in the draft. He has similar issues that olivet has. Power is solid with RUNS/RBI but SB is going to be an issue. Same for BB. No real BA issues and will win that most weeks. Trading for Oswalt will help the youngsters. If Young can bounce back he will be fine with a 1-2-3. Another issue will be Saves. One closer but good setup men. If Glaus comes back strong he might be able to move a player or 2 to get another closer or an SS that will help. That could move them up to winning the division. As it stands now he will be a Wild card.

6. Michigan Miracles Last year I had this team a playoff spot and totally disappointed. Now I don’t have as much high hopes but they are a bubble team right now. Overall the team is decent but need to make some moves to solidify their playoff spot. They have decent power/runs/rbi.. But BA/BB/SB is an area they could improve. Winning 3 stats a week on offense will usually not cut it as you need to rely on a staff and most teams can’t do that. They lack an ACE type player and will hope that staff can keep them in contention for ERA/WHIP. Lack of K’s will prove to be an issue as he uses more SP to offset it. Having 3 possible closers gives him depth and trade bait. The depth isn’t bad and could be used to improve other areas. Look for Renner to be active molding his team.

7. Gaylord Dingers Wagner fell apart last year as predicted. Lack of depth and questionable draft picks set him back. Yet at deadline they made some nice moves to put him back into contention. Once again they struggled in the draft but not as bad as last year. Still the top 3 hitting stats will be fine. SB should be ok as long as Furcal/Crawford return to form. BA could be an issue also. Still most weeks they will in the hitting. Now the reason I don’t have this team in the top 6. SP is all questionable. Not one proven guy to keep them going. Vazquez their top SP will need to return to form he saw once since his Expos days. I am not a believer. He has one closer and a shaky one. They can some how stabilize their staff and pen they could once again visit the playoffs.

8. Knoxville Possums I say it every year but if this was a dynasty league Pat would have an awesome team. His draft picks of future studs is on. The problem is theis league is only 2-3 year keeper league and usually he signs a 3 year contract only for them to turn it on at end of contract. Half of his offense is studs. The other is built on guys who miight someday be studs but most likely not now. Still offensively they will be in it every week. The SP on the other hand is one of the leagues worst. All of them have no long term success. Edinson is his best and is a good long term SP. Hopefully not 3 year for his sake. Wood/K-Rod is a nice pair of closers. Yet the setup men are weak for holds. If they can get some their SP to stabilize then they might be able to make a playoff run. Either way they are building a nice team for 2010.

9. Carolina Yankees Some felt Chris was distracted during the draft. I think he might have been a little. While he did a good job of trying to address all areas I don’t think he has enough horses to make a run. Top to bottom offensively he’s not that bad but very little improvement chances. If Wiggy can start and Maybin proves to be starter material this year it might help offensively. No real SB to take that stat every week and one guy to BB plus low BA makes each week a fight. The SP is this teams strength. Halladay/Zambrano anchors this team and if Lirano finally achieves his draft ranking they will be up there for ERA/WHIP/K’s. 2 solid closers and decent setup men finishes off their staff. They will need to make some moves hitting wise if they think they can make a run.

10. Nothside Ballas They did a nice job of addressing the 6 offensive stats but lack the amount of studs to make a playoff run. They have Fielder/Victorino/Youkilis but after that have real question marks. He will be competitive in the offensive stats each week except BB is lite. Look for them to take 4-5 offensive stats every week. Santana anchors this team and if can stay healthy will keep this team in ERA/K’s/WHIP each week. Johnson and Lester will by far help keep that stable. They have 2 closers but both are risky options. If they turn out to be decent and get another bat or 2 they might be able to make playoffs.

11. Dallas Redbirds Well Doyel was able to pull his team out of the lottery area with a decent draft. Addressed the major issues in the power department. Problem was he ignored the SB side. No way Holliday steals even 20 this year and Figgins alone can’t do it cause hes hurt a lot. They have good BB but BA is a major issue. If Pierre finds a fulltime gig he could move up a spot or 2. The SP used to be this teams focus but I think has more question marks this year. Risking Price so early means no real upside for him. Taking him at his high point can only lead to disappointment. Nobody questions his long term but the problem teams have is judging when. Price is a few years from studville. See King Felix. One closer in Bell and needs Ray to take over to get a 2nd. Holds will be issue as we don’t know how that will play out. Still if Doyel can make some moves and some pan out he might make it interesting.

12. Springfield Slammers I first thought this was going to be a playoff team but after I looked closer at them and the other teams I see he has a decent amount of work to do in order to make the playoffs. First needs Posada/Zimmerman/Jeter/Young all to improve back to what they were or should be. If that happens they can be bumped up a lot. Consistent hitting is an issue for them. They also lack another major SB threat after Upton. You can’t win SB on one guy every week. BA will be ok every week and BB is solid. They have a decent staff and K’s will not be an issue. Ok pen in 2 closers and decent setup men. Overall this team isn’t that bad but if they address some of their offensive issues I could see a run.

13. Encinitas Beach Bums Darren one day will put it together but this is another wash year. His top player AROD out until May probably knocked him down further then they should be but after him their offense is avg at best. Will be ok in the Runs/HR/RBI department and as long as Gomez hits he will be in the running for SB each week. No guy to help on the BB side and BA is avg. Team is anchored by Harden but we all know he won’t stay healthy. After Harden is Nolasco and Bedard. If their SP can stay healthy he will be a consolidation team. Locked up the Cubs closer and Francisco should be closing in Texas. Setup is not bad. Hopefully they make some moves to position them for next year.

14. North Texas Rangers Adrian tried to pull a Hoyle in trading his draft picks for better players but he gave more then he got. He has 5 great players on offense but it falls fast after that to the point his team will either be very hot or very cold. Making battles each week very difficult. Top 3 stats will be decent but SB/BA will be issues all year. Beckett his ACE but the rest are shots in the dark. He has 2 closers but setup is weak. No depth makes improvement difficult which is why they are down here.

15 Wisconsin Brewers Storlie will complain about this ranking but I have a hard time seeing how they can make a playoff run. Tea is built around Longoria/Reyes/Sizemore but then what’s left? Reyes and Sizemore will help this team win SB most weeks but they should have another speed guy. BB is below avg and BA is avg. Peavy and Cain anchor this staff and that’s not a bad 1-2 but Parra/Gallaher/Volstad allquestion marks. Most won’t be in the lineup by All Star. Capps is a nice closer and has Ziegler also for now but how long?? Setup ok.. I don’t think Storlie has the current horses now or the depth to make a run. Best bets for them is to make moves at deadline to get some good contracts for next year. Maybe the they make it back to playoffs.

16. ES Black Sox Well somebody has to be last and John by far has the worst team. Just look at the big 3 hitting and you can see that he doesn’t have the horses to compete. Has a few nice hitters but the rest is all avg. He will lose most of the hitting every week. Coles/King Felix lead this team then we have to wonder whats next?? One closer and some decent Setup but unfortunately not enough of a staff to offset the hitting loss. Hopefully John makes the moves to build on 2010.

2009 Mets Winter Meetings

2009-01-11T09:20:00.002-05:00

The start of another season in eMLB. Already getting my draft together I find the team with a few more issues then I like. First moving Furcal for Renteria was a risky move that didnt pan out. Obviously a move I will be careful about next time but with his back issue. I think its for the best I dont have him. As for the rest.. Losing Wright and McCann was big. Both figure to be gone early and most likely will not be back in New Jersey. I am now left with a solid right side of the Infield. Lee and Roberts are near the top at their positions. On the left side all I have is Renteria. I feel confident he will rebound a bit and make a decent option at SS like he was projected last year when he went in round 3. The OF is strong. Hamilton a steal last year is my center part of it. Wells was hurt again and lost track from his MVP start. Should once again begin strong. Hunter Pence did everything I expected of him except for SB.. He hit 25HR and 80+ RBI. I dont think its expecting too much for the same excpet more SB. Jones is a real headcase. Talent but cant focus. Pedro my other bad contract is at the end but is solid for 5 innings. might make an ok 4th or 5th SP. Shields and Danks are top tier and will anchor my staff.

So going into the meetings I am stuck on either letting it play out where I sit or doing what it takes to move up.. I have a little room for error given the quality of the contracts and amount but looking towards future always in my sights as that is what keeps me competitive each season. If I am unable to move up I will most likely move back and try to get more picks or move a few players and work on this year. There is no untouchable player except for the guys I can not move. So have fun contact me with thoughts and ideas and I will see what works.. So far its been light on my side. I think partly because of my dominance over the years. Not many want to trade with me but thats ok. I know how to prepare for draft and that alone will help. Hamilton in round 4 last year is proof of that.

eMLB 2008 Preseason Rankings

2008-02-16T22:55:00.001-05:00

eMLB 2008 Rankings and Previews

Every year I get scrutinized about my rankings.. The difference between playoffs and lottery is minor. I could easily see the 10 seed making it with a few moves off WW. I hope nobody gets offended because it is VERY close. I could see missing 3-4 teams who make playoffs. They always ask why do I put myself near the top?? Well Most wins in the league after 6 seasons. Most playoff appearances then any other team and tied for the most eSeries appearances and titles. Now I might not know the future but I have a pretty good eye for talent and do a lot of research. Sure, I make some picks that have people scratching head but I can say most of the time I am right on my hunches. The rankings below are not to deflate team’s expectations but more or less to let an individual where they could use help and what they did right. Understand I only predict playoffs.. I have been 9 for 12 the last 2 years. Now onto the 2008 rankings.

1. New Jersey Mets

Well did you expect less?? Last years team made the playoffs barely but almost every stud flopped.. Piazza got hurt. Lee never got into full swing. Hafner flopped. Roberts did well along with Wright but Furcal struggled. The OF wasn’t much better with Jones having a career worse year.. Still going into draft, we had solid players all around. We ended up retaking Pence and Jones back. We also added Wells in the offseason and Josh Hamilton as our 4th OF. Pitching is where we got stronger. Took workhorse guys early and High reward guys later. If Pedro and Patterson can stay healthy, watch out. With 3 Closers and 2 stud MR this could be my best team in 7 years. Playoff is a lock again. Health and depth will decide how far..

2. South Texas Heat

Once again, they are 2nd on my list. They had a solid core going into the meetings. First, he traded up to get Braun. Then moved Felix for a 2nd where he grabbed a BETTER SP at the same spot he was given. Acquiring Dye/Maine might be the best move for this year. They should have enough in every category to win most weeks. The only area going into the season is the SP strength. Sure Santana will be solid and Harang will follow suit but they have many question marks three thru five. Pen is decent but not spectacular. SB’s will be on the weak side with Lugo leading the way and Damon is aging. This is an area of improvement opportunity. Still they should walk into the playoffs.

3. Michigan Miracles

When your playing Roto H2H its key that you have a share of all the stats available. Not every week will HR’s carry you. You will need SB’s and Runs to help out on down power weeks. Well here is a team that is just like that. First look doesn’t seem to be solid but they covered all 12 stats to compete each week. No true 40+ HR hitter but if you have 6 guys with 20+ it does the same. SB is a little weak but nothing major. Pitching is solid but not spectacular. Closers might be this teams weak spot. Both guys are 38 or older and the 3rd is a long term question mark due to lack of experience. MR guys are solid and will help out some of the ERA’s of the SP.. Overall, this team has improved each year.

4. Northside TX Ballas

Here is another new owner that has put it together. Had a good draft pick last year and built on it this year. Team will be one of the better run scoring teams. They also have decent power but not top of the line. The weak point of this offense is probably BB and BA. The pitching overall is solid but pitching innings is a real question mark. Nobody threw 200IP for them. Saves are solid. Pitching will be a constant work in progress. Overall, this team will have its solid hitting to keep them in contention each week. If pitching falters they could find themselves them near lottery.

5. Wisconsin Brewers

God please shoot me for this ranking.. Justin is another owner who is finally putting it together. 2 years of solid drafting have done that. Even though he still has the occasional brain fart. IE Longoria.. Overall, with the solid moves during meetings and the good picks he has a solid team. .Runs/SB will be near the leagues elite levels. HR’s are going to be enough most weeks but avg at best. BB is decent and so is BA. Proven innings eaters in the staff and 2 closers even though they are not the most dependable. The room for improvement is SP depth and most likely hitting depth when injuries arise.

6. Julian Javelina

I like the moves Hoyle made. He finally saw the true value in every player instead of the possible upside. That will reward him with consistency. He will be near the top in most offensive stats. Areas of opportunity are going to be SB’s and BB.. Ichiro can’t carry this team and right now he’s looking at 2-3 a week. In addition, BB is very light. One guy had 80 or more BB. In Pitching K’s will be a little light and possibly Saves if Lyon doesn’t do well. Still they have enough depth in hitting to make moves to improve. Those few minor areas are why I do not have this team up at the top of the playoff seeding.

7. N. W. Lansing Eagles

This team fell apart last year by not being around much. Yet they became active just before the meetings and came up with a solid plan. They should be able to use this draft to make them a solid playoff team next season. Even with that I see them on the verge of making it this year. As far as hitting goes SB and BB is very light. Runs is also an area I see is in the bottom half of the league. Nice 1-2 punch with Cain and CC. If the young SP Billingsley and the Jap pitcher Kuroda can step it up they will be tough there.. The pen is a little iffy and probably why they are just outside of the playoff spots. Still plenty of time to fix what they need to in order to move up to the top 6.

8. Knoxville Possums

I like this team overall. They have done a nice job of contracts last year and filling the holes this year. Yet they missed a few areas which kept them out of the top 6. Runs and SB will be close to the leagues best. HR’s are solid. RBI’s are ok and, BA could be the leagues best. BB is very weak. The main issue I have with them is SP.. Not too many proven guys. This could be an issue with Wins/ERA/WHIP all year. Saves should be decent and Holds might be weak. If they can make a few moves on their pitching they might be close to a playoff spot. Hitting will keep them near 500 all year at least.

9. Encinitas Beach Bums

Here is another team that followed the mold of hitting first and pitching is 2nd. They should win most offensive stats every week. The weakest hole I see on this team hitting wise is BB and BA. Where this team’s weak points are is SP. That staff is very shaky at best and will be constant work all year long. They now have one closer but that could change every week. Decent holds will help. Still until they get balance, he will be fighting a .500 battle all year. If some of his later round hitters pan out maybe he can get a few more pitchers. At some point, I feel he will have to make a decision to commit to this year or next. I feel it will be the latter.

10. North Texas Rangers

I like what this team did overall to position themselves but trading rounds 2-4 will come back to haunt him. Yes he got solid players but unfortunately you need 20 starts every week to win. He has some great players but then it drops fast. HR’s is this team’s strength but the rest of his offense is average at best. Adrian’s pitching is like his hitting. He has 2 elite SP but then it drops off to 5 ERA guys. What is the purpose of having elite SP for 1-2 if the rest of your staff is question marks. They throw 8 shutout innings and then Millwood gives up 5 runs how does that help?? One Closer and One stud MR. I know they like their team but I think next year is this teams playoff chances.

11. Gaylord Dingers

Wagner had a game plan to work towards next year but not sure, he did a great job of that. He got his team in position to have more picks and more open contracts but not sure he executed his plan well. He seemed more focused on position then drafting best available. I think he secretly didn’t want to punt this year. This went against his drafting strategy he had in years past. He will have a solid power team and SB’s will be decent. BB isn’t very deep. Yet splitting 3 of the 6 stats isn’t that bad. The problem is pitching. He obviously was not concerned with them. He has 4 guys who threw for more then 100 innings and 2 of them not really well. No closer and K’s will be an issue. Still will be interesting to see his moves as he positions himself for next year.

12. Springfield Slammers

Here is a team going backwards. Will have decent runs/HR/RBI production every week but virtually no SB/BB guys. They could be at the bottom of the barrel. When you trade your 1st and then draft 3 pitchers in your next 3 rounds if hurts your hitting depth. So what we have here is a mediocre team because of it. Most of the pitching stats could be an issue especially if his young guys don’t step it up.. This could be one of the leagues worst ERA/WHIP teams. One closer right now doesn’t help his cause K’s should be ok. I see a lot of work to make this year work but more likely a build to next year could put them back up into contention.

13. Carolina Yankees

Last years winner took a huge step back. Mainly because he lost a lot of his contracts. Its not so much that this is team is really bad its more the fact he doesn’t do anything really well. That mediocre stats will keep him in fights every week but falling just short. This can get very frustrating. SP is built the same way as hitting. Wins are pretty good but K’s are weak and 1 closer won’t help much. ERA/WHIP should be competitive most weeks. I can see this team making moves at deadline to improve their position for next year run.

14. Mid Michigan Tigers

I like Keith’s Runs/HR/RBI stats. If this team could be based on them he’s a playoff team. Yet unfortunately there are 3 more offensive stats and besides Burrell’s BB the team is VERY weak on SB/BB. BA isn’t bad and should be in the leagues top half. Now we get to the part why they are in lottery area. They have guys with innings and Wins could be this teams bight spot. Not one legit K SP will hurt K’s. He has one Closer currently and no elite MR guy. ERA and WHIP are average at best. The draft didn’t help his long term unless Hardy returns to pre all star 07. Hopefully Keith stays active and makes some moves to prepare for 09.

15. Dallas Redbirds

I don’t really make any rankings based on how moronic the owners are. Yet Doyel still baffles me in how thinks he drafts a good team. Sure he was fortunate last year and basically handed Carolina an easy championship but I don’t see lightning striking twice. He will be active and sure find some diamonds by getting lucky but still that shouldn’t be enough to get him into the playoffs. He has ok runs but power is the leagues worst. Top RBI guy last year was 82. His speed in Crawford and Pierre who might not start. At least he has Cust. He will provide his BB. 2 guys who hit above 300. With his pitching which is this teams strong side. Solid innings and wins. No closer. Good MR and ERA/WHIP will be all over. The only thing Doyel has coming back for 09 is what he signs this year. Maybe he signs the right guys but I can tell you it won’t be much hitting.. At least good hitting.

16. ES Blackksox

Somebody has to be last I know. I am sure others see it but outside of Pena’s breakout year what else does this team have offensively? Most of the offensive stats will be at or near the leagues bottom. Could they improve?? Sure that’s why we play the games. If I had a crystal ball nobody would try after the overall winner. They will have Mauer back next year and hopefully Gordon takes a step forward. With the drafting heavy pitching early and then taking hitters with no power later it doesn’t bold well to next year. But this teams strength is its SP. He could very will move up a few spots with just them alone but unfortunately winning 3-5 games a week will not cut it.. The best this team could do is take 1-2 of his elite SP and trade them for hitters that would really improve his long term. Wonder if he will make any moves to do that??

2007-03-07T17:07:00.000-05:00

eMLB 2007 Team Previews and Rankings

Well seems to be a yearly event where I go down and rank the teams 1-18. Last year I got 5 of the 6 playoff teams correct. Using the 12 categories, we have in eMLB. Obviously, I am unable to predict injuries or moves teams make for better or worse but for the most part teams are consistent. Will some heed my early year warnings?? Making the moves needed to fix the issues or will I be just that loud mouth know it all that people resist?? It’s baseball season. The weather is starting to warm up.. Teams have already made their moves and drafted their team. Now comes the long journey and ever changing of a team to improve. This year is the tightest year yet. I am having a hard time separating the top tier from bottom. I see 8 teams that could easily make playoffs and another 2-3 that are a few moves from moving up to the elite. I doubt we see any record breaking wins.. Though losses is a different story. Bice will challenge that I think.

1. New Jersey Mets

I can hear the talk now. Reynolds picked himself 1st what a shock. Still when you incorporate the 12 stats we use I don’t have one hole as of this moment. That of course could change due to injury. I do have a lot of high risk/reward pitching. Yet my hitting is at the top of the league. Only 1 other have amassed a hitting lineup like mine and he will be #2. Coming into the draft I made moves to set myself up for max contracts and POWER.. Possibly 3 guys with 40+ power. 5 more with 20+ capability. 5 guys expected to have 100+ Runs and 4 with 100+ RBI’s. Plus add the speed of Furcal/Roberts/Wright. The pitching is the ?? Each SP is a power SP and K’s shouldn’t be an issue any given week. The teams weakness is Health as all are injury question marks. Plus my 2 closers are coming back from major injury. Still if chips fall in line an Eastern title is a lock and should be deep in the playoffs.

2. South Texas Heat

This team is only a notch behind mine. The reason is SB and a little bit lesser in the SP area. His top 3 hitting categories are almost identical. BB are close and so is BA. He Should be top 5 in almost every offensive category. SP will need to step up especially in September when most young guys tire. 4 of his 5 starters are very young and only 1 has 200IP experience. This will be a constant fixing area. The pen looks stable. Gordon and Ray should do well as long as injuries don’t happen. With Gordon that will be once again the issue. As it was last year. Solid setup men will help keep those SP in line. Overall the team should win the Central. Could very well be a World Series finalist?

3. Encinitas Beach Bums

Bums have finally molded a World Series contender. They are reaching for their 1st division pennant. With some moves later in the season, this team should be up there all year. They have a solid dependable offense. Weakness is speed. An issue they don’t have to correct but might look to. Still a good shot at winning offense 4 of the 6 stats every week. SP will be good enough to get by. K’s are a bit weak but having a solid pen will help there and keep ERA/WHIP in line. Overall, I think they can win the West but will need to make moves late in the year to get some speed.

4. North Texas Rangers

A vastly improved team.. Finally the West coasters are catching up with the rest. They are producing a few teams that could contend for the league title. A nice combo of youth and vets will keep them in contention for the #1 spot. Howard helped this team move way up. Solid RUN/HR/RBI guys. Only 1 guy with BB will hurt and ok speed. Team as very questionable SP.. ERA/WHIP struggles will force them to make a move to acquire SP. A Solid pen. Should win Holds/saves most weeks. K’s is another issue. Still they have a shot to win the West title if they stay active and make the moves to improve them. Past history team has been afraid to make a move unless out of the playoff hunt. Will they change that this year??

5. Gaylord Dingers

Last years champ made some moves but more or less tried to position for next year. Only thing is he took a slight step back in doing so. Trading some valuable power and the need for speed cost him a little. Manny and Thome should help lead the offensive stats and Ichiro will keep them in SB contention but against teams with some speed he will lose that most weeks. Pitching is very young except for Mussina. 1 solid closer and Borowski who I feel will not hold job. Overall, this team should be in the playoffs but they have very little room for error. They are by far a weak team then in previous year.

6. Springfield Slammers

They made strides last year by making it into the playoff rounds for the first time in team history. With a few more off season moves and a solid draft, they will make another run at the playoffs. Still 1 slip or major injury and this team drops to the outside. They are 6th due to power.. Each week they hang on Soriano and Ramirez. After them, they don’t have a guy with 20+ HR power in the lineup. Solid Speed and will win that most weeks. BA is very good too. Their SP kept them in the playoff hunt. All have proved themselves though Hernandez won’t last all year. Pen is solid. Saves and holds every week and K’s are good most weeks. Team’s weakness is depth and will be an issue but if they stay ahead of the curve, they will once again take a shot at a title.

7. Julian Javelina (Formally Pacific Bombers)

Hoyle moved his team in hopes it will change his teams fortune. Yet the name change didn’t do it. It was the right moves and contracts. The once star eyed owner who reached for youth and usually over estimated their production finally draft the right combo to make them a contender. Will this be their 1st winning season? He will have a shot to beat out fellow friend in North Texas. This is a battle that surely to go down to the wire. Team is built around many avg guys. Another team without 40+ HR power but a bunch of 20-30 guys will keep him in the running for the offensive stats. Like a few others not 1 legit SB guy and Cameron their leading SB guy. Very weak on BB too.. That is probably only it for keeping them in the top 6. Pitching is solid and the steal of Santana will stable it. K’s and holds will be solid but another closer will have to be added. This team could win the West with a few moves and I can bet they will be worked on. Hoyle wants to shed the hardest working owner without a winning season monkey.

8. Michigan Miracles

Last years last place team made a HUGE jump. You can thank the #1 spot and a very deep draft along with a solid draft strategy without reaching too far. Last, years contract mistakes are going to haunt him this year. Players he assigned last year taking up valuable future but I guess that is a learning experience. Even with that, they have 4 30+ HR guys and solid RUNS/RBI guys. Tavares should keep him in the SB most weeks except against the better teams. BA will be a little of an issue. Since most do not hit 300 or better. SP is slightly above avg. he K’s are good and so are holds but Saves will be an ongoing issue. Even is Gagne lasts all year Weathers won’t. Still if they can make a few moves, a playoff shot isn’t out of the question but next year is looking bright for this team.

9. Olivet Eagle Killers

It’s a good thing Larry had a solid team prior to draft. As he was not around much for the draft and let his team slip. Still he can move up into the playoff spots if he takes advantage of the other owner’s mistakes. He might not have any 40+ HR power but 3 people should be 30+ and a number of 20+ ones. Speed will be an issue without a legit SB guy and inconsistency will get frustrating. BA is going to be one of the leagues best. BB will struggle. Still offensively, a split is possible against the better teams. SP is going to be an issue with Wakefield/Maine/Williams/Davis. K’s will be tough. No save guys and not a good group of MR. If it wasn’t for their offense, they would be further down.

10. Carolina Yankees

Carolina has been improving each year since 2004. Yet even with that, I feel they slipped a bit. They lost too many too FA combined with a less then stellar draft will keep them down this year. Team has 2 legit offensive threats and a ton of speed. Offense isn’t terrible and it will carry them most weeks. BA might struggle a bit. Teams major concern is pitching. This staff could get very ugly. They will struggle with ERA/WHIP and K’s are not that strong. . Currently 1 closer and their top setup guy already injured. If this team can correct the pitching some how they might make the playoffs but I think that is a long shot. Since it would take a few guys to do that and they don’t have the depth.

11. Knoxville Possums

Here is a team looking for their 1st post season and has slightly improved last few years. Yet their keepers were not very deep and will hold them back another year. Team did a very good job of drafting but when you start with almost nothing it’s hard to make a contender drafting late. Still this team has a promising upside for this year and even more next. Runs will be solid each week but HR’s and RBI’s might be an issue vs. the top half of the league. Ramirez gives them their only SB threat that is different then years past. Since that was a stat, they usually dominated. BB is also weak. Decent SP nothing really great and only 1 closer since Wainwright looks to be in the rotation. I like this team’s chance at winning consolidation round and another solid draft in 2008 could make them a contender.

12. Dallas Redbirds

Doyle still doesn’t do the homework needed to make his team a legit contender. Yes, he’s made the playoffs 3 times in 5 years but 2 of those were by a handful of games. Still the league is getting smarter and we all need to study in order to contend. This year once again didn’t and it shows. The big 3 stats will be a concern. RUNS/HR/RBI. 1 guy with 30+ HR power. Nobody who will have a lot of walks.. They have decent speed and BA. Staff is ok and K’s will be good. ERA/WHIP might struggle and only 1 closer. Team had a good draft spot and didn’t improve for future. Will be interesting to see what direction this team goes in during the year. Will they beef up for a run at consolidation round or dump guys for future?? I bet it will be the latter. Look for them to be a lottery team in the end.

13. Wisconsin Brewers

Justin is going to be mad at this ranking but unfortunately, he had nothing to start and can’t make it up in one year. Still he drafted with a promising future if he assigns solid contracts. Using a solid draft spot and once again drafting decent he might make a playoff run next year. He has ok power with Giambi and Fielder. Speed is ok but BB and BA is weak. Staff has question marks but Webb will help. He has only 1 legit closer as of right now.. Either way this team is a work in progress and if they can achieve .500 they should count this as an improvement as they haven’t had that since 2003.

14. Nor Cal Sluggers

Another team stuck in mediocre land. 3 guys with 30+ HR potential but then it drops off fast. BB will be a concern but solid speed. BA will struggle too. It seems like they draft the same way each year. Draft for pitching first and hitting 2nd. In 5 years it got him 2 playoff shots and 2 early round exits. Now they have a decent SP staff except for Morris. Stuck with 1 closer might be a problem. Weak holds guys won’t help there. Looking at this team from top to bottom a .500 season is a possibility but that is a reach. In this league, .500 gets you nothing.

15. Mid-Michigan Tigers

Keith has been the highest winning team to not make the playoffs but unfortunately, they are not improving. A draft deep in talent and hitting they failed to acquire the talent to improve them for 2008 and I am afraid will be a lottery team next year. They have possibly 1 40HR hitter and a few in the 20’s but that will cost him BA. No legit SB threat and BA will struggle. Walks will also be an issue. When Glaus is your leading candidate you are in trouble. SP won’t be terrible and they have good closers. I ca see them being moved for future. Still there isn’t enough upside for this team to make a significant progress to even make the consolidation round.

16. ES BlackSox

Winners of the West and their 2nd playoff appearance took a major step back. They lost most of their team and started over having a back end pick which hurt. This is what you call rebuilding. They have no power at all. 4 guys who will hit 20+ HR’s and nobody projected to score 100 runs or drive in 100 runs. Not 1 legit SB guy and BA will be only ok. Still there isn’t a lot to get excited about since they moved to the East. K’s will be ok and ERA/WHIP will be in the leagues bottom half. They have 3 closers and I can see them shipping one for future. Either way they are looking towards 2008.

17. Bay Area Big Dawgs

It was another disappointing year for Bay Area. They are still looking for that elusive playoff shot. With one winning season in 3 years, it’s not looking good for this year. Ortiz kept them from possibly being last. Still this team doesn’t have enough around it to even give them a remote shot at the playoffs. Combine that with lack of activity and you get a perennial lottery team. This year is no different. If they assign the proper contracts and avoid the mistake ones they might be able to turn this ship around next year. ERA/WHIP will be ok most weeks and K’s are all right but they only have 1 closer and setup men are weak. I hope that they make a few moves to position themselves for next year.

18. Columbus Stuff

The Stuff conceded 2007 at the end of last year and moved everything they could for a quick improvement. Yet they are left with a team that will struggle.. Outside of McCann and Dice-K his draft was less then adequate for a next year run. Uggla is a real question mark. He outproduced any of his minor years and his second half fell back to reality. I think a 250 20HR year is more his norm. Maybe I am wrong.. Yet I do not see the near term upside I guess Mr. Bice sees. I am glad he is in the East at least.

1st half of the draft so far for the Mets. Through round 19

2007-02-07T12:17:00.000-05:00

Mets front office is pretty happy with the value taken so far. Still room for improvement could have been done.. Mets Seniior Vice President commented " We had a goal in the draft and that was to take value and best available early in the draft. We stuck to our guns but that semi hurt us". The Mets got a ton of value early in the draft but missed out on a quality closer. A hole the Mets will surely fix one way or another but lets review what they have done so far with the team they had before the draft and what they acquired during.

C:Mike Piazza (8th)
1B:Derek Lee (1st)
2B: Brian Roberts (3rd)
3B:David Wright (Keeper)
SS:Rafael Furcal (2nd)
OF:Andruw Jones (Keeper)
OF:Josh Willingham (Keeper)
OF:Mark Teahen (5th)
OF:Chris Young (7th)
DH:Travis Hafner (Keeper)
Bench: Ty Wiggington (10th)
Bench: Luis Castillo (12th)
Bench: Jose Guillen (12th)
Bench: Rondell White (17th)
Bench: Jack Wilson (19th)

SP:Rich Harden (Keeper)
SP:Kelvim Escobar (4th)
SP:AJ Burnett (5th)
SP:John Patterson (6th)
SP: Tom Gorzelanny (13th)
RP:Armando Benitez (8th)
RP:Jason Isringhausen (9th)
RP: Duaner Sanchez (13th)
RP: Michael Wuertz (14th)
RP: Luis Vizcaino (16th)
Bench: SP Adam Loewen (15th)
Bench: RP Bradon Looper (18th)
Bench: SP Scott Baker (20th)
Bench: RP Wes Littleton (21st)

Looking closer at the hitting the Mets have top quality at every position with only gambles in the OF. 3 Guys that could hit 40+ HR's is hard to do in an 18 team league. Willingham and Wright should hit 25-35HR's each.. Piaza set to DH should hit 25+ with 500AB's. Needless to say most weeks HR's/Runs/RBI won't be much of an issue.. Furcal/Roberts will lead my SB group.. 35+ from each.. Add 20 from Wright and possibly new OF Chris Young We should get 5-8SB's in a typical week. Solid BA guys top to bottom.. Most should hit near 300 except for a few like Jones/Young/Willingham/Piazza. The staff built is a huge risk/reward group. They could all have ERA's in the 3's but how many DL stints will they have?? Depth at SP will be another priority during the year. My RP includes Armando Benitez. A Closer with shot knees but still when he is in he will be getting saves. This value first theory hurt in that aspect as Closers have less value then SP or hitters.

Best Pick: Mike Piazza.. Traded up to snag him just before Nor Cal did.. Being in Oakland as a DH and batting 4th. He could revert back to 2001 and 2002 years.. 280 30HR 90RBI.. Pretty scary numbers in round 8 out of your catcher position!!

Worst Pick: Mark Teahen.. Don't get me wrong I love the kid but in round 5 where a quailty guy is critical since he was my #3 OF I am gambling on him I still feel he will be good for 290 25 85 with possibly 10SB.. He is slated to bat 3rd..

What's up next?? Well obviously we need to add some RP.. We also need a 5th SP.. Depth at the OF position is a must.. Multi INF back ups also..

5 Rounds of drafting... Lets see how people are doing.

2007-01-31T07:50:00.000-05:00

Obviously some have more picks then others but I am gauging value of the picks they made not only will they help.. Since this is from my point of view obviously this isn't written in stone. :)

North Texas: C

1st: 1B Ryan Howard
1st: SS Michael Young
3rd: RP Bobby Jenks
4th: SP Josh Beckett

Adrian started out well with Howard. Nice 5 year keeper... Then I am not so sure from there.. Moved up to get a 2nd 1st round pick... Used it on homer pick Michael Young. Not that he is bad but passed on a better SS. Still not horrible.. Round 3 took a closer. Not a fan of a position that changes so much this early. Round 4 took mister inconsistency Josh Beckett. Passed on some really solid dependable starters.. I guess he is hoping he will improve on that 5+ ERA last year.
Overall: Started well but has faded..

Encinitas: B-

1st:3B Alex Rodriguez
2nd:SP Jason Schmidt
3rd:OF Tori Hunter
3rd:OF Michael Cuddyer
4th:SP Mark Buehrle

Bums had a nice spot at #2.. Used it to take mister consistent A-Rod.. Love him there. Traded back to get another pick early.. A little disappointed as the players he hoped didn't slip. Took Jason Schmidt but I think he could have gotten him 2 rounds later.. Homer pick?? Round 3 nabbed Tori Hunter and love this pick.. Great value in the 3rd as I had him going in the 2nd.. Cuddyer was also good but Mark Buehrle was bad. Another who could have waited.. 3 good picks and 2 bad..
Overall: Bums improved their hitting but still don't have the eye for pitching..

Brewers:B+

1st: SS Jose Reyes
2nd: 1B Prince Fielder
3rd: (traded for Giambi)
4th: 3B Joe Crede

Team is getting better at building a team.. Took Reyes in the 1st and somebody to build around for 5 years.. Moved up in round 2 to take Fielder. Can not complain but might be another year from stardom though its coming.. Traded his 3rd round pick for Giambi and got a better hitter then what was their.. Joe Crede was a solid 4th rounder.
Overall: Storlie made some nice moves and he will see the benefit this year. Only reason no A is because I think he reached for Fielder and could have taken Gordon or Teahen to build for future..

Bay Area Dawgs:B-

1st: 1B David Ortiz
2nd: SP Chris Carpenter
3rd: SP Dontrelle Willis
4th: 2B Howie Kendrick
5th: OF Barry Bonds

Am I seeing a trend?? Starts off well and then loses it?? Loved the 1st 2 picks.. Carpenter more then Ortiz since he was supposed to go there. Carpenter fell way too far.. 1st round talent in round 2.. Then not sure why Willis went this early.. Has red flags with his control.. Some think he is going to go through a burnout phase. Kendrick was a good pick.. Solid BA 2B.. Not a lot of pop or speed but should help Runs/BA. Bonds was a homer pick.. Any guy that only plays 3-4 days a week I feel is more of a liability then asset..
Overall: Got good marks from 1st,2nd,4th but flunked 3rd and 5th. Still they might be improving...

Michigan Miracles: A

1st: 1B Mark Teixiera
2nd: OF Vernon Wells
3rd: OF Gary Sheffield
4th: 3B Chipper Jones
5th: SP Rich Hill

Solid picks up and down.. Sheffield I think was a little early but not a big deal given he probably would have gone before he picked again.. Hill could be nice.. A little risk but in round 5 that's not a huge risk.. The only thing I see might be a mistake is future team.. 3 of the 5 will get contracts but he could have drafted to make sure all 5 are worthy.. Sheffield and Jones might not be given their age.
Overall: One of the few teams that get it when it comes to drafting for this league. You need to plan for future but also be realistic for NOW..

pacific Beach Bombers:B-

1st: OF Jason Bay
2nd RP Trevor Hoffman
3rd SP Danny Haren
4th OF Brad Hawpe
5th: DH Frank Thomas
5th: SP Ervin Santana

Pacific feels they had a very good draft and I think they did better then in past years but still a little inconsistency. Bay was a good pick bt pretty much a no brainer.. Hoffman I feel was a reach.. 2nd round in this draft is early for Hoffman. He might have been there in round 4.. He is older and this crowd shuns on the old.. Haren was a great pick in round 3.. Solid future SP.. Hawpe could be a bargin IF he doesn't platoon.. Right now he is set too.. Will be hard to get to 500AB's.. Thomas was draft as a little discount from last year.. Most experts feel he played for a contract and will struggle this year.. I feel same but as a 5th not bad. Santana not a huge fan this year.. Seemed to struggle in the 2nd half.
Overall: Pacific has improved. For a team 4 years in the league now has yet to make a run for the playoffs. I think this year they can get close at least.

South Texas Heat:B+

1st: 2B Chase Utley
2nd: OF Johnny Damon
2nd: OF Adam Dunn
3rd: SP Felix Hernandez
4th: RP Chris Ray
5th: 2B/3B/OF Ryan Freel

Overall Berg did a good job at grabbing value in most rounds. Utley the priemere 2B will be his 5 year.. Damon olrder but very stable. Dunn I think is going to fall on his face this year but Berg liked his power numbers. Will be at a cost. That 225BA will be tough to bring up.. Felix is no question a future star but when?? Some think this year. Some think next.. Still a solid risk/reward pick. Chris Ray in the 4th I don't like.. Had him last year and his K's slipped 2nd half.. warning signs. Still if he is ok he will produce decent saves. Freel is a good back up for 2 INF positions and a viable speed option in the OF.
Overall: Berg did very well only questionable picks were Dunn and Ray but should still put him in position to make a run..

Olivet Killer Eagles:C-

1st: OF Vlad Guerrero
2nd: OF Jermaine Dye
3rd: SP Curt Schilling
4th: SS Orlando Cabrera
5th: C Jorge Posada

I don't understand this team.. They started out drafting VERY well. Took Vlad and that was the best pick for him.. Then took Dye who is in a ontract year in the best park for HR's.. Career numbers??? Then he slid.. Curt Schilling is nice but a little early?? Should have been there in round 4 due to his age.. Cabrera is nothing special and in the 5th there is still guys equal to him.. Posada in the 5th was ok but I can see some better value and there are still 3-4 more catchers close..
Overall: They started out well but slipped fast. Seemed like he was distracted.. Cause the picks looked like they were not reasearched.

Dallas Redbirds:D

1st: OF Carlos Lee
2nd: (Traded for Carlos Zambrano)
3rd: 1B Lyle Overbay
4th: RP Joel Zumaya
5th: Ivan Rodriguez

The 1st pick was good.. Even though I am not a fan of Carlos he will do well in Houston.. Though not sure 40+ HR's as Doyle says is possible He will provide stable stats. Overbay in the 3rd not sure was good. If he produces as he is expected that is great he earned his value but any drop off and there is no profit.. Too much risk and little reward.. The 4th turned bad.. A RP non cluser this early?? WTF do we still have Broskey?? No value here. Not sure he can produce like a closer.. Ivan Rodriguez wasn't bad pick but like with Olivet he could have gotten equal later.. Not hard to find a 300 10HR catcher.. Name alone was a reason for this pick.
Overall: I don't see a lot of upside with this draft so far.. Lee and maybe Overbay will be ok.. That trade for Zambrano will hurt. Even if he does well in round 2 he could of locked up Haren/Sheets/Lackey for 3 more years.. Can you say OUCH!!!!

Nor Cal:B

1st: OF Grady Sizemore
2nd: SP Ben Sheets
3rd: SP Josh Johnson
4th: OF Corey Patterson
5th: OF Ken Griffey JR

Team had some ups and downs in this draft. I love Grady at 10.. Think that's value even in the 1st. A guy that will hit 30-40HR and steal 20-30 bases very soon is gold. Sheets in round 2 was a good pick.. Then not sure what happened in round 3.. Josh Johnson??? Way too early.. Then he rebounded and took Patterson in 4.. Love that pick.. Great value.. Then Griffey in the 5th.. I had at least 10OF ranked much higher.. Johnson and Griffey kept him from an A..
Overall the team did pretty good. I think he will regret taking Johnson that early.. Same with Griffey..

Mid Michigan Tigers:D

1st: SP Roy Oswalt
2nd: SP John Lackey
3rd: RP Takashi Saito
4th: 2B Tadahito Iguchi
5th: OF Jacque Jones

If this team had some sort of offense this draft might not be that bad.. Yet they don't which makes the picks they did a real mistake.. Oswalt was a good pick for them.. They got their ACE but they didn't take the well needed hitter in rounds 2 on up.. I think they got frustrated seeing the hitters targeted leave. Saito is a nice closer but why a 2nd at round 3?? Iguchi not sure why went so early? I have still a few more ahead of him in round 5.. Jones I liked.. Very good pick.. Oswalt and Jones kept him from an F.
Overall: It is going to be a LONG season for Tigers fans.. Some might be storming thee stadium asking for their money back on the season tickets or the GM's head on a plate.. :)

Knoxville Possums:B+

1st: SS Hanley Ramirez
2nd: RP B.J Ryan
3rd: OF Nick Markakis
4th: SPAnibal Sanchez
5th: RP Adam Wainwright

Knoxville has had a solid draft early on.. Ramirez was a solid pick at his spot and should be a 5 year.. BJ Ryan was the best RP on the board and well above any other.. Not a fan of taking that early but at least he is elite. Nick is a good pick. He should have a very good year and might even bat 3rd.. Sanchez I didn't like.. Already reports of arm injury and we haven't started.. I thinkhe would have fallen further as most knew he had an issue.. Wainwright is a good spot to be drafted but why a 2nd so early???
Overall: Team had a decent draft in rounds 1-2-3.. Only thing keeping them from an A was Sanchez could he could end up being a wasted pick..

Springfield Slammers:A

1st: SS Derek Jeter
3rd: 1B Todd Helton
5th: RP Bob Wickman
5th: SP Javier Vazquez

Team didn't have a 2nd and 4th round picks but what he did have he did well.. Jeter a solid 1st rounder.. Helton I had a 2nd rounder and getting him in round 3 is a steal in my opinion. Wickman in the 5th another solid pick.. Then with his 2nd 5th he took Vazquez who dropped too far IMO.. Should help a lot with that value.
Overall: Team did a good job at grabbing value in every round. Another team that stay focused on reality..

ES Blacksox:B-

1st: C Joe Mauer
2nd: OF Jeff Francouer
3rd: SP Erik Bedard
4th: 3B Alex Gordon
5th: 1B Ryan Shealy

Team has done a much better job at drafting future that isn't 2-3 years away.. Mauer in the 1st was a bit of reach. Had him going middle 2nd. Francouer was ok but Hunter by far would have been a better pick.. Bedard was good pick.. Gordon I think was taken in the right spot.. Shealy was a little early but I guess he wanted the 6/7 hitters of KC??
Overall: They have done a better job at reaching for now value over next year or the following. Still they can improve if they don't shun the older players.. :)

Carolina Yankees:B-

1st: OF Bobby Abreu
2nd: SS Felipe Lopez
3rd: SP Chuck James
4th: 3B Morgan Ensberg
5th: SP Tim Hudson

Carolina took a homer pick in round 1 with Abreu but it was teh right pick for them any way. Lopez in round 2 was a bit early in my book but I guess he wanted the speed.. Not a huge difference. James I wasn't a fan of in the 3rd.. Once again teams passed on proven SP for the unknown.. Ensberg was solid at that spot.. IN the 5th Tim Hudson was taken and I think WAY too early.. I had 20 or more SP ahead of him.. Now 2 seasons removed from last solid year.
Overall: Carolina was able to stay focused and picked up solid players to build around. James and Hudson the only real down picks and what kept them from an A..

New Jersey Mets: Not doing my own views since in my eyes I drafted well.. Except for my reach with Teahen..

Columbus Stuff:F

1st: SP Daisuke Matsuzaka
2nd: 2B Dan Uggla
2nd: C Briann McCann
3rd: 1B Scott Thorman
4th: SP Chien-Ming Wang
4th: RP Jonathon Broxton
5th:

Wow where to start.. For 1.. Dice K I think was a round too early.. He might be Santana but why pay for him now??? Uggla I have always been down on look at his minors numbers. 05 he hit 251 16HR 61RBI in almost 500AB's.. Then had last season.. Can you see something wrong here?? How often does a player have better major league years then minors?? Sorry but IMO he is a journeyman 2B.. 250 15-20HR but not 2nd round material.. Paid for 06 not 07.. McCann was his only good value pick.. He went where he should have. Thorman?? I think he would have been there in round 15.. Either way he is 2-3 years from MAJOR impact.. Somebody tell Bice this is a 2-3 year keeper league.. Wang was a bit early.. Paid a lot for wins.. Broxton another MR.. Nice K's but still a MR.. Not even a closer.
Overall: Team reached on almost every pick.. I understand why but I think he inflated their projections more then they will be with the team..

Gaylord:A

2nd: OF Ichiro Suzuki
2nd: SS Carlos Guillen
3rd: 1B Adam LaRoche
4th: SP Mike Mussina
5th:

Gaylord traded back from the 1st to early 2nd to load up on another early pick.. Yet it back fired.. Had a shot at a 5 year and lost it.. Though Ichiro is what they needed and I had him as a late 1st rounder.. Guillen went also where he was supposed to go.. Solid pick there.. LaRoche the best 1B on the board.. Team didn't need him but was able to make room with a trade to get a SP.. Mussina fell a little further maybe due to age. He does have some risk but where he went there is little reason to see it being major.. Overall: Team stayed on course and didn't reach too far.. Will prove to be very vaulable come end of the year..

Derrek Lee Drafted in the 1st..

2007-01-24T18:53:00.000-05:00

The New York Post reports that the Mets have drafted 1B Derrek Lee.. A spokesman from the Mets front office confirmed the drafting of Lee. "We had a tough decision.. Being at the back of the draft we needed to find a gem.. A player that could possibly put up numbers that rival the guys taken in the top 10. We looked at a few at this pick but we knew in order to be competitive in the league year after year you need to plan for your future without risking current. Vernon Wells was the other we kept thinking about..

He had close to the same stats as Lee and was 3 years younger.. That weighted heavy on us. We wanted a 5 year.. Though what made Lee the one we wanted was the possible production". Lee hit 46 HR's in 2005 and we felt a full year now with Soriano he should have 110+ RBI's.. When asked about contract they repiled "We are in the early discussions but a 5 year is a strong possiblity". The Mets last 5 year was Todd Helton who faded into almost nothing. Once a 40+ HR hitter faded into nthing.. We loved having Helton but by years 4 and 5 he was barely worth a 3 year type. Now maybe only 2. Mets hope the same doesn't happen to Lee.

2007 Mock Draft

2007-01-11T09:15:00.000-05:00

I am pretty good at figuring out who will take who based on past tendency's. This is a mock based onthe teams keeping their 1st.

1. North Texas - 1B Ryan Howard Not the #1 pick in my book but probably the best 5 year player so he goes 1. Expect growing pains this year. Teams will be pitching around him and with only Burrell behind him his BB will increase.

2. Encinitas - 3B Alex Rodriquez A more of a sure thing then Howard.. Even bad years he is better then 90% of the league.. A safe pick.

3. Brewers - SS Jose Reyes Best SS in the draft but due to the depth of SS this year not a good pick here.. Still most likely a 5 year guy..

4. Bay Area - 1B David Ortiz The #1 pick in my book but a risky 5 year due to age and of course his weight.. How will Ortiz be in years 4-5? Will his weight effect him like Frank Thomas?? Bay Area will have a tough decision.

5. Michigan - 1B Mark Teixeira A strong bounce back year in store here and at his age will lock a 5 year.. Team needs everything and Mark will provide the big stats...

6. Pacific - OF Jason Bay They are looking to unload Tavaras so they can take Bay.. OF is the pick for them here. Solid 3 year..

7. South Texas - OF Grady Sizemore South Texas likes younger player.. Look at his past drafts.. Vlad is the safer pick but I think Berg looks for the possibility of Sizemore growing past Vlad for the next 3 years.. I bet Berg wishes somebody would take Martinez off his hands.. Martinez a good catcher but not a 5 year guy.

8. Olivet - OF Vlad Guerrero Team I bet is hoping Bay or Sizemore slip by but that won't happen. Vlad is a strong pick here but could be a risky 5 year. Will be a tough decision for Olivet.

9. Dallas - 2B Chase Utley Dallas jumps on the top 2B in the draft and slaps a 5 year on him.. Should be near record runs if he bats 2nd or 3rd this year.

10. Nor Cal> - OF Carlos Lee Here is another safe pick. 300 30 115 and a 5 year contract for this 30 year old.

11. Mid-Michigan - SP Chris Carpenter Team needs an ACE bad. Well I don't see anybody dumb enough to slap a 5 year on a pitcher again but here is the top SP in the draft and safest.. 3 year for sure..

12. Knoxville - SS Derek Jeter Top SS left on the board.. 5 year guy?? Not sure but Knoxville will have to make that decision.

13. Springfield - SS Hanley Ramirez Here is a team not afraid to take a chance. Ramirez should be a solid 5 year guy.. Though I could see them also taking Daisuke Matsuzaka here. He should have his choice but would he slap a 5 year on a pitcher??

14. ES Blacksox - SP Daisuke Matsuzaka1 SP going into draft. I am sure SP is top of his list.. Either round 1 or round 2.. If the Jap pitcher is there I bet he takes him given his history of taking younger players who are unproven early..

15. Carolina - SP Roy Oswalt Team Needs a SP.. Roy is the best available and a 1st round worthy SP. Will he get another 5 year?? Only 29 and the way pitchers pitch into their 40's he should be solid.

16. New Jersey - SS Rafael Furcal 3 1st round worthy SS's in this draft. Not sure I ever saw this before. Yet Furcal is a solid run/SB producer.. Should help lock up those stats.

17. Columbus - OF Bobby Abreu Top OF left on the board. 20/20 guy. This fits Columbus's M.O. He should get a 3 year.

18. Gaylord - OF Ichiro Suzuki Team hoping 1 of the 3 top SS are available but if not they fill their SB hole and another quality OF. Solid 3 year pick here..

Of course this mock is based on current rosters and draft position.. If teams fill their holes through trades it will obviously mix it up again. Will revisit it after the moves and make any adjustments.

Report Card 7 Weeks Left Until Playoffs

2006-07-17T09:38:00.000-04:00

Well this is the week the teams sort themselves out for either a playoff contender or a next year wonder. :) After this week only 6 weeks remain and anybody 15 or more out are pretty much toast. The top 6 is the target. 5 of the top 6 are in good shape. Nor Cal is currently the bubble team and there is a decent gap between him and the 5 team in Columbus. I will now do a report card for all the teams and make observations as where they look to improve either for run or next season.

1A. Gaylord: Team has put it together winning 8 in a row and currently tied for 1st. Team has a solid batting but are in desperate need of speed. Rest are in good shape. Still not sold on BB the entire year. Though the addition of Thome helped a lot. As for the pitching they are very light on K's and questionable SP staff. Grade A
Next Move:Look for Gaylord to make a run at a SP or 2. Most likely one that can get K's. They will also look for some speed.

1B. New Jersey: I have said it since opening day. I have the best hitting top to bottom covering all 6 categories. Nothing has changed. Top 2-3 in the league in all areas except BA. Blame that on Helton. Staff solid but question marks on durability. Pen is very good. Grade A
Next Move: Mets are pretty set other then depth they won't need much for a playoff run.

3. ES Blacksox: Top team in the West. Doesn't say much but is a playoff hopeful. Team has produce far better then I predicted preseason. Solid hitting but in need of a power bat or 2. Staff is pretty solid but the pen needs some attention. Grade A
Next Move: look for ES to acquire a big HR bat or 2 by deadline. Possibly another closer or setup man.

4. Carolina:Team is producing where I expected but this is the time where they fade EVERY year. Will this be the same?? Will Carolina make the critical moves to keep them in the playoff hunt? Team is stuck in the middle for hitting. They could use another HR bat and possibly a SB guy. For the pitching Clemens was a sight for sore eyes. and a needed on. Putz solid closing is one less area to need but the setup needs help. Grade B
Next Move: Team should look for a power bat and/or SB guy. They could look for a setup man or a K SP.

5. Columbus:Team is solid hitting and built to compete with that. They are up in the top 2-3 in all hitting like the Mets. The only area I say they will need is SB. As for pitching I have said it all year. He will need another quality SP. You will have problems competing with guys at or near 5+ ERA's. Pen is solid right now as long as Otskua is closer. Grade B
Next Move: Look for Columbus to acquire a speed guy using a power bat as bait. They will also improve that staff..

6. Nor Cal:Another team that I had a little lower but is producing wins right now. Team is built around power but need to work on the other areas. SB/BB/BA. Those areas they are avg at best. The pitching is thin and they could use 1 or even 2 due to injuries. Solid closers and setup men. Grade B
Next Move: Look for the team to get some more speed and a SP or 2 to make them a legit contender. Without that I am afraid they will not maintain their spot.

7 South Texas: Team on the bubble and looking to make a move to the playoffs. Most noticeable improvement needs. A few power bats. Their staff has been solid so far but a few young guys how will they produce in Sept? Got a 2nd closer and that will help. Good setup men. Grade C
Next Move: Look for South Texas to get a power bat or 2 using one of their young SP possibly as bait. They could also use some speed. Might not have enough trade bait to achieve the improvements needed.

8. Knoxville: They are very similar to South Texas. In need of a power bat or 2. If this team wants to make the playoffs they will need to make some move. Right now with this team they will not. Speed and BA are solid. Rotation is ok but in dire need of a K SP or 2. Good saves but only 1 quality setup man. Grade C
Next Move: If they want to make a run they need to get a power bat or 2. They also could use a K SP and another setup man. Like South Texas I don't think they have enough trade bait to make the moves needed to make a serious push.

9. Springfield:This is an odd team. Solid hitting production but RBI's are way down. Lots of solo HR's I suspect. Great speed but will need some BB and BA guys. The Staff is solid for now with a couple of young SP. Good closers but NO setup men. Grade C
Next Move: This team is in much better shape then the 2 above them. They need to get a hitter that can get them some BB and high BA. Somebody like Helton or Hafner would really propel this team. They also need some quality setup guys.

10. Olivet: Not sure what to make of this team. I had them as my top team yet they are on the verge of packing it in. They are solid in hitting 4 of 6 stats. They could look for speed AND BA guys. Staff is decent and should do well enough but they can't get any wins. Saves are in need and having 4 Holds guys keeps them up top each week. Grade C
Next Move: Look for Olivet to get some speed and a closer if they really want to make a run. Question will be answered this week. Still expect this team to make a run but Eastern title is slipping.

11. Brewers: Brewers each year expect to make playoffs and each year fold. Well this is looking like another. They need a LOT of improvements. Little power and no speed. That combo hurts along with no trade bait. They improved their SP at the cost of hitting but they have nothing around it. Not enough quality closers or setup men. Grade D
Next Move: Can you say next year? Look for them to start trading their expiring contracts and non extended guys for contracts very soon. Though not sure it will help for next year as they don't have much left.

12. PB Bombers: Team flirted with playoffs but since week 7 they have only won 3 series and have dropped out. The main reason is hitting. Below avg in almost every category. Pitching staff is ok but the rest is in need of help. Closers and setup men cover half the starting lineups. I think you will start seeing fire sale soon. Grade D
Next Move: Team will be selling soon. Most likely non contract guys or non keepers.

13. Dallas: Here is a team that will be looking towards next year. They have a few good keepers but will need a couple more if they want to improve NEXT year. Teams hitting isn't horrible but when you build it around a Tampa Bay team it's going to struggle. The SP has killed them. high ERA few K SP 1 Hold guy and 1 closer. Grade D
Next Move: FIRE SALE!! Team will start moving the players they don't want to keep after this week.

14. Mid Michigan: This team has a solid hitting club. Nothing great but nothing horrible. It is close to the top 1/3 of the league in all offensive stats, except runs. Teams pitching is the problem. They have a decent group of starters when healthy but only 1 closer and MR is weak at best. hey should be better then their record but facts are they are toast. Grade D
Next Move: They should be moving some players for next year VERY soon if they want to improve for next year. As of now they only have 3 solid guys.

15. North Texas: They have been done for a LONG TIME and not trying for even longer. Not much went right for them other then being in the AROD sweepstakes. They want to improve on next year Looking to move Vlad to a team for a 2 month rent but will they get the type of player they want for him?? Grade E
Next Move: Move everybody then can for next year.

16. Bay Area:Tough injuries and flops like Bonds killed this team. They can extend Blalock and Rollins but everybody else will be moved for a contract. They will need to if they want to make a 180 next year. Grade E
Next Move: Like everybody down here. Looking to improve next year. Will Bay Area make any moves too?? Looks like a team not being managed right now.

17. Encinitas: No matter how bad this year paned out for them they have a lot of bright young guys for next year. 3 extensions means they could really give them a shot at a playoff team if they get good quality. Grade F
Next Move: Well this team didn't have a lot for 2006 but is in better shape for 2007. Look for them to acquire some guys to extend. If they really want to improve next year.

18. Michigan: Well we all knew they were the worst due to former owner not having a clue how to run a team. Team has been for a long time looking to get ANY guys for next year but nobody have biten yet. They have some keepers and their best move was a 3 year on Verlander but being new to the league and contracts they made some bad ones. Pie, Marte,Burgos are some bad ones. Olsen MIGHT pay off next year but this team is really a few years away from playoff contention. Grade F
Next Move: Already in full force to getting contracts but don't see them getting enough to turn it around next year. yet a good draft and good contracts will give them a chance in 2008. We will have to wait and see with this team.

Another Western Team Down

2006-05-22T08:16:00.000-04:00

This week Bombers faced the Mets and while it was close all week the Mets prevailed in the final days. Mets SVP Mike Reynolds sounded concerned in his post game conference. "We as a team are not working together. We are getting by but not in the fashion that will make teams fear us. Allowing categories to slip by is not going to win us the division. This is a year that we can win the division and anything less would be a disappointment. The pitching mainly has been the biggest concern. We go out and acquire more more proven yet still struggle on the ERA/WHIP side. Hopefully when Rich is back there will be more consistency." The Mets offense has been cool for the last 2 weeks not hitting more then 5HR's either week but the Stuff come in now. A team that has a good offense and can rival the Mets. The guys getting paid the big bucks need to step it up seriously. As we proved 2 weeks in a row even with mediocre hitting we still can win. The lone loss for the Mets had an Olivet team that so far has proved to be his best week of the year. This week we wanted to add Brian Roberts back in the mix at 2B but he hasn't come off DL and is way to risky. We also add Seth McClung. A guy who has had 5 quality starts in a row. His ERA looks bad but he had a 9.27ERA in April and an eye popping 2.30ERA in May. This week is pay back for the lack of starts last week. We have 10 starts this week while the Stuff will have 5. Pretty much locking Wins and K's. The Stuff match up well for us. They have more power right now but I feel that's the only stat they have over us. Any of the other 11 I could win. With that said the Mets are looking for an 8-4 win. The extra starts will probably blow ERA/WHIP then lose HR's and possibly RBI. The rest we could take. Last week if we faced them it would have been a 6-4 win but of the 4 I lost and 2 tied, I would win this week given my starts. 1 was K's the other was wins. Hopefully we can continue our winning ways.

Notes: Lopez once again not in the lineup as youngster Willingham is still performing well. Asked about his decreased time Lopez stated. " It stinks.. I want to help the club but the skipper hasn't put me in. Though I will be ready and willing once he does call my name." The Mets would have to be hit with an injury or a slump of Willingham before Lopezz would most likely be played. Obviously the Mets are playing the kid they signed a 3 year contract too.

Mets Squeak By Brewers

2006-05-15T08:38:00.000-04:00

Mets were disappointed again. In a week where they were 1SB and 1 Hold from an 8-4 win. They settled for a 6-4 win. Giving these wins will hurt in the seeding for the playoffs. Mets didn't even have 1 good player that week. This was a brutal week. Hitting .229 and a whole 4HR's. Giambi had 2HR's 3runs and 4RBI to go with 1SB but hit a big .174. Mets bats need to start waking up. The Bombers this week and then the Stuff following. This week we are facing a team that has ALL 5 SP going 2 times baring any rainouts. Going to be hard to win K's with him having 3 more starts but the Mets do have better K SP. Looking at this team we should take most of the offense if we have an avg week. Of course that is baring somebody has an Ensberg week on me again. Going to be a battle this week for sure. This is probably one of the best West teams and coming off a very good week in production.

Notes: Mets took Javy Lopez off DL this week but due to games in the NL didn't want to risk losing AB's. Also, Roberts is due to come off DL this Friday. In time for their week vs the Stuff. Mets SP Rich Harden is throwing but still a long way from coming back. Target is June. Mets made a few moves this weekend. They moved Closer Mike Gonzalez and OF Reggie Sanders to Brewers for SP Curt Schilling. The move will add some depth at SP. They lost depth in 2 areas and this might hurt later but the need to improve NOW with Harden hurting was more important. They also moved a 2nd OF in Shannon Stewart to Olivet for RP Duaner Sánchez. Top notch setup man. Under 2ERA and 7 Holds. He will strengthen a bullpen already strong. The Mets will most likely have to make som moves to offset the current ones later. Depth is now almost down to nothing. They claimed Matt Lawton in hopes he gets traded to a team that wil start him.

Mets Disappointed in week 5 victory.

2006-05-08T08:06:00.000-04:00

Mets SVP Reynolds stated " Up 10-2 going into Sunday all we had to do was maintain, but injuries kept half our team out on Sunday". The Mets were noting the injuries to Sanders, Mueller, Jones, and the rest of Guillen and Jenkins. Most of the time people sit but on a day where we only needed a few more AB's it was critical. The Mets still won 8-3 but didn't gain any ground really. The Mets now have a comfortable lead for a playoff bracket shot. "We know the playoffs are a long away but winning every week will guarantee a playoff chance." Reynolds commented. This week the Mets welcome the Brewers. A team that can be VERY dangerous if their players hit like last week. Some how had 9 SB's and scored 42 runs. So a team that can be a force. Yet the Mets match up well with them. Our strength seems to be their strength but we have better players. If there had to be a prediction for this week it would be 8-4 win for the Mets. Once we are healthy we will be ready to once again dominate. The mets will take a risk with Andruw Jones. Sore back and sat out yesterday. We hope he plays Tuesday. The Mets only other options were Stewart and Sanders but Sanders is iffy. We didn't need what Stewart brings. We want power. The Mets welcome Todd Helton back. He alone brought our BA and BB up every week and if he was back last week we probably won 10-2. The Mets have the Bombers on deck and a win this week facing a mediocre team could propel the Mets to top of the division once again.

Notes: Mets still looking for a SP but nothing has materialized yet. Not sure if it will.. Only people making inquires are teams that are offering average SP. Yet want the mets solid hitters. We will probably still make a move soon. Maybe, a buy low candidate. More to come next week.

2006-04-24T08:35:00.002-04:00

The Mets had a chance to show their dominate team this past week but they failed to show up completely. Mets SVP Reynolds made this comment. " We tip our hats to Olivet for their week." The Mets hung with them all week until the end when they lost the advantage they had with their pitching. The Mets lost to one of the top teams last week having a very good week. The Mets can hang with most teams but if they face a team in which 2 guys hit 10HR's most teams will lose. That was how it happened. They shouldn't worry about that loss. Winning every week is impossible but the fact they still showed up is enough of a reason to think against most teams the Mets would have won which is a positive. We lost our top Walk and BA guy so this will hurt but Giambi will fill in nice. Jenkins moves back to the starting lineup due to the injury. Nice that the Mets have some decent depth. Mets continue to work on their SP. Their quest for another quality arm continues. Justin was unavailable this weekend so talks hope to pick up soon. "Most teams don't want to deal with us" Said Reynolds. The growing fear is he league does not want this team to get any stronger. "We are on the verge of completing this team." Something will happen soon. This weeks opponent is Nor Cal. They had a great week last week. Hope that Nor Cal cools a little offensively. Pitching has been their weak spot. This is a team the Mets match up very well against. The amount of SP is equal unlike the last 2 weeks which means a shot at K's. The talk around management is this is an opponent they need to beat. 8-4 is what they hope. It is a possibility based on the match up.

2006-04-24T08:35:00.000-04:00

Disappointing Week

2006-04-24T08:07:00.000-04:00

The Mets had a chance to show their dominate team this past week but failed to show up completely. Mets SVP Reynolds made this comment. " We tip our hats to Olivet for their week." The Mets hung with them all week until the end when they lost the advantage they had with their pitching. The Mets lost to one of the top teams last week having a very good week. The Mets can hang with most teams but if they face a team in which 2 guys hit 10HR's most teams will lose. That was how it happened. They shouldn't worry about that loss. Winning every week is impossible but the fact they still showed up is enough of a reason to think against most teams the Mets would have won which is a positive. We lost our top Walk and BA guy so this will hurt but Giambi will fill in nice. Jenkins moves back to the starting lineup due to the injury. Nice that the Mets have some decent depth. Mets continue to work on their SP. Their quest for another quality arm continues. Justin was unavailable this weekend so talks hope to pick up soon. "Most teams don't want to deal with us" Said Reynolds. The growing fear is he league does not want this team to get any stronger. "We are on the verge of completing this team." Something will happen soon. This weeks opponent is Nor Cal. They had a great week last week. Hope that Nor Cal cools a little offensively. Pitching has been their weak spot. This is a team the Mets match up very well against. The amount of SP is equal unlike the last 2 weeks which means a shot at K's. The talk around management is this is an opponent they need to beat. 8-4 is what they hope. It is a possibility based on the match up.

Mets show Dominance in week 2

2006-04-19T11:53:00.000-04:00

The Mets are flying high after destroying a much weaker opponent. Mets SVP Reynolds stated " This is a team we were supposed to destroy. They are one of the leagues worst teams but since we supposed to win big it made them dangerous. A small victory would have been a major issue with Olivet moving in next week." The Mets had a chance to shutout the Rangers as close as Sat but could not manage a single hold and the K's which we knew was an issue before the week started due to less SP. Still a 10-2 win was much needed. Now this is our top 2 teams and its already showing that 2 days in. Both teams would be dominating almost every other team in the league to start the week. This week could be a split or a small victory for either team. Right now the Mets well rounded team is proving why they are one of the most feared teams. All 12 stats are winable any given week. They have set players to target each 12. A well balanced team is what wins. There will be off weeks all the time for players but if you have 20 good guys you can afford a slump or 2. This week will be a nail biter.

On a side note rumors are flying that Mets SVP Reynolds is in serious discussions with Owner Justin Storlie. An employee close to the Mets stated it has something to do with Schilling. Mets have a plethora of RP and 1 could be used as bait along with an OF. It's no secret Justin loves his Brewers. More to come.

Mets are off and running,

2006-04-10T11:29:00.000-04:00

After a long wait to the season it finally started. We started off hot but tailed off as the week continued. Reynolds stated, " We had this week big then our bats slowed. While we took most of the offensive stats the one that troubled us the most was the BA. We had that locked and we let it slip by the last 3 days. That few extra outs would have made the difference between a little win and a big win." The Mets who still dominated look forward to week 2 and facing North Texas. Here is a team that does not belong hanging with us. Sure they have a couple of nice bats but the drop from their studs to the rest of their starting lineup is huge. While the Mets have consistently good 20 players. Injury note. Escobar is sitting this week due to a finger nail issue. They also decided to take Jenkins out for a week and replace it with Sanders. Who is off to a better start. Giambi gets 1 more week and if he doesn't turn it around he will start to ride pine until he puts it together. We are not worried as he is a slow starter in years past. On a side note it is nice to see the Mets once again have a decent staff. Harden and Smoltz are going to be the most important part of this staff. Penny is a very good #3. Escobar stays healthy most of the year we won't ahve to worry about much.

My Rankings

2006-03-17T11:47:00.001-05:00

When I do a rankings I look at all 12 stats and the chances of a team winning them any given week. Hence a team with a ton of power I see RBI and HR's being a solid lock week to week. Same for pitchers and quality without inflating based on hype. Try to give more of a realistic approach, and finally I look at depth. especially SP depth as we know its rare to see no injuries especially at SP.

1. Olivet Killer Eagles

A team I felt has followed the same ideas as my own. Cover all 12 stats and then work on depth. Team did a nice job after missing 2004 playoffs to secure a run last year but fell short. This year reloaded and ready to once again challenge for the title. All 6 stats covered in his offense. Solid starting staff if a few can repeat. 1 closer will need to be addressed and mediocre hold guys as most are not the top setupmen. Still top to bottom this is the best team starting the year. Some of the work ons include RP and SP depth. Offense is covered.

2. New Jersey Mets

We are VERY close to Olivet but differ in a few ways. The offense is very close but Olivet has a little more power. The SP is also a question mark due to having 2 guys that need to prove they can stay healthy. We benefited from a a low draft pick. Something that never has happened before with this team. Like Olivet depth in offense is a major plus. Not many teams have a Reggie Sanders guy as a bench player. SP will be very good if Escobar and Penny stay healthy but due to their question marks I can't put myself up top. Pen solid 3 closers and good setup men. Will make a title run again unless I hit more massive injuries.

3. Springfield Slammers

The next few teams are very close. Springfield gets the edge due to better SP and RP. Team doesn't have the dominating offense but will be in it 4-5 stats per week. Yet NO depth at all. 1 goes down this team could find themselves out of the playoff bracket. The trades in the offseason really helped this team. SP are much better then in years past. Hudson and Zito will carry them. 2 very god closers in Wagner and Turnbow. That with plenty of holds. The pitching combine with the offense they have will make them a contender even more so if he can get depth.

4. Carolina Yankees

Like Springfield very solid with only a few little holes. The difference between 1 and 6 is a hair. Very hard to rank. This team has one fo the top offense in the league. Weakness is maybe a few more HR's. Yet top to bottom should win or compete with every stat. Like most others no depth. SP love the top 4. Solid proven guys Wang is a question mark but as a #5 you can't complain. 1 closer is the weakness of this team and that's probably the reason they are not in the top 3. If Clemens returns this team is going to be stacked. Looks like Chris finally put it together right. Lets see if he can maintain it when injuries happen.

5. Columbus Stuff

Overall the top Offense in Runs/HR/RBI. Decent speed and BB. Most weeks will win or at least be in the running. Solid BA guys. 4-6 stats per week from offense will offset other areas. SP is a big concern IMO. Santana will dominate but lets go to 2-5. Lowe was decent last year but being a groundball pitcher and not power year after year has proven to be different. I am not a Sabathia fan. 1 year of a sub 4ERA. He is of but not as a #2. then we get into the Chacon and Vargas. Both who I expect to struggle. Leaving this team reaching for SP later in the year. I like this teams RP. Solid setup guys. Yet maybe 1 closer. If a few moves are made this team might be able to pull off back to back. Yet I don't see the owner making enough moves to do it.

6. Gaylord Dingers

Team has a solid offense. Good Run producers and very good power, Decent RBI's but the trouble areas are BB and BA. No SPEED. Punting that one. Not 1 guy that walks 90 times and only 1 guy hitting over .300. Still every week this team will contend with 4-5 stats. SP is a big question. Beckett when healthy is solid but most are expecting his ERA to hit 4 now in AL East. Webb will be decent. Now we come to the AARP guys. Maddux and Glavine. I have more faith in Glavine then Maddux but both look to fall. Maddux has since 2000. 2 closers. Something most teams don't have and the best 2 MR's. OVerall the Pitching makes up for the loss at some of the offense but they will need to make moves if they want to contend. Can easily drop out with a few injuries.

7. Knoxville Possums

Team has solid run producers and good power. Very good speed and will take that every week. The weaker parts of this offense is the BB and BA guys. 1 guy that walks more then 80 times a year and only 2 guys that hit 300 or better. Those areas are the needs this team on offense. Burnett and Colon are a solid 1-2 punch. Most of the pitching stats will be a question mark. They have 2 closers but no really MR. Team is going to need some management during the year. if it wants to move up to the elites but it isn't impossible.

8. Nor Cal Sluggers

Here is an offense that is solid all around but not many "studs" Will be decent in Runs/HR/RBI taking out some of the middle to lower tier teams every week. If Podsednik plays every week he will compete with SB's. He will make or break them their. Team needs to work on finding guys to BB. Most weeks they will lose that and the smae for BA. Alnother weaker spot. Alou won't hit that well again and Castillo is declining. SP is what keeps this team within striking distance. Solid top 3 with Halladay, Schmidt, Mulder. 3 good closers and ok MR. The pitching is what balances out some of the needs in the hitting area. Not totally out of it. A few moves and this team is fighting for a spot.

9. Bay Area Dawgs

Solid offense even with part timer Barry. Have decent run producers and solid power. Will need a few guys to step up in the RBI areas. Solid SB will win most weeks there. Teams work is going to be on BB and BA. Bonds is a moster BB guy but no way of knowing how many games he will play. Lee their best BA guy but last year was MVP season. Only can go down. Teams work is going to be on SP. They don't have one solid, proven, dependable SP. Prior is solid but not dependable. Perez you never know what you get but if history repeats he will have a good year. Cain is young and not enough innings to see how he will last all year. Seo and Sosa won't come close to those numbers but overall it could be worse. 1 closer with some ok RP. Work will need to be done on this staff but if the chips fall right they might be able to make a run at the title.

10. Mid Michigan Tigers

Very hard choice the next 3 are tight. Team has solid offense all around. Not great any where but will compete each week for 3-5 stats. The 2 areas this team will need to work on are speed. I don't see Freel being a starter. Already have hinted he is going to be a platoon guy and in a weekly start league guys who play 2-3 games a week are worthless. BB is also weak for this team. I put this team here based on the fact they have 2 studs at SP in Martinez and Carpenter. Morris is fading and Byrd is decent. 2 closers is a plus in this league and of setup men. Another team that if they make the right moves can be a contender.

11. South Texas Heat

Team is in transition this year. Last few years have been fighting for the title only to come up short. he keeper loss hurt them. The offense won't scare many teams Mainly cause health is a major issue. Hunter, Drew and Floyd even though he stayed healthy last year always an injury concern. They have ok power and didn't have 1 100 RBI guy last year. With Crawford they will win SB almost every week and very good BA guys. Need to find some guys who can walk though. They could have a decent bench if some guys are traded or win starting jobs. The pitching is what will make or break them from making a run. Zambrano is the proven ACE of this team. Feliz has a nice future. Most expect great things I do too eventually. Yet he has sophmore slump written all over him. Still won't be terrible. Lieber will be avg in Philly as its a hitters park. Cabrera I love and should improve a lot this year. Liriano will he will be in AAA to start. basically a non factor this year. 1 closer but solid MR. Overall they will need to improve SP and closers to make a run.. I see this team building for next year.

12. Encinitas Beach Bums

Has a lot of avg areas. Team is looking towards next year and the signings will could make this team a contender for next year or another mediocre season. Kent and Beltran are his 2 offensive studs. Runs/HR's/RBI's will be ok against the bottom of the league but most likely not enough punch for the top 6-9 teams. Beltran his real SB threat and NOBODY who will take a walk. BA will also be avg. Team is obviously built on pitching. Staff will be decent but nothing mind blowing. Should be in ERA/WHIP battle each week. Along with solid K's. Having 3 closers will win saves and solid holds guy. Overall the pitching will keep them in most weeks but will find that they will be on the short end most weeks.

13 Pacific Beach Bombers

Team has a solid well rounded offense but obviously needs a few guys to improve from last year. Guillen hurt is going to prove to be a big loss. Runs/HR/RBI will be competitive each week but against the top half of the teams will struggle. Tavarez gave this team a shot at SB each week. and onl1 guy that can walk will hurt. BA will be hit or miss each week but not the worst. For the SP Garcia is his lone stud. Yet at least he has guys that have thrown some innings in the majors. Capuano has to build on last year. faded towards end and Suppan has to repeat. Has 2 closers and most weeks win that, along with a quality pen. Overall I see them near 6-6 every week. Hopefully build on for next year to make a run.

14. ES Blacksox

This team is another in the line of Pacific. Can dominate some of the 12 stats but get blown away in the others. Team should win runs almost every week. Yet not 1 guy hit 20 or more HR's. and 1 with 80 or more RBI. Has a bunch of SB guys and most weeks could win that. Then back to losing BB and BA is ok. SP is decent. RJ, Kazmir,Haren are all solid guys and should hjelp him in the ERA/WHIP/K's area. 2 solid proven closers along with an avg MR. A team built on being near .500. Needs to have an identity. Is it a pitching team or hitting? Will have some big decisions on their future. Do they lock up pitching or hiting for next year and build on the other in next years draft?

15. North Texas Rangers

Here is a team that reached all draft. They have a few solid guys in Teixeira and Vlad but went rookie or youngster crazy. I think Adrian forgot this is really a 2-3 year keeper system not dynasty. By the time some of this guys get good they will be out of contract time. Team has little power after Tex and Vlad same with RBI's. No real BB guys or any speed. Lots of work with this team. Will obviously take some risky contracts to hopefully contend in a year or 2 from now. SP will be decent. Probably why I don't have them at or near last. They can compete with most of the pitching stats any given week. Something for this team to build on for next year. Hittinghas to be the top priority in setting contracts if it wants to improve for next year. Look for them to be lottery this year and consolidation next year if it all works out with the guys he gives contracts too.

16. Dallas Redbirds

Dallas could easily pull off a Columbus next year. They could be setup for next year buy having a few solid keepers and being a lottery team in a good draft class. If a few of these guys breakout Dallas could be in the consolidation bracket very easy based on a few of their hitting guys. They can sneak out some of the offensive stats any given week when they are hot. RBi's will be tough to come by along with SB's but Dunn will help them in BB and BA is ok. The strenght of this team is its hitting. Pettitte is a major improvement to his staff. Mussina on the down side and most feel Hernandez is getting burnt out. Blanton was a nice pickup in the draft. Still even with that. Most weeks they will struggle in K's, Holds, Saves. Meaning facing a top team they will have a hard time breaking even. The contracts they assign will tell you how much they will improve for next year.

17. Brewers

The self proclaimed playoff team seems to have less believers in everything he says. Only 4 of his 10 offensive starters had 500 or more AB's last year. Health is a concern and they have question marks all over. Will lose most of the offensive stats every week. Not much to like here. Yet has some nice keepers lined up for next year. Use this year as a building blocks and depending on who they lock up they might be on the way up finally. SP is a HUGE question mark. Sheets already hurt and didn't last all last year healthy. Schilling on the way back and Wells isn't getting any younger. They could be hurting in the K's/ERA/WHIP area. Well shit they are hurting all over. I see them losing most of the pitching each week easpecially facing a playoff team. They are only a hair above Michigan team. Thats sad too since they didn't really draft until round 11.

18. Michigan Miracles

The ex-Broskey team has a lot of work to do here. Broskey totally fucked the new owner. It's not like its one year. In the draft position they were in they couldn't even lock up many future guys as most went well before he drafted. They are just looking to play out the year and then lock up AROD next year. They make the right moves next eyar they could contend in 2-3 years. Lots of work here but at least they are not expecting to do much.
There you have it.. I could easily swap out so many as the league is getting very tight. An injury or 2 to major guys will throw the league. Depth is a huge factor.

Mets Take Aim at Division Title

2006-03-11T10:41:00.000-05:00

After a masterful draft in which we saw way too many unprovens go early. We soaked up the proven guys and will store them away if injury arises. Each year teams continue to reach on the breakout play but most flop. This year started with guys like Weeks, Tavarez, Lowry, Capuano, Hermida, Liriano, Cain.. All in the top 3 rounds and all should have been taken later. Yet people want to be that guy that said I told you so.. Yet of the listed players maybe 1 will earn their draft position. One year I hope the league learns about VBD well not really cause I like having the edge over the dreamers. All the guys I listed might have wonderful careers but in a contract league where every player is a temporary keeper. Their is never a reason to reach for guys acting like you will never get them again. Taking players early loses the "breakout" value. In those rounds they "have" to perform or it was a wasted pick. We reached on one player with Willingham but it was a safe pick 1 because he was taken as a backup and 2 it wasn't early for my team having so many keepers. The Mets will be back up top of the division and setup for next eyar also. So thank you teams for not properly preparing for a draft and for reaching for unprovens as starters.

Mets team just about complete now. Rounds 6 on up.

2006-02-20T09:42:00.000-05:00

Post has monitored the Mets draft the whole time and noticed a trend. One was the don't reach for possible "breakout" players. The main reason is you flop more then breakout. Staying steady and only reaching when you have the luxury too was key. The Mets reached on one player only. That was round 7 pick of Josh Willingham. To them Willingham is of age so they felt it wasn't much of a risk. He has had scouts compare to him as a new Mike Piazza. We also learned that SVP Reynolds is debating on putting a 3 year on him. The only way they don't is if he busts in Spring Training. Round 6 the Mets "stole" Reggie Sanders. Yes he is injury prone but when he is healthy his is a #2 or #3 type OF. Decent BA, Power and Speed. Still has an up of 20/20. At round 6 there is no possible loss. Round 7 was the risky pick of Willingham. They were looking at either Duchscherer or Cabrera but since they were gone nothing after excited them. Round 8 they traded that pick for more middle round picks with the late Broskey. Who was removed from office after some shaddy offers. Round 9 we took Hawkins to secure the Baltimore closer/setup man. Solid guy with decent 's. Round 10 they took Adam Kennedy a decent backup for Roberts who is questionable to start year. Won't lose much starting him. Just a few HR's. 20SB speed and 300BA. 2nd pick in round 10 we took stable Silva. Nothing great solid control pitcher with a decent ERA/WHIP. Nice 6th SP. Round 11 we had Brewers pick and ours. With the Brewers we took JJ Hardy. Breakout candidate after his solid 2nd half showing a 300+ BA and 9HR's. Upside of 280 and 16+HR's. Nice SS IMO. Will be a very good backup to Guillen who is also prone. 2nd pick in round 11 Mets took Shannon Stewart. Another not so flashy guy but he is a leadoff hitter. If I need a week with more runs he is the guy. Round 12 Mets took Salomon Torres. Another setup man for Mike Gonzalez. 2nd pick in round 12 they took much passed on Rodringo Lopez. They did not want him but this spot there is absolutely ZERO risk. Round 13 and their 2nd last pick they took Justin Speier. Once again setup man for their closer. Security for all 3 now.. Solid guy with under 3ERA and less then a 1.00WHIP. Finished really strong last year.

So to summarize The Mets had probably one of the best drafts in the league. Stayed steady without reaching too much. Have solid depth at EVERY POSITION. Something that will come in need during a LONG season. Word has it Harden and Willingham will get 3's and 2's for Smoltz and Giambi. Then we will extend 2 at end of the year.. Mets will be setup again next year.

Rounds 3, 4 and 5

2006-02-04T23:11:00.000-05:00

The New Jersey Mets continue to reap the rewards of other owners drinking the rookie kool aid or playing the homer card. Round 3 is a perfect example. What was expected to be a hohum round.. Turned into an exciting and some how bizarre round. I was sitting there waiting for my pick when Brewers owner Justin who has been known to get a bit nervous made a phone call looking to move up. He had the fear of not getting a solid closer. Well since we were without an 11th round pick we were more then happy to listen. We were able to land a replacement round 11 and only fell back 4 spots. Senior VP Reynolds started to get greedy thinking only 2 owners needed a SS before the next pick in round 4. So we took best available and that happened to be Geoff Jenkins. Who we happened to rank as a possible late 1st or early 2nd. In fact we almost took him in round 2. That is one hell of a 4th OF.. The round started great.. We moved back and got another round and then got the player we targeted. Team after team made their selection and then boom.. Columbus wakes up and takes Crosby just before I could. Missed out on our SS who we also ranked as a possible 2nd rounder. So round 4 came about and the Mets still in need of a SS take best available who happened to be Carlos Guillen. "We took best left and tried not to reach. We felt he would have gone soon any way but couldn't risk it." Reynolds stated. Now onto round 5. The teams are now drinking heavy the rookie Kool Aid but the Mets stay true. Yes they did get a young body in the 5th but Chris Ray is the closer and he has shown something in the majors. Will the Mets have a 6th round pick?? Since they have been in discussions with an owner to possibly move back. Stay tuned..

Current Team as of Round 5.
C: Javy Lopez (.278 15HR 49RBI)
1B: Todd Helton (.320 20HR 79RBI)
2B: Brian Roberts (.314 18HR 73RBI 27SB)
SS: Carlos Guillen (.320 5HR 23RBI)
3B: David Wright (.306 27HR 102RBI 17SB)
OF: Magglio Ordonez (.302 8HR 46RBI)
OF: Johnny Damon (.316 10HR 75RBI 18SB)
OF: Andruw Jones (.263 51HR 128RBI)
OF: Geoff Jenkins (.292 25HR 86RBI)
DH:Jason Giambi (.271 32HR 87RBI)

SP: Kelvim Escobar (3-2 3.02ERA 1.11WHIP
SP: Brad Penny (7-9 3.90ERA 1.29WHIP)
SP: Brad Radke (9-12 4.04ERA 1.18WHIP)
SP: Rich Harden (10-5 2.53ERA 1.06WHIP)
SP: John Smoltz (14-7 3.06 ERA 1.15 WHIP)
SP: Open RP: Mike Gonzalez (1-3 2.70ERA 1.32 WHIP 3 Saves)
RP: B.J. Ryan (1-4 2.44ERA 1.14 WHIP 36 Saves)
RP: Chris Ray (1-2 2.66ERA 1.28WHIP 0 Saves)
RP: Open
RP: Open

Mets Look to complete 2006 team

2006-01-30T13:27:00.000-05:00

The Mets took another step closer to making this team complete by drafting BJ Ryan with he pick at #24. Ryan one of the most dominating closers. Has a huge K rate and will help in ERA/WHIP/K's/Saves. Thats all you could ask for from a closer. For a closer he had 70IP and 100K's and 36 saves. This year he is expected to move to elite. Along with Gonzalez we have 2 very good closers. Senior VP Raynolds had this to say about his team and the state of the draft so far. " We went in with the goal of drafting the best available regardless of position and we were able to do that and then some. We got the best SP in the draft. We also got the best 1B in the draft. We were shocked to get Smoltz with the pick at 12 and felt he was the 2nd best SP in the draft. Then in round 2 we took the 3rd or 4th best closer in the draft. his makes us think we did very well so far. What are the team needs at this point? Well we are looking at some SS currently but we also could use a speedy OF. Still we are drafting BEST AVAILABLE 1st and a 6th SP OR 3rd closer can not be ruled out. One thing we learned that there are 2 types of players you can NEVER have enough of. Those are solid SP's and Power hitters." So where does this leave the Mets in round 3?? Well the Post thinks the Mets will go after depth if thats the top guy. Right now it looks that way. Stay tuned..

Current Team as of Round 2.
C: Javy Lopez (.278 15HR 49RBI)
1B: Todd Helton (.320 20HR 79RBI)
2B: Brian Roberts (.314 18HR 73RBI 27SB)
SS: Open
3B: David Wright (.306 27HR 102RBI 17SB)
OF: Magglio Ordonez (.302 8HR 46RBI)
OF: Johnny Damon (.316 10HR 75RBI 18SB)
OF: Andruw Jones (.263 51HR 128RBI)
OF: Open
DH:Jason Giambi (.271 32HR 87RBI)
SP: Kelvim Escobar (3-2 3.02ERA 1.11WHIP
SP: Brad Penny (7-9 3.90ERA 1.29WHIP)
SP: Brad Radke (9-12 4.04ERA 1.18WHIP)
SP: Rich Harden (10-5 2.53ERA 1.06WHIP)
SP: John Smoltz (14-7 3.06 ERA 1.15 WHIP)
SP: Open
RP: Mike Gonzalez (1-3 2.70ERA 1.32 WHIP 3 Saves)
RP: B.J. Ryan (1-4 2.44ERA 1.14 WHIP 36 Saves)
RP: Open
RP: Open
RP: Open

Pick #12 a Surprise

2006-01-28T10:18:00.000-05:00

What a wild draft so far. Opinions around the league are age is a HUGE factor in round 1 decisions. The post reported Giambi's addition a few days ago but this latest pick shocked even Senior Vice President Reynolds. We were looking at a few guys at pick #12 and I can honestly say Smoltz was not one of them." When asked why is the latest Mets addition not even on the radar. Reynolds stated. "We didn't think he would fall so far. To be honest Smoltz has been a STUD pitcher for years. Whether its closing or starting and he keeps pitching".. Last year Smoltz had a sore shoulder which is part of the reason for his slip but how could he not? Since 2001 he has been a RP and throwing around 80IP every year. Now last year he threw 230+ post season. Latest reports show his elbow which caused him pain last year is feeling very good. Reynolds mentioned the staff will be much more stable this year. "When you add the calibar of guys like a Harden and a Smoltz you have an anchor. Something we didn't have last year. Penny, Escobar, and Radke are very good 3-4-5 SP. Each providing something for the 5 SP stats. Escobar is pure K's and solid ERA. Penny is solid all around. 3's ERA. 1.2's WHIP and 6-7 K's a game and Radke he is our control SP. One of the best at not walking hitters. Provide a solid WHIP and decent ERA." Reynolds went on to say, "The next pick in round 2 will most likely be a hitter but none can rule out a RP if one falls they like.

Mets Drive to New York for their 2nd pick

2006-01-26T00:25:00.000-05:00

The post confirmed tonight what was already talked about regarding the Mets pick at #5. Jason Giambi is now a Met.. Now Senior Vice President (formerly President) Reynolds stated "When we went into the meetings looking to move Glaus, Giambi was the reason. After we acquired the #1 pick which locked our 4th SP. The need was POWER hitting. Last year Glaus hit .258 37HR and 97RBI in 538AB's. Giambi in 417AB's hit .271 32HR 87RBI PLUS add the 100+ BB a year. If you prorated his HR's to Glaus AB's He would hit 46HR's and and have 112RBI's. That plus giving us a 1B for 2007 after we lose our franchise in Helton after the season". Reynolds is creating a big stir here in NJ. Lots of talk about a return to what was a normal sight. That is getting the Mets to the top of the league. When asked what do you have planned at the #12 pick?? Reynolds smiled and said "I will look for a few veterans to slip. We always know there will be 1 or 2 in this group every year that fall due to age".

And with the #1 pick the Mets select......

2006-01-22T19:05:00.000-05:00

This guy was #1 all offseason. Cy young material at the rip age of 24. Should be the face of the Mets staff for at least 3 years. Most likely 4. Now the fun begins. Who do they select at #5? Some of the talk around the league has the Mets taking Mariano Rivera.

"I think I am going to shock the world with my next pick". states Reynolds.
"We think the next player selected will fit with the makeup of this team. He will be a key addition to rounding out a team in a very WEAK draft."

2006-01-17T23:50:00.000-05:00

eMLB 2006 Mock Draft

Here is my contribution to the mock draft..

1. New Jersey Mets – Rich Harden – SP
With Zito gone Mets need an ACE. He will replace Zito without a hicup.

2. Nor Cal Sluggers – Scott Podsednik – OF
Need for OF is a must and this is the top rated OF. Look for them to add some well needed speed.

3. Pacific Beach Bombers – Melvin Mora – 3B
The trade of Blalock made this a no brainer as the drop off at 3B is HUGE.

4. Dallas Redbirds – Julio Lugo - SS
Dallas needs an SS and this is the top rated SS in the draft. Good for a solid 280's BA and 30-40 steals.

5. New Jersey Mets – Rickie Weeks - 2B
The Mets are worried about Roberts shoulder so this could be a future 2B for years to come for them.

6. Brewers – Jim Thome - 1B
Proven slugger and Storlie loves the power. Without a solid 1B look for them to invest early.

7. North Texas Rangers – Chad Tracy – 3B
Local boys all the way for Adrian. If they are close to where they should go.. Plays 1B/3B/OF.

8. ES Blacksox – Andy Pettitte – SP
Team in need of another quality arm. RJ out there but I bet he passes due to age and takes Pettitte.

9. Carolina Yankees – Randy Johnson
Team has currently 2 SP and with RJ being a team favorite this is a lock if he is there.

10. Springfield Slammers – Mariano Rivera - RP
Slammers already loaded up every where takes the best closer in the draft. This is a no brainer pick.

11. Knoxville Possums – Noah Lowry – SP
Has a lot of SP but only a few quality ones. Noah is set to give high K's and could be a decent keeper.

12. New Jersey Mets – Willy Tavarez - OF
Mets will lock up their speed needs with this pick. Now giving them 4 potential 20+ SB guys.

13. Pacific Beach Bombers – Brett Myers – SP
I agree with Berg. Bombers go SP if they take Mora at pick #3. Myers one of the best left at SP.

14. South Texas Heat – Jason Giambi - 1B
The Heat need a 1B and I cans ee them risking a 1st on Giambi who is a huge question mark but he is too tempting.

15. Encinitas Beach Bums – Joe Blanton - SP
This team is building for next year and why not add a great control pitcher that is young? 3 Year??

16. Olivet Killer Eagles – Cliff Lee - SP
Trading of Livan triggered almost a sure thing 1st round SP. Lee is putting it together and will have high K's.

17. North Texas Rangers – Jonny Gomes - OF
This pick has Adrian written all over it. Kid young and talented. Will keep improving.

18. Columbus Stuff – Billy Wagner - RPStuff look to take best available and they need a closer. Even though this doesn't fit his MO. He will grab a stud here.

Mets Front Office Shocks New Jersey

2006-01-09T20:47:00.000-05:00

The Post has recently found out that a spur of the moment deal was struck between the Mets and the Slammers. Reynolds made a public announcment just moments ago. "We have confirmed deal sending ACE Barry Zito to Springfield for Andruw Jones". When asked what brought this on.. "Well, we have been looking for some power the entire meetings but nobody was offering much. We continued to look toward the draft but nothing excited us. So when we saw Mr. Liehr we inquired about Konerko or Jones. Mr. Liehr kept redirecting back to Konerko. Well after negotiating some more.. Mr. Liehr finally made an offer to us involving Jones. We thought about it for a bit and hated to lose our ACE but there are so few 40+ HR hitters out there. We felt the need to get one. After losing Glaus power was a must." The Post suspects that Mr. Reynolds might still be looking for more. Possible using one of their 1st rounders to either get another solid SP or fill one of the holes they are looking towards the draft. Nothing can be ruled out at this point.. One thing is for sure. Their OF is no longer a big ???

Current Team heading into draft. Looks like a HUGE rebound year if all healthy as there are solid players in my offense.
C: Javy Lopez (.278 15HR 49RBI)
1B: Todd Helton (.320 20HR 79RBI)
2B: Brian Roberts (.314 18HR 73RBI 27SB)
SS: Open
3B: David Wright (.306 27HR 102RBI 17SB)
OF: Magglio Ordonez (.302 8HR 46RBI)
OF: Johnny Damon (.316 10HR 75RBI 18SB)
OF: Andruw Jones (.263 51HR 128RBI)
OF: Open
DH: Open

SP: Kelvim Escobar (3-2 3.02ERA 1.11WHIP
SP: Brad Penny (7-9 3.90ERA 1.29WHIP)
SP: Brad Radke (9-12 4.04ERA 1.18WHIP)
SP: Open
SP: Open
SP: Open
RP: Mike Gonzalez (1-3 2.70ERA 1.32 WHIP 3Saves)
RP: Open
RP: Open
RP: Open
RP: Open

The Mets Dealing continues

2006-01-08T17:00:00.000-05:00

The Mets continue to add new names to this team. Gearing up for the draft and filling the large holes in the OF with the depth at 3B. The Post this afternoon found out the Mets and Tigers reached an agreement. Team president Reynolds released this statement. "Today, the Mets and Tigers have agreed on a trade where we send power hitting Troy Glaus and SP Oliver Perez to Mid-Michigan Tiger's for Johnny Damon and the 12th pick in the 2006 draft. We are very excited to add Johnny to the team. We lacked the OF depth only having Magglio Ordonez their. Damon will bring us a 300+BA, 110+ runs, and 20-30SB's. This will give us 3 guys who should get us 20+ SB's and keep us in a SB running weekly." When asked about Oliver Perez Reynolds went on to say "He was somebody we acquired last year and thought he would break out but he didn't and is not struggling in the MPL". When asked what areas they are planning on targeting in the draft having now 3 1st rounders. Reynolds Responded, "I can only tell you Rich Harden is our top concern right now but we have a number of players targeted in the draft and we will use the rest of the winter meetings to position our team for the draft." The Post found out that the Mets are still in discussion with multiple teams on a number of players. The Mets look like they are trying to move Brad Radke or Brad Penny. With the Mets having a plethora of SP and looking at a SP in round 1 another move isn't out of the question. Stay tuned more news might be on the way.

New Jersey Makes Noise in 2006

2006-01-07T07:39:00.000-05:00

The New Jersey Mets waste no time in making moves for the 2006 season. Trading Nomar Garciaparra and the 11th round pick in the 2006 draft for Aaron Boone and the #1 Overall pick in the 2006 draft. The Post talked to owner Mike Reynolds about his quick move for the 2006 season. " I felt the need to get the #1 pick overall to target Rich Harden as he is an up and coming SP. He had a great rookie start then struggled in his first year starting then last year was incredible. We feel his potential is still growing" said Reynolds. A 2nd ACE on the team will provide stability in the pitching staff. Something that was totally missed last year. After Zito the Mets had to keep changing but never found the right combo. The Mets moved Nomar Garciaparra to acquire that #1 pick. A player they just signed to a 3 year deal last year. He was supposed to be that all important middle infielder. "Nothing against Nomar in all but our teams issues coming into the winter meetings was SP and Speed". Stated Reynolds. When asked what their plans for the rest of the meetings he said "We got some deals on the table and working towards continuing to improve this ball club for 2006". The Mets also acquired Aaron Boone 3B. He will add depth to a team that has David Wright at 3B. We all need back ups and Boone will do a fine job if needed. He struggled in the 1st half after coming back from injury in 2004 but the 2nd half he turned up the heat and showed us Boone can come back. 280 8HR 34RBI. When asked what's next Reynolds said " We got a deal in the works and should know something in the next day or so".. Stay tuned..