This is an open letter to both Houston Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt who is the hottest thing since Amber from Teen Mom and the rest of the major leagues.
I do not understand why anyone would be batshit crazy enough to trade for you Roy. Yeah your numbers this season for the Astros are awesome if you are an advanced stats guy (let's be honest, this guy is Jonah Keri and other stat guys wet dream right now). You are as talented as any pitcher in the big leagues but if anyone thinks it's a good idea to pitch up for 16 million dollar option for 2012 must have had five Dan Gilbert strength Gin and Tonics to talk themselves into this idea.
Right now, Oswalt is 32 years old and he would be 34 years old when that said option gets picked up. Are you kidding me? There is no way that Oswalt who has some injury issues would be as dominate as he is today. To be honest, I would take a chance on Dan Haren before I would even touch Oswalt. He is not worth the money that he wants and the Astros are asking for three prospects on that of that. Is it really worth it to some teams?
For Philadelphia, it would be idiotic. They cannot get run support with their ace right now Roy Halladay so what's them think that they would do with Oswalt? I think the only reason they are involved is because the Phillies know they can rip off former clueless GM Ed Wade. Now, I am hearing that St. Louis is believed to be the favorite. I do understand that if they land Oswalt, no one I mean no one in the Major Leagues is touching their pitching staff but where would be the money for Pujols?
There was an article out last year that maybe Will Leitch wrote or he linked it, I forget how it went but it basically explained how the new management has a new style that Tony LaRussa isn't a fan of for the most part. People rumored that he might retire as Pujols' contract is up and that Albert would leave St. Louis for greener pastures with LaRussa out of the picture. If we follow that theory, I think the Oswalt trade would add another top line pitcher (Wainwright/Carpenter/Oswalt if healthy is destructive) and they still have Matt Holliday. It would be very interesting to see him head to the Arch.
-Charlie.
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Showing posts with label Philadelphia Phillies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philadelphia Phillies. Show all posts
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
NL East Preview
We are moving on to the National League and unlike the American League where I think 10 teams could legitimately make the playoffs, I believe only about six teams maybe could make the playoffs in the NL.
1. Philadelphia Phillies- KEY ACQ: SP Roy Halladay I LIKE: Jayson Werth-He basically is everything that I want Corey Hart to be, I absolutely love him as a player and the first year I haven't had him in fantasy baseball. I HATE: Raul Ibanez- He just keeps getting older so I cannot imagine him pulling out another huge year like last year. PREDICTION: I think they have the ability to get to the World Series but I believe Cole Hamels has to be in 2008 form to get there because not just Halladay will carry them there.
2. Atlanta Braves- KEY ACQ: 1B Troy Glaus RP Billy Wagner I LIKE: Jason Heyward- LOVE him seriously, probably the biggest man crush of the spring. I agree with people who say the hype is comparable to Ken Griffey Jr. I am willing to bet he hits as high as five in the order come June. I HATE: Nate McClouth- He is a good player but I am not sure that he will be an ideal leadoff hitter for the Braves. I could see him contributing better as a two or seven hitter. PREDICTION: It's very likely that Atlanta could get back to the playoffs, but I am not sure that Billy Wagner will be a great option plus Derek Lowe doesn't excite me that much.
3. Florida Marlins- KEY ACQ: SP Nate Robertson I LIKE: Cameron Maybin- He was one of the top prospects a couple years ago and I believe that he could be ready to take it big time. I HATE: Josh Johnson- He is a great pitcher but he has shown some health issues in the past, never a good sign. PREDICTION: Does it bother the 82 Marlins fans that Joe Girardi was once their manager, and now a World Series winner? Tough, the Fish might be able to get into the Wild Card discussion if their pitching holds up and everybody is real excited about Ricky Nolasco's season.
4. New York Mets- KEY ACQ: OF Jason Bay, C Rod Barajas I LIKE: David Wright- I know you shouldn't look into how players do in the spring, but Wright has had one of the best springs so far therefore it's hard not to notice what he is doing. I HATE: Oliver Perez- He hasn't looked the greatest this year and I have never been a big fan of Perez, the only team he seems to do well against the Brewers. PREDICTION: Jerry Manuel will be out before July and Omar Minaya by the end of the year. The Mets do not have enough pitching to carry them in a brutal NL East.
5. Washington Nationals- KEY ACQ: C Ivan Rodriguez, RP Matt Capps, SP Jason Marquis, 2B Adam Kennedy I LIKE: Ian Desmond- A prospect who got the starting nod over long time shortstop Cristian Guzman, which to me show signs of a bright future. I HATE: Livan Hernandez- Seriously how old is this guy? You cannot keep thinking that he will be able to win 10+ games and be alright. PREDICTION: The Nationals will take some bumps but they will be a better team this year plus the city will be alive once Stephen Strasburg makes it to the majors.
-Charlie.
1. Philadelphia Phillies- KEY ACQ: SP Roy Halladay I LIKE: Jayson Werth-He basically is everything that I want Corey Hart to be, I absolutely love him as a player and the first year I haven't had him in fantasy baseball. I HATE: Raul Ibanez- He just keeps getting older so I cannot imagine him pulling out another huge year like last year. PREDICTION: I think they have the ability to get to the World Series but I believe Cole Hamels has to be in 2008 form to get there because not just Halladay will carry them there.
2. Atlanta Braves- KEY ACQ: 1B Troy Glaus RP Billy Wagner I LIKE: Jason Heyward- LOVE him seriously, probably the biggest man crush of the spring. I agree with people who say the hype is comparable to Ken Griffey Jr. I am willing to bet he hits as high as five in the order come June. I HATE: Nate McClouth- He is a good player but I am not sure that he will be an ideal leadoff hitter for the Braves. I could see him contributing better as a two or seven hitter. PREDICTION: It's very likely that Atlanta could get back to the playoffs, but I am not sure that Billy Wagner will be a great option plus Derek Lowe doesn't excite me that much.
3. Florida Marlins- KEY ACQ: SP Nate Robertson I LIKE: Cameron Maybin- He was one of the top prospects a couple years ago and I believe that he could be ready to take it big time. I HATE: Josh Johnson- He is a great pitcher but he has shown some health issues in the past, never a good sign. PREDICTION: Does it bother the 82 Marlins fans that Joe Girardi was once their manager, and now a World Series winner? Tough, the Fish might be able to get into the Wild Card discussion if their pitching holds up and everybody is real excited about Ricky Nolasco's season.
4. New York Mets- KEY ACQ: OF Jason Bay, C Rod Barajas I LIKE: David Wright- I know you shouldn't look into how players do in the spring, but Wright has had one of the best springs so far therefore it's hard not to notice what he is doing. I HATE: Oliver Perez- He hasn't looked the greatest this year and I have never been a big fan of Perez, the only team he seems to do well against the Brewers. PREDICTION: Jerry Manuel will be out before July and Omar Minaya by the end of the year. The Mets do not have enough pitching to carry them in a brutal NL East.
5. Washington Nationals- KEY ACQ: C Ivan Rodriguez, RP Matt Capps, SP Jason Marquis, 2B Adam Kennedy I LIKE: Ian Desmond- A prospect who got the starting nod over long time shortstop Cristian Guzman, which to me show signs of a bright future. I HATE: Livan Hernandez- Seriously how old is this guy? You cannot keep thinking that he will be able to win 10+ games and be alright. PREDICTION: The Nationals will take some bumps but they will be a better team this year plus the city will be alive once Stephen Strasburg makes it to the majors.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Is Halladay > Than Lee
The Philadelphia Phillies made the big trade of the baseball offseason by getting the one guy they have wanted since the month of June... Roy Halladay. Last year, they brought in pitcher Cliff Lee who dominated in the National League and in the playoffs therefore they decided to trade him away... I do not understand why this had to happened.
If you are curious about the trade, Halladay is dealt to the Phillies for a couple of the prospects and the Seattle Mariners get Cliff Lee while the Blue Jays also get some of Seattle's prospects. We still do not know which prospects will be landing in Toronto. Sports Illustrated has some of the possible prospects that could be dealt in the deal.
I realize that Halladay is a great pitcher and the fact that he is going from the American League to the National League is obviously going to help out his stats. He dominated the Yankees and Red Sox seemed to love big game pitching atmosphere but he didn't play in a hitters ballpark like Citizen Bank Ballpark. Halladay always seemed to have one injury that nags him a bit throughout the year as well. I think it will work out for Philadelphia BUT...
I would never had traded Cliff Lee because of what I stated before in the first paragraph. Lee looked so good against the National League last year that why would you even consider getting rid of him? Lee is a left-handed pitcher which makes him more attractive than Halladay in my personal opinion and he hasn't been bitten by the injury bug more so than Halladay.
The Mariners are the top team in the AL West right now with Lee and Felix Hernandez leading their rotation could be one of the best one-two punch in the big leagues. Plus the addition of Chone Figgins and Jack Wilson on the left side of the infield makes them one of the stronger defensive team as well. I really like their chances for next season.
-Charlie.
If you are curious about the trade, Halladay is dealt to the Phillies for a couple of the prospects and the Seattle Mariners get Cliff Lee while the Blue Jays also get some of Seattle's prospects. We still do not know which prospects will be landing in Toronto. Sports Illustrated has some of the possible prospects that could be dealt in the deal.
I realize that Halladay is a great pitcher and the fact that he is going from the American League to the National League is obviously going to help out his stats. He dominated the Yankees and Red Sox seemed to love big game pitching atmosphere but he didn't play in a hitters ballpark like Citizen Bank Ballpark. Halladay always seemed to have one injury that nags him a bit throughout the year as well. I think it will work out for Philadelphia BUT...
I would never had traded Cliff Lee because of what I stated before in the first paragraph. Lee looked so good against the National League last year that why would you even consider getting rid of him? Lee is a left-handed pitcher which makes him more attractive than Halladay in my personal opinion and he hasn't been bitten by the injury bug more so than Halladay.
The Mariners are the top team in the AL West right now with Lee and Felix Hernandez leading their rotation could be one of the best one-two punch in the big leagues. Plus the addition of Chone Figgins and Jack Wilson on the left side of the infield makes them one of the stronger defensive team as well. I really like their chances for next season.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Will the Yankees Choke?
I honestly think this is the jinx probably and the Yankees will steamroll against Pedro Martinez tonight. But for the fun of it, let’s just talk about the World Series, since I haven't talked at all about it. I think it's been a good playoffs so far, and I think this has been the most intriguing World Series in about five years. Which hopefully will bring baseball back somewhat, but how epic would it be if the Yankees choke?
I wrote earlier this summer how I like the fact when the big time sports teams are on top because you had someone to root against in every postseason. The Yankees have that swagger, we all know and hate with the arrogance of A-Rod (although what he has done this postseason is one of the best that I have seen in my first time), Derek Jeter, and Mark Teixerira. I loved to see the Yankees fall apart because I remember seeing Mariano Rivera blow Game 7 against Arizona in 2002, which probably was the special moment of my baseball watching.
The one thing I think you have to worry about is Brad Lidge. He could blow it against a la Mitch Williams in 1993. Lidge is a complete problem for the Phillies and I said earlier this summer, that "if Charlie Manuel was the Brewers coach, Derrick Turnbow would still be our closer." The Phillies have to hope that if they want to win this series, they need to have at least a four run lead going into the ninth.
I think tonight will be an absolute shoot-out. It will be around 10-9 final because I think both of these pitchers will struggle tonight. The point I made about Brett Favre about being old is the exact same thing with both of these guys. Three days rest is so hard to come by when you are an old pitchers. If any older pitcher were to do it, Andy Pettitte would be the one to do it. The man is clutch, more than Johnny Moxson on a fourth quarter drive.
The only reason why I would hate to see the Yankee lose? If CC Sabathia ended up blowing Game 7, I would be crushed for him. He is a class act and despite leaving the Milwaukee Brewers, he still a stand-up guy. I think his career is never the same if CC loses Game 7.
-Charlie.
I wrote earlier this summer how I like the fact when the big time sports teams are on top because you had someone to root against in every postseason. The Yankees have that swagger, we all know and hate with the arrogance of A-Rod (although what he has done this postseason is one of the best that I have seen in my first time), Derek Jeter, and Mark Teixerira. I loved to see the Yankees fall apart because I remember seeing Mariano Rivera blow Game 7 against Arizona in 2002, which probably was the special moment of my baseball watching.
The one thing I think you have to worry about is Brad Lidge. He could blow it against a la Mitch Williams in 1993. Lidge is a complete problem for the Phillies and I said earlier this summer, that "if Charlie Manuel was the Brewers coach, Derrick Turnbow would still be our closer." The Phillies have to hope that if they want to win this series, they need to have at least a four run lead going into the ninth.
I think tonight will be an absolute shoot-out. It will be around 10-9 final because I think both of these pitchers will struggle tonight. The point I made about Brett Favre about being old is the exact same thing with both of these guys. Three days rest is so hard to come by when you are an old pitchers. If any older pitcher were to do it, Andy Pettitte would be the one to do it. The man is clutch, more than Johnny Moxson on a fourth quarter drive.
The only reason why I would hate to see the Yankee lose? If CC Sabathia ended up blowing Game 7, I would be crushed for him. He is a class act and despite leaving the Milwaukee Brewers, he still a stand-up guy. I think his career is never the same if CC loses Game 7.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
World Series Preview
If you didn't remember or you are new to the blog, here was my thoughts on the who would be victorious in April.... "
"World Series: Philadelphia beats New York 4-3- It might because I think the American League is much more open than it has been in the last couple of years so there could be a lot of teams that make it out of the American League while on the other hand, the Phillies are the best overall team."
Well I cannot say I told you who you should have gambled on. The Yanks-Phils World Series is going to be a classic. There are so many sub-plots that already make it a great series even if its a short series. CC-Cliff Lee battle tomorrow should be an awesome game and the city of Cleveland will just idly watch Lebron play hoping that he isn't in another uniform next year. Pedro's supposed return to New York would be a monstrous occasion. He was so clutch as a member of the Red Sox and to come back to another postseason would be must see tv.
The other big subplot is which bullpen will fall apart? The Phillies have been great so far but all it takes is one big Alex Rodriguez homer in the 9th to tear Brad Lidge down. The Yanks have also had their moments of nervousness with their young bullpen. Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain cost the team Game 5 in Los Angeles and the pressure plus an even better lineup will make the situation much worse.
Does this remind anyone of the 1996 World Series? The Yankees, an on the rise baseball team facing off against the defending World Series Champions Atlanta Braves. Fairly reminiscence to those times, in my opinion because the Yanks look like they will be here for awhile int he postseason.
I will take the Phils to repeat in seven, I think they split in NY then take advantage in Philadelphia, then split once again in New York. Although it wouldn't shock me to see the Yankees the World Champions.
-Charlie.
"World Series: Philadelphia beats New York 4-3- It might because I think the American League is much more open than it has been in the last couple of years so there could be a lot of teams that make it out of the American League while on the other hand, the Phillies are the best overall team."
Well I cannot say I told you who you should have gambled on. The Yanks-Phils World Series is going to be a classic. There are so many sub-plots that already make it a great series even if its a short series. CC-Cliff Lee battle tomorrow should be an awesome game and the city of Cleveland will just idly watch Lebron play hoping that he isn't in another uniform next year. Pedro's supposed return to New York would be a monstrous occasion. He was so clutch as a member of the Red Sox and to come back to another postseason would be must see tv.
The other big subplot is which bullpen will fall apart? The Phillies have been great so far but all it takes is one big Alex Rodriguez homer in the 9th to tear Brad Lidge down. The Yanks have also had their moments of nervousness with their young bullpen. Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain cost the team Game 5 in Los Angeles and the pressure plus an even better lineup will make the situation much worse.
Does this remind anyone of the 1996 World Series? The Yankees, an on the rise baseball team facing off against the defending World Series Champions Atlanta Braves. Fairly reminiscence to those times, in my opinion because the Yanks look like they will be here for awhile int he postseason.
I will take the Phils to repeat in seven, I think they split in NY then take advantage in Philadelphia, then split once again in New York. Although it wouldn't shock me to see the Yankees the World Champions.
-Charlie.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
LCS Picks Where the Nation Endures Chip Carey & Joe Buck
Here are the picks for the final four of baseball. I think even though there were sweeps during the division series I thought the playoffs were off to a good start. The Cardinals-Dodgers had a lot of competitive games and the Twins-Yankees was also a great series despite the sweep.
NL
Philadelphia Phillies vs. Los Angeles Dodgers- I think this has the makings to be a great series because you have a team in LA who might not have a better time then now to win a World Series. In addition, they have a solid bullpen, which is like having a great offensive line in playoff football. The Phillies have this great offense and Cliff Lee has proven already he can take a team on his back yet their bullpen is still shaky. I could care less what you say about Brad Lidge two saves in the first series, he is still Lidge aka better version of Derrick Turnbow. I would like to pick LA but I have to stick to my guns at the beginning of the season. PHILLY in six
AL
Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Yankees- The Angels played great in the first series and so far has been getting thrown under the table so far. No one realized how good their pitching staff is and Torii Hunter has been playing out of mind so far. You can tell he wants a ring and they have a lineup of guys hitting .300. The Yanks have Alex Rodriguez now hitting out of his mind thanks to Kate Hudson and now they become a true threat. I worry about the three-man pitching staff but CC Sabathia looked impressive in the first series. None of those pitchers struggled and its a big risk for Yanks if they lose. I think New York offense is too tough for anyone. NY in five.
-Charlie.
NL
Philadelphia Phillies vs. Los Angeles Dodgers- I think this has the makings to be a great series because you have a team in LA who might not have a better time then now to win a World Series. In addition, they have a solid bullpen, which is like having a great offensive line in playoff football. The Phillies have this great offense and Cliff Lee has proven already he can take a team on his back yet their bullpen is still shaky. I could care less what you say about Brad Lidge two saves in the first series, he is still Lidge aka better version of Derrick Turnbow. I would like to pick LA but I have to stick to my guns at the beginning of the season. PHILLY in six
AL
Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Yankees- The Angels played great in the first series and so far has been getting thrown under the table so far. No one realized how good their pitching staff is and Torii Hunter has been playing out of mind so far. You can tell he wants a ring and they have a lineup of guys hitting .300. The Yanks have Alex Rodriguez now hitting out of his mind thanks to Kate Hudson and now they become a true threat. I worry about the three-man pitching staff but CC Sabathia looked impressive in the first series. None of those pitchers struggled and its a big risk for Yanks if they lose. I think New York offense is too tough for anyone. NY in five.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Whose Ready for the Four-Hour Drama?!
In my opinion, I enjoyed the baseball playoffs a lot because it is very simple and clear cut plus there have been those years where every game has been an absolute classic. Who can forget 2003 with the Red Sox losing to Aaron effin' Boone and the Cubs losing thanks to Steve Bartman. Then in 2004, you have the Red Sox epic comeback along with the Brad Lidge game against Albert Pujols. Here are the picks for the first round of games.
NL
Colorado Rockies vs. Philadelphia Phillies- This is probably the least exciting series out of the four for sure and I really feel that this series could go either way. Colorado has struggled with left-handed pitchers this season, which isnt a good thing when they are facing Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels in the first two games. But here is the kicker, if the Rockies keep it close they get to face the arguably the worst bullpen in the playoffs right now. We all know how Colorado are the comeback kids. I am taking Philly because I have rolled with them all year might as well stick to it. Wont be easy though. PHI in 5
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers- Everyone is talking about the Cardinals going to the World Series and I have been saying that since early July. The pitching staff they have, add the offense, and they play pretty good defense too. I really cannot find a chink in their armor. It also tough to pick the Dodgers when they have struggled all second half but never count out Joe Torre/Manny Ramirez. STL in 4
AL
Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees- Honestly, the game tonight that the Twins won was epic. They were down a bunch of times and just battled back consistently. Now they play a Yankee team who has looked strong on the offensive end but you have to wonder about their starting pitching. Also CC Sabathia has been less than stellar in the playoffs. The Twins are the hottest team and the recent trends have signaled that leads to a big playoffs. The big spenders get it done though. NYY in 4
Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Angels- Now this has been an absolute bashing whenever these two teams get together and the Sox have came out ahead every time. I feel like Mike Scioscia tends to choke when the playoffs are on the line in the past couple of years. The pitching staff of the Sox will be the difference in this one, they have the experience and they know how to handle this opponent. BOS in 4
-Charlie.
NL
Colorado Rockies vs. Philadelphia Phillies- This is probably the least exciting series out of the four for sure and I really feel that this series could go either way. Colorado has struggled with left-handed pitchers this season, which isnt a good thing when they are facing Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels in the first two games. But here is the kicker, if the Rockies keep it close they get to face the arguably the worst bullpen in the playoffs right now. We all know how Colorado are the comeback kids. I am taking Philly because I have rolled with them all year might as well stick to it. Wont be easy though. PHI in 5
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers- Everyone is talking about the Cardinals going to the World Series and I have been saying that since early July. The pitching staff they have, add the offense, and they play pretty good defense too. I really cannot find a chink in their armor. It also tough to pick the Dodgers when they have struggled all second half but never count out Joe Torre/Manny Ramirez. STL in 4
AL
Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees- Honestly, the game tonight that the Twins won was epic. They were down a bunch of times and just battled back consistently. Now they play a Yankee team who has looked strong on the offensive end but you have to wonder about their starting pitching. Also CC Sabathia has been less than stellar in the playoffs. The Twins are the hottest team and the recent trends have signaled that leads to a big playoffs. The big spenders get it done though. NYY in 4
Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Angels- Now this has been an absolute bashing whenever these two teams get together and the Sox have came out ahead every time. I feel like Mike Scioscia tends to choke when the playoffs are on the line in the past couple of years. The pitching staff of the Sox will be the difference in this one, they have the experience and they know how to handle this opponent. BOS in 4
-Charlie.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Whose the Beast of the NL?
If you didnt realize, last August was the slowest the blog has been in a long time and I really have nothing to blame that on not even the alcohol haha. Well now that class is beginning tomorrow that likely means more of my time will be wasted on this blog. We will hit college football hard in the upcoming days with our first set of picks coming Thursday then "Game of the Week" breakdown on Friday. All next week look forward to the NFL. Lets get going with the National League....
Some people believe that the National League is the "Quadruple A" of baseball but to be honest, I think its somewhat better than people believe. It still doesnt hold a candle to the AL, see John Smoltz or Matt Holiday. Now that all the deals are done and the dust is settle, who is the king of the NL right now... lets take a look.
Philadelphia Phillies: No one can argue that this is the best lineup in baseball right now. They have the deadliest 3-4-5 and a great lead off hitter. In addition, Ryan Howard has been known for his huge Septembers/Octobers. While they seem like the favorite of the NL, they have one large looming problem... their closer Brad Lidge. He is new version of Derrick Turnbow with his ERA in the sevens and he is as bad as closing games as I am closing women, another story for another time. I also am not convinced that past the combination of Cole Hamels and Cliff Lee have the ability to win big games. J.A. Happ remember is a rookie and you never know what you are getting come playoff time.
St. Louis Cardinals: My personal favorite to come out of the National League right now. If you watched the Brewers tonight, you got a perfect example of why Matt Holiday makes this team so much better. Its almost like you have to pitch to Albert Pujols in big situation now. Further with add of John Smoltz, their starting pitching staff has been terrifying of late. They had a stat that with their big three (Chris Carpetner, Adam Wainwright, Joel Pinero) have gone 30-4 since July Fourth when pitching. The other big key is they have the most reliable closer in Ryan Franklin who has shut opponents down for the most part.
Los Angeles Dodgers: L.A. has faltered in the past couple of months with no production from Manny Ramirez and a steady decline by Chad Billingsley, fans have began to worry. The one thing that has been consistent is the play of Matt Kemp, he is becoming the leader of this team. Now they bring in Jim Thome to give them a huge bat off their bench during the stretch run and the postseason which I think might prove to be the best acquisition of the season. Also adding Jon Garland who has been pitching very well lately will help out their starting rotation so much.
-Charlie.
Some people believe that the National League is the "Quadruple A" of baseball but to be honest, I think its somewhat better than people believe. It still doesnt hold a candle to the AL, see John Smoltz or Matt Holiday. Now that all the deals are done and the dust is settle, who is the king of the NL right now... lets take a look.
Philadelphia Phillies: No one can argue that this is the best lineup in baseball right now. They have the deadliest 3-4-5 and a great lead off hitter. In addition, Ryan Howard has been known for his huge Septembers/Octobers. While they seem like the favorite of the NL, they have one large looming problem... their closer Brad Lidge. He is new version of Derrick Turnbow with his ERA in the sevens and he is as bad as closing games as I am closing women, another story for another time. I also am not convinced that past the combination of Cole Hamels and Cliff Lee have the ability to win big games. J.A. Happ remember is a rookie and you never know what you are getting come playoff time.
St. Louis Cardinals: My personal favorite to come out of the National League right now. If you watched the Brewers tonight, you got a perfect example of why Matt Holiday makes this team so much better. Its almost like you have to pitch to Albert Pujols in big situation now. Further with add of John Smoltz, their starting pitching staff has been terrifying of late. They had a stat that with their big three (Chris Carpetner, Adam Wainwright, Joel Pinero) have gone 30-4 since July Fourth when pitching. The other big key is they have the most reliable closer in Ryan Franklin who has shut opponents down for the most part.
Los Angeles Dodgers: L.A. has faltered in the past couple of months with no production from Manny Ramirez and a steady decline by Chad Billingsley, fans have began to worry. The one thing that has been consistent is the play of Matt Kemp, he is becoming the leader of this team. Now they bring in Jim Thome to give them a huge bat off their bench during the stretch run and the postseason which I think might prove to be the best acquisition of the season. Also adding Jon Garland who has been pitching very well lately will help out their starting rotation so much.
-Charlie.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Lee Lands in Philly and Cleveland Continues the Torment
The Philadelphia Phillies have been the hottest team in baseball for the last month have maybe vaulted themselves into the top team in the National League by landing 2008 AL Cy Young Winner Cliff Lee from the Cleveland Indians.
The Phillies needed pitching for sure with a combined 4.68 ERA which is one of the worst in baseball. That has all changed with Lee because you have a vicious 1-2 punch of Lee and Cole Hamels who had a solid start two nights ago. The worry with the Phillies was they had a guy to go into game five or seven with but they didnt have the game four/six now they do with Lee. He has a 7-9 but has 3.14 ERA. I think a lot like CC Sabathia, his record doesnt reflect how good of a season he has. The other thing you have to factor is he will be playing in the National League for the first time which has usually worked for most teams.
Now the Indians are pulling a Pittsburgh Pirates and I am beginning to wonder if Rachel Phelps is owning the team again. They didnt get a lot for Sabathia last year and then they get five prospects from Phillie yet didnt get anyone that was involved in the Roy Halladay deal. They were both Cy Young winners from the year before, you have to imagine that they are getting a ton for both of them. Its unbelievable how little general manager Mark Sharpio is getting back for his guys plus the fact he still has a job. He should have been fired two years ago including head coach Eric Wedge. Cleveland isnt done either likely dealing Victor Martinez so we will see what their return is on that deal.
-Charlie.
The Phillies needed pitching for sure with a combined 4.68 ERA which is one of the worst in baseball. That has all changed with Lee because you have a vicious 1-2 punch of Lee and Cole Hamels who had a solid start two nights ago. The worry with the Phillies was they had a guy to go into game five or seven with but they didnt have the game four/six now they do with Lee. He has a 7-9 but has 3.14 ERA. I think a lot like CC Sabathia, his record doesnt reflect how good of a season he has. The other thing you have to factor is he will be playing in the National League for the first time which has usually worked for most teams.
Now the Indians are pulling a Pittsburgh Pirates and I am beginning to wonder if Rachel Phelps is owning the team again. They didnt get a lot for Sabathia last year and then they get five prospects from Phillie yet didnt get anyone that was involved in the Roy Halladay deal. They were both Cy Young winners from the year before, you have to imagine that they are getting a ton for both of them. Its unbelievable how little general manager Mark Sharpio is getting back for his guys plus the fact he still has a job. He should have been fired two years ago including head coach Eric Wedge. Cleveland isnt done either likely dealing Victor Martinez so we will see what their return is on that deal.
-Charlie.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Here Comes The Champs...
As I said in the last post, its Fan Week here at Chucks Corner. If you want me to write about something you email me at tritscca@uwec.edu, facebook me at Chuck's Corner, or Tweet me at www.twitter.com/chuckscorner The other alternative is you see me in the fine city of Tosa or the greater Eastside of Milwaukee to tell me what to write about. My friend Votto requested a post about the Phillies (he writes a great blog and now have a live 24 hour video feed too, interview soon to come.)
Anyways he asked me to cover the Philadelphia Phillies and how they have decided to own the rest of the National League East in the last two weeks and to me there are a couple simple reasons why.
1. Jimmy Rollins- One of the best players in the game has been mired in an utter slump the whole season until the Phillies began this hot streak becoming world beaters again. Still only hitting .237 but that is an improvement from July fourth where his average was hovering around the .220s. He is the glue of this team in my opinion and it really becomes a problem when runners get on for Chase Utley and Ryan Howard.
2. We Just Hit Home Runs- While their pitching staff doesnt look that great right now then offense is probably the most potent unit in the big leagues. They have five guys that have over twenty homers which is pretty hard to pitch against. They cant pitch around Utley, Howard, or any of those guys which is completely frighting especially in the later innings of the game.
3. J.A. Happ- To me this is my Rookie of the Year so far in the National League. Happ stepped in right after Brett Myers was lost for the season and he has went 7-1 with about a 4.3 ERA so far this season. If Happ can continue to motor through the second half of the season like the first, the Phils would be in good shape. In addition, there is no way that he will be dealt in the "supposed-Halladay deal."
-Charlie.
Anyways he asked me to cover the Philadelphia Phillies and how they have decided to own the rest of the National League East in the last two weeks and to me there are a couple simple reasons why.
1. Jimmy Rollins- One of the best players in the game has been mired in an utter slump the whole season until the Phillies began this hot streak becoming world beaters again. Still only hitting .237 but that is an improvement from July fourth where his average was hovering around the .220s. He is the glue of this team in my opinion and it really becomes a problem when runners get on for Chase Utley and Ryan Howard.
2. We Just Hit Home Runs- While their pitching staff doesnt look that great right now then offense is probably the most potent unit in the big leagues. They have five guys that have over twenty homers which is pretty hard to pitch against. They cant pitch around Utley, Howard, or any of those guys which is completely frighting especially in the later innings of the game.
3. J.A. Happ- To me this is my Rookie of the Year so far in the National League. Happ stepped in right after Brett Myers was lost for the season and he has went 7-1 with about a 4.3 ERA so far this season. If Happ can continue to motor through the second half of the season like the first, the Phils would be in good shape. In addition, there is no way that he will be dealt in the "supposed-Halladay deal."
-Charlie.
Settle Down Sepi
I am calling this fan week on Chucks Corner. If you want me to write about something or you want a quote albeit it be something good like Seth or Votto you will get in there. Now I havent spoked to our only Toronto Blue Jays fan in the city of Wauwatosa, Sepi but I am sure he is on pins/needles about his boy Roy Halladay getting traded. I told him at the beginning of the year that this will happen but now I am here to tell you that it will not.
Now this might be the kiss of death because I have said multiple times that something will/will not happen therefore Halladay might get traded tomorrow for all I know. My thoughts on Halladay is that the Jays are trying to get too much out of teams right now for their possible suitors. They would like to get a shit ton of talent for Halladay who many could argue is best pitcher in our decade looking at stats alone although I have a problem saying that because he hasnt done anything in the postseason.
I think another reason why Halladay isnt going anywhere is the team who seemed to be the favorite has all the sudden caught steam in the past two weeks, the Philadelphia Phillies. Why do they need more pitching when they seem to be doing just fine without Doc? The only real reason is this year you might not get past Los Angeles due to Cole Hamels having a rough year plus other reasons. If they really want to repeat then they have to get Doc.
I mean if the Jays wanted this to happened, I think like CC Sabathia deal last year it would have happened already because they would have asked for a respectable amount for their guy. Toronto is really expecting teams to give up their best hitting and pitching prospects where I believe thats unrealistic to think a team will do that these days. Reason being is there is so much hype now made up about all of these stud prospects that rarely anyone wants to give up a "Hanley Ramirez-like" for a "Josh Beckett-like" player. Doc is staying in Canada, dont fret Sepi.
-Charlie.
Now this might be the kiss of death because I have said multiple times that something will/will not happen therefore Halladay might get traded tomorrow for all I know. My thoughts on Halladay is that the Jays are trying to get too much out of teams right now for their possible suitors. They would like to get a shit ton of talent for Halladay who many could argue is best pitcher in our decade looking at stats alone although I have a problem saying that because he hasnt done anything in the postseason.
I think another reason why Halladay isnt going anywhere is the team who seemed to be the favorite has all the sudden caught steam in the past two weeks, the Philadelphia Phillies. Why do they need more pitching when they seem to be doing just fine without Doc? The only real reason is this year you might not get past Los Angeles due to Cole Hamels having a rough year plus other reasons. If they really want to repeat then they have to get Doc.
I mean if the Jays wanted this to happened, I think like CC Sabathia deal last year it would have happened already because they would have asked for a respectable amount for their guy. Toronto is really expecting teams to give up their best hitting and pitching prospects where I believe thats unrealistic to think a team will do that these days. Reason being is there is so much hype now made up about all of these stud prospects that rarely anyone wants to give up a "Hanley Ramirez-like" for a "Josh Beckett-like" player. Doc is staying in Canada, dont fret Sepi.
-Charlie.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Philly Takes on Pedro
Bare with me that this story is about two days late but like I said in the RJ post, I have been busy doing fun stuff that you couldnt believe. Now on to story...
It has been known for sometime that the Philadelphia Phillies are after pitching after they lost Brett Myers for the season after an ugly hip injury in May. Many think they are the front-runners to get Roy Halladay due to having top-line prospects in the minors but they decided to go after Pedro Martinez.
The thirty-seven year old who dazzled us through in the early 2000s which a great fastball and a sick circle change has faded into the distance with a bunch of injury-riddled years. Martinez has had consistent arm problems in the past three years therefore you wonder if the Phillies are really making the right decision going with Martinez.
Already, Philly has decided to put him on the 15-day DL which probably means his arm isnt ready to pitch 85-100 balls. Or the velocity he is throwing with right now isnt where its supposed to be. If neither of those are the reason why Martinez is on the DL then I think there is something you definitely have to worry about and then I question why the choice was made to bring in a washed-up superstar.
If Pedro can somehow turn out to be even mid-2000 Pedro then look out the Phillies added a force to their rotation. Although if he is anything like the last couple of years, we could ended up seeing Pedro reside in the bullpen.
-Charlie.
It has been known for sometime that the Philadelphia Phillies are after pitching after they lost Brett Myers for the season after an ugly hip injury in May. Many think they are the front-runners to get Roy Halladay due to having top-line prospects in the minors but they decided to go after Pedro Martinez.
The thirty-seven year old who dazzled us through in the early 2000s which a great fastball and a sick circle change has faded into the distance with a bunch of injury-riddled years. Martinez has had consistent arm problems in the past three years therefore you wonder if the Phillies are really making the right decision going with Martinez.
Already, Philly has decided to put him on the 15-day DL which probably means his arm isnt ready to pitch 85-100 balls. Or the velocity he is throwing with right now isnt where its supposed to be. If neither of those are the reason why Martinez is on the DL then I think there is something you definitely have to worry about and then I question why the choice was made to bring in a washed-up superstar.
If Pedro can somehow turn out to be even mid-2000 Pedro then look out the Phillies added a force to their rotation. Although if he is anything like the last couple of years, we could ended up seeing Pedro reside in the bullpen.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
In Ibanez I Trust
One thing that I hate about blogging is there are always the few that give you a bad name as a whole like the guy today who accused the Philadelphia Phillies slugger Raul Ibanez of using performance-enhancing drugs. It personally makes me sick.
The biggest thing that bothers me about Major League Baseball is when someone has an amazing start everyone and their mother assumes its performance-enhancers. If the MVP Voting ended today, there is no reason to that Ibanez isnt the front-runner hitting .327 20 HRs 55 RBIs.
I dont understand how this idiot can feel that Ibanez is roidin' because they are tested a ridicolus amount of times and he hasnt lost a step even at his older age if you look at years prior. Another huge aspect is that Ibanez is playing the National League for the first time therefore many of these pitchers havent seen Ibanez on a frequent basis. He also has protection such as Ryan Howard and Chase Utley like he never has had in his career.
Ibanez's thoughts via Fanhouse... I'll come after people who defame or slander me," he said before last night's game against the New York Mets. "It's pathetic and disgusting. There should be some accountability for people who put that out there.I'll put that up against the jobs of anyone who writes this stuff. Make them accountable. There should be more credibility than some 42-year-old blogger typing in his mother's basement. It demeans everything you've done with one stroke of the pen."Nobody is above the testing policy. We've seen that."
I think that last comment made by Ibanez is the one that holds the most truth. No one can slide a quick one past the drug testers and that has been proven frequently. I hope this doesnt phase Ibanez and continues to have a great year.
-Charlie
The biggest thing that bothers me about Major League Baseball is when someone has an amazing start everyone and their mother assumes its performance-enhancers. If the MVP Voting ended today, there is no reason to that Ibanez isnt the front-runner hitting .327 20 HRs 55 RBIs.
I dont understand how this idiot can feel that Ibanez is roidin' because they are tested a ridicolus amount of times and he hasnt lost a step even at his older age if you look at years prior. Another huge aspect is that Ibanez is playing the National League for the first time therefore many of these pitchers havent seen Ibanez on a frequent basis. He also has protection such as Ryan Howard and Chase Utley like he never has had in his career.
Ibanez's thoughts via Fanhouse... I'll come after people who defame or slander me," he said before last night's game against the New York Mets. "It's pathetic and disgusting. There should be some accountability for people who put that out there.I'll put that up against the jobs of anyone who writes this stuff. Make them accountable. There should be more credibility than some 42-year-old blogger typing in his mother's basement. It demeans everything you've done with one stroke of the pen."Nobody is above the testing policy. We've seen that."
I think that last comment made by Ibanez is the one that holds the most truth. No one can slide a quick one past the drug testers and that has been proven frequently. I hope this doesnt phase Ibanez and continues to have a great year.
-Charlie
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Phillies are your World Champions
Well at least this was the team the Brewers lost to. That makes me feel better and the fact that they have Geoff Jenkins on their team so he gets a ring which is good to see, class guy. But to be honest, the Philadelphia fans suck. They are right up there with Detroit fans.
I dont know maybe its just me, but I never have liked a team from the Detroit area or the Philadelphia area. And the Philadelphia one could be completely Wisconsin related as the Eagles beat the Packers on a 4th and 26 to get the NFC Championship game (screw you Bhawoh Jue) and the 76ers beat the Bucks in the Eastern Conference finals where Allen Iverson won an Oscar for all the flopping he did in this game. So thats probably where my Philadelphia hatred comes from.
Congrats to Philadelphia Phillies, and Cole Hamels on winning another MVP award which in my opinion, could have gone to Ryan Howard as he tied up game 3 and had two homers in game 4. But who really cares.
Now on to the baseball offseason, where I am sure I will have an article or two a week involving that topic.
-Charlie.
I dont know maybe its just me, but I never have liked a team from the Detroit area or the Philadelphia area. And the Philadelphia one could be completely Wisconsin related as the Eagles beat the Packers on a 4th and 26 to get the NFC Championship game (screw you Bhawoh Jue) and the 76ers beat the Bucks in the Eastern Conference finals where Allen Iverson won an Oscar for all the flopping he did in this game. So thats probably where my Philadelphia hatred comes from.
Congrats to Philadelphia Phillies, and Cole Hamels on winning another MVP award which in my opinion, could have gone to Ryan Howard as he tied up game 3 and had two homers in game 4. But who really cares.
Now on to the baseball offseason, where I am sure I will have an article or two a week involving that topic.
-Charlie.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Can the Rays do the Improbable?
In a perfect world when I dont have homework, I would of love to have this post done on the Sunday when the Rays clinched but as you can see that didnt happen so I have it here with my World Series prediction.
The Rays were a team who I had told some people "Yeah they will win 75-80, there not as bad as the years past and they might overtake the Blue Jays for third" And I was really big on Evan Longoria, but I had no idea they would be this good and be in the World Series. It all starts with Joe Maddon who Doz called "Rick Vaughan 20 years later". Great comparison, anyways he has brought this relaxed sense of baseball with the whole focus being a "Team Effort". To me thats a remarkable thing to do with such a young ball team who could get selfish at times. The thing that makes this a better story that the Marlins of the past years is they have so much more young talent than the Marlins did. Florida at both times had some young talent but there were some great veteran leaders sprinkled in as well. The Rays have some in the bullpen and with Cliff Floyd, yet its nowhere near what the Marlins had. Even if the Rays dont win, they will be a threat to contend for years to come.
Now on to the prediction, I dont know I have picked against both of these teams and I honestly think the Rays will do this thing but they are going to be pushed like none other. The big key is how they handle Cole Hamels tonight but they have enough lefty-pitching to deal with Ryan Howard and Chase Utley as well. Also Philly always chokes in the World Championship for examples see Flyers, Eagles, and Phillies (Remember Mitch "Wild Thing" Williams). Tampa in 7.
-Charlie
The Rays were a team who I had told some people "Yeah they will win 75-80, there not as bad as the years past and they might overtake the Blue Jays for third" And I was really big on Evan Longoria, but I had no idea they would be this good and be in the World Series. It all starts with Joe Maddon who Doz called "Rick Vaughan 20 years later". Great comparison, anyways he has brought this relaxed sense of baseball with the whole focus being a "Team Effort". To me thats a remarkable thing to do with such a young ball team who could get selfish at times. The thing that makes this a better story that the Marlins of the past years is they have so much more young talent than the Marlins did. Florida at both times had some young talent but there were some great veteran leaders sprinkled in as well. The Rays have some in the bullpen and with Cliff Floyd, yet its nowhere near what the Marlins had. Even if the Rays dont win, they will be a threat to contend for years to come.
Now on to the prediction, I dont know I have picked against both of these teams and I honestly think the Rays will do this thing but they are going to be pushed like none other. The big key is how they handle Cole Hamels tonight but they have enough lefty-pitching to deal with Ryan Howard and Chase Utley as well. Also Philly always chokes in the World Championship for examples see Flyers, Eagles, and Phillies (Remember Mitch "Wild Thing" Williams). Tampa in 7.
-Charlie
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