I know we are a little over 81 games for the season but we need a mid season report to see who are the contenders and the pretenders. I will do a HOT-a player who is on fire and doesnt appear to stop, NOT-someone who needs to improve to save their season, BUYER/SELLER: Self explanatory. FINISH-where they end up during the year,
AL EAST
1. Boston Red Sox: HOT: Starting Pitching-Not many teams can say that they have three 8+ winners on their staff. That is something the Sox will need the rest of the season including the postseason. NOT: Nick Green or any other shortstop- They get nothing out of the SS position right now with Green batting average only .257, hitting four homers, and 15 RBIs that is not getting it done. BUYER: No doubt about it, if they get Roy Halladay my head may explode and they have also wanted JJ Hardy. FINISH: First in the AL East, World Series Champion.
2. New York Yankees: HOT: Robinson Cano- There are slew of Yankee hitters I could choose from because well they hit at new Coors Field so their numbers are quite inflated to say the least. Cano has had a great year at second base hitting over .300 and 10+ homers almost reviving his career. NOT: Middle relief- The one thing the Yankees are missing right now is a 7th and 8th inning guy to set up Mariano Rivera. None of those guys seem to have the 'grapefruits' to handle October. BUYER: Without question they are, I dont think they can get Halladay but they should look for an 8th inning guy, maybe Tony Pena out of Arizona. FINISH: Second in the AL East, lose in the ALCS to the Sox in 5
3. Tampa Bay Rays: HOT: Ben Zobrist- He is a guy who has played seven different positions this year for the Rays and has been the most important part of their team so far. Some are discussing that he is the MVP of the AL so far right now. NOT: Run Support- Their top three pitchers have six losses with sub 4 ERAs, something wrong there. It could be Pat Burrell/Carlos Pena .240 and lower BA. BUYER: They could use relief help or a bat, Felipe Lopez wouldnt be a bad opition. FINISH: Third in the AL East, just short of the Wild Card.
4. Toronto Blue Jays: HOT: Aaron Hill- Talk about a guy who really came out of nowhere. He seemed to be a flash in a pan in 2007 and now he is coming on strong with 20 homers already this season. NOT: Travis Snider- He was supposed to be one of the superstars of the Jays and hasnt amount to nothing. I wouldnt be surprised if they decided to send him down at some time this second half. SELLER: They are looking to deal Roy Halladay and Scott Rolen, maybe Aaron Hill as well who knows. FINISH: Fifth in the AL East.
5. Baltimore Orioles: HOT: Adam Jones- He is a helluva player and a great young talent that seems to keep getting better. Jones will be a complete stud for the O's and should be their franchise player. NOT: Starting Pitching- Good lord they have four pitchers with 5 plus ERAs that is not going to get it done whatsoever for the O's for years to come. SELLER: They will not sell any of their great young players but they might deal George Sherrill to get some pitching. FINISH: Fourth in the AL East.
AL CENTRAL
1. Detroit Tigers: HOT: Edwin Jackson- He was a world-renowned prospect at the beginning of his career and then tailed off until last year season with the Rays which we all thought was lighting in the bottle. Jackson proved that theory wrong so far. NOT: Dontrelle Willis- The D-Train has officially parked in the station for awhile. I see no reason for the resurrection of Willis. NEITHER: They could use a bat but they have a ton of mammoth contracts therefore they really dont have room to take on money. FINISH: First in the AL Central, loses to the Red Sox in four.
2. Chicago White Sox: HOT: Paul Konerko- He has a had a pretty solid season so far after struggling mightly last year. Konerko been great for the Sox so far. NOT: Josh Fields- I have no idea why he is still in the lineup when you have Gordan Beckham ready to play. Fields has only hit a mere .225. BUYER/SELLER: If they do well in the next 10 days, they will be buyers maybe go after Rolen then if they suck, they might try to deal Jermaine Dye. FINISH: Third in the AL Central, fades away in the second half.
3. Minnesota Twins: HOT: Joe Mauer-He has been a guy who never had power and now is belting fifteen homers with an unreal .377 batting average. Mauer is right up there for MVP so far this season. NOT: Twins Management- I could say others but look they gave away Matt Garza and Jason Bartlett for Delmon Young, yikes. Think how good the Twins would be. NEITHER: They are never really a team that makes deals at the end of July so I see them making no moves. FINISH: Second in the AL Central but it will be close with the Tigers.
4. Kansas City Royals: HOT: Zach Grienke- Who else? He might have five losses but he only has a 2.13 ERA right now. Grienke could easily be the AL CY Young award winner right now. Also its a great story that he was able to overcome all the problems he had. NOT: Mike Jacobs- They brought him from Florida and he has done complete squat for the Royals so far as a DH. He has made a little dent in Kansas City. SELLER: They wont deal any of guys like Mark Teahan, Billy Bulter, or Grienke although if someone wants Jose Guillen/Jacobs, they will do it. FINISH: Fourth in the AL Central
5. Cleveland Indians: HOT: Victor Martinez- Coming off a injury-riddle 08, he had an All-Star worthy first half of the season. He does a great job at both catcher and first base. NOT: Relief pitching- Its sooo bad, they blow every lead the Indians seem to get. If I was Cleveland I would ask Jose Mesa to come back. SELLER: No doubt about it and it would be interesting to see if they move Martinez which I doubt. FINISH: Dead last in the AL.
AL WEST
1. Los Angeles Angles: HOT: Juan Rivera- Remember when the media was criticizing the Angels for passing on Mark Teixeira for Rivera? He has put together a pretty awesome year so far with .310 15 homers. Its not Tex by any means but Rivera done a formidable job. NOT: Vladimir Guerrero- Is his career done? The back seems like it bothers him so much and he hasnt be able to shake it. Very sad for me. BUYER: I dont know if they have enough to get Halladay but they might go after some 3-4 pitching like Doug Davis. FINISH: First in the AL West, loses to Yanks in five
2. Texas Rangers: HOT: Nelson Cruz- Dont remind me he was a Brewer prospect but Cruz has had an incredible year so far for Texas. The Rangers have a bright future with him and Josh Hamilton as their 3-4. NOT: Chris Davis- A cant miss prospect who was suppose to be Cruz this year has only proven to hit home runs. Hopefully he can figure it out. BUYER: They need pitching too and they have a ton in their minors to give up so who knows. FINISH: Second in the AL West falling away from the Angels.
3. Seattle Mariners: HOT: Russell Branyan- The Muscle has been awesome for Seattle and its too bad he didnt stay with the Brewers this season. Anyways its great to see him have easily the comeback year of the AL. NOT: Wladimir Baletien- Talk about just an awful player, he hasnt done anything out in left for Seattle this season. I hope they have a young gun in the minors to fill his role. BUYER/SELLER: Alot like the White Sox, if they succeed in the next 10 they might look at some players and if they suck once again, they will deal guys like Washburn/Branyan. FINISH: Third in the AL West.
4. Oakland: HOT: Andrew Bailey- He has been awesome in the closer role at his young age and it seems to me that Bailey will be a dominant closer from years to come. NOT: Matt Holiday- Talk about an epic fail. Everyone doubt that he go from Coors to Oakland without any problems and he laughed it off. That didnt happen for Holiday whatsoever as he has gone thirty-two games w/o homering. SELLER: I mean when are they not sellers? Haha look for them to try to deal Holiday for sure. FINISH: Fourth in the AL West.
-Charlie.
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Showing posts with label American League. Show all posts
Showing posts with label American League. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Prince Saves the All Star for Me.
I have to be honest with all of you here at Chucks Corner. I am done with the All Star game for the most part. I dont know why but I just find no more interest in watching these guys play an exhibition against each other. I found myself bored many times unless Prince Fielder, Ryan Braun, or Trevor Hoffman was in the game from my Milwaukee Brewers. Other than that, I really could give a damn about watching Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees shutting the door for the AL who have now won 14 times straight with one magical tie in Milwaukee.
Despite my mean sentiments towards the All Star Week, I still feel it is vital for the MLB to stick with the option of every team gets a player on the roster. I think that is the coolest thing because like I say in the title, Prince really was the only reason to watch throughout the two days.
On Monday at the Home Run Derby, he put on a complete display of his home run hitting abilities by belting blasts around the 450 range and even getting one out 500 feet (Prince claims that the first time he has ever sent one that far). It was sheer strength watching Prince pound the ball into the Busch Stadium lights and beyond. Nelson Cruz was the only guy who came close to touching Prince but if Fielder needed to he probably could have sent five more out in the final round.
Now on Tuesday, I was worried if Prince stepped to the plate, he would attempt to hit another one out but instead ripped an RBI double down the left field line which was the last run for the National League. I hate to criticize managers for an exhibition game but I wish Charlie Manuel would waited to put Prince in for Albert Pujols in the fifth inning. Trever Hoffman looked good in his inning of work and Braun made good contact although went 0-2.
On to the second half... should be fun.
-Charlie.
Despite my mean sentiments towards the All Star Week, I still feel it is vital for the MLB to stick with the option of every team gets a player on the roster. I think that is the coolest thing because like I say in the title, Prince really was the only reason to watch throughout the two days.
On Monday at the Home Run Derby, he put on a complete display of his home run hitting abilities by belting blasts around the 450 range and even getting one out 500 feet (Prince claims that the first time he has ever sent one that far). It was sheer strength watching Prince pound the ball into the Busch Stadium lights and beyond. Nelson Cruz was the only guy who came close to touching Prince but if Fielder needed to he probably could have sent five more out in the final round.
Now on Tuesday, I was worried if Prince stepped to the plate, he would attempt to hit another one out but instead ripped an RBI double down the left field line which was the last run for the National League. I hate to criticize managers for an exhibition game but I wish Charlie Manuel would waited to put Prince in for Albert Pujols in the fifth inning. Trever Hoffman looked good in his inning of work and Braun made good contact although went 0-2.
On to the second half... should be fun.
-Charlie.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
AL Preview
Well baseball season begins on Sunday with one game and then it comes full-circle on Monday or Tuesday. I am going to put on an AL Report, an NL Report, and a Milwaukee Brewers report so as the Joker will say "Here we go..."
AL EAST:
1. Boston Red Sox- They need to have to a big year out of David Ortiz to be successful and if that happens, they can be the top team in the toughest division in baseball. The other big question will Mike Lowell be able to swing a bat like he did in the past. Watch out for Rocco Baldielli as a guy who could come out of nowhere in addition Justin Masteron-Johnathan Papelbon combination could prove to be very deadly. Its their pitching that has them at the top.
2. New York Yankees (Wildcard)- The spenders of the offseason and made you think if there was a recession really going on. I have no worries about CC Sabathia in New York but A.J. Burnett will get hurt, I can guarantee you that. I also think Mark Teixeria will have a good year as well. It will get them to the playoffs but not to the World Series by any means.
3. Tampa Bay Rays- Am I still doubting the Rays? Somewhat. There have been many teams lately to slip off a bit after a franchise year. Word on the street is Carl Crawford is looking to redeem himself and their pitching staff is still very strong include David Price into the mix too. BJ Upton and Evan Longoria should have big years again this year as well. Its going to be a three team race going down to the final weekend when its all said and done.
4. Baltimore Orioles- This will be a typical year for the Orioles. They show some promise with Adam Jones and Luke Scott. Their downfall is they have no pitching with Jeremy Guthrie being the opening day starter. They do have a couple good things in Aubrey Huff and Melvin Mora then again nothing special. Matt Wieters will prove outlook for the future is great but its will not be anything to help the O's this year.
5. Toronto Blue Jays- The Fighting Sephers will find themselves at the bottom of the barrel this season. They do have Roy Halladay who will give them wins but there have already been trade rumors with him when July rolls around. After Halladay, the drop off is so severe and B.J. Ryan is a disaster in the bullpen. Their offense has Vernon Wells and then a bunch of old guys minus Adam Lind. They need to get young quick
AL CENTRAL
1. Minnesota Twins- I really think the Twins have a good thing going with Justin Morneau, Carlos Gomez and Denard Span. I know the Twins' fans do not really like Span but I think he could have a big year. Francisco Lirano could have a great year for the Twins and Kevin Slowley/Scott Baker make a formitable pitching rotation.
2. Cleveland Indians- Welcome back all you Wahoo Manics. Harry Doyle, you gotta love him anyways I really like the Indians offense especially with the addition of Mark DeRosa and I think Victor Martinez/Travis Hafner will stay healthy. The question will be the pitching staff be enough? I dont its enough to get the playoffs unless Carl Pavano comes out of nowhere for them. Also Kerry Wood as the closer is always risky.
3. Detroit Tigers- I remember last year Eric and I were so high on the Tigers thinking this was the most destructive team which was totally wrong. Apparently, I am the only guy who isnt a big Miguel Cabrera guy but I do love Curtis Granderson. They are another team with absolutely no pitching and Fransisco Rodney at closer will be a disaster.
4. Chicago White Sox- They have some good parts like Alexi Ramirez who is one of my favorite young players and I think Gavin Floyd is no joke either. But I think Carlos Quinten is a bit of a fluke add Jim Thome/Jermaine Dye getting older plus the reliability of Mark Buerhle is always a question.
5. Kansas City Royals-Bill Simmons loves this team and I think they have some great young talent although they will finished a spirited fifth. They have some good offensive tools with Alex Gordan, Billy Butler, and Mike Aviles. Their pitching staff is pretty strong with Zach Grinke and
Gil Meche. Look for the Royals to be right around the 3-5 for the whole year.
AL WEST
1. Los Angeles Angles- I will not give them the whole name but they are going to be the best team in the American League in my opinion. They have a nice offense with Vlad Guerrero being consistent as always and Bobby Aberu isnt a bad fit for them. The pitching rotation will be questionable with John Lackey not there until the end of April and Ervin Santana is pretty banged up. I still think they at the top of the table.
2. Texas Rangers- Like always they have a great offense with Nelson Cruz whose everyone favorite to be the next big thing and of course Josh Hamilton. Also add Ian Kinsler to that mix and you have an offense that can put up 8 runs a game. Although they have a pitching staff that can give up 8 runs as well. I could see if they are close to the playoffs in July making a trade for a pitcher.
3. Oakland A's- I talked earlier about how much I loved the Jason Giambi signing and Mat Holiday will be great for the team until he gets traded in late July likely. Their pitching staff is very young with Dana Evaland leading the staff worries me and Joey Devine is banged up right now in the bullpen.
4. Seattle Mariners- Another deal I loved in the offseason was the deal to bring Ken Griffey Jr. to the Mariners and they still have Adrian Beltre so I could see a pretty good offense. Felix Hernandez is a beast as a pitcher who will give them great production and Brandon Morrow is an up and coming closer. Dont be surprised if this team is around the second spot either.
NL Preview probably on Sunday.
-Charlie.
AL EAST:
1. Boston Red Sox- They need to have to a big year out of David Ortiz to be successful and if that happens, they can be the top team in the toughest division in baseball. The other big question will Mike Lowell be able to swing a bat like he did in the past. Watch out for Rocco Baldielli as a guy who could come out of nowhere in addition Justin Masteron-Johnathan Papelbon combination could prove to be very deadly. Its their pitching that has them at the top.
2. New York Yankees (Wildcard)- The spenders of the offseason and made you think if there was a recession really going on. I have no worries about CC Sabathia in New York but A.J. Burnett will get hurt, I can guarantee you that. I also think Mark Teixeria will have a good year as well. It will get them to the playoffs but not to the World Series by any means.
3. Tampa Bay Rays- Am I still doubting the Rays? Somewhat. There have been many teams lately to slip off a bit after a franchise year. Word on the street is Carl Crawford is looking to redeem himself and their pitching staff is still very strong include David Price into the mix too. BJ Upton and Evan Longoria should have big years again this year as well. Its going to be a three team race going down to the final weekend when its all said and done.
4. Baltimore Orioles- This will be a typical year for the Orioles. They show some promise with Adam Jones and Luke Scott. Their downfall is they have no pitching with Jeremy Guthrie being the opening day starter. They do have a couple good things in Aubrey Huff and Melvin Mora then again nothing special. Matt Wieters will prove outlook for the future is great but its will not be anything to help the O's this year.
5. Toronto Blue Jays- The Fighting Sephers will find themselves at the bottom of the barrel this season. They do have Roy Halladay who will give them wins but there have already been trade rumors with him when July rolls around. After Halladay, the drop off is so severe and B.J. Ryan is a disaster in the bullpen. Their offense has Vernon Wells and then a bunch of old guys minus Adam Lind. They need to get young quick
AL CENTRAL
1. Minnesota Twins- I really think the Twins have a good thing going with Justin Morneau, Carlos Gomez and Denard Span. I know the Twins' fans do not really like Span but I think he could have a big year. Francisco Lirano could have a great year for the Twins and Kevin Slowley/Scott Baker make a formitable pitching rotation.
2. Cleveland Indians- Welcome back all you Wahoo Manics. Harry Doyle, you gotta love him anyways I really like the Indians offense especially with the addition of Mark DeRosa and I think Victor Martinez/Travis Hafner will stay healthy. The question will be the pitching staff be enough? I dont its enough to get the playoffs unless Carl Pavano comes out of nowhere for them. Also Kerry Wood as the closer is always risky.
3. Detroit Tigers- I remember last year Eric and I were so high on the Tigers thinking this was the most destructive team which was totally wrong. Apparently, I am the only guy who isnt a big Miguel Cabrera guy but I do love Curtis Granderson. They are another team with absolutely no pitching and Fransisco Rodney at closer will be a disaster.
4. Chicago White Sox- They have some good parts like Alexi Ramirez who is one of my favorite young players and I think Gavin Floyd is no joke either. But I think Carlos Quinten is a bit of a fluke add Jim Thome/Jermaine Dye getting older plus the reliability of Mark Buerhle is always a question.
5. Kansas City Royals-Bill Simmons loves this team and I think they have some great young talent although they will finished a spirited fifth. They have some good offensive tools with Alex Gordan, Billy Butler, and Mike Aviles. Their pitching staff is pretty strong with Zach Grinke and
Gil Meche. Look for the Royals to be right around the 3-5 for the whole year.
AL WEST
1. Los Angeles Angles- I will not give them the whole name but they are going to be the best team in the American League in my opinion. They have a nice offense with Vlad Guerrero being consistent as always and Bobby Aberu isnt a bad fit for them. The pitching rotation will be questionable with John Lackey not there until the end of April and Ervin Santana is pretty banged up. I still think they at the top of the table.
2. Texas Rangers- Like always they have a great offense with Nelson Cruz whose everyone favorite to be the next big thing and of course Josh Hamilton. Also add Ian Kinsler to that mix and you have an offense that can put up 8 runs a game. Although they have a pitching staff that can give up 8 runs as well. I could see if they are close to the playoffs in July making a trade for a pitcher.
3. Oakland A's- I talked earlier about how much I loved the Jason Giambi signing and Mat Holiday will be great for the team until he gets traded in late July likely. Their pitching staff is very young with Dana Evaland leading the staff worries me and Joey Devine is banged up right now in the bullpen.
4. Seattle Mariners- Another deal I loved in the offseason was the deal to bring Ken Griffey Jr. to the Mariners and they still have Adrian Beltre so I could see a pretty good offense. Felix Hernandez is a beast as a pitcher who will give them great production and Brandon Morrow is an up and coming closer. Dont be surprised if this team is around the second spot either.
NL Preview probably on Sunday.
-Charlie.
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