Here's some of the names that the Rangers have been connected with so far:
Carlos Quentin (OF) - The Rangers did make a inquiry to see what it would take to acquire the potential hard hitting right fielder from the Arizona Diamondbacks. It was Eric Hurley. I'm not opposed to trading Hurley, but only if it's for a pitcher, such as Santana or Haren. I would even trade him if maybe Texas had other pitching prospects close to ready. Since they don't, onto the new stop.
Scott Rolen (3B) and Chris Duncan (1B/LF) - This was strictly a salary dump in exchange for Hank Blalock. Duncan I'm not sure about, as he's a big hacking slugger that would be a fit as a platoon DH or FIrst Baseman. Rolen is pretty much done. Sorry. I just can't.
Andy LaRoche (3B) - There are also talks that Texas is looking to trade Hank Blalock to the Dodgers for Andy LaRoche and change. However, it looks like the reports are that this was strictly smoke with no substance. That's a pity. I would have loved to have had LaRoche.
Coco Crisp (CF) - And back to Mr. Crisp. Word is that Boston asked for C.J. Wilson in return and are not interested in Gerald Laird. Ummmm, no. Wilson is the closer next year and is one of the few lefties available for the pen, with Murray heading to the rotation in Oklahoma next year, leaving only Rheinecker as the lone lefty aside for Wilson. Still, this offer is a lot better than what the Red Sox originally asked for, which was Hurley, Luis Mendoza, who actually was a Red Sox, and another player. TIme to find the next Ron Mahay...
Josh Hamilton (CF) – Hamilton is attractive in that he’s young and is a physical freak of nature. He’s got loads of talent and could be a fixture long term in Texas. The only real question, aside from the past substance abuse issues (not fair, but unfortunately, still valid) are what potential trade matches could be done, as judging from the two teams and their respective farm systems, it doesn’t look like a match can be made.
David DeJesus (CF) – This is still a valid rumor, especially if you consider the fact that the Royals are going hard after the batshit crazy outfielder we all know as Jose Guillen. If they sign him, they’ll have a outfield of Mark Teahen, Joey Gathright, whom the Royals love, and Guillen, leaving DeJesus out in the cold. The Rangers could make an offer of Joaquin Arias, Luis Mendoza, and either Doug Mathis or Michael Schlact in return for DeJesus and change.
Chris Shelton (1B) - Shelton was designated for assignment by the Tigers to make room for Kenny Rogers. Were I the Rangers, I actually would make a play for Shelton, who could at least be a platoon partner for Cat at first next year.
Raid The Pirates
Actually, there is a way for the Rangers to be able to fill several holes at once to help fill their needs.
The Pirates are looking to move RF Xavier Nady and LF Jason Bay in order to stock on prospects, as they seem to have realized that this current core of the team just isn’t working and are looking to make some deals.
Nady is a virtual lock to be traded, as the Pirates have shown no desire to pay him in arbitration and will look to either trade him or non-tender him. Jon Daniels discussed Bay with the Pirates earlier today and is in the mix to try and get him.
I’d try to make a deal for both, which would take care of left and right field and allowing them to use some sort of Marlon Byrd/David Murphy combo in center. It would also allow Texas to leave Frank Catalanotto at first base and would add a pair of decent bats in the middle. The best part is, neither of them blocks any of the Rangers’ prospects long term and potentially could allow the Rangers to reap some draft picks if they do well in Texas.
What would I hit the Pirates with for both guys? Well, it looks like the Pirates are looking for a catcher and a pitching prospect in exchange for Bay and are just looking to get something for Nady. So, here’s what I’d do:
First off, I’d offer them Laird, who is still three years away from free agency. That would be for Nady, as it is a trade of pieces that just don’t fit with their current clubs.
For Bay, since I have already offered a catcher, I would ask them if a trade for Joaquin The Dream would work, with another pitcher, possibly Michael Schlact or Armando Galarraga would work. If they elect for it, cool. If not, I’d offer some potential Rule 5 picks that may get selected from the Rangers, likely Tug Hulett a utility man, and Jesse Ingram, who had a bounceback season last year, but was blocked from getting onto the Rangers’ 40 this year.
So, if all things considered fall into place, I’d offer the following:
The Texas Rangers offer C Gerald Laird, RHP Armando Galaragga, SS Joaquin Arias and RHP Jesse Ingram for RF Xavier Nady and LF Jason Bay
I know it’s more quantity than quality right now, but it would kill some holes on the team and would allow them to try and trade Jack Wilson while trying to eat some of his salary. All in all, it’s a pretty fair deal.
Tomorrow, the San Diego Padres Farm System goes up, with the Seattle Mariners going up on Friday. Look for a Rangers Report GM Meetings Wrap Up On Thursday.
The Rangers may not be making a big splash with a centerfield this off-season.
The price for a centerfielder may be too cost prohibative.
So, the Rangers are looking for the next best thing.
Trade.
That's looking a little off-kilter as well, but we'll see what happens.
Here's a few of the trade candidates that are out there that could be reasonable expectations to start for Texas next season, via trade:
Coco Crisp (Boston) - This is the sexy pick, as Crisp is not only a proven defender, but he's also under contract for three years. He's also now been surpassed by Jacoby Ellsbury and will likely needs to be traded before Spring Training starts. However, Boston won't let him go for a pittance and they would probably like a pair of prospects in exchange. There have been talks about Gerald Laird, which I would totally do, especially if I were to decide to include a player to be named later option on the deal, though for the moment, we'll just have to wait and see.
Ryan Sweeney (White Sox) - A former Number One pick, Sweeney has had a hard go of it with the White Sox, with many wondering if he's still has a future with the franchise, especially since Kenny Williams has been shopping him aggressively for a reliever. Sweeney seems like a decent reclaimation project and would be a reasonable centerfield option for a few years as a stopgap, and if he's ever able to tap into the batting practice power he shows, this could be a steal. One problem: White Sox GM Kenny Williams is notorious for overvaluing his own players and will demand someone like Joaquin Benoit or C.J. Wilson in return, which he won't get.
Joey Gathright/David DeJesus (Royals) - It seems to flip flop each week on which one is getting placed on the table. Of the pair, I would gladly take DeJesus, who's still young and plays a good centerfield, over Gathright, who is quick, but very mistake prone. RIght now there were rumors of a trade for Gathright centered around Joaquin Arias, a shortstop prospect made expendable by current Rangers' prospects Elvis Andrus and Marcus Lemon. I'd see what the interest is for Arias, and would also throw in a player to be named later option to see if that wouldn't hurry things along for a deal.
Rocco Baldelli (Rays) - Baldelli is definately being shopped, but right now the Rays are hoping to get pitching back, something Texas doesn't have an abundance of near the big league level. Another potential deal breaker is the fact that Baldelli is very injury prone, which could result in the Rangers taking a pass on this.
Long Term Deal For Kinsler Likely To Be Explored Again
With the emeregence off Ian Kinsler as a leadoff man, the Rangers are likely to try and see if they could possibly sign Kinsler to a five year deal, buying out one year of free agency, while also providing Kinsler with some financial stability in the process. My guess is that something gets done. With the $21 million from A-Rod now available, why would you not spend it on something as logical as locking up your OWN players!!!!
Why has there not been any public talk about signing Kinsler this year? He has shown that he has what it takes to be a solid player in the league and was one of only a few success stories this year. Why not lock him up right now? The Rangers will meet with Kinsler's agents at some point this offseason and discuss a long-term contract that will lock him up for several years. Count on it.
Upgrading The Bench
One thing that caught my eye was that the Padres declined Rob Mackowiak's $3.25 million option for 2008. Mackowiak has some history of being a decent bat, but didn’t do much with the Padres and was hurt. I would be all about bringing him in as the utilityman. He’d be a solid upgrade over Raul Vasquez and could platoon with Cat at first against lefties. Another thought would be to offer Rod Barajas another shot in Texas, where he’d be the backup to Salty and possibly mentor him.
Taking some tiem out from watching the playoffs to update you all on some Ranger thoughts I had. Let's kick it out the new title text:
The Rangers Report – Offseason Edition
Aki May Need Tommy John Surgery
This isn’t good news.
Reports are coming out that Akinori Otsuka, who hasn’t been seen since the All Star break, may need to undergo Tommy John, costing him all of 2009 and the last year of control under Texas before Free Agency.
Sigh.
Aki was likely going to exit Surprise next season as the closer for the Rangers. If he needs to undergo Tommy John, he’s going to get non-tendered and released by Texas, giving a final and craptastic end to one of the worst Rangers trades of all time.
And, just because I like rubbing salt on my wounds, here is how the trade worked out for Texas:
Adam Eaton – Posted a horrific year and didn’t even merit Free Agent Compensation, then bolted for the big bucks in Philly, where he’s been equally craptastic.
Akinori Otsuka – Did a great job as a closer in 2006, was an excellent setup man in 2007, but would be gone if he has to undergo TJ.
Billy Killian - A young catching prospect, Killian was terrible for Spokane and Clinton and was eventually sold to the White Sox for an undisclosed amount of cash and a cash of Milwaukee’s Best.
Bah.
Top Rangers Moments Of 2007
Michael Young’s 200th Hit – It’s great to see Mikie extend his 200 hit season streak to five.
The Return of Rangers Ballpark – The Rangers take back their ballpark by buying out Ameriquest and renaming the ballpark Rangers Ballpark In Arlington.
The 30-3 Game – This asskicking actually was able to help a lot of fans move on from Teixeira. ..well, expect for the Metroplex media (#### you Randy Galloway!)
Hank Blalock’s Return – And how! A Grand Slam against the Angels that helped ice a win on Sunday Night Baseball.
The 2007 Draft – The fact that Texas was able to add so many quality arms, many of which began to preform right away, is making for a potential farm system Bonanza come 2009.
Da Pick! Da Pick! Where Is Da Pick!
The draft standings are more or less finalized, and Texas will make the 11th pick in next June's amateur draft. It’s not a bad place to pick, really. The Rangers won’t get an elite talent unless he falls, but there should be a solid talent there.
Here’s the last five 11th overall picks.
2007 – Philipe Aumont (Mariners) – Love this guy, should be a solid major leaguer.
2006 – Max Scherzer (Diamondbacks) – Solid arm, potential closer.
2005 – Andrew McCutcheon (Pirates) – Tools city, has probably been rushed.
2004 – Neil Walker (Pirates) – Like the bat, not sure where he’ll play though.
2003 – Robert Aubrey (Indians) – Promising career short-circuited by injury.
The only real problem with this year’s draft is that it may be one of the weakest drafts in years. Still, there should be a decent talent around at 11.
Cat On First?
The more I look at the first base market, in terms of trade and free agency, the more I think it’s going to be likely that Frank Catalanotto will likely be the Rangers’ starting first baseman in 2008.
The reason being is that there are no real attractive options out on the open market, with only glove men like Sean Casey and Mike Lamb available. And the only first baseman that I know of that could wind up here, Todd Helton, would be a far too lengthy commitment for the Rangers, plus he would likely require the Rangers picking up an expensive option to come here.
Actually, hold that thought, there is also Adam Dunn, who could play first base and is reasonably comparable to Ryan Howard, but what would the Reds want in terms of prospects? I don’t think that enough of a deal could be reached for the two sides to swing a deal.
Meanwhile, playing Cat at first would allow the Rangers to use different outfielders, improving the overall defense, as Cat is rather bad in left. It would allow the Rangers to play David Murphy regularly in right field, while allowing Jason Botts, who isn’t great, but is better than Cat in left, while allowing the Rangers to concentrate on obtaining help in centerfield and DH.
Keeping An Eye On Felix Pie And David DeJesus
Two options in centerfield to keep an eye on are Cubs prospect Felix Pie and Royals centerfielder David DeJesus.
I think there was more truth than people realize when rumors surrounded Pie and the Cubbies’ apparent willingness to deal him in the right trade. There was a rumored deal of Gerald Laird for Pie, but the deal was quickly killed and the Cubbies announced they had no real intentions of trading him.
I’m not so sure.
Lou Pinella wasn’t a big fan of Pie’s during his time up with the Cubs and wasn’t enthused about playing him every day.
And, with rumors that the Cubs may go hard after a free agent centerfielder, that would all but block Pie from ever making it to Wrigley.
Which would make trading for Pie much more valuable, as it would allow the Rangers to get something for not as painful of a price. Pie is regarded to be a raw, Carlos Beltran type (then again, so is Rangers prospect Engel Beltre), and if he gets PT, he'll be able to blossom into something special.
Here's hoping the Cubs do so.
The other player is Royals centerfielder David DeJesus, who the Royals are supposedly looking into trading for younger, projectable parts, especially since they now feel that Joey Gathright has figured out how to hit. Gathright has leadoff potential and is faster and can cover more ground than DeJesus.
If the Royals are willing, I'd be ready to call if I were GM. I'm not sure what the price would be, but it wouldn't be real expensive, especially when you consider what the Royals got in exchange for Octavio Dotel (the mighty Kyle Davies).
The Royals have tried for years to acquire prospect Joaquin Arias. I'd be willing to deal Arias, especially since I got an Arias clone in Elvis Andrus. If I were making a deal, and DeJesus were available, I'd call up the Royals and dicker, with Arias being in the deal.
Arias is still very attractive, in that he's got loads of tools and is young. It's becoming obvious that a change of scenery may be necessary for him to reach his potential and he could eventually be better than Tony Pena Jr, who is a backup at best or a starter while he's cheap. The only real issue would be if Arias developed, which would potentially bite the Rangers in the way Hafner did, but really Arias is blocked in Texas by Young and Kinsler, so it would be for the best.
What Does The Future Hold For Loe, Laird, and Tejeda
The Rangers' final loss to the Mariners was likely the last for several Rangers, and the end for some of the Rangers’ current career paths.
Kameron Loe expereinced a odd season, where he seemingly found his mojo as a starter again before his old inconsistencies reached back to nab him again. While Loe has developed better off-speed stuff to go with his sinker, he hasn’t been able to sustain his success long. Overall, Loe has been better as a reliever, as he is 13-19 with a 5.08 ERA in 47 career starts and 5-4 with a 4.15 ERA in 46 relief appearances, but with the emergence of several young starters, Loe is likely going to be the long man coming into next year, or could be traded in the offseason to a team that could be able to work on him to be an average 5th starter.
The same has gone for Robinson Tejeda. What started out to be a promising season quickly devolved into disaster as Tejeda was shelled more and more as the seaosn went on, finishing 5-9 with a 6.61 ERA in 19 games before being sent down to Triple A, where he eventually had hsis eaosn ended due to injury. Tejeda’s future with the Rangers is also going to be one of uncertainty, as the rotation appears to be set with Millwood, Padilla, McCarthy, Gabbard and Volquez going into next year. Even worse, Eric Hurley is nearly ready and could challenge for a starting spot next year, leaving Tejeda’s opportunities for a third chance less and less likely.
Gerald Laird is a different story. With his bat going into the ####, Laird’s future as a Ranger likely was doomed once the Mark Teixeira deal brought in Jarrod Saltalamacchia, a natural catcher, over in the deal. While Salty projects to be a average first baseman, behind the plate he could be a perrenial All Star and a capable middle to late in the order presence. Laird was almost dealt at the deadline, but the Teixeira deal was swung too late to try and get a decent offer rolling. With the lack of young catchers in the majors all around, Laird, despite his numbers, could be attractive to several teams needing a young catcher with at least three years of control left on him.
On The Block Manana guys. Now, back to snoozing with the girlfriend and my niece...
Sorry about the missed previews yesterday. To make up for it, I'll post the team that was drawn yesterday, plus todays.
First team is...
Interesting.
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds surprised last year, leading the division for much of the season and in contention for the Wild Card until September 30th and finishing with the franchise’s best record since 2000 at 80-82. But it’s possible that the Reds could have made the post-season had they not blown up the team in a terrible trade to Washington, which cut out the heart of the Reds’ offense. There has been little to resupply that talent in the main club, plus the pitching staff remains questionable.
Starting Rotation
Aaron Harang (RHP) – Harang emerged as an ace last season, finally fulfilling the potential that people had long thought capable of him. The Reds rewarded him with a four year contract, locking him up past his first two years of free agency and giving them an important piece of the puzzle that they have long since tried and failed to solve. Harang was ranked among the top in wins, strikeouts and innings and as long as he stays healthy and consistent, he’s going to be the man in Cincinnati.
Bronson Arroyo (RHP) – Arroyo had a fine season last year, going 14-11 with a 3.29 ERA. Arroyo was never a dominant pitcher, as his best pitch is a curveball that is hampered by his tendency to change arm angles. Still, he’s durable and his delivery is easy, not raising any red flags (no pun intended) in the future. He’s a solid number three that will have to be a two for the Reds. He also was given a contract extention. Hey, Cincy’s stepping up on keeping their talent.
Kyle Lohse (RHP) – Lohse was a garbage bin pickup for Cincinnati after Lohse got shelled out of Minnesota and was sent down. Lohse was able to salvage something in his partial season with the Reds, going 3-5 with a 4.57 ERA. Not great numbers, but with two bad contracts on the books, Cincinnati will take what they can get. Lohse has the tendancy to lose command of his pitches, which is how he got shelled so often last year. We’ll see if the switch to the NL continues to work.
Kirk Saarloos (RHP) – Anyone remember when Saarloos was a top prospect for the Astros? Anyhow, the Reds didn’t make any major moves during the winter for a starter, so instead they made a very under the radar acquisition with Saarloos, trading a young reliever prospect in exchange. At 27, Saarloos has proven to be a competent swingman, but his stuff isn’t overpowering, making him a good guy to move to the NL. He can eat up innings, which is always a plus and, if he keeps the ball down, should be tolerable at the fourth spot.
Eric Milton (LHP) – Milton was slightly better this season, partially because he spent part of it on the DL. Milton hasn’t justified the contract that was given to him and Cincinnati keeps on tossing him out there to pitch, even though they would be better off finding a better option and just eating the contract. Milton won’t be depended on greatly this year, as the Reds have some semblance of a working rotation, but any performance from him will help, especially when you consider Homer Bailey is lurking in the minors.
Bullpen
David Weathers (Closer) – This experienced arm will probably enter the year as the default closer. He did a excellent job during a limited stint in the job and could be capable of 30 saves and a ERA in the mid 3’s, but he’s merely a stop gap until the Reds find someone else.
Mike Stanton (LHP) – For some reason, the Reds gave Stanton a two year deal at the age of 40, even though Stanton is nowhere near what he once was. He’ll be a decent lefty reliever, and could earn some saves, but come on, really, there were better options available that the Reds could have invested in.
Gary Majewski (RHP) – Majewski was a big part of the terrible trade that sent Austin Kearns to Washington. Majewski was shaky after the trade until it was realized that he was hurt and was shut down, leaving the Reds to cry foul. Majewski should be healthy and can serve as a capable setup man and possibly spot closer should David Weathers or the rest of the clsoers by committee fall apart, as he’s got a mid 90’s fastball and a hard slider that clocks in the mid 80’s.
Bill Bray (LHP) – Probably the biggest prize of the Kearns trade, Bray is a young lefty that seems to be regarded by many scouting and media organizations to be the Reds closer of the future. He’s got excellent numbers and his stuff, a low 90’s fastball with a hard slider, profiles well for a closer. Again, as with all the Reds, he’ll have a crack at the closer’s job that Weathers currently has.
Todd Coffey (RHP) –Coffey was thought to be the closer of the future, but he fumbled the ball when given the role, but recovered enough to be a solid setup man. Coffey could get a shot at the job if Weathers self destructs.
Rheal Cormier (LHP) – A solid lefty reliever, Cormier’s effectiveness is tied to his command, as his stuff has deteriorated with age. He gives the Reds another option in the bullpen.
Jared Burton (RHP) – A Rule V Pick from Oakland, Burton has pitched well as a reliever since returning from shoulder surgery, striking out 133 in 129.1 innings over the last two seasons. He’s not a closer, but his sinker & slider combo should allow him to find a niche with Cincinnati.
Projected Lineup
Ryan Freel (RF) – Most likely the leadoff hitter, Freel makes contact and has some speed on the bases, plus the defense isn’t bad, but he’s got little pop as far as a corner position in concerned. However, this situation could have been solved if Austin Kearns was still on the team, but we know that didn’t happen, now do we.
Scott Hatteberg (1B) – Hatteberg should be batting farther back in the order, but unless Phillips emerges as a solid second hitting guy, he’s stuck here.
Edwin Encarnacion (3B) – Encarnacion has been beginning to improve his defense (it’s gone from horrific to abysmal to bad in the last few years) along with his formidable bat. Last season, Encarnacion hit well in the cleanup role as the depleted Reds offense faded from contention. With Griffey now a strikeout risk, putting Encarnacion here third makes sense.
Ken Griffey Jr. (CF) – If Griffey would at least consent to moving to one of the outfield corners, I wouldn’t mind his dropping production. But with him at center, which is a far more stressful position to play, I don’t agree that this is a good idea. Griffey lost a lot of plate discipline, racking up strikeouts and dropping his average, though in his defense, he may have been pushing because the Reds were actually in contention. I think he may have one more great season in him, but he’ll have to do it lower in the order.
Adam Dunn (LF) – Dunn has loads of raw power, but loads of strikeouts to go with it. He’s got a career .245 batting average. Defense isn’t his thing, hence his outfield position, but the fact is that Dunn is also very productive as well, capable of belting bombs and driving in runs provided that he’s not your cleanup hitter. The Reds are fed up with him and are willing to deal him. If I was Texas, I would totally be all over a deal for him.
David Ross (C) – Ross hit for some average power and production in the amount of games he played (90) and could improve his numbers now that he’s the number one guy.
Brandon Phillips (2B) – Philips emerged as the prospect the Indians thought he was, hitting well and playing an excellent second base. The Reds talked about moving him to short late in the year, but the signing of Gonzalez means that he’ll stay where he’s at for now. He can hit for power and is reasonably fast on the basepaths and he’s still very young, meaning he’ll improve. I think he’ll wind up being a Mark Loretta type of player. The only caution is that Phillips bit it hard after the All-Star break, but that may be to him adjusting to the majors. As he matures, Philips could eventually move to hitting second in the lineup.
Alex Gonzalez (SS) – Some of the best glovework you’ll ever see belongs to Gonzalez, who is a lot of fun to watch. However, his bat isn’t a plus and that further erodes the offense near the end of the order.
Bench
Bubba Crosby (CF) – A fine defender, Crosby’s primary problem is that he can’t hit. Hence, he’s a fourth outfielder (and god help the lineup if Griffey goes down).
Jeff Conine (OF/1B) – The Reds dealt for Conine, who the Phillies deemed expendable, hoping for some veteran help off the bench. The Reds hope that he’s got some power coming off the bench, but I doubt that he’s really going to make a difference here, especially when the Reds have a Rule V Pick with some promise.
Josh Hamilton (OF) – Hamilton is a former first round pick of the Devil Rays who has been in and out of trouble for years. With the depth in Tampa’s farm system, they really didn’t see a reason to keep him, hence why he was exposed to the draft. I do think that the Reds will probably keep him; otherwise they wouldn’t have paid the fifty grand to draft him. He still has some offensive promise and can play one of the corner outfield spots and could become a regular with some guidance from management. I think Tampa is almost happy to be rid of him, though there is always the chance that he could be offered back if the Reds don’t feel they are able to keep him.
Chris Denorfia (OF) – He’s talented enough that he could start right now, but Griffey and Dunn kind of wreck his chances to hell.
Disabled List
Eddie Guardado (LHP) – I think that the Reds will keep Guarado around, as he was solid for them during a limited engagement last season before his elbow blew out.
Down On The Farm...
The Reds really have only one true prospect, Homer Bailey, while the other high potential prospect, Jay Bruce, is at least two years for reaching the majors. However, the bad drafts and bad player development that existed early on in the decade have left the Reds with little in the upper minors, meaning that whatever the Reds can do to improve, they’ll have to do it creatively.
Homer Bailey (RHP) – The second best minor league pitcher, Bailey has amazing stuff. He’s got a great fastball with a lot of life on it and his curveball is filthy. He’s improved his control enough to where he can already contribute in the majors as a reliever. That won’t fly with the Reds, who will keep him in Triple A unless one of the starters goes down or unless Bailey kicks down the door.
Joey Votto (1B) – Votto is an athletic first baseman that has solid hitting skills, plus power and plate discipline. He’s starting to come into his own at first base, as he was originally drafted as a catcher, and could become a solid first baseman if he continues to build upon his breakout 2006. Votto will spend the first part of the year at Triple A, but he could see time with the big club if he continues to build upon his recent success.
Calvin Medlock (RHP) – Signed in 2003 as a 39th-round draft-and-follow, Medlock is overlooked by many in the organization, but he’s done nothing but produce, most recently at Double A Chattanooga, putting up a 2.97 ERA with 70 strikeouts in 63.2 innings. He’s got solid velocity despite his height, and he could become a solid setup man in the future.
In Conclusion…
The Reds’ pitching staff is much better than it was the year before, but they haven’t replaced the offense that they lost to the Nationals last year. With the rest of the division making moves to get better, I think Cincinnati is in for a hard fall this year.
Final Standing: Sixth in the National League Central
And now for team number two...
Kansas City Royals
The Royals showed some growth last season after GM Dayton Moore took a hold of the reigns, spinning off several parts into minor league parts and additions that could help in the future.
Starting Rotation
Gil Meche (RHP) – Only in free agency can you go from staff joke to staff ace in a season. Meche certainly isn’t worth the $55 million contract he was offered, but that smells of a credibility signing, signaling to players that the Royals are willing to spend on talent instead of letting it walk. Meche has the stuff to be a solid starter, but command has been an issue, which is why he gets hit hard so often. Scouts attribute that to the fact that Seattle rushed him when he was in the minors. In any case, Meche should be okay, but expecting any more than that is hoping for too much.
Zack Greinke (RHP) – Greinke was seen as a potential ace in the making down in the minors and there was an air of promise around him during his limited stint with KC in 2004. However, a loss of control plus poor defense resulted in Grienke getting destroyed in his second year, in which he won five games. Last year he sat out most of it due to emotional issues, but returned to camp and did well in limited duty with the big club. Hopefully, Greinke has recovered enough from his troubles to help provide another solid arm to the rotation, as god only knows the Royals could use it..
Odalis Perez (LHP) – Practically given away, Perez was exiled to the bullpen by the Dodgers before being salvaged by the Royals as a starter. Perez slightly improved upon the move to KC, but only slightly, as he was still largely awful. Perez could return to being a league average starter this year, as the ability is there as well as the motivation for him entering his walk year, but he didn’t show enough performance last year to merit much hope in that happening.
Luke Hudson (RHP) – Hudson is actually better than his record shows, his ERA inflated by that infamous 10 runs in one inning outing against Cleveland. He’s had a history of arm troubles, but he seemed pretty sturdy last season in limited action. Hudson has the stuff to be a solid reliever, as he’s got a fastball that hits 97 at times, plus a filthy curve and a promising changeup. He just needs to work on his control in order for him to be a solid middle of the order starter.
Brian Bannister (RHP) – Bannister was obtained for the disappointed Amborix Burgos, giving the Royals a viable starting pitcher to be in the back end of the rotation. Bannister doesn’t have overpowering stuff, but he has a great feel for pitching and has excellent command, most notably a solid cutter that serves as his out pitch. Regardless of the fact that he doesn’t light up the radar gun, Bannister is a solid addition to what was once a hopeless rotation.
Bullpen
Octavio Dotel (Closer) – Dotel was a inconsistent closer with the Astros before he became a solid option with the Athletics, but injury and subsequent Tommy John surgery resulted in Dotel having to take a stint with the Royals to regain his value. If Dotel is fully healed from the surgery, he can be the first solid arm in the pen since Mike MacDougal was a viable option. Plus, there’s also the value of obtaining a prospect in return for Dotel at the deadline, when teams are looking to get a final piece to move them over the top.
David Riske (Setup Man) – Riske had a rough year last year, after being underused by the Red Sox and abused by Chicago. Riske can certainly help out Kansas City, setting up Dotel and spot closing. His arsenal is far from impressive, but if he keeps his command from going out of control, he should be fine. And, if he does well, Riske could be valuable trade bait.
Joakin Soria (RHP) – A Rule V Draft Pick from the Padres, Soria drew interest from clubs after a dominating performance in the Mexican Pacific League. The Royals decided to take a flyer on him, though there were other prospects that could have made a bit more sense to them in the long run. Only 22, Soria has good height and a fastball that can go up to 95 or more. He’s likely going to be a middle reliever or setup man in the future, but he could be a worthwhile investment, especially when you see the price of middle relief rising.
Joe Nelson (RHP) – A reasonably solid reliever, Nelson will plenty of shots to relieve the rather underwhelming rotation.
Joel Peralta (RHP) – Another decent reliever, nothing to write home about.
Jimmy Gobble (LHP) – Gobble really shouldn’t be here, but the Royals need another left handed reliever with De La Rosa as the swingman. Gobble may actually be better in this role, as he was better in the pen than in the rotation.
Jorge De La Rosa (LHP) – De La Rosa was largely average last season, but because Luke Hudson was slightly better as a starter, I’ve got him slated for the pen. De La Rosa had promise as a starter with the Brewers, but inconsistency has killed his career to this point. He throws hard, that much is sure, but until he improves his secondary pitches, he won’t be anything more than a okay swingman.
Starting Lineup
David DeJesus (CF) – The team’s best player, DeJesus emerged as a leadoff man and a solid defender last season and should have been Kansas City’s rep at the All-Star Game. DeJesus doesn’t have a lot of power, but he has great doubles power and his plate discipline is pretty good. He’s just not a strong threat on the bases, but aside from that, DeJesus is a solid player that can contribute.
Mark Grudzielanek (2B) – One of the more talented second baseman out there, Grud’s hits well enough to bat in the second spot, plus provides Gold Glove defense at second. With a solid performance resulting in a contract extension, Kansas City is well set in the short run as far as second base goes.. On a side note, Gruds went to high school with yours truley's cousin.
Ryan Shealy (1B) – Shealy was one of the minor leagues most feared sluggers, but because of Todd Helton, Shealy wasn’t able to get playing time until he was dealt. Shealy has great power and can play a good first base, the only problem is that he gets killed by lefties. But still, he’s a young talent that can still improve and will be a part of the Royal’s rebirth, as they had no prospect approaching Shealy’s potential in the farm system.
Mark Teahen (3B) – Teahen finally showed the power potential that he had been tagged with in the minors, hitting .290 with 18 home runs, 69 RBI’s in 109 games before injury ended his season. He’s a superb defender and has some speed, rare for a corner infielder, but Teahen is likely to move to the outfield soon, depending on whether or not Emil Brown is traded and when Alex Gordon arrives. Still, Teahen is a solid bat to have in the lineup and helps give the Royals’ lineup depth near the end. There’s rumors that it’s not Sanders or Brown that the Royals are trying to move, but Teahen. If that were true, Teahen would get great value in return, though it’s unknown at this moment what exactly Teahen is.
Reggie Sanders (RF) – One of the more questionable deals give out in 2006, Sanders played poorly in limited duty with Kansas City. He’s still got some life to the bat, but medical insecurities as well as a declining glove made for a match made in hell. Sanders could bounce back, but he’s not a young man anymore. If Sanders regains a shell of his former self and KC is willing to foot the bill, Sanders could extend his career a bit longer as a DH.
Emil Brown (LF) – Brown had a solid season last year as a run producer and as an outfielder and stepped up for KC when Sanders went down. But it’s also likely that Brown’s time in KC is limited, as the Royals are trying to find away to deal him to allow them to move Teahen to left. Regardless of that fact, Brown is a solid option on this team that sorely needs run producers and he should continue to produce now that the’s a regular. And who knows? Brown could be a low cost option for a team at the deadline, which would allow the Royals to pick up a extra arm to add to their rather #### farm system.
Mike Sweeney (DH) – It’s a shame that a class act like Sweeney is on the downside of his career, as he was such a productive player and a whole lot of fun to watch. With him in the final year of his deal, Kansas City will ride out this final year and just take what comes with it. The Royals don’t seem to think that Sweeney will give them anything of value, hence the trade for Gload, but if Sweeney is able to give them close to his 2005 numbers, he could drop down as far as fifth in the lineup.
Angel Berroa (SS) – Berroa went from Rookie Of The Year to bust in less time than it took write Mike Sweeney’s paragraph. He shouldn’t even be starting, but Kansas City seems willing to give him the job just because they gave him a huge contract. And at his age, he’s as good as he’s going to get, which should be frightening to Royals fans.
John Buck (C) – A component of the Carlos Beltran deal (ironically, the Royals have three of the primary players traded during that deal, with only Wood leaving the organization), Buck has been rather terrible in his tenure in KC. He’s certainly got a excellent glove, in fact, he was rated the best defensive catcher in the minors back in 2002, but the bat has never developed. With the arrival of LaRue, we’ll see if competition will give life to his bat.
Bench
Jason LaRue (C) – Brought in mostly to help push John Buck, LaRue is a solid defensive catcher that doesn’t hit enough to be a regular.
Ross Gload (IF/OF) – Obtained by the Royals for Andy Sisco from the White Sox, Gload is a productive bench player when given the chance, hitting .321/.375/.429 for the White Sox in 2004 and .327/.354/.462 last year in limited action. He can also play the infield and outfield corners and will give the Royals some insurance (and save service time on Butler or Gordon) as far as a DH is concerned, as Mike Sweeney isn’t a sure bet to stay healthy anymore.
Joey Gathright (OF) – One of the fastest players in baseball, Gathright is an exceptional defender that hits for little power. It’s a shame, as he could be a starter if he just works at his craft a bit, which it is rumored he doesn’t.
Esteban German (IF) – German can play the infield and hit well enough to give him a shot as a regular. Kansas City wants to give him the opportunity, but they seem fanatically dedicated to the myth that Berrora will recover and become a solid regular
Down On The Farm…
The Royals have one of the worst farm systems in baseball, due to a lot of #### drafts, where the Royals would avoid highly touted talents that could have helped for less talented and more signable ones. This seems to have reversed in recent years, but the overall condition is still pretty bad. However, there is some great talent in it, and it’s near ready to contribute.
Alex Gordon (3B) – One of the best position player prospects in baseball, Gordon is almost without weakness. He’s got great bat speed, plenty of raw power all the while displaying an excellent eye for recognizing pitches. He also runs quite well for a guy his size and is an excellent fielder. He is said to have a bit of an attitude issue, but his work ethic is unquestionable. His closest comparison is Mike Schmidt. Gordon will begin the season at Triple A, but if the Royals are able to move Emil Brown, Mark Teahen will move to the outfield and Gordon will get his shot, making the competition for AL Rookie of the Year a two horse race between him and Tampa’s Delmon Young.
Billy Butler (OF) – A gifted hitter, Butler has got great hand/eye coordination and a sweet swing, according to scouts. He’s a power hitter that can draw his share of walks and hits for a respectable average. However, he’s a horrific defender, and his long-term status in the majors will be as a DH. Depending on Mike Sweeney’s health, Butler will either remain at Triple A for the year or be shuttled back and for as Sweeney goes on and off the DL.
Luke Hochevar (RHP) – Hochevar is the third best Royals prospect that has any tremendous upside, as the rest are either unproven or too raw. Hochevar has good height for a pitcher (6’5) and could add weight to his frame as he continues to develop. As far as stuff goes, Hochevar has a good fastball that touches 95-96 mph at times and he has a hammer curve and a good slider that he mixes in to keep people off balance. He’s got signs o####ood changeup on the mound and can throw all four for strikes. However, he had some arm issues that forced him to cut short his stint in the AFL this November, which is troubling. Long term, he projects to be a solid two or three, but not an ace. Because he was a college pitcher and lost a year due to draft negotiations with the Dodgers, Hochevar will probably get pushed a bit by being promoted to Double A. If he does well, he could crack the rotation at mid-season.
Justin Huber (1B) – Shealy’s acquisition means that Huber’s time is running out. Huber was once a highly touted prospect with the Mets, but he’s fallen considerably since then. The Royals have given him every shot to win the job, but he hasn’t capitalized on it. It’s likely that he ends up as a DH or on another team.
In Conclusion
The Royals are much better than they were a year ago, and could possibly contend in a division like the NL Central. But with the three powerhouses and the Twins in their division, Kansas City won't contend for at least two years, though they will finish with fewer than 100 losses this year.
Final Standing: Fifth in the American League Central
I'm a long time Texas Rangers fan who has come to love baseball as a whole. I recently began this blog as a way for me to showcase my opinions, provide some analysis, and hopefully entertain those who happen to stumble upon my little soapbox online. I'll toss in an NFL, College, or NBA nugget every now and then. Enjoy the posts everyone, and yes, getting a little love in a Deadspin post was probably the highlight of the year, blogwise.
Do You Have Comment You Don't Want All To See? Just Want To Talk Baseball? Email Me at morisatos_blo g AT yahoo.com. Email's edited to keep away the Spam.
