Asian Leaguer Of The Month – Kosuke Fukudome

• Position:  OF
• Team:  Chunichi Dragons
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 211
• Bats: Right
• Throws: Right
• Age: 31
• The Skinny:  Fukudome is a five-tool centerfielder in Japan that plays for the Chunichi Dragons. He's going to be a free agent after 2007 and apparently has stated that he’s intends to come to the United States to finish his career.  He was also a member of Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic and was the 2006 Central League MVP and batting champion, hitting .351-31-104.  He's a career .306/.393/.545 hitter with 179 homers, 599 RBIs and 66 steals in 993 Japanese games.  He was also a member of the 1996 and 2004 Olympic Teams.
• Assets:  Fukudome is a bit of a cross between Hideki Matsui and Ichiro Suzuki.  He's got more power than Ichiro, but isn't quite as fast as Suzuki.  He's a solid defender and is an on base machine, drawing walks and capable of stealing a base or two.  He's got a strong arm as well and overall could be a star once he crosses over.
• Criticism:  Though Fukudome will market himself as a centerfielder, there are some that are questioning whether or not he'll be able to handle the position.  There is also some question as to how well his power will translate.  Many feel he won't be the home run machine that he was in Japan, though in his defense, he will have awesome doubles power.
• Pub:  None That I Can Find
• How Soon Can We See Him:  As I said, Fukudome was on Team Japan during the World Baseball Classic, where he posted solid numbers in the Tournament's first year.  As far as his coming over is concerend, Fukudome has been mentioned with several teams, namely the Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, and the San Francisco Giants.  In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me to see Seattle allow Ichiro to leave in order to replace him in center with Fukudome as a short term option in order to allow prospect Adam Jones to finish developing.

The Rangers Report

Record As Of May 2, 2007

10-16, 4th In American League West

April In Review

I was going to produce a long, drawn out effort in the pluses and minuses of the Rangers in April.

Instead, I’ll just be blunt.

We suck.

Possible Centerfielder’s For The Future

This is probably the deepest position on the free agent market, where there are a total of nine players that can legitimately play center.

• Andruw Jones (Braves) – Jones is the sexy name on everyone’s list and it’s no wonder why.  He’s a incredible hitter and plays a decent centerfield as well.  Unfortunately, expect to see Jones priced out of the Rangers’ range, even though I would recommend that the Rangers make a strong run at him.
• Ichiro Suzuki (Mariners) – Ichiro has stated that he would like to test the market for the first time in his career, as he has never had a chance to actually choose his own destiny.  Should Suzuki choose to become Ronin, he would be a quality lineup presence in the Rangers, able to provide solid leadoff ability as well as provide solid defense in center.  The only question is whether or not Suzuki is willing to play against his former team.
• Torii Hunter (Twins) – Hunter looks more and more like a plausible option in that he lives in Arlington, has a good relationship with Rangers Manager Ron Washington and that he’s a premier defender that would benefit from moving from turf to grass.  However, Hunter also is prone to injuries and of the players on this list is the largest risk to break down.  Whoever acquires Hunter is going to be at a large risk of overpaying for him and I don’t think he’s going to age well after this year. 
• Kosuke Fukudome (Chunichi Dragns - Japan) – Fukudome is a five-tool centerfielder in Japan that plays for the Chunichi Dragons. He's going to be a free agent after 2007 and apparently has stated that he’s intends to come to the United States to finish his career.  He was also a member of Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic and was the 2006 Central League MVP and batting champion, hitting .351-31-104.  He's a career .306/.393/.545 hitter with 179 homers, 599 RBIs and 66 steals in 993 Japanese games.   If I had to classify him as anything, he’s a more mobile Hideki Matsui lite.  He’ll be 31 when he comes over and should be a lot of fun to watch.  In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me to see Seattle allow Ichiro to leave in order to replace him in center with Fukudome as a short term fix until top prospect Adam “I’m Not Pacman” Jones is ready.  Personally, Fukudone looks to be the best bet out of the lot, but again, there is no guarantee that he’s coming.
• Eric Byrnes (Diamondbacks) – A personal favorite, Byrnes is a solid guy that can hit late in the lineup and has done pretty well for himself fin Arizona.  With the Diamondbacks not likely to bring him back, he’d be a solid short term option for Texas until some of the kids begin to develop.
• Corey Patterson (Orioles) – Of all the centerfielders on the market, Patterson is the youngest at 28, always a good thing for such an athletic position.  The Orioles made a rare deal in which they came out the biggest winners last year when they traded for Patterson, giving up Jerry Hairston Jr. and a pack of cigarettes.  Patterson is a Scott Boras client, which the Orioles have had trouble dealing with in the past.  Plus, people are going to wonder if Patterson is a one-year wonder, which is why they Orioles have said they’ll address his situation after the season.  With Patterson entering his last season, the Orioles are in a quirky position.  If the Orioles wait and Patterson against boats a decent average with some power and some flashly defensive plays (a la Gary Matthews Jr. last year.), Boras will almost certainly price him out of their range, as I firmly believe that Patterson will get a Matthews-like contract at the end of the season. 
• Milton Bradley (Athletics) – Bradley is an intriguing option in that he’s still pretty young, athletic and can be productive as a centerfielder.  He’s also a headcase and not a sure bet to stay healthy for much of the year. 
• Aaron Rowand (Phillies) – Rowand’s style of play reminds many fans of former Ranger Rusty Greer.  Unfortunately, that also means he may be in for a Greer style breakdown, which doesn’t do you any good long term. 
• Mike Cameron (Padres) – I thought that there would be a chance that Cameron would stay with the Padres, but unfortunately, it looks as if Cameron will be moving on from San Diego after this season. Cameron wants a three year deal, which the Padres were unwilling to do, and will now hit the market at the age of 35.  PETCOA has Cameron being worth somewhere in the neighborhood of $21 million from 2008 too 2010.  He’s likely going to want 3 years, $30 million, which isn’t too unreasonable.
• Kenny Lofton (Rangers) – Lofton still looks pretty good for the most part as far as his play, but he’s really not going to be much of a factor as far as a impact player.  Texas signed him in order to give them a stopgap in center until the next year.  If he’s willing to accept a backup role, there’s no reason to believe he can’t be a good one.

Ranger Notes

• A surprising bit of news here.  Bruce Chen cleared waivers and has accepted a assignment to Triple A Oklahoma.  The Rangers had thought that Chen would be claimed and talked to a number of teams about a trade, including the New York Yankees. 
• Edinson Volquez is not making things easier for himself.  Though he was excellent in his third start, Volquez in his fourth start had just one hit in five-plus innings and eight groundouts, but permitting three runs as he issued five walks and unleashed two wild pitches before being ejected by the home plate umpire about arguing the strike zone.  The Rangers had hoped that Volquez would be able to last five starts in High A Bakersfield, where he would hopefully find his command, and then gradually work his way up, but Volquez has been very wild and may dash those plans for now.
• C.J. Wilson continues to draw interest from the Tigers, who want a solid lefty reliever for their bullpen.  I would trade C.J. in the right deal, but it would have to involve a pitching prospect that’s got a shot at being a starter.

   

Let’s see whom the hat chose for today’s preview…

Huh.  I’m going to get some beatings from a pair of Seattle fans I know.  Oh man, here it goes…

Seattle Mariners

The Seattle Mariners did undergo some improvement, finishing at a much improved 78-84 record, though their attempt to get to that mark may have cost them the future of Shin Soo Choo, a possible power outfielder, plus others.  There are a few questionable signings that have been made that could have been filled internally, a sign that management was willing to spend money more to show to the fans that they are making some effort to win.  However, not all of their signings are awful:  some of them are actually very underrated, though there is a boneheaded trade that I do have issue with.  Let’s take a peek.

Starting Rotation

1. Felix Hernandez (RHP) – For all my talk of Dan Haren and his ace potential, Hernandez actually has the potential to be better.  Hernandez was so over hyped last season that he was bound to disappoint, but don’t get me wrong, his numbers were pretty good and he was a league average starter last season.  With the weight loss and a full season’s experience in the leagues, it’s possible that Hernandez could really break out this season.
2. Jarrod Washburn (LHP) – Washburn wasn’t the ace he was during the Angels’ title run, but he was serviceable until injuries ended his season early.  Washburn should be fully recovered and should slot in nicely behind Hernandez, though expecting any sort of dominance would be hoping for too much.  He’s a pitcher that will win roughly half his games each year.
3. Jeff Weaver (RHP) – The logic for Weaver returning to the American League West, where he was destroyed, astounds me.  It’s amazing what Scott Boras is able to convince his clients to do.  For the record, Weaver posted horrific ERA’s at Ameriquest Field (6.23 ERA), the McAfee Coliseum (6.94 ERA) and at Angel Stadium (9.79 ERA).  He’ll also posting a sparking a 6.55 ERA in four career starts at Safeco Field, one of the best pitchers parks in the league.  Weaver will probably get torched once again and could be DFA’d once again.  Again, this is a questionable move, as Weaver was perfect fit in St. Louis, though I will admit that the Cardinals aren’t completely blameless, as they were unwilling to keep almost any of their starters, save for Carpenter and Mulder.
4. Miguel Batista (RHP) – I actually love this signing.  Batista eats up innings and can induce groundballs, which plays well with Adrian Beltre and Yuliesky Betancourt behind him.  He’s 35 and is probably in his declining stage, but he seems to have enough left in the tank to be able to justify his signing. 
5. Horacio Ramirez (LHP) – Ramirez is a good example of a talented pitcher who has had his career derailed by injuries.  He’s had Tommy John, a hamstring injury, a pulled tendon in his finger and was also hit in the head with a line drive.  Ramirez doesn’t have great stuff, but he does induce ground balls, which is a benefit, as the Mariners do have the infield defense to be able to help field them and keep runs off the board. 

Bullpen

• J.J. Putz (Closer) – The former setup man took the closer’s job away from Eddie Guardado and ran with it last season, posting a remarkable 104:13 K/BB ratio last year (or one walk for every eight strikeouts.)  So long as he stays off the DL, Putz should be a solid closer for the next five years or so, so long as he keeps his command under control.
• Chris Reitsma (Setup Man) – Reitsma was actually a very solid addition to this bullpen as he can induce groundballs and keep the ball in the park.  Reitsma’s awful 2006 was actually due to a extra muscle in his arm, which has since been removed.  Yeah, I don’t think I’ve ever heard of that happening either.
• Jake Woods (LHP) – Woods was a solid lefty reliever, but he was also solid in 8 starts, going 3-3 with a 4.50 ERA.  He would have a more than capable fifth starter and Seattle should have given him the opportunity, instead of wasting money on Jeff Weaver.  With the health of Ramirez in question, as well as that of Weaver and Batista, it’s possible that Woods could get some spot starts when necessary.
• Arthur Rhodes (LHP) – Rhodes flamed out after a season with the Phillies and is being brought aboard to help bolster the setup corps.  Rhodes is only a year away from going 3-1 with a ERA of 2.08 with 16 holds in 47 outings and he should benefit from the friendly surroundings of Safeco.  If he makes the team, which I think he will, he should return to his old form.
• Cha Seung Baek (RHP) – Baek was also solid in 6 starters, going 4-1 with a 3.67 ERA.  Like Woods, he could see action if someone gets hurt.   Command and sound mechanics are Baek's biggest assets. He throws a few different curveballs, a change-up, slider and low-90s heat.  As a starter, he needs to work on his stamina. Overall, his lack of a really dominant pitch could be a problem and he needs to work on his approach to left-handed hitters.
• Julio Mateo (RHP) – This old hand should be okay again for another year.
• George Sherrill (LHP) – Another old hand will round out a pretty solid rotation.

Starting Lineup

1. Ichiro Suzuki (CF) – Ichiro is shifting to centerfield full time this season, and he should be able to handle the position, as he’s got enough speed and is so solid defensively that he should excel.  He’s had six consecutive seasons of .300 or better, six straight seasons of more than 200 hits, six consecutive seasons of more than 100 runs scored and more than 30 stolen bases, and six consecutive Gold Gloves.  There’s no reason why he shouldn’t make this year number 7 and remain the best leadoff man in baseball.  The story during the season will be whether or not the team actually trades Ichiro if they are out of the race before the deadline is going.  I don’t think so, as the PR fallout would be toxic, but this off-season should prove to be interesting if there isn’t significant improvement in this team.
2. Yuliesky Betancourt (SS) – One of the slickest gloves in the game, Betancourt’s bat finally came to life last season, as he improved his average by more than 40 points, increased his amount of hits and even improved his power numbers.  Isn’t it amazing what you can accomplish by having a full season to prove yourself?  Betancourt will likely hit second.
3. Adrian Beltre (3B) – Beltre finally showed up last season, hitting for power and regaining some shell of the MVP Candidate in 2004.  Beltre remains a solid defender and if the return of the bat is for real, Seattle will finally have some power in the three hole for the first time since Alex Rodriguez was there.
4. Richie Sexon (1B) – Sexton had a decent year, but the strikeouts are a problem.  Even more worrisome is that his defense at first base is slipping, making it a possibility that at some point in the next year or two, he’ll have to switch to DH.  For the moment, his offensive potential outweighs his defensive limitations, but the strikeouts have got to come down.
5. Jose Guillen (RF) – I dig this signing, though there is some risk involved, depending on how ready Jose Guillen is after surgery.  Guillen is normally a power hitter that can capably play right field.  The Mariners should have gotten one of the bargains of the off-season with him.  On a side note, Guillen will also make sure he’s at his best when he plays the Angels 19 times this year, as he still holds a deep hatred for Angels manager Mike Scioscia, calling him a "piece of garbage" when he returned with the Washington Nationals two season ago, after Guillen became upset when Scioscia removed him in favor of a pinch runner during a game against Oakland.
6. Raul Ibanez (LF) – Left fielder Raul Ibanez is coming off his finest season -- career-high 33 homers and 123 RBIs -- and he seems more and more comfortable batting in the heart of the Seattle lineup.
7. Kenji Johjima (C) – Johjima had a solid adjustment to the American Game, able to handle a pitching staff in spite of the language barrier and was able to keep his bat active, hitting .291 with 18 homers.  With another year of experience, plus the fact he’s in his prime, and Seattle is set on this position for quite some time, allowing top prospect Jeff Clement time to develop.
8. Jose Lopez (2B) – Lopez led the club in RBIs for the first 10 weeks of the season and wound up making the All-Star team.  He’s a great young player that Seattle can build around and gives Seattle a power bat to depend on late in the order.
9. Jose Vidro (DH) – This is a questionable trade in the fact that Vidro is clearly declining.  He’s no longer good enough to defend as a regular and as far as hitting goes, Vidro’s power is rapidly leaving him.  In other words, he’s a younger, slightly improved Carl Everett, though unlike Everett, the Mariners are kind of forced to keep him around, thanks to the money invested in him.

Bench

• Ben Broussard (1B) – Ben Broussard gives the club some left-handed power off the bench, but his salary is somewhat restrictive and with the DH role now filled with Jose Vidro, Borussard could be traded.
• Mike Morse (OF) – Mike Morse can play some shortstop, second, third (he came up as a shortstop) and left field and is a promising right-handed hitter off the bench.
• Rene Rivera (C) – Catcher Rene Rivera is solid defensively but won't get that much playing time behind Johjima.
• Jeremy Reed (CF) – Reed still has the potential to be a solid regular, he just needs a shot. 
• Willie Bloomquist (IF) – Willie Bloomquist once again returns to be Seattle’s Swiss Army Knife, able to play the infield, as well as center.

Down On The Farm…

Seattle has some interesting prospects in the system, but there really isn’t anything special inside the system.  Most of this can be attributed to several prospects that were rushed, drafting for need, as well as prospects that just didn’t pan out or were traded. 

• Adam Jones (CF) – Jones is a player with good tools that is being groomed into the successor to Ichiro in center.  Jones has excellent bat speed and developing power, plus is a skilled runner who covers plenty of ground in the outfield and has one of the best arms in the minor leagues.  He’s far from a finished product, but he’s going to have the year to work on his skills, especially if Ichiro does leave for greener pastures. 
• Jeff Clement (C) – The problem with drafting on need is that sometimes things can shoot you in the foot.  Clement is a good example of that.  When Clement was drafted, the Mariners anticipated him making his way through the minors quickly.  And then they go out and sign Kenji Johjima.  There’s nothing wrong with that, but if the Mariners were going to sign a catcher, and a relatively young one at that, then why draft Clement when there were a lot more prospects that could have helped out.   With that said, Clement isn’t a bad prospect.  He’s got good raw power and can drive the ball to all fields, plus has decent plate discipline and has rapidly improved his catching skills, though you can still run on him.  Though Clement had a terrible year last year, thanks to injury, he still projects to be a solid player.
• Wladimir Balentien (OF) – Balentien has the best power potential in the system, surpassing even that of Clement, plus he can play a playable centerfield, though his future in the majors is likely in right.  Balentien’s biggest weakness is his strikeout totals, which have been and always will be high.  Still, the Mariners feel that if he learns to work the count, he’ll shine.  Look for him to start at Triple A, with the possibility of a September call up as the season progresses.
• Eric O'Flaherty (LHP) – O’Flaherty is a solid young lefty will could make a contribution at some point in time.
• Michael Garciaparra (2B) – This was a questionable selection by the Mariners when they drafted him 5 years ago, mostly on the basis of his name.  Garciaparra has only now achieved prospect status, but even then, he looks like he’s going to be a utilityman, as the power that Seattle hoped for hasn’t arrived. 

In Conclusion

The staff is older and I would have been more thrilled with it had they not signed Weaver.  I loved the signing of Bautista and the trade for Ramirez has grown on me.  But Weaver will rack up losses and to be honest, Woods would have been a worthwhile experiment and would have been much cheaper.  The Bullpen appears solid, and the lineup is adequate if Sexton is able to keep the windmill tendency at a minimum.  But, honestly, I see another fourth place finish ahead for Seattle. 

Final Standing: Fourth Place In The American League West.

Now excuse me while I get a head start while Sleepless and PF get their Carl Everett Autographed Bats ready to bash me with…

Well, originally meant for Friday Morning Closer (obviously that didn't happen) I thought I'd share some of the stuff I came up with.  Afterall, it would just go to waste if no one checked it out.

A Retrospective

With all of the options that are being picked up, inlcuding those that come to the chargin of the athlete (I'm talking to you, Gary Sheffield), you have got to look back at 2005's free agency and admit, those deals are pretty great now.

How stupid do the Red Sox look now that they thought that Johnny Damon wasn't worth 4 years, $52 million, especially when they'll likely have to enter the Gary Matthews Jr. Sweepstakes and have to overpay for the Rangers' centerfielder.  The Texas Rangers were thought to have been nuts in signing Kevin Millwood for 5 years, $60 million.  Now Millwood is going to be a bargain now, especially at a time the Rangers are going to have to jump into the free agent market again.  

 As is the Toronto Blue Jays "overpaying" for closer B.J. Ryan.  Now it's viewed to be one of the most important signings in the off-season, especially in a season where the closers market is viewed to be extremely weak, with the names of Eric Gage and Kerry Wood being the most marquee names on the roster.

The point I'm making is that several teams last season took the initiative to gamble on free agent prices rising.  WIth the luxury tax rising and revenue doing the same, we may look at the free agent class of 2005 with envy in a few years, as these teams enjoy the services of these cheaper players for years to come.

Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano left the team's facility in Fort Myers, Florida, apparently frustrated with his lack of progress in his attempt to get healthy enough to be able to pitch in winter ball.  Liriano, 23, went 12-3 with a 2.16 ERA during the season and was considered a frontrunner for the AL Rookie of the Year award before the injury.  After struggling through an Aug. 7 start against Detroit, he left the game because of elbow soreness.  A brief stint in rehab followed, and Liriano returned to the mound Sept. 13 against the A's.  He cruised through the first two innings and appeared to be back to form before once again leaving the game early with elbow pain and was shut down for the season.  He was diagnosed with a mild sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament, an injury team doctors had hoped would clear itself up through rest and rehabilitation. 

The problem is that this injury is starting to resemble the early symptoms of a possible ligament tear, and would require Tommy John Surgery.  The Twins were hoping that it would not come to that, as seen from a rotation that fielded two rookies, one retiring pitcher, and one inconsistent one behind Johan Santana.  But maybe in the long run it would be the best.  Paul Byrd of the Cleveland Indians said that he suffered a similar condition for years until he finally decided to undergo the procedure, which he credits for reviving his career.  Maybe it’s time that Liriano sat down with the team, tell them of his intentions to have the procedure done, and explain that this way would be the easiest way for both parties.  Liriano would get his career back on track and the Twins would benefit from a healthy Liriano the next year, rather than see him waste another year and have to have the surgery later.

Seattle Is Under The Gun

With All-Star center fielder Ichiro Suzuki entering the final season of his contract in 2007, questions abound concerning his long-term prospects with the team.  Suzuki has said that he would not seek a contract extension, though he would listen if the Mariners offered one.  However, reports have been coming out of Seattle that Suzuki is becoming increasingly frustrated with the Mariners’ lack of competitiveness and will take this year to evaluate how close the Mariners are to competing.  If he thinks they are on the verge of returning to their winning ways, Ichiro will stick around.  If no, Suzuki will test the market, where as a centerfielder and a leadoff man, he’ll earn a king’s ransom.

Seattle has the makings o####ood bullpen and the infield is set with Johjima, Sexton, Lopez, Betancourt and Beltre and some promise on the outfield corners.  The problem is pitching and the DH, and neither will come cheap for the Mariners.  Which leaves the Mariners in an odd position.  They could try and splurge, but free agency is a crapshoot and the market is going to be nuts this off-season, with lots of teams expected to splurge on a pitching class that is dubious at best.  Seattle looks like their attempting to build a young team that can contend for the long haul, and not just the near future.  And keep in mind that Ichiro is now 33 and has maybe three years of elite play before he hits his decline stage.  At the very least, the Mariners are two years from becoming serious contenders in the division (sorry sleepless, if you’re reading this, but it’s true).

To be blunt, the Mariners need to sit down and discuss where Ichiro fits into the grand scheme of things.  If they feel that Ichiro can contribute something in the grand scheme of things, then by all means, make every effort to re-sign him.  But if the Mariners feel that Suzuki would have more value leaving Seattle, then they should make every effort to trade him in a market that, without a clear cut star defensive centerfielder, would give them the most #### for their buck.

Free Agency Rumblings And Grumblings

·          If the Mets lose the bidding for Barry Zito, Jason Schmidt and Daisuke Matsuzaka, the Mets are expected to be heavy players for Mark Mulder and Ted Lilly, two former Oakland teammates that could benefit from being reunited with former Oakland and Current Mets Pitching Coach Rick Peterson.  Many blame Mulder’s injuries and inconsistency that have hampered Mulder since he was traded to St. Louis to the fact that he was no longer being tutored by Peterson.  Lilly has fared better, but wasn’t nearly what he was with Oakland. 

·          Despite the fact that Julio Lugo is coveting the Mets second base job, the Mets are internally discussing Giants 2nd Baseman Ray Durham instead.  He won't come cheap, as the Mets would have to bid against the Dodgers and the Giants for his services, but many in the Mets love Durham’s skills as well as his work ethic, plus the fact that he has none of the baggage of Julio Lugo, who was less than thrilled with his time with the Dodgers and has a history of spousal abuse.

·          Don’t believe the hype that the Cubs will center a trade with the Yankees around Mark Prior and Alex Rodriguez.  Though Prior was a former Number One pick for the Yankees that they failed to sign, this deal would be a certified bust for the Yankees as Prior can’t be relied on to stay healthy.  Any deal with the Yankees for Rodriguez would have to be centered around Carlos Zambrano or no deal at all.

·          Texas Rangers Utility Starter Mark DeRosa could remain in Texas and still play alongside Hank Blalock in the lineup.  There has been some talk that maybe DeRosa could become the regular starting third baseman with Blalock being moved to the Designated Hitter role permanently.

Parity Does Exist In Baseball, When Exactly The Yankees Went To Hell and Why They Won't Win Another World Series For A While, Free Agency Rumblings And Grumblings, and Matt Cain's Face On A Tortilla.  Yup.  A Tortilla.

Baseball, Not Football, Is Now The Most Fair Sport

Say what you want about Football and it's parity, but the fact is that Baseball is now the most fair amongst the sports.

Baseball, since it's institution of a revenue sharing system (somewhat) has managed to keep things competitive and different in their post-seasons.  True, while there are the big money teams that buy their way into the playoffs (Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, and to a certain extent, the Braves) there have also been several teams that have managed to make it into the show while keeping their books balanced.  As much as I despise Billy Beane, I've got to give him credit for keeping Oakland competitive for most of the decade.  Minnesota has done more with less, thanks to smart drafts and trades (Pierzynski for Nathan, Liriano, and Bonzer anyone).  Florida, ater deciding that they couldn't afford their expensive team, sold off most of their pieces of their team and nearly posted the same record this season and may challenge the Mets for the NL East Crown next season.

Sure, people may point out the Royals, the Devil Rays, the Pirates and the Rockies as examples of why Baseball is unfair, but the fact is that for a great period of time, these franchises were run with little direction, clue, or drive by their respective owners and management.  But even then, there is reason to hope.  The Royals now appear to be on the right track thanks to new General Manager Drayton Moore, who sold off most of the ill fitting pieces that had no place on his vision of the future, and the Devil Rays are now starting to come into their own now that ownership appears to be willing to spend money and make things work.  The Rockies, after trying for years to buy talent to help them compete, has taken advantage of numerous high draft picks to build one of the deepest farm systems in baseball.  As for Pittsburgh, well....they did finish ahead of the Cubs, who spent a fortune for a last place team. 

Does credit have to go to Bud Selig?  To a certain extent.  Selig's attempts to crack on teams that try to spend their way to a championship has worked to a certain extent.   One of the things that Bud's predecessor, Fay Vincent, was accused of (and to whom I credit most of the blame of the steroid era to), was that Vincent was too much in favor of the big market teams. And while Selig's changes haven't stopped teams from goings nuts as far as payroll (I.e. both New York Teams, The Angels, Both Chicago Teams), the fact is that Bud has done a lot of good in implementing his changes to give everyone a shot. 

If you want the ultimate justification, take a look at the number of teams that win the championship of each league, since Bud took charge in 1992.

NFL - (11).  Washington (1992), Dallas (1993-94), San Francisco (1995), Dallas (1996), Green Bay (1997), Denver (1998-99), St. Louis (2000),  Baltimore (2001), New England (2002), Tampa Bay (2003), New England (2004-05), Pittsburgh (2006)

NBA -(6).   Chicago (1992-93), Houston (1994-95), Chicago (1996-98), San Antonio (1999), LA Lakers (2000-02), San Antonio (2003), Detroit (2004), San Antonio (2005), Miami (2006)

MLB - (9).  Toronto (1992-93), Atlanta (1995), New York Yankees (1996), Florida (1997), New York Yankees (1998-2000), Arizona (2001), Anaheim (2002), Florida (2003), Boston (2004), Chicago White Sox (2005), Mets/Tigers/Athletics/Cardinals (2006).

Football has the most division winners among the sample, but that sample is slightly tainted because of the mini-dynasties of San Francisco and Washington that can be traced farther back beyond this sample. Plus, the Rams made the Super Bowl in 2002 and New England was the loser in the 1997 Super Bowl.   Baseketball, despite it's claim of it being all inclusive thanks to the fact that half the damn league gets into the playoffs, has had only six different teams win the title in this 14 year period.  As for Baseball, the Yankee Dynasty tends to skew the overall balance, plus the lost 1994 World Series.  Baseball also has fewer teams that have managed to extend their runs of dominance over a significant period of time.  Before the Yankees won four in five years from 1996 to 2000, the last multiple win World Series team was the Oakland Athletics, who did it from 1972 to 1974. 

So while baseball may have it's problems, one thing is certain.

There is parity in the sport.  It's not as obvious as football, where 8-8 can get you into the playoffs, but it exists.  You just have to look closely to find it.

Where The Yankees Went To Hell...

Speaking of New York, Bobby V on The V Show with ESPN had a great point on when the Yankees began to tank.

When Matsui and Sheffield went down, the Yankees were forced to shake things up in their clubhouse by having to depend on a new face (Melky Cabrera) and an old favorite (Bernie Williams).  Cabrera borught a breath of fresh air to a largely stale Yankee lineup and Williams, who was given up for dead, stepped up as the DH/Part Time Outfielder and did a good job doing it.  Combined with the shakeup that brought in Bobby Abreu and the Yankees were transformed into a livelier and more productive lineup. 

But the Yankees reverted back to form when Torre decided he had to put Matsui and Sheffield into the lineup.  Gone went Cabrera, who more than earned the starting left field job, and gone wnet Williams, who can still destroy lefty pitching.  And true, the change probably should have been made considering Matsui's and Sheffield's accomplishments, but I can't help but agree that a little bit of life left that lineup when Cabrera and Williams were pulled.

Why The Yankees Won't Win For A While

If the Yankees expect to make a return to the post-season, they need to depend on the farm for help, not free agency.  The Yankees won their championships thanks to having three incredible front line pitchers.  Roger Clemens and David Cone, two bonafide aces, headed the rotation while Andy Pettitte, a number one on most teams, ran the middle of the rotation.  Plus, they had a bunch of players that, while not All-Stars, at least meshed well with each other.  Paul O'Neill isn't Manny Ramirez, but in that team, he was extraordinary.   

Since the Dynasty years, the Yankees haven't had that same dominance that they were known for.  I chalk this up to not only a lack of pitching on the market, but also a lack of players on the inside.

Let's start with pitching.  There aren't a lot of aces for sale on the market.  Most are either aging and close to retiring (John Smoltz, Curt Schilling, Roger Clemens), locked up for the near future (Roy Oswalt, Dan Haren, Bartolo Colon, Carlos Zambrano, Johan Santana, Jake Peavy, Dontrelle Willis, Roy Halliday), or are incredibly young and will be controlled by their respective teams for the distant future (Justin Verlander, Francisco Liriano, Felix Hernandez). 

Now a days, if you want to have a legitimate ace to head up your rotation, you need to home grow them.  This has been the one thing that Yankees have been unable to do for sometime, but this may be changing with Philip Hughes going to Triple A next season.

The other thing that the Yankees need to do is bring in more position players from the farm system.  The Yankees have a good young core to build around with Cano, Cabrera, Wang and Proctor, but they need more.  The problem with free agents is that you tend to get a lot of mercenary players, which is what the Yankees have done in the past few years by bringing in players such as Sheffield, Giambi, Rodriguez, Johnson, and others.  These guys a lot of the time have no link to the team and at times can be lifeless and dispassionate.

Are all free agents like that?  No.  You have guys that genuine love playing the game and whose personalities reflect that, such as Johnny Damon.  However, the lack of chemistry that has been evident in the Yankees is harmful, as at the end of the day, you can't rely on those players to come through for you when things are bleak.  What you have now is New York is a collection of stars unwilling to stand up to one another, resulting in a buildup of tensions that boils over, such as the Sports Illustrated Alex Rodriguez article, along with the numerous rumors (which the Yankees have been quick to try and deny) of fist fights between Rodriguez and Jeter and Johnson and Posada, among others.

The Yankees need to get back to the strategy of bringing up players that not only have the fire that makes young players so much fun to watch, but also are willing to listen to the leaders of the clubhouse when the right jolt is needed.

All of this can only be solved in the draft, which the Yankees have a huge advantage over.  So many picks fall because of signability reasons (Scott Boras).  The Yankees can draft these young players and deal with their agents (Scott Boras) to try and get them to forgo college to join the minors.  The Yankees have more than enough money to pay above slot and, to be honest, how many players would jump at the chance of playing for the Yankees and forgoing college instead of putting up a stellar college career and wind up in Kansas City or Tampa.

I'll be the first to say it.  The Yankees won't win the World Series as long as this team is together.  But the sooner that the Yankees start building their future around promising youngsters and stop going after overpriced nightmares like Carl Pavano, Jaret Wright, and the Big No Show, the sooner that New Yorkers can start hoping for their pinstriped heroes to take their latest trip down the Canyon of Heroes amid a rain of falling confetti.

Free Agency Rumblings And Grumblings

One last Yankee tidbit:  The Yankees are expected to decline the options of Sheffield and Mussina, making them free agents, and exercising a injury induced buyout clause on Jaret Wright, freeing up almost $30 million in cash.  While the Yankees are expected to bring back Mussina, it's highly unlikely we'll see New York make a splash in the free agent market unless it's for the soon to be posted Daisuka Matsuzaka.

Lou Pinella was reportedly hoping that the Texas Rangers would have offered him their position of manager, as he viewed the Rangers as the closest of the teams seeking a manager to contention.

Expect Hank Blalock to have lots of suitors this off-season.  While Blalock's put up career worst numbers in home runs, RBI's and everything else, he's still got quite a bit of upside in that he's still young and his contract is relatively affordable.  While this would force the Rangers to have to bring back Mark DeRosa as the regular third baseman, trading Blalock with another prospect would be a great way to acquire another starting pitcher with more than one year of service time left.

Expect Seattle to become a major player in the free agency market.  With Ichiro nearing the end of his contract and becoming disheartened with the performance of Seattle in recent years, Seattle has got to do something to help improve the team.  They do have some trade chips in RP Rafael Soriano and 1st Baseman Ritchie Sexton, but the player that may draw the most value may be Adrian Beltre, who proved that he might not be a free agent bust after all.

Boston is expected to shop Manny Ramirez again this off-season, but their chance to get the maximum value for the slugger is gone.  Ramirez, who missed time because of injury and possiby because of attitude, will find far less takers this off-season.  Plus, Ramirez , as a 10-5 player, must approve of any deal.  As a result, Boston, who wanted SP Ervin Santana, 2nd Baseman Howie Kendrick, Utilitydude Chone Figgins, and SS Brandon Wood (a rip off of epic proportions) will have to settle for much less.  I suspect that the Red Sox could pull off a trade to the Angels for just Figgins and maybe SS Erick Aybar, but again, Ramirez could complicate things by insisting that a pair of options be exercised in the process.  In my opinion, Ramirez and Boston are likely stuck wtih each other.

Matt Cain's Face On A Tortilla

Nothing to do with baseball, I just thought you might enjoy this story out of Frisco.

Have a good weekend.  The Rangers Report will be back on Monday, with a by weekly run from now until Spring Training.

On The Block:  Ichiro Suzuki

I feel like causing some discussion today, partially because I'm pissed off about the pathetic events last night in Anahiem.  So, let's do this thang!

Why He’s On The Block: It seems a little hard to believe that Seattle would even dream of trading their superstar, but the possibility isn’t unthinkable.  This winter, we found out that Ichiro is unhappy.  He’s not getting any younger and Ichiro has felt unmotivated as Seattle currently is near the bottom of the American League.  He has stated that he wants to play in a World Series and that judging by Seattle’s roster moves, his current team is nowhere closer to contending.  Seattle has no need to trade him.  But if this continues, Ichiro could continue to get more and more unhappy and the result would be a detriment to the team. 

Asking Price:  High.  Seattle is in no hurry to trade their most valuable asset, but Ichiro would bring in a boatload of young talent or a pair of established talent that would help now.

Negotiable:  No.  Seattle is in no obligation to trade him, but would probably be better off by silently shopping him.  If they really want to go with dumping salary, Ichiro would provide the perfect contract to package with the remainder of Adrian Beltre’s deal.

What He Offers:  Ichiro offers the following:

·          Plus:  Top leadoff hitter in the game.

·          Plus:  An excellent fielder.

·          Plus:  Superstar appeal.

·          Plus:  Can contribute immediately.

·          Plus:  High On Base Percentage

·          Minus: Large contract.

·          Minus:  Is not a young player.

·          Minus:  Not a power hitter

Long Term Future:  Not good.  Ichiro is quietly getting more and more discouraged.  He’s two years into a four million dollar extension, signed in 2004.  However, the Mariners aren’t the same team that they were when he signed in 2004.  He doesn’t have a no trade clause, so he could be shipped anywhere if the price is right.  Again, while the Mariners have no need to trade, if his performance in the WBC results in a increasing desire to go somewhere competitive, he could be trouble. 

He Stay Or Will He Go:  30%-70% on him staying.  However, if the right offer comes along, the Mariners would be stupid not to listen.  But here’s who will make a pitch:

·          Boston Red Sox – 50%.  Boston could make an inquiry about Ichiro if Coco Crisp fails to produce as a lead off hitter.  Ichiro would slide into the leadoff spot with Crisp behind him and the New Millennium’s version of the Bash Brothers (Ramirez and Ortiz) behind him.  They would likely package Trot Nixon along with a couple of promising minor leaguers for him. 

·          New York Yankees – 26%.  The Yankees did discuss a trade with Seattle during the off-season, hoping to move Ichiro to Centerfield.  Even though Damon now patrols center, adding Ichiro would the dual effect of improving the outfield defense and improving the lineup further by allowing Gary Sheffield to move to the DH, a role he prefers.  The problem with this deal is that adding Ichiro would kick Damon from leadoff to eighth.  Also, the Yankees have no prospects on the verge of immediately helping Seattle to make a trade, though if Seattle inquiries about Carl Pavano, I’d be immediately accommodating.

·          New York Mets – 24%.   The Mets could make a run for him if Xavier Nady dies as the left fielder.  They would likely have to part ways with top prospect Lastings Milledge, but Ichiro would make the Mets an instant contender.

End Result – Ichiro will likely stay.  However, Boston could make an inquiry if they suddenly find themselves in the hunt. 

Friday Morning Closer

Here are my thoughts on Major League Baseball this week:

If I were in Beantown, I’d be very very afraid.  Keith Foulke looks good physically, but he’s still walking around getting artifical fluid injected into his knees, Mike Lowell looks like he’s done, but the Red Sox don’t want to move Kevin Youkilis because JT Snow is even worse, plus there is a large backup at second base that doesn’t look like it’s going to be solved anytime soon.  Along with questions about Manny Ramirez’s mood of the week and that Curt Schilling isn’t what he used to be, it looks like the Yankees and the Blue Jays will be fighting it out for the division title this year.  The lone bright spot:  Alex Gonzalez should be lots of fun to watch on the field this year.

I know that Spring Training is meant to be just that, but the Brewers looked really bad when I saw them play. 

How in Gods Name Did Team USA lose the WBC?!?!?!?!   I think the next time this comes around, we really have to evaluate who exactly is the best fit to form a competitive team.  We can just rely on stars to just volunteer and take the field.  We need to make the best fit available, even if it means telling legends like A-Rod or Griffey that they can’t take the field.  Sorry, but a USA Basketball approach needs to be taken on this to ensure that in 2009, the title goes to the United States, where it rightfully belongs.

Still, despite this, The WBC looks like it’ll be a success after all.  Interest is good in the US and high worldwide.  I think this little event will make it after all.

Here’s one more WBC nugget to ponder over:  Now that the action is moving stateside, how many members of the Cuban National Team do you think are planning of defecting?  Is it possible that we could see two players sprint off the field and jump into the stands asking for asylum?

Bobby Jenks has apparently lost 10 mph on his fastball.  10!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  How much does Chicago’s chances of repeating drop if their lights out closer isn’t lights out.

Another Barry Bonds book coming out?  At this rate, Rachael Ray from the Food Network will be releasing a book by May.