The 2005 White Sox was a collection of solid pitchers, solid defense and above average hitting. There wasn’t a lot of power in the lineup outside of Paul Konerko, but overall the combination worked.
However, many of those players have simply gotten old or aren’t as good as they were ages ago. With a farm system weakened by trades and poor draft choices, there is a whole lot to rebuild. Plus, with the Wild Card in the American League being a dogfight by no fewer than four teams, the chances of the Pale Hose making the playoffs are minute.
So, why not take this year to restock the farm, see what you have, and try to rebuild as best you can with what you have and what you can get.by selling off your collection of spare parts and arms and hope to rebuild from there.
So, let's take a look and see how I would fix this mess...
The Infield
Taking a look at my squad and contracts, I’ve got some solid options available for next year. The heart of my offense, Paul Konerko and Jim Thome, are both on the books for next year and I can choose to bring back Thome in 2009 thanks to his option. After that, I could slide Konerko over to DH, as I think his deense will be below average by them. I’ve got a solid catcher in Pierzynski still on for next year and a suitable backup in Hall, so I’m good there.
Joe Crede’s situation is going to be a tough one. He’s sidelined for all of this year, but he’ll be back next year and should be asolid regular. Josh Fields is developing well so far and I think he’ll be a suitable starter at third in the future, but for now, I need him in Left Field, as I don’t have any great options. I think he’ll be tolerable, but not spectacular.
That leaves my lineup looking like this, so far:
1 –
2 –
3 – Konerko (1B)
4 – Thome (DH)
5 – Crede (3B)
6 – Fields (LF)
7 – Pierzynski (C)
8 –
9 –
Not bad so far. I’ve got the heart of my lineup stacked with some big bats that should hit for plenty of power. I’ve also got an attractive trade piece in Crede, once his bat comes to life, that I could trade for a replacement left fielder once I slide Fields back to Third. Pierzynski swings a solid stick, but I like his game calling and besides, he’s already on the roster. Why screw with what looks to be a good thing.
Now for the rest of the infield.
I’ve got holes at shortstop and second base that need some filling. Tad Iguchi is likely to leave as a free agent, but fortunately for me, Kenny Williams has already provided me with a second baseman internally. Last month, Williams traded minor league hitter Aaron Cunningham to the Diamondbacks for second baseman Danny Richar, a player that’s described as near ready and plays a solid second base with some pop. I see no reason why I shouldn’t give him a shot, so in goes Richar at second.
Shortstop is the other problem. The free agent market for shortstops is #### poor this off-season and besides, I’ve got to spend money on some more important things. I could try and give Houston’s Mark Loretta a shot at shortstop, as he’s having a solid year as Houston’s utilityman and his defense is still solid. I could also try to look for some other options out there on the trade market, possibly the Angels’ Erick Aybar, but I like the Loretta option a lot. His defense isn’t quite what I have in Juan Uribe, but the bat makes up for it. So, why not roll the dice and see what happens.
With that said, let’s take a look at the lineup so far.
1 –
2 – Loretta (SS)
3 – Konerko (1B)
4 – Thome (DH)
5 – Crede (3B)
6 – Fields (LF)
7 – Pierzynski (C)
8 – Richar (2B)
9 –
It’s looking better. But here’s where it gets worse.
The Outfield
Holy ######## Batman! I’ve got no outfield. Well, not quite…
As I said, Fields could be a tolerable option in left, but that leaves me with two outfield spots open, center and right field.
I've got one internal option in Ryan Sweeney, a toolsy outfielder that has the skills to play center and enough of a bat to play well in the corner. He's going to strike out a lot, but he's got power and projects to be similar to Mike Cameron.
Right field is a different story. I'm going to have to spend some money to fill the spot, as there isn't a whole lot in the system that I can use to not only capably play the field, but also to hit. Sweeney is going to have to be in the number 9 spot, leaving me short a leadoff man. Though right field is typically a power position, I don't need power as I've got oodles in the middle of the lineup.
In that case, I've got two options:
One is Eric Byrnes, who will likely be going to his hometown Giants.
The other is Ichiro Suzuki, a Kenny Williams favorite.
Of the two, either one would be a good fit, though I'm partial to bringing Ichiro in to hit at the top of the lineup. Assuming he's wants to leave Seattle, I'm all over it. If not, then I ask Byrnes if he's willing to bring his crow's nest hair to Chi-Town.
Either way, I've got to get one of them in to play right.
So, let's take a look at my lineup, assuming that I bring Ichiro in.
1 – Suzuki (RF)
2 – Loretta (SS)
3 – Konerko (1B)
4 – Thome (DH)
5 – Crede (3B)
6 – Fields (LF)
7 – Pierzynski (C)
8 – Richar (2B)
9 –Sweeeny (CF)
And there's my lineup. Not bad and as cost effective as I'll get.
Onto the pitching staff...
Starting Rotation
Fortuantely, I've got options here as well. Jon Garland is the staff ace and will headup my rotation. He's a groundball specialist and a solid workhorse. Jose Contreras should have at least one more season left in him as an average starter. John Danks has the making of a solid lefty workhorse and Javier Vasquez is signed to a very club friendly deal. That gives me a solid 1-4 starters.
Now I need to find another two.
It's possible Gavin Floyd, who the White Sox targeted in the Freddy Garcia trade, may be able to suitably be a number five starter. Another option would be to bring in lefty Gio Gonzalez, as stud pitching prospect that can be a horse except that he's small.
And no, I'm not bringing Buerhle back. Finesse lefties don't age well, as we're seeing with Barry Zito, and that typically means the production goes to hell and back.
So, here's how the rotation should shape up...
Jon Garland (R)
Jose Contreras (R)
John Danks (L)
Javier Vasquez (R)
Gio Gonzalez (L)/Gavin Floyd (R)
Bullpen Time...
The Pen
I'm set at closer with stud closer Bobby Jenks at closer. It's everyone else I need to worry about. Mike MacDougall is looking more and more done each time he gets marched out there and Nick Masset is having the same issues he had when he was with the Rangers last year. Boone Logan, however, is a solid setup man and young as well. Ryan Bukvich has also established himself after a bad start and David Aardsma is enough of a reclaimation project to want to give a shot.
But I still need more relievers.
Not a whole lot I can do here unless I do some trades, possibly with Pittsburgh, but in reality, there isn't much I can give up without breaking the farm.
Overall
I can do some changes with this team, make it a bit more cost-effective while allowing me to use some of the kids in the minors to help. The bullpen is going to be an issue, meaning money will have to be spent there. Overall, it's not inconcievable that the White Sox could return to respectability next year, but the playoffs are a ways away thanks to the pen.
The Skinny: Richardson has elevated his status in recent years with the Rangers, proving that he can be a solid catcher as well as a effective game caller. Though Richardson is rather solid, his stock isn't high enough to surpass Taylor Teagarden as the Rangers' top pitching prospect.
Positives: Richardson has always been an effective catcher and game caller and manages a staff well. He's also always been shown big time power since he was back at Gonzaga.
Negatives: Richardson's numbers will always be viewed with some skeptism considering his age. Also, his walks totals are low and strikeout totals are high, making his power all the more important as he won't get on base a lot.
Projection: Low. Richardson's advancement all depends on whether or not he can hit enough to be a starter.
In A Perfect World, He Is: A Starting Catcher
2007 Course Of Action: Harrison is currently at Frisco, where he's doing well, but will need to show more if he wants to advance to Oklahoma.
22– Jacob Brigham (RHP)
DOB:2/10/88
Drafted: 6th Round, 2006, Florida High School
Likely 2007 Club: Spokane (Short Season)
Height/Weight: 6-3/200
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Drafted in the sixth round out of Central Florida Christian Academy, Brigham was a first round talent that fell because he struggled early and because of money considerations. Texas snatched him up in the sixth and gave him enough of a bonus where he changed his mind from going to the University of Central Florida (Conference USA school, baby!) Interestingly enough, Brigham, was ranked before the 2006 season by Baseball America as the number 20 high school prospect in the country. Interestingly enough, fellow draft pick Kasey ####r was rated at 12 and Marcus Lemon was next on the list at 21. Brigham has great size and despite his early season struggles, he went 10-3 overall with a 0.75 ERA, striking out 146 hitters in 75 innings, and also threw three no hitters.
Positives: Brigham has a great fastball and nice, clean mechanics. He’s also got excellent control, a rarity among high school pitchers. He’s got good size and his body lends itself to good projection. As far as his stuff, Brigham works in the mid 90’s with his fastball and he’s got decent secondary pitches that could be plus with work.
Negatives: Brigham’s fastball is fairly flat with little movement. And he needs to develop his secondary pitches even more if he’s got continue rising.
Projection: High. Brigham is similar to Eric Hurley, in that he's a flamethrower that has the potential for plus secondary stuff once he harnesses. With time, Brigham could be a late round steal and provide the Rangers with another potential pitching prospect.
In A Perfect World, He Is: A middle of the rotation starter.
2007 Course Of Action: Brigham was retained in Extended Spring Training, but will likely be sent to Spokane for more seasoning. Brigham is still very young and he could use some more seasoning.
23– Grant Gerrard (LF)
DOB: 5/1/84
Drafted: 7th Round, 2006, Southern Illinois
Likely 2007 Club: Clinton (Low A)
Height/Weight: 6-4/220
Bats/Throws: L/L
The Skinny: Gerrard was originally a 16th round draft pick by the Mariners, but he would have gone higher if not for a wrist injury and made more money as a senior sign with the Rangers. Gerrard then went to work after signing quickly, hitting a combined .288 with 3 home runs, 38 RBI’s and stealing 9 bases in 57 games.
Positives: Gerrard has goot size, is athletic, and he’s got a short, quick swing. He’s got some raw power in his bat, has a good approach at the plate, some speed, and a strong arm.
Negatives: Gerrard’s power limits him to left field, as he doesn’t field well enough to play center, nor does he hit hard enough to play right.
Projection: Low. Gerrard has developed pretty well while he was in college and should rise quickly.
In A Perfect World, He Is: A starting left fielder.
2007 Course Of Action: Gerrard returned to Clinton this year, but it’s hoped that he’ll rise quickly to Bakersfield by the end of the year, possibly depending on the progress of John Mayberry Jr.
24– Craig Gentry (CF)
DOB: 11/29/83
Drafted: 10th Round, 2006, University Of Arkansas-Fayetteville
Likely 2007 Club: Clinton (Low A)
Height/Weight: 6-2/190
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Gentry is another interesting prospect that may need to be kept an eye on. Gentry projects very much like the higher regarded Jacoby Ellsburg, who was one of Boston’s First Round Picks in the 2005 Draft. Gentry played well in limited action with short season Spokane, hitting .281 with 13 RBI’s and scoring 27 runs.
Positives: Gentry is an outstanding defensive centerfielder that usually walks more than he strikes out and has leadoff potential as well. He’s got great speed, raw power, and displays good instincts in center. All in all, he’s got a impressive physical package.
Negatives: Gentry will never hit for much power and needs to focus on improving his pitch recognition skills. A big reason why he wasn't drafted as a junior was in part because he needed Tommy John surgery, and he missed time last spring with an infected right knee. Hence, there will be questions as to whether or not Gentry will be durable enough to be more than another Laynce Nix.
Projection: Medium. Gentry could add on a bit more muscle and has a bit of untapped power potential, but not a whole lot.
In A Perfect World, He Is: A capable leadoff centerfielder.
2007 Course Of Action: Gentry will be given his first taste of full season ball in Clinton, where he’ll be the starting centerfielder.
25– Nate Gold (1B)
DOB:6/12/80
Drafted: 10th Round, 2002, Gonzaga
2007 Club: Oklahoma (Triple A)
Height/Weight: 6-3/220
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Gold surprised the Rangers by hitting .292 with 34 home runs and 103 RBIs at Double-A Frisco last year, earning him player of the year honors. With the lack of position players in the organization that are ready or near ready, the sudden blossoming of Gold is a blessing.
Positives: Gold has show the ability to hit for power as well as a high average and has shown an improvement in taking pitches and drawing walks. He’s also a adequate defender at first base.
Negatives: The question of whether or not Gold’s sudden power surge is legitimate is the major issue here, as many wonder if his season was simply the result of him beating up on a younger age group.
Projection: High. Poveda began to turn things around last season before wearing out due to exhaustion, but he’s got a lot of development and growing to do and needless to say he impressed greatly as a 18 year old playing in full season ball.
In A Perfect World, He Is: A Solid Starter
2007 Course Of Action: Gold will be given the shot to prove that he’s ready to be something special in Triple A, and he could be on the short list of possible power hitters available if a bat is needed.
Rangers Sign Mark Redman
The apocalypse has appeared, as the Rangers have signed Mark Redman, who was most recently released by the Bravos, who cut him after Redman was destroyed by most of the National League.
The only motive I'm guessing that this does is allow for more fifth starter options down in Oklahoma, with all the pitchers that have gone down, and allow the Rangers time to allow the youngsters in the rotation and down on the farm to develop. If this is going to be a lost season, then the Rangers might as well pull out all the stops. Redman, at the very least, can eat up some innings and will allow Hurley and company the necessary time to devleop properly. Should be intersting and painful to watch at the same time.
The Rangers Sign Derek Holland
According to the Rangers Website, the teeam has an agreement with their 25th round pick, Derek Holland, who was rated as a high priority by the team to sign.
Holland, if you remember, I rated under the category "May Be Signed, Depending On The Budget." Overall, he had an impressive JUCO year, going 9-2 with a 1.82 ERA and 10.17 strikeouts per nine innings for Wallace (Ala.) State.
Rangers Notes And Stuff
Righthander Nick Masset and lefty John Danks, former Rangers prospects that have ripped the organization at every opportunity, were both torched last night. Masset has been particularly bad for the White Sox, and is 1-1 with a 7.23 ERA as a reliever for the Pale Hose.
Oklahoma righthander Josh Rupe has landed on the AAA disabled list with elbow soreness. Disappointing. as the Rangers hoped that Ruple would be able to reassert himself as a starting pitching prospect, but the Rangers hope that he won't need surgery. I think he might, especially considering the arm problems Rupe has had in the last two years.
Catcher Miguel Ojeda broke his thumb on a tag play at the plate a couple of weeks ago and has since been designated for assignment.
Eric Hurley, who has been lights out, was finally torched last night, but is tearing up the Texas League.
Ian Kinsler – Kinsler keeps on rolling and at the moment is looking like he’s going to be a rising star.
Sammy!!!! – Yeah, the offense has been bad and the average looks ####, but Sosa has actually been on somewhat of a hot streak.
The Fourth And Fifth Spots In The Rotation– Kameron Loe and Robinson Tejeda have been dealing lately and that’s great news.
The Bad
Everyone Not Named Kinsler, Cruz, Lofton and Blalock– The offense has got to get it together people.
Taylor Teagarden On The D.L. – Elbow injury. That’s not good for a catcher.
Gagne On The D.L. – Big surprise, but at the very least this means that Frank Francisco is returning to the majors. Quite honestly, this isn't really ugly, as there is bullpen depth to help out.
The Ugly
Daniel Haigwood Traded – Here’s another thing you can lay Jamey Wright’s doorstep. His addition cost the Rangers Daniel Haigwood, a Jamey Moyer-esque lefty that had to be Designated For Assignment in order to add Wright to the 40 man roster. Haigwood was traded to the Boston Red Sox on Friday for RHP Scott Shoemaker, a tall right hander with a solid fastball and plus slider, but little else and will likely be a swingman. #### this trade! #### Jamey Wright!
Deals That Best Didn’t Go Down – The 2004 Larry Walker Trade
It’s great to watch Ian Kinsler blossom into a superstar second baseman, as it makes the Alfonso Soriano trade more and more justifiable considering that it was done to clear a spot for this great young talent.
It’s also great that Larry Walker vetoed a trade that would have sent the young slugger to the Rockies back in July of 2004.
You see, back in 2004, the Rangers were suddenly in the thick of the AL West race and, seeking to add extra punch to a lineup that was already strong and just needed a capable DH, then General Manager Jon Hart negotiated a deal with the Rockies that would have sent Kinsler and pitching prospect Erik Thompson in exchange for the brittle, but still potent bat of Walker.
However, Walker exercised his no trade clause and killed the deal. The Rangers were left with having to use Eric Young and others in the DH role and Walker was traded the next month to the St. Louis Cardinals.
Would it have been worth it?
Well, after losing Soriano to injury in the last part of the 2004 season, Walker would have made up for the difference in offense that would have been lost. It could have been enough to put the Rangers over Oakland and LA to get to the playoffs, where they would have played…the New York Yankees and former Ranger, Alex Rodriguez.
More likely, it would have resulted in Soriano remaining a Ranger, only to see him leave elsewhere and the Rangers would likely have had to re-sign Mark DeRosa, assuming his breakout remained the same, or possibly have rushed Joaquin Arias up to second base.
In retrospect, the deal is great. But who knows what would have happened had Walker not killed the trade?
Just a thought.
Danks And Masset Incorrect About Rangers Fanbase
In recent interviews, former Rangers prospects John Danks and Nick Masset took some shots at the organization that drafted them.
In his first interview since being traded, Danks expressed his dislike for the DVD moniker that was attached to him, Thomas Diamond and Edison Volquez, who were hyped under the moniker as the Rangers’ pitching rotation of the future. He said that “We hated it." He expressed some anger about the hype that followed him, in particular when he was in Double A Frisco, close to the Rangers’ fan base, and replied that "fans came over and expected great things, (and) If I got shelled, they'd say, 'Oh, that guy isn't very good. It was all hype. It was one of those things where they build you up. You have one rough game and people write you off. Rangers fans are pretty fair-weathered anyway. Early on it was cool to get some attention, but after a while it just wore on us," he said.
Hold on there, cowboy!
First of all, Ranger fans can be grouped into two factions: the die hards, like myself, the guys that hang out at Rangerfans.com and Lone Star Ball, and then there’s the faction that really aren’t Ranger fans, that simply followed the team because they were in the area, came aboard because of A-Rod, and have criticized the team because of mismanagement that has ensued almost since the inception of the franchise. As far as Ranger fans being fair-weathered, I’d say “angsty” is a better term. Ranger fans have seen so many pitching prospects implode, and so many poor scouting decisions, that to say that they hold a pessimistic view of their team is, suffice to say, an understatement. There are several fans that followed Danks since he was drafted and throughout much of his career, were pretty even handed with the remarks and criticism about him. All in all, it was the latter section of fans that I described that seemed to take the whole DVD thing out of proportion. I can understand how that can wear on a kid.
But, that doesn’t stop Danks from sounding slightly bitter about how he left, and that’s unfortunate. There are many Ranger fans that would have loved to have kept him and still follow his career with great interest. Comments like these kind of change people’s opinion about a player and as a result causes a loss of some a player’s fanbase.
Danks did sound a little better in another interview about Rangers management. ''We left, everything was all clear, all good. 'I understood that it was part of the business. Jon Daniels, all those guys over there, had nothing but great things to say to me. So I want nothing but good for them. ''I have no anger toward them. 'I wish them the best, and I hope they win every game ... except when they play the White Sox.''
Suffice to say, the damage has still been done.
Masset sounds even worse in another interview.
"Pitching is a big thing over there, tThat's a big question for them all the time. The funny thing is there is a lot of good talent over there. I don't think they put together the right combinations when they needed to. I don't know what happened.”
I can actually answer that.
Poor scouting, poor drafting, free agency losses and signings have created a loss of talent in the Rangers’ farm system. He’s right about there being talent, it’s just said talent took a collective step back last season.
"I couldn't be in a happier situation or a better situation," Masset said. "I'm happy where I am and with what I'm doing for the team."
When asked if he'd like to face his former organization and have a chance to stick it to them, Masset replied: ''A little bit because you think, 'Why did they get rid of me?' If I get a chance against them, I'll bring a little extra, show them what they're missing out on.''
In all honesty, I can answer that question as well.
Masset was a part of a huge collection of relievers, which Texas is still plagued with and needs to purge at the deadline in order to restock the organization with useful prospects that have a future with the team. Masset, unfortunately, was simply caught in a glut of relievers and was far enough down the food chain where he wouldn’t be missed.
Masset always had great stuff, but could never put it together and really, only last season was he able to emerge as a prospect that was more interesting than much.
I wish both guys all the luck in the world, but quite frankly, after reading the interviews, I won’t miss them. The Rangers need to have players that want to be there. And in this case, they may be better off.
Ranger Notes
Eric Chavez had originally given Rangers Manager Ron Washington his 2004 Gold Glove trophy. Unfortuantely, the award was one of Washington’s belongings that had been lost during Hurricane Katrina. However, the Rangers had a replica of the award made and asked Chavez to present it to Washington once again, which he did before Saturday's game at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington.
Mark Connor feels that the problem with Brandon McCarthy is not mechanics, but rather with his head. He advised McCarthy to relax, as he feels that McCarthy is trying hard to prove that the trade that brought him to Texas was worthwhile.
The Bruce Chen era of the Rangers is over. To make room for Eyre, Chen was designated for assignment. Chen had five outings and is currently 0-0 with a 7.20 ERA (8 ER/10.0 IP) on 11 hits. He has struck out seven and walked six and has finished three games. With the starting pitching market in disarray at the moment, Chen will likely be traded within the ten day period that is specified, as it seems unlikely he'll make it to Oklahoma, where he has accepted a assignment to, as someone will claim him. Hopefully, the Rangers will get something useful.
The Tigers during the off-season were worried enough about the lack of a lefty in their bullpen that they inquired to see if LHP C.J. Wilson was available, but were told no. That not only speaks volumes about how the organization feels about Wilson, who wants to close at some point, but it also means that for once, the Rangers have something that someone actually wants. I wonder if they'd be interested in Chen or LHP John Rheinecker, who is currently on the DL.
Torii Hunter is apparently looking for a 4 year deal worth $50 million dollars. Looking at Hunter, the injury issues are a bit concerning, plus the fact that he’s going to be entering his decline seasons at the age of 32. PETCOA’s projections are not very big on Hunter, frankly have him looking more or less like a backup player by the year 2009. We’ll take a look at the centerfield market next time and see who the Rangers should head after.
The Rangers were tied for the lead in the division last season with Oakland at the All-Star Break, but pitching implosions, offensive collapses and general mismanagement by Buck Showalter lead to the Rangers finishing third for the third straight year. Showalter is gone, replaced by Ron Washington and the team has been drastically reshaped, resulting in a team that looks very different from the one that left Safeco Field last October.
Starting Rotation
Kevin Millwood (RHP) – Millwood is the ace of the rotation and proved to be a solid innings eater as well as a role model to guide the younger pitchers in the rotation. Millwood will have to improve his performance at home, but aside from that he should be a solid starter and workhorse at the top of the rotation.
Vicente Padilla (RHP) – There’s some question as to whether Padilla will be as good as he was last season now that he’s locked in with a long term deal. However, I think that Padilla should be fine, as she showed all of the performance that made him an All-Star back in the day. He’s already a favorite of Rangers manager Ron Washington, who wants other Rangers pitchers to have a similar “take no prisoners” type of attitude. That will result in a lot more fights, particularly with the Angels, who are still pretty peeved with him and have some unfinished business with him as a result of that brawl last year.
Brandon McCarthy (RHP) – White Sox GM Kenny Williams wanted John Danks so badly that he was willing to part with McCarthy, a huge kid at 6-foot-7, to do so. McCarthy has spent most of the last two seasons in the majors, but he’s still 23 and has five years of service time left. He’s been pitching mostly out of the bullpen. McCarthy works off a low-90s fastball that can hit the middle 90’s and he’s added on some weight to his frame, so it’s possible he could develop a little more power. His curve and change are solid major league pitches. His biggest problem is that he’s homer prone, but that is mostly because of his home park, U.S. Cellular Field. Ameriquest is a little more forgiving and all in all, he’s been dominant in Spring Training and should be fine.
Robinson Tejeda (RHP) – Based on how stellar he was in his last eight starts, Tejeda has all but locked up the fifth starter spot and will keep the spot unless he somehow loses it. Tejeda has a great arm and his fastball clocks in the low 90’s with a good curveball and changeup, all of which he has great command over. The only problem is that he’s got to adjust his performance at home, as he was awful. Still, he looks good so far in Spring Training and should help improve the depth in the back. On a side note, Tejeda has a lot of respect from the younger Latin players and goes out of his way to take some of the younger ones under his wing. He’s got the potential to be a great leader in the clubhouse in the years that come.
Jamey Wright (RHP) – Wright has been nothing short of spectacular this season and so far appears to be the favorite to be the fifth starter. Wright has decent stuff, but he’s never put it together for some reason. Here’s hoping that he’ll be able to do so in Texas.
Bullpen
Eric Gagne (Closer) – This is a gamble, as the Rangers really don’t know what to expect from him, nor did they really need him, but Gagne looks good so far in workouts and there is hope that he can become a Trevor Hoffman style closer, depending on a solid breaking pitch rather than pure heat. .
Akinori Otsuka (Setup Man) – Otsuka was one of the better closers in baseball last season and really stepped into the role after Francisco Cordero flamed out. The Rangers rewarded him by booting him out of his spot and back into the setup role. So far, the Rangers appear to be using him as a setup man, but it’s also equally possible that Otsuka could be dealt to a contender in exchange for a prospect. At the moment, Otsuka will remain with the team, but it should be interesting to see the market develop if someone gets hurt.
Frank Francisco (RHP) – Francisco was an integral part of the Rangers league-leading bullpen in 2004 when he was 5-1 with a 3.33 ERA and struck out 60 batters in 51 1/3 innings. He then underwent Tommy John surgery, but appears to be completely healthy. Francisco has explosive fastball as well as a excellent splitter that make him an excellent setup man and possible spot closer.
C.J. Wilson (LHP) – Wilson took a big step forward in 2006, turning himself from failed pitching prospect to promising lefty reliever. Wilson was solid out of the bullpen, making some wonder if it would be possible for him to be turned back into a reliever. Wilson himself has said that he prefers to relieve, and has expressed a desire to be a closer in the future. So far, club officials are satisfied with his effort and it’s possible that he could get a shot as soon as next season.
Ron Mahay (LHP) – The always dependable Mahay gives Texas a second lefty reliever to help keep things honest in the later innings.
Wes Littleton (RHP) – Littleton was my sleeper last season, an under the radar prospect that makes good and makes the roster. He was an absolute beast last season. Littleton will help Francisco in the 7th inning duties and could be in the mix for a closer’s role when Gagne inevitably leaves at the end of the season.
Joaquin Benoit (RHP) – Benoit has long had a live arm, but he’s been rather inconsistent. However, he’s been dominating Spring Training this season and looks to be the winner of the last roster spot. All I can say is that he better be this dominant during the regular season.
Starting Lineup
Kenny Lofton (CF) – Lofton may be old, but he can still hit rather well and still can swipe a few bases. He’s a decent defender in center and, while he won’t hit for much power, will be a solid leadoff man unless he totally implodes.
Frank Catalanotto (LF) – The return of the Cat means the return of a solid bat between the leadoff hitter and Young, allowing Young to push Mark Teixeira farther back in the order. Cat is a disciplined hitter that does well against right handed pitching but gets murdered by lefties. Cat likely will play the field, a iffy proposition considering that he’s an average to below average defender. But Sosa looks like he’s got the every day DH job, meaning that’s the only place he’ll be able to play.
Michael Young (SS) – Young returns to the three hole now locked up long term at short and will likely be a Ranger for life. It’s hoped that Young won’t succumb to injuries like Rusty Greer did, but Young has been surprisingly durable and consistent. He’s got some power to his bat and some speed on the bases and his defense continues to improve. He should be a rock in the franchise for years to come.
Mark Teixeira (1B) – Tex returns to hit clean up and hopes to have some protection behind him in the lineup. Tex should be good for 30 to 40 home runs along with driving in over 100 and will continue to be a Gold Glover at first. Whether or not Tex stays in Texas is another question all together, as the Rangers need to win and win now in order to keep him. The Rangers seem to have a good shot this season and the next, but privately, they’re also looking at their internal options, just in case Big Tex leaves.
Sammy Sosa (DH) – Sosamania has hit the metroplex for some reason, so let’s take a look at what Sosa can provide. Sosa may have some power potential and his bat speed is somewhat better than what it was back in Baltimore. Best case scenario is 20 home runs, maybe 80 RBI’s. Worst case scenario? DFA in May.
Hank Blalock (3B) – Blalock, more than any other player, needs to return to his All-Star form. Rudy Jaramillo has stated that Blalock’s problem is that he’s pulling the ball too much, trying too hard for a homer and not concentrating on being satisfied with a double, walk or single. Ron Washington has made it his priority to get Blalock back to his All-Star form and wants to make him a Gold Glover at third. We’ll see what happens, as I firmly believe that Washington’s wish to keep Blalock was the only thing that kept him from being traded this off-season.
Ian Kinsler (2B) – Kinsler had a nice rookie season and showed that he’s got some thunder in his bat. Kinsler will likely benefit from another year of experience and Washington is already working on Kinsler’s defense to help him improve. He also figures to run more, thanks to Washington’s love of base theft.
Nelson Cruz (RF) – Cruz has lots of power potential and can work the count as well as defend. What needs to be key to his success is whether or not he can hit a breaking ball, which has been giving him trouble. If Cruz can read pitches better, he’ll be a dynamite outfielder corner. There is also an experiment about him playing center, where it is believed his bat would translate better.
Gerald Laird (C) – Laird looked like he was the starter in 2005, but he lost the job due to injury to Rod Barajas. However, Laird hit well enough to show that he could be a regular and he’s going to be that chance. Laird has solid glove work and calls a good game, plus he’s got a relatively strong arm. Laird also has untapped power potential in his bat and could be a 20 home run threat.
Bench
Brad Wilkerson (OF) – Wilkerson had a rough year last year, going down with injury again while having loads of strikeouts. Still, Wilkerson could come back, as he’s still got decent power potential and he’s a adequate defender in left. He can also steal a bit as well. Wilkerson will likely be pushed out by Frank Catalanotto and will share playing time in all the outfield positions.
Guillermo Quiroz (C) – I think that Quiroz will likely be the backup, as he’s out of options, but he’s also got the potential to be a neat little project for Rudy Jaramillo. Quiroz has got some power potential in that bat and he’s already a solid defensive catcher. He could be the next Rod Barajas.
Jerry Hairston Jr. (UTIL) – Hairston looks like he’ll make the team. In terms of flexibility, Hairston can play the infield corners plus the outfield. He seems willing to work on his swing to help return him to that of a big league regular instead of a backup. We’ll see. As for the HGH allegations, all I have to say is that if he did take them, they sure didn’t help. And, to his credit, he was quick to denounce the rumors, something former Ranger Gary Matthews Jr. did not.
Jason Botts (1B/LF) – Botts is one of the bigger players on the Rangers, standing at 6-5. A switch hitter, Botts has great power to all fields and works the count well, waiting for the pitch he wants as well as taking a walk. However, Botts doesn’t defend or run well and his long swing will always result in a ton of strikeouts. For some reason, the Rangers have never given Botts a proper shot to prove he can hit and as a result, it’s unknown what his long term future will be with the team.
Down On The Farm…
The Rangers’ farm system is underrated, mostly because a lot of the prospects really no longer qualify for prospect status. I know people are going to think I’m padding the Rangers’ farm, but realistically, with as many pitchers as this team seems to go through, it may be possible to see ALL of these players in Arlington at one point or another.
Eric Hurley (RHP) – Hurley has emerged as the Rangers’ top pitching prospect after he did well in the California League and dominated the Texas League at the end of the season. Hurley is big and his body still offers some projection. He a competitive pitcher with lots of poise and his mechanics are very clean. As far as stuff, Hurley’s fastball hits 92-95 and can touch 97 at ties. He’s got a power slider with great movement and his changeup is starting to develop into a plus pitch. The only real problem with Hurley is that he gets taken deep when he elevates his fastball. Hurley will likely begin back in Double A, but he could be in line for a call up in September. Expect the Rangers to develop him with care, however.
Edinson Volquez (RHP) – Volquez is believed to have the best pure stuff in the organization, starting with a 92-95 mph fastball has touched 98 in the past, and he compliments this with a filthy changeup that features excellent action and fade. His curve isn’t as good, but it’s far enough where he can mix it in from time to time. He was also tinkering with a slider last season, to help give him a fourth pitching. He’s also very aggressive on the mound as well. The problem is that Volquez works high in the zone and his control comes and goes at times. As a result, he gets pounded badly, as see by his last two call ups (though in 2005, the Rangers had no business calling up Volquez from Double A, as he wasn’t even dominating that league.)
John Koronka (LHP) – Koronka was acquired last year when Adam Eaton went on the DL and he had some success before he unraveled. Koronka will likely be one of the regulars on the shuttle between Oklahoma and Dallas as a emergency starter. Koronka has decent stuff with a low 90’s fastball that touches 93 at best and a decent slider and curve.
Bruce Chen (LHP) – Chen was signed to a minor league deal and will likely be sent down to the minors, where he and Koronka will compete for starts whenever someone gets hurt or traded or is sent down as well.
Scott Feldman (RHP) – Last season, Feldman arrived on the scene in a big way, posting a 3.92 ERA in 36 relief appearances for Texas and for throwing a punch at Adam Kennedy. Feldman really projects to be a setup man or a middle reliever in the majors, but he’s the closer here in Frisco. Feldman has a sidearm delivery that goes very well with his height and he throws fairly hard and for strikes. Feldman’s primary weapon is a sinker, which induces a lot of ground balls, but his secondary stuff is good enough that he’s effective.
John Rheinecker (LHP) – Rheinecker was obtained from Oakland last season and was stellar in a few starts before derailing completely, though he was able to return as a excellent middle reliever. It’s likely that that’s what he’ll remain, as his stuff really doesn’t lend itself to error. Rheinecker is a finesse lefty who gets hitters out by mixing a high-80s fastball, a cutter, and a slider. At the very least, he’ll be in the majors as a setup man, but he’s blocked at the moment, thanks to C.J. Wilson and Ron Mahay.
Josh Rupe (RHP) – Rupe made one start for the Rangers in 2005, almost made the rotation out of Spring Training last year before coming down with an elbow injury. When he returned last July, the Rangers used him strictly in relief. That is a waste because Rupe belongs in the rotation, as he’s got four plus pitches that are all very effective. He throws a sinker, slider, a curve and a changeup. All are plus pitches. I expect Rupe will get some starts as he tries to build up his durability to become a starter once again.
Nate Gold (1B) – Gold surprised the Rangers by hitting .292 with 34 home runs and 103 RBIs at Double-A Frisco last year, earning him player of the year honors. The question is whether or not that breakout is legitimate, as he was 26 when he accomplished the feat. He’s earned himself a promotion to Frisco, where he’ll be given every chance to succeed, but he’s got to prove that he’s indeed a legitimate prospect.
Drew Meyer (2B) – One of the biggest draft busts in the Rangers’ history, Meyer was a stretch as a first round pick in 2002, as he simply wasn’t a impact player. When he was drafted, he had a hitch in his swing that, since corrected, really has resulted in his stock dropping. He’s got almost no bat to speak of and he’s since been trained to play the outfield corners as well as center, making his future likely that of a utilityman. At the moment, no one knows what his future holds, as Meyer has been exposed to the Rule V Draft twice already and hasn’t been taken, nor was he claimed when he was dropped from the 40 man roster this season.
Joaquin Arias (SS/CF) – Arias still is a high quality talent, but he’s now permanently road blocked by Michael Young, who will be in Texas for the long haul. Arias can still play shortstop well as he’s an excellent defender, though he’s prone to stupid mistakes and bad throws. As a result, Arias is believed to be getting training to play centerfield and is being worked on with first base coach Gary Pettis. Arias is an outstanding athlete with good tools and has a good feel for contact and he’s got some raw power as well. Arias can be a above average centerfielder, as his bat looks a lot better in center than it does at short. He still does need to learn some more plate discipline, as he walked only 19 times last year, but if he can take to the move like a duck to water, he could have a full time job in 2008 if he does well.
Freddy Guzman (CF) – Guzman is a solid defensive centerfielder that is also one of the fastest players in the minor leagues. He’s got some decent hitting ability, but he projects to be nothing more than a fourth outfielder in the majors.
Victor Diaz (RF) – Diaz has major league experience and, given the chance, could become a solid hitter (not superstar, but one of those lunch pail players that goes to work and hits well enough to merit his own cheering section in Ameriquest.) Diaz' best asset is his bat, and he had consistently produced for power and average throughout his minor league career. He’ll be in Oklahoma at the start of this season, but expect a call up at some point if he starts hitting well.
In Conclusion…
This team has the potential to be very good, should everything hold up. For once, there is a balance of pitching and the offense, though depleted, could surprise many. But this team won’t surpass the Angels and, all in all, this team will season some improvement, but not enough to get into the post-season.
Final Standing: Second In The American League West
Last season’s club very much underachieved, as the White Sox collapsed in the second half of the season and went from Wild Card leaders to left out of the playoffs. The White Sox did little to improve the team and seemed to be entering a rebuilding mode, as Kenny Williams has traded Freddy Garcia and Brandon McCarthy in exchange for prospects, hoping to protect against the rising market of starting pitching. This decision will make or break his career in Chicago, as if the prospects all bust or are nothing less than solid starters, Williams will be blamed to dismantling a contending team that could have won another World Series.
Starting Rotation
Jose Contreras (RHP) – Contreras was lights out at the beginning of the season, but after the All-Star break, he seemed to have settled back into the form of a solid, but not elite pitcher. Contreras is on the books for another couple of years and now appears to have shaken off all of the hell and inconsistency that plagued him when he was in New York.
Jon Garland (RHP) – Garland was the White Sox’s second half ace and was nothing but dominant. Garland will likely be the second man in the rotation, where he and Contreras should be a solid one-two punch in the lineup. Garland’s ability to induce groundballs is also a plus.
Mark Buehrle (LHP) – Buehrle has fallen hard in the past years, with the ERA skyrocketing and his win totals and effectiveness beginning to drop as well. With Buehrle also entering his walk year, it’s also becoming more and more apparent that Williams no longer wants the lefty around, which came out during a snipe-fest during a press conference. No matter what happens, the White Sox need Buehrle to return to his old self if they want to win.
Javier Vasquez (RHP) – So much talent, so little to show for it. For all of Vasquez talents, he’s below .500 for his career and has been far less than what the White Sox hoped he would be when they acquired him for prospect Chris Young, who would now look great in White Sox pinstripes. Vasquez is entering the last year of a four year contract signed with the Yankees, so he had better step up if he’s to get another team to give him a shot.
Gavin Floyd (RHP) – Obtained in the Freddy Garcia trade, Floyd was a first round pick in 2001 by the Phillies and thrived in the minors. But upon hitting the majors, Floyd was hit hard and had become persona non grata to the Phillies after a poor 2006 engagement. Floyd does have quality stuff, as his fastball is good and his breaking balls are fine, but he seems to have no confidence when he struggles. It’s likely that he could become a serviceable middle of the rotation guy if the White Sox are able to get his confidence back. With the lack of any solid options in Chicago, Floyd will likely start in the fifth starters role.
Bullpen
Bobby Jenks (RHP) – Jenks is electric, with his fastball and he’s got one of the better breaking balls in the majors. His biggest problem is his size, but Jenks has been rumored to have dropped weight in order to improve his durability. Even if he doesn’t drop pounds, Jenks should be a solid closer again t his year.
Mike MacDougal (Setup Man) – The foerm Royals closer proved to be a solid bridge to Jenks after the White Sox acquired him. MacDougal still has that great fastball/slider combination, and as long as he stay’s healthy, the Sox will have a solid eighth-nineth inning combination for another year. MacDougal can also spot close, in the event Jenk’s gets hurt.
Matt Thornton (LHP) – Thornton has great velocity for a lefty and should make for a solid 7th inning relief option.
Nick Masset (RHP) – A possible closer, Masset has a great fastball that hits in the upper 90’s and a hard curveball that hits the mid 80’s at times. The downside to Masset is his command comes and goes, though I think the White Sox will be able to get him right.
David Aardsma (RHP) – Obtained from the Cubs for Neil Cotts, Aardsma also fits in with the new White Sox bullpen plan, as he too is capable of dialing it up in the high 90’s with good movement. Aardsma, however, may be a one trick pony, as his changeup and slider aren’t great pitches. If he can refine one of them, he’ll be a steal.
Andy Sisco (LHP) – Obtained from the Royals, Sisco struggled with his command and despite his occasions of success, his occasions of failure promoted the Royals to get rid of him. Sisco is more of a reclamation prospect, as he projects to be a reliever, but it’s a good gamble considering that the White Sox got him for a bench player.
Starting Lineup
Tadahito Iguchi (2B) – With Scott Podsednik out for the near future, Iguchi is the best option to lead off, where his speed and plate discipline work well.
Rob Mackowiak (LF) –Mackowiak will be the starting left fielder and will be hitting in the second spot until Pods returns from the DL. Mackowiak is solid enough where he won’t kill you for a short period of time and should provide roughly what Podsednik gave the Sox last season, minus the steals, until Pods returns.
Paul Konerko (1B) – Konerko had a solid season, hitting for power, average and playing first base well. Even better, Konerko now began to get some pitches to see, courtesy of the big bat behind him.
Jim Thome (DH) – Thome proved that the White Sox were wise to gamble on him, as he took to being a DH like a duck to water. Not only did Thome hit for power and production, but he was able to draw his share of the walks and take the pressure off of Paul Konerko, who was under protected in the lineup last year. Thome should continue to raise hell in the lineup and should easily get to number 500 before the end of the season, adding to a potential Hall of Fame resume.
Jermaine Dye (RF) – Dye is entering free agency this season and it doesn’t look like Williams will try to extend him, as Dye is 33 and will likely cash in after a MVP caliber season, with 44 homers and 120 RBI in 146 games. There's no reason to think he can't have another great year, and already there have been several teams, Texas included, that have expressed interest in Dye if he hits the market. I think that Williams will give a good faith offer, but Dye is likely history after this year, leaving a huge hole in the lineup that’s not going to be easy to fill.
Joe Crede (3B) – Crede is one of the best third baseman in the league, but it’s clear that the White Sox are not really enamored with him, partially because of his agent, Sox Nemesis Scott Boras. Crede is a solid hitter with power, plus is capable on defense, as he’s got great range, soft hands and an accurate arm. While many would say it’s a no brainer to lock him up, the Sox also have Josh Fields lurking in the minors and have made it clear that they would rather play him sooner than later. Hence, Crede’s name is bound to come up at the trade deadline again, unless Fields proves that he’s not ready for the big club yet.
A.J. Pierzynski (C) – Pierzynski has always been a fiery competitor, but one thing that’s often overlooked is how well he manages his pitchers. That’s valuable, no matter how bad he hits. As for the bat, Pierzynski doesn’t hit for power, but he’s solid enough to be hit around .290 with some power.
Juan Uribe (SS) – Still solid defensively, Uribe’s bat is slowly starting to die and it’s unknown if he’ll be able to contribute anything defensively, thanks to all the issues he’s having off the field. Williams had actually tried to trade Uribe for Texas shortstop Michael Young this past off-season. Still no word if the Rangers have stopped laughing.
Brian Anderson (CF) – Time is running out for Anderson to prove himself, as the White Sox are starting to wonder if he’ll be anything more than a fourth outfielder. A slow start to the year could banish him to the bench.
Bench
Darin Erstad (INF/OF) – Jim Rome’s Man Crush, Erstad could be a productive player off the bench, but to be honest, he’s been in decline to years and at this point might not be able to contribute much. He should have accepted a minor league deal with the Angels to retire with the team.
Toby Hall (C) – Solid defensively, but he’s got a rotten bat to match his attitude. Can you believe this happy #### wanted the Dodgers to bench Russell Martin in favor of himself?
Alex Cintron (INF) – Cintron is a capable backup that could take the starting job if Uribe isn’t able to hack it.
Luis Terreo (OF) – Fourth outfielder will be on the roster until Podsednik is back.
Pablo Ozuma (INF) – Capable utilityman finishes the bench.
Disabled List
Scott Podsednik (LF) – Despite the fact that Pods will be back before the end of Spring Training, he will likely be out the first couple of weeks to allow him time to prepare for the season. Pods was exposed last season, showing that he was merely a average player, not a great one. He’s got speed and can slap the ball as well as bunt, but he’s far from a sure thing at the top of the lineup. Unfortunately, there’s a lack of leadoff guys on this team, with Iguchi being a better fit at the two spot, so this team needs him to come back quickly.
Down On The Farm…
John Danks (LHP) – The White Sox had to import their top prospect from Texas, who acquired the talented young right hander Brandon McCarthy. The more and more I think about that trade, the more and more I think it was Garland that Williams wanted to move, but Texas was unwilling to give up Danks for a two year pitcher. Williams then must have then thought about how much he wanted Danks before deciding he had to have him and offering up his youngest pitcher. Danks has got solid stuff, with a good fastball that clocks in the low 90’s and a filthy curve and a great changeup that give him three great pitches to work with. The only problem is that Danks is very prone to give up the long ball, but he’s still going to be a very good major league lefty. Danks’ presence also means that Mark Buehrle is a goner.
Ryan Sweeney (OF) – Sweeney has good size and good swing, some power potential and a strong arm in the outfield. He’s got great range and enough speed to which he can play center. The problem is that he hasn’t shown any of his power potential and is overaggressive at the plate. Still, Brian Anderson is in the big club at the moment and it looks like the White Sox in the short term will keep him to allow Sweeney more time to develop.
Charlie Haeger (RHP) – This knuckleballer still has a good shot to become the next Tim Wakefield if only the White Sox would give him a shot. Unfortunately, he’s on Williams’ #### list and was mentioned in some trade opportunities. He could get a start here and there, but he’s more than likely going to rot in Triple A.
Josh Fields (3B) – Fields is a slightly younger and much cheaper version of Joe Crede. Both are offensive monsters with great power and the ability to hit for average. However, Fields has a long swing that will result in a lot of strikeouts in the majors, and despite a strong arm, he’s a poor defender. Still, Fields will be a very good pro and depending on what happens with Joe Crede, he’ll be in the majors sooner or later, whether it’s with the White Sox or not.
Gio Gonzalez (LHP) – Gonzalez is making his second run with the White Sox, for whom he was a first rounder in 2004. Gonzalez has good velocity, hitting the mid 90’s and has a hard curveball and a developing changeup as well. He is a strikeout machine that gets results, but at 5”11”, he’s small for a starter. That hasn’t stopped some pitchers, but the stigma remains. It’s likely that Gonzalez will stay at Triple A, where he and Danks should be one of the more talented lefty tandems in the minors, unless Chicago chooses to use him in the bullpen, of which he can do so now.
In Conclusion
Kenny Williams did what he set out to do when he said he wanted to add depth to the system to prepare for the departure of the staff in the future. Most of the arms have great upside and Danks and Gonzalez should be future stars in the rotation. The only problem is that none of this helps the White Sox in the short term and with the rotation now thin, and the flaws in the lineup starting to be exposed, plus the rise of the Tigers and Indians, Chicago is going to take a hard fall this year and miss the playoffs again, which may result in many White Sox fans questioning Williams’ judgment and criticizing his lack of action in improving the team.
No matter what happens before the season starts, Brandon McCarthy will be a marked man in Arlington, from the moment he takes the mound against the Boston Red Sox on April 6th to the end of the season, McCarthy will be watched closely more than any other pitcher in the Rangers organization.
Because McCarthy will have the ghost of John Danks floading over him.
You're all probably sick of the talk of Danks. This will be the last of it, as Danks is now a member of the opposition and as painful as it may be to some of the Ranger fans out there, the time he spent in Texas won't mean squat when he's called up by the White Sox in August.
But the fact is, those Ranger fans won't forget Danks.
If there was ever a prospect more closely followed in minor league baseball, it was John Danks, a fresh faced 18 year old kid from a high school in Texas that was drafted Number One overall by the Rangers in the 2004 draft, who many viewed to the the heir to homegrown Ranger pitchers Kenny Rogers, Kevin Brown, Doug Davis, and Rick Helling.
Danks was watched as he played with Spokane, moved on to Clifton, marched through Bakersfield, and arrived at Frisco, practically in Ranger Country.
Danks was introduced and met by many of the fans. Danks' parents, who would watch their son from time to time, were met by many fans who were following their son's ascension into the minors, as he rose from raw arm to semi-polished prospect.
When Danks was mentioned in a possible deal for Josh Beckett, Ranger fans revolted, not wanting to trade their young lefty for another organization's pitcher, even though Beckett was a native Texan and could be a ace for the rotation for the years to come. Many fans blew a sigh of relief when Boston jumped in at the last minute to outbid the Rangers for Beckett, leaving Danks a Ranger.
When Danks blossomed this past season and forced his way to Oklahoma, many Ranger fans hoped that Danks would be able to crack the rotation as a fifth starter, but understood that another year would be beneficial.
And then the trade happened.
Fans agonized over the trade, disliking the fact that their prospect was now gone, even though the pitcher they acquired, McCarthy, has five years of service time left and compares to a young Matt Morris, but with better command.
But what's done is done. And fans will move on.
But they won't forget their prodigal prospect.
And that spells bad news for McCarthy, who only wanted a place to play.
Is it unfair? Yes. Is it understandable? Of course.
But, as unfair as it is, it's going to happen, and McCarthy will be under close scrutiny by the fans, many of whom will never feel he is good enough to replace what they have lost.
And that, my friends, would be a crime.
Sosa Deal Done
Sammy Sosa's deal is done. It's a one year, minor league deal for $500,000 plus incentives if he makes the team.
Good lord, let the circus begin...
Joaquin Arias Spending Time In Center
Shortstop prospect Joaquin Arias is learning a new position: center.
Shortstop and second base are both blocked for a long while and management likes Arias enough where they won't trade him. His bat isn't good enough to carry him at short or second either.
But he's quick, has great defensive presence and is agile enough to take to the position change. Depending on how well he adapts to the change, Arias could very well make the big club if he does well. More likely, Arias will play center in Oklahoma and get a legitimate shot to win the job in a September callup.
DVD No More! The Ripple Effect Of The McCarthy Trade
Well, it’s happened. The Rangers have dealt pitching for…pitching?!
In a stunning move, the Rangers dealt their best pitching prospect for Brandon McCarthy, who was viewed to be untouchable by the White Sox until a few days ago.
To be honest, I’m stunned. I can’t give a accurate feeling about the trade at the moment. On one hand, I like McCarthy and saw him to be a future star in the league. On the other hand, and this is what most Ranger fans feel, I didn’t feel that it merited sacrificing Danks, mostly because of the fact that I’ve followed Danks almost since he was drafted. Many fans also met Danks during his time with the Frisco Roughriders and at Rangers events. Hence, there is a sense of personal loss to many fans, including myself. If I had to put a grade, it would be win-win for both sides, due to the age and the ability of the players. The South Side Sox Blog summed up McCarthy’s ability pretty well.
" He now throws 4 pitches for strikes; a 4-seam fastball (90-93 MPH), a 2-seam fastball (87-89MPH), a big breaking curveball(74-77MPH), and a changeup (77-81MPH). When we last saw him, he could throw only the fastball (4-seam) and curveball for strikes. Hitters would just sit on fastball, and hit the ball hard."
With that said, here are the conclusions that can be seen from the trade.
The Rangers Felt A Need To Solve A Hole Now. Regardless of Danks’ potential, he wouldn’t be an option for at least another year. The Rangers needed help now, so they traded for the ready, and still young, McCarthy. It’s the price you have to pay when you failed to develop any pitchers in the minors from 2000-2003.
The Rangers No Longer Viewed Danks As The Future of The Franchise. It appears, by the organizational hype, that Eric Hurley, not Danks, is viewed to be the long-term sure thing.
Long Term, The Rangers Weren’t Sure Of His Durability. Being a smaller pitcher, Texas wasn’t sure that Danks would be able to last a full season, as he has had some health issues in the minors.
Long Term, The Rangers Weren’t Sure They Could Retain Him. Another issue is that Danks is a Boras Client. And as such, the Rangers may have feared that they would not be able to retain him in the long run, as Boras would have taken Danks out to free agency where he would have achieved a contract far more than the Rangers could have paid for.
The Rangers Staff Viewed Their Depth In Pitching To Be Sufficient. Hurley aside, the Rangers still have Volquez and Diamond, though Volquez is becoming a lost cause and Diamond is being viewed more and more as a reliever, along with Josh Rupe, who may be converted into a starter, and the talented, but unheralded, Paul Kometani, who induces a lot of ground balls. Plus, the Rangers appeared to have struck Gold in the 2006 Draft, with Kasey ####r and Jacob Brigham thus far looking promising, with others possibly on the way.
So where does this leave the Rangers? Obviously, Texas will not trade any of their other quality young starters. It’s likely that Hurley will spend a year in Triple A while Kometani will be allowed to further prove himself in Double A.
The Rangers are also set with a rotation for the next four years. Here’s what the Rangers’ rotation looks like now.
Kevin Millwood
Vicente Padilla
Brandon McCarthy
Robinson Tejeda
John Koronka/Josh Rupe
All of these players are under Ranger control for the next four years or so, depending on whether or not Padilla’s option is exercised. However, this could be the first stable rotation for the Rangers since the championship years.
Now all it has to do is produce.
Could it be better? Sure. That’s where the next article comes into play.
So What Does This Do For The Barry Zito Bidding
As far as what the trade does for Barry Zito, Texas is no longer as desperate to add a starter as they used to. After acquiring right-hander Brandon McCarthy from the White Sox in a five-player trade Saturday, Daniels said, "I'm not terribly encouraged by our chances" of getting Zito. He said Tuesday his opinion had not changed. With 80% of the rotation now set, the Rangers would still like to add Zito, but they could just as easily gamble on one of the other youngsters like Josh Rupe or John Koronka in the fifth starters role. And with the Yankees possibly entering into the equation and Boras continuing to posture to all sides, the Rangers Brass has let Boras know that they don't plan to wait around all winter waiting for his response. Hence, Texas has made it known that they want to hear by this weekend whether or not Zito plans to accept their contract offer.
Rangers owner Tom Hicks wrote via e-mail to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "We've made a very strong offer. If we don't have agreement with his agent by this weekend, we will pursue other alternatives." Rangers general manager Jon Daniels also confirmed that deadline, writing, "That's accurate. End of the week."
Kudos to the Rangers for not allowing themselves to be abused by Zito (as much), this season. If Zito comes to town, great. If not, well then there are other options. Mark Mulder is still out there and it’s quite possible that he could be coming down. But either way, the Rangers’ rotation is much stronger this season.
The Brawl wound up overshadowing a very successful week, in which Texas went 4-2 against a pair of very good teams. The Ranger pitching fared very well against the Angels and Tigers and the offense was clicking. After that, it’s a tough matchup against Detroit, who will be looking to make up ground and try and put some distance between them and the White Sox. If the Rangers can split the series, they’ll be in great shape. Texas has a chance to pad it's win schedule against Tampa (though don't sell Tampa short. They're a very good team in a very tough division) before a collision course in Oakland that could determine their playoff fates.
Young Bullpen Proving Itself
The Rangers didn’t anticipate having to dip into the farm system for help this season. Yet, after Joaquin Benoit imploded and Antonio Alfonseca petered out after April, the Rangers have relied increasingly on three youngsters: C.J. Wilson, Josh Rupe, and Wes Littleton.
Littleton has been the biggest surprise, having an ERA under 2 and dominating right handed hitters. Wilson started the season very rocky and has since begun to stabilize himself into the lefty specialist on the team. Josh Rupe, who was contending for a starting job back in Spring Training, may have a future instead as a long man. Together, these three have the potential to be a lights out bullpen for years to come.
Well, maybe.
Littleton has closers stuff and with him having FIVE solid pitches, he may well be the most versatile closer since John Wetteland pitched for Texas. Wilson may be eased back in the rotation next year. But regardless of what happens, this is a strong statement that the Rangers’ underrated farm system is paying dividends.
Wilkerson Done For The Year
Brad Wilkerson's season is over. Wilkerson will undergo surgery tomorrow to repair his right shoulder. The shoulder has been bothering Wilkerson since the end of Spring Training. He had a cortisone shot right before the start of the season that got him through the first half and another at the All-Star break. Wilkerson had been having a terrible season in Texas and had lost his spot in the lineup to Matt Stairs and Nelson Cruz.
Wilkerson wanted to postpone the surgery until after the season, believing he could still help the team in the pennant race. But the Rangers acquired Stairs from the Kansas City Royals at the July 31 trade deadline and that reduced him to being a bench player. Wilkerson, who is making $3.9 million this year, has one year of arbitration left and couldn't take more than a 20 percent pay cut under Collective Bargaining Agreement rules. That means the Rangers would have to pay him at least $3.12 million unless they decide to make him a free agent by not tendering him a contract in December.
Cordero Back To Form In Milwaukee
Former Ranger closer Francisco Cordero is doing a #### up job in Milwaukee. He’s converted 9 of 9 so far and even has a win to his credit. Cordero, as you may recall, lost his closers job after blowing five of them in April. Since Otsuka took over, Cordero had gradually been recovering his old form. All in all, with Cordero doing well, Cruz rapidly developing and Lee kick ####, this trade has worked well for both sides.
Danks Not Coming Anytime Soon
Jon Daniels has already made it clear that John Danks will probably not get a call up this September. Daniels has stated that unless Texas is out of contention, Danks won’t be put on the 40 man roster until possibly Spring Training in order to protect him from the Rule V Draft.
Next Week On The Rangers Report:
Recommendations For September Callups, Plus the Top Ten Ranger Pitching Prospects.
