Well, this post was meant for yesterday.

Then I got the dreaded WHOOPS sign, just after I had posted and deleted my file.

So anyhow, I retyped the whole thing, only to see that the system had indeed saved some of the data.

Ugh.

I’m giving serious consideration to leaving FoxBlogs and trying to hook on with RealSportsBloggers or go independent

New York Mets - Team Preview

The Mets have had their offseason dominated by one subject.

Lastings Milledge.

Okay just kidding.

Seriously, the Santana deal was an absolute coup for the Mets, who add the ace they’ve sorely needed for pocket change and upside.  However, the Milledge deal hurt the Mets badly, as it saw the exodus of talent in exchange of overpaid vets that really had no business starting for any team, and yet are going to be counted on to be a big part of the Mets’ title hopes. 

Starting Rotation

• Johan Santana (LHP) - Credit Omar Minaya for this, he was able to exploit a volitile situation and was able to bring in the best pitcher in the league.  Santana is flat out dominant and has proven to be a horse in the past few years.  While he does remain homer prone, he is moving to the National League and will have a excellent defense and lots of pitchers parks to play in.  He's also likely going to be the defacto Cy Young award winner for the next four years or so.
• Pedro Martinez (RHP) - Pedro looked like the Pedro of Old when he came back last year, showing that he could be dominant even without his old fastball.  The arrival of Santana pushes Pedro down to the Number Two slot, where he'll still be depended on, but not to be an ace and stopper as much.
• John Maine (RHP) - Maine is continuing to establish himself as a very good middle of the rotation option, though he did tire in the second half of last year.  Because Maine has missed time due to injury before, I'll chalk it up as simply fatigue, with the hope that it is just a part of the learning curve.
• Oliver Perez (LHP) - Talented, but inconsistent, Perez enters his walk year ready to cash in.  Perez has greatly benefited from moving to the Mets and he certainly has the stuff to be a top of the rotation starter, but he's just so damn inconsistent.
• Orlando Hernandez (RHP) - I'm not sure what exactly Hernandez has left, but he's a decent option here as the fifth starter.  Don't expect him to make 30 starts this year, though.

Bullpen

• Billy Wagner (Closer) – Wagner still is a solid closer, though he did experience some dead arm last season.  If the Mets pen is able to be solid, perhaps the Mets could limit Wagner’s aging arm and give Heilman some opportunities, if only to save their best reliever for October.

• Aaron Heilman (Setup Man) – Heilman has found his nitch as a setup man, though a rough start did cause him to lose some of his luster.  Still, quality setup men are a commodity and the Mets have a good one here.

• Duaner Sanchez (RHP) – If the Mets pen is to rebound, they sorely need Sanchez to return to the form he flashed after they acquired him from the Pirates.  If his numerous injury troubles are behind him, Sanchez could lighten the load on both Heilman and Wagner. 

• Scott Schowenweis (LHP) – A impressive twelve game stretch with the Reds got Schowenweis a big payday from the Mets.  Now, he’s likely going to be limited to mop up duty.

• Matt Wise (RHP) – A shrewd move by Minaya, Wise is a good middle reliever that was cut by the Brewers for some unknown reason.  He should be able to give them some innings, especially in a bad El Duque start.

• Jorge Sosa (RHP) – Sosa was a adequate swingman last season for New York and will contribute out of the pen this season, serving as a shadow for certain starters and as a spot starter/long man.

• Pedro Feliciano (LHP) - Not bad as a lefty reliever, Feliciano completes the bullpen puzzle here. 

Starting Lineup

1. Jose Reyes (SS) – Despite the batting average, Reyes has improved a lot from last season.  He improved in almost every facet of his game and should continue being one of the premier leadoff men in baseball.    

2. Luis Castillo (2B) - Castillo's deal is kinda confusing.  He's clearly a player in decline and will likely be terrible the last two years of his contract as his speed continues to evaporate.  He's still a capable defender, however, though his range is declining slowly.  Anyhow, the Mets are considering the near future when it comes to Castillo, so this deal will be okay for the first two years, but almost horrible the last two.

3. Carlos Delgado (1B) - Delgado wasn't the force last season that he was in 2006, and though he says that the year shouldn't be held against him, it might be a sign of things to come.  Delgado is going to be 36 in June and will likely continue to decline, meaning don't expect to see power numbers close to .500 again.  The Mets will ride out the year, hope that Delgado may have enough left for one last ride before moving on to the next option, likely Mark Teixeira of the Braves.
4. Carlos Beltran (CF) - The best centerfielder in baseball, hands down, Beltran should continue to be a force with his blend of speed and power in the heart of the lineup.
5. David Wright (3B) - A flat out star, Wright is one of the best young third basemen in the game.  He can hit for power, is starting to improve on his walk total, while flashing a great glove and even some speed.  The lone flaw are the high strikeout totals.  Still, that’s only a minor quibble, as Wright could play on any team, save the Yankees (who have Alex Rodriguez).
6. Moises Alou (LF) - Alou still has a lot of thunder in his bat, but he's also not able to play everyday.  Still, he is a bargain and will be worth the millions he's getting paid to crush the ball.
7. Ryan Church (RF) - Church has some decent pop off of him, but he's very much mortal against lefties and likely won't sustain over the long hall.  He's a better bet to produce instead of Shawn Green, but Lastings Milledge should be a better player than Church over the next four years.
8. Brian Schneider (C) – The other part of the “bounty” from the Lastings Milledge trade, Schneider is not a starting catcher.  He’s awful on offense, he’s fallen apart defensively and really should be a backup, not a starter.  While he will be splitting time with Ramon Castro, the Mets were probably better off just keeping Johnny Estrada for the year and going after Kenji Johjima as a free agent.  Or, better yet, trade for a young catcher with Milledge as the bait instead.  

Bench

• Ramon Castro (C) - Castro has solid power as a catcher, but he has had problems making contact.  He's a solid reciever though and overall is a good backup to have.  He'll likely see an increase in playing time this year, as Schnieder is..well...awful.
• Ruben Gotay (INF) - Gotay has seemingly found use as a utilityman, though he’s stretched as a starter.

   

• Damion Easley (UTIL) - Still has use as a lefty killer, Easley will probably platoon with Church in right field.

• Endy Chavez (OF) – A decent fourth outfielder, Chavez has speed and is able to hit for an empty batting average.  Though it’s not recommended, Chavez may see a lot of time as a starter this season, which isn’t out of the question considering some of the age in the lineup.

• Angel Pagan (OF) – Not sure why the Mets would bring in Pagan, who is much like Chavez except cheaper.  Regardless, this is likely a move to ensure that in the event that Chavez is pressed into emergency starting duty, not unlikely considering the health and brittleness of Alou and Church, that they would be okay with a backup backup outfielder in the fold.

Minor League Notables

• Joe Smith (RHP) - A decent setup man, Smith could very well make the team out of Spring Training with a solid campaign.
• Eddie Kunz (RHP) - Oregon State's closer has a cannon of an arm, but his control is just so inconsistent that he might not be able to rise as quickly as other college closers.  Will that stop the Mets if they need an arm?  Not likely.
• Mike Pelfrey (RHP) - Pelfrey remains the best arm in the Mets' system, but his struggles at the major league level are starting to worry me.  He seems to have regressed, possibly because the Mets have rushed him, and partially because he is listening to Boras' coaches more than his team's.  This is likely a make or break year for him this year, as if he fails once more, he's likely going to be moved to the pen.
• Fernando Martinez (CF) – The Mets’ top prospect, Martinez has already been rushed through the system.  He’s got superstar potential, but the problem is that he’s just so raw.  He’s at least two years away.  Unfortunately, should the Mets suddenly have their outfield drop like flies once again, you just know they’ll rush Martinez. 

Final Analysis

The rotation alone is enough to almost guarnatee the Mets the division this year, but this team isn't without it's flaws.  Much of the rotation is a health risk, as is much of the lineup and the bench is rather thin.  I'm picking the Mets to win right now, but this team is one injury away from the Wild Card and Third Place.

Final Prediction - Division Winner, National League East

Time for another team preview, our third in a series of 30.  Time to see who the hat wants to see today…

The last of the Divisions makes their debut.

Atlanta Braves – Team Preview

The Braves, they of the long division winning streak, have finally tasted some humility in recent years, due to the churning of a productive farm system and the result of the increasingly tight restrictions of their budget, which once allowed them to spend freely.

However, the Braves still have some talent on the team, also thanks to the farm system, but many of the pieces that make up the Braves are aging and might not hold up for much longer.  You'll see what I mean in a moment.

Starting Rotation

• John Smoltz (RHP) – Still dominant at his age, Smoltz’s stuff hasn’t dimmed much, but he has begun to break down a bit, missing time last season due to injury.  Still, he’s a quality staff ace and one who will serve as a stopper when needed.
• Tom Glavine (LHP) – Glavine returns for a farewell tour with the Braves this season.  While he has proven that he can at least be an innings sponge, I’m not sure how much he has left.  It may have been better for him to just retire.
• Tim Hudson (RHP) – Hudson remains a potential top of the rotation starter and will likely rise to the role of staff ace once Smoltz finally retires.  Though Hudson should be the Number two man, expect the Braves to separate him and Smoltz with Glavine.
• Chuck James (LHP) – James too is another player I’m not high on.  He’s got enough stuff to be a middle of the rotation starter, but he has faded badly during the last month of season.  He’s very homer prone and his control isn’t great.  I’m also not sure he can last a whole season.  So call me skeptical when it comes to how successful I think James will be.
• Mike Hampton (LHP) – On the other hand, I’m a lot more confident in James than I am in the one time ace of the Houston Astros, who has been an out and out disaster for the Braves.  This is supposed to be the season Hampton will actually contribute.  As a fifth starter, the Braves aren’t risking much, as they have an assortment of young starters they can plug in here if Hampton fails or gets hurt.

Bullpen

• Rafael Soriano (Closer) – Soriano is one of the biggest steals that the Braves have made in recent memory.  A lights out reliever that should succeed in the closer’s role, he was acquired for Horatio Ramirez, who has been disastrous for the Mariners.  He should take the next step to eliteness this season.
• Mike Gonzalez (Setup Man) – A solid reliever who could also close if necessary, Gonzalez will likely setup Soriano, depending on whether or not he’s ready.  I’m assuming he is.
• Peter Moylan (RHP) – A dependable reliever, this Aussie is an amazing story, having been virtually signed off of the Australian World Baseball Classic team last March.  He’s since made good on the opportunity.
• Will Ohman (LHP) – Ohman is a more than adequate replacement for Ron Mahay, as he’s an effective lefty specialist. 
• Royce Ring (LHP) – Ring finally got his shot in the majors with San Diego, but was dealt to the Braves in the Wil Ledezma deal. Ring has decent stuff, enough to be a solid middle reliever, but his big issue has been control. 
• Manny Acosta (RHP) - Called up late in the year, Acosta was rather good and should see time with the Braves this season.
• Buddy Carlyle (RHP) – Carlyle was an adequate fifth starter for a bit, but it looks like he’ll be moved back into the swingman role for Atlanta, which may suit him better anyway, as he was figured out late last season.

Starting Lineup

1. Kelly Johnson (2B) – The only real choice here for a leadoff man, Johnson has the potential to be an All-Star second baseman after the Braves shrewdly moved him back to the infield after playing left.  Johnson has decent hands moderate pop for a second baseman, though he isn’t quite as fast of disciplined as your stereotypical leadoff man.  Still, he’s a solid bet to improve and I’m willing to be that he’ll break out this year.
2. Yunel Escobar (SS) – The starting job is all his now after Escobar was impressive filling in for Edgar Renteria last year.  I doubt he’ll hit .326 again, but if he lives up to his minor league numbers, what the Braves will be getting is .294/.367/.411 out of the second spot in the lineup, which still isn’t nothing to sneeze at.  Still, I wonder if maybe shortstop prospect Brent Lillibridge might be the better bet long term. 
3. Mark Teixeira (1B) – Teixeira offers a lot of power, but also is a disciplined enough hitter to hit for a high average and get on base.  He’s a Gold Glove defender at first base and is one of the better players in the game.  He adds a major power threat to this Braves lineup, but to be quite honest, he is a mercenary player, as he is likely going to walk after this season for a bank breaking contract.  Atlanta has said they would try to extend him, but Teixeira is one of Scott Boras’ most devoted clients.  Which means, in the long run, Atlanta will likely only get a pair of draft picks for him.
4. Chipper Jones (3B) – Still a formidable offensive presence in the middle of the lineup, you do have to start looking for Jones’ replacement if you’re the Braves, as Jones is older and will only be good for able 130 games or so.  Still, getting that level of power production for 130 games is nothing to sneeze at and for the most part, he’s still able to handle the hot corner well.    
5. Jeff Francoeur (RF) – Probably a bit overrated, Francoeur is an excellent right fielder that carries a lot of thunder in his bat.  He has also been very prone to striking out and needs to improve on his walk total.  He has improved a bit in the past few years, so it might not be surprising to see if he takes that next step from a masher to an all around offensive force.
6. Brian McCann (C) – Possibly the best young backstop in the National League, McCann is a solid defensive player that is respected by his pitchers and calls a good game.  He also has excellent power numbers and is a solid fit here in the sixth spot, especially when you consider the heavy hitters ahead of him.  While the dip in homers is a concern, McCann does get a bit of a pass because he got hurt, which may have affected him.
7. Matt Diaz (LF) – Not a bad left fielder, as he has nice pop in his bat, is decent defensively and can be a solid contributor until Brandon Jones is ready.  I like him a lot and though Tampa and Kansas City gave up on him too quickly a while back.  He’s a bit of a free swinger, but he’ll likely see his walk totals increase this year because of the pitcher and the next guy on the list.
8. Mark Kotsay (CF) – The Braves are gambling that Kotsay can at least contribute something to the team this year, as Kotsay looked done last year.  Really, I’m not sure what the Braves can expect out of him, as his power looks gone, he no longer looks like he’ll handle the rigors of centerfield everyday anymore and there is no guarantee that he’ll be able to stay upright for most of the season.  Honestly, the Braves should have just offered arbitration to Andruw Jones, hoped he accepted, and just gutted out the season with a big salary.

Bench

• Brayan Pena (C) – A decent backup catcher, Pena doesn’t have much of a bat, but he’s a solid glove that can be relied on in a pinch.
• Omar Infante (UTIL) – A solid utilityman, Infante can adequately play nearly every position except catcher.  His bat is decent and he'd be a adequate stopgap in case of injury. 
• Josh Anderson (OF) – Anderson will likely be the main backup for the Braves outfielders and could see time in center if Kotsay is unable to stand up to the rigors of the position.  Anderson is merely a fourth outfielder, but he could be a decent one, as he has a decent approach at the plate and a little bit of pop.
• Martin Prado (INF) – Prado will likely serve as the other infield backup.  He’s okay, but not stellar.

Minor League Notables

• Jair Jurrjens (RHP) – Acquired from the Tigers in the Edgar Renteria deal, Jurrjens was solid in his major league debut and works with a low 90's fastball and a decent curve and changeup.  However, he's also been overworked in his career, so he could be injury prone later.  Still, he wouldn't be bad as a fifth starter for the Braves. 
• Jojo Reyes (LHP) - Another young lefty, Reyes has enough stuff to become a good 4th starter or so.  He could also see time later in the year.

• Brandon Jones (LF) - Jones has a lot of power and is eventually going to succeed Matt Diaz in left, sooner rather than later.

Final Analysis

The Braves  do have enough talent to keep things interesting in the National League East, but overall I think the aging rotation and the Braves essentially punting away two lineup spots will eventually cost them.  Sorry Braves fans, but you won't be winning the division again for a little while.

Final Standings - 3rd Place, National League East

Well, with pitcher's and catchers reporting soon, it's time for me to dust off the hat and start picking teams at random to preview.  Hopefully, I'll go through all 30 teams before the beginning of the season, if life doesn't get in the way.

Okay, the first team is....

Oh ####...

Team Previews 2008 – Florida Marlins

The Marlins may set a record for being the cheapest team in the modern era.

Don’t get me wrong, the Marlins are a victim of their market, but really, we should accept 2007 as probably a step back, which is inevitable with a young team.  However, this team has been gutted of it's most powerful offensive threat and the loss of Willis, which negligible right now, doesn't exactly instill confidence in the rest of the rotation, especially those nearing arbitration.  Still, this team has some potential to be a Wild Card contender in the future, especially if some of the arms in their system continue to blossom. 

Starting Rotation

• Scott Olsen (LHP) – Olsen fits the old saying of “million dollar arm, ten cent head.”  There is no question that when Olsen is on, he is perfectly capable of being a Number Two starter.  However, whether he keeps his head together enough for him to reach his immense potential is another issue altogether.  Florida looked into the possibility of moving him during the off-season, but interest was minimal.  They’ll have to hitch their fortunes to him and hope he’s able to behave.
• Sergio Mitre (RHP) – Mitre has turned out into a pretty decent middle of the rotation starter.  He doesn’t have any offering that is any better than average, but overall he’s a decent pitcher that does a solid job of taking the ball every fifth day.
• Andrew Miller (LHP) – Miller, who came over in the Cabrera-Willis swap, has the potential to become a dominant ace of the rotation.  He has good size along with a big fastball, which 93-94 mph, touching 97 with plenty of natural sink.  He also has a good slider and a changeup.  However, command has been an issue with Miller and his changeup and slider can be inconsistent.  He’s very much a project that probably should be in the minors, but won’t be due to the Marlins feeling the need to justify the trade. 
• Mark Hendrickson (LHP) – Hendrickson was an adequate swingman in LA, but other than that he’s merely back of the rotation roster filler here.
• Ricky Nolasco (RHP) – Nolasco is another arm obtained via trade, but he’s more or less a middle of the rotation guy.  The big issue is keeping him healthy enough to contribute, but if he can stay off the DL, he should be a quality third starter.

Bullpen

• Kevin Gregg (Closer) - Officially the most expensive Marlin (trade him!), Gregg enters the year as the first returning closer for the fish in years. 
• Taylor Tankersley (Setup Man) – It's looking more and more like Tankersley is going to be a long term setup man instead of a closer, which is a shame as I think he'd be a solid one.  Still, setup men are valuable and he'll help the fish either way.
• Matt Lindstrom (RHP) – Another capable setup man, Lindstrom is likely going to help in the setup duties with Tankersley.
• Eulogio De La Cruz (RHP) –  A key piece of the Tiger's trade, De La Cruz appeals to the velocity #### of Florida, as he can hit 100 mph with his fastball and off-set it with a average curveball.  He's easily got the potential to be a dynamite closer if he could just get his command under control..
• Rick VandenHurk (RHP) - VandenHurk will likely remain as a swingman, making a spot start here or too, which is good as he's stretched to what he can do as a starter.
• Reynel Pinto (LHP) – A dependable lefty, Pinto is also likely going to be the only one unless Hendrickson plays his way out of the rotation.
• Justin Miller (RHP) – Miller should be the final piece of what should be a quality pen.

Starting Lineup

1. Hanley Ramirez (SS) – Overlooked at times because he plays in Florida, Ramirez is an excellent blend of speed and power.  The biggest problem is that Ramirez is overmatched at shortstop and he’s probably the worst defensive shortstop in the majors.  He’s very much like BJ Upton, a physical freak that simply can’t handle the infield and would be best off in the outfield. 
2. Dan Uggla (2B) – Uggla actually improved last season, walking a bit more while hitting for more power than he did last year.  Strikeouts and defense are still an issue, but overall Uggla is a nice little player to have and is a solid fit here at the second spot.
3. Jeremy Hermida (RF) – Lost in last season was Hermida's blossoming into a star.  Underrated by many, Hermida is a solid middle of the order bat that can hit for power and average so long as he stays on the field.  As he puts his injury plagued rookie year behind him, I think he'll begin to get notice.
4. Mike Jacobs (1B) – An average first baseman, Jacobs hits for some power and is a competant bat, but overall he's not a star, more of a solid contributor that is convient while he's cheap.
5. Dallas McPherson (3B) – Still blessed with the potential for 30 home run power, McPherson hasn’t been able to make the most of his chances, with injuries and a balky back short circuiting him whenever he got the opportunity to be the starter back in Anaheim.  The Angels finally cut their losses with him and non-tendered him at the deadline.  Florida is hoping to cash in on McPherson, hoping that his health issues have finally cleared up.  If they have, Florida could have a Carlos Pena-type bargain on their hands, though still not enough to make fans forget Miguel Cabrera.
6. Josh Willingham (LF) - Another solid contributor, Willingham may actually see some time as a catcher again with the acquisiton of Luis Gonzalez, which would make him less of a average player and more of a solid regular that will make a couple of all star teams.  Overall, I like his bat and his overall consistent approach at the plate, but I would like to see him behind the bag.  After all, what have the Marlins got to lose?
7. Cameron Maybin (CF) – Maybin was the key part of the trade with Detroit.  He's blessed with tools galore, as he has excellent bat speed, good raw power, good range in center with a strong arm and good speed.  However, he shouldn't be starting with the Marlins,a s he's still very raw in all aspects of the game and would struggle mightily.  Unfortuantely, he'll likely be there opening day. 
8. Mike Rabelo (C) – Rabelo served as Ivan Rodriguez’s caddy last season and is a solid game caller with a good glove.  And that’s pretty much all he is, as he’s stretched as an everyday catcher.

Bench

• Matt Trenor (C) – Strictly a backup, Trenor is now the longest tenured Marlin on the squad.  Still, it’s good to be him considering he lives in a nice city and is married to a smoking hot wife.
• Jorge Cantu (INF) – The former Devil Ray was a washout with the Reds and now will try to come out of obscurity with Florida's other team.  Cantu's got some nice power on him, but little value elsewhere. 
• Jose Castillo (INF) – Castillo really isn't great anywhere and is likely only going to see utility duty.
• Luis Gonzalez (LF/1B) – Gonzalez shifts to a mentor/backup role, where he'll likely see some time in left and first base, depending on the needs of the team.  I like Gonzalez being a full time starter in left, while allowing Josh Willingham to catch.  It would be a much stronger offensive unit, though defensively it would be rather rough at first.
• Alejandro De Aza (OF) – Fourth outfielder with little offensive value.  That's about it.

Disabled List

• Josh Johnson (RHP) - Johnson went down early with Tommy John surgery and likely won't be ready till roughly May or so.  Johnson is a fully capable Number Two starter when he's right, but it'll take him until at least July or early August to get back to the promising young pitcher he was at the end of 2006.
• Anibal Sanchez (RHP) - Sanchez also shows flashes of greatness, but shoulder surgery killed his year.  Now, he'll likely be held out until perhaps May or so.  Sanchez also has a Number Two starter ceiling when healthy and both him and Johnson would knock back Mitre to the number four spot in the rotation and Hendrickson and Nolasco into the bullpen.

Minor League Notables

• Gaby Hernandez (RHP) - Hernandez has middle of the rotation horse potential, though none of his offerings are really plus pitches.  Still, he's valuable to have and will greatly benefit from that large ballpark.  He'll likely make his debut in late August.
• Dallas Trahern (RHP) - Another pitcher from the Tiger deal, Trahern is a groundball machine without a dominant offering, but still, a groundballer with lots of stamina makes for a good combination with a solid defense.  He's also likely to make his debut late in the year.

Final Anaylsis

The Fish will likely be better than expected, but in reality that may not be saying much.  As Sanchez and Johnson get worked back in, the Fish should improve themselves with more experience and hopefully more promise from some of their gambles on the free agent market (McPherson.)   Overall, this is an interesting team going foward, but management does need to show a commitment and start extending some of their players in order to continue taking the necessary steps foward, and not just continue dismantling the team every three years because it becomes more expensive than the luxery tax subsidies.

Final Analysis - 5th Place, National League East

The Astros Report - Offseason Edition

Because I had to settle a bet.

Some Wisdom in Trading Away The Farm

There is some wisdom in what the Astros did during the off-season, in the trades that brought them Miguel Tejada, Jose Valverde, and Michael Bourn.  While Ken Rosenthal can rail against the deals all he wants, there is one thing you need to keep in mind.

None of the players traded was really a superstar.  In fact, many weren't really all that good.

Yes, I know, Chad Qualls and Brad Lidge are plenty badass.  But Lidge was likely gone in a year and Qualls, while solid, isn't a lights out reliever.

And of the prospects, the only one of real note was Troy Patton, who was sent to the Orioles.  Everyone else that was dealt was either a disappointment or wasn't a world beater. 

Overall, the Astros likely looked at their system, didn't like what they saw, and decided to spent what little collateral they had to improve their team.  So long as they draft the best player available from now on, there is every reason that the Astros can replensih the farm in a short period of time.

That's IF they spend money and IF they draft the best player available, not just who will sign.

Koby Clemens Moving To Catcher

After another year of disappointment, the Astros are moving Koby Clemens back to catcher.

Originally drafted as a catcher, the Astros moved Clemens to third base, feeling that he would his stocky frame would allow him to take the abuse of catching, and his arm would be more than adequate from behind the plate.  His bat, which has been disappointing thus far, would also look a lot better from behind the bag as well.

It's clear that there was some pressure on the Astros to draft Koby due to his dad, who was on the staff, but really, the Astros would have been better off spending the six figure bonus on someone else.  Anyhow, Clemens could really provide some value from behind the plate if he's able to be a adequate catcher.  Catching prospects are currently lacking in the majors and if Clemens can turn into at the very least a Gregg Zaun type of player, he's got a lot of value.

Astros Need To Re-Establish International Presence

Okay, one more, because quite frankly, I've had enough.

The Astros need to figure out why their pipeline to Latin America has dried up.

In the past, the Astros were kings of the Venezuelan Talent Market, with them signing player after player that was a serious talent.  Some of the former talent mined from Venezuela:  Bobby Abreu, Richard HIdalgo and Freddy Garcia, all of whom have enjoyed solid big league careers.

The talent has dried up.

Part of it has been Drayton McLane's tightening of the purse strings and refusing to pay up for big money talent in the draft or abroad.  But the other part is that the Astros didn't evolve  They weren't able to adjust for the times and as a result, several other teams now dominate the Venezuelan market and the Domincan, areas where the Astros did relatively well.

Whatever the case, it's time for Houston to re-establish their presence on the International Market.

Because all of the patch jobs, no matter the price, won't keep the franchise stable for much longer.

Well, the national nightmare is over, as it looks like the Twins will trade Johan Santana to the Mets.

But what did they get?

As seen in my last post, Santana Circle Jerk, the Twins in essence are gambling on the upside of Carlos Gomez and Delois Guerra instead of the certainty of a Jon Lester, a Phil Hughes or a Jed Lowrie.

Guerra and Gomez could blossom into superstars.  But both have massive flaws.  Guerra has been pushed hard by the Mets, but is still young and has some projection.  He also has trouble getting out of the high 80's on his fastball, which means the Twins are hoping he'll add velocity as he matures.

As for Gomez, he too has been rushed and needs at least another year and a half of minor league play if he's to live up to his high potential. 

And really, its on Guerra and Gomez that the Twins are pinning their hopes and dreams on, as Phil Humber and Kevin Mulvey are both decent arms, but not aces and don't differ much from the Scott Baker type pitchers the Twins already have in their system.

Really, as I've stated earlier, the Twins could have had a better offer from the Red Sox (Lowrie, Lester, Crisp and likely Justin Masterson) or the Yankees (Hughes, Melky Cabrera and change.) 

But I think that there is another reason why the Twins agreed to this swap.

When something of ours disappears, we as people try to replace it as closely as we can.

And in Guerra and Gomez, the Twins are trying to replace Torii Hunter and Johan Santana as best they could, by trying to find similar players that could become their second comings.

It's a human reaction, albet a flawed one.

It's possible that in three years, both Guerra and Gomez could be superstars, making the Twins look wise in their deal.

It's also just as possible that both are massive busts.

I credit Omar Minaya on this deal, as he was able to get the best pitcher in baseball without giving up his best prospect, centerfielder Fernando Martinez, who also is a rushed, but promising young player.  He gave up nothing that he'll really miss and no one that isn't replaceable, as the Mets could easily go out to the Dominican and sign any remaining young prospects that haven't signed with teams to help replenish the farm.

I would feel pity for the Twins, but really, this is a mess of their own making.  They're choosing the riskier, but more lucrative path of gambling on the upside of some risky prospects.  It's the equivalent of playing Russian Roulette with three of the cylinders loaded for a fortune.  The payoff is huge.  So is the failure...

Grades:

Mets Grade - A
Twins Grade - B

The Rangers Report - Offseason Edition

Commenting On The Marlon Byrd Rumors

There have been a lot of rumors recently about the Cubbies wanting to make a trade for Marlon Byrd, ideally to be their centerfielder and to help push Felix Pie.  Apparently, the deal would be for Matt Murton and possibly for pitching prospect Sean Gallagher.

This deal likely doesn't have much legs on it, if any.

First of all, as good as the Byrdman's seaosn was last year, I doubt he suddenly had a breakout in his early 30's.  More than likely, he'll regress to his usual fourth outfielder status come April.

Second, I wouldn't trade Murton for Byrd straight up if I were the Cubs, but if they are willing to do it, I'd pull the trigger.  Hell, I'd even include a pair of relievers in the deal for Murton and Gallagher, likely Scott Feldman and Robinson Tejeda.  Not only would that give the Cubs more options to sift through, it opens up space on the 40 Man for someone.

However, as promising as the deal seemed, I doubt it will happen. 

Complicating things further are the fact that the Padres want Murton as well, though I'm not sure what they would give up in return.  San Diego usually tries to pass off their #### on other teams (as the Rangers would find out during the infamous Chris Young deal) and their GM is a very smart man.  It's very much likely that somehow or another, Kevin Towers will find a way to make any trade a three trade deal, and in return would somehow find a way to screw over the Rangers by managing to net Murton himself and leaving the Rangers on the short end of the stick.

Possible Draft Pick Compensation?

The Rangers could also find themselves enjoying a beavy of picks in next years draft if all falls right (unlikely, but it's good to hope.)

While none of the Rangers' one year commitments are going to be Type A Picks, there could be several first round sandwich picks, depending on what happens:

• Jason Jennings (RHP) - Recovery from a bad year could result in a Type B pick for Texas if he proves to be healthy.
• Milton Bradley (RF) - Staying sane and healthy could get him a job as a DH somewhere.
• Ben Broussard (1B) - Could be the next Ryan Kelsko, getting the Rangers a solid pick without doing much.

All in all, that's potentially three picks for the Rangers if the rankings fall right, five if somehow or another Jennings and Bradley are able to rate as Type A's.

Since I've still getting emails about why certain farm systems weren't reviewed (you didn't review this system, you ignored this prospect, you suck you Yankee/Red Sox hater, etc), I figured, what the hell, let me just start a regular feature.

Introducing The Prospect Six Pack, where I'll pick six random prospects and post up the mini scouting reports, semi-inspired by Kevin Goldstein.  Enjoy.

Prospect Six Pack

Carlos Gomez (CF) – Mets

• DOB:  12/4/85
• Signed:  2002, Dominican Republic
• 2008 Club:  Birmingham Mets (Double A)
• Height/Weight: 6-2/170
• Bats/Throws:  R/R
• The Skinny:  Gomez has been aggressively promoted by the Mets for quite some time, but when Lastings Milledge, Moises Alou and Shawn Green all got hurt around the same time, the Mets were forced to call up Gomez and put him into service.  The result was predictable, as Gomez was undisciplined, raw and clearly not ready.
• The Good:  Part of the reason why Milledge was dealt was because the Mets feel that ultimately, Gomez will be better.  He’s a great athlete with remarkable speed, a solid defender, and good power potential.
• The Bad:  As I said, Gomez was rushed and the result was poor plate disciplined, power potential that is undeveloped and some rawness in the field as well.  The Mets need to have him in the minors, as he shouldn’t be on a major league bench. 
• Projection:  Average.  Gomez really had no business playing in the majors last year and the Mets gambled on him not getting his development stagnated by promoting him.  That said, he could still be a quality prospect if the Mets don’t do anything stupid.
• What He Can Be:  An above average centerfielder with an exciting speed and power combination.
• 2008 Course Of Action:  Gomez will likely be back in Double A, where regular playing time against appropriate competition should help him continue his development process.  I’m hoping the Mets don’t pull a stunt like they did last year again.

Rick Porcello (RHP) – Tigers

• DOB: 12/27/88
• Drafted:  1st Round, 2007, New Jersey High School
• 2008 Club:  West Michigan Whitecaps (Low A)
• Height/Weight: 6-5/195
• Bats/Throws: R/R
• The Skinny:  Regarded to be the best prep pitcher since Josh Beckett, Porcello certainly looked it at times during his senior year at Seton Hall Prep and was reportedly considered by the Royals at two.  However, what happened was that Porcello’s advisor, Scott Boras, demanded Beckett’s contract, which was a 4 year Major League Deal, plus a bonus adjusted for inflation.  The result was that Porcello fell until the Tigers picked at 27, where they took the chance on him and gave him what Boras wanted, drawing the ire of Major League Baseball in return.
• The Good: Porcello was described to be the best prep prospect in the class and has drawn Josh Beckett like comparisons.  He throws a fastball that sits around 94-95 mph and hits 96, all with good movement on both his two and four seamer.  He throws a curve in the low 70’s and a slider that sits at around 80.  Finishing it all is his changeup, which is already a plus pitch and complements his curve well.  All in all, that’s a hell of an arsenal, especially when you consider that most high school prospects only have two pitches when drafted.
• The Bad: Porcello's command and control have been inconsistent.  Many also wonder about his durability, as he hasn’t pitched as much because of the weather in the Northeast.  The final flag is that because of his deal, Porcello has four years to develop and get to the Majors, whether he is ready or not.
• Projection:  Very High.  Porcello could be the next Beckett, but he could also be god awful, as the contract is a contract that could stunt his development, especially if he struggles.  So, he had better be what Boras has advertised.  And, to be quite honest, I’m not sure that Porcello is much better than Jarrod Parker, whom the Diamondbacks took higher up and got for a less money than Porcello.
• What He Can Be:  A bonafide Ace.
• 2008 Course Of Action: Like it or not, the clock is ticking and Porcello will likely begin the season with the White Caps, where hopefully he’ll be ready for action.

Jay Bruce (CF) – Reds

• DOB: 4/3/87
• Drafted: 1st Round, 2005, Texas High School
• 2008 Club:  Louisville Bats (Triple A)
• Height/Weight: 6-3/195
• Bats/Throws: L/L
• The Skinny:  Drafted by the Reds in the first round, Bruce has been compared by scouts to former major leaguer Larry Walker.  Since coming into the system, Bruce has done nothing but hit for power and play some mean defense and is now on the fast path to the majors for the Reds.  He’s already jumped from High A to Triple A and didn’t even stay long in Double A because he was so dominant. 
• The Good:  Bruce has great tools all around the board.  He’s got 30 home run potential and hits to all fields.  Though he’s got only average speed, he’s a great base runner.  He's got a strong arm and he has the range to play centerfield.  He does have some issues hitting lefties, but he’s improved enough where he shouldn’t have many issues with them.
• The Bad:  His swing can get long, resulting in lots of strikeouts.  And, while Bruce is average as a centerfielder now, it’s likely that he’ll eventually move to right field as his body fills out.
• Projection:  Average.  Bruce has been translating his tools into performance for the past couple of seasons and he's moving faster than expected.  He’s moved a lot faster than anyone could have anticipated.  He’s also got the potential to get a lot better than he already is, a sobering thought.
• What He Can Be:  An All Star Quality Right Fielder, Like Larry Walker.
• 2008 Course Of Action:  Josh Hamilton was traded to the Rangers to eventually open up a job for Bruce, should he win one in Spring Training.  However, it’s more than likely that Bruce will start the season in the minors before being called up at midseason, depending on where the Reds are in the standings as well as when Ken Griffey Jr. makes his inevitable trip to the DL.

Colby Rasmus (CF) – Cardinals

• DOB: 8/11/86
• Drafted: 1st round, 2005, Alabama High School
• 2008 Club:  Memphis Redbirds (Triple A)
• Height/Weight: 6-2/185
• Bats/Throws: L/L
• The Skinny:  Rasmus, the top prospect in the Cardinals system, enjoyed a breakout year in Double A and has rapidly developed faster than a lot of people may have thought possible, but it really shouldn’t be a surprise considering all the excellent prep outfield prospects drafted in 2005 (Jay Bruce, Cameron Maybin, Andrew McCutcheon, just to name a few).
• The Good: Rasmus is one of the most athletic players in the Cardinals system with loads of tools.  He’s got a quick bat and solid power potential to make him a 25-homer threat in the majors.  He’s got good pitch recognition and should draw a good amount of walks in the majors.  He’s also a dynamic centerfield, with good range and a strong arm. 
• The Bad: Rasmus has some problems with lefties and he can be over aggressive, leading to strikeouts and being caught stealing. 
• Projection:  Average.  Rasmus is nearly ready for the show and he’ll only get better as time goes on.  Given time, he should be all that and more than what Jim Edmonds was for the Cardinals.  Long term, Rasmus gives the Cardinals another middle of the order bat to plug in behind Albert Pujols, which should help the big man’s chances to see some pitches.
• What He Can Be:  A star center fielder.
• 2008 Course Of Action:  In spite of what the Cardinals are saying about Rasmus being in the mix for their starting centerfielder job, that’s a hell of a jump to go from Double A to the Majors.  Rasmus is going to be starting for the Redbirds, where he’ll get some more seasoning, and could perhaps see some action with the Cardinals come August, as he’s not ready yet.

Will Middlebrooks (SS) – Red Sox

• DOB:  9/9/88
• Drafted:  5th Round, 2007, Texas High School
• 2008 Club:  Lowell Spinners (Short Season)
• Height/Weight: 6-4/200
• Bats/Throws: R/R
• The Skinny:  A Top baseball and football prospect (QB), Middlebrooks' two-sport status may have lead to his falling down to the 9th round of the draft.  Boston, never a stranger to taking high ceiling talent in the lower rounds, pulled the trigger and signed him for almost a million dollars.
• The Good: A fantastic athlete with potential on the field and on the mound, Middlebrooks has good power potential and makes good, solid contact with the bat.  He’s got good speed and is an excellent baserunner as well.  Middlebrooks also has a strong arm and exceptional hands defensively.
• The Bad:  Middlebrooks lacks range, making a move to third base all but inevitable.  And while his speed is solid now, that could change as he continues to fill out and mature. 
• Projection:  High.  I like Middlebrooks and felt that Boston stolen him in the 5th round, which more than made up for their lack of a first rounder in 2007.  While he didn’t make my top 15 of Sox Prospects, he could easily rise up that list, depending on his campaign.
• What He Can Be: A power hitting third baseman in the mold of Troy Glaus.
• 2008 Course Of Action:  I think Middlebrooks will be kept at shortstop for now and will be worked with in extended Spring Training until Lowell starts their season, after which, he’ll being the year as the Spinners’ starting shortstop.

Daniel Moskos (LHP) – Pirates

• DOB:  4/28/86
• Drafted: 1st round, 2007, Clemson
• 2008 Club:  Hickory Crawdads (High A)
• Height/Weight: 6-1/200
• Bats/Throws: L/L
• The Skinny:  Moskos was one of the top left handed college talents in the country that’s money as a closer.  However, there’s so much more to Moskos that just that.  There is the potential for more if he gets drafted in the right organization.  Because of the financial concerns that came with the Boras clients, the Pirates shied away from the mass of Boras arms available and instead took Moskos, who was a massive overdraft. 
• The Good:  Moskos has good velocity, throwing in the low 90’s while working up as high as the mid 90’s as a closer.  His fastball has great movement and he’s got a nice delivery.  He compliments this fastball with a filthy slider.  He’s also working on a changeup as a third pitch and many feel that he could be an excellent starter.
• The Bad:  The changeup is still a work in progress, so there’s no guarantee that he can get it up to a major league level pitch.  Plus, at his size, with a max effort delivery, Moskos is probably best-suited for the bullpen long-term.
• Projection: Low if he’s a closer.  He could probably setup in September, similar to what Andrew Miller did.  As a starter, I would say he’s going some average projection left.
• What He Can Be: A dominant closer
• 2008 Course Of Action:  Moskos has been told by the Pirates that he will remain as a reliever and he could very well enter the season as the Pirates' closer if they choose to go that route.  It’s more likely, however, that he’ll begin the season in Hickory.

   

Hope you enjoyed it.  If you want to see anyone in particular, leave a comment or send me a line at the email of FoxMail. 

I've had about enough of the Johan Santana rumor mill.

It's becoming increasingly obvious that he'll be there opening day with the Twins and will remain with them till at least the trade deadline.

Why?

Because it's becoming increasinly obvious that there is a lot of chatter from all sides, but no action.  Usually, the more rumors that are passed around about a player, the more unlikely it's going to happen.  It's like talking the whole night how you're going to go after the prettiest girl in the room, but at the end of the night, you're going back home to nothing but a hard drive full of porn and a full box of kleenex.

Sorry for the visual analogy, but that's what it's become in the Santana Sweepstakes, which have become nothing more than just a lot of shock jock fodder and a whole lot of New York centric media opinions (oh god, the New York media opionions!  Newsday has become unreadable!)  I swear to god, if I hear one more Hank Steinbrenner quote, I'll go up to Yankee Stadium myself and stuff his father's turtleneck in his piehole, just so he'd shut up!

BTW, is it just me, or is Steinbrenner the Younger seeming to enjoy the limelight that comes with his new job.  I think he's likely to follow in his father's footsteps, which means that the Yankees will be sucking in about five to eight years, thanks to Hank trading away the farm and signing the various Mel Hall and Danny Tartabull types on a whim.

The fact is, a trade should have already happened, as Boston, New York and New York should have pulled the trigger on a deal.

And spare me the talk about how Santana would require a huge contract extension that makes him unaffordable.  All three of these teams would be lining up to get into a money fight for Santana if he hits the market next winter.

And the Yankees are the last one's to be preaching fiscal responsibility.  Didn't they just spend $275 million on Alex Rodriguez?  They can easily afford to extend Santana, who fills a need and has more upside to any Yankee prospect with the exception of Joba.  They have $58.3 million coming off the books anyway, not counting the sunk costs of $6.95 million for paying Giambi and Pavano to go away.

Don't snicker Red Sox fans.  You all aren't any better.  You have about the same amount of money leaving the books, with Manny and Varitek's contracts coming off the books.  And you have the farm system depth to fill the holes as well. 

The Twins too also have to be reasonable.  You aren't going to get a team to completely gut their system for Santana.   It's unrealistic.  You need to get teams to agree to a reasonable set of demands and flip as soon as the best deal comes up. 

Financial reasons aside, here is what the Twins should reasonably expect to get for their ace:

• 1 High Quality Pitching Prospect
• 1 High Quality Positional Prospect
• 1 Above Average Pitching Prospect
• 1 Average Prospect Or Young Player

Here are the offers for each team:

Boston - Jon Lester (LHP), Jed Lowrie (SS/2B), Justin Masterson (RHP), Coco Crisp (CF)

I honestly don't know why the Twins haven't agreed to this deal, as it matches up with my qualifications perfectly.  I think the Twins are hoping that Boston will toss in Clay Buchholz, which won't happen.  Lester is an above average lefty who could be a number two starter.  Lowrie could start for Minnesota now and be the best second baseman they've had since Chuck Knoblauch.  Masterson has the potential to be a good pitcher in this league and Crisp helps give Minnesota a solid outfield for the first time in years.

New York (AL) - Phil Hughes (RHP), Melky Cabrera (CF), Jeff Marquez (RHP), Mitch Hillgross

This is insulting, actually.  While Hughes is very good and I like Marquez to be a solid innings eater in the NATIONAL league, the rest is just ####.  Cabrera is a average regular, not a star and I don't blame the Twins for shooing away fhe Yankees with this offer.  If you want to give me something to think about, here is what I would ask for:

Phil Hughes (RHP), Melky Cabrera (CF), Ian Kennedy (RHP), Alan Horne (RHP)

And before Yankee Fans jump on me, consider this.  Kennedy has been highly overrated since he was drafted and has been made to be a lot better than he is by the Yankee spin machine.  He is, at best, a average pitcher with excellent command and is at best a Number Three pitcher, nothing more.  He's not the second coming of Mike Mussia, who had better stuff than Kennedy at the beginning of his career.  Horne has good stuff, but is injury prone and likely a bullpen guy in the end.  Cabrera is an average regular, not a star. 

New York (NL) - Carlos Gomez (CF), Delouis Guerra (RHP), Phil Humber (RHP), Kevin Mulvey (RHP)

A good offer, it's better than what the Yankees are offering and it sends Santana to the NL, where he wouldn't haunt the Twins.  However, I would ask for Fernando Martinez, who has a chance to be a star, instead of Gomez.  That would trump the Red Sox offer and if I had that deal on the table, I'd take it and run with it.  Guerra has a chance to be a solid Number Two pitcher, Humber an inninsg eater, and Mulvey a solid 3.  That's not a bad return.

Oh, and by the way, Omar Minaya is a fool for not agreeing to trade Gomez back in November for Matt Garza, who had a chance to be the best pitcher on the Mets' roster.  The Twins should thank him, as they got Delmon Young in the deal, who is a lot better.

Unfortunately, it looks like we'll be inundated with more of the Santana claptrap, with more rantings for Hank Steinbrenner, more of us seeing Theo Epstein's Fraiser Crane impersonation with him saying "I'm listening", and more pleas from Omar Minaya for the Twins to accept his good, but not great offer. 

So sorry folks, we'll be listening to three more months of the same #### till Spring Training ends.

The Rangers Report - Off-Season Edition

Rotation Set

Barring any other moves, the Rotation appears as follows:

• Kevin Millwood (RHP)
• Vicente Padilla (RHP)
• Jason Jennings (RHP)
• Brandon McCarthy (RHP)
• Kason Gabbard (LHP)

That makes for a solid, but unspecacular rotation.  However, if Millwood, Padilla and Jennings improve to their 2006 seasons, rather than their 2007's, that's a potential playoff rotation, especially if McCarthy continues to improve and Gabbard doesn't implode.  However, that's a lot to ask.  If anything, at the very least, Jennings could bring back a draft pick, or pitch well enough that when Texas is out of it by May, they could begin entertaining trade talks and get back a good player or two.

Coco Crisp Deals Are Dead

There's been a lot of rumors tossed around, and a lot of talk from Red Sox fans that the Red Sox should send Coco Crisp over to the Rangers for one of their highly regarded catching prospects.  Peter Gammons, in a recent chat, even had the Rangers (and Oakland) being the likely favorites for Crisp, seeing both teams as needing players.

They are delusional.  It ain't happening.

Back when the off-season first started, there was talk that the Rangers and Red Sox had agreed on a potential Crisp for Gerald Laird swap.  It was understandable, as it was two players who had no future in their respective organizations, had three cheap years of control left each and filled holes for each organization.  The Rangers have no centerfielder and Varitek isn't going to last forever.  It was a classic apples and oranges trade that should have worked.

However, the Red Sox instead decided A) to enter into the Johan Santana sweepstakes and B) change the offer for the Rangers, hoping to net more prospects and get a lot more value for Crisp than he was probably worth.

Texas backed out and instead got Josh Hamilton, who has some risk, but also a lot more of a ceiling than Crisp had and has more service time.

So, as you can see, there isn't room for Texas and Boston is now backed into a corner, as they have a brewing problem on their hand and the number of places they can send Crisp to is drying up fast.

So no, there will be no Coco for Texas.

Sorry.

Bottsy At First...Not A Good Idea

Jason Botts apparently is going to see time at first base and will make the team as the platoon partner for Frank Catalonotto and Ben Broussard in left and at first.

I'm not so sure that first base is a good idea.  Botts was converted to left field after back issues forced him there.  I don't have much experience as far as diamond experience  (I was a catcher in high school), but as far as first base goes, it does involve a lot of bending and leaning.  And if Botts' back is as balky as it sounds, this might not go well.

On the other hand, Texas has a fantastic medical team, so the Rangers might be able to keep him healthy.  Who knows? 

Where To Send Shelton To

With Shelton still passing through waivers, I think it's a fair possibility that he's going to get claimed.  WIth that in mind, the Rangers should look into seeing what they could get for him.

Though streaky, Shelton is a decent player that can play the four corners and he's a young alternative to some of the usual suspects (Sean Casey anyone?)  And, taking a look around the league, there are some places where he'd fit in nicely.

The most immediate fit is San Francisco, unless they want to use Rich Aurillia there.  However, in terms of prospects, I don't see much that San Fran would have to offer, as all their best prospects were either just drafted or are named Angel Villalona.  Sergio Romo, a live arm that is destined for the bullpen, would be the best fit.

Is there anything else I could do?  I don't think so.  I would say Florida, but Shelton might be too expensive for them (and I'm being serious.  Florida and Oakland seem to be racing each other to see who can get the lower payroll.)  The Yankees would be another alternative, but not only do they have too many roster spots taken up by the dead (Giambi), the rude (Duncan) and the Betemiet, but they also seem to be waiting for Mark Teixeira to inevitably hit the market so they can spend the Giambi savings on him.

So, I'd call up Brian Sabean and ask if he's willing to do a Romo for Shelton swap.  Not only would it net the Rangers something, think of the newspaper headlines in Dallas when it's announced that the Rangers have just brought in their own Romo.  It would be classic.

Rangers May Have Waited Too Long To Sell High On Luis Mendoza

I like Luis Mendoza more than most.  However, I think the Rangers may have waited too long to sell on him, as I think his value has peaked.

There's been a lot of talk about Mendoza being a potential back of the rotation starter for the Rangers, and that he could even push one of the vets out of the rotation.

Please.

Mendoza has done nothing to really merit the love he has gotten.  He's been rather inconsistent, has been released by an organization at least once (Boston) and despite a nice run here in Texas, that was only after a late surge.

Honestly, I would have let people know that Mendoza was available, and maybe have made a trade (possibly with Laird.)

Tomorrow, The First (And Last) Astros Report

A return to school and an increased workload at work due to sick leave has cut into my blogging time.  Not cool.

Ah well, time for a collective group of thoughts about baseball.

Scott Rolen and Troy Glaus Traded For Each Other

Kinda a odd deal, considering that both are high priced deals with huge landmines attached to them (Health) but overall the deal does work to the favor of each team in one way or another.

WIth Rolen, the Blue Jays gain a Gold Glove defender at third base, which would help compensate for the lead glove of David Eckstein, at the cost of some offense.  However, Eckstein is better than the shuffle at short the Jays had and there is the off chance that Rolen can prove himself to be semi-adequate with the bat.  More than anything, however, the Jays need some type of return from Vernon Wells, who disappointed last season after signing for superstar money with the Jays. 

In Glaus, the Cardinals get a big bat that is needed to help bolster the offense, which is, to be frank, pathetic outside of Pujols.  More than anything, however, the Cardinals needed to diffuse the situation between Tony LaRussa and Rolen, which was made all but irreparable after LaRussa poured gas on that particular fire this off-season.  The signing of Cesar Izturis does help improve the defense enough where the Cardinals can suffer through Glaus' hands of stone, and the move to natural grass and away from Toronto's turf should prove to be beneficial in the long run for Glaus.

All in all, it's a good gamble for both sides, but more importantly, it clears up some potential locker room disaster that would have exploded during the season had either player remained with their former teams.

Grade For Both Sides:  B

Thoughts On The Kotsay Trade

I was going to rant about how the Braves should have just offered Andruw Jones arbitration, keeping him around for one more year, as he would have accepted, and keeping the offense together.

Instead, they pull this trade.

To be honest, I gotta give Billy Beane all the credit in the world on this one, as I think Kotsay is done.  He's not the defender he once was and in terms of offense, he's not going to give you much in return.  In all honesty, the Braves would have been better off just giving the job to Josh Anderson for the season and just gone with it from there.  At least he's mostly paid for.

Oh wait.  Oakland got two prospects, one of which, Joey Devine, the Braves' first round pick from two years ago, will likely help out Oakland in the bullpen this season.  And they also got Jamie RIchmond, a right hander that could be a fifth starter.  That's quite a haul for a broken player.

Anyhow, that's my take on that.

Oakland Grade - B

Atlanta Grade - D

Lost A Bet

To my friend, who's an Astros fan, on the Cowboy Game on Sunday.

So, expect the first (and only) Astros Report sometime this week.

Ugh...