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The A.L. East 2015 Preview (less the Red Sox whom I already previewed)

Posted: March 6, 2015 in Uncategorized
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Baltimore

Ramble:  Losing Nick Markakis was a surprise, but not devastating.  Other than Nick, the winter was  a yawn.

Outfield:  Weaker without Nick.  Adam Jones remains awesome.  Alejandro De Aza and Travis Snider in the corners are average.  If Delmon Young is a reserve outfielder, mmm, not good.

Infield:  Chris Davis is back after his 2104 suspension.  Jonathan Schoop and J.J. Hardy might set a record for lowest combined obp between a starting second baseman and shortstop.  Manny Machado must have a colossal offensive year for the Birds to fly any significant height in 2015.

DH:  A combination of Steve Pearce, Delmon Young and Ryan Lavarnway should be above average.

Catching:  If Matt Weiters plays 130 games, the starting pitchers do well.  Ryan Lavarnway may actually get a chance to catch in the bigs on a semi-regular basis.

Starting Pitching:  Chris Tillman, Bud Norris, Wei-Yin Chen and Miguel Gonzalez make a solid rotation.  If Ubaldo Jimenez could win a dozen games, the O’s could make a wild card spot.  By the way, Dave Wallace is a superior pitching coach.

Relief:  Can Zach Britton repeat 2014?  We shall see.  Darren O’Day will follow personal tradition and not have an era above zero until sometime in late May.  Tommy Hunter, Brad Brach, T.J. McFarland and Brian Matusz complete a rock solid bullpen.

AAA/AA Help:  Christian Walker (1b, especially if Chris Davis struggles early), Glynn Davis (of), Daniel Alvarez (of), Tyler Wilson (starter), Zach Davies (starter), Brock Huntzinger (relief).  Note:  The O’s tied for 10th in my A.L. development ratings. Thin soup.

Prediction:  Second and a wild card, but only because Tampa, Toronto and NYY are weak.

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New York

Ramble:  I despise the Evil Empire, but I will attempt to be fair (and brief).  Less the A-Rod winter circus (thank you, Lord), not much.  Free agents avoided the EE., less Andrew Miller.  Oh, boy.

Outfield:  Brett Gardner, Jacoby Ellsbury and Carlos Beltran form a decent outfield.  Gardner and Ellsbury cover a lot of ground.  Beltran will attempt to stay healthy until the end of June.  Garrett Jones takes the place of an injured Beltran.  Chris Young is next in line.

Infield:  Mark Teixeira, fresh from the dead Stephen Drew, somebody not named Jeter at short and Chase Headley (remove his 2012 season, and discover a marginal offensive player) at third may cause a nervous string of games for Joe Girardi (who I fully admit is a fine manager and the only reason the ’14 NYY did not completely crumble).

DH:  A-Rod gets a few at-bats in a pathetic attempt to shut him up.  Eventually, Brian Cashman receives permission to release Star Quarterback Man.  Garrett Jones, if offered enough at bats, could be a productive dh.

Catching:  Brian McCann and J.R. Murphy form a solid duo, but if one falls to injury causing Andrew Romine and/or Gary Sanchez to enter the fray, oy vey.

Starting Pitching:  Losing Hiroki Kuroda and his 199 innings pitched to his home country of Japan was sweet.  Masahiro Tanaka must deliver 200 plus innings or the hurt is on.  C.C. Sabathia is offensive line massive.  Can he maintain a velocity near 90 after the fifth inning?  Doubtful.  Michael Pineda is determined to become C.C., Jr.  Nathan Eovaldi has a truck load of undeveloped talent.  Chris Capuano is a #5 starter, but anything else is folly.

Relief:  Losing David Robertson (39 saves) blew a hole in the bullpen.  Gaining Andrew Miller (but at far too much money, even for the Yankees) makes for a solid eighth inning guy.  If Andrew Bailey can find his former self, a quality closer is rediscovered.  David Carpenter must deliver his 2013 and 2014 Atlanta results.  The EE is dangerously shallow in the bullpen.  No quality help awaits in their system.

AAA/AA Help:  Francisco Arcia (c), Joe Pierla (2b), Rob Refsnyder (2b), Tyler Dugas (of), Jaron Long (starter, and the best home-grown pitcher in a long time) and Luis Severino (starter).

Prediction:  Third in the A.L. East because Girardi can out-manage Kevin Cash and John Gibbons (the worst manager in baseball) with no sleep and blinding headache following an A-Rod press conference.

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Tampa Bay (because Toronto is Nut Job City)

Ramble:  New faces to replace far too many departures include John Jaso, Kevin Jepsen and Drew Smyly.  Plainly speaking, the Rays are in a new land in 2015.

Outfield:  David DeJesus, Desmon Jennings and the largely untested Kevin Kiermaier backed by a cast of unknowns is an injury away from extreme challenge, though Steven Souza, Jr might be the surprise of the season.

Infield:  James Loney (1b), Logan Forsythe (2b), Evan Longoria (3b) and Asdrubal Cabrera (ss) are sure handed and have enough collective offensive talent to suit Kevin Cash (good luck, Kevin).  Nick Franklin will get plenty of time as Mr. Utility.

DH:  John Jaso when the knees are aching from too much catching.  Vince Belnome to determine if he can hit MLB pitching.  The same goes for Steven Souza.

Catching:  John Jaso and Curt Casali are competent.  They do no damage.

Starting Pitching:  Deep.  Chris Archer, Alex Cobb, Drew Smyly, Jake Odorizzi (time to pitch well, Jake) and Alex Colome are as good as any starting five in the division.

Relief:  Grant Balfour in the ninth is pause for relief (no pun intended).  Ronald Belisario, Brad Boxberger, Ernesto Frieri and Kevin Jepsen should hold most of the leads presented.

AAA/AA Help:  Ryan Brett (2b), Mike Mahtook (of), Adam Liberatore (relief) and Cory Burns (relief).

Prediction:  If all goes well, they fight the EE for third.

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Toronto

Ramble:  Josh Donaldson was a positive addition (as opposed to negative subtraction).  Same with Russell Martin.  Not much else.

Outfield:  Michael Saunders, Dalton Pompey and Jose Bautista make for an above average outfield.  Dayan Viciedo and Kevin Pillar (the better of the two) will likely share left field until the return of Saunders.  Pompey has ability galore.  He advanced from A ball to Toronto in 2014.  A rare journey.  We will see what he brings in 2015.

Infield:  The ever dependable Edwin Encarnacion and Maicer Izturis handle the right side.  While Josh Donaldson’s bat will bring better pitches to Bautista and Encarnacion, his glove is a liability, though his attitude is pure dirt dog.  Jose Reyes logs another year at shortstop.  Justin Smoak and Ryan Goins will be the utility men.

DH:  Most likely a rotation depending upon who has the day off.  Smoak primarily, then Bautista and Encarnacion on the weekend.  However, if Kevin Pillar proves the superior of Viciedo, he will be in the dh mix as well.

Catching:  Russell Martin’s arrival prompts Dioner Navarro to ask for a trade.  No loss.  Josh Thole catches R.A. Dickey better than any other past or present catcher in R.A.’s professional life.

Starting Pitching:  The aforementioned Mr. Dickey, the underrated Mark Buehrle, followed in no particular order by Marcus Stroman, Drew Hutchison and Marco Estrada.  Frankly, after Dickey and Buehrle throw, the bullpen better be ready for an early appearance especially if Stroman and Hutchison digress.

Relief:  Brett Cecil closes.  A cast of characters await opportunity and consistency.  Choose from Aaron Loup, Aaron Sanchez, Kyle Drabek (how and why this guy pitches in the bigs is testament to Toronto’s need for arms attached to breathing bodies), Todd Redmond, Rob Rasmussen, Steve Delabar and Chad Jenkins.

AAA/AA Help:  Derrick Chung (c), Daniel Norris (starter.  Though, he was rushed at the ripe old age of 21 from A+ ball to the bigs), Kendall Graveman (starter.  He began 2014 in A ball, then took the Norris express at the age of 23) and Randy Boone (relief).

Prediction:  72 wins if luck prevails.  Fire John Gibbons, now.

 

 

 

2015 Southern California MLB Review (Padres, Angels and Dodgers)

Posted: March 3, 2015 in Uncategorized
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First the Padres.

Ramble:  Quality off-season.  Completely unexpected.  The Padres spending money is as rare as bad beer in San Diego.  Look for club records in home runs and rbi this year.  Padres fans actually have legitimate hope entering the 2015 season.  Buy tickets!

Outfield:  Justin Upton, Will Myers and Matt Kemp make for an average defense, but offense is the attraction.  A substantial challenge for opposing pitching.  Carlos Quentin should be traded to an A.L. team (Carlos in the outfield is similar to a guy on crutches attempting to run.  Well intentioned, but without reason).  Will Venable returns to the bench . . . where he belongs.

Infield:  Yonder Alonso and Tommy Medica share the bag at first.  Both these two will benefit mightily from the presence of Kemp, Upton and Myers in the lineup.  Is Cory Spangenberg ready for the Bigs?  He skipped AAA ball when called up to the Padres last year.  Not a good move.  Jed Gyorko is developing nicely.  If Jed could become a leadoff hitter with a better than .375 obp, that would be swell.  Will Middlebrooks is looking at last chance saloon this year.  He either hits major league pitching or he bounces around AAA from one organization to another.  Yangervis Solarte is a better  choice at the moment.  Is Alexi Amarista a long term solution to the shortstop position?  No.  But, Diego Goris will arrive in 2016/17.

Catching:  Rock solid with Derek Norris and Tim Federowicz.

Starting Pitching.  Signing James Shields was as exciting for Padres fans as the Kemp moment.  Shields will do for starting pitching what Kemp will do for the offense.  Tyson Ross, Andrew Cashner and Ian Kennedy have a heavy load lifted from their shoulders via Shields, but deliver they must.

Bullpen:  Always a San Diego strength.  Dale Thayer, Nick Vincent, Kevin Quackenbush (though his ip/bb ratio is a concern), Alex Torres, Frank Garces and Joaquin Benoit will give Bud Black few worries in 2015.

AAA/AA Help:  Cory Spangenberg (2b), Casey McElroy (2b.  Watch out, Cory), Alex Dickerson (of), Rymer Lirano (of), Jake Goebbert (of), Matt Wisler (starting), Joe Ross (starting) and Jerry Sullivan (relief).

Prediction:  The N.L. West will be a dogfight from Opening Day until the last day of the season.  The Padres finish second, make the playoffs as a Wild Card, win the first round, lose the second.

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The Angels

Ramble:  The Josh Hamilton development is the last place to start a new season.  Good luck to him.  By and large, while acknowledging his personal challenge, Josh was not money well spent.  Alas, baseball owners, even Arte Moreno, rarely learn.  Speaking of rarely learning, on behalf of Angel fans, may C.J. Wilson win more than he loses.  Not a given by any stretch.  Howie Kendrick is gone.  Or simply a freeway or two to the north.  Drive by and say “Hi.”

Outfield:  Acquiring Matt Joyce was smart (though, my inner conspiracist says DiPoto knew that Josh had, in one sense or another, fallen from the wagon of sobriety).  And, honestly, when you have the best player in not only the game today, but one of the greatest ever, in Mike Trout, how much do you worry about the other two spots?  Yes, that was a rhetorical question.   Kole Calhoun and Collin Cowgill will, just as last year, serve well.  Those two are dirt dogs.  They play hard and want to play more.  Amen.

Infield:  Pujols (backed by a very capable Efren Navarro looking for at bats.  An interesting July 31 acquisition, if you ask me), the mystery man at second (I’m guessing Grant Green sticks), David Freese and Erick Aybar form a serviceable infield. Somewhere between “wow” and “meh”.

Catching:  While a fan of Mike Scioscia’s managing, I feel the pain of any and all system catchers finally making the big club.  Scioscia is demanding and maddening as far as rookie catchers are concerned.  Log two or three years with him, then the biting lessens, but remains sadly plentiful and painful.  Thus, look for Hank Conger to prosper in Houston.  As for Chris Ianetta, he has the experience to keep managerial critique to a minimum.  After Ianetta, the spot is thin, thus weak, especially in the Dog Days.

DH:  C.J. Cron needs to offer the team a big year if the post-season awaits.  If Pujols falls to injury again, he is the dh while first base becomes Navarro’s.

Starting Pitching:  Jared Weaver has become the Pedro Martinez of his generation.  Jared is a pleasure to watch.  He thinks as much as pitches to his benefit.  C.J. Wilson was plain old bad in 2014.  A repeat makes the playoffs very difficult for the Angels.   However, if Matt Shoemaker and Tyler Skaggs (this kid could be awesome) win at least forty-five games as a duo, coupled with the healthy return of Garrett Richards, then C.J. can have a lousy year.  As for the much ballyhooed Andrew Heaney, we shall see.

Bullpen:  Houston Street is a stud, yet the Angels hem and haw about a contract.  Dumb.  Joe Smith is a top 5 eighth inning guy.  Mike Morin was as much a surprise to the ‘pen as Shoemaker was to the starters.  Fernando Salas, Nick Tropeano, Cory Rasmus, Cam Bedrosian and Cesar Ramos are the most likely to experience Opening Day in a big league park.

AAA/AA Help:  As a side note, the Angels’ development system is awful (tied for 10th in the A.L. per me).  Jeff Bandy (c), Brian Hernandez (1b, especially if Navarro is traded 7/31), Vance Albitz (2b), Ryan Wheeler (3b), Shawn O’Malley (ss), Jairo Diaz (relief).

Prediction:  Third in the A.L. West.

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The Dodgers

Ramble:  The lack of a television broadcast deal is pathetic.  Really bad.  Shame on both TWC and the Dodgers.  However, you make Arte Moreno a happy man.  Trading Kemp was, um, I will be impolite, ballsy.  He will beat the living snot out the Dodgers’ pitching staff this year.  I thought Ethier was the most likely to be traded.  Alas, given the current cast, he may be.

Outfield:  Amazingly, post-Kemp, not enough room.  The Joc Pedersen assumptions are unwise.  Hit major league pitching, then talk about starting.  Carl Crawford, Andre Ethier and Yasiel Puig are the likely starting three.  I continue to await Puig severely injuring Ethier in pursuit of a gap fly ball.  Scott Van Slyke, while nothing like the old man, at least determined he could hit in the bigs last year.  Frankly, Scott in the A.L. as a dh is the true Scott.

Infield:  Jimmy Rollins at short and Howie Kendrick at second firm the middle as compared to last year.  Dodger pitchers should be quite pleased.  Adrian Gonzalez is a nice guy who plays an exceptional first base.  Oh yeah, he can hit as well.  Juan Uribe is a tribute to bad diet and lack of exercise (Pablo Sandoval is a disciple).  How he continues to play effectively is beyond me.  Justin Turner and Alex Guerrero provide quality depth.  Darwin Barney is bound for elsewhere.

Catching:  A.J. Ellis is the ultimate lunch-bucket-hard-hat-working-man catcher in MLB.   Yasmani Grandal will hopefully learn a lot.

Starting Pitching:  Clayton Kershaw is to starting pitching as Mike Trout is to the offensive side of the ball.  Mark Greinke is weird, but a quality #2 starter (#1 on most teams).  Hyun-Jin Ryu eats innings.  His value shines in August and September.  As for the last two spots, I’m guessing Joe Wieland (healthy, at last) and Zach Lee.  Just a guess.

Bullpen:  Kenley Jansen must be healthy or this is a weak point on exponents (sorry for the math reference).  Joel Peralta, Brandon League (most likely closer in waiting), J.P. Howell and Brett Anderson form a shallow bullpen waiting for a call from the dugout.

AAA/AA Help:  Chris O’Brien (c), O’Koyea Dickson (1b), Ryan Adams (2b), Miguel Rojas (ss), Erisbel Arruebarrena (ss) and Corey Seager (ss, and given Miguel and Erisbel, his ascension is anything but guaranteed).  What?  No pitching!  Indeed.  If you want to scout, draft, sign and not develop either starting or relief pitching, the Dodgers are your squad.

Prediction:  First in the N.L. West.  A stunning playoff loss to a team not from St. Louis.  Mattingly is fired.

 

 

2015 Boston Red Sox Preview

Posted: February 28, 2015 in Uncategorized
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The Boys from Boston will hit in 2015.  Will they pitch is the question?

Ramble:  While the off-season additions to the offense are to be applauded (though the money spent was ridiculous), the bats will center around David Ortiz.  If Papi is healthy, thus productive, the Red Sox thrive.  Sandoval, Ramirez, Pedroia, Betts, Bogaerts and Napoli will prosper with Ortiz in the middle who will create a sizable secondary effect for Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez.  Sandoval and Ramirez in Fenway could post better numbers than ever before, especially Sandoval.  Napoli, who seemed to just miss lofting that deep fly ball over the Monster countless times in 2014, will have a better than average year as he ends his contract with Boston (and, no, Ben better not re-sign him).  Chili Davis as the hitting coach should spur on the boys through thick, thin and long road trips.  However, no media relationship advice will be offered.

Outfield:   Jackie Bradley Jr had his chance in 2014, but t’was not to be.  His behavior issues in Pawtucket, post-Boston, should earn him an opportunity elsewhere.  Thus, Mookie Betts.  Mookie in center is a good fit.  He covers ground, and Lord knows he will need to with Hanley Ramirez attempting to absorb a quick learning curve in left.  As opposed to Bradley Jr., Mookie was a quick study at the plate.  Shane Victorino in right is not definite.  Shane, along with Allen Craig, are the two veterans without a guaranteed position.  If Victorino hits, he plays.  If he struggles, he’s traded, and traded quickly.  The mystery man is Rusney Castillo.  Victorino stands in the way of required at bats.  Rusney needs to play.  And, as always (well at least the last few years), Daniel Nava stands in the shadows waiting for somebody to ask him to dance.

Infield:  Set.  Naps, Pedrioa, Sandoval and Bogaerts.  Napoli has developed into an above average first baseman.  Dustin is the ultimate dirt dog.  Xander needs to continue to master the small things that make a great shortstop (moving him to third is ill advised).  Pablo, with little range, plays a smart hot spot, less the occasional dirt flop as the ball scoots into left.  Brock Holt brings value at a great price.

Catching:  Ryan Lavarnway went from heir apparent to first baseman/dh suspect for untold reasons.  Christian Vasquez, without David Ross, has a lot to learn in a short time.  The Blake Swihart succession talk must stop.  Blake needs at least one more year riding buses, maybe two.  Ryan Hanigan, given half a chance, may well give Vasquez a challenge for playing time.  Who, oh who, will gather the starting pitching’s confidence?

DH:  Ortiz in the batter’s box is always a sight to behold.  Think Santa down the chimney.  Never gets old.  As rest is required, look for Allen Craig, Napoli and possibly Castillo (get those at-bats)  to find Sunday time as the designated hitter.

Starting Pitching:  Otherwise known as What Makes 2015 A Boom Or Bust.  Buchholz is the number one starter.  When reading the Globe, I marvel at the inability (refusal?) to acknowledge that Clay is the number one guy.  Who else?  The guy who listens to the radio via headset a few rows from the protective netting?  In no particular order or until John Farrell and Juan Nieves are ready to say:  Joe Kelly, Wade Miley, Rick Porcello, Justin Masterson, Brandon Workman will form the two-five spots.  A deep group from which to choose.

Relief Corps:  Perhaps Koji Uehara closes.  Perhaps implies perhaps not.  Alexi Ogando was a quality signing.  Granted, he struggled in 2014 with Texas, but the numbers prior bring hope.  Craig Breslow is testament to why lefty pitchers are reluctant to retire.  Nice to be wanted.  With Junichi Tazawa, Robbie Ross Jr, Tommy Layne, Edwin Escobar and Heath Hembree the bullpen will be a strong point through the never ending test of 162 games.

AAA/AA Help:  Blake Swihart (c), Sean Coyle (inf), Derrick Gibson (of), Henry Ramos (of), Henry Owens (starter), Brian Johnson (starter), Eduardo Rodriguez (starter), Miguel Celestino (relief).

Prediction:  First in the A.L. East, A.L. Champion, World Series Champion.

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall, I Have Four Football Stadiums. Which Is The Fairest Of All? Otherwise Known As The San Diego Chargers Are Idiots

Posted: February 23, 2015 in Uncategorized
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So much is wrong with recent developments.  Let me strike at the obvious piece of idiocy:  The Chargers and Raiders sharing a stadium.  Why not have the Red Sox and Yankees share a stadium?  Yes, beyond stupid.  Beyond the one hundred yard stare and bucket of drool.  The Bolts and wanna be Pirates share the same division.  They play each other twice a year.  The LAPD would need the assistance of the National Guard to keep fighting, looting and rioting to a minimum prior to game time.  Then the real trouble starts.

I love a fastball under the chin (a woeful analogy given football as the subject), but this sudden development (I’m being polite) the Spanos family has placed before the city of San Diego is both mean and without warning.  This dance began better than a decade ago.  I applaud the full court press (again, a woeful analogy given football as the subject) applied by the Chargers lead assassin, Mark Fabiani, but the sudden announcement of the ridiculous San Diego-Oakland axis may as well cause celebration for the continued Russian invasion of Ukraine.  Is anybody happy?

I shall back up.  Splashed across the L.A. Times 2/20/15 edition summed the frenzy of football fields:  Farmers Field, Roski’s City of Industry Field, Stan Kroenke’s Hollywood Park Field (the real deal) and now the bat shit proposal of the Chargers and Raiders sharing a field (holding hands, grooving, playing Grateful Dead tunes).  Reread that reality.  Think not twice, but thrice and dare to discover any thread of sense.

Farmers Field (an insurance gonglomo, not Billy Bob in overalls) was announced circa 2/11.  Roski’s stadium of a badly named city seeking a football team in 4/08.  Consider that time frame.  Do you remove long cooked food from a dormant oven to serve a party of twenty?  Stan Kroenke, a man with a plan and money to make the plan, hits Tinsel Town in 1/15.  Boom.  Done.  Truly done.  But, no.  The Spanos family, forever miffed at San Diego mayors (too many to count since the Spanos ownership) and hoteliers reluctant to raise overnight rates (tax), create a relationship gone bad.  So bad, in fact, that partnership with their enemies from the north, in an effort to strong-arm the locals into panic, propose a bad drive up the 5, to watch the Chargers play football.  The Carson site is another Farmers/Roski moment.  Highly unlikely.

Returning to both the idiocy of the deal and the L.A. Times refusing thought, I offer page D7 from the 2/20/15 issue, “It takes any remaining steam out of both of them (Farmers Field and Roski’s City of Industry).  Never say never in this process, . . .”).  What?  That ranks with definitely maybe.

Returning to Mr. Kroenke and his purchase of Hollywood Park, this is the return of the Rams.  The Chargers or Raiders (to a lesser extent) are not moving to L.A.  The Rams will land in Hollywood Park.  Kroenke understands the local politics (re:  Inglewood voters happily committed to the stadium and associated development coupled with a more than willing mayor and city council).  Would the NFL want to split the L.A. market with a second team?  Most doubtful.  Additionally, why give up two existing healthy NFL markets to shove two teams into one town?

As for “no public money” for either the Inglewood or Carson site, we’ll see.  I find doubtful that the ballyhooed guaranteed magic of preferred seat licenses will fill all necessary construction accounts.  Sure, L.A. has the ability to sell more preferred seat licenses than either St. Louis, San Diego or Oakland, but, past experience indicates an extended hand at some point.  However, this more than likely public assistance is less likely with Kroenke’s Hollywood Park efforts (I understand the Walton clan has spare change lying about).  The amount of financial detail missing from the Carson project is noteworthy.

Regarding the Carson project, aka, the Chargers and Raiders love fest, if this lunacy is pursued enjoy the circus that develops over the former owner of the proposed site, Shell Oil and the residue left behind.  Convince me that the Spanos family will kindly overlook the numerous and legally required extraction wells to remove methane gas from the site.  How about the nearby ground water polluted with industrial solvents?  Watering the stadium grass with that toxic brew?  The words “health risk” are not sought after in any land development.  Especially one that will seat 68,000 people.

Mayor Faulconer and the San Diego city council have received the final warning shot.  Even though the chance of the Chargers beating the Rams or Raiders to L.A. is extremely low, if San Diego wants to keep the Chargers, the time has arrived to settle on one of the two downtown areas or a reconstructed Q.  The Spanos family, if they want to stay in San Diego as stated many instances prior, need to realize that public assistance is impossible.  They have a multitude of financial options which they need to explore and develop whether from NYC investment banks, hedge fund managers or fellow rich folk searching for investment opportunity over a ten to fifteen year period.  Remember, my San Diego State Aztecs need a football field.

 

 

 

2014 MLB Team Development Review

Posted: January 1, 2015 in Uncategorized
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Without aplomb, here we go:

A.L.

1.  Houston (3.5 out of a possible score of 4.0):  Less catching and relief, wow-wee.  I’m not quite ready to claim the 2015 Astros will be the 2014 Royals regarding surprise, but plenty of talent has been developed within.  The organization is loaded with talent at first, second, center and starting pitching.  The starting pitching in waiting is the best of any A.L. team by far.  The following cast provides depth, choice and at the very least achieved the proverbial cup of coffee exposure in the Bigs during 2014:  Brett Berholtzer, Jake Buchanan, Nick Tropeano, Rudy Owens and Colin McHugh.  Choice is difficult, but at least available.  But, the best starter in Houston’s system may be Thomas Shirley who was impressive in AA ball during ’14.  At the end of the bullpen, look for Richard Rodriguez and Mitchell Lambson to receive long looks during spring training.  On the offensive side, look for Conrad Gregor (1b/A+/A), Tyler White (1b/A+/A), Joe Sciafani (2b/AAA/AA), Tony Kemp (2b/AA), Colin Moran (3b/AA), Rio Ruiz (3b/A+), Carlos Correa (ss/A+), Austin Wates (cf/AAA), Robbie Grossman (cf/MLB/AAA . . . time to stick, Robbie), Teoscar Hernandez (8/A+ while enjoying the wind blown advantage of playing in Lancaster, CA) and Domingo Santana (rf/MLB/AAA).  At the 1, 3, 4, 6-9 spots, Houston has candidates from AAA to A ball.  Deep development and well done.

2T.  Boston (3.0):  Christian Vazquez’s quick ascension spelled the end of Ryan Lavarnway as heir apparent at the 2 spot.  I’m doubtful, but if Christian falters, Blake Swithart (AAA/AA) awaits.  Jantzen Witte (A+/A) is Fenway’s future first baseman.  Same with Sean Coyle (2b/AA), though that pesky Pedroia fellow seems to be in the way.  Carlos Asuaje (3b/A+/A) placed Will Middlebrooks on borrowed time long before the signing of Sandoval.  I choose to assume that Mookie Betts stays in Boston, but much like Mr. Vazquez, any faltering on behalf of Mr. Betts encourages the development of Derrick Gibson (cf/AA) and Manuel Margot (cf/A+/A).  Henry Ramos (rf/AA) concludes the best in system.  Starting pitching prospects, less Henry Owens (AAA/AA), are at least two years away.  The best of an above average lot are Brian Johnson (AA/A+) and Eduardo Rodriguez (AA).  Future 8th and 9th inning men are Miguel Celestino (AA), Kyle Martin (A+) and Austin Maddox (A+), though A+ ball is a long way from any MLB stadium.  The Sox did run shabby in the bullpen after A+ ball (as did the 6 spot), thus an area of improvement for 2015.

2T.  Minnesota (3.0):  Less the 3 position, the Twins’ system is either deep or possesses a very talented player at a particular position.  For instance, Chris Herrmann (c, MLB/AAA.  Time to win the 2 spot, Mr. Herrmann), Levi Michael (2b/AA/A+), Daniel Ortiz (lf/AA), Jason Kanzler (cf/A+/A) and Alex Swim (rf/A).  Deibinson Romero would be a legitimate 5 guy, but the 21 errors are far too many.  The Twins should slow down the advancement of Jorge Polanco (ss, all of 20) who skipped AAA ball before landing in Minnesota.  Never a good move.  The same critique applies to Kennys Vargas (1b).  The starting pitching prospects are woeful in AAA, but AA and A+ are relatively loaded.  Watch for Tyler Duffey (AA/A+), Jason Wheeler (AA/A+) and Jose Berrios (AA/A+) to arrive in Minnesota for the proverbial cup of coffee in September, 2015.  The trio should be fully ready in 2016.  The relief candidates are plentiful as well from AA down.  Jake Reed (A) had eye-catching numbers in ’14.

2T:  Oakland:  If you wondered why Billy Beane made those December deals, now you know.  Sure the 2-9 AAA talent is old (far too many 28 and 29 year olds), but lots of age appropriate talent at the AA and down levels calm the winds of trade.  The A’s system is loaded with potential at the 2-4 and 8 spots.  However, that is not to dismiss the talent at 6, 7 and 9.  Lots to choose from, especially at the A+ level.  The only everyday position lacking talent is third.  As for names, look for Beau Taylor (c/A+), Matt Olson (1b/A+), Tyler Ladendorf (2b/AAA), Daniel Robertson (ss/A+) and, my find of the year, Boog Powell (cf/A+/A), who, I hope, is related to the Boog Powell of the Baltimore Orioles from, oh, so long ago.  Continuing with the A+ emphasis, the majority of the starting pitching talent is found at that level (Stockton, CA . . . a beautiful city.  Ahem).  The relief squad candidates are more evenly dispersed throughout the A’s system.  Evan Scribner (closer/MLB/AAA) must stick in O-Town (pardon the Sons of Anarchy influence) in 2015.  Waiting is Tucker Healy (A+) and Brendan McCurry (A).

3.  Tampa Bay (2.9):  Castigating the Devil Rays is currently popular, but they continue to develop well.  The 2 position is absolutely brimming with talent.  The best of the seven rated may be Justin O’Conner (A+).  Ryan Brett (1b/AA) will be chased by Kean Wong (1b/A) his entire ascension to the Bigs.  Choosing between Leonardo Riginatto (ss/A+) and Juniel Querecuto (ss/A) is a problem all teams should face.  The same can be said of center field where Kevin Kiermaier (MLB/AAA), Mikie Mahtook (AAA) and Johnny Field (A+/A) offer plenty of ability.  Starting pitching holds strength at the A+ and A levels which serves as a ding to their ratings, but Austin Pruitt (A+) along with German Marquez (A) and Jacob Faria (A) hold exceptional promise.  Adam Liberatore should be closing in Tampa in 2015.  Cory Burns (AA) is a year or two away.  Watch for William  Gabay (A).

4.  Seattle (2.8):  Tampa Bay, Junior when you look at the catching talent.  John Hicks (AAA/AA), Steve Baron (AA/A+) and Tyler Marlette (A+) would all be worth a trade.  Jody Lara (1b/A+) is MLB bound in 2017.  Same goes with Zack Shank (2b/A, though not in Seattle with Mr. Cano in the way), Jack Reinheimer (ss/A+/A) and Gabriel Guerrero (rf/A+).  I imagine some mavens get excited about Patrick Kylehan (3b/AA/A+), but the 24 errors do not translate to MLB.  Sadly, the M’s pitching development from A to Z is pathetic.  Few candidates at either a starting or relief role.  All I can offer is Tyler Olson (starter/AA), Stephen Kohlscheen (closer/AAA/AA) and Mayckol Guaipe (closer/AA).  Less these three, the mound is a barren place in the Seattle system.  Given the abundance of talent at the 2-9 spots, perhaps a few of those players might be offered to bolster the system pitching staff as 2015 unfolds.  Just an idea.

5T.  Cleveland (2.7):  Two gaping development holes are found at second (a mere two candidates, though one is the talented Jose Ramirez) and right field (one candidate finally found in A ball, Luigi Rodriguez).  However, lots of good news at the 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8 spots.  The Tribe actually encourages potential future third basemen to field and throw well.  Giovanni Urshela (AAA/AA) as well as Yandy Diaz (A+) and Paul Hendrix (A) play a sparkling defensive bag and can hit.  Roberto Perez (c/MLB/AAA) can hit and throw out runners (39% toss rate).  Erik Gonzalez (ss/AA/A+), Anthony Gallas (lf/AA), LeVon Washington (lf/A+), Tyler Holt (cf/MLB/AAA/AA.  Watch for this guy.  If your team needs a center fielder, here he is.  Go get him) and Tyler Naquin (cf/AA) are the best of the best in system.  Pitching is solid.  AAA brims with starters (T.J. House, Tyler Cloyd, Zach McAllister, Josh Tomlin and Trevor Bauer) who spent time in MLB during ’14.  The ‘pen prospects are better than the starters which is impressive.  Look for C.C. Lee (MLB/AAA) and Kyle Crockett (MLB/AAA/AA) to impress in spring training.  Enosis Tejeda (AA) and Trevor Frank (A) are two years away.

5T.  New York (2.7):  Especially deep at first and second.  Above average at the 2, 5 and 7 positions.  Shortstop has one guy (Tyler Wade/A).  Center and right trend thin, but two of the more intriguing prospects play those spots:  Mark Payton (cf/A+/A) and Aaron Judge (rf/A+/A).  Returning to the 4 spot, either Jose Pirela (MLB/AAA) or Rob Refsnyder (AAA/AA) stick in NYC.  Francisco Arcia (c/AA) may find time in the Bronx in ’15 given desperation levels as the season unfolds (collapses).  Starting pitching prospects are deeper than relief candidates.  Jason Long (AA/A+/A.  A most impressive journey in one year) and Luis Severino (AA) are the best of the starters as well as representative of the talent found at the AA level.  Relievers with potential are found in abundance at the A+ level, thus wait and see who prospers at the AA level in ’15.

6.  Texas (2.6):  I will be polite and say “An organization in transition.”  Now for the bad news:  Zero prospects at short.  One guy at second (Odubel Herrera/AA/A+, but he can play.  Unfortunately, no other 4 guy can).  First base has only two guys (Trevor Adams/AA and Preston Beck/A+).  Catchers are plentiful and from A ball up.   Same can be said for left fielders.  Speaking of outfielders, Nomar Mazara (rf) made the rare jump from A to AA with no A+ time.  He’s one to watch at the ripe old age of 19.  Speaking of skipping A+ ball, the best of the rest are found in A+ ball:  Christopher Garcia (cf), Nick Williams (lf) and Ryan Cordell (lf/though he did begin ’14 in A ball).  Pitching prospects created the 2.6 rating.  Nick Tepesch (starter/MLB/AAA) and Alec Asher (starter/AA) are the best of an above average group.  However, please put the brakes on rushing Alex Claudio to the Bigs.  Alex began the year in A ball as a closer and spent time in Arlington.  Along the way, he started in AA and AAA, but the rise for a 22 year old was far too fast.  Spencer Patton and Neftali Feliz are the two most likely relievers to stick in Arlington in ’15.

7.  Toronto (2.5):  One guy at first (Jorge Flores/A+).  One guy at third . . . who is 29 (Jared Goedert/AAA.  I’m too nice).  Two guys in center, Darin Mastroianni (who seemingly can’t stick in MLB) and the incredibly talented Dalton Pompey who did the rare A+/AA/AAA/MLB run all that age of 21).  But, after Dalton, not much in the center field spot.  Catching features Derrick Chung (AA/A+) and Jorge Saez (A+/A).  Shane Ortiz (ss/A+, yet struggles to find innings at short) and Dwight Smith (lf/A+) end a relatively thin 2-9 system.  The starting prospects are deep and high-lighted by Marcus Stroman (MLB/AAA), Daniel Norris (MLB/AAA/AA/A+ and a classic rush job at the age of 21.  When he burns out, let me know) and Kendall Gravemen (see Mr. Norris, though Mr. Gravemen is a sage 23 and bettered Mr. Norris by beginning his journey in A ball).  The relief corps is average with most of the talent found in A+ ball.  No prospects in AAA.  A mere one in AA (Randy Boone).

8T.  Detroit (2.4):  Catching has four solid prospects.  The best are James McCann (MLB/AAA) and Grayson Greiner (A).  Dean Green (AA) provides the most hope at first.  Dean Travis (AA) does the same at the 4 spot.  Corey Jones (AA) is the same at third.  Less him, no one.  Short is loaded.  Eugenio Suarez (MLB/AAA/AA), Dixon Machado (AA/A+) and Domingo Leyba (A) are an impressive trio from which to choose.  Left field prospects (Jason Krizan/AA and Wayne Gaynor/AA) along with Ezequiel Carrera (cf/MLB/AAA) and Wynton Bernard (rf/A) are the best of a thin group roaming the outfield.  Starting pitching is average at best.  Most of the talent is found in A+ and A ball, thus years away.  Relief candidates are better scattered from AAA down, though a tad heavy to A+/A, thus nothing immediate awaits Detroit less Pat McCoy (MLB/AAA), Justin Miller (MLB/AAA) or Chad Smith (MLB/AAA/AA) having a good spring.

8T.  Kansas City (2.4):  The Royals have zero to one prospect at first (zero), center (one) and right (0ne).  Boo.  Such vacancy took away from a bounty of third basemen and left fielders.  Whit Merrifield (lf/AAA/AA) is one to watch.  Any MLB team looking for a ready shortstop should inquire about Christian Colon (MLB/AAA).  Starting pitching rated very well.  Look for the arrival of Christian Binford (AA/A+) and Andy Ferguson (AA) by 2016.  The relief corps was awful.  No AAA prospects, two AA prospects, four in A+ ball and one in A ball.  That adds to seven.  Not good.

9.  Chicago (2.3):  Much is lacking when any team makes the Royals’ bullpen prospects look deep.  May I introduce you to the Chicago White Sox.  The White Sox system has three guys who rated.  Three.  Their entire system from A ball up.  Three.  Bryan Bloughs (A+), Bradley Salgado (A and very good) and Jose Bautista (A) are the fortunate three.  Starting pitching ranked second from the bottom in the A.L.  No AAA prospects.  Two AA prospects (Chris Beck and Mike Recchia).  The rest are found in A+ or A ball.  A long way from the top.  However, Chicago does develop catchers.  Josh Phegley should stick in Chicago in 2015.  Behind him is Keyan Smith (AA), Omar Narvaez (A+/A) and Jeremy Dowdy (A).  Same can be said for first (Andy Wilkins/MLB/AAA the best of five) and second (Carlos Sanchez/MLB/AAA leads a strong group of three).  Short, third, left and center need many more candidates.

10T.  Angels (sorry.  I refuse the ridiculous geography, though I am an Arte Moreno fan) (2.2):  No depth to speak of at second (two quality prospects in Vance Albitz at AAA and Sherman Johnson at A+, then nothing), third (two, again), left (ditto) and right (ditto).  Jett Bandy (AA) is a quality catching prospect, but young catchers and the demands of Scioscia are often a bad fit (just ask Hank Conger).  First and center have an abundance of quality ball players.  At first, Brian Hernandez (AA) and Dennis Raben (A+) are the best of six.  Center features five of whom the most intriguing may be Bo Way (A).  The Angels inability to develop any depth in starting pitching is astounding.  From AAA to A ball, six guys made the cut.  Nate Smith (A+) is the best bet of the six.  Relievers do much better.  Cam Bedrosian (MLB/AAA/AA) suffered from a rush job, but possesses talent.  Same with Jairo Diaz (MLB/AA/A+.  Skipped AAA).

10T.  Baltimore (2.2):  Much like Oakland, a lot of 28 and 29 year olds at the top of their system.  Not good.  The O’s completely lack a right field prospect.  One at short.  A 28 and 29 year old are one-two at third base.  Two guys in center.  Concerning the 2-9 guys, hardly any quality prospects are  found at the AA level and few at A+ ball.  A bare system.  However, pitching prospects are plentiful.  Starters include Tyler Wilson (AAA/AA and quite good), Zach Davies (AA) and Steven Bault (A+/A).  Preston Guilmet (MLB/AAA) should prosper in spring, 2015 and travel north.  Brock Huntzinger (AAA) and Oliver Drake (AA) wait for opportunity in Baltimore.

N.L.

1.  New York (3.5):  Loaded everywhere less left and right.  Quality prospects at all levels (AAA/AA/A+/A).  If the following players have above average springs, find a nice apartment in Queens:  Juan Centeno (c), Eric Campbell (1b), Dilson Herrera (2b), Matt Reynolds (ss), Wilmer Flores (ss), Cesar Puello (lf), Matt den Dekker (cf) and Chase Bradford (closer/bullpen).  The Mets could get better in a hurry in 2015.  Starting pitching possesses five candidates at the AAA level.  AA was deep enough to exclude from consideration any A+ or A pitcher in the Mets’ system.  The relievers have three ready at AAA (the aforementioned Mr. Bradford along with Miguel Socolovich and John Church).

2.  Washington (3.3):  Not as deep as the Mets (who is?), but plenty of quality at the 2-9 spots.  Second, short and right are the strongest everyday spots.  Less catching, the other positions all rated above average.  Starting pitching features six potential candidates, though Paolo Espino at AA may surpass them all.  From the relief corps, expect Xavier Cedeno (MLB/AAA) to remain in Washington, D.C.   He should be joined by Matt Grace (AAA).  Derek Self (AA/A+) is a year away.  If Brain Dupra (A+) and Jake Walsh (A+/A) succeed in AA ball in 2015, the future of the Nats bullpen is bright.

3.  Miami (3.1):  Weak spots are left and center (a paltry two candidates at each), but the rest of 2-9 positions rate well.  J.T. Realmuto (MLB/AA, skipped AAA) and Austin Barnes (AA/A+) are two strong catching candidates.  A third lurks in Chad Wallach (A+/A).  Mark Lanha (AAA) and Justin Bour (MLB/AAA) will forever battle for the 3 spot in Miami.  Derek Dietrich (2b/MLB/AAA) is MLB ready for 2015.  Any MLB team in the market for third basemen or right fielders should cruise the Marlins minor leagues.  Lots from which to choose.  Starting and relief prospects are deep even in light of the Andrew Heaney trade.  A lot of the Marlins depth is found at the AA level.  Potential quality starters are Justin Nicolino, Jose Urena and Jared Rogers.  Relievers at this level are Greg Nappo, Matt Ramsay, Nick Wittgren, James Nygren and Collin Cargill.  This is a point of strength in development.  Well done, Fish.

4,  San Diego (2.9):  Notable depth at short and left.  Second and right are the next best developed spots followed by center.  Weak points are catching and third (below average) while future first basemen are thin with the best at A ball (Jake Bauers).  As testament to the Pads depth, consider the deep trade activity the team engaged in.  Others do pay attention.  Speaking of traded players, Joe Wieland (#1 starter) and Joe Ross (3# starter) now enjoy greener pastures outside the Padres’ system.  Matt Wisler (AA) and Kyle Lloyd (A) are the most interesting starters in system.  Jerry Sullivan (AAA) leads an average group of relievers that is dominated at the A level that leaves too much to future proof.

5.  Atlanta (2.8):  Lots of quality first base talent (Joey Terdoslavich/MLB/AAA, Ernesto Mejia/AAA, Seth Loman/AA, Rich Poythress/AA and Jake Schrader/A).  Philip Goselin (3b/MLB/AAA) should stay in Atlanta.  Cedric Hunter, (lf/MLB/AA, skipped AAA) , Todd Cunningham (cf/MLB/AAA) and Jose Martinez (lf/A+) are the best outfield prospects.  A battle rages between two quality shortstop prospects, Gustavo Nunel (AA) and Elmer Reyes (AA).  Sadly, starting pitching prospects are woeful.  Once upon a time, the Braves developed quality starters like Hostess made Twinkies.  Alas, no more.  No AAA prospects of note.  The best in system is Greg Ross (AA/A+).  While the Braves AAA efforts find only one prospect (Chasen Shreve/MLB/AAA/AA) in the bullpen, Shae Simmons (MLB/AA, sorry, a 2 game exposure at AAA doesn’t count for AAA exposure) and James Hoyt (AA) form an above average group in the system bullpen.

6T.  St. Louis (2.7):  Cracks are found.  No third base prospects.  Two left field prospects.  Two right field prospects.  Three average shortstops.  Above average development is found at the 2-4 and 8 spots. Ed Easley (c/AAA), Xavier Scruggs (1b/MLB/AAA), Greg Garcia (2b/MLB/AAA), Thomas Pham (cf/MLB/AAA) are the most likely to not play AAA ball in 2015.  The Cards create no cracks whatsoever with pitching development.  My favorite word:  Loaded.  Starters include Marco Gonzales (the highly unlikely line of MLB/AAA/AA/A+ while posting superb numbers at all stops) Tyler Lyons (MLB/AAA), Nick Greenwood (MLB/AAA), Tim Cooney (AAA), Angel Castro (AAA) and Zach Petrick (AAA/AA).  The rich get richer.  Now for the bullpen.  Jeremy Berg (AA) is the one to watch, but Dean Kickhefer (AAA), Heath Wyatt (AAA) and Jorge Rendon (MLB/AAA) are more than ready.

6T.  Pittsburgh (2.7):  Lots of outfield prospects which is indicative of the talent already found in Pittsburgh.  Any organization in need of outfield candidates need to call the Pirates   Jose Tabata and Gregory Polanco cannot both play right field at the same time.  Keon Broxton (AA), Mel Rojas (AAA/AA) and Austin Meadows (A) can hit and roam center.  Jeff Decker (MLB/AAA) needs one more year at AAA.  Catching and first base are as strong as outfield development.  Andrew Lambo (MLB/AAA) and Chris McGuiness (MLB/AAA) are a strong duo at first.  Elisa Diaz (AA) is the best of the catchers.  Second and third need work while short is a dismal failure.  Speaking of dismal, that describes the relief development.  One guy at AA (Kenn Kasparek) and three at A ball.  Yuck.  However, starting pitching is just the opposite.  Vance Worley (MLB/AAA) should not throw 46 innings at AAA in 2015.  Casey Sadler (MLB/AAA) and Brandon Crampon (MLB/AAA) should join Vance on a permanent basis somewhere in MLB land.  Nick Kingham (AAA), Tyler Waldron (AAA) and Jake Brigham (AAA) wait in the wings.

6T.  Arizona (2.7):  As bad, if not worse, than Pittsburgh in relief development.  The Snakes do slither, slide and stink after the sixth inning in developmental baseball.  I choose Silvino Bracho (A) as the sole hope of system wide relief efforts.  While speaking of bad pitching development, may I present the starters.  Below average on a good day.  Zeke Spruill (MLB/AAA), Chase Anderson (MLB/AA, skipped AAA) and Charles Brewer (MLB/AAA) alone with Bryan Woodall (AA) are, um, bright spots of a woeful group.  Moving to the offense, lots and lots of shortstops.  The deepest pool in MLB.  Nick Ahmed (MLB/AAA) leads a talented group.  Raul Navarro (ss/A+) and Ryan Gebhardt (ss/A+) will rise quickly.  Left and center are brimming with talent.  Alfredo Marte (lf/MLB/AAA), Tom Belza (lf/AA), Ender Inciarte (cf/MLB/AAA) and Mike Freeman (cf/AAA) should all find time in MLB during 2015.  Steve Rodriguez (AA) leads a talented, but young group of catchers.  First and right need a lot of work either due to age issues or lack of prospects.

7.  Los Angeles (2.6):  A system of extremes.  Plenty or famine.  Plenty at the 2, 4, 6 and 9 spots.  Famine at third, left and center.  Only first offers in between.  Why Tim Federowicz (c/MLB/AAA) does not stick in L.A. is a mystery.  Chris O’Brien (c/AA) will soon push Mr. Federowicz.  Since the Dodgers traded for Howie Kendrick, I imagine Alex Guerrero (2b/MLB/AAA) and Ryan Adams (2b/MLB/AA, skipped AAA) are available.  Corey Seager has been crowned heir apparent at short, but Miguel Rojas (ss/MLB/AAA) can also hit and field as can the tongue twister Erisbel Arruebarrena (ss/MLB/AAA).  Speaking of heir apparent, Joe Pedersen (cf/MLB/AAA), despite impressive numbers, may be available post-spring given the eternal log jam in the Dodgers’ outfield, Kemp reduced or not.  Starting pitching is as substantial as gruel.  Candidates do not exist above the A+ level.  Pin hope on Jonathan Martinez (A).  The relief group is slightly less thin.  One AAA candidate and one AA candidate.  Then the gruel returns.  The Dodgers have the worst pitching development in minor league baseball.  The worst.

8.  Cincinnati (2.5):  The 2-9 spots are weak in AA development.  Not a good long term sign.  Neftali Soto (3b/MLB/AAA), Jake Elmore (2b/MLB/AAA), Bryan Anderson (c/MLB/AAA/AA) and Rey Navarro (ss/AAA) are the best bets to remain out of AAA in 2015.  After the less than thick offering of AAA help, we skip AA for the most part (Seth Mejias-Brean/3b/AA/A+ holds the greatest hope) and we drop to A+ ball for the majority of the prospects.  Returning to the Dodger crown of horrible pitching development, the Reds are not far behind.  Both starters and relievers rate below average.  The most promising starters are Ben Lively (A+) and Daniel Wright (A+/A).  The upper levels of relievers are just as unspectacular as starters, so I offer Juan Gonzalez (A+), Layne Somsem (A) and Nolan Becker (A) as future bullpen Reds.

9.  Chicago (2.4):  Not a single shortstop or centerfielder in their system.  Two in left.  Granted, two each at third and right, but two of those four are Kris Bryant (3b/AAA/AA) and Jorge Soler (rf/MLB/AAA/AA).  Thus, forgiveness is granted.  Catching is loaded.  Most interesting is Kyle Schwarber (A+/A), but he has plenty of competition above and below.  First and second are the next two spots offering choice, but with Rizzo at first Lars Anderson (1b/MLB/AAA/AA) is bound for elsewhere, though he can play.  The same fate awaits Mike Olt (1b/MLB/AAA, though he was once the third baseman of the future for Texas, thus he has position options).  Starting pitching is full of talent.  Consider the possible inclusion of Eric Jokisch ((MLB/AAA), Kyle Hendricks (MLB/AAA), Dallas Beeler (MLB/AAA), Chris Rusin (MLB/AAA) and possibly Joe Gardner (AA).  As for the ‘pen, Marcus Hartley (AAA) and Andrew McKirahan (AA/A+) are the best of a less than impressive group.

10.  San Francisco (2.3):  Sparse development.  Nobody at first.  One guy at short (Matt Duffy/MLB/AA, skipped AAA).  Two guys in right (though, Juan Perez posted very strong numbers.  MLB/AAA).  Center has no prospects at AAA or AA.  We witnessed the rise of Joe Panik (2b/MLB/AAA), though he may well be pushed by Blake Miller (2b/AA/A+).  Most of the 2-9 talent is found at the A+ level.  Pitching development is average.  The best starter is Clayton Blackburn (AA).  Hunter Strickland (MLB/AA, skipped AAA) and Cody Hall (AA) are the best relief prospects of a group that registered six system wide.

11.  Colorado (2.1):  Ugh.  Meh.  The future is, um, in the distance.  The following 2-9 guys in A ball are worth a watch:  Joe Briceno (c, 44% toss rate), Raimel Tapia (lf), David Dahl (cf), Ashley Graeter (c, 36% toss rate), Patrick Valaika (ss) and Dillon Thomas (lf).  Rarely do I see a team with few A+ prospects, but the Rockies fell into that hole.  Rarely, do I see 4 (the number between 3 and 5) prospects at a AA, but the Rockies fell into that hole as well.  Starting pitching development is average.  Daniel Winkler (AA) is the best in system.  Five guys made the cut as relievers.  You guess.  You choose.

12.  Milwaukee (1.9):  Positive spin . . . they have catchers.  An absolute log jam at AA (Shawn Zarraga, Adam Weisenburger and Joey Paciorek).  Plus one guy at A+ (Parker Berberet) and guy at A (Rafael Neda).  First is barren, less the mystery of Matt Clark (MLB/AAA) who should have logged year 5 in MLB a long time ago.  Two prospects at third:  Jason Rogers (MLB/AAA/AA) and Taylor Smith-Brennan (A).  The rest of the 2-9 development is a shoulder shrug.  But, wait!  The Brew Crew develops starters.  Jimmy Nelson (MLB/AAA), Tyler Cravy (AA), Jed Bradley (A+) and Taylor Williams (A+/A) are the best of a solid core.  Relievers, not so much.  The majority of the talent lies in A+.  Overall, average at best.

13.  Philadelphia (1.3):  I’m so sorry, Phillies’ fans.  Your organization does nothing well regarding development.  You scout, draft, sign and develop as well as SONY decides to release film.  The only spots that ranked average were catching and right field.  The rest are bad, stinky, yucky and road kill-ish (new word).  And now for pitching.  I’m so sorry, Phillies’ fans.  Okay, I’ll stop.  Both starting pitching and relief rated below average.  Here are two names, both starters:  Aaron Nola (AA/A+) and Ryan Demmin (A+).  I rated seven relievers system wide.  Maybe Hector Neris (MLB/AAA) sticks in the Bigs.  Maybe Tyler Knigge (AAA/AA).  Does anybody believe in explosives?

 

38-7 Over The Wounded San Jose State Spartans

Posted: November 30, 2014 in Uncategorized
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A butt kicking that should have been a butt kicking.  San Jose State uses three quarterbacks to the collective effort of 17/31 with one touchdown, but all for a paltry 133 yards.  The Aztec defense keeps the Spartan offense to less than 245 total yards.  In the words of Montgomery (Mr.) Burns, “Excellent.”

Let’s talk about the Aztecs.  7-5/5-3.  Not bad.  Candidly, not good, rather average, but given the difficulties at quarterback, Ruffin missing a handful of games and Fely never fully recovering from his injury, 2014 could have been a lot worse.

Speaking of difficulties at quarterback, Quinn Kaehler must have been feeling the shoulder ding as the game progressed.  Two series in the third quarter was reminiscent of Nick Bawden’s attempts to direct the offense earlier in the year.  Some games, Quinn has little to nothing, and yesterday was one of those games.  15 attempts and 4 completions is all that needs to be said. Thankfully, the o-line was absolutely dominating.  At times, the Spartan defensive line resembled a bad juco team.  The Aztec front five was getting pushes four to five yards deep seemingly every snap against the Spartans.  San Jose State was walking backwards in a rude fashion.  Pumphrey was fantastic.  Pump deserves all accolades given.  Any running back averaging 12.1 yards per carry is offering a game to remember.  The offense finishing the regular season with a 5/5 effort in the almighty red zone, was a job well done, especially with 4 of the 5 being touchdowns.  9 of 17 on third down was also of positive note.  Again, a sweep of the helmet to the Aztec o-line.

Now, we wait.  Bowl people are fickle.  I politely disagreed with the Poinsettia Bowl post-game exchange between Uncle Teddy and Kirk Morrison.  The gents were assuming a bit too much.  Sure, playing in the Poinsettia Bowl in a rematch with Navy would be welcome.  Candidly, playing any bowl game anywhere is welcome.  Keep those spears and fingers crossed.

A general review of the 2014 SDSU football season is in the works (you do not need to thank me).

The Red Sox, Sandoval and Ramirez

Posted: November 25, 2014 in Uncategorized
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The Sox spend a lot of money on two guys.  Never a good sign.  One enjoys too much food.  The other seems tender, nay, delicate.

The idea of trading Xander Bogaerts is idiotic and should be banished from Cherington’s skull.  The idea of trading Middlebrooks is the classic foregone conclusion.  Will’s inability to hit September pitching was his exit from Fenway, not the signing of Sandoval.  If Will could not hit the liberal sprinkling of AAA pitching auditioning during the final month of the year, Will simply cannot hit at the major league level.  For that reason, I begrudgingly accept the arrival of Panda at third.

Panda at third brings a somewhat marginal fielding percentage of .967.  Meh.  Do know that Mr. Sandoval has logged 63 games at first with a much more impressive .991 catch it and throw it percentage.  Which leads me to wonder if Napoli will not join the legion of trade rumor.  Pablo’s bat should achieve full bloom in Fenway.  He has a seven-year average of 36 doubles, 20/86 and .294/.346.  Granted, his former home field was spacious and deep, but as with most power righties, the possibilities of Fenway are forever intriguing.  Since 2009, Pablo has played in excess of 150 games three seasons (’09, ’10 and ’14), thus I want to believe that the Sox will receive their money’s worth regarding Pablo appearing at work.  Finally, Mr. Sandoval’s post-season production of .344/.389 and 6 dingers with 20 rbi should never be far from consideration.

Now for Hanley Ramirez.

Even though I opened with a pinch about his “health”, Hanley has an above average record of playing nine innings. From ’06 to ’09 he was north of 150 games.  In ’12 he played in 157.  Last year featured a return close to normal (128 games compared to 86 the year before and 92 in 2011, thus the reputation as to tenderness).  His error total for a shortstop is noteworthy.  The last four seasons have featured 14, 15, 13 and 16 kicks which is nowhere near disappointing for a starting middle infielder.  Then we consider his bat:  162 games (hold that thought) will yield 40 doubles, 25/87 and .300/.373.  Also include 35 steals.  Not bad.  Not bad at all.

Regarding all the rumor of positions to play, exiting Red Sox, arriving Red Sox and the lot, these two gentlemen create options galore for Ben (and Larry, who forever lurks in the shadow of decision).  Hanley played 90 games at third base in 2012.  As mentioned above, Pablo is familiar with first base (though I would rather Ryan Lavarnway become full-time familiar with first base in Fenway).  Is 2015 Ortiz’s final year?  If so, Pablo fills (pun intended) the dh spot rather nicely.  Xander should be allowed to continue his journey as the Red Sox starting shortstop.  His potential is considerable.  I’d rather witness Pablo wobble around third for the 2015 season and Hanley in left than endure the bad decision of Xander traded to whomever.  Other than Mookie Betts, the outfield is full of possibility.  Those who scoff at the idea of trading Victorino may want to reconsider the scoff.  Nava proves year after year, he can play, plus at a bargain.  Bradley, Junior finishing in a temperamental huff in Pawtucket gives Ben pause as to Jackie’s time in uniform.  Perhaps a change of scenery would serve Jackie well.  Mookie is the better ball player.  Cespedes seemed eager to speak of other options at the end of 2014.  If his transaction leads to quality starting pitching, transact as soon as possible.  Where does Allen Craig fit?  First?  Left?  Right?  For another team?  If most of these meanderings become truth, Henry Ramos (AA), Derrik Gibson (AA) and Peter Hissey (AA) are a couple of years away to fill any void 2016 forward.  Fear not for the outfield.

35-21, Ugly Over Idaho

Posted: November 9, 2014 in Uncategorized
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Jon Sanchez should do nothing else but run.  Run the entire week of practice.  Run, Jon, run.  An idiotic move on his part eliminates Aztec momentum at a key moment of developing separation, i.e., we were playing well.  Mr. Sanchez yanks on an opponent’s face mask which was equivalent to opening the door for the Vandals’ offense or, if you prefer, slamming the door on the Aztec offense, nay, team.

Yet, we win.

Ezell Ruffin catching not one, but two touchdown passes bodes well for the remainder of the year.  Mr. Ruffin finding the end zone must become common place if the Aztecs wish to receive a bowl invitation.  4 for 86 coupled with Eric Judge’s 4 for 107 was a welcome development.  The bulk of Quinn Kaehler’s 249 yards of completions are found in the hands of Mr. Ruffin and Mr. Judge.

Speaking on behalf of Mr. Kaehler, shame on the offensive line for allowing four sacks against a struggling opponent.

Returning to the other side of the ball, the Aztec defense was horrible the first half.  Then the ever-present “at the half” adjustment occurred.  The “adjusted” Aztec defense (I can only imagine the blistering speech by one Rocky Long in the locker room), less the idiocy of Mr. Sanchez, was a sight to behold.  Candidly, giving up 21 points to the Vandals was 14 too many.  26 first downs?  379 total yards?  The stuff of upset, but a closer look reveals a paltry 3.9 yards per rush.  The Idaho receivers dropped at least three passes that would have resulted in continuing drives.  Perhaps our defensive backs kicked up enough dust to interfere with Vandal vision.  We can only hope.

The cold, thin air of Boise awaits.  The Broncos were lucky to beat a bad UNM team.  Hopefully, the Aztecs arrive ready to play four quarters of football, not two.  Air Force and San Jose State arrive at the Q to finish the year.  2-1 worst case.  I’m expecting 3-0.

30-14. Losers In Reno. Or, Zero-Zero Is Not Welcome.

Posted: November 2, 2014 in Uncategorized
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Consecutive zeros never deliver offensive charm, and last night was no exception.  Zero in the third.  Zero in the fourth.  Anemic, to be polite.  The Aztec offense could not put the ball in the end zone.  Thus, the game.

Kaehler was average:  21/36/1 (mandatory interception) for 189 yards.  A shoulder shrug.  Meh.  Chase Price was impressive.  Not only 58 yards on 8 rushes, but 4 catches as well.  Jake “Fifth Gear” Fely’s return was welcome, but no real effect in the end.  Kind of the same with Ruffin.  Good to have him on the field, but a loss is a loss.

As for the Wolfpack, Fajardo was contained and his passing was ineffective (10/24/1 for a mere 109 yards).  What the Aztec defense could not stop was Jackson (20/124) and Butler (15/103).  A lot of their yardage was up the middle.  Another sign of a bad night.

I must admit that a bowl game is looking doubtful.  Boise, Nevada and the surprising Rams of CSU have the nod at this point. We can only hope for a near perfect finish with the remaining games.  Here’s hoping.

SDSU 20-10, Over The Rainbow

Posted: October 19, 2014 in Uncategorized
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While the Aztec offense was generally incapable of scoring in the almighty red zone for most of the evening, the Aztec defense was the definition of beauty . . . if you are a football fan.  Hawaii scrapped together a paltry 264 yards of total offense including less than 100 yards of rushing offense.  Two interceptions, one each by Damontae Kazee and Malik Smith, at key moments, removed any hope of momentum on behalf of the Rainbow.  SDSU stopping Hawaii’s late third quarter drive sealed the deal.  Hawaii had the ball a mere 2:49 in the fourth quarter.  No chance to close the gap.  Less the fluke touchdown at the end of the second quarter, Hawaii does not score a touchdown.  The final bit of proof:  Six punts on behalf of the visitors.

As for the Aztec offense, ugly, but effective enough.  Quinn Kaehler (13/24/174) played well given his shoulder consideration. No interceptions was nice.  He hit 10 different receivers for completions.  I will generally ignore the glaring number of dropped passes on behalf of the receiving corps.  71 offensive plays and 457 total yards suggest that SDSU should have put at least another 17 points on the board.  Hageman missing from 31 is proof he’s human, and remains a tremendous upgrade from last year’s field goal efforts.  Donnel (25/182) may have to share more time with not only Chase Price, but Marcus Stamps as well.  Mr. Stamps run of 34 yards was a combination of grace and bruising-cruising.  Imagine Bob Toledo working a few plays with a three back set of the following four:  Pumphrey, Price, Stamps and Gordon.  Linebackers wince at the mere thought.

A well deserved and timed week off allows Mr. Kaehler rest and rehab.  Same goes for all Aztecs suffering dings and dents.  Ezell Ruffin should return for the Idaho game (11/8), though do not be surprised if he plays against Nevada (11/1).

4-3/3-1.  At Nevada is the immediate challenge.  Less a complete breakdown, Idaho is a win.  Boise did not impress against Fresno.  Air Force is never easy.  San Jose needing overtime to beat Wyoming is a great sign for SDSU.  Worst case for the last 5 games is 3-2, though I’m hopeful for 5-0.  Call me greedy.

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