There’s something rather interesting going on over in the AL West; the only four team division in baseball is really only offering three different teams this year. There are still four franchises, but Oakland and Seattle have apparently decided to put the exact same team on the field this year.
If you go to the team pages here on the site, it’s impossible to avoid the similarities. We’ll start on the mound, which is where both teams strengths lie.
Both pitching staffs have accumulated +7.7 WAR which puts them in a tie for first place in the American League. In both scenarios, the starting rotation has done the bulk of the good work, with both teams receiving quality performances from every member of their rotation.
Both staffs have also had to adjust to losing their closers to injuries, as David Aardsma and Andrew Bailey have spent the entire year on the DL. Replacement closers Brandon League (three consecutive blown saves) and Brian Fuentes (AL leading six losses) have both struggled at times, but their bullpens have been rescued by nondescript right-handers with similar names – David Pauley in Seattle, David Purcey in Oakland.
While the pitchers are the strength of both organizations, the position players are another story. Billy Beane and Jack Zduriencik both put together rosters of players who had good defensive reputations and hoped to get enough offense from a few key hitters to make up for the fact that neither team had much in the way of power. Well, the no power aspect has turned out to be true, as the Mariners are last in the Majors in home runs with 24 – the A’s have 25, and are only ahead of the M’s in launching balls over the fence.
Additionally, the defense part of that “pitching and defense
Seattle and Oakland won't score enough to win the division...
Texas is still out front without Hamilton for a month, Cruz for almost 3 weeks and the bullpen completely falling apart for a month now... Still the favorites, easily.
Seattle and Oakland won't score enough to win the division...
Texas is still out front without Hamilton for a month, Cruz for almost 3 weeks and the bullpen completely falling apart for a month now... Still the favorites, easily.
That's probably true, but what this Mariners rotation is doing right now is fun to watch. It's pretty historic stuff.
Their starters have 9 straight outings where they've lasted at least 7 innings and all with earned runs at 2 or less. And that even includes the bullpen. Nothing like this has happend since the '88 Giants.
That's probably true, but what this Mariners rotation is doing right now is fun to watch. It's pretty historic stuff.
Their starters have 9 straight outings where they've lasted at least 7 innings and all with earned runs at 2 or less. And that even includes the bullpen. Nothing like this has happend since the '88 Giants.
Not to say it isn't impressive but it's San Diego in Petco and home to LA and Minnesota. Let's see how they fare when it starts getting warmer, Pineda makes his second round against teams and they play the higher ups in the AL.
Not to say it isn't impressive but it's San Diego in Petco and home to LA and Minnesota. Let's see how they fare when it starts getting warmer, Pineda makes his second round against teams and they play the higher ups in the AL.
George Steinbrenner loved to tweak the Mets, and folks who worked for him say he drew great pleasure out of the fact that his aggressive pursuit of great players put public pressure on the team in Queens. By the end of Steinbrenner's life, the perception was often that he was the owner who got the job done -- it certainly was more complicated than that, through his three-plus decades as the steward of the Yankees -- and Fred Wilpon was the cheapskate among the New York baseball owners.
Getty ImagesThe one thing people know about the Mets might be that Sandy Alderson can do his job. It keeps getting tougher.
But Wilpon benefited, too, by being naturally cast against Steinbrenner. While Steinbrenner was impetuous, and often a bully, the public image of Wilpon has been, by comparison, as something of a statesman. He is well-spoken, well-groomed, measured in what he says, almost always gracious.
For years, some of the folks who worked for him have chuckled about the image juxtaposition, because behind closed doors, they found his demeanor to be a lot like what Steinbrenner was: anxious, demanding, as easily frustrated as someone obsessed with the hour-to-hour results of a fantasy team. The Mets' front-office meetings have been legendarily long, with circular discussions about how a mediocre talent might be turned into a star.
That part of Wilpon's personality was revealed in Jeffrey Toobin's New Yorker profile -- a side that, right now, might represent the greatest threat to a Mets organization that should be very concerned about diminishing one of its most important assets: general manager Sandy Alderson.
We know, from Wilpon's words, that he isn't going to be investing in Jose Reyes. We know that Wilpon thinks David Wright is not a superstar. We know that Carlos Beltran is worth only 65-70 percent of what he's paid, in the eyes of the owner. It is now taken as a fait accompli in some other front offices that Reyes is going to be traded this summer, and presumably, Beltran will soon be out the door. Whether Wright will want to leave the Mets and find a more stable situation is an open question.
"
They need to let Sandy do his job. If he gets some space, there is a lot of potential for great things to happen.
" -- a Mets source
But the Mets need Alderson to stay, to demonstrate stability on behalf of an organization that badly needs it. And not only for the remaining Mets fans who still buy tickets to see the games -- in spite of the owner's denigration of the product -- but also for potential investors that Wilpon admits he so desperately needs.
Sources say that some millionaires who expressed interest in buying into the Mets have backed off, partly because their requests for some control over the franchise have been rebuffed. There is great concern, for some potential investors, that buying into the franchise could be like pouring paint down a hole. There is great concern that Fred Wilpon fosters a management structure that does not work.
There are no such doubts about Alderson. He is highly respected for his acumen, and so are the people he's brought into the organization.
But sources say the internal struggle that has gone on for years continues. "They need to let Sandy do his job," said a source. "If he gets some space, there is a lot of potential for great things to happen."
The worst thing that could happen, on the other hand, is for Alderson to be diminished or marginalized, and certainly Wilpon's published comments did not help Alderson or the organization. At the very least, the owner has already gnawed at some of the leverage Alderson has in shopping Reyes. Now nobody believes the Mets would actually consider keeping their shortstop.
What Wilpon should do now is make sure that Alderson is left alone to do his job, as he sees fit, within the budget the Mets give him.
All Wilpon needs to understand the wreckage of his own management of the team is to read Toobin's piece, again.
• By the way: It's interesting that Wilpon would say his shortstop is looking for a Carl Crawford-type of deal, because according to sources, the owner isn't really in a position to know what Reyes wants -- the Mets haven't even engaged him in contract talks.
The Mets' players responded to Wilpon's zingers, as David Waldstein writes. The best comment in the bunch came from Mike Pelfrey, to Waldstein:
"I think guys will be upset," pitcher Mike Pelfrey said. "But we're all a family: ownership, coaches and players. Sometimes people say things they regret. It's a mistake and you learn from it. Maybe next spring when we have our media workshop for the players, Fred can come and sit in on it."
Fred Wilpon passed the buck with his comments, writes Harvey Araton, failing to acknowledge management's failures. The owner just created another distraction, writes David Lennon.
This is how his comments were being perceived in a lot of other front offices: Wilpon just showed the cards of general manager Sandy Alderson to the rest of the table.
[h3]Elsewhere[/h3]
• It has been a really awful week for the Oakland Athletics, who saw three of their six best starting pitchers officially go down -- Dallas Braden (surgery), Tyson Ross (oblique) and Brandon McCarthy (arm trouble). Oakland's offense continues to be a problem, and oh by the way, the Athletics apparently are no closer to a resolution on their ballpark issue than they were 26 months ago, when the commissioner's blue-ribbon committee was formed to help resolve the situation. For the record, that's almost a year-and-half longer than it took for the Warren Commission to complete its work.
The frustration that the Oakland relievers feel with how they're handled by manager Bob Geren spilled out of Brian Fuentes after Monday's loss to the Angels, as Joe Stiglich writes; Fuentes blasted Geren, writes John Shea.
As Oakland looks to move pieces, a player who would be in the shop window is Coco Crisp, the veteran outfielder who is in the last year of his deal with the team.
• Speaking of teams that could use an outfielder: The Braves called up Jordan Schafer, at a time when they've placed Nate McLouth and Jason Heyward on the disabled list. Schaefer was hitting .256 in Triple-A, as Carroll Rogers writes.
Total speculation: Crisp would be a natural fit for the Braves, because of his versatility and ability to hit at the top of the lineup.
This is not speculation: What Atlanta would love to do is to get a hitter who could bat leadoff -- like Crisp -- and then slide Martin Prado to the No. 2 or No. 3 spot in the batting order, to create depth.
• A scout who saw the Indians' Josh Tomlin last month offered this assessment: "He doesn't have a single average pitch, from what I saw; everything is below average." What he does have, the scout says, is the ability to throw strikes, some moxie, and a great sense of pace.
A) Ogando pounded the zone with his mid-90s fastball. He threw 50 of his 78 (64.1 pct) fastballs in the zone, his highest percentage as a starter. He worked primarily up in the zone, throwing 57 of his 78 fastballs at the belt or above. Hitters were 2-for-18 on at bats ending on a fastball in that location.
B) Ogando stayed out of hitters' counts. He started 1-0 to 13 hitters but went 2-0 to just one of them (9 strikes, 3 balls in play). That's the fewest 2-0 counts he's gone to as a starter.
• Wrote here last week about how some teams believe Anthony Rendon, the Rice infielder, best projects as a second baseman, rather than a third baseman, because of his body type and because of questions about his throwing arm. I've heard similar observations in recent days from other teams -- but all agree that Rendon will be a good hitter in the majors. "He really knows how to hit; he's going to be a good hitter," said one executive. "I don't know if he'll have the pop he's had in college, but he's going to hit."
[h3]Dings and dents[/h3] 1.Grady Sizemore could be back this week. 2.Stephen Strasburg threw off a mound.
3.Mitchell Boggs, a closer candidate for the Cardinals earlier this year, has been sent to Triple-A. He will prepare for a possible return as a starting pitcher.
11. Maybe the most stunning numbers I've seen this morning: The Twins are 15 1/2 games out of first place in the AL Central, and 10 games out in the wild-card standings, after their loss on Monday. Along the way, Jim Thome homered twice, on his march toward 600 for his career.
The Boston Red Sox apparently can breathe a sigh of relief after Dustin Pedroia suffered nothing worse than a twisted ankle after slipping on a west second base Monday night in Cleveland, reports ESPNBoston.com.
Manager Terry Francona already was planning on giving Pedroia the night off on Tuesday, so the second baseman is expected back in the lineup Wednesday night against the Indians.
The Red Sox have every reason to play it safe with Pedroia after he broke his left foot last June 25 and was limited to 75 games in 2010.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Slowey done as a reliever[/h3]
11:23AM ET
UPDATE: An MRI on Slowey showed no damage, but manager Ron Gardenhire said Monday that the righthander will not pitch again until he is in a position to start. "We've got to find another way, whether it's Triple-A or whatever," Gardenhire said.
If Slowey is traded, the Twins will be looking to unload his $2.7 million salary for this season.
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We speculated throughout spring training how Kevin Slowey, unable to land a job in the rotation, would end up as trade bait for the Minnesota Twins. That could finally happen, but only after a stint in the minor leagues.
Slowey has struggled as a reliever, posting a 4.91 ERA in six appearances, and manager Ron Gardenhire hinted on his radio show Sunday that the righthander could be headed to Triple-A Rochester, where the plan would be to stretch him out as a starter.
La Velle Neal of the Star Tribune writes Monday that if Slowey regains his form at Rochester, the Twins could get a decent player in return. Slowey said in a text message to Neal late Sunday that he believes there's a possibility he'll be traded.
There are no shortage of teams looking for a starter, even if Slowey is not necessarily a top-of-the-rotation guy. That list should include the Yankees and Red Sox, who could have the most to offer in return. Slowey would be a good fit in Boston if Daisuke Matsuzaka is out longer than expected.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]First base options in DC[/h3]
10:54AM ET
The Washington Nationals so far have little to show for their two-year, $16 million investment in free agent Adam LaRoche. Those dividends diminished even more Monday when the first baseman landed on the disabled list.
LaRoche, hitting a paltry .172, will undergo additional tests on his ailing shoulder.
Michael Morse started at first base Monday in Milwaukee and is manager Jim Riggleman's first choice to replace LaRoche, reports Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.
Alex Cora and Matt Stairs could also see time at first, and Riggleman said Rick Ankiel will start taking groundballs at first base. Maybe a few extra at-bats will help Stairs, who is just 2-for-20 as a pinch hitter.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Sizemore making progress[/h3]
10:37AM ET
UPDATE: Sizemore went through a productive workout Monday and manager Manny Acta doesn't think his center fielder will need to go on a rehab assignment, reports Paul Hoynes of The Plain Dealer. If all goes well, Sizemore could be activated later this week.
Sizemore will be reevaluated Thursday and could add some more baseball activities to his routine in the days ahead. It doesn't appears as if this injury will keep him out for the long term.
In the meantime, Ezequiel Carrera, called up Friday, can help out in center field and at the top of the order in a pinch, but will likely be sent down once Sizemore is activated, which could come as early as next Thursday, the day Sizemore is to be examined.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Olney: Crisp a fit in Atlanta?[/h3]
10:26AM ET
GM Billy Beane may be looking to deal, and ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney writes in Tuesday's blog that a player who would be in the "shop window" is Coco Crisp, the veteran outfielder who is in the last year of his contract.
Olney speculates that Crisp would be a natural fit for the Braves, because of his versatility and ability to hit at the top of the lineup. With Nate McLouth on the DL, the Braves are expected to try Jordan Schafer in center field for a few weeks.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Chavez back in 2-3 weeks?[/h3]
10:01AM ET
Chavez, who has a history of injuries, was hitting a solid .303 in 17 games before landing on the disabled list. While Chavez can swing a bat, he will not be cleared to run until he undergoes another MRI.
With Jorge Posada continuing to struggle, Chavez could get some at-bats as a designated hitter when he returns.
The San Diego Padres demoted struggling right fielder Will Venable to Triple-A Tucson in a bold move that could have some of his teammates looking over their shoulder.
The roster move was the result of a perfect storm - Venable was hitting .224, was showing few signs of coming around and he had options remaining. Bill Center of the Union Tribune says the decision to demote the franchise's poster boy for homegrown talent was meant as a wakeup call.
"If it can happen to Venable, it can happen to almost anyone on this under-achieving club," Center writes.
Chris Denorfia, who leads the Padres with a .330 batting average, should take over as the regular right fielder at least temporarily. Who could be next out of town? Maybe first baseman Brad Hawpe, who was signed to a one-year deal and is hitting just .233.
A major rift has surfaced in the Oakland bullpen just as Andrew Bailey moves closer to his return from the disabled list.
Interim closer Brian Fuentes had some choice words for manager Bob Geren after Monday's loss to the Angels in which the lefthander faced two hitters in the eighth inning and took his fourth loss in his past four appearances.
Fuentes tells Joe Stiglich of the Bay Area News Group he has "zero" communication with his manager. When asked to describe how he is being used out of the bullpen, Fuentes responded "pretty poorly."
The offseason plan was for Fuentes to serve as a setup man and occasional closer, but those plans are unraveling. The closing opportunities for Fuentes will likely vanish when Bailey, currently on a rehab stint at Triple-A Sacramento, returns.
Fuentes signed a two-year, $12.5 million this past offseason, so it is highly unlikely he would be released this quickly.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]When will Ackley get the call?[/h3]
8:50AM ET
[h5]Seattle Mariners [/h5]
It is a question of when and not if the Mariners promote second base phenom Dustin Ackley.
Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com says the promotion "should happen soon," with the Mariners replacing him at Triple-A with his former teammate at North Carolina, Kyle Seager.
Until now, the Mariners, who could use an offensive boost, have been splitting the second base duties between Jack Wilson and Adam Kennedy.
Seager, currently at Double-A Jackson, could end up being stuck behind Ackley in the Seattle system. In his latest SweetSpot blog, ESPN.com's David Schoenfield suggests Seager would fit nicely in a trade that would bring Carlos Beltran to Seattle.
There has been ample speculation that Mets shortstop Jose Reyes would be a nice fit in San Francisco, where veteran Miguel Tejada got off to a slow start at the plate.
Tejada, in case you didn't notice, may not be done after all. Currently playing third base while Pablo Sandoval is on the disabled list, Tejada has 10 hits in his last 28 bats to raise his average to .224. Tejada could be moved back to shortstop when Sandoval returns, replacing the slumping Mike Fontenot.
While Reyes would undoubtedly be a major upgrade at shortstop, Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com writes that the Giants are not about to quit on their $6 million investment in Tejada just six months into the season.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Destinations for Beltran[/h3]
8:04AM ET
When Carlos Beltran was a coveted prize on the free agent market six years ago, agent Scott Boras made every effort to land a monumental deal with the New York Yankees. That never materialized, and Beltran ended up across town with the New York Mets.
Beltran's contract expires after the season, and the overwhelming consensus gives him no chance of playing in Queens in 2012. Before the Mets and Yankees staged their Subway Series last weekend, Ebenezer Samuel of the Daily News asked if the Bronx could be the next stop for Beltran.
Beltran's value has only accelerated in recent weeks, and his recent three-homer performance against the Rockies turned some heads. The biggest concern has been with a surgically repaired knee, but he has been playing the outfield on a reglar basis in recent weeks.
David Schoenfield of ESPN.com suggests another destination for Beltran clear across the country. In his latest SweetSpot blog, Schoenfield suggests the Mets send Beltran and $5 million to the Mariners for minor league second baseman Kyle Seager. The Mets need a second baseman and Seager is stuck behind Dustin Ackley in the Seattle system.
ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney wrote last week that the Mets may be poised to cash in on Beltran's career revival:
"Beltran, eligible for free agency this fall, is making a whopping $18.5 million this year, and it will be interesting to see how his salary plays into other teams' pursuit of him. Last year, only two teams -- the Rangers and the Yankees -- spent $5 million or more in midseason additions. If Beltran were to be traded at midseason without the Mets kicking in any money, then his next team would be on the hook for $9 million.Presumably, the Mets will wind up kicking in some money to offset the salary, but the better that Beltran plays, the better his trade value will be, as one of the very few available position players who could be a difference-maker. New York could wind up getting a decent prospect in return for him if he continues to play this well."
http://[h3]Mets could lose $70 million[/h3]
7:52AM ET
[h5]New York Mets [/h5]
New York Mets owner Fred Wilpon has been remarkably candid over the last few days.
On Monday, a story in the New Yorker contained some brutally honest critiques of some of the Mets marquee players. That was a prelude to this week's Sports Illustrated in which Wilpon says the Mets are "bleeding cash" and could lose as much as $70 million this year. Wilpon adds that the $1 billion lawsuit filed by Irving Picard, the trustee who represents Ponzi scheme artist Bernie Madoff's victims, could cost him ownership of the team if Picard prevails.
The New Yorker article by Jeffrey Toobin chronicles Wilpon's rise to prominence as a baseball owner, but will be remembered more for the criticism of his players.
At the very least, the article could hamper the efforts of the Mets to re-sign Reyes, which already was a questionable proposition at best. Wilpon has a reputation of being a player-friendly owner, an image that could now take a serious hit.
ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney tweets that Wilpon "made a big mistake" by cooperating with the story.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Another chance for Schafer[/h3]
7:18AM ET
UPDATE: With McLouth still feeling significant discomfort in his left oblique Monday, the Braves placed him on the 15-day disabled list and recalled Jordan Schafer from Triple-A Gwinnett.
MLB.com's Mark Bowman says Schafer will likely serve as Atlanta's center fielder over the next two weeks. It will be another chance for Schafer, who was the starter for the first two months of the 2009 season before a wrist injury curtailed his production.
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Right fielder Jayson Werth landed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday. The injury-plagued Atlanta Braves are hoping that center fielder Nate McLouth doesn't join him on the shelf.
McLouth strained his left oblique while checking his swing in the first inning Sunday in Anaheim. David O'Brien of the Atlanta JC says McLouth could land on the DL if his condition isn't improved before Tuesday.
Joe Mather is a possibility to replace McLouth in center, but Mather could be used in right field in place of Heyward. If both starters are sidelined, Mather could end up in center with Wilkin Ramirez or Eric Hinske starting in right.
With Kevin Kouzmanoff on the shelf, Conor Jackson started at third base for the A's Monday, the first such as a pro for the veteran. He played third in college but moved immediately to the outfield upon signing a pro contract.
Jackson may or may not be an option for the A's long term, though leaning against that possibility is likely wise for fantasy players, but keeping an eye on the situation could pay off in the end. Jackson will have to hit to stay in the lineup either way.
Kouzmanoff may not be out too long, anyway, but there appear to be a lack of options in the Athletics' organization. Adrian Cardenas and Eric Sogard could be summoned if Kouz hits the DL.
George Steinbrenner loved to tweak the Mets, and folks who worked for him say he drew great pleasure out of the fact that his aggressive pursuit of great players put public pressure on the team in Queens. By the end of Steinbrenner's life, the perception was often that he was the owner who got the job done -- it certainly was more complicated than that, through his three-plus decades as the steward of the Yankees -- and Fred Wilpon was the cheapskate among the New York baseball owners.
Getty ImagesThe one thing people know about the Mets might be that Sandy Alderson can do his job. It keeps getting tougher.
But Wilpon benefited, too, by being naturally cast against Steinbrenner. While Steinbrenner was impetuous, and often a bully, the public image of Wilpon has been, by comparison, as something of a statesman. He is well-spoken, well-groomed, measured in what he says, almost always gracious.
For years, some of the folks who worked for him have chuckled about the image juxtaposition, because behind closed doors, they found his demeanor to be a lot like what Steinbrenner was: anxious, demanding, as easily frustrated as someone obsessed with the hour-to-hour results of a fantasy team. The Mets' front-office meetings have been legendarily long, with circular discussions about how a mediocre talent might be turned into a star.
That part of Wilpon's personality was revealed in Jeffrey Toobin's New Yorker profile -- a side that, right now, might represent the greatest threat to a Mets organization that should be very concerned about diminishing one of its most important assets: general manager Sandy Alderson.
We know, from Wilpon's words, that he isn't going to be investing in Jose Reyes. We know that Wilpon thinks David Wright is not a superstar. We know that Carlos Beltran is worth only 65-70 percent of what he's paid, in the eyes of the owner. It is now taken as a fait accompli in some other front offices that Reyes is going to be traded this summer, and presumably, Beltran will soon be out the door. Whether Wright will want to leave the Mets and find a more stable situation is an open question.
"
They need to let Sandy do his job. If he gets some space, there is a lot of potential for great things to happen.
" -- a Mets source
But the Mets need Alderson to stay, to demonstrate stability on behalf of an organization that badly needs it. And not only for the remaining Mets fans who still buy tickets to see the games -- in spite of the owner's denigration of the product -- but also for potential investors that Wilpon admits he so desperately needs.
Sources say that some millionaires who expressed interest in buying into the Mets have backed off, partly because their requests for some control over the franchise have been rebuffed. There is great concern, for some potential investors, that buying into the franchise could be like pouring paint down a hole. There is great concern that Fred Wilpon fosters a management structure that does not work.
There are no such doubts about Alderson. He is highly respected for his acumen, and so are the people he's brought into the organization.
But sources say the internal struggle that has gone on for years continues. "They need to let Sandy do his job," said a source. "If he gets some space, there is a lot of potential for great things to happen."
The worst thing that could happen, on the other hand, is for Alderson to be diminished or marginalized, and certainly Wilpon's published comments did not help Alderson or the organization. At the very least, the owner has already gnawed at some of the leverage Alderson has in shopping Reyes. Now nobody believes the Mets would actually consider keeping their shortstop.
What Wilpon should do now is make sure that Alderson is left alone to do his job, as he sees fit, within the budget the Mets give him.
All Wilpon needs to understand the wreckage of his own management of the team is to read Toobin's piece, again.
• By the way: It's interesting that Wilpon would say his shortstop is looking for a Carl Crawford-type of deal, because according to sources, the owner isn't really in a position to know what Reyes wants -- the Mets haven't even engaged him in contract talks.
The Mets' players responded to Wilpon's zingers, as David Waldstein writes. The best comment in the bunch came from Mike Pelfrey, to Waldstein:
"I think guys will be upset," pitcher Mike Pelfrey said. "But we're all a family: ownership, coaches and players. Sometimes people say things they regret. It's a mistake and you learn from it. Maybe next spring when we have our media workshop for the players, Fred can come and sit in on it."
Fred Wilpon passed the buck with his comments, writes Harvey Araton, failing to acknowledge management's failures. The owner just created another distraction, writes David Lennon.
This is how his comments were being perceived in a lot of other front offices: Wilpon just showed the cards of general manager Sandy Alderson to the rest of the table.
[h3]Elsewhere[/h3]
• It has been a really awful week for the Oakland Athletics, who saw three of their six best starting pitchers officially go down -- Dallas Braden (surgery), Tyson Ross (oblique) and Brandon McCarthy (arm trouble). Oakland's offense continues to be a problem, and oh by the way, the Athletics apparently are no closer to a resolution on their ballpark issue than they were 26 months ago, when the commissioner's blue-ribbon committee was formed to help resolve the situation. For the record, that's almost a year-and-half longer than it took for the Warren Commission to complete its work.
The frustration that the Oakland relievers feel with how they're handled by manager Bob Geren spilled out of Brian Fuentes after Monday's loss to the Angels, as Joe Stiglich writes; Fuentes blasted Geren, writes John Shea.
As Oakland looks to move pieces, a player who would be in the shop window is Coco Crisp, the veteran outfielder who is in the last year of his deal with the team.
• Speaking of teams that could use an outfielder: The Braves called up Jordan Schafer, at a time when they've placed Nate McLouth and Jason Heyward on the disabled list. Schaefer was hitting .256 in Triple-A, as Carroll Rogers writes.
Total speculation: Crisp would be a natural fit for the Braves, because of his versatility and ability to hit at the top of the lineup.
This is not speculation: What Atlanta would love to do is to get a hitter who could bat leadoff -- like Crisp -- and then slide Martin Prado to the No. 2 or No. 3 spot in the batting order, to create depth.
• A scout who saw the Indians' Josh Tomlin last month offered this assessment: "He doesn't have a single average pitch, from what I saw; everything is below average." What he does have, the scout says, is the ability to throw strikes, some moxie, and a great sense of pace.
A) Ogando pounded the zone with his mid-90s fastball. He threw 50 of his 78 (64.1 pct) fastballs in the zone, his highest percentage as a starter. He worked primarily up in the zone, throwing 57 of his 78 fastballs at the belt or above. Hitters were 2-for-18 on at bats ending on a fastball in that location.
B) Ogando stayed out of hitters' counts. He started 1-0 to 13 hitters but went 2-0 to just one of them (9 strikes, 3 balls in play). That's the fewest 2-0 counts he's gone to as a starter.
• Wrote here last week about how some teams believe Anthony Rendon, the Rice infielder, best projects as a second baseman, rather than a third baseman, because of his body type and because of questions about his throwing arm. I've heard similar observations in recent days from other teams -- but all agree that Rendon will be a good hitter in the majors. "He really knows how to hit; he's going to be a good hitter," said one executive. "I don't know if he'll have the pop he's had in college, but he's going to hit."
[h3]Dings and dents[/h3] 1.Grady Sizemore could be back this week. 2.Stephen Strasburg threw off a mound.
3.Mitchell Boggs, a closer candidate for the Cardinals earlier this year, has been sent to Triple-A. He will prepare for a possible return as a starting pitcher.
11. Maybe the most stunning numbers I've seen this morning: The Twins are 15 1/2 games out of first place in the AL Central, and 10 games out in the wild-card standings, after their loss on Monday. Along the way, Jim Thome homered twice, on his march toward 600 for his career.
The Boston Red Sox apparently can breathe a sigh of relief after Dustin Pedroia suffered nothing worse than a twisted ankle after slipping on a west second base Monday night in Cleveland, reports ESPNBoston.com.
Manager Terry Francona already was planning on giving Pedroia the night off on Tuesday, so the second baseman is expected back in the lineup Wednesday night against the Indians.
The Red Sox have every reason to play it safe with Pedroia after he broke his left foot last June 25 and was limited to 75 games in 2010.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Slowey done as a reliever[/h3]
11:23AM ET
UPDATE: An MRI on Slowey showed no damage, but manager Ron Gardenhire said Monday that the righthander will not pitch again until he is in a position to start. "We've got to find another way, whether it's Triple-A or whatever," Gardenhire said.
If Slowey is traded, the Twins will be looking to unload his $2.7 million salary for this season.
--
We speculated throughout spring training how Kevin Slowey, unable to land a job in the rotation, would end up as trade bait for the Minnesota Twins. That could finally happen, but only after a stint in the minor leagues.
Slowey has struggled as a reliever, posting a 4.91 ERA in six appearances, and manager Ron Gardenhire hinted on his radio show Sunday that the righthander could be headed to Triple-A Rochester, where the plan would be to stretch him out as a starter.
La Velle Neal of the Star Tribune writes Monday that if Slowey regains his form at Rochester, the Twins could get a decent player in return. Slowey said in a text message to Neal late Sunday that he believes there's a possibility he'll be traded.
There are no shortage of teams looking for a starter, even if Slowey is not necessarily a top-of-the-rotation guy. That list should include the Yankees and Red Sox, who could have the most to offer in return. Slowey would be a good fit in Boston if Daisuke Matsuzaka is out longer than expected.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]First base options in DC[/h3]
10:54AM ET
The Washington Nationals so far have little to show for their two-year, $16 million investment in free agent Adam LaRoche. Those dividends diminished even more Monday when the first baseman landed on the disabled list.
LaRoche, hitting a paltry .172, will undergo additional tests on his ailing shoulder.
Michael Morse started at first base Monday in Milwaukee and is manager Jim Riggleman's first choice to replace LaRoche, reports Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.
Alex Cora and Matt Stairs could also see time at first, and Riggleman said Rick Ankiel will start taking groundballs at first base. Maybe a few extra at-bats will help Stairs, who is just 2-for-20 as a pinch hitter.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Sizemore making progress[/h3]
10:37AM ET
UPDATE: Sizemore went through a productive workout Monday and manager Manny Acta doesn't think his center fielder will need to go on a rehab assignment, reports Paul Hoynes of The Plain Dealer. If all goes well, Sizemore could be activated later this week.
Sizemore will be reevaluated Thursday and could add some more baseball activities to his routine in the days ahead. It doesn't appears as if this injury will keep him out for the long term.
In the meantime, Ezequiel Carrera, called up Friday, can help out in center field and at the top of the order in a pinch, but will likely be sent down once Sizemore is activated, which could come as early as next Thursday, the day Sizemore is to be examined.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Olney: Crisp a fit in Atlanta?[/h3]
10:26AM ET
GM Billy Beane may be looking to deal, and ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney writes in Tuesday's blog that a player who would be in the "shop window" is Coco Crisp, the veteran outfielder who is in the last year of his contract.
Olney speculates that Crisp would be a natural fit for the Braves, because of his versatility and ability to hit at the top of the lineup. With Nate McLouth on the DL, the Braves are expected to try Jordan Schafer in center field for a few weeks.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Chavez back in 2-3 weeks?[/h3]
10:01AM ET
Chavez, who has a history of injuries, was hitting a solid .303 in 17 games before landing on the disabled list. While Chavez can swing a bat, he will not be cleared to run until he undergoes another MRI.
With Jorge Posada continuing to struggle, Chavez could get some at-bats as a designated hitter when he returns.
The San Diego Padres demoted struggling right fielder Will Venable to Triple-A Tucson in a bold move that could have some of his teammates looking over their shoulder.
The roster move was the result of a perfect storm - Venable was hitting .224, was showing few signs of coming around and he had options remaining. Bill Center of the Union Tribune says the decision to demote the franchise's poster boy for homegrown talent was meant as a wakeup call.
"If it can happen to Venable, it can happen to almost anyone on this under-achieving club," Center writes.
Chris Denorfia, who leads the Padres with a .330 batting average, should take over as the regular right fielder at least temporarily. Who could be next out of town? Maybe first baseman Brad Hawpe, who was signed to a one-year deal and is hitting just .233.
A major rift has surfaced in the Oakland bullpen just as Andrew Bailey moves closer to his return from the disabled list.
Interim closer Brian Fuentes had some choice words for manager Bob Geren after Monday's loss to the Angels in which the lefthander faced two hitters in the eighth inning and took his fourth loss in his past four appearances.
Fuentes tells Joe Stiglich of the Bay Area News Group he has "zero" communication with his manager. When asked to describe how he is being used out of the bullpen, Fuentes responded "pretty poorly."
The offseason plan was for Fuentes to serve as a setup man and occasional closer, but those plans are unraveling. The closing opportunities for Fuentes will likely vanish when Bailey, currently on a rehab stint at Triple-A Sacramento, returns.
Fuentes signed a two-year, $12.5 million this past offseason, so it is highly unlikely he would be released this quickly.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]When will Ackley get the call?[/h3]
8:50AM ET
[h5]Seattle Mariners [/h5]
It is a question of when and not if the Mariners promote second base phenom Dustin Ackley.
Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com says the promotion "should happen soon," with the Mariners replacing him at Triple-A with his former teammate at North Carolina, Kyle Seager.
Until now, the Mariners, who could use an offensive boost, have been splitting the second base duties between Jack Wilson and Adam Kennedy.
Seager, currently at Double-A Jackson, could end up being stuck behind Ackley in the Seattle system. In his latest SweetSpot blog, ESPN.com's David Schoenfield suggests Seager would fit nicely in a trade that would bring Carlos Beltran to Seattle.
There has been ample speculation that Mets shortstop Jose Reyes would be a nice fit in San Francisco, where veteran Miguel Tejada got off to a slow start at the plate.
Tejada, in case you didn't notice, may not be done after all. Currently playing third base while Pablo Sandoval is on the disabled list, Tejada has 10 hits in his last 28 bats to raise his average to .224. Tejada could be moved back to shortstop when Sandoval returns, replacing the slumping Mike Fontenot.
While Reyes would undoubtedly be a major upgrade at shortstop, Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com writes that the Giants are not about to quit on their $6 million investment in Tejada just six months into the season.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Destinations for Beltran[/h3]
8:04AM ET
When Carlos Beltran was a coveted prize on the free agent market six years ago, agent Scott Boras made every effort to land a monumental deal with the New York Yankees. That never materialized, and Beltran ended up across town with the New York Mets.
Beltran's contract expires after the season, and the overwhelming consensus gives him no chance of playing in Queens in 2012. Before the Mets and Yankees staged their Subway Series last weekend, Ebenezer Samuel of the Daily News asked if the Bronx could be the next stop for Beltran.
Beltran's value has only accelerated in recent weeks, and his recent three-homer performance against the Rockies turned some heads. The biggest concern has been with a surgically repaired knee, but he has been playing the outfield on a reglar basis in recent weeks.
David Schoenfield of ESPN.com suggests another destination for Beltran clear across the country. In his latest SweetSpot blog, Schoenfield suggests the Mets send Beltran and $5 million to the Mariners for minor league second baseman Kyle Seager. The Mets need a second baseman and Seager is stuck behind Dustin Ackley in the Seattle system.
ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney wrote last week that the Mets may be poised to cash in on Beltran's career revival:
"Beltran, eligible for free agency this fall, is making a whopping $18.5 million this year, and it will be interesting to see how his salary plays into other teams' pursuit of him. Last year, only two teams -- the Rangers and the Yankees -- spent $5 million or more in midseason additions. If Beltran were to be traded at midseason without the Mets kicking in any money, then his next team would be on the hook for $9 million.Presumably, the Mets will wind up kicking in some money to offset the salary, but the better that Beltran plays, the better his trade value will be, as one of the very few available position players who could be a difference-maker. New York could wind up getting a decent prospect in return for him if he continues to play this well."
http://[h3]Mets could lose $70 million[/h3]
7:52AM ET
[h5]New York Mets [/h5]
New York Mets owner Fred Wilpon has been remarkably candid over the last few days.
On Monday, a story in the New Yorker contained some brutally honest critiques of some of the Mets marquee players. That was a prelude to this week's Sports Illustrated in which Wilpon says the Mets are "bleeding cash" and could lose as much as $70 million this year. Wilpon adds that the $1 billion lawsuit filed by Irving Picard, the trustee who represents Ponzi scheme artist Bernie Madoff's victims, could cost him ownership of the team if Picard prevails.
The New Yorker article by Jeffrey Toobin chronicles Wilpon's rise to prominence as a baseball owner, but will be remembered more for the criticism of his players.
At the very least, the article could hamper the efforts of the Mets to re-sign Reyes, which already was a questionable proposition at best. Wilpon has a reputation of being a player-friendly owner, an image that could now take a serious hit.
ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney tweets that Wilpon "made a big mistake" by cooperating with the story.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Another chance for Schafer[/h3]
7:18AM ET
UPDATE: With McLouth still feeling significant discomfort in his left oblique Monday, the Braves placed him on the 15-day disabled list and recalled Jordan Schafer from Triple-A Gwinnett.
MLB.com's Mark Bowman says Schafer will likely serve as Atlanta's center fielder over the next two weeks. It will be another chance for Schafer, who was the starter for the first two months of the 2009 season before a wrist injury curtailed his production.
--
Right fielder Jayson Werth landed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday. The injury-plagued Atlanta Braves are hoping that center fielder Nate McLouth doesn't join him on the shelf.
McLouth strained his left oblique while checking his swing in the first inning Sunday in Anaheim. David O'Brien of the Atlanta JC says McLouth could land on the DL if his condition isn't improved before Tuesday.
Joe Mather is a possibility to replace McLouth in center, but Mather could be used in right field in place of Heyward. If both starters are sidelined, Mather could end up in center with Wilkin Ramirez or Eric Hinske starting in right.
With Kevin Kouzmanoff on the shelf, Conor Jackson started at third base for the A's Monday, the first such as a pro for the veteran. He played third in college but moved immediately to the outfield upon signing a pro contract.
Jackson may or may not be an option for the A's long term, though leaning against that possibility is likely wise for fantasy players, but keeping an eye on the situation could pay off in the end. Jackson will have to hit to stay in the lineup either way.
Kouzmanoff may not be out too long, anyway, but there appear to be a lack of options in the Athletics' organization. Adrian Cardenas and Eric Sogard could be summoned if Kouz hits the DL.
What's up with Albert? Any Card fans on here that know hitting? I've only seen a bit of him this year, and his approach looked the same, but I didn't see enough to make any real conclusions. Obviously he hasn't had a great May, but a sub .800 OPS through 50 games suggests a more profound problem in his swing. In his contract year too...
What's up with Albert? Any Card fans on here that know hitting? I've only seen a bit of him this year, and his approach looked the same, but I didn't see enough to make any real conclusions. Obviously he hasn't had a great May, but a sub .800 OPS through 50 games suggests a more profound problem in his swing. In his contract year too...
Well some google work has told me that his hammy may be more injured than he is letting on. The reason I ask is because of the unspeakable horrors that he has brought to my fantasy team.
I was so hyped I got the first pick, especially considering I assumed he'd be on a 300 million dollar contract crusade.
Well some google work has told me that his hammy may be more injured than he is letting on. The reason I ask is because of the unspeakable horrors that he has brought to my fantasy team.
I was so hyped I got the first pick, especially considering I assumed he'd be on a 300 million dollar contract crusade.
I came in here to say the hammy thing, everyone is saying it's still bothering him. Summer coming, I think he'll be fine. Good thing they signed Berkman and TLR let Rasmus play.
I came in here to say the hammy thing, everyone is saying it's still bothering him. Summer coming, I think he'll be fine. Good thing they signed Berkman and TLR let Rasmus play.
Going into the season, there were questions about Jose Bautista's ability to match his 2010 season, in which he hit 54 homers despite tallying only 74 total in the preceding six seasons he played in the majors. If you thought Bautista would play as well in 2011 as he did in 2010, you were wrong -- he's better.
Back in February, we took a look at Bautista's new contract with the Blue Jays using the ZiPS projection system and after looking at his statistics, the model concluded that the five-year, $65 million contract Joey Bats signed was a fair deal given the uncertainties that existed at the time.
As great as Bautista was last year, he's a better player this season. Both major estimates of wins above replacement already have Bautista at more than 4 wins so far this season, about two-thirds of the way to his 2010 total in less than one-third of the plate appearances.
Where Bautista had some small holes in his game last year, he's generally plugged them up. Bautista was actually a little unlucky on his batting average on balls in play last year, his .233 being a handful of points better than your typical pitcher at the plate. Bautista's .309 BABIP this season, while the highest in his career, is ordinary enough that he may be able to maintain it.
As for strikeouts, he's reduced his frequency to 16.5 percent, the lowest of his career. From Fangraphs's pitch data, Bautista has been the most valuable hitter against fastballs this season. And sliders. And changeups. Add in a "mere" 13th in baseball against curves and it's hard not to see that pitchers have come to the same conclusion as the supercomputer from "WarGames." The best move is not to play. As a result, Bautista's on pace for about 150 walks, one of the largest numbers in baseball history.
[h4]Bargain Bautista[/h4]
If Bautista lives up to this projection, he will be worth approximately $166 million over the life of a contract that pays him $65 million.
2011
.294/.427/.658
8.2
35
2012
.279/.407/.613
7.7
35
2013
.275/.402/.592
7.0
34
2014
.272/.400/.575
6.4
32
2015
.269/.391/.562
5.6
31
[th=""]YEAR[/th][th=""]BA/OBP/SLG[/th][th=""]
WAR
[/th][th=""]$VALUE (million)[/th]
At this point, the MVP trophy's going to be pretty hard for Bautista to lose. ZiPS has Bautista "only" hitting .269/.391/.585 for the rest of the season, which when added with his line so far, gives him a .294/.427/.658 total line, a monster line that only looks more monstrous when you consider how far offense has dropped off in baseball the past two years.
Using the same assumptions that we made in February (roughly $4.5 million per win last year with 5 percent growth), Bautista's moved the needle enough that the contract now looks to be an easy win for the Jays. It's rare to change your career outlook based on a year and a half of performance, but Bautista's breakout has been overwhelming enough to silence the small-sample-size gnomes.
So, what's the lesson other teams can take from Bautista's ascent to stardom? The most important thing to come away with is that no matter what the book on a player is, to always give them the chance to prove them wrong. While a big payroll team with a reasonable expectation of winning the division might be too risk-averse to plan on giving playing time to a player like Bautista after 2009, small-market teams regularly have holes to fill and should focus on filling them on players that could potentially surprise.
While there was little indication that Jose Bautista, passed up by every team in baseball on multiple occasions, would suddenly become a superstar, it was still more likely than that happening with Geoff Blum or Melvin Mora. While having a veteran player on the bench has value, teams need to be cognizant that there is a trade-off. Kudos to the Jays for catching lightning in a bottle.
Rumors.
Spoiler [+]
http://[h3]How the Royals fill the middle[/h3]
12:43PM ET
[h5]Kansas City Royals [/h5]
It only seems like the Kansas City Royals have a star player or impact prospect at every position on the field. Even they have a weakness within their organization and it's up the middle. The club lacks clear future answers at catcher, second base and center field. But that could all change this June when the Royals draft No. 5 and 65 overall.
Keith Law's initial first-round mock has the Royals tabbing UCLA right-hander Gerrit Cole with their first selection, but it could just as easily be another college pitcher. Another possibility, however, is Florida prep shortstop Francisco Lindor, a player that could change the aforementioned dynamic and give the club some answers up the middle.
Adding a player such as Lindor could allow the Royals to move last year's first-round pick Christian Colon to second base -- where some scouts believe he belongs long term anyway. The Royals could add a middle infielder such as Hawaii's Kolten Wong, or Joe Panik of St. John's in round 2, allowing the addition of starting pitching in the first. And at 65 a catcher could also be on the radar, perhaps Wichita State's Chris O'Brien or James McCann of Arkansas.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Rangers looking to ring Bell?[/h3]
12:19PM ET
[h5]Heath Bell | Padres | Interested: Rangers? [/h5]
We mentioned Tuesday that the decision of the Padres to demote struggling right fielder Will Venable to the minor leagues might be the beginning of a bigger shakeup in San Diego.
"If it can happen to Venable, it can happen to almost anyone on this under-achieving club," Bill Center wrote in the Union Tribune.
Any talk of notable roster movement in San Diego invariably turns to closer Heath Bell, who will be a free agent at the end of the season and can bring the most value in return.
Scott Miller of CBSSports.com reports several clubs, including the Texas Rangers, have inquired recently about Bell. The Padres, not yet eager to pull the trigger, want to wait a little longer.
The Padres own the worst record in the NL at 19-30, so serious discussion could start sooner than later. One team that might a solid short-term fit is the Cardinals, who recently replaced Ryan Franklin as their closer.
There was a report earlier this week that the Rangers inquired about Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan, but the Bucs weren't interested. At the very least, we know the Rangers are looking for bullpen help.
"We all know that teams still place a premium on the "proven closer," which means it would not be surprising to see one of these guys move this summer, even if it's to pitch in a set-up role. Therefore, the prudent move for San Diego is to deal Bell before these other clubs make their closers available, at which point he becomes much harder to move."
The Washington Nationals so far have little to show for their two-year, $16 million investment in free agent Adam LaRoche. Those dividends diminished even more Monday when the first baseman landed on the disabled list.
LaRoche, hitting a paltry .172, underwent additional tests on his ailing shoulder. Bill Ladson of MLB.com reports Wednesday that LaRoche likely needs surgery because he has a large tear in his labrum and a small tear in his rotator cuff.
Michael Morse started at first base Monday in Milwaukee and is manager Jim Riggleman's first choice to replace LaRoche, reports Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.
Alex Cora and Matt Stairs could also see time at first, and Riggleman said Rick Ankiel will start taking groundballs at first base. Maybe a few extra at-bats will help Stairs, who is just 2-for-20 as a pinch hitter.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Elliot Johnson to the DL?[/h3]
10:30AM ET
Rays shortstop Elliot Johnson could end up on the disabled list with a sprained right knee, reports Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune.
Johnson suffered the injury Monday night, and manager Joe Maddon says there is a "50 percent chance" of a DL stint.
The Rays have been shorthanded at the position, but will welcome back Reid Brignac, who has been on bereavement leave since Sunday. He will join the team in time for Wednesday's game against the Tigers.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Fuentes out as interim closer[/h3]
10:12AM ET
[h5]Oakland Athletics [/h5]
Brian Fuentes and Bob Geren appear to have smoothed over their differences, but a handshake wasn't enough for Fuentes to keep his job as Oakland's interim closer.
Fuentes had some choice words for Geren, the A's manager, after Monday's loss to the Angels in which the lefthander took his fourth loss in his past four appearances.
Fuentes and Geren met Tuesday and appear to have put the rift behind them, reports Joe Stiglich of the Mercury News. Geren also told Fuentes that he was switching to Grant Balfour as his interim closer until Andrew Bailey comes off the disabled list.
The master plan was for Fuentes to serve as a setup man and occasional closer. Even if those closing options vanish, the A' still have plenty invested in Fuentes, who signed a two-year, $12.5 million deal this past offseason, and would love to him to reclaim the eighth-inning role.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Arroyo's next start in jeopardy?[/h3]
9:54AM ET
Bronson Arroyo has a well-deserved reputation for durability. The Reds righthander has never been on the disabled list and John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer adds that Arroyo has never missed a start in the majors, minors, high school or little league.
A red flag (no pun intended) went up when Arroyo flew back to Cincinnati Tuesday to get his back evaluated by team medical director Dr. Tim Kremchek. Reds trainer Paul Lessard, however, does not expect Arroyo to miss his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday in Atlanta.
The Reds already have rotation issues after sending the struggling Edinson Volquez to the minors on Monday.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]June 5 return for Lackey?[/h3]
9:39AM ET
Righthander John Lackey, on the disabled list with a right shoulder elbow strain, is tentatively scheduled to rejoin the Red Sox rotation on June 5 against Oakland, reports ESPNBoston.com.
Lackey said he felt fine after throwing 40 pitches, all fastballs, in the bullpen Tuesday in Cleveland. There will be a longer bullpen session Friday followed by a rehab outing on May 31. The Red Sox are currently using Alfredo Aceves and Tim Wakefield in the rotation due to injuries to Lackey and Daisuke Matsuzaka.
UPDATE: Kazmir gave up six earned runs in 1 2/3 innings in a rehab outing for Triple-A Salt Lake on Tuesday, and Mike DiGiovanna of the LA Times said the lefthander's postgame comments were just as disturbing. "It was kind of a flip of a coin if I was going to be able to get it over the plate," Kazmir said. "It really had no direction and no drive straight to the plate."
DiGiovanna says the Angels are expected to give Kazmir a full month to right himself. If Kazmir shows no progress, he will be released.
--
Scott Kazmir essentially was out of sight and out of mind in Anaheim after making one disastrous start in early April and landing on the disabled list with what was termed "lower back soreness."
Kazmir and the Angels haven't always been on the page when it came to his progress (or lack thereof), but Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times writes Friday that there may be "a possible thaw" between the two sides.
Kazmir made his fifth start at the team's extended spring-training camp in Arizona on Thursday. Manager Mike Scioscia said Kazmir's next start probably will be in a minor league game. That would start a clock in which the Angels will have 30 days to recall him or release him.
The success of rookie Tyler Chatwood has made the Halos less dependent on a Kazmir resurgence, but the club is not ready to take a huge financial hit by releasing him, either. Kazmir is being paid $14.5 million this season and would have to assume the bulk of that in any trade.
The Orioles could be looking for second base help after learning that Brian Roberts will be sidelined for a total of at least three weeks after seeing a concussion specialist on Tuesday.
Roberts hasn't played since May 16 because of headaches and is on the newly created seven-day DL for concussions.
He has been replaced by Robert Andino and Ryan Adams at second base and team president Andy MacPhail said he is open to other alternatives. "There are some moving pieces, and I would suspect the roster is going to be in flux here for the next week or two," MacPhail tells the Baltimore Sun.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Slowey a fit in Colorado?[/h3]
8:33AM ET
UPDATE: Troy Renck of the Denver Post tweets that the Rockies are "a good team to keep in mind" as a possible trade partner for Slowey. That makes even more sense due to the season-ending injury to Jorge De La Rosa.
--
UPDATE: An MRI on Slowey showed no damage, but manager Ron Gardenhire said Monday that the righthander will not pitch again until he is in a position to start. "We've got to find another way, whether it's Triple-A or whatever," Gardenhire said.
If Slowey is traded, the Twins will be looking to unload his $2.7 million salary for this season.
--
We speculated throughout spring training how Kevin Slowey, unable to land a job in the rotation, would end up as trade bait for the Minnesota Twins. That could finally happen, but only after a stint in the minor leagues.
Slowey has struggled as a reliever, posting a 4.91 ERA in six appearances, and manager Ron Gardenhire hinted on his radio show Sunday that the righthander could be headed to Triple-A Rochester, where the plan would be to stretch him out as a starter.
La Velle Neal of the Star Tribune writes Monday that if Slowey regains his form at Rochester, the Twins could get a decent player in return. Slowey said in a text message to Neal late Sunday that he believes there's a possibility he'll be traded.
There are no shortage of teams looking for a starter, even if Slowey is not necessarily a top-of-the-rotation guy. That list should include the Yankees and Red Sox, who could have the most to offer in return. Slowey would be a good fit in Boston if Daisuke Matsuzaka is out longer than expected.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Cardinals look for relief help[/h3]
8:18AM ET
[h5]St. Louis Cardinals [/h5]
Add the St. Louis Cardinals to the list of teams that will likely be searching for a veteran reliever this summer.
"There may be something we need to address as we get into June or July," GM John Mozeliak tells MLB.com's Tom Krasovic, "but to sit here today and say I know exactly what that is, no."
With the Padres off to a slow start, we're speculating that the Cards could make a pitch for Heath Bell, a free-agent-to-be would fit in nicely as a closer.
The Cardinals' bullpen has been in flux all season due to the struggles of Ryan Franklin, who was demoted as closer in favor of Fernando Salas.
Yankees GM Brian Cashman was never in favor of the signing of Rafael Soriano, and now we know why.
After an MRI on his elbow revealed something disturbing, Soriano is headed to Florida for a visit with renowned orthopedist Dr. James Andrews, which is never a good sign.
There is no timetable as to when Soriano, who is on the DL for the eighth time in his career, will return. At the very least, the latest setback will mean more bullpen work for Luis Ayala.
The $35 million signing of Soriano may be shaping up as an enormous bust. Nick Cafardo writes in Sunday's Boston Globe notes that Soriano, likely unhappy due to his set-up role, does have an opt-out clause after this season. But at this stage, it appears Soriano will stay put since he would be walking away from $24 million, a figure he is unlikely to reach with any other club.
Barring an unforeseen setback, center fielder Pagan will rejoin the Mets in time for Friday's game against the Phillies, manager Terry Collins said Tuesday.
Pagan, rehabbing from a strained left oblique, went 1-for-3 with a double and two walks for Class A St. Lucie on Tuesday. He is scheduled to play for St. Lucie again on Wednesday, before advancing to Triple-A Buffalo the following day.
Jason Pridie got off to a fast start as Pagan's replacement, but is now in a prolonged slump (.222), so it is no guarantee he will keep his roster spot when Pagan returns. If Pridie stays, Scott Hairston could end up as a roster casualty.
Mets first baseman Ike Davis eyed a return from the disabled list on Thursday, the first day he is eligible but that is a bit too optimistic.
MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports Davis is taking part in baseball activities but has not made any lateral movements, which will delay his return. The Mets have no specific timetable for his return, which is not a good sign. Daniel Murphy has been playing first base in the absence of Davis, who is hitting .302. - Doug Mittler
UPDATE: According to MLB.com's Thomas Harding, early indications Tuesday had the Rockies considering bringing up hard-throwing right-hander Juan Nicasio from Double-A Tulsa to pitch on the staff in some capacity. The 24-year-old Nicasio is 5-1 with a 2.22 ERA in nine starts, with 63 strikeouts against 10 walks.
That next step is surgery and we can't imagine what other route there is to take that does not involve the Tommy John procedure to replace the damaged ligament.
The Rockies, who could get Aaron Cook back in the next week or so, will have to do without De La Rosa for the rest of this season and possibly into 2012, may look to acquire a starter via trade. For now, Greg Reynolds could step into the rotation.
Going into the season, there were questions about Jose Bautista's ability to match his 2010 season, in which he hit 54 homers despite tallying only 74 total in the preceding six seasons he played in the majors. If you thought Bautista would play as well in 2011 as he did in 2010, you were wrong -- he's better.
Back in February, we took a look at Bautista's new contract with the Blue Jays using the ZiPS projection system and after looking at his statistics, the model concluded that the five-year, $65 million contract Joey Bats signed was a fair deal given the uncertainties that existed at the time.
As great as Bautista was last year, he's a better player this season. Both major estimates of wins above replacement already have Bautista at more than 4 wins so far this season, about two-thirds of the way to his 2010 total in less than one-third of the plate appearances.
Where Bautista had some small holes in his game last year, he's generally plugged them up. Bautista was actually a little unlucky on his batting average on balls in play last year, his .233 being a handful of points better than your typical pitcher at the plate. Bautista's .309 BABIP this season, while the highest in his career, is ordinary enough that he may be able to maintain it.
As for strikeouts, he's reduced his frequency to 16.5 percent, the lowest of his career. From Fangraphs's pitch data, Bautista has been the most valuable hitter against fastballs this season. And sliders. And changeups. Add in a "mere" 13th in baseball against curves and it's hard not to see that pitchers have come to the same conclusion as the supercomputer from "WarGames." The best move is not to play. As a result, Bautista's on pace for about 150 walks, one of the largest numbers in baseball history.
[h4]Bargain Bautista[/h4]
If Bautista lives up to this projection, he will be worth approximately $166 million over the life of a contract that pays him $65 million.
2011
.294/.427/.658
8.2
35
2012
.279/.407/.613
7.7
35
2013
.275/.402/.592
7.0
34
2014
.272/.400/.575
6.4
32
2015
.269/.391/.562
5.6
31
[th=""]YEAR[/th][th=""]BA/OBP/SLG[/th][th=""]
WAR
[/th][th=""]$VALUE (million)[/th]
At this point, the MVP trophy's going to be pretty hard for Bautista to lose. ZiPS has Bautista "only" hitting .269/.391/.585 for the rest of the season, which when added with his line so far, gives him a .294/.427/.658 total line, a monster line that only looks more monstrous when you consider how far offense has dropped off in baseball the past two years.
Using the same assumptions that we made in February (roughly $4.5 million per win last year with 5 percent growth), Bautista's moved the needle enough that the contract now looks to be an easy win for the Jays. It's rare to change your career outlook based on a year and a half of performance, but Bautista's breakout has been overwhelming enough to silence the small-sample-size gnomes.
So, what's the lesson other teams can take from Bautista's ascent to stardom? The most important thing to come away with is that no matter what the book on a player is, to always give them the chance to prove them wrong. While a big payroll team with a reasonable expectation of winning the division might be too risk-averse to plan on giving playing time to a player like Bautista after 2009, small-market teams regularly have holes to fill and should focus on filling them on players that could potentially surprise.
While there was little indication that Jose Bautista, passed up by every team in baseball on multiple occasions, would suddenly become a superstar, it was still more likely than that happening with Geoff Blum or Melvin Mora. While having a veteran player on the bench has value, teams need to be cognizant that there is a trade-off. Kudos to the Jays for catching lightning in a bottle.
Rumors.
Spoiler [+]
http://[h3]How the Royals fill the middle[/h3]
12:43PM ET
[h5]Kansas City Royals [/h5]
It only seems like the Kansas City Royals have a star player or impact prospect at every position on the field. Even they have a weakness within their organization and it's up the middle. The club lacks clear future answers at catcher, second base and center field. But that could all change this June when the Royals draft No. 5 and 65 overall.
Keith Law's initial first-round mock has the Royals tabbing UCLA right-hander Gerrit Cole with their first selection, but it could just as easily be another college pitcher. Another possibility, however, is Florida prep shortstop Francisco Lindor, a player that could change the aforementioned dynamic and give the club some answers up the middle.
Adding a player such as Lindor could allow the Royals to move last year's first-round pick Christian Colon to second base -- where some scouts believe he belongs long term anyway. The Royals could add a middle infielder such as Hawaii's Kolten Wong, or Joe Panik of St. John's in round 2, allowing the addition of starting pitching in the first. And at 65 a catcher could also be on the radar, perhaps Wichita State's Chris O'Brien or James McCann of Arkansas.
- Jason A. Churchill
http://[h3]Rangers looking to ring Bell?[/h3]
12:19PM ET
[h5]Heath Bell | Padres | Interested: Rangers? [/h5]
We mentioned Tuesday that the decision of the Padres to demote struggling right fielder Will Venable to the minor leagues might be the beginning of a bigger shakeup in San Diego.
"If it can happen to Venable, it can happen to almost anyone on this under-achieving club," Bill Center wrote in the Union Tribune.
Any talk of notable roster movement in San Diego invariably turns to closer Heath Bell, who will be a free agent at the end of the season and can bring the most value in return.
Scott Miller of CBSSports.com reports several clubs, including the Texas Rangers, have inquired recently about Bell. The Padres, not yet eager to pull the trigger, want to wait a little longer.
The Padres own the worst record in the NL at 19-30, so serious discussion could start sooner than later. One team that might a solid short-term fit is the Cardinals, who recently replaced Ryan Franklin as their closer.
There was a report earlier this week that the Rangers inquired about Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan, but the Bucs weren't interested. At the very least, we know the Rangers are looking for bullpen help.
"We all know that teams still place a premium on the "proven closer," which means it would not be surprising to see one of these guys move this summer, even if it's to pitch in a set-up role. Therefore, the prudent move for San Diego is to deal Bell before these other clubs make their closers available, at which point he becomes much harder to move."
The Washington Nationals so far have little to show for their two-year, $16 million investment in free agent Adam LaRoche. Those dividends diminished even more Monday when the first baseman landed on the disabled list.
LaRoche, hitting a paltry .172, underwent additional tests on his ailing shoulder. Bill Ladson of MLB.com reports Wednesday that LaRoche likely needs surgery because he has a large tear in his labrum and a small tear in his rotator cuff.
Michael Morse started at first base Monday in Milwaukee and is manager Jim Riggleman's first choice to replace LaRoche, reports Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post.
Alex Cora and Matt Stairs could also see time at first, and Riggleman said Rick Ankiel will start taking groundballs at first base. Maybe a few extra at-bats will help Stairs, who is just 2-for-20 as a pinch hitter.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Elliot Johnson to the DL?[/h3]
10:30AM ET
Rays shortstop Elliot Johnson could end up on the disabled list with a sprained right knee, reports Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune.
Johnson suffered the injury Monday night, and manager Joe Maddon says there is a "50 percent chance" of a DL stint.
The Rays have been shorthanded at the position, but will welcome back Reid Brignac, who has been on bereavement leave since Sunday. He will join the team in time for Wednesday's game against the Tigers.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Fuentes out as interim closer[/h3]
10:12AM ET
[h5]Oakland Athletics [/h5]
Brian Fuentes and Bob Geren appear to have smoothed over their differences, but a handshake wasn't enough for Fuentes to keep his job as Oakland's interim closer.
Fuentes had some choice words for Geren, the A's manager, after Monday's loss to the Angels in which the lefthander took his fourth loss in his past four appearances.
Fuentes and Geren met Tuesday and appear to have put the rift behind them, reports Joe Stiglich of the Mercury News. Geren also told Fuentes that he was switching to Grant Balfour as his interim closer until Andrew Bailey comes off the disabled list.
The master plan was for Fuentes to serve as a setup man and occasional closer. Even if those closing options vanish, the A' still have plenty invested in Fuentes, who signed a two-year, $12.5 million deal this past offseason, and would love to him to reclaim the eighth-inning role.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Arroyo's next start in jeopardy?[/h3]
9:54AM ET
Bronson Arroyo has a well-deserved reputation for durability. The Reds righthander has never been on the disabled list and John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer adds that Arroyo has never missed a start in the majors, minors, high school or little league.
A red flag (no pun intended) went up when Arroyo flew back to Cincinnati Tuesday to get his back evaluated by team medical director Dr. Tim Kremchek. Reds trainer Paul Lessard, however, does not expect Arroyo to miss his next start, which is scheduled for Saturday in Atlanta.
The Reds already have rotation issues after sending the struggling Edinson Volquez to the minors on Monday.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]June 5 return for Lackey?[/h3]
9:39AM ET
Righthander John Lackey, on the disabled list with a right shoulder elbow strain, is tentatively scheduled to rejoin the Red Sox rotation on June 5 against Oakland, reports ESPNBoston.com.
Lackey said he felt fine after throwing 40 pitches, all fastballs, in the bullpen Tuesday in Cleveland. There will be a longer bullpen session Friday followed by a rehab outing on May 31. The Red Sox are currently using Alfredo Aceves and Tim Wakefield in the rotation due to injuries to Lackey and Daisuke Matsuzaka.
UPDATE: Kazmir gave up six earned runs in 1 2/3 innings in a rehab outing for Triple-A Salt Lake on Tuesday, and Mike DiGiovanna of the LA Times said the lefthander's postgame comments were just as disturbing. "It was kind of a flip of a coin if I was going to be able to get it over the plate," Kazmir said. "It really had no direction and no drive straight to the plate."
DiGiovanna says the Angels are expected to give Kazmir a full month to right himself. If Kazmir shows no progress, he will be released.
--
Scott Kazmir essentially was out of sight and out of mind in Anaheim after making one disastrous start in early April and landing on the disabled list with what was termed "lower back soreness."
Kazmir and the Angels haven't always been on the page when it came to his progress (or lack thereof), but Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times writes Friday that there may be "a possible thaw" between the two sides.
Kazmir made his fifth start at the team's extended spring-training camp in Arizona on Thursday. Manager Mike Scioscia said Kazmir's next start probably will be in a minor league game. That would start a clock in which the Angels will have 30 days to recall him or release him.
The success of rookie Tyler Chatwood has made the Halos less dependent on a Kazmir resurgence, but the club is not ready to take a huge financial hit by releasing him, either. Kazmir is being paid $14.5 million this season and would have to assume the bulk of that in any trade.
The Orioles could be looking for second base help after learning that Brian Roberts will be sidelined for a total of at least three weeks after seeing a concussion specialist on Tuesday.
Roberts hasn't played since May 16 because of headaches and is on the newly created seven-day DL for concussions.
He has been replaced by Robert Andino and Ryan Adams at second base and team president Andy MacPhail said he is open to other alternatives. "There are some moving pieces, and I would suspect the roster is going to be in flux here for the next week or two," MacPhail tells the Baltimore Sun.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Slowey a fit in Colorado?[/h3]
8:33AM ET
UPDATE: Troy Renck of the Denver Post tweets that the Rockies are "a good team to keep in mind" as a possible trade partner for Slowey. That makes even more sense due to the season-ending injury to Jorge De La Rosa.
--
UPDATE: An MRI on Slowey showed no damage, but manager Ron Gardenhire said Monday that the righthander will not pitch again until he is in a position to start. "We've got to find another way, whether it's Triple-A or whatever," Gardenhire said.
If Slowey is traded, the Twins will be looking to unload his $2.7 million salary for this season.
--
We speculated throughout spring training how Kevin Slowey, unable to land a job in the rotation, would end up as trade bait for the Minnesota Twins. That could finally happen, but only after a stint in the minor leagues.
Slowey has struggled as a reliever, posting a 4.91 ERA in six appearances, and manager Ron Gardenhire hinted on his radio show Sunday that the righthander could be headed to Triple-A Rochester, where the plan would be to stretch him out as a starter.
La Velle Neal of the Star Tribune writes Monday that if Slowey regains his form at Rochester, the Twins could get a decent player in return. Slowey said in a text message to Neal late Sunday that he believes there's a possibility he'll be traded.
There are no shortage of teams looking for a starter, even if Slowey is not necessarily a top-of-the-rotation guy. That list should include the Yankees and Red Sox, who could have the most to offer in return. Slowey would be a good fit in Boston if Daisuke Matsuzaka is out longer than expected.
- Doug Mittler
http://[h3]Cardinals look for relief help[/h3]
8:18AM ET
[h5]St. Louis Cardinals [/h5]
Add the St. Louis Cardinals to the list of teams that will likely be searching for a veteran reliever this summer.
"There may be something we need to address as we get into June or July," GM John Mozeliak tells MLB.com's Tom Krasovic, "but to sit here today and say I know exactly what that is, no."
With the Padres off to a slow start, we're speculating that the Cards could make a pitch for Heath Bell, a free-agent-to-be would fit in nicely as a closer.
The Cardinals' bullpen has been in flux all season due to the struggles of Ryan Franklin, who was demoted as closer in favor of Fernando Salas.
Yankees GM Brian Cashman was never in favor of the signing of Rafael Soriano, and now we know why.
After an MRI on his elbow revealed something disturbing, Soriano is headed to Florida for a visit with renowned orthopedist Dr. James Andrews, which is never a good sign.
There is no timetable as to when Soriano, who is on the DL for the eighth time in his career, will return. At the very least, the latest setback will mean more bullpen work for Luis Ayala.
The $35 million signing of Soriano may be shaping up as an enormous bust. Nick Cafardo writes in Sunday's Boston Globe notes that Soriano, likely unhappy due to his set-up role, does have an opt-out clause after this season. But at this stage, it appears Soriano will stay put since he would be walking away from $24 million, a figure he is unlikely to reach with any other club.
Barring an unforeseen setback, center fielder Pagan will rejoin the Mets in time for Friday's game against the Phillies, manager Terry Collins said Tuesday.
Pagan, rehabbing from a strained left oblique, went 1-for-3 with a double and two walks for Class A St. Lucie on Tuesday. He is scheduled to play for St. Lucie again on Wednesday, before advancing to Triple-A Buffalo the following day.
Jason Pridie got off to a fast start as Pagan's replacement, but is now in a prolonged slump (.222), so it is no guarantee he will keep his roster spot when Pagan returns. If Pridie stays, Scott Hairston could end up as a roster casualty.
Mets first baseman Ike Davis eyed a return from the disabled list on Thursday, the first day he is eligible but that is a bit too optimistic.
MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reports Davis is taking part in baseball activities but has not made any lateral movements, which will delay his return. The Mets have no specific timetable for his return, which is not a good sign. Daniel Murphy has been playing first base in the absence of Davis, who is hitting .302. - Doug Mittler
UPDATE: According to MLB.com's Thomas Harding, early indications Tuesday had the Rockies considering bringing up hard-throwing right-hander Juan Nicasio from Double-A Tulsa to pitch on the staff in some capacity. The 24-year-old Nicasio is 5-1 with a 2.22 ERA in nine starts, with 63 strikeouts against 10 walks.
That next step is surgery and we can't imagine what other route there is to take that does not involve the Tommy John procedure to replace the damaged ligament.
The Rockies, who could get Aaron Cook back in the next week or so, will have to do without De La Rosa for the rest of this season and possibly into 2012, may look to acquire a starter via trade. For now, Greg Reynolds could step into the rotation.
