By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
Despite hard fiscal times, there's no money shortage inside Canseco. These players hope to prove that brand of rhetoric correct by "making bank," as they say, this offseason.
I've ranked some of the big-name free agents based on how much money I think they might receive. Remember, this isn't about what they deserve, but rather, what they'll get paid. Those two concepts, my friends, are not always exclusive to one another:
Hector Balboa, 30, 3B: The stars are all aligned for Balboa to be perhaps the most expensive free agent of season six. He's in his prime (30), a very strong defensive player for his position (3B), the victim of only two DL stints in five seasons, capable of logging over 140 games a season, and an excellent hitter. The three-time All-Star will more than likely force some poor soul to guarantee five years. It's possible he'll earn a max contract, depending on the market, but there's too much good offensive talent elsewhere in free agency for that to be anywhere near a sure-thing.
Prediction: 5 Years, $90 Million
Vladimir Chavez, 33, RF: Pontifications about Chavez' value are more than likely all over the place: some might believe the 33-year-old could attain a contract rivaling his massive original deal struck with the Pie Lovers in season one, while others would be hard-pressed into believing Chavez could warrant anything more than two years at the going rate for players of his age. I'd like to believe Chavez will end up somewhere in between, with a three-year contract with a high annual salary. An absurdly talented player, Chavez will command close to a max deal, but likely won't see as long a contract as others.
Prediction: 3 Years, $55 Million
Wil Hardy, 30, CF: The 30-year-old Hardy could potentially draw a lot of interest this off-season, given that he's a good player at a premium position with speed. However, he's also struggled his way through two consecutive anemic seasons, and he has never proven to be anything more than a pretty good hitter. Teams looking for a potential leadoff CF might consider breaking the proverbial piggy bank for Hardy's services. Others might be scared away by a batting average from last season that fluttered around .250.
Prediction: 5 Years, $50 Million
Shawn Coomer, 30, 3B: Coomer's weaknesses--a mediocre glove and a tendency to strike out--are greatly outweighed by his strengths, which include a strong pedigree at Tampa Bay, in which he hit over 40 HRs and 120 RBIs in each of his first five seasons, as well as power that is almost exceedingly rare at his position. Some teams will scoff at a mega-deal for a player whose durability has started to regress at the age of 30, while others will rejoice in attaining a middle-of-the-lineup corner infielder. Chances are, Coomer will wrangle four years out of some team, and $12 million per season is not out of the question.
Prediction: 4 Years, $48 Million
Enrique Batista, 36, RP: Considering Rob Parker's humongous signing last season, this year's premiere closer free agent, Batista, is in a favorable position. Working against him is his age and health concerns, though Batista to this point has aged remarkably gracefully. A three-time Fireman of the Year winner, he won't receive Rob Parker money, but chances are, someone will overpay for his services. A deal in which Batista wrangles 3 years and $48 million out of some poor sap is a very real possibility, which would put Batista just a few million behind Parker in terms of per-year pay rate ($16 million a season).
Prediction: 3 Years, $48 Million
Justin Campbell, 30, LF: Campbell, a very talented doubles hitter and basestealer with a little pop to his bat to boot, is one of the better contact hitters in Canseco. A two-time All-Star and Gold Glover, Campbell unfortunately doesn't play a sexy position, nor does he have a sexy playing-style, either. There are some minor questions about how his speed and durability hold up as he enters the wrong side of 30. Still, it's likely he'll warrant a four-year deal worth $10 million a season.
Prediction: 4 Years, $40 Million
Walter Young, 35, CF: Young's days at CF are likely behind him now, and his decline has been precipitous over the last several seasons. Yet he is still an intriguing player because he is still dangerous at the plate and can possibly make the transition to second base. It's very possible that he'll be waiting on the sidelines for a while, just like fellow 35-year-old Bonk Lemaster. two years will likely be in the cards for Young, but his better defensive play will help him outearn Lemaster.
Prediction: 2 Years, $22 Million
Bonk Lemaster, 35, LF: Lemaster, in his mid-30s, is now an antique by baseball's standards; with that said, he's still a valuable antique, and the appraisal for him's likely going to be rather high. Odds are, Lemaster will sign for a shorter deal, possibly for two years. Type A compensation concerns might keep him from signing with the right team for a while, though eventually he'll find a home. There will likely not be a great deal of competition for his services, but for a player with a lifetime .318 batting average, $10 million over two seasons is not out of the question.
Prediction: 2 Years, $20 Million
There are others who could very well make a fair sum this off-season. Lon Barber's value has diminished because there are a number of quality LFs already on the market, though he remains a quality batter nevertheless. Jack Skinner, 24, is the rare free agent with youth and major league potential, which could create a stir; the same goes for Al Martin, 25. And finally, there are a bevy of reliable relievers who could, if the market so demands, be receiving pay raises very soon.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Hey There, Big Spenders: A Who's Who List of Who Has Money to Burn
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
With a drought of free-agent pitching talent, season six's off-season free agency class seems poised to offer quite a bit for those high bidders looking for a little "oomph" in their lineup.
A stable arm in their rotation? Not so much.
The list of free agents was finalized at midnight last night, and this year's crop includes several big-name sluggers and a handful of reliable bullpen options.
As teams jockey for position in the mad dash that is the free agency period, let's look at which teams, at present, have the most payroll space, and which teams have the least.
Bear in mind that these figures are being calculated before the arbitration period has been finalized, so payroll numbers could--and almost certainly will--increase for certain clubs:
Scottsdale Snipers: $52.9 Million
Monterrey Sultans: $51.8 Million
Augusta Analbum Covers: $47.2 Million
Burlington Mean Green: $43.8 Million
Pittsburgh Penguins: $39.9 Million
Boise Beagles: $38 Million
Hartford Scrogg-Kings: $30.5 Million
Atlanta Vipers: $29.3 Million
Washington D.C. Generals: $28.7 Million
Houston Hackers: $27.4 Million
Chicago Dark Knights: $26.7 Million
Detroit Badasses: $25.6 Million
Richmond Spiders: $24.2 Million
Philadelphia Athletics: $24 Million
Arizona Destroyers: $23.2 Million
Mexico City Cuachicqueh: $18.5 Million
Cincinnati Reds: $17.8 Million
Helena Mustangs: $16.5
Jacksonville Canes: $13.6 Million
St. Louis st.louis: $13.5 Million
Tampa Bay dingo: $12.9 Million
Santa Fe Fireworks: $12.1 Million
Chicago Fainting Goats: $11.1 Million
Rochester Royal Rumble: $9.5 Million
Salt Lake City Dead Bunnies: $8.1 Million
Louisville Thoroughbreds: $7.2 Million
Anaheim Sluggers: $5.8 Million
New York Roid Rage: $5.5 Million
Dover bushwacking crackercrookers: $5.2 Million
Minnesota Bagwell Bashers: $2.9 Million
Cleveland Pronksters: $2.1 Million
Oakland Stars: $0.6 Million
CANSECO COURIER
With a drought of free-agent pitching talent, season six's off-season free agency class seems poised to offer quite a bit for those high bidders looking for a little "oomph" in their lineup.
A stable arm in their rotation? Not so much.
The list of free agents was finalized at midnight last night, and this year's crop includes several big-name sluggers and a handful of reliable bullpen options.
As teams jockey for position in the mad dash that is the free agency period, let's look at which teams, at present, have the most payroll space, and which teams have the least.
Bear in mind that these figures are being calculated before the arbitration period has been finalized, so payroll numbers could--and almost certainly will--increase for certain clubs:
Scottsdale Snipers: $52.9 Million
Monterrey Sultans: $51.8 Million
Augusta Analbum Covers: $47.2 Million
Burlington Mean Green: $43.8 Million
Pittsburgh Penguins: $39.9 Million
Boise Beagles: $38 Million
Hartford Scrogg-Kings: $30.5 Million
Atlanta Vipers: $29.3 Million
Washington D.C. Generals: $28.7 Million
Houston Hackers: $27.4 Million
Chicago Dark Knights: $26.7 Million
Detroit Badasses: $25.6 Million
Richmond Spiders: $24.2 Million
Philadelphia Athletics: $24 Million
Arizona Destroyers: $23.2 Million
Mexico City Cuachicqueh: $18.5 Million
Cincinnati Reds: $17.8 Million
Helena Mustangs: $16.5
Jacksonville Canes: $13.6 Million
St. Louis st.louis: $13.5 Million
Tampa Bay dingo: $12.9 Million
Santa Fe Fireworks: $12.1 Million
Chicago Fainting Goats: $11.1 Million
Rochester Royal Rumble: $9.5 Million
Salt Lake City Dead Bunnies: $8.1 Million
Louisville Thoroughbreds: $7.2 Million
Anaheim Sluggers: $5.8 Million
New York Roid Rage: $5.5 Million
Dover bushwacking crackercrookers: $5.2 Million
Minnesota Bagwell Bashers: $2.9 Million
Cleveland Pronksters: $2.1 Million
Oakland Stars: $0.6 Million
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Extension Rundown
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
With the first day of Canseco now winding down, teams are committing long-term extensions to some players, and letting others walk. Here is a recap of some of the bigger extensions doled out on day one:
16-game winner Rollie Ross has cashed in on a career year with the Philadelphia Athletics: Ross will remain with the A's for 3 years at $15.85 million.
Jerry Fiore (15-9, 3.95 ERA), one of Washington's standout starters last season, will re-up with the Generals. He's slated to be paid $5 million this year, $5.5 million the next, and $6 million in a third season, guaranteeing him a total of $16.5 million over three seasons.
Joe Carlson (11-9, 3.31 ERA) was one of the off-season's biggest earners, netting a 4-year deal worth a reported $24 million from the Louisville Thoroughbreds. Carlson, 27, has pitched over 190 innings in each of his first Major League seasons, totaling a 47-46 lifetime record.
Despite a subpar season, Al Ozuna became one of the highest paid offensive players in this season's offseason re-signing period: Ozuna will make a reported $36.5 million over the next five seasons. The 28-year-old CF was a AAA All-Star but a lifetime .256 hitter in the majors.
100-RBI man Valerio Gutierrez will return to St. Louis for three seasons at an estimated price tag of $18.75 million. Gutierrez, 28, has now averaged over 100 runs, 100 RBIs, and 35 home runs in the previous two seasons. Likewise, Bartolo Chavez (28 HR, 90 RBI) will also be back in St. Louis this season.
Young closer Humberto Arias will be returning to the Salt Lake City Dead Bunnies with a yearly salary that averages out to just over $7 million a season, making him one of the highest paid young closers in the league.
All-Star Phil Ogawa raked in the dough with Cleveland: for 5 years and $29 million, the Pronksters will retain Ogawa's services. Ogawa, 27, is coming off his best season as a professional and his first Major League All-Star birth.
Talented young 2B Luis Sanchez will return to the Helena Mustangs for the relatively low price of $22 million over 4 years. Sanchez, 25, broke out last season with a .303 average and 98 runs batted in.
CANSECO COURIER
With the first day of Canseco now winding down, teams are committing long-term extensions to some players, and letting others walk. Here is a recap of some of the bigger extensions doled out on day one:
16-game winner Rollie Ross has cashed in on a career year with the Philadelphia Athletics: Ross will remain with the A's for 3 years at $15.85 million.
Jerry Fiore (15-9, 3.95 ERA), one of Washington's standout starters last season, will re-up with the Generals. He's slated to be paid $5 million this year, $5.5 million the next, and $6 million in a third season, guaranteeing him a total of $16.5 million over three seasons.
Joe Carlson (11-9, 3.31 ERA) was one of the off-season's biggest earners, netting a 4-year deal worth a reported $24 million from the Louisville Thoroughbreds. Carlson, 27, has pitched over 190 innings in each of his first Major League seasons, totaling a 47-46 lifetime record.
Despite a subpar season, Al Ozuna became one of the highest paid offensive players in this season's offseason re-signing period: Ozuna will make a reported $36.5 million over the next five seasons. The 28-year-old CF was a AAA All-Star but a lifetime .256 hitter in the majors.
100-RBI man Valerio Gutierrez will return to St. Louis for three seasons at an estimated price tag of $18.75 million. Gutierrez, 28, has now averaged over 100 runs, 100 RBIs, and 35 home runs in the previous two seasons. Likewise, Bartolo Chavez (28 HR, 90 RBI) will also be back in St. Louis this season.
Young closer Humberto Arias will be returning to the Salt Lake City Dead Bunnies with a yearly salary that averages out to just over $7 million a season, making him one of the highest paid young closers in the league.
All-Star Phil Ogawa raked in the dough with Cleveland: for 5 years and $29 million, the Pronksters will retain Ogawa's services. Ogawa, 27, is coming off his best season as a professional and his first Major League All-Star birth.
Talented young 2B Luis Sanchez will return to the Helena Mustangs for the relatively low price of $22 million over 4 years. Sanchez, 25, broke out last season with a .303 average and 98 runs batted in.
Season Six Commences
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
The first day of season six has commenced, with GMs forced into tough decisions regarding which free agents and coaches to re-sign, and which ones to let go.
From newly annointed World Series Champions the New York Roid Rage on down, the objective is the same: to make the correct off-season decisions.
Similarly, the Canseco Courier has also officially opened its doors today, after a trial run in season five that was met with magnanimous (okay, perhaps that's too strong of a word) reception. Here's what's slated for the Courier's off-season program:
1. Coverage of the off-season trade talks. This involves not only coverage of the "big" trades, but also occasional "Rumor Mills" which speculate as to which teams might be interested in dealing such-and-such players or acquiring a certain someone.
2. Detailed coverage of free agency. More news will be available in a few days on this, once rosters start to shake out.
3. Owner interviews with some--or perhaps all--of our new owners.
Best of luck to all teams this off-season, and be sure to keep checking the Courier for news and updates.
CANSECO COURIER
The first day of season six has commenced, with GMs forced into tough decisions regarding which free agents and coaches to re-sign, and which ones to let go.
From newly annointed World Series Champions the New York Roid Rage on down, the objective is the same: to make the correct off-season decisions.
Similarly, the Canseco Courier has also officially opened its doors today, after a trial run in season five that was met with magnanimous (okay, perhaps that's too strong of a word) reception. Here's what's slated for the Courier's off-season program:
1. Coverage of the off-season trade talks. This involves not only coverage of the "big" trades, but also occasional "Rumor Mills" which speculate as to which teams might be interested in dealing such-and-such players or acquiring a certain someone.
2. Detailed coverage of free agency. More news will be available in a few days on this, once rosters start to shake out.
3. Owner interviews with some--or perhaps all--of our new owners.
Best of luck to all teams this off-season, and be sure to keep checking the Courier for news and updates.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Playoff Roundup: ALCS Set
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
Season five's ALCS matchup became a no-brainer after Philadelphia and New York went a combined 9-1 in previous series.
That winning percentage (.900) is now destined to slip, as two strong World Series contenders will meet to decide who represents the American League.
The Philly Athletics have gone a perfect 6-0 to sweep their previous two opponents, Seattle and top-seeded Cleveland. 5 of those 6 games were decided by two runs or less.
The other? a 6-3 "blowout" over the Starbucks in game one of the Play-In Series.
The Roid Rage, meanwhile, took control of their series against Mexico City; in dropping only one game, they outscored the Cuachicquehs 24-12 in four games.
Now, how do these two teams match up? We'll examine four key categories: offense, defense, pitching, and head-to-head play:
Offense
Offensively, both clubs are virtually deadlocked; Philadelphia owns a mere +8 run differential over New York on the season (968 to 960), and their team batting averages--.285--are exactly the same. Philadelphia has perhaps the biggest impact bat of the two in Benji Henderson, who has hit .317 with 52 HR and 140 RBI. However, in the postseason, New York's Julian Jose (.303, 44 HR, 122 RBI) could prove just as valuable. The best overall player in either lineup might belong to Philadelphia as well, in the form of one Hector Balboa.
Neither team will scare anyone on the basepaths; Philly's Wil Hardy has played like a sedated version of himself all season, with only 19 stolen bases and less attempts (28) than he had steals last season (37). Hardy has the speed and bat to be a game-changer for the A's, but he's mired in one of his worst seasons to date.
As a hitter versus lefties, Philly's Brett Burnett could have a huge impact when called upon. Though if Jamie Grahe (.267, 43 HR, 110 RBI) starts playing up to his potential, New York could, at least offensively, prove to be better.
At this point, these two are too close for their to be a decisive winner one way or the other.
Advantage: Tie
Defense
Philadelphia was one of the best fielding teams in the entire ML this season. While the A's have no Gold Glove winners from this season, their defense up the middle, manned by Balboa and Hardy, plays at a very high level. The rest of Philly's infield--including SS Damaso Mendoza, 1B Henderson, and 3B Mercado--have all had exceptional defensive seasons and are among the best in the ML as a unit.
Philly's one glaring defensive weakness is its corner outfielders, though most Major League teams sacrifice defense for offensive pop at these positions.
New York, meanwhile, has a third-baseman convert playing shortstop in Brian Yosida (37 errors), and another third-baseman convert playing center field in Andrew Biggio. While both are good defensive players, they've also struggled throughout the season due to these difficult assignments.
Besides Juan Machado, who stands as one of the top defensive 1Bs in the game, Philadelphia has New York outmanned in the field.
Advantage: Philadelphia
Pitching
Entering the ALCS, Philly boasts 16-game winner Rollie Ross (16-10, 4.50 ERA) and 36-year-old Wes McGowan (13-7, 4.97 ERA) as its front-end starters. Young Ariel Mesa, who was a stellar 10-0 this season as a reliever, is a stud closer in the making, and late-season pickup Courtney Neugebauer (5-3, 3.36 ERA) has been stellar, but the Roid Rage have a clear advantage in this category.
All-world starter Brian Mahoney (21-6, 2.42 ERA) will likely add a third consecutive Cy Young Award to his vast list of accomplishments in what has been his most exceptional season to date. Behind him, three-time All-Star Benny Montana (17-10, 3.98 ERA) and former All-Star B.J. Kotsay (15-5, 3.24 ERA) await.
At the end of games, the A's will get to know rubber-armed Gus Jorgensen, who has averaged a shade under 70 appearances per season over the course of his career. Since arriving in New York, he's become one of baseball's premiere closers.
Advantage: New York
Head-to-Head
New York, last season's AL rep, owns a 7-3 season-long record against the A's. In the last two series between the two, the A's have struggled immensely to score runs against the Roid Rage.
If Philadelphia can't put runs on the board, expect for New York to win a series that doesn't go seven games.
Advantage: New York
CANSECO COURIER
Season five's ALCS matchup became a no-brainer after Philadelphia and New York went a combined 9-1 in previous series.
That winning percentage (.900) is now destined to slip, as two strong World Series contenders will meet to decide who represents the American League.
The Philly Athletics have gone a perfect 6-0 to sweep their previous two opponents, Seattle and top-seeded Cleveland. 5 of those 6 games were decided by two runs or less.
The other? a 6-3 "blowout" over the Starbucks in game one of the Play-In Series.
The Roid Rage, meanwhile, took control of their series against Mexico City; in dropping only one game, they outscored the Cuachicquehs 24-12 in four games.
Now, how do these two teams match up? We'll examine four key categories: offense, defense, pitching, and head-to-head play:
Offense
Offensively, both clubs are virtually deadlocked; Philadelphia owns a mere +8 run differential over New York on the season (968 to 960), and their team batting averages--.285--are exactly the same. Philadelphia has perhaps the biggest impact bat of the two in Benji Henderson, who has hit .317 with 52 HR and 140 RBI. However, in the postseason, New York's Julian Jose (.303, 44 HR, 122 RBI) could prove just as valuable. The best overall player in either lineup might belong to Philadelphia as well, in the form of one Hector Balboa.
Neither team will scare anyone on the basepaths; Philly's Wil Hardy has played like a sedated version of himself all season, with only 19 stolen bases and less attempts (28) than he had steals last season (37). Hardy has the speed and bat to be a game-changer for the A's, but he's mired in one of his worst seasons to date.
As a hitter versus lefties, Philly's Brett Burnett could have a huge impact when called upon. Though if Jamie Grahe (.267, 43 HR, 110 RBI) starts playing up to his potential, New York could, at least offensively, prove to be better.
At this point, these two are too close for their to be a decisive winner one way or the other.
Advantage: Tie
Defense
Philadelphia was one of the best fielding teams in the entire ML this season. While the A's have no Gold Glove winners from this season, their defense up the middle, manned by Balboa and Hardy, plays at a very high level. The rest of Philly's infield--including SS Damaso Mendoza, 1B Henderson, and 3B Mercado--have all had exceptional defensive seasons and are among the best in the ML as a unit.
Philly's one glaring defensive weakness is its corner outfielders, though most Major League teams sacrifice defense for offensive pop at these positions.
New York, meanwhile, has a third-baseman convert playing shortstop in Brian Yosida (37 errors), and another third-baseman convert playing center field in Andrew Biggio. While both are good defensive players, they've also struggled throughout the season due to these difficult assignments.
Besides Juan Machado, who stands as one of the top defensive 1Bs in the game, Philadelphia has New York outmanned in the field.
Advantage: Philadelphia
Pitching
Entering the ALCS, Philly boasts 16-game winner Rollie Ross (16-10, 4.50 ERA) and 36-year-old Wes McGowan (13-7, 4.97 ERA) as its front-end starters. Young Ariel Mesa, who was a stellar 10-0 this season as a reliever, is a stud closer in the making, and late-season pickup Courtney Neugebauer (5-3, 3.36 ERA) has been stellar, but the Roid Rage have a clear advantage in this category.
All-world starter Brian Mahoney (21-6, 2.42 ERA) will likely add a third consecutive Cy Young Award to his vast list of accomplishments in what has been his most exceptional season to date. Behind him, three-time All-Star Benny Montana (17-10, 3.98 ERA) and former All-Star B.J. Kotsay (15-5, 3.24 ERA) await.
At the end of games, the A's will get to know rubber-armed Gus Jorgensen, who has averaged a shade under 70 appearances per season over the course of his career. Since arriving in New York, he's become one of baseball's premiere closers.
Advantage: New York
Head-to-Head
New York, last season's AL rep, owns a 7-3 season-long record against the A's. In the last two series between the two, the A's have struggled immensely to score runs against the Roid Rage.
If Philadelphia can't put runs on the board, expect for New York to win a series that doesn't go seven games.
Advantage: New York
Thursday, August 6, 2009
High A Augusta Rules as League's Top Team
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
Improbable as it might sound, the Augusta Analbum Covers are no longer the best baseball team in Maine. For a $27-thousand-a-year paycheck, a team of Augustan youngsters might already be better than their pro-level bretheren.
It is clear now that Augusta's High A club is a special collection of talent; so good are they that a large section of the Analbum Covers' fanbase think they'd topple the 62-99 team should the two meet.
While that speculation won't ever materialize into anything more than an Augustan fanboy's dream, it is clear that the High A team--a staggering 116-28 on the season--are the best and brightest part of an organization-wide youth movement.
They've been so good, in fact, that they're on the short list for greatest-ever minor league club in Canseco. And their winning percentage, which is now over .800%, is the best of any team in baseball.
Soon, questions of whether Augusta's High A team could defeat their ML club will be moot, since this High A team will become the ML squad in a few seasons.
Until then, a mishmash of blue chippers and stars in the making continue to smash records and bludgeon mismatched opponents in the depths of the lower minor leagues.
Not surprisingly, the High A Analbum Covers rule the roost in nearly every statistical category. Offensively, they're far and away the best team per league in Canseco. With 1295 team runs in a mere 144 games on the season, they lead in run total. As a team, they're hitting a staggering .334 on the season.
Led by can't-miss whiz kid Jose Alvarez, who, in his first season, has hit .385 with 160 RBIs and 46 SBs, the Analbum Covers have indeed pounded opposing starters all season long. Yet it's been young 1B Nerio Springer who has turned heads; his RBI total on the season stands at 177. In total, the lineup has 7 hitters with 100+ RBIs, and most players are hitting well north of .300.
Even so, in a feat that's unlikely to be duplicated anytime soon, Augusta also leads High A in runs allowed. Their team ERA (3.30) is the lowest in the league.
Staff ace Timothy Reed (20-4, 2.84 ERA) is a 23-year-old righty that most scouts have projected as a future Major League ace. He has the ability, some observers believe, to pitch in the Majors tomorrow if the organization so chooses.
Behind him? There's fellow Cy Young candidate Charlie Chase (18-3, 2.64 ERA), along with one of the minors' most talented pens.
If the spectacular High A team keeps this up, Augusta really will have something to play for come the end of September.
Their jobs.
CANSECO COURIER
Improbable as it might sound, the Augusta Analbum Covers are no longer the best baseball team in Maine. For a $27-thousand-a-year paycheck, a team of Augustan youngsters might already be better than their pro-level bretheren.
It is clear now that Augusta's High A club is a special collection of talent; so good are they that a large section of the Analbum Covers' fanbase think they'd topple the 62-99 team should the two meet.
While that speculation won't ever materialize into anything more than an Augustan fanboy's dream, it is clear that the High A team--a staggering 116-28 on the season--are the best and brightest part of an organization-wide youth movement.
They've been so good, in fact, that they're on the short list for greatest-ever minor league club in Canseco. And their winning percentage, which is now over .800%, is the best of any team in baseball.
Soon, questions of whether Augusta's High A team could defeat their ML club will be moot, since this High A team will become the ML squad in a few seasons.
Until then, a mishmash of blue chippers and stars in the making continue to smash records and bludgeon mismatched opponents in the depths of the lower minor leagues.
Not surprisingly, the High A Analbum Covers rule the roost in nearly every statistical category. Offensively, they're far and away the best team per league in Canseco. With 1295 team runs in a mere 144 games on the season, they lead in run total. As a team, they're hitting a staggering .334 on the season.
Led by can't-miss whiz kid Jose Alvarez, who, in his first season, has hit .385 with 160 RBIs and 46 SBs, the Analbum Covers have indeed pounded opposing starters all season long. Yet it's been young 1B Nerio Springer who has turned heads; his RBI total on the season stands at 177. In total, the lineup has 7 hitters with 100+ RBIs, and most players are hitting well north of .300.
Even so, in a feat that's unlikely to be duplicated anytime soon, Augusta also leads High A in runs allowed. Their team ERA (3.30) is the lowest in the league.
Staff ace Timothy Reed (20-4, 2.84 ERA) is a 23-year-old righty that most scouts have projected as a future Major League ace. He has the ability, some observers believe, to pitch in the Majors tomorrow if the organization so chooses.
Behind him? There's fellow Cy Young candidate Charlie Chase (18-3, 2.64 ERA), along with one of the minors' most talented pens.
If the spectacular High A team keeps this up, Augusta really will have something to play for come the end of September.
Their jobs.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
LA's Tossing Trichotomy
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
An up-and-comer on a powerhouse ballclub, Kip Simpson has had a season most pitchers can only dream of. He's on anyone's most improved player short list; this season, he's added an astonishing 10 wins to his season four win total, and now stands as one of only four pitchers in baseball with 20 victories.
Yet even with a 20-7 record, Simpson isn't even the best pitcher on his own team. Not only that, but when juggernaut Anaheim steamrolls into the postseason, he's not even a safe bet to pitch twice in a seven-game series.
When's the last time a 20-game winner has been relegated to middle-of-the-rotation status?
Such is the dilemma in Anaheim (though it admittedly is a very happy problem to have): the Sluggers' tossing trichotomy of Simpson, Scott White and Ivan Griffin are the most formidable rotation in baseball for a reason.
Simpson (20-7, 3.66) will likely be standing on the sidelines when the NL Cy Young award is given out. However, most GMs concede that this three-horse race could easily be staged within the confines of the Sluggers' locker room, which houses the top three wins leaders in the National League.
Simpson joins veteran Ivan Griffin (19-3, 3.07 ERA) and Cy Young favorite Scott White (20-4, 2.49 ERA) as one-third of baseball's 59-win trio. If Griffin can notch just one more victory, that'll give the 114-44 Sluggers three 20-game winners, all in a single season.
The thought of facing the Sluggers isn't appealing for NL foes, especially considering that besides facing a 20-game winner in virtually every game of a long series, they'll be met with all-world closer Rob Parker, who's 50-for-50 and counting in save opportunities this season. If any RP could garner enough votes for a potential Cy Young theft, it's Parker and his perfect season.
In his second season, owner davidbutler9 has taken a perennial loser, forced it onto the postseason's doorstep in season four, and now has molded it into the proverbial elephant in the room; the Sluggers have become the team no one is eager to face.
Despite this being their first postseason birth, the Sluggers are poised as the odds-on World Series favorites.
And with their 59-win pitching trio, a mere 12 wins is all that separates them from a World Series title.
CANSECO COURIER
An up-and-comer on a powerhouse ballclub, Kip Simpson has had a season most pitchers can only dream of. He's on anyone's most improved player short list; this season, he's added an astonishing 10 wins to his season four win total, and now stands as one of only four pitchers in baseball with 20 victories.
Yet even with a 20-7 record, Simpson isn't even the best pitcher on his own team. Not only that, but when juggernaut Anaheim steamrolls into the postseason, he's not even a safe bet to pitch twice in a seven-game series.
When's the last time a 20-game winner has been relegated to middle-of-the-rotation status?
Such is the dilemma in Anaheim (though it admittedly is a very happy problem to have): the Sluggers' tossing trichotomy of Simpson, Scott White and Ivan Griffin are the most formidable rotation in baseball for a reason.
Simpson (20-7, 3.66) will likely be standing on the sidelines when the NL Cy Young award is given out. However, most GMs concede that this three-horse race could easily be staged within the confines of the Sluggers' locker room, which houses the top three wins leaders in the National League.
Simpson joins veteran Ivan Griffin (19-3, 3.07 ERA) and Cy Young favorite Scott White (20-4, 2.49 ERA) as one-third of baseball's 59-win trio. If Griffin can notch just one more victory, that'll give the 114-44 Sluggers three 20-game winners, all in a single season.
The thought of facing the Sluggers isn't appealing for NL foes, especially considering that besides facing a 20-game winner in virtually every game of a long series, they'll be met with all-world closer Rob Parker, who's 50-for-50 and counting in save opportunities this season. If any RP could garner enough votes for a potential Cy Young theft, it's Parker and his perfect season.
In his second season, owner davidbutler9 has taken a perennial loser, forced it onto the postseason's doorstep in season four, and now has molded it into the proverbial elephant in the room; the Sluggers have become the team no one is eager to face.
Despite this being their first postseason birth, the Sluggers are poised as the odds-on World Series favorites.
And with their 59-win pitching trio, a mere 12 wins is all that separates them from a World Series title.
Garrido Nears Third MVP Award, Triple Crown
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
Amidst a staggeringly distinguished and successful career, one of Canseco's most feared hitters is enjoying his most potent season to date.
Needless to say, that empty space next to Al Garrido's two Most Valuable Player trophies on his mantle might soon be occupied.
The 29-year-old catcher for the Cleveland Pronksters has benefited from fast-rising Teddy Spehr's breakout campaign to post career-bests in multiple categories. To date, Garrido has already blasted 69 homers, which stands as a Cleveland record and would rank second all-time, behind only Odalis Rosado's 76 home runs for Scottsdale last season.
He's also notched career bests in runs (134), hits (209), RBIs (169), walks (83), and average (.363). In doing so, Garrido has all but cemented himself as an AL Triple Crown winner.
Garrido's numbers dwarf all competitors, as he leads comfortably in all three categories. The distinction as Triple Crown winner, albeit impressive, would leave only a World Series championship on the Wisconsin native's to-do list.
At 102-56, the Pronksters have a legitimate chance to represent the American League in the World Series. To get there, they'll have to best a bevy of talented AL East squads, among them incumbant AL champ New York. And the feared Anaheim Sluggers, with perhaps baseball's best rotation all season, remain the concensus favorites.
Still, with the now-mythical bat of Garrido in tow, the Pronksters might very well slug their way to the franchise's first World Series title. For a city that has suffered through innumerable postseason disasters, their best chance lies in their MVP superstar bringing his power-hitting theatrics to October.
If things go as planned for the Pronksters, Garrido might very well need a bigger mantle.
CANSECO COURIER
Amidst a staggeringly distinguished and successful career, one of Canseco's most feared hitters is enjoying his most potent season to date.
Needless to say, that empty space next to Al Garrido's two Most Valuable Player trophies on his mantle might soon be occupied.
The 29-year-old catcher for the Cleveland Pronksters has benefited from fast-rising Teddy Spehr's breakout campaign to post career-bests in multiple categories. To date, Garrido has already blasted 69 homers, which stands as a Cleveland record and would rank second all-time, behind only Odalis Rosado's 76 home runs for Scottsdale last season.
He's also notched career bests in runs (134), hits (209), RBIs (169), walks (83), and average (.363). In doing so, Garrido has all but cemented himself as an AL Triple Crown winner.
Garrido's numbers dwarf all competitors, as he leads comfortably in all three categories. The distinction as Triple Crown winner, albeit impressive, would leave only a World Series championship on the Wisconsin native's to-do list.
At 102-56, the Pronksters have a legitimate chance to represent the American League in the World Series. To get there, they'll have to best a bevy of talented AL East squads, among them incumbant AL champ New York. And the feared Anaheim Sluggers, with perhaps baseball's best rotation all season, remain the concensus favorites.
Still, with the now-mythical bat of Garrido in tow, the Pronksters might very well slug their way to the franchise's first World Series title. For a city that has suffered through innumerable postseason disasters, their best chance lies in their MVP superstar bringing his power-hitting theatrics to October.
If things go as planned for the Pronksters, Garrido might very well need a bigger mantle.
Welcome to the Canseco Courier
By KYLE KEOUGH
CANSECO COURIER
Hello to all, and welcome to the Canseco Courier. Commissioner Coonja asked if I might be interested in setting up a blog for our league, and I'm more than happy to do so.
I started a blog for another league and helped run it for a few seasons, so this isn't my first rodeo. My hope is that the Canseco Courier will offer you routine updates and articles, polls and rumors, and a chat room with which players can freely converse about all things Canseco.
Anyone is more than welcome to help contribute. I also welcome anyone who wants to, to become a blogspot.com member. That way, you can become a follower.
Thanks again to our commissioner for making this possible, and be sure to check back in for more updates.
Kyle Keough, aka "Keosawa"
CANSECO COURIER
Hello to all, and welcome to the Canseco Courier. Commissioner Coonja asked if I might be interested in setting up a blog for our league, and I'm more than happy to do so.
I started a blog for another league and helped run it for a few seasons, so this isn't my first rodeo. My hope is that the Canseco Courier will offer you routine updates and articles, polls and rumors, and a chat room with which players can freely converse about all things Canseco.
Anyone is more than welcome to help contribute. I also welcome anyone who wants to, to become a blogspot.com member. That way, you can become a follower.
Thanks again to our commissioner for making this possible, and be sure to check back in for more updates.
Kyle Keough, aka "Keosawa"
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